2024-04-13 - The Manchester Times

Groups Fighting Forest Fires Before They Even Start

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER

– It has been a year since a fast-moving wildfi re that spread to 2,500 acres forced a mandatory evacuation of about 170 homes and other structures in Manchester and Lakehurst. That event was on the minds of members of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Forest Fire Service who joined representa-

tives of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and guests at a recent event when they promoted their alliance to combat wildfi res in the area.

Part of this event was a prescribed burn demonstration. A prescribed burn is when Forest Fire Services staff burn away forest debris in a

controlled manner so that the

be around to fuel the

next forest fire. It is also used to maintain

(Fires - See Page 4)

BlueClaws 2024 Season Now At Bat

By Bob Vosseller

JERSEY SHORE – Spring is in the air and opening night for the Jersey Shore BlueClaws had the minor league baseball team in full action at the ShoreTown Ballpark in Lakewood for another exciting season.

The BlueClaws are a Minor League Baseball team of the South Atlantic League and the High-A affi liate of the Philadelphia Phillies. They faced off

against the Aberdeen IronBirds in a home game on April 5.

A few days earlier, BlueClaws General Manager Bob McLane and Vice President of Communications Greg Giombarrese hosted a pre-season kickoff event to showcase what was in store for fans and visitors this spring and summer.

Tours were conducted for visitors throughout the day and (BlueClaws - See Page 17)

No New Deal For Energy Aggregation Program

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER

–Township officials recently met for a special afternoon meeting concerning the community’s Energy Aggregation Program. The end result was that the status quo will remain in place.

Mayor Robert Arace stated recently that in “remaining sensitive to the everyday budgeting concerns of our residents as we all navigate uncertain economic times.

I recognize that any opportunity to realize savings adds up.”

“The Township Council and I have heard frequently from many residents that they appreciated the reduced energy bills thanks to the Manchester Community Energy Aggregation Program. The previous energy aggregation contract expired last December,” the mayor said.

Mayor Arace added,

(Energy - See Page 4)

Homelessness Task Force Taking Shape

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners recently appointed the fi rst round of Ocean County Homelessness Trust Fund task force members.

Government officials and representatives from five local non-profit organizations make up the fi rst round of individuals whose fi rst order of business will be to establish by-laws with the assistance of county counsel for approval by the Commissioner Board.

The initial wave of three-year appointments to the task force includes Barbara “Bobbi Jo” Crea, Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, liaison to the Homelessness Trust Fund. Also among the appointees are Tracy Maksel, Director of the Ocean County Department of Human Services, and Maria

(Task Force - See Page 5)

LaFace, Director of the Ocean County Office

Photos by Bob Vosseller A prescribed burn demonstration in Whiting showed how the Forest Fire Service uses such burns as a mitigation tool to reduce the buildup of forest debris that fuel wildfires.

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette describes efforts to combat forest fires before they begin.

debris won’t

Photo by Bob Vosseller

The ShoreTown Ballpark awaits its opening night unveiling prior to the BlueClaws first game of the season.

Fires:

Continued From Page 1

the effectiveness of fuel breaks. These are strips of land where vegetation has been cleared out or changed so that a forest fire has a stopping point.

The recently constructed Roosevelt City fuel break located near 1801 Harry Wright Boulevard and the base serves as an example of a partnership between the Forest Fire Service and Department of Defense to protect communities near military bases in the wildfi re-prone Pinelands.

DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette and John Cecil, Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites, and DEP Administrator for Forests and Natural Lands Greg McLaughlin explained how the U.S. Department of Defense’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Challenge Program is using climate science and strong planning to better protect communities near military bases.

In 2018, the Ocean County Parks Department crafted a stewardship plan that called for a reduction of forest fuels around the

Energy:

Continued From Page 1

“unfortunately, since then bids from third party energy suppliers have been higher than those rates offered by JCP&L, meaning that the township has not been able to enter into a new energy aggregation agreement.”

area of Roosevelt City forming the fuel break which is now completed. LaTourette remarked, “we are at the start of the spring fi re season and that may bring back some scary memories for many folks throughout the state of New Jersey and it is because last year a number of homes were threatened by 14 major wildfi res in the state.”

“Fortunately, thanks to our partnership, with the Department of Defense and local and county government including here in Manchester and with the county of Ocean, DEP and Forest Fire Service are taking steps to mitigate the threat of wildfi res through projects like this,” he added.

Noting the REPI, LaTourette said they “build long term partnerships to improve resilience to climate change, preserve habitats and promote sustainable land management practices near military installations and ranges. Through that important partnership the DEP has received over $3 million in grants from the REPI program with $1.7 million of that in support of wildfi re resilience projects.”

LaTourette said those projects include the

The mayor said that in February, a new round of bids were solicited, in hopes that a third party might provide savings compared to JCP&L’s rates. After the bids were in, it was determined that the lowest price offer received came in 3.3 percent higher than the average JCP&L tariff price.

“Given that this rate is unfavorable to our residents, no contract will be awarded. Our

Warren Grove fire break in Bass River State Forest, and the Greenwood Triangle Forest Fuel Maintenance project that is in Brendan Byrne State Forest.

He added that fuel breaks like the one in Roosevelt City “ensure the safety of our residents and the protection of our property as we confront increasing risks of wildfi re. A fuel break is a man-made change in forest fuel characteristics which effect fi re behavior. Fires within fuel breaks can be more readily controlled.”

LaTourette stressed that “it has become increasingly apparent that the need for continued attention and investment in this important work has to remain a top priority” at each level of government. “New Jersey is ground zero for some of the worst impacts of climate change.”

“Those impacts include a lengthening wildfire season. Sometimes I think we should start thinking about it as a wildfi re year,” LaTourette added. “We had nearly 1,200 wildfi res last year and 14 of them major, burning 18,000 acres. That is considerable risk to people, to property, to public health and safety and to the environment

residents will continue to receive the best energy generation rate available, provided by JCP&L,” he said.

“My goal remains to enter into a new energy aggregation contract should a more favorable rate be presented. The Manchester Community Energy Aggregation Program benefits everyone, from young families to seniors living on fi xed incomes,” Mayor

that we share.” He also noted increasing periods of dryness and drought “with periods of intense and fierce rainfall that punish our communities that are underprepared due to aging infrastructure and the ability of our resources to absorb, fast and intense flash flooding.”

Councilman Joseph Hankins, who has an extensive background in fi refighting and was on the scene during last year’s wildfire, told The Manchester Times, “As a municipality we do what we can to mow the sides of the roads in the event you have wheel barring or a catalytic converter that become hot and start a fi re on the edge of the road.”

“Without the assistance of the State Forest Fire Service and the County to mitigate the actual forest, we would lose the ability to at least slow down a forest fi re in the event it happens. We’ve seen the catastrophes that have happened in California and in Texas most recently,” he added.

Hankins said the day’s event brought home, “the importance of making sure that we cover the residents out here in Whiting and make sure they are as safe as possible. This is a good step in doing that.”

Arace added.

“I understand that many have become accustomed to the program, and it is one that I, personally, am very much in favor of continuing. I am hopeful that market rates will continue to improve, and the next round of competitive bids will provide favorable terms that will benefit our residents,” he said.

