World’s Largest Swimming Lesson Held
Stay C l
By Bob Vosseller JACKSON –
With summer having arrived and many seeking a way to beat the heat, you better know how to swim.
Six Flags Great Adventure recently hosted a fun event that involved a giant swimming lesson. The event was coordinated by Big Brothers
Big Sisters of Coastal & Northern New Jersey (BBBSCNNJ).
BBBSCNNJ representatives at the recent event noted how their organization has been transforming the lives of children by providing professionally supported, one-to-one mentoring relationships with caring adult volunteers.
Advocates: County Failed To Fight Medicaid, SNAP Cuts
By Stephanie Faughnan
OCEAN COUNTY – For four straight public meetings, a growing chorus of Ocean County residents pleaded with their elected officials to take action. They were asking the Board of Commissioners for a resolution asking Congressmen Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew to vote against a sweeping federal proposal that critics say could devastate Medicaid and SNAP benefits for the
county’s most vulnerable residents. It wasn’t an unprecedented request – the Commissioners had already passed a resolution advocating for preservation of the Older Americans Act. And their counterparts on the Monmouth County Board of Commissioners had already voted in favor of a resolution on behalf of their constituents regarding the loss of SNAP benefits.
(Advocates - See Page 13)
The organization empowers youth to reach their full potential, helping them develop into confident, competent, and compassionate individuals. They serve 10 New Jersey counties: Bergen, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, and Warren.
Six Flags Great Adventure joined hundreds of waterparks, aquatic centers and swim schools across the country for the 16th annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson.
The local amusement park utilized their Blue Lagoon at Hurricane (Lesson - See Page 13)
Public, Council Spar Over Code Enforcement
By Bob Vosseller
JACKSON – The problem of pedestrian and vehicle traffic on Pitney Lane led to an argument about code enforcement during a recent Township Council meeting in relation to whether violations were being addressed. Pitney Lane connects two busy roads –East Veterans Highway and South Cooks Bridge Road.
One resident, who is an EMT, said he appreciated the council’s focus on adding traffic calming measures to Pitney Lane noting it was a dangerous area for children and adults to cross and that there was an incident last year of pedestrians struck by a car. “It is important that these traffic calming implementations are being done.”
Another resident, Janice Solero of Deer Creek Court, also spoke about Pitney Lane. “There is a lot of noise in the township of Jackson which many people have pointed out due to one particular home, 45 Pitney. I don’t know if they run a business out of there or a religious thing going on. That is a lot of the traffic with the addition that was added on to the house.”
She added, “I’ve done things to my house. I’ve gone through the township and everything is legit. Why aren’t these laws applying to every resident in Jackson? Most people put an addition to their house because their families are extended, not to have 50 people
(Spar - See Page 5)
Council Reports On Road Work
By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – Town-
ship
Engineer
Charles Cunliffe discussed grant applications for road improvement projects during a recent Township Council meeting. He specifically addressed a project on Manhattan Road that involved funding
from the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Cunliffe said there were two grants being applied for. One is being handled by the township’s grant writer, Colliers.
“Ours will be for roadway preservation - potentially Brewers Bridge, Lakehurst Road. Anderson Road was just paved in the last 45 days. We should be closing out the grant on that one with the contractor Earle Asphalt within the next 30 days or less,” Cunliffe said in reference to the second grant.
The engineer also explained the purpose of a project within the Westlake Mews gated community within the township.
“We are adding more connectivity in that development, serving our affordable residents and providing additional safety to kids to the school so it is all linkages,” he added. Cunliffe said, “our (Road - See Page 4)
Photos courtesy Big Brothers Big Sisters Kids and volunteers of all ages learned how to swim together from lifeguards.
July 14th - July 17th
July 14th - July 17th
Road:
Continued From Page 1
effort is associated with design - to put the sidewalks out to bid - then also construction inspection because someone needs to be out there (when) they are pouring the sidewalk, using the right materials and the township is getting what it paid for.”
In other news, Council President
Jennifer Kuhn noted that a summer community cleanup was held on June 29 and urged residents to check the township website in regards to bulk material collection and what are acceptable items for pickup.
“We had over 50 piles of what were unacceptable items in zone two. That means those items weren’t picked up and code enforcement tags them and you do get a violation for it,” Kuhn added.
Summer Fun
Council President Kuhn also noted ongoing construction at Johnson Park. “It is absolutely awesome. There is a 100-foot zip line. The weight limit is 250. It goes from one side of the park to the other side. There are all ages of activities. There is plenty of parks and it is ADA (American Disabilities Act) compliant.”
“It should be done mid-July but there is something to do for everyone and there is
a lot of activities going on and there is still pickleball,” she added.
Kuhn reported the township was working with “a few local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops. The Boy Scouts are working on an Eagle Scout project repainting murals at the Jackson Jungle Playground. The Girl Scouts will be planting a butterfly garden in Jackson Drive near the playground.”
“They’ll be bands every other Thursday,” Councilman Nino Borrelli reminded residents in regard to the township’s recreation division sponsored summer concert series. He noted that concerts are held at Johnson Park and features food trucks at each performance.
The councilman also noted the weekly Farmers Market is held from 2 to 7 p.m. on Thursdays and that they are drawing a good-sized crowd at the Justice Complex. “Lots to do and our spray park in the Justice Complex is open daily. Take advantage of the many amenities that are offered and continue to be growing in our parks and recreational areas in our town.”
Residents Recognized
Council Vice President Mordechai Burnstein said he joined Kuhn and Councilman Giuseppe Palmeri in attending the high school graduation ceremony at Jackson Memorial High School. “Congratulations to all our graduates wishing them all success in their future endeavors.”
Councilman Palmeri noted that the council was recognizing the New Jersey Girls Softball Team during the council session “for their divisional championship as well as recognizing Diamond Dance Academy as our small business highlight. Congratulations to you both and I’d also like to congratulate all our high school graduates. Good luck as you enter a new chapter of your lives.”
Team members and representatives from the dance academy were presented certificates for their respective honors early in the meeting.
Seaside Heights Fireworks Displays
SEASIDE HEIGHTS – Enjoy the spectacular fireworks displays, visible from anywhere on the boardwalk! Fireworks kick off on Wednesdays starting July 16 through August 27 at 9:30 p.m. weather permitting.
Spar:
Continued From Page 1 at your house consistently.”
Solero also questioned the addition of several warehouses in the township. “Most of them are empty. What are they going to be used for?”
Council President Jennifer Kuhn referred her to the Zoning Board to get an answer on that, specifically “Jeff Purpuro, the zoning officer. “If you e-mail him, I’m sure he’ll be able to answer you.”
Kuhn said that residents have the ability to check on property uses, landlords and inquiries like that.
“You don’t need to send an OPRA (Open Public Records Act) request you can just go on this (SDL) app. You can have it on your phone. I have it on mine and you can put in any address and look. I know there are residents that call me and they are in an uproar. There was one on Oakley Hill when two houses got put together. Our township approved it,” Kuhn added.
“That is insane. I went through 12 closings on a deck,” Solero responded.
“We get a lot of the heat but it has nothing to do with us. We’re ordinances and resolutions,” the council president stressed.
Resident Chris Pollak remarked that he was “a father, a business owner and a resident who is deeply invested in this town and like so many residents I am frustrated by the direction we are heading in by politicians who serve special interests instead of the people.”
“We’re watching our town change and it’s
not for the better. This is not the future that any of our families want and this council sits up here pretending that your hands are tied,” he added.
