2024-04-27 - The Southern Ocean Times

Real-Life Example Pops Up At Police Presentation On Scams

By Stephanie Faughnan

BARNEGAT - A recent presentation by the Barnegat Police Department on how to identify and avoid scams proved to be more than just informative. For a local resident, it was the realization that she was likely in the middle of being targeted by one. As she listened to the materials introduced by Detective Robert Armstrong and De-

tective Lauren Keilitz, one of the attendees revealed a personal experience.

Before coming to the meeting, a pop-up message appeared on the woman’s computer, claiming it was infected and displaying a phone number for “assistance.” The message, designed to mimic a legitimate tech company like Microsoft, seemed convincing. Although not

School Aide Cut Amid Student Mental Health Crisis

By Stephanie Faughnan

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER - The Ocean County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to appoint former Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove to the Ocean County College Board of Trustees. A retired educator with over 30 years of experience teaching American history and civics at Southern Regional High School, Gove replaces Carl V. Thulin, Jr. as a Trustee. She will be the

for mental health services as students continue to deal with the tragic loss of their classmates.

“As you can imagine, this has created a much higher need for counselors, school

LACEY - A $6.9 million budget deficit is casting a shadow of uncertainty over the Lacey Township School District’s ability to deliver students a “thorough and efficient” education.

The fi nancial crisis comes on the heels of a school year marked by tragedy, with the district losing six students – two to suicide – amidst a rising tide of nationwide mental health concerns amongst students.

“The Lacey Twp. School District does not have a spending problem, it has a revenue problem caused by the reduction of state aid.”

Dr. Vanessa R. Pereira, Superintendent

requesting money, the caller on the other end convinced the woman to grant them remote access to her computer and instructed her to keep it powered on for two days without using other devices. The woman’s experience directly correlated with the presentation’s content on tech support scams, alerting them

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The Forked River Rotary Club recently donated $20,000 towards bolstering mental health services in the district. However, with unprecedented cuts ahead, even this generous contribution could become a drop in the bucket.

As part of the team that testified at the state’s March 20 Senate Budget hearings, District Supervisor Dr. Tim Dowd correlated the impact of the fi nancial constraints on the heightened necessity

social workers, and school psychologists,” said Dowd. “Sadly, we are reducing staff in this area. Our guidance counselors already have a comparatively high student caseload, which will continue to rise precipitously because of the necessary staff reductions due to S-2.”

District leaders pinpoint the root cause of the fi nancial crisis as a state funding formula known as S-2, which

(School - See Page 5)

Former Assemblywoman Appointed To OCC Board

second retired educator to join the current college board. Gove earned an undergraduate degree in social science from Cabrini College and a master’s in social studies from Monmouth University. During her fourteen-year tenure representing the 9th Legislative District in the State Assembly, Gove was a member of the Higher Education, Military and Veterans’ Affairs, and Aging and Senior Services committees. The other two candidates interested in joining the college’s board of trustees were former Toms River Mayor Maurice “Mo” Hill, a retired dentist, and Lynn Canfield, a Field Representative for Bricklayers and Allied Craftworker Local 5. Commissioner Frank Sadeghi raised concerns about the selection process. While he voiced

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Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Detectives Lauren Keilitz (above) Robert Armstrong (Right) and provided information to residents on avoiding scams.

Photo by Chris Lundy Former Assemblywoman DiAnne Gove (R-9th).

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to the potential danger. Recognizing the red flags, the two Barnegat detectives advised the presumed victim to halt communication with the caller. They recommended she visit her local bank to ensure her accounts weren’t compromised.

According to statistics provided by the Barnegat Police Department, reported scam cases have been on the rise in recent years, with 170 cases documented in 2022, escalating to 205 in 2023, and already reaching 56 cases thus far in 2024. Nationally, the Federal Trade Commission reports staggering figures, with fraudsters tricking roughly 690,000 adults into giving them money through scams in 2023, resulting in a total loss of $10 billion.

However, the true extent of the problem may be far more significant, as many victims hesitate to report incidents out of embarrassment or shame.

“With the constant rise of internet artificial intelligence and all the different things you’re seeing out there in the news, it’s only going to get worse – so prevention is key,” said Captain Andrew Parsley. “We’re going to try to stop it before it’s a problem and before anybody loses anything.”

Armstrong emphasized the insidious tactics employed by scammers, who prey on individuals’ trust and emotions, often targeting vulnerable populations such as seniors. He underscored the importance of vigilance in combating such threats, urging residents to safeguard their personal infor-

mation diligently.

“People who are proactive in their lives and pay their bills can be a target because of these things,” shared Keilitz. “They handle everything, and when they get a phone call that something has happened, they feel they need to correct it – and do the right thing.”

Some fraudsters impersonate IRS representatives, claiming that taxes were not paid due to a supposed mistake by the victim’s accountant. Others resort to threatening tactics, such as falsely asserting that utilities will be disconnected unless an immediate payment is made. These calls often originate from seemingly legitimate sources but are, in fact, part of elaborate scams.

“The grandparent scam was big, especially about a year or two ago,” Armstrong said. “These were originally out of the Dominican Republic, where someone was calling random people and preying on their emotions.”

This tactic involves impersonating a grandchild, or other loved one in distress, claiming to be in an accident or needing bail money. These include requests for large amounts of cash, claims of bail money being needed (which is not the case in New Jersey), and the use of courier services to collect the money.

Scammers can now use artificial intelligence to mimic voices. They create a sense of urgency and may even insist that payment be made by gift cards.

Attendees at the session were advised to exercise caution when dealing with unrecognized phone numbers and suspicious emails. Even seemingly legitimate emails,

with convincing logos and sender information, may be designed to trick recipients into giving sensitive information or engaging in fraudulent activities.

“I remember there was a Facebook scam telling people to call a phone number because their account was hacked,” said Armstrong. “We can’t talk to someone from Facebook when we’re investigating a case. There is no number for Facebook.”

“The scam was so good that when I googled the number, it came up as Facebook,” Armstrong continued. “Keep an eye on that. If you do a Google search and it says sponsored, they’re paying for that.”

One of the most troubling things about scams is that they often originate outside of the country. Therefore, it’s difficult for authorities to prosecute the individuals behind these types of criminal activity.

Scams And Protective Measures

The dozens of residents who attended the presentation were predominately senior citizens. For many, the presentation was informative and included details of other prevalent scams, including:

• Romance scams: Fraudsters create fake online profiles and develop emotional connections with victims, often claiming to be overseas for work or military service. They exploit loneliness and manipulate victims into sending large sums of money for supposed emergencies or travel expenses.

• Random Messages: Unsolicited texts or messages on social media platforms should also send off alerts. Scammers may initiate conversations by pretending to be a

forgotten acquaintance or someone seeking a simple favor. Their goal is to build rapport and create a sense of trust, eventually leading to requests for personal information or fi nancial assistance.

• Hacked Accounts: Scammers may use various methods of communication, claiming someone’s account has been hacked and requires a payment to recover. This may happen with bank or social media accounts. Legitimate companies won’t demand money to restore access to free accounts. Those who suspect their accounts are compromised should contact the platform directly using verified methods (e.g., website login, official phone number).

• Sextortion: Perpetrators of sextortion often manipulate victims into sending compromising photos or videos, exploiting their emotions and threatening severe consequences if demands are not met. Other victims who have visited adult websites can be threatened with legal jeopardy and subject to extortion attempts.

• Marketplace or Concert Tickets: Fraudsters may advertise discounted concert tickets or even sell cars or other merchandise with claims they need the money upfront.

• Reduction in Bill Offers: Scammers may pose as companies like Comcast to offer bill reductions. One of the fi rst clues to recognizing the issue is a request for an account number. If a legitimate source is calling, they should have the account number.

• Cell Phone Delivery: Someone is selling tracking numbers for cell phone deliveries. Residents were advised to pick up their (Presentation - See Page 6)

School:

Continued From Page 1 has slashed over $13.7 million from the district’s budget in recent years. This year alone, the state cut funding by $3.2 million, forcing the district to consider drastic measures.

“The Lacey Township School District does not have a spending problem,” said Dr. Vanessa R. Pereira, Superintendent of Schools. “It has a revenue problem caused by the reduction of state aid.”

