2025-03-01 - The Berkeley Times

Wound Kits Set Up Throughout Central Regional Schools

Central Regional School Resource Officer and Berkeley Township Patrolman Thomas Eichen places a safety kit in the high school cafeteria.

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY – The first set of wound kits have started to be delivered to the Central Regional School District to safeguard students and staff.

In the event of an emergency, these kits can help a staff person treat wounds before first responders arrive. They include various first aid supplies and a blanket. They can be thrown across a hallway if needed.

“Since I began as district superintendent in January 2024, it has been my priority

to make the health, wellness and safety of students and staff a top priority,” Superintendent Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder said. “These safety kits will make sure that our district is safe in the event of an emergency.

“Hopefully, we will never have to use these kits, but they are integral to the wellbeing of our staff and students,” she said.

The best locations for the kits were chosen by a team made up of CarneyRay-Yoder; Stewart Krentzman, the founder of the not-for-profit Survival+ For Schools; School Resource Officer Patrolman Thomas Eichen; and first responder and member of the Survival+ team Robert Baran. These included classrooms, main offices, guidance offices and media centers.

A few months ago, approximately 150

(Wound Kits - See Page 4)

Black History Month Event Celebrates Culture And Cuisine

By Bob Vosseller

TOMS RIVER – It was a showcase of culture, cuisine, and history during the Annual Black History Month Celebration hosted by the Toms River Area NAACP at the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch. Toms River Area NAACP President Bahiyyah Abdullah told The Toms River Times, “This has probably been going on for longer than 25 years now. We are very pleased to collaborate again with the library and the Friends of the Library for Black History Month. We are so pleased to have David Mills who is going to talk about Langston Hughes and we are very glad to share

free books about the African American experience with all the participants today - and a sampling of soul food.”

The soul food samplings included fried chicken, ribs, roast pork, black eyed peas, green beans, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, potato salad and a variety of pies including sweet potato pie.

“It is so important that we do this because black history is American history and world history - not just black history - so it is important that we all celebrate the accomplishments that black people have had in this country,” she added.

(History - See Page 4)

Polar Bear Plunge Returns For Charity

by

Bob Vosseller

Polar Bear Plungers jump in as others exit the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean off the Seaside Heights oceanfront for the 32nd Annual Polar Bear Plunge.

By Bob Vosseller SEASIDE HEIGHTS

–

There isn’t anything quite like a dip into the frigid waters of the Atlantic Ocean on a winter afternoon and thousands of people came out again to do just that for this year’s Polar Bear Plunge at Seaside Heights presented by New Jersey Law Enforcement.

The effort is part of the year-round fundraising of Law Enforcement Torch Run events and involves individuals, organizations, and businesses who support Special Olympics New Jersey athletes by jumping into the ocean. Registration started at 9 a.m. and parking started to dwindle around the borough especially around Blaine Avenue where the registration area was.

By 12:30 p.m. the boardwalk was crowded with thousands of spectators, many of them were bundled up. Plungers carried towels and other items as they headed towards the entry point of the beach at 315 Boardwalk. The 1 p.m. whistle alerted them it was

time to hit the water on the main beach between Webster and Dupont Avenues. Plungers had to individually raise a $110 minimum to a $125 minimum depending on when you registered to participate rated. You could be an “Early Bear,” “Now I’m Ready Bear” or an “Almost Missed It Bear.” Those registered picked up their perk items of hoodies or sweatshirts and there was other merchandise you can buy.

Approximately 7,500 people made up of around 570 teams plunged into the icy surf raising more than a combined $2.5 million to benefit Special Olympics New Jersey. Including spectators, around 65,000 people came out to boardwalk.

One plunge team from Bloomfield who have a house in Ocean Beach III made a terrible discovery while walking on Hancock Avenue to reach the beach for the plunge - they had no towels. They’ve been plunging for 10 years now. “We are a two-member team, the

(Polar PlungeSee Page 4)

Photo courtesy Central Regional

Photo

Wound Kits:

Continued From Page 1

staff members at the two schools were trained on using the kits by Baran, who is also the Director of Emergency Services in Manchester, and his team.

Survival+ For Schools created the 45-minute training course. This made participants eligible to receive Certificates

Polar Plunge:

Frozen Frascatis,” said Robert John Frascati, who plunged with his son Rob Frascati.

The support team was made up of Jessica Leone and Joni Frascati. “We forgot the towels but we did remember the beer,” Leone said. “We’ve been jumping in the ocean for years now. It’s good for the soul, it feels good,” Rob Frascati said.

His father added, “We have a special needs child in our family. My nephew is autistic so it is a good cause.”

“It will be a cold day for these guys,” Leone added noting the lack of towels and their robes. Some simply wore bathing suits; others came in costumes to bring attention to themselves and to make the occasion just a bit more fun and entertaining. There was a team of Vikings and chickens.

Among the many returning polar plunge teams were the New Jersey Knights of Columbus Penguins whose goal was to reach $70,000. The Bayshore Shrinky Dinks were back and they sought to reach a donation total of $75,000.

The 2nd Avenue Freeze-Out Team had the ambitious goal of getting $100,000 in donations and had reached over $85,000 by February 19.

Lacey resident Diana Scioscia MacKenzie is a veteran plunger. “It has been 16 years of

History

:

Continued From Page 1

Abdullah stressed, “we must be more diligent in telling our history and that it not be modified with books being banned. Education is so important. I believe that has a lot to do with how people feel about other people because they don’t know the contributions. They go by what other people tell them. It is important for you to read it yourself. It is important that the next generation understands the contributions of African Americans to this country,” she added. The recent event ran for three and a half hours. One usual fixture, the Toms River Step Team, were unable to perform this year. “They have been here many, many times,” Abdullah said. In their absence, Mills stepped in to engage the audience with a Black History trivia contest. Mills is an actor and writer and he

of Completion from the program developed by the American College of Surgeons.

“Training on how to use these wound kits are crucial to the safety of all staff and students in the district,” said Baran, who plans to offer another training this spring to staff who have not yet been certified.

Carney-Ray Yoder was happy the district received enough money to purchase the first 40 kits. Her goal is to raise enough money

plunging for my team, Polar Pride. We are freezing for a reason and we started in 2010 when I was the principal of the Waretown Elementary School. We started with a team of three and at one point we grew to a team of 15.”

“This year our team is made up of five members, four of which have plunged with me in the past. One is a former staff member from my school, one is a friend who was a police dispatcher for 25 years, another friend who has been plunging with us for years and a family member of my colleague,” she added. She said another plunger who is a teacher and who registered as a single, “asked to join our team and of course I said yes.” That made six members. “We have raised $72,605 since we started.”

Bob Woods of Edison Township dressed up as a pirate this year. He provided a tip to those plunging for the first time stating, “I’ve done this for 20 years, don’t go in a little at a time just run in all at once. Also, wear water shoes and protect your feet.”

The event wouldn’t be the same without the official “Polar Bear” of the plunge portrayed by Joe Sarnoski, a retired police captain from Lyndhurst, who once again served as the event’s mascot.

He cheered people on in his polar bear costume and had his photo taken with many plungers and attendees before, after and even during the plunge.

provided a dramatic interpretative piece, Dreamweaver: The Works of Langston Hughes. During his presentation he interpreted classic Hughes poems including “I’ve Known Rivers,” “Mother to Son,” “Theme for English B” and “I, Too,” along with lesser-known but powerful odes such as “Merry Go Round” and “Advice,” and short stories including “Thank You Ma’am” and “Rock, Church.”

The Bronx Historical Society’s poet in residence has performed the works of Langston Hughes for 20 years. He is a recipient of the Langston Hughes Society Award.

