Adopt-A-Senior Fundraiser Is A Basket Full Of Fun
Members of the Adopt-A-Senior organization fundraising event committee gather before the group’s annual fundraiser at the Jackson/Howell Columbian Club.
By Bob Vosseller
JACKSON – They weren’t baskets of chocolate bunnies or crème filled eggs but many attendees of this year’s Adopt-A-Senior fundraiser left with gift baskets, a great meal and some wonderful memories.
Adopt-A-Senior Board members Bob Tretter, Marisa Marino, Margaret Morris, Jill O’Toole, Annye Cohen and Sharyn Cohen were among those buzzing about during a recent Saturday afternoon at the Jackson/Howell Columbian Club.
They were busy preparing for the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year, placing the numerous gift baskets and directing the caterer (Fundraiser - See Page 4)
Residents of the Lawrence Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Lawrenceville join volunteers from Adopt-A-Senior who provided them gifts and plenty of fun during a birthday event.
Arson Charged In State’s Largest Wildfire In Decades
OCEAN
By Stephanie Faughnan
COUNTY
– A fast-moving wildfi re that erupted in the Pine Barrens on April 22 has become New Jersey’s largest wildfi re in nearly two decades. The blaze, officially called the Jones Road Wildfi re, scorched more than 15,000 acres and took more than a full week to fully contain. The fi re began in Waretown near the intersection of Jones Road and Bryant Road, an unpaved area
(Arson - See Page 5)
Duties Of Public Safety Director May Change
By Bob Vosseller
JACKSON – Authority once held by the Township Business Administrator will now fall directly to the public safety director under an ordinance that was unanimously introduced during a recent Township Council meeting.
Council President Jennifer Kuhn said that was the only change that was brought about through this ordinance.
“Now when our men and women of the police department have questions about policy or procedure, they have a point of contact to go to,” Kuhn said during the latest council meeting. “There was a little bit of confusion between the department as to who their point of contact was and who they should go to for questions and answers and this is amending that and taking care of that concern.”
Resident Jim Selecia challenged that remark. “You made a statement that it was only changed to make him the appropriate authority. I did a comparison to this ordinance as it is written today compared to what is posted on the Jackson Township website. That statement is not completely true.”
“One of the things in the old ordinance was who he reported to. This does not (have it). If you go to the ordinance as it is written, section B number 10, shall be responsible for all hiring, promotions, resource allocations and then it goes on and says, this shall include
(Duties - See Page 11)
Officials Urge Preparedness In Wake Of Jones Road Wildfire
By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY
– The massive wildfire burning deep in southern Ocean County offered some reminders for local residents. Life at the Jersey Shore isn’t just about sun
sand - it’s also about preparing for the real danger of forest fi res.
The Jones Road Wildfire, first spotted at 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, from the Cedar Bridge Fire Tower, scorched 15,300 acres in the Forked
River Mountains Wilderness Area. By evening, the fi re had crossed both the Garden State Parkway and Route 9, forcing about 5,000 residents in Ocean and Lacey
(PreparednessSee Page 12)
and
Photo courtesy DEP Firefighters battle the Jones Road Wildfire.
Photo by Bob Vosseller
Photo courtesy Adopt-A-Senior
Fundraiser:
Continued From Page 1
to position the hot trays of food. There was excitement in the air as they recreated some of the same kind of fun that they provide to seniors at various nursing homes and assisted living facilities throughout the year.
While it was the eighth year of the fundraiser, the occasion also marked the 11th year for Adopt-A-Senior, President and
Jackson resident Annye Cohen remarked. The event not only raised funds, it also raised awareness about Adopt-a-Senior and the opportunities that exist for people within the community to help make sure that area seniors are never forgotten.
The organization formed in 2014 as an extension of the very successful Adopt-ASenior Holiday Program that started over 20 years ago at a facility in Manhattan, under the leadership of Annye Cohen and
Bill Cowen. The mission for this non-profit is to provide gifts to as many seniors living in long-term care facilities as possible. The organization grew with The Orchards in Jackson, Sunrise of Jackson, Sunrise Brighton Gardens of Middletown, The Grand in Whitestone, Queens, CareOne of Jackson, Bartley Healthcare, CareOne of East Brunswick and Applewood Estates, Cohen said.
Debbie Conroy of Lacey Township, who
works as the campus director at Lawrence Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Lawrenceville which is part of the Marquee Health Care System, was among those helping out for the day. “I’ve known Annye for over 10 years and she used to volunteer for the Adopt-A-Senior program at a company I used to work with.”
“I’ve been with Lawrence for a little over a year so I know the organization and they are very wonderful people. Wherever I am they have always adopted our senior clients and I have over 300 residents. It has a very large campus,” Conroy said.
“No matter how many patients we had, Annie and her team always make sure that everyone is always taken care of. It is absolutely amazing. I have over 13,000 pictures,” she added. “Adopt-A-Senior does a great job and I believe in their mission. The residents love them and they bring such a smile and joy to them during the holidays and during their birthdays. They are always there for me. It is a wonderful organization.”
Annye’s mother, Sharyn Cohen explained the special fundraiser cake which was actually a decoration. For $5, you pick a candle, which reveals a color. Then, you go to one of the gift tables and you pick out a gift based on the color. “We’ve done this a number of years. One year we did it with Easter eggs. I made the cake with paper and ribbon and no matter what, you walk away with a gift.”
The organization has seven board members. The number of volunteers varies but they serve 13 facilities, she added.
Annye Cohen noted after the event that “it was a very successful event with over 60 people in attendance including some from three of the facilities we work with (Sunrise Jackson, The Orchards and Lawrence Rehab and Healthcare Facility), over 125 raffle baskets and food from Bella Italia of Jackson.”
“We also honored Avamarie Marino, who received the 2025 Frank Mesto Volunteer of the Year, and Jennifer Crowell who received the 2025 Frank Mesto Spirit Award,” she added.
For more information on how to join the organization visit adopt-a-senior.org, e-mail info@adopt-a-senior.org or call 347-365-0633. You can also write to AdoptA-Senior, 86 Brookfield Drive, Jackson, NJ 08527.
Arson
:
Continued From Page 1
often used by off-road vehicles. When it was spotted by a fi re tower at 9:45 a.m., it was just five acres and quickly spread to 12,000 acres just an hour later.
“The expectation is that the number of acres will grow in a place that is unpopulated and that is more open wilderness,” said Shawn M. LaTourette, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection at a press conference within a day after the start of the fi re. He added that burnout operations necessary to contain the fi re increased the overall acreage.
Authorities had hoped that weather reports calling for rain the weekend following the start of the fi re would help extinguish the fi re. Bill Donnelly, Chief of the NJ Forest Fire Service, said that humidity and intermittent breezes were all part of the challenges associated with total containment.
“We’re at the peak right now,” said Assistant Fire Warden Trevor Raynor. “It doesn’t get worse than this time of year in New Jersey. Dry fuels, drought conditions, and wind all made it harder to stop.”
The wildfi re prompted a statewide mutual aid response. Over 200 fi refighters from all 21 counties in New Jersey arrived to help. A command center was set up at Wells Mills Park, with the additional departments providing both manpower and equipment, helping to fi ll water tankers and position crews in areas where homes were at risk.
Evacuations And Road Closures
More than 5,000 residents were evacuated from parts of Ocean and Lacey townships. Route 9 and Route 532 (Wells Mills Road) were closed quickly, and parts of the Garden State Parkway were shut down temporarily when the fi re jumped across it. Power lines were de-energized near the Oyster Creek substation for safety, cutting power to more than 25,000 homes.
The road closures caused major traffic backups, leaving some residents struggling to reach their homes while others tried to evacuate. The Ocean County Sheriff ’s Office helped local police direct traffic - not just due to the heavy volume, but also because power outages disabled many traffic signals after power lines were shut down.
Residents in nearby Barnegat were asked to voluntarily evacuate as winds shifted, though those orders were later lifted.
In Lacey, Mayor Peter Curatolo said township officials helped evacuate medically fragile seniors from Pheasant Run. Many were fi rst relocated to the township’s community center. “We had no power, no cots, no medicine,” he said. “But we got them to Manchester High School where they had everything they needed.”