A staggering 90 staff members, including teachers, administrators, and support staff, are expected to lose their jobs. Classroom sizes could balloon to 40 students and more, while many programs would be eliminated. Athletic programs and co-curricular programs would require payment to participate. Additional reductions to repair and maintenance accounts will result in the district only performing emergency repairs, with no allowances for preventive maintenance.

Staff Reductions

Since the inception of the S-2 funding formula in the 2019-2020 school year, the district has already eliminated 102 positions. The pending cuts include both non-tenured teachers and tenured teachers.

At the April 18 Board of Education meeting, Pereira stressed that the district did not want to eliminate any staff members but would have no choice but to make cuts.

“The big question that is asked of us often is how do we decide who gets reduced and who gets to stay,” Pereira shared. “This is

a long and arduous process that begins with reductions of non-tenured staff because they are not yet protected by tenure.”

The superintendent elaborated on the difficult staff reduction process, emphasizing that seniority and certifications based on teacher tenure laws would dictate any further cuts beyond non-tenured teachers. Principals would prioritize core subject areas like math, English language arts, science, and social studies while seeking opportunities for consolidation.

“It has absolutely nothing to do with performance,” Pereira emphasized. “We make them (the cuts) based on a seniority list and certifications because that is what we must do.”

District leaders and board of education members have been bombarded with pleas from the community to save specific staff positions. Nearly 1,500 individuals have signed a Change.org petition to retain Lacey’s band director, Christopher Montague. Numerous parents, students, teachers, graduates, and community members who attended the April board meeting advocated for Montague and other staff members slated to lose their jobs.

Karissa Falvey, a Lacey High School graduate and now a teacher, stood before the board with tears welling up. She spoke passionately about the transformative impact of Aaron Fritz, a German teacher who was recently notified of his potential dismissal due to the budget deficit.

Falvey recounted her own struggles with bullying during her high school years, highlighting how Fritz, along with other

faculty members, provided crucial support and guidance.

“One of my students told me that she didn’t want to get up in the morning anymore and that she was afraid to go home,” said Falvey. “It was like I had a flashback to being in this school.”

“I specifically thought back to Mr. Fritz when I told him the same thing, that it was hard for me to get up in the morning, and said I didn’t want to be here anymore,” Falvey continued. “He looked me in the eyes. And he said, Karissa, I will be here for you.”

Falvey said the teacher’s actions and concern propelled her into her career as a teacher – where she focuses on playing it forward.

Further impassioned pleas, including those from children as young as middle school students, underscored the deep impact educators have on their students’ lives, further highlighting the gravity of the district’s predicament.

Many of those who spoke revealed their own struggles with mental health issues and concerns that they would have no one to talk to about them. Available resources include Lacey’s Mental Health Resource Guide and a Mental Health and Wellness Night scheduled for April 29 from 5-8pm at Lacey High School. The event is held in partnership with Central Regional.

Contacting The State

The superintendent herself has been advocating on behalf of the school district. She has communicated directly with Governor Phil Murphy, detailing the crippling bud-

get deficits. Periera further amplified the district’s plight by testifying at the state’s budget hearings on March 20.

After outlining the painful cuts necessitated by the $6.9 million deficit, Pereira reiterated the district’s unwavering support for a fair and equitable public school funding formula that benefits all New Jersey schools. She acknowledged the need for a formula that reflects student enrollment trends.

“The reduction in state aid has been happening at a fast and dangerous rate,” said Pereira. “We cannot properly instruct our students and offer a thorough and efficient education or balance our budget.”

“If nothing changes, we will be forced to ask the state for a loan or make further cataclysmic reductions,” Pereira said at the hearings.

The prospect of taking out loans was discussed at the March budget meeting held by the Board of Education. Some board members expressed reluctance to take out loans – citing the indebtedness owed by at least one other Ocean County community.

Meanwhile, the consideration of loans to supplement the 2024-2025 budget is now a moot issue. The Department of Education has informed all districts that they may not seek out loans for that purpose.

“A team of Executive County Business Officials, also known as EXBOs, will be working with us to review our district’s budget,” Pereira shared at the April 18 meeting. “We are told that the purpose of this meeting will be collaborative, not punitive. And (School - See Page 15)

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no opposition to Gove’s qualifications, Sadeghi questioned why only three candidates applied for the position in a county with a population exceeding 667,000. He emphasized the critical role the Board plays in shaping the future of the college and the community, advocating for a more open and competitive selection process in the future.

Commissioner Jack Kelly prefaced his vote by expressing his hope that the next time there is an opening on the College Board of Trustees, that Canfield will be considered for appointment.

“I know Lynn very well and think Lynn is the perfect fit to apply for a position on the vocational school board,” said Gary Quinn,

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• Solicitations from Unknown Sources: Scammers may pose as legitimate sounding sources to solicit money. Scenarios requesting donations online have sometimes proven to be fake as well.

The detectives reminded the audience that their signatures appear on public documents such as mortgages that are public documents. Scammers also review

Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. “Lynn brings a different variable to the vocational school board if he’s put on the board at some point in the future.”

“The unions work so well hand in hand with the school itself,” Quinn continued. “Putting kids into the programs, bringing them in as apprentices. I think Lynn’s background would be more relevant and really beneficial to the residents of Ocean County in a position on that board.”

While acknowledging the potential for a wider applicant pool, Quinn praised Gove’s qualifications, citing her extensive experience in education and legislative involvement in the state’s Department of Education.

Neither Jennifer Bacchione (R) nor Joseph

social media to target victims and learn a lot about them, which creates a sense of trust.

“When they make the calls, it feels like they know so much about you,” said Keilitz. “So, you feel like it has to be legitimate – but the information is very easy to find. These people make a full time job to scam people and take the time to do the research.”

Most scams involve gift card payments, while others require victims to pay in Bitcoin and cryptocurrency.

Lamb (D), both candidates for Commissioner on the primary ballot attending the meeting, commented on the appointment.

Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore spoke during the public comments section of the meeting and said that he had no objection to Gove’s appointment. However, he questioned what he saw as Quinn’s reluctance to appoint a blue-collar tradesperson to become a member of the college board of trustees.

“To say that DiAnne Gove brings something more than someone that’s blue collar, I disagree,” said Gilmore. “I think you need a variety of perspectives, and I think it’s important for the people that built the buildings we operate out of have representation on that board.”

Quinn reiterated his position, acknowl-

Residents should use multi-factor authentication as much as possible as a protective means against scammers. This involves sending a text message to a phone or other device with a code to ensure logins to accounts are secure.

Passwords should not include familiar information like social security numbers, birthdays, or children’s names. The use of phrases works for passwords because they’re easier to remember.

“Our IT guy taught me that saving your passwords on your devices, your com-

edging Canfield as a strong candidate, but emphasized his preference for an educator at this particular juncture. “An educator would certainly be somebody that I would pick at this point at this moment in time,” he stated.

Ocean County College’s current Board of Trustees includes Jerry Dasti, Chair, Linda L. Novak, Vice Chair, Frank J. Dupignac, Jr. Treasurer, Robert A. Fall, Member, Stephan R. Leone, Secretary, Joanne Pehlivanian, Member, Joseph E. Teichman, Member, Steven A. Zabarsky, Member, Casey Conner, Student/Alumni Member.

Pehlivanian is a real estate broker/salesperson, Novak, a retired educator, Fall, a retired judge and May, a 2023 Ocean County College graduate. The remainder of the trustees are attorneys.

puters and your cellphones,” said Sgt. Vincent Damiano. “Is actually a safe bet because they’re encrypted.”

“You can save it so that their computer auto-populates the password for you rather than you type it in,” Damiano added. “That’s safer than actually typing them in each time.”

The Barnegat Police Department plans to continue its community discussions on various safety concerns. The date of the next scheduled event has not yet been determined but will focus on traffic laws. Send

e DitoriAl OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

When It Comes To Popular Culture, “Anything Goes”

I was watching my daughter in Toms River High School South’s performance of “Anything Goes” and the title song made me think about how much people complain when their pop culture changes.

