R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law
Fraud Alert: Jury Duty Scam
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates
According to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, there have been recent reports of residents who received a phone call from someone impersonating the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office in a Jury Duty Scam. The impersonator advised that the residents were issued a subpoena for court and failed to appear. The impersonator told the residents that there were active arrest warrants for failure to appear and even provided fraudulent warrant numbers. The residents were told they could pay the fines for the arrest warrants to avoid arrest.
Courts and government agencies, including those in Ocean County, will NEVER ask for payment over the phone. Courts NEVER ask potential jurors for personal identifying information like your social security number.
Key indicators of the Jury Duty Scam include but are not limited to:
• Initial contact from someone claiming to be law enforcement.
• A false claim that you’ve missed jury duty or a court appearance.
• Threaten you need to stay on the phone
and make an immediate payment.
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
• Demand you provide payment in cash, wire transfer or cryptocurrency.
• Request personal information like your date of birth or social security information to steal your identity.
To protect yourself and others from these scams, consider the following:
• DO NOT provide personal information such as date of birth or social security number.
• DO NOT provide account login information
• DO NOT share account activity – Do not any activity or financial account information.
• Block any phone numbers and report the text as junk/spam.
Please call 9-1-1 or your local police department if you believe you are being victimized. You can also report scams to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) https://www.ic3.gov.
Contact the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for all you’re your legal needs. (732) 505-1212
Brick Elks Hosting Car Show & Membership Drive
BRICK – Classic car enthusiasts will have a chance to shine when Brick Elks Lodge #2151 holds a community car show and membership event on October 19.
The free event will take place from noon to 3 p.m. at the lodge, located at 2491 Hooper Avenue. Visitors can enjoy vintage and custom cars, grab a $1 hot dog, and purchase other refreshments while learning about the Elks’ commu -
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Does Eating Breakfast Later In The Morning Speed Up Aging?
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
There’s an interesting new study that might make you think twice about when you have your first meal of the day. Researchers followed about 3,000 adults (between the ages 42 to 94), for more than two decades. They weren’t looking at calories, carbs, or cholesterol. Instead, they looked at something most of us never think about: the timing of breakfast.
On average, most people in this study ate breakfast around 8 in the morning. But as they aged, their first meal shifted later and later, sometimes creeping toward 10 or even 11 in the morning. That may not sound like a big deal, but it ending up revealing something shocking. Each additional hour of delay in breakfast was associated with about a 10 percent higher risk of dying earlier! By the end of the study, the folks who pushed their first meal to late morning had lower survival rates compared to those who ate earlier.
These choices can affect blood sugar, blood pressure, and heart health very differently. For someone with undiagnosed hypertension, a late-morning coffee might push up blood pressure when what their body really needs is potassium, magnesium, or fiber-rich foods.
In addition to the car show, the lodge will be offering new members a special promotion with just a $1 application fee.
Organizers said the show is open to the public and anyone interested in showcasing their car or motorcycle can register in advance.
For more information, contact Angie at angelwillpower@gmail.com or leave a message at 631-355-2413.
Chef’s Tasting To Benefit Military Families
POINT PLEASANT BEACH – Local chefs will come together October 5 for the 9th Annual Chef’s Tasting on the Beach, a food and fundraising event at Martell’s Tiki Bar.
Guests will enjoy tastings from top Shore restaurants, live entertainment, a cash bar and a 50/50 raffle from noon to 4 p.m. on the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk. Tickets are $60 in advance and $75 at the door.
EDUCATORS!
Organizers said the event offers “an afternoon of food, fun and giving back” while spotlighting the talents of local chefs. Tickets are available online at dineonus. org. nity programs.
It doesn’t mean that eating breakfast at 10 am will automatically shorten your lifespan. We can’t take it that far. The researchers themselves make it clear that the timing of breakfast is more of a marker of health than the cause of it. In other words, if you’re dealing with fatigue, depression, pain, low appetite, or dental problems, you might naturally put off getting up and eating breakfast. These are the same health issues that are linked to shorter lifespan. So, is it the late breakfast, or the fact that people who feel unwell often eat later?
Proceeds will benefit Dine on Us, NJ, a nonprofit organization that provides meals and support to active-duty military members and their families facing financial challenges.
I wondered what everyone was eating and if that was taken into account. It wasn’t. This study didn’t evaluate what people were eating. A “breakfast” for one person might have been oatmeal and berries. For another, “breakfast” might be black coffee with two sugars. And let’s be honest, breakfast has become a socially acceptable way to eat cake, cleverly rebranded as pancakes and waffles.