Task Force:

Continued From Page 1 of Senior Services.

Five representatives from local private or non-profit organizations known for their work in assisting the homeless or providing low-income housing have also been appointed to serve three-year terms. These include Mark Harding from Soldier On, Steve Heisman from Habcore, Glen McDonald from Homes for All, Elizabeth Golla from Family Promise, and Kim Santora from Toms River Housing and Homeless.

“All of these individuals bring a great deal of expertise and compassion to the table,” Crea said. “They will look at the issues faced by our seniors, veterans, families, and individuals struggling with homelessness, and together, we will make the best decisions on how to fund programs that will provide the most help.”

Joining these government officials and non-profit representatives for one-year terms will be three municipal business administrators: Joanne Bergin from Brick, Patrick Donnelly of Lakewood, and Jonathan Salonis from Toms River. These appointments specifically target the municipalities with the highest homeless populations, according to the results of last year’s Point-in-Time count. This is when social workers and volunteers met with homeless throughout the state to get an accurate count of who they are, where they are, and what their needs are.

When the 2024 data is counted, said Maksel, “We may need to add additional

municipalities depending on those numbers because we are required to have the municipalities that represent the largest homeless populations.”

The task force will also be further enhanced with additional appointments in the future. These appointments will be staggered to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of expertise within the group, avoiding a situation where all members begin and end their terms at the same time. State law requires the task force to include at least three individuals who have lived experiences with homelessness. To achieve this, Maksel suggested replicating the process used when selecting reviewers for the Ocean County Opioid Advisory Council settlement funds. This involved an open solicitation for applications. However, the fi nal decision on choosing representatives who were formerly homeless rests with the task force itself.

“There are certain organizations that we did not purposefully include in the inaugural board membership because they have such a large base of volunteers who might qualify,” Maksel added. “We figured those volunteers would want to apply to be the persons with lived experience at the table. We can’t have more than one representative from each agency.”

Trust Fund And Responsibilities

After years of urging from nonprofits, Ocean County joined a growing list of New Jersey counties with the establishment of its own Homelessness Trust Fund last year. The initiative, authorized by the 2009

“County Homelessness Trust Fund Act,” empowers counties to create dedicated funding streams to address the needs of homeless residents.

The legislation has already seen success in twelve other New Jersey counties, including Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, Passaic, Somerset, and Union.

“Starting in September 2023, Ocean County now applies a $5 surcharge on most recorded instruments with the county, which the Ocean County Clerk’s office deposited into the Homelessness Trust Fund,” said Crea. “The money stays in Ocean County to support programs and has raised $91,056 to date.”

Projections based on the past three years of recorded documents suggest the Ocean County Homelessness Trust Fund could generate between $275,000 and $390,000 annually.

State law requires the Trust Fund to disburse money through competitive grants to organizations fighting homelessness through various means. This includes helping homeless people find permanent homes, stopping homelessness before it happens, and providing Code Blue temporary shelter during severe weather.

The Department of Human Services oversees the county’s administration and planning related to homelessness, while the Ocean County Board of Social Services serves as a direct service provider, offering essential support such as temporary shelter and utilities assistance.

“One of our visions from the county side

is to pick up where ineligibility is a problem for the already existing system of care,” shared Maksel. “We want to target the focus on things that can’t be served elsewhere.”

A key challenge for existing programs is that some residents experiencing homelessness fall outside eligibility criteria due to income levels. Social Security benefits or even low-paying jobs can push them above the threshold for many publicly funded services. The task force will explore ways to bridge these gaps for this population – albeit with a limited pool of money.

The Ocean County Homelessness Trust Fund task force will collaborate closely with the Ending Homeless Team associated with Monarch Housing, acknowledged as premier consultants in the state for addressing homelessness. Monarch Housing also extends its expertise to the HUD Continuum of Care Process for Ocean County.

As the task force partners with the consultant, their primary objective is to craft a strategic plan to combat homelessness effectively. This will most likely entail community engagement initiatives such as focus groups and surveys to pinpoint key areas of concern. Once these priorities are identified, the task force will release a solicitation outlining the precise scope of work for organizations seeking grants.

Non-profit groups with task force members will be able to submit grant applications for review. However, they will be required to abstain from voting on matters pertaining to their own organizations.

“Anything we fund, we have to be able to (Task Force - See Page 16)

Local Church Helps Veterans Transition

By Stephanie Faughnan

FORKED RIVER - Over a decade ago, the United Methodist Church on West Lacey Road served a different faith. The rectory next door, once a home for Catholic priests, has found a new purpose. Today, the four upstairs bedrooms have been transformed into Mount Zion, a transitional housing program for local veterans.

Opened in January 2023, Mount Zion represents a joint effort between the Lacey United Methodist Church and Vetwork, now headquartered in the Lacey Food Bank. The repurposed space offers more than just a roof over veterans’ heads as they transition to civilian life. The name itself, Mount Zion, reflects a place of hope and renewal - a sanctuary for healing during a crucial time. “The Church was going through a lot of struggles with COVID hitting us pretty badly,” said Maddie Stapleton of Lacey United Methodist Church. “We were struggling fi nancially, and we had all these buildings that we weren’t using. When I took a look around, I realized there were bedrooms and asked if they could be used to help the homeless.”

Stapleton’s vision resonated with the church’s new minister, who proposed dedicating the rooms specifically to homeless veterans - individuals who served their country and were now in need.

This partnership has already proven successful. Thomas Kiselow, Executive Director of Vetwork, reports that nine veterans have benefitted from Mount Zion’s transi-

tional housing. Most work with Community Hope, a nonprofit that helps veterans fi nd permanent housing solutions.

Veterans transitioning into Mount Zion find themselves in somewhat familiar living quarters, akin to a dorm room or barracks, set up for single occupancy. A microwave and a coffeemaker are in each of the rooms with easy bathroom access.

The hallway upstairs with the bedrooms contains a bulletin board with useful information posted for convenience.

“When we fi rst started, the kitchen was off bounds,” Stapleton shared. “Now, it’s open for use. There’s also a washer and dryer for the vets who stay here to do their laundry.”

Community donations play a crucial role in supporting Mount Zion’s operations. Recently, members of the Leisure Village West Veterans Club in Manchester visited the premises and presented a generous check to aid in covering costs. Additionally, Vetwork contributes funds to the church, covering utilities like water and electricity, with an additional allocation for air conditioning expenses during the hotter months.

A grant afforded by Kohl’s allowed for the purchase of several household items that will ultimately dress up the bedrooms and bathrooms to give them a more “homey” effect.

Accepted transitional residents at Mount Zion benefit from a flexible environment. There are no curfews, and entry is made convenient with a numbered code lock. However, strict policies are in place to en-

sure a safe and supportive atmosphere: alcohol and drug use are prohibited, and smoking is restricted to designated areas.

Finding Refuge At Mount Zion

The screening process to stay at Mount Zion begins with an interview at Vetwork and includes contacting the Veterans Administration to verify discharge papers. Vetwork also runs background checks for criminal history and active warrants.

“We want to make sure we’re not putting anyone at risk or bringing in a bad element,” said Kiselow.