I took a little dive into the lyrics. In the 1934 version: “In olden days a glimpse of stocking Was looked on as something shocking, But now, Lord knows, Anything Goes. Good authors too who once knew better words, Now only use four letter words Writing prose, Anything Goes.”

Even back then, Cole Porter was complaining about how pop culture changes.

Isn’t that interesting? We sit around today and complain about how shocking and lewd our TV, music and songs have become. Well guess what?

Literally 90 years ago they were complaining about it, too.

What’s this mean?

That when we say “The world has gone mad today,” we are not alone. And we’re foolish, too.

If you’re complaining about the music that kids listen to today, or that movies aren’t the same today as they used to be – you’re not wrong. But it’s no big deal. This is how it has been for decades.

A movie becomes a hit, and then Hollywood makes a billion clones of it. Once interest dies out, they sell you something else. Now, that new thing might not interest

you, but that’s no big deal.

I’ve said it in this space before: pop culture is the only culture we share. If our favorite show is cancelled, we get angry. If our favorite band breaks up, we get sad. If we hear about a beloved celebrity die, it can be devastating.

But guess what? There’s always a new show. A new band. A million new celebrities.

Personally, I think it’s awesome that there are so many choices. Maybe the new ones aren’t your thing. So what? I’d say most of the new music isn’t for me, and that’s OK. I’m not going to get mad about it. I scroll through Netflix past dozens of things I don’t care about. Then I find something cool. My daughter loves Korean pop music. I don’t get it but whatever. I let her have her thing.

Instead of sitting around and complaining about it, go online and look up “best new (music genre you like) albums.” I bet you’ll be surprised. You could also probably search for “TV show like (show you like).” There’s good stuff being made today – yes, today – waiting for you to find it.

I watched a 1954 televised version of “Anything Goes” and it has the same message. The play South put on was based more off the 1989 Patti LuPone version, but the song remains the same. Generations went by but the idea of pop culture changing is evergreen.

Chris Lundy News Editor

NJ Must Close Gap With Funding For English Language Learners

The State of New Jersey is a great place to educate your children. A 2023 poll by U.S. News & World Report ranked New Jersey #1 in Pre-K - 12 education, which factored in categories such as College Readiness, High School Graduation Rate, NAEP Math Scores, NAEP Reading Scores, and Preschool Enrollment (Rankings: Pre-K-12 - Best States for Childhood Education 2023). However, in NJ the S-2 funding formula has caused many school districts to lose state aid. When districts lose anticipated funding, schools have no choice but to make difficult cuts to existing programming. At the same time, school districts, such as Jackson Township, have also seen an immense increase in English Language Learner (ELL) students which places an additional strain on already strained budgets.

ELL students enrolling into a new school district, many of whom know very limited or no English at all, are assimilated directly into a classroom. Although districts do employ ELL teachers, the majority of non-ELL teachers are not trained or equipped to handle students who don’t speak English. Furthermore, the increase in ELL population should be commensurate with an increase in properly trained ELL teachers.

Unfortunately, the strained budgets are already reducing total teaching personnel, so hiring additional faculty members in ELL positions would further impact the budget strains. With this lack of funding and growing ELL population, many students, teachers, and school districts are being set up for failure. When funds are not issued and cuts to programming take place, it can be argued that districts are now failing

to provide each student with their constitutional right to a “thorough and efficient public education” and this has the potential to set students up for additional life challenges. It can also be argued that the current model fails other students in many classrooms who are forced to wait on the teacher who is doing their best to communicate with ELL students. This snowball affects all students and many students are learning less, making them less prepared for the next chapter of their educational journey.

My proposal is simple. The State of New Jersey should develop a grant program much like the existing PreK program. This grant would be used to prepare a classroom, hire teachers and paraprofessionals, purchase materials, develop curriculums, and anything else required to properly educate a student in need of language support. Enrollment of ELL students would help to determine the grant allocation. In year one of the grant, the ELL student’s education in a given district would center on learning English with a designated certified bilingual teacher, broken down by age groups, with all the resources available to properly teach topics such as grammar, reading, speech, and writing. Year two of the grant, the ELL students would be evaluated to determine if they are prepared to enter into the appropriate grade based on age and education level. This method would set our ELL students up for success and would simultaneously allow for continuous learning in our non-ELL classrooms. These statements were made in my capacity as a private citizen and not as a Jackson Board of Education member. These statements are also not representative of the board or its individual members, and solely represent my own personal opinions.

Giuseppe Palmeri Jackson

Acts Of Kindness By Strangers Still Exist

I am writing about an act of kindness by strangers who helped me … and I am most grateful. I was completing my own act of kindness by helping a relative, using a walker, who needed groceries. I drove his car from Bayville to a grocery store in Lacey. When we returned to the car, I realized I had locked the keys inside. I needed to retrieve the extra set of keys at the residence. I don’t use rideshare apps. We were stranded. I scanned the parking lot and approached a couple who had just loaded their groceries and were preparing to leave. Without hesitation, they said “yes.” They drove me round trip as we engaged in pleasant conversation. They declined my offer of payment. My relative, who remained in the parking lot with his walker and the groceries, also experienced acts of kindness by strangers. Some approached him and offered to load the groceries.

Acts of kindness by strangers are refreshing to experience in these times of turmoil, animosity, stress, and fear of strangers. It is important to publicly express my appreciation to the special couple who helped me and to the people who attempted to help my stranded relative. We shouldn’t have to thank them publicly, but in today’s climate of incivility, I wish to do so and hope their selfless acts inspire us to assist others in ways that each of us can, with or without being asked to do so. I also hope these benevolent acts encourage everyone to strive to be selfless people … the people who typically don’t get airtime in news casts.

Thanks for the ride, A. and G.

Dr. Juneau Gary Bayville

Corporate Profits Or Inflation?

A recent study showed that more than half (53%) of inflation during the second and third quarters of 2023 was driven by corporate profits. To put this into perspective, it was just 11% prior to the pandemic.

How’s that trickle-down economics working out for you?

Everything’s getting more expensive, because everything we buy comes from a corporation. Corporate farms grow the food, corporations package the goods, corporations ship them to us. And then we buy them at corporations like Wal-Mart, Target, and even some corporate grocery stores.

Next time someone talks about how expensive something is, let them know it’s the corporations and corporate greed!

Del Contena Toms River

Letter Writer Wrong On Trump

This letter was written in response to a letter to the editor “Democracy Or Trump?” in the February 8 edition.

This newspaper had an article written about Donald Trump so filled with lies.

Everyone I talked to were disturbed by this article by (name redacted).

Everything she said was wrong. Especially the part where Trump wants to terminate the constitution!!

Everything she is saying Trump wants to do is exactly what the other side is doing. This should be retracted or she should be fired.

What Trump hater allowed this crap to be put in this paper. It’s a good thing not too many people read it.

Tell the writer if she doesn’t like Trump to move out of the country cause he is gonna be the next president. From a lover of America

Kathy Jacob

Package Of Bills To Strengthen Infrastructure

From The Desk Of Congressman Jefferson Van Drew

WASHINGTON,

D.C. – Congressman Van Drew introduced two pieces of legislation - the Bridge Protection Act and the Francis Scott Key Bridge Disaster Taxpayer Reimbursement Resolution - aimed

to strengthen America’s infrastructure system and ensure that taxpayers do not bear the burden of disasters caused by private companies.

“The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is a tragedy that will have a lasting impact on the future of America’s infrastructure system,” said Congressman Van Drew. “As we navigate the aftermath of this disaster, we must work to put safeguards in place to ensure that this can never

happen again. That is why I introduced the Bridge Protection Act, which requires any large bridge over a waterway to be constructed with protective measures around its critical support points. By taking this commonsense step, we are mitigating future risks of similar disasters and enhancing the safety of America’s infrastructure.

“While the implementation of protective measures would prevent tragedies like this from happening again in the future, it is important we also define where the line of responsibility is drawn in situations like this,” Congressman Van Drew added.

“While we need to rebuild this bridge as quickly as possible, we must also ensure that this company, along with others, understands that this kind of neglect will not be tolerated, and they must contribute to covering the costs. The magnitude of this financial burden should not fall entirely on hardworking Americans, but rather the private entities who were directly responsible for this accident. My resolution makes it clear that private entities have to prioritize safety in their operations and the consequences of their negligence will not be shouldered by the taxpayers.”

