2025-08-16 - The Jackson Times

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National Night Out Returns In Jackson

JACKSON – The township once again observed National Night Out, an annual campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

The free event coordinated by the Jackson Police Department and Jackson PBA #168 featured raffles, giveaways, food, music, games, and family-friendly activities. This year’s event was held at Johnson Park, where it has been based more recently having shifted from a ShopRite parking lot.

On display were vehicles and equipment from the police department’s SWAT, K9, traffic, motorcycle, bike and drone units.

Victim’s Mom Testifies In Teacher Sex Abuse Case

Capt. Sean Greenberger was the point person for this year’s event which also provided a showcase for EMS units and fire companies within the township. Community organizations and houses of worship also came out to the park to promote themselves.

Police Chief Matthew D. Kunz said, “I’m pleased to report that the Jackson Police Department was successful in planning and hosting another splen-

did community event. Capt. Sean Greenberger, like Captains Nelson and Convery before him, did very well coordinating with local fire, EMS, OEM, CERT, Kiwanis, Chaverim and so many others to ensure a safe night of family fun.”

(National Night Out - See Page 4)

Volunteers Track Down Train That Helped Build Pinewald

BERKELEY - At some point in the near future, a train will run in Berkeley Township. This isn’t the same as the mass transportation that helped settle the area a century ago. A locomotive - the engine car at the front of a train - with an interesting tie to Berkeley has been found and is being brought back to life. The Berkeley Times spoke to Chris Lynch and David Donley, who are reconstructing the locomotive.

The locomotive was built in 1926 (making its

centennial birthday next year) by the Plymouth Locomotive Works in Ohio and bought by the BW Sangor Corporation, he said.

Benjamin Sangor had an interesting history as well. A Russian immigrant, he published “racy” magazines and started a comic book company. He lost his ability to practice law after being convicted for embezzling and larceny while chairman of the Toms River Trust Company. He sold about 8,000 lots in Pinewald between

JACKSON - Preliminary hearings before Superior Court Judge Jill Grace O’Malley continued in the case of a former special needs teacher accused of sexually abusing a teenage student. The session opened with Monmouth County Prosecutor Danielle Zanzuccki questioning the victim’s mother about when her son disclosed the alleged relationship.

Allison Havemann-Niedrach, 44, of Jackson, is charged with engaging in a sexual relationship with her 15-yearold student while working as a special education teacher in an eighth-grade classroom at Freehold Borough Intermediate School. Prosecutors allege the conduct included sexual encounters in her car and home, thousands of sexually explicit messages, and the creation of child sexual abuse materials.

She faces seven counts: first-degree aggravated sexual assault, first-degree endangering the welfare of a child through the manufacture of child sexual abuse materials, two counts of second-degree endangering, second-degree official

5)

“Jaws” And The Real And Fake Sharks Of New Jersey

TOMS RIVER – As movie buffs celebrate the 50th anniversary of the blockbuster movie “Jaws,” The Toms River Times looks back at two shark incidents at the Jersey Shore – one real and one bogus.

Jim Dougherty recalled being a lifeguard in the summer of 1975 at Silver Beach in Toms River. He has long roots in this town. Toms River High School South named their gymnasium after his father, a teacher and coach.

might be a porpoise or a dolphin spotting once in a while, but no one was thinking about sharks when they went into the water.

After the movie, every swimmer was carefully watching the ocean. Any fin in the water, a flip of a tail – even a bird drifting on a distant wave – sent imaginations into overdrive.

“Multiple times each day beachgoers would falsely report shark sightings,” Dougherty said.

So, the lifeguards were doubtful at first when (Jaws - See Page 12) (Train - See Page 13)

“‘Jaws’ put sharks on the map,” he said. There

Photos by Chris Lundy
(Abuse Case - See Page

National Night Out:

Continued From Page 1

“While too many to list here, we are grateful for all of the organizations that attended and supported Jackson Police Department in hosting this event. By all accounts National Night Out was well attended, and our residents were able to enjoy the opportunity to come together with neighbors and police officers under positive circumstances, thus

building a greater sense of community,” the chief added.

Township Public Safety Director Joseph Candido said, “this marks our third-year hosting National Night Out at Johnson Park, and I’m happy to say it was another fantastic turnout. The event continues to grow each year, which is great to see. We were fortunate to have a strong presence from the community, including Jackson First Aid, Hatzolah First Aid, Chaverim, all

of the Jackson Fire Companies, and several other local civic organizations.”

“From the Police Department side, we showcased some of our newly received vehicles, including quads that we had picked up just two hours before the event. Our Bicycle Unit, SRT Team, Drone Unit, Motorcycle Unit, Quad Unit, and Police Explorers were also on hand and did a great job representing the department,” he added.

Candido extended “a big thank you to the

Kiwanis Club for handling the cooking once again - your continued support is always appreciated. I also want to extend my gratitude to all of our sponsors who generously contributed to the success of the event.”

“Special thanks to Capt. Greenberger for coordinating this year’s event - his first time running it - and doing an outstanding job. I also want to acknowledge Jackson Township Public Works for their help with set-up and clean-up, which made a big difference and finally, thank you to Jackson PBA 168, our main sponsor, whose support covers the cost of the rides and other features that make this such a special night for the community. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event,” Candido added.

Bartley Healthcare donated all the hot dogs; Elite Vehicle Solutions donated all the water and Andy Weinstein’s State Farm office donated the ice cream.

Mayor Michael Reina was enjoying the evening and noted, “National Night out was once again a huge success. The police along with Jackson Township’s First Responders interacted with our residents, many who attended with their families. There was much to see and learn about.”

The mayor added that first responders keep residents safe and help in many ways and that this event provided, “another reason to thank all of them for all that they do for so many every day.”

This marked the last National Night Out for School Resource Officer Colin Menafra, who is scheduled to retire later this year. Members of the Jackson Police Explorer Post 168 were on hand as part of the event assisting where necessary. If you or your child are interested in becoming a police explorer you can reach out to Police Officer Michael DeBlasi at mdeblasi@jacksontwpnj.net.

Slow Flow Yoga

JACKSON – Come and join the Jackson Township Senior Center on Fridays at 10 a.m. for Slow Flow Yoga! Call the Senior Center at 732-928-2313 they will be happy to answer any questions and get you registered. As always, please check their calendar for any changes.

Abuse Case:

Continued From Page 1

misconduct, second-degree sexual assault, and third-degree

Havemann-Niedrach approached the defense table using a cane and sat next to attorneys Thomas Huth and newly added co-counsel Matthew Mordas. During the testimony of three separate witnesses, she kept her eyes down, tapped her fingers lightly on the table, and occasionally looked at papers in front of her attorneys.

Mother’s Testimony

The teenage victim’s mother said her first contact with police came in June 2024, when the Freehold Borough Police Department asked her to bring her son to the station. Officers told her only that a teacher had been “inappropriate” with her son and that they wanted to speak with him privately. She was not present during the interview and could not hear the discussion.

Afterward, she signed a consent form allowing police to search her son’s cellphone, which they kept. The teenager went to work that evening and did not speak further about the matter.

