2024-05-25 - The Manchester Times

Little Library Opens In Front Of School World Bee Day Celebrates Pollinators Of Every Stripe

(Above) The Little Library is fully unveiled in front of the Lakehurst Elementary School on Union Avenue. (Inset) A young reader opens up his new book from The Little Library. for the Little Library that is located in front of the Lakehurst Elementary School.

By Bob Vosseller

LAKEHURST – Want a book? Well, you can now borrow one because a little library exists on Union Avenue in the borough. Residents came together and enjoyed a special grand opening

PTA President Amanda Schreiber told The Manchester Times , “This project came about as an idea that I had for the commu-

nity. I have seen little libraries in other towns and thought Lakehurst could benefit from one. I brought the idea to my other PTA members and they loved the idea as much as I did. We brainstormed how we could raise the money

and where a good location would be.” Schreiber also serves as the chairperson for the scholastic bookfair that the PTA runs at the school twice a year and she noticed in their scholastic catalog that

(Library - See Page 4)

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – The World Bee Celebration, hosted by Bee Shore Honey, LLC and Save Barnegat Bay, created a hive of activity as local experts, beekeepers, and environmental enthusiasts gathered to celebrate and highlight the crucial role of pollinators.

While bees were the main buzz, the event also spotlighted bats, emphasizing their significant contributions alongside bees in the local ecosystem.

A Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES) student from Island Heights championed the cause of bats as unsung pollinator superheroes. Eleanora Church’s project for her Girl Scout Gold Award focuses on building

(Bee Day - See Page 4)

NFL’s Tyreek Hill Teaches Kids To Follow In His Footsteps Murder Trial: What Jury Has Heard, And Hasn’t Heard

Tyreek Hill, a one-time Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs and an eight-time Pro Bowler in his fi rst eight seasons in the NFL, led the Tyreek Hill Youth Football and Speed Camp

(Footsteps - See Page 5)

By Stephanie Faughnan TOMS RIVER

– As both the prosecution and defense present their cases in the state’s trial against Christopher Gregor for the endangerment and murder of his six-year-old child, one crucial voice is all too silent: that of the

young victim, Corey Micciolo. Much of what Corey allegedly said before his death has been excluded from the jury as hearsay evidence. A single, accidental video taken by Corey’s mother, Breanna Micciolo, on the morning of her son’s

(Trial - See Page 9)

By Chris Christopher JACKSON – A mega star, a superstar, a superduper star captivated 225 athletes and numerous fans at Adventure Crossing USA.

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Attendees had a chance to suit up and avoid stings as they got a close look at bees in their natural habitat.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Photo courtesy Tom Naclerio The kids ran drills and practiced against each other all day.

Bee Day:

Continued From Page 1 bat houses and educating the community on the vital role bats play.

“There are over 500 different types of flowers that rely on bats as one of their major pollinators,” Eleanor shared. “They can also eat approximately 3,000 mosquitos in just one night.”

With the assistance of two other Girl Scouts, Eleanor helped two young children build their own bat houses. She also addressed the threats bats face from white nose syndrome and habitat loss due to development.

Building Homes For Busy Bees

Bats weren’t the only ones to get new homes at the event, which featured stations showcasing many experts involved in the New Jersey State Beekeeping Association and its Ocean County Chapter.

Graceanne Taylor, an Environmental Educator from Save Barnegat Bay, led an engaging activity: crafting bee houses from simple materials like bamboo and twine.

Taylor instructed participants to place the bee houses in spots exposed to morning sun and afternoon shade, creating an ideal bee environment.

Taylor explained that the bees will utilize these houses to create rooms for storing food, eggs, and pollen. She added that native bees are solitary creatures and prefer to live independently.

A Closer Look at the Buzz Bill McCormick of Bee Shore Honey, pursuing his master’s degree in beekeeping

from Cornell University, offered valuable information about bees and honey. Bill’s wife Ann and daughter Bridget joined him as groups swarmed to a particularly popular attraction hosted by the McCormick family.

Guests cast aside any fear of stings and donned protective white suits for a once-ina-lifetime opportunity: a closer look at a real beehive. This firsthand encounter allowed them to witness these amazing creatures buzzing about in their natural environment.

A separate display showcased hundreds of bees buzzing within a transparent observation hive encased in a wooden frame. The bee condo offered a glimpse into the organized chaos of the hive. For some, the most thrilling part was searching for the queen bee, easily identified by a special green marking placed by the beekeepers, as she navigated the swarms of worker bees.

“Queen bees generally live about three years or rarely up to five years,” said Sheila Estlow of Manchester. “The queen bee’s only role is to lay eggs and can lay 1,500 a day.”

In contrast, worker bees only live approximately 42 days. Bees born before the end of the winter have a different body than those born at other times of the year. The ‘winter bees’ live until the spring because of their extra “fat.”

There are 4,000 species of bees throughout North America, and honeybees are the only ones who make honey.

The Importance Of Native Plants

New Jersey has crowned a Honey Queen in human form for several decades. Katie Culbert, the outgoing 2023 New Jersey Honey Queen, is set to graduate from Toms

River North and begin her studies at Harvard University in the fall.

A research contest sponsored by the Army Educational Outreach program regarding pollinators first sparked Katie’s interest in bees. Her dedication to the topic earned her the Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence, and her research on the critical link between native plant species and bee health has even sparked legislative action.

“In research I conducted at MIT, I learned that the types of plants they visit correlate with their health,” Katie said. “Bees who visit more native plants are likely healthier and stronger. But if they mainly forage off invasive plants, they’re weaker and most likely won’t survive through the winter.”

Katie shared her research with Assemblyman Alex Sauickie (R-12), who introduced A-5764 on November 30, 2023, aimed at prohibiting the planting of non-native species in landscaping at State parks and forests. The bill also establishes a grant program to sup-

Library:

Continued From Page 1 they had a little library for sale. “I was so excited! My first thought was to ask the head custodian Dan to see if he was willing to help me with this project.”

“I needed someone to assemble the library and install it in the ground. He was so gracious and agreed to help me. My next step was approval from administration and Mrs. Rucci was totally on board with the idea,” Schreiber added.

port the use of native plants at local parks and forests, with an appropriation of $250,000.

A companion bill, S-2859, was introduced in the Senate on March 4, 2024, sponsored by Senator Linda R. Greenstein (D-14).

The Sweet Side Of Pollination

“One out of every three bites of food you take is due to pollination,” stressed Katie. “A lot of our food supply and agriculture is highlight dependent upon honeybees.”

The impact of honeybees on food came with a taste test from Alyssa Suder, a Toms River Gardening Club member. Suder delighted attendees with a taste of homemade dandelion jelly, showcasing the sweetness of the plant often seen as a pesky weed.

“Many people don’t realize that every part of the dandelion is edible,” Suder explained. “Jelly is made just from the petals of the dandelion.”

“Bees are feeding on dandelions,” continued Suder. “So, the jelly actually tastes like honey – it’s a citrus honey taste.”

Schreiber noted that, “after raising enough money through scholastic bookfairs we were able to purchase the library this year. Each bookfair we have raises money towards the scholastic catalog. We’ve used this money in the past for teacher wish lists, classroom libraries, and giving books to children in need.”

The PTA president said there was a big event coming up later in the month. “We have our hosting our annual Hot Dogs and Kickball event that families enjoy every year. The date for that is May 29. We are still looking for sponsors to help us fund the event.”

Footsteps:

Continued From Page 1 2024 on Mother’s Day.

The five-time first-team All-Pro and onetime second-team All-Pro selection has caught 717 passes for 10,139 career yards. He has scored 88 overall touchdowns, including 76 as a wide receiver. The former Garden City Community College (Kans.), Oklahoma State and West Alabama player helped the Chiefs win Super Bowl LIV, catching nine passes for 105 yards. Chosen by the Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, he’s in his third season with the Dolphins.

The owner of 4.29 speed in the 40-yard dash, Hill demonstrated the mechanics of speed by displaying various running techniques. He showed proper catching techniques. Athletes ages 6-17 were divided carnival style by age group and assigned to beginning stations. They rotated from station to station as each station had an allotted time frame. Hill rotated from station to station, coaching and demonstrating drills and competing against the athletes.

Each athlete received a group photo with Hill and a Tyreek Hill Youth Football and Speed Camp 2024 T-shirt to wear during the event. Hill posed for pictures, signed autographs and mingled with athletes and fans. Fees for participating ranged from $175-1,100.

“Ya gotta be coachable,” he told his students. “Ya gotta learn the proper techniques and fundamentals. Hustle. Hustle. Here we go.”

Leading the sprint drills, Hill exhorted the athletes, demanding, “C’mon. C’mon.”

