2024-08-03 - The Brick Times

Local Organization “Paddles” To Keep Waterways Clean

Volunteers jump into their kayaks and paddle through waterways to clean up trash.

ing out by myself and I would see a bunch of garbage. I thought somebody has to do something about this,” Brotherston said.

“Then I was posting meet ups online and it just transpired from there. My fi rst clean up I think we had about 20 to 25 people; it was awesome.”

Driveways That Block Street Parking Banned Near Shore

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - The governing body voted to establish driveway widths in R-5 and R-75 zones and to establish design and setback requirements for parking areas so that on-street parking is still available for cars.

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 12

By Alyssa Riccardi JERSEY SHORE –

Local volunteers are using their kayaking skills to clean Jersey Shore waterways – one paddle stroke and one piece of litter at a time.

Stroke Your Eco,

Paddle for the Planet brings people together in the NJ waterways by vessel (kayak, canoe and/or paddle board) to remove any kind a garbage or trash that does not belong.

Stroke Your Eco

founder Lynn Brotherston is an avid kayaker and paddle boarder who started the initiative back in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I started it as a meet up group. I was go-

The group ventures into local lakes, rivers, streams, and parks to clean the polluted waterways. Some popular locations include Deal Lake in Asbury Park, Forge Pond in Brick, Lake Shenandoah in Lakewood, and Shark River in Neptune. Brotherston explained how these waterways constantly had trash floating in them.

“It’s littering. It might be a lot of fi shermen. It’s also a lot of dumping,” Brotherston said. “Forge Pond for instance, if you’re

Local Holocaust Survivors Share Their Stories

By Stephanie Faughnan

of World War II reverberated through the Toms River branch of the Ocean County Library as Holocaust survivors

Gela Buchbinder and Mona Ginsburg shared their harrowing experiences with over 100 stunned attendees. The event, the fourth in the

“Combatting Hate” series, offered a stark reminder of the horrors inflicted upon millions during one of history’s darkest chapters.

Both women, now residents of the same Toms River senior village, were mere children when the world erupted into chaos. Their stories, while different in detail, share a common thread

of unimaginable suffering and resilience.

Gela Buchbinder

At 99 years old, Gela Buchbinder is a tiny woman with a spark of feistiness that likely helped her survive as a teenager. Her life, as part of a family of six, took a dramatic turn in 1939 when the Nazis invaded their

(Clean Up - See Page 4) (Holocaust - See Page 4)

Until this ordinance, the township did not have minimum or maximum driveway width requirements, and some residents have used stone or pavers along the entire width of their property as their driveway, resulting in the appearance of the elimination of all onstreet parking since it would seem that you are parking in front of someone’s driveway. During the most recent council meeting, Councilman Derrick Ambrosino said the council’s Land Use Committee recommended an ordinance that establishes some rules regarding the width of driveways, designated by curb cuts, in an effort to ultimately create more on-street parking, especially in certain parts of town such as the barrier island and mainland waterfront development. The ordinance establishes a minimum and a maximum width for a driveway of nine and 18 feet, and a minimum requirement of separation of 25 feet if there are two driveways on that property, he said.

(Driveways - See Page 4)

Photo courtesy Lynn Brotherston

TOMS RIVER – The haunting echoes

Holocaust survivors Gela Buchbinder and Mona Ginsburg shared their experiences at a recent presentation at the Toms River branch of the Ocean County Library.

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Clean Up:

Continued From Page 1

driving down Route 70, people just chuck their garbage right out their window. If you have a storm, or even a breeze, and the wind is going to push all the garbage into the parking lot area.”

“It’s a trickle-down effect. It’s going to go into a sewer system, then come out the other side into our waterways,” Brotherston added.

If you don’t have a kayak or vessel for the

Driveways:

Continued From Page 1

Also, if there is more than one driveway, all driveways must be no more than 18 feet in total in width.

All existing driveways are grandfathered in, with the new ordinance only pertaining to applications for new driveway changes, or new driveways in new developments, Ambrosino added.

In other news, Mayor Lisa Crate said while the Summerfest concert series at

water, don’t worry. You can still volunteer with land clean-ups.

“My goal is to collect enough donations to get a truck and a trailer with at least 6 to 10 kayaks. That’s where I want to take this in the next couple of years,” Brotherston said.

Stroke Your Eco, Paddle for the Planet has currently held 82 clean-ups and counting. Over the past three years, they’ve collected over 43,000 lbs. of trash.

“We usually pull about 200 to 300 lbs. of garbage in every clean up. Sometimes more,” Brotherston said. “It’s insane. Especially with the tires and the furniture. If we have

a storm, all the furniture from your patio is going right into the water – or garbage bins, you name it. With the tires, people don’t want to bring it to the dump because it costs about $5 per tire. So, they just dump them in the water.”

Brotherston explained how the organization is now working with townships, NJ Clean Communities, and corporate companies to spread the word about environmentalism. Brotherston shared how in the future she’d like to hold lectures in communities about littering.

“I did a speaking lecture over at Ocean

County College a couple months ago. I was so passionate about doing it. I did another one at the Waretown Historical Society,” Brotherston said. “My ultimate goal is to go out and speak to kids about the effects of littering. Maybe even go into classrooms or auditoriums and speak to as many kids as I can.”

Stroke Your Eco, Paddle for the Planet is seeking volunteers for their upcoming cleanups. Upcoming events can be found on their Facebook page at facebook.com/Strokeyoureco. To learn more or to make a donation, visit their website at strokeyoureco.org.

Holocaust: Continued From Page 1

hometown of Sosnowiec, Poland. Gela was only fourteen at the time.

“The first thing they did was round up all the Jewish men, whoever they could find,” Gela recounted. “Unfortunately, they found my father.”

Gela vividly described how the Nazis marched the men a distance and ordered them to lie face down before opening fire with machine guns. Finally, the firing stopped, and everyone assumed all the men were dead. Three had survived the gunfire.

“The soldiers walked over to the men who they thought were alive and hit them over the head with big heavy boards,” continued Gela. “The German soldiers were laughing, and they appeared to celebrate.”

“Mama and the other women were scared. I was praying and crying,” she said, recalling the terrifying scene.

Gela witnessed another act of savagery when an SS soldier seized a tall, bearded man and yanked off his beard. These were the young teenager’s first encounter with the Nazis – to be followed by personal torture.

The morning after their arrival in Sosnowiec, the German soldiers took ominous pleasure in setting the synagogue on fire. They cheered, stamped, and jumped with glee as they watched the sacred building engulfed in flames.

Ultimately, the soldiers came for Gela at her home in the early hours of the morning, guns drawn. They shouted at

Windward Beach Park has ended, there are still a number of upcoming free concerts to be held on Wednesdays in August at 7 p.m. at Traders Cove Marina.

The Traders Cove Concert Series starts on Wednesday August 7, which will feature Strictly 60s.

On Wednesday, August 14, the Basso Brothers will be performing, and on Wednesday, August 21, there will be a new band, Kickin’ Wing, a NJ band that covers rock, pop and funk hits.

Also, Councilwoman Heather deJong said the annual National Night Out will

be held on Tuesday, August 6 at 6 p.m. at Windward Beach Park.

“This is where we have big bounce houses and rock-climbing walls and all kinds of stuff for the kids,” she said. “We also have our Police Camp graduation that evening, so it’s really, really fun to watch the cadets graduate and go through their little ceremony, as well as our (Department of Public Works) does Touch a Truck. There’s some garbage trucks and a street sweeper and all kinds of stuff for kids to take a look at.”

Representatives from different organizations from around the town will be at

National Night Out, including the CERT team, and emergency professionals along with their emergency vehicles, motorcycles, a mass casualty truck and more, deJong said.

The annual car show will be held at Windward Beach Park on Thursday, August 1 at 6 p.m., featuring hundreds of cars of all different makes, models and years.

“People are showing them off and lots of awards are given out, so please come check us out,” said Mayor Crate.

The next council meeting will be held on Tuesday August 13 at 7 p.m.

her to get out of bed and dress immediately, threatening to shoot her if she didn’t comply.

Gela was taken to the high school, where she encountered other terrified and crying children from her school. They were all shoved, pushed, and beaten by the Germans. Overwhelmed and in tears, Gela found a corner on the floor to curl up in for the night.

“In the morning, a doctor checked us over,” said Gela. “And, in the night, we were pushed in cargo trains like animals and sent to Czechoslovakia.”

Life In The Camp

Gela said that some of those from her hometown were taken to Auschwitz, which she described as a “killing camp.”

