2024-08-10 - The Brick Times

Local Girl Scout Honored With Gold Award

By Alyssa Riccardi

Izzy’s

BRICK – Brick Township resident Sofia Gonzales-Trelles was honored by the mayor and council for achieving her Girl Scout Gold Award.

At the July 23 council meeting, Mayor Lisa Crate presented So-

fia with a certificate of commendation recognizing her for her contributions to the community.

“We are honoring Sofia tonight in recognition of her earning the Girl Scout Gold Award, which is the highest achievement in

Ciba’s Sins: Then And Now

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER

– As a nonprofit group prepares to fight a court battle regarding environmental damages, they looked back on what caused this problem.

For decades, a company known locally as Ciba-Geigy dumped

unknown tonnage of toxic waste in the river and groundwater, actions that some say has resulted in a local cancer cluster – although no direct link can be proven.

Ed Vienckowski, board chair of Save Barnegat Bay, called the Ciba land an “environmental

crime scene” during the group’s recent meeting which took place at the Lavallette First Aid Squad building. Some people back then knew something was wrong about what Ciba was doing, but many were unaware. Some

(Ciba - See Page 4)

Girl Scouts. We are in appreciation for all that you do for our community,” Mayor Crate said. Sofia organized a program for her Gold Award in Girl Scouting, to help local seniors prevent isolation and depression through the power of playing music.

“I started a music engagement program over at the Brick Senior Center, which opened up in October of last year. I partnered up with the Mayor’s Student Advisory, National Honor Society and students in my grade and younger grades who wanted to get involved with our community,” Sofia said.

Sofia explained how Brick has a high number of senior citizens –about 20% of residents are over the age of 65, she said.

“It’s not all that uncommon for older individuals to face loneliness, which can lead to depression and in turn put them at a high risk for dementia,” Sofia said. “My goal was to get them engaged with each other, get out of the house, as a way to kind of prevent them from getting to that

(Girl ScoutSee Page 4)

ree Businesses Planned For Narrow Land

By Judy Smestad-Nunn BRICK

– An application to build three, two-story contractor shops/offices at 345 Drum Point Road was approved at the Planning Board’s most recent meeting.

Albert Del Prete of Del Corp. Holdings LLC has owned the 2.3-acre property since 2001. The unique parcel is long and narrow, measuring 1,000 feet by 119 feet. It is located between the

backyard homes on Huppert Drive and Leswing Drive in Sky Manor. The length and narrow width of the undeveloped property has presented a hardship for Del Prete, who said he has tried to sell it to the homeowners on multiple occasions. Most recently, Del Corp. Holdings applied to build a 175-unit self-storage facility, which was denied by the Board since it was not an approved use in

(Land - See Page 4)

Treadmill Dad Gets 25 Years In Death Of Son

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER –

“A picture is worth a thousand words, but that video is worth 10,000 words,” Judge Guy Ryan said as he sentenced Christopher Gregor for aggravated manslaughter and endangering

the welfare of his own son.

The video of Gregor putting his son, Corey Micciolo, 6, on a treadmill and speeding it up so the boy fell off multiple times – and then biting the boy’s head - has become infamous and leant weight to the

sentencing, the judge said. However, the charge of endangering only received a sentence of 5 years. The treadmill incident, which took place on March 20, 2021, did not contribute to the death from blunt force impact to

the chest and abdomen on April 2, 2021. The exact cause of these injuries might never be made public, but Gregor was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the aggravated manslaughter

(SentencingSee Page 6)

Sofia graduating as a Girl Scout Ambassador.

Photo courtesy Brick Township

The long, narrow land is shown here from the perspective of Drum Point Road.

Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn

Girl Scout:

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stage.”

Sofia’s program spearheaded after she lost her grandmother to Alzheimer’s disease back in 2021.

“That’s what set me down studying neural

Land

:

Continued From Page 1

the Village Zone, which encourages a mix of residential and commercial use.

Del Prete appeared before the Board during the recent meeting to review his efforts in selling the property or developing it.

On three separate occasions, in 2002, 2003 and 2017, “over and over again,” Del Prete reached out to the homeowners whose backyards were adjacent to the property asking if they wanted to buy “a piece or all of it.”

He got no responses, except for one in 2017, but that person never followed up on it, he said. He even tried to get the township to buy the land, he added.

In 2018, the parcel was being used as a playground, and one resident had even

Ciba

:

Continued From Page 1

intentionally looked the other way.

But they couldn’t ignore it any longer when, in 1984, a Ciba drain pipe burst near the inter-

science and dementia as a whole. I’m actually going off to college in Pittsburgh to study neural science,” Sofia said.

Sofia recently graduated from Brick Township High School. She was involved in clubs such as NHS, STEM, Student Advisory, Drama, Thespian Society, Choir, Peer Leadership, Harry Potter Club and

put up a swing set on Del Prete’s property behind their house.

“We came before the Board, and our application for a storage facility was denied - we thought it was an excellent idea, but the neighbors didn’t like it,” he said.

“So then we looked at the property, we looked at what are the possibilities being done there, and contractors’ offices are permitted in the zone,” he said. “The property is weird-shaped…it was part of the old airport.”

“I’ve done my share in trying to do the right thing by the neighbors and by the township,” Del Prete said.

Barlo, Governale & Associates Architects designed both the rejected storage facility and the now-approved three buildings that will be used as shops for a plumber,

section of Vaughn and Bay avenues.

Health concerns rose overnight, especially when it was learned that Ciba’s outflow pipe dumped chemicals off 2nd Avenue in Ortley Beach.

During the meeting, a short documentary

Crochet Club and out of school groups such as Venturing Crew 129, SAIL and the Teen Advisory Board at the Brick Public Library.

Back in March, Sofia received a Hero Award acknowledging all of her community service and positive impact.

Sofia said she worked with local busi-

electrician, painter or similar tradesman.

The project’s site engineer and traffic expert testified at previous meetings.

“Anything we’ve been asked to comply with, we have, so I don’t know where else to go with this,” Del Prete said.

About a dozen of the surrounding homeowners attended the Planning Board meeting, and many of them spoke when they got the opportunity during public comments.

Amelia Cruszewski, who lives on Huppert Drive, asked why the project couldn’t have been made smaller. “Why are there so many buildings?” she asked.

Del Prete said that with over two acres of property, he wasn’t going to put just one building there.

Resident Jessica Decker asked the same thing. “Did you consider anything else on

was screened called “From Sea To Shining Sea.” It followed the Greenpeace workers who came out in 1984. It was approved for screening by Tom Fagan, director of the board of Clean Ocean Action.

Jon Hinck, who would later become a state

nesses for her music program and created a donation center to collect musical instruments for the seniors to use during the sessions.

“This was obviously a labor of love,” Mayor Crate noted.

“Thank you to everyone who’s gotten involved,” Sofia said.

a smaller scale?”

Planning expert John Taikina said the project is conforming and permitted.

“Frankly, the ordinance allows for three times more building coverage,” he said.

“We have 10.7 percent building coverage when 30 percent is allowed, so this is substantially below the development maximum.”

The contractor shops are residential in character, with peaked roofs and clapboard siding, so it echoes the surrounding residences, Taikina added.

“Many other uses would have had a much greater impact on the neighborhood,” the planner said.

The developer agreed to install a six foot high, board-on-board fence around the entire property.

lawmaker in Maine, led the charge. “It’s come down to direct action as a last resort,” he said to the camera.