Mount Zion is intended as transitional housing with an initial stay of two weeks. Extensions may be granted based on necessity. Veterans who choose to come into the program often have varying needs.

“Sometimes they may just come to us because it’s the middle of winter and they need a warm place to stay for a week,” said Kiselow. “If they’re not looking for a permanent housing situation but need something temporary, we can accommodate that.”

“We’ve come across veterans living in a tent in the woods, content with that situation,” Kiselow continued. “They like being

off the grid and off the radar, and they don’t want someone else telling them how to live their life.”

Church’s Mission

While Mount Zion’s living quarters are limited to veterans needing transitional housing, the Lacey United Methodist Church also helps others.

SHALOM for the Homeless (Showers - Hot Meals - Advocacy - Laundry - Outreach Ministry) serves approximately 30 people two times a week. Those without other resources have the opportunity to take a shower and do their laundry on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The church also provides breakfast and (Veterans - See Page 16)

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Members of the Leisure Village West Veterans Club in Manchester provided a generous donation to Mount Zion.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

The Internet Has Ruined Weirdos For Me

Among the many, many things that the internet has ruined, one thing I miss is talking to weirdos.

For me, weirdos were just harmless folks who marched to the beat of a different drummer. You’d see them from far away and realize they were interesting. Everyone else on the street could be a background character in a movie, a nameless extra. But not them. No, they were definitely the scene stealer. Their clothes were eccentric. Their eyes were far away, working something out in their brain. In a bit of friendly conversation, you’d notice their choice of words was just a little off

Animal Shelters: The Humane Choice Is Not Always The Cheapest

This letter is in response to the March 11th article entitled “Fate Of Toms River Animal Shelter Still In Question.”

In it, Mayor Rodrick states

“I don’t understand how that would be different” when discussing whether to maintain a township operated animal shelter or contract services through the Ocean County facility

and it made them interesting. They would share an idea that changed the way you thought about things.

Heck, I was probably considered a weirdo by many of the people I met throughout my life. Rightfully so.

I remember working at the Borders near the Willowbrook Mall 25 years ago. A customer was pointing to a display and asked if I could help him find a book that used to be on that display. I asked him how long ago he saw it. He said “I don’t know. Time moves differently for me than other people.”

Yes! That’s what I’m talking about. That guy was interesting. I never found out what he meant. It’s better to imagine it instead of knowing for sure.

I’m still thinking of him a quarter century later. I hope he’s doing well.

These days, though, I’m cautious about strangers. I’m not as willing to talk to quirky people. I’m too afraid of what crazy conspiracy theory makes up their entire world. Who knows what kind of landmine I might step in during polite conversation. What race, religion, or other group of people have they decided is the enemy?

The reason I blame the internet is because I’ve seen it happen with people I know. They start out normal. But if their only source of information is a little box that tells them to hate certain people, or that the world is doomed, guess what happens? They believe it, too.

It starts out easily enough. You click that you like an idea on social media. Then, the social media site shows you something else along the same lines but a little more extreme. Then more. Then more. The internet tells you that your ideas are the right ones and everyone else is wrong. Before you know it, you’ve put up a wall against any other point of view.

The internet had quirky ideas in the beginning. Fun websites to waste time and learn about silly stuff. Now, every other thing you see is angry.

Try this experiment: The next time you’re on the internet, see how long it takes for something to show up that’s negative, angry, or downright

dangerous.

Another experiment: Look at the top 20 posts on your social media. How many of them are friends sharing things about their lives, and how many of them are negative posts about people or things?

There’s a story about writer Kurt Vonnegut going out to buy a single envelope instead of a bunch of them at once.

He knows that in the course of this errand, he’ll run into strangers to talk to. He’ll ask a woman what kind of dog she is walking. He’ll give a thumbs up to a fire truck going by. He’ll have a lot of little interactions and be rejuvenated by them. People are just “dancing animals” he said. That’s a great turn of

in Jackson. The difference is simple: Toms River’s animals will overburden the already strained county shelters.

Over the past 15 years, New Jersey has consistently lost space to house stray pets as animal shelters have closed to municipal contracts or closed altogether, one by one.

Meanwhile, no new sheltering space has opened. This trend is putting greater pressure on existing facilities and municipalities. The Toms River Animal Shelter question is just another

example of our collapsing animal sheltering system.

Complicating this further, fi nancial constraints at the municipal level and a lack of priority for animal issues generally, lead to municipalities contracting with the “lowest bidder” regardless of quality or positive animal outcomes. The result is increasing fi nancial pressure on organizations providing these services, overcrowded animal shelters, and worse: animals that can be saved are dying for lack of space.

The difference Mayor Rodrick calls out, is not a question of whether the animals should go to Jackson or stay in Toms River, it’s what expectations the government sets for humane animal sheltering in our state.

The goal of animal sheltering is to save lives, and while organizations like Best Friends Animal Society offer support to shelters, including in NJ, it also requires sound decisions and leadership at a local level.

As county and local leaders evaluate the best option for their animals, they must also establish lifesaving goals for whichever shelter

is ultimately entrusted with providing the animals’ care. New Jersey is losing animal sheltering capacity at an alarming rate.

Jane Guillaume Jackson this un-American path.

Don’t Believe The “Toms River Bulletin”

Unfortunately we live in a time of permanent campaigns, but there is so much more wrong with the “newspaper” Toms River Bulletin that was mailed to homes.

One problem, there were quite a few blatant falsehoods throughout the bulletin. Bigger problem this propaganda was sent at tax payers expense and not as part of a campaign.

And the scariest problem is the slogan above the name, “Toms River’s official news source.” An independent press is the bedrock of our constitutional republic, has Toms River left the republic?

We’re only three months into this new Toms River administration, I hope someone can put a stop to the campaign violations and

Jesse Cohn Toms River

Easier Solutions To Funding Wars

Editor’s note: This letter is in response to a letter “GOP And USSR” from the March 16 edition.

I read in one of the last few editions. Someone said give Ukraine whatever they need.

I couldn’t disagree more. To date, America has given over $80 billion dollars to Ukraine. Thats enough to fund our schools in Toms River for the next 8,000 years! Think how much money that would save us in tax dollars. There’s already 5+ countries in Europe sending weapons, aid and training to Ukraine in their war against Russia. At some point you have to accept the fact that an area [or a group of people] are just not cut out to be a country. I’ve read we’ve funded Ukraine’s government, as well as given them all the funds needed to make their economy go around. At this point you might as well make Ukraine a part of America and send in the military to deal

phrase. We’re just animals who have learned how to make art and conversation.

Vonnegut, who died in 2007, said that computers will stop us from doing things like this. He thought that the convenience of getting anything online will prevent us from having these small transactions of humanity. He was right, of course. But I wonder if he would have realized that the internet also takes away our ability to see other points of view. To see different people and how they live their lives.

I have a lot of envelopes stocked up in my house.

Chris Lundy News Editor

with it. It certainly would save us a lot of money and I heard they all just got pay raises.

Right now America is funding a war on two fronts. Ukraine against Russia. And Israel against Hamas. You have a nation of displaced refugees [70% of Gaza’s population] which is under “total siege” and locked in with the terrorist organization (Hamas) which popped up amongst them in 2007. You know half [this nation of refugees] is under the age of 18? And how many women and children? And your going to blockade them in with the terrorists and air drop supplies to them by plane?

