career were remembered at a recent celebration.
By Chris Christopher
MANASQUAN - Joey Leone is gone, but far from forgotten. Leone, the former Brick Memorial High School girls’ soccer team’s strength and conditioning
coach who died this year at the age of 70, was honored with a Celebration of Life on a recent Saturday morning at the Seawatch Beach. He was with the team from 2001-2007.
(Coach - See Page 3)
By Chris Lundy
HOWELL – Two huge celebrations of local living are coming this way, as Howell Day and Olde Freehold Day take center stage. First up is Olde Freehold Day, which will be held August 2 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. It will be held at Lake Topanemus (AKA “the pond”). Enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors, an art show, beer garden, kids zone, and more. Vendors of all kinds will be on hand. A dunk tank and other games will provide fun for the whole family.
There will be a time during the festivities when veterans will be thanked for their service, so veterans in particular are invited to Olde Freehold Day. A short, solemn ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. to thank veterans for their sacrifice and service to the nation. Free shuttle buses to the event will circulate from the Monmouth County Courthouse starting at 10:15 a.m.
For more information, visit OldeFreeholdDay.com
Howell Day & Green Fair will be held at Soldier Memorial Park on Saturday, September 20, from 3-8 p.m. The rain date is Saturday, September 27.
This outdoor event features games, rides, live music and fi reworks at dusk. Expect touch-a-truck and demonstrations as well. The town is accepting applications for food, craft, and merchandise vendors.
For more information, visit twp.howell.nj.us
By Chris Lundy
TOMS RIVER – Police said that video taken during a high speed chase was recorded and shared so that the people in the car could show off to people on Snapchat.
The videos, including one of the crash that killed two young people, were shown in court, according to a report by The Patch. The incident was also shown in court from a different perspective – that of the police dashcam.
“The purpose was to film it and post it in their 28-person Snapchat group for clout,” Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Travis Clark said in The Patch article. Prosecutors said that their BMW was upgraded to go over 100 mph and that they changed the license plate to a fake plate after they fi rst got spotted by police.
The crash claimed the lives of two residents, Evan Fiore, 23, and Kiley Armstrong, 21. On the night of March 7, Fiore was driving his Toyota Camry at the intersection of Routes 166 and 37 when the BMW collided with them.
Passengers in Fiore’s car were Kiley’s twin, Krista Armstrong, and Ryan Chapman, 19. They were severely injured, and loved ones said they spent a lot of time in the hospital and undergoing therapy.
There were three people in the car that was speeding. The driver charged with these deaths is Carlos D. Martinez, who was 17 at the time of the crash. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office confi rmed with JerseyShoreOnline. com that Martinez has since turned 18 and consented to have the charges waived out of juvenile court.
At his detention hearing on July 10, he was incarcerated until his future court proceedings, the prosecutor’s office said.
According to a complaint provided by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Martinez faces two charges of aggravated manslaughter while eluding, two charges of causing bodily injury while eluding, two charges of manslaughter, two charges of vehicular homicide, two charges of driving without a license resulting in death, two charges of driving without a license causing serious bodily injury, two charges of aggravated assault, two charges of assault by auto, eluding, hindering apprehension, and numerous moving violations.
According to the Ocean County Corrections website, (Police - See Page 4)
July 21st - July 25th
July 21st - July 25th
Coach:
Continued From Page 1
Leone succumbed to a “very rare form” of Parkinson’s Disease after a five-year struggle March 4, according to his daughter, Jennifer Germain, a defender as Jennifer Schweizer on the Mustangs’ New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association 1999 and 2002 Group IV state championship teams and a 2003 Brick Memorial graduate.
An estimated 100 admirers, including 10 of Leone’s former players and five Brick Memorial coaches turned out under partly sunny skies in humid 80-degree temperatures.
Germain organized the event.
“Dad was a very special person to a lot of people,” she said prior to the function. “He deserves this.”
The words Celebrate We Will appeared on a sign. Leone’s remains rested in a brown urn next to the sign. The song is a lyric from the Dave Matthews Band song “Two Step.” Admirers, including Germain’s close friend, Lauren Mahon, spoke and read a poem. Some battled tears.
The fi rst to speak was Mark Cannizzaro.
“This is a great crowd, a great day,” he said. “We’re here to celebrate Joey’s life. He loved it here. This is perfect. We’re celebrating the life of a legend (Leone also was an accomplished endurance sports athlete, an educator and a fitness instructor at The Atlantic Club). People are here from all walks of his life - spin camps, boot camps, fellow runners, bikers, triathletes. He made sure
all of us were the best versions of ourselves.
“We met in 1986. As educators, we worked with street kids, kids with handicaps. He and I became fast friends. He was a tough guy, unconventional, an intimidating guy. While he was demanding things of people, he also loved them. He was a serious, but fun guy. Joey was a Cowboys fan. I am a Giants fan. We would have bets. Joey convinced his kids to become Cowboys fans.
“Joey wanted our team to win student-faculty basketball games more than the kids did. Joey did not like bullies. There are other great stories about Joey that I can’t tell. Joe and I kept a lot of things in confidence. I lost a true friend when I lost Joey Leone. I was pushed and prodded by him. He was a true, true friend. God bless you Joey Leone.
I miss you. I love you my brother.”
Chiropractor Dr. Jim Louro, attired in a Cowboys shirt, said after reading a prayer, “His physical presence is no longer with us. May we fi nd solace in the memories we share. May he rest in peace. We gather here to honor a shining star who touched the lives of many. He was a motivator who inspired all of us.
“He led fitness classes of hundreds of people at 4:30 a.m. He was in my head. Hundreds of people flocked to his workouts. He expected our best. He made us stronger. Each time we stepped into a class, we knew we were in for a challenge. He held us accountable. He had a love for people. Even in his toughest moments, he never let his condition defi ne him. He always mouthed the words, ‘I love you.’ He was a rock who held on until the very end. He was a guiding
star. His spirit and legacy will continue to motivate us.”
Brick Memorial High School girls’ soccer head coach Billy Caruso said he enjoyed having Leone on his staff.
“Joey Leone was special,” he said. “He was the positive, most energetic motivator I have ever met and I have been (coaching) for 30 years. Each girl was so much better due to Joey Leone. He killed the kids and they never got mad at him. He ran the girls until they puked and made everyone feel great about themselves. He lit up our locker room and coach’s office each time we spoke. Family forever coach. Rest easy. I love you Joey.”
Germain was emotional during the ceremony.
“Today brings happy and sad tears to my eyes,” she said. “Dad was larger than life. It’s so great to see so many people here. He had such an impact on many. The last few years were tough on my dad. His body was his super power. He pushed himself to extraordinary limits. He spent time in a full care residence. He lived by his favorite motto, ‘To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.’ That’s from Steve Prefontaine (of distance running fame).”
“Dad always wanted to celebrate,” she said. “There was nothing fake about him.”
With Leone leading flesh punishing sessions, the Mustangs were 120-33-3 overall. There also were 2003 and 2004 Group IV state championships. There were NJSIAA sectional titles in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004. There was a Shore Conference Tournament championship in 2005. There
were Shore Conference divisional crowns in 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2007.