Pollak told the council, “You ignore the problems until residents make enough noise to embarrass you into action like the LLCs and the illegal rentals. LLCs and corporate investors are buying up single family homes and turning many of them into illegal rentals, packing unrelated families under one roof. That hurts our infrastructure.”
“What do you guys do? You enable it. You cut the fi nes. You defunded code enforcement and you attacked the very department meant to protect us. You guys are liars. You didn’t want to upset the special interest group that put you here,” Pollak added.
Pollack took issue with two council members in particular. “We have a council president who runs a real estate business and openly works for institutional investors and hedge funds. She profits off the same system that’s buying up homes in bulk turning our neighborhoods into rental zones.”
Referencing Vice Council President Mordechai Burnstein, Pollack added, “we have a council vice president whose wife runs a political action committee with the wife of a major developer, a PAC that has raised a quarter million dollars from developers, real estate investors, contractors and people seeking township approvals and favors.”
“This council isn’t just ignoring problems. They are financially entangled in them,” the resident said, offering up several options
for action that he accused the council of deliberately ignoring.
Kuhn responded to his statements saying, “I’ve been working on landlord registration for over a year and a half. It’s documented. We’ve all been working. It’s not that easy. In relation to your accusations about LLCs, we are trying.”
She said that she and Councilman Giuseppe Palmeri sent 41 properties to code enforcement to check on more than a week ago. “I pulled their tracking; they have not done one property. I’m not here for a show and pony. I’m here to answer you.”
Kuhn repeated, “your information is not accurate. You just come up and you talk about accusations. You are not giving facts. This is legislation. I respect you but you are just not accurate.”
“I have a real estate license. Do you know how many previous mayors had real estate licenses? Council members?
Zoning Board members? Your zoning department, your building department? All your department heads all have a broker’s license,” the council president responded further. “When the Code Enforcement has 41 properties - doesn’t go to one property in a week - why are we the problem?”
Kuhn asked.
“We’re not, we’re looking into it,” she said in response to her own question. “You want to talk about all the other information? It’s inaccurate.”
David Visconi of Whitesville Road clarified that he was speaking as a resident “and not an employee of code enforcement. Miss Kuhn at just about every council meeting
you go on your tirade about the deficiencies of code enforcement. That list that you are waving in the air has been looked into for two weeks now.”
“You are either misinformed or lying that nothing is being done about it,” Visconi added. “The other thing about that list, it was on Spanish TikTok - which Code Enforcement does not have access to - or any other social media - to use as a form of monitoring. You are waving this list that is now being looked into but we did not have access to the information prior to two weeks ago.”
Visconi asked about the second changing of the landlord registration and rental certificate of occupancies “that you are implementing.”
“Sir that hasn’t been introduced yet so I would wait until the next meeting,” Kuhn interjected.
“I understand that but your proposed change, the second one in two years. I believe you said two code enforcement officers would be assigned full time to do these yearly rental inspections.”
Visconi said, “as of April we had nine officers assigned to the office, not including the supervisor or two clerks. In May one of the officers quit. That leaves eight. Currently we have seven working because one is out on a medical issue. A few weeks ago, you indicated you wanted to decimate the ranks of code enforcement by four officers. That would leave seven officers.”
“You want three more gone,” Visconi added. “Your plan is to have two officers (Spar - See Page 18)
OPINIONS & COMMENTARY
Why Inflation Should Stop In Feminine Hygiene Supplies
My name is Lucelly Ortiz, and I am a rising sophomore at Brick Memorial High School. Like every girl and woman, I shop monthly for period supplies. I’ve noticed that each month, the products in that aisle are a few cents more expensive than the last.
I’ve always wondered why we have to worry about not being able to afford something we can’t control.
I’m writing to share my experience throughout a research project I worked on to show the statistics of period poverty in my town.
On December 22, 2024, at Walgreens in Brick, I encountered a young wom-
Seeking Trump’s Help
My name is John Pinto and I am a resident of Lacey Township, New Jersey. Our school system is in peril, and I am now essentially resorting to begging. Our schools are falling apart, and our referendum was just voted down. This is because our school board was less than forthcoming when it came to information about the referendum.
With that said, it is not the main issue. The main issue is the funding cuts that our town has received. We are down roughly $14M in state aid when it comes to our operational budget. This is
an who looked as if she had just come off a really heavy work shift. She had three cans of tuna in her cart, a gallon of milk, and a pack of the cheapest tampons Walgreens offers. I couldn’t help but notice how worried she seemed about calculating her final price based on her items, and she ended up putting back the gallon of milk. Food or pads? That’s the question 16.9 million women in the United States often find themselves asking. I discovered that statistic that night as soon as I got home. As big as my passion for helping women is, it is unfortunately not easy to fi x the world. However, even
a small step is an advance, so I decided to conduct my own research to calculate how many women struggle around me.
At my lunch table, along with three of my best friends, we brainstormed ideas of how to start. Using technology as a tool, I decided to create a Google Form asking:
Do you have access to period supplies?
Have you ever missed school or work because of a lack of these supplies?
Do you often find yourself struggling to access period supplies?
I shared this Google Form with about 70 girls I knew
from my school, with 59 of them marking “yes” to the last two questions, and 16 of them marking “yes” to all three questions. As shocked as I was, I decided to test this survey outside of school.
Along with my three friends, we made posters and got permission to share this survey in a QR code format to women outside of a local Walmart. This was held during my school’s spring break. When the break was over, we had collected 813 responses. 687 of them had marked “yes” to the last two questions, and 119 of them had marked “yes” to all three questions.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
It was harsh finding out that over 85% of women in my community struggle often to access products that should be the easiest to get access to. Even more so that close to 15% of them sometimes can’t have any sort of access at all. A highlight from this experience was many women sharing stories of how, at some point in their lives, they have had to rely on the thinnest toilet paper due to inaccessibility of period supplies because of financial issues.
In the last six years, the cost of a pad packet has increased over 40%. It is heartbreaking having to protest and still having to
because of Governor Murphy and Democrats reducing our state funding. Yet, Democrat districts get tons of money. We have already cut staff by roughly 150 people. Our class sizes are increasing, and the quality of education is dropping. Some of our kids in town can no longer get bus transportation without paying $1,100. We need your help Mr. President, and we need it desperately. Last year, our town applied a maximum 9.9% tax increase. This year, the increase is projected to be 3.15%. We have people in our town that are about to lose their homes because they have been stretched so thin. Our 2025-2026 spending budget
The Jackson Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.
All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.
is projected to be at a $6M deficit. This is after making additional cuts to our school district. Our district cannot handle these funding cuts. The rising costs of everything in recent times coupled with simultaneous funding cuts, makes it impossible to budget accordingly. How can anybody expect a school district to absorb $14 million in cuts through the worst economic times?
As a taxpayer, and a lifelong New Jersey resident, we need assistance at the highest levels. Our town needs $6M to aid us through our 2025-2026 budget. I am currently active in pushing for reform and change in our school district. This starts with our current superintendent search and the school board. We need this aid desperately. This will allow us to get through the next year with our head slightly above water and allow us to get the right management in place to handle our issues.
Please, I beg you, from one human being to another... please help our small town by getting this story out there. Other towns are in peril just like ours and a lot of them seem to be Republican districts. There could be a deeper story here. Our school board is currently looking into selling
land just for us to survive. This feels criminal. It feels targeted. Help us please.
John Pinto Lacey
Feeling Ambivalent About Artificial Intelligence
I agree and disagree with Chris Lundy’s June 7 editorial, “Artificial Intelligence Is Neither Artificial Or Intelligent.”