Green Bank To Advance State’s Climate Goals

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON

– The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Board approved the creation of the New Jersey Green Bank (NJGB), which will make investments in the clean energy sector that will help advance the state’s efforts to make an equitable transition to 100 percent clean energy. The NJGB will make investments through debt, credit enhancements, and other financial vehicles to attract private capital to enable the state to reach its climate goals. The Murphy Administration has taken significant steps to meet the ongoing challenges of climate change and has set several clean energy targets, including 100 percent clean electricity by 2035,11 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2040, and 50 percent economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions reduction by 2030. The NJGB is a component of the 2019 Energy Master Plan and Governor Murphy’s Executive Order 316 directed the NJEDA to implement programs supporting building electrification through the NJGB.

“From more violent storms to increased flooding, the effects of climate change have become all too familiar here in New Jersey,” said Governor Murphy. “My administration has established aggressive goals to combat climate change and the creation of the New Jersey Green Bank will help us meet those goals by making major investments in the clean energy sector. This approval is a significant step in our fight against climate change, which will help us reach a clean energy future that will protect our environment and bolster our economy for generations to come.”

The NJGB will be dedicated to investing in projects, technologies, and companies that align with the State’s climate goals, including in areas such as zero-emission transportation, building decarbonization and resiliency, and clean energy generation and storage. Examples of projects that the NJGB may invest in include solar power, onshore and offshore wind, all electric heat pumps and geothermal, and battery storage, among others. Investments made by the NJGB must demonstrate benefits for the state; be new rather than seeking refinancing; and lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions or other

PUBLIC MEETING OF THE LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE

Bayville, N.J. - The Ocean County Local Emergency Planning Committee will be holding a public meeting on April 30, 2024. The meeting will begin at 5 p.m. and will be held at the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Management, 101 Airport Rd, Bldg. 52, R.J. Miller Airpark, Bayville, N.J. Follow the signs for the Emergency Operations Center and look for the door marked Entrance on the outside of the building.

The purpose of this meeting is to review and vote on the proposed EPCRA (Emergency Planning Community Right to Know Act) Emergency Response Plan and to discuss sub-committee assignments. Formal action may be taken at this meeting. Pursuant to the New Jersey Open Public Meeting Act, N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et.seq., these meetings are open to the public and no RSVP is required.

co-pollutants.

“Establishing the New Jersey Green Bank is a pivotal step in the State’s continued push to meet the ongoing challenges of climate change,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “The NJGB will inject capital into New Jersey’s clean energy economy and support green businesses and good-paying jobs in the field. Additionally, the investments made by the NJGB will pave the way for a cleaner and healthier environment for our residents and future generations.”

As a subsidiary of the NJEDA focused exclusively on climate investments, the NJGB will be well-positioned to attract private capital, including funds from public-private partnerships, as has been the case with other Green Banks in the region. The NJGB will also look to facilitate the development of climate and clean energy capital markets in the state through forms of financial support, such as warehousing and securitization, that address underdeveloped or nonexistent capital markets for these investments.

In addition to capital allocated to the NJGB in the state’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget, the NJGB’s initial capitalization will include permanent grant capital it receives as a named sub-awardee in the Coalition for Green Capital’s (CGC) application to the

Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) National Clean Investment Fund competition. The EPA recently announced that CGC will be receiving an award of $5 billion through the NCIF competition.

“With the formation of the New Jersey Green Bank, our state will be able to invest in projects that will help transform our communities and bring us closer to our clean energy goals. The Green Bank will address gaps in the market and encourage traditional lenders to make investments in new areas. This is a big win for New Jersey and its environment,” said NJEDA Chief Economic Transformation Officer Kathleen Coviello.

Last year, the NJEDA issued a Request for Expressions of interest (“RFEI”) to identify entities interested in financial support from the NJGB. Additionally, the NJEDA has been engaged with sister agencies to identify investment opportunities.

To ensure all communities benefit from the NJGB, the NJEDA will engage New Jersey’s Environmental Justice Communities (EJCs) to ensure a just transition and to make recommendations and provide feedback on how the NJGB can best advance environmental justice through its investments. The NJGB will also leverage the NJEDA’s existing diversity, equity, and inclusion staff, expertise, and initiatives.

Stafford Official Wins 2024 Municipal Coordinator Award

STAFFORD – The New Jersey Clean Communities Council (NJCCC), a statewide, comprehensive, litter-abatement program, has honored Phil Preston with the “2024 Municipal Coordinator Award” for his exceptional collaboration and leadership.

NJCCC Executive Director, JoAnn Gemenden, presented the award earlier this month during the second-annual New Jersey Sustainability in Motion Conference in Atlantic City, which attracted hundreds of attendees from across the state.

Gemenden noted Preston has led impactful initiatives that have significantly enhanced the environmental quality of the Stafford Township community.

Stafford Township, covering 55 square miles, including 8.5 square miles of water, has experienced substantial growth, with a population of more than 32,000 residents residing in 13,000 households.

“Phil’s visionary leadership and collaborative approach has been instrumental in uniting community members and stakeholders toward a shared goal of environmental sustainability,” Gemenden said. His outstanding initiatives include:

• Lagoon maintenance: Preston has overseen the maintenance of more than 100 lagoons, collaborating with local authorities to ensure health and cleanliness.

• Street sweeping and leaf collection: Preston has implemented collaborative programs to keep 150 roadway miles clean and well-maintained, fostering partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

• Educational programs: Preston initiated educational programs with school and community organizations to raise awareness

Photo courtesy NJCCC about environmental conservation. Preston presents Clean Communities\Recycling information two to four times a year.

• Adopt-A-Programs: He enthusiastically encourages community involvement and ownership of public spaces, working closely with local volunteer groups.

• Volunteer cleanups: Preston coordinated 17 volunteer cleanups involving MBC Youth Group, MATES, Stafford Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary, Fawn Lakes Men’s Club, Stafford Historical Society and others.

• Adopt-A-Drain Campaign: The effort prevents pollution and keep water drainage systems clean involving residents, businesses, and local organizations.

“Phil’s leadership extends beyond Stafford Township as he actively shares his successful programs with other townships in Ocean County, demonstrating a commitment to regional environmental improvement and fostering collaboration among municipalities,” Gemenden said. “His exemplary work has not only elevated the cleanliness of Stafford Township, but has also inspired a sense of shared responsibility and community pride.”

Learn more at njclean.org and litterfreenj. org.

Police Chief Celebrates Retirement

Photo courtesy Long Beach Police

LONG BEACH – After serving the citizens of Long Beach Township for 30 years, Chief Kevin Mahon worked his last day. Congratulations Chief on a well-deserved retirement!

Local Pets Available For Adoption

LACEY – The Associated Humane Society shelter at the Popcorn Park Zoo has pets available for adoption.

Cleo is the sweetest little lady that is so deserving of a fresh start in life. She’s just under 3 years old. Cleo was given to a friend to “hold on to” for a while, but her owner never came back for her. Cleo is missing part of her tail and we have no idea how that happened. She also arrived with a cold and some eye irritation, all of which has been treated and now. She’s healthy

Photo

and positively thriving! Cleo takes under a minute to get to know and love you and she’ll flip-flop around, hoping you’ll pet her forever. Loud noises are not really her thing, so a home with no young kids is best. She’s lived with other cats and is perfectly fi ne with them. She’s affectionate, super sweet, and so ready to be welcomed into a new home. Cleo hopes you’ll give her a chance! Call 609-693-1900, visit ahscares.org/ forked-river-adoptables or email: office@ ahsppz.org for an adoption application.

Memorial Bike Decorating Contest

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department Memorial Day Parade Bike Decorating Contest will be on May 27.

Decorate your bike with the Memorial Day theme. Line-up begins at 9 a.m. at St. Theresa’s Church on Radio Road. Parade starts at 10 a.m.

local VFW will award each winner the following prize: 1st Place $100 2nd Place $75 3rd Place $50

Winners will be picked by the LEHT Police Department after the parade. The

Parent/guardian must remain with child. Helmets are required. Register with Kathy: 609-296-7241 ext. 251 or ktucker@leht. com.