The next day, she said, her son approached her at home. “He was scared; he was crying,” she testified. “He was sad.”

The victim apologized and told her he

had not been dating “the girl” - referring to Havemann-Niedrach’s daughter, but instead “the teacher.” He admitted to sexual contact on two occasions in the teacher’s car and said Havemann-Niedrach had threatened to go to the school’s director if he did not respond to her.

“He was afraid, embarrassed, and thought he might have to go to jail,” the mother said. Her son also told her, “Maybe I should take my life.”

The mother said she was crying as she listened to her son. She called police, leading to a second interview with detectives.

Investigation And Arrest

Detective Sgt. Dawn Correa of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office testified that she and Detective Samuel Hernandez began investigating after school officials raised concerns. Havemann-Niedrach was assigned as the special education teacher in another teacher’s science class where the victim was a student.

A teacher reported seeing the defendant rub the victim’s neck and back, touch his leg, and flirt with him. Correa said the school also conducted an internal review.

Correa and Hernandez interviewed the victim, and with his mother’s consent, seized his cellphone. Deleted messages linked to Havemann-Niedrach’s number were recovered. “You could tell there was a romantic

relationship and also a sexual relationship,” Correa said.

On June 26, 2024, detectives served an arrest warrant at Havemann-Niedrach’s parents’ home in Jackson. Body camera footage showed her cooperating but stating she was not comfortable speaking without her attorney present.

Correa said no questions about the investigation were asked after that point, aside from those related to safety.

At headquarters, Hernandez approached the defendant with a Miranda form while Correa advised her of the charges. When asked again, Havemann-Niedrach confirmed she still wanted her attorney and was not interested in talking. During cross-examination, Hernandez testified the defendant was never advised of her right to remain silent, her right to speak, or her ability to stop questioning at any time.

Casual

Conversation In Custody Hernandez testified that during processing, Havemann-Niedrach initiated casual conversation. She asked if he had ever seen her at the school, then spoke about her work, the Hispanic student population, and her view that children “grow up too fast these days.”

She also mentioned Bark, a parental monitoring app she had installed on her daughter’s phone. Hernandez said Havemann-Neidrach’s husband later told police

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

he had been denied access to the app.

“We were just having a conversation,” Hernandez said, adding that no discussion of the allegations occurred.

Legal Arguments

The victim’s mother testified as part of what is known as a “fresh complaint” hearing. This is a legal proceeding to determine whether testimony about a victim telling someone they trust of alleged abuse can be admitted as evidence at trial. This rule generally applies when the disclosure is made within a reasonable time after the alleged incident.

Questions appear to have been raised about whether Havemann-Niedrach was properly advised of her Miranda rights. The defense has also asked about the admissibility of the mother’s testimony that the victim suggested maybe he should take his own life.

Judge O’Malley ordered the prosecution to provide transcripts of the body camera footage before ruling.

In May, prosecutors offered a plea agreement: plead guilty to aggravated sexual assault, serve 12 years in prison under the No Early Release Act, register under Megan’s Law, and have no contact with the victim. Havemann-Niedrach rejected the deal.

The case is scheduled to return to court on September 9 at 9 a.m. If convicted of the most serious charges, she could face decades in prison.

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OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Bad News Pretending To Be Good News

One of the things I love to write about is when people in the community step up to do the right thing. It really warms the heart. It is a welcome reprieve from all the crime and fighting going on in the world.

However, there are a lot of bad news stories masquerading as good news. It’s a little complicated, so bear with me.

Let’s say the article is about a community group that makes a big donation to Fulfill or a food bank.

On its surface, that seems like good news. People helping people; that’s what it’s all about.

But underneath it all is something unsaid: Why are there this many people who are hungry? That just shouldn’t happen in our country.

I’ve been writing about the group Tunnel To Towers building housing in Berkeley for homeless veterans. It’s a fantastic mission and personally I’m a big fan. But we shouldn’t have homeless veterans.

Every year, there are fundraisers for kids with

cancer. Why doesn’t insurance pay for treatments? Why is it that friends and neighbors have to help the family?

I’m sure in this edition, there is probably a bad news story hidden in positive language.

These stories all point out holes in society’s safety net. We need to patch these holes, and we need to work together. We’ve become so used to these issues, that we just accept them. Yes, we think, it’s normal that families have to go bankrupt when their child gets a serious disease. It is normal that thousands of people go to bed hungry every night.

While we’re helping a single person that’s hurting, we should figure out why they are hurting so that it doesn’t happen to other people. Stitch those holes in the safety net. Pass laws to prevent people from suffering.

If those things happen, that will truly be good news.

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

The Jackson 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.

The Boardwalk Game Of Life

Who is most likely to win those games on the boardwalk? The ones where you drop $5 for three chances or whatever? The rich kids are.

Because they’re the ones with the money to play until they win. If they fail their first three chances, then their mommy or daddy will give them another $5. And another. And another. Until they finally “win” the giant stuffed bear.

A middle class kid might only get one chance. Their parents will give them $5 and if they fail, it’s “Better luck next time. Let’s try a different game.”

Then there’s the poor kids. They don’t get to play. Why? They’re the ones working the stand. It’s the same thing in real life. A rich kid gets infinite chances to get it right. No matter how many times they fail, they have the safety parachute to help them try, try again. A middle class kid gets a few chances in life to succeed and if they fail, oh well. And poor kids don’t get a chance. The game is rigged.

Beaching Our Seniors

New Jersey has 17 percent of senior citizens. My dream when I retired was to move to my beloved Jersey shore. Two years ago my dream and my ultimate love for our beaches came true. Unfortunately osteoporosis took its toll with me and I have suffered from it.

Last year I never made it to our beaches. This year is a bit better with medication and injections but twice so far I have had a miserable time walking onto the sand. My favorite spot was sitting down near the water, now I’m prisoned sitting up by the dunes so my husband and I don’t have far to go to the ramp.

I see many of us seniors

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

having so much difficulty walking on the sand and we all are segregated up by the dunes. With all the money our state takes in with paid beaches WHY isn’t something done so that us seniors can live our quality of life with joy?

Cape May has a handicap carpet ramp at each entrance all the way down to the water’s edge. There are limited supply of balloon tires wheel chairs for us. And it’s difficult to get one. All of us pay enormous taxes to help our beaches. It’s time our taxes help us the ones who’ve been paying for years! I wish someone out there with political authority could help me, us, to achieve this dream before we die and can’t enjoy our beaches anymore.

Beautiful Music

Dear musicians of the Pineland Symphonic Band, I wish to congratulate all of you for performing blissfully. I was the most fortunate recipient of your talents. I attended your concert last night, July 16, 2025.

Your conductor, with a wealth of experience of sixty years, was knowledgeable and very personable. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

In closing, I wish all of you nothing but the very best.

God bless!