As a pharmacist, I see the bigger picture. Breakfast timing may be a clue, but food choices and medications also play a huge role in long-term health. For instance, certain blood pressure drugs can deplete magnesium, a mineral that naturally relaxes blood vessels. Coffee depletes magnesium too. It’s a “drug mugger” effect I often write about. If you’re breakfast is coffee, your blood pressure will slowly rise and eventually worsen heart rhythm and blood pressure. The takeaway? Don’t panic if you prefer a later breakfast, the study shows correlation, not causation. But it’s a reminder that meal timing deserves attention, and when you do eat, make it count with foods that fit your body and health needs. Early bird or brunch lover, what’s on your plate matters more than the clock. For a deeper dive into this study and some free ebooks to learn more, visit me 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.
on the
spray in the background. The pic was taken by local resident Bakin Rabbi. Want to see your pics in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get lucky!
HABcore Awarded Grant To Support Housing Program
MONMOUTH COUNTY – HABcore, a nonprofit that provides housing and supportive services across the Jersey Shore, has received a $15,000 Empowerment Grant from The Provident Bank Foundation to expand its Independence Pathways Program.
The program helps formerly homeless families, veterans and individuals with disabilities by pairing affordable housing with tailored case management. Services range from health care access and employment referrals to budgeting, parenting and life skills training. HABcore officials said more than 98 percent of participants maintain long-term stable housing after entering the program.
“As the cost of housing continues to climb out of reach of many people, particularly those who face health challenges and the
chronically homeless, this grant from The Provident Bank Foundation will help us meet those needs,” said HABcore President and CEO Steve Heisman.
The Independence Pathways Program is HABcore’s fastest-growing initiative, serving households that struggle with chronic physical and mental health challenges. Samantha Plotino, vice president and executive director of The Provident Bank Foundation, said the funding reflects the foundation’s mission.
“The Empowerment Grant embodies our commitment to investing in organizations that are creating long-term, transformative change,” Plotino said. “We are proud to support HABcore in their efforts to empower individuals on their paths to stability and self-sufficiency.”
County Archives & History Day Returns With Revolutionary Theme
MONMOUTH COUNTY – County Clerk
Christine Giordano Hanlon will host the 30th annual Archives & History Day on October 11 at Brookdale Community College’s Robert J. Collins Arena, a free public event highlighting local and state history from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
This year’s program spotlights Revolutionary-era Monmouth County as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, with living-history re-enactors, fife-anddrum music, and a feature exhibit, “Conflicting Allegiances: Loyalists & Patriots in Revolutionary Monmouth County.”
Historian Johnathan Mercantini, Ph.D.,
will deliver a keynote on the Revolution in New Jersey, and more than 50 historical societies, archives and museums are slated to display exhibits on Garden State history.
Hanlon will also present the M. Claire French Award for Leadership in Historic Preservation and the Jane G. Clayton Award, and the County Clerk’s High School Archives Day Photography Contest winners will be recognized.
Details are available on the Monmouth County Clerk’s Archives Division website; inquiries can be directed to County Archivist Julia Telonidis at 732-308-3771, ext. 3772, or Julia.Telonidis@co.monmouth.nj.us.
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.
A peaceful moment
water. A flock of Canada geese glides across the Leisure Village East lake in Lakewood, with a glowing fountain forming a heart-shaped
Around the JerSey Shore
Monmouth Clerk Launches Video Contest For Teens
FREEHOLD – Monmouth County Clerk
Christine Giordano Hanlon is inviting high school students to produce short social-media reels that encourage their peers to vote, with entries accepted through October 22. The High School #YourVoteMatters Video Reel Contest is open to students who live in Monmouth County or attend a high school
there. Participants may work solo or in teams to create a video up to two minutes long highlighting why voting matters. The top three submissions will receive gift-card prizes and will be shared on the County Clerk’s social channels and voter-outreach platforms.
Hanlon said the initiative builds on her “Your Vote Matters” program aimed at
boosting youth civic participation. The County Clerk’s Elections Division also manages sample ballots, vote-by-mail applications, candidate petitions, tabulation and certification of results.