In a surreal moment of the video, Hinck calls the plant to inform them that divers are

(Ciba - See Page 5)

about to clog up the pipe and that the factory should halt production or else there could be expensive damages.

The video showed underwater footage of the pipe. They also interviewed beachgoers, like a group of surfers who described the globs of chemicals that come out of the pipe, and get churned up after nor’easters. This kind of information is important to Save Barnegat Bay, whose lawsuit hopes to quantify the harmful effects of the pollution. Another effect mentioned in the film is that sea clams have died out in the area.

There’s a brief comment from then-mayor, the late Roden Lightbody, who said that the town has to trust the DEP. “We have no control.”

There’s an interview with local attorney Daniel Carluccio (who would later become Ocean County Prosecutor) and his wife Judy who started Ocean County Citizens for Clean Water in response to Ciba’s dumping. Carluccio would defend the Greenpeace activists pro bono after they got arrested.

“It’s our job to take care of it because the DEP is not ready to do it,” Judy Carluccio said.

Marco Kaltofen, a chemist, is also interviewed in the documentary. He is now the President of Boston Chemical Data Corp., which provides research on the impact of petroleum and nuclear hazards. He said that whenever factories create material that can’t be disposed of, it imposes a cost. The locals are impacted by the waste. Everyone has to pay taxes for oversight and cleaning it up.

The companies don’t pay for the problems they cause.

The video ends with a note that in 1985, Ciba received another five-year permit to discharge waste into the ocean without any requirement to provide samples.

Ciba stopped operations in 1990.

After the video, Seaside Park Mayor John A. Peterson, Jr. said that he represented one of the Greenpeace divers as an attorney. He used the argument that their actions were protected by free speech. They were not trying to hurt property or the factory workers.

Lavallette Mayor Walter LaCicero was a police officer at the time of the protests. He said he had to patrol the area because some residents were unhappy with the protests. There are now plaques on the boardwalk celebrating some of the people involved.

Michelle Donato, an attorney for Save Barnegat Bay, jumped off of what LaCicero said. “Wally was right. There were some people who didn’t like it because it was bad for business,” she said.

If a company damages the environment, they have a responsibility to fix it, she said. “The company is externalizing the cost to the residents. We want BASF – the largest chemical company in the world – to pay for the damages.”

Donato’s mother was the one who contacted Greenpeace for help and had them stay in her home during the operation.

She said then-Assemblyman John Bennett III wrote a bill to get the pipeline removed. In 1984, some people formed a human chain from town to town across the beach, showing solidarity and invoking a symbolic wall to

protect the ocean.

One of the people in that human chain was Phil Skowron, who spoke at the meeting. He recalled being told by the Freeholders – the five-person group that runs the county, now referred to as Commissioners – that there was “no fecal coliform” bacteria in the pipe break. Of course, there wouldn’t be, it wasn’t a sewage pipe. It was a chemical outfall, but it showed how the county leaders didn’t care.

“We had nobody interested in whatever the facts were,” he said. “Toms River was a company town.”

There was a Toms River Country Club run by Ciba. Politicians were given memberships, he said. They were in Ciba’s pocket.

“There are no sound moral qualities in a corporation,” he said.

Therefore, it fell to the people to get help. The first meeting, held at Toms River High School North, had 1,500 attendees.

“We were six people on stage literally afraid for our lives because Ciba had half the people there,” he said.

While researching, one member found a single sheet of paper about Ciba which talked about the mutagenic and teratogenic properties of the chemicals.

“2nd Avenue was the lab where they would fi nd out what it would do,” he said.

When Ciba got raided, employees were caught shredding paperwork, he noted.

“You have to stand up for yourselves,” he said. “You have to make corporations do what you think is right. You have to fi nd organizations that will protect you.”

Current Lawsuit

Ciba’s current owner, BASF, settled with

the State Department of Environmental Protection about what to do with the property. BASF will preserve 1,000 acres of the site, while being allowed to develop or sell the remaining 255 acres, which is zoned industrial. Of the 1,000 acres to be preserved, about 375 acres will see ecological restoration projects, such as freshwater wetlands, restoration of riparian areas, flood plain and wetland enhancements, creation of upland grasslands, pollinator habitat, and an environmental education center. There will be a 130-acre solar farm generating 27 megawatts.

Residents who say they are still feeling the impact of Ciba, said this is not enough. Add to this the facts that Ciba and BASF are different companies on paper but are historically the same; and that BASF won $17 million from Toms River in a recent tax appeal.

Save Barnegat Bay is trying to hold BASF accountable for its past transgressions.

Michelle Donato said that the DEP is “suffering from deliberate amnesia.”

In researching the project, Save Barnegat Bay went to the DEP to scan records. They were the first ones to check out the records since Dan Fagin, who wrote the book “Toms River: A Story Of Science And Salvation.” This chronicle of Ciba and its impact was published in 2013. This proves that the DEP didn’t even look at the records before approving the deal.

Joseph Maraziti, who is representing Save Barnegat Bay in the suit, said that the suit is to compensate people for the pain and suffering the company caused. They are going before the appellate division in September.

Sentencing:

Continued From Page 1

charge in relation to the boy’s death.

Gregor will have to serve 85 percent of the 20-year sentence before being eligible for parole. The 885 days he has served since his arrest would be subtracted. The 5-year sentence will take place immediately after the 20-year sentence. He will have 5 years of supervised parole after all that.

“They obviously failed my grandson, that’s for sure,” Vito Micciolo told JerseyShoreOnline.com outside the courtroom. Numerous people demanded that Gregor be dealt the maximum sentence – 10 years for endangering and 30 years for aggravated manslaughter.

Micciolo said that throughout the trial, Judge Ryan had been meticulous to minimize any chance of appeal.

Indeed, Ryan had said that the maximum

is “legally unsustainable.” He also spoke of hoping that the close of this trial lends some sense of closure.

“I don’t think we’ll ever get closure,” Corey’s mother, Breanna Micciolo, told JerseyShoreOnline.com after the sentencing. At the very least, she won’t have to see Gregor again.

However, she said her work is just beginning. She has been speaking to lawmakers about “Corey’s Law,” which would put children in a safe environment while child abuse is being investigated.

“Christopher Gregor will spend the rest of his days here on earth knowing that he caused the death of his son Corey,” Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said. “While nothing can bring this precious child back to his family, I hope that today’s sentence brings some sense of closure for those who knew and loved Corey. At long last, justice for Corey has been accomplished.”

Clean Ocean Action’s Fall Student Summit

BERKELEY – Calling all 5 to 8th grade teachers in central and southern New Jersey: Clean Ocean Action is thrilled to announce that the 36th Annual Fall Student Summit will return to Island Beach State Park on October 10.

The Student Summit provides school students (grades 5 to 8) from eligible counties (Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, and Ocean) from

central and northern NJ a free opportunity to experience hands-on, marine environmental education at the Jersey shore. Designed to meet core curriculum standards and reinforce STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) concepts, the Student Summit is an opportunity for students to receive a unique, educational program that combines peer-topeer learning with outdoor connections to the

sea and environmental stewardship. Applications are now open – How to apply: - If your school is interested in participating in this jam-packed morning of marine-based fun, carefully review and complete each section of the 2024 Fall Student Summit Application and return the completed form with a $100 refundable deposit check to Clean Ocean Action by no later than September 26.

- To learn more: Go to cleanoceanaction.org under “Education Programs” and “Student Summit,” or email Education@CleanOceanAction.org.