First, AI helped me if not made me decide to retire. The reason for my private-sector layoff wasn’t phrased that way in so many words. In fact, there was no reason given at all. However, I knew enough about industry trends to step off at the nearest station in daylight before the train I was on hurtled into the next tunnel.
Second, of course corporations focus on the short term. They arguably must, especially where shareholders are involved. A former manager told me that “’Profit’ isn’t a four-letter word.” I’d been in the private sector long enough to recognize that one either goes along with that part of the program or simply doesn’t get along.
Third, of course AI is pitched for the user to attain greater
efficiency and productivity - if the user truly wants and needs that. But when the use is purely recreational AI quickly becomes the latest shiny techno-bauble. We all know that appeal.
Finally, “AI jobs” are available for people “with AI skills.” The goal is to make AI itself more efficient (energy-wise as well) and productive, not to mention faster. Ask any human coder as to what’s involved and bear in mind that hardware also plays a material role.
Again, the limiter will be not what AI “can do” but what users are openly willing to let it do and are willing and able to articulate the same so that even the pertinent corporations understand and respond for everyone’s benefit. The viable alternative is simply to not use AI as a matter of choice. I would like to think that responsive corporations would also recognize that and provide explicit options. Put another way, befriend your nearest reference librarian.
AI has yet to tell me when to expect the home team to win or how to consistently make chicken cacciatore, pizza, limeade or even turducken the way I like it. AI also can’t tell me what books I should read. Only my fellow humans
face paying so much for a natural body process. Even more so that only half of the states in the United States have laws which provide period supplies to students. Luckily, we were able to present our research at a conference with over 250 local students in a library and also get about 2,000 views on our journal based on this. We didn’t fix the world, but we did take a step and made over 250 people more aware of this issue. We should not have to worry about affording something we can’t avoid.
see fit to tell me what books I shouldn’t read.
(Privacy concerns? I predict Congress will be allowed to update copyright law accordingly during our nation’s Tricentennial. And I’m an optimist.)
Finally, try labeling it artificial general, computational or even synthetic intelligence instead. That, or grant me dibs on the LAIDI wristlet, as in Let AI Do It. Add an “A” for All if you must.
John C. Fraraccio Brick
Homeless Will Increase Taxes
Editor’s note: This letter is in response to the April 26, 2025 article “County Leaders Consider Homeless Shelter, Mayor Objects.”
Wake up neighbors and voters! Say no to building homeless shelters for the “bussed in” illegal aliens. These shelters mean higher taxes forever. Shelters need constant health care and policing – plus food, clothing and counseling and your jobs! Call or write to your mayor and council.
Lucelly Ortiz Micromedia Intern
Patricia R. Smith Toms River
Capitol Comments
Assemblyman Alex Sauickie
S POTLIGHT O N G OVERNMENT
Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
e End Of An Era – And An Error
TRENTON - Over the past four months, Gov. Murphy once again showed how not to develop a budget for our state and its taxpayers, and over a few days last week the Legislature once again showed exactly how not to handle that budget proposal.
Before we get to the substance, let’s take a look at the process, because a bad process rarely yields good substantive results. That’s certainly the case with the new budget.
The budget committees from each house were called to meet at 8 p.m. on a Friday night to approve the budget before the scheduled house votes the following Monday. The Senate committee fi nished voting around 10 p.m., while the Assembly committee started at 10:30 p.m. and fi nished at 11:21 p.m.
As one Republican Senator noted, it’s common for government officials to do things after hours on a Friday that they don’t want the public to know about. My colleague Assemblyman Mike Inganamort illustrated the point quite well during Assembly debate.
“Most legislators in this room received the budget somewhere around Saturday morning. We had two days to read through the 370-plus pages, plus the additional 150 bills we read today,” he said. He also
mentioned that at the Friday night meeting, committee members received copies of the budget two hours before voting on it. “That’s two minutes per billion dollars spent,” he noted.
Despite taking in more than expected from taxpayers, including over $200 million claimed in the prior week alone, the budget includes over a billion dollars in new taxes mostly on middle and working class taxpayers: various gambling taxes, tobacco and vaping taxes, and home sales.
True to form, the Murphy budget spends a record-high $59 billion, which includes a $727 million increase in spending the Legislature added to the original proposal. It has a structural deficit of $1.5 billion, the amount of spending not supported by revenue.
Statements from Gov. Murphy and Senate leaders used “fiscal responsibility” in describing the budget, which spends $23 billion – nearly 70% – more than at the start of the Murphy administration. As Inigo Montoya said in The Princess Bride, “I don’t think that means what you think it means.”
It’s not only Republicans criticizing the budget, but also two highly placed members of Gov. Murphy’s own administration. Attorney General Matt Platkin blasted a budget provision sending $45 million in “hard-won opioid settlement dollars” to unidentified hospital systems for unknown uses. He noted he had promised that money
would be used for assisting those struggling with opioid addiction, “not to pad the State’s coffers.”
Also, acting State Comptroller Kevin Walsh called out another provision allowing state funds to go to low-rated nursing homes. “This budget provision is a terrible idea. It is a giveaway to the nursing home industry and will worsen care in nursing homes,” he said.
Those of us engaged in the fight for fair school aid were aggravated, but not surprised, that the Legislature chose to add $727 million in spending without any of it going to help schools battered by state funding cuts such as Jackson, Plumsted, Old Bridge and others. But the Wood-Ridge district got almost $10 million for “capital improvements,” which must be very important to warrant a state expenditure of that size.
It seems Wood-Ridge schools need a lot of state help, as the district got $12.5 million in the previous state budget to build a “learning annex.” It might be unfair to connect those appropriations with the fact that the chair of the Senate budget committee represents Wood-Ridge, and is also the longtime mayor of that town. You be the judge. Other gems tacked onto the budget include another $1.5 million to Newark for a “Police Department Noise Control Program,” surely because the $110 million the city already gets in state aid isn’t quite enough. There’s also another $18 million for a “capital project in Edison,” because apparently the $193 million in state assistance for stadium projects there over the last three years
wasn’t enough.
VIP boxes, party decks, and bars at a minor league stadium don’t come cheap, you know. Meanwhile, Jackson and Plumsted are selling property, consolidating classes into ever larger ones, and losing personnel just to balance their budgets due to slashed state aid.
The budget wasn’t the only thing on my mind that day. Still concerned about energy costs, especially for seniors, I moved to bring to the floor my bill to stop utilities from charging people for declining to install a smart meter, for which they pay $12-15 per month. That motion was defeated on a mostly party-line vote, with my Republican colleagues supporting the motion.
Also, because of my outrage over the pending seizure of a working, 175-yearold family farm in Cranbury Township to develop housing on it, I moved to amend a bill under consideration to stop that from happening. Again, that effort was defeated on a party-line vote with my Republican colleagues supporting my amendment. Back to the budget, the bottom line is that this is the last year of any Murphy budget and the last half-year of the Murphy governorship. We don’t yet know who will be the next governor, but at least it’ll be the end of the Murphy era, and to me, the end of an error.
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 Fights Largest Cut To Healthcare In Country’s History
Capitol Comments
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) participated in a marathon voting session on Republicans’ budget reconciliation bill that includes the largest cut to healthcare in the country’s history. As he stood up for New Jersey working families against disastrous cuts to vital programs like Medicaid and SNAP, Senator Kim put forward changes to protect healthcare for families across our country.
“Senate Republicans have failed a simple test of courage, choosing to bend a knee to Donald Trump instead of defending millions of hardworking families they swore an oath to represent,” said Senator Kim.