Supreme Court Majority Acts As Trump’s Defense Attorneys

The Supreme Court Majority continues to busy itself making decisions to give total power to Donald Trump. They act as if their oath to protect the Constitution was actually a pledge to protect and empower this President. Despite his numerous Constitutional violations already committed and/or soon to

be committed, there is no sign of their returning to their true responsibilities of upholding our Founding Document and the Rule of Law. If anything, they seem to be accelerating the process of making the president a king for life!

How can this be? How did these 6 Justices, including Chief Justice John Roberts, become so antagonistic towards the very document that established the Judiciary and the other two branches of government, the Legislative and the Executive?

What are their grievances against a government of, by and For The People? They get lifetime tenure; Secret Service protection for life; are well compensated in salary and perks; live the good life, the “American dream”; pick and choose the cases they will accept; remain unaccountable for the harm done by their decisions; and seem to be thin-skinned whenever anyone dares to criticize them!

Among the worst decisions are the following:

January 21, 2010: Citizens United opened the floodgates for huge corporations and super wealthy individuals to “buy” elections, Congress, the White House, and even the Supreme Court itself.

June 25, 2013: Gutted the Voting Rights Act. The chronically offending states, mostly in the South, reinstated their agendas of disenfranchisement within days of that decision. The justification by Roberts? When we get a president of color, there obviously is no need for voter rights protection.

July 1, 2024: The 6-3 decision granting immunity to the president. This dismal decision, an outright betrayal of the Constitution, actually changed our form of government.

June 27, 2025: Coddling the president continued with the recent disempowerment of federal judges to delay the President’s Executive Orders.

Can we ever free ourselves from the whims of this Su-

preme Court majority?

What role should religion play in politics since they do not mix well? Our nation is in both a political and spiritual war and we don’t want to face it, perhaps being weak-minded, refusing to take off our blinders? Is the spiritual war driving the political? Is the father of all lies (Satan) behind it, even using politicians? In many ways it appears so. Threats of revenge, dictator, bloodbath; and defending the Jan. 6th Capitol attack; all of which are not of God; it’s easy to see why our freedom and democracy, the Constitution, the very soul or our nation, is in great danger! Where is the character, the integrity, ethics and morals? Also, when Marjorie Greene made the claim that the characteristics of President Trump were comparable to those of Jesus Christ, the alarm should sound! This may all sound political; not the intent! It is meant as a wake-up call to the dangers we face! Silence is not golden! Time to speak out while we still can. Not only the President and now Musk, but also Congress and the Supreme Court; is money and politics infecting our nation instead of helping? Have we become another Sodom and Gomorrah? Do you wonder when God will say, “Enough!” Time to put on the “Full Armor of God!”

Yes, there are important issues that must be addressed such as inflation or immigration, but what about leadership, not power and control? What about Christian values; what about God? Does this administration follow and live by the Ten Commandments? Does Congress and the Supreme Court? Our Christian values are being tested! There is much to be lost!

Nicholas S Molinari Brick

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

Good Things Come To Those Who Wait, Including Traffic Solutions

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

TRENTON - Patience is a virtue, it’s said. But there comes a time when patience gives way to the urgency to get things done, especially when public safety is involved.

The people of Jackson and our neighboring towns should not have had to wait years – decades, really – before their public servants took real action to remedy the traffic issues in the area of the Jackson Premium Outlets, Adventure Crossing USA, and Six Flags Great Adventure. Today I’d like to let you know of the latest progress my partner Assemblyman Rob Clifton and I have made in planning the project and preparing for work to begin.

I know it has to be frustrating to hear more about preparation than getting shovels in the ground. But planning for this has evolved over the past two years, and as a result the project will be more convenient for drivers while it’s underway.

“Measure twice, cut once” is the saying used by carpenters and many others to emphasize the importance of planning. That’s the approach we’re taking, and drivers will

be better off for it.

One very significant change is that the original plan envisioned widening the Rt. 537/Monmouth Road bridge over I-195 to relieve the bottlenecks there. While that would provide better traffic flow when completed, doing the work on a single bridge would have been very disruptive to traffic and temporarily make matters worse until the project was finished.

The new plan is to create a second bridge parallel to the existing one. This way, the existing bridge doesn’t need to be closed while the work is being done.

It also has the benefit of saving taxpayer money. The original project would have cost between $50 million and $100 million, while the new plan will cost around $35 million. It’s pretty rare in government to be able to save taxpayer money while improving the final product.

The bridges will each be one-way only, greatly increasing traffic flow and safety while crossing over I-195. Imagine how much better two lanes in each direction will be.

This configuration will particularly alleviate the congestion resulting from people leaving Great Adventure and taking the westbound ramp to I-195 to get to the Turnpike. Locals know to avoid being

there at that time of day, but that’s not always possible.

Other elements of the project will be done in two phases. Phase 1 will create two lanes from the Freehold area to Rt. 528, and is expected within the next year.

Phase 2 will sound familiar to regular readers. The traffic light at the entrance to the outlets will be replaced by a roundabout. Anderson Road will become right-turn only for northbound traffic at Rt. 537, but drivers will be able to use the roundabout to get safely onto Rt. 537 West and back to the I-195 entrance. This will eliminate the turn with the second highest accident rate in the county, significantly improving safety.

But that’s not all. Assemblyman Clifton and I have committed to being transparent in this process and proactive in educating the public and local officials, so that we can hear concerns, answer questions and receive more input.

We have already met with officials from Great Adventure and Adventure Crossing. We will also attend council meetings in Jackson, Millstone, Upper Freehold and Plumsted to discuss this project in public.

We’re proud to bring this good news to our local communities after decades of residents dealing with the annoying traffic jams and safety issues on the roads they must travel. We’ve seen and

heard others over the years promising to address these problems, but then fading away with nothing done.

Two years ago, Assemblyman Clifton and I secured the funding and the commitment of the New Jersey Department of Transportation to get this project going. We’ve been meeting with stakeholders and planners since then, and together we’ve crafted a solid plan of action.

After two years in the making, we’re closer than ever before to ending the traffic nightmare we’ve had to endure. Not only will our local communities benefit, but people from all over who come to Jackson for a day of family recreation will have much better experiences.

The project will unfold over about three years. That may seem like a long time to wait for it to be finished, but it will certainly be worth it.

I see this as a win for us locally, a win for our visitors, and a win for our area businesses and even the state’s economy. It will make people’s lives a little easier, and our roads safer.

After all these years, it just took some extra drive to create a roadmap for success.

Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 12 other towns in the State Assembly. Follow him on Facebook (/AssemblymanAlex) and on Instagram (@AssemblymanAlex), or visit his website at AssemblymanAlex.com.

Governor Speaks Against Announced Termination Of Solar For All Grants

From The Desk Of The Governor

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy spoke out against the Trump Administration’s announcement that they will terminate the Solar For All grant program that provides lower-cost energy for low-income homes.

“This reckless declaration by the Trump Administration will directly increase household energy costs for our most vulnerable families - and it could not come at a worse moment,” Murphy said.

“At a time when Americans are strug-

gling with skyrocketing energy costs, the Solar for All (SFA) program would have helped lower costs for working families up and down the Garden State, in towns represented by both Democrats and Republicans. This program was estimated to help thousands of our state’s low-income households save $400 every year.