Let’s get it together here!

And as for the nation that forcibly drafts its citizens (Russia) to fight in a war that’s resulting in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people. Maybe it’s time to consider taking Putin out. We took out Saddam Hussein in 2003. We chased down Bin Laden for the havoc he caused in New York City. Something has to die here - and it’s either Putin or Ukraine. I personally don’t have a preference though.

Mark Dorsey Toms River

Senate Leaders Urged To Protect State And Local

Pesticide Regulations

Capitol Comments

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) led 19 colleagues in calling on Senate leadership to oppose any efforts to limit existing state and local authority to regulate pesticides in the upcoming Farm Bill or any other legislation.

“More than thirty states and hundreds of cities and counties have adopted pesticide laws and ordinances to protect workers, children, rural communities, and wildlife. State

and local governments have long acted to supplement federal pesticide laws to protect people from the serious health problems - including neurological and behavioral issues, cancer, and Parkinson’s Disease - that can be caused by unsafe exposure to pesticides,” the lawmakers wrote. “States and localities have implemented protective measures that fit their local needs, such as posting warnings when pesticides have been sprayed near schools and parks, protecting drinking water supplies, protecting and informing workers, and restricting the use of some pesticides on playgrounds. States and localities have also taken measures to protect endangered species

that are especially susceptible to pesticides, like pollinators.”

The lawmakers continued, “While federal regulations provide a base level of protection against the harms of pesticides, only localities and states are in the position to implement protective measures that are designed specifically to meet the needs of their citizens. Preempting these state and local laws prevents state and local officials from addressing local needs in favor of a one-size-fits-all approach.”

The lawmakers also expressed strong opposition to any proposed legislation which would prohibit states from requiring manufacturers to disclose known risks about their pesticide products, such as carcinogenicity.

“Preemption proposals like these would eliminate laws that give consumers the ability

to make informed decisions about using a pesticide product, based on the product’s risks to their health. These proposals would also take away consumers’ opportunity for redress if a manufacturer fails to issue warnings,” the lawmakers concluded.

The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (DMD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

Transportation Trust Fund Supported For Five More Years

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation renewing the State’s Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) for five more years, which will invest billions to modernize and maintain New Jersey’s statewide transportation infrastructure, while providing additional capital funding for NJ TRANSIT, supporting local and county projects to alleviate the burden on local taxpayers, and creating thousands of good-paying union jobs.

“New Jersey sits at the heart of one of the busiest stretches of commerce in the entire world,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Whether it’s trying to get home to their families after a long day or shipping critical goods to keep our economy humming, our residents and our businesses depend on the strength of our transportation system to get where they need to go. This legislation will ensure we deliver for them by enabling us to rebuild and maintain our entire transportation system, while creating thousands of good-paying jobs in the years to come and easing the burden of property taxes by offsetting these costs for local governments.”

The New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund was established by the Legislature in 1984 and has since been reauthorized seven times. The last reauthorization in 2016, under the previous administration, occurred after the previous authorization had expired, halting projects until a new agreement could be reached. That reauthorization has primarily been implemented by the Murphy Administration, with the largest capital program ever executed by the NJ Department of Transpor-

tation (NJDOT) occurring in Fiscal Year 2021 (FY 2021).

The law (A-4011/S-2931), signed more than three months prior to the current authorization’s expiration, will:

• Establish a five-year program, beginning July 1, 2024 and ending June 30, 2029, to ensure a steady stream of revenue to support statewide transportation projects. The law annually adjusts the Petroleum Products Gross Receipts Tax rate by updating the statutorily prescribed revenue target, commonly referred to as the “highway fuel cap,” which is currently based on 2016 highway fuel tax collections.

• Authorize roughly $10.37 billion in appropriations for the State’s Annual Transportation Capital Program from FY 2025 through FY 2029. Of that amount, an estimated $2.3 billion will be passed on as State aid to counties and municipalities for transportation projects.

• Provide up to $8.84 billion in bonding authority to the Transportation Trust Fund Authority over the five-year period (approximately $1.76 billion annually);

• Provide roughly $1.5 billion in pay-as-yougo funding for transportation projects

• Grow the $2 billion maximum annual capital program amount by 3% per year in years three, four, and five of the reauthorization, which coincides with the end of the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding. This incremental revenue growth will be split evenly among NJ DOT, NJ TRANSIT, county governments, and municipal governments, providing greater investment at the county and local level and relieving the pressure on local property taxpayers to fund infrastructure investments.

• Bolster NJ TRANSIT by providing an additional $91.75 million over the last three years of the program to augment the $767

million the agency currently receives annually from the TTF to fund new capital projects. By year five, NJ TRANSIT will receive over $813 million annually for capital projects.

• Establish an annual electric vehicle fee of $250 (with increases of $10 per year in each of the remaining four years), which will ensure that all motorists using the roads share in the responsibility to maintain their conditions.

• Delay the annual tax rate adjustment for sales of gasoline and diesel motor fuel by three months, from October 1 to January 1, so that any rate changes will coincide with the start of the new year.

“The reauthorization of the New Jersey

Transportation Trust Fund is foundational to the continued investment in our transportation infrastructure,” said Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, Chief of Staff to Governor Murphy and former NJDOT Commissioner. “Transportation keeps our communities moving and our economy strong. I remember the impact it had on our brothers and sisters in labor when the previous administration could not reach a deal in time and projects all over the state were forced to halt or shut down. With this in mind, we were determined – and now proud – to reach a good agreement months ahead of time to ensure that this critical work will continue without interruption.”

NAWCAD Lakehurst Executive Director Kathleen P. Donnelly Retires A er 39+ Year Career

LAKEHURST –Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Lakehurst Executive Director Kathleen P. Donnelly retired on March 30 after nearly 40 years of service supporting the warfighter.

“Kathy has steered the ship for us at Lakehurst, leading our command’s Support Equipment and Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment Group. She has been directly responsible for spearheading all Lakehurst mission functions, including its labs and facilities, while providing capability development and sustainment to the fleet, with over 1,800 teammates and a budget of more than $1 billion,” said NAWCAD Executive Director Stephen Cricchi. “Her contributions to our warfare center will be felt both here and across our fleet for generations to come.”

A champion for diversity and inclusion, Donnelly is a founding member of Naval Air System Command’s Women’s Initiative Network and the outgoing Executive Champion for the LGBTQ+A Diversity Action Team.

Arriving at Lakehurst in November 1984 with a plan to stay only a few years, Donnelly has helped guide Lakehurst through several critical stages while overseeing the development of countless examples of cutting-edge technology. Under her watch, Lakehurst team members developed the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG), groundbreaking components on the new Ford Class aircraft carriers. The development of these systems has also led to physical changes at Lakehurst, namely the construction of the EMALS test facility and the integration of the AAG systems into the Jet Car Track Test and Runway Arrested Landing sites. She also advanced Naval Aviation’s additive manufacturing, remote tech assistance, cybersecurity, and aircraft diagnostics capabilities.

