2025-05-31 - The Manchester Times by Jersey Shore Online

Hometown Heroes Honored With Personalized Banners

School Chorus performed patriotic songs.

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER – The township has long had the privilege of honoring its veteran population by way of lasting tributes. Recently, by way of the Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Committee, in conjunction with Manchester Township High School, a dedication was made of the fi rst Hometown Hero Banners.

The dedication took place at Manchester Township High School (MTHS) and now the banners adorn the entrance to MTHS and will serve to honor the com-

County Fights To Protect Seniors From Federal Cuts

By Stephanie Faughnan BERKELEY

– Facing potential federal funding cuts, Ocean County oﬃcials and senior advocates are sounding the alarm about what’s at stake for one of the state’s largest elderly populations.

Maria LaFace, Director of Ocean County Senior Services, led a public hearing at the Bayville VFW during Older Amer-

icans Month to gather testimony and warn of sweeping changes under consideration at the federal level. Many of those in attendance were community providers who assist seniors.

Older Americans Act Ending? At the heart of LaFace’s concern is the Older Americans

(Seniors - See Page 7)

munity’s Hometown Heroes who are veterans and graduates of MTHS.

Manchester’s school district, township, and community gathered together at MTHS around family and friends to honor the lives and legacies of five extraordinary individuals who now have banners dedicated to their legacy at Manchester Township High School: Cpl. Nicholas Ott, Sgt. Ronald Kubik, Private First

(Heroes - See Page 5)

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER – The subjects of renewable energy and concerns over offshore wind industrialization were discussed during a recent township Environmental Commission meeting.

(Environmental - See Page 4)

Memorial Day Service

Provides Tribute To Fallen Soldiers

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER – A large crowd came out to this year’s Memorial Day Parade that was held at World War II Park in the Whiting section of the township.

This year’s ceremony included a speech by Mayor Joseph

Hankins. Several Township Council members were present along with members of the township’s Veterans Advisory Committee and the community’s police department and various fi re companies and EMS units.

(Tribute - See Page 5)

Photo by Bob Vosseller Kathleen DiFabio of Save The East Coast. org at a recent meeting of the Manchester Township Environmental Commission who spoke about the group’s position on off shore wind industrialization.

Photo courtesy Frank Nicolato Two Manchester Township emergency responders present a wreath to honor fallen service personnel as part of this year’s township Memorial Day service.

Photos courtesy Manchester Schools (From top left) A member of the Junior ROTC presents ﬂowers to a family member at a recent dedication ceremony where deceased veterans who were graduates of Manchester Township High School were honored. The Junior ROTC were a valued part of the assembly. The High

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Environmental:

Continued From Page 1

Mayor Joseph Hankins, Councilwoman Sandy Drake and Councilwoman Michele Zolezi were among those who came to that session to listen to members of the Save The East Coast.org organization.

It was noted prior to their presentation by Township oﬃcials that residents should wait until the community’s energy aggregation agreement is fi nalized before making the choice for an energy supplier. Manchester is continuing to look at developing renewable energy sources for municipal purposes.

Save the East Coast.org is a non-profit agency and an ocean environmental advocacy group based in New Jersey whose mission is to protect the ocean and the diverse life it sustains along with coastal ecosystems and communities, from the harms and cost of offshore wind and ocean industrialization.

Mark Suer, Dennis DeForest and Kathleen DiFabio are members of the group’s education committee. They came as guest speakers and made their position clear that they were opposed to off shore wind industrialization stating it is not green, nor clean and a threat to aquatic environment.

DiFabio said the organization was founded in February of 2023 at which time once it received its non-profit status allowed it to fundraise and endorse political candidates who supported their efforts and positions.

“Many people are under the impression that because they don’t live near the shore that they are not going to be affected by

the wind turbines and unfortunately, that is not the case.”

“The turbines are not clean and there is nothing good about them. They require all kinds of fossil fuels from petrol chemicals and nasty greenhouse gas to operate and 9,000 miles of cable,” she added.

DiFabio said, “there will be skyscraper sized signs out in our ocean at 900 to 1,000 feet tall and they will produce a noise like that of a jet engine. Can you imagine 54 of those where in other places like New York they want to put up 200.”

She said cooling stations will be dumping chemically treated water back into the ocean and “there is nothing clean about that. The blades of the wind turbines are not recyclable and in Wyoming they have a landfill where they are dumping all the turbine blades.”

She noted potential threats to area species such as “the white whale, bald eagle, turtles, dolphins may be harmed due to these off shore wind (projects). There has been a lot of debate as to whether off shore wind projects have been killing whales (along the Jersey and New York coast).”

DiFabio said her organization’s founder who is a professor at Rutgers University has proven at 100% that “offshore wind kills whales through his software system that he built. He founded the group because he wanted to investigate the cause of the rising number of whale deaths.”

She also said there was a connection between skyrocketing energy costs and offshore wind companies. “One thing not included in those costs is to maintain backup power for when

the wind is not blowing or it is blowing too hard.”

Suer said, “I am just a regular citizen from Belmar New Jersey and having seen what was washing up in my backyard started me to be involved in all kinds of investigations as to what was happening on our beaches. These things when I was investigating them turned out to not be green or clean no matter how you looked at it.”

“They have all sorts of chemicals and they are not biodegradable they are just burying them in landfills and they have evolved over the decades into different sizes and the ones in New Jersey are supposed to be the largest one going. Right now they are on the back shelf because we and other groups spoke up and got our legislators to pass legislation.”

PowerPoint presentation shows some data about wind turbines and shore wind industrialization which was discussed during a recent Manchester Township Environmental Commission meeting.

for the last several years. He noted a blade that broke at a project in Rhode Island “they were just testing it. They didn’t even turn it on yet. If we have hurricanes how many of these are going to break?”

Suer pointed out during a PowerPoint presentation a “nacelle” which at the top of the turbine which is a “motor like any other motor so how does this make things green? You are putting in a large amount of these in the ocean and it disrupts the wind patterns, current and if you look at the examples, we have of those in Europe, Spain and Australia they are losing money on them.”

He noted that the turbine blade deteriorates and that environmental impact studies have reports of incidents where environmental pollution required cleanups of oil from the turbine mechanisms.

DeForest said he’s been following the issue

He noted that the wind turbine systems interfere with radar which could impact commercial fishing and shipping vessels. “They cast shadows on their radar.”

Councilwoman Michele Zolezi who serves on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Small Communities Advisory Subcommittee urged residents to become more educated about the issue and to do their own research.

A rain barrel workshop and a program about compost was held for residents of Lakehurst and Manchester at the Lakehurst Community Center. Environmental Commission meetings are open to the public.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Continued From Page 1

Township high school student Mari Siya sang during this year’s program that was coordinated by the township Recreation Department.

Councilwoman Sandy Drake helped out, utilizing some of her experience as a former police oﬃcer and helped direct parking at the event. “I enjoyed it and they all listened to me,” she said with a laugh during the latest council meeting held a day after Memorial Day.

“I hope everyone had a wonderful Memorial Day,” Council Vice President James Vaccaro said during that meeting, “We

Continued From Page 1 Tribute:

Class Matthew Zegan, Sgt. Joseph Pushkal, and Julius Bee.

Ott and Kubik were both members of the Class of 2006. Ott served in the United States Marine Corps, and Kubik served in the U.S. Army Rangers. Pushkal, class of 1994, and Zegan, Class of 1991, each served in the United States Army.

Julius Bee, affectionately known as “Mr.

always remember that we have pride in our township; Manchester Township is the gemstone of the Jersey Shore.”

Councilman Craig Wallis noted the well-attended ceremony, commending Recreation Director Tracey Lynch. “I want to congratulate her for everything that she does. I think the best part of the ceremony was the unplanned part.”

Wallis explained that when the memorial wreaths were presented this year next to the memorial monuments, “usually the presenters walk them up and leave, this year our fi rst responders stood there next to their wreaths, so the next person who went up there they stood up there too.”

“All the presenters were up there and af-

B,” served in the United States Air Force and dedicated decades of his life as a bus driver in the district, where everybody knew his name.

“Manchester Township cherishes the important tradition of remembrance and respect,” Superintendent Diane Pedroza said during her address.