Mother’s Day Flower Sale

STAFFORD – Back by popular demand, the Stafford Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary will be having their flower sale once again on May 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 133 Stafford Avenue.

Beautiful hanging baskets, and bedding plants, will be available. Gerber Daises, New Guinea Impatiens, Begonias, Dahlias,

Million Bells, Portulaca’s and Marigolds just to name a few.

Last year they sold out, because you can’t beat the quality of these hanging baskets, so get there early! Inventory is based on availability from the garden center. While supplies last. Please support The Stafford Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.

Long Beach Township

125th Anniversary Celebration

LONG BEACH – Join on May 25 at Bayview Park to celebrate Long Beach Township 125th Anniversary! Starting at 5 p.m. with live music, free kids

activities, food and beverages for sale, and ending with fireworks! Sponsored by the LBI Chamber & Fantasy Island Amusement Park.

courtesy AHS

Litt le Egg Harbor Township Meeting Highlights

Annual Optimist Oratorical Contest Winners

LITTLE EGG HARBOR – Officer Nikola and Officer Renn were appointed as Police Officers and Officer Zusi was appointed as Special Law Enforcement Class III Police Officer for the Little Egg Harbor Police Department.

Photo courtesy Little Egg Harbor Township Proclamation for National Autism Acceptance Month was presented to New Horizons in Autism Inc. Proclamation for Earth Day (April 22, 2024) was presented to the Little Egg Harbor Environmental Commission.

BARNEGAT – BTSD hosted the annual Optimist Oratorical Contest. They had three students participate and two will be moving on to the district competition on May 4 in Reading, PA.

Photo courtesy Barnegat Schools Ryann Meehan (MATES) came in 1st, Connor Meehan (ROBMS) came in 2nd, and Krupam Patel (ROBMS) came in 3rd. The students work on public speaking skills under the guidance of Ms. Spain.

Albert Music Hall Elvis Night

WARWTOWN – Since 1974, Albert Music

Hall has offered a vibrant stage for traditional music in Waretown, New Jersey. Every Saturday night, the hall comes alive with the sound of live Bluegrass, Country, Folk, Americana, Old Timey, and Pinelands music.

On May 4, the Hall will hold its fi rst ever Elvis Night in a tribute to the King of Rockn-Roll… Pinelands style! Five of Albert Music Hall’s regular bands will be playing music from his early hits of the 50s straight through to his last songs of the 70s. They invite you to come dressed in your Elvis best for the chance to win a prize - put on your blue-suede shoes and rock out to the music of The King!

The performers for the evening are: Redbird & Raven, Piney Blues, Basement Musicians, That’s All Right Mama, and James Dalton, each playing a 30 minute set.

The snack booth will be open and offering meatballs, hot dogs, and Italian chicken sausages as well as cakes, pies, soda, water, hot drinks, chips, and more, so folks can come have dinner. The gift booth is fully stocked with Albert Music Hall and Pinelands souvenirs including some new items celebrating the Hall’s 50th Anniversary this year. There will be a 50/50 drawing. Parking is free and the venue is Handicap Accessible.

On May 4, doors open at 5 p.m., music 6:30 to 9 p.m. Admission $6 for adults and $1 for children under 12. The venue is cash only. Come on over ready to rock the night away with some great Elvis cover music.

Event location: Albert Music Hall, 131 Wells Mills Road, Waretown. For more information and last-minute updates, visit alberthall.org.

‘Thyme’ To Learn About Herbs

STAFFORD – What better way to add zest to meals than with herbs that you grow right at home? Learn how to raise, harvest and store them when Ocean County Master Gardener Cheryl Clearo presents “Thyme to Learn about Herbs” at the Ocean County Library Stafford Branch, 10:30 a.m. May 13. Cheryl will describe methods for growing herbs indoors and outdoors, in the ground and in containers, and offer tips about drying, preserving, and freezing them for future use.

The Master Gardeners of Ocean County are trained, certified volunteers who assist the Rutgers Cooperative Extension staff in providing research-based information on sustainable horticulture to county residents.

Cheryl, in her sixth year as Master Gardener, volunteers in the Community Garden

at Ocean County Park where food is grown and donated to nearby food pantries. She also co-chairs the Rutgers Cooperative Extension’s Homegrown Garden initiative, teaching vegetable gardening techniques to new interns in the Master Gardener program.

Register at tinyurl.com/OclStaffordHerbs for this free program. Bring along your plant and soil questions and samples to the free “Ask a Master Gardener @ Stafford” diagnostic clinic, 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. starting May 13 and continuing on the second and fourth Monday of each month through September, except Memorial Day.

For more information, stop by the OCL Stafford Branch, 129 North Main Street, Manahawkin, visit theoceancountylibrary. org/events, or call 609-597-3381.

“A Night To Remember” Senior Prom Celebration

STAFFORD – Stafford Recreation is thrilled to announce their fi rst ever prom for senior citizens! As part of National Older Americans Month in May they invite Stafford seniors to A Night to Remember! This elegant afternoon of music, dance and magical moments will take place on May 17 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Bay Avenue Community Center, 775 E. Bay Avenue in Manahawkin.

Dress to impress and join for light refreshments, mocktails and fabulous entertainment by the duo Silver & Gold. There will be dancing, a photo booth, the crowning of the Prom King and Queen, many laughs with friends and a few more special touches by the Recreation staff.

This free event is open to Stafford Township seniors. There will be a limited number of tickets available and they must be picked up in person at the Bay Avenue Community Center between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Tickets will be available for pick up starting April 11.

Due to the limited space and in fairness to all, the number of tickets that can be picked up is only for those within the same household. There can be no picking up of tickets for multiple groups.

Stay tuned as they reveal an entire month of activities and special events as we celebrate Stafford’s seniors in May!

For more information, call 609-597-1000 ext. 8573.

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

Golf Team Wins Championship Volleyball Program Takes Home Championships

Annual Mother’s Day Flower Sale

WARETOWN – Waretown First Aid Squad Annual Mother’s Day Flower Sale will be on May 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. and May 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 13 Bryant Road, Waretown.

MANAHAWKIN

– On April 13, the Southern Regional Boys Volleyball program took home two championships.

Congratulations to the freshmen team on winning the 2024 Monroe Falcon Invitational. Congratulations to the varsity team on winning the Eastern Regional Invitational. Congratulations to the players and coaches. Continued

Manahawkin United Methodist Vendor Fair

MANAHAWKIN – The Women of the Manahawkin United Methodist will hold an indoor/outdoor “Vendor Fair” on May 4 at the church, 116 Stafford Avenue, Manahawkin.

Some space is still available both indoors and outside. For further information, call Millie at 609-597-8026.

EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

Photo courtesy Southern Regional

MANAHAWKIN – Congratulations Southern Regional Girls Golf on winning the 2024 Ocean County Championship on April 15.

success this season.

Photo courtesy Southern Regional

Local Artist Fills Property With Sculptures

By Chris Lundy

BEACHWOOD – Tucked away on a quiet street, large statues stand out from the suburban landscape.

These sculptures evoke curiosity in people driving by. They are the work of Martina Smejkalova, who surrounds herself with beautiful things.

A native of the Czech Republic, she was amazed by how much garbage Americans made. Perhaps, she thought, she could make use of these non-recyclable plastics. What better way for something to spend eternity on Earth than as part of a work of art?

She makes the basic shape using plastics wrapped with chicken wire or tape. Then it is coated with mortar. As it takes shape, the face forms organically. There’s not a set plan. It comes about through the art of creation.

Afterwards, Smejkalova and her husband Kevin Hinninger might come up with a name for the new sculpture – whatever fits its face.

They all have character. The Baba Yaga,

School:

Continued From Page 1 the goal will be to determine the impact of reducing an additional $7 million from our budget, which is the number that currently represents our deficit.”

Pereira highlighted Assembly Bill No.

more than six feet tall, is an old wisewoman with a glint of mischief in her eye. She represents aspects of Mother Nature. “She can be cruel but she can be nice.”