Among his four published poetry collections, “Boneyarn,” an examination of slavery in New York, won the North American Book Award.

His performance was sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean County Library –Toms River Branch. “We feel it is very important to do this in collaboration with

to purchase a kit for every classroom and high traffic areas including gymnasiums and auditoriums.

“I am excited to make the delivery of the first wound safety kits to Central Regional, said Krentzman, the founder of Survival+ For Schools, a not-for-profit. “As more donations come in, I look forward to supplying the district with more kits in the future.”

Make Our Schools Safe, founded by the

family of Alyssa Alhadeff, who was killed at the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, donated $10,000 to purchase the safety kits. To raise the remaining $38,000 to purchase more kits, the district is encouraging community members to donate on a secure website: centralreg.k12.nj.us/article/1559322 For more information, visit survivalplusforschools.org

Seaside Heights Mayor Anthony Vaz told Jersey Shore Online.com that the borough loves to support charitable events such as the recently held Cupid Chase 5K, Cupid Undie Run and of course the NJ Polar Bear Plunge is the big one. “We do a lot more security too, being precautionary and proactive. They are all good events for good causes and people within our state and out of state contribute and it goes toward good things that are happening.”

“These are all charity events and we vet them and find out what they are all about as we don’t want to take any chances,” he added.

Seaside Heights has hosted the event for many

years. New Jersey 101.5 is another long-time sponsor along with the New Jersey State PBA and the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics New Jersey. This marked the 32nd year for the huge fundraiser which has a number of regular sponsors like Wawa whose workers served up free hot coffee and hot chocolate to one and all. For over 55 years, Special Olympics New Jersey has provided year-round sports training and athletic competition in 24 Olympic-type sports for thousands of children and adults with intellectual disabilities, completely free of charge.

the library because it is the library where you come for information,” Abdullah added

The Toms River Area NAACP can be

reached via e-mail at bahiyyah@aol.com and you can visit the national website naacp.org for information as to how to join the organization.

Official “Polar Bear” Joe Sarnoski, serves as the Polar Bear Plunge mascot joining a plunge team for a photo before the big plunge on the oceanfront of Seaside Heights.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Toms River Area NAACP members serve up some delicious food in the Green Room at the Toms River branch of the Ocean County Library during the recent 25th Annual Black History Month celebration program.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

From Pain To Purpose: An Officer’s Fight For Change After Sexual Assault

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – As a sergeant with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, Shannon Dugan has heard her share of harrowing stories during her time assigned to the courthouse. But nothing could have prepared her for the trauma she suffered

herself. Now, a survivor of sexual assault, Dugan is transforming her experience into a powerful platform for change, advocating for safer environments in places where people should feel most secure.

Dugan’s ordeal began in April 2016 during a work trip to St. Louis, Missouri. She

stayed at the Hyatt Regency, where a hotel security guard used a master key to enter her room and assault her as she slept. The man, David Allen White, instead of facing a criminal trial, pleaded guilty to sexual abuse and burglary and is now a registered sex offender.

The incident left Dugan reeling, but the aftermath, the handling of the case by the hotel, and the discovery of negligent hiring practices by Hyatt would ultimately fuel her determination to seek justice.

“I came forward because something has to change,” Dugan said. “If I didn’t go to the police that day, he could have continued. People think they’re safe in hotels, but they’re not always.”

Holding Hyatt Accountable

Dugan agreed to an interview on the condition that she would not be requested to recount the traumatic details of her assault. Her healing journey has already suffered the perils of re-victimization of the event from the moment she reported the incident to hotel staff.

“When I went to them and told them that someone was in my room, they told me that I needed a subpoena for the things I asked for,” Dugan said. “I had to take myself to the police station in St. Louis, which is different than going to local police here

because there’s so many precincts.”

Fortunately, Dugan was with a work colleague who’d attended the same work conference in St. Louis. Dugan said she had to tell her story at least eight times before she was finally referred to the special victims unit. A small smile crossed her face as she remembered that the unit was located on Olive Street - a detail that felt like a sign, as her grandmother’s middle name was Olive.

As the investigation unfolded, Dugan felt unsettled, prompting her to seek legal counsel as she began to suspect that something was wrong with the way that Hyatt was handling the assault. Her civil case against Hyatt was ultimately tried by the Kansas City-based law firm Davis, Bethune & Jones, LLC, with Scott S. Bethune serving as lead counsel on her behalf.

The trial lasted four days, which Dugan described as an incredibly difficult experience. However, there were two key positives to come from the proceedings. First, she did not have to face her assailant in the courtroom. Second, the jury of twelve listened carefully and ultimately delivered a verdict that validated her ordeal. They not only recognized the harm inflicted by (Officer - See Page 16)

Ocean County Sheriff’s Officer Sergeant Shannon Dugan as she appeared in a recent interview to discuss her plans to help others as a result of her own sexual assault by a hotel security guard.

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

FEATURED LETTER

Encouraging Lasting Environmental Connections

In a town like Brick, where its ecosystems and shorelines depend on environmental awareness and protection, there remains a surprising absence of collective action to uphold it. As a recent graduate of Brick Township High School, the past few months away from my hometown, and the new angles presented to me by Dickinson College have made me recognize how far removed from realistic environmental activism and education I had become over time. I had begun to take for granted the uniqueness of the Jersey Shore landscape. While both my high school and Lake Riviera Middle School offer a Green Team that strives to decrease the negative environmental impacts caused by the school community; neither troupe has strong membership or activity outside of the

Stop The Lacey Board Of Education From Living In Debt

Plan now to vote and say NO on March 11th, 2025 to any more school tax increases by referendum. Don’t forget this same governing body just voted to raise property taxes 9.9% in 2024. Let them fix the roofs with YOUR money that they already have.

$92 million is an exorbitant amount of money to be borrowing. Just because a debt is

school. Current students of Brick and the Ocean County area may feel like me, with a drive to help and do better for my environment, but do not know how or believe there are the resources to do so. The lack of engagement may weaken the collective sense of responsibility that would bring a community together to make a change. This is part of a larger concern: the field of environmental protection and awareness has become too academized and would benefit from catering to and engaging young members of the community.

Additionally, with less than 3% of BTHS students involved in the Green Team, it is unclear how much action or impact they have within our school or community. During my high school career, I saw little to no information or advertisements for the activities or events the green team was

hosting. This led me to feel very distant from my community, a feeling many Brick students may have. This can be reflected in our school’s overall science proficiency, 17% lower than New Jersey’s average. Differences like this emphasize the importance of directly addressing local issues to encourage students to feel empowered to act in their own community. While it may feel insignificant, there are numerous ways to practically implement environmental education in our schools.

The beginning of remediation lies in empowering schools to be a source of environmental education and involvement. Expanding student involvement in their environment past “green teams” and into their daily lives could make a significant difference. This could be implemented differently depending on the student’s

grade and school. A shortterm option could be providing students with extra credit or other incentives to attend beach clean-ups, town meetings, or restoration projects; there are many challenges and setbacks to taking only one approach. Since most schoolage children are not able to freely attend events at other locations since they may not have transportation, it would fail to provide a well-rounded and consistent environmental comprehension to Brick residents.