Caruso said he learned of Leone’s passing through Schweizer.
“When Jen texted me, my fi rst thought was that Joey was way too young, was the fittest guy I ever met and that life isn’t fair,” he said. “We have an alumni Facebook page that most of our girls are on. I posted the news of his passing on it along with a little memory that I wrote. The tributes from the girls and their parents began immediately, stating how what a great man and coach he was.
“The girls and everyone I talked to were crushed. Not everyone knew he was sick. They still pictured him being amazing, unbelievably fit. Most of them couldn’t believe it.”
Several Brick Memorial coaches attended the wedding of John Parani, an assistant coach.
“It was the fi nal time I saw Joey before he became ill,” Caruso said. “There were a bunch of coaches from the glory years and we just laughed and talked about how much fun we had coaching together. As always, he was the life of the party. Joey was the most positive, energetic coach you could ever be around. He was the same way off the field as he was on.”
T-shirts from the team’s alumni game praise Leone. They consist of his initials, birth and passing years and a lion. Caruso said Leone means “lion” in Italian.
“We also hung a plaque in our soccer office with a quote from Joey,” Caruso said. “It (Coach - See Page 4)
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Continued From Page 1
Ryan Rivera, 18, and Jake M. Beauchamp, 20, each have been charged with two counts of aggravated manslaughter, two counts of vehicular homicide, two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of aggravated assault causing bodily injury with fleeing, eluding, hindering, and obstruction.
At around 10:45 pm. on March 7, Toms
River Police fi rst saw the BMW driving at a high rate of speed. They tried to pull it over but the car kept speeding, crossing the bridge to Seaside Heights, heading north on Route 35. Police halted their pursuit for safety reasons and alerted neighboring towns. Seaside Heights police spotted the BMW on Route 35, and clocked it going 118 mph in a 35 mph zone. It headed back over the bridge into Toms River. There, Toms River Police followed at a safe distance but did
not pursue.
The BMW ran a red light, crashing into the Camry driven by Fiore. Martinez didn’t sustain any injuries in the crash. His two passengers were both were treated and released, authorities said at the time.
A GoFundMe for the families and the medical care of the survivors is still active at gofundme.com/f/tragic-loss-kylie-and-evans-memorial
Continued From Page 3
reads, ‘Yeah man! What’s better than this? How lucky are we to be here every day?’ “ - Joey Leone (1954-2025), Mustang Staff (2001-2007). It is on our Legacy Wall where every player who has played for me gets to leave a brick on which to leave their message to current and future players. I also plan to share his story with our team before we start our first training session this summer.”
A reception at Leggett’s Sand Bar followed the Celebration of Life.
“Grab a table or just a beer from the bar and gather at Leggett’s Sand Bar to share your favorite stories, your memories, to laugh, to cry and remember the man, the myth, the legend who is greatly missed,” pre-event literature said on Facebook. “Celebrate we will ‘cause life is short but sweet for certain.”
About 40 people turned out.
“It was a happy, upbeat atmosphere,” Germain said. “Pictures and stories were shared that made you laugh and cry. There were people there from all walks of my dad’s life. They included (Billy) Caruso, assistant coaches John Parani, Vin Doyle and Kevin Farley, Lisa Caruso, Billy’s wife, and five ex-players.”
MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Women of Irish Heritage of the Jersey Shore will host their fourth annual Meet and Greet at Bar Anticipation on August 2, from 3 to 7 p.m., the organization announced.
Open to the public, the event invites eligible individuals to learn about the group and apply for membership. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a minimum of one-eighth Irish heritage. The club’s mission is to promote Irish culture and support charitable, educational, and community causes.
The gathering will take place in Bar A’s Mahogany Room and adjoining outdoor venue. Admission is $15.50 per person, cash only, and includes unlimited BBQ from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., featuring burgers, hot dogs, salads, and more. A DJ and MC will provide entertainment, and beverages will be available at reduced prices from the cash bar.
Lately, if there’s a town meeting I can watch online, I usually do. I would much rather be in the comfort of my home working than in a crowded, emotionally charged room.
There’s one thing that grinds my gears when I’m watching, and that’s commercials.
If it’s a two-hour meeting, there are probably eight or more interruptions. Sometimes mid-sentence. I have to rewind to jot down a quote when that happens.
Most towns use YouTube because it’s the biggest video sharing network there is. You can share a link. You can edit. It’s a versatile and powerful website. Which means they should be able to get by without ads on town council and board of education meetings.
I get that YouTube has to make its money, but c’mon, it’s Youtube. They’re owned by Google. They’ve got money coming out the wazoo.
That ad money goes straight to YouTube, by the way. While YouTube allows video creators to profit off their uploads, it’s extremely difficult to do so. You have to have a certain number of subscribers, and those subscribers have to log a certain
amount of time watching your stuff. It used to be a place where people can create and share; now it’s an advertising juggernaut. They should change their name to GoogleTube.
I suppose if you pay for YouTube Premium you can watch meetings without ads. So maybe we’re not charged money, but we’re charged our time. This is worse, in my opinion.
Even if a video creator (in this case the town or school) chooses not to monetize with ads, that only means they can’t make money. YouTube will still place ads on everything and make money off of it.
Towns and school boards probably can’t monetize their videos by law.
I suppose there could be a button that municipal entities could click when creating their content that says “don’t ever monetize these videos” but there’s no incentive for YouTube to do this. If they make a penny, that’s still profit for them. A corporation will never make the decision to do something nice for others without some kind of benefit.
Chris Lundy News Editor
The Howell 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.
I’ve been putting it off for about as long as I can but I think it’s fi nally time to put my house up. Years and years of Democrats running this state (into the ground) and nothing to show for it. I stayed for my grandkids but now that they’re going to different states (for college) then I think it’s time for me too. Besides, half of my friends have already made the move to the Sunshine State. They don’t have to worry about the high taxes, insane liberal schools and when they drive down their street, there isn’t a ton of cars.
I don’t have to worry about the Woke Police arresting me for everything I say and do like here (joke!) I’m a little late to the party but I think it’s time to go. Anyone want to buy a house in Holiday City?
David Williams Toms River
Libraries have become a special place for me. When I don’t want to be home, and I need a space where it won’t necessarily require me to purchase something, a library acts as a safe place for anything I need. I can print here, read, ask for help on taxes. I can attend programs and classes offered for free.
Recently, my 8-year-old cousin has discovered he loves reading. I’m planning on taking him to a free Lego building workshop held at our local library. Building on that, there are so many programs offered for kids, resulting in a space where they can read grow and explore. Many families don’t have alternative options. I hope people realize what an integral part libraries have in our communities.
Ruby Ramales Beach Haven
It is time to set the record straight. For years the expression “The Christian Right” has perplexed me. It is not my intent to judge Christians who are proTrump. I merely want to speak for the many Christians who are horrified by the cruel actions of President Trump and his administration.
Christians are followers of Jesus. I would like to focus on three of the many beautiful qualities which Jesus displayed as He walked this earth. He always showed compassion and empathy and wanted to bring Peace. He also never acted out of vengeance.