Gela and the other young women were assigned to a “working camp,” and subjected to forced labor in a linen factory for 16-hour days.

There were 40 girls crammed into one room. Every morning at five o’clock, they had to stand at attention and listen to a speech. The girls were told that the plan was to kill all the Jews, but if they worked hard, they might be allowed to leave, along with their parents. The girls believed this promise, clinging to the hope that it might be true.

“We thought the Germans would not lie,” said Gela. “But unfortunately, they lied.”

Gela recounted the daily horrors she endured, including beatings, starvation, and cruel name-calling. She remembered one instance when her machine broke down and a towering, high-ranking SS officer threatened her.

Overwhelmed with fear, she listened as he snarled in German, “Small devil, I will hang you and then shoot you.”

Despite her terror, the young teenager defied him, telling him he could shoot her and then hang her if he wanted. It made no difference to Gela.

She told him – “If you want to shoot me, then hang me.” She didn’t care about whether she was alive or not.

At one point, someone who maintained the machines took pity on Gela and left her a tiny piece of bread. By the time she was 18, Gela weighed only 56 pounds, her body reduced to skin and bones. She had no food, wooden shoes, and sparse clothing.

One of the worst acts of humiliation came was when the soldiers came through the camp with Dr. Josef Mengele. The girls were told to make a circle and stand in it naked. They were crying, scared, and ashamed.

During her presentation, Gela held up a tiny picture that was her only remaining treasure from the horrific days before she was freed by the Russians. Gela had managed to hide a small photograph of her parents and family under the heavy machinery she was forced to operate. Mona Ginsburg

Born in Vienna, Austria to Polish parents in 1933, Mona Ginsberg was just five years old when her childhood erupted into a state of uncertainty. Now 90, Mona’s story is one that speaks of the goodness in people, even when confronted by evil. Her kind eyes and warm voice radiated with gratitude during the presentation,

“Life was still possible for the Jews at that time in Vienna, although it was not good,” shared Mona. “My parents had left Poland because life was already very bad for the Jews.”

The decision to leave Vienna came in 1938 when a brick was thrown through the family’s apartment window and landed on the bed.

“I remember the look of horror on my parents’ face,” Mona said. “They decided to flee - my parents, my uncle and grandmother starting to walk with us through a snowstorm. My father carried my 18-month-old brother in a knapsack.”

Children were not permitted to cross the border. Consequently, Mona’s grandmother, her brother, and she were placed on a train to Belgium. They stayed with relatives in Antwerp until Mona’s parents joined them. Once reunited, the family established a new home in Antwerp.

The history books identify Antwerp as one of the hardest-hit cities in Belgium during World War II. Mona’s family was forced to leave as refugees because they were no longer welcome.

“We moved to Liège, another city in Belgium,” shared Mona. “We also had relatives there and set up home again.”

“I was registered in school as a six-yearold and made to wear the yellow star,” Mona continued. “I felt embarrassed in front of the other children.”

Hiding In Plain Sight

In 1942, Mona’s parents learned from the bishop of Liège that Catholic convents

(Holocaust - See Page 5)

:

Continued From Page 4

were offering refuge to Jewish children. Mona was placed in a home for poor Catholic girls, while her five-year-old brother was sent to live at a home in Banneux that had taken in Jewish boys.

“The whole village knew I was Jewish because I wasn’t baptized,” said Mona. “When I went to church, I couldn’t take communion. I went to confession with the priest, but it was all make believe.”

“My mother had said to me to never

forget that I was Jewish,” Mona added.

“It’s stuck to me to this day.”

When the Nazis began arresting Jews, Mona’s father was sent to Auschwitz, where he was ultimately worked to death.

Mona’s mother was not home at the time.

Realizing the danger, she went straight to join her son at the home in Banneux.

“The home was run by German nuns who took my brother and her in,” said Mona. “They were very courageous people.”

Mona emphasized that the threat of death was not only to her family. Those who rescued them also risked their lives for hiding Jewish people. Both children

were even enrolled in school, which was another act of bravery.

Both Mona and her brother easily became attached to the families who took such good care of them. Mona remains close to the generations that followed in the household that took her in.

After the American Army liberated the country in 1945, Mona’s mother set up a new home and took back her brother. When her mother found a bigger place, Mona joined them.

“At first I didn’t want to go back to my mother,” admitted Mona. “I felt embarrassed to leave the family that

sheltered me.”

A Shared Hope

Despite the trauma they endured, both women fi nd solace in sharing their stories, hoping to educate and create empathy among future generations.

“I was debating with myself about how to describe all the hardship I went through,” said Gela. “But as painful as it was, I feel we need to talk about it so that hopefully it will never happen again.”

Mona added, “There is hope for the world because there were good people who risked their lives to save Jews like me, and my mother and brother.”

Forum Teaches How To Prevent Scams

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER

– A forum to fight fraud drew over 160 attendees, showing just how many residents are concerned with scams –particularly the ones that target seniors.

Noting the increase in local scamming incidents, Judy Noonan, the Mayor’s Confidential Aide and Township Senior Service Liaison, assisted by fellow township staff member Frank Nicolato and the leadership of Crestwood Village V, organized a public forum about the growing problem.

The forum was held at the Crestwood Village V Club House in Whiting and featured several speakers from Ocean County government including Sheriff Michael Mastronardy, Director of Consumer Affairs Ronald Heinzman,

Commissioner Gary Quinn, Senior Services

Director Maria Laface and Consumer Affairs

Investigator Paul Wnek. Manchester Police

Detectives Richard Jupinka and Victoria Guarino were also present and Jupinka noted some recent local cases that the department investigated. Council members Joseph Hankins and James Vaccaro were also in attendance. Each speaker noted incidents of claims of problems or prizes: Scammers frequently fabricate urgent scenarios, such as outstanding debts or promises of significant prize winnings. Victims may be falsely informed that they owe the IRS money, are owed a tax refund, need to verify accounts or must pay fees to claim non-existent lottery winnings. Heinzman and Wnek noted that victims often

face pressure for immediate action and that deceitful actors create a sense of urgency, demanding that victims take quick action without allowing time for reflection. Common tactics include threats of arrest, deportation, license suspension or computer viruses to coerce immediate compliance.

To complicate traceability, scammers insist on unconventional payment methods, including cryptocurrency, wire transfers, payment apps or gift cards, and often require victims to provide sensitive information like gift card numbers.

“A big issue is home improvement contractors. That is a big topic right now. Right now, all contractors have to be registered with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. If

not, it is a violation of our rules and regs and violations are heard in municipal court. It is a fourth-degree crime. We are moving over to a licensing phase for contractors as opposed to being registered by the state,” Heinzman said. He added, “we handle hundreds of hundreds of cases a year for home improvement. We just finished an automotive task force in Ocean County. We have 241 used car dealerships in Ocean County. We visited every one of them and I happy to report that 95% of them are doing the right thing for consumers. We have a few that we have to take some stronger measures with a little guidance.”

Wnek noted that the County Department of Consumer Affairs compiled all its information

(Scams- See Page 19)

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

Capitol Comments Lawmaker: Murphy’s School Funding Priorities Are Misplaced

Senator Jim Holzapfel

TRENTON - Senator Jim Holzapfel (R10) blasted the Murphy administration for diverting hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to illegal immigrants while failing to ensure adequate funding for all New Jersey students.

“Governor Murphy’s mismanagement of taxpayer funds have come at the cost of 150 school districts, leaving countless students at risk of losing resources that are necessary for a quality education,” said Sen. Holzapfel. “The Murphy administration’s priorities are out of touch with the needs of families in Toms River and Brick. We should not be diverting hundreds of millions of dollars to illegal immigrants while New

Jersey schools are forced to cut critical resources for students and teachers.”

The Toms River Regional School District and Jackson School Board are taking legal action against New Jersey’s Department of Education over school funding cuts. These cuts, which have impacted 150 school districts throughout the State, are threatening the future of vital programs like arts, music, sports and even courtesy bussing for students and families.

During a FY2025 budget hearing with the Department of Human Services, the Mur-

phy administration acknowledged using more than $200 million in taxpayer funds to provide free medical services, free legal assistance, and one-time cash payments to individuals who reside in New Jersey illegally.

“Democrats mislead New Jerseyans to think that our school funding formula is working, but the reality is that 150 schools are not fully funded,” Sen. Holzapfel continued. “These lawsuits are a stark reminder of how the Murphy administration is failing future generations of New Jerseyans.”