- Please note: schools can apply to bring a maximum of 30 students and acceptances are not on a first come first serve basis, but will depend on a school’s responses to the application questions.

Photo courtesy Asbury Park Press

Christopher Gregor listens as he is sentenced. His attorney, Mario Gallucci, stands with him.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Let’s Talk About Talking Points

There are so many “truths” being thrown around out there, but they are only just talking points.

Let’s define the term. Talking points are concise phrases that a political party will use to create a narrative. They pick a topic, and then cut it down to an easy-to-understand point of view. They take a very complex and nuanced issue and break it down into something so simple that it just has to make sense. Often, they change it so much that it doesn’t even reflect reality any more.

That message goes out to all the top brass of the party. It also goes out to all the political underlings – like the cable news folk you’ll be watching tonight. No, you are not immune to it. You’ve probably formed some of your own opinions because you’ve heard these talking points. The reason they work is the same thing that makes Coke or Pepsi so successful – advertising. Everything is advertising. The more you hear the talking points, the more it’ll make sense to you.

We would rather not think really hard. Let’s be honest, here. If someone provides you with an easy answer to a huge problem,

WE

we’re going to jump on it. Pretty soon, you’ll agree with the simplified piece of garbage that some committee came up with in a Washington strategy session.

I’ll give you two examples, and I’ll “both sides” them for you to show you what happens.

On the Republican side, a GOP staffer accidentally sent a list of talking points to Democrats a while back, showing how the GOP was providing a unified front in messaging.

In the space of a week, I received three anti-Trump letters that noted the exact same issues. They were worded slightly differently, but it was clear they were all coached. (I only published one.)

Your thoughts are not your own. Someone making a lot more money than you thought of them fi rst. Then they fed them to the commentators on news programs, made them into memes and spread them on social media. You saw these thoughts everywhere. If you hear a lie enough times, you believe it. Finally, they made it to your brain. They become trickle-down thoughts.

Chris Lundy News Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR!

The Brick Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

Readers Sound Off On Biden Stepping Down

Editor’s note: A few weeks ago, we asked our readers to respond to the news of President Joe Biden dropping out of the race and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris. Here are some responses:

You mean forced out by his own party?

So they could anoint someone nobody voted for that the same party, only months ago, wanted to toss aside because of her unfavorable polling and nobody within the party likes.

Sounds just like democracy, doesn’t it?

Bob Broderick New Jersey

I think Biden did the right thing. The presidential job requires full mental capacities to make decisions regarding governing America. I am not averse to Kamala Harris as the 2024 candidate. The color of a person’s skin has nothing to do with intelligence. Nor, for that matter, one’s gender. I quote Robert Frank Kennedy, brother of JFK: “Some see things as they are and ask why. We see things as they could be and ask: ‘why not?’”

Carol M. Granaldi Cream Ridge

Whether you like him or not, there’s a lot to be said for President Biden voluntarily stepping aside and not run for re-election. We’ll never know if he would have won or lost, but one thing is sure: he’ll be out of office next year on his own volition. It reminds me of what George Washington did, and I’m not talking about running for President for a third term. At the end of the Revolutionary War, he voluntarily gave up command of the standing American army and returned to his life as a gentleman farmer. He could have remained in power and become something of an American monarch. Instead, he retired to civilian life. When he learned of this, an astonished King George III said that if it was true, then surely Washington was the greatest man in the world.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

At a time today when elected officials don’t know how to get off the stage - federal, state, county, and local - it is good to see someone give up the baton of power to give the next guy or gal a chance to serve we the people. It’s called citizen democracy and it’s what George Washington and our Founding Founders had always hoped for.

J. Mark Mutter Toms River

Just The Facts

For several days in the month of March 2024, Donald J. Trump wined and dined a very special guest from Hungary at his palatial estate in Mar-a-Lago. Viktor Orban is the fascist dictator from Hungary that Donald J. Trump entertained.

Donald J. Trump, in his own words, boasted about his visit to Kim Jong-un in North Korea. Kim Jong-un is the dictator of North Korea. After the visit the two men corresponded and Donald J. Trump described it with very “lovely letters.” Kim Jong-un murdered his own brother to become president for his entire life. Citizens of North Korea do not vote for president...it’s handed down within the family.

Donald J. Trump’s admiration and furtive desire to emulate Vladimir Putin, dictator from Russia, has been Trump’s goal for many years. Donald J. Trump has never and would never say a bad word about Vladimir Putin.

Donald J. Trump has a special place in his heart for the dictator from China - Xi Jinping who rules over millions and millions of people with an iron fist. Donald J. Trump would sell his soul (if he had one) to have that kind of power.

There are 59 dictators all over the world today. Donald J. Trump would love nothing more than to be #60! Then he would have the power, money and loyalty he demands.

Birds of a feather flock together. Be very careful with your vote - America is in peril. Vote to ensure that no dictator will ever occupy the people’s White House. Vote for democracy.

Berkeley Volunteers Are Lifesavers

Having a fall on inclined sidewalk on Davenport early morning, in Toms River N.J. led my face meeting the concrete walk with blunt force.

Called 911, EMTs were excellent on transportation to hospital.

Nose hemorrhaged, blessed to find out no facial broken bones, no teeth knocked out and no head or hip injuries. Though swollen bloody injuries on face would need X-rays of several areas. Lip split open, gums totally purple, again blessed no stitches needed. However 2 fractured ribs, did occur.

Had to call 911 eight hours after discharge due to severe nose hemorrhage that required being cauterized. Once again volunteers came from Berkeley ambulance.

Matthew one of the EMTs from late night call, found me a bed from another area at hospital.

ER room had no bed. Matthew got me in the bed, with clean sheets he hunted for. Stayed close by with my heavy nose hemorrhage, until someone came to help me.

I want to thank the Berkeley Volunteer Ambulance squad for the two separate shifts of caring, compassionate EMTs.

Gayle Palmer Berkeley

A

View Of Seaside From A World Away

air had more humidity than oxygen, and our melanin boiled under our skin.

My favorite shifts were at the Still Walk or the Sea Lift. I hated working at the bumper cars for kids the most because the kids couldn’t figure out how to drive them, their parents would yell at us, and the speakers blared Elvis Presley and the music from “Grease” on repeat. The coolest rides were the Centrifuge and the Sky Scraper – we loved riding them on our free evenings. We lived in a two-story house with 20 other people and experienced all the good and bad that came with it. Some things happened to me for the first time in Seaside – I stopped an ice cream truck with the music playing just to buy ice cream, I discovered what marshmallows really are, attended a Ford Mustang rally, saw an orca, watched Cessna planes fly over the horizon with advertising banners attached to their tails, drank beer in a typical American pub, partied during a hurricane, saw how people decorate their houses for Halloween, and other things like that. Nowadays, most of these can be easily found in Bulgaria or experienced by the Bulgarians, but in 2005 we had only seen them in movies.

The nearest big city is called Toms River, separated from the Seaside peninsula by a large and beautiful lagoon. We spent our days off in its malls, and when night fell, there were huge fireflies. New York was about an hour away. We also visited Niagara Falls, but Manhattan captivated me, which was unexpected for a person who generally seeks the mountains and nature. I often dream of the magical Central Park, the colossal skyscrapers, the distinctive streets that I still recognize in almost every movie, even the noise... Everything happening in the huge metropolis generates a specific sound – a constant hum, a monotonous rumble, which is the most hypnotic and soothing thing I’ve ever heard. I doubt I’ll hear it again. And so...