Is Donald Trump even capable of feeling empathy? Elon Musk, his hero, is recorded stating that “The biggest weakness of the West was empathy.” Rather than showing compassion for the poor, Trump’s latest mandates include reductions to programs which will hurt low-income families. The cuts to SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) are projected to be the largest in U.S. history and will lead to millions of people experiencing food insecurity. The cuts to Medicaid mean that millions of children and those with disabilities will lose coverage. Hospitals and nursing homes rely on Medicaid.
In contrast to the present regime, Jesus was deeply compassionate, showing concern for the suffering of others and even weeping when he witnessed the grief of others. He actively administered to the marginalized in society, including the poor, the sick and the afflicted.
What a contrast exists between the peace that Jesus wanted to bring and the fear that Trump is creating. Imagine the fear that immigrants are experiencing knowing that they could be the next ones rounded up and brought to an ICE detention center without
due process? We do not even know how many people have “disappeared,” a word once used only in countries like Russia. Think about the fear of retaliation that people suffer for speaking out against Trump. There are congressional members who have spent $1,000,000 of their money to protect themselves and their families. They have also been banned from entering federal buildings.
Can anyone picture Jesus acting with vengeance toward others? Trump is cutting programs simply because they were introduced by former President Biden. We are losing our scientists and preventing foreign students from studying here. There is also a childish refusal to admit that global heating is a reality.
It does not matter how anyone voted. All of us who are petrified that we are losing our democracy must come together and resist these dangers. Together we have strength.
I’ve lived in Toms River for a while now, and I truly care deeply about the people here. That’s why I’m heartbroken about what the Big Beautiful Bill will mean for us now that it has passed.
I’m one of those people. I can’t work full-time because of health reasons, even though I want to. Medicaid helps me survive. Without it, I honestly don’t know how I’d afford my medication, see my doctor, or get basic medical care.
This isn’t just about politics. It’s about caring for each other. It’s about showing compassion. No matter our differences, I believe most people in this town still want to help their neighbors when they’re struggling.
I hope you’ll take a moment to really think about this. Even though the bill
passed, our voices still matter. We can still demand protection for Medicaid, for low-income families, for kids, for seniors, and for people with disabilities. Please speak up. Please pay attention. What happens next depends on how much we’re willing to care.
It’s tough to miss that the New Jersey Department of Education’s announcement that they’d be imposing a(nother) massive tax increase on the citizens of Toms River arrived late July 3, just hours before Independence Day. It was strategic and intentional on their part - a “news dump” intended to fade away over a holiday weekend and neutralize our capacity to respond - but they’re too tone deaf to grasp the King George-ness of it all. It was, after all, in response to our board of education and district not backing down to their dictum that we pass a budget or else. The “or else” being close our doors immediately, including to our most vulnerable special education students whose summer and ESL programs began July 2, and the budget in question being $22.3 million short because of an oppressive S2 bill that has taken $175 million from our district over the past eight years. You might even call our board’s consideration of Chapter 9 bankruptcy in lieu of passing a tax hike onto families a revolutionary act. That it was met with more authoritarianism from an administration that’s clearly been tyrannical toward Toms River made it all too colonial to ignore. The NJDOE’s letter should have been written in ink on scrolled parchment.
(Taxation - See Page 11)
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) announced that after a series of meetings and discussions with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers leadership that spanned more than two years, the Philadelphia District of the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will be repairing or replacing old, inadequate safety fencing along the entire perimeter of the Point Pleasant Canal in Point Pleasant Borough.
“I alerted the Army Corps to the deteriorating conditions of the fence after hearing from residents and elected officials in Point
Pleasant,” Smith said. “Safety is everyone’s number one concern, so I reached out to the Army Corps to ask for its quickest possible response.”
As a result, inspections were completed last year, and emergency repairs were made immediately. A work plan was then developed thanks to the USACE decision to allocate $3 million to fund more extensive improvements.
During this process, the Army Corps has continued to perform repairs to the areas of greatest need, with crews working as recently as last week. The larger renovation and replacement project will now be put out to bid, and the installation is expected to be done next summer.
“The Canal is vital as it connects Monmouth and Ocean County boaters to open waters, but as locals know, it is infamous for its swift
and dangerous currents. We need to ensure that families can fish along the waterway and enjoy this engineering marvel while staying safely on land,” Rep. Smith added.
Mayor Robert Sabosik said the work efforts are welcomed improvements for the borough.
“We have been trying to get the Army Corps to repair this fence-line for years now in its entirety and not just in a few pieces like they’ve done over the years. If it wasn’t for Congressman Smith working with us on this project, the federal funding to get this done probably wouldn’t have happened. This fence-line isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about the safety of our residents who fish and enjoy the scenic views the canal offers.
Congressman Smith has been instrumental in the re-vitalization of the Point Pleasant Canal from getting funding to repair the actual bulkhead a few years ago and finishing the job with the fence-line.”
The fencing work comes as the Army Corps
has just completed significant repairs to the entrance to the canal from the Manasquan River, making the canal walls more resilient and up to current design standards. In 2022, Congressman Smith secured the $3.2 million in federal funding for that project which repaired portions of the bulkhead that had suffered the most significant damage over the years.
Smith thanked the USACE for taking steps to remedy an unsafe situation in the community.
“I am grateful to our partners at the Army Corps of Engineers - our country’s master builders. Their work is second to none, and the Philadelphia District is always eager to help us help constituents,” Smith said. First opened to navigation in 1926, the Point Pleasant Canal is a roughly 2-mile-long, manmade channel that connects the Barnegat Bay and the Manasquan River, and it forms a segment of the inland Intracoastal Waterway.
Senator Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) led a letter to Andrew Ferguson, Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), urging the agency to investigate tariff-enabled corporate price gouging which is raising costs for American families, and to use its full authority to prevent these unfair and deceptive corporate actions.
The lawmakers previously wrote to the FTC warning that large companies could
take advantage of the Trump Administration’s chaotic tariff strategy to price gouge consumers. The letter noted that the on-again, off-again tariff confusion and uncertainty has created a cover for large corporations to raise prices on all goods, regardless of whether they are actually subject to new tariffs, and to increase prices above and beyond what is necessary to cover any additional costs. Chair Ferguson did not respond to the lawmakers’ letter and has yet to take discernible action to prevent tariff-related price gouging, despite his own warning that President Trump’s tariffs “should not be interpreted as a green light for price fixing or any other unlawful behavior.”
In June 2025, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York released new survey results show-
ing that “a significant share” of companies raised prices of goods and services that are not subject to tariffs, confirming that businesses were indeed “taking advantage of an escalating pricing environment to increase prices.”
Anecdotes from the Federal Reserve illustrate that tariff-enabled price gouging is already a significant and legitimate concern: A heavy construction equipment supplier “raised prices on goods unaffected by tariffs to enjoy the extra margin.”
A contact at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco “observed that price increases that had been implemented in anticipation of certain tariffs were not rolled back once those tariffs were removed.”
The President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland said she heard of firms “raising prices even though they aren’t affected by tariffs because competitors who do face
higher import taxes are raising prices.”