Senator Criticizes Netanyahu’s Leadership

Capitol Comments

JULY 24, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement:

“Prime Minister Netanyahu will perhaps be remembered as one of the worst leaders in Israel’s history. I’ve long had serious disagreements with his actions and those of his ultra-right wing governing coalition - from their actions

to erode Israel’s democratic institutions, to their allowance of illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank and lack of accountability for extremist settler violence, to their undermining of the Palestinian Authority - all of which threaten Israel’s security and the prospects for a two-state solution.

“Furthermore, when Israel needed clear-eyed leadership in the wake of the horrific October 7 terror attacks, Prime Minister Netanyahu responded by prioritizing his own political survival over the security of Israelis and the safe return of the hostages held by Hamas – including eight American citizens. Many other

Israeli leaders were willing to step up and accept responsibility for their failures; Prime Minister Netanyahu instead pointed fingers of blame. I believe his leadership has led to a prolonged military conflict between Israel and Hamas and horrific levels of death and suffering of civilians in Gaza. His actions have made ensuring true Israeli security, ending the conflict, and establishing a lasting and just peace more difficult.

“At a time when 72 percent of Israelis think he should resign from office, there must be accountability for Prime Minister Netanyahu’s failures and his undermining of Israel’s democracy.

“I support the State of Israel – its security, its flourishing, and its profound potential. I believe there is a deep and

unbreakable bond between our two nations – a bond that should never be undermined by partisan politics here at home… I remain committed to holding Prime Minister Netanyahu accountable and working toward a lasting and just peace for all the people in the region.

“Ending this crisis starts with an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict that stops the fighting, brings the hostages home, and allows desperately needed humanitarian aid to flow to civilians in Gaza. Working towards a two-state solution is the only pathway to a lasting peace that protects Israel’s right to exist as a democratic, Jewish state and ensures the Palestinian people’s right to human dignity, prosperity, self-determination, and a state of their own.”

Donate Your Used Cell Phones For This Worthy Cause

OCEAN COUNTY – Nancy Seibert has been collecting for “Cell Phones for Soldiers” since 2006. She has combined forces with Bayville based “Support the Troops Project,” led by Lloyd Mullikin since 2004, who mails these cards and packages overseas to our troops in harm’s way.

Cell phones collected, in any condition, and are not reused but sent to a recycler. Cords and cases are not necessary. The profits are then sent to the organization headquarters in Massachusetts from which Nancy orders her free, true 60-minute calling cards. They are provided for those military who are unable to contact their families without incurring monumental expense during their deployment. They also accept monetary donation for help defray the cost of mailing these boxes. Checks can be made out to the VFW Post 9503 with a notation in the memo “Support the Troops.” Checks can be mailed to Lloyd Mullikin, 307 Allaire Ave., Bayville, NJ 08721 or call him at 732-269-1397. It would then be a tax-deductible donation.

To date, Nancy has collected over 23,000 cell phones and donated over 99,000 calling cards. If you have the name of a military member serving overseas, feel free to contact with their, name/rank and APO/FPO address and they will be happy to donate cards to them. She can be contacted at 732-606-6040. The following are drop locations:

• All Lester Glenn Auto Dealership (Service waiting room)

• Central Regional Middle and High School lobbies

• All Berkeley Sounds of Summer Concerts

• All Berkeley Municipal Bldgs. And Recycling Center

• Beachwood Municipal Bldg.

• VFW 9503, Bayville lobby

• Bayville Elks

• Bayville Auto

• Altieri Chiropractic, Bayville

• Pine Beach PO

• Presbyterian Church of Toms River

• American Legion 129, Toms River

• Ocean Country Courthouse and County

Clerk Offices, Toms River

• Sonata Bay Clubhouse, Bayville

• Silver Ridge and all Holiday City Clubhouses

• Heritage Family Restaurant, Whiting

• Universal Radiology, Lacey

• Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Lakewood

• C&C Marina, Bayville

• Keller/William Realty, Bayville

• Sarah’s Hair Salon, Bayville

• Community Medical Center, Outpatient lobby

• East Coast Flag and Flagpole, Beachwood

Please take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.6, an application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, NJ, to receive title papers authorizing the sale for a 1988 Liberty, Vin/Hull No. 08L59577. Objections, if any should be made in writing, immediately to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017.

Senator Cory Booker

Neighborhood Watch Meetings

BRICK – Attention Brick Township residents! Join the Neighborhood Watch Program and become an active participant in keeping the community safe! By joining, you will have the opportunity to play a crucial role in maintaining the security and well-being of our neighborhoods. As a member of the Neighborhood Watch Program, you will have the chance to collaborate with law enforcement and gain education on protecting yourself and your home.

Neighborhood Watch Members receive up-to-date information on what’s happening in your neighborhood. Your vigilance and dedication will help deter crime and promote a safer environment for everyone.

To become involved in this program and stay informed about upcoming watch group meetings, keep an eye on the Brick Township Police Facebook page

for updates, visit their website, or contact Officer Berkeley via email at Tberkeley@ brickpd.com. Let’s work together to make our neighborhood a safer place for all! Join the Neighborhood Watch Program today! Upcoming meetings:

August 7 – Laurel Brook Neighborhood; 6 p.m. at Laurel Brook Clubhouse

August 13 – Pavilion Neighborhood; 7 p.m. at Pavilion Club House, 1 Molly Lane

August 14 – Evergreen Woods Neighborhood; 7 p.m. at Evergreen Woods, 107 Miranda Court

August 20 – Mill Brook Manor Neighborhood; 6 p.m. at Millbrook Manor Club House, Lanes Mill Road/Sawmill Road

August 22 – Winding River Neighborhood; 6 p.m. at Winding River Club House, 100 Skyline Drive

September 10 – State Streets Neighborhood; 6 p.m. at Herbertsville Fire House, 601 Herbertsville Road

Spark Up Some Business

BRICK – Watch fireworks on the water and network! Join the Brick Chamber of Commerce for a sunset cruise to watch the fireworks and spark some new business connections.

Spark Up Some Business will be on August 8 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. (boat departs promptly at 7:30 p.m.) at The Pig & Parrot. Tickets are $50 per person and includes light fare. BYOB. Register at brickchamber.com.

2024 PBA 158 Summer Party

POINT PLEASANT – The Point Pleasant Policemen’s Benevolent Association is hosting their annual Summer Party on August 11 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the River Rock Restaurant & Marina Bar.

Join again for a great time! They have a new shirt design and great prizes. Pre-purchased tickets get to the front of the line! Tickets can be purchased at: eventbrite.com/e/2024-pba158-summer-party-tickets-927280439757.

Local Summer Cruise-In Car & Truck Show

BRICK – Laurelton Fire Company & Paisley Rae Designs presents Local Summer Cruise-In Car & Truck Show on September 1 (rain date September 8) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Icarus Brewery, 2045 Route 88 Brick.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $20 donation. Awards at 2:30 p.m. with 15 judge selected awards and five specialty awards. For more information, contact 732-5801685 or 732-232-7158.

Toy & Comic Spot Adoption Event

BRICK – Join on August 10 at The Toy & Comic Spot for an adoption event for the pets at AHS Popcorn Park Shelter! They’ll be at there with some of the awesome adoptable pets on hand to meet and

greet you from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you bring a can of dog food, you’ll receive 10% off your purchase! The Toy & Comic Spot is located at 1889 Route 88 in Brick.

Traders Cove Concert Series

BRICK – The Traders Cove Concert Series will be held on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in August at Traders Cove Marina and Park, 40 Mantoloking Road.

August 7 – Strictly 60s August 14 – Basso Bros.

August 21 – Kickin’ Wing Traders Cove Concerts are free to attend. Please bring your own chairs and/or blankets. Coolers are permitted – no alcohol. Rain date for any postponed concert is the following evening.

Development Council Elects Leadership

JERSEY SHORE – Christine Hanlon, the Monmouth County Clerk, recently inducted a new president and board members for The MODC (Monmouth-Ocean Development Council), Wall Township, at the Lobster Shanty, Point Pleasant. Thomas Gilmour, founding trustee of the Asbury Park Music Foundation, was named the president of MODC for a twoyear term, replacing Matt Appel, Beacon Wealth Partners, who completed his twoyear term. Other new executive committee members for 2024 are Charlene Archer, Treasurer; Karen Campi, Secretary; John Casagrande; John LeMay; Steve Reinman; and Linda Savino. Brian Waldron was re-elected to the Executive Committee. The newest board members for 2024 are Ian Singer, Director of Marketing for Davison Eastman Munoz Paone, P.A.; Maria Caputo, Monmouth Medical Center; Dr. Jared Morris, Monmouth County Vocational School District; Dr. Michael Maschi, Ocean County Vocational Technical School; Chris Curcia, OceanFirst Bank; Charlene Archer, Manasquan Bank; Bart Henderson, Henderson Promos; and Andrew Oeftering, UPTECH360 Corporation.