Even the fence around the property is art. Each length has a different scene painted on it. When one fence section came off, it wasn’t wasted. It was made into the floor of a small sitting area in front of Hinninger’s music studio.

“Some people stop” when they are walking or driving by, she said. “Some people purposely drive by or walk by and it makes my day.”

The statues are functional as well. The open mouths become birdbaths after the rain. Many a time a bird has flown out of one of the mouths as someone walks by.

“The sculptures aren’t separate from the garden, it’s a piece of it,” she said.

The garden itself is a work of art. Flowers are chosen to accent the sculptures. With an artist’s eye, she wants the garden to look good from every angle. The ambiance works in all seasons, through spring and

461 as a potential lifeline. The bill proposes a Stabilized School Budget Aid Grant Program, offering eligible districts grants equivalent to two-thirds of their state school aid reductions for the 2024-2025 school year. Furthermore, the bill grants flexibility to districts that have suffered significant aid cuts, allowing them to exceed the 2%

summer blooms and the quiet of winter. The fruit trees and the raised beds in the back are practical as well, providing health fruits and vegetables.

Inside the house is her art studio, where her paintbrush brings her ideas to life. Scores of portraits adorn the walls. Some are in series, such as close-ups of people smoking. Familiar faces can be spotted in her series of musicians, such as Jimi Hendrix or members of The Beatles.

Smejkalova also does portraits of pets and loved ones. Her work is up on the Revolu-

property tax levy cap without requiring voter approval.

This potential for increased funding offered a glimmer of hope amidst the bleak fi nancial outlook. However, the bill’s fate remained uncertain as it awaits a full Senate vote scheduled for May 9. This will be tight against a May 15 deadline to inform staff

tion Lounge now. For more information, visit paintings-Martina.com

of potential layoffs.

The school district has created a Quick Reference Guide for residents to email and call authorities that could help rectify its fi nancial issues. Contact information for legislators and relevant social media sites are all available in the reference guide (laceyschools.org/Page/11472).

Photo by Chris Lundy

The Baba Yaga sculpture reflects nature as she oversees the garden.

Dr.Bartisshasoftenbeenreferredtoas“adoctor’sdoctor”,andisfrequentlycalled upon for his diagnostic skills. He is founder and Medical Director of ICAM and a member of the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, the American AcademyofAnti-AgingMedicine,theAmericanAcademyofOzoneTherapists,and adiplomateoftheAmericanAcademyofFamilyPhysicians.Dr.Bartissisamedical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in thefieldofBio-IdenticalHormoneReplacementTherapy(BHRT).

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609-978-9002

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

(N.J. Lic. #678)

• Whiting, NJ 08759

• www.ICAMNJ.com

6 Tips For Longer Battery Life

Find the Right Match Make sure your batteries are the right size, type, and performance level for your devices.

Prepare Before You Pull Pulling the tab activates your batteries, so be sure you’re ready to use them — they can’t be deactivated. It’s advisable to wait at least 2-3 minutes before closing the battery door to maximize battery life.

Power Down Turning off your hearing aids and opening the battery door when they’re not in use helps your batteries last longer.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures Extremes are no good for batteries, so store them at room temperature whenever possible.

Choose Rechargeables Rechargeables eliminate waste and the need to constantly mess with tiny batteries. Long time hearing aid users still prefer to replace their batteries as opposed to having to drag the charger with you on vacation trips.

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer your questions about important hearing care issues. Please feel free to contact Dr. Izzy at 732-451-3962 or ikirsh@gardenstatehearing.com

Keep Water Out Moisture damages batteries, so protect your devices from water and store them overnight in a dehumidifier. If moisture corrodes the battery door, the aid will eventually stop working.

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!

Meals On Wheels Survey Results

OCEAN COUNTY – Recently, Meals on Wheels of Ocean County conducted a survey amongst their participants receiving home delivered meals and the results decisively show that the services they deliver make a difference in seniors’ everyday lives.

Some highlights of the survey included:

• 69% of participants would not have a hot meal if not for Meals on Wheels

• 99% of participants feel more confident living independently

• 98% of participants are eating healthier and a more balanced diet

• 95% of participants feel less lonely receiving Meals on Wheels

Another question on the survey was what

term to call an adult over 60 years old. There have been many conversations on the national level to change the term “Senior” to “Older Adult.” Meals on Wheels took the question straight to the source and asked them what they prefer.

As an adult over 60 years old, what do you prefer to be called?

• 34% Senior

• 6% Older Adult

• 1% Elder

• 52% Senior Citizen

• 7% Modern Elder

You can view the full survey results at: csimow.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ Winter-Survey-Results.pdf.

Volunteers Needed At New Jersey Blood Services

NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of the team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No medical background necessary. Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service, be able to perform tasks as needed and must

provide proof of COVID Vaccination prior to volunteering. Must have transportation. All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors.

For additional information call or text

Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at 732-850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To apply online as a blood drive volunteer, go to: volgistics.com/appform/2127944197.

Mental Health And Wellness Night

LACEY – Proudly presented by Lacey Township in partnership with Central Regional, the Mental Health and Wellness

Night will be on April 29 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Lacey Township High School. Free dinner, childcare, access to resource tables.

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Impact Of Dietary Choices On Medication Efficacy And Safety

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

When I visited the nursing home the other day, I realized that everyone in there takes so many medications! I’m pretty sure there are a lot of food, and fruit-drug interactions going on that no one is aware of.

In the United States, an alarming trend shows that nearly half of its citizens are on prescription medication, raising concerns about potential interactions with everyday dietary choices. As people age, the likelihood of being prescribed multiple medications, a condition known as polypharmacy, dramatically increases.

This is particularly prevalent among older adults in long-term care, who may consume up to 15 different medications daily. Drawing from my seven-year experience as a Consultant Pharmacist in such settings, I’ve observed firsthand the significant influence of diet on medication effectiveness and safety, with fruit interactions standing out as a noteworthy concern.

The interaction between our diet and medications can profoundly affect the latter’s safety and efficacy. Food components may alter how drugs are absorbed, metabolized, or eliminated by the body, leading to reduced effectiveness or increased side effects. Fruits, with their complex biochemical profiles, are significant contributors to these interactions.

Grapefruit: A Case for Caution Grapefruit and similar citrus fruits, like Seville oranges and pomelos, contain substances that inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes in the small intestine, crucial for metabolizing many drugs, including statins and some blood pressure medications. This inhibition can elevate drug levels in the bloodstream, enhancing the risk of adverse effects, such as muscle pain or damage from statins.

Recommendation: For those on medications affected by grapefruit, complete avoidance is advised due to the long-lasting effect of the

interaction, making it insufficient to merely adjust medication timing.

Bananas: Potassium-Rich Risks Bananas, high in potassium, can be problematic when consumed with ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), leading to hyperkalemia, a condition with potentially severe heart rhythm complications.

Recommendation: Moderation is key when consuming high-potassium foods like bananas, especially for individuals on ACE inhibitors or ARBs. Regular potassium monitoring through blood tests is essential for safe management.

Pomegranates: Sweet but Serious Pomegranates can also inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme, affecting the metabolism of blood pressure medications and statins, increasing the risk of side effects.

Recommendation: Consult with healthcare providers on whether to moderate or avoid pomegranates based on your medication regimen.

Cranberries: A Delicate Balance Cranberries, especially when consumed in large amounts or as juice, can amplify the effects of warfarin, a blood thinner, raising the bleeding risk.

Recommendation: For warfarin users, moderation in cranberry consumption is safe, but consistency in dietary habits is crucial to avoid medication efficacy issues.

With a substantial portion of the U.S. population on prescription drugs, awareness and understanding of potential diet-drug interactions are critical for ensuring medication safety and effectiveness.

Always discuss dietary habits and potential interactions with healthcare providers when starting new medications. Monitoring for changes in health or symptoms after dietary adjustments is also vital for maintaining well-being. I have a longer version of this article with more information. To have it emailed, just sign up for my free weekly newsletter at suzycohen.com.”

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2024 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

These Efficient Carnivores Are Native To The U.S.

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Although this species can be found in

the tropical jungles, they are only native to two U.S. states – North and South Carolina. They require seasonal temperature changes and experience a dormant period

in the cold season. Carnivorous, they consume grasshoppers, slugs, spiders, crickets, beetles, worms, ants, and fl ies.