“I am extremely proud of the team and their dedication to supporting our Sailors and Marines,” said Donnelly. “The constant at Navy Lakehurst has been the culture of the people and the Naval family atmosphere. We are one team, working together, to support the mission, and I could not be prouder of that.”

Donnelly also oversaw operations at NAWCAD Lakehurst during the

Donnelly’s contributions also extend beyond Lakehurst’s walls. She has been an active member of the Lakehurst Small Business Roundtable, leading to small business contracts totaling more than $1 billion supporting Lakehurst’s mission. Under her leadership, Lakehurst helped establish the Liberty Tech Bridge connecting NAWCAD Lakehurst, Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia, and Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific Cyber Engineering and Integration, bringing together regional government, industry, and academia to foster an ecosystem of innovation.

Donnelly received the 2019 Presidential Rank Award and was recently awarded the Department of the Navy (DON) Superior Civilian Service Award, the second highest honorary award under the DON Civilian Awards program.

A chemical engineering graduate of Villanova University, Donnelly earned a master’s degree in business administration from Monmouth University.

Following Donnelly's retirement, Jack Martenak, NAWCAD Lakehurst's Technical Director and Chief Engineer, took over as acting executive director. A permanent replacement is expected to be named soon.

Photo courtesy U.S. Navy COVID-19 pandemic and led NAWCAD Lakehurst during the transition to the Navy component of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

Li le League Opening Day

WHITING – Crestwood Village III Women’s Club is hosting a Spring Flea Market on April 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road.

Items include: jewelry, clothing, housewares as well as independent vendors will be there. Food and drinks will be available. There will be a 50/50 drawing. In addition, they will have a bake sale table for you to enjoy something to take home.

All proceeds will be donated to local charities.

Photos courtesy Manchester Township

The crowd came out in droves for the Manchester Little League’s 61st opening day event held at their indoor training facility.

– It has been a fun day across the Manchester Township School District! Everyone from the oldest to our youngest students participated in activities and fundraisers that made special school memories before dismissing for the 2024 Spring Recess. Manchester Township High School held its Spring Pep Rally. Students enjoyed musical performances by their classmates, played friendly competitive class vs. class games such as musical chairs and tug-a-war, and then concluded their

Photo courtesy Manchester Schools event by sliming Principal Adams! Ridgeway Elementary School had a Pie in the Face Fundraiser! Students purchased tickets in support of the 5th Grade Class Picnic at a chance to put a pie in the face of their favorite teacher. Ten staff members were chosen but only the top three with the most votes were up for a pie in the face! Student names were chosen at random to determine who would actually pie their teacher. It was a sweet, sugary morning filled with laughter!

Meadows Of Lake Ridge Vendor And Health Fair

WHITING – The Meadows is holding its Spring Vendor, Craft and Health Fair on May 4 at their Club House 2 Clear Lake Road, Whiting from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be an assortment of crafters, artisans, traditional and holistic health options, health screenings and City Eats Food Truck. Local businesses will include decorative tumblers, home decor, fi ne knit items, decorative storage, jewelry, woodworking, fl ies and lures for fishing.

Health options include Reiki, essential oils, crystals and other holistic healing options, as well as more traditional subacute and home care options and health screenings.

City Eats Food Truck will be onsite with a delicious assortment of Gourmet Grill Cheese, their famous (tater) tottsies, hamburgers and hot dogs. There’s something for everyone. You don’t want to miss it!

Crestwood Artist Guild Sip & Paint

WHITING – Crestwood Artist Guild is sponsoring a Sip & Paint on May 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hilltop Village 5, 329 Schoolhouse Lane.

Paint along with Barbara Neumann; step

by step landscape in acrylic. All supplies are included in fee $20. Registration required. Register Fridays beginning from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hilltop V 5 in meeting room. BYOB.

Recreation Seeking Camp Counselors

MANCHESTER – Manchester Recreation is currently accepting applications for Camp Counselors at Harry Wright Lake Day Camp, from June 24 through August 2.

Must be at least 16 years old. Starting salary $15/hr. To apply for Seasonal Recreation Positions, visit primepoint.net/ recruitment/#/MCHTWP/home. For more information, call 732-657-8121 ext. 5102.

Manchester Recreation Events

MANCHESTER – Check out the list of upcoming events for 2024:

Lake at 7:30 p.m.

December 6 – Christmas in the Pines at Harry Wright Lake at 2 p.m.

May 27 – Memorial Day Ceremony, Grand Army Memorial, Pine Lake Park, at 10 a.m.

June 29 – Manchester Day, Harry Wright Lake. 2 p.m. start. Vendors, rides, games and more. 6 p.m. - Kickin’ Wing; 7:30 p.m. - KBrown Express. Fireworks at dusk.

August 9 – “A Night in Paradise” at Harry Wright Lake at 7 p.m.

September 13 – Movies at the Lake showing “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” at Pine

Summer Concert Series – Harry Wright Lake at 6 p.m.

July 10 – Joey Scarangello “The Wedding Singer”; The British Invasion Years

July 31 – Jukebox Legends; Sensational Soul Cruisers

August 7 – Stiletto & the Saxman; The Cameos

August 21 – Julian & Dominique; Mission Dance.

“Disco Night Fever” Dance

WHITING – Crestwood Village 6 presents “Disco Night Fever” Dance with “DJ Poobah” on May 18 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Crestwood Village 6 Deefield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Providing: snacks, dessert, water, soda, coffee, Tea. Bring your own fi nger food if you like.

Enjoy a 50/50 Raffle and Door Prize Raffle. Tickets are $12 for non-members, $10 for paid 2024 CV6 Members. Tickets sold Monday from 10 to 11 a.m.

Note: Tickets purchased on night of dance at the door are only on a cash payment basis. No checks will be accepted on the night of the dance.

Women’s Club Of Deer eld Hall Village 6 Upcoming Meeting

WHITING – The next meeting is on Tuesday, April 23 at 1 p.m. This is their annual birthday celebration month. Members sit at tables for the month of their birthday and make new friends.

month will be birthday cakes as well as their specialty coffee bar which has been a big hit.

Also, Hackensack Meridian will be doing a presentation on “Is it Memory Loss or Alzheimer’s?” Refreshments for this

Membership is just 10 dollars a year you can just show up early on the day of the meeting to sign up. They are a nonprofit who gives back to the community with their fundraiser events.

MANCHESTER – Get your raffle tickets now! The Manchester Township High School Booster Club’s Super 50/50 Raffle has a minimum jackpot of $2,000 and they hope to grow it to $5,000. All proceeds will benefit student athletes by purchasing and

installing scoreboards on various athletic fields and repairing the football scoreboard. Tickets are $50 each. Drawing will be on May 10 at Manchester High School at 5 p.m. to purchase tickets call Rick Sogness at 732-278-0703.

Crestwood Village 6 Indoor Flea Market

WHITING –The Crestwood Village 6 Indoor Flea Market will be on June 29 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Crestwood Village 6 Deerfield Clubhouse, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting.

Setup is June 28 from 3 to 7 p.m. or setup Saturday morning at 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.

Tables are: $12 or $15 on the wall. Kitchen

will be available for breakfast and lunch items, 50/50 and some raffles will be offered. Crestwood Village 6 residents only may sign up fi rst in April. All others may sign up in May.