Continuing MODC Board Members for

2024 include John Gagliano, Counsel; Nancy Barone, MODC Past President; Lynn Maurer; Joseph Imbriale; Frank Preston; Kim Sambade; Louisa Vroman; Denise Gaffney; Chris Emigholz; Anthony Agliata; Bob McLane; John Kalli; Eileen Higgins; Marilee Pettit; Gary Pollack; Brian Foster; Commissioner Tom Arnone; Doug Lyons; Fran Kirschner; Kayci Clayton; Craig Trautweiler; Chris Church; Ron Reisner; Anthony Faugno; Karen Guarasi; and Toby Stark.

Jodi Grinwald, CEO of the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council, thanked former president Matt Appel for his leadership and service to MODC. She also thanked and recognized the board members whose term ended due to term limits for their dedication: Heather Barberi from the Grunin Foundation; Jennifer Edmonds of Georgian Court University; Charles Ford of Monmouth County Vocational School; Karen Homiek of Ocean County Vocational Technical School; and Kristine Novakowski, of Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity.

Contact Jodi Grinwald, MODC’s chief executive officer, at jodi@modc.com for any questions. Visit modc.com. to learn more about MODC.

BRICK – Join 107.1 The Boss at the Church of the Epiphany in Brick (615 Thiele Road) on August 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. for their 50th Annual Italian 50th Annual Italian Festival Festival.

Enjoy exciting carnival rides, craft vendors, delicious funnel cake, live music, a beer & wine garden.

Brick Schools Hiring Teacher Aides

BRICK – Brick Township Public Schools is now hiring Teacher Aides. Requirements: a passing grade on the ParaPro; assessment or 60+ college credits.

Apply online at brickschools.org/ our-district/human-resources/employment . Questions? Email HR@brickschools.org.

Mon,Tues,Fri: 9-5 • Thurs: 9-7 • Sat:

Senior Men’s Cuts $15

Reg. Men’s Cuts $18

Senior Women’s Cuts $19

Reg. Women’s Cuts $22

Color, Perms & Highlights at discounted prices!

TRIMS

Photo courtesy MODC

Annual Fire Camp Comes To A Close

BRICK – Brick Township Fire Bureau, held their annual Fire Camp. Fire Camp is an opportunity for Brick Students ages 12 to 16 years old to learn what it takes to be a firefighter. The fun filled week included Arson K9 interaction, a day spent with the Emergency

Photo courtesy Brick Township Medical Service Team, a day on the water learning about our Specialized Marine Unit, and so much more!

A special thank you to our hometown volunteer fire companies for all their help in making Fire Camp a success.

Training For Those Seeking A Career As A Dementia Practitioner

BRICK – Looking to pursue certification as a Certified Dementia Practitioner?

Join Angelic Health Memory Care Educator Christabel Smith and take the next steps in your career training.

One day only, held virtually August 7, 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The cost is $225 which includes a digital notebook. Only 10 seats available.

Email Christabel at csmith@angelicpc. com to learn more, or register at square. link/u/RByK20p2.

Topics covered include: An overview off Alzheimer’s and dementia

Communications and feelings

Depression and repetitive expressions

Delusions, hallucinations, hoarding, and wandering

Aggressive behaviors, catastrophic reactions, and intimacy and sexuality

Personal care: pain, nutrition, bathing, dressing, toileting, falls, sleep disturbances

Activities

Staff and family support

Staff and abuse and neglect prevention

Diversity and cultural competence

Spiritual care and end-of-life issues

Brick EMS/Recuse Offering Training Opportunity

BRICK – Brick Township EMS/Rescue is holding an ICS-400 course August 21 & 22 at the Brick Fire Training Center. This course is designed for those emergency response personnel who would function as part of an Area Command, Emergency Operations Center, or Multiagency Coordination System during a large, complex incident or event, or those personnel who are or would likely be part of a local or re-

gional Incident Management Team during a major incident, whether single agency, multiagency or Unified Command. Must successfully complete prerequisite courses (Incident Command System ICS100, ICS-200 and ICS-300 or equivalent) prior to being accepted for this course. Cost is $100. Enroll at bricktwpemsrescue. enrollware.com/enroll?id=9017103. Questions? Call 732-451-2038 ext. 1373.

C ommUnitY n eWS

Local Pets Available For Adoption

Photo courtesy Jersey

BRICK – Meet Dora! This gorgeous 1.5-year-old dilute calico kitty has been waiting patiently since March for her forever home. With her unique coat and adorable personality, she’s a real beauty! Dora prefers to be the only pet in the household, but once she warms up to you, her sweet and playful nature shines through! She’s an active girl who loves plenty of toys to keep her entertained

Animal Center and engaged. Dora is ready to find her forever family who will shower her with love and attention. Could you be the one to give Dora the loving home she deserves? Come meet her today and let her steal your heart!

You can view this pet and more at jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org. They are located at 185 Brick Boulevard and can be reached at 732-920-1600.

Brick Farmers Market Every Saturday

BRICK – The Brick Farmers Market returns to Windward Beach for its 10th Season in 2024! The Market will be open every Saturday until September 28. The hours are 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.

The 2024 Brick Farmers Market will have nearly 60 vendors offering a variety of fresh

St. Francis Counseling Service Seeking Advocates for the Fall of 2024

Are you an Ocean County resident who is interested in supporting survivors of sexual violence? Our FREE 40-hour training will certify you to advocate for people after they have experienced sexual violence. Once trained, you will be on-call to provide crisis intervention, educational information, and resources to survivors. All potential advocates are encouraged to apply. To apply and schedule an interview, please contact Cheryl Fuller, MSW at cfuller@stfrancislbi.org or call (609) 494-1554

foods, produce, artisanal goods, crafts, beer and spirits, cheeses, pastries, flowers and so much more. You can check out the vendor list at brickfarmersmarket.com

Stop by every Saturday and see why we consider this the best Farmers Market in New Jersey!

Free Wellness Screenings

LAKEWOOD – Ocean University Medical Center is offering Free Wellness Screenings on August 9 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Wellpoint, 100 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood.

Screenings will include blood pressure, pulse, BMI, glucose, cholesterol, and stroke risk assessment. A nurse will be on hand to answer questions. No registration required.

Shore

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

6 Tips For Longer Battery Life

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

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

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

Keep Water Out Moisture damages batteries, so protect your devices from water and store them overnight in a dehumidifier. If moisture corrodes the

battery door, the aid will eventually stop working.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures Extremes are no good for batteries, so store them at room temperature whenever possible. Choose Rechargeables Rechargeables eliminate waste and the need to constantly mess with tiny batteries. Long time hearing aid users still prefer to replace their batteries as opposed to having to drag the charger with you on vacation trips.

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

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!

Volunteers Needed At New Jersey Blood Services

NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No medical background necessary.

Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service, be able to perform

tasks as needed and must provide proof of COVID vaccination prior to volunteering. Must have transportation. All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors. For additional information call or text Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at 732-850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9.a.m to 4 p.m.

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

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Do You Touch Your Face And Mouth A Lot? Many People Do!

We express our emotions by touching our faces. When we’re surprised or scared, we might instinctively cover our mouths with our hands. During moments of deep concentration or attentive listening, a hand often finds its way under our chin. This habit isn’t just random; it’s a hands-on coping mechanism that helps soothe us by engaging our senses.

Our phones play a role in this too. With the rise of smartphones and computers, face-touching behaviors have significantly. Most people don’t clean their phones that often, and the face touching habit can transfer pathogens from screens to your face. Do you touch your face or mouth a lot? What about your hair, or nose.

5 Types of Face Touching

Mouth: Touching the mouth and nose 3-5 times per hour increases the risk of pathogen transmission.

Nose: Touching the outside of your nose or scratching it is pretty common. Surprisingly, nose picking is also common, with 91 percent of people admitting to it on a questionnaire.

Eyes: Touched 1-2 times per hour, which could be due to irritation or contact lenses.

Ears: Touched 2-3 times per hour, typically during stress or when adjusting accessories.

Hair: Frequent in individuals with long hair, occurring 4-6 times per hour.