Thank you for your time and consideration.

River

Sarah R. Maketansky Toms

My name is Plamen, and I am from Bulgaria. I spent the summer of 2005 in Seaside Heights through cultural exchange programs. Recently, I revisited those times and created a photo album on Facebook. In a comment a friend asked me to share more about my experiences there, so I wrote this piece. You might find it interesting: Seaside Heights, New Jersey is a small resort town located on a narrow barrier peninsula on the Atlantic Ocean coast. The place is known for its wide beaches, boardwalk, and amusement parks where we worked. It wasn’t easy – the asphalt melted under the scorching sun, the

S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT

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

Bill Would Give Power To People Over Corporations

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Supreme Court’s conservative majority overturned the 40-year-old Chevron deference doctrine. Chevron required federal courts to defer to an expert agency’s reasonable interpretation of ambiguous statutes administered by the agency. The Supreme Court’s overturning of Chevron undermines our government’s ability to protect Americans and the environment.

Governmental agencies engage in the federal rulemaking process to implement Congressional statutes. Currently, industry-backed lobbyists have an outsized influence in the regulatory process compared to the general public. With their significant resources, they are able to meet with regulators, fund favorable scientific studies to submit with public comments, and overstate the negative impact of stricter regulatory oversight. These actions slow down the enforcement of important regulations, and the American people and our planet pay the price.

U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumen-

thal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (DVT), and Ron Wyden (DOR) introduced the Stop Corporate Capture Act (SCCA).

The Stop Corporate Capture Act codifies the Chevron doctrine and reforms the regulatory process to end corporations’ influence over the rulemaking process, prioritize scientific and public integrity, and reduce delays in implementation of laws. The bill was originally introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) in 2021.

The Stop Corporate Capture Act would: Codify Chevron deference

Modernize and reform the regulatory process under the Administrative Procedure Act

Empower and expand public participation in the regulatory process

Increase transparency and protect independent expertise in the regulatory process

“The Supreme Court’s recent decision to overturn Chevron deference will have far-reaching implications that harm Americans,” said Senator Booker. “The Stop Corporate Capture Act is crucial to ensuring that our government remains accountable to the people, not to corporate special interests.

This legislation will codify Chevron into law and will modernize and restore transparency to rulemaking so agencies are able to effectively implement laws, protect public health and safety, and tackle the climate crisis while ensuring a clean environment for our communities. We must act now to forestall the devastating effects of this decision that prevents the federal government from addressing current and future challenges.”

Endorsing Organizations: Coalition for Sensible Safeguards; AFL-CIO; AFT; American Atheists; American Bird Conservancy; American Economic Liberties Project; American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees; Americans for Financial Reform; Asbestos Disease Awareness Org; CAARMA Consumer Advocates Against Reverse Mortgage Abuse; Center for Auto Safety; Center for Digital Democracy; Center for Economic Justice; Center For Food Safety; Center for Justice & Democracy; Center for Progressive Reform; Center for Science in the Public Interest; Clean Air Council; Coalition for Sensible Safeguards; Colorado Fiscal Institute; Consumer Action; Consumer Federation of America; Consumer Federation of California; Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety; Cultivating Lives Educational Services, Inc; Delaware Community Reinvestment Action Council, Inc.; Earthjustice; Endangered Species Coalition; Economic Policy Institute; GenDemocracy; Stop the

Coup 2025 campaign to stop Project 2025; Genesee Co-op Federal Credit Union; Good Jobs First; Government Information Watch; GreenLatinos; Greenpeace USA; Impact Fund; Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy; Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility; International Center for Technology Assessment; Interfaith Power & Light; International Union; United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW); Jobs to Move America; Kettle Range Conservation Group; Kids In Danger; Lawyers for Good Government; League of Conservation Voters; National Association of Consumer Advocates; National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients); National Employment Law Project; National Health Law Program; New Jersey Association on Correction; NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice; Oregon Consumer Justice; People Power United; Physicians for Social Responsibility; Public Citizen; Public Justice Center; Rise Economy; Sierra Club; Small Business Majority; South Carolina Appleseed Legal Justice Center; Southern Environmental Law Center; Texas Appleseed; The Conservation Angler; 20/20 Vision; Union of Concerned Scientists; Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice; United Steelworkers; U.S. PIRG; Virginia Citizens Consumer Council; VOICE (Voices Organized in Civic Engagement); WE ACT for Environmental Justice; Zero Hour.

Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

DIET AND CATARACTS

Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness globally, and very few treatments are currently available. However, research has shown that a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and specific vitamins such as C and E can reduce the risk for cataracts. A proper diet can also slow down the progression of existing cataracts. A weekly diet consisting of five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables, at least three servings of whole grains, and at least two servings of fish is suggested. Also, maintaining a healthy diet means avoiding fried foods, sugary snacks, soft drinks, and processed foods. Foods such as kale, spinach, mustard greens, okra, green beans, corn, and artichokes are high in beneficial antioxidants. Most cataracts develop slowly and do not disturb your eyesight early on. But with time, cataracts will eventually interfere with your vision. At first, stronger lighting and eyeglasses can help you deal with cataracts. But if impaired vision interferes with your usual activities, you might need cataract surgery. Fortunately, cataract surgery is generally a safe, effective procedure. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week. P.S. A diet high in carbohydrates can increase cataract risk.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015

Senator Cory Booker

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Garden Club Plants Community Garden Beds

BRICK – The Brick Garden Club plants, waters and weeds community gardens. Here is a picture of the garden beds at the intersection of Route 70 and Brick Boulevard. The plants are looking awesome!

Lavalle e School PTO Dine To Donate

BRICK – Join Lavallette School PTO for Dine to Donate Spirit Day at Chick-fil-A Brick on September 11 from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Dine in, take out, mobile order, no matter how you dine; 15% of sales is donated if under $1,000; 20% of sales is donated if over $1,000 to Lavallette School PTO! Why does you support matter? Your support helps build a sense of community among parents, teachers, and students.

Your support helps enhance social events, family-oriented activities, and collaborative projects that bring people together. This sense of community fosters a supportive network, promotes school spirit, and strengthens the overall school culture. The LES PTO’s mission is to enhance the school experience for current and future students through funding educational experiences, scholarships, family orientated school community events and more!

3rd Annual Taste Of e Town

BRICK – Join for an amazing night trying new spirits with great food. Brick PBA Local 230 presents the 3rd annual Taste of the Town on September 27 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post 348, 822 Mantoloking Road, Brick.

Admission is $100 and includes food, wine & spirits. There will also be a huge variety of amazing raffles available.

To purchase tickets, see Ptl. John Canterelli #312 or email him at JCanterelli@BrickPD. com. Tickets can also be purchases at the door.

Photo courtesy Brick Garden Club

DEGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES

Sherry T. DeGraff NJ Lic No 3921

DIRECT CREMATION $1875

Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Local Hospital, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory Located at: DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst 732-657-7868

WWW.DEGRAFFFUNERALHOME.COM

Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Cremains & Certi ed Copies Of Death Certi cates, Permit, Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services

Meeting & Program About George Washington

BRICK – The Brick Township Historical Society will hold a meeting at the Herbertsville Firehouse, 601 Herbertsville Road, Brick, on September 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Jeff Schenker will present a program called “George Washington: The Indispensable Man.” Schenker is an adjunct professor at Ocean County College, and he retired from Toms River High School South where he taught advanced placement classes for 34 years.