Call Julie at 732-849-5363 and leave a message with your name, phone number and address.

Casino Bus Trip Atlantic City

WHITING – The Bocce Club of Crestwood Village 1 is sponsoring a Casino Bus Trip to Resorts in Atlantic City on June 24.

Bus departs at 9 a.m. sharp at Friendship Hall. Arrives at Resorts at 10:30 a.m. and leaves Resorts at 4:30 p.m. Arrives at Friendship Hall at 5:45 p.m.

Tickets are $35 per person, receive $18 back in slot play. Must show state photo ID to receive slot play.

Tickets on sale at CV1 Auditorium, 92 Fairway Lane, on Tuesdays from 9 to 11 a.m. No refunds unless trip is canceled. For more information, contact Gerry Ford at 732-350-3128.

Bereavement Support Group

WHITING – The group still meets; it has not moved. The next meeting is April 26 at 1 p.m. The meetings are helpful to those who have lost a spouse, friend, or family member. Those of us have suffered a loss at one time or another are here to help with

your grief process.

The meetings are free and refreshments are served. You do not have to register you can just show up. They are held at Crestwood Village 6, Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road Whiting in the D & E Room.

11th Annual Penguin Plunge

MANCHESTER – Become a Penguin with a Purpose by plunging the Harry Wright Lake to raise money for the Regional Day School. There will be raffles, hot chocolate, coffee, and more on-site. All proceeds of this event go directly to the Regional Day School students for their

upcoming prom and graduation.

The 11th Annual Penguin Plunge will take place on April 14. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. and the plunge is at 1 p.m.

To register, contact Stephanie at 732928-1500 or email sguida@mtschools.org.

April Board Of Education Meeting Date Changed

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Township Board of Education will be changing the date of the April 24 meeting to April 30 at 6 p.m. Executive Session will be followed by

Public Session at 6:30 p.m. at the Manchester Township Middle School, 2759 Ridgeway Road, Manchester. The meeting will be open to the public and action will be taken.

Task Force:

Continued From Page 5

prove that it measurably reduces homelessness and that it has cost savings over time,” Maksel explained. “It has to be evidence-based, the ability to be replicated in other communities and align with local homeless plans as well as the county homeless plan.”

Maksel said that the team at Human Services had attempted to bring a Homelessness Trust Fund to Ocean County for over a decade and credited Crea for “quarterbacking it to a win.”

Funds Won’t Go To Homeless Shelter

Alex Boss of Toms River was present at the Ocean County Commissioners meeting when the inaugural task force members were appointed. He called the creation of the fund a great start but expressed a concern that regularly comes up at county government meetings.

“I’m somewhat surprised and disappointed to hear that there are no plans for a shelter,” said Boss. “As someone who has volunteered with community groups and the makeshift shelters that have been set up for this crisis, I’ve seen how dire the situation

Veterans:

Continued From Page 7 lunch

leftovers. All donations are accepted according to government food safety guidelines.

is for these individuals fi rsthand.”

“It is a great start,” Boss continued. “But I would like to hear why there are no plans to build a shelter in regard to this trust and also what’s being done in the interim to help these people now.”

Crea reiterated the county’s stance that it will not undertake the construction or operation of a shelter and clarified that the allocated funds cannot be utilized for such purposes. However, she affirmed the county’s willingness to collaborate with non-profit organizations interested in establishing a shelter independently. Crea proposed that multiple organizations explore the possibility of working together and assured that the county would offer financial support towards this initiative.

“The Homelessness Trust Fund will complement whatever the system of care evolves to be and live in perpetuity,” added Maksel. “So, if a shelter came to fruition, this could enhance it or help people at the shelter.”

Individuals seeking housing assistance are advised to contact 211, the state-funded universal hotline dedicated to providing resources. Additionally, the Ocean County Board of Social Services stands ready to aid those with housing concerns.

The Hope Chest Food Pantry serves as a resource for those experiencing food insecurity, while the Joy of Angels Thrift Shoppe offers items at low costs and also supplements programs.

“People can come and get a meal on Tuesdays and Thursdays,” said Monika Sisbarro, who together with her husband Fred are very active in the church. “We invite everybody to come and have lunch with us.” Sisbarro emphasized the inclusive nature of their meals. “You wouldn’t be able to tell who’s struggling – living in their car, tent, or even a house. They come from all over because they like our company.”

The church further assists the community with Code Blue accommodations during harsh weather. “Many who utilize the church during Code Blue are working individuals,” Sisbarro shared. “It’s really sad to see people willing to work who can’t afford a place to live.”

Those interested in transitional housing at Mount Zion can find information on Vetwork’s website or by calling (609) 971-7613.

Information about other programs facilitated by the Lacey United Methodist Church can be obtained by calling (609) 693-5222.

BlueClaws:

Continued From Page 1

BlueClaws Director of Partnership Services

Zack Nicol, Sr. was busy providing one to a family who got an overview of the field from one of the 16 luxury suites.

“This is a nice fi rst look at the ballpark. I think there was 5,800 and something seats here. There are also picnic areas and our party decks. We got new ownership in 2018 so we have a whole lot of new stuff here,” he said.

Nicol added, “we have a nine-hole minigolf course at right field. I can’t name any other team that has that so that is pretty cool. Center field has trailers that open up to be boardwalk games - hoop shots, balloon darts, and ring toss. We have some infl atable attractions as well. That is our kid’s area.”

He noted the adult area includes “our sand bar where we have our thirsty Thursdays and summer concert series. This is a really cool ball park. When you come to a game, make sure you check out all the places. There is so much going on here that people aren’t sitting in their seats as much.”

Nicol said that “we started revamping these luxury suites and we are looking to revamp all of them in the next handful of years. They hold typically between 20 to 25 people. You have the outdoor and indoor seating so this is great if it is raining or cool. There is a TV in here, you can do your own catering, you have your own suite server. Depending on the time of year you’re looking at between $600 to $800 range to rent it out for a game.”

Another recent addition is a shore themed bar and food area inside the stadium near the entry areas for the luxury suites.

Giombarrese shared a fun fact, “we’ve had 807 players play for the BlueClaws. Our oldest player was a 30-year-old and our youngest was 19. We have had 123 players who have made it to the pros; we just had one do it two days ago.”

He told Jersey Shore Online.com that among the special events that the park offers, “we have this program (Veterans Night Out) where we collect names of fallen military heroes and then for our Military Appreciation Night game in July, these heroes’ names are placed on the back of jerseys worn by BlueClaws players. Then after the game, the jerseys are presented to the families of the fallen heroes in a very moving ceremony.”

McLane said “we have a similar program that honors fi rst responders as well. Our Kid’s Night Out program is similar in nature to our Vets Night Out program, but serves underserved youth throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties. We want to make sure that people that don’t normally have the ability to come to the ball park and enjoy all the fun things that others do to come out and give them a

taste of what we have going on.”

“They coincide with our Medusa games through the co-initiative of minor league baseball and there are three of them on the calendar this year,” McLane added. He stressed that the environment he wants to promote is “family friendly and fun atmosphere. We specialize in the three-to-four-hour vacation so that families can come to the ball park right in their back yard, forget about life for a little

bit and give everybody the opportunity to come to ShoreTown and not worry about the outside world.”