“These banners are public and permanent, and a way we honor, remember, and never forget,” Mayor Joseph Hankins told the audience.

terwards it made for a great picture with all those people with the wreaths. I also want to thank our Public Works Department who did a great job in cleaning up and getting it ready. We greatly appreciate that,” Wallis added.

Wallis said, “as always, the police department was there being professional and doing everything right. We had a special assistant to the police department, Councilwoman Drake. The mayor did a great job speaking and it was a great program.”

Council President Roxy Conniff also commended the leaders of the Recreation Department and DPW and those who spoke. “It really was a beautiful ceremony and next year it will be in Pine Lake Park.”

“We honor the fallen not just in our words but in the ways, we train, honor, and serve,”

First Sergeant Luis Martinez, Joint Base McGuire-Dix remarked representing New Jersey Department of Military and Veteran Affairs.

Each banner displays the photo of a veteran, as well as their name, their rank, their branch of service, and the years they served.

MTHS Principal Dennis Adams reminded all alumni, “once a Hawk, always a Hawk!” Any interested veterans or families of

River Pointe HOA Community Yard Sale

veterans who are graduates of MTHS and interested in Manchester’s Hometown Hero banner program should contact Township Recreation Director Tracey Lynch at 732657-8121, ext. 5102.

Each veteran to be honored must be or have been a Manchester-Whiting resident who served in ANY military component, including Coast Guard, National Guard, and Merchant Marine, who is currently serving or was honorably discharged.

MANCHESTER – River Pointe HOA Community Yard Sale will be on June 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 100 Retreat Drive, Manchester. The Main Gatehouse will give a list of participating homes.

Photo courtesy Frank Nicolato Mari Siya sings during this year’s Memorial Day Program coordinated by the township Recreation Department.

Seniors:

Continued From Page 1

Act (OAA), a landmark piece of legislation passed in 1965 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “Great Society” initiative. The Act provides federal funding for services that help older adults remain in their homes and communities - programs like Meals on Wheels, home health aides, transportation, caregiver support, and legal aid.

“They understood that Social Security was available for retirees and they assumed at that point that would mean they were fi nancially stable,” LaFace explained. “But what they identified was lacking was community support services. So, despite the money that you may have as you age, you’re going to need supportive services.”

The Act was designed to provide community services through programs and funding divided among the states.

But a recent budget proposal passed by the House of Representatives would restructure OAA funding by splitting it between Medicare, Medicaid, and the Administration for Children and Families. LaFace believes this would dilute the focus and effectiveness of services designed specifically for older adults.

“If they take all that money and they just put it with Children and Families, who do you think will get that money?” LaFace asked. “I hope I’m wrong but it’s going to be diluted – it’s not going to be solely for the population that Congress intended it to be.”

Budget Already Strained Ocean County operates with a total se-

nior services budget of approximately $9 million - $5 million in federal funds, $1.5 million from the state, and the remainder provided by the county.

It might sound like a lot of money – but it’s not nearly enough as the county’s older population grows. Calls to the Oﬃce of Senior Services have nearly doubled in recent years - from 6,000 in 2018 to over 11,000 so far this year. Meals on Wheels now has a waiting list for the fi rst time ever.

When she questioned Jim Sigurdson, the executive director of Meals on Wheels about the waiting list, LaFace was surprised by the answer. Roughly 40 people come off the program each year, with 80 putting in new applications each month. People are also living longer and remain on the home delivered meal program for 20 plus years.

LaFace said much of the need stems from fi nancial insecurity. “Whether it’s food, housing, or transportation, it all comes down to the same thing - seniors not having enough money to make ends meet,” she said.

Judy Noonan, confidential aide to the Manchester mayor shared some of the challenges local seniors have. “I’ve had to reach out to senior services and it was an education for me,” shared Noonan. “We have mentally ill people on the street. I have people living in cars which really broke my heart. They could not get into a hotel because a voucher was refused.”

The shortage of home health aides continues to be a major barrier. According to an October 2024 report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the direct care workforce is declining due to

low wages, inconsistent hours, and limited benefits.

Utility bills are expected to rise across the board for everyone – and utility assistance programs may go by the wayside. Seniors who live in retirement communities are getting outpriced on their homeowner association fees as HOAs are now required to stash money away in their reserve accounts.

The federal Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which safeguards the health and well-being of residents in long-term care facilities, faces an uncertain future. The budget recently passed by Congress does not include any funding to keep the program in operation.

Many assume Medicaid cuts won’t affect seniors because they only receive Medicare. They’re wrong.

Medicaid - specifi cally New Jersey’s FamilyCare Aged, Blind, Disabled (ABD) program - is a key funding source for home- and community-based care that keeps frail seniors out of institutions. It pays for services like personal care, adult day care, assisted living, and in-home modifications.

Eligibility for long-term care Medicaid is based on age, income, assets, and functional need. The proposed shift of Older Americans Act funding into Medicaid may mean those already struggling to qualify could face even more barriers.

Advocating For Seniors

LaFace said she’s doing everything possible to make sure federal legislators understand the stakes. She met with Repre-

St. Stephens Episcopal Church Chicken Dinner

WHITING – St. Stephens Episcopal Church Whiting BofStA Chapter will host a summer chicken dinner on June 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the parish hall.

A full dinner including the meal, desserts, and soft drinks will be provided. Additionally, we’re offering a 50/50, treasure auction, and door prizes as well. Donation for the

dinner is $20 per person and is non-refundable. A musical dinner background will be provided!

For further details and information call

sentatives Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew earlier this year during a policy briefi ng in Washington, D.C.

Both voted to make the budget cuts, stating that the budget bill fully funds the programs to serve the populations they were designed to serve.

“My favorite part of this job is advocating for our seniors,” she said. “They deserve to age with dignity and support - not be collateral damage in a budget shuﬄe.”

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners recently passed a resolution urging Congress to preserve the integrity of the Older Americans Act. They emphasized that dividing the funding risks creating a fragmented and ineﬃcient system.

Commissioner Robert Arace, who serves as liaison to Senior Services said he is fully committed to ensuring services continue to exist, not only now, but in the future.

“Those are including Meals on Wheels, caregiving support maintenance services, elderly prevention, transportation services, senior nutrition programs, access to health and wellness resources and programs that promote independence and aging in place,” he said.

Another resolution passed by the board accepted funding for the 2025 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, which provides low-income seniors with fresh produce from local markets - a small but impactful initiative that could also be at risk under the proposed budget changes.

For more information about available senior services in Ocean County, residents can contact the Oﬃce of Senior Services at 732-929-2091.

Bill Bodine - BofStA chapter director at 848-210-4206 or call St. Stephens Whiting parish oﬃce at 732-350-2121. You can also email to: wbodine3@gmail.com.

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

LD9 Calls on Trenton to Cover Costs of State-Mandated Veterans’ Tax Breaks to Protect Local Budgets

Capitol Comments

Carmen F. Amato, Jr.

9th Legislative District

TRENTON - Senator Carmen Amato, Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre are calling on the State to reimburse municipalities for the costs associated with exempting 100% disabled veterans from paying property taxes.

While the exemption is a state-mandated benefit, municipalities currently receive no reimbursement from Trenton for the resulting loss in local tax revenue. The legislators argue that this unfunded mandate places an

undue fi nancial burden on local governments and are advocating for the State to honor its responsibility by fully covering the cost of this important exemption.

The 9th District Delegation has introduced legislation, S-2559 and A-3705, which would require the State to cover the cost of the actual taxes exempted plus the administrative costs incurred by municipalities in connection with the reimbursement program.

Senator Amato raised concerns about the unfunded state mandate during the May 8 meeting of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, where testimony was provided by the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs, led by Brigadier General

Yvonne L. Mays.

“This is a matter of fairness for both our veterans and our taxpayers,” said Senator Amato. “The state mandated this exemption, it should also cover the cost, not pass the burden onto local communities.”

Amato, Rumpf and Myhre issued the following statement:

“Trenton must honor its commitment to our veterans by reimbursing municipalities for the costs tied to the 100% disabled veteran property tax exemption. This unfunded state mandate unfairly burdens towns with higher numbers of qualifying veterans, driving up property taxes for both veterans and non-veteran taxpayers alike.”

“While Trenton touts providing this benefit to veterans, it has left towns and local taxpayers to actually cover the costs of the

exemption, including the administrative burdens.