Wearing cleats, he praised an athlete, stat-

ing, “Let’s go, Jay. That’s a good one. That’s a good one.”

Hill spent the Saturday prior to Mother’s Day teaching his beloved sport in Philadelphia.

“There are a lot of people here,” he told the athletes. “In Philadelphia, it was so loud. I need you guys to bring energy. I love this game so much. Bring emotion all day. I need to be able to feel ya all. Cheer for each other. That’s what football is about. Playing football in a high energy environment is the greatest thing. I need you guys to be real uncomfortable. If you are not a talker, be a talker. I am high energy all day.”

Prior to the drills, Hill dressed up as Aquarius Green, delighting athletes and fans. His costume, including make-up, was removed by two women outside of the field. He changed into his jersey as he walked toward the drills, revealing a chiseled 5-foot-10, 185-pound frame.

“It’s been real,” he told the media with a laugh. “Now, it’s back to the real me. I hope to get the chance to do this again. When you pull off the stuff off my face, it feels so good. This is a nice facility. My goal this year is 2,000 (receiving yards). I am excited. Never judge a book by its cover. Anybody can be Tyreek Hill.”

Hill’s mother, Virginia, attended the event. “I used to be afraid of him playing football,” she said. “I did not want him to play. He said, ‘I can get hurt anywhere.’ I told him, ‘You can play football as long as you can run. Get out there.’ “

Athletes clapped for their moms and said, “Happy Mother’s Day.” Attending the event were Abby Lavender and her son, Gabe,

10, who plays safety and cornerback for the Toms River Warriors of the American Youth Football League. They reside in Toms River.

“It is awesome,” she said. “It’s a great experience for the boys. Tyreek is a good role model. He teaches teamwork. He makes football fun. It’s the best Mother’s Day ever to see my son having fun.”

Athletes and their parents wore Hill’s No. 10 Miami jersey. An event organizer was former Toms River High School East and East Carolina University player Rashon Burns, whose bid to play tight end for the Chicago Bears was derailed by a back injury. Burns and his son, Justus were impressed with an event featuring Hill in the Bronx last June.

“I called Tyreek and his crew three to five times a day to get this camp here,” Rashon Burns said. “The experience was so amazing. I lobbied his crew every day. They said, ‘Dude, you are relentless.’

“The purpose of this camp was to help our community and bring it together. It fell on Mother’s Day and it’s all about children having a great time. There is no money in this for me. I want to see kids smile.”

Smiling was Leaghi Cirollo,11, of Toms River Township. She attended the event in a wheelchair and spent time with Hill.

“She had a rare brain disease, which required nine hours of surgery two days ago,” Burns said. “I follow her family on Facebook and I noticed she is an avid football fan. Her family faces a $400,000 medical bill. My number one goal is to make sure she and her family are taken care of. Her surgery was complication free.”

It’s the third year for the camp and its first

in New Jersey.

“The average attendance is 175,” said camp director Julius Collins, Hill’s attorney. “A lot of girls win camp MVPs even though they compete against the boys. The girls are serious. We donate the proceeds throughout the year to the Tyreek Hill Family Foundation and to non-profit charity organizations - a lot of them to be honest with you.”

Other stops this year were to London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, Orlando, Miami and Hill’s home of Douglas, Ga. Future trips are to Oklahoma City, Jacksonville, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Iowa, Virginia Beach, Rochester, N.Y., Albany, N.Y., Montreal and Toronto.

“Tyreek is the fastest man in the NFL,” Collins said. “He has likability. He loves kids. Kids love him. He’s 30 and I have known him since he was a baby. I have seen amazing growth. His popularity level is insane. He is a mature and grown man. To be on this journey with him ...”

The local event was originally scheduled for the Monsignor Donovan Athletic Complex in Toms River on Mother’s Day. It was moved to Veterans Park in Berkeley Township on Mother’s Day. Fears of inclement weather brought the event to the Jackson Township bubble.

“Some of the parents were upset at the location change,” Collins said, “but we wanted a bigger venue. We did not want to have kids outside in this weather. Safety and comfort first. We want a family friendly atmosphere.” Burns hopes the camp returns next year.

“We had to turn away 1,000 kids from this year’s camp. This event sold out in just a few days because Tyreek Hill is one of the biggest draws in football,” he said.

"Very

s PotLiGHt o n G oVeRnment

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

Tax Exemption Proposed For Surviving Spouses Of First Responders

CAPITOL COMMENTS

9th Legislative District

Senator Carmen F. Amato, Jr.

Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf

Assemblyman Gregory Myhre

TRENTON – Senator Carmen Amato, Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre (all R-9th) have introduced legislation (SCR-106/ACR-136) to provide a property tax exemption for the surviving spouse of a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or first aid, ambulance, or rescue squad member who dies in the line of duty.

The exemption would include the surviving spouses of both paid and volunteer firefighters and first aid, ambulance, or rescue squad members.

The 9th district delegation’s legislative initiative proposes to amend the State Constitution to provide the property tax exemption which would only apply to the primary residence owned and occupied by the surviving spouse. The property receiving the exemption is also required to have been the primary residence of the first responder at the time of the first responder’s death.

Senator Amato, Assemblyman Rumpf and Assemblyman Myhre issued the following

statement:

“First responders who tragically die in the line of duty protecting the public deserve to have their family taken care of in view of their sacrifice. Our legislation was drafted and introduced in recognition of the very real dangers law enforcement officers, firefighters and EMS personnel can encounter in the performance of their duties.

“These dedicated public servants are required to work under dangerous and difficult circumstances, including at all hours of the night whenever an emergency arises. Exempting surviving spouses is a reasonable and appropriate benefit for first responders who, during the course of their careers, can often be placed in the position of saving

lives while at times placing their own lives at risk.”

Under the delegation’s legislation, the State would annually reimburse municipalities for the amount of property taxes that would have otherwise been paid for each property receiving the exemption established under the legislation.

Under the delegation’s legislation, a surviving spouse would qualify for the exemption, and continue to receive it, for as long as the spouse owns and occupies the home as a primary residence and does not remarry. Voters would be required to approve the ballot question posed under the delegation’s legislation prior to the proposed property tax exemption being established.

Reforms Would Build Resilience To Coastal Flooding

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy and Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette announced the Administration’s intent to modernize a suite of DEP regulations to better protect New Jersey communities from coastal flooding, sea-level rise, and other public health and safety risks that are increasing due to climate change. The forthcoming rule proposal, known as REAL – Resilient Environments and Landscapes – reforms, will make New Jersey the first state in the nation to initiate a comprehensive update of land resource protection regulations to address the current and future impacts of a changing climate.

“The Murphy Administration continues to set a national example of leadership on climate change - the greatest long-term threat facing our communities, economy, and environment,” Commissioner LaTourette

said. “By engaging deeply with stakeholders over the last four years and utilizing reliable science to modernize our land use rules, the Murphy Administration has developed reforms that will help ensure that investments in New Jersey today will stand the test of time and a changing climate. The REAL reforms will provide property owners, investors, and the public with the tools necessary to build more resilient communities while improving environmental quality and flood protection, especially in neighborhoods most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.”

The REAL reforms would amend New Jersey’s existing flood hazard, stormwater, coastal zone, and freshwater wetland regulations statewide to address these ongoing impacts, while improving water quality and flood protections and addressing issues that are of particular concern to overburdened communities.

A formal rule proposal is expected to be published in the New Jersey Register in July. Upon publication of the proposal, a 90-day

public comment period will commence. Three public hearings will be announced upon publication. A courtesy copy of the REAL proposal is available at dep.nj.gov/ njreal/. Four webinars are scheduled for the public to hear about the proposed rule.

The REAL reforms were born out of the broader New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Threats (NJ PACT) initiative. Enhancing the State’s resilience to the adverse impacts of climate change has been a key priority of the Murphy Administration. The REAL reforms integrate the best available and New Jersey-specific climate science into DEP land resource protection regulations to reduce the adverse impacts of climate events upon the environment and enhance community resilience for decades to come. REAL also represents an important step toward improving water quality and reducing flooding in communities on the front lines of climate change, which were developed before modern flood and water quality protections were established. These areas, which tend to be highly urbanized and have long suffered from degraded water quality and flooding, will begin to realize multiple quality-of-life benefits as stormwater becomes more effectively managed.

An extensive public engagement and stakeholder process is underway to ensure public input on the proposal, which was developed with a focus on investing in communities and their long-term economic viability while protecting current landscapes and developments for future generations.