Admission is free, and the public is welcome. Please park in the rear of the firehouse and enter by the door on the right on ground level.

No double talk - no wasting time. Satisfaction GUARANTEED!!

Civil War Encampment Returns August 10

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, fi re guns and explain what life was like during an encampment. They sleep in tents and make their own food over a

& 11

fi re pit.

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

Day Trip To e Doo Wop Experience In Wildwood

included, plus all admissions, transportation and gratuities.

Trip is on September 9. Bus leaves from the Laurel Square Shopping Center, 1930 Route 70 in Brick.

BRICK – The Brick Township Historical Society is sponsoring a trip to the Doo Wop Museum Experience and the Neon Sign Garden, the Wildwood Historical Building and adding a step-on guide for a city tour. Learn about the doo wop culture, the Art Deco architecture and everything else that made Wildwood famous in the 1950s and 1960s. Lunch at the Mud Hen Brewery is

For availability/reservation call 732-7852500 (Havens Homestead Museum) and leave your name and phone number clearly and slowly. The tour leader will call you back.

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.

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

Photo courtesy Brick Township Historical Society

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Women’s Club Of Brick Environmental Club Grows Its Activities

BRICK – The environmental club, part of the Women’s Club of Brick, has added several new activities to its repertoire. This year, they have continued their annual tree planting by adding another weeping cherry tree to the landscape at Windward Beach Park. They have also continued their sneaker recycling project and participation in beach cleanups.

In addition, they have they following presentations planned for upcoming meetings: On September 9, the club will host a presentation from a master gardener on native plants. The presentation will also be at the beginning of the general membership meeting and members of the public are welcome to join.

To learn more about the Women’s Club of Brick, visit our website womensclubofbrick.org

Ice Cream Social Featuring “ e Last Whippoorwill”

BRICK – The Brick Township Historical Society will hold its Annual Ice Cream Social at its Havens Homestead Museum property, 521 Herbertsville Road, on September 7 (rain date September 8) from noon to 3 p.m.

A featured attraction this time will be “The Last Whippoorwill,” a well-known local bluegrass band. Society members will make and sell various ice cream treats, such as, sundaes, root beer floats and ice cream

sodas. Soft drinks will also be available for purchase. The ice cream is being donated by Sundae’s of Point Pleasant.

Attendees are welcome to bring a picnic lunch (no grills please) and enjoy the event. Seating is available on a fi rst come fi rst serve basis, but people are welcome to bring their own folding chairs.

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

Annual School Supply Drive

BRICK – Help Brick students by giving the gift of learning. The Annual School Supply Drive hosted by the Mayor’s Student Advisory will be held through August 31.

Drop off at Town Hall, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. New items only. Items needed: backpacks, lunch bags,

folders, pencils/pens, crayons, markers, erasers, glue sticks, scissors, pencil cases and sharpeners, highlighters, dry erase markers, construction paper, notebooks, 1” binders, ear buds, tissues, hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes.

For more information, email bwhite@ bricktownship.net or call 732-262-1053.

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.

SEPT 5 – DANIEL

Lunch at Shady Maple, Center Orchestra seat.

SEPT 8 – A DAY AT MONMOUTH PARK HORSE RACING $159/pp

Includes Omnibus Suite at finish line and 2 hour food buffet.

SEPT 27 – DANIEL

Lunch at Shady Maple, Center Orchestra seat.

$169/pp

SEPT 28 – NEW YORK YANKEES VS PITTSBURGH PIRATES $149/pp

OCT 3 ONE SLIGHT HITCH $130/pp

Comedy Play written by Lewis Black, Includes Lunch.

OCT 14 – DAY IN AMISH LANCASTER

Lunch at Shady Maple, Bird n Hand Bakery, Kitchen Kettle.

OCT 24 – RHINESTONE COWGIRLS

Includes $25 Slot Play, $20 Food Voucher.

$89/pp

$103/pp

NOV 5 – RESORTS CASINO AC FOR THE DAY $40/pp

Includes $20 Slot Play Broadway.

NOV 30 CHRISTMAS AT THE PLAYHOUSE ‘24

Includes Plated Lunch and Legendary Dessert Buffet.

DEC 6 – RADIO CITY HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

Lunch in Union City, Orchestra ticket & Free Time in Radio City after show.

$120/pp

$229/pp

DEC 10 JOY TO THE WORLD $134/pp

Includes Lunch at Shady Maple, Orchestra seat at American Music Theatre.

DEC 18 – WIND CREEK CASINO

Includes $30 slot play.

$45/pp

BROADWAY SHOWS – INCLUDE LUNCH BEFORE SHOW & ORCHESTRA SEAT

OCT 23 – THE OUTSIDERS MUSICAL: 2024 TONY AWARDS WINNER OF BEST MUSICAL $269/pp

OCT 23 – OUR TOWN: MUSICAL

$249/pp

NOV 6 – SUNSET BLVD $239/pp

NOV 6 – MJ MUSICAL

MULTI-DAY TRIPS

SEPT 2-5 – 4 DAY NEWPORT & BLOCK ISLAND

–

DEC 8-10 – 3 DAY CHRISTMAS ON THE POTOMAC

$264/pp

Photo courtesy Women’s Club Of Brick

Local Pets Available For Adoption

BRICK – Tessie: The Sweetest Tabby in search of a new home. This 6-year-old brown tabby has a heartbreaking story we hear all too often. Tessie’s senior owner went into a nursing home, and sadly, no family members were able to take her in. After spending six years in a loving home, Tessie now finds herself in a shelter, waiting for someone to give her a second chance.

Tessie is the epitome of sweetness once she gets over her initial shyness. She has lived as an only pet but has been exposed

Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center to a small dog and was perfectly fi ne with them. Since she’s still new to our shelter, we’re still learning how she gets along with other cats. It’s so heartbreaking to see a cat who has known the comfort of a home now living in a cage. Let’s change Tessie’s story and fi nd her the loving forever home she deserves.

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.

Free Health Lectures, Wellness Screenings

BRICK – Ocean University Medical Center is offering a free lecture called “Let’s Understand Diabetes and Diabetic Complications” on August 26 from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Brick Senior Services, 500 Aurora Place, Brick.

Join experts as they discuss the signs, symptoms, complications, medications and much more related to diabetes. Learn how diet and exercise can help with prevention and management of diabetes! Visit Hack-

ensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information and to register.

Ocean University Medical Center is offering free Wellness Screenings on August 26 from 12 to 1:45 p.m. at Brick Senior Services: 500 Aurora Place, Brick. 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.

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.

Angelic Health Recognized As Superior Performer In Caregiver Satisfaction

BRICK – Angelic Health Hospice is honored to be among the top 20% of superior performers in hospice care satisfaction among nearly 2,000 hospice companies in the county as rated by our patient’s caregivers in 2023 through third party surveys of caregivers conducted by Strategic Health Programs (SHP).

Angelic Health Hospice was one of only five hospice providers in the state of NJ to receive this honor, and Angelic Health Hospice of PA was the only one of eight in Pennsylvania to receive SHP recognition as a superior performer of caregiver satisfaction.

The survey questions posed to caregivers included patient care questions on how well hospice staff communicated with family, timeliness of care, response to symptoms such as pain, and other care satisfaction questions.

“We are honored to be considered to be among the best in the nation in caregiver

satisfaction for our hospice patients,” said Angelic Health CEO Dan Mikus, “It’s even more of an honor that this recognition was based on the opinions of the caregiver families of the hospice patients we served in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania.”