Our delegation has introduced bipartisan legislation that demands the state honor its obligation to fund this unfunded mandate. We’ve also pressed the issue during the state budget process because our legislative district includes a large population of veterans. Without state reimbursement, local taxpayers are unfairly forced to shoulder the financial burden - that’s unacceptable, and it needs to be fixed.”

Presently, S-2559 (Amato/Burgess) is awaiting consideration by the Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee while A-3705 (Myhre/Rumpf) is awaiting consideration by the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Committee, which Assemblyman Rumpf presently serves on.

FEMA Lacks Hurricane Preparedness Plan As Hurricane Season Draws Near

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON D.C. – Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) pressed Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on the Trump administration’s failure to produce a finalized hurricane preparedness plan and formally nominate a FEMA Administrator with hurricane season just days away.

“When it comes to FEMA, this is something I’m concerned about being from New Jersey, we’ve had challenges with Superstorm Sandy and others in the past. I was alarmed when I saw some reports that the acting head Richardson said…that he’s just 80-85% done with the hurricane season plan, given that we are just days away from hurricane season beginning. Is he done with his hurricane preparedness plan?…Will you be able to share that plan with this committee?” asked Senator Kim. After being unable to confirm that the report is completed and stating that she is actively engaged in hurricane response planning, Sec-

retary Noem stated that she would “check to make sure” she could share it with the committee.

The hearing was held in the wake of staff cuts at FEMA, reports of a recent internal review that cites the agency as “not ready” for hurricane season, and calls by President Trump to abolish FEMA entirely. During the hearing, Secretary Noem shared: “The president firmly believes that FEMA needs to be eliminated as it stands today.”

As Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs’ subcommittee that oversees FEMA, Senator Kim has continued to call for bipartisan reforms to FEMA that help ensure New Jersey communities and people across the country can have confidence in FEMA’s leadership, rely on FEMA as a lifeline, and always have a place to turn when disaster strikes. This includes protecting survivors from faulty or fraudulent insurance practices as families are already struggling to recover after a natural disaster like Superstorm Sandy.

Senator Kim has long advocated for permanent and comprehensive disaster relief at the

federal level, pushing to fully authorize and fund federal disaster recovery grant programs and to invest in climate resilient infrastructure. He has also worked to ensure federal funding from FEMA reaches New Jersey to assist in response efforts, including after recent wildfires in South Jersey.

FEMA Critical To Fighting Antisemitism

Kim also pressed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on the need to support and expand FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program, a critical security tool for synagogues and temples in New Jersey as incidences of antisemitism rise. Senator Kim demanded the Secretary ensure the program is protected as President Trump continues to call for FEMA’s complete elimination.

“I want to engage with you on this further because when we’re hearing this language about abolishing FEMA, one of the elements that people have raised the most concerns about is what does that mean for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. I really do urge you to work with me and this committee to have a declarative stance on that so people, especially those

concerned about antisemitism can have clarity on what comes next,” said Senator Kim. Senator Kim emphasized the strong bipartisan support in the Senate to protect the program and his continued commitment to increase funding for the program to address the scourge of antisemitism in our country. When asked if she’d be open to an increase of funding to the program Secretary Noem responded, “we definitely have seen the value in the program and are willing to discuss this with [the Senator].”

At a Senate Special Committee on Aging hearing in May, the Senator spoke about the program and need for further support: “We want to preserve it, we want to increase the funds, but one thing I also hear is that from the synagogues, the temples that I talk to it’s not just one-off security they need…this is the top budget item for every single synagogue every single year.”

As a member of the House of Representatives, he helped secure grant funding through the program to protect local religious communities in his congressional district and his oﬃce facilitated security briefings with New Jersey interfaith leaders to connect them with guidance and resources through the program.

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.

Stabbings, Arrests And Boardwalk Closure Were A Part Of Memorial Day Weekend Mayhem

By Bob Vosseller

The popular northern barrier island community saw as many as 100,000

tourists descend on it. Borough police reported that on May 25 a situation arose that led Seaside Heights Police Chief

Thomas Boyd to close down the boardwalk. A man was arrested with a firearm.

Seaside Heights police responded to a report of a fight at Grant Avenue and Ocean Terrace where Patrolman James

Hans arrested Byron Czaplicki, 21, of Beachwood. He was charged with possession of a firearm, resisting arrest, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and obstruction of justice.

The first stabbing was reported around 8 p.m. on May 24 when a 21-year-old man was stabbed in the back on the

Ocean block of Webster Avenue. The victim was evaluated by Tri-Boro First Aid Squad, then flown to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune. He was treated but refused to cooperate with investigators and declined further police assistance.

(Arrests - See Page 20)

Senator Andy Kim

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Three separate stabbing incidents in Seaside Heights and more than 70 arrests were all part of the mayhem that occurred over Memorial Day weekend.

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Farm Market Vouchers Available

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township Senior Services Department will be distributing Farm Market Vouchers in the amount of $40 per person to purchase Jersey Fresh Produce for Low Income Seniors, who are 60 years of age or older. We will distribute vouchers on a first come-first serve basis until all vouchers have been distributed.

Vouchers are available in our Manchester location at 1 Colonial Drive, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Vouchers will be available in the Whiting Annex at 82 Lacey Road, Tuesday through Thursday starting June 3.

Guidelines:

• Must be 60 years of age or older

• Resident of Manchester

• Do not exceed financial guidelines: Family Size: 1 - $ 2,413 monthly; Family Size: 2 – $ 3,261 monthly

At time of distribution, you must show proof of age (driver’s license) and proof of income or proof that you are on a government program (Medicaid or food stamps).

For additional information, contact Manchester Senior Services at 732849-8305. Only one set of vouchers per person, per year.

Cruise Down Memory Lane

WHITING – Pine’s Village is excited to open its doors to our car community to enjoy their 2nd Annual Cruise Down Memory Lane on June 17 from 4 to 8 p.m. at 509 Route 530 Whiting. Bring out your classic or collectable car or truck for the residents to enjoy!

Free event. Food provided for cruise participants! Trophies will be awarded by

the residents. DJ/Music provided by Big Al from Jersey Shore Car Shows. Pines Village Open House. Tour their beautiful remodeled campus. Family friendly event. We look forward to seeing everyone out at this very special event to showcase your rides for the Pines Village community! For more information, visit jerseyshorecarshows.com.

Manchester Vol. Fire Co. Comedy Night

MANCHESTER – Manchester Vol. Fire Co. Comedy Night with Spaghetti Dinner will be on July 26 at 545 Commonwealth Boulevard, Manchester.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Performances by: Jeff rey Paul; Buda the Comedian. Host:

Rich Carucci. Cash bar for beer and wine. 50/50 Tickets available.

Cost is $40 per person in advance, $45 at the door. Call ahead to purchase tickets at 609-618-5752. Must be 21 or older to attend. No outside food or beverages allowed.

Manchester High School Booster Club Ra e Fundraiser

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township High School Booster Club is currently selling raffle tickets for our Annual Super 50/50!

To purchase a ticket please contact any member of the Boost Club or call Club President Rick Sogness 732-2780703. Venmo payment is accepted @ Richard-Sogness.

Tickets are only $50 each and all proceeds will go towards providing updated

scoreboards for the high school sports teams, as well as, scholarships for Senior Athletes!

With your support we have recently had the opportunity to provided scoreboards on the Soccer, Field Hockey and Lacrosse fields. We are now working towards a new scoreboard for softball/ baseball.

Drawing will be on June 12 at 5 p.m. at the high school.

Lakehurst UMC Movie Club

LAKEHURST – Lakehurst UMC presents Movie Club every Friday, from May 2 through June 20, beginning at 4:30 p.m.

The featured movie is: “The Chosen” –second season. This is a free event with snacks includes. The Lakehurst UMC is located at 204 Elm Street, Lakehurst.

Veteran Lunch & Learn

JACKSON – Veteran Lunch & Learn will be held on June 17 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Oliverie Funeral Home, 125 S. Cooks Bridge Road, Jackson.

Guest speaker is Shira Tiner of Veteran Care Services. Topics include: What are my benefits as a veteran? Does the Department of Veterans Affairs

pay for a veteran’s funeral? What is my spouse eligible for?