When asked if the team has a slogan, McLane noted that the original slogan was “great family entertainment just got closer to home.” He said that “Greg (Giombarrese) and I have been talking about this, not that we have one for this season but we are really leaning into the idea that ‘ShoreTown is your town.’”

He added this came “with the idea that we went through the rebrand (from the Lakewood BlueClaws to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws) and the purpose was to really re-enforce the fact that we are that regional brand.”

“We are our own little beach town here in Lakewood and letting people know that it doesn’t matter where you are from, this is the place you can call home and it’s yours,” McLane added.

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).

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Start Wearing Hearing Aids Earlier In Life!

Neurodegenerative dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease are a major health problem in the aging worldwide population. The number of people living with dementia is projected to increase 57% in the next two decades. This rising global prevalence, combined with the lack of effective drugs, has made the prevalence of dementia a public health concern. A recent study showed that intervention on risk factors not including hypertension might prevent 35% of dementia cases and that the strongest midlife risk factor for dementia is hearing impairment. Because hearing impairment is prevalent, alleviating it might delay the point older adults cross the critical threshold of impairment into dementia. In fact, the prevalence of hearing impairment increases to 90% of individuals age 85 years or older.

Thus, the timing of beginning hearing aid use is crucial in the success of hearing aids as an intervention in old age. It is well documented that most folks will procrastinate at least 7-10 years before they even get a hearing test. Yet, we have yearly eye exams, dental checks, and routine screenings for skin cancer. This is all preventive medicine.

It is my professional opinion that once you turn 50 years of age, you should have a complete hearing evaluation. Early identification of hearing impairment coupled with consistent hearing aid use will improve cognitive function and potentially delay the onset of cognitive decline.

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer your questions about important hearing care issues. Please feel free to contact Dr. Izzy at 732-451-3962 or ikirsh@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!

Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally

OCEAN COUNTY - Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 888-944-5678.

5 Simple Strategies For Thyroid Wellness

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Today I’m bringing light to a topic close to my heart and vital for our well-being: Thyroid health. With a staggering number of us tangled in the web of thyroid disorders, and Levothyroxine in the top 5 medications annually prescribed, it’s time we take charge of this small butterfly-shaped gland.

Many unknowingly are hypothyroid. The thyroid gland keeps us warm, makes us think clearly, and helps burn fat. If you are fatigued, or losing your hair or eyebrows, it might not be working well.

Given that up to 20 million Americans are on this roller coaster, most without awareness, we need a game plan. Here are some tips to help you feel better:

1. Embrace Minerals: Our thyroid thrives on minerals. Selenium? Two Brazil nuts a day keep the deficiency away. Magnesium and iodine are two of your thyroid’s best friends, so eat seafood and leafy greens. Consider high-quality supplements of those for optimal effects.

2. Stress Less: Our modern nemesis, stress, can throw a wrench in the works. Be sure to breathe, stretch, go to yoga or practice relaxation techniques that you like.

3. Cook Your Greens: Yes, broccoli and its cruciferous cousins are fabulous, but they’re also goitrogenic if eaten raw. A quick steam can disarm them, making them thyroid-friendly.

4. Avoid Gluten: It’s inflammatory. Keto diets aren’t universal fixes but could be golden for Hashimoto’s patients. Listen to your body and avoid common allergenic

foods, artificial ingredients and anything that makes you feel worse after eating it.

5. Moderate Soy Intake: Isoflavones in soy can be party poopers for your thyroid. Balance is key so moderate your intake.

Navigating thyroid health is akin to art which requires patience, precision, and a dash of intuition. For those of you on thyroid meds, it’s not just about popping pills but understanding the symphony between T4 and T3 hormones. Sometimes, a medication tweak or a shift to Natural Desiccated Thyroid (NDT) formulations could work better than either T4 or T3 alone.

I have articles at my website to help you that explain all of this and what to do, so please use my search box to read all the articles I’ve archived online for you.

Your journey to thyroid wellness is unique. Whether you’re battling fatigue, brain fog, or hair thinning, you can still fine-tune things. If you want to start a family soon, or are in the recovery phase from a recent surgery, prioritizing thyroid equilibrium can enhance your healing process.

In the quest for optimal health, whatever your condition is, understanding and nurturing our thyroid is paramount. It’s a master gland because it controls so many major aspects of your life. And the lab tests that some physicians use don’t tell the whole story. Your symptoms do.

Embrace the tips I’ve shared with you here and consult with your healthcare guardian angels. To receive the longer version of this article, just sign up for my free weekly newsletter at suzycohen.com.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2024 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

If You Are A Victim Of An Accident Or Other Incident Then Remember That Social Media Is Not Your Friend

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

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 find 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. 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.

be seen as an attempt to destroy evidence.

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.

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 first. It could

For this reason, keep in mind the following:

• 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 time-stamped 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 firm 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.

MONDAY, APRIL 15TH, TUESDAY, APRIL 16TH & WENESDAY, APRIL 17TH 10:00AM - 5:00PM

GOLD IS AT AN ALL TIME HIGH! $2,150 PER OZ!

MON., APRIL 15TH, TUES., APRIL 16TH & WED., APRIL 17TH 10AM-5PM

The Jersey Shore continues to be quite picturesque, especially in those obscure places. Recently, 13-year-old Lila Vasconcelos of Bayville took this awesome shot at Bayview. Have a pic of the Jersey Shore you would like to share with us and our readers? Email it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

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

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL-

RY 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)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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. 732-849-6068 (new number). (t/n)

CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (44)

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)

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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)

World War I & II

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

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

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)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Also offering typing services. Very good prices. 732-330-4189, 848-287-3944. (t/n)

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LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)

Painting - Special Fall Pricing. Interior/Exterior. Meticulous work. All materials and jobs guaranteed. Fully licensed and insured. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (47)

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)

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R.C. Shea and Associates is seeking to hire a paralegal with civil/commercial litigation experience as well as an administrative assistant. Pay and benefits commensurate with experience. Please call Pam Williams, office manager at (732) 505-1212 or email at pwilliams@rcshea.com (t/n)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)

Roofing - Covering the Jersey Shore since 1984.

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (21) Services

DIRECTV Sports Pack - 3

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A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (17)

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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)

Lifeguards Needed For Lake Horicon

LAKEHURST – The Lakehurst Police Department is now hiring lifeguards for the 2024 season. They are seeking qualified applicants for the position at Lake Horicon. Qualifications – the following are a plus; however training will be provided if need be: American Red Cross Lifeguard Training

American Red Cross Community First Aid & Safety

American Red Cross CPR for the Professional Rescuer

The starting hourly rate for this position is $18 per hour. For more information, visit lakehurstpolice.org/employment.

Crestwood Village 3 Movie Night

WHITING – Crestwood Village 3 Movie Night showing “Blacklight” will be on April 19 at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; Movie starts at 7 p.m. Donation of $5 per person at door.

Includes: one can of soda, a candy bar, and bottomless fresh popped popcorn. Bring your own chair if you prefer.

Call 1-848-227-1118 or email CWV3residentclubevents@gmail.com for more information.

