2024-06-29 - The Toms River Times

Heatwave Highlights Ocean County’s Homeless Crisis

Ken Krog, who lives in a tent in the woods, was grateful he came across the Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition during the recent heatwave. A dermatologist diagnosed red lesions as basal cell carcinoma and advised him that he needed a plastic surgeon for removal. He has yet to fi nd a doctor willing to perform the procedure for free.

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – As Ocean County swelters in a heat wave, the plight of the county’s homeless population remains a “hot” topic of concern. While many residents seek relief in air-conditioned homes, others struggle to fi nd shelter

Family Fun Promised At Ocean County Fair

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – The Ocean County Fair will again be held at the Robert J. Miller Airpark on Route 530 in Berkeley and will be filled with all the rides, food, and entertainment you’ve come to expect at the annual event.

Entrance to the fairground is $10. Parking is free.

The same ride vendor as last year, Campy’s Blue Star Amusements, will be there. Certain days (see below) will have wristbands available for unlimited rides during certain times.

Expect to see pig races, the Dynamo Dog show, and other animal acts. Depending on when you get there, you might see Sheriff K-9 demonstrations, seeing eye dog demos, horse shows and more.

Only exhibit animals (Fair - See Page 7)

from the brutal sun.

The Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition, a collaborative group of faith-based leaders, non-profits, and government agencies, is at the forefront of addressing the crisis. Formed four (Crisis - See Page 4)

Lightning Strike Kills Toms River Man

By Bob Vosseller

SEASIDE PARK – A Toms River man died while trying to save swimmers during a June 23 storm.

Area residents spotted a threatening shelf cloud and the coming of a severe thunderstorm that traveled through several northern barrier island communities from Point Pleasant Beach to Seaside Park.

Loud thunder was heard as the wind picked up and around 7 p.m. 58-year-old Patrick Dispoto acted to warn several young people that

(Man - See Page 5)

Shore Boros American Legion Set To Recall American History On

By Bob Vosseller

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – For the third year in a row, members of Shore Boros American Legion Post 351 is doing something a bit unique to observe the birthday of America.

Amid the many barbecues and parades that are held on Independence Day weekend, this event, to be held at the Post at 2 p.m. on July 4, will be a more historic occasion bringing some meaning to the anniversary of the nation.

July 4

Long time American Legion Post 351 member Ian Worrell who originated the idea will join fellow members of the Post, in reading passages of the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights and the Gettysburg Address. Worrell told The Toms River Times that, “Independence Day was an appropriate time to review the historic documents of the nation’s founding fathers. Prior observances have featured Service (History - See Page 7)

Photo courtesy Patrick Dispoto’s Facebook Patrick Dispoto made sure his girlfriend, Ruth was safe in his truck before he ran out to the beach in an effort to warn several young people to get off the beach during an approaching thunder and lightning storm.

Photo By Stephanie Faughnan

Crisis:

Continued From Page 1 years ago, the Coalition aims to provide comprehensive support to those in need.

Mental illness, substance abuse, and criminal records are common barriers to fulfi lling housing needs. The Coalition’s system includes follow-ups to ensure ongoing support for those they help.

The range of participating organizations is extensive and diverse, from hotel stays, food pantries, mental health providers, and rehousing assistance. The list of groups offering services is not dependent on those who have a formal connection to Ocean County Social Services.

The Coalition runs the Ocean County Housing Resource Center located at Ocean Christian Community, 405 Washington Street in Toms River. The resource center’s location is easily accessible from the downtown area.

“Everybody who thinks of the homeless has a mental picture in their head,” said Reverend Susan Jones, President of the Coalition and pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church. “The reality is that homelessness is a symptom of something else.”

“It’s the underlying issue that creates homelessness that’s the problem,” Jones continued. “There are a lot of different things that create the situation, and it’s determining the causes that helps us know how to direct people to the right solution.”

Ocean County homelessness advocates often point to the county’s lack of an emergency shelter to combat the local

crisis. However, shelters are considered somewhat of a Band-Aid solution. Ocean County also faces a shortage of affordable housing, a crucial step for those seeking long-term stability.

Those eligible for supportive housing often find themselves on waiting lists for years – as there are no places to accommodate them.

One of the Coalition’s partners is the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA), which offers various services. Jerry Zucker, AHA’s Program Manager for Homeless Services, highlighted the organization’s role in facilitating rapid rehousing and rental assistance.

“We handle anyone identified as homeless in Ocean County,” Zucker said “Our coordinated entry process ensures they receive the necessary referrals and support. They work through the continuum of care to fi nd what other services they may need.”

Zucker said that the non-profit’s rapid rehousing program has been fairly successful and has helped a number of people break through barriers. When asked, Zucker said AHA has been able to rehome five families over the last several months who lived in tents set up by Destiny’s Bridge under the leadership of Minister Steve Brigham.

“The rehousing program in particular helps people who don’t otherwise have a support system such as family,” Zucker added.

Agency Days: One-Stop Shop for Support and More

The Coalition’s logo tagline is “Compassion, Hope, Progress,” is embodied

by Laurie Singer, the group’s Outreach Coordinator.

“I am not the hands-on guy,” said Jones. “That’s why we have Laurie here.” Before joining the Coalition, Singer was a professional massage therapist whose career was impacted by COVID-19. Her welcoming and comforting demeanor has since become instrumental in putting everyone at ease and fostering collaboration within the group.

At a recent Agency Day at the Resource Center, numerous agencies coordinated efforts to provide a seamless experience for people experiencing homelessness. For some individuals, it was as simple as picking up their mail as the Coalition provided them with an address. Others likely enjoyed grabbing a hot dog from the sizzling grill outside.

The event included mobile showers provided by “If Not for Grace Mobile Showers,” a ministry from Egg Harbor City, and haircuts from “Helping Assist with Melis.”

Susan and Terry Luma, the founders of the mobile shower ministry, have been offering this service statewide to provide dignity and cleanliness to people experiencing homelessness. They hook up to an outside spigot to enable private shower rooms installed in trailers.

“I work with the mobile shower group as well, “Melissa Verge-Loutas of “Helping Assist with Melis” said. “They have their own licensing we work together as a group. My crew are all licensed hairdressers and offer haircuts. We also give out clothes and blessing bags.”

Verge-Loutas said she recognized addiction as leading to homelessness for a great many people. She was never addicted, but it still hit home for her. Verge-Loutas introduced Daniel Torella as someone shadowing her and involved in peer recovery. Torella, who was homeless for five years, is now a certified peer recovery specialist. He recently created Sober Seeds to help others who are homeless related to addiction.

“I was addicted to anything that made me feel good,” said Torella, who’s been sober for two years. “I was a district manager for Dunkin Donuts in sobriety. I ran eight stores, and I often quit my job to work in this field because I knew that I could make a difference.”

One Man’s Story

The scorching sun found Ken Krog, 59, sitting under a tree for some shade. He’d just had a shower and was happy it was a cool one. While his beard was long and largely untamed, he sported a new haircut. The trim also made it easy to see some angry redness on the side of his head.

A dermatologist diagnosed the red lesions as basal cell carcinoma and advised Krog that he needed a plastic surgeon for removal. Still, he has yet to fi nd a doctor willing to perform the procedure for free. It was the fi rst time Krog visited the offices at the resource center, and he was glad he did. He previously worked in construction and drove a truck and now gets around with a cane. His income is limited (Crisis - See Page 5)

VERIZON UPGRADES NETWORK ALONG JERSEY SHORE TO BOLSTER PUBLIC SAFETY, HANDLE MASSIVE DATA INCREASE

Sea Girt, Lavallette, Brick, Seaside Park, Ortley Beach, and Asbury Park

get network upgrades

Verizon has just completed a major network upgrade at the Jersey Shore. Specifically, in Sea Girt, Lavallette, Seaside Park, Ortley Beach with additional upgrades coming in Asbury Park and Brick this summer. This is a response to the dramatic increase we’ve been seeing in usage from people at the beach, both summer visitors and year long residents, but also small businesses and public safety o cials - who need reliable communication in high density areas.

The upgrade is going to support more customers simultaneously using their phones with improved reliability and speeds.

Continued From Page 1 he spotted on the beach after lifeguards had

According to a News 12 report, Dispoto’s girlfriend Ruth made sure she was safe inside his truck prior to heading up the dune and onto the sand. That is when the storm struck and a short time later, he was found unresponsive and CPR efforts began immediately.

Dispoto was pronounced dead just before 9 p.m. at an area hospital. Ruth said she believes he was the victim of a lightning strike that occurred on the beach. This was confi rmed by authorities a few days later.

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Continued From Page 4 Man:

to $185 monthly in general assistance and food stamps. He’s been fighting for social security disability for the last three years to no avail.

“I had an accident in May of 2021 that destroyed my hip and my pelvis, and it’s been a slow recovery,” said Krog. “Since right after that, the guy I was renting a

She said he died a hero trying to help get those he observed off the beach to fi nd shelter. News of his death spread quickly and hundreds of tributes were posted on social media. Many of those posts called him a “cowboy hero” because he was rarely seen without his signature cowboy hat. He was also noted by family and friends for his kindness and big heart.