Pre-registration to NJ Veteran Cemetery available at event. RSVP to Veteran Lunch & Learn by calling 732-719-7250.

This article was brought to you by our advertisers.

C OMMUNITY N EWS

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church To Host A Day Mission Retreat

WHITING – The Order of St Luke Healing Ministry and Brotherhood of St. Andrew Chapter at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church - Whiting, will host a day mission retreat on July 19 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Suggested donation is $10 per person, which will cover all activities, including breakfast and lunch for the day. Please join us, pray, reflect, meditate, and enjoy talks of inspiration, uplift, and enlightenment by our Keynote Speaker - Rev. Charles Lochner! And you will have the time for quiet and intimate prayer, study, and reflection on how Jesus Christ influences your life.

The day will feature the popular Christian band Celebrate and will end with a superb and enjoyable healing service with communion. We invite everyone of all ages and denominations to join us for this grand

event! Bring your loved ones, families, friends, and neighbors to our church, and you will walk away with the true value and meaning of Jesus Christ in your life!

If you would like to attend, send the church your $10 donation payable to: Brotherhood of St. Andrew at St Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539 Whiting, NJ - ATTN: Bill Bodine - BofStA Chapter Director/OSL Co-Convener. Free will offering baskets will also be available for any additional donations.

For further details and information, call Bill Bodine - BofStA Chapter Director at 848-210-4206 or email to: wbodine3@ gmail.com. Stefanie Bodine - Senior Warden & OSL Co-Convener at 732-278-4846. Or St. Stephen’s Whiting Parish Oﬃce at 732-350-2121.

2025 eater Trips

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Recreation Department has announced the following Theater Trips for the 2025 season:

August 12 – “Clue the Musical” Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, West Hampton, NJ. Cost is $131 each (Bus/Lunch/Show). Bus leaves from Soccer Field parking lot at 9:15 a.m. Lunch at 11 a.m. followed by show.

September 16 – “Calendar Girls” (wait list) Surflight Theatre, Beach Haven. Cost is $107 each (Bus/Lunch at Calloway’s/Show).

Bus leaves from Soccer Field parking lot at 10:15 a.m. Lunch at 11 a.m. Showtime is 2 p.m.

October 16 – “Never Too Late” Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, West Hampton, NJ. Cost is $127 each (Bus/Lunch/Show). Bus leaves

from Soccer Field parking lot at 9:15 a.m. Lunch at 11 a.m. followed by show. November 18 – “A Playhouse Christmas ‘25” Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, West Hampton, NJ. Cost is $132 each (Bus/ Lunch/Show). Bus leaves from Soccer Field parking lot at 9:15 a.m. Lunch at 11 a.m. followed by show.

We will call to confirm if a show is running based on the number of reservations and to let you know payment is due. If you make a reservation and your plans change, please call to cancel. Refunds will only be issued if there is a wait list.

To reserve your ticket(s), call The Manchester Township Recreation Department at 732-657-8121, ext. 5101, 5102, 5103.

Free Rabies Clinic

MANCHESTER – A free Rabies Clinic will be on May 31 at two locations. Bring proof of previous vaccination to the rabies clinic so a three-year certificate may be issued. If proof is not provided, the certificate will be issued for one year only.

Ridgeway Firehouse 2848 Route 571,

Manchester Cats – 8:30 to 9 a.m.

Dogs – 9 to 11 a.m.

Whiting Volunteer Fire Company Route 530 and Cherry Street Cats – 1 to 1:30 p.m. Dogs – 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Crestwood Village 1 Dinner & Movie

WHITING – Crestwood Village 1 presents “White Bird” on June 6 at 5:30 p.m. at 92 Fairway Lane, Friendship Hall. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 in advance and on sale Tuesdays from 9 to

11 a.m. Tickets at the door are $8. Dinner menu: hot dogs, popcorn and drink. Candy will be available for purchase at an extra charge. 50/50 ticket will be available to purchase.

Lakehurst Police Foundation Annual Golf Outing

LAKEHURST – Lakehurst Police Foundation Annual Golf Outing will be on June 2 at Pine Barrens Golf Club, 540 South Hope Chapel Road, Jackson.

Registration at 10 a.m. Shotgun start at 11

a.m. Play the best ball of the team for every shot until the hole is fi nished.

For sponsorship and further information, contact Sgt. Jason Guide at 732-657-7812 ext. 203.

School

MTSD

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

2025 MTSD Art Festival

MANCHESTER – This Manchester Township School District (MTSD) Art Festival showcases the dynamic talents of Manchester’s students in a show-stopping annual event.

On May 15, families are gathering at Manchester Township High School to take in and celebrate the students’ and their art!

The MTSD Art Festival features artwork from all grade levels and all schools in the district. There are different art mediums on display throughout the high school’s gym,

cafeteria, and lining the hallways. Student, staff, and parent volunteers came together to not only display the artwork but also provide concessions, face painting, and craft tables for attendees!

Thank you to all who made this wonderful family event possible. The community enjoys the Art Festival each year and being able to celebrate Manchester’s students. And thank you to the artists who shared their work for all to enjoy!

Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle

MANCHESTER – The Universal Preschool students in Mrs. Nardone’s class at Ridgeway Elementary have embraced the schoolwide recycling project with enthusiasm as they also learned about reducing, reusing, and recycling through this month’s Creative Curriculum Study. They spent time during this Study discussing how everyday materials can be recycled and used again. Students used dish

detergent bottles to mix colors of paint, they utilized plastic cereal containers as paint containers, they rinsed and reused fruit cups to trace circles, and they even used cleaned yogurt containers in their classroom’s Dramatic Play Area to pretend it was real food! If they were not reusing products, they were excited to recycle them in the new recycling can found in Ridgeway Elementary School’s hallway.

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

A Veteran’s Service Continues

courtesy Manchester Republican

MANCHESTER - Mayor Joseph Hankins at right, recently presented a proclamation honoring Roland Zeh during a meeting of the township Republican Cub at Donovan’s restaurant. Zeh is a Whiting resident and U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam. Zeh volunteers his time as a one-man cleanup crew, picking up trash along Lake Road near his Crestwood Village 7 home. He’s done this since last year, and he often collects multiple bags of trash.

Manchester Day Set For June 28

MANCHESTER – When planning out your summer event calendar, make sure to add Manchester Day 2025!

This annual family-friendly day of fun is scheduled for June 28 beginning at 2 p.m. at Harry Wright Lake, 1501 Lake

Manchester Democrats

Announce Next Two Meeting Dates

MANCHESTER – The next meeting of the Manchester Democrats will be on June 21. Doors will open at 9 a.m. and the meeting will commence at 10 a.m. at the Presbyterian Church in Lakehurst Borough on Union Avenue.

The club’s July meeting will on July 19 and will also start at 9 a.m. when the doors open and the oﬃcial meeting will start an hour later.

Road, Whiting. Music, vendors, rides and a spectacular fi reworks display await. Make sure to be there for all the fun! Free bus transportation available. Please call to schedule pick up time.

Photo

Club

Manchester O cers Dominate e FIT Challenge

MANCHESTER – Last month, several oﬃcers proudly represented the Manchester Township Police Department at the FIT Challenge held at JBMDL Lakehurst - a grueling event featuring eight intense fitness zones and a .25 mile run between each station.

Huge congratulations to Patrolman Brendan Brush for taking 1st Place in the Singles Division! His incredible effort and athleticism led him to the top of the podium. Another big shout-out to Sgt. Adam Emmons and Patrolman Kyle Rickvalsky, who

Photo courtesy Manchester Police teamed up and brought home 1st Place in the Doubles Division! Their performance was a true example of teamwork and determination.

The oﬃcers showed strength, grit, and perseverance throughout the challenge. Events like this not only highlight peak physical fitness but also embody the values we bring to the job every day - commitment, discipline, and resilience.

Great job to all who participated and represented Manchester Police Department with pride!

Fundraiser Has Mexican eme

was

earlier this

Photos by Bob Vosseller

A celebration

held

month at the Lakehurst Presbyterian Church on Union Avenue hosted by the Manchester Democrats. The event featured fun, food and a few speakers and drew a large crowd. The entertainment of the evening included a performance by We Are One headed by Ricardo Garcia of Leisure Village West in Manchester Township. His group came together to provide music and dance.

