2024-06-22 - The Jackson Times

LiBrArY TrAnSfOrMs InTo PaRaDiSe IsLaNd

Dancers of Paradise Island Entertainment provide some dance moves during a recent performance at the Plumsted Library.

By Bob Vosseller

PLUMSTED – Danc-

ers, drummers and a hostess all helped transform the meeting room of the township library into a tropical paradise.

Members of the Berlin New Jersey based Paradise Island Entertainment group provided a luau show to several Ocean County Library branches during Asian Pacific Month recently. They shared some tropical island culture

that included audience participation at the Plumsted Library.

The entertainers included hostess Marie DiLeonardo, drummer Sefo Valinote and dancers Jecamille Maniwang, Sydney Maniwang, Carleigh Bernardo and Laureanna Holgado.

DiLeonardo provided some commentary about the various island cultures as she introduced the dancers following costume

Pre-School Program Expanding

By Bob Vosseller

PLUMSTED – Superintendent David Ytreboe recently provided some important news concerning the school district’s pre-school program and the reactivation of a dormant school district facility to accommodate that program.

Ytreboe said, “I wanted to bring some good news and this is in reference to our pre-school program. We have been selected to get a New Jersey funded pre-school program. This was two years ago so we started with two classrooms and we expanded to four classrooms and this year

we had six classrooms.

The classrooms are at the elementary school and are for three- and four-year-olds.”

“The reason why this is a New Jersey funded program - meaning it is separate from the taxpayer’s general fund

(Pre SchoolSee Page 17)

changes and in between numbers.

Valinote shared with The Jackson Times , the interesting love story that brought the entertainers together. “Our group goes back 40 years and it all started in the island of Samoa where our family is from. They moved to Hawaii and danced in the luau shows in Hawaii and from there they came to New Jersey through a love story.”

“How that started is that there was an audience member who participated just like everyone else here and she was from Deptford New Jersey and she fell in love with the fire knife dancer who was my uncle. That is how our whole family came to be in New Jersey and from there they started a luau show in the 1980s and we’ve been doing it ever since, carrying it on from generation to generation and now we have 25 dancers, male and female and full live band, guitar, bass, drums, vocalists,” he added.

Valinote said, “we do over 100 shows a summer up and down the east coast from Connecticut down to Delaware.

“We’ve been doing this for a long time. We were in diapers dancing together and

(Library - See Page 4)

Woodlane Park Playground To Be Upgraded

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON –

Woodlane Park will see the installation of new playground equipment, which was detailed at a recent Township Council meeting.

The existing playground at Woodlane Park is small and needs to be updated. The Council discussed the upgrade project which is the first of several being planned at township parks in the near future.

Greg Powell from Ben Schaefer Recreation presented a detailed proposal to officials and the public. He explained that the project involved replacing the existing small structure with a more extensive and inclusive playground setup, which includes advanced features tailored to differ-

ent age groups. He detailed the components of the proposed playground, which are designed to cater to two main age groups: ages two to five and ages five to 12.

The younger children’s area will include a shaded play structure that will protect youngsters from sun exposure. For older children, a new line from Burke, called the Aspire line, will be introduced, featuring towers linked by rope climbers, a design not yet seen in New Jersey.

“The design we have here is something that is recommended to come down in the winter time around October or November and put back up in the spring. You just don’t want any snow loads put on that,”

(PlaygroundSee Page 4)

First Responders Celebrated For Courage

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER - The 200 Club of Ocean County shone a light on bravery and dedication at their 35th Annual Awards Reception.

Over two dozen local first responders and a Berkeley councilman received recognition for their courage and unwavering commitment

to the safety of Ocean County residents. The evening began with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department’s Color Guard presenting the colors. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer, the county’s chief law enforcement officer, was among the officials who acknowledged the

(200 ClubSee Page 5)

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Jackson Police Officers Davis DeJesus and Tyler Melnick with Senator Carmen Amato, Ocean County Prosecutor Brad Billhimer , and 200 Club of Ocean Trustees.

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

singing and we are very excited to continue the tradition here for all of you today,” his wife DiLeonardo added.

DiLeonardo told the audience “All the music you hear today and the singing is Sefo who is playing the guitar and bass and drums on all of the tracks.”

meaning of love, compassion, sympathy, kindness and its use in Hawaii has a seriousness lacking in the Tahitian and Samoan meanings. It is believed that the fi rst expression of aloha was between a parent and child.

“Do we know how to say goodbye? Love? Aloha doesn’t necessarily mean hello or goodbye it means love and it means spirit and family and all-encompassing things,” the hostess added.

audience. “The long one is Aotearoa. In New Zealand they do a dance with the poi ball which is a braided string with a pom pom at the end and a ball.”

the faster Sefo will beat the drum.

She said some common Hawaiian words such as hula and aloha. Aloha is the Hawaiian word for love, affection, peace, compassion and mercy. It is commonly used as a greeting but also has a deeper cultural and spiritual significance to native Hawaiians, for whom the term is used to defi ne a force that holds together existence. The word is also found in all Polynesian languages and always with the same basic

Along with Hawaii and Tahiti the dancers performed some favorites from New Zealand which consists of more than 600 islands - most of which are remnants of a larger land mass that now lies beneath the ocean. New Zealand is the sixth-largest island country, and the third-largest located entirely in the Southern Hemisphere.

“Does anyone know the island name for New Zealand?” DiLeonardo asked the

Playground:

Continued From Page 1

Powell said.

Powell said, “This is an ages 5 to 12 structure here but it goes up to a height of 16-foot decks. (It is) one of our newest lines this year with these little towers linked to these rope climbers. It is something new to us and completely unique and we haven’t seen a lot of this throughout the state of New Jersey.” He noted that it would include three bays of swings featuring various seat options, such as

belt seats, the traditional type swings, toddler, and ADA-accessible seats. There is also a “connection seat where a mother/father could sit there with their child in the lap and there is a little plastic part that comes down.”

Powell also talked about free-standing pieces like a board rocker and a sensory area with musical instruments to enhance the play experience. “It is kind of a snowboarding type deal where you rock back and forth. It is pretty cool as it includes a lot of people at the same time.”

Council members emphasized the inclusion of safety features. Powell explained the playground surfacing was designed to reduce

The poi ball dance is a traditional dance form that originated in New Zealand. It is a rhythmic dance that involves the use of poi, which are balls attached to strings. The dancers skillfully manipulate the poi in a variety of ways, creating mesmerizing patterns and rhythms. DiLeonardo noted, “poi balls used to be fi lled with something heavy like rocks but today we fi ll them with tissue paper. Although we won’t do this today, we do light them on fi re when we perform outside but no fi re today” Valinote’s drumming skills are often put to the test. His wife remarked, “we are going to start nice and slow and we want the audience to go with the beat of the drum with a clap and the faster you clap

injury risks from falls. “Surfacing is needed for the playground because if a child does fall the absorption impacts of the surface will help prevent head injuries.”

A seating area will include three six-foot traditional tables, and another with an ADA extension. Council Vice President Scott Sargent asked if the seating would be “concreted in or are they portable?”

“These are portable,” Powell replied. “If you are worried about them walking away, we will be anchoring them.”

“The residents in this neighborhood have been waiting for this much needed upgrade

DiLeonardo asked audience members if they had ever been to Hawaii and the other tropical spots brought up during the program. She also called upon women and later men to don some grass skirts and follow along some basic dance moves before the audience.

Some audience members even got the chance to drum along with Sefo with some drums on loan.

“We get to go to the islands quite often and we’ve gone to Tahiti as well,” she added.

The group will return to Ocean County this summer as part of Manchester Township’s summer concert series Hawaiian Luau show. To learn more about the group’s performances, visit their website at paradisehula.com. Their Instagram is: @paradiseluaushow. Library: Continued From Page 1

and we’re delivering it,” Council President Jennifer Kuhn said.

Officials discussed some of the practical aspects of the playground’s maintenance and durability, noting a warranty of 100 years on metal parts and a 15-year warranty on plastic components treated with UV protection to prevent sunlight degradation. They also talked about the need for ADA-compliant access.

Mayor Michael Reina issued a statement about the project noting that “since taking office, it has always been my priority to make sure Jackson’s parks and recreational facilities

(Playground - See Page 17)

200 Club:

contributions of the honorees. Senator Carmen Amato (R-9) presented resolutions to the award recipients on behalf of the state legislature.

Valor In The Face Of Danger

Sgt. Paul Bachovchin of the Manchester Police Department stood out for his courageous actions during a tense standoff with an armed, suicidal individual.

“The Manchester Police Department received a call from a representative of a local Addiction Treatment Center, alerting them to a life-threatening situation,” said 200 Club of Ocean County President David G. Paulus. “Involving an individual who was traveling from Maryland to their location, claiming he was going to take his own life.”