“Instead, the Trump Administration has now chosen to say it is pulling support for a commonsense program that would have delivered cleaner energy and lower costs.

“Americans deserve better, and the Trump Administration must reconsider this aboutface. I am committed to supporting the continued expansion of solar energy, which powers 750,000 homes across New Jersey

and has the potential to create thousands of more good-paying jobs and make energy more affordable for many years to come.”

The US Environmental Protection Agency estimated that the initial Solar For All recipients enabled over 900,000 households in low-income and disadvantaged communities to deploy and benefit from distributed solar energy. “This $7 billion investment will generate over $350 million in annual savings on electric bills for overburdened households. The program will reduce 30 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions cumulatively, from over four gigawatts of solar energy capacity unlocked for low-income communities over five years. Solar and distributed energy resources help improve electric grid reliability and climate resilience, which is especially important

in disadvantaged communities that have long been underserved.”

The Solar For All initiative also created high-quality jobs with the free and fair choice to join a union for workers across the United States, the EPA said. This $7 billion investment in clean energy was expected to generate an estimated 200,000 jobs across the country. All selected applicants intend to invest in local, clean energy workforce development programs to expand equitable pathways into family-sustaining jobs for the communities they are designed to serve. At least 35% of selected applicants have already engaged local or national unions, demonstrating how these programs will contribute to the foundation of a clean energy economy built on strong labor standards and inclusive economic opportunity for all American communities.

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.

Firefighters Visit Summer Camp for Safety Demo

JACKSON – Firefighters from Jackson Fire District 4 visited The Preparatory Academy’s Summer Camp this week for a hands-on show-and-tell session.

Campers explored firefighting gear, heard about the crew’s favorite tools and learned

courtesy Jackson Fire District 4 the importance of practicing fire drills at home.

Fire officials thanked The Preparatory Academy for the invitation, saying they value opportunities to teach fire safety and connect with the community.

Volunteers Have Cats Available For Adoption

– Meet Barry. He came into the rescue with his siblings Bridget, Bobbi, Beth, and Bryce. This adorable little black kitten is as sweet as can be. Barry is great with kids and other animals, making him the perfect addition to any loving home. He’s full of

playful energy but also loves to curl up for cozy naps. He loves other cats and would be best to be adopted with one of his siblings or go to a home with another kitty to play with. He is neutered, up to date on all medical and microchipped. Barry loves to play, and can adjust quickly to any type of family. He is loyal and is looking for a forever home to bring his joy to. Barry is great with everyone and would love some company. He is healthy and ready to get adopted. Could Barry be what you need in your home?

Calling All Cats is a cat rescue group made up of volunteers, some of whom work at a spay and neuter clinic. People would drop off unwanted cats. As a group, they save the babies that are left alone, the countless mothers that have had numerous litters and those that are losing or have lost their home.

To help humanely lower the feline population, they spay and neuter feral cats and then find homes for the friendly adults and the offspring that have been born. The rescue works extremely hard to find the best homes for cats of all shapes, sizes, colors and ages. While these cats wait, they are cared for in safe, loving, and nurturing foster homes

To start the application process, visit Calling All Cats on Facebook and Petfinder.com

Photo
JACKSON
Photo courtesy Calling All Cats

Local VFW Auxiliary Donates

JACKSON – Members of the Jackson VFW Auxiliary 4703, in partnership with Verizon’s VALOR Employee Resource Group, delivered donated wish list items to the Vineland Veterans Memorial Home. The state-run facility provides housing and services to veterans and features amenities including a four-lane bowling

Photo courtesy Jackson VFW Auxiliary 4703 alley, movie theater, barber shop and bank to support residents’ quality of life. The movie theater was a project of a former VFW commander.

New Jersey VFW Commander Jon Hinker joined the visit, which organizers said was part of ongoing efforts to support veterans across the state.

PBA To Host 25th Annual Pig Roast

JACKSON – PBA #168 will celebrate a milestone year with its 25th Annual Pig Roast on October 11 from noon to 5 p.m. at Pine Park’s Clarence Brown Picnic Area, West County Line Road. The rain-or-shine event promises food, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.

Attendees can enjoy all-you-can-eat favorites, including pig roast, hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, clams, sausage, ice cream, beer, wine, and soda. Music will be provided by the Drunken Clams, and activities include giveaways, kids’ games, inflatables, face painting,

a mechanical bull, and carnival games.

This year’s event will also feature the raffle drawing for the PBA’s ATV fundraiser. Winners are encouraged to bring a trailer if they plan to take the prize home that day. Tickets are available from any Jackson police officer or at police headquarters. The cost is $40 for adults 21 and over ($45 at the door), $20 for ages 9–20 ($25 at the door), and free for children 8 and under.

Sponsorship inquiries can be directed to mzak@jacksontwpnj.net or jacksonpba168pigroast@gmail.com.

Located on the grounds of Lakewood Country Club

• A casual, upscale dining venue located in our historic 1885 manison

Available 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

Temporary Traffic Light Installed

At Intersection

JACKSON – A temporary traffic light is now in operation at the intersection of Butterfly Road and Bennetts Mills Road to help manage detoured traffic from the Cedar Swamp Road and Jackson Mills Road closure, officials announced.

The signal, which previously flashed yellow, has been converted to a standard redand-green traffic light. Drivers are advised to follow the new signal, which will remain in place until the nearby intersection work is completed and detours are lifted.

Busy Bee

Police Explorers Earn Honors At State Youth Academy

news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com

JACKSON — Members of Jackson Police Explorer Post 168 attended the New Jersey Law Enforcement Youth Academy at Drew University, completing an intensive week of training, scenarios and competitions.

Explorers Canfield, Ibriham, Kagramian, Kemprowski, Perez, Petyo, Tapia and Vanderstine began each day at 5 a.m. with physical training before breaking into one of four phases. Phases 1 and 2 focused on classroom instruction and law enforcement scenarios, while Phase 3 involved campus patrols using skills learned in previous years. Phase 4 centered on career preparation, including resume building and mock interviews with police chiefs.

Several Jackson explorers earned awards during the program: Phase 1 — Domestic violence scenario, 2nd

courtesy Jackson Police

place: Explorer Kagramian; High overall physical fitness for females: Explorer Ibriham; Traffic stop scenario, 1st place: Explorer Canfield. Phase 2 — Arrest, search and seizure scenario, 1st place: Explorer Petyo; Narcotics investigation scenario, 1st place: Explorer Petyo. Phase 3 — Traffic stop scenario, 3rd place: Explorer Vanderstine.

Phase 4 — Candidate of choice runner-up: Explorer Kemprowski.

Officials said the week was challenging but strengthened teamwork among participants. The explorers thanked the Jackson Police Department, Jackson PBA Local 168 and the community for their support.

A comedy night fundraiser is planned in the near future. For information on joining the program, contact Police Officer Michael DeBlasi at mdeblasi@jacksontwpnj.net.

Backpacks For Students Available

JACKSON – Jackson Baptist Church will once again host its annual Backpack Distribution, offering free, filled backpacks to Jackson Township students ahead of the new school year.