You are going to start noticing yourself doing this more often, lol! And other people too. Frequent face touching can lead to the transfer of pathogens, causing infections and illnesses especially during high cold/flu season.

Why do we do it so much? When face

touching becomes really excessive (and “really” can be defined differently by all of us), it may be attributed to various psychological and physiological conditions. Psychogenic pruritus, for instance, involves itching without a physical cause and can lead to frequent scratching. People with small fiber neuropathy sometimes have what’s called neuropathic itch. Tactile hallucinations, often associated with psychiatric disorders or substance use, create false sensations of touch, prompting individuals to rub or scratch their faces. Then there’s dermatillomania, a condition characterized by compulsive skin picking, can result in persistent face touching. Formication, the awful sensation of feeling ants or other bugs crawling on (or under) your skin! The word “formica” means ants. This tactile hallucination is sometimes related to illicit drug use and can cause frequent touching and scratching. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) may involve compulsions that include repetitive face touching for some sufferers. I don’t want to medicalize it too much because for some people it’s just a matter of feeling nervous or anxious.

Understanding these behaviors is fun, and crucial for those with immune systems that are compromised. Keep good hygiene practices to reduce the risk of infections, like washing hands frequently, or applying hand sanitizers. Try becoming more mindful of the frequency of face touching to help mitigate health risks if you have immune problems.

For more detailed insights into face touching and its causes, please read my longer version of this article posted on suzycohen.com

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

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Educating Our Community On Nursing Home Abuse

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

People put their elderly parent or grandparent in a nursing home so that they can be safely taken care of, so that someone can properly look after them in their old age. No one expects that these nursing home residents should get anything less than the proper care and respect that they deserve, but with the horrifying rise in nursing care abuse, this is not always the case. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse in the United States, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in America indulge in some form of resident abuse.

million by the year 2030.

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. Even more alarming is the prediction that the problem will only worsen in the near future. More than 91% of nursing homes lack adequate staff to properly care for patients. A Health and Human Services Department report found patients in understaffed nursing homes were more likely to suffer from a variety of problems, such as bed sores, malnutrition, weight loss, dehydration, pneumonia, and serious blood born infections. It’s a serious concern that will only increase with time, given that the population of people aged 85 or older is expected to double to 8.9

Signs of abuse and neglect may be (but are not limited to) evidence such as patterns of bruising, unexplained injuries, frequent infections, bedsores, questionable hygiene, appearance of malnutrition, emotional distress, and unsanitary living conditions. Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of 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.

Many elders needlessly suffer from nursing home abuse in which they are manipulated, humiliated, or physically harmed by the very people entrusted with providing them with loving and tender care. Instances of physical, sexual and verbal abuse have taken place at the very nursing homes where elders are actually supposed to be well taken care of; unfortunately, cases of nursing home abuse in America and also in New Jersey are rising rather than falling.

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

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

O+ And O- Donors

Urgently Needed

NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS) has issued an urgent call for type O+ and O- blood donations. This dangerous shortage is impacting local hospitals and part of a disturbing national trend, with Type O shortages reported across the U.S. The current inventory of type O blood is the lowest it’s been since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Further complicating this shortage is a recent surge in blood usage. In the past several days, seven massive transfusion protocols (MTPs) have occurred across the region. MTPs involve administering 10 or more units of blood to a patient within 24 hours but can often require 50 or more lifesaving blood products per patient, placing tremendous strain on the blood supply.

Type O+ is the most common blood type, representing nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Type O- is the universal blood type and is commonly used in emergency settings. A shortage of both types, both locally and nationally, poses serious concerns for our healthcare system, and the need for donors is critical.

In addition, the region continues to struggle with the challenges that often accompany the summer months. Seasonal travel, school breaks, and a rise in traumatic accidents during the summer months often strain the blood supply and

lead to shortages. NJBS is calling on all individuals with Type O blood to make an immediate donation.

“We are appealing to our community to step up and donate blood, especially those who are type O. The summer months are always a challenging time for the blood supply, but we are currently experiencing an even lower level of this crucial blood type than at the start of the pandemic,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New Jersey Blood Services. “Following the recent surge in blood usage, our local inventory is critically low, and we need immediate support to ensure that every patient receives the lifesaving care they need.”

NJBS hosts daily blood drives and operates 19 area donor centers to reach donors and meet local hospital needs. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800-688-0900.

To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org. Can’t donate blood? You can still support NYBC’s mission by texting ‘NYBC’ to ‘20222’ to give $25.

Happy Hour Networking

BRICK – Join the Brick Chamber of Commerce for their Happy Hour Networking on August 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Mantoloking Road Alehouse, 247 Mantoloking

Road, Brick.

Cost is $15 for members, $25 for guests. Light fare included. To register, visit brickchamber.com.

Brick Schools Now Hiring Bus Drivers

BRICK – Brick Township Public Schools is now hiring bus drivers with full time and substitute positions available. Competitive pay, flexible hours, health-

care and benefits. Will train for CDL. For more information, email hr@brickschools. org or visit brickschools.org/our-district/ human-resources/employment.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Chief Fire Marshal Celebrates Retirement

Photo courtesy Beachwood Vol. Fire Department

OCEAN COUNTY – Congratulations to Ocean County Chief Fire Marshal Dan Mulligan on his retirement after serving Ocean County for 38 years.

At the County Commissioner meeting, surrounded by fellow fi refighters and law enforcement officers, retiring Chief Mulligan received a proclamation thanking him and recognizing his many accomplishments.

Commissioner Gary Quinn then swore in the new Chief Fire Marshal, Dennis Allen, who also serves as Assistant Chief in the Beachwood Fire Department. In a symbolic “changing of the guard,” retiring Chief Mulligan removed his badge and pinned it on Chief Allen.

They wish Dan all the best in his retirement and Dennis all the success as the new Fire Marshal. Congratulations!

Meet WEAR’s Rescued Reptiles

LAKEWOOD – Rescue animals come in all types, shapes and sizes, and they can thrive in good homes. Teens, meet members of Wild Exotics Animal Refuge, learn about their mission and see some rescued snakes and lizards at the Ocean County Library Lakewood Branch, 11 a.m. on August 12.

Members will discuss circumstances surrounding rescues and the steps involved to accept and care for animals in need. Everyone who attends will have a chance to experience the wonders of nature by seeing the reptiles up close.

Founded by Ocean County native Brittany

Vanderstine, Lakehurst-based Wild Exotics Animal Refuge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit group that offers a haven for neglected exotic pets, accepts surrendered animals, works on rescues, gives medical care to exotic creatures and offers adoption services to qualified individuals.

Register at tinyurl.com/OclLaWEAR for this free program, sponsored by the Ocean County Library Foundation (OCLF).

The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization now in its 23rd year of supporting non-traditional Library services and programs not covered by tax dollars through fundraising and grant writing activities.

Travel Bocce Presents Upcoming Trips

WHITING – Travel Bocce presents the following trips in 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

Point Pleasant Beach Farmer’s Market

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

OCC Wins Instagram Challenge

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College is proud to share that we have been selected as one of the grantees of Lumina Foundation’s mini-grant opportunity and first-ever Instagram challenge. A total of seven community colleges have been awarded $50,000 each to enhance their digital outreach and marketing efforts. Our engaging Instagram Reel showcased the exceptional value and vibrant experiences that Ocean County College offers, helping us stand out among over 100 entries from public, accredited two-year institutions nationwide.

The Winners:

1. Ocean County College, NJ

2. Ohlone College, CA Community College of Beaver County, PA

3. State University of New York (SUNY) Niagara, NY

4. Owens Community College, OH

5. Chaffey College, CA

6. Jefferson State Community College, AL

The Instagram challenge invited community colleges to create a 90-second Reel, highlighting why their college is the best choice for practicality, convenience, and excellence. By participating, we aimed to highlight #WhatsExcellent about Ocean County College and demonstrate the extraordinary opportunities available to our students.

“The grant will assist OCC in developing an exciting new digital outreach program that will provide our students with opportunities to develop their creative skills, gain valuable experience, and build a strong portfolio for their future, while showcasing the vibrant campus life,

diverse student body, and exceptional programs offered here at OCC,” said Dr. Pamela Monaco, president of Ocean County College. “I am thrilled by the collaboration from our enrollment services team with college relations, and the amazing talent of the students and team who created our winning Reel.”

“For the past two years, Lumina has engaged in a national conversation about understanding and strengthening community college brands,” said Mary Laphen Pope, Lumina’s strategy officer for participation. “While discussions often focus on challenges such as enrollment declines, success stories about community colleges and their students are rarely highlighted. We aim to change that.”