The proposed rulemaking would protect local economies by mitigating flood risk. Specifically, the proposal incorporates actions to avoid, minimize, and reduce severe and repetitive flood damage, displacement of residents, loss or damage of critical infrastructure, interruption of essential public and private services, and prolonged economic disruption or loss due to periodic flooding or permanent inundation from climate change. The proposed updated standards

would apply to certain new construction and redevelopment activities, with specific provisions for coastal areas that will be subject to periodic flooding in the future as coastal storms increase in intensity, as well as areas that will be subject to permanent inundation as sea levels rise.

The three primary flood protection components of the proposed rule would create an “Inundation Risk Zone.” This new zone encompasses land currently above sea level likely to be inundated either permanently or twice daily during high tides over the life of proposed development. New or improved residential buildings, critical buildings, and critical infrastructure will be required to account for the increased flood risk.

It would also adjust tidal flood hazard areas. Using the best available New Jersey-specific sea-level rise data, the rule establishes the “climate adjusted flood elevation” to reflect the likely increase to five feet above current sea level by the end of the century.

These rules align with the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) minimum standards. The proposed new rules ensure that department permit standards or authorizations for a site are as protective as federal standards, as established in each community’s rule or floodplain ordinance.

The proposed rulemaking also includes changes to protect critical facilities and infrastructure from the effects of climate change; increases protection of land and water resources; facilitates the use of nature-based solutions; encourages renewable energy; and improves stormwater management, particularly in urbanized areas.

The proposed rules would apply only to new or reconstructed developments. Existing developments would not be impacted. Pending development projects would also not be affected if the developer submitted applications to the department that are complete for review prior to adoption of final rules.

For more about REAL and climate change in New Jersey, visit dep.nj.gov/njreal/.

Trial:

Continued From Page 1

death, barely captures Corey’s voice. In the video, Corey can be heard questioning his mother as she hands him a piece of paper to give to his father, the last time she would see him alive.

Breanna explained to her son that the paper needed to be given to his father because “he’s your other parent, so it’s his right to see it because you went to the doctor.”

A pediatrician formerly associated with Ivy Pediatrics in Toms River first testified outside the presence of the jury about her evaluation of Corey on April 1, 2021, the day before he died. Dr. Nancy Deacon was advised that she could not read her notes to the jury regarding Corey’s explanation of his injuries as the court ruled them as hearsay evidence.

Two Barnegat police officers also testified about their welfare check on Corey at his mother’s request. Officer Daniel Dugan said that the father and son appeared to have a good relationship and that the child was not in distress. He noticed Corey’s bruises and began to recount how the little boy said he got them but was not permitted to continue due to hearsay restrictions.

As in the case of all criminal matters, Christopher Gregor is not obligated to testify at trial. His failure to do so should not be interpreted as an admission of his guilt. The information in the timeline below has been assembled as a result of evidence introduced in court, some of which had been deleted from Christopher’s cellphone.

May 1, 2014: Breanna gave birth to Corey when she was 17 years old and in the eleventh grade. Christopher would be 22 years old later that month and not yet confirmed as the child’s father.

August 2019: Corey’s paternal grandfather David Gregor recalled his first visit with his grandson on August 8, 2019. Christopher was living with his parents in Monroe when Corey began overnight visits

on August 28, 2019.

October 2019: Corey started living with the Gregors as part of a joint custody order. According to David, Christopher assumed residential custody in January 2020.

August 28, 2020: Christopher and Corey moved to the Atlantic Heights apartment complex in Barnegat.

December 2020: Breanna, who admitted to prior addiction issues with methamphetamine, relapsed in December 2020 and again in February 2021. She remained sober afterward but sought drugs on April 2, 2021, though she did not obtain or use them.

February 2021: Barnegat Police Officer Angel Roman was in his patrol car sometime in February or March and recalled seeing Christopher throwing passes to Corey on the endzone of the high school football field. Nothing seemed unusual about the play.

March 20, 2021: After attending a family party with Corey in Pennsylvania, Breanna was late in returning from scheduled parenting time. She followed Christopher’s instructions to bring Corey to the Atlantic Heights clubhouse gym.

Video surveillance within the gym documented Corey stepping onto a treadmill by himself and running for several minutes. His father moved to another part of the gym and is seen working out and talking on his cellphone. Eventually, Christopher returns and speeds up the treadmill, pushing Corey to keep up. Corey falls at least six times, with Christopher repeatedly placing him back on the moving treadmill. At one point, it appears Christopher leans over and bites Corey’s head.

March 22, 2021: David and Carolyn (Christopher’s mother) accompanied their son and grandchild to look at a couple of houses in the area. They described Corey as happy and energetic. The house hunting was followed by a family visit and dinner out at a local restaurant.

Both grandparents noticed a bruise on Corey’s forehead. The fact that Corey fell

off a treadmill came up during a dinner discussion. David testified that he had not seen the treadmill video because he did not want to see Corey mistreated.

Carolyn was supposed to testify at her son’s trial but defense counsel decided against it after prosecutors produced evidence that Christopher called from jail on the weekend before her testimony and attempted to “coach” her.

March 23, 2021: Corey’s first grade teacher, Kim Peace, returned to Cecil S. Collins Elementary School after being absent on March 22. She noticed a bruise on Corey’s forehead and asked him about it. Corey was unusually quiet. Concerned, Peace spoke with her colleagues, who also noticed the mark, and subsequently made a report to Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP.)

At 4:30 p.m., Breanna was in Barnegat taking a walk with Corey. He appeared upset and scared.

March 25, 2021: Corey did not return to school. At 9:36 p.m., Christopher conducted an internet search, asking if red marks turn into bruises.

March 26, 2021: Breanna called DCPP about her concerns.

March 27, 2021: Christopher and Breanna were both present when Corey tried out for flag football. Breanna noticed extensive bruising on Corey’s arms and hip.

March 28, 2021: Breanna appeared at the Barnegat Police Department and asked for a child welfare check. Officers Daniel Dugan and Angel Roman went to the Atlantic Heights apartment complex and spoke with Christopher and Corey. They saw Corey’s bruises but did not feel he was in imminent danger and appeared to have a good relationship with his father. The officers reported their findings to DCPP.

March 31, 2021: Breanna filed an emergent order seeking full custody of Corey.

April 1, 2021: Breanna learned her emergency custody application was denied; a judge ordered a child abuse examination

within seven days.

Breanna took Corey to Dr. Nancy Deacon, who noted 14 bruises and referred them to Jersey Shore Medical Center (JSMC). Due to time constraints, Breanna opted for Community Medical Center.

Christopher texted DCPP caseworker Mark, stating he couldn’t take off work the next day.

Community Medical Center offered to transport Corey, but Breanna decided to drive to JSMC herself to save time.

Breanna informed Christopher that she was heading to JSMC in response to a text message.

Christopher texted three women about Corey not being home on time.

Christopher demanded Breanna leave JSMC. Dr. Ye Kyaw Aung documented numerous bruises and scratches on Corey, including a significant bruise on his sternum.

April 2, 2021: Corey walked into his father’s home in Atlantic Heights at 9:03 a.m. At 10:04 a.m., Christopher was speaking to a DCPP screener and accused Breanna of telling Corey to lie.

At 3:08 p.m., Christopher conducted an internet search concerning “lost consciousness sleepy and nauseous.” He called Breanna at 3:30 p.m. to ask for insurance cards to take Corey to the hospital. They appeared at Southern Ocean Medical Center at 3:48 p.m. Corey died at 5:03 p.m. without any family members by his side. Christopher was distraught when he told his parents he’d just lost his son. They drove to meet him at the hospital but he was gone by 5:20 p.m.

Christopher’s parents attempted to reach him and urged him to return but he didn’t answer. The phone was turned off between the evening of April 2 until the afternoon of April 3.

Among the internet searches conducted by Christopher were ones about his phone being tracked in airplane mode and whether his car could be tracked. The phone left New Jersey went into Pennsylvania, started (Trial - See Page 24)

Wound Care Institute of Ocean County

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HANDS FOR ALL

A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC.

A Not-For-Pro t A ordable Housing Developer

680 Hooper Ave. • Building B 2nd Floor Toms River, NJ 08753

Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

Sunday Worship Services of Holy Communion at 10 a.m. &Wednesday spoken

The Rev. Dr. J. Francis Watson, Pastor 40 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ 08759 Phone 732.350.0900 • Fax 732.350.0343

E-mail: christlutheranchurch2@verizon.net Website: christlutheranwhiting.com

C ommunity n ews

Farm Market Vouchers Available

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township Senior Services Department will be distributing Farm Market Vouchers in the amount of $50 per person to purchase Jersey Fresh Produce for low income seniors, who are 60 years of age or older. We will distribute vouchers on a fi rst come-fi rst serve basis until all vouchers have been distributed. Vouchers will be available everyday starting June 10 at both our office locations, see below office days and hours:

(EMS building)

Guidelines:

• Must be 60 years of age or older

• Resident of Manchester Township

• Do not exceed fi nancial guidelines: Family Size:

• 1 – $2,248 monthly

• 2 – $3,041 monthly

• Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1 Colonial Drive, Manchester (senior service building)

• Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 82 Lacey Road, Whiting

At time of distribution, you must show proof of age (driver’s license) and proof of income for 2024.