The event will take place on August 24, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at 360 Bennetts Mills Road. Backpacks will be available for local students in preschool through high school, with supplies included.

Organizers encourage families who may need support preparing for the school year to take advantage of the giveaway. “It’s time for our annual Backpack Distribution,” the church said in its announcement. “Please share with anyone who might need a little support getting ready for the upcoming school year.”

Families must register at jacksonbaptist.org.

Oliverie Funeral Home Hosting Pre-Planning Lunch & Learn

JACKSON – Oliverie Funeral Home will host a Lunch & Learn Pre-Planning Seminar on September 9 from noon to 2 p.m. at The Wisteria, located at 125 S. Cooks Bridge Road in Jackson. The event, led by Manager and Funeral Director Geri Oliverie, will provide information about funeral pre-planning and related

services. Guest speakers include Melissa Meegan of Affinity Hospice & Palliative Care and Jessica Cartnick of Bratton Estate & Elder Care Attorneys. The seminar is free to attend, and lunch will be provided. Attendees are asked to RSVP by calling 732-657-4900.

Photo

Loose Cow Gives Police A Surprise

JACKSON – Township police officers had an unusual encounter recently when they came across a loose cow on Toms River Road.

The wandering bovine gave officers a lighthearted reminder of the rural areas they

patrol. Using department quads, officers were able to navigate the terrain and safely manage the situation.

Police shared the moment on social media, noting it’s not something they see every day.

Jaws

: Continued From Page 1

another person said there was a shark fin just beyond the breakers – until the lifeguards looked out and saw it for themselves.

It was August 15, 1975. There were thousands of people on the beach.

The bathers were called back to the safety of the sand. Everyone watched the fin sitting out in the water. Then, two lifeguards decided to investigate.

Lifeguards Glenn Wright and David Getty manned the stand while Dougherty and Paul Getty took to the waves. People on the shore thought they were crazy – and told them so.

“You’ve seen ‘Jaws,’ haven’t you?” one beachgoer said.

They had not. Getty had read the book, though.

They paddled a 15-foot Charles Hankins lifeguard boat out toward the fin. Upon approaching, they thought they were going to

“need a bigger boat.” The dorsal fin was so large that it must have belonged to a huge maneater, possibly 12 feet long.

“During the summer, when similar scenarios occurred, once we rowed out past the waves, any sighting of a shark disappeared,” he said. “Not this time. As we went over the furthest wave, we could see that the large fin was still very present.”

However, Dougherty noticed it wasn’t moving. When they got about 30 yards away, the fin didn’t look quite right. When they pulled close to it, they realized it was a wooden fin attached to a piece of Styrofoam painted black, anchored by an 8-ounce lead weight.

But the multitude of people watching from the shore didn’t know that.

“Let’s have some fun,” Dougherty said to Getty. Dougherty took swipes at the fin. Each time, the people on the beach gasped and shouted. After the third swipe, he let himself fall into the ocean – to the horror of the onlookers.

Getty sprang up in panic, trying to look for him. Tension rose on the beach.

Then Dougherty calmly climbed back on board with the fake fin. Some people on the beach laughed, some booed.

They kept the fin for a while, and everyone wanted to look at it.

(Jaws - See Page 13)

Lifeguards Glenn Wright, Jim Dougherty, Paul Getty and David Getty pose with the shark fin in The Ocean County Review.

Photo courtesy Jim Dougherty

Train:

Continued From Page 1

1928 and 1929, and built the Royal Pine Hotel and an 18-hole golf course.

In front of the hotel - which is now Crystal Lake Nursing and Rehabilitation Center - was a manmade lake. After excavators dug up the soil, the train was used to cart it elsewhere.

Engine #2173 was one of two used for this project, said Josephine More, Historical Society Publicity Chair. A photo exists of Ziegfeld Follies girls dancing on top of the train as a publicity stunt.

The locomotive was then bought by a brickyard in upstate New York. Then another. “It then went into private ownership and nobody knew where it was for decades,” Lynch said. Until it came up for sale online.

Lynch’s friend spotted it and looked into the serial number. Once its legacy was learned,

Jaws

:

Continued From Page 12

Dougherty doesn’t recall what happened to it. Like a shark fin dipping back under the water after an attack, the fake fin has disappeared, only existing in memory.

Where did it come from? Possibly a boater or a surfer. The culprit was never found. However, Dougherty would love to meet the merry prankster today and share some laughs.

The Ocean County Review newspaper at the time noted that a similar hoax was reported the previous day at Sea Bay Park beach. Someone

it was transferred to the Berkeley Township Historical Society.

Lynch and Donley were invited to check it out and see how much work was needed.

“Nine hours later, we had half the engine taken apart,” Lynch said.

Donley, of Toms River, said Lynch had asked him for a second opinion on that day in August of 2024.

“We weren’t sure what to expect,” he said. “And we just jumped right into it.”

“Because this is a museum piece to be seen by the public, we wanted to make it look presentable,” Donley said.

The wooden structure of the roof had rotted away, he said. They measured what was left, drew it, and a friend helped get a replacement. They knew another connection who could get them sheet metal.

Mechanically, some of the parts still work, surprisingly.

had spotted a couple in a boat that might be the suspects.

The Sharks Of NJ

Although Toms River was where parts of The Amityville Horror I and II were filmed, it has long been believed – incorrectly – that other towns in New Jersey was the inspiration for the Amity Island, the New England setting for “Jaws.”

It began in Beach Haven on July 1, 1916, according to The Smithsonian. Philadelphia resident Charles Vansant, 25, was attacked by a shark while swimming on vacation. He was

“We learn a little bit about it every time we work on it,” he said. “Some parts we find are broken. Other parts we assume are broken but aren’t.”

This kind of work fascinates them, and they couldn’t help but be drawn into the mystique and the story behind the vehicle.

Some of the work has just been cosmetic, but the engine itself is out for refurbishing.

An anonymous donor provided a carport tent so that they can work on it in any weather.

They’ve even built a railroad for it.

“It’s been a fun project,” Lynch said. “We hope to have it fully restored and functional.”

It’s so rare that you can find a piece of history and put it back in action.

Lynch and Donley are restoring the locomotive for free.

“When you restore an old piece of railroad equipment, all the blood, sweat, tears, and cursing is worth it when you see children

pulled to shore by a lifeguard, but bled to death.

On July 6, in Spring Lake, Charles Bruder was claimed by a shark.

On July 12, Lester Stillwell, 11, was playing in Matawan Creek when a shark attacked. A young man named Watson Stanley Fisher went in the water to save him, but was killed.

Another victim, teenager Joseph Dunn, was bitten in the creek a half hour later but survived.

The dates – so close together – prompted speculation of a rogue great white shark. It struck two people in the ocean and the Matawan Creek was somehow 16 miles inland in fresh water.

enjoying it,” Lynch said. They are currently restoring an old train in Pennsylvania.