Based outside of Atlantic City, Angelic Health is a premiere healthcare provider of hospice and palliative care in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and South Carolina is proudly accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC).

ACHC accreditation reflects our dedication and commitment to meeting standards that demonstrate a higher level of performance and patient care.

Angelic Health is also a member of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), the Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC), and privileged to be a hospice partner in the We Honor Veterans initiative where we have a four-star ranking.

Traders Cove Concert Series To Be Held In August

BRICK – Mayor Lisa Crate and the Township Council are proud to announce that the Traders Cove Concert Series presented by Pine Belt Cars will return to the Traders Cove Marina and Park this August.

The schedule for the concerts is as follows: August 14 – Basso Bros. August 21 – Kickin’ Wing

Traders Cove is located at 40 Mantoloking Road. Concerts are free to attend and begin

at 7 p.m. Guests should bring their own chairs/blankets. Coolers are permitted; no alcohol.

Brick Township Senior Services is offering complimentary door-to-door transportation for Traders Cove Concerts for residents ages 60 and over via the Senior Shuttle.

Seating is limited on the Senior Shuttle and filled on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis. If you would like to schedule a ride to a concert, call Senior Services at 732-920-8686.

out Micromedia Publications’ website, jerseyshoreonline.com

out Dr. Izzy’s Sound News on Page 16

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Responsible Pet Waste Disposal Will Protect Water Quality

NEW JERSEY– As the summer weather brings more opportunities to enjoy time with our pets, New Jersey American Water is asking all pet owners to take a moment to ‘paws’ and protect our water! Animal waste disposal is often overlooked, but the company is reminding pet owners that its harmful properties can cause pollution in creeks, rivers, and lakes if not handled properly. These pet waste pointers can help New Jerseyans and their furry friends be sure that our bodies of water remain free from pollution.

“Pet waste isn’t just an annoyance to your

shoe. It also impacts the water quality of surrounding waterways,” said Laura Norkute, Director of Water Quality and Environmental Compliance at New Jersey American Water. “When not disposed of properly, pet waste introduces harmful nutrients and pathogens into our source water. This not only affects source water quality but also makes drinking water treatment more challenging and costly. The best defense is to consistently clean up after your pets do their business and to dispose of their waste in garbage bins.”

New Jersey American Water provides the fol-

lowing tips for disposing of pet waste properly:

1. Bag it, bin it. Carry a plastic bag on every walk with your pet. You can even use compact, refillable bag dispensers that attach to your dog’s leash. After picking the waste up, dispose of it in the nearest trash can - never in a storm drain!

2. Boundaries during business. Ensure your pet does their business at least 200 feet away from any water body.

3. Bark for bags. Take advantage of courtesy bags and disposal boxes provided in many parks and recreational areas. If your park doesn’t already have these, ask your town to

install them!

“Summer is a great time for fun with our pets, but when dogs do their duty, we can’t forget our duty to the environment,” said Norkute. “It’s simple to pick up after our pets; by doing so, we can contribute to cleaner water bodies for everyone!”

For more information regarding pet waste management, visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s website at epa.gov. Additional watershed protection tips can be found on New Jersey American Water’s watershed protection webpage.

NJ Turtles On e Move – e Hazards And How To Help

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

New Jersey is home to approximately 18 species of turtles. Some are terrestrial (land), others are aquatic (water), and some are both. Unless you know your turtles, it may be difficult to determine what kind of turtle you might be looking at. Right now, female turtles have begun laying their eggs. Often, they must travel long distances to locate the right spot. The problem with this is they will be crossing roadways in the process.

Many turtles return to the same nesting site each year. Encountering a turtle that may need assistance in its travel should be addressed carefully. If you find a turtle in the middle of the road, do NOT swerve suddenly, leave the lane, or stop abruptly. If you feel comfortable handling a turtle – most can be picked up by the sides of their shells near the mid-point of their body. Never pick up any turtle by its tail as it can frighten or likely cause injury to it. Wearing gloves is recommended and any time you handle wildlife, you should wash your hands. It’s very important that if you assist

a turtle, you should move it in the direction it was headed. Since its destiny is unknown to you, simply remove it from harm’s way, by urging it onto natural terrain several feet from the road.

NEVER attempt to handle a snapping turtle unless you are experienced. Even then, it is advised to use a tool, like a branch, to gently urge it forward from behind.

New Jersey turtles are a protected species so possession of one is illegal. If you find a nest in your yard, keeping children and pets away is advised. Additional protection during the

first 30 to 45 days may be given by placing a small cage around the nest eggs. However, and this is important - note that the cage MUST BE REMOVED before the hatchlings emerge. Most turtle eggs hatch in 60 to 80 days. 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.

Sound News

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

Medicare Vs. Medicare Advantage Plans

• NO HIDDEN COSTS

• FULL COVERAGE

ADVANTAGE

Medicare Advantage Plans simplify coverage, combining Medicare Part A – which includes inpatient care, such as hospital admissions – and Part B – which includes outpatient services, such as doctors’ visits. These plans can also integrate medical and prescription drug coverage so beneficiaries have access to unified and coordinated coverage. In addition, these plans can offer dental, vision, and hearing aid coverage. Over 65% of those over the age of 65 years have some type of Medicare Advantage Plan. Why?? In general, people are saving over 30% or more versus having Medicare and a supplemental plan to cover the 20% that Medicare does not cover (Medigap Plan). In many cases, you’re sacrificing “quality of care” if you sign up for the Advantage Plan!

In general, most Medicare Advantage Plans do not offer the same level of choice as a Medicare Plus (Medigap) combination. Most plans require you to go to their network of doctors and healthcare providers. If you have significant health problems, you should shy away from Medicare Advantage Plans by way of how they structure copays and deductibles. Many enrollees have been hit with unexpected costs and denial of benefits for various types of care deemed not medically necessary. Depicted below is a simple comparison when considering your options:

MEDICARE

• YOU & YOUR DOCTOR CHOOSE YOUR CARE

• NO REFERRALS NEEDED

• NO RESTRICTIONS

• NO LAB FEES

• NO PREAUTHORIZATION

• YOUR PLAN CHOOSES YOUR CARE – NOT YOU

• HIGHLY RESTRICTED REFERRALS

• LIMITED SPECIALIST

• MRI & OUTPATIENT HIGH FEES

• UPFRONT COPAY ON ER VISITS

• HIGHER DEDUCTIBLES

• SOMEWHAT LIMITED COVERAGE

Many of you are signing up for Advantage plans mainly to take advantage of hearing aid benefits since there is NO hearing aid coverage through Medicare. Advantage Plans such as United Healthcare, Humana, and Braven offer these benefits. Keep in mind if you choose this path, your INSURANCE COMPANY is telling you where you have to go. You have to follow their rules and regulations and quite often, the best hearing aid for your listening needs and lifestyle are sometimes not a choice. In addition, you will have to start paying your hearing healthcare professional office fees basically after 1 yr. of service. This fee is typically $125 per visit and is NOT covered by the Advantage plan. Many Audiologists, including myself, do not accept the majority of these Advantage plans. Hospitals and physician groups are starting to drop many of these plans because they’re horrible to work with. Dr. Izzy and his staff will always provide you with honest information about hearing health issues. Please feel free to call us at 732-451-3962 or visit us at www. 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!