“This Administration’s reckless approach is spiking costs for small businesses and creating opportunities for billion-dollar companies to grow their profits and take advantage of consumers,” wrote the lawmakers. “The FTC should be utilizing its full authority to prevent these unfair practices.”
The lawmakers concluded the letter by urging the FTC to use its 6(b) authority to investigate any tariff-enabled price gouging and to issue a report on its findings.
The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and U.S. Representatives Becca Balint (D-VT), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), John Garamendi (D-CA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), James P. McGovern (D-MA), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), and Mark Pocan (D-WI).
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.
FREEHOLD – Monmouth County is gearing up to mark a major milestone in American history with a “Kick-Off the Countdown” celebration at the 50th Annual Monmouth County Fair on July 23. The event, hosted by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners and the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee, will officially begin the one-year countdown to the nation’s Semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026.
The celebration begins at 7 p.m. on the fair’s main stage and will include a patriotic lineup of festivities, including the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard,
Revolutionary War reenactors, music from the Washington Crossing Fifes and Drums, and remarks from local officials. The night will cap off with tethered hot air balloon rides (weather permitting) and a fireworks display at 9 p.m.
“We are so excited to be kicking off the oneyear countdown to America’s 250th birthday with a special event for people of all ages at the annual Monmouth County Fair,” said Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon, co-chair of the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee. “Our committee has been working hard over the past two years to
create a fitting celebration of the birth of the greatest nation on Earth.”
Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone, also co-chair of the committee, emphasized the historical significance of Monmouth County’s role in the American Revolution.
“This will be a great night to celebrate not only America but the significant role our County played in the fight for independence,” Arnone said. “We have a lot to celebrate, and we hope everyone will join us!”
Fairgoers can also visit the MonmouthNJ 250 Truck and tent, located near the entrance, throughout the fair’s five-day run. The
exhibit will feature Revolutionary War-era displays, giveaways, videos, games, and free educational materials, including a Revolutionary History booklet and a children’s coloring book.
The Monmouth County Fair, presented by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners in cooperation with the Monmouth County Park System and the Monmouth County 4-H Association, runs July 23 through July 27 at the East Freehold Showgrounds on Kozloski Road. For tickets and a full schedule, visit monmouthcounty parks.com
HOWELL – With a face full of wrinkles and a heart full of love, Tootsie the bulldog mix is turning heads at Rescue Ridge — and she’s ready to turn someone’s house into a home.
This approximately 1-year-old brindle beauty weighs in at just under 40 pounds and is looking to gain both a little weight and a lot of love. Though she was shy when she fi rst arrived, Tootsie is blossoming into a confident, friendly pup who loves going for walks and is just discovering the joy of toys.
“She’s a total sweetheart,” volunteers
at Rescue Ridge said. “Tootsie is always looking for affection and gets along well with both people and other dogs.”
Tootsie is hoping to find a family willing to provide a bit of training and a whole lot of patience and care. With her eager-to-please personality and affectionate nature, she’s sure to be a loyal companion.
Those interested in meeting Tootsie can fill out an application at rescueridge.com If there’s a match, a volunteer will reach out to schedule a meet-and-greet. For more information, contact the shelter at 732-5468805 or rescueridgeshelter@gmail.com.
Located on the grounds of Lakewood Country Club
• A casual, upscale dining venue located in our historic 1885 manison Entrees
Monday Thru Friday 2pm - 5pm
All meals include side salad or soup and dessert
Meatloaf Dinner with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes Vegetable
Pot Roast with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable
Open Faced Roast Beef Dinner with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable
Ham Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable
Open Faced Hot Turkey Sandwhich with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable
Chicken Marsala served over Rice or Linguini and Vegetable
Lemon Pepper Chicken served with Rice and Vegetable
Chicken Parm served with Linguini
Eggplant Rollatini served with Linguini
Fried Fish Platter with French Fries and Colesaw
Fried Shrimp Basket with French Fries and Colesaw
FREEHOLD – Families are invited to enjoy a summer of free entertainment under the stars as Downtown Freehold presents its annual Family Movie Night series at the Hall of Records.
The weekly event offers a cozy, community-focused atmosphere where guests are encouraged to bring blankets and gather with friends and family for evenings of fun and laughter. Screenings begin at dusk, with a new family-friendly film featured each Tuesday through August 20.
The schedule includes:
July 23: The Mighty Ducks
July 30: Kung Fu Panda
August 6: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
August 13: The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part
August 20: Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
All movies will be shown outside the Hall of Records, located in the heart of Downtown Freehold. Admission is free. In case of inclement weather, updates will be posted on downtownfreehold.com Freehold Hosts Family Movie Nights Th rough August
P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 • Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 email: news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com
MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES
Stew Swann Vice
HOWELL – The Howell Township Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit conducted a car seat inspection event at a local preschool recently, highlighting the life-saving importance of properly installed child safety seats.
Officers inspected 21 car seats during the event and found that 13 required corrections. All necessary adjustments were
made on site by traffic officers to ensure children were safely secured.
“Car seats save lives,” the department emphasized in a public reminder. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to have their child’s car seat inspected or professionally installed by calling the Traffic Safety Unit at 742-938-4575 ext. 2847 for an appointment.
FREEHOLD – The Borough of Freehold has announced the launch of “Community for Art,” a summer art program offering two six-week sessions for residents ages 5 and up. The classes will be held on Mondays from July 21 through August 25 at Court Street School, 140 Court Street, Freehold.
Led by local artist Toni Field, the program gives participants the opportunity to explore a variety of artistic mediums while learning about different techniques, styles, and famous artists. The theme of the fi rst session is “What a Wonderful World,” inspired by the works of iconic artists and the classic Louis Armstrong song.
Classes for children ages 5 to 15 will be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m., and sessions for participants age 16 and older will take place from 7:30 to 9 p.m.
Each student will create age-appropriate artwork and contribute to a collaborative piece that will be displayed in the community upon completion.
Registration is required and costs $25 per student. Space is limited. Interested residents can register in person at Borough Hall, 30 Mechanic Street, or by emailing SGallo@Freeholdboro.org.
For more information, visit itsaboutart. com
MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music at Monmouth University will host Sinners of the Pine Barrens, a free virtual event exploring the eerie musical folklore of South Jersey’s backwoods, on July 24 at 7 p.m.
The event, inspired by the haunting soundtrack of Ryan Coogler’s 2025 horror film Sinners, delves into the real-life legends of the Pine Barrens. Historian Paulie Wenger will lead the presentation, focusing
on the story of Sammy Giberson—a fiddler so talented, lore suggests he could rival the Devil himself.
Attendees will hear tales of ghostly gigs, devilish duels, and the enduring power of music to stir the soul and the shadows.
The event is hosted by the Bruce Springsteen Archives in collaboration with Monmouth University’s Department of History and Anthropology.
Registration is free, and participants can get more info at monmouth.edu.
HOWELL – The Howell Heritage and Historical Society invites the public to an open house at the MacKenzie House Museum and Library on July 19, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 427 Lakewood-Farmingdale Road. This month’s event continues the celebra-
tion of America’s birthday and features a patriotic theme honoring Betsy Ross and the U.S. military. Visitors can enjoy period décor, a historically set dining room, and artifacts highlighting over two centuries of local and national history.