“This bill is devastating. Americans know it is devastating. We need to harness the energy and power of the thousands calling our offices and marching in the streets. My no vote today is not the end of my work to stand up for New Jerseyans and against this disastrous budget plan as it moves toward a House of Representatives with a duty to stop it.”
Key changes introduced by Senator Kim would stand up for working families and defend access to affordable and quality healthcare in New Jersey by doing the following:
- Standing up for New Jersey families and fully eliminating the SALT cap by stripping all mentions of SALT from the reconciliation bill.
The SALT cap is a tax hike on New Jersey families as they face an affordability crisis.
Senator Kim continued his work to alleviate this tax burden for working families in New Jersey by introducing an amendment that would allow the hurtful SALT cap passed in Donald Trump’s disastrous Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017 to expire this year and end this pain for New Jersey families.
Without this amendment, Republicans’ reconciliation bill only provides partial and temporary relief that would again raise working families’ taxes in five years, while handing a massive giveaway to the wealthiest Americans and big corporations.
- Supporting home-and community-based services providers by striking provisions that put unfair burdens and red tape on home care workers.
Over the next 10 years, it is estimated that we will need approximately 1 million more home care workers. Without this amendment, the fi nal bill creates roadblocks for people to become home care workers who
provide critical at-home support for seniors and people with disabilities.
The amendment failed to pass after every Republican, except one, voted against it.
- Preventing higher health insurance costs for working families by removing provisions that would increase the health insurance premiums or out-of-pocket costs under Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, or private insurance marketplaces established under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act for middle class individuals or families.
As the bill stands without this change, in New Jersey alone over 454,000 families will see higher costs in premiums because of Republicans’ budget plan.
- Protecting health insurance for children by making changes to the bill that ensures it does not increase the number of uninsured children in the country.
(Government - See Page 17)
Senator Andy Kim
Eastern Fence Lizard Caught Basking In Jackson
Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Cremains & Certi ed Copies Of Death Certi cates, Permit, Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial
JACKSON – An Eastern fence lizard, New Jersey’s only native spiny lizard, was recently photographed soaking up the sun on a fence at the Forest Resource Education Center in Jackson.
Often found along forest edges, open woodlands, and shrublands in the southern portion of the state, the Eastern fence lizard (Sceloporus undulatus) is known for its rough, keeled, and pointed scales. A distinctive dark stripe runs lengthwise along the back of each thigh in both sexes, though their coloration and patterns differ.
Photo courtesy Forest Resource Education Center back patterning, but can be identified by the striking blue patches on the sides of their bellies and the base of their throats. Females, more muted in color, are usually gray with wavy lines across their backs and lighter, less extensive blue markings.
These reptiles spend much of their day basking on fence posts, trees, rocks, or stumps before retreating underground or into rock piles at night.
Males are typically brown with little to no
Have you seen one of these elusive reptiles in New Jersey? Wildlife watchers are encouraged to keep an eye out and admire these unique native creatures from a distance.
Fishing & Fun For All At Jackson Rotary Club’s Kitay Farm Outing
JACKSON – The Jackson Rotary Club will host its annual Steven Kitay Fishing and Picnic Outing for Special Citizens on September. 14, from noon to 4 p.m. at The Kitay Farm, located at 473 N. County Line Road in Jackson.
The event invites attendees to bring their fishing gear and enjoy an afternoon filled with food, snacks and community spirit. Organized to support and celebrate special citizens, the outing offers a chance for par-
ticipants to engage with nature and each other in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to give back and have fun with members of our community,” said event coordinator Samara O’Neill, MBA.
Guests are asked to RSVP by Sept. 1. For more information, contact O’Neill directly at 732-684-6674 or through her office at 732-803-0488. She can also be reached by email at samara@porterplusrealty.com.
Soulful Sounds Of Summer Coming To Jackson Library
JACKSON – The Jackson Branch of the Ocean County Library will host a free live concert by the band Opus Soul at 2 p.m. August 2, offering residents a chance to unwind with an afternoon of blues, funk, and jazz.
Formed in 1995, Opus Soul delivers an eclectic blend of musical styles, performing covers of artists such as John Coltrane,
Eric Clapton, Little Feat, Bob Dylan, and Tom Waits. The group features percussion, keyboards, guitar, bass, and vocals. The concert is free, but registration is required. To register, visit tinyurl.com/JacksonSoul, call the branch at 732-928-4400, or stop by the library at 2 Jackson Drive. The event is sponsored by the Jackson Friends of the Library.
Fire ghters Sharpen Rescue Skills In Live Burn Training
JACKSON – Firefighters from the Jackson Mills Volunteer Fire Company and Southard Fire Department participated in a live burn training exercise on Saturday, June 28, 2025, to enhance their emergency response skills.
The drill, held at the fi re training center, allowed crews to practice key techniques in-
courtesy Jackson Mills Volunteer Fire cluding Vent-Enter-Isolate-Search (VEIS), search and rescue, ladder operations, and advancing hose lines through a simulated dwelling under live fi re conditions.
First Responders Cool O With Lemonade A er Morning Call
SUN. JULY 20 N.Y. METS VS. REDS @CITI FIELD. SHADE SEATS $155 SUN. JULY 27 WIND CREEK CASINO BETHLEHEM, PA. $45. LOTS OF NEW SLOT MACHINES! GUESTS RECEIVE $30.00 SLOT PLAY.
SEPT. 7-10 4 DAY CAPE COD & NANTUCKET ISLAND $949 GUIDED TOURS OF HYANNIS, FEATURING THE KENNEDY MEMORIAL, NANTUCKET ISLAND FERRY AND ISLAND SIGHTSEEING TOUR, CAPE COD NATIONAL SEASHORE, WITH YOUR CHOICE OF WHALE WATCH EXCURSION OR RIDE OVER SAND DUNES IN A 4 WHEEL DRIVE SUBURBAN, FREE TIME IN PROVINCETOWN,. PLUS VISIT THE HISTORIC WHALING VILLAGE OF NEW BEDFORD. INCLUDES 3 NTS. HOTEL, ATTRACTION ADMISSIONS. PLUS, 6 MEALS INCLUDING A LOBSTER DINNER AND A BRAZILIAN STEAK HOUSE. OUTSTANDING END OF SUMMER GETAWAY.
SEPT. 28-OCT. 1 4 DAY NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA $799. GUIDED NIAGARA AREA TOURS FEATURING THE FALLS, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, WINERY TOUR AND TASTINGS, AND MUCH MORE. INCLUDES 3 NTS. HOTEL, 5 MEALS
THURS. OCT. 23 POCONO MOUNTAINS FALL FOLIAGE $133 INCLUDES LUNCH AND NARRATED CARRIAGE RIDE TOUR IN HISTORIC JIM THORPE, PA.
HAVE QUESTIONS? CALL BILL, NOW. INCLUDES DELUXE MOTORCOACH TRANSPORTATION. OVERNIGHT TOUR PRICES INCLUDE HOTELS AND ARE PER PERSON DBL. OCC. TOMS RIVER DEPARTURES. FREE PARKING. VISIT MY WEBSITE moranotours.net CALL FOR FREE BROCHURE.
PLUMSTED – After a busy morning of training and responding to a call in the downtown area, first responders from Plumsted Township Fire District #1 made a refreshing stop at a neighborhood lemonade stand on Lakeview Drive.