Habitat For Humanity 8th Annual Walk To Build

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Help families walk towards a brighter future! Join in making a difference by sponsoring the 8th annual Walk to Build on September 21 on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk at 9 a.m.

Your support helps pave the way for Ocean County families, transforming lives with each step we take together. Be a champion

for change - sponsor today and walk with us toward a brighter future! If you would like to learn more about Walk to Build, visit northernoceanhabitat.org/ events/2023-annual-walk-to-build. Contact ErinB@nohfh.com or 732-818-9500 ext. 100 with questions about becoming a sponsor or signing up for the walk!

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

5 Ways Quercetin And DHQ Make You Feel Better

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Bioflavonoids, naturally occurring compounds found in various plants, are renowned for their antioxidant properties. Among them, quercetin and dihydroquercetin (DHQ) stand out. While both share similarities, DHQ has distinct advantages, making it a superior choice for health supplementation.

Bioflavonoids are plant pigments that provide a range of health benefits. They are often found in colorful fruits and vegetables, contributing to their vivid hues and acting as antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Among the numerous bioflavonoids, quercetin is perhaps the most well-known, commonly found in apples, onions, and berries.

Regular quercetin is praised for its ability to support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system. It is often used to manage allergies and respiratory conditions due to its natural antihistamine properties. Quercetin also supports heart health by improving blood vessel function and reducing blood pressure. A typical dosage range of quercetin is 500 to 1,000 mg per day. Compare that to DHQ which is more like 10 - 40 mg per day.

DHQ is found in the Siberian larch tree and other sources like onions and milk thistle. DHQ is chemically similar to quercetin but has a unique structure that enhances its bioavailability. It is more easily absorbed and utilized by the body, offering stronger antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. 5 Benefits of DHQ Over Quercetin

Enhanced Bioavailability: DHQ is more readily absorbed in the digestive tract, ensuring higher levels in the bloodstream compared to quercetin. This makes it more effective in lower doses.

Potent Antioxidant Properties: DHQ provides superior protection against oxidative stress, a major factor in aging and chronic diseases. It neutralizes free radicals more efficiently than quercetin.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: By reducing inflammation more effectively, DHQ can help manage conditions like arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders.

Dihydroquercetin has amazing metal-chelating properties! This means it can latch onto harmful metal ions in your body, helping to neutralize them which then reduces inflammation and DNA damage.

Cardiovascular Support: DHQ improves blood circulation, reduces blood clot formation, and supports healthy cholesterol levels, thereby protecting heart health more robustly than quercetin.

Immune System Boost: DHQ enhances the body’s immune response, making it more resilient against infections and illnesses.

We are finding this antioxidant being incorporated into more and more dietary supplements. It’s often combined with other antioxidants such as vitamin C. Let me say that quercetin remains a valuable bioflavonoid with significant health benefits, and it is very easy to find in health food stores nationwide. It’s sister “dihydroquercetin” or DHQ offers enhanced absorption and potency, making it more superior, however it’s not as easy to find. If you take either of those supplements, it is a great way to reduce free radical damage to the body.

As always, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it does not interact with your other supplements. If you’d like to read the longer version of this article, it is posted at suzycohen.com

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

OCC Announces 2024 Athletic Hall Of Fame Inductees

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College has announced the addition of seven new members to the OCC Athletic Hall of Fame for 2024. The Athletic Hall of Fame honors distinguished Ocean County College alumni-athletes, former coaches, and others whose accomplishments have had a significant impact on Ocean County College’s athletic program.

This will be the fi rst new induction to the OCC Athletics Hall of Fame since 2016, when the biennial awards were placed on hold temporarily to accommodate the conversion of the College’s swimming pool to a new auxiliary gym. The awards were postponed once again as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The OCC Athletic Department staff and Hall of Fame committee members are thrilled to bring back the recognition of former Viking stand-outs into the Hall of Fame,” said Ilene Cohen, OCC’s executive director of Athletics. “This year’s Hall of Fame inductees’ remarkable achieve-

ments and dedication to Ocean County athletics inspire us all to aim higher and strive for excellence.”

The 2024 inductees are:

• Jerry Carroll, Cross Country – 19761977

• David Kalash, Baseball – 2009-2011 (Rawlings Gold Glove)

• Oriana Smith, Softball/Basketball – 20062008 (All American)

• Mary Kate Sullivan, Soccer – 2013-2015 (All American)

• Ed Baynes, Cross Country Coach (National Champions – 2009, 2013)

• Arleen Rooks, Athletic Dept. Manager

• Steve Stout, Swimming Coach (Non-Scholarship M/W Champions 2009)

The OCC Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held on December 15, 2024. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit go.ocean.edu/HOF. For more information, contact Ocean County College’s Athletics office at 732-255-0346.

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

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Understanding Non-Probate Assets In Estate Planning

By: Marc S. Galella, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

The terms “probate assets” and “non-probate assets” are often used when talking about estate planning and estate administration. It is important to understand the difference between the two. Probate assets are those assets which pass under a Last Will and Testament. Conversely, non-probate assets are those assets which do not pass under the Will. Examples of non-probate assets include joint accounts marked “JTWROS” (joint tenants with rights of survivorship), “POD” (payable on death) accounts and real property deeds in the names of both spouses. Other examples include insurance policies, IRA accounts and annuities in which beneficiaries are specifically named.

In the case of non-probate assets, the assets pass upon death to certain other persons. The assets do not pass by way of the Will. For example, a bank account in the names of two persons marked “JTWROS” will automatically pass to the survivor upon the death of one of the joint owners. Similarly, if real property is owned by two married persons as “husband and wife” the property automatically passes to the surviving spouse upon the death of the first spouse to die. Additionally, an IRA or insurance policy will pass to the person named as the beneficiary upon the death of the owner of the IRA or the policy.

What is most important to understand

is that these assets do not pass under the terms of the Will. Thus, a mother cannot by her Will leave a joint bank account to her son if the joint bank account is in the name of the mother and her daughter. Upon the mother’s death the account will go to the daughter. In the same sense, real property in the names of a “husband and wife” cannot be left by a Will to a third party until both spouses have passed away. In preparing a Will, you must know what assets are probate assets and which are non-probate assets. You must understand what assets will pass under your Will and which will pass outside of your Will. The failure to understand how these assets will pass could render your estate planning meaningless.

You must also understand the concept of non-probate assets even after your Will is complete. This is because in some cases, a person may by Will intend to distribute their assets equally among their three children, but later put a bank account into a joint name with one of the children and not realize that the account will pass to that child alone and not to all three children.

Before preparing your Will, you should discuss with your attorney all of the assets in your name and determine whether the assets are probate or non-probate assets and how you want those assets to be distributed upon your passing.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Country Star Trace Adkins Brings Tour To A.C.

Photo courtesy Trace Adkins

ATLANTIC CITY – Country music kingpin Trace Adkins is bringing his Somewhere in America Tour to Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on October 4 at 8 p.m. The show features special guest Lonestar. Tickets for Trace Adkins with Special

Guest Lonestar are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com , Ticketmaster.com or 800745-3000. All shows are subject to change. In his 25-year career in country music, Trace Adkins has sold over 11 million albums, charted over 20 singles, earned numerous awards and Grammy nominations, and garnered over two billion streams. A Grand Ole Opry member for nearly two decades, the Louisiana native is known for dynamic baritone and fiery, always-memorable live performances, and has expanded his country career to include fi lm and TV acting. He broke out in 1996 with the debut album, Dreamin’ Out Loud, cracking the Top 5 of Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with “Every Light In The House Is On” and following with the #1 smash, “This Ain’t (No Thinkin’ Thing).” Since then, Adkins has pioneered a mix of classic country minded traditionalism and adventurous, good-natured showmanship, breaking open new avenues in modern country through fun-fi lled hits like “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” and “Hillbilly Bone” (with Blake Shelton). Adkins’ newest video, “Love Walks Through the Rain” (featuring Melissa Etheridge) is available everywhere now.