C OMMUNITY N EWS

Students Recognized And Celebrated By Ocean County Organizations

MANCHESTER – Congratulations to Manchester Township High School student Ryan D., who was awarded as the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Oﬃce Unsung Hero on May 20. Unsung Heros is an event that recognizes and honors youth from Ocean County who have overcome adversity and/or who demonstrate a unique resolve and other commendable virtues. Congratulations, Ryan!

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools

On May 21., during the Ocean County Superintendent’s Roundtable breakfast, Manchester Township High School students were recognized and awarded! Congratulations to Luka S. and Hira S. for receiving the Scholarship, Leadership, & Service award(s) and to Ella R. for receiving the Ocean County Mayors’ Association/William T. Hornidge Scholarship. Your hard work, Hawks, does not fly under the radar!

Crestwood Village 1 Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 1 presents Let’s Dance featuring the R&C Band Rock and Country music on June 13 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. BYOB & snacks.

Set-ups included. Tickets are $12. Purchase them on Tuesdays from 9 to 11 a.m. at Friendship Hall, 92 Fairway Lane. No refunds unless dance is cancelled. Any questions call Les at 908-606-7076.

Crestwood Village 5 Doo Wop Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 5 Resident’s Club is hosting a Doo Wop Dance on June 6 from 7 to 11 p.m.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Doo Wop dance, disco, oldies, Motown, etc. Music by Joey D & Johnny B. Cost is $10 in advance $12

at door. Includes snacks, soft drinks, dessert, coffee and Tea. BYOB. Nonrefundable unless canceled.

Purchase tickets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Clubhouse. Call Debbie at 201-618-8514 for more information.

Recreation Department eater Trip “Clue e Musical”

MANCHESTER – Tickets are still available for the August 12 Theater Trip “Clue the Musical.” Ticket price of $131 per person includes transportation, lunch and the show at Hunterdon Hills Playhouse.

Bus leaves from Soccer Field parking lot at 9:15 a.m. and lunch will be at 11 a.m. followed by show.

Contact the Recreation Department at: 732-657-8121 ext. 5102 to reserve your seat.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR ADMINISTRATOR:

Rose Garden is one of the few “mom and pop” skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers left ... in the state of New Jersey. The world has turned “corporate;” we have not. It has been our core belief that the delivery of healthcare is quite personal. That “intimacy” is in danger when 5 to 100 facilities are operated in multiple states by large corporations. We have always strived for a close “family” atmosphere and believe we have succeeded. The environment is warm and inviting and exceedingly clean and spotless. Our homemade food and soups are outstanding, and the care is thoughtful, kind and productive.

We have been called the “Hotel of Healthcare.”

Please ask your friends, neighbors and, most importantly, other healthcare professionals. We are here, in your neighborhood, to serve you!

Preschool Students Learn About Composting

MANCHESTER –

Manchester’s Universal Preschool Students are currently working on fi nalizing their Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle Unit, a fun and educational part of their Creative Curriculum. As a part of their unit culmination, Mrs. Cataldo’s preschool class at Whiting Elementary School had a special guest to learn about composting!

nursing and rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. • Toms River, NJ 08753

732-505-4477 • www.rosegardennj.com

Mr. Morris is not only a Manchester Township Middle School teacher and coach, but a proud parent and a fierce composter! He came to visit the preschool class to discuss what composting is, how it works, and share how his family not only composts but how they use the compost to help naturally fertilize their property.

Mr. Morris read to the students a book about composting and, before going back

Manchester Schools to his classroom at MTMS, left the students with ingredients for a “dirt dessert” so that they could put together their own edible compost “bucket” complete with crushed Oreos, chocolate pudding, and gummy worms. Thank you for a wonderful lesson, Mr. Morris, that helped our youngest learners to dive deeper into the benefits of composting!

Photo courtesy

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 first 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 first 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!

Veteran Claims Clinic

TOMS RIVER – If you are a veteran and need to apply for veteran’s benefits or for an increase in your existing claim rating, then please read the following.

Specialists at your local American Legion Post #129 want to help. All veterans are welcome! On August 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the American Legion Post #129 at 2025 Church Road, Toms River will be hosting a Claims Clinic and there will be volunteer claims specialists on site to help you apply for your benefits from the Veterans Administration.

Please bring your DD-214 with you if you have it available. If you have lost your DD-214, we can help you apply for a new copy. Do you already have an approved Claim Rating? The specialist may be able to help you obtain a higher percentage rating with a higher monthly benefit. Bring your paperwork with you.

If you are not able to drive, your family member or friend is welcome to come into the clinic to assist you. So please come and join us and let us help you attain your deserved benefits… you earned them!

Weight-Loss Support Group At Crestwood Village 6

WHITING – Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is a weight-loss support group that meets every Wednesday at Crestwood Village 6.

We emphasize healthy and sensible eating through the exchange of recipes, meal plans, and the experiences of our members.

Introductory meeting is free. Come check us out! Meetings start at 11 a.m. at the Crestwood Village 6 clubhouse, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting. All are welcome.

Isidore Kirsh

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Thoughts We Don’t Talk About: A Hidden Side Of Mental Health

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while most conversations focus on depression or burnout, I want to address a quieter, more personal experience: the thoughts we don’t talk about.

Have you ever had an intrusive thought pop into your mind like “What if I suddenly swerve off the road?” or “What if I harm someone I love?”

These thoughts can feel jarring and even scary, but they’re surprisingly common. Most of us have them from time to time. But when they start to loop or create distress, they may point to deeper imbalances.

Intrusive thoughts are often (but not always) linked to conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or anxiety disorders, but they can also happen to anyone during periods of high stress, hormonal shifts, or even nutritional deficiencies.

Many of these cognitive issues are related to serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and obsessive thinking. That’s why SSRIs like Zoloft, Lexapro, or Prozac are often prescribed. It’s because they help temporarily increase serotonin activity.

But medication isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. While SSRIs can be helpful, they take time to work and may come with side effects like digestive upset or fatigue. They are pretty much impossible to get off if you ever want to. It’s really hard to taper. And lesser-known but equally important is this: Many prescribed medications deplete vital nutrients, especially magnesium, which plays a major role in calming the brain. This is what I call the drug mugger effect.

Magnesium supports your nervous system and helps regulate GABA which is your

body’s primary calming neurotransmitter. Did you know probiotics help you manufacture GABA?

This hormone (GABA) is very high when you’re sleepy. It quiets the brain. Magnesium is a cofactor in making GABA. Low levels of magnesium lead to anxiety, muscle cramps, sleep disturbances, and even phobic reactions, like fear of flying or acrophobia, the fear of heights. During a phobic episode, your brain’s fight-or-flight response kicks in, overriding the calming effects of GABA and leaving you feeling tense, panicked, or out of control.

Certain drugs, including birth control pills, antacids, and antidepressants, are “drug muggers” of magnesium, leaving you depleted and more vulnerable to mental health changes.

I often recommend chelated magnesium (for anxiety and sleep) or magnesium threonate (for cognitive support), especially for those on long-term medications. Magnesium citrate is for constipation so don’t use that form for brain health.

Progesterone is important to. This calming hormone, which naturally supports GABA production, drops dramatically after menopause, and it’s also suppressed by many hormonal contraceptives.

Whether you’re managing daily stress, hormonal shifts, or looping thoughts that won’t let go, your experience is real, and treatable. Sometimes, healing doesn’t start with a diagnosis. Sometimes, it starts with a deep breath, a little magnesium if you’re low in it, and some good information to point the way. For the longer, more comprehensive version of this article, including more natural remedies, digital overload tips, and supplement guidance, visit 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.

nursing and rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. Toms River, NJ 08753 732-505-4477 www.rosegardennj.com

Rose Garden Celebrates 20th Anniversary

My name is Andrew Shawn, Owner/Administrator of Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation. I have been a Nursing Home Administrator for the past 45 years.

Rose Garden opened on May 17th, 2005 and has served the Toms River and greater Ocean County area proudly for 20 years. It has been our vision and singular goal to “change hearts and minds” about the existing perception, and in some cases the reality of experiencing a stay at a Long-Term Care Facility.

Our aim has been to be guided by the “Golden Rule”, a principle of ethics and morality that desires treating others as you would like to be treated.