Paulus said the individual was armed with a .22 caliber firearm, and when he stopped on a local road, he pointed it at his own head. Bachovchin was credited with persuading the individual to drop the firearm without harming himself.

“The sergeant utilized de-escalation training, maintained his composure, displayed patience, discipline, and good judgment,” summed up Paulus. “And with compassion and empathy, effectively saved the man’s life.”

victim from a fully engulfed burning vehicle. Caruso and LaValle were traveling in the area of the reported call for the vehicle fire on Route 70 and were the first on the scene. Upon their arrival, they noticed a person was trapped underneath the overturned, fully engulfed vehicle.

“The crew attempted to remove the victim, but his lower extremities were pinned beneath the roof of the car and the ground,” Paulus said.

The EMTs, together with Officers Jacobs and Rusk attempted to extinguish the flames but were not able to successfully do so because it was fully engulfed. The four lifted the vehicle enough to remove the trapped victim and move them to a safe location where he was then quickly taken to the hospital.

“This was a tragedy that was averted because of the bravery and total disregard of their own personal safety of these officers and EMTs while saving a life,” added Paulus.

Jackson Police Officers Davis DeJesus and Tyler Melnick were commended for their skillful de-escalation tactics during the apprehension of a disturbed individual wielding several knives.

Paulus said the officers covered the subject with their firearms and employed outstanding de-escalation techniques, ultimately convincing him to disarm himself and surrender.

“The rational thinking and dialogue of the officers created a successful and peaceful outcome,” Paulus summed up. “And tragedy was averted.”

Lifesaving Actions

The ceremony also acknowledged first responders whose quick thinking and decisive actions made a lifesaving difference. Patrolman Ryan Saul of the Manchester Police received a Life Saving Award for his swift medical intervention, potentially preventing a tragedy.

Saul responded to a residence following a report that an individual was experiencing significant bleeding from his leg and losing consciousness. The bleeding was attributed to a rare medical disorder. The officer applied a tourniquet to effectively control the bleeding and stabilize the victim for medivac air transportation.

individualized training and coordinated with each other to jump into action,” shared Paulus. “They systemically began performing CPR on the victim with the eventual help of an AED.”

Continued From Page 1 (200 Club - See Page 14)

“The victim was brought back to life,” Paulus continued. “He was transported to hospital for treatment, where he was later released. The quick actions of these four individuals saved the man’s life.”

Life-Saving Awards were also presented to Berkeley Patrolman Donald Rowley and Councilman Thomas Grosse for their swift medical assistance during a holiday party. They were able to perform CPR on a gentleman whose family sent a letter in to thank the first responders.

The victim’s family thanked Rowley and Grosse for springing into action without hesitation and for bringing him back to life. Doctors who treated him after his cardiac arrest told him he should have bought a lottery ticket, as he survived, but many others aren’t as lucky.

First responders from Lakewood took center stage for an amazing act of quick response. EMTs Ross Caruso and Evan LaValle, alongside Lakewood Police Officers Kevin Jacobs and Joseph Rusk, received Valor Awards for their selfless act of bravery in rescuing a

According to Paulus, the two officers responded to a residence where an individual was acting irrationally and refusing to return to a substance abuse rehab center. When DeJesus and Melnick first arrived on the scene, the man was outside. He quickly retreated inside his house and locked himself there with his wife.

“As they (the officers) approached the stairs inside,” said Paulus. “The individual quickly appeared, wielding several knives.”

“The quick and adaptive emergency response demonstrated by this patrolman, along with his accurate application of the tourniquet, proved instrumental in saving this person’s life,” said Paulus.

Teamwork among well-trained individuals who were all off-duty saved the life of a man who experienced a heart attack at a local gym.

Manchester Township EMT Dylan Tortorelli, Point Pleasant EMT Joshua Menack, and Toms River Police Officers Alex Van Lew and Charles Grainger were lauded for their lifesaving efforts.

“These four random individuals used their

“But to him, he already won the lottery,” wrote the family. “By being able to see his family again…Last December, our family had our very own Christmas miracle, and that was because of your actions.”

Manchester Police Sgt. Charles Gatnarek and Patrolmen Steven Wendruff, Robert Campolei, and Kamar Gainey received lifesaving awards for apprehending an armed individual during a domestic violence incident.

Responding to a call where a woman reported being stabbed by her son, officers arrived at the scene and swiftly escorted the

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Town Meetings Aren’t Real Life

Looking back on years of being a local reporter, I’ve discovered a misconception – within my profession and with the public. And that is the importance of town meetings. This applies to Board of Education meetings as well, but I’m going to refer to them as town meetings throughout this editorial.

A town meeting becomes a bubble. People within the bubble think that the entire town is represented in that little meeting. That’s simply not true.

Most people go through their day, go to work, watch TV, talk to a few people, and then do the same thing the next day. They have no clue what happens at town meetings. They don’t even know who their elected representatives are. When I write about what happens at meetings, I’ll often explain what an ordinance or resolution is because I didn’t know what these things were until I had it explained to me, too.

Real life is what people can see. Traffic on their way somewhere. The increased costs at the grocery store. Their neighbors doing something illegal. These are the things people know about. These are the things people care about.

Toms River has seen some big political struggles this year. But if you watch the meetings online – before the town deletes them, that is –you’ll see there’s only maybe 400 viewers. In a town of 90,000 people, there’s just 400 people watching, and the same 20 or 30 people that

actually show up. The Toms River Board of Education has even fewer people watching, and that board additionally serves the populations of Beachwood, Pine Beach, and South Toms River. The last meeting I watched had 30 views. No one cares unless there’s a huge controversy. There’s actually a huge issue going on with the Toms River schools right now – their lack of funding from the state. I guess that issue isn’t interesting enough to people to tune in.

I’ve seen politicians give big presentations during town meetings. Give big speeches. They don’t realize that the only people who hear this are a few hundred people. A drop in the bucket of their entire constituency.

I’ve seen members of the public make valid points, and some yell angrily. But the only people who hear it are the same few hundred people. That might sound like a lot of people but it’s not. In some ways, it’s preaching to the choir. The political insiders and those few people in the know already understand the issues. You’re not reaching any new ears. Everyone who watches a few meetings figures out what’s going on pretty quickly. They’re all in the bubble with you.

The tens of thousands of other people in town have no idea what you’re talking about.

Chris Lundy News Editor

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.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Thank You For Your Vote

Regina and I would like to thank all the Democrats, unaffiliated voters and Republicans who voted for us. The Democratic County Committee and leadership rejected our bid for the party line in a vote of 174 to 51. Yet the voters have shown that the county committee and leadership are seriously out of line with the Democrats in Ocean County in this split victory for us.

Democrats are tired of the Democratic County leadership’s collusion with George Gilmore, and they have spoken. The lawsuit of Congressman Andy Kim has changed the Democratic primary ballot that will increase democracy for every Democratic primary election from now on.

We are looking forward to the general election and will ask every Democrat, Unaffiliated voter and Republican to vote for Regina. We will ask every voter to join us in this quest to stop the high taxes, ridiculous purchases, and the bossism of George Gilmore.

In the last three years, the County Commissioners have raised taxes 24.8 percent even though they used federal American Rescue Plan Act funds of $103 million!

The County Commissioners refuse to have a permanent shelter for the homeless even though they purchased a voting system in 2023 for $10 million that duplicated the votes in six districts in four towns in Monmouth County in 2022! And this does not seem to be a system wide problem outside Monmouth County. Just how reliable can it be? And they also purchased a fi rearm range in Little Egg Harbor in 2023 for $10.5 million even though it was assessed at 100 percent at $5.4 million!

The County Commissioners have now formed a commission for the homeless! The County Commissioners have their priorities mixed up. A commission

should have been established to look at the need for a new voting system and firearm range, but a permanent shelter for the homeless should have been made!

The County Commissioner meetings are held at four o’clock in the afternoon when it is inconvenient for most residents to attend. It is time that a video of the County Commissioner meetings be available on Youtube or some other media so that Ocean County residents can understand how their taxes are spent in a budget of more than $565 million!

Again, thank you!

Regina Discenza and Joseph Lamb

The Decline Of Patriotism

The evident decline of patriotism in our area recently is of tremendous concern to some of us. Here are three quick examples, though more could be cited.

First, regarding the “Patriotic Rock” on Route 539 in Manchester, the one decorated beautifully with the painted American flag. This rock was vandalized not once, but twice recently. Thomas Sarno, a retired New York city police officer, and Laurie Lamola, a USAF veteran, worked very hard for several days to remove the tar after the first time, only to have the rock abused again by those who may or may not realize that it’s a crime to deface the American flag. The shameful defacing of our flag pained many, but especially local veterans as it occurred during the time of year near Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day.