An endangered species, North Carolina

considers it a serious crime to harm them, chargeable as a misdemeanor to a felony. Poaching is their biggest threat.

This plant, yes, plant – the Venus flytrap produces white fl owers several inches above their trap, so pollinators are never harmed. There are over 50 varieties. They even make great indoor plants where they can reduce bug populations – but tap water will kill them. They attract their prey with their bright colors (that change according to their needs) and sweet nectar. Their trapping mechanism is a very advanced one. Once prey enters the trap and begins trying to escape by moving, only if it is acceptable food for the plant, the trap will shut, drowning their prey. Digesting their food can take days to weeks. Interestingly, they don’t require bugs to survive. They can create their own food through photosynthesis. So, for that to occur, sunlight is required, along with nutritious soil. Consuming bugs provides nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium which supplements their diet. On occasion insects will be consumed, keeping the plant thriving.

Variations of the Venus flytrap have been created over decades by scientists and experienced carnivorous plant growers. These variations don’t grow in the wild but have been cultivated in a controlled environment and are available commercially for purchase. These plants can help to control small bug populations in your home, at the same time looking more attractive than those bug strips. This plant is not harmful or poisonous to humans. They are beautiful, and as you read this article, once again we learn that nature takes care of itself – if we let it. Charles Darwin described this plant as the ‘most wonderful plant in the world.’ I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

Grease In Concert

MANAHAWKIN – Join at the Stafford Township Arts Center for a very special performance of Grease in concert on May 1 at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. They will run complimentary shuttles from parking lots. Donations are welcome.

FUN & GAMES

Choosing The Right Automobile Insurance Will Protect Your Family And Assets

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

In 1998, the State of New Jersey adopted the Automobile Insurance Cost Reduction Act (AICRA) to reduce the cost of automobile insurance by reducing the benefits available to persons who are injured in automobile accidents. This means less coverage to pay for medical treatment and less rights to recover monetary damages from careless drivers who injure your family. Protect yourself.

Automobile insurance is mandatory in New Jersey. The failure to carry automobile insurance may be punishable by imprisonment.

When purchasing automobile insurance, you have two choices; you are required to select either a Basic Policy or a Standard Policy.

We do not recommend choosing the Basic Policy.

The Basic Policy only provides minimal coverage and leaves you unprotected in several areas. A Basic Policy only provides you with $5,000.00 of property damage liability coverage if someone makes a claim against you and only provides $15,000.00 of medical expense benefits should you require medical treatment for your injuries.

The Basic Policy does not cover you if you injure someone else. The Basic Policy does not provide Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect you and your family if the careless driver who causes the collision is uninsured or is insured under a Basic Policy. Perhaps most importantly, the Basic Policy will not provide you with a free lawyer to defend any claim against your personal assets.

The Standard Policy does provide medical expense benefits (PIP) coverage which includes medical expenses up to $250,000.00 per person per accident. The Standard Policy also provides you with Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM Benefits), so if you are injured by someone who does not have automobile insurance, is insured under a Basic Policy or leaves the scene of the collision then you and your family are covered for your losses.

When you purchase the Standard Policy you must elect a “tort option” that will determine your right to make a claim. You must select either the “limitation on lawsuit option” or the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” If you purchase the Basic Policy then you are assigned the “limitation on lawsuit option.” We recommend that you choose the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” Ask your insurance representative what is the actual dollar amount that your overall premium will increase if you elect the “no limitation on lawsuit option.”

By choosing the “limitation on lawsuit option” you are limiting you legal right to make a claim for monetary damages unless you sustain one of the following injuries: Death, Dismemberment; Significant scarring or disfigurement; Displaced Fractures; Loss of Fetus or a Permanent Injury that can been diagnosed by credible, objective medical testing.

We recommend that you purchase a Standard Policy. A Standard Policy provides the best insurance coverage to protect your assets if you are sued and to provide compensation to you and your family if you/ they are injured.

Selecting the correct insurance coverage is extremely important when it comes to protecting your family and personal assets. Call the Attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates (732-505-1212) for a free evaluation of your automobile insurance policy.

Yard Sale

Neighborhood-wide Yard SaleApril 27 and 28. 9 a.m. Toms River - Sutton Pl., Norwood Dr., River Terrace, Signal Lane, Kim Court, Marjorie Dr., and many more! (20)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL-

RY 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)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-849-6068 (new number). (t/n)

CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (44)

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

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

Ca$h Paid For Old 45 RPM Records. - R&B, doo wop, soul, early rock & roll, and rockabilly preferred. Call between 8AM and 8PM 909-938-4623. (10)

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)

Childcare in my home Brick/Point border Princeton Ave. - Many years experience with infants toddlers and school aged. 2 full time positions available 1 part time. Great prices no registration. Call Jenn to set up a meet and greet 347-458-5797. (22)

Seeking Responsible Individual With Good Phone Skills - Experience In Hvac & Permits A Plus. Filing/Answering Phones/ Scheduling/Permits/Ordering Parts/ Customer Service. Great Work Environment. $15/Hour 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Paid Holidays. Call Care Temp Heating & AC at 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

Bus Driver NEEDED! - Flexible Scheduling. Perfect for Retiree in Retirement Community. CDL w/ Passenger endorsement required. Call SilverWoods Clubhouse for more information at 732-341-4825. (t/n)

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)

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)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Also offering typing services. Very good prices. 732-330-4189, 848-287-3944. (t/n)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)

R.C. Shea and Associates is seeking to hire a paralegal with civil/commercial litigation experience as well as an administrative assistant. Pay and benefits commensurate with experience. Please call Pam Williams, office manager at (732) 505-1212 or email at pwilliams@rcshea.com (t/n)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (21)

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LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)

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“Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Auditions

MANAHAWKIN – One of the most enduring shows of all time, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” is a reimagining of the story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers and the coat of many colors. Told entirely through song with the help of a main character Narrator, the magical musical is full of catchy songs in a variety of styles, from a parody of

French ballads (“Those Canaan Days”), to country-western (“One More Angel in Heaven”) and calypso (“Benjamin Calypso”), along with the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.” Join for a colorful summer!

Performance opportunity for rising freshman and above! (Children’s Choir Registration will be posted soon!) Register

for your audition appointment here: book. squareup.com/appointments/8hqdwn6abtykvb/location/B2W1WHQ4D1MV4/services.

Auditions will be on May 11 at Location: Bay Ave Community Center. Auditions begin at 10 a.m., callbacks will immediately follow.

Please prepare an audition cut from the

show or in the style of the show (36 bars, or one-ish minute). Bring a headshot and resume if you have one!

Rehearsals will take place in the evenings, at varying locations from Tuckerton to Barnegat. Performance Dates: August 2 to 4 at Barnegat High School.

Questions? Email jessica@bellarinetheatre.com.

photo oF the WeeK

Officials: Data Breach

Letters Are Legitimate

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN COUNTY – Government officials confi rmed that letters from the U.S. Department of Justice informing people of a data breach are legitimate.

At least 17 people contacted the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs to see if this was a scam, Director Ronald Heinzman said.

“We confi rmed with the Department of Justice that these letters are indeed genuine and that the federal government was reaching out to individuals who may be impacted by the data breach,” Heinzman said.

Greylock McKinnon and Associates, a Department of Justice contractor, was the victim of a ransomware attack that may have revealed the personal information of some individuals who had business

dealings with the fi rm. Leaked information could have included a person’s name, address, Social Security number, date of birth, driver’s license number and Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers.

Acting Director of the Executive Office for United States Attorneys, Norm Wong, sent the letter to people who might have been impacted. The breach did not reach the DOJ, and was limited to the contractor Greylock McKinnon and Associates.

After learning about the breach, Ocean County then contacted the people who were concerned that they were beings scammed.

“My office sent letters to every individual assuring them the correspondence was legitimate and did originate with the Department of Justice,” said Heinzman.