Township of Ocean Mayor Ben Loparo said that municipality also saw evacuations, including the Greenbriar Oceanaire community. Residents were initially referred to a shelter at Waretown United Methodist Church and ultimately relocated to Southern Regional High School - pets and all.
Buildings Destroyed Or Damaged
The most visible structural loss came in the form of the Liberty Door and Awning warehouse, located in the Lacey Industrial Park. The building burned to the ground, leaving behind a smoldering shell of twisted metal and charred debris.
Despite the loss, Liberty Door owner Bob Nosti vowed not to lay off a single employee. “We had 50 people - and everyone stepped up,” he said.
Fortunately, the company had relocated its showroom and office to Lacey Road a year and a half earlier. That space became Liberty’s lifeline, allowing the team to access customer records, reorder supplies, and keep the business afloat.
Offers of help came pouring in: meals, flowers, even loaner trucks from competitors. “They’re no longer competitors,” Nosti said. “They’re the garage door community.”
Local officials were instrumental in recovery efforts. Nosti praised Township Administrator Veronica Laureigh as “relentless” in trying to help the company secure a temporary warehouse space nearby.
Nearby business Top Coat Paving sustained some fi re damage, and officials at Holtec International, the company managing the nuclear plant’s decommissioning, said embers reached a grassy area north of the facility but were quickly extinguished. None of the spent fuel storage or buildings were damaged, and Holtec emphasized they were in constant communication with local and state emergency responders.
“Two JCP&L buildings on the Oyster Creek grounds, which were fully emptied
and no longer in use, sustained fi re damage as a result of the Jones Road wildfi re,” said Christopher Hoenig, spokesperson for JCP&L, a subsidiary of First Energy. “For the safety of fi rst responders and the public, and in consultation with local authorities, the decision was made to demolish these two structures.”
Arson Charges Filed
On April 23, just one day after the fi re began, a 19-year-old Waretown man, Joseph Kling, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Arson and Arson. Investigators say he lit a stack of wooden pallets on fi re and walked away without putting out the flames. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer termed Kling’s actions as intentional.
According to Billhimer, investigators used GPS mapping and fi re pattern analysis to help track the fi re’s origin. Multiple agencies have been involved in the ongoing investigation.
Government Leaders Respond
The fire drew attention from leaders across all levels of government. Governor Phil Murphy, who was overseas in Poland at the time, called Nosti the very fi rst day.
Two days after the fire began, U.S. Senator Andy Kim visited the scene and subsequently announced the approval of a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) to help cover the state’s fi refighting costs. The funds will help cover emergency costs such as equipment, food, and (Arson - See Page 11)
OPINIONS & COMMENTARY
For years, you drive past a patch of forest. Then, one day, trees are cut down. Construction vehicles are clearing the land. What happened to the woods? What are they putting there?
We tend to think that if something is there, it will be there forever. That’s really not the case – especially when it comes to nature. Unless it is specifically preserved as open space, it will one day be a development.
Every square inch of your town is accounted for. A town labels every lot with a certain zone. They might be residential, commercial, industrial, or some combination. It gets further broken down – one area might be zoned for single family homes while another might be multi-family
EDITORIAL
Those Woods You Love May Not Be Woods Forever
(apartments, condos).
Just because it’s zoned a certain way, that doesn’t mean there’s a plan. It just says what the town officials want it to be some day. They might think “This area near the highway is a good place for businesses, but not for houses.” So that’s how they zone it. Then, one day, a developer comes along and says “I want to build a strip mall here.”
Every so often, the zoning changes. Sometimes it’s done piecemeal. Sometimes it’s a huge undertaking. Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL/N.J.S.A. 40:55D28) requires every town in New Jersey to adopt a master plan, and to revisit it every ten years. This would be a plan for all property in an entire town.
It’s why I have to laugh when politicians are sur-
prised at overdevelopment. At some point, within the last ten years, someone decided that hundreds of homes should go over here, and businesses should go over there. Years later, a developer does just that and people are surprised?
If the politician thinks that there’s too much development, they can make changes in the zoning to fix that before a plan gets proposed. If they try to change the zoning after a plan gets proposed, it’s called spot zoning, and it can open them up to a lawsuit.
Sure, a politician can’t know everything that’s happening in their town, especially larger towns. And they can’t control what was done by officials before them. But they suffer from the same object permanence issue that the rest of us have – we think
that if something is there, it will always be there. Every election year, politicians promise they’ll fight overdevelopment. They really can’t do that once a plan is proposed. Further, they can’t meddle in the affairs of the land use boards that approve or deny developments. But they can change zoning. And they should.
Property owners have the right to use their property as they see fit, providing it’s legal. Town officials can tell you what’s allowed.
Some towns have an open space tax. It’s separate from your property taxes, but it all gets paid at the same time. It might be a penny on every $100,000 of valuation for your property. Ocean and Monmouth counties both have open space trust funds that make purchases that towns can’t afford.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Politicians can negotiate as long as they have a willing property owner. They can buy the land and preserve it as open space. And they should.
I’ve been to a lot of town meetings where people are upset that they will suddenly be living near an apartment complex, strip mall, or something like that. I don’t blame them. All of the woods I played in as a kid are gone now. All of it.
There is a way to be proactive, though.
If you love an area of woods, find out who owns it and what it is zoned. Some towns have this information available online. You might also have to look at county records for deeds. Sometimes, the solution is to reach out to someone at the town.
Ask your town leaders to preserve it. Many of the pol-
BRICK – Stop the overdevelopment of Brick! Proposed project at 100 Drum Point Road. Show support in-person by attending and asking questions at the next Brick Board of Adjustment Meeting: May 7, 7 p.m. at 401 Chambers Bridge Road. 5.34 acres of woods on Drum Point Road are in danger of being completely
cleared and replaced by a 60-unit, 3-story, multi-family housing complex. The Ramani Group, located out of Roselle Park, NJ, is seeking approval of a use/d variance and density variance from the township of Brick to demolish the woods and proceed with their project.
The developer wants to double the occupancy which the property is zoned for and has made various controversial claims, such as the complex would not sig-
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.
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nificantly contribute to our already congested roadways and has refused to perform an air quality test. As Brick residents, the possibility of this development is deeply concerning. The woods act as a natural buffer to mitigate flooding, reduce air pollution, and provide a natural habitat for many animals.
If this proposal gets approved, what is to stop future developments such as this from coming to Brick taking more of our natural woodlands and further contributing to traffic issues?
This development must be stopped! Please spread the word, sign and share our petition, and help us raise funds for legal counsel.
Donate at: gofund. me/37e06276. Sign the Petition at: change.org/100DrumPointWoods.
Concerned Residents Of Brick
Editor’s note: This letter is in response to the Feb-
ruary 1 Berkeley Times article “Council Wants More VA Workers.” Council members were concerned about how the federal hiring freeze would affect the Toms River Veterans Administration clinic. The reporter wrote quotes from a meeting; the councilman didn’t send a letter to the paper.
I don’t understand why Mr. James Byrnes wrote to the newspaper about his concerns because all other veterans at the new VA clinic don’t share his concerns or thoughts.
The VA clinic is new, data records all have to be updated including RX medications. Additionally, the VA is looking for competent qualified staffing people including medical staff for the veterans. This takes time so more staffers will be added to the clinic as time goes by.
I have not heard anybody complain or whine about waiting times to see a medical specialist. If Mr. James Byrnes doesn’t like
to wait for a few more minutes longer than he always has the option of driving up to East Orange VA. Nobody likes a complainer or a whiner.
I would suggest that Mr. James Byrnes go back to this township and go write some resolutions to fi x his township!
Major Miguel Rodriguez Berkeley area
You Can’t Do Business In This Environment
Could you imagine trying to run a business if you have no idea what raw materials and finished products are going to cost?