On the very day the Patriotic Rock was pronounced fully restored, May 19th, a fi rst-time event took place at the Whiting Town Center parking lot. My fiancee and I did not attend the event but we were going for our weekly meal at the Heritage Restaurant and had to pass through the

tents and booths of this event (we estimate 300-400 were in attendance) to get to the Heritage. Though this event fi lled up the entire Whiting Town Center parking lot, all the way from the entrance on Route 530 to the other end of the lot by the Book store, there was not one American flag to be seen anywhere! Not one! This neglect made us sad, and we were not alone. (We do, however, commend the Heritage for their patriotic display inside the foyer of their restaurant! Too bad there was none of it in that event outside).

One more example of the decline of patriotism in our area. In early May there was the annual “National Day of Prayer” and I think that everyone from every church and denomination in Whiting would agree that America needs prayer!! Yet precious few churches remembered the day, failing to direct their congregations to call upon God for our spiritual needs in a concentrated manner. Some who used to do this faithfully in years past made no mention of the day in their service the Sunday before, this time around. Prayer for one’s nation is not just a spiritual duty, but a patriotic one! The excuse that “Covid changed everything” is no good reason for a church dropping the “National Day of Prayer” because God’s Word hasn’t changed and neither has the fi rst Thursday of May been changed from being a day of intensified intercession. In closing, the 80th anniversary of D-Day is June 6th. Flag Day is June 14th, and of course Independence Day is the 4th of July. Perhaps we can use these occasions to begin to reverse the decline of patriotism in our area?

Chet Jelinski Whiting

Real RINOs

Beware of people who are oblivious to the obvious. People who lose an elec-

tion, and believe they won. Not based on evidence. But based on what they “feel.” I am a Conservative. Many Republicans today delude themselves by calling me a RINO (Republican In Name Only). True Conservatives believe in the Constitution, democracy, and the rule of law. Donald Trump only believes in himself. Every other value, or person, is expendable. Don’t believe me? Pay attention when he speaks. Then watch what he does. Do you really believe if you are loyal to him, you are “special?” If that pitch sounds like a cult, it’s because it is.

Today there are even people in some churches whose words and deeds imitate Donald more than they do Jesus. Like Donald, they mistake bluster for courage. They need to feel like they are brave. But they hate real courage. Remember when Donald referred to John McCain as a loser because he had been captured when his jet was shot down in Vietnam? Donald hated McCain for possessing something Donald lacks completely: character. When McCain was offered an early release because his father was an Admiral, he declined because it violated the military code of being released in order of capture. Can you imagine Donald turning down that deal? You can’t. Donald is incapable of putting anyone, or any ideal, above himself. To not see that, you might be a bright person. But you have surrendered your common sense.

Listen to him talking code to encourage cowards to make anonymous threats, against prosecutors, judges, witnesses, poll workers, political opponents, journalists, or anyone else he feels threatened by. Republicans stuck on Trump (the real RINOs) are stuck on stupid. Will the Party be too?

James Tweed Ocean City

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

An Adventure In Finding Tra c Solutions

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

TRENTON - It’s that time of year again when visitors from all around New Jersey, neighboring states and elsewhere flock to Jackson to enjoy the attractions at Six Flags Great Adventure, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Families, younger people and others come for a fun day, or days, of riding the rides, cooling off at Hurricane Harbor, enjoying the entertainment, and soon – glamping.

Unfortunately, this summer fun often brings a downside that affects visitors and local residents alike. Traffic on I-195, its on- and off-ramps, and Route 537 can be bad to nightmarish.

Particularly when looking back at 2021, as people were emerging from the pandemic lockdowns and energized about a more normal summer, the roads were a horrendous mess. There were two-mile backups in each direction on Route 537, and 4-5 mile backups on I-195 eastbound from the Great Adventure gate.

Drivers were cutting across Route 537 to

get into the park, blocking traffic in the opposite lanes.

The Jackson police were flooded with calls about these dangerous and chaotic conditions, placing a strain on dispatchers.

Traffic problems there persist, of course. This is not just a nuisance issue, but a safety issue. Along with my colleague Assemblyman Rob Clifton, I’ve been working with various stakeholders to break through the gridlock on planning and funding that has been causing gridlock on our roads.

In March of this year, we received assurances that state funding will finally be provided to address the bottleneck on Rt. 537 at the I-195 overpass. We believe that this project will have a positive impact not only for Jackson residents, but also those of surrounding communities such as Plumsted, Millstone and Upper Freehold. Days later, we met with top officials of Six Flags and the nearby Adventure Crossing USA, local town officials, a representative of the Monmouth County Commissioners and the county engineer. It was a great opportunity to lay out some ideas and hear what the engineer had to say about them. The management teams of Six Flags and Adventure Crossing have been great to work

with and clearly want the traffic issues solved as much as anyone.

We discussed everything from signage improvements to physical issues with the I-195 ramps. Signs could better guide drivers unfamiliar with the area, both on the way to Six Flags and on the way out. Six Flags may be able to do some things on its own property to make sure departing traffic takes the appropriate route.

It was decided that we would give the engineer time to review and consider what was discussed, and then meet again to make more progress. In the interim, Assemblyman Clifton, who sits on the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee, has met with the acting head of the state Department of Transportation and discussed the issue, including movement toward a high-level meeting with us in the next few weeks which is now on the calendar.

Because these discussions are not finalized, I can’t provide specifics yet on how and when improvements will be made. But with the assurances on funding availability and the engagement we’re getting at high levels, I’m very optimistic that effective changes are on the way.

People who have repeated experience with the traffic issues in this area know how important any progress will be. When the

funding was promised, I posted on Facebook about it. Among the reactions was an email I received from a long-time Jackson police officer who has been dealing with the traffic issue for many years.

The officer relayed how he has first-hand knowledge of the problem and has been very vocal for a long time about the need to make improvements. He had given up hope that something would be done anytime soon, and wrote that he was not only happy, but emotional about the news.

That goes to show just how important traffic reforms are to those who have had to deal with this issue for so long. He ended his email with this: “THANK YOU, THANK YOU AND THANK YOU!”

Of course, as things develop, I’ll have more specifics to report in the future. I’m looking forward to continuing our work on this, and I promise not to take my foot off the gas on the drive to a final plan.

For now, I’ll just say that in addressing this major traffic safety problem, I believe we’re finally on the road to success.

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.

Capitol Comments Senate GOP Blocks Bill To Protect In-Vitro Fertilization

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Patty Murray (D-WA) called out Senate Republicans’ hypocrisy after nearly every single Republican blocked the Senate Democrats’ Right to IVF Act, despite publicly claiming to support IVF for the millions of Americans who rely on it to build their family. A little more than 10 days away from the second-anniversary of the Supreme Court’s disastrous Dobbs decision that put IVF at risk, Senate Democrats pushed to pass this pro-family, pro-freedom legislative package that would both establish a right to IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART), expand access for hopeful parents, veterans and federal employees as well as lower the costs of IVF treatment for middle

class families.

“I am profoundly disappointed that Senate Republicans have voted today to deny countless families the opportunity and the right to make their own deeply personal decisions about starting a family,” said Senator Booker. “I will never stop fighting for the fundamental freedoms of all Americans, and I will continue to advocate for comprehensive reproductive health care that is affordable and accessible to everyone in this country. No family should have to endure hardship to realize their dream of having children. This fight is far from over.”

Booker, Duckworth, and Murray joined IVF patients, providers and advocates in coordination with RESOLVE and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) for a press conference to underscore the urgent need to pass the Right to IVF Act as Republicans continue their anti-choice, anti-science crusade.

Building on the lawmakers’ previous efforts

to protect and strengthen access to IVF, the Right to IVF Act included updated and enhanced versions of:

Senator Booker’s Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act, which would increase affordability of fertility care - including IVF - by requiring employer-sponsored insurance plans and other public insurance plans to cover fertility treatments. Additionally, it would standardize a baseline of high-quality fertility treatment coverage under private health insurance plans, while protecting Americans against excessive out-of-pocket costs.

Senator Duckworth’s Access to Family Building Act, which would establish a nationwide right for patients to access IVF and other ART services, a right for doctors to provide IVF treatment in accordance with medical standards as well as a right for insurance carriers to cover IVF without prohibition, limitation, interference or impediment. By establishing a statutory right, this would pre-empt any state effort to limit such access and ensuring no hopeful parent - or their doctors - are punished for trying to start or grow a family.

In February, Senator Duckworth sought unanimous consent to pass this legislation and Republican U.S. Senator of Mississippi Cindy Hyde-Smith blocked it.