HOWELL – Soccer Camp by Immanuel Bible Church with coaches from “Athletes In Action” open to boys and girls ages 5 to 13. Cost is $40. Camp is from July 21 to 25 from
6 to 8 p.m. at 1244 W. Farms Road, Howell. Registration form: ibcnj.regfox.com/ibcsoccer-camp. Any questions, call 732-4310299 or Ken Akselsen at 908-839-4064.
MONMOUTH COUNTY –
The Monmouth County SPCA has a number of pets available for adoption.
Say hello to Hazel! A pretty 65lb shar pei mix who can truly melt your heart. Hazel is only 5 years old but has an old soul. A life full of long, slow walks to sniff every corner and a couch with the coziest of blankets is all she can ask for. With a slow introduction, Hazel’s trust builds and soon you’ll have a ride or die companion. She needs a friend to show her what affection is and what a toy is. Hazel is a special girl waiting for someone to spoil her. Hazel is looking for a family to care for. She is great with other dogs and with all family members. She is loyal to those who care for her and she is looking for a loving family. Hazel is healthy and up to date with all her vaccines. Hazel loves going on walks and playing, bring awesomeness home!
The MCSPCA only does adoptions in per-
son (please bring all family members). They will ask you to fill out an Adoption Survey and speak with an Adoption Counselor to help fi nd your perfect match. They are located at 260 Wall Street in Eatontown. They can be reached at 732542-0040
By Renee A. Thomaier
Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
With their trumpeting calls resounding across the landscape, the Sandhill Cranes begin their remarkable journey from the southern United States and Mexico to reach their breeding grounds. This ancient species migrates between the months of February and April, numbering approximately one million strong, and is one of the world’s largest migratory populations. The Platte River is a vital corridor for migratory birds, flowing through the states of Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming, stretching
990 miles. The Platte River provides a sculpted landscape, creating critical roosting sandbars which are spread between bans of river and are lined by wet meadows. Sustaining the Platte requires a full understanding of the annual migratory cycle and careful landscape management.
The sandhill crane is a very tall, large bird with a long neck, long legs, and a very broad wingspan of approximately 78 inches. Their weight is somewhere between 7 and 10 pounds. In color, they are dusty gray with rusty upperparts. Their legs are black. They have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years in the wild, but in captivity
may live to reach 80 years of age. Sandhill cranes enjoy grains and invertebrates such as earthworms, starfish, amoebas and spiders, which they find in grasslands, marshes and prairies. The female will lay 1 to 3 eggs in a nest which is approximately 4 feet in diameter. The nest is constructed using cattail or tall grass, along with long stems gathered by both the male and female. Mud is used to hold the nest together. Incubation length is 29 – 32 days. Young cranes will fly at about 9 to 10 weeks of age but will not leave the nest until they reach 10 months. Predators of the sandhill crane include foxes, racoons, coyotes and large birds
of prey. Their defense is the use of their powerful bills and strong legs. Their role in the ecosystem is controlling insect and rodent populations, while disbursing seeds through their droppings, thereby maintaining plant diversity.
I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.
It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/ federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.
MONMOUTH COUNTY – Monmouth County’s parks are bursting with summer activity, offering residents and visitors a wide variety of ways to enjoy the season— from swimming and music to running and nature discovery.
At Freneau Woods Park in Aberdeen, families can join Life in a Freshwater Pond every Thursday through August 21 from 11 a.m. to noon. A Park System Naturalist will guide participants in exploring pond
life. The free program meets outside the Visitor Center and is weather-dependent. For those looking to cool off, Open Swim at Big Brook is available from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through August 17 at Big Brook Park in Marlboro. Weekend swim hours are offered throughout the summer, with fees applicable. Young runners can hit the trails during the Cool Runners Fitness Run for Fun at Thompson Park in Lincroft. The program
runs Tuesdays from now through August 19, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and teaches proper running form and technique to students in grades K-8. Pre-registration and a fee are required.
Also at Big Brook Park, Swim Lessons for children ages 4-6 will be held Monday through Thursday, July 21-31, from 9 to 10 a.m. The class focuses on pool safety and basic swimming skills. Additional sessions are available August 4-14. Pre-registration
and fee required.
The countdown is on as opening night of the Monmouth County Fair is set for July 23-27. This year marks the fair’s 50th anniversary, and to celebrate, a sweepstakes is offering the chance to win a hot air balloon ride on opening night.
For more details about county park programs, call 732-842-4000, ext. 4312, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com , or email info@monmouthcountyparks.com.
Taxation:
Continued From Page 5
It casts our board of education and administration as scattered and incompetent, which would be hilarious were it not so offensive. Our BOE unanimously voted down the budget the past two years as a collective refusal to pass the state’s negligence on to taxpayers; as President, I can attest our board has never been more unified in its consistent rejection of corruption and hypocrisy.
Our administration, meanwhile, under the direction of Superintendent Michael Citta and Business Administrator William Doering, has traveled far and wide, looked under every rock, proposed real solutions, and has done literally everything in their power to get us out of a mess that they did not create.
As a unified team, we’ve done everything in good faith and diplomacy despite our underlying anger and frustration. We’ve taken the high road and have been constantly met with a brick wall. To therefore be labeled
as incompetent by a state department that won’t even comply with a court order to reveal its funding formula is, again, comically tragic.
It’s the behavior of a king on a throne. To those not following this matter closely, an upcoming tax bill or escrow statement combined with some misguided word of mouth might make you think this tax hike was caused by our board and our school district. This is what the tyrannical state department wants you to believe, but it’s entirely untrue. Besides literally voting down this tax hike and the one before it, we all have to pay it! Virtually everyone who works for Toms River Schools lives here (which is why I love this district and community so much and why I volunteer my time to serve it). I have to pay this tax, as do my colleagues on the board. Superintendent Citta has to pay this tax, as do almost all of our teachers and staff members, plus our assistant superintendents, and on and on. We’re all on the hook for this, and we did not do this to ourselves.
It is, indeed, taxation without representa-
HOWELL – Families are invited to enjoy a lively children’s concert at the Howell Library on July 30, from 4 to 4:45 p.m.
Presented as part of the “Music at the Blissful!” series, the interactive perfor-
mance is designed to get children and their families dancing and singing along. All ages are welcome, and children must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. No registration is required for this free event.
Send your community events to news@jerseyshoreonline.com
tion. Because the NJDOE, despite its claims of fair and equitable education, does not represent Toms River students.
Case in point is S2, a fatally-flawed, catastrophic, and obvious effort to shift education funding to certain communities under the guise of “fair funding.” In the end, the bill cost us $175 million in funding for students, hundreds of staff positions, our business office, land, services, and countless hours dealing with the ongoing fallout from a blatant injustice, and now we have a 22.2-percent tax increase over the past two years to show for it.