Full rules and eligibility details are available online, and questions may be directed to ClerkContest@co.monmouth.nj.us
For Sale
2019 Jayco Jayflight Camper34' long. Excellent condition. King size bed. Theater recliners. 55" TV. Fireplace. Three slides. Full bathroom. Call 732-6443067 or 732-644-3260. (44)
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Hair Stylist and Nail TechnicianVery busy salon in Manchester looking to add 2 or more stylist and nail techs to our salon. Looking for reliable individuals who love what they do. Part time to start. Salary discussed at interview. Please call Arleen 732657-2100 between 10-4. (44)
$1850 2 bedrooms 1 bath - Living room, dinning area, washer and dryer, central air, private parking. Available 10/1 Ocean County accepting voucher. 609-618-1941 text ok. (44)
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Part Time Caregiver - For mildly disabled 74 year old female. Brick, Light housekeeping, transportation, shopping. $20-$25/hr. Call Maryann 732-678-3161. (43)
Life Coach - Facing a challenge? Talk it out in person. Sense your way. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas, 732-754-4891. (44)
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Hey Christian Metal Heads - I’m Joe, 61 and looking to start a Christian Metal/Hard Rock cover band in Ocean County. I’ve completed 28 songs. Bands such as Ashes Remain, 12 Stones, Skillet, Stryper, Disciple, Project 86, T.F.K.,etc... and resources to pick up band equipment…any instruments,all musicians. Call Joe at 917-519-4229. (43)
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 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)
Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums Jazz, Rock, Reggae, Blues. Call Rick 908-616-7104. Also buying Comic Books. (46) Rowboat - 12', deepV, Tracker. Very good condition. Never used. $950. Call 732-477-7709, leave message. (45)
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CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (3)
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)
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Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)
Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)
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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
PAINTING By Neat And Meticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)
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Bilingual Therapist - Online sessions only. Accepts most commercial health insurances. Specialty: anger, grief, anxiety, adjustment challenges, and relationship issues. (732)7241841. Ages 21 plus. Find me at https://www.psychologytoday. com/us/therapists?search=carla+Marmelstein (45)
Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (t/n)
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Around the JerSey Shore
Wheels For STEM Program Expands Access To Outdoor Learning
TRENTON – A statewide initiative is helping New Jersey students connect with the environment by removing one of the biggest barriers to field trips: transportation costs.
The Wheels for STEM program, run by EarthShare New Jersey, provides travel stipends for pre-approved K-12 public school field trips that focus on science, technology, engineering and math in natural settings. Teachers or district representatives can apply online for funding to bring students into forests, wetlands, parks and other outdoor spaces.
The program’s goal is to inspire a lasting appreciation for the environment in young people by giving them firsthand experiences outside the classroom. Organizers say the more donations received, the more students can take part.
“Getting kids outdoors is one of the best ways to spark curiosity about science and the natural world,” the group said in announcing the initiative.
Donations to support Wheels for STEM are tax deductible. More details, including an online donation link, are available at earthsharenj.org.
Church Seeking Vendors For Fall Craft Show
MONMOUTH COUNTY – The First Presbyterian Church of Belmar is seeking vendors for its Fourth Annual Fall Craft Show on October 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 600 9th Avenue.
Indoor and outdoor spaces are available for $40
each. Indoor vendors will receive an 8-by-8foot space with a table and chairs, while outdoor spaces measure 10-by-10 feet and require vendors to bring their own tent and table.
To register, call 732-681-8685 or email belmarpresbyterian@verizon.net.
County Opens 2026 History, Preservation Grant Applications
FREEHOLD – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners announced that applications are now open for the 2026 History Regrant Program and the Historic Preservation Grant Program, administered through the Monmouth County Historical Commission.
“Monmouth County is proud of its history and my fellow Commissioners and I are excited to continue our support,” Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone said in a statement. “With the Country’s semiquincentennial in 2026 and a focus on our local history, I encourage those interested in applying for a grant to visit the County’s website to learn more about the application process.”
The History Regrant Program offers two funding options: General Operating Support for historical organizations’ overall expenses and Special Project funding for history projects and programs open to the public. The county-funded Historic Preservation Grant
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
provides matching funds ranging from $500 to $10,000 for restoring historic buildings owned by organizations or municipalities.
Commissioner Erik Anderson, liaison to the Historical Commission, said the county is grateful for the work of residents and towns in safeguarding historic sites. “By supporting preservation projects through the History Regrant and Historic Preservation Grant programs, the County honors the stories and places that shape our community,” he said.
The History Regrant Program is supported by the New Jersey Historical Commission, part of the Department of State. Officials said its purpose is to strengthen local history organizations, inspire preservation projects, and increase public engagement with history.