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.

Real Estate

House For Sale - 1791 Mount Everest Road. 2BD, 1 Bath. $245,000. Holiday City Silverton. Call Mike, 732-762-3952. No text. (38)

For Sale

General dental practice for saleEstablished 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

CRAFTSMAN SNOW MACHINE24 inch used twice. Gas. $250 OBO. Cost 850. 718-948-6968. (36)

RUMBA - self charging/ cleaning programable vacuum. BOX NEVER OPENED, cost about $400. Asking $200 OBO. 718-948-6968. (36)

“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)

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)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ 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)

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

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (43)

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844-897-8361. (t/n)

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)

HANDYMAN SOLUTIONSAll Types of Home Improvement and Repairs. EXPERT Carpentry •Doors •Windows •Bathroom And Kitchen Upgrades •Finished Basements •Ceramic Tile •Laminate Flooring •Decks •Vinyl Railings •Masonry •Painting •More. Licensed and Insured. Advanced Building. 609-384-9030. (38)

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)

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)

Services

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)

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

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)

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)

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 732-850-5060. NJ Lic # 13VH11804800. (17)

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)

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)

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)

Services Services Services

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)

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. (38)

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)

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)

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)

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

609-394-9030 (36)

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

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

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

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Auto For Sale

• Items For Sale

Items Wanted

Help Wanted

For Rent

Real Estate

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.

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

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

Cardholder Signature: Print Name:

Billing Address:

day along the

– now he and his family are heading to Six

of Jersey

Email your shore pix to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get

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.

A picture-perfect

jetty in Barnegat Light. Tuckerton resident James Gallo had his camera handy

Flags Great Adventure, courtesy

Shore Online. Want to win tickets?

lucky!

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Meals On Wheels Needs Your Help

OCEAN COUNTY – Congress is out for their Summer Recess, and we need your help! The federal budget is starting to be crafted and the Older American’s Act, where Meals on Wheels gets our funding, is being threatened to be cut drastically. We need your help to contact your Federal Representatives, Senator Cory Booker, Congressman Chris Smith, and Congressman Jeff Van Drew, and ask them to visit our program and tell them that we need them to advocate for the following:

1. Reauthorize and Strengthen the Older Americans Act (OAA)

2. Increase Funding and Support for Senior Nutrition Programs

3. Expand Access and Social Connection for Older Adults

Cuts to the Older Americans Act will directly impact Meals on Wheels of Ocean County and result in loss of services. We deliver 1,000 meals daily to our homebound, food insecure, economically disadvantaged, and socially

isolated seniors as well as host our Stafford Community Cafe and Outreach Services. Our seniors cannot afford to lose their daily meals as well as the all-important wellness and safety check we provide every day.

The results of a recent survey conducted among all our participants shows:

• 97% are satisfied with the quality and variety of food

• 69% of participants DO NOT have a hot meal on days meals are not delivered

• 99% feel more confident living independently receiving home delivered meals

• 98% eat a more balanced diet due to meal delivery

• 95% receiving daily home delivered meals make them feel less lonely

• 62% report less doctor visits and hospitalizations due to our services

The numbers don’t lie, Meals on Wheels delivers a major impact in Ocean County!

Cedar Glen Lakes Garden Club Seek Vendors

WHITING – Cedar Glen Lakes Garden Club is seeking vendors for the annual craft fair event on October 12 at 100 Michigan

Avenue, Whiting.

Call Gean to reserve your table at 732-8646902. This is a sellout event so call early!

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

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.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

1 Have a sudden inspiration? 2 Jicama, e.g.

New Age artist who often sings in Irish

Cruz known as the “Queen of Salsa”

Completed

Some plant-based patties

“Star Trek” creator Roddenberry

After-school org.

“The Bachelor” flower

Tours of duty

NAACP co-founder Du Bois

Radar or sonar 6 Is a bad dog by the dinner table, say 7 Run for the hills

Guitar player such as Este Haim or Kim Deal, e.g.

Asana expert

Get even for

Beach house, maybe

Not casual

Risk territory that borders Siberia

Squares up

Bothnian Bay country

__ pro nobis

Place to unwind on a train

Textbook divisions

Comeback

Vidalia bulb

“I’ve got it!”

Contraption

Low digit

Expected

Ripsnorters

Sharp blows

Capital near the Great Divide

Oozes with

Atop

Kitten’s cries

Jogging pace

“By that logic ... “

Ginormous

Shabu-shabu noodle, often

Actress Thurman

Voting rights activist Abrams 27 Facial venue 28 Word in many California place names

Come together

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may engage in fun but not extreme physical activities with a partner or loved ones to derive the most pleasure from your day. Whether you go do something adventurous or something more calming, your energy should find an appropriate outlet.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Develop and fuel a long-range vision of comfort and abundance. Regardless of your age or generation, it might be a good time to save for the future. Consider upgrading your prospects by contributing to savings or making wise purchases.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): This week, remember that your actions may truly shine and speak volumes. A genuine act of kindness or generosity will always mean more than just sweet words. It might not be necessary to go overboard or be extravagant to be impressive.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You may benefit from embracing generosity by distributing abundance and good fortune with others. Your judgement and business sense may be enhanced if you have a trusted partner to rely upon, and a helper to make key decisions.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The sum of the parts may be greater than the whole. Every minor act of benevolence and goodwill you engage in this week could fortify bonds of friendship, enhance your reputation, and weave you more tightly into the fabric of your community.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Think about spending your extra funds on altruistic acts or by indulging in life’s little luxuries. Keep an eye out for genuine connections that might come into your world. A new friend might spark your enthusiasm or inspire

FOR THE WEEK OF JULY 20 - JULY 26 BY

your creativity.

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Kindness is like a boomerang – send it out, and it finds its way back to you from one source or another. Achieving an agreeable compromise, however, may be an art. In the week ahead if a deal doesn’t look or feel right, consider if it is okay to walk away.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Should you be fortunate enough to achieve success and ascend to great heights, it is only right to offer a helping hand to elevate someone else. Someone might be more than willing to form a deeper relationship with you or snuggle a little closer.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Kindness and being agreeable could go a long way towards pleasing people, although a little friendly competition might spice things up in a fun way. Solve nagging financial problems with simple and practical changes.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In the week ahead, think about channeling your efforts into pursuits that could generate financial gain. Devise strategies, contemplate, and research, then bide your time for the optimal moment to begin significant new endeavors.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Focus on honing your leadership skills. You may strive to a positive example of diligence that inspires emulation. When you share your aspirations with others, you may garner support, which in turn can propel you further toward achieving your goals.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Keep everyone’s spirits high and spread kindness, even if things don’t go as planned or someone lets you down. You may have a special touch for making your home feel cozy and elegant, sprinkle a little of that magic around.

NO TIME? NO PROBLEM. QUICK PULLED CHICKEN SANDWICHES TO THE RESCUE!

By America’s Test Kitchen

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

QUICK PULLED CHICKEN SANDWICHES WITH RED CABBAGE SLAW