AroUnD the JerSeY Shore

OHI Summer Carnival Fundraiser

NEW JERSEY – Ladies and gentleman! Boys and girls! Come one, come all to Ocean Health Initiatives’ annual summer fundraiser at D’Jais Bar in Belmar where exciting times await!

On June 28, OHI is hosting a carnival themed fundraiser to continue its mission of providing high-quality primary and preventive care services to the residents of New Jersey, regardless of who they are or their ability to pay.

They’re kicking off the summer with a real extravaganza down by the shore that includes carnival games, virtual rides, and a rich selection of everyone’s favorite noshes and morsels from the boardwalk.

As always, there will be a live DJ to keep the vibes going all night long, as well as an open bar, a silent auction, and a 50/50 raffle.

With your generous support and donations, OHI intends to invest in better medical equipment, community outreach, educational materials, vaccinations, health awareness, and much, much more.

A wide range of sponsorship opportunities are available! Your participation of a tax-deductible sponsorship or donation will be used to increase OHI’s dedication and commitment to serving the population that is reached by our Health Centers and beyond.

Purchase tickets online at ohinj.square. site. Purchase sponsorships online at ohinj. square.site.

Manchester Coordinating Council

MANCHESTERF – The Manchester Coordinating Council monthly meeting will be held on June 26 at 1:30 p.m. at Village 5 club house, Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. The subject matter discussed at the meetings are issues that concern residents in Manchester. They usually have a main guest speaker, then other topics are brought up and discussed. It’s an hour of great information and discussion.

Two representatives are appointed by the Board of Trustees of their 55 + communities to participate in issues that they are all interested in and bring back information to share with their residents. MCC does not meet July, August, and December.

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

As swimming season approaches and trips to our beautiful beaches occurs, treating our ocean with respect in all ways is key. Today I will speak about the 10 shark species that cruise around the New Jersey waters. The most common shark in our waters is the smooth dogfish. They grow no longer than five feet in length, with the average being more like three feet. Not dangerous to people.

The chain catshark is one of the prettiest sharks in our waters, having irregular black, chain-like markings against a light brown body. Adults reach no more than two feet long and pose no threat to humans.

Sand tiger sharks, while fearsome in appearance, have never caused a human fatality. Seven feet long, they prefer sticking close to the coast.

The dusky shark and scalloped hammerhead are heavily targeted by the soup industry satisfying the demand for their fi ns in making fi n soup. The dusky shark is globally listed as endangered. Both pose no threats to humans.

Twelve feet long for females, blue sharks are generally shy, may approach people, but not dangerous to humans. A few bites have been recorded but no fatalities.

One of the most endangered species in New Jersey waters is the porbeagle. Endangered in New Jersey, shortfin mako sharks are also at risk due to sport/ commercial fi sh, entanglement in nets/ fishing lines. One unprovoked fatal attack out of ten has occurred. Over the last few decades, the common thresher population has drastically declined, IN DANGER OF EXTINCTION.

Lastly the great white shark tends to stay far from the shore, but sometimes approaches more closely. There have been reports and footage of encounters with humans, however, our fascination with spotting them, studying them using cages and cameras, is initiated by us.

No matter where your water recreation happens, always be aware, take precautions and respect wildlife. Remember,

Lakeside Gardeners Seek Vendors For Craft Fair

WHITING – October Craft Fair by Lakeside Gardeners; reserve your table now for only $20. Fair will be held at Cedar Glen Lakes Lakeside Hall, 100 Michigan Avenue, Whiting, on October 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Gifts for the holidays. Bake table. Breakfast and lunch available for purchase. Call 732-864-6902 for information. Hall is available Friday 5 to 7 p.m. for set-up.