But we also never caved, never sold a school, never redistricted, never backed down, never lost our dignity, and stood strong as a community throughout. In a matter of months this governor’s administration will be gone and forgotten save for its shameful and ironic legacy of trying to dismantle education (in select areas) because it could not or would not correct the math of its terrible funding formula (or reveal that formula despite a court order to do so). But this community of Toms River
and our district remains, and will emerge stronger than ever, head held high. Though the S2 cycle has ended, it’s difficult to feel relief when there is so much wreckage and we’re left holding a ludicrous bill for damages caused by others. Our students deserve to continue their education, for the fi rst time in eight years, without the constant threats to their sports, services, and academic livelihoods, and for them I am happy. But on behalf of our taxpayers I am livid, and I pledge to continue this fight with the State of New Jersey until justice is served.
Likewise, I call on our taxpayers and the leaders of Toms River, South Toms River, Pine Beach, and Beachwood to share in my indignation and to stand strong for what’s right. A tyrannical state department has fi nally met fi rm resistance from a proud community that refuses to roll over. The revolution to revise and rework education funding in New Jersey has just begun.
Ashley Lamb, President Toms River Board Of Education
HOWELL – The Howell Heritage and Historical Society will hold its monthly meeting on July 25, at 7 p.m. at Ardena Baptist Church, 593 Adelphia Road.
This month features the group’s annual “Show & Tell” tradition, where
members and guests are encouraged to bring and share personal or historic items.
Refreshments will be provided by Margaret Winkelman. The meeting is open to the public.
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates
In 1998, the State of New Jersey passed the Automobile Insurance Cost Reduction Act to reduce the cost of automobile insurance by reducing the benefits available to persons injured in automobile accidents. This means less coverage to pay for you or your family’s medical expenses regardless of fault and less rights to recovery of monetary damages from reckless drivers who cause collisions.
Protect yourself! Make sure you have purchased a Standard Policy and not a Basic policy. Make certain that you purchase your Standard Policy with no less than $250,000.000 in medical benefits. Most people who elect a lower amount of medical expense benefits, only to save literally a few dollars, find themselves unable to afford necessary medical treatment because they have already exhausted their medical coverage.
Option” you are not limiting your right or your child’s right to receive monetary compensation in the event you or your child is/are injured in a motor vehicle collision. While the “No Limitation on Lawsuit Option” will slightly increase your premium than if you chose the “Limitation on Lawsuit Option”, the limited premium increase is well worth the expense.
Medical treatment is expensive and don’t let any automobile insurance company tell you otherwise. Think about it. If an automobile insurance company sells you $15,000.00 in medical expense benefits (as opposed to the standard $250,000.00) they may lose somewhere between $20.00 and $45.00 in premiums but they have just saved themselves from having to pay up to $250,000.00 in medical expense benefits should you or a member of your family become injured in an automobile collision, regardless of fault.
Also, make sure you have purchased the “No Limitation on Lawsuit Option.” By electing the “No Limitation on Lawsuit
When you are discussing pricing of your premium for the “No Limitation on Lawsuit Option” versus the “Limitation on Lawsuit Option” demand that the insurance company provide you with the actual dollar amount that your premium will increase if you purchase the “No Limitation on Lawsuit Option” over the “Limitation on Lawsuit Option.” Do not settle on the typical explanation from your insurance company that one option may increase your premium by 120% or 220%. This is very misleading. When you ask the insurance company what the actual dollar amount of a 220% premium increase amounts to you will probably be pleased to hear that it may only cost you $50.00 a month as it has for myself and my family. The 120% or 220% premium increase is not an increase on your overall premium, its an increase of a line-item premium such as the premium associated with your medical expense benefits.
Contact the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for all your legal needs. (732) 505-1212.
HOWELL – Gregory Scarlato has been sworn in as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler for the South-East District of the New Jersey State Elks Association. He was installed during the Elks’ National Convention on July 2 in Kansas City. Scar-
lato, a member of Howell Lodge #2515, will lead charitable initiatives and community service efforts in the region.
New Jersey Elks donated more than $16 million and 365,000 volunteer hours last year.
FREEHOLD – The Township Police will host their 38th Annual Clambake on August 9 from 3 to 9 p.m. at Priedaine’s on Route 33. A $60 donation includes twin lobster tails, all-you-can-eat steamers, clams, hot dogs,
burgers, salads, corn, and beverages. The event features live music by Phil Engel and will be held rain or shine.
Tickets via Zelle must be picked up at police headquarters.
MONMOUTH COUNTY - Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 888-944-5678.
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Cancer is a tough road, no question. But there’s a new kind of therapy that’s bringing real hope to patients called Antibody-Drug Conjugates or ADCs for short. These targeted therapies deliver treatment exactly where it’s needed using a different mechanism of action compared to traditional chemotherapeutic drugs.
Traditional chemo targets fast-dividing cells (like cancer), but it hits healthy tissues too, causing hair loss, nausea, and fatigue. This indiscriminate destruction of both healthy and cancer-promoting cells is what causes all the chemo-related misery.
ADCs are smarter and work like guided missiles. First, an antibody homes in on a cancer cell very directly like a drone, then it releases a powerful drug payload inside the specific target. That means less damage to healthy tissues, and fewer side effects.
One standout example? Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan (Enhertu), which targets HER2-positive breast cancer, lung, and stomach cancer.
ADCs usually have three parts to them. The first is the antibody which seeks out cancer cells. The second part is the linker that holds everything together. The third part is the payload which is the potent chemo drug. Once the ADC finds its target, it gets absorbed into the cancer cell. The linker dissolves inside, releasing the drug right where it’s needed. It’s like a Trojan horse sneaking in undetected, dumping poison on the cancer cells!
This precision really matters. It often leads to a reduction in five common problems typically seen with older chemotherapy:
• Less hair loss
• Reduced nausea
• Decreased fatigue
• Improved appetite
• Lower risk of neutropenia (a drop in white blood cells)
That said, ADCs aren’t side-effect free. They can still cause issues such as lung inflammation, liver problems, electrolyte imbalances, or cardiac stress. But overall, most people say the side effects are more manageable than traditional chemotherapy.
I wrote Drug Muggers back in 2011 to highlight how medications can quietly deplete essential nutrients. While ADCs came out after my book was published, I’ve researched them too. Even though ADCs are targeted, they can still “mug” your nutrients, more of a slow drain than a direct steal. Over time, calcium, potassium, B vitamins (like folate, B12, niacin, and riboflavin), and antioxidants like glutathione and catalase can become depleted.
Staying hydrated, eating protein-rich meals, and using the right supplements can make a real difference. Just be sure to check with your oncologist before starting anything new.
Right now, ADCs are approved for some breast, bladder, and blood cancers, but trials are expanding to include lung, ovarian, prostate, and even rare cancers like Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma. Think of traditional chemo like spraying weed killer, it gets the job done, but harms everything in its path, including the flowers. ADCs are more like precision pruning shears, trimming away diseased cells while preserving the healthy ones. For a deep dive, sign up for my free newsletter 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) ©2025 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.
JERSEY SHORE – The World’s Most Autographed Baseball is coming to ShoreTown Ballpark. In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the BlueClaws will be the last stop on a 15-city ballpark tour across which an 8-foot baseball is being signed by thousands of fans from around the country! Why? Because it’s Minor League Baseball at its fi nest: Unpredictable, accessible, and a whole lot of fun. This isn’t just about ink on leather; it’s about uniting Minor League clubs and their incredible communities around a common cause.
