2024-08-10 - The Toms River Times

Is 25 Years In Jail Enough For Death Of A Child?

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

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – As

Christopher Gregor was sentenced to 25 years for endangerment and aggravated manslaughter in the death of his son, people following the case were upset that he didn’t get the maximum.

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 out of a maximum of 10.

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 charge in relation to the boy’s death. The maximum is 30.

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.

Gregor, now 32, will have 5 years of supervised parole after all that.

“It was not as long as we wanted but at least he will not be able to start his life over,” Corey’s mother Breanna Micciolo told reporters outside the courtroom.

Family Members Speak

The fi nal part of the trial was a sentencing hearing, where Judge Guy Ryan listened to the parties involved.

Gregor stood up and read from a speech

(SentencingSee Page 4)

Local Candidates File For Election

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER

– While the nation – and perhaps the world – is interested in who is at the top of the ballot on November 5, there are a lot of local elections that might be under the radar.

Many of these are for school boards. These candidates are not allowed to note their political affiliations, so they include a short slogan instead.

Toms River

There is one, one-year term on the Township Council that will be on the ballot in November. This is to fill the Ward 2 spot that Mayor Daniel Rodrick vacated when he won the mayoral election last year. Republican William R. Byrne will compete with Democrat Susan Payne Gato.

There are two, three-year terms on the Board of Ed-

ucation representing Toms River on the ballot this year.

Dominick Farro is using the slogan “Education, Transparency, Accountability.”

Lisa Contessa is using the slogan “Fight! Fight! Fight!”

Maria Matarazzo and Diane Oxley are using the slogan “Students First.”

Jennifer Howe is using the slogan “Advocating Educational Funding.”

Beachwood

There are two Republicans running for three-year terms on the Borough Council: John P. Farro, Jr. and Dan Santos. No Democrats filed to run.

Beachwood’s representative on the Toms River Board of Education, Melissa Morrison, has resigned but did so after the deadline for her seat to be on the ballot.

(Election - See Page 23)

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 intentionally looked the other way.

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

(Ciba - See Page 5)

VETERAN &

Photo courtesy Asbury Park Press

Sentencing:

Continued From Page 1

written on yellow legal paper. “I’m sorry that we lost Corey. He was simply the best. I know we’ll miss him for the rest of our lives,”

“Corey, wherever you are, I just want to say I’m proud of you,” he said.

Although he said the treadmill incident was “inexcusable,” he said that he did nothing to cause Corey’s passing. “I regret not bringing him to the hospital sooner. I didn’t know. I just thought he was tired.”

Gregor cried through his statement. Corey’s other family cried during most of the hearing.

After the sentencing, Breanna Micciolo said those tears were for himself, not for Corey. Gregor was crying because he was afraid of getting the maximum sentence.

Following Gregor’s statement, Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Christine Lento advocated for the maximum penalty by law - 10 years for endangering and 30 years for aggravated manslaughter.

She outlined Gregor’s actions and how they fit into legal defi nitions that would get to that maximum sentence. She painted a picture of Gregor’s rage, actions to cover his tracks, and history.

“He’s a person with no impulse control and he will commit more crimes,” she said. Lento noted how Gregor tried to coach his mother’s testimony as a way to game the system.

“There is nothing I can say that is more

important than the facts of the case,” Lento said. “Christopher Gregor abused his son. He ended his life, and he left him alone in the hospital to die. I can only imagine what was going through Corey’s mind.”

Lento described the fatal wound, a laceration to the heart, and also a bruised lung and lacerated liver. “While Corey’s body was shutting down, the defendant ordered food.”

Gregor didn’t tell Breanna where Corey was when he called her for her insurance information from the hospital. “Not only did he take Corey’s life, but he took the last moments with his family.”

As for past brushes with the law, Gregor had no indictable offenses but showed a pattern of not following the law, she said.

Vito Micciolo, Corey’s grandfather, read a letter from Corey’s Aunt Nicole who was too emotional to read it. He described how Corey came home from his fi rst visit with his father with a fat lip that Gregor attributed to playing sports.

The family wanted to keep him from spending time with Gregor but the State Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) required him to go.

“Corey didn’t have a choice and wasn’t shown any mercy and Chris shouldn’t be given a choice or shown any mercy,” he read from the letter.

Corey’s grandmother, Rebecca Micciolo, also took the stand. She talked about how Corey should be preparing to go back to school. She wonders what he would look like today.

“This is not a man who should be shown mercy,” she told the judge. “I see that tread-

mill video in my nightmares. He didn’t shed a tear while watching that video.”