Senator Murray’s Veteran Families Health Services Act, which would expand the fertility treatments and family-building services that are covered under servicemembers’ and Veterans’ health care to include - among other things - the option for individuals to cryopreserve their gametes (freeze their eggs or sperm) ahead of deployment to a combat zone and in vitro fertilization (IVF) for servicemembers and veterans who are unable to conceive without assistance.

In March, Senator Murray sought unanimous consent to pass this legislation and Republican U.S. Senator of Oklahoma James Lankford blocked it.

Senator Duckworth’s Family Building FEHB Fairness Act, which would require Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) Program - the largest employer-sponsored health insurance plan in the world - carriers to cover IVF and ART to help more hardworking Americans start and grow their families.

Senator Cory Booker

Volunteers Have Cats Available For Adoption

JACKSON – Calling All Cats is a cat rescue group made up of volunteers, some of whom work at a spay and neuter clinic. People would drop off unwanted cats. As a group, they save the babies that are left alone, the countless mothers that have had numerous litters and those that are losing or have lost their home.

Angel is a 3-year-old female who is extremely affectionate and loves people. She’s in foster care because her owners lost their home and couldn’t keep her. Angel is spayed and UTD on all medical and is ready for a

Photo courtesy Calling All Cats

new family to lover her. She has previously lived with a dog and other cats.

To help humanely lower the feline population, they spay and neuter feral cats and then fi nd homes for the friendly adults and the offspring that have been born. The rescue works extremely hard to find the best homes for cats of all shapes, sizes, colors and ages. While these cats wait, they are cared for in safe, loving, and nurturing foster homes

To start the application process, visit Calling All Cats on Facebook and Petfi nder.com.

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THURS. OCT 5 AMISH COUNTRY LANCASTER, P.A. $95. INCLUDES BUFFET LUNCH, BIRD-IN-HAND BAKE SHOP, KITCHEN KETTLE VILLAGE

SUMMER TOURS

JULY 16-18 3 DAY FINGER LAKES, GENEVA N.Y. $659. 2 NTS. AT 41 LAKEFRONT HOTEL, NARRATED AREA TOUR, VENTOSA VINEYARDS LUNCH AND WINE TASTINGS, SENECA LAKE CRUISE, ROSE HALL MANSION TOUR, MURANDA CHEESE TASTINGS, 4 MEALS. NICE, RELAXING SUMMER GETAWAY!

SEPT. 22-25 4 DAY CAPE COD AND MARTHA’S VINEYARD $839. 3 NTS. FAIRFIELD INN, HYANNIS, KENNEDY MEMORIAL, WHALE WATCHING CRUISE OR SAND DUNE TOUR, CAPE COD NATIONAL SEASHORE, MARTHA’S VINEYARD ISLAND TOUR, PROVINCETOWN, AND BREAKERS MANSION, NEWPORT, R.I. 6 MEALS, TOO CARIBBEAN VACATION SPECIAL

DEC. 4-11 8 DAY PUNTA CANA , DOMINICAN REPUBLIC ONLY $1850. INCLUDES: R/T AIRFARE, 7 NTS. BEACHFRONT IBEROSTAR DOMINICANA ALL-INCLUSIVE HOTEL, ALL MEALS, DRINKS, SHOWS, AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION FROM TOMS RIVER TO NEWARK AIRPORT INCLUDED TOO! BOOK EARLY

OCC. TOMS RIVER DEPARTURES. FREE PARKING. VISIT MY WEBSITE moranotours.net CALL FOR FREE BROCHURE.

Local Animal Rescue Group Asking Public For Help With Donations

JACKSON – Rescue Ridge a non-profit, nokill, all-volunteer animal rescue group works tirelessly to find homes for all its animals in need. Founded in 2001 out of Spring Lake, NJ, the non-profit group had rapidly expanded with the love and support from the local communities.

With five adoption centers for cats, foster homes for both cats and dogs, and two local kenneling sites for dogs (one kennel located in Howell, NJ), not to mention its aggressive adoption events, this group is always in need of basic supplies. They pull from local high kill shelters, receive calls for help and take in strays etc.

They are now asking the local communities for help in allowing us to continue our mission of saving lives. Rescue Ridge currently has approximately 140 volunteers and counting. This alone shows you how aggressive and dedicated this group is to giving animals a 2nd chance in life. They incur very high vet bills, along with all the medication, sheltering expenses and so much more. It is with this we ask for basic supplies. “The mission of Rescue Ridge is to Rescue. Our dream is to one day won’t have to.”

Their one cat adoption location is in Pet Supply Plus in Jackson located at 2275 W County Line Road, Jackson, which is excepting the donations for the group.

Rescue Ridge is asking for basic supplies:

monetary donations, gift cards to Pet Supply Plus stores.

For cats, the group is in great need of: laundry detergent (he is best), large garbage bags (industrial size), Friskies wet food and diamond dry for cats, clumping litter, cat treats – must say made in USA, cat toys, Best shot 256 cleaner to clean cages.

Dogs are in great need of: From wet or dry dog food – chicken is best, dog treats- must say made in the USA, Wee-wee pads and Hard rubber toys such as Kong. Please no stuffed toys as they eat the material and the squeakers!

To keep the facilities running, the group is in great need of: paper towels, laundry detergent – liquid (HE) is best, bleach – must say kill 99%, copy paper, large garbage bags (industrial size) and stamps.

Please no more blankets or sheets. They thank the public for donating them and now we have more than enough.

If you or anyone you know can help with any of these items, please donate. Rescue Ridge is always in need.

If you are interested in adoption or have a question, please call 732-546-8805 or text, email is rescueridgeshelter@gmail.com. You can also visit their website and view their amazing animals at rescueridge.com.

Summer Family Life Skills Series

JACKSON– The Ocean County Library

Jackson Branch, in partnership with NJ4S Compass Preferred Behavioral Health Group, will offer socio-emotional skills classes for parents and young children during July and August.

Registration is under way for programs for children ages 3 to 5, in grades K through 2 and in grades 3 through 5. Please be mindful of grade level requirements when registering.

“Grow with Me!” – Parents and children learn about skills to help youngsters confidently navigate their emotions and daily lives in school, sports and family, and to help parents provide meaningful support.

“Grow with Me!” Grades K to 2: 6 p.m. Mondays, July 1, 15, 29 and August 12. Register at tinyurl.com/OclGrowK2

“Grow with Me!” Grades 3 to 5: 6 p.m. Mondays, July 8, 22, August 5 and August 19.

Register at tinyurl.com/OclGrow35.

“The Happy Habits Club” – Designed to help children ages 3 to 5 develop habits that will integrate mental wellness principles through storytelling and engaging activities.

“The Happy Habits Club” meets 10:30 a.m. Fridays, July 5, 12, 19, 26 and August 2, 9, 16, 23. Register at tinyurl.com/OclHappyHabits. Compass serves Ocean and Monmouth Counties through New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services (NJ4S), a New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) initiative to provide free access to prevention and mental health screening services by prevention consultants and licensed clinicians to public and charter students and families. For more information, stop by the OCL Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, call 732928-4400, or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Trip

JACKSON – Jackson Township Recreation presents Take Me Out To The Ballgame trip on July 22, Yankees vs. Tampa Bay. Pick up time at Jackson Town Hall is 10:30 a.m. Game starts at 1:05 p.m. Cost is $75

and includes luxury transportation, ticket, and $20 meal voucher. Call 732-928-1200 ext. 1255 to register or email cwolfe@jacksontwpnj.net. Limited pace, so sign up today!

$6,450

Jackson O cers Participate In Torch Run

JACKSON – Jackson Police Officers had the honor of taking part in the annual Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run, carrying the ceremonial torch on the five-mile route through Jackson and into Lakewood.

There the torch was passed on to members of the Lakewood Police Department where they carried the torch on the next leg north up Route 9. This annual run raises money and awareness to the Special Olympics and its amazing athletes.

So ball Team Wins District Championship

NEW EGYPT – The New Egypt Warriors Girls Softball Team won the district championship for the third straight year while playing at

home under the lights on June 7. They secured two victories that evening, ultimately defeating Waretown for the Championship victory.

Ocean County Residents Achieve Centenary University Dean’s List

OCEAN COUNTY – Centenary University President Dale Caldwell, Ed.D., has announced the Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester. To achieve this honor, fulltime students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.8 or above and complete a minimum of 12 semester credits.

Ocean County residents who earned Dean’s List honors are: Jackson – Gregory Carrillo, Kayla Melnizek Lanoka Harbor – Skylar Hardy Manahawkin – Jenna Garofalo

Toms River – Richard O’Brien, Emily Salmorin

Photo courtesy Plumsted Township

Sound News

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

6 Tips For Longer Ba ery Life

Find the Right Match: Make sure your batteries are the right size, type, and performance level for your devices.

Prepare Before You Pull: Pulling the tab activates your batteries, so be sure you’re ready to use them — they can’t be deactivated. It’s advisable to wait at least 2-3 minutes before closing the battery door to maximize battery life.