“This is such a great initiative from Minor League Baseball and we’re very excited to have the baseball here at ShoreTown Ballpark,” said BlueClaws General Manager Bob McLane. “Each signature from a BlueClaws fan is a new record, making
this an an even more amazing addition to a special night!”
Gates to the July 26th game open at 6 p.m. and fi rst pitch is at 7:05 p.m. The World’s Most Autographed Baseball will be located down the third base line adjacent to the Sand Bar.
That night will also include a concert from The Chronicles of Rock & Roll as part of the Farro’s Tees Summer Concert Series. They will play from 6:15 pm until 9:00 pm. It’s also Pride Night, presented by Coca-Cola. The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have drawn over 8 million fans to ShoreTown Ballpark since their 2001 inception. Tickets to all remaining 2025 BlueClaws home games are available by calling 732901-7000 option 3.
MANASQUAN – Manasquan’s annual Big Sea Day returns August 2, bringing a full schedule of beachside fun, friendly competition, and educational activities for families. Sponsored by Manasquan Recreation and Manasquan Tourism, the event includes everything from surf and swim contests to sandcastles and science.
The day kicks off at 8 a.m. with the Manasquan High School Swim Boosters’ Ocean Mile Swim at Sea Watch Beach. Meanwhile, the Beach Smash Baseball Tournament runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. between Riddle Way Beach and Main Beach. Teams can register at beachsmash.com
Other activities include: Children’s Tattoos, hosted by the Manasquan Beach Improvement Association from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ocean Avenue/Elks Beach, free and walk-up friendly.
Sand Castle Contest, sponsored by the Manasquan Tourism Commission. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. at the Riddle Way Gazebo, with judging at 12:30 p.m. Big Sea Day Surf Competition, organized by the Manasquan High School Parents Surf Club, runs Aug. 2–3 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Inlet Beach. (Rain date: Aug. 9–10). Fishing Contest, hosted by the Manasquan Fishing Club at the Manasquan Inlet from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. No registration required. Prizes include fishing poles.
Marine Animal Display, presented by New Logic Marine Science Camp from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ocean Avenue/Elks Beach, featuring a water quality station, fossil and shark displays.
Rain date for Big Sea Day is August 3. For surf contest questions, email mhssurfteamparents@gmail.com.
MONMOUTH COUNTY – Residents across Monmouth County can continue to take advantage of free paper shredding events offered by the county through November 2025. The program, hosted by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners and participating municipalities, provides a secure way to dispose of confidential documents and prevent identity theft.
The shredding events are held at various municipal locations on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Trucks may fill before the scheduled end time, in which case the event will close early. Residents are advised to remain in their vehicles while documents are unloaded.
Upcoming paper shredding dates and locations include:
August 9 – Eatontown, Borough Hall
Parking Lot, 47 Broad St.
August 23 – Matawan, Matawan-Aberdeen Train Station, Parking Lot #1
September 6 – Asbury Park, City Hall, 1
Municipal Plaza (Main Street)
September 20 – Colts Neck, Town Hall
Parking Lot, 3 Veterans Way
October 4 – Neptune City, Adams Field Park, 2 Westend Ave.
October 18 – Red Bank, Red Bank Middle School, 101 Harding Rd.
November 1 – Allenhurst, Beach Club, end of Corlies Ave. near Ocean Ave.
November 15 – Middletown, Middletown High School North, 63 Tindall Rd.
Residents may bring up to 100 pounds of paper for shredding — the equivalent of four office paper boxes or four large trash bags. Staples and paper clips may remain attached, but large binder clips must be removed. The service is free to all Monmouth County residents, and no businesses are permitted.
For additional details or the full shredding schedule, residents may contact 732-683-8686 ext. 8967 or visit visit monmouth.com
WEST LONG BRANCH – Free speech and language evaluations are available this summer at Monmouth University’s Center for Speech and Language Disorders, officials announced.
Running through August 11, the evaluations will take place in person at the center’s on-campus clinic in West Long Branch. Appointments are available weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Open to individuals of all ages, the program
provides professional assessments aimed at supporting communication needs in the community. Organizers encourage early registration, as space is limited.
Monmouth ACTS (Assisting Community Through Services), a county initiative, is supporting the effort as part of its mission to promote early childhood success, youth development, and aging support.
To register, visit: ow.ly/5jRI50WnjwW
JERSEY SHORE – Family Promise of the Jersey Shore is calling on compassionate community members to volunteer as temporary foster homes for pets belonging to families experiencing homelessness.
The effort is part of the organization’s Pets with a Promise initiative, which aims to keep families and their beloved animals connected during times of crisis. Because most temporary shelters do not allow pets, families in need often face the heartbreaking choice of giving them up. This program offers an alter-
native by placing pets in caring foster homes until their owners can be reunited with them.
“Pets are part of the family,” the organization said in a statement. “By providing a temporary home, volunteers can ensure that families in our shelter program don’t have to endure the added trauma of losing a pet.”
Family Promise of the Jersey Shore covers all expenses related to the pet’s care during the foster period.
To learn more or to volunteer, visit family promisejerseyshore.org
2012 Hyundai Santa Fe - For sale by owner, as is. Fair condition. Silver. 112,500 miles. $3,500, or B/O. Call 732-684-8007. (t/n)
1957 Chevy Bel air - 4door, v-8, 283, 3speed, new tires, shocks, leaf springs, battery. Asking 7,000. 732-740-9906. (32)
2010 Nissan Sentra - Runs great. $98,000 miles. Auto trans, red, cold AC. $1,900 or best offer. 973-223-8840. (33)
Lincoln Town Car 1997 - Signature Series, classic. 86,000 original miles. $8,500. Serviced Regularly. Good inspection stickers thru 5/26. Call 732-773-9415. (33)
SEEKING FURNISHED WINTER SUBLET - Mature couple, will care for your home as if it were our own. References available. 832-477-6034. (33)
$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$
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. 732849-6068 (new number). (t/n)
COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY
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)
Ca$h Paid for Old 45 RPM RecordsR&B, doo wop, soul, early rock and roll, and rockabilly. Call between 8AM and 8PM (909)938-4623. (31)
Buying World War I & II Swords, Bayonets, Daggers, Helmets, Hats, Medals, Marine uniforms, Flags, etc. Cash Paid! 609-581-8290. Email: lenny1944x@gmail.com. (33)
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)
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. (29)
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)
Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)
Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time cook. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliatr.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (30)
Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)
HVAC Installer/Technician Hiring Now - Experience needed. Great Work Environment. Company vehicle. Full time, year round, paid holidays. Call 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)
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)
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time Maintenance worker. Skills include painting, electrical work, and plumbing. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal. com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (30)
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full and part time Dietary Aides If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (30)
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)
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)
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)
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)
PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE, PAINTING AND PAPER HANGING - Call 732-688-3532. (28)
• 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
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GARDEN & PLANT CARESUMMER HELP! Avoid costly plant losses. Diagnose problems, pests, watering, repot, refresh containers, houseplants, pruning. Care & Advice. House Calls. Semi-retired Master Gardener. Joe – 732-232-8144. (32)
PAINTING By Neat And Meticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)
Home Care Companion - Daily Chores, Food Prep, Memory Guidance, Appointments, Shopping. Decades of experience. Contact JoAnn 732-600-6812. Thank You. (31)
Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (25)
DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK NICE, AND SHINE?