“These two young men have absolutely no connection to Berkeley Township whatsoever, and yet they have volunteered countless hours of their time planning and carrying out #2173’s restoration, researched and documented #2173’s entire history from the original build in 1926 to today, obtained sizeable donations, enlisted their other train enthusiast friends to assist, procured large material donations (such as railroad ties) from major construction companies in NJ, and have fast-tracked (no pun intended) #2173 to be restored, in its entirety and to be running down a track once more,” Morey said.

Up until now, this part of Berkeley’s history was just written down, or spread through word of mouth. Now, there will be a physical connection to a unique portion of the town’s past.

The stories spun out of control at the time. Looking back, there is very little evidence of what exactly happened. The idea of it being a single, white shark is just the best theory. It’s not like there were any photos. A shark was allegedly caught, killed, and opened, revealing what news reports said were body parts of two victims. However, even this has been called into question.

It has long been believed that these attacks were what inspired Peter Benchley’s novel “Jaws.” Benchley ultimately had to publicly deny that he was inspired by these attacks when he wrote the novel “Jaws.”

Around the JerSey Shore

Health System Named “America’s Greatest Workplaces 2025”

NEW JERSEY – RWJBarnabas Health, the largest, most comprehensive academic health care system in New Jersey, is honored to be included among Newsweek and Plant A Insights Group’s “America’s Greatest Workplaces 2025.” RWJBarnabas Health’s placement on this year’s list highlights its ongoing dedication to creating an environment where staff feel valued and empowered to thrive.

The annual Newsweek list, developed in partnership with Plant-A Insights Group, draws from one of the largest independent employee studies in the U.S., featuring over 400,000 confidential interviews and 4.9 million company reviews across 36 indus-

tries. Companies were rated on key factors including workplace culture, benefits, career growth, job security, and work-life balance.

This prestigious recognition reflects RWJBarnabas Health’s strong commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and engaging workplace culture for its more than 44,000 employees across acute care hospitals, academic medical centers, research facilities, and community-based services.

As one of the state’s largest private employers, RWJBarnabas Health has built a reputation for outstanding quality, safety, and an unwavering commitment to its mission. This latest honor follows a series of national and state-level recognitions.

OCVTS Seeks Automotive Technology Instructor work experience.

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Vocational Technical School is seeking an Automotive Technology instructor for its Adult Education/Twilight program for the 2025-2026 school year.

Candidates must be ASE Master Certified Technicians or eligible to obtain certification, and have at least four years of relevant

Resumes and certifications should be sent to Dr. Michael B. Maschi, assistant superintendent, at tedgar@ocvts.org. Applicants must reside in New Jersey.

The district does not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or other non-merit factors.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

Tepezza And Hearing Loss: What You Should Know

Tepezza is an FDA approved drug for Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). TED is an autoimmune condition often associated with Graves’ disease (a type of hyperthyroidism). It causes inflammation and swelling behind the eyes. Tepezza targets the insulin-like-growth factor and can help reduce eye bulging, improve vision, lower inflammation and decrease the need for surgery. It’s an IV infusion given about every 3 week for a total of 8 infusions over 5-6 months. One of the side effects is hearing loss and tinnitus. What Kind of Hearing Problems Can Tepezza Cause?

Hearing loss (temporary or permanent)- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)- Ear fullness or pressure- Autophony (hearing your own voice unusually loudly)

- Eustachian tube dysfunction

Why Might Tepezza Affect Hearing? Tepezza blocks the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), which helps maintain inner ear function. Disruption

to this receptor may:- Interfere with inner ear hair cell survival- Alter Eustachian tube function

How Common Is This Side Effect?

Clinical trials: ~10% reported hearing issues- Recent reports: Up to 65-80% may experience some hearing symptoms - Some cases are temporary; others may be long-lasting or permanent

What Should Patients Do?

Before treatment:- Get a baseline hearing test (audiogram)

During treatment:- Monitor for any ear-related symptoms and report them promptly. Typically, a second hearing evaluation is recommended after 4 infusions.

In summary, Tepezza can cause a range of hearing issues, likely due to its effects on IGF-1R. Monitoring and early detection are key. Always consult your doctor if you notice any changes in your hearing during or after treatment. In some cases, treatment may have to be discontinued.

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!

Crisis Hotline Volunteers Needed

OCEAN COUNTY – Crisis Hotline Volunteers needed for CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties’ training beginning September 16, twice a week, every Tuesday & Thursday, for 6 weeks from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Training will be held in person at Christ Episcopal Church, 415 Washington Street, Toms River. CONTACT is a 24-hour crisis inter-

vention hotline that also provides information & referral to community resources. All calls are free, confidential and anonymous. Training is free. BECOME A VOICE TO THOSE IN DISTRESS - make a difference in your community! – call 732-240-6104 or email contact@ contactoceanmonmouth.org for additional information and registration.

Dear Pharmacist

A New Way To Breathe Easier During Anaphylaxis

Imagine being in a restaurant, taking one bite of a meal, and then suddenly realizing you’re in trouble. Your throat starts to tighten, breathing becomes labored, and panic sets in. For people with severe allergies, this is not a rare event. Until recently, the only emergency treatment was an auto-injector called EpiPen. But now, there’s a nasal spray version of epinephrine!

Neffy offers the same life-saving medication as the traditional auto-injector but delivers it through the nose. That means no needles, no injections, and no hesitation for those who feel uneasy about self-injecting in a crisis. It’s approved for adults and children over 66 pounds (about 30 kg), making it an excellent alternative for people who might otherwise freeze in fear of a big shot.

The FDA’s approval of Neffy is big news! Epinephrine is the gold standard for treating anaphylaxis, which is a sudden, potentially fatal allergic reaction triggered by foods, insect stings, medications, or other allergens. It works fast by relaxing airway muscles, improving breathing, and reversing the dangerous drop in blood pressure that occurs.

What makes Neffy particularly promising is how accessible it is. For someone who’s panicking, digging through a handbag or backpack to find their pen injector, taking off the cap, jabbing it into a thigh (all while struggling to breathe!) can be a tall order. The minutes matter. Spraying medication into the nose takes only seconds with less risk of user error.

Neffy is not for everyone, or every situation. Individuals who are unconscious, not breathing, or experiencing nasal blockages may not get the full benefit from a nasal spray. It’s also not yet approved for young children less than 66 lb, so caregivers of little ones will still need to rely on traditional injectors for now. And, as with all epinephrine products, a trip to the ER is still required after use - this isn’t a “fix it and forget it” remedy.

Neffy requires prescription for now, so it’s not available over-the-counter. And while insurance coverage is still rolling out, it’s expected to become covered by more plans soon. If you’re prone to severe allergic reactions or have children who are, this may be the innovation that makes emergency preparedness a little less intimidating. It’s not meant to alarm, but it’s important to know that anaphylaxis can strike suddenly—even in people who’ve safely eaten or used a product for years. The exact cause of this sudden reaction often remains a mystery. I can’t help but wish needle-free Neffy were available over the counter at all pharmacies. It would be incredibly reassuring if we could all keep a sprayer in our car, purse, or backpack, just in case we have a problem, or someone nearby does. Anaphylaxis doesn’t come with a warning.