She also noted some legal issues Gregor had in the past.

“The system failed Corey. This man has never had to answer for any bad behavior,” she said.

She said that Corey knew that something bad was going to happen. He had written “I die” in chalk near the front door. He had asked her “Does God see what Daddy does to me?” When she answered that He sees everything, the boy responded “Why doesn’t He help me?”

Rebecca said she couldn’t see her grandson after his death because the body was considered evidence.

It was then Breanna’s turn to talk. She began when she began a romantic relationship with Gregor. She was 16 and he was 21.

“You’ve heard a lot about my past,” she said, referencing drug use that Gregor’s attorney described. “I admit I abused drugs. But I stand here today clean and sober.”

She suggested that Gregor hit Corey either because Gregor’s sick or because he was angry at her. She is haunted by the fact that she dropped him off to his father’s home and never saw him again.

She dreads normal smalltalk now. What if someone asks how many children she has? She has a daughter now, who is one and a half. When they go to visit Corey’s grave, the little girl plays with the toys that have been left there.

“He looked up to you,” Breanna said to Gregor. “And he so wanted you to be a role model.”

Corey died surrounded by medical professionals, which was cold, but at least Gregor’s face wasn’t the last one he saw, she said.

“All this monster could have done was say he did not want to be a father,” she said. “I truly believe if he ever gets out (of jail), he will kill me.”

David Gregor, Christopher Gregor’s father, was given an opportunity to speak as well. While Corey’s blood relatives spoke from the witness box, David Gregor spoke from the audience.

“It’s unfair to say he was afraid here,” David said about Corey’s time at his house in Monroe before Christopher moved to Barnegat.

He also said that there is information about the Micciolo family pertinent to the discussion that might never be brought to light.

The Judge’s Decision

Finally, it was Judge Guy Ryan’s time to review everything that was presented in order to determine how many years Gregor should spend in prison. He said he had read numerous letters praising Gregor’s character, and numerous victim impact letters. He said that those praising Gregor talk about how he gave up his career in special education to come home to be a father, and the behavior on the treadmill was a way of teaching Corey “if you fall, you get back up.”

“That’s not what we saw,” Ryan countered. “That was abuse of the most egregious sort.” Corey was ejected like he was on a

(Sentencing - See Page 10)

Continued From Page 1

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 find 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 find 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

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

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.

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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,

Readers Sound Off On Biden Stepping Down

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

The Toms River 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.

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

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 Blumenthal (DCT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ben Ray Luján

(D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (DOR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) 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 cam-

paign 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.

Online Hub Will Connect People To Disability-Related Services

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – A new website - NJ.gov/ Disabilities - will serve as a one-stop shop to connect New Jerseyans with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and advocates with state services and resources in an accessible format.

“Across state government, our Administration has pursued equity and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, improved access to services, and strengthened supports for this community. For many individuals and families, New Jersey’s Disability Information Hub will be a game-changer. Having streamlined, easy access to the State’s comprehensive collection of services and supports will put needed tools and resources in reach for countless people,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Together, we are breaking down barriers and empowering all New Jerseyans to thrive in their communities. I commend the whole-of-government effort to uplift the

State’s disability community.”

Through the Hub, families can find information on available food, income, and employment assistance programs; caregivers can find information on support programs and services to assist them in caring for their loved ones; and individuals with disabilities can find information on various services including in-home supports, vocational rehabilitation, personal care assistance, and education.

The Hub also includes specific pages with resources organized by a person’s disability, including curated information for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, individuals with physical disabilities, individuals who are blind or visually impaired, and individuals who are deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of hearing. The website also features pages covering key programs for caregivers; children with disabilities; veterans; and individuals transitioning from childhood to adulthood. The Hub also highlights supports and services related to mental health, assistive technology, transportation, legal rights (Government - See Page 10)

Senator Cory Booker

Sentencing:

Continued From Page 4

conveyer belt.

“I remember the jury sucking in their breath” when they saw that, Ryan said.

to making it so there are no free crimes.

When the years were spoken, there was audible disgust from members of the Micciolo family.

“They obviously failed my grandson, that’s for sure,” Vito Micciolo told JerseyShoreOnline.com outside the courtroom. “The whole system failed him.”

“A picture is worth a thousand words, but that video is worth 10,000 words,” he said.

That footage or another video of Breanna dropping Corey off to Gregor demonstrated no kindness between them. “(Corey) was treated by the defendant as if he was a stray dog.”

Ryan didn’t say that any abuse happened in the Gregor home in Monroe, but both sides have a right to closure, and they should stop attacking each other.