Those that knew him have stated they would never forget their “lovable cowboy hero.” There are those who never met Dispoto but who also praised his selfless action to help the youth on the beach.

His death comes only three years after a similar tragedy in the South Seaside Park section of Berkeley Township when 19-year-old lifeguard Keith Pinto was also

room from told me to leave since I had no money coming in.”

Krog said he lived in a motel in another county arranged by social services for a short time. After killing 28 mice in eight hours, Krog decided he was much better off fi nding an alternative.

Since then, Krog’s been living in a tent behind the ShopRite in Brick Township. He is mostly alone, although another man lives in a separate tent a few hundred

struck by lightning just a few miles south. Pinto was working at the White Sands beach on August 30, 2021 when a sudden storm tore through Ocean County. He was killed and seven others were injured.

A man was struck by lightning a year prior to that incident, at Island Beach State Park. Lifeguards and public officials are stressing that people leave the beach when there is a storm or even when there is a possibility of a thunderstorm’s arrival.

Signs noting lighting detection devices are now a more common sight around shore community beaches. One is in the Ortley Beach section of Toms River Township. Work on upgraded lightning detection systems in Seaside Park began this week. Such warning systems are

yards away.

One of Krog’s regular meals is Ramen noodles, which he cooks using a small alcohol burner stove surrounded by stones to contain any spills. Krog has stayed in the same location since leaving the motel, assuring his neighbors in nearby houses that he wouldn’t light any campfi res.

“I’ve got a really good network of people. Somebody just came by like two weeks ago brought me a tote full of shorts and T

designed to detect lightning and allows municipalities to issue warnings. They are strategically placed and the device sensors pick up electromagnetic signals that are produced by lightning and provide immediate feedback to special monitors.

According to Scientifi camerican.com each year in the United States, lightning strikes around 37 million times. It kills approximately 21 people a year in the U.S. on average. “For as often as lightning occurs – there are only a few days each year nationwide without lightning – there are still a lot of misunderstandings about nature’s largest spark and because of this, a lot of people take unnecessary risks when thunderstorms are nearby.”

shirts. I got another buddy who comes and picks up my laundry, takes it to his house, and does it for me,” Krog said.

Police and others have urged Krog to seek shelter from the cold during the winter months. However, he has declined their offers, preferring to maintain his independence rather than being locked up in one of the Code Blue facilities.

“I actually like where I’m living,” he said. “It’s quite liberating.”

Laser Taylor Swift At Robert J. Novins Planetarium

TOMS RIVER – What’s better than a Taylor Swift playlist? A Taylor Swift playlist set to laser lights! Enjoy unforgettable hits from

all of her ten distinct eras. Sing along to all your favorites and let the show transport you through different stories as only laser

light can. Players gonna play, haters gonna hate, fakers gonna fake, so just shake it off ! Independence Tay – Laser Taylor Swift

playing on July 6 to celebrate Independence Day weekend! For tickets and full schedule list, visit ocean.edu/planetarium.

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Fair:

Continued From Page 1 are allowed at the fair. Visitors need to leave pets at home.

As always, the 4-H clubs are a huge part of the fair, and they will be demonstrating the projects they have worked on in the fields of agriculture, animal care and more.

For the fi rst time in 15 years, there will be an open show where anyone can bring their exhibits, assistant fair manager David Feimster said. Additionally, there will be an open horse show where any individual can enter.

“This year, we’ll be celebrating the history of piracy in Ocean County,” he said.

Pirate Dan will be wandering through the fairgrounds interacting with fairgoers and singing shanties.

Last year, there was a Verizon cell tower set up and it will return for this year, he said.

The website oceancountyfair.net/ has a full schedule of events, but this article will provide highlights.

The fair will be July 10-14. Hours are:

Wednesday, 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Wristbands available for $45.

Thursday, 5 p.m.-11 p.m.

Friday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Rides open at 1 p.m. Wristbands available for $45 from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. only.

Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Rides open at noon.

Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Rides open at noon. Wristbands available from 12-5 p.m. only for $45.

Concert Nights

Live music will be on stage every night at 7 p.m., Feimster said. Some of the acts are from New Jersey and some are travelling. Wednesday will be the Libby Prison Minstrels performing historical music from the Civil War era.

Thursday will be the Strictly 60s Tribute Band.

Friday will be country music favorite After The Reign.

Saturday will be the Animal House Band.

Other concerts and performances will be held at various times during the four-day event.

History

The Ocean County Board of Agriculture held the fi rst annual “4-H Achievement and Agricultural Ocean County Field Day” on September 6, 1947. There were approximately 500 people there. By way of comparison, for the 1967 show, that number was up to 60,000 people.

It started at the Ocean County Park in Lakewood, but outgrew it in the 1980s. It was then relocated to the Robert J. Miller Airpark in Berkeley. The first four-day fair was in 1982. It used to be an agricultural show for local farmers to show off their crops. However, as farming gave way to housing and commercial development, there are far fewer farms left locally. The 4-H has taken on the agricultural aspect of the fair, showing off what families have grown and nurtured. The only years the fair wasn’t held were 2020 and 2021 due to pandemic restrictions.

learn

History

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Continued From Page 1

Officer Paul Lerin, who sang the National Anthem and provided some history about “Old Glory,” and Membership Chairman Mike Obssuth who presented an overview of the history of the American Legion.

“I feel it is important to remind people about the importance of the Fourth of July. Many people associate July 4th with barbeques, picnics, fi reworks and fun and that is part of what it is meant to be, and the freedoms we enjoy and are bestowed upon us –if it weren’t for the courageous acts by people of the 18th century willing to put it all on the line, there would not be a United States of America,” Worrell said.

The borough-based Post located at 1400 Bay Boulevard (entrance on Carteret Ave), Seaside Heights is currently undergoing some renovations with the front of its building having recently been torn down due to extensive damage that occurred during SuperStorm Sandy.

On July 13, members of the Post and their guests are invited to the 6th Annual Summer Bash from 4-8 p.m. Admission is $25 and includes chicken, hot dogs, hamburgers, corn, salads, draft beer and soda. For information about the Post and its activities and programs, call 732-2501366, e-mail post0351al@gmail.com or visit their website at legion.org Their Facebook page is The American Legion Post 351.

Photo by Chris Lundy

4-H had a number of animals you could see and

about in this archived photo from 2022.

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

Senator Applauds Legal Protections To Keep Immigrant Families Together

Capitol Comments

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded the Biden Administration’s announcement to offer relief to certain undocumented spouses and children of U.S. citizens, which will protect these individuals

from deportation, offer them work permits, and ease their path toward permanent residency. This announcement will also streamline the process for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) holders to obtain a nonimmigrant visa.

The executive order is expected to impact approximately 500,000 undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens and 50,000 undocumented children of U.S. citizens nationwide.

“President Biden’s announcement today

is one of the most impactful presidential actions to protect immigrants in more than a decade. Under this new policy, nearly half a million people who have built their lives in the United States will have a path to citizenship and the right to work legally. They will no longer have to live in fear of deportation or family separation while contributing to their communities. Actions like this move us a step closer to a more compassionate, commonsense immigration system that recognizes the contributions and sacrifices of immigrants who are building their American dream.

“Even so, Congress must overcome Republican obstruction and act to pass comprehensive immigration reform that reflects our nation’s values, modernizes our outdated immigration system, and will protect American families from being torn apart by a broken system.”

In March, Senator Booker joined a group of 19 Senate Democrats in a letter to President Biden requesting this administrative relief for undocumented immigrants - including allowing undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens to seek protection and streamlining the process for DACA holders to change their immigration status.

New Funding Would Support Health Care, Social Workers

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – As part of a continued effort to improve and expand the home and community-based services workforce, the Department of Human Services, Department of Children and Families, and the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority announced a new student loan redemption program to benefit health care, behavioral health, and social services professionals serving those with medical needs, behavioral and/or mental health conditions, and disabilities.

Under the new Home and Community-Based Services Provider Loan Redemption Program, eligible workers can receive up to $50,000 in loan relief in exchange for one year of service at an approved home- and community-based services provider agency or as a self-directed employee.

“Uplifting our healthcare workers is mission-critical to delivering on the needs of New Jersey residents. This student loan redemption program further bolsters our home and community-based services workforce, and it is key in supporting qualified service providers to bring their skills and expertise to communities across the state,” Governor Phil Murphy said. “In addition to alleviating the financial burdens of this workforce, this program also builds the capacity to deliver care in the community for more New Jerseyans. I applaud DHS Commissioner Sarah Adelman, DCF Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer, and HESAA Executive Di-

rector Margo Chaly for their work to make this program a reality.”

Professionals eligible to apply include psychiatrists, licensed psychologists, licensed social workers, licensed clinical social workers, psychiatric nurse mental health clinical specialists, board certified behavior analysts, board certified behavior analysts-doctoral, licensed clinical or certified alcohol and drug counselors, licensed professional and associate counselors, licensed or associate marriage and family therapists, DCF care managers, registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses. Self-directed employees are also eligible to apply.