Power Down: Turning off your hearing aids and opening the battery door when they’re not in use helps your batteries last longer.

Keep Water Out: Moisture damages batteries, so protect your devices from water and store them overnight in a dehumidifier.

If moisture corrodes the battery door, the aid will eventually stop working.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extremes are no good for batteries, so store them at room temperature whenever possible.

Choose Rechargeables: Rechargeables eliminate waste and the need to constantly mess with tiny batteries. Long time hearing aid users still prefer to replace their batteries as opposed to having to drag the charger with you on vacation trips.

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!

Volunteers Needed At New Jersey Blood Services

NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/ or at the refreshment area. No medical background necessary. Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service, be able to perform tasks as needed and must provide proof

of COVID Vaccination prior to volunteering. Must have transportation. All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors.

For additional information call or text Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at 732-850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To apply online as a blood drive volunteer, go to: volgistics.com/appform/2127944197.

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

Dr. Isidore Kirsh

Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Managing Alzheimer’s: A Balanced Approach With

Medications And Natural Remedies

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of people worldwide, progressively impairing memory and cognitive function. To manage this challenging condition, a combination of pharmaceutical treatments and natural remedies can be highly effective.

Medications like donepezil, memantine, and rivastigmine play a crucial role in improving cognition and slowing the progression of symptoms. These drugs work by targeting different pathways in the brain, enhancing neurotransmitter activity, and offering some relief from the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s. Alongside pharmaceutical options, several natural remedies show promise in supporting brain health.

Let’s go through those right now:

1. Ginkgo Biloba: Ginkgo Biloba is celebrated for its potent antioxidant properties and its potential to enhance cerebral blood flow, which can be crucial in preserving cognitive function as we age. This ancient herb also supports neurovascular health, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with cognitive disorders and improving mental performance, making it a valuable supplement for those seeking to maintain brain health over time. It’s a blood thinner, so be aware of that. Supplements are available nationwide.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily derived from fish oil, play a vital role in brain health and development. These essential fats are known for their anti-inflammatory effects and their ability to potentially slow cognitive decline by preserving cell membrane health and facilitating neurocommunication. Regular intake of Omega-3s is linked to improved mood and cognitive function, underscoring their importance in a balanced diet. You can eat fatty fish, or you can take supplements.

3. Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Lion’s Mane mushroom is increasingly recognized for its neuroprotective effects, attributed to its ability to stimulate the synthesis of nerve growth factor, thereby aiding the growth and repair of nerve cells.

This unique mushroom may enhance memory and cognitive abilities by promoting better neuronal health and plasticity. I put it in Memory Script, a patented product that I have created for people like my dad, and others seeking better recall. Lion Mane’s benefits extend to mood stabilization and cognitive enhancement, making it an exciting focus for further research in neurological health. You can cook with it or supplement!

Integrating these treatments with lifestyle changes can provide a comprehensive approach to managing Alzheimer’s. It goes without saying that regular physical exercise (to your level) is beneficial for health, as it increases blood flow to the brain and promotes the growth of neurons. Mental stimulation through activities like puzzles, reading, and learning new skills can help keep the brain active and engaged, potentially slowing the decline in cognitive abilities. Social interaction is equally important, as staying connected with others can improve mood and reduce the risk of depression and anxiety, which are common in Alzheimer’s patients. By combining these pharmaceutical and natural treatments with healthy lifestyle choices, individuals with Alzheimer’s can optimize their cognitive function and improve their quality of life.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, these strategies offer hope and support for those affected by this debilitating disease. For more details, as well as cautions and other options please read my comprehensive article which is available 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.

200 Club:

Continued From Page 5

victim and her husband to safety. Inside the residence, Sgt. Gatnarek observed the armed suspect with his hand concealed in a sweatshirt pocket.

“The sergeant unholstered his handgun and began giving the individual clear verbal commands to display his hands,” said Paulus. “At this time, the other officers quickly assumed a

position to cover and unholster their conducted energy devices.”

Although the suspect continued to ignore commands, the officers were ultimately able to maintain complete control in a highly stressful situation and dangerous situation, thereby avoiding injury to the suspect and themselves.

Celebrating Longstanding Service

Eight firefighters received Meritorious Service Awards, acknowledging their remarkable

dedication to their communities. These include:

• Thomas Scannell of Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 for 53 years of service.

• Marty Silecchia of Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 for 48 years of service.

• Jeffrey Barnard of Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 for 42 years of service.

• Kenneth Mallette of Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 for 46 years of service.

• Richard Masker of Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 for 52 years of service.

• Charles “Chip” Smith of Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 for 45 years of service.

• Ronald Braen Jr. of the Laurelton Fire Department, District 2 for over 48 years of service and 35 years as Commissioner.

• Former Chief Jack Amrozewicz of the Lanoka Harbor Fire Company #1 for 40 years of service.

Scholarships Awarded

The 200 Club of Ocean County also presented the David Ascione Memorial Scholarships to family members of uniformed services personnel attending Ocean County College. Recipients included Daniel Aulisi (Brick, criminal justice), Alexis Clark (Toms River, nursing), Brianna Helwig (Brick, nursing), Allison McKeen (Mays Landing, nursing), and Gianna Torres (Toms River, nursing).

Jacquelin Ascione, a trustee of the 200 Club and daughter of founding trustee David Ascione, highlighted the significance of the scholarships. Jacquelin said she was both an alumnus of the college and taught there.

“Ocean County provides an amazing opportunity for everybody who attends whether you attend for one semester, a year, or you actually graduate,” Jacquelin said. “It provides a basic foundation of liberal arts and criminal justice and an amazing variety of subjects.”

A Legacy Of Support

The 200 Club’s roots trace back to a tragedy in 1953, when Detroit police officer Arthur Meyer was killed in the line of duty. In a show of solidarity, 100 businessmen came together to raise $20,000 for his family. This act of compassion became the foundation for the organization’s mission – to provide financial assistance to families of fallen first responders and to recognize the heroism displayed by these brave individuals who protect our communities every single day.

“As board members, we typically don’t know these men or women,” said Paulus. “But we hear the many stories of their pride and their dedication to duty. We meet their children, and we offer our condolences to their spouses.” Over the years, the 200 Club of Ocean County has assisted numerous families, including those of Bayville Fire Company #1 Firefighter Eugene T. Furey, Berkeley Police Sergeant Alison Wray, Jackson Police Officer Robert J. Ventura, Lakewood Police Officer Christopher Matlosz, Lakewood Police Officer William Preslar, Lavallette Police Cadet Ken Carpenter, Manchester Police Cpl. Scott Thompson, Ocean County Prosecutor Detective John Scott Stevens, and Ocean County Prosecutor Detective Tina Rambo.

By Chris Lundy

TOMS

RIVER

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Care Workers Face Elder Abuse Charges

– In an effort to spotlight World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, officials posted updates on cases where long-term care workers are facing criminal charges based on mistreatment of people in their care.

Joseph Robles, 23, of Tuckerton, and Maria Alcantara, 53, of Toms River, are facing 10 charges of neglect, criminal restraint, and assault from incidents that took place between January 13 and January 15, 2023. They worked at an Alzheimer’s care facility in Toms River. They allegedly restrained and attempted to cause or caused injury to

a 93-year-old patient. They also allegedly failed to make required wellness checks, but noted in the patient’s records that she was checked every 30 minutes.

A separate investigation took place in a residential nursing home in Cherry Hill.

Simone Goldsboro, 34, of Camden was indicted on assault charges. She allegedly sprayed a patient’s body and facial area with bleach. Goldsboro is also alleged to have purposefully or recklessly injured the victim by roughly undressing her and pulling her hair.

“When we place our loved ones in the care of others, we rightfully expect that they will

be treated with compassion, respect, and dignity,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “Those placed in care facilities should not have to fear victimization. We have a duty to protect those who cannot protect themselves, and we will advocate for them and prosecute those who exploit and mistreat vulnerable members of our society.”

“We will not allow our elderly to be subjected to criminal abuse. Our loved ones deserve better,” said Interim Insurance Fraud Prosecutor Al Garcia. “Criminal cases like these send a clear message that anyone who would harm and neglect individuals who

All Shook Up At Ocean County College

need and deserve proper care and assistance will be brought to justice.”

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15, and its function is to bring to light concerns about vulnerable people who may be harmed by others. Officials said that one in six people over 60 are subjected to some kind of abuse, whether it is psychological, physical, financial, or sexual. Neglect is also considered abuse. These crimes are often hidden because victims are too afraid or embarrassed to come forward.

If you see or suspect elder abuse, please report it to the Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Financial Exploitation hotline at 609-292-1272.

TOMS RIVER – All Shook Up presented by the OCC Repertory Theatre Company; Inspired by and featuring the songs of Elvis Presley.