Fire and EMS crews, along with a Plumsted police officer who had been on the call, paused to enjoy a cold drink and chat with
Officials said the hands-on training is essential for improving safety and effectiveness during real-world fire emergencies. the local family running the stand. The children served up lemonade while their father kept watch to ensure everything ran safely. Crews took a few moments to talk with the family before continuing back to the station. Officials said they are always happy to support local residents and appreciate opportunities to connect with the community.
Photo
Photo courtesy Plumsted Township Fire District #1
Four O cers Honored For DWI Enforcement At MADD Ceremony
JACKSON – Four members of the Jackson Township Police Department were honored for their efforts in enforcing drunk driving laws during the 2025 Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Annual Recognition of Excellence Ceremony.
Patrol Officers David DeJesus, Thomas Parise and Scott McIvor each received the Recognition of Excellence Award Certificate for their outstanding dedication to deterring impaired driving on New Jersey’s roads and highways in 2024.
Sergeant Robert Reiff was also recognized with the Recognition of Excellence Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Award Certificate.
Although Officer McIvor and Sgt. Reiff were unable to attend the event, Chief Matthew Kunz accepted the awards on their behalf and attended in support of his department’s officers.
The Jackson Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!
Weekly Doggy Tiki Date Night In Jackson
JACKSON – A new weekly event aimed at dog lovers and their furry companions is now underway at Adventure Crossing USA’s The Dome in Jackson.
Dubbed “Doggy Tiki Date Night,” the event invites dog owners to bring their pets out for an evening of socializing, relaxation, and fun every Wednesday from 6 to 9 p.m.
The family-friendly gathering features wine and cheese for couples, activities and food for families, and an enclosed play area
where dogs can meet and interact with other pups. The event also includes a tiki bar and opportunities for dog owners to mingle in a laid-back, pet-friendly environment.
Organizers say the recurring event offers a unique way for pet owners to enjoy a summer evening out while their dogs get some exercise and socialization in a safe setting.
The Dome at Adventure Crossing USA is located at 515 Monmouth Road. For more information, call 732-426-5492.
Trip To Yankees-Rays Game
JACKSON – Jackson Township residents are invited to join the Recreation Department for a trip to see the New York Yankees take on the Tampa Bay Rays on July 31.
The outing includes transportation and a ticket to the American League East Division matchup, with the first pitch scheduled for 1:05 p.m. at Yankee Stadium. The cost is
$105 per person. Snacks will be provided on the bus.
Participants must meet at the Jackson Township municipal parking lot, located at 95 W. Veterans Highway, for bus pickup. The township has a no-refund policy for this event. Registration is available online at register. communitypass.net/Jackson. Space is limited.
Jackson VFW Post 4703 Picnic
JACKSON – Jackson VFW Post 4703 is hosting a Picnic on July 19 from 1 to 5 p.m. at 54 Magnolia Drive, Jackson. Donation of $10 per person; kids 12 and under are free. Domestic drafts per persons 21 and over for $2. Donation
includes food, non-alcoholic beverages, and entertainment provided by the Full Tilt Band.
Mini Gift Auction – 10 tickets for $10 or 30 tickets for $20. Also enjoy cornhole, toss like a boss, raffles and giveaways.
Photo courtesy Jackson Township Police
M ICROMEDIA N EWS
Exciting news! You can now pick up your free copy of The Jackson Times each week from the new Wawa location at 584 Cedar Swamp Road in Jackson Township. You can also grab it from hundreds of other locations around town. Stay connected to your community in print and on the web at www.jerseyshoreonline.com.
Foundation Seeks Sponsors For ‘Bags & Bacon’ Family Fun Day
NEW EGYPT – Jake’s Got This Foundation is calling on community members and local businesses to support its upcoming “Bags & Bacon” Family Fun Day by becoming event sponsors or volunteers. The event is set for September 13 at the New Egypt Elks, located at 105 Lakewood Road.
Sponsorship packages range from $200 to $1,000 and include either a team registration into the event’s cornhole tournament or four tickets to the pig roast. Opportunities include: Pig Sponsor – $1,000
Inflatable Fun Sponsor – $500 Kids Craft & Fun Foods Sponsor – $300 Cornhole Lane Sponsor – $200
The event promises an inclusive day of family fun with all-you-can-eat options, games, crafts, and inflatables. All proceeds will benefit the foundation’s charitable initiatives.
Volunteer opportunities are also available for those looking to lend a hand. For more information about sponsorships, volunteering, or event details, interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the foundation directly at info@jakesgotthis.org
2nd Annual Dane Martindell Poker Run
JACKSON – Jackson AMVETS Riders
Post 2nd Annual Dane Martindell Poker Run and Super 50/50 will be on July 26 at 1290 Toms River Road, Jackson.
Registration is from 9 to 11 a.m. All hands must be turned in by 2 p.m. Cost is $30 for riders and $20 for passengers.
Includes food and beverages. Party kicks off at 2 p.m. For more information, email jacksonamvetsriders@ yahoo.com.
Vendors wanted; email jacksonamvetsridersvendors@yahoo.com for a vendor registration form.
Plans For Jackson Day 2025 Are Set
JACKSON – Jackson Township will host its annual community celebration, Jackson Day on September 14 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Johnson Park, 192 Kierych Memorial Drive. A rain date is scheduled for September 21. The free event is open to the public and features a full day of family-friendly fun,
including live entertainment, games, food vendors, giveaways from sponsors, and a craft and flea market. The celebration will conclude with a drone show. Jackson Day brings together residents and visitors for a day of community spirit and local pride.
Upcoming Blood Drive
JACKSON – A Blood Drive will be held at the Jackson Moose Lodge 1459, 560 Monmouth Road Millstone, on July 30 from 2 to 7 p.m.
Donors of all blood type needed. Help save a life! For an appointment, please visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
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Continued From Page 1
On July 4, President Donald Trump signed into law the legislation dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a sweeping package that Republican lawmakers hailed for its tax reforms and spending controls. But for those who rely on Medicaid and SNAP benefits, particularly in senior-dense Ocean County, the bill represents uncertainty in the future.
At each of the last four Ocean County Board of Commissioners meetings, members of the Ocean County chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) turned up in matching purple shirts, emblazoned with a take on an Eleanor Roosevelt quote: “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” Their mission was clear - convince the all-Republican board to intercede with their party counterparts in Washington.
Ocean County NOW President Lynda Fote reminded commissioners of the county’s aging population and how Medicaid acts as a critical safety net when seniors outlive their savings. “Sooner or later, many of us face the question: what do we do with mom or grandma when they cannot live on their own?” Fote asked. “Medicaid is New Jersey Family Care and guarantees all of us health insurance when we need it the most.”
She noted that while about 20 percent of New Jersey residents are covered by Medicaid, that figure rises to 25 percent in Ocean Countylargely due to the significant number of retirees. Medicaid plays a crucial role in funding assisted living or nursing care.
Barbara Crystal, a Stafford Township resi-
dent, had also urged the commissioners to act.
“This bill will strip $1.5 trillion in Medicaid and SNAP programs to give $4.5 trillion in tax breaks to the wealthiest individuals and corporations,” she warned. “Sixteen million vulnerable Americans will lose health care.”
Despite their pleas, the board did not pass a resolution to send a message to federal lawmakers representing Ocean County. However, Commissioner Director Jack Kelly read into the record a written response he received after he personally spoke with Smith.
In the letter, Smith praised the legislation, saying it protected Medicaid benefits for “those who need it most” while introducing “modest work or volunteer requirements for able-bodied Americans.” He emphasized exemptions for seniors, the disabled, pregnant women, and caregivers, and touted support from major first responder unions.