That’s what’s happening now with tariffs. Trump –who people say has a plan – keeps changing his mind about the tariffs. One day it’s 25%, the next day it changes. One day they are all paused. The next day they’re all back on.
iticians I’ve talked to love having more open space in their towns. It saves them money on things like road maintenance and garbage collection. It also lowers the number of kids in the school district so school taxes don’t go up. It’s actually cheaper to buy land and keep it open space than to let it fill with 2.5 kids per household.
I oversimplified this extremely complicated process throughout this editorial, but the point is that every strip of land in town is going to be built upon unless it’s specifically saved. So, if there’s a section of pristine land that you love, and you want it to stay that way, start working now to keep it open space forever.
Chris Lundy News Editor
How can any business owner make long range plans when people at the top aren’t making long range plans? How do you know whether to hire staff or lay them off? How do you know what to charge next month? Six months from now? A year from now?
And as a customer, it’s frustrating as well. I went to buy something online that won’t be available until October, and it wouldn’t give me a firm price. It just said “plus additional costs from tariffs.”
The time to have tariffs was 70 years ago, when America made things. Tariffs encourage you to buy American, but if there are no American options, then the tariff just makes things more expensive for you. If the thing you want is made in China – like most things - then the only thing the tariff does is increase the cost to you.
Del Contena Toms River
Capitol Comments
s PoTLIGhT o n G oVernMenT
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Building The Plane While Flying It
TRENTON - When I first joined the state Assembly, a former senior Assemblyman helped guide me through the State House and introduced me to legislators and others whom he thought I should know. He shared some of his knowledge and experience in order to help me hit the ground running as a new lawmaker.
He has a colorful way of describing situations and how some things are done in Trenton. One of his signature phrases for putting together important legislation or making policy on the fly is, “We’re building the airplane while we’re flying it.”
That appears to be an apt description of the latest school funding twist to come out of the Murphy administration. The Jackson school district, like others around the state, was recently presented by the state Department of Education with an application for something called “Tax Levy Incentive Aid.”
I’ve spent a lot of time digging into the school funding issue because of the brutal cuts in state aid to Jackson, Plumsted and many other school districts, mostly in suburban and rural South Jersey. Despite this work, I had never before heard of Tax Levy
Incentive Aid.
Even more strange to me was that the point of the incentive was to encourage school districts to increase property taxes by more than the legal limit of 2%, which is known as the property tax levy cap. There are certain exceptions to that cap, but as far as I knew, taking additional aid from the state isn’t one of them.
Checking into the legal basis for this, I found that there isn’t one – at least, not yet. The Murphy administration was building the plane while flying it, so to speak.
A document provided by the department to the school board notes that this program exists “in the proposed FY2026 State Budget.” There are at least two problems with this.
One is that the word “proposed” is key here, not only because the budget proposed by the governor isn’t law right now, so the legal authority to create this program doesn’t even exist and certainly didn’t when the state asked Jackson to consider it.
The other is that it may never exist. The Legislature’s response to the governor’s proposed budget has just begun with a series of hearings, and decisions on what will or will not be in the final budget likely won’t be made until late June – about two months from now.
On top of that, the governor’s full budget proposal is not even in writing, so there’s nowhere to go to read the full text of the
purported new program. I certainly don’t recall hearing about it in the governor’s budget address, so I checked the text of that address on the governor’s web page.
I found no reference to any new program to encourage school boards to increase property taxes, let alone by 28% as was suggested to Jackson. But I did find these quotes:
“[W]e have delivered more property tax relief to the people of New Jersey than any administration in history.” Perhaps this is a good place to note that the fiscal monitor sent by that administration unilaterally overrode the elected Jackson school board to impose a nearly 10% property tax increase last year.
“[W]e have crafted a proposal that meets all of our sacred obligations to the people of New Jersey - from providing record-high property tax relief to fully funding our public education system.” I will repeat here that fully funding a bad formula that crushes Ocean County schools while redirecting the money to be wasted elsewhere is not the same as fully funding education.
Lastly, I turned to the “Budget in Brief,” the governor’s budget proposal summarized informally in a nice magazine-type booklet that’s more like an advertisement than an explanation. That’s where I finally found a reference to the proposed new state-incentives-for-hiking-property-taxes program.
In an appendix on page 66 is a one-line entry showing that $20 million is set aside in the proposed budget for “Tax Levy Incentive Aid,” with no explanation of what that means. There’s not even a hint of a huge
property tax increase in return for one of the millions of dollars that never should have been taken away from Jackson students in the first place.
I was glad to see the Jackson school board unanimously reject this half-baked, not-yetlegal scheme. They were right to advocate that the money committed to it instead be distributed to districts victimized by S-2 school aid cuts.
Just like its energy policies, this administration’s education policies are based on ideology, not reality. A rational approach would be observing the devastating effects those policies have had, and are continuing to have, on education in Jackson and elsewhere – losing good teachers, killing off student opportunities in educational programs and extracurriculars, and making kids less safe through busing cuts – and then reconsidering massive aid reductions. Instead, this administration plows ahead with ideas that seem purposely calculated to make life even more difficult for Jackson residents, rather than better. It tries pushing a 28% property tax increase on top of last year’s state-imposed 10% hike.
Those who build an airplane while flying it shouldn’t be counted on for good policy advice.
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.
Senator Booker: Bill Would Permanently Protect Oceans From Off shore Drilling
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Jack Reed (D-RI) announced a pair of bills to permanently protect the Atlantic and Pacifi c Ocean from the dangers of fossil fuel drilling. The package includes Booker and Reed’s Clean Ocean and Safe Tourism (COAST) Anti-Drilling Act, which would permanently prohibit the U.S. Department of the Interior from issuing leases for the exploration, development, or production of oil and gas in the North Atlantic, Mid-Atlantic, South Atlantic, and Straits of Florida Planning Areas of the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf, as well as Padilla’s West Coast Ocean Protection Act, which would permanently prohibit new oil and gas leases for offshore drilling off the coast of California, Oregon, and Washington.
This legislation comes just after the 15th anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, which resulted in the deaths of 11 workers, 134 million gallons spilled into the Gulf of Mexico over 87 days, the demise of thousands of marine mammals and sea turtles, and billions of dollars in economic
losses from the fishing, outdoor recreation, and tourism industries.
U.S. Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-6th), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, are leading companion legislation in the House for the Clean Ocean and Safe Tourism (COAST) Anti-Drilling Act and West Coast Ocean Protection Act respectively.
“Offshore drilling endangers our coastal communities – both their lives and their livelihoods – and threatens marine species and ecosystems. The COAST Act, along with this critical package of legislation, will ensure that marine seascapes along the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts, and the wildlife, industries, and communities that rely on them, are protected from the dangers of fossil fuel drilling,” Booker said.
“Offshore drilling risks devastating spills, accelerates climate change, and threatens the livelihoods of coastal communities like those in New Jersey. On Earth Day and every day, we must stand up to Big Oil and priori-
tize renewable energy that actually protects our planet,” said Representative Pallone.
“It’s clear that in the 15 years since the most catastrophic oil spill disaster in history, Republicans in the pocket of Big Oil have learned nothing. Offshore drilling poses significant threats to our public health, coastal economies, and marine life. The science is clear, and so is the public sentiment: we need to speed up our transition to a clean energy future, not lock ourselves into another generation of fossil fuel fealty,” said Representative Huffman. “We cannot let history repeat itself. My Democratic colleagues aren’t standing idly by as the Trump administration tries to reverse all of our progress so they can give handouts to Big Oil. Our legislation will cut pollution and ramp up clean energy, ensuring our coasts remain safe, clean, and open to all Americans - not turned into open season for fossil fuel billionaires looking to drill, spill, and cash in.”
These bills reaffirm vital protections for America’s coastal communities and ecosystems. The Biden Administration protected more than 625 million acres of U.S.
ocean waters - including the Pacific coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, the entire East Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and parts of the Northern Bering Sea - from offshore oil and gas drilling. President Trump immediately tried to roll back those protections, attempting to illegally reopen those areas to drilling on day one of his second term. Trump’s record speaks for itself: during his fi rst Administration, the Interior Department proposed a sweeping plan to open 47 offshore oil and gas lease areas across nearly every U.S. coastline, from California to New England. The two bills would protect critical coastal communities, economies, and ecosystems against offshore drilling, which is especially important in the face of the climate crisis. U.S. coastal counties support 54.6 million jobs, produce $10 trillion in goods and services, and pay $4 trillion in wages. Off shore drilling poses signifi cant threats to public health, coastal economies, and diverse marine life that play an important economical, ecological, and cultural role in our ecosystem.