Practical integration could look as simple as designating language arts teachers thirty minutes a week to talk about the current events specific to our area or providing science teachers an opportunity to introduce and enforce environmental literacy routinely so that it is a habit by the time students reach high school. For example, a 2020 study

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

done on schools that prioritize sustainability education improved the well-being of the students and the community at large. While the Brick school district teaches environmental awareness, it is often large-scale, and not explicitly pertinent to Ocean County or New Jersey. Introducing students to smaller, bite-sized pieces of information about their local ecosystem could increase retention of environmental activism throughout the community; presenting students with easily digestible knowledge about their surroundings makes it far less intimidating to take the first step and become more active in the community. Now is the best time to do something about it. Students are back in classrooms full time, and it only takes a few classes or changes in schedule to integrate environmental

literacy into a classroom and into a student’s mind for a lifetime. Promoting and rewarding positive behavior in the classroom during elementary and middle school, such as environmental education, can encourage students to integrate it into their lives and can eventually become a part of citizen’s morality. Starting with small steps like this can promote the following generations to be active and conscious of what is happening in their local and global environment. Ultimately, Brick’s fragile ecosystems, and many others like it, will not be maintained for even the very next generation if youth are not encouraged to become active and do their part for the community.

Lily Graziano Brick

being paid off doesn’t mean it’s time to incur another huge debt. Even if the State kicks in 40%, the taxpayers are still liable for the rest!

Remember, they already took a 9.9% tax increase in 2024 - far and above the 2% allowed by the property tax cap.

Just look at page 124 (Exhibit J-19) in the NJ DOE required Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (AFCR): nj.gov/education/finance/fp/ acfr/search/24/2480.pdf It clearly shows a minimal

The Berkeley 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 verification. 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 reflect 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.

amount of money for maintenance of their buildings. They let the roofs continue to leak even though problems began only 6 years after the 2009 solar project - the public was assured the roofs and panels would last 20 years! It was all baloney. Now the current architect, FVHD, said those roofs were only 15 year roofs! Clearly the public was lied to in 2009. Worse yet, this new referendum plan calls for throwing away the solar panels on all 6 buildings before they are even paid for. That bond isn’t finished until 2029.

Funds in the operating budget were purposely diverted from maintenance to cover salaries and benefits due to poor board union negotiation skills. How do I know this? I was a witness to it all with my 6 years on the Lacey School Board.

I welcome the opportunity to speak to anyone about this matter. The people speaking PRO referendum are mostly staff. Don’t believe themthey do what they’re told. Anyone that wants to ask me questions, feel free to call:

Cell (609) 290-5125 Home: 609-693-6454 (9AM-9PM)

Federal Cuts Will Hurt Everyone

I am beside myself sitting back watching what has transpired the last 20 days or so. I do agree that spending is out of control. The way our President and Elon Musk are going about is reprehensible. Elon Musk has absolutely no business in the position he has been given. Let me lay out what has taken place so far.

Funding cuts:

Energy Bills - Clean energy grants (renewable energy is cheaper)

Housing - cut dozens of programs that reduce costs, including loan guarantees that keep rates lower. Makes it harder for people to pay rent or get a mortgage.

Transportation - cut vital clean transportation programs Climate and Environmental - nonprofit organizations already blocked from federal

funding

Jobs and Manufacturingjeopardizing thousands of middle class union job workers repairing infrastructure, apprentices learning a trade will likely see education interrupted and students in federally supported financial aid programs.

Disaster Relief - FEMA is on the chopping block Medicaid - planned to be cut to pay for tax cuts for the rich. $880 billion in cuts.

Military - drastic budget cuts over next five years. 8% each year for the next five years

IRS - workers face major layoffs

National Parks - major layoffs - 1,000 newly hired employees who take care of cleaning and maintaining parks and educating visitors

JFK Library in Boston closes DEI programs

Employees Dismissed: Department of Veterans Affairs - 1,000 Education Department - 39 (education specialists and student aid officials. $900 million in cuts for Institute of Educational Services) Energy Department - 350

employees from National Nuclear Security Administration Department of Health and Human Services - 700 employees

Department of Homeland Security - 130 employees of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

Foreign Aid and Development - 90 day hold on most foreign assistance. This includes emergency food programs and military aid. U.S. funded humanitarianism , development and security programs stopped work. Federal grants and loanscould cause major disruption in health care research and education programs

Department of Justice - fired more than a dozen employees who worked on criminal prosecution of Trump. Please pay attention. It will affect everyone in one way or another. Call your congressmen, senators, governors and mayors. Whether you voted Republican or Democrat this is not how America operates.

Barbara Flannery Bayville

Regina Discenza Forked River

S potlight o n g overnment

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

Bill Would Address Electric Rate Increases

Capitol Comments

TRENTON - Electric public utilities would be prohibited from increasing the rate charged to ratepayers to recover the cost of installing smart meters under legislation (S-4096 and A-5299) introduced by Senator Carmen Amato, Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre.

The legislative initiative introduced by Amato, Rumpf and Myhre mirrors a bill package introduced by U.S. Congressman Jefferson Van Drew representing the 2nd Congressional District.

To protect ratepayers’ rights, the legisla-

tion requires electric public utilities to publish the following information on its internet website and in any customer communication, including, but not limited to, a paper or electronic bill: the amount and effective date of the rate increase; the reasons for the rate increase; an explanation of any anticipated impact on ratepayer bills, including, but not limited to, a clear statement of the percentage by which ratepayer bills are expected to increase; and information on how ratepayers can provide feedback on the impact or file a complaint concerning the rate increase.

Amato, Rumpf and Myhre issued the following statement:

“Skyrocketing electric costs have created a crisis as thousands of blindsided ratepay-

ers simply cannot afford to pay their electric bills. Our legislation takes on even greater importance with the announcement that electric rates will be increasing in June of this year.

“New Jersey needs to take immediate and decisive action to prevent additional electric rate increases or else prepare to see thousands of residents out on the street because they cannot afford to pay their electric bill in addition to their already high property tax bills. Utility assistance programs can only help people so much and that’s even if the ratepayer qualifies.

“Our district office has received many complaints from constituents who reported sharp increases in their electric bill shortly after having a smart meter installed. In response, we’ve joined with Congressman Van Drew to take legislative action to address the financial hardships wrongly being imposed on ratepayers, including those

who are forced to choose between buying medication or paying their utility bill.

“Excessive utility rate increases will only continue to hollow out the state’s middle class and place retirees into poverty. Trenton needs to place a freeze on requests by utility companies for excessive rate increases that threaten the financial security of ratepayers. Meanwhile, our Delegation is ready and willing to work in a bipartisan manner to enact legislative initiatives to control, to the greatest extent possible, utility costs as the current situation has become dire for many.”

The 9th District Delegation’s legislation also would prohibit an electric public utility from disconnecting electric service or assessing a late fee for bill nonpayment to any ratepayer affected by a rate increase resulting in an average increase of five percent or greater of ratepayer bills within six months following that rate increase.

Senator: Cuts To USAID Makes Us Weaker

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON D.C. – Senator Andy Kim condemned the Trump administration’s freeze on foreign aid and gutting of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for the detrimental impact it will have on American global strength and security. During a hearing of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Senator Kim emphasized the longstanding bipartisan support behind American foreign aid and development work, and the need to end the Trump administration’s dismantling to preserve the credibility and strength of the American handshake globally.

The hearing focused on U.S. foreign aid and featured Michael Shellenberger, Founder of Public News, and William Ruger, President of the American Institute for Economic Research.

“I worked at USAID. I worked at the Pentagon. I worked at the State Department. I’ve been a part of the 3 D’s of our foreign policy, of defense, diplomacy, and development, and seen that in action. So, I disagree the idea that the type of power, the type of influence that we are trying to move forward on at USAID

doesn’t matter…” Senator Kim stated. “It was the work that we were doing through USAID that was able to get some of our diplomatic efforts and including our military efforts in a better position.”