Smith characterized the reforms as “compassionate” and aimed at preserving the program by rooting out waste and fraud. He also added that the bill prohibits benefits allotted to “illegal aliens” and provided assurances that the bill would make no changes to Social Security benefits.
One of the provisions of the bill could impact Medicaid recipients whose income levels fall within federal poverty level guidelines. An individual bringing in between $15,650 and $21,597 faces medical co-pay costs of up to $35 per visit.
Smith’s letter did not address changes in the federal government funding of SNAP benefits.
People who receive nutrition assistance under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Pro-
gram (SNAP benefits) face new challenges. Work requirements are not only in place for parents of children age 14 or older – but also anyone up to age 64. Up until now, parents with dependent children of any age have not been faced with work requirements to receive SNAP assistance. The program has been entirely funded by the federal government. With federal dollars poised to shrink, the burden of care will fall increasingly on state and county government, charities, and individual families.
Advocates who repeatedly appeared before the Ocean County Board of Commissioners
Lesson:
Continued From Page 1 Harbor in an effort to expand access to aquatics education and grow the park’s charitable program. Children and their families were invited to stay for a day of fun at the park after the lesson, said Great Adventure Public Relations Manager Ryan Eldredge. Big Brothers Big Sisters-Coastal & Northern New Jersey Executive Director William Salcedo elaborated on this partnership, “Partnering with organizations in our community allows us to expand the support we offer to our youth and families in meaningful ways.”
“We deeply value these partnerships and together, we’re not just delivering services, we’re building stronger, more connected communities where every child has the opportunity to thrive. We’re actively seeking volunteers to help us support more local youth
say they’re left with a deep sense of disappointment. They acknowledge that the final vote in Congress may not have changed - but believe their county elected officials missed an opportunity to stand up for their constituents. More than anything, they say, they wanted their voices to be amplified.
Multiple individuals also expressed frustration that neither Congressman Chris Smith nor Congressman Jeff Van Drew have held town halls to hear directly from the people most affected. “Even if the outcome was inevitable,” one advocate said, “We deserved to be heard.”
through one-to-one mentoring,” he added. Salcedo said, “community events like this are a great way for us to raise awareness and connect with potential mentors who want to make a difference. If you’ve ever considered becoming a Big, now is the perfect time to get involved. Visit mentornj.org to learn more and take the first step.”
“Big Brothers Big Sisters–Coastal & Northern New Jersey is a community-supported organization, and the work we do is made possible thanks to the generosity of local supporters. Throughout the year, we host events like our annual gala, golf outings, bowling nights, and volleyball tournaments to raise the critical funds needed to support and grow our youth mentoring programs. BBBSCNNJ creates lasting, positive change in the lives of both children and mentors. To learn more about becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister or to make a donation, visit: mentornj.org.” Salcedo added.
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 Distribution Manager Laura Hoban Sales Manager Lorrie Toscano
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)
Tepezza And Hearing Loss: What You Should Know
Tepezza is an FDA approved drug for Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). TED is an autoimmune condition often associated with Graves’ disease (a type of hyperthyroidism). It causes inflammation and swelling behind the eyes. Tepezza targets the insulin-like-growth factor and can help reduce eye bulging, improve vision, lower inflammation and decrease the need for surgery. It’s an IV infusion given about every 3 week for a total of 8 infusions over 5-6 months. One of the side effects is hearing loss and tinnitus.
What Kind of Hearing Problems Can Tepezza Cause?
Hearing loss (temporary or permanent)- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)- Ear fullness or pressure- Autophony (hearing your own voice unusually loudly) - Eustachian tube dysfunction Why Might Tepezza Affect Hearing? Tepezza blocks the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), which helps maintain inner ear function. Disruption to this receptor may:- Interfere with inner ear hair cell survival- Alter Eu-
stachian tube function
How Common Is This Side Effect?
Clinical trials: ~10% reported hearing issues- Recent reports: Up to 65-80% may experience some hearing symptoms - Some cases are temporary; others may be long-lasting or permanent What Should Patients Do?
Before treatment:- Get a baseline hearing test (audiogram)
During treatment:- Monitor for any ear-related symptoms and report them promptly. Typically, a second hearing evaluation is recommended after 4 infusions.
In summary, Tepezza can cause a range of hearing issues, likely due to its effects on IGF-1R. Monitoring and early detection are key. Always consult your doctor if you notice any changes in your hearing during or after treatment. In some cases, treatment may have to be discontinued.
Dr. Izzy and his Staff will continue to educate you about hearing care choices. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com.
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!
Storytime
With
JACKSON – Children of all ages are invited to a magical morning of stories, songs, and games during Storytime with Cinderella at the Jackson Branch of the Ocean County Library on July 14, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
The interactive program will feature a live appearance by Cinderella, who will read stories, lead activities, and meet with young attendees for photos and fun.
Cinderella Event
Registration is required. Parents or guardians must register each child individually and include the names and ages of all participants. An email address is recommended for updates and reminders.
The library is located at 2 Jackson Drive. For more information or to register, visit the Ocean County Library website at theocean countylibrary.org
Volunteers Wanted To Harvest Blueberries
OCEAN COUNTY – Fulfi ll is looking for volunteers to harvest blueberries weekday mornings during the month of July.
Come out and help save a bumper crop of blueberries from going to waste, there’s 20,000 pounds of blueberries to harvest.
Pick blueberries, collect them in buckets, pack containers, place them in cardboard trays then load them into vans where they will be distributed to neighbors who have food insecurities.
For more information and to sign up, visit volunteer.fulfi llnj.org
Slow Flow Yoga
JACKSON – Come and join the Jackson Township Senior Center on Fridays at 10 a.m. for Slow Flow Yoga! Call the Senior Center at 732-928-2313 they will be happy to answer any questions and get you registered. As always, please check their calendar for any changes.
Dr. Isidore Kirsh
Ph.D., F.A.A.A.
Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Tired Of Bloating? The Gut-Soothing Power Of Enzymes And Probiotics
By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.
Let’s talk about something most of us have dealt with but hate admitting: Bloating, gas, and food sensitivities. One moment you’re enjoying that cheesy slice of pizza, the next you’re bloated and uncomfortable. As a pharmacist with a deep love for natural remedies, I want to share two gentle yet effective allies for digestive distress today. First up, digestive enzymes. Digestive enzymes are proteins your body makes to help break down food. Think of them as tiny chemical scissors, snipping carbs into sugars, proteins into amino acids, and fats into fatty acids. When your enzyme production slows, which can happen due to age, stress, or health conditions, food sits in your gut, ferments, and causes gas and bloating. If you get bloated after specific meals, especially ones heavy in dairy, protein, or fiber, a targeted digestive enzyme taken with meals can offer immediate relief. Probiotics are next up. These are live beneficial bacteria that make a microbiome in your gut. Unlike enzymes that work immediately, probiotics take time to colonize in your digestive tract. They improve immune function, help make certain vitamins (like vitamin K, B12, folate and riboflavin), improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. Probiotics offset damage done by antibiotics and conditions like IBS. You may feel a bit more gassy when you first start them, but that’s usually just your gut adjusting.
So which one do you need? Digestive enzymes are ideal if you bloat right after eating, if certain foods consistently trigger
discomfort, or if you’re looking for fast relief. Probiotics are a better fit when you’re aiming to improve long-term gut health, if you’re recovering from antibiotics, or if you experience ongoing digestive issues like irregularity, bloating not tied to meals, or food sensitivities. The truth is, many people benefit from using both, enzymes for shortterm relief, probiotics for ongoing wellness. By the way, your gut microbiome activates a good deal of thyroid hormone which tells your body to go burn fat.