For additional information, contact Manchester Senior Services at 732-849-8305. Only one set of vouchers per person, per year.

The Someone Special Dance

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Township High School Class of 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027 present the 3rd annual Someone Special Dance!

You are cordially invited to attend the 3rd annual “Someone Special Dance.” Bring your “Someone Special” adult (mom, dad, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, grandmom, grandpop, etc.) to enjoy a fun-filled afternoon!

The dance will be on June 2 from 1 to 4

p.m. at Manchester Township High School Gym 101 Hawks Way, Manchester.

The cost is $25 for each “couple” (one child and one adult) and $5 for each additional child or guest. The cost includes a DJ, dancing, fun, and lunch!

Additional refreshments, activities, photos, and more will be available at the dance for a nominal fee.

To purchase tickets visit mthssga.booktix. com.

Bicycle Rodeo

LAKEHURST – Tis the season for our annual bicycle rodeo, which is hosted by your very own Lakehurst Borough Police Department and the Lakehurst Youth and Recreation!

The Bicycle Rodeo will be on June 1 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Lake Horicon. The rodeo is open to all children grades Pre-K through

8th. The event will include a bicycle safety check, agility course, and a race around the lake with prizes awarded to participants. Free food and drinks will be provided. All participants must have a helmet! For further information, contact Det. Poss at 732-657-7812 ext. 204 or mposs@ lakehurstpolice.org.

Rain Barrel Workshop

LAKEHURST – Lakehurst and Manchester residents are welcome to attend the upcoming Rain Barrel Workshop in the Borough of Lakehurst on June 10, at 5:15 p.m. at the Lakehurst Community Center, 207 Center Street, Lakehurst.

Rain Barrels are generally 55-gallon barrels that are placed under a gutter’s downspout, which are used to collect rainwater from roofs.

To sign up, visit tinyurl.com/LHMCRainBarrel.

Resident Club Flea Market Village 5

WHITING – Come out to the Flea Market on June 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to see what you have been missing out on. They have over 50 friendly vendors. Come on in and check it out our great bargains. If you just want to catch up with your friends, stop by the kitchen for

breakfast or lunch 8:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. Hope to see you here at 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting.

The Flea Market is every third Saturday of every month. The next one is July 20. If you are interested in renting a table the cost is $10 per table. Call Ronnie at 908-303-7377.

River Pointe HOA Community Wide Yard Sale

WHITING – River Pointe HOA in Manchester is hosting a community wide yard sale open to outside guests - June 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Maps and lists of participating homes will be given out at the front gate. Location: 100 Retreat Drive, Manchester.

C ommunity n ews

Crestwood Village III Women’s Club News

By Donna Brown, Corresponding Secretary

WHITING – On May 7 the Women’s Club held its annual Birthday Celebration. We had a great lunch which was highlighted by the celebration of our 90 and older members! We wish to thank the Planning Committee for making this event a success!

Our regular business meeting was suspended and only announcements were made.

Maureen Mehrtens, of the election committee announced the nominees for next year’s Board. They are Liz Higgins, President; Diane Demonte, Vice President; Karen Bauer, Treasurer; Jeanette Marcarelli, Recording Secretary; and Barbara Newman, Corresponding Secretary. We are still in need of a replacement for Jeanette’s position. She has only agreed to do it until someone steps forward to replace her. Jeanette has filled this position for two years now and would appreciate someone else stepping forward! The nominees were voted into their positions unanimously. There will be an installation of the officers at our June meeting.

Rose then reported that the Women’s Club Spring Flea Market was a great success. We surpassed last year’s total in sales. We again thank Diane Demonte

for her work in planning and organizing this successful event. A reminder that the proceeds we’ve collected from the flea markets, as well as the Monday morning Mini Mart are all donated to charity in December.

Thank you to all who donated to the food pantry again this month. At our June meeting we will be collecting spaghetti, angel hair pasta, etc. Any type of pasta in a long box. Due to storage space limitations, the pantry has asked us not to donate square boxed pasta (elbows, ziti, etc.), Only those in the longer thin boxes.

Please mark your calendars! Due to the primary election, our next meeting is June 3 at 1:30 p.m. There will be no Mini Mart that day!

Well, I have to say that I am sorry that my tenure as your corresponding secretary is just about over. It has been my true pleasure to be able to share with you and our communities the great work and fun we have as a club! A special thanks to all who served with me on the board, especially our President, Rose. She has worked hard to continue the traditions of our club as well as bringing in a few of her own, such as pantry donations! I look forward to continuing my attendance as a member of this club and wishing the new Board members much success in their roles!

Crestwood Village Six Movie Night

WHITING – On June 14, “Ordinary Angels” will be shown. Inspired by the incredible true story of a hairdresser (Hilary Swank) who single-handedly rallies an entire community to help a widower save the life of his critically ill young daughter. What unfolds is a remarkable tale of faith, everyday miracles, and ordinary angels.

The movie is rated PG and runs 1 hour and 56 minutes. The movie and bonus features are shown closed-captioned for the hearing impaired.

Doors will open at 5 p.m. and the movie starts at 6 p.m. Come early to

sit, chat and enjoy light refreshments that will be served until 5:45 p.m. The movie will be shown at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting/Manchester off of Pinewald Keswick Rd (Route 530). Feel free to bring your own chair or cushion, if the provided chairs do not suit you, however, please do not block others’ views.

All are welcome for the cost of $3 which includes some light refreshments. Feel free to bring your own snacks. Non-residents of Crestwood Village Six are always welcome. Any questions call Arlene at 732-408-5147.

Free Rabies Clinic

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township will be hosting a Free Rabies Clinic on June 1 at the following locations:

• Ridgeway Firehouse - 2848 Route 571, Manchester. Cats: 8:30 to 9 a.m. Dogs: 9 to 11a.m.

• Whiting Volunteer Fire CompanyRoute 530 and Cherry Street. Cats: 1 to 1:30 p.m. Dogs: 1:30 to 3 p.m. Bring proof of previous vaccination to the rabies clinic so a three-year certificate may be issued. If proof is not provided, the certificate will be issued for one year only.

Crestwood Village IV Drivers Ed Class

WHITING – AARP will be conducting a drivers ed class at Village Four Clubhouse on June 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. AARP mem-

bers cost is $20 and non-members is $25. For information and reservation, call Blanche Doran at 732-597-1732.

Ocean Health Initiatives Inc. (OHI)

We are merging our Manchester site into our Brick location, effective July 1st 2024.

OHI’s Manchester Health Center and Pharmacy will be closed as of July 1, 2024.

Prescription Records and/or patient profiles are available at all OHI locations including your nearest location.

OHI Toms River Pharmacy 10 Stockton Dr. Toms River, NJ 08755

Files are available for a one-year period following this publication.

Phone: (732) 440-7767

Hours Of Operation:

Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-4:30 PM Pharmacy: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM

Manchester Officers Participate In Police Unity Tour

MANCHESTER – Officer Thomas Chant and Officer Arthur Cronk arrived in Washington, D.C., supported by Corporal Brian Collins, completing their journey for the Police Unity Tour!

The Police Unity Tour is an annual bike

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•

ride where law enforcement officers honor fallen officers and raise funds for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and Museum in Washington, D.C. It’s a powerful tribute during National Police Week.

Crestwood Village 3 Travel Club News

WHITING – It’s time to get your tickets for upcoming trips. It is important to get your tickets as early as possible so the trip doesn’t have to be cancelled because there weren’t enough tickets sold to run the trip.

August 8 – Trip to Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City: Price $35. Trip includes round-trip transportation and a $15 casino bonus. They will gather at Unity Hall at 8:45 a.m. and return at 5:45 p.m. Casino bonuses are subject to change without notice. Valid government issued ID required to receive Casino Bonus.

September 17 – Lunch at Shady Maple and DANIEL Show at Sight & Sound Theatre in Lancaster, PA: Price $160. This promises to be another great show so be sure to reserve your ticket early so you won’t be disappointed. They have Orchestra Side seats reserved for this show. They

are collecting a $50 deposit now to reserve your seat; another $55 payment will be due by April 15 and the balance of $55 will be due by July 15. Gather at Unity Hall at 8:30 a.m. and return at 8:30 p.m.