Needles can be scary. Breathing shouldn’t be. For more information on Neffy, visit neffy.com. I also have a more comprehensive version of this blog available 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.

p oli C e B lotter

Jackson Man Sentenced To 3 Years for Burglary

OCEAN COUNTY – A Jackson man has been sentenced to three years in state prison for burglary and 18 months for violating a restraining order in connection with a 2024 break-in and assault, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced.

Manuel Fernandez, 40, was sentenced Aug. 8 by Superior Court Judge Kenneth T. Palmer. The burglary term is subject to the No Early Release Act, requiring Fernandez to serve at least 85% of his sentence before parole consideration. Both sentences will run concurrently. Fernandez pleaded guilty to both charges June 18.

Authorities said that at about 1:40 a.m.

May 31, 2024, Jackson police responded to a Buttonwood Drive home after a report of an unlawful entry. Officers found Fernandez inside the home of his wife, who had an active temporary restraining order against him. Investigators said he kicked down her bedroom door and assaulted her before she was able to fight him off and call police.

Fernandez was arrested at the scene and has been held at the Ocean County Jail since that date.

Billhimer credited Senior Assistant Prosecutor Taylor Toscano, Assistant Prosecutor Genna Moscato, and the Jackson Township Police Department for their work in securing the conviction and sentence.

Man Charged After Assault On Officer at Six Flags

JACKSON – A 24-year-old man was arrested at Six Flags Great Adventure after police said he refused to leave the property, assaulted an officer and resisted arrest.

Jackson Police Officers Gonzalez and Dejesus were working a security detail at the park around 1:38 p.m. when they were called to the main gate for a dispute between a man and a woman, police said. The man, 21, told officers he had been arguing with his 19-year-old girlfriend, who had returned to his vehicle but left before police arrived.

Staff later found the woman in the employee entrance area. Six Flags security banned both individuals from the property. Police said the woman complied, but the man refused to leave.

According to police, the man was seated in his vehicle and ignored repeated orders to leave, prompting officers to open the driver’s door and order him out. When he continued to refuse, officers used force to remove him, sparking a brief struggle in which the man kicked at officers and threw his cellphone, striking one in the face.

The man was handcuffed, processed on charges of aggravated assault on law enforcement, resisting arrest, obstruction, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and criminal trespass, and taken to the Ocean County Jail.

His identification was not released by the police.

Lakewood Renaissance Faire Set

LAKEWOOD – The Lakewood Renaissance Faire will return September 20 & 21, bringing jousts, performances and medieval-themed festivities to 500 Country Club Drive from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

The annual event features live entertainment, artisans and family-friendly activities celebrating medieval culture.

Tickets can be purchased online at shorturl.at/W1TOv.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Injured At Work?! Knowing Your Rights Can Save You Thousands In Medical Bills

You have the right to have a safe workplace. If you have suffered an injury on the job, make sure you know what kind of benefits you might receive under Workers’ Compensation coverage.

In some instances, an aggressive compensation carrier may deny an injured worker’s legitimate workers’ compensation claims. An insurer can claim you have not been injured, or that the injury you suffered is not serious enough to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. If this is the case, you may stand to lose critical benefits, specifically the right to medical treatment.

Medical benefits are mandated by the New Jersey Worker’s Compensation Act and require the employer to furnish the injured worker with medical, surgical, and other treatment as are necessary “to cure and relieve the worker of the effects of the injury and to restore the functions of the injured member or organ” if possible. Moreover, in those instances where the employer has refused or neglected to provide medical treatment in accordance with the provisions of the Workers’ Compensation Act, the employer will be held responsible for the cost of treatment, even if the employee receives treatment prior

to the carrier’s authorization.

Further, it is important to note another critical benefit of the Workers Compensation Act. This benefit protects employees from collections lawsuits when the employee obtains medical treatment that has been wrongfully or negligently withheld by an employer. This benefit was upheld by the New Jersey Appellate Court in Kinley Physical Therapy Services, Inc. v. Kramer, and unequivocally states that a medical service provider is prohibited from filing an action against the employee until a determination has been made by the Division of Workers’ Compensation. The Court reasoned that a medical provider is normally not permitted to pursue collection actions in court until it resolves all administrative remedies, thus, the employee must be shielded from all actions by the medical provider until the Court determines whether or not the employer is responsible for the cost of medical care. If you feel your legitimate benefits have been denied and you live in New Jersey, our Workers Compensation Lawyers at R.C. Shea & Associates would like to talk to you to see if we can assist you with your case. Call us for a free consultation. (732) 505-1212.

Christopher R. Shea Esq.

Around the JerSey Shore

Prosecutors Association Offers Student Scholarships

TRENTON — The County Prosecutor’s Association of New Jersey, Inc. is now accepting applications for its annual scholarship program, offering five $3,500 awards to eligible New Jersey college, graduate, and law students.

The scholarships are one-time grants paid directly to recipients, and previous winners are not eligible to reapply. The

deadline to submit applications is Sept. 30, 2025, with award notifications expected in November.

The available scholarships include:

Oscar W. Rittenhouse Memorial Scholarship: For New Jersey residents entering law school with an interest in becoming a prosecutor and demonstrating financial need.

Andrew K. Ruotolo Jr. Memorial Scholar-

ship: For law or graduate students committed to child advocacy and demonstrating financial need.

Harris Y. Cotton Memorial Scholarship: For law students focused on careers in prosecution, particularly involving domestic violence or hate crimes, with financial need.

John H. Stamler Memorial Scholarship: For sworn law enforcement officers pursuing

higher education to enhance their effectiveness in the field.

Avon Thomas Morgan III Memorial Scholarship: For diverse law school students from underrepresented groups pursuing a prosecutorial career, in line with the state Attorney General’s diversity guidelines. Applications are available at ocponj.gov/ cpanjscholarshipapp/.

Do You Want To Open A Thrift & Gift Store - or sell items online $$$ For info call 732-678-6786. (36)

Garage Sale

Garage Sale - Fishing rods, reels, lures - salt water and fresh water. 1 North Carolina Ave., Whiting. 732-350-1841. August 16, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rain or shine. (35)

Items For Sale

Two all wood twin beds - $25 each, Excellent condition. Snap on tool chest, $35. Come-along, $110. Call Diane 732-821-4576. (35)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732849-6068 (new number). (t/n)

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL -

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

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)

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. (35)

CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n)

Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n)

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)

Classifieds are placed in all 7 of our weekly newspapers covering all of Ocean County, and also Howell in Monmouth County.