It’s 1955, and into a square little town in a square little state rides a guitar-playing young man who changes everything and everyone he meets. Loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, this

hip-swiveling, lip-curling musical fantasy will have you jumpin’ out of your blue suede shoes with such classics as “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Don’t Be Cruel.”

Originally produced on Broadway by Jonathan Pollard, Bernie Kukoff, Clear Channel Entertainment, Harbor Entertainment, Miramax Films, Bob & Harvey Wein-

stein, Stanley Buchthal, Eric Falkenstein, Nina Essman/Nancy Nagel Gibbs, Jean Cheever, Margaret Cotter, in association with Barney Rosenzweig, Meri Krassner, FGRW Investments, Karen Jason, Phil Ciasullo Conard. Originally produced for Goodspeed Musicals, Michael P. Price, Executive Producer, Sue Frost, Associate Producer.

Performance Dates: July 12 – 7:30 p.m.

July 13 – 2 & 7:30 p.m.

July 14 – 2 p.m.

July 19 – 7:30 p.m.

July 20 – 2 & 7:30 p.m.

July 21 – 2 p.m.

Purchase tickets at the grunincenter.org.

The Jackson Times, June 22, 2024, Page 17

Pre School:

Continued From Page 1

- is because of early interventions. The belief is that if you bring a 3- or 4-year-olds into the educational system, you are then helping provide them with an early education and then preventing intervention and less cost down the road,” the superintendent explained.

“The thought is that by third grade they should all be on reading levels. It is a really popular program and there are 11 school districts in Ocean County participating in this program. There are few concerns with pre-school. The state said they had to have 900-square-feet, a bathroom in the classrooms,” he added.

Ytreboe said, “we were able to house this in our elementary school but unfortunately because of the size of the elementary school and the student population already having pre-K through 5, we need to expand. Our goal is to have six classrooms next year grow into eight classrooms.”

“Through exploration of what the best move was, we are now moving that pre-school program back to the primary school,” Ytreboe said.

The Primary School based on Evergreen Road has not been used for students for a number of years and last year was being researched for consideration for leasing to a medical firm by the Board of Education.

Superintendent Ytreboe added, “We shared this good news with the Board of Education several meetings ago because it just made sense. It will not incur any more costs to the district and it will allow us to put our preschoolers in classrooms with bathrooms and classrooms made for them. We have a playground in the back. It is meant for them.”

NEHS Bowlers Honored

The superintendent was also on hand for a presentation of the New Egypt High School Bowling team where Mayor Dominick Cuozzo presented each bowler with a proclamation for their exemplary season. Ytreboe also presented them with their team jackets at the close of that presentation.

School District Funding Bills

In related business, the Township Committee passed a resolution supporting two bills that Governor Phil Murphy signed. Both bills will potentially help the township school district meet some of its fiscal needs.

The first bill (A-4161) establishes a Stabilized School Budget Aid Grant Program. Districts can apply for grants equal to 45% of how much of their aid was cut for the 2024-2025 school year. Districts across New Jersey will compete for a pool of $44.7 million.

This bill also allows certain districts to request permission to increase taxes beyond the 2% cap (up to 9.9%) imposed upon them years ago.

The second bill (A-4059) authorizes the Commissioner of Education to permit certain school districts experiencing a reduction in state aid to submit budgets no later than five days following the enactment of the FY2025 appropriations act.

In simpler terms, a school district would have until the state budget is finalized before they finish their own budget. The state fiscal year is from July 1 through June 30, so this means it would be the end of June.

Playground:

Continued From Page 4

are second to none.”

The mayor stressed that this long-term durability is crucial for the sustainability of the playground. He pointed out that existing structures become faded and technology used in modern plastics will hold their color longer in the sun.

Councilman Mordechai Burnstein said, “we are firmly committed to improving our town’s community parks so children and families will have top quality recreational facilities right in their own neighborhoods.”

Councilman Nino Borrelli commented, “I’m glad to read about Ocean County’s plans to improve county parks including in Jackson at Patriot Park and enable them to be useable for all children including kids with disabilities. I’m glad to be a part of supporting future improvements

of our town at Woodlane Park. I encourage our residents to enjoy our many parks and recreational areas.”

Business Administrator Terence Wall confirmed with the vendor that the project can be finished within six to nine weeks once construction starts with a schedule to begin this autumn. Earlier this year, the township announced that it will assist the Jackson Township School District in upgrading playgrounds at multiple elementary schools.

GEORGE S. HASSLER FUNERAL HOME Celebrating

Years of Serving the Community

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

“Club Giggly” Tour Comes To Hard Rock Live At Etess Arena

ATLANTIC CITY – Giggly Squad Live with Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo is coming to Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. Their show as part of the tour, Club Giggly, is slated for October 11 at 8 p.m. Tickets for Giggly Squad are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com, Ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. All shows are subject to change.

Ten Comics to Watch in 2023.”

Hannah Berner was born in Brooklyn, NY and emerged on the comedy scene by writing, directing, editing, and acting in videos on social media and writing viral tweets. She has two podcasts, Berner Phone and Giggly Squad with over 50 million combined downloads. She was a cohost on Bravo’s Chat Room, as well as a member of Bravo’s Summer House for three seasons, and has over four million followers across her social media platforms. Through her viral digital series, Han on the Street, which has garnered hundreds of millions of views, she has interviewed stars such as Jennifer Lawrence, Hailey Bieber, Priyanka Chopra, Kesha, and Julia Fox. She currently is on a theater tour across America for her standup comedy. In 2022, she was named one of Just For Laughs “New Faces Of Comedy” in Montreal. She was recently named one of Variety’s “Top

Paige DeSorbo is a multi-faceted television personality, podcast host, and influential fashion tastemaker. She is a long-standing fan-favorite across three Bravo franchises - Summer House, Winter House and Southern Charm - and was recognized by Variety as one of the “40 Most Powerful Women in Reality TV” in 2023. Paige has expertly leveraged her platform to expand her personal brand outside the Bravo-verse and is the co-founder and co-host of the top charting podcast, Giggly Squad alongside Hannah Berner. The duo successfully parlayed their hit podcast into a soldout nationwide live show in 2023, with additional tour dates planned across major cities in 2024. DeSorbo is a savvy entrepreneur and trusted fashion expert, known for her impeccable, budget-friendly sense of style, specializing in “Looks for Less” that bridge the gap to reinterpret trends and forecasts at more affordable price points. She is a bona fide fashionista with a million Instagram followers and serves as a frequent fashion contributor for the Today Show and also hosts her own regular Amazon Live shopping series dubbed, “The Paige DeSorbo Show” where she is regarded as a pioneer in the act of live shopping and ranks among the top 10 Amazon Live Creators.

Ceramics At Jackson Senior Center

JACKSON – Join on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays for ceramics. The instructor is here from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stop by and check it out! If you would like to

register for ceramics or any of their other wonderful activities, call the Jackson Senior Center at 732-928-2313 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Photo courtesy Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Buying And Selling A Boat Are Fertile Grounds For Scammers

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

If you are considering buying or selling a boat, then you should be aware that the market is full of bogus buyers and sellers. When it comes to buying or selling a boat, if anything seems unusual then proceed with caution. While fraudulent transactions apply to both purchase and sales, this article will focus on the seller’s side of the transaction.

If selling your boat is not difficult enough, these days the last thing you need is to encounter someone, somewhere, trying to trick you at least once, if not two or more times as you try to complete the boat-selling process. Because fraud comes in all shapes and sizes, it is not possible for us to focus on one type of transaction, so we will concentrate on the most common red flags.

Obvious poor punctuation and grammar. These scammers crank out a thousands of their “inquiries” every day and many of them have a poor grasp of the English language. Also, pay attention to their use of multiple phone numbers (and/or multiple email addresses) from the same individual.

Everything the alleged buyer asked about was thoroughly detailed in your listing. Some of these scammers operate through robo or computerized forms of communication like e-mail or texting. So, if the potential purchaser is asking you for information that is already in your listing, then this should raise a red flag and you should proceed with extreme caution.

to do take possession of your boat.

The offer to pay by cashier’s check and pick up the boat after it had been cashed. This seems like a reasonable show of good faith, but scammers have become very good at printing fake checks so realistic that banks initially accept them. It isn’t until days or even weeks later that the scam becomes apparent, and then the bank can pull those funds right back out of your account. Check with your bank to confirm its policy regarding final acceptance of funds. Paypal or Venmo variation of payment. The phony buyer will ask for your PayPal ID in order to send you a payment, possibly for substantially more than the purchase price. Shortly after that, you will receive a fake confirmation from PayPal with your user ID for more than the agreed purchase price, and the buyer will contact you asking you to forward the extra money to a shipper. Again, you’ll lose whatever money you’ve sent.