Program funding comes from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and is part of a $100 million, FY24 strategic investment by DHS in home- and community-based services, including significant investments in workforce development.

In addition to the student loan redemption program, the plan will establish recruitment, training, and certification programs for direct care staff, along with establishing new community-based housing options for individuals with disabilities or behavioral health conditions.

“We are proud to offer this new benefit to dedicated workers who support individuals with disabilities and older adults in the community,” DHS Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire said. “Creative steps such as a loan redemption program will help attract and retain workers and build a stronger foundation for the future.”

To qualify for this student loan redemption program, an applicant must meet all of these

requirements:

• Be employed full-time in an eligible profession by a State-funded home- and community-based provider agency;

• Maintain a current license/board certification, as applicable, to practice in New Jersey throughout participation in the program;

• Maintain employment at the State-funded home- and community-based provider agency for at least one year, pursuant to the terms of a contract with HESAA;

• Not be in default on any eligible qualifying student loan; and

• Not currently be participating in any other student loan redemption program or in the federally-administered National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program. This initiative builds upon efforts by the

Murphy Administration to bolster this critical workforce, including funding wage increases for home health aides, certified nurse assistants, direct support professionals, child care workers, behavioral health providers, and more as the state’s minimum wage increased to $15 per hour over recent years, as well as launching a Jobs that Care New Jersey website and paid advertising campaign to promote direct care training and job opportunities. Provider agencies are encouraged to share information about this program with all eligible employees prior to July 1, when applications will open for a 30-day period. Eligible program participants who submit a complete and accurate application will be selected by October 1 on a first-come, firstserve basis. Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

C oMMunITy n eWs

Criminal Justice CSI Academy

TOMS RIVER – The Criminal Justice CSI Academy provides middle school students with an opportunity to see what it is like to work in law enforcement through activities designed and led by Ocean County College Criminal Justice faculty. Campers will have the chance to work in the college’s forensic lab and crime scene lab to investigate, report on, and solve mock crime scenes, learn more about current law practices, and meet with local Ocean County professionals to fi nd out about future careers in criminal justice.

Camp runs July 15 through 19. For middle school students aged 10to 14. Camps will be instructed by Dr. Patrick Beatty and Dr. Stephen Agresti.

After serving proudly in the United States Marine Corps., Dr. Stephen Agresti joined the the NYPD as a uniformed patrol officer where he patrolled North Manhattan for 5 years before being assigned to the Organized Crime Control Bureau’s Narcotics Division, then later working as an investigator with the Manhattan North Homicide Taskforce. He received his bachelor’s

degree in history from City University of New York, master’s degrees in both political science and criminal justice from Rutgers University, and a doctorate degree in criminology from California University of Pennsylvania. His research interests are in policing, criminal justice reform, and Constitutional issues.

Dr. Patrick Beatty graduated from Seton Hall University and served 25 years in law enforcement before retiring from the New Jersey Department of Human Services State Police as a senior detective. He was a certified New Jersey Police Academy Lecturer and Drill Instructor recognized by the New Jersey State Senate receiving commendations for his practical field experience and investigative skills. As Chairperson at Ocean County College, he oversees the Criminal Justice Program to facilitate students pursuing careers in the field of law enforcement, forensics, law, and corrections.

To register, visit campsoncampusocc. coursestorm.com/course/criminaljustice-csi-academy1.

2nd Annual Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser

TOMS RIVER – In partnership with Fun Bags Cornhole Lounge, the 2nd Annual Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser will be on July 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the RWJBH Field of Dreams, 1501 N. Bay Avenue, Toms River.

All proceeds directly benefit the Toms River Field of Dreams. Live music, prizes

for winners, and fun for all!

They are excited to announce they will have two divisions this year, Casual and Advanced. Cost is $100 per team (includes a food ticket and non-alcoholic drink per person.)

Register at: rwjbhfieldofdreams.com/ product/cornhole-2024.

Catt us Island Nature Walks

TOMS RIVER – Be a part of a 40-year Ocean County tradition! Join a park naturalist and follow in the footsteps of such legendary local environmentalists as A. Morton and Betty Cooper, Dorothy Hale and Pete McClain. Be prepared to discover the fascinating and diverse wonders of the natural world. No registration required. Open to all ages.

Walks take place at Cooper Environmental Center, Cattus Island County Park, Toms River, on Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 3 p.m.

July 6 & 7 – Osprey Watch

July 13 & 14 – Salt Marsh Safari

July 20 & 21 – Butterfly and Bog Garden

Stroll

July 27 & 28 – Life in a Mosquito Ditch

Christmas In July Food Drive

TOMS RIVER – Help The HOPE Center sleigh hunger! Beginning July 1, The HOPE Center will be accepting non-perishable food donations to support our neighbors and friends in the local community through our client choice food pantry.

Suggestions include: soup, canned tomato products, juice, coffee, tea, canned fruits, tuna, chicken and pasta.

Collections open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 23 Chestnut Street, Toms River.

Toms River Hockey Club Invites Membership

TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Hockey Club has been developing young hockey players in the greater Ocean County area since 1975.

For more information on the introductory developmental program as well as their competitive travel program, visit njblackhawks.com.

Same-Day Denture Repairs • Interest-Free Payment Plans

• Fully participating with Delta Dental PPO & will submit any other PPO insurance plans

• Evening Appointments Available

• All major credit cards and CareCredit accepted

Oak Ridge Professional Centre 191 Hwy 37 W • Toms River, NJ 08755 732.341.1120 www.oakridgedentalnj.com

See Melissa Hood’s Sweet Dreams Sandcastle Art

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to feature “Sweet Dreams Sandcastle Illustrations” by New Jersey artist and children’s author Melissa Hood, now through August 31. Patrons and visitors can meet Melissa during her Artist Reception in the branch, 6-8 p.m. on July 9.

The display in the McConnell Gallery is a celebration of summertime life at the Jersey Shore, consisting of illustrations contained in Melissa’s 2023 children’s book Sweet Dreams Sandcastle.

On her website, Melissa describes her bright, richly textured works as “original whimsical art” that has been displayed at

courtesy Melissa Hood venues throughout the region and marketed worldwide.

She attracted widespread notice through her “100 Shore Things” project of 2021-22, completing 100 coastal-themed paintings in as many days with the cooperation of local residents, businesses, photographers and the Point Beach Arts Committee.

The exhibit and the reception are free and open to the public. No registration is required. “Sweet Dreams Sandcastle Illustrations” can be viewed during normal Branch operating hours. For more information, stop by the OCL Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, call 732-349-6200 or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

Toms River Book Show A Success

Thank you to all readers and supporters who came out to the Toms River Artist Community gallery to support New Jersey writers. The event was a fundraiser for the Toms River

for after school activities. Find out more by searching for

or

Resident Makes Spring 2024 Dean’s List

TOMS RIVER – Timothy Connell, majoring in Medical Studies, made the Spring 2024 Dean’s List at DeSales University.

To qualify for Dean’s List, a student must have a minimum 3.50 GPA on no fewer than 12 credit hours.

For further information, visit desales.edu.

Photo

Photo by Chris Lundy Education Foundation, which collects money

Toms River Book Show

Toms River Education Foundation on Facebook.

Staff Celebrates Last Day Of School

TOMS RIVER – The staff at North Dover Elementary School sporting their Happy Last Day of School shirts, wishes everyone a safe and happy summer!

Cats Available For Adoption

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER – An adoption center with a free roaming cat playroom is open in downtown Toms River on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and also by appointment. Altheia lived at a farm before she came to live at the adoption center. She’s a beauty with unique coloring. She’s also

TOMS RIVER – Join the Kiwanis Club of Brick and Brandywine - The Gables for a special Pay it Forward Dinner at the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Kitchen on July 31 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Pay

by Chris Lundy very gentle and welcomes people. She’s a mom but her son was adopted.

The center is located at 34 Main Street (Route 9), Suite 1B. The adoption center adheres to COVID-19 restrictions and is run by the group called Lawyers In Defense of Animals. They can be reached at 908-910-2522, or on Facebook at /lidarescue and on Instagram @lida_rescue.

For just $40, you’ll enjoy a delicious threecourse meal and sponsor a meal for someone in our community facing food insecurity. Register at brickkiwanis.com/JBJ. Register early as space is limited.

Photo courtesy Toms River Schools

Photo

Skateboarding Adventure Camp

TOMS RIVER – Toms River Recreation presents Skateboarding Adventure Camp with Coastline Adventures.

July 22 through 26 (rain date July 30) at Toms River Skate Park,545 North Bay Avenue Toms River.

ages 5 to 8 at 8:30 to 10 a.m. ages 9 to 12 at 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. ages 13 to 16 at 12:15 to 1:45 p.m.

Max participants: 12 skaters per time slot. Cost: $275. Requirements: Skateboard (no penny boards), helmet, flat-soled athletic shoes or similar, and elbow and knee pads

are required. Wrist guards are optional. Feel free to bring a drink, snack, and sunscreen, if needed.