Senator Kim cited President Ronald Reagan and Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s own advocacy for USAID’s value to American security, stating that, “[Ronald Reagan] said, ‘the ultimate importance to the United States of our security and development assistance programs cannot be exaggerated.’…Our current Secretary of State also said, ‘we don’t have to give foreign aid, but we do so because it furthers our national interests.’”

Senator Kim concluded: “What we are talking about here is efforts to end a longstanding bipartisan understanding of our strength as a global leader.”

Senator Kim also criticized the unnecessary and shameful demonization of public servants at USAID who have sworn an oath to this country and are serving in difficult and dangerous places, sharing that, “some of them don’t know how they are going to get back home right now because of how quickly all of this has been shut off.”

Senator Kim is a member of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; the Committee on

Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP); the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs; and the Special Committee on Aging. Before being elected to the U.S. Senate, Kim rep -

resented New Jersey’s Third Congressional District in the U.S. House and was a career public servant working in national security and diplomacy at the White House, State Department, and Pentagon.

WHAT IS PRESBYOPIA?

Ordinarily, the eye’s lens is flexible—it changes shape to help us see objects in focus at different distances. When we look at objects from a distance, the muscle around the lens relaxes; when we see objects up close, the lens constricts and changes focus. Presbyopia is an age-related condition in which the lens hardens and becomes less flexible, making it more difficult to focus on close objects. Presbyopia occurs gradually and usually becomes noticeable after age 40 and will continue to decline until about age 65. The need to hold reading material at a distance is a tell-tale sign a person has the symptoms of presbyopia. The condition can be abated with corrective lenses or corrected through surgery. If you do not correct presbyopia, you may be bothered by headaches and eye strain. For patients undergoing cataract surgery, there are many different types of intraocular lenses that can be used to correct presbyopia. 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. Presbyopia is not the same as farsightedness (hyperopia). Although the two conditions share the same symptoms, the former is caused by a hardening lens while the latter is caused by a cornea that lacks curvature.

(732) 972-1015

(732) 349-5622

www.oceancountyeye.com

Disclaimer: Micromedia Publications has always provided a space in its newspapers to provide a place for readers to learn what their elected officials are doing. These items are lightly edited for such things as punctuation and grammar but are mostly unchanged from the source. These press releases are the politicians’ own views, not that of Micromedia Publications. We cannot vouch for the accuracy of information that these politicians are providing, and readers are encouraged to keep an open mind and consider multiple sources.

Carmen F. Amato, Jr. 9th Legislative District

Senator Andy Kim

Basketball Game Raises Funds For A Good Cause

BERKELEY – At Central Regional School District, we know how to have fun, especially when it’s for a great cause.

This year’s class of 2027 fundraiser saw Cen-

Photo courtesy Central Regional tral Regional Middle School and High School “staffulty” face off on the basketball court. The price of admission went to the class and towards Toys for Tots. Over 250 toys were collected!

T.J. Fallon Presents: “Presidential And Vice-Presidential Election Losers”

BERKELEY – Just in time for the “Ides of March.” Join the Berkeley Township Historical Society as we travel around the United States with T.J. Fallon and his son, in search of “Dead History.”

T.J. Fallon and his son have visited historic gravesites, historic locations, and sites of infamous events, birthplaces, places of death. Why stop there? They have also visited Hall of Famers gravesites, birthplaces, child -

hood homes. As well as the locations/sites of where former ballparks used to stand! His channel is dedicated to remembering “Dead History.”

Presentation will be on March 13 at the Berkeley recreation room. General meeting begins at 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. All Berkeley Township Historical Society presentations are open to the public and free of charge.

High School Drama Presents “Legally Blonde The Musical”

BERKELEY – Central Regional High School Drama Presents “Legally Blonde the Musical!” “Legally Blonde” follows the story of sorority president Elle Woods as she crosses the country on a mission to find love at Harvard Law School. After discovering how the law can be used to

help others, she uses her new found skills to defend a workout queen in a murder trial, defying the odds and proving that pink can save the day!

Show dates are: March 13, 14, 15 at 7 p.m. and March 16 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available now! Purchase at: centralreg.booktix.com.

Boys And Girls Swim Conclude Successful Season

BERKELEY – The boys and girls swim season have both concluded. The boys finished with a 6-3 record while the girls finished the season at 5-3.

The boys Swim team qualified for the state tournament and lost to Cherry Hill West 76 to 94. The boys team was led by Drew Westhoven and finished 4th place at the Shore Conference Swim Meet. Drew placed 2nd in both the 100 freestyle and the 500 freestyle. He along with Aidan Wenzel, Chase Corbett, and Kaden Stout finished 2nd in the 200 medley relay and 3rd in the 400 freestyle

courtesy Central Regional relay. Aidan Wenzel also finished in 5th place in the 100 backstroke and 7th place in the 200 IM.

The girls team placed 9th at the Shore Conference Swim meet. Ella Westhoven for placed 3rd in the 100 freestyle and 6th in the 100 breaststroke. Graceanna Rizzo placed 6th in the 200 free. The relay team of Graceanna Rizzo, Ella Westhoven, Danica Barron, and Amelia Wenzel placed 6th in the 400 freestyle relay and the team of Graceanna Rizzo, Ella Westhoven, Danica Barron, and Carly O’Brien placed 7th in the 200 freestyle relay.

Track Teams Are Having A Record Setting Season

BERKELEY – The boys track team has had a busy season. At the VA Showcase in Virginia Beach, Nnaemeka Amaechina finished 10th in the invitational triple jump against nationally ranked competition.

This season, Nnaemeka has jumped 23’1.75” in long jump and 45’10” in triple jump. He is the #1 long jumper in the state and the #5 triple jumper in the state.

Dominic Prasad has jumped 6’2” in high jump this season, which qualified him for Nike Indoor Nationals in March.

Javier Sanchez and TJ Snyder have led the distance team with a pair of sub-5 minute miles, running 4:49 and 4:54 respectively.

Zach Cramer has been the team’s best thrower this season with an indoor personal best mark of 42’3”.

The pole vault trio of Fran Adamo, Aiden Roder, and Danny Troncoso have scored crucial team points this season in the difficult event. Aiden Roder also placed 6th in the Shore Conference with a lifetime best

jump of 11’6”.

The team enters the postseason with their eyes set on continued success at the state and national level.

Girls track and field traveled to Virgina for the Virgina showcase and had a banner weekend. They set or broke five school records at the meet.

Alana Napolitano won the shot put and broke the school record with a throw of 37’0.25”. Breyanna Sullivan Broke the 300 school record with a time of 43.55. Samantha Boyle, Channce Morrison, Ciara Lohmann, and Maycie Trieney set the 4x55 Hurdle record with a time of 42.22.

The 4x200 team of Addison Frulio, Samantha Boyle, Breyanna Sullivan and Jorydan Buccos broke the record set in 2012 with a time of 1:50.15.

Last came Frosh Kaitlyn Ytreboe who broke the 1000m record with a time of 3:25.69. During championship weeks we expect to see a few more records fall. Congratulations girls.

Photo

Boys Bowling Placed 2 nd At Eastern Game Of Throws

– The Central Regional boys bowling team secured an impressive 2nd place at the Eastern Game of Throws recently.

Despite being 5-11 the team has secured the #4 seed in the NJSIAA Group 3 South

courtesy Central Regional Jersey Tournament. They along with the girls bowl in one of the toughest divisions in the state.

Anchoring the team this year has been Shore Conference Individual tournament participant Josh Sommers with a 199.33 average

Girls Bowling Ranked 16th In State

BERKELEY – Despite an 8-8 record, the Central Regional Girls Bowling team is ranked 16th in the state and is seeded #2 in South Jersey Group 3 NJSIAA Bowling Tournament.