Several things were unable to be entered into his decision. He couldn’t take Gregor’s previous brushes with the law into account if they didn’t result in charges. One marijuana charge wouldn’t even be a crime today since it’s been legalized. He couldn’t consider hearsay. “I don’t have the luxury of expressing opinion.”

The fact that after Corey’s death, Gregor was located in Arkansas 45 minutes from Mexico shows his intent to flee. He tried to manipulate the trial through his mother’s testimony.

Sometimes, a defendant will serve two sentences at the same time. They are shown leniency.

Ryan instead ordered that Gregor will have to serve the 5-year term first and the 20-year one separately. This is following case law directed

Government:

Continued From Page 9

and advocacy, employment, and emergency

The Hub meets WCAG and Section 508 accessibility requirements, uses high-contrast colors, and is compatible with screen readers. The website is designed to be easy to navigate, and has incorporated direct feedback from residents with disabilities. The Hub also features a welcome video in American Sign Language.

For users who need additional help navigating the website and accessing services, the Hub prominently features how to request live assistance from the Information & Referral (I&R) Service in Human Services’ Division of Dis-

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

Indeed, Ryan had said that the maximum sentence is “legally unsustainable.”

“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.”

Protection For Other Victims

“I don’t think we’ll ever get closure,” 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. DCP&P needs a complete overhaul, she said.

ability Services. Users can reach this service by calling 1-800-285-3036. I&R’s community resource specialists will walk callers through available programs, eligibility requirements, and application processes. ASL videophone service is also available for residents who are deaf or hard of hearing and sign language users. To reach this service, call 1-609-503-4862. Individuals with hearing loss who are not sign language users can connect with the Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DDHH) by calling 609-588-2648.

The development and design processes have incorporated input from individuals with lived experience, from state agencies and offices, and from external partners. With feedback options on every page, the Hub welcomes additional user feedback to further evolve this website to better serve the disability community.

Art Of Frederick Woodland On Display

TOMS RIVER – Celebrate the life of a multi-faceted artist who passed his knowledge on to countless others. The Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is pleased to present “The Man Behind the Brush: Art by Frederick Woodland (19412014)” in the McConnell Gallery, through September 3.

Born in Baltimore in 1941, Frederick B. Woodland Jr. developed a passion for art by age 10, attending extracurricular art classes throughout his elementary and secondary education years.

He studied at New York’s Pratt Institute, earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Maryland Institute, taught Fine Arts and Art History on a fellowship from Cornell University and achieved a Master of Fine Arts degree. For more than 30 years he lived, taught and painted in upstate New

Photo courtesy Frederick B. Woodland Jr. York and New York City.

The artist later settled in Manchester. His oil paintings of landscapes, cityscapes, portraits, still-lifes and abstracts appeared in a February 2024 exhibit in the OCL Manchester Branch. His brother Harold continues to exhibit Woodland’s works.

A devoted naturalist, Woodland placed his greatest energies in landscapes, using vivid, forceful colors and broad-brush strokes reminiscent of the Hudson River School of art. He created oil paints from natural pigments, eschewing what he called “canned colors.”

The Frederick B. Woodland Jr. art exhibit is free and open to the public during normal Branch operating hours. For more information, visit the OCL Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, call 732-349-6200 or visit theoceancountylibrary.org/events.

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!

*We Use ALL Boar’s Head Products*

• Oven Roasted Turkey : $5.99 (1/2lb)

• BH Bologna : $3.49 (1/2lb)

• Cheddar Cheese : $3.99 (1/2lb)

• Honey BBQ Chicken : $5.89 (1/2lb)

• Pepper Jack Cheese : $3.69 (1/2lb)

• Hot Ham Capicola : $3.99 (1/2lb)

• Store Made Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad or Cole Slaw : $3.99 lb

• Store Made Pasta Salad : $4.99 lb

Lo ter & A at Jazz

if it rains, we will move indoors.

Our Chef, Bill Ball from A Matter of Taste, will prepare clams, steamers, shrimp, lobster and all the fixings will be overflowing your table at this one-of-a-kind Jersey Shore Event.

Relax playing corn hole and outdoor games with your family and friends during this summer event. Walk downtown to Huddy Park and visit the brewery and distillery.

At 6:00 PM, we will dance the night away to live jazz music by a four-piece jazz band known as Recked for Jazz, from Atlantic City. Eddie Morgan and his band will bring down the Mathis House with swinging jazz in the coolness of the beautiful mansion.