Beginners and intermediates welcome! Led by experienced, fi rst aid, and CPR-certified instructors in a safe and supportive environment. Beginners will learn basic skateboarding skills, safety, and park etiquette. Intermediates will refi ne and progress their technique and learn additional tricks. We’ll celebrate our last day of each camp by showcasing everyone’s skills Registration: register.communitypass.net/ tomsriver.

Boat Tours: Early Bird Ornithology

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation will be offering “Early Bird” Ornithology Boat Tours for people 9 and older at the Ocean County Parks Administration Office boat dock, located at 1198 Bandon Road, Toms River, on the following dates from 7 to 9 a.m.: June 28, July 5, July 16, and August 1. The boat will get you as close as ecologically possible to tidal marsh islands where osprey, gulls, terns, herons, and egrets nest. Join a naturalist as we observe the acrobatic maneuvers of osprey as they

catch their food and hear the rapid calls of belted kingfi shers while in fl ight.

To register, send a check or money order for $14 made payable to the “County of Ocean” to Ocean County Parks and Recreation, 1198 Bandon Road, Toms River, NJ 08753. Please provide your name, address, and daytime telephone number, along with the program number when registering.

For more information or to receive a Parks & Recreation Newsletter call 732506-9090 or visit oceancountyparks.org.

Food. Love. Home. Cooking Demonstration

TOMS RIVER – Join for the 5th Food. Love. Home. event with JBJ Soul Kitchen Toms River on July 17 at 6 p.m.!

Watch Chef Rob Nitti of JBJ Soul Kitchen perform a 3-course live cooking demonstration and enjoy a delicious meal.

All of the proceeds from this event will support Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity’s and JBJ Soul Kitchen’s missions.

What’s on the menu?

Appetizer - crunchy watermelon “tuna” salad with citrus sesame dressing Entree - soul seasoned halibut with zucchini “scales”; served with corn & cilantro puree, farro & fresh corn salsa Dessert - mini key lime pies

Tickets are $60 each. Visit givebutter. com/M8Puf1 to purchase!

Advanced Robotics Class At OCC

TOMS RIVER – In this class, create a basic AI to program a robot using visual and text-based code. Utilize a variety of sensors that help your robot navigate and overcome daily class challenges. With your teammates, you will apply different coding concepts while using the scientific method to formulate, observe, experiment, test, and

modify your robot. No prior experience is required. Students will work in pairs or teams.

Open to ages 8 to 14. Camp held July 8 through 12 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cost is $245. To register or for more information, visit campsoncampusocc.coursestorm.com/ course/advanced-robotics2.

Car & Truck Show

TOMS RIVER – The Christ Episcopal Church, located at 415 Washington Street, will be holding their 1st annual Car & Truck Show on September 21.

Registration from 8 to 10 a.m. Showtime from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Peer Judge awards at 1 p.m. Entry fee is $15 day of show. All

makes, models, years! Goody bags, prizes, awards, dash plaques, trophies. Live music, food, fun, free spectator admission, free onsite parking. For more information, email potpinkam@ gmail.com or christchurch@christchurch tomsriver.org.

OCC To Support Those Involved In Child Welfare System

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College has partnered with the nonprofit organization Embrella to make higher education more accessible to individuals who are in or coming out of the child welfare system.

Leaders at OCC and Embrella signed a memorandum of understanding outlining an agreement which indicates their shared commitment to providing educational opportunities to diverse students throughout New Jersey, and empowering community members in the development of skills to promote self-sustainability.

Embrella, founded in 1972, provides services, training and support for foster, adoptive and kinship families. Their mission is to embrace, support and advocate for children, youth and families within the child welfare community. The New Jersey Foster Care Scholars Program (NJFC) and Pathways to Academic and Career Exploration to Success (PACES) are two programs that Embrella promotes. These initiatives provide funding for students to pursue post-secondary education as they transition out of high school.

The partnership will introduce Embrella’s clients to opportunities at Ocean County

College and provide individualized assistance with their educational experience, including onboarding, success coaching, academic advising, help with fi nancial aid, and connection to on-campus resources and support services.

“Most individuals with experience in the foster care system face barriers that can make pursuing higher education difficult,” explained Calleigh Kearns, OCC’s Enrollment Services Advisor for Partnerships and Outreach. “We are seeking to combat that by putting all the support measures in place to ensure these students are successful— from application to graduation and beyond.”

The partnership will enable Embrella’s clients to enroll at OCC at the in-county tuition rate and take advantage of a direct point of contact and coordination of services that will help them achieve their short-term and long-term goals.

“The goal is to provide new opportunities to a population of students that can benefit from extra assistance – to make college accessible, which is part of our mission statement at OCC, and to support them from all angles and throughout the process, from beginning to end,” said Kearns.

Movie Night At Huddy Park

TOMS RIVER – Mayor Dan Rodrick and Toms River Recreation presents Movie Night at Huddy Park - Free for families on Tuesdays this Summer!

Bring your own chair or blanket and snacks to enjoy these family friendly flicks under the stars in Downtown Toms River.

July 2 at 8:45 p.m. – The Sandlot

July 16 at 8:30 p.m. – Under the Boardwalk

July 30 at 8:30 p.m. – Migration

August 6 at 8:30 p.m. – Zootopia

August 20 at 8 p.m. – Coco

September 3 at 8 p.m. – The Incredibles

For more information, call Toms River Recreation at 732-341-1000 ext. 8415

Silverton Vol. Fire Company Ladies

Auxiliary Craft Fair

TOMS RIVER – Vendors needed! The Silverton Vol Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary will be having an outdoor craft fair on

August 17. (Rain date August 18)

A $20 donation to reserve a spot. Call 732-908-0943 for inquiries.

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Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

DEGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES

2024 Christmas In July Vendor Market

TOMS RIVER – The Christmas In July Vendor Market is scheduled for July 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Toms River Elks Lodge, 600 Washington Street.

a relaxed and accepting atmosphere, each camper experiences new adventures, lasting friendships, and opportunities that promote independence and greater self-confidence.

The Christmas In July Vendor Market is open to the public and free to attend. Santa will be in the house! A professional photographer will also be on hand! A Tricky Tray is planned for the day of the event. All proceeds from this event benefit Elks Camp Moore, the New Jersey Elks State Project.

Campers attend Elks Camp Moore at no charge to the families. Throughout the plunge season, each Elks lodge helps raise the funds needed to cover all camp costs. The lodge that raises the most during plunge season is announced at the John Sentner Memorial Plunge.

Tucked away in the hill of the Ramapo Mountains, Elks Camp Moore offers a fun filled vacation away from home for children with special needs. A week at Elks Camp Moore is a remarkable experience not soon to be forgotten. The primary goal of the camp is to further develop the recreational and social skills of each child. In

The Toms River Elks Lodge has been amongst the top three lodges in the state in terms of fundraising for Elks Camp Moore for seven years now. The 2024-25 Toms River Elks Plunge Committee strives to continue this tradition.

For more information, visit tomsriverelks. org/christmas-in-july-market.

Summer In The Street

TOMS RIVER – Join the Downtown Toms River Business Improvement District for Summer in the Street on July 20 from 2 to 8 p.m. on Washington Street, Downtown Toms River.

This annual street festival features food trucks, merchandise vendors, kids activities, live performances, and a beer & wine

garden provided by Toms River Volunteer Fire Co. #1. Local businesses, restaurants, brewery and distillery open on the street. Free admission and free parking in downtown during the event. Performances by: The Music Academy; OC Jukebox; Wrong Exit; The Dance Center.

Downtown Farmer’s Market

TOMS RIVER – Downtown Toms River Farmers’ Market has a new location! Town Hall Courtyard – Washington Street. Every Wednesday until October 2 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, winery,

dog treats, prepared meals, pickles, handcrafted skin care, and home goods, fresh flowers, plants, and more!

Street parking and lot parking available. For more information, visit downtowntomsriver.com

Boozy Bingo

TOMS RIVER – Come support the Manitou Park Volunteer Fire Company at “Boozy Bingo” at Garden State Distillery Company on August 8.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $40 per

ticket which gets you bingo cards and one free drink! Only 80 tickets being sold! Get’em fast before they’re all gone. Outside food is permitted. Contact any member for more information.

Island Heights Fire Company 2024 Events

ISLAND HEIGHTS – The Island Heights Fire Company have announced the key dates for their events throughout 2024:

July 4 at 11 a.m. – Bicycle Parade

August 10 at 9 a.m. – Car Show Sponsored by IHVFC

September 2 at 9:30 a.m. – Labor Day Races & Softball Game vs TRFD

September 7 at 10 a.m. – Sailfest Fire Company Food Sales

September 7 at 11 a.m. – 9/11 Memorial Ceremony

September 20 at 7 p.m. – 50/50 Raffle

Drawing

October 12 at 11 a.m. – Trucktoberfest Food Trucks

October 18 at 9 a.m. – Fire Prevention

Week at Ring Around the Rosie Pre-School

October 18 at 1 p.m. – Fire Prevention Week at Island Heights Grade School

November 28 at 9 a.m. – Dave Ley Memorial Football Game vs. EDFD

December 1 at 6 p.m. – Island Heights

Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa December 22 at 3:30 p.m. – Santa Escort Throughout Island Heights

Toms River Police Is Looking For The Best Of The Best

TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Police Department is excited to announce their 2024 recruitment test application process which will continue through July 31, for the testing process which will be in September.