November 7 – Trip to Resorts Casino in Atlantic City: Price $35. Trip includes round-trip transportation and a $20 casino bonus. They will gather at Unity Hall at 8:45 a.m. and return at 5:45 p.m. Casino bonuses are subject to change without notice. Valid Government issued ID required to receive Casino Bonus.

Deposits will only be refunded if trip is cancelled. Tickets for trips will be on sale on Monday mornings at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road, from 9 to 11 a.m. For reservations or information, call Rose Kantenwein at 732-408-5441. Make all checks payable to CV3 Travel Club.

Photo courtesy Manchester Police

Top Educators Honored By County

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township School District’s Teachers of the Year and Educational Service Professionals of the Year were honored on May 10 at the annual county breakfast. Congratulations!

2024 Theater Trips From Broadway To You

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Recreation Department has announced the following Theater Trips for the 2024 season: June 20 – “South Pacific” (Wait List) at Surflight Theatre, Beach Haven. Cost is $103 per person (Bus/Lunch at The Waterfront/ Show). Bus leaves from Soccer Field parking lot at 10:15 a.m. Lunch at 11 a.m. Showtime is 2 p.m.

September 10 – “Stardust Road” at Surflight Theatre, Beach Haven. Cost is $103 per person (Bus/Lunch at Calloway’s/ Show). Bus leaves from Soccer Field parking lot at 10:15 a.m. Lunch at 11 a.m. Showtime is 2 p.m. October 8 – “One Slight Hitch” at Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, West Hampton. Cost is $124 per person (Bus/Lunch/Show). Bus

leaves from Soccer Field parking lot at 9:15 a.m. Lunch at 11 a.m. Followed by show. November 19 – “A Playhouse Christmas ‘24” at Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, West Hampton. Cost is $128 per person (Bus/ Lunch/Show). Bus leaves from Soccer Field parking lot at 9:15 a.m. Lunch at 11 a.m. Followed by show.

They will call to confirm if a show is running based on the number of reservations and to let you know payment is due. If you make a reservation and your plans change, please call to cancel. Refunds will only be issued if there is a wait list.

To reserve your ticket(s), call The Manchester Township Recreation Department at 732-657-8121, ext. 5101, 5102, 5103.

Cedar Glen Lakes Oldies Dance

WHITING – The Cedar Glen Lakes Oldies Dance will be on August 10 from 7 to 10:30 p.m. at Lakeside Hall, 100 Michigan Avenue

Featuring: DJ Silver & Gold. Cost is $15 per person (includes a surprise). BYOB. Call Vinnie G. for tickets and information at 201-214-5072.

Photo courtesy Manchester Booster Club

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

21 Plus Prom At MTHS Is A Great Success

MANCHESTER – The Lakehurst-Manchester chapter of the Rotary Club came together with the Manchester Township School District’s Junior Impact Club and Impact Clubs to put on another successful 21 Plus Prom!

This is a community-based prom event for individuals over the age of 21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Spearheaded by MTSD’s own Nancy Gawlik, she would like to extend the following appreciation and thanks.

Thank you to the following people and organizations for their help in making this year’s 21 Plus prom a huge success.

Bereavement Support Group

WHITING – The group still meets, it has not moved. The next meeting is May 31 at 1 p.m. The meetings are helpful to those who have lost a spouse, friend, or family member. Those of us have suffered a loss at one time or another are here to help with your grief process.

The meetings are free and refreshments are served. You do not have to register you can just show up. They are held at Crestwood Village 6, Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting in the D & E Room. The last meeting of this session is on June 28; no meeting July and August.

GUESTS RECEIVE $30 SLOT PLAY. MANY NEW SLOTS AND GAMES! WED. JULY 24 WATER FOR ELEPHANTS TONY NOMINATED : “Best Musical” $159. THURS. OCT 3 SIGHT & SOUND THEATER “DANIEL” $166. INCLUDES LUNCH AT SHADY MAPLE SMORGASBORD.

JUNE 24-26 3 DAY ADIRONDACK MOUNTAINS LAKE PLACID, NY. $599. 2 NTS. ADIRONDACK INN, BEAUTIFUL VILLAGE SETTING, FEATURING AREA TOUR, LAKE PLACID BOAT CRUISE, WHITEFACE MOUNTAIN SCENIC GONDOLA RIDE, 3 MEALS, TOO. JULY 16-18 3 DAY FINGER LAKES, N.Y. $659. 2 NTS. LAKEFRONT HOTEL, GUIDED TOUR, WINE TASTINGS, SENECA LAKE CRUISE, ROSE HALL MANSION, MURANDA CHEESE, 4 MEALS. NICE SUMMER GETAWAY!

SEPT. 15-18 4 DAY NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA $789. 3 NTS. DOUBLETREE HOTEL, GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOURS, 6 MEALS.

SEPT. 22-25 4 DAY CAPE COD AND MARTHA’S VINEYARD $839. PLUS, HYANNIS, PROVINCETOWN, WHALE WATCHING CRUISE, NEWPORT, R.I. ,6 MEALS. CARIBBEAN VACATION SPECIAL

DEC. 4-11 8 DAY PUNTA CANA , DOMINICAN REPUBLIC ONLY $1850. INCLUDES: R/T AIRFARE, 7 NTS. BEACHFRONT IBEROSTAR DOMINICANA ALL-INCLUSIVE HOTEL, ALL MEALS, DRINKS, SHOWS, AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION FROM TOMS RIVER TO NEWARK AIRPORT INCLUDED TOO! BOOK EARLY

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

UNIQUE FASHIONS & GIFTS

District Appreciates Nurses & Teachers

MANCHESTER – On May 8, the district celebrated the Manchester Township School District’s (MTSD) teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week and the school nurses for Nurse Appreciation Day.

Staff and students across MTSD were dressed in their blue and gold best, the school district colors, to show their Manchester Pride.

It was also a super sweet day across the district thanks to the Manchester Township Education Association (MTEA) who provided Mr. Softee ice cream trucks for Appreciation Week. They hope that their teaching staff are continuing to have a Happy Teacher Appreciation Week and hope the nursing staff have a very Happy School Nurse Appreciation Day.

Thank you for protecting and strengthening students’ well-being while positively impacting their learning environment. Your

knowledge, care, and kindness are felt and appreciated every day!

Travel Bocce Presents Upcoming Trips

WHITING – Travel Bocce presents the following trips in 2024:

Mount Rushmore, The Badlands, Black Hills Of South Dakota & Yellowstone National Park: 14 days and 13 nights, August 16 through 29. Cost is $2,495 for double; $3,692 for single.

Garden Of The Gods, The Royal Gorge & Colorado Springs: 11 days and 10 nights,

September 13 through 23. Cost is $1,545 for double; $2,069 for single.

Nashville, Tennessee featuring three fantastic shows: six days and five nights, October 6 to 11. Cost is $1,100 for double; $1,549 for single.

Trip insurance is available. For a flyer or more information, call Debbie at 201-6188514. A $75 deposit due upon sign for all trips.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

Church Volunteers Collect Supplies For Hospice Patients

BRICK – Many thanks to Cathy Linden and Phyllis Johnson who stopped by the Angelic Health office in Brick with donations from The Presbyterian Church of Lakehurst.

The group conducted a drive to collect items for Angelic’s hospice patients and supplies for our volunteers including adult activity books, lots of yarn for knitting blankets, and material for fidget blankets for our dementia patients. We are beyond grateful for the generosity.

Manchester PTA Organized A Great Day At The BlueClaws Game

MANCHESTER –

Blue skies complemented the sea of blue and gold Manchester Pride at the Jersey Shore BlueClaws baseball game!

Thank you to the Manchester PTA for coordinating a wonderful outing and fundraiser for the school district. Congratulations to Manchester Township Elementary School for selling the most tickets and earning the honor of having their Principal Jill Moore throw out a pitch.

Awesome job to Manchester Township Middle School student Thomas Schenck who also threw out an amazing pitch from the mound.

Thank you to Manchester Township Middle School’s Daphne Jones for sharing her singing talents with the entire stadium by performing Take Me Out to the Ballgame during the 7th inning stretch.

Photo courtesy Angelic Health

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church Bowling Ministry Tournament

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church - Whiting, Bowling Ministry will host King of the Hill Tournament #2 on May 26 at 4 p.m., at Thunderbowl Lanes Wrightstown, NJ.

Join to see some of the area’s finest bowlers compete in head-to-head competition! Format is three games then a cut to the top eight bowlers to form a field of single eliminationbracket competition until the field ultimately shrinks to two bowlers. Either the current King from the previous month will continue on or a new King will be crowned on the day. As a perk for the King, he or she receives a free entry upon securing the championship

for the next month’s tournament!

The non-sanctioned tournament is open to all men, women, and junior bowlers. Although junior bowlers cannot receive cash awards, with parental consent they may place the funds earned into an account of their choice for the future. Trophies and medals awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place finishers as well as for High Game and High Series.