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.
Assemblyman Alex Sauickie
Knights Of Columbus 40 th Charity Golf Tournament
JACKSON – The Knights of Columbus Council 6201 is hosting their 40 th Charity Golf Tournament in memory of Wally Joseph M. Washington on May 12 at Pine Barrens Golf Club, 540 S. Hope Chapel Road, Jackson.
Shotgun start at 10 a.m. Cost is $225 per golfer and must register by May 5. Price includes green fees and cart; driving range and practice green; food such as breakfast, hot dog on turn, dinner; long drive and closet to the pin prizes; hole-in-one bonus prizes.
All proceeds will be distributed to the following organizations: Deborah Heart
& Lung; Catholic Charities; Tunnel to Towers Foundation Operation Homefront; Autism Speaks.
For more information, visit kofc6201.com or contact Steve Stazko at 732-939-3975 or staz811@aol.com.
Knights of Columbus Council 6201 is also hosting a Charity Golf Raffle on May 12 at 5 p.m. at Pine Barrens Gold Club. Donation cost is $20. Win a foursome at the Pine Barrens Golf Club. For further details, contact Lou McGraw at 732-804-8766 or Chris Lehmann at 732-685-6170. Tickets available at the Club. Winner need not be present. Raffle benefits local charities.
Spring Clean-Up
JACKSON – Jackson Township and the NJ Clean Communities are having their Spring Clean-Up on May 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (rain or shine).
Open to Jackson based nonprofit organizations. Organizations will receive a $500 mini-grant. Space is limited to the fi rst 30
registered organizations.
Any interested groups can pick up application packets at the Department of Public Works, located on 10 Don Connor Boulevard.
For more information or a registration package, please email sbolinsky@jacksontwpnj.net or call 732-928-1200 ext. 1245.
Jackson Liberty Lion Band Clothing Drive
JACKSON – The Jackson Liberty Lion Band is hosting a Clothing Drive on May 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Jackson Liberty High School, 125 N. Hope Chapel Road. They will be collecting new or gently used clothing, shoes, purses, belts, bed and bath linen and stuffed animals. Every piece
helps! They will also accept bicycles and baby strollers.
No pillows, books, toys, furniture, appliances, or household items can be collected. Thank you for your support!
New Egypt Historical Society Annual Yard & Bake Sale
NEW EGYPT – The New Egypt Historical Society is having their annual Yard Sale & Bake Sale on May 17 from 8 to 11 a.m. at 125 Evergreen Road, New Egypt. Rent a table or come shop the bargains! Cost for a space is $10. Bring your own table; set up at 7 a.m. For more information
Questions? Contact fundraising@libertylionband.com. or to reserve a pace call Margaret Neuman 609-758-7237.
The museum will have a table and anyone wanting to donate items, bring between 7 and 7:30 a.m. They will see their books and postcards. The Museum will not be open that day for tours.
Summer Tennis Clinic
JACKSON – Jackson Recreation has announced their 2025 Summer Tennis Clinic which will be held on Tuesdays from June 3 through July 22 at Johnson Memorial Park,
192 Kierych Memorial Drive, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Open to kids in grades 1 to 5. Cost is $100 for residents and $125 for non-residents. Register now at capturepoint.com.
Church Flea Market
JACKSON – DeBows UMC, located at the intersection of Routes 571 & 537 in Jackson, will host a Flea Market on May 3 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date is May 17.
Table space (no table) for vendors is $15. Contact Sue at 609-631-4306 to reserve a space or for more information. Additional information can be found at debowsumc.org.
Farmers’ Market Begins May 8
JACKSON – The Jackson Township Jackson Farmers’ presented by Hear Here will be held on Thursdays, May 8 through September 4,
from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Justice Complex, 1 Jackson Drive. Sponsored by the Jackson Township Department of Recreation.
Volunteers Have Cats Available For Adoption
JACKSON – 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.
Angela is approximately 1 year old. She loves to cuddle and will always find her way to our laps no matter where we’re sitting! Hanging in the window is one of her favorite things to do. She is also very playful and
loves her toys! This little cutie is patiently waiting for her furrrver home!
To help humanely lower the feline population, they spay and neuter feral cats and then fi nd 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.
Plumsted Council for The Arts Hosts T-Shirt Design Contest
PLUMSTED – The Plumsted Township Council for The Arts is inviting all New Egyptians to submit their best artwork for a chance to be featured on the official 2025 New Egypt T-shirt!
This is your opportunity to create a design that represents the spirit of New Egypt and will be proudly worn by your community. Proceeds from T-shirt sales will go to the Plumsted Township Council for The Arts, helping bring more creativity, color, and artistic projects to our town.
Every purchase supports our mission to make New Egypt (Plumsted Township) a more beautiful and inspiring place for all. The winning design will be unveiled at the Fourth of July fireworks celebration, where the shirts will officially go on sale. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your creativity! The submission deadline is May 15 and you can submit your creative artwork entry via e-mail to Arts@plumsted.org. Get creative and show us what New Egypt means to you!
The Jackson Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!
Photo courtesy Calling All Cats
Registration Open For Summer Camp 2025
JACKSON – Program dates: June 30 to August 15, Monday through Friday (no camp July 3 & 4). Camp location: Jackson Memorial High School. Registration will not be accepted after camp begins. Children must be registered to be engaged in any activity. There is not a nurse on site during camp. Registration fee is for the entire 7-weeks.
Children will be grouped as follows (grade currently enrolled in):
K & 1st graders
2nd & 3rd graders
4th & 5th graders
6th, 7th & 8th graders
Camp Only: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
1st child $500
2nd child $475
3rd child $450
With Morning Care: 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
1st child $575
2nd child $550
3rd child $525
With After Care: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
1st child $600
2nd child $575
3rd child $550
Full Day: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
1st child $675
2nd child $650
3rd child $625
Trip information: trips are optional; trips are subject to availability; trip fees are not included in registration fee; no trip refunds - if child does not attend, disciplinary action, suspension or withdrawn from camp; trips are non-transferable; once camp begins trip sign ups can only be done at camp, if they are open. Payment must be made at the time of registration
Refund information: $10 fee per refund/deducted from refund; no refunds after program begins; if the township cancels a trip a full refund will be issued; refunds are done by voucher and take approximately 4 to 6 weeks; $5 credit card fee is non -refundable; refunds cannot go back onto your credit card; if you are notified that your child has to quarantine due to COVID, and was scheduled for a trip, you will be offered a credit or a refund for the trip(s) only
Register at: register.communitypass. net/Jackson . There is a $5 fee per transaction when paying online with a credit card - $25 additional fee for non-residents. After June 20, a $50 late registration fee per family.
Summer Concert Series
JACKSON – Jackson Township has announced their Summer Concert Series which will be held at the Jackson Justice Complex, 1 Jackson Drive, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Please bring your own lawn chairs. Food trucks on site. For more information, visit
jacksontwpnj.net/218/recreation.
June 5 - The Remedy band
June 19 - Jakes Country Band
July 17 - Briar Connection
August 7 - DNA
August 21 - Living Proof band
New Egypt Historical Society Museum Open House Tours
NEW EGYPT – The New Egypt Historical Society announces Sunday Open House Tours at the Museum, 125 Evergreen Road, New Egypt.
Open house tours will be on the following days from 1 to 4 p.m.: May 4, 11, 18, & 25.
The museum will be open for the public to tour the collections and docents will answer any questions you may have.
For more information, call Margaret Neuman at 609-758-7237. The New Egypt Historical Society is accepting new members.
Spring Hike
JACKSON – Jackson Recreation will be hosting a spring hike on May 10 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Forest Research Education Center, 495 Don Connor Boulevard, Jackson.