They are looking for qualified applicants who meet strict educational, physical and ethical standards, to take the police test.

The recruiting process is ongoing, testing occurs once every three years.

Join the Toms River Police Department Family; your career starts here! To view the Probationary Police Officer requirements and apply, visit trpolice.org and choose the “Job Opportunities & Recruitment” button. Contact us at 732-349-0150 ext. 1347 with any questions.

Summer STEM At Camp Invention

TOMS RIVER- Directed by 2023 State Teacher of the Year Christine Girtain, Camp Invention takes place at Silver Bay Elementary School July

8 through 11. Campers will team up to solve problems and discover their creativity. Register at invent.org/mylocalcamp.

Silverton Fire Outdoor Craft & Show

TOMS RIVER – The Silverton Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary will be having an outdoor craft fair on August 17 (rain date is August 18) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

at Silverton Fire House, 15 Kettle Creek Road, Toms River.

Vendors needed! Donation $20 to reserve a spot. Call Tammy at 732-908-0943 for inquiries.

Summer Music Program

TOMS RIVER – Toms River Regional Schools is offering summer music lessons from July 8 to August 1. There are options for woodwind, brass, & percussion; string; and vocal. For more information and to register, visit trschools.com.

Local WWII Vet Remembered In Documentary

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK – June 6 marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day, when 156,000 Allied troops invaded five beaches in Normandy, France by sea and by air, which ultimately liberated western Europe and laid the foundation for ending World War II. The attack was known as the greatest amphibious landing in history.

This is likely the last major milestone for the surviving veterans, the youngest of whom are in their late 90s.

Brick resident John Santillo was 97 when he attended the 75th D-Day Anniversary observance in France, which was memorialized by producer-director Lawrence Schwartz of Point Pleasant Beach, who created a poignant documentary about Santillo’s life and his 2019 journey back to Normandy.

Lawrence and his editor, Jack Diehl, took 10-15 hours of raw footage to tell the story of Santillo’s early life and wartime experiences in “Oh, Johnny!” which had a recent showing at Point Pleasant Beach Library.

The 40-minute film, which is in its marketing stage, includes photos from Santillo’s childhood in Newark where he lived with his close-knit Italian-American family, and contrasts that with his life as an Army draftee.

The director used archival footage of the invasion, which was interspersed with footage of Santillo speaking, dancing, singing and joking.

Santillo’s wartime experience and exu-

berant personality made him the perfect subject for what Schwarz jokingly calls “a non-fiction musical.”

The director-producer is committed to preserving the legacy of World War II veterans. He met Santillo at Brookdale Community College where Schwartz serves on the board of the Center for World War II Studies.

“His story represents all veterans,”

Schwartz said. “I felt compelled to tell his story - people are just drawn to him, he was a wonderful, warm human being. He loved going to Brick Memorial High School where he spoke on multiple occasions.”

During the 75th D-Day celebration in France, Santillo is seen in the documentary speaking to over 5,000 people at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, situated on a bluff high above the French coast.

“I shed a lot of tears for the soldiers behind me,” he said to the crowd.

Santillo said that when the landing craft for troop-transport (called Higgins boats) arrived at Utah Beach, “everybody was quiet. Some prayed, some said ‘What are we doing here?’ but we were all scared,” he said. “We didn’t know what we were getting into.”

Within minutes, Santillo saw bodies of his fellow soldiers floating in a sea of red blood.

“I have a lot of memories here,” he said to the gathered. “We were all together that day. Some got out alive, some died.

I’m not a hero, the heroes are buried - I salute you,” he said of the 2,500 American troops who died in the beach assault and airborne operations.

Schwartz said as soon as the boat ramps came down, “they were sitting ducks. Many drowned because they were carrying 60 pounds of equipment.”

The Germans were waiting in bunkers called “pill boxes” scattered throughout the hills facing the beaches, which were bombarded by the Navy.

Brick veteran John Santillo spoke to 5,000 people during the 75th anniversary of the Normandy invasion in 2019. That scene was shown in the documentary “Oh, Johnny!” which was screened at the Point Pleasant Library.

Schwartz said that Santillo got a lot of love and respect during the 75th commemoration ceremonies. “People were constantly coming up to him, it was very emotional. He was grateful he got to go back.”

When Santillo was asked by an interviewer in Normandy what he would say to world leaders today, the veteran did not hesitate. “Wars are rotten, no good, fi lthy. Anyone who starts a war is no good.”

With 110 World War II veterans passing every day, we need to keep their legacy alive, Schwartz said. “Johnny is a proxy for all the veterans.”

According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs statistics, 119,550 of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II are still alive.

“Oh, Johnny!” has been accepted into three film festivals, including the June 28 Jersey Shore Film Festival in Red Bank and the International NY Film Festival on the same date.

Santillo died in December of 2020 due to health issues that were exacerbated by COVID-19. The veteran will always be remembered since there is an annual John Santillo Scholarship at Brick Memorial High School.

Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn

Dr. Marc Handler

Ashley Falis, PA-C

Dr. Krisitina Derrick

Patrick Lombardi, PA-C

214 Commons Way, Bld B, Toms River, NJ 1616 Rt 72 West, Manahawkin, NJ

Dr.

Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Tinnitus Relief Is Possible?

You don’t have to “just live with it.”

Do you feel like you often hear an unwanted background noise, like ringing, buzzing, or whooshing? It’s called tinnitus, and you’re not alone — so do more than 50 million adults in Canada and the U.S.

What Is Tinnitus?

many well-reasoned arguments bandied about. But we think you should pronounce “tinnitus” however you’d like — our concern is helping you find relief!

Is There a Tinnitus Cure?

There’s no true cure for tinnitus. But relief is possible. Some methods that can help you get free of the stress it causes include: Sound therapy: Using specific sounds to give your brain something else to focus on.

A relatively new device on the market is Lenire which incorporates sound therapy & tongue stimulation.

Tinnitus isn’t a disease. It’s a symptom, a sign that something is impacting your auditory system. It shows up as a sound that your brain generates — so only you can hear it. Tinnitus isn’t always ringing, buzzing, or whooshing. Each person’s tinnitus is unique: Some hear ringing, others screeching, hissing, ocean waves, and even music!

What Causes Tinnitus?

It’s linked to many health issues, from hearing loss to high blood pressure to head injuries, so the cause of your specific case of tinnitus might be tough to pinpoint. The sound can be temporary or permanent. Fortunately, for many, the sound is easy to ignore. But for others, it can be stressful or even debilitating.

Is It TIN-uh-tis or Tin-EYE-tis?

Hearing aids: Tinnitus tends to accompany hearing loss, so hearing aids often provide relief. Most hearing aids incorporate tinnitus maskers which can assist in alleviating the bothersome tinnitus

Habituation: Putting your tinnitus in the background so your brain can learn to ignore it

Counseling: Teaching you skills to minimize your body’s involuntary reaction to your tinnitus.

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).

The internet offers plenty of answers to that question. Dictionaries, language experts, and medical experts disagree. There are

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

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!

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Isidore Kirsh

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Niacin, or vitamin B3, plays a vital role in energy production, cholesterol management, skin health, brain function, and DNA repair. One common yet misunderstood effect of niacin supplementation is the niacin flush, a temporary redness and warmth in the skin.

It is always in a “B Complex” vitamin in case you take one of those supplements. The niacin flush is a common reaction to niacin, characterized by redness, warmth, and a tingling sensation in the skin. It alarms some people, and I’ve heard of people racing to the Emergency Room over it. This reaction is normal and to me it means that the maker actually put real niacin into your supplement, and that it’s working! Niacin helps as a natural anxiolytic, and it helps with cholesterol.

You can take a B vitamin for years and never get the reaction, and then one day you do! It is normal. It occurs due to the dilation (opening) of your blood vessels, which suddenly increases blood flow and causes the flushing and heating effect. While it may be uncomfortable, the niacin flush is generally harmless and indicates that the vitamin is being effectively absorbed by the body. It is also good for you, and yet most people avoid it!

For those new to niacin supplementation, or B vitamin supplementation (where niacin is in your B vitamin), the niacin flush can be an unpleasant surprise. I do nothing when it happens to me. I just drink ice water and lay down for 20 minutes until it is over.

I welcome it, especially in the cold

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Niacin Flush

winters of Colorado. I take my Mito B Complex in the morning and crawl back into bed and wait for it! So, my strategy is to do nothing, and relax until it passes. However, some people don’t like it. There are several strategies to minimize its intensity and duration:

1. Start with Low Doses: Begin with a small dose of niacin and gradually increase it over time. This allows your body to build a tolerance to the flush.

2. Take Niacin with Food: Consuming niacin with a meal can help reduce the severity of the flush. Foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados or nuts, are particularly effective.

3. Use Extended-Release Niacin: Extended-release niacin formulations release the vitamin slowly, reducing the likelihood of a flush. However, consult with a healthcare professional before switching to this form.