For further information, call Bill Bodine - Tournament Director at 848-210-4206, St. Stephen’s Parish Office at 732-350-2121 or Thunderbowl Lanes at 609-723-7914. You may also email to: wbodine3@gmail.com.

Resident Club Crestwood Village 5 Dance

WHITING – Resident Club Crestwood Village 5 Dance will be on June 7 from 7 to 11 p.m. with music by “Don Pesce.” Cost is $10 in advance and $12 at the door. No checks at the door. Non-refundable unless canceled. Includes: soft drinks, snacks, dessert, coffee, tea and

bottled water.

Purchase tickets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Village 5, 325 Schoolhouse Road Whiting.

Call Debbie at 201-618-8514 for more information. If you won tickets to next month dance you must call to make reservation.

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).

Sound News

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

THERAPIES/SERVICES

• Hormone Replacement

• IV Therapies

• Thermascan

• Cryoskin • HOCATT

• Colonics • PEMF

• Salt Room/Halotherapy

• Theta Chamber

• Ozone • Botox

• Thyroid/Adrenal Fatigue Management

• Peptides

Dr. Isidore Kirsh

63 Lacey Rd. Unit C • Whiting, NJ 08759

609-978-9002 • www.ICAMNJ.com

COCHLEAR HAIR CELLS…say What?

Hearing loss affects about 50 million Americans and about 500 million people worldwide. More than 90% of individuals affected have sensorineural hearing loss, caused by damage to the inner ear and the destruction of the hair cells responsible for relaying sounds to the brain. Species like fish, birds, and reptiles can potentially regenerate hair cells, but not in mammals. It would be wonderful to just take a pill and all of a sudden you’re hearing is restored. This will more than likely not happen!

The cochlear hair cells in humans consist of rows of inner hair cells and outer hair cells. The inner hair cells are the actual sensory receptors, and 95% of the fibers of the auditory nerve that project to the brain arise from this subpopulation. In laymen terms, these hair cells convert mechanical energy into electrical energy that is transmitted to the central nervous

system to the auditory nerve to facilitate audition. The function of the outer hair cells in hearing is now perceived as that of a cochlear amplifier that refi nes the sensitivity and frequency selectivity of the mechanical vibrations of the cochlea. Outer hair cell damage causes hearing loss which more than likely is permanent. We are born with these hair cells, so if they die, you lose them and they don’t regenerate in mammals. However, never give up hope that someday there will be a solution. In my opinion, it will not occur with Stem Cell injections. Regenerating hair cells through gene therapy does hold promise so stay tuned.

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. 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!

Child Passenger Safety Seat Inspection And Installation Event

CLINICAL DERMATOLOGY

Acne Treatment • Eczema Treatment

Mole Removal • Wart Removal

Seborrhea/Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment

Skin Cancer Treatment • Skin Infections

COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY

CoolSculpting • Botox

Chemical Peel - VI Peel

Microdermabrasion • Scar Revision

Treatment of Acne Scarring

YAG Laser

SKIN CANCER SURGERY CENTER

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Superficial Radiotherapy

MANCHESTER – With school back in session, now is the perfect time to ensure that your child safety seat is properly secured by traffic safety experts! Join for the Manchester Township Police free Child Passenger Safety Seat Inspection and Installation Event.

Did you know that nearly half of all car seats are installed incorrectly? Parents have a long list of things they do out of love for their children, and making sure they are

safe while driving in a vehicle should be a top priority.

This event, held on the first Wednesday of every month from 3 to 7 p.m., takes place at Manchester Division of Emergency Services, 29 Colonial Drive.

Know for sure that your child is buckled in safely and correctly — every trip, every time. Get help from a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician!

’ s t o Y ouR H eAltH

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Enhancing Bipolar Disorder Treatment With Vitamin D3 And Zinc

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.5 percent of the U.S. adult population and often necessitates a complex treatment approach. Traditional medications such as lithium and olanzapine are commonly used. However, recent research published in Nutritional Neuroscience in April 2024 suggests that integrating vitamin D3 and zinc could enhance treatment efficacy and reduce side effects.

Prescription-strength lithium has several potent side effects, including tremors, increased urination and thirst, impaired concentration, and stomachaches. It also has the potential to induce hypothyroidism. Olanzapine, on the other hand, can cause drowsiness, weight gain, and, in some cases, tardive dyskinesia.

This integration of vitamin D3 and zinc with traditional medications could offer millions of people a more holistic approach to managing the complex condition of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is characterized by dramatic mood swings, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows. During manic episodes, individuals may experience excessive happiness, irritability, rapid speech, and a flood of ideas. This can escalate to risky behaviors and, in severe cases, psychosis. Traditional treatment often involves medications that, while effective, can lead to significant side effects.

Vitamin D3 is crucial for brain health, particularly in mood regulation. People with bipolar disorder are almost always deficient in it. It can help stabilize mood swings that are characteristic of bipolar disorder by controlling pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing inflammation in the brain. Similarly, zinc plays a vital role in neu-

rotransmitter function, helping to modulate brain activity and calm manic symptoms. It does this by reducing glutamate while enhancing GABA activity. This dual-pronged effect soothes the brain during manic episodes. It soothes all of us for that matter!

The use of vitamin D3 and zinc supplements along with lithium and olanzapine could potentially allow for lower medication doses, thereby reducing the risk of side effects. This aligns with the growing recognition of the importance of comprehensive treatment strategies that not only reduce symptoms, but also enhance a person’s quality of life.

You should not self-treat. Here’s why. The use of vitamin D3 and zinc should be approached with caution because if you take too much D3, you could give yourself hypercalcemia. As for zinc, taking excessive amounts, or inferior types of zinc will just upset your stomach, disrupt immunity, and tilt other minerals out of whack.

One must balance minerals and neurotransmitters in the body very carefully, we shouldn’t take stuff and hope for the best, especially when treating bipolar disorder. It’s important for anyone considering these supplements to consult with a healthcare practitioner. If he/she approves, then go for it, starting with low doses, and just one nutrient at a time.

In closing, this brand-new study highlights the potential for nutraceuticals to complement and enhance traditional drug therapy for bipolar disorder. If you’d like to read more on mental health issues, or another health concern, I invite you to use my search box at suzycohen.com. Also, you’ll find a longer version of this article on bipolar disorder.

(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.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Pressure Ulcers And Nursing Homes

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

A 2019 study found that as many as 32.4% of the residents in Nursing Homes have a pressure ulcer.

Pressure ulcers, also known as pressure injuries, bed sores, pressure sores, or decubitus ulcers, are wounds caused by unrelieved pressure on the skin. These injuries usually develop over bony prominences, such as the elbow, heel, hip, shoulder, back, and back of the head. Pressure ulcers are serious medical conditions and one of the important measures of the quality of clinical care in nursing homes.

As a gathering place for the elderly in the community, the residents in nursing homes are mostly suffering from chronic diseases, malnutrition, incontinence, cognitive impairment and long-term bedridden or sitting in wheelchairs, which significantly increases the risk of a pressure ulcer. The prevention of pressure ulcers in nursing Homes is more worthy of attention that you might think. Once a pressure injury develops, it will not only increase the

nursing workload and bring anxiety and pain to the affected persons, but it will also reduce the person’s quality of life and lead to their death.

If you have a loved one in a nursing home be mindful of the risks of a pressure injury as well as some basic preventive measures, such as the frequency of repositioning, the use of preventive dressings, proper nutrition, and routine comprehensive skin assessments. Unfortunately, these interventions for the prevention and healing of a pressure ulcers are not commonly implemented in long-term care settings. In addition, there is a lag in the knowledge and behavior of caregivers in nursing homes.

Give the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates a call if you think a loved one has fallen victim to a nursing home’s neglect and has developed a pressure ulcer 732-505-1212. In addition, you can file a complaint with the New Jersey Department of Health.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward. 732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM

Outback Rock VBS At St. Elizabeth Seton Church

MANCHESTER – Manchester Outback Rock VBS at St. Elizabeth Seton Church in Whiting will be held on July 12, 13 & 14. The cost is $15 per child and includes free

T-shirt with registration while they last! Call 732-350-5001 or email Lori at ldowning@easeton.org for more information and registration form.

Trial:

Continued From Page 9 traveling southwest and made it to the proximate southwest corner of Arkansas about 45 minutes from the Texas border by April 3. April 3, 2021: Christopher conducted separate Google searches about blood sugar, white blood cell levels, internal bleeding and gastrointestinal issues. By 2:45 p.m., the phone changed direction and was traveling

in the direction of Memphis, TN, stops by Nashville and then stopped in Gordonsville, TN until 11:45 p.m.