The team has been collecting some hardware over the past few weeks as they placed 3rd at this year’s Ocean County Team

Photo courtesy Central Regional Challenge, 2nd place at the Eastern Game of Throws Invitational, and earning 5th place (of 22 teams) at the CJWC tournament. During that time, Morgan Hawks bowled the highest female game on the state this year with a 290. Sophomore Rachael Crick has the highest average on the team with a 179.06.

BERKELEY

Photo

Girls Basketball Gaining Momentum As Season Nears End

BERKELEY – The Central Regional girls basketball team has won 4 of its last 10 games. Within the stretch the team had a thrilling victory over Donovan Catholic on senior night. With five seconds left in the game, Donovan was on the free throw line. Emma Christensen rebounded the ball after the miss and was fouled with four seconds left in the game and she would be sent to

Photo courtesy Central Regional the free throw line with two free throws and the team down by one point. Emma would make both free throws and secure a 34-33 comeback win.

Emma led all scorers with 11 points and Senior Vita Kelyman had 10 points. Senor Ava Schmidhauser had two clutch three pointers and Senior Addison Nolan chipped in five huge points.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Dinner

BERKELEY – Save the date for Holiday City at Berkeley’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Dinner on March 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. at HCB Clubhouse 2. Celebrating Irish heritage with food, music, and games! Cost is $15 per person.

Dinner includes corned beef and cabbage, Irish soda bread, coffee and dessert. For tickets and information, contact Patty Lang, Recreation Committee Chair, at 732236-3914. Sign up at ticket sales on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday CH1 from 12 to 1 p.m.

Bayville School Adult Bingo & Gift Auction

BERKELEY – The Bayville School PTA will be hosting Adult Bingo & Gift Auction on March 21 at Bayville School. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Bingo starts 7 p.m. Admission is $25. Auction Presale Ticket

Bundle $30. In person sales begin March 6 at 3:15 p.m. in the school vestibule.

To make a donation, visit: signupgenius.com/go/70A0C48A4AB22A4FF2-51539085-bayville

Register Your Unlicensed Dogs And Cats

PINE BEACH – The Borough of Pine Beach wants to remind residents that it’s time to register unlicensed dogs and cats. A $10 late fee begins April 1. Stop by today with proof of rabies vaccination to be

licensed. (599 Pennsylvania Avenue) Further action for unlicensed animals to follow. Rabies vaccination must be valid through October 31, 2025 to obtain a license. For more information, call 732-349-6425.

SRO Appreciated At Ocean Gate School

OCEAN GATE – The Ocean Gate School wanted to take a minute and thank their SRO, Officer Vinnie for everything that he does for the school community. The School Resource Officer assignment is unique within the law enforcement profession. These sworn law enforcement officers fill a three-part role, serving as informal

Photo courtesy Ocean Gate School mentors or counselors, law educators, and law enforcement officers to support the students and communities they serve. They are valuable and essential members of the education community who deserve unwavering respect and support from the public in the pursuit of keeping schools and students safe.

The Silverback Gorilla: The Largest Primate On Earth

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

There are two subspecies of gorilla, the western lowland gorilla and the eastern lowland gorilla. Within the western lowland gorilla subspecies is the cross river gorilla. Inside the eastern lowland gorilla subspecies lives the mountain gorilla. The eastern lowland gorilla is largest, followed by the mountain gorilla, and the smallest being the cross river gorilla.

Since gorillas live in groups/families, their leader is a mature male having a grayish white hairline around the shoulders and back. This male is referred to as a silverback. At maturity, which is approximately 8 years of age, they will leave the group on their own or group up with other males. Male gorillas beyond juvenile age but not old enough to be a silverback are considered a blackback. Once a male gorilla reaches the age of 12 or 13, their hair on the back and shoulders makes the transition to grayish white.

Like many other animals living in groups, the older males will look to become a dominant member of a group to call its own. Silverbacks are no exception. They will live around a particular group before attempting to take it over,

dethroning the existing silverback. If he doesn’t succeed, is not stronger than his opponent, he will try to steal females from that group to form his own. Note that not all males who are silverbacks will choose to leave a group. Instead, will continue within the family abiding by the control of the single silverback leader. He is in complete control of the group, indicating when to rest and eat. His leadership entitles him to female access and mating with all females.

The weight of a silverback gorilla is approximately two times the weight of an adult man. They possess a higher amount of muscle mass, making them incredibly strong. Unless threatened, they lead by example and charisma. He is a peaceful creature, with a lifespan of 35 to 40 years.

The largest threat to gorillas is human disease, the destruction of habitat and poaching for meat.

I gathered 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.

p oli C e B lotter

Driver Crashes Into House, Injuring Resident

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY –

A driver had a medical episode, lost control of their vehicle, and crashed into a home, resulting in injuries to themselves and a resident in the house, police said.

The crash took place just before 4:30 p.m. on February 20. Police said a Cadillac SUV was being driven south on Driftwood Drive in the Sylvan Lakes neighborhood. The driver had a medical episode, causing them to run through a stop sign and colliding with the front of the house at 130 Sylvan Lake Boulevard.

The driver sustained injuries from the

crash, and had to be extricated from the vehicle by the Bayville Fire Department. They were brought to Community Medical Center in Toms River.

The resident was on her day bed at the time of the collision. She was thrown across the room and covered in debris. Her injuries appear to be minor, and she was taken to Community for evaluation.

The house was significantly damaged, and the building inspector said it was deemed unsafe at this time, police said.

The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department CSI also responded. The crash remains under investigation.

Celebrate Pine Beach Founders Day And 100th Anniversary

PINE BEACH – Pine Beach Preservation Society hosts Founders Day and 100th Anniversary Celebrations, come and join to celebrate Pine Beach!

March 24 at 6:30 p.m. – Founders Day and 100th Anniversary recognition during Borough Council Work Meeting at the Pine Beach Borough Hall. Mayor Cuneo and the Borough Council members will kick off the Founders Day and 100th Anniversary celebrations with a Proclamation Presentation. Cake and refreshments will be served. Community is requested and encouraged to attend this kick off Celebration.

March 25 beginning at 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Pine Beach Borough Hall – Come enjoy free refreshments and give-a-ways while enjoying artwork depicting scenes of Pine Beach by our local artists from the Pine

Beach Elementary School.

From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the Celebration continues with a Pine Beach Founders Day Reception at Pine Beach Yacht Club. We will be serving lite fare, wine and desserts. At 7 p.m. there will be a short presentation by Gretchen Coyle, an active member of the New Jersey Maritime Museum and freelance writer who recently wrote an Asbury Park Press article highlighting Pine Beach. A donation of $10 per person payable through Zeffy: zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ pine-beach-founders-day-reception-atpine-beach-yacht-club.

Be sure to follow the Pine Beach Preservation Society’s Facebook page for exciting events planned all year long to celebrate the Borough of Pine Beach Centennial: facebook.com/pinebeachpreservationsociety.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

Best Treatments For Tinnitus In 2025

There are several promising options for tinnitus.

Bimodal Neuromodulation Device: Lenire was approved by the FDA in 2023. This system delivers mild electrical pulses to the tongue while playing sounds through headphones. This dual stimulation aimed to retrain brain pathways, reducing tinnitus symptoms. Not everyone is a candidate for Lenire. However, those that qualify show at least an 80% improvement in tinnitus symptoms.

Notched Music Therapy: This approach involves listening to music with specific frequencies filtered out, matching the tinnitus tone. Many individuals who experience tinnitus do not describe their tinnitus as a “tone.” Notched music therapy could take up to 12 month to show tinnitus relief.