4. Pre-Treat with Aspirin: Taking a low dose of aspirin 30 minutes before niacin can help minimize fl ushing by reducing the dilation of blood vessels.

Niacin can be obtained through diet because it’s in poultry, fish, lean meats, and nuts. There is also a prescription medication available called Niaspan.

The niacin flush, while initially uncomfortable, is a sign of effective absorption. By understanding and embracing the niacin flush, you may improve cholesterol ratios. For a longer, more detailed version of this article, visit suzycohen.com and sign up for my free newsletter. I will email it to you on Tuesday.

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

Around The Jersey shore

Cops, Neighbors Rescue Ducklings From Drain

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY - You might have seen videos online of people rescuing animals from a storm drain. But you probably don’t expect to be starring in one of those videos.

Robin Bausback lives in the Berkeley Shores area of town. She was running out to get bagels in anticipation of some friends coming over. She was stopped at a busy intersection - Veeder Lane and Mill Creek Road - waiting for four directions worth of cars to make it through. But the cars weren’t just waiting for traffic. They were waiting for a mother duck and a trail of ducklings to make it through the intersection. Robin said the moment was heartwarming - this many people waiting patiently. No one was beeping or yelling. Just letting nature go by.

However, while she was watching the ducks go by, she saw four ducklings slip into the drain. The momma moved the rest of her crew into nearby brush and waited.

Robin said she remembered a video a friend had sent her of a baby deer falling into a drain.

In that case, the mom was waiting, too.

“Animals are so much smarter than we think,” she said.

Robin hustled to the drain to see how they could help. She called 911 and police officers showed up right away. They were able to lift up the drain. Robin’s neighbor, Kathleen Carman, scooped the ducklings up with a long-handled pool net.

The four babies were cheeping loudly as they were placed on the sidewalk. They were too dazed and scared to know what to do since their mom was in the underbrush hiding from the people.

They had to get scooped back into the net and carefully carried over to the underbrush, where mom excitedly called to her family and they found each other.

In the adrenaline rush, Robin never got the officers’ names.

“This was not the first time the police helped me,” she said, telling the story of when there was a stray dog running on a busy street. She called the police and they were able to corral the animal and find its owner.

Thinking back on it, she wondered if there is any way to prevent animals from falling down the drains in the first place, but if there isn’t, she’s glad that there are good people out there to pick them up when they fall.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Identifying Nursing Home Abuse And Neglect

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

Nursing Home Abuse can take many forms. It can be intentional, visible, obvious or it can be more subtle-abuse through neglect and general lack of care on the part of nursing home staff. Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, or even sexual. Each of these takes a heavy toll on any person, but nursing home abuse and nursing home neglect can be especially hard on the elderly -- some of the most vulnerable members of our society. Whatever form nursing home abuse takes, it is urgent that you and your loved one open a dialogue about this extraordinarily sensitive topic. Communication is necessary to end the abuse and let the healing begin.

The first step in opening a dialogue is identifying suspected abuse. There are many signs of nursing home abuse that you can look for. The first sign you may notice is a change in behavior. The emotional effects that often accompany abuse can manifest as sluggishness or depression, a lack of enthusiasm for things your loved one once enjoyed, or even a loss of interest in visits. The change in attitude can be significant and sudden, or it may be subtle and prolonged. The most important thing is to be observant and notice if the change is taking place on any level.

Of course, it is also possible that signs of abuse will be far more apparent. Physical signs of nursing home abuse or nursing home neglect can take the form of bruises, sores, cuts, scars, or any similar injuries. These may be

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

from simple accidents, but if there is anything suspicious about the injury, the problem should be addressed immediately. Suspicious signs might include a reluctance to talk about how the injury occurred or claiming not to remember the cause. Even more obvious signs are bedsores which are a common signs of nursing home neglect. They are painful and, if infected, can be potentially lethal.

Statistics show that nearly 50 percent of all nursing homes are short staffed. The staff people who do work in these facilities are underpaid, overworked, and all too often overburdened, which in turn leads to elder neglect and abuse.

When abuse or neglect are identified or suspected it is important to notify the authorities and contact a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer to discuss your legal rights.

Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of the local authorities and your attorney. Neglect can be just as harmful in the long run as abuse, leading to additional health problems and possibly death. Nursing home abuse isn’t limited to physical abuse; there can also be emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, where an elder is demeaned or humiliated in other ways.

If you think a loved one is the victim of Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect, call the trial attorney’s at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation to discuss their rights.

Conserve Outdoor Water Usage As Heat Wave Grips New Jersey

By Alyssa Riccardi

NEW

JERSEY

– As we prepare for more hot days in a row, New Jersey American Water is asking that customers in Monmouth and Ocean Counties to conserve water usage.

“Summer has officially arrived, and the hot, dry weather seems to be here to stay,” said Lindsey Olson, senior director of operations at New Jersey American Water.

“During heat waves, it’s common to see increases in household water usage, but we are asking customers to voluntarily limit their outdoor watering now to potentially avoid more stringent summertime restrictions of water usage.”

By limiting outdoor water usage, the company can manage a fi nite supply of water allowing customers to ability to still maintain their lawns and gardens. New Jersey American Water has provid-

ed the following guidelines for outdoor conservation:

• Water early or late in the day to minimize evaporation.

• Generally, lawns only require one inch of water per week, most coming from precipitation and dew or by watering two times per week at a maximum.

• Raise the level of your lawnmower blade to avoid lawn burnout and the need for watering.

• Avoid adding new plants or sod to your landscape during this time of excessively hot and dry weather.

“These small but impactful actions are designed to help alleviate stress on water sources and infrastructure, all while helping customers save money on their water bills,”

Olson said.

For more information and tips, visit newjerseyamwater.com.

Around The Jersey shore

Without Making Nests – Th is Bird Leaves Its Young To Foster Parents

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

Brown-headed cowbirds are found in the open grasslands of middle North America, but with the surge in numbers and range, they are now found in developed areas occupied by humans. If you tend to maintain bird feeders, you might see them flock with other blackbirds.

The brown-headed cowbird is categorized as a blackbird. Males are recognizable by their black body, shorter tail, and its brownish head. Females have a brown body and a lighter colored brown/taupe head. They are a stocky bird with an unusual behavior in raising their young. They will produce more than three dozen eggs each summer. While other birds are busy gathering materials to bring to their chosen nesting site, the cowbird prefers to exert all their energy into producing eggs. You might be wondering how they can do so without having a nest. They locate nests of other birds to lay their eggs. Often these nests already have eggs of smaller birds in them, resulting in at least some of the host’s own chicks being sacrificed. Unbeknownst to the builders of the nest, they are now raising some cowbirds. This unusual behavior in egg-laying, has

caused some people to consider them pests. The result of this behavior has contributed to the decline of several endangered species.

Brown-headed cowbirds are not monogamous. In fact, genetic studies indicate that males and females will have multiple mates during a single season. The eggs of a cowbird hatch quicker than the other species of eggs, giving their own young (nestlings) a greater advantage in receiving food from their parents. Most hosts will not recognize cowbird eggs. To the contrary, the yellow warbler will recognize the eggs do not belong to them. Since the warbler is smaller and cannot oust the egg(s) from the nest, they construct a new nest above the top of the old one, hoping the cowbirds won’t return. Larger birds recognizing the difference in the eggs/nestlings will simply toss them out of the nest.

I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

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

Adult-Youth Bowling Tournament

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Whiting Bowling Ministry will host a Summer Sizzler Adult-Youth Tournament on August 3 at 1 p.m. at Ocean Lanes - Lakewood.

Entry Fee is $40 per team with the breakdown as follows: Adults $15 and youths $13.50 and $11.50 to St. Stephen’s Ministry. Format is three team games with no cut. Awards given away for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams and individual awards for 1st and 2nd place high game and high series for both adults and youth bowlers. Come out and join at the lanes for fun,

excitement, fellowship, and many memories to be made! A family fun event for everyone! We’ll also have a 50/50 and treasure auction as well!

To reserve your spot in the tournament please send a check directly to: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church - Parish Office ATTN: Bill Bodine - Tournament Director, 180 Route 539 - Whiting, NJ 08759. You can also call Bill Bodine at 848-210-4206, St. Stephen’s Parish Office at 732-350-2121 or Ocean Lanes at 732-363-3421. You can also email to: wbodine3@gmail.com.

Non-Profit Groups & Vendors Wanted For Beach Ball Blast

BERKELEY – The 12th Annual Beach Ball Blast is rapidly approaching. This year it will take place on July 26 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at John C. Bartlett, Jr. County Park at Berkeley Island, Berkeley Township.

This premier event hosted by the Ocean County Parks and Recreation Department usually draws a large crowd of all ages. The evening will include a variety of food trucks, vendors, and music by Jimmy and the Parrots, who were named the

best “Trop Rock” band in the country. Non-profit groups are invited, free of charge, to use this event as a fundraiser by providing various activities, information, or food. They are also accepting food and craft vendors for a small fee. All vendors must be family friendly and provide a summer/beach theme and or product. If you are interested in participating, contact Jake at 732-506-9090 ext. 5964 or email him at JHaug@co.ocean.nj.us.