Call Lenny. Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (34)
Life Coach - Facing a challenge? Discuss it in person. Bring out your best. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas 732-754-4891. (31)
Handyman - Painting, powerwashing, electrical, plumbing, light hauling. Call Joe 732-859-9266. (19) 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)
Highly Experienced - Reliable, Reasonable, Responsible, Compassionate At Home Caregiver is Available for your Elderly loved ones. Live in/Hourly. 732-912 5876. (29)
House cleaning, office cleaning - Painting, laundry, window cleaning and carpet cleaning. Very good price. Call 732-330-4189 and 848-287-3944. (26)
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)
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)
"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)
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)
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. (35)
Handyman Solutions - Affordable prices that are budget friendly. All phases of Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry • Laminate Flooring • Painting • Drywall • Doors • Windows • Siding • Hand and Vinyl Railings • Decks • Minor Plumbing/Electrical and more. Licensed Insured. 609-384-9030 (50) Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)
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SHREWSBURY – The Guild of Creative Art will present “Abstract Conversations,” a contemporary art exhibit featuring paintings and sculptures by local artists, from August 23 through September. 16, at its gallery on Broad Street.
A Meet the Artists reception is scheduled for September 7, from 3 to 5 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
Curated by artist and instructor James Kent, the exhibit showcases two- and three-dimen-
sional works that embrace abstract expression through color, form, and imaginative composition. Viewers are invited to engage with each piece on multiple levels — first as individuals interpreting shapes and emotions, and then as participants in a larger dialogue among the artworks themselves.
“This show is about visual conversations,” Kent said. “The sculptures pull color and form from the paintings, and the canvases echo each other from across the room. There’s no single
story — it’s about sparking imagination.”
Featured artists are current and past members of Kent’s Monday evening Lyrical Abstract Expressionism class, which enters its 21st season this fall. Participating artists include Nancy Conley, Dawn DiCicco, Shari Epstein, Douglas Gilbert, Mitra Gilbert, Nancy Karpf, James Kent, Annette Margulies, Derek Riddle, Leona Tenebruso-Shultes, and Karen Starrett. Visitors can expect a wide range of non-objective and non-representational works. Some
pieces may suggest faces or landscapes, while others hint at organic forms like flowers or leaves, but none aim to replicate the natural world. Instead, each work is a product of pure imagination and personal vision.
Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Guild of Creative Art is located at 620 Broad Street, Shrewsbury, NJ. For more information, call 732-741-1441 or visit guildofcreativeart.org.
Crunched numbers
Shockingly vivid
Clean water org.
Inner selves
Wretchedness 16 Region of severe drought in the 1930s 18 Structures that provide shade 19 At the ready 20 Massive 22 Craigslist abbr. 23 Actress Polo 24 Diner, e.g. 28 Head physician, briefly?
29 Feeds the pigs 30 Light units 31 Assume, as a responsibility 33 Bank vaults 36 Rochester, New York, dish with meat, fries, and baked beans 39 Question type 40 SoFi Stadium pros
42 Actor Hawke
Runs up against?
Light touch
Hazard for bare feet in a beach parking lot
Cooked up
Bluff, maybe
Force from power
Gives for a while 56 “Doesn’t look good for me!”
59 Army dining area, or a punny description of where to find 16-, 24-, 36-, and 49-Across
62 Apt name for someone born on Christmas
Operatic solo
Narc’s org.
Class
Mule kin
1 Hardly rowdy 2 Richly appointed 3 Activity that involves taking a shot in the dark?
4 Subject of a congressional ceiling
5 Previously 6 Pull along
7 Like a limb that’s all pins and needles
8 “30 Rock” role for Tina
9 Employ 10 Start up again
11 Asimov work with “Three Laws” 12 Vacuums that have “dual cyclone” technology
15 “I Try” singer Gray
17 Prefix with -athlon
18 Beneficiaries of the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, for short
21 Out of style
24 Gooey lumps
25 Journalist Farrow
26 Pinky promises
27 Carb-loader’s prerace meal
29 Like the vibes at
a spa
32 Style of boat first used by the Aleut, Inuit, and Yupik peoples
34 Overachiever’s test score
35 Shoes that lack heels
37 Aspirational hashtag
38 Savory turnover
41 Seats for equestrians
42 Receding
43 Earthquake
44 Sore throat soother
46 The Caped Crusader
48 Cars that charge slowly in the cold
50 Honker
51 Word before microbiome
52 “It’s fine”
55 DA-to-be’s exam
57 Long in the tooth
58 Tap pour
60 Before, poetically
61 __-pack abs
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Spontaneous ideas can spark creativity and increase your visibility. Take time to enjoy and personalize your space, this nurtures well-being. Investigate every deal thoroughly to ensure you’re making informed, beneficial, cost-effective decisions.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Keep communication strong and clear, it’s essential for both connection and progress. Take time to enjoy creative pursuits or plan a refreshing getaway. These moments can spark powerful inner insights, helping you grow, reflect, and align with your inner self.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Don’t let a temporary lack of confidence weigh you down, it should only be a passing thing. Strategize a fresh approach or explore new ideas. Even well-meaning generosity can backfire if not offered with awareness.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Your warm energy can really stand out. A career break could be coming, just stay alert and thoughtful. Not every grin is from the heart; trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to take a step back when it feels needed.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Bring it in gently, there should be no need to rush. Career worries are likely just passing clouds. Stay open, because a spark of inspiration could catch you by surprise and lead to something meaningful when you least expect it.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You should have plenty of dynamic energy on your side, use it well. Offer support to someone who might need a kind ear or a steady shoulder. When it comes to money, structure your budget with care and wisdom.
FOR THE WEEK OF JULY 19 - 25 BY
JERALDINE SAUNDERS
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Your growth in the world could soon show real results—keep going. Take time to learn smart financial hacks that work for you. In relationships, don’t rush; thoughtful decisions based on observation can shape the right connections.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Good deeds can sometimes come with unexpected layers — stay kind, but aware. Don’t overthink your relationships; let them unfold naturally. Take time to ground yourself in your roots, they can help keep you steady no matter what.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Good ideas might pop up when you least expect them. Let some fresh air into a relationship by being honest and considering new ideas. Channel your focus into learning something that excites and challenges you.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Tread lightly, first impressions can matter a lot. Give from your heart, not out of obligation. A family or home-related issue might surface, so stay grounded and patient as you navigate complexities with care and thought.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Learn from past social missteps, they’re stepping stones, not setbacks. Fresh ideas could show up just when you need them most, so stay open. No matter the situation, kindness always matters—it leaves a lasting impression.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Build confidence that carries across situation—it’s a skill worth strengthening. Make time for a creative outlet that brings you joy. Don’t avoid having tough conversations; facing them can lead to real clarity and positive change.
GRILLED SAUSAGES WITH CARAMELIZED ONION COMPOTE