The fundamentals are empathy and reciprocity in human interaction. I believe ﬁrmly Rose Garden has achieved that goal over our 20 years of service to our families and guests.

I am here to tell you that moving forward, that commitment remains the cornerstone of our philosophy.

on their condition.

Arrests:

Continued From Page 8

The second stabbing was reported around 6:45 p.m. on May 25 at Sherman Avenue and Ocean Terrace, and involved a 22-year-old man who was stabbed in the hip and taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center by ambulance. This victim also refused to cooperate with investigators, according to police.

Borough police also arrested 73 people between 6 a.m. May 23 to 6 a.m. May 26. Of those 52 were adults and 21 were juveniles. This represented a drop in the arrest total from last year’s Memorial Day weekend which saw 90 people arrested.

The third stabbing happened just prior to Chief Boyd’s shutting down the boardwalk and the 18-year-old victim was a man who was stabbed in his right thigh and taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center by ambulance. This victim also refused to cooperate with investigators.

Officials had urged parents that communities like Seaside Heights and Toms River would be imposing a 10 p.m. curfew for juveniles and would be cracking down on inappropriate behavior during the holiday weekend.

Curfews as well as rental rules have been put into place as a means to deter parents from getting rooms to allow teens to have unsupervised parties and gatherings.

W Millstream Road Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 609-758-9595

There was also a report of a pedestrian hit by a driver who fled the scene in Seaside Park. The victim was flown to a trauma center. The victim was not identified and there was no update available

Seaside Heights police received backup from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K9 units as well as the Brick Township Police Department.

Crestwood Village 6 Summer Sock Hop Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 6 Resident’s Club presents Summer Sock Hop! June Dance Event on June 20 from 7 to 11 p.m. at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Featuring Music by DJ “Mare.” Raﬄe, 50/50 and door prizes. Refreshments provided; fi nger foods wel-

come. Themed attire is optional; but highly encouraged.

Tickets are $10 for members and $12 for non-members. Tickets are sold every Monday at the CV 6 Clubhouse from 10 to 11 a.m. Sold on a fi rst come fi rst serve basis. If availability allows tickets may be purchased at the door.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

If

You Are A Victim Of

Accident Or Other Incident Then Remember That Social Media Is Not Your Friend

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

Once an injury claim is reported to an insurance company their number one priority is to stop the bleeding. Not your bleeding; their bleeding! The primary concern of any insurance company is to fi nd a way to not pay your claim, so you will be immediately investigated.

What Do Insurance Adjusters Look For After A Claim Is Filed?

A personal injury claim is built on evidence. While your lawyer is compiling evidence to support your claim, the insurance adjuster on the other side is looking for ways to undermine it.

Beware of prying eyes. Your social media accounts are full of tidbits — even your most innocent posts, photos, or those you are tagged in — can be woven together and used against you. Even posts made by your family and friends are fair game for an aggressive adjuster. Even if all your social media accounts are protected with the strictest privacy controls, sometimes harmful information finds its way into the hands of the adjuster. It’s used as evidence to reduce their financial exposure or, worse yet, to prevent you from receiving any compensation at all.

What Not to Do on Social Media After a Car Accident

Sharing information about your case on social media makes it public. You instantly give up any confidentiality protections. The defense can subpoena it and use it against you. It’s best to post nothing.

For this reason, keep in mind the following:

Adjusters look for the weakest link. If they sense you lack self-control, they may try to friend you on Facebook or follow you on Instagram. They also may try to buddy up to your friends to get insider information about you and the accident. Even your posts on dating sites can be mined and used against you.

What to Do on Social Media After a Car Accident

Avoid doing anything on social media that could hurt your claim. You only have one opportunity to get this right, so you should leave nothing to chance. Tell your friends to refrain from posting anything about you or tagging you in photos on social media — past, present, or future.

If you see the need to delete anything from your accounts, ask your attorney fi rst. It could be seen as an attempt to destroy evidence.

• Don’t reply to questions from your friends or family asking about how you’re feeling.

• Don’t post photos of yourself exercising or doing anything physical.

• Don’t post any medical information or anything from your attorney.

• Don’t post “check-ins.”

• Don’t accept “friend” or “follow” requests from people you don’t know.

• Don’t bad-mouth the insurance company.

• Don’t defend your actions during the accident.

• Don’t send texts or private messages.

• Don’t lie, especially about when events occurred. Everything online is timestamped and can be used against you.

• Contact R.C. Shea & Associates If You Have Been Injured

If you’re the victim of an accident then choosing the right personal injury lawyer is the most important decision you will make. At R.C. Shea & Associates, a fi rm with over 35 year of experience, a Certiﬁed Civil Trial Layer will handle your case. There’s nothing to lose and everything to gain by scheduling a free consultation. Contact us now to get started.(732) 505-1212.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Dr.Bartisshasoftenbeenreferredtoas“adoctor’sdoctor”,andisfrequentlycalled upon for his diagnostic skills. He is founder and Medical Director of ICAM and a member of the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, the American AcademyofAnti-AgingMedicine,theAmericanAcademyofOzoneTherapists,and adiplomateoftheAmericanAcademyofFamilyPhysicians.Dr.Bartissisamedical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in thefieldofBio-IdenticalHormoneReplacementTherapy(BHRT).

• Hormone Replacement

• IV Therapies

• Thermascan

• Cryoskin • HOCATT

• Colonics • PEMF

• Salt Room/Halotherapy

• Theta Chamber

• Ozone • Botox

• Thyroid/Adrenal Fatigue Management

• Peptides

63 Lacey Rd. Unit C • Whiting, NJ 08759 609-978-9002 • www.ICAMNJ.com

Sometimes a photo doesn’t need an introduction or even a description. The one word to describe this? Cute! Local resident Mary Schantz was in the right place at the right time to capture this little family enjoying the shore. We can all give a collective “awwww!” Want to see your pics in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline. com and you could be enjoying a Jersey Shore BlueClaws game – on us!

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

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Voters Can Cast eir Vote In A Variety Of Ways

By Bob Vosseller

OCEAN COUNTY – Voters in the county now have several options when it comes to casting their ballots for the rapidly approaching June 10 primary elections.

Early voting in Ocean County will start on June 3 and continues through June 8 at 10 locations throughout the county.

Voters can always cast their vote in the traditional way on Primary Election Day, June 10, by visiting their local polling place. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters can also vote by mail and the deadline to apply for and obtain a vote by mail ballot in person is June 9 by 3 p.m.

Acting Ocean County Clerk John Catalano is encouraging voters to review the sample ballots sent out from his oﬃce. The Ocean County Clerk’s Oﬃce is sending out more than 400,000 sample ballots this year to registered voters.

Catalano said, “voters should carefully review their sample ballots. There is a wealth of helpful information included. In addition, poll workers will be available at polling locations to assist voters casting their ballots.”

He also noted that the information on the sample ballots - including poll locations, vote by mail drop box locations and early voting locations - is also available on the Ocean County Clerk’s website at clerk. co.ocean.nj.us/.

“The Ocean County Clerk and his staff along with the Ocean County Board of Elections work diligently to make sure elections run smoothly in the county and that all votes are counted and are secure,” Ocean County Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione, liaison to the Ocean County Clerk’s Oﬃce said.

Bacchione called voting “a fundamental right” and noted that it was “imperative that elections are convenient and secure for our residents. She pledged to “take every step to ensure the integrity of every vote that is cast.”

Hours for early voting are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. from June 3 to June 7 and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on June 8. Catalano said “registered voters in Ocean County can cast a ballot at any of the early voting locations. For instance, if you live in Stafford Township but work in Toms River, you can cast your vote at the main branch of the Ocean County Library during early voting.

“The voting machines are programmed to provide you with the appropriate ballot for the town you live in,” he added.

The 10 early voting locations are: Berkeley Library, 30 Station Road, Bayville.

Brick Library, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, Brick. Jackson Library, 2 Jackson Drive, Jackson. Lacey Township Community Center (formerly the Knights of Columbus Building)

15 East Lacey Road, Forked River.

Lakewood Municipal Building, Courtroom, 231 3rd St., Lakewood.

Upper Shores Branch of the Ocean County Library, 112 Jersey City Ave., Lavallette.

Little Egg Harbor Library, 290 Mathistown Road, Little Egg Harbor.