The change in direction was effectively seen as a U-turn and appeared related to a conversation Christopher had with his father.

April 4, 2021: Christopher searched for McGhee Tyson Airport, where he would ultimately pick up Lauren Powell, who was said to have flown down to take the ride

back to NJ with him.

That morning, Christopher searched about the timeframe for filing murder charges after an autopsy.

Alcoa, TN Police pulled Christopher over for a traffic stop and discovered a search warrant was issued for the vehicle. Extensive bodycam footage of the motor vehicle stop has not yet been played for the jury and it remains uncertain if it will be introduced as evidence.

An arrest warrant was not issued for Christopher at that time, who subsequently rented a car and returned to NJ on the following day.

On July 9, 2021, Christopher voluntarily surrendered to Barnegat Police on charges of endangerment. Subsequently, in March 2022, he faced upgraded charges of murder. Since then, he has remained in custody. August 2021: Charges were filed against Breanna for being part of a group that threw dead fish, stones and other items at the Gregors’ Monroe home. They have since moved out of state.

Dr. Thomas A. Andrew, a forensic pathologist has attributed Corey’s death to blunt-force trauma resulting in lacerations to his heart and liver and related contusions. The defense has hired Dr. Michael Baden as their expert, who asserts the child died from natural causes, including sepsis-related pneumonia.

Crestwood Village 4 50 th Anniversary Pancake Breakfast

WHITIGN – Crestwood Village Co-Op 4 in celebration of their 50th anniversary kickoff event Pancake Breakfast will be on June 7 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Independence Hall. Advance tickets are $5 per person and may be purchased at the clubhouse on Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 6 p.m.; as well as Wednesday morning from 10 to 11 a.m. Door price is $7.

Ocean County Bereavement Groups

OCEAN COUNTY – Therapist/Clergy, Rev. Dr. Anthony Lipari, FCM, has been offering Grief Support Group sessions for over 21 years during the last week of every month. The sessions are offered at 1 p.m. throughout Ocean County. The locations are as follows:

• Mondays: Ocean County Memorial Park in Waretown

• Tuesdays: Timothy Ryan Funeral Home on Fischer Boulevard, Toms River

• Wednesdays: Quinn Hopping Funeral Home on Mule Road, Toms River

• Thursdays: Anderson Campbell Funeral Home on Ridgeway Road, Manchester

• Fridays: Manchester Memorial Home on Schoolhouse Road, Whiting

Library Announces

Memorial Day Closure

TOMS RIVER – All branches and reading centers of the Ocean County Library will be closed May 27, in observance of Memorial Day.

Library patrons are welcome to use OCL’s online resources, databases, eMagazines, eBooks, video and audio streams and digital classes at theoceancountylibrary.org.

House For Sale

House For Sale By Owner - Pheasant Run Adult Community, Forked River. 2BD, 1 Bath, additional family room. Un-buildable property in back to create park-like setting. Asking $295,000 will negotiate. 609-290-9702. (23)

FOR SALE: Single Crypt (Wall)East Chapel mausoleum - burial plot. Ocean County Memorial Park, Toms River, NJ. Owner moved. $6,499.00. Call 954-444-9646. (24)

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)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Reggae, Blues, Jazz. Also buying Comic Books . Call Rick 908-616-7104 (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)

BUYING Vintage Old ClothingAny condition. T-shirts, sports sweatshirts, denim, workwear, carhartt, college, military, camoflauge, jackets. Call Dave 732-281-4508. CASH. (27)

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

Help Wanted

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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Services Services Services Help Wanted

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)

Certified Home Health Aides - Needed 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)

Magnolia Gardens assisted living is looking for full time certified aide for morning shift. Must have weekend availability. If interested please call at 732-557-6500 or fill out an application on our website. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Lakewood road Toms river 08755. (27)

Magnolia Gardens assisted living is looking for Full time certified aides for both evening and overnight shifts. If interested please call at 732-557-6500 or fill out an application on our website. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Lakewood road Toms river 08755. (27)

Magnolia Gardens assisted living is looking for a Full-time Maintenance worker. Pay starts at $18 an hour. If interested please call at 732-557-6500 or fill out an application on our website. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Lakewood road Toms river 08755. (27)

Magnolia Gardens assisted living is looking for a part-time receptionist for afternoons and weekends. Pay starts at $15.13 an hour. If interested please call at 732-557-6500 or fill out an application on our website. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Lakewood road Toms river 08755. (27)

Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company. E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n)

Painting - Special Spring Pricing. Interior/Exterior. Meticulous work. All materials and jobs guaranteed. Fully licensed and insured. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (47)

Do You Want Your Car To Look Nice And Shine - Call Lenny. Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (22)

Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, a family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. We transform kitchens in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Call today for a free estimate 1-844-367-2477. (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)

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! Servicing Toms River, Lakehurst, Manchester, Whiting, Jackson, New Egypt, Plumstead Beachwood, Bayville, Berkeley. (47)

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. 732-3304189, 848-287-3944. (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)

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)

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. (25)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)

Roofing - Covering the Jersey Shore since 1984. Removal of old shingles, all woodwork inspected and repaired. GAF lifetime roofing shingles. meticulous cleanup. Fully insured and free estimates. $ave. Call Clark 732-8505060. NJ Lic # 13VH11804800. (17)

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-2163176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (t/n)

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (17)

Experienced 24/5 Caregiver/Companion Available - For your Elderly loved ones. Help w/ hygiene, med reminders, meal preps, errands, laundry, housekeeping. 732-867-6686 (25)

or

HANDYMAN SOLUTIONSAll Types Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry • Doors • Windows • Bathroom And Kitchen Upgrades • Finished Basements • Ceramic Tile • Laminate Flooring • Decks • Vinyl Railings • Masonry • Painting • More. Licensed Insured. Advanced Building 609-384-9030. (18)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 848-224-0516. email woolnoughkris@gmail.com. (t/n)

(t/n)

insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:

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You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

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at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $ 6. 5.

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Construction rod

1960s Israeli deputy prime minister

Shed tears 13 “Five Feet of Fury” pro wrestler Bliss 14 Alfa __: sports car 16 Jack Reacher creator __ Child 17 Catching fly balls, turning double plays, etc.?

Have lunch

Epic featuring the Trojan Horse 21 Yann Martel novel adapted into an Oscar-winning film 23 “Chandelier” singer

Tonsillectomy

Like an ace who throws a no-hitter?

Kunis of “Bad Moms”

Astronaut Jemison

Reason for a sleep mask, perhaps

__ 500

“Protect the plate,” “Don’t drop the ball,” e.g.?

Hanukkah mo.

Enters nonchalantly

Rhine wine region

Grassy expanse

Game rosters, one of which is formed by the starts of three long answers in this puzzle?

2 “Night” writer Wiesel 3 “__ waiting long?”

4 Bridge toll unit

5 Salad slice

6 Make a mistake

7 Many a New Year’s Day football game

8 French possessive

9 Soft toy brand

10 Dimpled facial features 11 Collect in return

12 Mysterious Himalayan 15 “The Great Santini” Oscar nominee Michael 18 Falco of “Nurse Jackie”

United

Esoteric 26 66-Across, for one 27 “Moon Knight” star Oscar __

Forms puddles Down 1 Nickname for tennis’s Nadal

28 Worn through, as carpeting

29 Put up preserves 30 Indiana cager 31 Spellbound 32 “Christopher Robin” joey 33 Squiggly diacritic 37 Grabs the check 39 Speed letters 40 “Mamma __! Here We Go Again”

42 Go along with 45 __ Aviv 46 Icy coating

47 Opposite of unfurl

50 Kibble brand 51 Honeyed brew 52 Narrow cut 53 Shakespearean villain 54 Russian denial

56 Grain storage site

57 On the topic of 58 PC keyboard key

59 Those, in Spanish 62 Bard’s before

ARounD tHe JeRsey sHoRe

Hindenburg Presentations

OCEAN COUNTY – Presenter

Bill Schmidt, Manchester, is continuing to present his Hindenburg Experience programs to the area so students, seniors, adults and young people can learn more about some local New Jersey history.

Schmidt’s talk is completely free. He presents his program to various clubs, senior development organizations, veterans organizations, historical societies, Girl and Boy Scouts, local schools and branches of the Ocean County Library system, Any teachers throughout Ocean County may wish to consider this program for their students to learn about the Hindenburg disaster that occurred 87 years ago on May 6, 1937.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Manchester Township resident Bill Schmidt is seen providing one of his Hindenburg Experience talks at an area location. He is available to provide them to schools and organizations within the area.