Community colleges like OCC embody the dreams and aspirations of our communities, offering excellent student services, beautiful campus facilities, heartfelt community engagement, and dynamic classroom experiences. We are excited to continue sharing our stories and highlighting the diverse and profound impact of a community college education.

“We were excited to offer this minigrant opportunity and so impressed by all the outstanding video reels we received. We hope this initiative will help shift the narrative around community colleges and all that they offer,” added Laphen Pope.

Lumina invites community colleges to continue sharing their stories and highlighting their excellent work. For more information about the mini-grant challenge and to apply for future opportunities, visit Lumina’s Challenge Page.

Commissioners: JCP&L Needs To Do Better

OCEAN COUNTY – As heat indexes pushed temperatures over 100 degrees recently, Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi also noticed the increase in complaints the County was receiving from residents about power outages.

“People were calling my office concerned about black outs and brown outs,” Sadeghi said. “Jersey Central Power & Light Company assured us all would be well.” However, Sadeghi said the utility company which provides electric power to a large portion of the County is not living up to its assurances.

“I have a much smaller business than JCP&L,” Sadeghi said. “But in the summer months when it gets busier we plan ahead to have the proper resources in place. “We need JCP&L to do the same,” he said.

In addition to Ocean County’s year-round population of about 650,000 people more than doubling in the summer months due to

• Complimentary WiFi & Water

• All Major Credit Cards Accepted

• All Special Events • Flat Rates

• Accomodate Up To 6 Passengers

• All Airports, Casinos, Cruises, etc.

• Over 12 Years Experience in the Transportation Industry

• Specialize in Long Distance

an influx of tourists, the County also has the largest number of seniors with a population of more than 200,000 living here.

“Our seniors need electricity that does not fail them,” Sadeghi said. “Many are on oxygen and others are on life supporting equipment like dialysis. I don’t know how they do it with power outages.”

Sadeghi suggested meeting with the new president of JCP&L to discuss the ongoing concerns.

“Summer comes around every year,” he said. “Our power companies, especially, should be prepared.”

Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines recommended meeting with JCP&L’s parent company First Energy to discuss long lasting remedies to the power problems.

“These discussions are not new,” Sadeghi said. “We will not rest until the service gets better from JCP&L.”

Read

OCC’s Study Abroad In London Offers World-Class Learning AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College students and local residents have the opportunity to spend 10 nights immersed in the world of theatre in London, England, as participants in the “Study Abroad in London” program, scheduled for January 8 to 19, 2025.

The program, one of several Global Education Experiences available at OCC, enables participants to earn college credit while exploring one of the world’s most historic and culturally rich cities. Under the guidance of experienced faculty members, the travelers will attend up to 10 plays and musicals at the Royal National, the West End, and the Fringe, participate in talk-back sessions with actors, directors, playwrights, and tour the Tower of London and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. There will also be plenty of free time for sightseeing, shopping, museum visits and more. Those who complete the program will receive three course credits for OCC’s Travel Seminar: Theatre/London (THTR-296-TVL1).

OCC Professor Gary Shaffer says the benefits of OCC’s global travel program go far beyond classroom credits. “Studying abroad offers a great many benefits to college students. It allows them to interact with different cultures and helps to build self-confidence and self-awareness. More and more, schools and potential employers value the skills one learns through study abroad,” Professor Shaffer explains. “London is the most culturally diverse city in the world. Spending nearly two weeks

surrounded by its history, arts and cultural opportunities enhances a student’s understanding of the world more than any book or lecture ever could.”

Ocean County College’s Global Education Experiences, spanning both national and international destinations, offer students and community members invaluable opportunities for experiential learning. These seminars aim to foster cross-cultural understanding and equip participants with a global perspective. Recent destinations have included Italy, Ireland, and Switzerland in addition to the London experience, which has been running for nearly 50 years. Interested students may be eligible for scholarships through the Ocean County College Foundation. The cost for the program is $3,346 based on the scholarship.

“The Ocean County College Foundation remains committed to supporting the Global Education program through exploration and hands-on learning through domestic and international travel opportunities,” said Kenneth J. Malagiere, executive director of the OCC Foundation. “When students are able to share in the joy of an immersive travel and learning experience, it can be a life-affi rming experience, one we are delighted to play a small role in. Together, with the College, our Foundation is eager to see the program continue to flourish and expand.”

For more information about the Study in London experience, contact Professor Shaffer at gshaffer@ocean.edu.

4th Annual Town-Wide Yard Sale

BRICK – Brick Township’s Fourth Annual Town-Wide Yard Sale is scheduled for September 7. The suggested hours for the sale are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

With a wide range of participating sellers, you can expect a diverse selection of items, including clothing, furniture, electronics, antiques, toys, books, jewelry, and much more. From household goods to vintage treasures, there will be something to suit every taste and budget.

of this excellent opportunity to declutter, make some extra cash, and join in the community spirit. The cost to participate as a seller is $5 per home.

Like with the previous three sales, the Township will create an interactive Google map to help people navigate sales throughout the community and will share it on the municipal website. A list of participating homes will also be posted on the Brick Township municipal website.

For those interested in selling their own items, registration is now open! Secure your spot as a vendor and take advantage

Participation will count towards the annual limit of four-yard sales per address. You can register in person in the Township Clerk’s Office, 401 Chambers Bridge Road, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by downloading the registration form and mailing it with payment and a self-addressed, stamped envelope. There is no rain date for the Town-Wide Yard Sale. In the event of rain or inclement weather, participants can choose to sell their goods the following day. The deadline to register for inclusion in the sale is September 4.

Download the Town-Wide Yard Sale Registration Form at: bricktownship.net/ events/4th-annual-town-wide-yard-sale.

Continued From Page 5

into a large free book that provides tips and safeguards about subjects such as elder fraud, home contactors, health clubs, consumer insight contact information, new car lemon laws, charitable giving and identity theft.

“This is your little Bible for scams,” Wnek said, noting also that if there is a suspected problem, “we will review your contracts at no charge.”

Heinzman noted a recent investigation that involved a gas station in Lakehurst where a former employee had committed fraud. “He didn’t use a skimmer. He was taking photographs of the credit card while he was at the pump and then he used their information to make purchases. When you hand someone your card, you should get it right back.”

Detective Jupinka advised residents that it was better to make purchases with a credit card rather than a debit card in certain scam situations.

He warned of promises by strangers reaching out to you: “If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.” In cases of phone solicitation, “just hang up the phone and if you do get caught up in a situation and you engage in a conversation with a scammer, slow yourself down and give yourself time to think about it.”

He referenced a woman in the audience who shared her story of having been duped out of $7,000 and that she stopped to more carefully consider the situation and ceased the activity before she was bilked out of additional money.

Sheriff Mastronardy said, “we solve a lot of

different kinds of crimes within the Sheriff’s Office. We also have people on special assignment. What we do affects the safety of those in Ocean County.”

Noonan noted that scammers are not only targeting the senior community. “This isn’t just about seniors, this hits everybody. People are embarrassed when they are scammed and they don’t know who to go to. Our speakers are on the front lines to help the seniors. A lot of (residents) aren’t aware of what Consumer Affairs are all about.”

Commissioner Quinn said “whether it be scams or fraud, senior services do a great job. Judy and I go back 20 years and if she puts something together it is going to be successful. We have great professionals here to answer some of your questions.”

Laface said her office deals with programs like “Meals on Wheels, Medical Alert buttons and all the programs that help our seniors remain independent. Because we are the first line of defense in some cases (of scams) and at times when we talk to them about other things they talk to us about odd phone calls or love interests on a computer. We can then identify potential fraud issues and if it is something relative to Ron’s department (consumer affairs), we will immediately bring it over to investigate. They do an excellent job of investigating.”

IRS agent John Fuld reported in a recent release to The Manchester Times, that there was a nationwide increase of impersonation scams which are targeting older adults by pretending to be government officials, aiming to steal sensitive personal information and money. By posing as representatives from agencies such as the IRS, or other government agencies,

these fraudsters use fear and deceit to exploit their victims.

“Scammers often target seniors, attempting to steal personal information through phone calls, emails or text messages by pretending to be from the IRS or other agencies or businesses,”

IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said.

“Preventing these types of scams requires assistance from many different places. By partnering with other federal agencies and others in the tax community, we can reach more seniors and other taxpayers to help protect them against these terrible scams,” Werfel added.