The lobster dinner will be served at 6:30 PM. Tickets for dinner and jazz show are $75 each plus tax and gratuity. Seniors $55. Call 732-818-7580 for your event tickets or buy online at www.mathishouse600main.com

Bush Classic Lifeguard Tournament

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BERKELEY – Scenes from the 2024 Bush Classic Lifeguard Tournament! Congratulations to Island Beach State Park’s

Photo courtesy Toms River Township lifeguard team for their victory, and a very special shoutout to all the lifeguards who consistently strive to keep our beaches safe.

3rd Annual Overdose Awareness Vigil In the Garden

TOMS RIVER – Intimate Candle light vigil for HOPE Sheds Light families to honor those lost to substance use disorder. Join as we remember our loved ones and light a candle in their honor. Following the service there will be a reception with

dessert and coffee.

The event will be on August 29 at 6:30 p.m. at 253 Chestnut Street, Toms River. Register today at hopeshedslight.networkforgood. com/events/74464-3rd-annual-overdoseawareness-vigil-in-the-garden

Olympic Spirit Captured During HSE ESY Program

TOMS RIVER – Students at the High School East ESY program hosted their own Olympic opening ceremony. Each class represented a participating nation, shared facts about their country, and had a game to teach their peers

Photo courtesy Toms River Schools to play. As part of the ceremony, students were able to “light” the Olympic torch. Thank you to Mrs. Hartzfeld for creating the torch and to Mrs. O’Donnell for organizing this event!

Movie Night At Huddy Park

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

Bring your own chair or blanket and snacks to enjoy these family friendly flicks under

the stars in Downtown Toms River. August 20 at 8 p.m. – Coco September 3 at 8 p.m. – The Incredibles

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

•

•

•

Cats Available For Adoption

By Chris Lundy

town Toms River on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and also by appointment.

Sandy apparently likes books, since she’s making herself comfortable in a basket of them. This long-haired beauty is 10 years old and came to the center because her owner passed away. She warms up and purrs when pet, and is happy to have people around. We know she had lived with other cats in the past and has no trouble with the other cats at the center, so a home with other felines would be fine.

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

Science Research For All Fall Gift Auction

TOMS RIVER – Join or a fun night of prizes as we raise funds for Science Research For All. The Fall Gift Auction will be on October 24.

Tickets are only $20 per person, attendees are welcome to bring their own food & refreshments however, no open alcohol is permitted. We will have a 50/50 raffle on the day of the event as well.

This year’s auction will be held at Toms River High School East Cafetorium. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. Drop tickets until 7:15

p.m. Calling numbers at 7:15 p.m.

After purchasing your tickets, we will mail them to you. They will come from Science Research for All, LLC. Please provide an address where you can receive them. On the day of the event there will be no assigned seats, fi rst come fi rst serve so please arrive early. Attendees must be at least 18 years old.

Sales are a non-refundable donation and all proceeds go to Science Research for All, LLC.

TOMS RIVER – An adoption center with a free roaming cat playroom is open in down-

Photo by Chris Lundy

Toms River Recreation Mad

Science Summer Camp

TOMS RIVER – Mad Science Summer Camp is from August 19 to August 23. Open to ages 6 to 12.

Full day camp: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. ($300) Full day attendees will bring their own lunches. Morning only: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. ($160) Afternoon only: 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. ($160)

Morning Session: NASA STEM Explorers

Developed in partnership with NASA, our campers will think and act like NASA innovators during this hands-on program inspired by the NASA Optimus Prime Research Challenge (NASA OPSPARC). How might you use space suit cooling tubes to solve a problem here on Earth? We will use

creative and collaborative skills to design a mission patch, train like an astronaut, build a Mars rover, and solve real-world engineering problems.

Afternoon Session: Lego Brixology

Our Lego Brixology camp was developed in partnership with Lego Master Builders! Team up to build exclusive creations that will test your engineering abilities! Build carnival rides, drawing machines, mechanical animals, truss bridges and space stations. Try your hand at aerospace, nautical, biomechanical, and even structural engineering! Let the tinkering begin!

Register via Community Pass: register. communitypass.net/tomsriver.

Paint The Town Party: Acrylic Painting Class

TOMS RIVER – Toms River Recreation presents: Paint the Town Party: Acrylic Painting Class with Terry Konn & the Ocean County Artists Guild!

Being held on August 16 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Youth Services building, 1505

North Bay Avenue, this class is open to everyone ages 15 and over, special needs, or anyone with beginner/intermediate experience with painting!

Cost is $33 and includes material. Register now: register.communitypass.net/tomsriver.