Officials: Leave Fireworks To The Professionals Around The Jersey shore

By Bob Vosseller

OCEAN COUNTY – More than 2,000 children nationwide are injured each year by fireworks, with a large percentage of injuries taking place around the Fourth of July weekend.

Store-bought legal fireworks and illegal explosive devices are the cause, so the Ocean County Commissioners are once again cautioning residents to be careful and leave the fireworks to the professionals.

Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Barbara Jo Crea said, “many of our communities have exciting fireworks displays planned for the July Fourth holiday. I encourage our families and visitors alike to enjoy one or more of

these professionally arranged spectacular shows.”

Some types of fireworks are legal to purchase and use in the state but even these devices can pose a serious hazard, especially to children. A common sparkler can burn at nearly 3,000 degrees and cause third-degree burns, according to physicians at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital.

Burns account for 33 percent of all fireworks-related injuries. Crea expressed concern that during the summer holiday children may be tempted by the colorful packages of fireworks displayed at stores and sidewalk stands.

Crea said, “if you insist on buying legal fireworks, please follow the safety in-

8th Annual Ocean County Irish Festival 2024

MANAHAWKIN – The 8th Annual Ocean County Irish Festival, presented by Northstar VETS, will be on September 7 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Manahawkin Lake Park.

Free and family fun event. Hosted by

The Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, Ocean County Chapter A 501c3 nonprofit organization. Visit oceancountyirishfestival.com to sign up. Hurry as spaces are going fast. First come fi rst serve.

structions carefully and keep the items away from small children.”

The Consumer Product Safety Commission also has safety advice for the handling of common fireworks: Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of an accident or fire.

Light fireworks one at a time and quickly move to a safe distance.

Don’t hold lit fireworks in your hand. Do not pick up or attempt to re-lite fireworks that fail to work.

There are more destructive types of fireworks that sold legally in other states and travelling out-of-state and bringing those items back to New Jersey can carry stiff penalties according to Gary Quinn, Deputy Director of the Board of Commissioners.

Quinn said, “the kinds of fi reworks common in other states are often not legal to possess or use in New Jersey.”

Many retail fi reworks are imported from China and other countries making quality control an issue.

“When you light that fuse, you never know what is going to happen. A rocket can fly out of control and strike a child or land on a roof and start a fi re. Don’t risk injury to yourself or others. Instead let’s make sure everyone enjoys a safe and happy Fourth of July,” Quinn said.

A number of professional fi reworks shows will be held during Independence Day weekend in Ocean County. The full list can be found at the Ocean County website: co.ocean.nj.us

Marine Science Camp

TOMS RIVER – Toms River Recreation presents Marine Science Camp for grades K-8 this summer at Shelter Cove Beach.

Experience live marine animals, conduct scientific sampling, try hands-on experiments, and enjoy new lessons for

2024 including beluga whales, marine reptiles, bioacoustics, and much more!

The camp runs Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and multiple weeks are available!

For more information, visit MarineScienceCamp.com.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Personals

Europian Lady - Honest, faithful. Looking for serious man 65-75 year old. Build strong, stable relationship with our love, trust, respect. 732-551-7051. (29)

NOTICE: N.J.S.A. 39:10-16, application was made to Chief Administrator NJMVC for title papers to authorize a NJ Certification of Ownership for 96’Wellcraft, VIN/ Hull ID WLFUH6I596. Objections to Chief Administrator NJMVC, Special Title Unit, Box 017, Trenton, NJ 08666-0017. (30)

Kayaks - Santee Sport 126 Red/ WH, $650. Santee Sport 116 orange/ WH, $650. Cash only, regular price over $1,000. 732-673-7072. (30)

Kayak Thule Roof Rack - Two ullavators $650 each. Two crossbars $150 each. Regular price over $1,000. 732-473-1893. Cash only. (30)

Items Wanted

JEWEL-

COSTUME/ESTATE

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)

WE BUY CARS - Any year. Any model. Any condition. Running or Not. CASH PAYMENT AND FREE PICK UP OF VEHICLE. 609-3841610. Www.Webuycars2day.com. (32)

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)

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Help Wanted

Two Part Time Custodian Positions - At Crestwood Village 7 Clubhouse. Call Al at 856-520-3432. (31)

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)

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)

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

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)

Services

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-833-901-0309 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (t/n)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Also offering typing services. Very good prices. 40% off your first service! 732-330-4189, 848-287-3944. (t/n)

MY HANDY CREW - Home repairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwork all your home maintenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (10)

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. (29)

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

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)

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)

DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first free months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/ mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213. (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 609-335-0330 HIC# 13VH10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! Servicing Toms River, Lakehurst, Manchester, Whiting, Jackson, New Egypt, Plumstead Beachwood, Bayville, Berkeley. (47)

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

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

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

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (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)

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)

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)

Caetano landscaping - Full landscape service. Mason work, handy man, etc. Please call for a free estimate. 732-832-6102. (28)

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)

HANDYMAN SOLUTIONS - All 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)

Do You Want Your Car To Look Nice And Shine - Call Lenny. Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (33)

Available Now To Care For Your Loved Ones In Home. For day's, nights 24/7. 20 years experience. Realiable with medical background. Please call Irma 732-604-9291. (30)

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:

• M ail this form to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733. OR

• Go to jerseyshoreonline.com, click classifieds, fill out the form and pay by credit card. OR

• Fax this form to 732-657-7388 ATTN: ALI.

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

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Auto For Sale

• Items For Sale

Items Wanted

Help Wanted

Services

For Rent

Other

2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

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.

Calculate Price As Follows:

weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $

*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:

Credit Card# Exp.

Cardholder Signature: Print Name:

Billing Address:

5. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)

If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203. Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC: Treating Everything Below The Knee

By Michael Vandenberg

Dr. Scott Amoss, DPM, CWS is a lot more than a “foot doctor,” as people often mistake podiatrists for. In reality, “we provide comprehensive lower extremity care,” he said. So yes, if your foot hurts, Dr. Amoss will be happy to help. However, that barely scratches the surface of all the conditions he sees and the treatments he provides.

Dr. Amoss (pronounced like “famous Amoss”) grew up in nearby Ocean Township and has been connected to the Jersey Shore community and greater New Jersey area his entire life. Originally, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Rutgers and spent a few years in the chemical industry. However, that feeling of wanting to make a difference in people’s lives that drives all physicians caught hold of Dr. Amoss. He liked podiatry in particular because of its ability to help people really quickly. “You can immediately have a positive impact on someone’s life. They come in pain, and can leave virtually pain free.” Scott Amoss became Doctor Scott Amoss when he graduated fourth in his class with numerous honors from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in 2000. He then completed a two year residency focusing on orthopedic, vascular, plastic, and reconstructive surgery, in addition to training in internal and emergency medicine, dermatology, and radiology.

After that, Dr. Amoss knew it was time to go out on his own, so he opened Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists in Whiting. 17 years later, the practice is going strong and recently opened a new location in Toms River to be closer to Community Medical Center, where he’s a surgeon on staff. Critically, this new foothold also allows him, as a specialist in diabetic foot care, to help the growing diabetic community in the area. While expanding served a logistically necessary purpose, Advanced Foot & Ankle has never lost its personal touch. You’ll never just be passed off to whichever doctor is on the clock that day, because Dr. Amoss is proud to be a solo practitioner. “The patients see me and only me,” he said. “It’s good continuity of care.” His tight-knit support staff of seven ensures that you get the streamlined care you deserve.

That’s crucial in the field of Podiatry because, after all, things can get serious when it comes to Diabetes and foot complications. Luckily, Dr. Amoss is an Amputation Prevention Specialist as well as a Certified Wound Specialist. Less serious conditions like hammertoes, ingrown nails, bunions, and athlete’s foot can be treated in the office, often during your initial visit! “We’re very conservative,” Dr. Amoss assures future patients. “I’m surgically trained but I only like to perform surgery when all other conservative means

have been exhausted. It’s going to be painless.” He makes that possible by developing treatment plans for each specific patient.

Rest assured, Advanced Foot & Ankle is fully equipped to do so as soon as you come in. Both offices have digital X-rays so they can almost instantly see what’s going on and review it with the patient. They also have a diagnostic ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue conditions, as well as a laser for treatment of pain and neuropathy, a painful nerve condition caused by diabetes and other issues. They even offer MicroVas therapy, which gives much needed relief to patients with high levels of diabetic neuropathy, as well as vascular or PAD testing.

In addition to the most cutting edge podiatric technology, Advanced Foot & Ankle has professional-grade consumer products you need for immediate relief. They offer a great selection of diabetic shoes, for example, as well as custom-made orthotics which provide arch support and help correct the

imbalance in patients’ feet. Advanced Foot & Ankle accepts most insurance plans. (Medicare covers one pair of diabetic shoes per year!) By having strategically-located offices, an experienced and focused staff, and tons of treatment methods and equipment at his disposal, Dr. Amoss is able to easily achieve his goal of getting you fast comfort and relief. When it comes to diseases like melanoma, for example, speed is absolutely critical. The most deadly form of skin cancer, melanoma has an especially poor prognosis on the foot because it often goes unnoticed for a long time. Dr. Amoss diagnosed several of these cases last year, which probably saved those patients’ lives.