Lakeside Garden Club Annual Flea Market

WHITING – Lakeside Garden Club will be holding the only annual Flea Market in Cedar Glen Lakes on May 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lakeside Hall, 100 Michigan Avenue, Whiting.

Tables are $15. For information and table reservations call 609-618-4036. Breakfast and lunch will be available for purchase. This is always a sellout event so call early!

EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

Where Do Birds Go At Night?

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

Ever wonder where birds go at night? During the day we see them, for instance, songbirds – those you might see at your bird feeders, perching on tree limbs or hanging out in shrubs. Those birds who are nesting, hatching eggs and then caring for their young, are obviously using their nests for that. Once the young have fledged (left the nest for good), you might be surprised to know they no longer have a use for the nests.

is daylight.

Let’s see where a few species roost. Some birds are easy to identify where they roost. Swifts, crows, and starlings gather in large groups around dusk where they sleep in a common area. If you follow their groups at night, you might be lucky and see where they settle. Birds such as goldfinches, chickadees, and sparrows are very subtle when it comes to their roosting habits. They prefer not to call attention to themselves, so they sleep in smaller groups, finding small areas where they tuck themselves in. Roosting sites for pigeons are obvious – they like sides of buildings and parking garages, for instance.

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Depending on the species, the locations where they go will vary, but they all consider their ‘roost sites,’ being a safe place. They will utilize the same location each night, which could include tree branches, inside the cavities of trees and buildings, and even sheltered bushes or shrubs. Roosting as a community, there can be as many as dozens, hundreds or even thousands of birds traveling to their site each evening. Some birds occupy seasonal roosts, which changes depending upon the time of year. Spring and fall migrating birds will travel at night to different locations. Nocturnal species will do their roosting and sleeping while there

Birds sleep in a perched position which causes their toes to squeeze and secure their hold on their roosting spot. Birds are fascinating creatures and when you pay attention, can provide much enjoyment.

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.

Upcoming Senior/Grandparent Day At Lakehurst School

LAKEHURST – The Lakehurst Education Association, in conjunction with NJEA, is sponsoring a Senior/Grandparent Day at the Lakehurst Elementary School on May 23 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with registration beginning at 9:30 a.m. and a warm welcome which will begin at 10 a.m.

Tours of the school will be available for the guests, followed by a light lunch. All seniors who reside in Lakehurst, as well as any grandparents or great-grandparents of a Lakehurst Elementary School student, are invited to attend. Please contact the school at 732-657-5741 by May 3 if you plan to attend or need additional information.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Call 811 To Avoid Risking Disruption Of Critical Services

WALL – April is National Safe Digging Month and recognized as the start of “dig season.” With the warmer weather approaching, New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) encourages residents to drop that shovel and call 811 before beginning any project that requires digging.

A recent national survey* from the Common Ground Alliance indicates over 50% of homeowners in the U.S. plan to complete an outdoor, do-it-yourself project over the next 12 months, while 26.9 million Americans will put themselves and their communities at risk by not calling 811 before starting a digging project. NJNG reminds residents it is the law in New Jersey to call 811 for a free markout of underground utility lines for all residential and commercial excavation jobs — from planting a shrub to large construction projects. It could be the difference between your safety and potentially a costly and dangerous incident.

According to the Common Ground Alliance, one of the top reasons homeowners do not call for a markout of underground utilities is they are unfamiliar with the 811-notification process, especially when it comes to shallow digging projects. Even small projects like planting a garden or installing a mailbox or fence post require a call to 811 since many utilities are buried just a few inches below ground.

“When residents don’t contact 811 at least three business days before digging, they put themselves and their neighbors at serious risk of injury and utility service interruptions,” said John Wyckoff, vice president of Energy Delivery, New Jersey Natural Gas. “We encourage residents to be our partners in safety and emphasize the importance of contacting 811 for anyone who plans to dig, so they can safely avoid hitting buried lines.”

Digging without knowing the approximate location of underground utility lines can result in serious injury or death, inconvenient service disruptions, and costly fines and repairs. Hitting underground natural

gas, electric, communications, water and sewer lines while digging can have a major impact on communities and businesses. So, whoever plans on digging — a homeowner, contractor or excavator — should call 811 for a free markout of underground utility lines to help maintain essential utility service for their communities and the safety of themselves and their neighbors by reducing the likelihood of accidentally digging into buried utility lines.

As part of National Safe Digging Month, NJNG encourages everyone to take the following steps when planning a digging project this spring:

• Always call 811 at least three business days and not more than 10 business days before digging, regardless of the depth or familiarity with the property.

• Plan ahead. Make a free 811 request on Monday or Tuesday for work planned for an upcoming weekend, providing ample time for the approximate location of lines to be marked.

• Confirm all lines have been marked. Yellow indicates the presence of underground natural gas lines. (Expect a positive response from utilities in your area.)

• Hand dig and locate the facility and consider moving the location of your project if it is near utility line markings.

• If a contractor has been hired, confirm that the contractor has contacted 811. Don’t allow work to begin if the lines aren’t marked.

• Visit 811beforeyoudig.com for complete information.

Everyone who contacts 811 a few days before digging is connected to New Jersey One Call, which takes the caller’s information and communicates it to local utility companies. Professional locators will then visit the dig site to mark the approximate location of underground utility lines with spray paint, flags or both. Once a site has been accurately marked, hand dig within two feet of the outer area of the marked underground utility lines.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): If single, searching for love may change the way you see the world. Take time away from the search to discover new pals or reconnect with existing friends. Changing your focus should make a change in your energy.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20):

Manifesting your best life involves more than simply wishing and visualization. Work with the Universe by taking concrete action in the world to move your desires forward toward actualization.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Challenging times may cause people to get creative with credit when finances are tight. However, an increased debt load comes with higher payments. Shift your focus to reducing debt for future financial stability.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : It’s helpful to have an abundance of information. Your knowledge could prepare you for unexpected circumstances and allow you to help others. Become well-versed to confidently handle whatever situation may arise.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Don’t leave your budget up to chance; take inventory of any unknowns related to your finances. Shift your attention to your current situation and work with the facts you have to create a grounded plan.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Release your desire to fit in while getting clear on your interests. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and allow your authentic self to magnetize people and opportunities to you. What is meant for you, will find you.

FOR THE WEEK OF APR 13 - APR 19

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): A lack of leadership could lead to imbalance; everyone could be focused on their own projects without any thoughts about the big picture. You might have the ability to steer everyone towards cohesion.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): It’s natural for your priorities and interests to change as you evolve. Change means growth and new possibilities. Decide on your focus and start working to make your new dream happen.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) : Make good lifestyle choices daily to improve your health. Maintain your focus; remember life is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t lose sight of your goals during moments of boredom or frustration.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : Certain things in life might lead to confusing and unexpected interactions. People could react in similar or different ways. You can’t assume someone will be a perfect fit because they could thrive in a different environment.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Unusual schedules and distractions may have distanced you from your tribe. Prioritize nurturing these relationships, become the friend your friends deserve. Simply showing up can be a great way to show you care. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) : Not everyone is willing to take responsibility, but some may be eager to share their thoughts. Have the courage to stand up for what you believe in, even when others may not be able to do the same.

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