Burgers And Brews On Washington Street

TOMS RIVER – Join at Downtown Toms River on Washington Street for Burgers and Brews on August 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Support Toms River Fire Co. No. 1 while savoring delightful beverages from Battle

River Brewery and Garden State Distillery. Skip lunch and let the fi refighters serve you some of their very own BBQ: the menu will include burgers, cheeseburgers, hotdogs, grilled cheese, and possibly sausage peppers n’ onion sandwiches.

Your neighbors have trusted us with their finances for over 50 years! ** Does your Bank or Broker still o er CD’s?

also offer US Government backed T-Bills, Notes, and Bonds. Rates are currently hight, but coming down. Take advantage now!

2040 US Highway 9 •Toms River, NJ 08755

Dr. Izzy’s

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

• 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

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

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!

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

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

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.

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

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Understanding Non-Probate Assets In Estate Planning

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

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.

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

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 800-745-3000. 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 film 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-filled 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.

Free Wellness Screenings

TOMS RIVER – Ocean University Medical Center is offering free Wellness Screenings on August 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Fulfill, 1769 Hooper Avenue, Toms River.

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.

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

NJ Turtles On The Move – The 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 fi nd 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 fi nd a nest in your yard, keeping children and pets away is advised. Additional protection during the fi rst 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 732244-2768.

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.

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!

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

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 peerto-peer 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 fi rst come fi rst serve basis, but will depend on a school’s responses to the application questions.

Lavallette 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!

Election

:

Continued From Page 1

The district announced that they are seeking candidates to fill the spot from September of 2024 through December of 2025.

Applications are available at trschools. com and at the board office located at Suite 304, 1144 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08753. All applications must be submitted to the Toms River Regional Schools Board President at the following address: Suite 304, 1144 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08753 by 3 p.m. on August 19, 2024. The Board of Education will review all timely submitted applications and will implement a screening process to fill the Beachwood Board

Member vacancy.

Berkeley

There are three, three-year spots on the ballot for the Berkeley Board of Education, which oversees the four elementary schools.

John MacMoyle, Anne Marie Trethaway, and Joseph R. Palmerson are running under the slogan “Students Family First.” They are running unopposed.

Two, three-year terms representing Berkeley on the Central Regional Board of Education are on the ballot.

Megan Bowens and Danielle N. Grochowicz are using the slogan “Education, Integrity, Unity.”

Lisa Vargas is using the slogan “Putting Students First.”

Carol M. Cousins and Kia Phua are using the slogan “Educating With Integrity.”

Merissa Borawski and Heather Koenig are using the slogan “Supporting Parental Choice.”

Island Heights

The Island Heights representative on the Central Regional Board of Education, Susan Cowdrick, is running for re-election to a three-year term. No one filed a petition to run against her.

Ocean Gate

There are two, three-year terms available on the Borough Council. Two Republicans, James H. Fry and Russell Ernst and one Democrat, Dennis O’Leary, Jr. have filed to run.

There are two, three-year terms on the ballot for the Ocean Gate Board of Education. Scott Vosper and Andrew Scott don’t have slogans, but Daniel Fleming’s slogan is “Children First Always.”

No one filed a petition to run for an unexpired two-year term. Pine Beach

Republicans James Saxton and James Keesling are running for the two, threeyear terms on the Borough Council. No Democrats filed to run.

South Toms River

There are two, three-year terms on the Borough Council on the ballot. Republicans Sam Fennell and Kayla Rolzhausen will compete with Democrats GiGi Esparza and Denise Davis.

The South Toms River spot on the Toms River Board of Education is available. Joseph Jubert (Honesty, Integrity, Tradition) and Krista Whittaker (Make STR Matter) are running against each other for the three-year term.

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 –2006-2008 (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.

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.

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

• 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

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.

(36)

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.

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For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication) 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

photo oF the WeeK

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Down 1 Have a sudden inspiration? 2 Jicama, e.g. 3 New Age artist who often sings in Irish

Five-star

Cruz known as the “Queen of Salsa”

“Star Trek” creator Roddenberry

After-school org.

NAACP co-founder

Bois

Radar or sonar 6 Is a bad dog by the dinner table, say

Run for the hills

Broadcast

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

Voting rights activist Abrams

Facial venue

Word in many California place names

__ pro nobis

Place to unwind on a train

Textbook divisions

Comeback

“I’ve got it!”

Contraption

Low digit

Expected

Ripsnorters

Sharp blows

Capital near the Great Divide

Oozes with

Kitten’s cries

“By that logic ...

Ginormous

Shabu-shabu noodle, often

Actress Thurman

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. (c) 2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.