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS): a non-invasive technique where electrodes deliver low electrical currents to the scalp, aiming

to reduce neural hyperactivity associated with tinnitus. Thus far, tDCS long term effectiveness needs to be studied in more detail.

Hearing Aids: if hearing loss is present, hearing aids can be very effective in reducing the overall loudness of tinnitus. The majority of hearing aids can incorporate tinnitus masking techniques including TRT. Studies indicate that approximately 60-80% of tinnitus patients experience a reduction in tinnitus perception when using hearing aids. Hearing aids not only reduce tinnitus loudness, but also improve communication, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being, leading to a better quality of life.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with honest answers about your hearing health care. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at 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!

Relay For Life Set For May 31

BERKELEY – Mark your calendar! May 31 to June 1 will be the annual Relay For Life of Berkeley/Lacey. Come together to honor the lives, touched by cancer at our Relay for Life event. This is a day to celebrate cancer survivors, remember

love ones lost and pray for those still fighting. Together, we can bring strength and hope to our community.

If you haven’t already done so sign up your team at relayforlife.org/berkeleynj. This year’s theme is sports and the rain date will be July 12.

Food Bank

BERKELEY - A food bank is held on the fourth Friday of every month from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Holiday City at Berkeley Clubhouse, located at 631 Jamaica Boulevard.

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

What To Take If You Take Statins: Avoiding Drug-Nutrient Depletion

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Statins are widely prescribed to lower cholesterol, but they come with a downside: They deplete key nutrients, increasing the risk of additional health issues. If you take statins, you need to know how to replenish these essential nutrients to avoid more diagnoses and diseases.

For example, hypothyroidism. It’s a new disease that develops after people start taking statins and there’s a reason for this. Statins can interfere with anyone’s thyroid function by depleting selenium, a critical mineral required for the production of thyroid hormones. Without enough selenium, the thyroid struggles to convert T4 (inactive thyroid hormone) into T3 (active thyroid hormone), potentially leading to hypothyroidism. Additionally, statins may contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress in the thyroid gland, further impairing its function and increasing the risk of sluggish metabolism, fatigue, and weight gain. I have a lot of information as well as thyroid-supporting supplements that I’ve custom formulated available at my website suzycohen.com. In the meantime, let’s talk about four other supplements that are easily available for you to find in case you take a statin. You’ll want to restore lost nutrients in order to offset the drug-nutrient depletion effect of this medication.

For more on this topic, see my book Drug Muggers sold on Amazon and book stores nationwide. Let’s start with Coenzyme Q10, the most important of all.

1. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) - Statins block an enzyme crucial for both cholesterol and CoQ10 production, leading to muscle pain,

weakness, and fatigue. Without sufficient CoQ10, you may be at greater risk for muscle disorders, chronic fatigue, and even heart failure. Taking 200 to 400 mg of CoQ10 daily, or about half that amount in the more absorbable ubiquinol form, can help counteract these effects.

2. Vitamin D - Statins may deplete vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.

Low vitamin D levels are linked to osteoporosis, frequent infections, autoimmune diseases, and depression. A daily dose of somewhere between 1,000 to 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 can help restore levels.

3. Magnesium - Statins interfere with magnesium levels, which are crucial for muscle function, heart health, and relaxation. Magnesium deficiency can lead to hypertension, migraines, muscle pain, arrhythmias, and even anxiety or insomnia. To replenish levels, taking 200 to 400 mg of magnesium glycinate or malate daily is recommended.

4. Probiotics - Statins can disrupt gut microbiota, leading to digestive and immune issues. Imbalances in gut bacteria can cause diarrhea, constipation, frequent infections, and even contribute to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

A high-quality probiotic with multiple strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, can help maintain gut health and immune function. If you’re taking statins, supplementing with these nutrients can help mitigate side effects and support overall health. To learn about the other four nutrients depleted by statins and how to restore them, visit my website and sign up for my free newsletter—I’ll email you the full blog with all the details!

(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.

Ocean Health Initiatives Inc. (OHI)

We are merging our Stafford site into our Little Egg Harbor location, effective April 1st 2025.

OHI’s Stafford Health Center and Pharmacy will be closed as of April 1, 2025.

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

OHI Little Egg Harbor Pharmacy, 798 Route 539, Little Egg Harbor, NJ 8087

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

Phone: (732) (609) 879-5696

Hours Of Operation: Mon. - Fri. 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM Pharmacy 7:00 AM-3:30 PM

:

White but also held the major corporation accountable for violating her right to safety and compounding her trauma afterward.

The verdict included $28 million in compensatory damages and $149 million in punitive damages. The court found Hyatt negligent in its hiring, training, and supervision of White, as well as in its handling of the aftermath of the assault.

Hyatt appealed the lower court’s verdict. However, in December 2024, the Missouri Court of Appeals upheld the $177 million jury verdict against Hyatt Hotels Corporation. The legal opinion issued by the Appellate Court provides more information concerning the court’s findings.

The Assault

According to the case documents, Dugan was in St. Louis on April 17, 2016, to attend a seminar on death investigations. After attending classes on April 18, she and a co-worker went to a Cardinals baseball game, followed by a visit to a nearby brewery in Ballpark Village. Returning to the hotel around 11 p.m., Dugan went to her room, showered, and went to bed.

Later that evening, her co-worker, unable to find his phone, speculated she might have it. At 11:30 p.m., he knocked on her door and tried calling her but got no response. Concerned, he contacted Hyatt security to request a wellness check.

shift in the hotel’s security room when the wellness check was requested. Despite Hyatt’s policy requiring two guards to conduct such checks, White volunteered to go alone after another guard stepped out for a break. Using his master key, White attempted to enter but was stopped by the room’s interior night latch. He then called hotel engineering to disengage the latch, entered the room alone, and claimed Dugan was unresponsive.

At 12:51 a.m., White left his post again without notifying anyone. He returned alone to Dugan’s room, unlocked the door with his master key, and sexually assaulted her as she slept. Dugan awoke to find White on top of her with his hands between her legs. Startled, she couldn’t immediately process the assault before White fled the room.

Shaken, Dugan sent herself a text message to document the time of the incident. She contacted the hotel front desk the following day, inquiring if someone had been in her room overnight. She was informed of the earlier wellness check and transferred to White, who admitted to conducting the check but concealed his later return and the assault.

Learning The Truth

such action for crimes committed on its property.

Detectives who came to the hotel after Dugan made her report learned there was security footage showing White entering Dugan’s room at the time of the assault. However, Hyatt declined to share the footage or lock interrogation records with the police, citing the need for approval from its risk management department. The hotel also failed to inform police when White contacted Hyatt’s human resources department the following day, stating he was leaving town.

Court records revealed significant gaps in Hyatt’s hiring and supervision of White. In 2015, White applied for a security position with Hyatt, which contracted an outside firm to perform a background check limited to criminal convictions in the preceding seven years. No convictions were found. However, Hyatt’s written policy required a more extensive criminal history search with no limitations on time or exclusions for arrests.

history or references, and no additional background checks were conducted after his initial hiring.

Continued From Page 5 (Officer - See Page 17)

During the trial, Hyatt’s human resources manager admitted under oath that the company would not have hired White or provided him with a master key had it been aware of his prior allegations. Additionally, Hyatt’s security director testified that the hotel failed to train its staff adequately and acknowledged that the assault occurred due to multiple breaches of Hyatt’s policies.

Speaking on the decision of the Appeals Court to uphold the verdict, attorney Bethune offered his gratitude. “This decision by the Missouri Court of Appeals reaffirms the jury’s determination that Hyatt’s conduct was not only negligent but reprehensible,” he said. “This ruling sends a powerful message that corporations must prioritize guest safety over profit and ensure their policies are rigorously enforced. We are grateful that the court has upheld justice for Ms. Dugan and validated the significance of this case.”