Enlisting a third party to pick up the boat without the buyer ever having inspected it. Boats are not cheap. No credible buyer will purchase a boat sight unseen. A credible purchaser will at least obtain a boat survey, which is similar to a home inspection. In addition, most honest buyers will be present when the boat is picked-up, rather than sending an agent

An unwillingness to provide basic proof of identity such as a photo of their driver’s license. If they are who they say they are then there should be no issue with providing proof of their identity. Automobile dealerships will obtain proof of your identify when you try to purchase one of their vehicles. Strangers routinely share this basic information when they are involved in motor vehicle collisions, so it should not be sacred during the purchase of a boat or a car.

R.C. Shea & Associates is a full-service Law Firm. We are located at 244 Main Street, Toms River. Visit our website at www.rcshea.com.

St. Francis Counseling Service Seeking Advocates for the Fall of 2024

Are you an Ocean County resident who is interested in supporting survivors of sexual violence?

Our FREE 40-hour training will certify you to advocate for people after they have experienced sexual violence.

Once trained, you will be on-call to provide crisis intervention, educational information, and resources to survivors.

All potential advocates are encouraged to apply. To apply and schedule an interview, please contact Cheryl Fuller, MSW at cfuller@stfrancislbi.org or call (609) 494-1554

St. Francis Counseling Service offers free and confidential counseling services to survivors of crime, specializing in services for survivors of sexual violence. Call (609) 494-1554 for more information on counseling services.

24/7 Confidential Sexual Violence Hotline (609) 494-1090

4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Township, NJ 08008

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

National Wildland Fire ghter Day

Photo by Bob Vosseller

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

By Jeff Heilbrun

OCEAN COUNTY - In April there was a 200 acre wildfire less than one half mile from the River Pointe main gate. It was bordered by Ridgeway Boulevard, a small branch of the Toms River, the unused NJ Central Railroad tracks, and the Eastern Pallet Company. Last year a wildfire in Lakehurst consumed six square miles, was two miles from River Pointe and caused ash to fall throughout our development.

We are fortunate to live in the Pinelands National Reserve - the largest tract of open space between Boston and Richmond. Toms River and Lakewood are not in the Reserve. Much of Jackson and even large sections of Manchester are not in this protected, relatively pristine environment.

Living in an area that is considered at least partially rural and inhabited by large swathes of pine trees does have a dangerous characteristic – the possibility of wildfires. The predominant tree, the pitch pine, is not only highly flammable because of its resin, but it only reproduces when heat opens its cones enabling the scales to break apart and eventually germinate.

Since only 2022 the second of July has been a day dedicated to the men and women who battle these blazes - National Wildland Firefighter Day. The purpose of this day is to show appreciation to the men and women who risk their lives to fight wildland or forest fires, protecting natural resources, property and lives.

The day was established through the efforts of the Board of the National Interagency Fire Center. The federal agencies represented on this Board in-

clude the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service and the US Forest Service. However, wildland firefighters - besides working for federal departments - can also be employed by state or local governments. National Wildland Firefighter Day seeks to honor not only the people who fight wildland fires but also those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. It is celebrated at this time of the year because it falls in July during the Week of Remembrance for Fire Safety. Wildland firefighters respond to nearly 63,000 fires every year across the U.S. Factors such as drought and fires in wildland-populated areas have led to increasingly complex and challenging firefighting activity that starts earlier in the year and lasts later into the fall. A primary method to prevent damaging wildfires, especially in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, is the controlled or prescribed burn. This is the practice of intentionally setting fire to low, dry, decaying underbrush to minimize burn material that could fuel a dangerous hotter fire. The term prescribed burn is relatively new since many controlled burns, especially in the west got out of control. Virtually all the smoke that residents of River Pointe can smell late winter and early spring are from these prescribed burns. Sadly, it is estimated that 9 out of 10 wildfires are caused by humans, whether intentionally or unintentionally. It was 1947 when the US Forest Service and Smokey the Bear said “Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires.” In 2001 his wording changed to the more encompassing “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires.”

CLASSIFIEDS

Auto For Sale

2006 Cadillac CTS - Showroom condition. White. Only 16,000 miles. Something to be proud of. Only $18,000 or B/O. 732-477-1778. (28)

Items For Sale

Sale - Loveseat, mirrors, antique chairs, wickery, unique stuff. 732-506-9156. WOW 1 Of A Kind! U Got 2 C! (27)

Items Wanted

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)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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)

WE BUY CARS - Any year. Any model. Any condition. Running or Not. CASH PAYMENT AND FREE PICK UP OF VEHICLE. 609-3841610. Www.Webuycars2day.com. (32)

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

Services Help Wanted

Seeking Responsible Individual With Good Phone Skills - Experience In Hvac & Permits A Plus. Filing/Answering Phones/ Scheduling/Permits/Ordering Parts/ Customer Service. Great Work Environment. $15/Hour 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Paid Holidays. Call Care Temp Heating & AC at 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

Bus Driver NEEDED! - Flexible Scheduling. Perfect for Retiree in Retirement Community. CDL w/ Passenger endorsement required. Call SilverWoods Clubhouse for more information at 732-341-4825. (t/n)

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

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)

Services

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)

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)

MY HANDY CREW - Home repairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwork all your home maintenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (10)

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)

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 609-335-0330 HIC# 13VH10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! Servicing Toms River, Lakehurst, Manchester, Whiting, Jackson, New Egypt, Plumstead Beachwood, Bayville, Berkeley. (47)

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

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

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

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry, window cleaning, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Also offering typing services. Very good prices. 40% off your first service! 732-330-4189, 848-287-3944. (t/n)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:

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

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

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

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:

Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

Auto For Sale

Items For Sale

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.

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

Ca$h Paid For Old 45 RPM Records. - R&B, doo wop, soul, early rock & roll, and rockabilly preferred. Call between 8AM and 8PM 909-938-4623. (10)

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)

BUYING Vintage Old ClothingAny condition. T-shirts, sports sweatshirts, denim, workwear, carhartt, college, military, camoflauge, jackets. Call Dave 732-281-4508. CASH. (27)

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

Help Wanted

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)

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. (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) 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)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 848-224-0516. email woolnoughkris@gmail.com. (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)

DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first free 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)

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)

Roofing - Covering the Jersey Shore since 1984. Removal of old shingles, all woodwork inspected and repaired. GAF lifetime roofing shingles. meticulous cleanup. Fully insured and free estimates. $ave. Call Clark 732-8505060. NJ Lic # 13VH11804800. (17)

Caetano landscaping - Full landscape service. Mason work, handy man, etc. Please call for a free estimate. 732-832-6102. (28)

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-2163176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (t/n)

HANDYMAN SOLUTIONS - All Types Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry • Doors • Windows • Bathroom And Kitchen Upgrades • Finished Basements • Ceramic Tile • Laminate Flooring • Decks • Vinyl Railings • Masonry • Painting • More. Licensed Insured. Advanced Building 609-384-9030. (18)

Do You Want Your Car To Look Nice And Shine - Call Lenny. Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (29)

Available Now To Care For Your Loved Ones In Home. For day's, nights 24/7. 20 years experience. Realiable with medical background. Please call Irma 732-604-9291. (30)

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.

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

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info below:

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

County Creating All Inclusive Playgrounds

OCEAN COUNTY – From seesaws and teeter totters to slides and from swings to monkey bars, Ocean County is upgrading traditional playgrounds in several Ocean County parks in order to make them accessible for all children.

“Children have different abilities and we want to provide all children the opportunity to enjoy outside recreational activities at our

Photo courtesy Ocean County playgrounds,” said Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines, Chairwoman of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation. “With warm weather approaching we are looking forward to opening these new playgrounds to children of all ages and skills.”

The upgrades to the playgrounds include installing new equipment that could be used by children who rely on wheelchairs, need

help with mobility or have other disabilities that may hinder them from participating on standard playground equipment.

With its pour in place rubber surface, along with a sensory area, swings that can accommodate a child and parent, a slide and other recreational equipment, boasting bright colors, the new playground at Freedom Fields County Park, Route 539, Little Egg Harbor Township, is the first of the Ocean County parks to offer the new upgraded playground to visitors.

Haines noted the Ocean County Board of Commissioners has made it a priority to invest in the new facilities and is using funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act as well as the New Jersey Green Acres Jakes Law Grant.

The Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation is also working on upgrades to the playgrounds at Lake Shenandoah Park, Lakewood, Beaver Dam Creek County Park, Point Pleasant, and Stanley “Tip” Seaman County Park, Tuckerton.

Upgrades to these facilities are expected to be completed during the summer months.

“The Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation is working with designers to create the custom playgrounds,” Haines said.