The Historical Commission, established in 1988, leads programs that fund grants, maintain historic sites and foster programming aimed at preserving Monmouth County’s diverse history.
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Yours, biblically
Name in a Beethov-
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Feelings might seem freeze-dried but this should pass within hours. Today is one of October’s better days for action despite being Sunday, make a move if you need to, October’s poor offerings mean you’ll need to cherry-pick your days for best possible odds.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You’re likely to get more satisfaction from helping someone in need than from friendship today. An impulse money-move could be tempting but consider all consequences before you jump. A weekend break in routine can give you a reset.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The workplace could be on your mind even if you’re not there. Progress will come, but spiraling today over something you can’t control won’t help it along. A home project or creative outlet could get some love today.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): A getaway might not deliver what you hoped. A relationship may be solid but stellar influences could be seeding anxiety anyway. If you’re single and trying to date, sitting out the poor month of October could be the best strategy.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Keep it low-key, too much extra-ness may not land well. A financial concern might be less of a problem than you think. Domestic life could continue to be up and down for a while longer, find peace through investing in your inner world.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Even if their messaging has been off, fall back onto the long-term solidity that’s been built, friendships ebb and flow, that’s normal. A partner may not be able to personally offer much comfort now. You could find peace just
FOR THE WEEK OF OCT. 4 - 10 BY
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
JERALDINE SAUNDERS
spending time at home.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Be the rainmaker and bring the solutions and regenerative energies which could really help to turn things around. It could be hard to put your whole heart into basic routines but your sense of duty can help you get through.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): If you’re stuck creatively, wait for inspiration to return on its own, it’s a muse that won’t be forced. Your connection to your local community as well as your larger connection to the cosmos is highlighted now. Craft your communiqués carefully.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Friendship can offer companionship and resources could be shared. You could be sought after for your calm and safe vibe even if you feel like you’re just phoning it in. Sort through past business so the vibe can go deep.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): If you’re working today you’ll likely have the mindset to make the most of it. Communications could seem strained or a misunderstanding could crop up; bring your natural understanding and grace to help clarify things.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Dive deep for the knowledge you need, whether it’s for yourself, someone you love, or to crush a worldly objective. A fresh new family beginning could spark joy. Service above self is a path to deeply-felt satisfaction.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You might not feel seen or truly met out in the world now, frequencies could feel off, your inner alignments could be shifting and evolving. Find a path through personal artistic expression or at least work out anxieties that way.
VEGETABLE PEARL COUSCOUS IS AN ADAPTABLE SIDE DISH
Diane Rossen Worthington
When you need a side dish that works with simple or spicy entrees, try this one. This recipe is a keeper and so Seriously Simple to make, you’ll probably find it in your weekly rotation of trusted recipes.
Pearl couscous, sometimes called Israeli couscous or “ptitim” in Israel is baked semolina or wheat pasta. It is larger than regular tiny couscous and tastes great sauteed and lightly browned. The couscous is mild with a delightfully nutty texture on its own, so it’s best to add some vegetables, nuts or other flavorings to spice up the little pearls. They resemble barley, but have a decidedly different flavor.
This simple side pasta is very adaptable. If you are in a big hurry, go for frozen petit pois instead of the carrots and zucchini, since the peas are a quick and tasty last-minute addition. You can also make this into a salad with the addition of diced tomatoes, tiny mozzarella balls and finely chopped basil. A mustard citrus vinaigrette dressing would bring all the flavors together.
Whether you serve this as a hot side dish to grilled or braised entrees or create your own chilled couscous salad, I know you and your guests will enjoy it.
Serves 6
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 leek, white and light green part only, cleaned and finely chopped
1 small carrot, peeled and finely diced
1 small zucchini, finely diced
2 1/2 cups Israeli couscous
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups hot water or chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh
parsley
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, optional
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the leek, and saute for 5 to 7 minutes or until lightly browned and caramelized. Add the carrot and zucchini, and continue to stir for 2 minutes or until slightly softened. Turn up the heat to high and add the couscous. Brown the couscous for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Add the hot water or broth to the couscous, stir with a fork, and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the couscous simmer for about 10 minutes, cooking until all the liquid has been absorbed and the couscous is tender.
3. Add the parsley, and optional Parmesan; blend them in with a large fork. Taste for seasoning and serve immediately.
Recipe note: This dish can be prepared up to two hours ahead and kept at room temperature. Reheat carefully in the top part of a double boiler over medium heat for 10 minutes.
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.
(Diane Rossen Worthington
This recipe can be served as a side dish or main course.