White is referred to by his initials in the court opinion as required by Missouri law, which states he was one of three on

Dugan sought evidence of the assault, requesting access to the lock interrogation record, which would have shown key activity for her room. Hyatt’s security director refused to provide the record and told her she would need to obtain a subpoena. The hotel did not report the incident to the police despite its written policy requiring

Had such a search been done, Hyatt would have discovered that White was investigated for masturbating in public in 2001, investigated for making harassing phone calls to a 13-year-old girl in 2003, arrested for deviate sexual assault and sodomy in 2005, and also investigated that same year for sexual abuse and harassing phone calls to a mentally disabled woman that same year.

Despite these red flags, White was hired after a brief interview in the hotel lobby. Hyatt failed to verify his employment

The Court of Appeals has already denied Hyatt’s request to transfer to the Missouri Supreme Court. Hyatt’s attorney, Susan F. Robertson, did not return calls for comment on whether the hotel chain plans to submit an application directly to the Missouri Supreme Court of Appeals.

Dugan hasn’t received any money but feels the appeals court did something extraordinarily valuable in upholding the verdict. They believed what was done to her – and held Hyatt responsible for their

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

A Contract Will May Be Beneficial For Blended Families

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

Often when preparing Wills for blended families, a question arises as to what happens if, after the death of the first spouse, the surviving spouse attempts to change their Will to exclude the family of the first spouse. A blended family is a family in which the parties have been previously married to other persons and each spouse has children from the prior marriage.

In many cases where there is a blended family, the two spouses are interested in first providing for the surviving spouse and then dividing the assets among their combined children. So, in those instances, each Will may say, “I leave all of my assets to my spouse and if my spouse passes away before me then equally to my children and my spouse’s children.” In such case, the parties intend that their surviving children divide the assets after the death of the surviving spouse. The first spouse passes away believing that his or her children will share in what is left in the combined estate when the surviving spouse passes away. However, what happens if, after the death of the first spouse, the surviving spouse changes his/her Will to reduce the share to the deceased spouse’s children or even excludes the deceased spouse’s children altogether?

One way to prevent this issue is to have the parties sign what is called a contract Will, or a reciprocal Will. In such a Will, the parties acknowledge that the terms

Officer

:

Continued From Page 16

actions – and inactions.

Turning Pain Into Purpose

Despite the challenges, Dugan has channeled her experience into a mission to prevent similar incidents. She plans to use her platform to advocate for better safety measures in hotels and other public spaces. Dugan finds it quite disturbing that her assailant had carte blanche access to 900 rooms without a proper background check or adequate supervision.

“The irony of it is that the very person you’re trusting to keep safe is the very person who violated me,” Dugan shared. Within a year after her own experience, Dugan was already out speaking at a Sexual Assault Awareness meeting to educate others on the importance of reporting their assaults.

“My only hope is that sharing something so personal,” said Dugan. “If just one person

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

of each will cannot be changes without the written consent of the other party. Therefore, once the first spouse passes away, the surviving spouse cannot change their Will since the predeceased spouse cannot give written consent. Similarly, if the first spouse became incompetent, the other spouse will be unable to change their Will because the first spouse is unable to give written consent. New Jersey law permits a contract Will if the terms of the Will are in writing setting forth the material provisions of the contract. Of course, both parties can change their Will so long as they both give written consent.

By using this form of Will, spouses in a blended family can make sure that their families are protected in the event they pass away first. However, like all things there are also drawbacks to a contract Will. Suppose that after the death of the first spouse, the surviving spouse has a legitimate need to change the Will?

A contract Will may prevent such a change, no matter how legitimate. Thus, a contract Will should only be prepared after consultation with an estate planning attorney who can outline the advantages and disadvantages of such a Will. Contact the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates with all your estate planning needs. (732) 505-1212.

speaks out that something happened to them or tries to go forward and not feel embarrassed, then sharing my story is worth it.”

Dugan also told other law enforcement officers about what happened to her as part of a class on resiliency. She found her colleagues to be accepting of her message.

“Police officers have a tough job, and rather than turning to alcohol or drugs to deal with stress,” said Dugan. “They want us to be resilient by doing different things.”

While Dugan admits she still has flashbacks and has a hard time dealing with what happened to her, she has turned her pain into a purpose.

“I just want to make a change. I just want women, first and foremost, to be confident and loving themselves enough to know that this is not right,” she said. “They shouldn’t have to worry about what other people are going to say or think, which is easier said than done. Any sort of violation like that is unacceptable, and at no point is it our fault.”

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I Buy Records - Cash paid, we answer the phone. Call Eddie at 732-829-5908. Records 33/45. Walt buys comics, toys & collectibles. Call 908-278-3782. (11)

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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)

"Stick With the Man That Covers Your Can! - Residential and Commercia Pump-outs FREE 1 year supply of enzyme treatment with each septic pump-out. Septic Inspections. Septic System Installations and All Repairs. Grease Traps installation and pump outs. Tank Abandonment and Demolition. 24 Hours Emergency Service! 732-244-0189. (5)

Gardeners Wanted – Work independently - garden maintenance, plant care, seasonal planting. Small gardens. Experi-enced or will train. Great business opportunity! Learn and grow. Call Joseph 732-232-8144. (12)

Anyone Interested In Having Their - Office, home or apartment cleaned, contact Diane. Honest and reliable. Free estimates. 845-762-9952. (49)

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)

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)

Monmouth & Ocean MOBILE NOTARY - I come to you. Text or email for rates and availabilty 732-887-6408, Rhansen0114@gmail.com. (13)

DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three 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)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations. Fully insured and licensed. Seniors 10% off any job $500 or more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (7)

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (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. (8)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (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. (4)

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

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:

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

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

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

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

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Auto For Sale

• Items For Sale • Items Wanted

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.

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)

CAR SERVICE - Specializing in Newark and Atlantic City Airports, Point Pleasant and Bay Head Train Station. Call Kevin 727-396-7820. (8)

DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK GOOD AND SHINE ? Call Lenny - Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (15)

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

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

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If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203.

Around the JerSey Shore

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Dates

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County residents again have the opportunity to clear their basements and garages of paint thinners, pool chemicals, gasoline and other hazardous materials during the county’s free Household Hazardous Waste Collection program beginning in April.

“Our first collection date this year is scheduled for April 6 at the Lakewood Department of Public Works,” said Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Frank Sadeghi, liaison to the county’s recycling program. “This is the first of six collection dates that will be held throughout the County.

“Our residents can attend any location,” he said. “We move the collection around the County to make sure accessing the program is convenient as possible so that hazardous items are disposed of properly.”

The following are the collection dates and locations for the program. The collection events are scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.:

• April 6 – Lakewood Department of Public Works, 1 America Avenue, Lakewood

• May 24 – Stafford Township Department of Public Works, 320 Haywood Road, Manahawkin

• June 21 – Manchester Township Department of Public Works, 1360 Route 70, Manchester Township

• September 6 – Toms River Fraternal Order of Police Lot, 1791 North Bay Avenue, Toms River

• October 12 – Jackson Township Municipal Lot, 95 W. Veterans Highway, Jackson Township

• November 2 – Long Beach Township Department of Public Works, 7910 Long Beach Boulevard, Long Beach Township

The program is open to all residents of Ocean County, but businesses and institutions are not eligible. Registration is required, and can be done online at co.ocean.nj.us/recycle, or by calling 732506-5047, if preferred. Proof of residency is also required.