Century Trail, Pine Acres Trail, Forest Management Trail. Two groups: adults and kids; adults only. Pack a lunch. Register at capturepoint.com.
Jackson Recreation Yankees Game
son’s Townhall, 95 W Veterans Highway, for bus pick up.
Game starts at 1:05 p.m. Snacks provided on the bus. No refund policy. Register at register.communitypass.net/jackson.
Duties:
Continued From Page 1
the daily duties of all police officers within such positions and duty assignments,” Selecia added.
He stated, “the very next sentence says the daily duties of all police officers within such positions and duty assignments shall be the responsibility of the chief of police. Who is it? You just stated in this ordinance that two people have the exact same role.”
The resident also noted that the department consists of 130 police officers in the ordinance. The old ordinance listed 110 to which Kuhn responded, “you are looking at the wrong one.”
“The question becomes if there was an increase what is the impact of that increase to the township budget?” he asked council.
“The 110 is incorrect. It is 130 as we found that in error,” Kuhn answered but she would not publicly respond to his other questions.
“I will e-mail you the response in regards to the public safety director.”
In March of 2024, the Township Council reintroduced the position of public safety director. This vote was controversial, as it only succeeded by 3-2. A month later, Sgt. Joseph Candido was appointed to that role.
Matthew Kunz became chief in 2008 and served as the public safety director for two years prior to that.
This most recent ordinance, that will have a public hearing during the council’s May 13 meeting, also states that the director will receive compensation determined by the mayor in accordance with the Township Council’s salary and wage ordinance.
Where’s The Budget?
Selecia also asked the council about the status of this year’s budget. “Where is it?”
Council Vice President Mordechai Burnstein responded the council received the budget recently and an extension had been requested.
“We have a temporary CFO (Chief Financial Officer), who worked on it and council was told to review it. We defi nitely have
Plant Sale
TOMS RIVER – The Master Gardeners of Ocean County will be hosting a plant sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 3 (rain date May 4) at 1623 Whitesville Road, Toms River. Each plant gently nurtured from Seed to Sale! Specialty annuals, perennials, herbs, vegeta-
bles, shrubs, hanging baskets, house plants. Featured native plant of the Year: hydrangea quercifolia “pee wee.”
Please bring your own garden cart or wagon. For more information, call 732-349-1245 or visit mgocinc.org.
comments to give to the administration to hopefully put together a budget that passes. We are hoping to introduce it within the next month.” He also noted an interruption of e-mail service of the township government during that period of time.
An April 24 e-mail by Mayor Michael Reina reported “we are pleased to inform you that the township’s email system has been fully restored and is now back in service. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the recent outage.”
“Any attempts to contact the township via email after Sunday, April 20 at 5 p.m. were unfortunately unsuccessful. If you submitted an email or application during that time, we kindly ask that you resend your message and contact the Township to confi rm receipt. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we worked to resolve this issue,” the mayor added.
“We are in disagreement with the administration pertaining to the budget which is why we have not introduced it yet. We don’t have a (business administrator) right now,” Kuhn said.
Arson:
Continued From Page 5 aid for fi refighters and fi rst responders still battling the flames. The amount of the funds allotted to the disaster won’t be determined until after the fi re is totally contained.
Congressman Chris Smith (R-4th), State Senator Carmen Amato and Lacey Mayor Peter Curatolo, met directly with Bob Nosti on the weekend to discuss recovery efforts.
Speed Limits and Officers Added Ordinance 2025-12 which was also unanimously introduced that night involves the regulation of speed limits adding Hurley Road from Wright-DeBow Road to the Freehold Township border, to 25 miles per hour.
Two new police officers, Jonathan Pauciullo and Mason Kinlan were sworn in during that meeting.
Resolutions Passed
Resolutions passed during the evening included the appointment of an Affirmative Action contract for a compliance officer, appointing Holman Frenia Allison as Township Auditor.
Traffic light signal agreements were also authorized for Route 636I Bennetts Mills Road and Butterfly Road-Frank Applegate Road, Route 547/South Hope Chapel Road and Fremont Avenue.
Resolution R162-2025 authorized ROVA Farms Park Proposal with Morgan Engineering.
They also met with fi re wardens from the NJ Forest Fighter Service. Smith represents New Jersey’s 4th Congressional District, which includes the area where Liberty’s showroom is located on Lacey Road.
Congressman Jeff Van Drew (R-2 nd ), whose 2nd Congressional District includes Barnegat through the section of Lacey where the fi re-damaged industrial park is located, said on social media that he was closely monitoring the situation.
Preparedness:
Continued From Page 1
townships to evacuate. Several outbuildings, one commercial building, and multiple vehicles were destroyed.
Fire officials confirmed the cause as an improperly extinguished bonfire, and a Waretown man now faces aggravated arson charges. Joseph Kling, 19, is accused of setting pallets on fire and leaving the scene before the flames were extinguished. Despite the charge, he is considered innocent until proven guilty.
State officials have warned that with rising temperatures and drought conditions, the threat of major wildfires in New Jersey has increased over the past decade.
Even towns beyond the fire’s direct path felt the effects. In Barnegat, police urged residents in some neighborhoods to voluntarily evacuate, even though the fire hadn’t reached town limits. According to Barnegat Police Lt. Nicholas Venuto, voluntary evacuations are often announced out of an abundance of caution when fast-moving fires could change direction at any moment.
“The wind could be blowing east, and everybody could think they’re safe,” said Venuto. “However, because of the environment the fire lives in, it might create its own wind and go in a different direction.”
Barnegat officials decided to send out alerts regarding voluntary evacuations on the first day of the fire based on information they received from the command post that the situation could change – but was not yet
emergent. Venuto explained that encouraging voluntary evacuations gives residents a better chance to leave safely before roads become jammed or conditions worsen, a lesson learned from past emergencies.
“We learned important lessons from the 2007 Warren Grove fire and even Superstorm Sandy,” said Venuto. “The key is being proactive and prepared.”
Planning Ahead Saves Lives
Barnegat and many other communities are enrolled in New Jersey’s Firewise program, which offers residents valuable information about protecting themselves and their homes in the event of a wildfire emergency. The program’s mantra focuses on the “Ready, Set, Go!” concept.
For starters, residents should put together a “to-go bag.” It should include a few days’ worth of clothes, important papers like birth certificates, bank records and estate planning documents, medications, valuables, chargers, and food and water supplies, such as energy bars, nuts, and instant noodles. Toiletries like toothbrushes and toothpaste should also be packed. For families with pets, travel kits for animals are just as important.
Waretown resident Patricia Kennedy said that the mandatory evacuation of her community brought her to the realization that she should always have a bag packed with essentials. “Or at least one partially packed with a checklist by the door to the garage. I would have forgotten my pills but my friend spotted them and handed them to me to put in my bag.”
“I feel like I should have been carrying my passport around,” shared Jamie Harrison of Waretown.
Lisa Shwidock, who lives in the same area, said that she had all her documents in one bag and ready to leave when asked to evacuate. “Nevertheless, I always believed my go bag was complete... until the fire. Then I realized how unprepared I really was.”
Venuto also shared a tip for two-car households: park one car at a safe location - such as a Parkway rest stop. Families can then manage evacuation together and ensure fewer vehicles are on the road.
Residents with special needs should register with their local police department in advance. Forms are available on municipal websites and allow first responders to assist residents with mobility impairments, medical needs, or other challenges during emergencies.
“It’s all confidential,” said Venuto. “It helps us plan ahead and deliver help quickly when needed.”
The form asks for basic information like mobility or medical challenges; the use of oxygen, a wheelchair, or whether the resident has cognitive impairments. It also requests emergency contact information. Another important step is signing up for
emergency alerts through Nixle. Residents can receive urgent text messages or emails about evacuations, road closures, and other hazards. Signing up is simple: just text your ZIP code to 888777 or visit nixle.com
Although police cannot physically force residents to leave, staying behind can put enormous strain on emergency services. “When we advise you to evacuate, it’s because the risk is real - not just for you, but for the first responders who would have to come back and save you,” Venuto emphasized.
“We learned the hard way during Sandy,” he said. “We had people who lived on the water and refused to evacuate. Hours later, four officers were swimming out to rescue them.”