Schmidt said he is also giving the talk by Zoom call to classrooms. “We will come to you. The talk is approximately 45 minutes to one hour long.” For more information, call Schmidt at 732-575-6904 or e-mail BillSchmidt1000@aol.com.

Come and experience the last flight of the Hindenburg from Frankfurt, Germany to Lakehurst. The commercial flights of Hindenburg, along with Graf Zeppelin, pioneered the first transatlantic air service. She carried hundreds of passengers and traveled thousands of miles before it burned in a tragic fire on at NAS Lakehurst (Manchester Township).

“Join us through your imagination on a trip through Hindenburg’s history,” Schmidt said.

Ocean County Carousel Of Music 2024

OCEAN COUNTY – The Line-Up for the Annual Ocean County’s Carousel of Music 2024 has been set. Bring a blanket or beach chair. For more information, visit oceancountyparks.org. Enjoy!

Ocean County Parks & Recreation Administration Offices, 1198 Bandon Road Toms River. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• June 21 – Total Soul

• June 28 – Louis and Joann &the Uptown Band

• July 5 – Underwater Airlines

• July 12 – Strictly 60s

• July 19 – Lenny Davis Band

• July 26 – 80’s Revolution

• August 2 – The Fleetwood Mac Experience

• August 9 – Sensational Soul Cruisers

• August 16 – The Kootz Band

• August 23 – Wilbur Wittemann Orchestra

• August 30 – Mushmouth

Tuckerton Seaport, 120 West Main Street Tuckerton. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• August 10 – Jersey Gold

• August 17 – Blondage Rocks Deerhead Lake, 1740B Deerhead Lake Drive Forked River. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• August 28 – High in the Mid 80s

Ocean County Library, 101 Washington Street Toms River. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• June 20 – Bob Kulik- A Salute to Frank Sinatra

• June 27 – 63rd Army Band

• July 4 – Toms River Municipal Band

• July 11 – Garden State Philharmonic

• July 18, 25, August 1, 15, & September

5 – Toms River Municipal Band

• August 8 – Brass Tacks

• August 22 – Wilbur Wittemann Big Band

• August 29 – Sentimental Journey Big Band

Heritage Gazebo, Bay Avenue Lavallette. Start time 7 p.m.

• August 25 – Wilbur Wittemann Big Band

Gille Park, 102 Manchester Avenue Forked River. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• July 31 – Billy Joel Tribute &Here’s Elton Tribute

Veterans Park, 489 Forest Hills Parkway Berkeley Township. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• June 26 – Rock N’ Rythm

• July 10 – Sketchy Medicine

• July 24 – Jukebox Legends

• August7 – Dominique & Julian

23rd Avenue Seaside Park. Start time 5 p.m.

• August 24 – Alotta Colada

Waterfront Park, 10th Street & Shore Avenue Ship Bottom. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• June 27 – Bullzeye

• July 3 – Simmerr

• July 11 – Pure Petty

• July 18 – Studio 2

• July 25 – Tequila Rose Band

• August 1 – The Verdict

• August 8 – Dread Pilots

• August 15 – The Chris Fritz Band

• August 22 – Danny’s 52nd Street Band

• August 29 – Jimmy and the Parrots

ARounD tHe JeRsey sHoRe

Signs Of Warmer Weather: What To Expect From Wildlife

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

We’re waking up to nicer weather with the beauty of flowering plants, greenery coming to life and the bustle of wildlife all around us. With our daylight longer, we seem to have more energy and excitement for the days ahead. Migrations of numerous species occur not only for breeding but also food sources that are otherwise absent in the winter. Nurturing gardens and sprucing up the house, all part of focusing energy on projects left to settle in over winter months. With species around us rejoicing, let’s think about how we can enjoy the fruits of our labor and at the same time create a more harmonious relationship with wildlife.

Furry mammals are busy making nesting sites preparing for their young to arrive. Before you know it, there will be babies everywhere. Young birds fledging (leaving) the safety of their nests to explore the world around them. Rabbits, squirrels, skunks, chipmunks, turtles, naming a few, will be venturing out of their nests showing up when you least expect it. Remember to keep an eye out for them. They are just learning

how things work – identifying food sources, checking out the landscape for traveling, and seeking out safe places to hide from predators. It’s not easy, so we need to help them along and be patient on the roads when they are crossing. Watch out for those lawnmowers and take a look at your lawn for any babies lingering. Dogs and cats can pose a real problem for wildlife.

Young birds leaving the nest will practice flying short distances for several days, so unless you see an injury, observe only – the parents should assist by feeding them on the ground.

Baby deer or rabbits may be seen by themselves, perhaps in your yard. It’s important to know that their mom is usually not far away. Unless you see obvious signs of distress or injury, leave the baby alone. Since adult deer and rabbits carry a scent on them, the mother stays away except when nursing. To reach me, please call 732-244-2768 and do leave a message.

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 is punishable by law.

ARounD tHe JeRsey sHoRe

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 Detective 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 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 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.

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.

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.

“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.”

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.”

“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

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 information 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

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

(Scams - See Page 34)

PHoto oF tHe weeK

Sunsets are always eye pleasing, especially as the summer months draw ever closer. This stunning photograph was taken by Matt Anders in a community called Dataw on St. Helena Island in South Carolina. Have a pic you would like to see here? Email it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!!

Ocean’s Harbor House Starry Night Art Auction & Reception

TOMS RIVER – We thank you in advance for the heart you have Ocean’s Harbor House, as we all work toward making Ocean County a place where all have a shot at a good life.

In support of our programs, this year our celebratory event will be held at The Rebecca Finn House on June 6, with art displayed throughout the house. This historic building, with its wrap-around porch and grounds overlooking a spectacular view of the Toms River, is a precious gem in our community and the perfect host to celebrate our organization and its history of service. This annual event again features a variety of art created by our youth and local community artists, and will be available for bidding, raising much-needed funds to support our Mission.

On this very special evening, we are honoring the dedication and contributions of Sid Colvin, past Executive Director of Ocean’s Harbor House, and we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the SHORE House, our Supervised Transitional Living Program for youth 16 to 21 years of age. Culinary delights, wine and music will be part of the evening’s festivities. Your contribution as a sponsor and/or an attendee elevates our ongoing commitment to provide vitally needed shelter. services and programs for the homeless youth and families of Ocean County.

To get your tickets and sponsorships, go to: secure.qgiv.com/for/starrynightartauctionreception/event/starrynightartauctionreception.

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

Scams

: Continued From Page 32

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).

phones at local stores.

• 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 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 fi nd. 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.

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.

• 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

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 computers 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.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) : Your belief and trust in others may not be reciprocated. You could have the opportunity to showcase your reliability and highlight your trustworthiness. Stay focused on your goals while being sure to minimize distractions.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Be proactive about doing small acts of kindness for others as it may have a big impact on their lives. Acting on your instincts could bring joy to others and reinforce harmonious relationships that you’re looking to strengthen.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Let generosity dictate your upcoming decisions; offer grace and understanding to everyone, including yourself. Your positive attitude could attract friends and cultivate relationships with people who may lend a helping hand.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A friendly face may be just who you need in your corner this week. Be mindful that someone who may initially seem unapproachable could have a lot of knowledge to share. Surround yourself with uplifting and supportive people.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You could have the desire to network online or visit friends. You may find pleasure in the simple observation of others. Mixing and mingling in social settings could improve your enjoyment and forge new connections.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Embrace the comforting glow of your own light even amid the darkness. You may brighten someone’s day with your loving and kind nature. Spread positive and encouraging words that may uplift and inspire others.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You may

FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 25 - MAY 31 BY

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

feel called to collaborate with someone who shares your vision. A willingness to work together could lead to you making progress or reaching your goal. Your imagination might compel you to take a chance on a new project.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): There’s a world filled with endless possibilities to explore. You may embrace new opportunities and invitations in the coming week. Consider demonstrating your generosity behind the scenes and expressing gratitude publicly.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Friends, meeting new people, and participating in group activities might be the highlights of the week ahead. You might have more fun thanks to who you know, rather than what you know. Lean into your circle.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : Small adjustments may be required to get along with some of the people in your life. Your practical skills may be at an all-time high, so use every opportunity to showcase them, even if others don’t completely understand.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) : Put the power of your enthusiasm on full display. Your imagination may grow by leaps and bounds when you focus on your true passions and interests. Doing more of what you love doing could attract more opportunities.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Someone who asks a lot of you or points out errors which slipped your notice may actually be offering you valuable insight. You may come to better understand your own limits. Exploring more of life could lead to you earning more recognition.

(c) 2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

THE ESSENCE OF SUMMER IN A SWEET, CREAMY SCOOP

By America’s Test Kitchen

(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.

PEACH RIPPLE ICE CREAM