But sometimes conditions aren’t as complicated as much as some of the larger podiatrist offices try to let on. Dr. Amoss remembers one recent patient who came in after being with one such practice. “These eight doctors had exhausted all treatment options for this individual in pain,” he said. After years of getting the runaround, they told him there was noth -

ing they could do. The patient came limping into Advanced Foot & Ankle with what Dr. Amoss diagnosed in a matter of minutes as a simple corn on the tip of his toe. “We gave him a customized foot pad which helped him tremendously, and by the next day he came in to thank us and tell us how much better he was doing,” Dr. Amoss said. “He couldn’t believe he waited and wasted several years with this other group of doctors.”

At Advanced Foot & Ankle, you’ll get fast and customized treatment from a doctor you can trust. Give them a call today at 732-350-0100 and their very accommodating staff will be able to make an appointment for you with Dr. Amoss right away. And as the “urgent care of the lower extremity,” emergency appointments are also available. Advanced Foot & Ankle is located at 400 Lacey Road in Whiting (in the Stop and Shop Shopping Center) and 601 Route 37 West, Suite 300 in Toms River (in front of the Ocean Eye Institute). Or check out their website AdvFootandAnkle. com for more information.

One of Advanced Foot & Ankle locations is 601 Route 37 West, Suite 300 in Toms River (in front of the Ocean Eye Institute)

One of Advanced Foot & Ankle locations is 601 Route 37 West, 400 Lacey Road in Whiting (in the Stop and Shop Shopping Center)

Around The Jersey shore

Positive Outlook For Jersey Shore Tourism, Rentals This Summer

The summer season is here and that means many families will be looking for rental units that could range from homes by the beach to resorts with pools by the ocean.

JERSEY

By Bob Vosseller

SHORE

– The summer season is upon us, and that means rental units in the area will soon be populated by vacationers from the northern end of the state, New York, Philadelphia and beyond.

Duane Watlington, founder of Vacation Rentals Jersey Shore LLC, who has rental sites in Long Beach Island, Ocean City and the Wildwoods, provided Jersey Shore Online with his thoughts concerning summer season 2024.

Watlington said, “the Jersey Shore is always popular. It’s a great vacation destination. It’s affordable. There are all different ranges from $1,000 a week cottages all the way up to $50,000 a week luxury ocean front homes with pools and everything in between.”

He also noted, “there are all different types of experiences too. The Jersey Shore has so many unique things and every town has its own flavor that brings out rentals to the shore. Our company is engaged in connecting renters and owners in the three markets we serve.”

“We want to keep vacations affordable for families. With inflation, it is ever so important to save every penny you can, and so our website has no booking fees for the vacationers when they connect to an owner through our website. We call that renting direct,” Watlington explained. He urged renters to be aware of booking fee inclusion and to avoid that added expenditure.

“When you rent direct, with an owner, you don’t pay any fees and most likely you won’t pay any taxes either. When you stay at a hotel or when you rent through Vrbo (a rental booking agency) or a bed and breakfast, you must pay a short-term rental tax. If you go direct, with an owner or realtor you save that tax and you don’t pay any booking fees as well to the platform,” Watlington added.

He noted that his websites are a “virtual classified advertising listing website that connects owners and vacationers to rent at the shore. I think a great tip for anybody whose budget might be tight because of inflation and what we are going through right now and who wants an affordable vacation they can find it at the Jersey Shore.”

“When you add up those two fees it averages up to 25% to the cost of your vacation. Imagine a family of four that is going to spend $3,000 to rent a home for the week at the shore, they are going to pay an extra $750 in taxes and fees,” Watlington said.

Watlington added, “that $750 can go a long way. That is over $100 a night for a week’s vacation. Right there, that covers a reasonable dinner or a night out for every night of the week for that family. That would be spending money for every night.”

When asked if he was seeing the impact of the economy causing some vacationers to reconsider going away or reducing the number of days they escape from their regular life routine, Watlington replied, “there is a much bigger demand for smaller stays. The economy has something to do with that, but so does the generational shift in preferences for vacations.”

“Your younger people - 35 and under - they would rather do a couple of long weekend vacations instead of a week-long vacation. However, at the Jersey Shore there are not a lot of opportunities for that in July and August. It is pretty much weekly rentals during those months,” he added.

“Families this year are thinking about whether they can afford a vacation or not, and my answer to that is yes, go to the shore. For one, you don’t have to pay for airline tickets or travel. It’s a tank of gas maybe to get there. You can rent a house and be at the shore. You don’t have to go out to dinner every night. You can cook in the house because it is fully equipped,” he said.

Watlington said, “there are fun things to do that don’t cost a lot of money. You can go out and play mini-golf. You can go to an arcade. You can go to some of the more reasonable places to eat. There are plenty of burger joints and not so expensive places to eat. You can enjoy the boardwalk.”

“If you go to every shore town, they are all different for their own reasons. I think it is a great option for people to consider to vacation at the shore,” he added.

Photo courtesy Vacation Rentals Jersey Shore LLC

PhoTo oF The WeeK

The beaches at the Jersey Shore are great places to relax. No one knows that better than these two swans just chilling in the water. Local resident Courtney Schlick was able to capture these two in this great pic. Have one you would like to share with our readers? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Support Children & Teens In Need

TOMS RIVER – During the month of July, the Ocean County Library seeks your donations of new, packaged toiletries and personal care items for children and teens in need. The Sparks B.F.F. Reading Club Summer Toiletries Drive will be centered in six OCL branches:

Toms River Branch – 101 Washington Street, 732-349-6200

Brick Branch – 301 Chambers Bridge Road, 732-477-4513

Long Beach Island Branch – 217 South Central Avenue, Surf City, 609-494-2480 Point Pleasant Beach Branch – 710 McLean Avenue, 732-892-4575 Point Pleasant Borough Branch – 834

Beaver Dam Road, 732-295-1555

Upper Shores Branch – 112 Jersey City Avenue, Lavallette, 732-793-3996

The most-needed items include hair combs, hair brushes, feminine hygiene products, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, insect repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottles, flip-flop sandals, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Please donate only new, packaged items. No donation is too small, and each will let young people in need know that someone cares.

For more information, stop by any participating OCL Branch, call 732-349-6200 or visit theoceancountylibrary.org.

Beacon Of LIFE - Golden Wheels Showcase

LAKEHURST – Join at the Golden Wheels Showcase for an unforgettable experience. Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled day of classic cars, fun, and excitement! Golden Wheels Showcase will be held on June 29 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Beacon of LIFE, 800 Route 70, Lakehurst. Highlights:

• Classic cars, vintage wheels, and more!

• DJ, Grilled Food and Bingo for the ladies. Free admission!

Register your car here: forms.gle/TzZr46eo9fJ1r5FK8.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Remember, even a thorn can become a blessing if it gives a rose a chance to bloom. Something challenging today might prove invaluable later in the week. New information might shift your perspective and bring something unexpected.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Act now on an educated guess and you might make a favorable impression. Capture various sources of inspiration as they come across your path. Consider writing them down since they might contain the seeds of future creativity.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Appearance isn’t everything, but you might desire to seek new ways to improve your look. Your optimism and openness could attract helpful people and new opportunities. Prioritize spending money on things of lasting quality.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Life is like a canvas waiting to be painted. Collaborating with someone may further enhance a project. You might not receive all the feedback you desire but keep your passion burning and joint efforts could ignite something beautiful.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): A partner might have a valuable idea and your input could bring it to life. Consider moving forward with caution when faced with investments and major purchases in the upcoming week. You might be drawn in by the idea of possibility.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Rise above the mundane. Stories of frustration or despair may bring important lessons but don’t dwell on them. Your current challenges may change with communication and examination. Focus on being inspiring and uplifting.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) : Something once contradictory may now harmonize beautifully. You may take on an agreeable viewpoint, meet someone’s expectations, and avoid unnecessary disputes. Consider taking your time when making major decisions.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Collaboration might help to make dreams come true. Others might be quick to act while you lead a project. Trust in their confidence as it is a test of the strength and solidity of your partnership. Focus on your home environment.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Assess your goals and keep your reasons for desiring these outcomes at the top of your mind. You may benefit from taking an intentional approach to spending. Don’t risk everything on something that could end up being short-term.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) :

Feeling that you are part of a larger community might bring comfort. Your willingness to handle physical tasks may draw others closer to you. You could forge ahead and earn recognition for your achievements this week.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Your support system should cheer you on. Whether you are motivated by attaining nice things or wish to help others, your drive can be unstoppable. Others may trust your dedication and interest in helping to amplify their happiness and wellbeing.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Balance between competence and compassion. You may handle challenging situations by changing direction and following your gut. Consider using objectivity and clear thinking to handle details and apply understanding to emotions.

A SINGLE BATTER GOES INTO THE OVEN BUT COMES OUT AS A TWOFER

By America’s Test Kitchen

SMALL-BATCH LEMON PUDDING CAKES