Ocean County Southern Service Center, Nutrition Hall, 179 South Main Street, Manahawkin.

Manchester Township Branch of the Ocean County Library, 21 Colonial Drive, Manchester.

Toms River Library, 101 Washington Street, Toms River.

Those who prefer to vote in person on Primary Election Day will need to cast their votes at the poll location noted on their sample ballot. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Voting by mail has become a convenient option and Catalano said voters can apply – by mail - for a vote by mail ballot by June 3. After that date voters have to apply for a ballot in person at the Ocean County Clerk’s Oﬃce located at 118 Washington Street, Toms River. The fi nal deadline to apply in person for a vote by mail ballot is June 9 at 3 p.m.

“We remind and urge all voters who have received a vote by mail ballot to return their ballot to the Board of Elections by the close of polls at 8 p.m. on Tuesday June 10. Voters can return their vote by mail ballot through the United States mail (postage paid-free of charge); drop their ballot at a vote by mail drop box or deliver it to the Ocean County Board of Elections at 129 Hooper Ave. in Toms River,” Catalano said.

A list of all drop box locations is included with each vote by mail ballot. Ballots may be deposited at any of the locations.

All vote by mail ballots must be returned or postmarked by 8 p.m., June 10. As of May 20, the Ocean County Clerk’s Oﬃce has issued 44,843 vote by mail ballots to registered voters for the June 10 primary.

“Of the total issued, 22,858 were issued to Democrats and 21,985 were issued to Republicans,” Catalano said. “The number of vote by mail ballots returned so far to the Ocean County Board of Elections total 13,980.

Catalano noted that 2025 is a gubernatorial election along with candidates for state Assembly, county and local races on the ballot. “As a result of a federal court decision and recent legislation this year, the primary ballot is now a block style ballot with all candidates and the respective oﬃce listed in that block.”

“The sample ballot highlights the changes. It is advantageous for all voters to review the sample ballot that they will receive in the mail. Voters should take time to review the new ballot style prior to casting their vote,” he added.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

For Rent

Big Storage Shipping Containers For Rent - Clean, Dry, Secure. New Gretna, Tuckerton, Manahawkin, Lacey, Bayville. For info call Bob 609-693-1631. (27)

Other

Try The Marsh S&P 500 Daily Prediction System (MSPDPS). - Request free details via email to r.marsh@prodigy.net or phone 848-232-9471. (25)

For Sale

Monmouth Memorial Cemetary, Neptune - Double crypt in raised mausoleum with white marble cover. Quiet inside viewing area. $15,000 firm. 973-303-8501. (26)

Items For Sale

Pet Supplies For Sale - New/ like new. Reasonable. Crates, wire pens, life jacket(s), wooden gates, harnesses, double leash, dual tangle proof leash with light. Call 732 477-2254 (25)

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)

Buying World War I & II Swords, Bayonets, Daggers, Helmets, Hats, Medals, Marine uniforms, Flags, etc. Cash Paid! 609-581-8290. Email: lenny1944x@gmail.com. (28)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying Cash for LP albums. Jazz Rock Reggae Blues. Also buying Comic Books. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (27)

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

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

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

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)

HVAC Installer/Technician Hiring Now - Experience needed. Great Work Environment. Company vehicle. Full time, year round, paid holidays. Call 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

PT Mechanic - Entry level tires, oil changes. $17 per hour, immediate start. Save On Auto, 3460 Hwy 9, Howell. 732-367-8900. (22)

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)

MANAHAWKIN SENIOR CARE GIVER - 15 yrs. exp., available for full or part time work. All aspects of non-medical senior care in the home. Please call Kathy 908-246-7896. (24)

PAINTING By Neat And Meticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)

Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (25)

Life Coach - Something bothering you? Discuss in person. Answer may be within you. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas 732-754-4891. (24)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (35)

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)

Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)

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)

"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)

Services

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, a family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. We transform kitchens in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Call today for a free estimate 1-844-367-2477 (t/n)

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

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-833-901-0309 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (t/n)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)

PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE, PAINTING AND PAPER HANGING - Call 732-688-3532. (28)

DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK GOOD AND SHINE ? Call Lenny - Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (24)

Handyman - Painting, powerwashing, electrical, plumbing, light hauling. Call Joe 732-859-9266. (19)

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (43)

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (t/n)

Computer Service At Doorstep!

- Over a decade in industry. Printer's, troubleshooting, MAC and Windows. Commercial or personal. Call Giovanni 732-908-9919. (22)

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND WALLPAPERING - Local And Reliable 732-688-6532. (20)

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)

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

A CLASSIFIED:

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

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

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

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales • Auto For Sale • Items For Sale

Items Wanted

Help Wanted

Services

For Rent

Real Estate

2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

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

Calculate Price As Follows:

*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.

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

Cardholder Signature:

Print Name:

Billing Address:

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under: If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203. Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication) 3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

with teeth

Geocaching device

Did a face-plant

“This really matters to me” 16 First name in country

Keep on keeping on

Like a misty pond after dark

Genre that includes dubstep

Dudes 21 Vegetable in a yellow pod 23 “So true!” 25 Color of rambutan skin

Contributes

Deli jarful

“The Chimpanzees I Love” author Jane

Showbiz “grand slam”

“Xanadu” band

List-ending abbr.

made

of Islam

“Lookee here!”

Reversed

Tipping point

For the time __

Bankrupt company’s transaction

Opposites attract, e.g.

Tedious routine 71 Squelched Down

1 Like a yellow papaya

2 Scored on a serve

3 Spiritual path of action

4 Hectic hosp. areas

5 Note with a low grade, perhaps

6 Narrow valley

7 “__ favor”

8 Slow-boiled

9 “Don’t live life without it” card co. 10 Event for minor leaguers?

11 Blundered

12 Poem that inspired Pat Barker’s “The Women of Troy” 13 Freezing temps

15 Get payback for 22 Very little 24 Sport with pit stops, in Britain

25 Digs out, or what can be found in four long Down answers?

27 Dim sum, e.g.

28 City southeast of New Delhi

30 Fútbol cheer

31 Necklace shipped with ice packs

35 Lab animal with white fur

36 Markers

37 Becomes inedible

39 Maiden name indicator

41 Billiards stick

44 “The Prisoner’s Wife” author Bandele

46 Sprawling property

49 Shirt feature 51 Reef explorer’s gear

52 Made sharper

53 28-Down’s country

56 Podcast moderators

58 Slight lead

59 Soft “Look over here!”

61 Divine circle

62 Clive of “Monsieur Spade”

65 Sun Devils sch.

66 Airport org. that approves some locks

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

e Wildebeest - One Of e Most Remarkable Spectacles

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Migrations in nature occur for the purpose of finding available food, appropriate climate, and the mating season. Migrations apply to many species of birds, some mammals on land and at sea, insects, reptiles, to name a few. To qualify as a migration, animals would travel annually or seasonally, changing their environment as part of their life. Animal migration is the most common form of ecology (a large-scale movement to a different environment).

Living in the Central, southern and eastern Africa, places like Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, Tanzania, and Angola, the wildebeest consumes a diet of leaves, vegetation and grass. Their color can be gray, black and brown, and size can be up to a height of 5 feet. Their average lifespan is an average of 20 years in the wild. There are two species of wildebeest, black or blue, with both male and female having horns. The horns are long and curved and are used to fight for territory rights and to fend off predators.

The wildebeest is a social, territorial animal. The rainy season in Africa occurs at different times depending upon the location. After months of dry, hot weather, rain will arrive.

It is after the rainy season that the wildebeest migration will begin. They leave the area in search of greener pastures to graze. Migrating with the wildebeest are the gazelle and zebra.

More than 1.5 million wildebeest will take on the journey of migrating literally hundreds of miles to find food and water. Note that not all wildebeest will migrate. Somewhere around 200,000 wildebeests, to include zebras, will die from disease, others will starve. Approximately 6,250 wildebeests drown yearly in the Mara River, representing 0.5% of the herd. This number does not include those who are killed by predators like crocodiles, lions, buzzards and cheetahs, to name a few. Sad as this sounds, the loss of these animals is nature’s way of supporting the ecosystem with the decomposition of corpses.

The wildebeest has a conservation status of least concern.