If you’re reacting to foods but testing negative for true allergies, you might have a food sensitivity. Symptoms can include bloating, fatigue, headaches, skin issues, or brain fog. Digestive enzymes can help by breaking down the parts of food that cause irritation. For example, lactase helps with dairy, and alpha-galactosidase helps with beans. Probiotics help by strengthening the gut lining and calming overactive immune responses. Some strains even assist with breaking down food particles that sneak past digestion.
Digestive issues are frustrating, but they don’t have to be your normal. Whether it’s a targeted enzyme before your next pasta night or a daily probiotic to rebalance your gut, relief is possible. Just listen to your body, track what works, and consider teaming up with a practitioner who understands integrative care. And if you’d like a deeper dive into this topic with tips you can use right away, sign up for my free Tuesday newsletter and I’ll send you a more comprehensive, version straight to your inbox.
(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
Julian Marley Brings Musical Legacy To e Social Leaf
SOUTH TOMS RIVER –
The Social Leaf cannabis shop was filled with big energy as reggae artist Julian “Juju” Marley made a special appearance at the shop, greeting fans and celebrating music, culture, and community during an intimate midday visit. The son of reggae icon Bob Marley, Julian spent time connecting with guests on June 24, posing for photos, and soaking in the vibe next to a mural of his legendary father.
The moment symbolized a full-circle tribute to a family legacy deeply rooted in rhythm and unity.
Bob Marley’s influence continues to echo worldwide through his children, with Julian carrying on the torch of “One Love” through his music and message.
Photo courtesy The Socail Leaf
Julian “Juju” Marley attended a special event at The Social Leaf.
R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law
Injured At Work?! Know Your Rights To Critical Benefits!
By: Christopher R. Shea, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates
You have a right to a safe and healthful workplace. If you have suffered an injury on the job, make sure you know what kind of benefits you might receive under workers’ compensation coverage.
In some instances, an aggressive compensation carrier may deny an injured worker’s legitimate workers’ compensation claims. An insurer can claim you have not been injured, or that the injury you have suffered is not serious enough to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. If this is the case, you may stand to lose critical benefits.
Most important among these critical benefits is the right to medical treatment. Medical benefits are mandated by the New Jersey Worker’s Compensation Act, and require the employer to furnish the injured worker with medical, surgical, and other treatment as are necessary “to cure and relieve the worker of the effects of the injury and to restore the functions of the injured member or organ” if possible. Moreover, in those instances where the employer has refused or neglected to provide medical treatment in accordance with the provisions of the Workers’ Compensation Act, the employer will be held responsible for the cost of treatment; even if the employee receives treatment prior to the carrier’s authorization.
Further, it is important to note another critical benefit of the Workers Compensation Act. This benefit protects employees from collections law suits when the employee obtains medical treatment that has been wrongfully or negligently withheld by an employer. This benefit, was upheld by the New Jersey Appellate Court in Kinley Physical Therapy Services, Inc. v. Kramer, and unequivocally states that a medical service provider is prohibited from filing an action against the employee until a determination has been made by the Division of Workers’ Compensation. The Court reasoned that a medical provider is normally not permitted to pursue collection actions in court until it resolves all administrative remedies, thus, the employee must be shielded from all actions by the medical provider until the Court determines whether or not the employer is responsible for the cost of medical care. If you feel your legitimate benefits have been denied and you live in the New Jersey, our workers compensation lawyers would like to talk to you to see if we can assist you with your case. Please call for a free consultation. R.C. Shea & Associates, 244 Main Street, Toms River, N.J. (732) 505-1212.
Our clients’ success is our greatest reward. 732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM
Government:
Continued From Page 7
The Republican bill as a whole exacerbates gaps in affordable care for our most vulnerable communities, including hundreds of thousands of children who will lose coverage through Medicaid, and ultimately have their health placed at risk.
- Preventing hospital closures by eliminating provisions that would force the closure of hospitals or otherwise reduce access to affordable healthcare.
With Medicaid being a critical resource
for hospitals across the country, Medicaid cuts in this bill would force hospitals to cut their services, or worse, risk having to close their doors to their communities.
While one in three children in New Jersey rely on Medicaid, Republicans in Congress support a budget that slashes $930 billion from the program. Cuts to Medicaid would impact 300,000 people with a disability in New Jersey and 60% of nursing home residents who utilize Medicaid for their care. In the state, one in seven adults between the ages of 19 and 64 are covered by Medicaid.
Jackson Summer Concert Series Continues
JACKSON – The township’s Summer Concert Series continues July 17, with a live performance by Briar Connection at the Jackson Justice Complex, 1 Jackson Drive. The free outdoor concert runs from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy a summer evening of live
music. Food trucks will be on site for the duration of the event.
The full 2025 concert lineup includes: August 7 – DNA August 21 – Living Proof Band For more information, visit jacksontwpnj. net/218/Recreation.
Christopher R. Shea Esq.
Spar
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Continued From Page 5
assigned to these rental inspections. That would leave two officers to do everything else.”
“How inaccurate you are is mindboggling,” Kuhn responded. “You are parttime, correct?”
“Correct,” Visconi answered.
The council president asked Visconi if he was a department head and he responded no.
“It is between me and the department head,” she said. “The Department Head gave me two officers that were looking into it. Residents supplied them the information pertaining to the quality of life in their neighborhood and asked them to look into it and you are telling me for a 40-hour work week or an 80-hour work week there is not one property that is logged into our system that they looked into and that’s not
a problem for you?”
She added that landlord registration measure had just been received by the council as a draft. “They absolutely would not be part of your department because you don’t work so I would not take people from your department and put them into a task team for people that need to go and check on a list of 41 properties that can’t check on them in almost two weeks.”
“Your problem with code enforcement is personal because of all the enforcement issues that have taken place regarding you,” Visconi responded.
Kuhn replied, “sir you sent me to court and you lost. I would expose that you brought me to court for no reason. You were found that you were just antagonizing - literally intimidating - me.”
Palmeri noted that while Visconi said he was speaking as a resident, “he did allude to knowledge of code enforcement which is kind of a gray area. I guess we are all
looking at updates. I know code enforcement is looking at these 41 addresses. It would be courteous if we could receive updates. Our Assistant Business Administrator Mrs. Novak did e-mail saying if (Code Enforcement) request access to specific websites for investigations it would be granted to you through IT. You can research it through a website.”
Resident Carlos Martin sported a T-shirt that read “If you are going through hell, keep going.” He attempted to lower the emotional temperature in the room. “It’s hot enough outside; we don’t need it in here.” He said that during prior council meetings, residents came up to complain about the township’s animal control. “I’m here to say something actually nice about them.”
Martin said one of his dogs gets out of the yard all the time. “That’s his nature. In the morning he feels he has to patrol the neighborhood and make sure everybody
is okay and then he comes back in so obviously not all neighbors know my dog.”
“Animal Control is being called all the time and I know it is annoying to them but they’ve been wonderful. I understand there is one person a little rough around the edges but he is doing his job. If there is a dog loose and he is called he has to come and take care of it and that’s what he does,” Martin added.
He also asked the council about the status of a traffic light in his neighborhood that had been approved years ago and why a recreation department position was being considered as part of a proposal that is still being studied by members of council. In his last 40 seconds left to speak he noted that the Open Space Trust Fund was not the Open Space Trust Fund and Other Municipal Uses Trust Fund - meaning it needed to only be used for the preservation of open space within the township. “Please look into that.”