Although the Jones Road Wildfire spared lives, it left many residents shaken - a stark reminder of the risks of living so close to nature.
Photo courtesy DEP
P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 • Phone: 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 email: news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com
MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES
President & Publisher Stew Swann Vice President/COO Jason Allentoff
News Editor Chris Lundy
Assistant News Editor Bob Vosseller
Production Manager Allison Gradzki Graphic Artist Julia Wilkens
H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH
Dr. Izzy’s
Sound News
Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)
Why Should I Have My Hearing Checked Every 12-18 Months?
Regular hearing checkups are as important as regular dental and vision checkups. Your fi rst hearing test as an adult is a great start — but there are many reasons to make hearing tests a habit.
Hearing Loss Is Sneaky Your hearing changes gradually. It’s almost impossible to notice because you unconsciously develop coping skills. But regular, comprehensive hearing evaluations help you catch hearing loss early. The sooner it’s found, the easier it is to manage.
Hearing Loss Affects Others If hearing loss goes untreated for too long, it can affect your relationships. You might not mind asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the TV volume, or missing parts of conversations — but friends and family might. Feelings of isolation could result.
Overall Health Suffers Hearing loss has been linked to other health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. It’s also linked to an increased risk of dementia and balance problems. Regular hearing tests can help you avoid those risks by catching any issues early. Studies have also shown that treating your hearing loss curbs your risk of developing dementia. And if cognitive
decline has already started, appropriate audiologic care may slow down the rate at which it happens.
Hearing Aid Wearers Need Checkups Hearing aids don’t cure your hearing loss or restore your hearing. What they do is amplify the sounds you don’t hear very well and make your hearing as good as it can be. Your natural, age-related hearing loss will continue. You’ll still encounter loud noises that impact your hearing. Eventually, your hearing will change — and your devices may not meet your needs anymore. Regular checkups keep you ahead of the game so you can upgrade your hearing aids when the need strikes.
Keep Them on the Books As you know from your fi rst hearing test, they’re simple and painless. Include them in your yearly checkup routine to ensure your hearing needs are still being met. Regular hearing tests are a great way to stay healthy and enjoy life to the fullest — CALL Dr. Izzy’s office today schedule your next one at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with honest answers about your hearing health care.
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!
Ocean County Bereavement Groups
OCEAN COUNTY – Therapist/Clergy,
Rev. Dr. Anthony Lipari, FCM, has been offering Grief Support Group sessions for over 21 years during the last week of every month. The sessions are offered at 1 p.m. throughout Ocean County. The locations are as follows:
• Mondays: Ocean County Memorial Park in Waretown
Distribution Manager Laura Hoban
Sales Manager Lorrie Toscano Send your
tips, copy & letters to news@jerseyshoreonline.com
• Tuesdays: Timothy Ryan Funeral Home on Fischer Boulevard, Toms River
• Wednesdays: Quinn Hopping Funeral Home on Mule Road, Toms River
• Thursdays: Anderson Campbell Funeral Home on Ridgeway Road, Manchester
• Fridays: Manchester Memorial Home on Schoolhouse Road, Whiting
Food Addicts Anonymous Meetings
BAYVILLE – In person meetings are every Monday night at 7 p.m. at the Methodist Church just south of the Dinosaur in Bayville. (526 Atlantic City Boulevard,
Bayville.)
Come check it out if you’re wondering whether Food Addicts Anonymous could help you or someone you know!
Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally
OCEAN 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.
Dr. Isidore Kirsh
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Unraveling Small Fiber Neuropathy
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
If you’re dealing with strange nerve symptoms like burning, tingling, or electric shock sensations, Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN) might be the culprit. This condition is one I’ve written about several times because it affects the tiny unmyelinated nerves responsible for pain, temperature, and autonomic functions. It’s different than regular peripheral neuropathy which is what many people have. SFN has different symptoms.
One overlooked cause? Mutations or dysfunction in Sodium Channels which are abbreviated in the literature as SCN9A, SCN10A, and SCN11A in case you look them up online. When these sodium channels go haywire, your nerves can fire uncontrollably like a smoke alarm that won’t stop beeping. But that’s just one cause, there are many others including infections.
SFN targets the small, unmyelinated nerve fibers responsible for transmitting pain and temperature sensations, as well as regulating autonomic functions. Think of having gastrointestinal disturbances, heart palpitations, and abnormal sweating - all of which may occur with SFN.
Unlike large fiber neuropathies, SFN often evades detection through standard nerve conduction studies, making diagnosis and treatment particularly challenging. So you could have a normal EMG and still have SFN, which is something a lot of people don’t realize.
To find out if you have SFN, the best way is to do a skin punch biopsy (one in each leg, usually around the ankle). This test provides a direct way to visualize and measure the density of nerve fibers in the outer layer of your skin. It’s typically performed by specialists, and some trained podiatrists offer it. Call ahead to find trained providers in your area
who are equipped to do it.
Additionally, tests like QSART are also sometimes done to see how much you sweat in response to a small electrical stimulus. Treatment strategies for SFN are multifaceted, often requiring a combination of approaches:
Natural Compounds: Certain plant-based substances, such as turmeric and capsaicin, have shown potential in modulating sodium channel activity, offering mild symptom relief.
Pharmaceuticals: Medications like gabapentin, carbamazepine, and lacosamide act as sodium channel blockers, helping to dampen overactive nerve signals. They’re not prescribed to cure SFN, rather they’re prescribed off-label to just manage nerve pain. Next week I will write a column for you on natural sodium channel blockers if you can’t tolerate the medications or want to enhance their effect.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): For cases with an autoimmune component like sarcoidosis, IVIG therapy has demonstrated efficacy in reducing symptoms by modulating immune responses. It’s expensive and has risks so it’s not for everyone.
Emerging Therapies: Techniques like Scrambler Therapy to disrupt pain signals and holistic rehab programs are being explored right now.
Sleep disturbances are both a symptom and an exacerbating factor in SFN. Poor sleep quality can heighten pain perception, creating a vicious cycle. Addressing sleep issues may help a little bit.
Advancements in understanding the pathophysiology, genetics, and causes of SFN is important for healing. If you’re interested in a deeper dive into this topic, I’ve written a longer, more comprehensive blog on my website 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.
Around The Jersey shore
Don’t Miss Jason Alexander At Lighthouse International Film Festival
BEACH HAVEN – Join for a 25th anniversary screening of Jason Alexander’s film Just Looking on June 6 at The Surflight Theatre in Beach Haven, followed by a live Q&A with Jason himself.
This event is included with All Access Passes and Film Only Passes.
Then on June 7, don’t miss our Special Event: A Conversation with Jason Al -
exander - an intimate discussion at the Surflight Theatre. This event is included with All Access Passes or available separately for $20.
Individual tickets and showtimes will be available in mid-May. Advance tickets are strongly recommended.
For more information, visit lighthouseff.com.
Volunteer With Hackensack Meridian Hospice
NEW JERSEY – If you’re a compassionate person who is looking for a meaningful volunteer experience, then Hackensack Meridian Hospice is the right fit for you. Learn how you can help someone through the simple acts of conversation, playing music, providing a break for family caregivers, or by simply holding someone’s hand!
Hackensack Meridian Hospice is a member of the Hackensack Meridian Health network, a leading not-for-profit
health care organization in NJ. Hospice care includes many things, but what it means to us is dignity, respect, comfort, quality of life and time together at life’s most precious moments.
You are invited to attend this free, introductory training session to receive information about the role of the hospice volunteer and the process of becoming a member of our team. To sign up, contact Hospice.Volunteer@HMH.org or call 732-751-3750 today!
Jackson PBA #168
Annual Golf Outing
JACKSON – Jackson PBA #168 Golf Outing is being held on May 19 at The Pine Barrens Golf Club, our largest fundraiser of the year. This is the best outing you will attend. We are in need of sponsors, gift donations, etc. that is the only way this event is a success. If you
want to play in the event, get your payment in as soon as possible, as this event is full to capacity within a month.