Scam Precautions And Reporting

If an individual receives an unexpected call from someone alleging to be from the IRS, but they have not been notified by mail about any issues with their IRS account, they should hang up immediately. The call is

likely from a scammer. Do not return the call using the number provided by the caller or the one displayed on their caller ID. If taxpayers are uncertain about the legitimacy of IRS communications, they can contact IRS customer service for verification at 800-829-1040, or for the hearing impaired, TTY/TDD 800-829-4059.

These situations include having an overdue tax bill, an unfiled tax return or missing employment tax deposit.

If an individual has fallen victim to elder fraud, they can contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 (833-3728311). The hotline operates Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, and services are available in English, Spanish, and other languages.

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.

Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy speaks at the podium at the Crestwood Village Club House. Ocean County Director of Consumer Affairs Ronald Heinzman, seated at left joins Commissioner Gary Quinn and Ocean County Senior Services Director Maria Laface.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

Four Types Of Eagles Can Be Found In North America

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

While there are over 60 species of eagles in the world, four of them can be found in North America. Eagles are very large, predatory birds having massive beaks and powerful talons. Both are used in catching and devouring their prey. Their eyesight is about three times more powerful than a human.

Mostly we are familiar with the bald eagle as it is the national emblem of the United States. That symbol was designated in 1782. This eagle is easily identifiable as their heads are covered in striking white plumage and dark chocolate-coated bodies. Bald eagles occupy the coastlines, with fish being a major food source. They prefer scavenging over hunting. This eagle lives year round in the western part of the United States, where the golden eagle is very common. This raptor hunts and scavenges in open areas near cliffs, hills, and mountains. Evolution has caused them to utilize a wide variety of environments to include deserts, wooded areas, with a particular attraction to those near to the water. They seek smaller animals such as prairie dogs, and ground squirrels. Opportunistic feeders, they will also consume

reptiles, fish, and other birds.

The white-tailed eagle possesses a snow-white wedge shaped tail, with dark brown plumage. Unlike the bald eagle and golden eagle, this eagle only visits North America sporadically. They prefer the coastal areas and are sometimes referred to as ‘sea eagles’ as much of their diet is fish. However, they are not picky eaters and will hunt and scavenge small animals like rats, hares, carrion, and birds.

Not native to North America, the Steller’s sea eagle is only sometimes spotted here. Fish being their primary prey, they hunt in stretches of open water. Nesting is frequently located near salmon spawning grounds. Like the other eagles, they also steal food. Highly adored by the Japanese, they spend their winters there. Although not found in North America, the harpy eagle is the world’s largest and most powerful raptor.

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.

For Sale

General dental practice for sale -

Established office over 50 years in South Jersery, Ocean County/ Jersey shore area. 2023 annual gross $275,000, 2 1/2 days a week. 3 ops, fully equipped in a professional rented office building with parking. Digital xray, sterilization and lab area. Reception area and waiting room. TMJ, Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry. Pay $2500 rent. Asking $325,000. Any interest, send questions to dentalofficeinquiry@gmail.com. (37)

Items For Sale

“Up Bed” - Never used.Electronically assists you up. Removable short guard rails. Remote control. Set of sheets included. Call/text for information and pricing. 646-872-6317. (37)

Princeton Memorial Park - Double depth companion plot for 2. Garden of Time, section 1. Price $1,500. Call 609-903-0395. (35)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL-

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

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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

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

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)

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Help Wanted

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)

Do You Want Your Car To Look Nice And Shine - Call Lenny Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (37)

When You Need A Caregiver Call Lucy - European Registered Nurse, 25 years. US Eldercare experience, 19 years. Live in/out, hourly, negotiable. 732-657-1409 (H), 732-833-3273 (C). (47)

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)

DECKS • DECKS • DECKSWOOD • TREX • COMPOSITE • VINYL RAILINGS • BOARD REPLACEMENT • STAIRS • EXPERTS INSTALLATION • LICENSED • INSURED • ADVANCED BUILDING. 609-394-9030 (36)

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. (33)

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)

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

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13VH10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! Servicing Toms River, Lakehurst, Manchester, Whiting, Jackson, New Egypt, Plumstead Beachwood, Bayville, Berkeley. (47)

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)

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)

Housecleaning - We offer services: House cleaning, laundy, window cleaning, painting, office cleaning, carpet cleaning, shopping, take clothes dry cleaning, typing, office work, demonstration, merchandise in store. Very good prices. Call 732330-4189 or 848-287-3944. (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)

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)

Restaurant & Small Business Loans Available - Alternative loans & LOC for Restaurants and small businesses. No Upfront fees. For more information go to: www.cg-consultant.com and fill out submission form. Or call 570 592-6258 and leave message. (35)

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)

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)

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)

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:

• Mail 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

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

Auto For Sale

Items For Sale

Items Wanted

Help Wanted

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:

3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 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. • Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

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

Credit Card#

Cardholder Signature:

Print Name:

Billing Address:

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

Civil War Encampment Returns August 10 & 11

BRICK – The Brick Township Historical Society will sponsor the 61st New York Volunteer Regiment for a Civil War Encampment at its Havens Homestead Museum property, 521 Herbertsville Road. Visiting hours for the public are August 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and August 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free and donations are

gratefully appreciated.

The soldiers will interact with the public, march, fire guns and explain what life was like during an encampment. They sleep in tents and make their own food over a fire pit.

Society members will be grilling and selling hamburgers, frankfurters and soft drinks. They will also hold a home-

made bake sale, and the Lizzie Herbert Gift Shop will feature specials. Tours of the museum are also available.

Parking is in a lot 150 ft. east of the museum accessed by a driveway with a blue sign that says, “Havens Farm.”

For more information see the website: bricktownshiphistoricalsociety.com or call 732-785-2500.

The Art Of Aging

LAKEWOOD – Harrogate Life Plan Community will be hosting a presentation on ‘The Art of Aging’ on August 7 at 4 p.m. in Harrogate’s Clark Auditorium. Learn secrets to a life of longevity, memory preservation, and cognitive health.

Harrogate resident, Eugene Salomon is celebrating the one-year anniversary of his book, “SWEET MEMORIES: Family, Friends, Chess and Sugar.” Gene will share his personal journey of health and wellbeing despite tough circumstances. The lesson he has learned as a life master chess player, a silver life master bridge player, and a published author. The Midwest book review of “SWEET MEMORIES” states Salomon unveils the secrets behind his remarkable achievements, while also revealing the immeasurable impact of love, family, and friendship on his life. It is a true testament to the triumph of the human spirit and the enduring power of compassion and perseverance. Eugene will provide his international presentation “Mental Activity for a Healthy Aging: Chess, Bridge and more,” a program he recently presented at a conference in Spain this past March. His presentation followed the guidelines of the 10-year program of the World Health Organization, “Decades 2021-2030 about Healthy Aging.”

Gabriel Pallante PT, DPT IAMTC, IADN Cert. Specialist will discuss cutting edge, evidence-based ways to improve memory and cognition.

Also speaking at the presentation will be Diane S. Dahl, co-Author of “SWEET MEMORIES” on how the book was born, and how the experience of preserving one’s legacy may help other seniors to explore their own sweet memories.

The public is invited to attend the presentation on August 7, 4 p.m. at Harrogate, 400 Locust Street, Lakewood. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP to 732-942-5272.

If you would like more information about this topic, please call Gloria Walsh at 732 905 4650, or email gwalsh@hgate.org.

VFW Post #4715

Luau Hawaiian Party

POINT PLEASANT – Please support the Veterans at VFW Post #4715 on their upcoming luau event on August 17 at 2 p.m. at 603 St. Louis Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach.

Tickets are $20 in advance at the door $25. Tickets are now on sale! Enjoy roasted pig, chicken, hamburgers, hotdogs, salads and clams. Music will be provided for your enjoyment and listening pleasure.

For more information, call 732-892-9725.

Another beautiful sunrise over the Jersey

to call this shot “The Sunrise

Local photographer

Have a pic you would like to see in this space? Want to win a prize? Email your best Jersey Shore pix to photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get lucky!

Donations For NJ National Guard Being Accepted

BRICK – A donation drive to support members of the NJ National Guard Delta Company who have been deployed to the Middle East. The following items are requested:

Non-perishable food items; microwaveable non-perishable food items; energy/ protein bars; granola bars; snacks; candy; fruit snacks; tuna packets; soups; instant

rice cups; mac & cheese (instant add-water kind); canned items; Slim Jims; beef jerky; trail mix; pretzels; cereal; crackers; flavored water enhancers; Gatorade powder. Collection bins will be available in the Brick Township Municipal Building, 401 Chambers Bridge Road, throughout the month of June.