I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768. It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

PHOTO WEEK

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Step Up For e Arc Walk & 5K Raises $85,000

LAKEWOOD – The Arc, Ocean County Chapter hosted their 23rd Annual Step Up for The Arc Walk and 5K Race on May 17 at the Jersey Shore BlueClaws with 700 attendees raising $85,000 to benefit programs and support services for people with disabilities.

Step Up for The Arc is an inclusive community event to raise awareness and acceptance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with 100% of the proceeds supporting The Arc of Ocean County’s residential, vocational, and family support services.

“This is our most successful Step Up for The Arc ever,” said Laura Williams, Executive Director. “It’s wonderful to come together with The Arc family and friends for this fun, inclusive event. We couldn’t be more grateful for the support of Ocean

The Arc teams are raising funds for wish list items special to their programs. The Lightning Laurel Oaks team will be taking a whale watching excursion this summer, Mon-Ster Wellness will prepare for flag football season with equipment and the AEC will put the funds towards start up business ventures for new job opportunities. The Arc, Ocean County Chapter supports 1,000 individuals with disabilities and their families with housing, job training, employment supports, transition services, transportation, support coordination, clinical supports and services, and recreation. To donate to the 2025 Step Up for The Arc Walk and 5K please visit arcocean. org and follow us on social media @thearcoceancounty to see how your dollars make a difference.

Toms River Horror Show

TOMS RIVER - The Toms River Horror Show will be held on October 25 from noon to 5 p.m. in the Toms River Artist Community gallery located at 40 Main Street (Route 9) in downtown Toms River.

Fans of fear are welcome to visit this free mini-convention for a day they’ll never forget.

Vendors and programming wanted! Do

you create horror stories or art? Do you sell horror memorabilia or merchandise? Vendors will pay $50 for a space at the show. The event is a fundraiser for the Toms River Education Foundation which helps provide extracurricular activities to enrich local children.

Please contact TomsRiverHorrorShow@ gmail.com for more information.

e Island Singers Spring Concert Series

OCEAN COUNTY – The Island Singers invite you to “The Road of Life,” an evocative choral concert honoring both the challenges and joys to be found in this unpredictable journey we all know as life.

Join us as we celebrate the wonder of a newborn child in “Jenny Rebecca,” as we grieve for lost loved ones in “Wanting Memories,” as we recognize the eternal hope in starting over in “You Are the New Day” and appreciate the free will to make our own way in “The Road Not Taken.”

This program’s lyrical storytelling and harmonic melodies will leave you feeling resilient, strengthened, and ready to honor and cherish your own personal journey of life.

June 13 at 7 p.m. St. Paul Lutheran Church, 130 Cable Avenue, Beachwood June 14 at 2 p.m. Community Reformed Church, 36 Lacey Road, Whiting June 20 at 7 p.m. Forked River Presbyterian Church, 131 N Main Street, Forked River

Photo courtesy The Arc, Ocean County Chapter County!”

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

New CASA Advocates To Serve Foster Youth

TOMS RIVER – Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Ocean County proudly welcomed its newest class of Court Appointed Special Advocates during a swearing-in ceremony held at the Ocean County Courthouse.

Following weeks of intensive training and preparation, these dedicated volunteers oﬃcially took their oath before the Honorable Madelin F. Einbinder, Presiding Family Court Judge, Ocean County (CIC), committing to advocate for the best interests of children in foster care throughout Ocean County.

CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to speak up for the needs of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. These newly sworn advocates will now begin their crucial work: providing consistency, guidance, and

a powerful voice in the courtroom for youth navigating the child welfare system.

The newly sworn-in advocates include: Thomas Malone, Linda Piskowski, Catherine Lindenbaum, Tracey Fournier, Lisa Hendricks, Tracy LeMay, John Peterson, Diana Bennett, Carrie Houghton, and Jennifer Rostek.

“We are thrilled to welcome this incredible group of advocates into the CASA of Ocean County family,” said Executive Director Ariane Yazdan. “Their compassion, commitment, and determination will make a life-changing difference for children who need a trusted adult in their corner.”

To learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer or supporting the organization’s mission, visit casaofoceancounty.org.

Library Expands Public Safety Partnership

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Library released its 2024–2028 Strategic Plan, developed over the course of 2023 with robust community input. The plan, issued in February 2024, reflects the library’s commitment to evolving with the needs of its growing communities and ensuring a safe, enriching environment for all patrons.

As part of its strategic planning process, the Ocean County Library engaged in extensive conversations with residents across the county. These discussions reaﬃrmed two central themes: the vital role of staff and the library’s importance as a trusted community space.

“Our conversations with the public made it overwhelmingly clear - our staff are our greatest asset,” said Library Director Susan Quinn. “The community trusts us to be a safe space where individuals and families can connect, explore, and grow.”

Recognizing the increasing demand for services in more populated municipalities like Lakewood and Toms River, the library continues to embrace its role as a community connector. From learning programs to social service partnerships, the library remains at the forefront of local engagement.

“The Ocean County Library is not only a hub of information, but also a trusted partner in tackling community challenges,” said Library Commission Chair Timothy McDonald. “We bring people and organizations together to support the evolving needs of our residents.”

One such partnership is with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Oﬃce, a long-standing ally in promoting public safety at all 21 library branches. In 2023, the library collaborated with the Sheriff’s Department to assess and enhance safety protocols, particularly at the Toms River Branch in the County Seat.

Following this consultation, the Sheriff’s Oﬃce increased evening and weekend walkthroughs at the Toms River Branch.

Additionally, the library faced challenges in recruiting qualified security personnel for key locations in Toms River and Lakewood. In response, the library evaluated contracting options and ultimately sought a shared services agreement with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Oﬃce - valuing their professionalism, training, and deep understanding of the communities the library serves.

The Ocean County Library, like many other County departments and agencies, relies on the Sheriff’s Department for its professional expertise and strong presence in maintaining public safety. The Sheriff’s Oﬃce routinely partners with County buildings and agencies to provide security services and respond to safety concerns - ensuring a consistent and coordinated approach across all public facilities.

This strategic step underscores the Ocean County Library’s commitment to safety, innovation, and responsive public service as it implements its five-year vision for the future.

Photo courtesy CASA of Ocean County

FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 31 - JUNE 6 BY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): In the coming weeks, you might zero in on what lights you up. Tasks may not feel like a burden as you discover ways to make them fulfilling on multiple levels. You might come up with innovative ideas and make new friends along the way.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A new person or fascinating creative project could captivate you soon. Your ability to make sense of uncertainty could keep you grounded, perhaps allowing you to soon make smart, no-stringsattached financial choices.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Someone else might steal the spotlight while you handle all the heavy lifting. Wait until at least Friday, then consider highlighting your contributions and skills to ensure your efforts are being properly noticed.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Staying in control and tracking all the details may be the most comfortable position for you, but you might benefit if you embrace a little random in your life. It can be challenging to find new ideas if you never stray from your routine.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Hold tight to your big-picture goals; don’t get sidetracked by a shiny distraction. Try to find it in your heart to accept offers or apologies from friends. Opportunities might arise that can boost your prosperity or put you and a partner in a better position.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your outgoingness could feel enhanced, possibly increasing your eagerness for exploration. Your enthusiasm may have got some serious muscle behind it, and you’re raring to go. Always be cool, kind, and considerate in conversation.

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You might face a matrix of choices in the week to come. There may be a choice of the red pill of full knowledge or the blue pill of blissful ignorance. Peace of mind depends on your reaction to what you learn and who gives you feedback.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Wisdom can be subjective. When deciding on your next business step, or career maneuver you might lean on collective insights. When it comes to your romantic life, learn from others but also observe your own patterns.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Your talents might have raised expectations, but now everyone could expect more. While it may be flattering, it can also be a burden. Helping others learn how to succeed may ease your workload and increase everyone’s success.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

Your social circle may expand thanks to extra activities that could bring exciting changes and opportunities. Sharing your creative ideas with others could earn you recognition for ingenuity and enthusiasm in the week ahead.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Over the next few weeks romance, passion, and affection might feel like powerful driving forces in multiple areas of your life. New goals might take shape, painting a brighter future. Remain patient and gentle with your loved ones.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): As the week progresses, you may face pressure from others to rethink your spending habits. Ponder on ways to exercise caution with purchases and balance spontaneity with sound judgment. Follow the lead of your peer group.