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Prayer
Thank you St. Jude for answering my prayer - I love you. SR. (31)
Auto For Sale
2012 Hyundai Santa Fe - For sale by owner, as is. Fair condition. Silver. 112,500 miles. $4,500, or B/O. Call 732-684-8007. (t/n)
Items For Sale
Pet supplies for sale: dog crates, exercise pens, gates, leashes, harnesses, life "jacket". Beginner guitar with learner books, luggage set, massage cushion. Very reasonable prices. 732-477-2254. (30)
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, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-849-6068 (new number). (t/n)
COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY
Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)
Ca$h Paid for Old 45 RPM RecordsR&B, doo wop, soul, early rock and roll, and rockabilly. Call between 8AM and 8PM (909)938-4623. (31)
Buying World War I & II Swords, Bayonets, Daggers, Helmets, Hats, Medals, Marine uniforms, Flags, etc. Cash Paid! 609-581-8290. Email: lenny1944x@gmail.com. (33)
CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n)
I Buy Records - Cash paid, we answer the phone. Call Eddie at 732-829-5908. Records 33/45. Walt buys comics, toys & collectibles. Call 908-278-3782. (29)
Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n)
Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)
Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)
Classifieds are placed in all 7 of our weekly newspapers covering all of Ocean County, and also Howell in Monmouth County.
CLASSIFIEDS
Help Wanted
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time cook. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliatr.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (30)
Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)
HVAC Installer/Technician Hiring Now - Experience needed. Great Work Environment. Company vehicle. Full time, year round, paid holidays. Call 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)
Certified Home Health Aides - Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time Maintenance worker. Skills include painting, electrical work, and plumbing. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal. com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (30)
Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full and part time Dietary Aides If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755. (30)
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)
GARDEN & PLANT CARESUMMER HELP! Avoid costly plant losses. Diagnose problems, pests, watering, repot, refresh containers, houseplants, pruning. Care & Advice. House Calls. Semi-retired Master Gardener. Joe – 732-232-8144. (32)
PAINTING By Neat And Meticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)
Home Care Companion - Daily Chores, Food Prep, Memory Guidance, Appointments, Shopping. Decades of experience. Contact JoAnn 732-600-6812. Thank You. (31)
Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (25)
DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK NICE, AND SHINE?
Call Lenny. Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (34)
Life Coach - Facing a challenge? Discuss it in person. Bring out your best. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas 732-754-4891. (31)
Handyman - Painting, powerwashing, electrical, plumbing, light hauling. Call Joe 732-859-9266. (19)
Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)
Services
PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)
Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, a family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. We transform kitchens in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Call today for a free estimate 1-844-367-2477. (t/n)
APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations. Fully insured and licensed. Seniors 10% off any job $500 or more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (7)
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-833-901-0309 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (t/n)
Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)
PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE, PAINTING AND PAPER HANGING - Call 732-688-3532. (28)
Highly Experienced - Reliable, Reasonable, Responsible, Compassionate At Home Caregiver is Available for your Elderly loved ones. Live in/Hourly. 732-912 5876. (29)
House cleaning, office cleaning - Painting, laundry, window cleaning and carpet cleaning. Very good price. Call 732-330-4189 and 848-287-3944. (26)
A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (43)
THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (t/n)
"Stick With the Man That Covers Your Can! - Residential and Commercia Pump-outs FREE 1 year supply of enzyme treatment with each septic pump-out. Septic Inspections. Septic System Installations and All Repairs. Grease Traps installation and pump outs. Tank Abandonment and Demolition. 24 Hours Emergency Service! 732-244-0189. (5)
DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/ mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (t/n)
Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (35)
Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)
A
• 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
1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:
Auto For Sale
Items For Sale
Items Wanted
Help Wanted
Services
Other
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.
• Fax this form to 732-657-7388 ATTN: ALI. 5. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)
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. • Estate/Garage/Yard Sales
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:
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 = $
If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203.
Remember that crazy thunderstorm last week that caused flooding across our area? Local photographer Chad W. Hoover captured the moment just before it hit — and it’s chilling. Taken over Lavallette, the approaching storm seems to swallow the horizon, giving the shot an eerie, cinematic feel. Yikes! Be sure to check out more of Chad’s amazing photography on Instagram: @cw_hoover.
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
“Preach!”
mally
31 Soft & __
33 Have a snack
34 Apropos of
37 Sicilian mount
39 Back up an apology, say 40 Gel
41 Avis rival
42 Far beyond the norm
44 Irish dramatist Seán
College-level HS
“Your point being?”
They mean nothing
“Not quite!,” and what can be said about a letter string in the answer to each starred clue
“Get your own!”
Free of fizz
Online crafts site
Curly hairstyles
Tablets at some
Many a 23-Down
Circle parts
Roller coaster feature
Supersize suburban homes
28 Ryan of “Bosch”
30 Suggestions, infor-
course
Falafel holders
Tirades
Cartoon maker of Invisible Paint and Instant Road 50 Stubborn beast
“Yay, the weekend’s almost here!” 52 Grandmother’s nickname 53 Moderate gait
Lifelong pal, briefly
“If u ask me ...”
JERALDINE SAUNDERS
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Start your week by stepping away from fleeting trends. Embrace timeless, refined designs that reflect your personal style and offer lasting fulfillment. While old-school ways may seem outdated, they can earn respect and admiration.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Later in the week, opportunities for lighthearted adventures can flourish. Surround yourself with vibrant, uplifting people who spark your energy. With someone new, keep things easygoing—let connections unfold organically.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): A heartfelt conversation can work wonders in a relationship. A quiet moment with a loved one may clear up confusion and bring new understanding. Your partner might offer grounding support, intuitively sensing your deepest needs and desires.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Trust your inner wisdom and foresight. Your knack for seeing beyond the obvious can make you shine. This week, blend empathy with decisiveness—even in business—to strike a powerful and balanced approach.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Facts may be abundant, but not all may be relevant. Focus on what’s clear and meaningful, never use information to mislead or obscure. Aim to be a calming presence, offering kindness to those around you for the best outcomes.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Make the most of what’s already in motion and allow your plans to unfold naturally. If you’re single, a budding romance could blossom into something meaningful or you might take the lead on a creative passion project close to your heart.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Soften your approach. If you’ve been distant or overly formal, let warmth guide your interactions. Make a genuine effort to deepen connections but don’t question someone’s intentions without clear reason. Openness may invite trust; suspicion can shut it down.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Appearances can be deceiving. Something or someone can appear closed or impregnable and there could still be a path forward. A few sincere, well-chosen words could break down walls and win someone’s trust.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Lead with kindness and generosity. A giving spirit encourages collaboration and helps smooth over any tensions that may arise in the week ahead. Consider asking for a favor or some flexibility if you need it.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Let your unique flair shine this week. You may seem more magnetic than you realize, drawing others in with ease. Embrace the moment to dream boldly and plan wisely. A positive outlook on your goals could attract a welcome financial boost.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take steps to secure your finances in the week ahead. Impulsive spending can drain resources just as quickly as poor business choices. Stay focused on essentials like insurance, taxes, and shared expenses while channeling your drive for excellence.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Your closest connections could spark bright ideas this week. Friends and partners bring joy and inspiration; avoid a sudden expensive splurge. If you’re tempted to pick up the tab, keep your savings goals in sight.
THIS VERSATILE SOUP TASTES GREAT HOT OR CHILLED
Diane Rossen Worthington