Thank you for your support!

Local Summer Cruise-In Car & Truck Show

BRICK – Laurelton Fire Company & Paisley Rae Designs presents Local Summer Cruise-In Car & Truck Show on September 1 (rain date September 8) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Icarus Brewery, 2045 Route 88 Brick.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $20 donation. Awards at 2:30 p.m. with 15 judge selected awards and five specialty awards.

For more information, contact 732-5801685 or 732-232-7158.

Shore.

Lisa Kenney likes

Surfer.” Stunning!

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Kept” novelist Prescott 3 River to the Caspian 4 Sunblock letters 5 Quick, provocative opinion 6 Unexpected smack?

Laundry brand

Grammy winner Corinne Bailey __

Medical pro who avoids the rear of the ship?

Approximate fig.

Actor Mineo

Yarns

Key near Alt

Medical pro who holds a pal’s hand in a tattoo parlor?

Actress Zellwe-

Old T-shirts, maybe

“__ we good?” 10 Simple card game 11 In the not-too-distant future 12 Iraq port city

Actor who plays the Emperor in 2020’s “Mulan” 18 “The Persistence of Memory” painter 22 Spain’s El __ 23 “Where creativity clicks” construction toy

Slip-on shoe 25 Programming pioneer Lovelace

Sketch 27 Forfeited auto 28 “Please give me

some alone time” 29 Sour 30 Birds of prey that were once endangered 34 Basketball Hall of Famer Donovan 35 Social equal

Bigwig 38 Best Picture winner set in Iran 40 Jiff 41 Pathology study 43 __ Grande

Run-down area 45 Box lunch? 46 The first “A” in

scan

Dreadful

Came to rest

Terse affirmation

Turn down

Painter’s calculation 55 Genetic info carrier 56 Director Reiner

Mani-pedi place

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Managing your money can look different for everyone, but responsibility should take precedence over pleasures. Pay your bills and stay on top of any financial obligations and you could find the stability you may need.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Sometimes changing your mind can cause hurt feelings. Forgiveness could be granted if you take the time to ask for it. Listen, explain and apologize for whatever misunderstandings might have occurred in the past.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Be careful how you phrase things if you must discuss a friend or family member’s project. They may trust you and care about what you think. Approval can be more meaningful than you expect so remember to remain kind.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Sorry may not always be enough. There might be things that you have done that you need to make amends for. Not just for the other person, but to clear your own heart. Find the best way to restore balance for yourself.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): If a metaphoric cake is placed in front of you, the whole thing could feel like a reasonable portion. Others seated at the same table may be longing for a piece so you’ll need to accept a smaller slice and compromise.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Now may be the time to sift through your contacts and strengthen your connections. A time might come soon when you need to make an important call and if you do not have the number, you could be left out in the rain.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): This may not be

FOR THE WEEK OF JULY 20 - JULY 26 BY

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

the time to stray away from your usual paths. Some plans that you have might need to be put aside for a while until things have settled and you can give your full attention to your current project.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Sometimes opportunity avoids the door completely and comes quietly tapping on your window. It may not always be precise, but it can be ready for whoever finds it. It could be up to you to realize what is waiting for you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Even the fortunate few who seem good at everything may not have the time to do it all themselves. If you can spread the work out across the team, then everyone could complete their specialty and get the job done on time.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Connecting with people outside your regular circle might pay unexpected dividends if you have an emergency later. It could come down to who you know. Being connected to a network could be beneficial if a favor is needed.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You might have been working away on a temporary thing while you wait for something better to come along. It may be up to you to decide whether you want to improve on established tasks or move on to a new endeavor.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You may be tempted to focus on your flaws right now. Most people may think you are great even if you think you still need to prove yourself. If they are telling you that you are wonderful, maybe it is time to listen.

(c) 2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

CRADLE SWEET-TART, PEAK-OF-SUMMER FRUIT IN THE BUTTERIEST, FLAKIEST PASTRY

By America’s Test Kitchen

For a dessert to showcase summer’s fi nest blueberries, we wanted a crust that was super flaky, crisp and buttery, with a sweet-tart, juicy filling. A rough puff pastry was the best choice for the crust: It is sturdier than a traditional pie dough and can hold its shape well without the walls of a pie plate to contain it. To make the rough puff, we put butter and flour (and a bit of sugar and salt) in a zipper-lock bag and rolled over the bag with a rolling pin to create long, thin sheets of fat. Once the butter was fully incorporated, we added water to form a dough and then rolled and folded it like a letter. After rolling it once again, we coiled the dough and bent it into an “S” shape that we folded onto itself. This arrangement, which was modeled after the way scallion pancakes are shaped, created a neat, even circle that didn’t require trimming. Once the dough was rolled out, we sprinkled the dough with “crust dust,” a blend of sugar and flour, to soak up excess juices and then filled it with blueberries that had been macerated to release some of their liquid. While the galette baked, we reduced the macerating juices and used them to glaze the tart partway through baking and once it was out of the oven.

Notes: We strongly recommend weighing the flour here. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.

1 cup (5 ounces) plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided 7 tablespoons (3 ounces) granulated sugar, divided1/2 teaspoon table salt

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut lengthwise into thirds and chilled 1/4 cup ice water

1 1/2 pounds (about 5 cups) blueberries

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 tablespoon Demerara or turbinado sugar

1. Place 1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a 1-gallon heavy-duty zipper-lock bag. Seal and shake well to combine. Add butter to bag; seal bag, pressing out as much air as possible; and shake to coat with flour mixture.

2. Set rolling pin across lowest portion of bag and, using rocking motion, flatten butter beneath pin into large flakes. Working in sections, move pin up bag and flatten remaining butter. Shake bag to mix. Roll over bag with pin, shaking bag occasionally to mix, until flour becomes very pale yellow and almost all butter is incorporated.

3. Transfer mixture to a large bowl (use a rubber spatula or bench scraper to scrape any remaining butter and flour mixture from the bag). Add ice water and toss with a rubber spatula until just combined (mixture will be tacky). Transfer dough to a floured counter. With your floured hands, press dough into a

rough 4-inch square.

4. Roll dough into a 10-by-5-inch rectangle with the short side parallel to the edge of the counter, flouring the counter and dough as needed. Starting at the top of the dough, fold into thirds like a business letter, using a bench scraper or metal spatula to release dough from the counter. Turn dough 90 degrees and repeat rolling into a 10-by-5-inch rectangle. Rotate dough 90 degrees so the long side is parallel to the edge of the counter. Beginning with the long edge nearest you, roll dough into a tight cylinder. Pinch seam closed and roll cylinder seam side down. Roll ends of the cylinder toward the center in opposite directions to form an “S” shape. Fold the “S” shape in half. Press dough into a 5-inch circle. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to two days.

5. Meanwhile, place half of the blueberries in a bowl and, using a spatula, press berries against the side of the bowl to break their skins. Add remaining blueberries and 1/4 cup granulated sugar and toss to combine. Transfer mixture to colander set over bowl and let stand for at least 30 minutes.

6. Adjust oven rack to lowest position, set baking stone on rack, and heat oven to 400 degrees. Let chilled dough sit on counter to soften slightly, about 5 minutes, before rolling. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll dough into a 14-inch circle on a well-floured counter, rotating dough frequently and flouring the surface to keep the circle even, without any cracked edges. Roll dough loosely around a rolling pin and unroll it onto the prepared sheet. (It’s OK if the dough hangs over the edges of the sheet.) Cover dough and refrigerate until fi rm, about 10 minutes.

7. Remove sheet from refrigerator. Combine remaining 2 tablespoons flour and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle flour mixture evenly over dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Using a slotted spoon, mound blueberries over the flour mixture, leaving any juices in the bowl. Reserve juices. Carefully grasp 1 edge of dough and fold up 2 inches over the fruit. Repeat around the circumference of the galette, overlapping dough every 2 inches; fi rmly pinch pleated dough to secure, but do not press dough into fruit. Brush dough with egg and sprinkle evenly with demerara sugar.

8. Bake galette for 20 minutes. While galette is baking, transfer reserved berry juices to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened and reduced to 1/4 cup, 3 to 6 minutes.

9. Remove galette from oven and brush fruit with half of the reduced juices. Return to oven and continue to bake until crust is golden brown and fruit is bubbling, 25 to 30 minutes longer. Transfer galette to a wire rack and brush fruit with remaining reduced juices. Let cool for 30 minutes. Serve. Blueberry Galette.

BLUEBERRY GALETTE