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

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 AidesNeeded for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n )

Services

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)

Senior Services Available - Toms River, Berkeley area. Shopping, doctors, pets, errands, converse. Retired male. References available. $20/hr. Flexible. 732-600-0179. (34)

Interior And Exterior PaintingSmall home repairs. 30 years of experience. Free estimates. Fully insured. LIC: 13VHO4548900 Call Tommy: 609-661-1657. (36)

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)

Handyman Available - 15 years experience. Light plumbing and electrical repair. Install fixtures, etc. No job too small. 646-734-9141. (33)

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. (38)

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)

Services

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)

Highly Experienced - Reliable, Reasonable, Responsible, Compassionate At Home Caregiver is Available for your Elderly loved ones. Live in/Hourly. 732-912 5876. (29)

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

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)

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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. (43)

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This stunning shot shows the August Sturgeon Moon rising perfectly behind Barnegat Lighthouse on Long Beach Island. The moon glows deep orange against a twilight blue sky, while the lighthouse stands in silhouette above the dark water. Captured by Don Edwards, the scene’s sharp alignment and vivid contrast create a dramatic, almost surreal image. Have a pic to share with our readers? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may see it in the newspaper!

PBA To Host Cigar Night For Police Unity Tour

JACKSON –PBA Local 168 will hold its 4th annual Cigar Night on October 8 to benefit the Police Unity Tour. The event will run from 6 to 10 p.m. at 550 W. Commodore Blvd.

Tickets are $100 and include three premium cigars, whiskey flights, beer, food and a door prize entry. Guests can also enjoy a cigar stand by Bullet Branch, live music

from IAMCURBIE, a gift auction, 50/50 raffle and cigar accessories from Storks Designs.

Organizers said proceeds will support the Police Unity Tour, which honors fallen officers and raises awareness of their sacrifice. Tickets should be reserved in advance. For tickets, sponsorship or donations, contact WKozna@JacksonTWPnj.net.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

mary, and thyme 31 Upright

Condiment in Indian cuisine

Tough to resolve

Word with you or who

Bass player?

Fitness program that incorporates ballet, yoga, and Pilates

Siamese fighting fish

Marginal drawing

Shoe decor

Nimble

Lab coat?

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Feel your way forward—something you have a passion for could be your cheat code to leveling up. Mellow time at home or working to beautify your surroundings could be just what you need for a happy Sunday.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Gentle communication with thought toward the listener brings people closer together. A Sunday escape could suit you just right, find a peaceful vibe instead of seeking out excitement. Process old stuff to free yourself.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You may be seeking a new understanding or a new direction for your journey, don’t let worries and fears push you. Better to let your true path pull you forward—listen for guidance. Be a rock star to help someone in need.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Old anxieties may no longer have a basis in reality, check in to see if it’s time to reassess and release. Today could be a day that feels freer than some days do, make the most of the vibe. A wild new career path could appear soon.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Matters of identity and self-expression may be on your mind now. Get together with your crew but keep your energy protected, don’t suck up someone else’s fears. An active getaway could give you a fab opportunity to blow off steam.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Just another week or so until the clouds part and you can feel visible again; consider staging now. Enjoy an influx of help, ideas and resources that should be arriving now or very soon. Apply some real effort to working out a money matter.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Don’t allow

FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 16 - 22

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

self-doubt to prevent you for putting out genuine effort toward a worthy cause. Singles should look out for repeating patterns. Committed folks may be dealing with mixed messages or tangled issues—an outside-the-box perspective could help.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Just how much charisma can one person bring may be the question, you’re super shiny today. A friend may offer the wisdom or pragmatic help you need, or you could be the helper for someone else. Avoid impulse behaviors toward a partner.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Your inner guidance could be solid gold, give a listen. Concern about a relationship could drive intrusive thoughts. Don’t run with anxieties, wait for the smoke to clear. If you are single, think carefully—dating could jack you up or throw you down, or both.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Navigate an uneven domestic scene with grace and compassion. This could be a day that clear seeing can untangle a financial situation. Committed partners could have flowing and companionable times. If you’re dating, avoid making impulse decisions.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Show up strong. Stage for your week, you will have extra charisma to utilize to help you get ahead. An attempt to talk though an issue could misfire, neither party may be ready to lay things to rest. Give with an open heart.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Let your heart be your home. Move away from fear and toward your greatest dreams; they began, just like you, with your original roots. If you’re single, dating could deliver what you’re looking for. Partners in ongoing relationships could be lucky too now.

THIS DELIGHTFUL SUGAR SNAP PEA SIDE DISH ALSO MAKES A WONDERFUL STARTER

Sometimes I get stuck in a rut on what to serve as a side dish with a simple meat, chicken or fish entree. It’s fun to come up with tasty sides that fit into the Seriously Simple philosophy.

I love sugar snap peas and often add them to other greens like peas or asparagus. Here, I’ve highlighted the sweet crisp sugar snap flavor and texture with pesto and vinegar. Topped with rich toasted pine nuts and crumbled fresh goat cheese, this is as good as a side dish as it is as a starter.

Sugar snap peas need to be cooked quickly to maintain their crispiness while still being cooked through. Sugar snap peas are a cross between a snow pea and a garden pea. Snow peas are flat and have tiny peas inside, while the sugar snap pea is plump with a crunchy texture and sweet flavor. There may be tough strings in the peas that need to be removed before eating or cooking. You can now find stringless varieties at some supermarkets so removing the strings is not necessary.

Choose your favorite basil pesto recipe, whether it’s homemade or storebought, and look for Mediterranean pine nuts that have a rich, buttery flavor and creamy texture.

Make sure your goat cheese is fresh and can be easily crumbled over the snap peas. Raw sugar snap peas are delicious tossed into salads or as an added component to a vegetable platter. They can also be steamed, roasted or stir-fried.

Sometimes I’ll add fresh peas and thinly sliced carrots to the sugar snaps and saute it along with butter, lemon zest, lemon juice

and garlic for another dish underscoring the sugar snap’s flavor. It’s difficult to decide my favorite preparation of sugar snap peas — raw, stir-fried or blistered. They are all so satisfying.

BLISTERED SUGAR SNAP PEAS, GOAT CHEESE AND PINE NUTS WITH PESTO

Serves 2 to 3

1 tablespoon pine nuts

3/4 pound sugar snap peas

2 tablespoons olive or grapeseed oil

1 tablespoon basil pesto (homemade or storebought)

2 tablespoons sherry or white balsamic vinegar

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons crumbled fresh goat cheese

1. Toast the pine nuts in a medium skillet on medium heat. Move the pine nuts around with a spoon as they begin to lightly brown until all of them are golden brown. Be careful not to burn them, as they can go from golden brown to burnt quickly. It should take 3 to 4 minutes. Immediately remove from the skillet and place in a small bowl. Reserve.

2. Remove the stem end and string from each sugar snap pea, if not stringless.

3. In the same skillet, heat the oil on medium-high. Add the sugar snaps and saute until they become blistered (spots of brown) but are still crisp, about 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Remove from heat and add the pesto, vinegar and salt and pepper to taste. Spoon the peas into a serving bowl. Garnish with the reserved pine nuts and goat cheese. Serve immediately.

(Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including “Seriously Simple Parties,” and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at www.seriouslysimple.com.) ©2025 Diane Rossen Worthington. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c) 2025 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
Diane Rossen Worthington
Sugar snap peas need to be cooked quickly to maintain their crispiness while still being cooked through. CREDIT:(Diane Rossen Worthington/TCA).

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