Contact jhanba@jacksontwpnj.net, rareiff@ jacksontwpnj.net, or call 908510-0399 for more information.
11th Annual Beef & Beer
JACKSON – Beef and Beer is back and better than ever! This year Jackson Township Vol. Fire Co #1 - Station 55 is teaming up with FMBA 86 for the 11th Annual Beef and Beer on May 3 from 6 to 10 p.m. Beers will be provided by Icarus Beers
and catering will be from Shore Good Eats. Tickets are $50 for entry as well as all you can eat and drink. There will be a gift raffle, money wheel, and much more.
To purchase tickets, visit eventbrite.com/e/ beef-and-beer-2025-tickets-1261774073219.
Church Flea Market
JACKSON – DeBows UMC, located at the intersection of route 571 & 537 in Jackson, will host a Flea Market on May 3 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date is May 17.
Table space (no table) for vendors is $15. Contact Sue at 609-631-4306 to reserve a space or for more information. Additional information can be found at debowsumc.org.
Ceramics At Jackson Senior Center
JACKSON – Join on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays for ceramics. The instructor is here from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stop by and check it out! If you would like to
register for ceramics or any of their other wonderful activities, call the Jackson Senior Center at 732-928-2313 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law
Why A Survey Is Essential For Successful Closing?
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates
During the process of purchasing a home, many buyers are concerned with the bottom line and look for ways to cut costs. One of the fi rst items they may choose to forego to save money is to opt out of ordering a survey.
Many purchasers are not aware of all the various important components that a survey can disclose. A survey is not just a simple drawing showing boundary lines and location of the dwelling, but it also delineates right of ways, easements, encroachments, and/ or gaps between property lines. The survey can also confi rm the location of a water way, an existing improvement and determine whether all the structures on the property you are looking to purchase are within the property boundary lines such as sheds, pools, retaining walls and fences. Perhaps the most important pieces of information a survey will provide are the property’s zoning classifi cation, dimension and size, which will allow you to determine if the property conforms to the local lot size requirements.
Once the survey is obtained your attorney will forward it to the title company, who will also research the information contained therein. If the survey accurately shows that there are no property line encroachments then the title company will not require any exceptions in its policy, which will allow the title company to provide coverage and defend against anyone who, in the future, challenges the accuracy of the
property lines. If you do not have an accurate and current survey prior to closing then any disputes, whether it is with the seller, a neighbor or a governmental agency, as to the location of a fence, shed, or any larger structure such as a pool, deck or an addition will become yours to resolve. These disputes can be costly and you possibly may be precluded from seeking recourse from the previous owner.
The basic survey cost is around $650900 and of course the cost may be more if the property is very large or has irregular shape. If you chose to have metal stakes installed at the corners then that may increase the cost of the survey. These markers are important for those homeowners who, after making the purchase, want to install a fence, pool, shed, or an addition to the dwelling. The purchase of a home or lot may be overwhelming but the attorneys at R.C. Shea and Associates can assist you through that process. The law fi rm of R.C. Shea & Associates, Counsellors at Law, is a full-service law fi rm representing and advising clients in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate Litigation, Personal Injury, General Litigation, Real Estate Law, Medical Malpractice, Workers’ Compensation, Land Use and Planning Law, Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney and much more. Call or visit our office Toms River office at 732-505-1212, 244 Main Street, Toms River, email us at Rshea@rcshea.com or visit our website at www.rcshea.com.
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BlueClaws Manager Seeks To Continue Winning Streak Th is Season
JERSEY
By Bob Vosseller
SHORE – BlueClaws Manager
Greg Brodzinski is excited about this season at ShoreTown Ballpark. He shared his thoughts with members of the press during a recent pre-opening game event.
Brodzinski got a humorous softball question with an inquiry about the controversial “torpedo bats” which Major League Baseball declared were legal, are defined by an untraditional barrel, which rests closer to the hitter’s hands. They are designed with more wood, and thus more mass, concentrated in the area of the bat where the hitter is more likely to hit the ball. Each player uses a slightly different model, with the bat’s shape specifically customed to maximize potential damage on any given swing. “I think it is interesting and something new that they need to understand before they hop right into to it. I think it is something that will catch on. I’m sure it will make its way. I don’t know of any that we would have,” Brodzinski said. He added, “I think the Yankees right now are
the only ones that have them. They heard other teams were ordering them but I haven’t seen any in our organization,” he added. “It is very tailored toward certain guys. I think there is a lot of science behind it. I read a few articles about it and it makes a lot of sense when you think about it having a denser part of the bat hit the ball more often, but we’ll see some guys hit it more at the end of the bat - some hit closer toward the handle.”
Brodzinski said, “this game is always evolving and changing and as it does, I think the game gets better. We’ll see how it all works out.”
While he’s experienced two years of success, he noted this year’s roster and was hopeful that he will see the same consistency that he has had in the last two seasons. “I am really excited about this group. I think our organization has a lot of talent top to bottom and high-end prospects in the top 100 and the rest of our organization is pretty solid and good as well. We have guys who have made a name for themselves by the end of last year or during
spring training and I think as a group together it will mesh very well.”
“We have some younger guys and some older guys. There is just a ton of talent,” the manager remarked. “It is going to be a fun group and a lot of excitement. Guys who can do different things on the baseball field and when we put it all together it will be a good product. A lot of credit goes to the coaches we’ve had over the last couple of years.”
“There is nothing more rewarding than being able to send a guy to the next level. You feel good to have a small hand in that but it is not just myself doing it. It is a great organization and we have a great plan and process for these guys,” Brodzinski said.
ShoreTown Ballpark is the longtime home of the legendary BlueClaws minor league baseball team and this season marks Brodzinski’s third season as manager. He was previously named South Atlantic League Manager of the Year, by Major League Baseball.
Brodzinski led the BlueClaws to a 74-58 re-
cord last season and playoff contention in each half of the season. He is the fourth BlueClaws manager to win SAL Manager of the Year, following Dusty Wathan (2009), Mark Parent (2010), and Marty Malloy (2018).
He is also the first to win the award since the BlueClaws became the Phillies High-A affiliate in 2021 and he won his 100th game as BlueClaws manager on May 31, 2024 in his 180th game in charge. This made him the fastest BlueClaws manager ever to win 100 games. He holds the second-best winning percentage, at .559, of any manager to lead the team for two seasons.
Brodzinski was drafted by the Phillies in the 18th round of the 2015 draft but transitioned to the coaching side in 2017. He spent 2018 and 2019 with short-season Williamsport and 2020 and 2021 as the Phillies bullpen catcher / catching coach.
In 2022, he was the 3rd Base Coach with Triple-A Lehigh Valley before making his managerial debut with the BlueClaws in 2023.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
For Rent
Waretown - Waterfront, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, eat in kitchen, living room. Three season porch. No pets. $2,600 plus 1 1/2 months security. Ready May 1. 609-489-2164. (20)
Big Storage Shipping Containers For Rent - New Gretna, Tuckerton, Manahawkin, Bayville, Lacey, Toms River. Clean, Dry, Secure. For info call 609-693-1631. (23)
Auto For Sale
2007 Hyundai Santa Fe - White, tan interior, auto trans, new tires. Runs great, high miles. $1,950 or B/O. 973-223-8840. (22)
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)
CA$h PAID For OLD 45 RPM RECORDS - R and B, doo wop, soul, rock and roll, and rockabilly. (909)938-4623 8am-8pm, bobo78rpm@verizon.net. (20)
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)
Cash Paid LP Records - 33/45's, reel to reel's. Fast response, we answer the phone 732-829-5908, 24/7, Eddie. (21)
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)
Comic Books From 1970'S And Older Wanted - Cash paid. Please call Steve any time at 732-277-7327. (21)
Classifieds are placed in all 7 of our weekly newspapers covering all of Ocean County, and also Howell in Monmouth County.