Local resident Ellen Bratowicz was able to make lemonade out of lemons despite the gloomy sky. She was able to capture two swans as they relaxed in Lavallette on the Barnegat Bay side. We are sure the birds of the Jersey Shore are anxious for Memorial Day weekend which will be here very soon. Want to see your pic in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Ocean County Duo Score Deal On Shark Tank

By Stephanie Faughnan

BRICK - Two local entrepreneurs, David Restiano and Dr. Daniel Staats, a physical therapist, made a splash on the April 12th episode of Shark Tank with their company SORx, which features a unique product called SORSOAP. The soap not only cleanses but also serves as a muscle pain relief tool, leading them to strike a deal during their appearance on the show.

Their literal hands-on presentation showcased the all-natural, essential oil-infused soap’s effectiveness and impressed the Sharks. While some Sharks saw SORx (pronounced sore) better suited as a direct-to-consumer (DTC) product and opted out for that reason, they were still sold on the product’s benefits for their own personal use.

That is, with one exception. Mark Cuban followed instructions to use the handle-shaped soap to scrape the sore areas of his neck. Cuban was impressed with the instantaneous relief he felt and made the two inventors an offer.

“It fixed my damn neck, right,” said Cuban. “You wanted a $100,000 for 10 (percent stake); I’ll give you a $100,000 for 20.”

While Restiano and Staats attempted to negotiate a middle ground to a 15 percent stake, Cuban remained fi rm, and they ultimately accepted his offer.

In a personal interview with Restiano, before the show aired, Restiano revealed that he and Staats landed on the show in an unconventional way. While Restiano said 40,000 people audition for Shark Tank each year, the show actually contacted him personally and asked if they wanted to be

on the show.

“When I fi rst received the email, it seemed a bit weird to me,” Restiano admitted. “I even questioned if it was real, and it turned out that it was.”

The two spent a couple of days last July filming the episode that appeared on television this month. Restiano remained tight-lipped about the behind-the-scenes intricacies, emphasizing the confidentiality clause. He also refrained from divulging whether any of the Sharks had expressed interest prior to the episode’s broadcast.

Rising From Personal Pain

A Division I soccer player, Michael Restiano once dreamt of becoming a doctor. While on a scholarship at Marist College, the demanding course load led him to switch majors, landing him in the world of fi ne arts. This shift in focus proved pivotal, as it ultimately led Restiano to a successful 30-year career as a graphic designer for a Fortune 500 company.

Restiano’s athletic background remained a constant. In 2019, with men’s soccer leagues canceled because of COVID, he turned to long-distance running, experiencing overuse injuries. This is where his path crossed with physical therapist Staats, whom he refers to as Dr. Dan.

Staats, a former college football player herself, began by treating Restiano’s physical injuries. Their professional connection soon blossomed into a friendship and, eventually, a business partnership.

“After a physical therapy session where Dan used a metal tool to scrape my hip

(Shark Tank - See Page 26)

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan David Restiano, pictured a couple of weeks before Shark Tank released its episode where he and Dr. Dan Staats secured a deal.

Shark Tank:

Continued From Page 25

flexor, I went home and showered,” Restiano recounted. “In the shower, I noticed a bar of Irish Spring soap had a similar curved shape. On a whim, I decided to try scraping my hip flexor with the soap, and it actually felt effective. It seemed to mimic the same technique Dan had used.”

The soap’s limitations dampened Restiano’s initial enthusiasm for the Irish Spring trick. It proved slippery, difficult to hold, and lacked therapeutic properties. This is when the spark of invention struck. Restiano envisioned a tool replicating the shape of the therapist’s tool but with key improvements: a more secure grip, extended durability, and potentially incorporating natural, pain-relieving ingredients.

Believing he was onto something, Restiano delved deeper into the world of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM). His research led him to Dr. David Graston, a pioneer in the field and developer of the Graston Technique – a set of specialized tools used for scraping soft tissue.

“As I sifted through search results, I realized there was nothing like what I had envisioned in my mind,” said Restiano. “So, I started sketching the shape; I started sketching a logo with a trademark.”

Restiano then drafted a certified letter to himself and documented what he termed a “poor man’s patent.” He waited a couple of weeks to tell Dr. Dan about his idea and found the physical therapist immediately on board with starting a business.

SORSOAP contains responsibly and sustainably sourced coconut palm and natural purple coloring. It includes water, vegetable-derived glycerin, lavender, menthol, and chamomile essential oils, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Sodium bicarbonate was added later to enhance hardness, crucial for effective muscle scraping. The product is applied in the shower, increasing blood flow, aiding

lymphatic drainage, and reducing inflammation. Users can target specific areas or use it for full-body treatment, mimicking clinical massage with the convenience of self-care. The privacy of one’s shower enhances the relaxation and therapeutic benefits after a tough day.

Meanwhile, Staats decided to study the effectiveness of the soap with the help of Gustave Gallinot, another physical therapist. Their findings were published in 2022 by a peer-reviewed journal named Occupational Diseases and Environmental Medicine.

After evaluating a group of 31 Jersey Mike deli workers for one month, the study appeared to show that SORxSOAP showed promise in improving hand and wrist strength and flexibility for deli meat slicers. This could not only help them recover from repetitive strain injuries but also prevent them entirely.

SORx has already seen success in the local wholesale market with occupational therapists, physical therapists, gyms, stretch therapy groups, and chiropractic offices. Plans are in progress to enter the retail space as a number of people have expressed interest in purchasing the product in big box store.

“I’ve always thought this was basically going to target athletes,” Restiano said. “We’ve got a huge community of people who suffer from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. I’m glad that we’ve come across something that helps them.”

Restiano became visibly emotional as he explained the reasons that developing this product went beyond a simple business venture.

“My mother passed away from Alzheimer’s at a very young age,” he shared. “She always taught me that the golden rule is not to treat people the way they treat you. It’s to treat people the way you want to be treated.”

SORx maintains a consistent social media presence on Instagram, Tik Tok, and Facebook. More information about the company can be found on the company’s website at sorsoap.com

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may have lots of opportunities to contribute to more than one good cause in the week to come. Keep track of your contributions, no matter how big or small. Your generosity could add up and lead to financial incentives.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Imaginative ideas may pop into your head with surprising frequency. You might have the ability to harness some of your innovative thoughts and turn them to practical use. Explore innovative opportunities and ways to approach tasks.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You may be fascinated by the ancient wonders of the world or prompted to research unsolved mysteries of the universe. It may be amazing that random information could end up being relevant to your everyday life when you least expect it.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): It is human nature to desire to have a sense of belonging and fit in with your peers. Pay attention to your behaviors and feelings as they might tell you if you may be lowering your standards to appear to be in agreement with everyone else.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Performing mundane tasks might help you remember something important. Utilize this time to relax your mind and experience clarity. Washing the dishes, mowing the lawn, or just taking a nap can help the answer rise to the surface.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You may find strategic thinking to be both exhausting and fulfilling. Asking appropriate questions and using your research skills may help you discover valuable facts and improve your projects. Avoid analyzing those closest to you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): A craving for

FOR THE WEEK OF APR 27 - MAY 3

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

romance may be on your mind, if so, don’t be shy about it. You can let your special someone know how you feel without saying a word. Use all the tools at your disposal to find other ways to communicate during the week to come.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Take some time to think about the acts of kindness in your everyday life. Everyone has times when they need extra support or a comforting hand to hold. Being of service to other people could expand and enhance the love in your soul.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your mind or home may be cluttered with ideas and plans that you’ve been putting off. It could be time to organize the usable stuff and scrap the rest. Creating clear space in both your mind and environment could lead to more focused success.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): It might be easy to recognize clutter in someone else’s life, although you may think your sentimental treasures to be essential to your happiness. Think carefully about what’s truly important before you start sweeping the shelves clear.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Explore your curiosity with a bit of caution. It may be understandable to want to learn more about the inner workings of things but be mindful that you might create tension if you ask someone too many personal questions early on.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Ensure you have the appropriate tools for your journey as preparation tends to be the first step to solving any problem. Taking a moment to pause and think could alleviate panic. Focus on compromising for a universal win-win.

(c) 2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

TRY OUR TAKE ON LATKES FOR PASSOVER

By America’s Test Kitchen

THICK AND CREAMY POTATO LATKES

(For

25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2024 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.