“All surfaces are (pour in place) rubber which

will provide easier access for children in wheel chairs or other mobility devices. Each of these playgrounds will have a different theme with many different structures, sensory play, and features.”

Ocean County secured grant money from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Jakes Law Grant to fund the construction and installation of a fully inclusive playground at Enos Pond County Park in Lacey Township.

Jake’s Law, which passed in 2018, encourages counties to build inclusive playgrounds that exceed the standards outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act and result in accommodating people with disabilities to the greatest degree possible.

“These new playgrounds will allow all of our children to enjoy being children,” said Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Barbara Jo Crea. “The improvements will open up a new world of recreation for many children. It will make a special difference to them.”

In upcoming months, the Parks Department will also be upgrading three additional playground facilities as well as building a brand new playground.

The process has begun to upgrade two outdated playgrounds in Ocean County Park,

(Playground - See Page 25)

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Dinosaurs - Prehistoric Reptiles –Some Fun Facts

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

is covered in fossils, but since there is no vegetation in desert-like areas – the fossils are more easily found.

Approximately 250 million years ago, life on this planet had become extinct. Somewhere over the next ten million years, the evolution of dinosaurs began. While we are not exactly sure when dinosaurs appeared, we are certain it began between 230-245 million years ago. This period is referred to as the Mesozoic era and began 252.2 million years ago, with the conclusion of the Paleozoic era ending 66 million years ago. The major divisions of the Mesozoic Era, from oldest to youngest, the Triassic, Jurassic, and the Cretaceous. Each of these periods their numbers and varieties increased before coming to an end in the Cretaceous period. Dinosaurs had disappeared and died off. Dinosaurs began as small reptiles where they quickly increased in numbers and spread all over the world. We do have descendants of dinosaurs – all birds, in fact. Right down to the hummingbird. More than 900 different dinosaurs had roamed the Earth, living on all continents. Initially, when dinosaurs came to be in the Triassic period, the Earth’s continents were all joined together, referred to as a Pangaea. Dinosaur fossils are found in three places, namely, the badlands of Argentina, China, and North America. However, the world

Some dinosaurs were covered with feathers, and most had very small brains. Carnivores were the smartest of dinosaurs. The dinosaur with the longest name was the ‘micropachycephalosaurus.’

It’s unknown what killed the dinosaurs. Some theories are that around that time, an asteroid crashed into the Earth off the coast of Mexico. This created the chain of events, leading to the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs. This theory is the most accepted one, with other ideas pointing to climate change. All dinosaurs didn’t go extinct all at once. This occurred over several hundred or thousands of years, slowly killing all but the avian (bird) dinosaurs.

Some dinosaurs even had four wings. Some carnivorous dinosaurs had hollow bones. Average dinosaurs weighed in at approximately 7,700 pounds.

I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.

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.

Jackson Senior Center Atlantic City Casino trip

JACKSON –Jackson Township Senior Center is hosting a bus trip to Caesars Atlantic City on July 15.

Cost is $35 per person and includes Stouts bus transportation to Atlantic City and back to the center; $15 slot play at Caesars. All guests must be 21 or older. No refunds.

Depart Jackson Senior Center at 9:15 a.m.

Arrive at Caesars Atlantic City at 10:30 a.m. Depart for home at 4:30 p.m. Arrive at Jackson Senior Center at 5:45 p.m. Please pick a form up at the center. Cash or check – checks made payable to Jackson Township. Any questions, call 732-9282313. Limited number of seats are still available! RSVP by July 1.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Now that the summer has arrived at the Jersey Shore, there are plenty of activities to do. Ryder knows that first hand as he recently enjoyed crabbing at the beach in Island Heights. According to Ryder’s mom, Sara Rotolo, crabbing is a family tradition this time of year. Now, they’ll be enjoying the rollercoasters at Six Flags. Want tickets of your own? Email your shore pix to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may get lucky!

Playground

: Continued From Page 23

Lakewood, including one by the picnic area, and the other known as Slide City. Slide City playground will also feature an attached workout area with state-of-the-art fully functional outdoor workout equipment.

Patriots Park Sports Complex, Jackson Township, is scheduled to receive a similar upgrade with sports themed play equipment also with an attached workout area for a mul-

tigenerational family experience. A brand new playground is planned to be constructed at the newly acquired Matthews McKinley Park in Lakewood.

“We are so pleased to be able to offer these upgraded accessible playgrounds to our residents and visitors and we encourage everyone to use them,” Haines said. “While many of the upgraded playgrounds will be ready for use this summer, we expect to have all the upgrades completed by the summer of 2025.”

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 Apple discard 5 Cash dispensers 9 Edinburgh resident 13 Highest point 14 Metal corrosion 15 Novelist Tokarczuk who won the 2018 Nobel Prize in Literature 16 Where to watch pillars and frames?

19 Professional org. 20 Big name in ridesharing 21 Observe 22 “Rugrats” dad 24 “Almost Famous” director Cameron 26 Low-scoring tie 29 Guzzles (down) 32 Serious hwy. crime

33 One-sixth of an inch, to a typesetter 35 Uncommon

“Onwards!”

Put a hex on

Play idly, as a guitar

Stitching target

“Frankly,” in texts

Coup d’__: sudden regime change

Modern creatures that are technically

Where to watch tracks and tunnels?

Facts and figs.

Martian” ac-

the wrong

Filter (through)

1 Spanish house 2 Magnum __: masterpiece 3 Gym sets, briefly 4 Tell-all news story 5 Flight update abbr.

Ballet skirt 7 “The Beat With Ari Melber” broadcaster

8 Has the wheel 9 Female pig

10 From a short distance, with “at” 11 Big, mean giant 12 Help oneself to 17 Ocean floor dwellers with many arms 18 Sci-fi film with light cycles

23 Aussie colleges

25 Wave a red flag at 26 Postal scale unit

27 Workforce during the wee hours 28 Amazon gadget activated by saying “Alexa” 30 Set loose

31 Unload for cash 32 Start a card game 34 Rock band with the album “Powerage” 37 “__ we forget” 38 Length of many TV dramas 39 Joyful Spanish shout 44 Mushroomed 45 Power interruption 47 Treats with petty malice 49 City hall bigwig 51 Barbershop request

52 “Dirty John” actor Eric 54 Ruler of imperialist Russia

56 Solemn observance

57 “All finished!”

58 One of the Rice Krispies trio

60 “Thanks a __!” 61 QB stats

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Be yourself and allow your light to shine. Your “can do” spirit could make you stand out at social gatherings. It may be beneficial to avoid making any sudden stops, starts, or impulsive changes in the second part of the week.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Proudly support someone in your life and enjoy forming a closer level of connection. You may not have time to handle conflicts for a few days but consider thinking about a strategy or plan of action to eventually resolve them.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The best adventures often happen when you are doing what you love, especially with a supportive friend by your side. And if things get tough, remember to look for the joy of the current moment while continuing to move forward.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Lean into your own wishful thinking but stay grounded while doing so. Common sense input from someone may offer a bit of guidance to you. When it comes to love, consider staying calm and developing a mutual respect.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You may be feeling extra pressure from your tasks and routines. Stay resilient and keep working towards your goals. Collaborating closely with someone who you admire and can learn from may be what you need to steer you in the right direction.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): When contemplation beckons, hit the pause button. There could be more to discover about a purchase or investment in the coming week. Someone might appreciate and respect you more if you stand up for yourself and start setting boundaries.

FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 22 - JUNE 28 BY

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Have fun without drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. In the week ahead, you may feel overlooked, but this may offer you the perfect opportunity to work towards your goals in silence and steer clear of any possible hassles.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : You may be pulled in different directions, define your own ambitions if you don’t feel aligned with anyone else’s. Deadlines may frustrate others, but keeping your cool could help you perform better in the week ahead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Using common sense may be very beneficial. Consider sitting down to decide on the course of action that best aligns with your values. Take action and review the outcomes to possibly avoid repeating mistakes.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) :

Hold off on making irrevocable decisions and giving into wishful thinking during the week to come. Take a moment to get your facts straight and do not get distracted by fantasies or lofty goals that may not be your own.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You may need to free yourself from self-imposed limitations that could cause you to feel boxed in. Your acquaintances might not understand your ambitions. Consider shifting your efforts toward pleasing yourself and accomplishing your goals.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Looking for similarities rather than differences might take you further. Your pursuit of perfection may be a reason that you can get along with a variety of personality types. Consider tuning out the gossip and sticking to the facts.

(c) 2024 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

TURN A DINNER OF ROASTED CHICKEN AND VEGETABLES INTO A SIMPLE YET FLAVORFUL SKILLET STANDBY

By America’s

Test Kitchen

PAN-ROASTED CHICKEN BREASTS WITH ARTICHOKES & CHERRY TOMATOES

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2024 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.