CLASSIFIEDS
Help Wanted
Youtube and Social Media Editor - To film and edit Pay Attention Films, Lobster Lab Media. $25/hr. 973-223-8840, Jersey only. (20)
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 )
Laundromat Attendant - For FT/PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (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)
Experienced, Reliable - Private duty (no agency fees) Caregiver/Home Health aide available for live-in, or hourly position South Jersey, Jersey Shore area. Call Nina at 732-8676686. (15)
Handyman - Painting, powerwashing, electrical, plumbing, light hauling. Call Joe 732-859-9266. (19)
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)
Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 640-999-0072. (25)
PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE, PAINTING AND PAPER HANGING - Call 732-688-3532. (28)
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)
Have Pickup Truck? - You need something picked up at Lowes, Home Depot, etc. Call Lou at 732-582-9647 or 813-7569301. Thank you. (20)
Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND WALLPAPERING - Local And Reliable 732-688-6532. (20)
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)
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)
Services
Mercuro & Sons - Handyman Service General Contracting. License #13VH03469200. 732-674-3346. (18)
Monmouth & Ocean MOBILE NOTARY - I come to you. Text or email for rates and availabilty 732-887-6408, Rhansen0114@gmail.com. (13)
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)
DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/ mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (t/n)
APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations. Fully insured and licensed. Seniors 10% off any job $500 or more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (7)
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. (21)
Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)
Cleaning Service - Too tired or can't be bothered. Call Donna 732-3305916. Rentals, overturns, construction and residential. Insured and bonded. (9)
Caroline's Cleaning - Specializing in change-overs, offices, construction cleanup, shopping, doctor appointments and more. Call now for estimate 848-210-6213. (16)
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)
DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK GOOD AND SHINE ? Call Lenny - Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (24)
"Stick With the Man That Covers Your Can! - Residential and Commercia Pump-outs FREE 1 year supply of enzyme treatment with each septic pump-out. Septic Inspections. Septic System Installations and All Repairs. Grease Traps installation and pump outs. Tank Abandonment and Demolition. 24 Hours Emergency Service! 732-244-0189. (5)
Computer Service At Doorstep! - Over a decade in industry. Printer's, troubleshooting, MAC and Windows. Commercial or personal. Call Giovanni 732-908-9919. (22)
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• Fax this form to 732-657-7388 ATTN: ALI.
• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales • Auto For Sale
Items For Sale
Items Wanted
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Around The Jersey shore
Th ank You Public Safety Telecommunicators
OCEAN COUNTY – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners extended its appreciation to the men and women that staff Ocean County’s Public Safety Telecommunications center for their professionalism, their quick and decision response and their courage for meeting the challenges that come with the position of public safety telecommunicator every day.
Ocean County’s 9-1-1 dispatch center, under the direction of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, is staffed around the clock with 61 full time dispatchers and 17 part time dispatchers. Last year they responded to 536,237 calls.
“During our most difficult times our
public safety telecommunicators become our lifeline,” said Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners John P. Kelly, liaison to the Ocean County Sheriff ’s Office. “These are the people that are lifesavers. They are truly unsung heroes.” Joining Director Kelly for the proclamation presentation recognizing the week of April 13 through 19 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week were Chief Public Safety Telecommunicator Christopher Raimann, Senior Public Safety Telecommunicator Megan Hubbard, Director Kelly, Senior Public Safety Telecommunicator Michael Roberts and Captain Joseph H. Greene Jr., all of the Ocean County Sheriff ’s Office.
How Judy Blume Rewrote
Childhood For All Of Us
TOMS RIVER – You are invited to a conversation with bestselling author Rachelle Bergstein as she chats about her newest book, the “Genius of Judy,” at 2 p.m. on May 21.
Everyone knows Judy Blume. Her books have garnered her fans of all ages for decades and sold tens of millions of copies. But why were people so drawn to them? And why are we still talking about them in the 21st century? The “Genius of Judy” takes an expansive look at Judy Blume’s life, work, and cultural impact, focusing on her most iconic – and controversial – young adult novels, from “Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret” to “Blubber.”
In the “Genius of Judy,” Blume’s story is
revealed as never before, beginning with her as a mother of two searching for purpose outside of her home in 1960s New Jersey. Blume wanted to tell honest stories, but in doing so, she created a cohesive, culture-altering vision of modern adolescence. This came with backlash, making Blume the country’s most banned author in the mid-1980s. Blume’s works have nonetheless stood the test of time and are just as relevant today.
Registration is required for this free program.
To register, visit tinyurl.com/BergsteinOCL. The Genius of Judy is available for free in various formats for Ocean County Library cardholders through our catalog.
Photo courtesy Ocean County
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Down
1 Four-minute mile, for one
2 CCR’s “Have You __ Seen the Rain”
3 Acai tree, e.g.
4 Info on a profile page
5 Post-triathlon lament
perity,” for New Jersey, e.g.
29 Bailey’s circus partner
30 Curriculum parts
31 Shred, as cheese
35 Big big-screen format
Off-the-cuff performance
Final push? 16 Digs for a member of a string quartet?
“At Wit’s End”
Spherical body
“Ant” on a celery
Flakes on plans
Digs for a gym rat? 32 Lauder in the cosmetics
Language in which to order larb
Puts one’s feelings on display
Woebegone
Hand-held coolers
Checkout lane purchase
Digs for a dancer?
bites,
6 Barrel racer’s accessory
7 Chi-Town paper
8 Turn brown, maybe 9 Clothes with bibs and braces
10 Film similar to cling wrap
11 Garment that may be nine yards long 12 Grace ender 15 Cook-off entry
17 Small surgical knife
22 Congressional staffer
24 “Rah,” in fútbol
25 Signature Golden Arches offering
26 Sports bib material
27 “We totally agree”
28 “Liberty and Pros-
37 Eatery with small plates
38 WNBA game start
40 59-Across, perhaps
41 UFC sport
43 eHarmony matches
44 Like Yellowstone, among National Parks
47 “At Last” singer James
48 Atmosphere
49 Shut with a bang
50 Additionally
52 Woebegone word
53 Nothing at all
54 “Hang around a bit longer!”
57 Just a number, for some
58 Cause for overtime
(c)2025
FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 3-9
BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Keep your word and others should recognize your integrity. The typical barriers may not be a concern so aim high and pursue a noble ambition. An unexpected windfall might come your way bringing several chances of success.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): There’s no business-like show business. Look for opportunities to let your talents take center stage. You may need to prove your skills or back up your ideas with solid evidence rather than offering mere hopes and dreams in the week ahead.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You may act generously towards important causes. Spend on stuff that’s close to your heart or makes your loved ones feel special. Let your mind run wild dreaming up possibilities, but don’t be careless or extravagant with resources.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Friendship starts with being a friend. Helping out even a casual acquaintance may feel like a privilege worth embracing. You might thrive in groups, outshining in crowds more than in solo chats. Hold off on launching anything new.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You might kick off the week brimming with energy and the curiosity to dive into uncharted territory. You may stumble when forming new connections, but relationships built on unshakable trust can weather any external storm.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Persistence may soon pay off – triumph often follows a string of setbacks. Take inventory of the things that are worth fixing before deciding to move on. Clear the early missteps this week, and the rewards you deserve may follow.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Consider opening your life to bold ideas and gifted individuals in the days ahead. A random encounter might introduce you to someone strikingly appealing or widely admired. Bright ideas could lose some luster when put into practice.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Your career decisions in the coming week may hinge on your impeccable reputation. A good friend might ask you to go above and beyond. Stay focused on earning extra cash and keeping eyes open while you chase your dreams.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):
Ask, and it could be yours. No one’s judging if you lean on a hand for support. What feels like a mountain to you might be a molehill to someone else. Do yourself and your friends a favor: Skip the financial tips for now.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A simple yet unexpected chat might underscore the importance of trust and loyalty. Someone who seems aloof on the surface could hide a warm, caring core. Cash may not fall from the sky, but there’s plenty available close by if you look.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): There’s a purpose behind every twist and turn, even if the reason is not clear at that moment. You might wrestle between acting fast and sticking to the rules. Trust your instincts with money and tune out the opinions of naysayers.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): When you excel at your projects, you usually expect both recognition and fair reward. This week, your hard work might earn you extra duties and new challenges. This could inspire you to develop more efficiency and organization.
By America’s Test Kitchen