The items that can be dropped off include aerosols, auto products, cleaning products, pool chemicals, compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), fire extinguishers, gasoline, pesticides/herbicides, mercury switches/ devices (thermostats), stains/thinners, polyurethanes, and polishes.

Items that are not accepted include electronics, cylinders (oxygen tanks), asbestos, radioactive materials (smoke detectors), infectious wastes, explosives (fireworks, gunpowder, boat flares), scrap metal and unknown materials.

All materials, with the exception of oil and gasoline, should be in the original containers. A limit of 200 pounds of dry materials and 20 gallons of liquid material is allowed per household. No containers larger than five gallons are accepted.

Ocean County has contracted with Radiac Environmental Services to oversee the collections at a disposal cost of $1.059 per pound. In 2024, the program collected 303,994 pounds of household hazardous waste, at a disposal cost of $385,768.

“The Ocean County Board of Commissioners started this program in 1989,” said the Director of the Board John P. Kelly. “It has been very successful over the years, protecting our homes and protecting our environment. Our residents begin calling about appointments before we even establish the annual calendar. I am pleased we can continue to bring this service to our citizens.”

Residents are also reminded that they can bring many items to their municipal recycling centers and the county’s regional recycling centers that allow year-round drop off of some materials. Those items include used paint, batteries, antifreeze, and waste oil. Residents can use the drop offs located at the Ocean County Northern Recycling Center in Lakewood, or the Southern Recycling Center located in Manahawkin from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Residents can check with their municipal recycling centers for information on what items can be dropped off.

photo of the week

Regardless of what the groundhog said, the warmer weather is just around the corner. No one knows that better than these three pets. Their owner Kathleen McCrossan said they are waiting for the birds to arrive. We are all tired of the cold too! Want to see your pics in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

We’d love to help you thrive during your golden years—let’s talk about how.

Come visit us and explore whether your plan supports the way you want to live.

Email: Heather@epafinancial.com 732.286.1000 www.epafinancial.com

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 State with conviction 7 Adventurous 11 Hit the slopes

Less abundant

Purple berry from Brazilian palms

Midmorning hour 17 State that’s an archipelago

18 Went on and on 20 Teatime treat topped with shaved ice? 22 Bistro 25 Spanish article

Wind quintet wind

Pub order

Played the part of

Put a stop to

Feature of King Arthur’s court?

Buffet fuel

Farfalle shape

Gaggle native to northern Italy? 45 Augment with su-

perfluous verbiage

“It’s __ good”

Biblical land west of Nod

Part of t.i.d., on an Rx

Lover of Aphrodite

Trainee’s bad habits?

Microscope blobs

Excuses 64 Folk singer DiFranco

Champagne designation

“That’s it for me!” 67 Drug in Michael Pollan’s “How to Change Your Mind” 68 Feed adequately 69 “Find another way out” sign and a feature of four answers in this puzzle Down 1 Tennis star Barty who announced her retire-

ment in 2022, familiarly 2 Day __

Adage

Wipe out

Halter attachment

Half a sextet

Rifle attachment 8 Anthem with the line “The True North strong and free” 9 Fabric with metallic

10 Turns down

Flashing light

Heavily into

“No doubt” 19 Prefix with friendly

Adorable 22 Some recyclables 23 Much

Big party 28 Doubleday incorrectly credited with inventing baseball 29 Knockoff 30 Westminster landmark 31 Tedious journeys

34 Bol. neighbor

35 Short-horned bighorn

38 Hot streak

39 Land in the water

40 Slithery fish

42 Chooses not to participate

43 Raise

44 South Asian garb

45 Epistolary friend

46 Festoons

47 Without, with “of”

51 Minor issue

53 Out of the way 55 Picnic discards

56 “The Snowy Day” Caldecott winner __ Jack Keats

57 Adam’s eldest

58 Red Muppet with a pet goldfish named Dorothy

61 Amazon.com delivery

62 Suffix on some pasta names

63 Good to go

(c)2025 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) : Your mind could be the center of your social activities. Hobbies, favorite pastimes, recreational activities, or your love life may be on your mind. An attitude of discipline and perseverance might help to propel you forward.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The intellectuals in your circle might not be exciting, but they may possess wisdom that could aid your success. You may be introduced and connected to friends and followers who can help you progress beyond your current situation.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Enjoy a lull that might seem like a lullaby while everything goes smoothly. While the pace of your everyday life may be quiet, you might consider taking a nap or reviewing your options. This could be a chance to reassess your long-term goals.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Keep an eye out for silver linings coming into your world. A positive attitude could attract more friends. Sentimental journeys, perhaps for a birthday celebration, may be more your style than getting caught up in emotional debates.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Despite any tension in your life, someone might be secretly supporting you from behind the scenes. People you know and the people they know could be the keys to a brighter future. Expect some help from unexpected places this week.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Harness the power of your dreams. This week, you might stumble upon the ideal chance to turn your ambitions into reality. Consider taking steps to focus your energy on productive endeavors rather than letting yourself drift, distract, or daydream.

FOR THE WEEK OF MAR 1 - MAR 7 BY

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Good news travels fast and it might be coming your way. You may seize an opportunity or accept an offer that could change your life. By staying neutral during emotional turmoil, you could make a positive shift this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Be grateful for your friends as well as your foes. Just as a burbling brook sounds sweet because of the rocks it tumbles over, the challenges you’ve faced could very well be the foundation of your achievements in the coming week.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): It might not be enough to sit at a keyboard or to stare at the wall and plan. You may need to make a to-do list to start making things happen. Find ways to make your dreams more tangible so the world can see your talents.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Give as good as you get, and it could just as easily come back. Be open to money-making ideas or suggestions from others. Contribute to tip and donation jars, pay it forward, do what you can to share good fortune with others.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Get a grip on what you want and then hold on tight. The closer you get to your goals, the more you may need to be focused to stay the course. Financial matters could be influenced by outside circumstances over the next week; stay vigilant.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Take some time for quiet reflection. You might find yourself in discussions about emotional issues that might seem significant at the moment but are actually of little consequence. You may be luckier than you think; spread love and gratitude.

GENTLE POACHING MAKES CHICKEN INCREDIBLY SUCCULENT AND JUICY

By America’s Test Kitchen

SOY SAUCE CHICKEN

Serves 4 to 6

2 1/2 cups soy sauce

3/4 cup dark soy sauce

3/4 cup Shaoxing wine

1/3 cup (3 ounces) rock sugar, crushed

1/4 cup mei kuei lu chiew (rose cooking liquor)

3 scallions, cut into 2‑inch lengths

1 (2‑inch) piece ginger, sliced thin

4 star anise pods

2 cinnamon sticks

2 bay leaves

1 (3 1/2 to 4 1/2 pound) whole chicken, head, feet, and giblets removed

1 teaspoon cornstarch

1. Bring 8 cups water, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, rock sugar, mei kuei lu chiew, scal lions, ginger, star anise, cinnamon sticks, and bay leaves to simmer

in a large Dutch oven over me dium high heat. Place chicken breast side up into pot. Cover, reduce heat to medium low, and simmer gently for 15 minutes. Off heat, let chicken sit for 15 minutes.

2. Using tongs, gently flip chicken and continue to let sit, covered, until breasts register 160 degrees and thighs register at least 175 degrees, 15 to 30 minutes. Using tongs and spatula, transfer chick en to a carving board and let rest for 30 minutes.

3. Strain cooking liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl; discard solids. Transfer 1/2 cup cooking liquid to a small sauce pan; save remaining cooking liquid for another use or discard. Whisk cornstarch into reserved cooking liquid and bring to sim mer over medium heat, stirring frequently, until just thickened, about 30 seconds. Carve chicken and serve with sauce.