2024-06-29 - The Jackson Times

JACKSON e

By Bob Vosseller

Jackson Boy Enjoys Wish From The Dream Factory Jackson District To Sell Rosenauer Elementary School

JACKSON – An 11-year-old township boy received his dream courtesy of The Dream Factory, an organization whose “product” is granting wishes to young people.

Dream Factory of the Jersey Shore (DFJS) Director Luanne Wood told The Jackson Times, “We are an all-volunteer charity that grants dreams to local critically and chronically ill children. “Our past dreams have included

Jake Kulesa at left joins his older brother Kyle at a special county music concert in Wildwood last weekend. The two siblings from Jackson Township joined their family as part of a special wish granted by the Dream Factory.

Rides, Games, Shows, And More At Upcoming Ocean County Fair

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY –

The Ocean County Fair will again be held at the Robert J. Miller Airpark on Route 530 in Berkeley and will be filled with all the rides, food, and entertainment you’ve come to expect at the annual event.

Entrance to the fairground is $10. Parking is free.

The same ride vendor as last year, Campy’s Blue Star Amusements, will be there. Certain days (see below) will

have wristbands available for unlimited rides during certain times.

Expect to see pig races, the Dynamo Dog show, and other animal acts. Depending on when you get there, you might see Sheriff K-9 demonstrations, seeing eye dog demos, horse shows and more.

Only exhibit animals are allowed at the fair. Visitors need to leave pets at home.

As always, the 4-H clubs are a huge part of the fair, and they will be demon-

strating the projects they have worked on in the fields of agriculture, animal care and more.

For the fi rst time in 15 years, there will be an open show where anyone can bring their exhibits, assistant fair manager David Feimster said. Additionally, there will be an open horse show where any individual can enter.

“This year, we’ll be celebrating the history of piracy in Ocean County,”

(Fair - See Page 13)

The Sylvia Rosenauer Elementary School is expected to be closed and put up for sale as part of a necessary effort to help balance the Jackson School District’s budget.

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – School

District officials have been reacting to being put in the uncomfortable position of having to sell a much-loved elementary school to meet its budgetary needs.

School Superinten-

dent Nicole Pormilli announced this week, “Given the size of our continued budget deficit - and the Department of Education requiring us to submit a balanced budget in order to operate our

(School - See Page 4)

Plumsted Officials Adopt Budget

By Bob Vosseller

PLUMSTED – Township officials discussed further details about this year’s adopted spending plan during the latest Township Committee meeting.

Former Chief Financial Officer Sharon Gower returned to provide a PowerPoint presentation for those in attendance. The proposed municipal budget includes utilizing $250,000 in PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) funds to balance the spending plan.

This is the fi rst time PILOT funds derived from an agreement between the township and the developers of Lennar have been used for the municipal budget and there were some concerns expressed that this could create a revenue hole in next year’s budget.

A PILOT program, is a deal between a

(Budget - See Page 7)

Photo Provided By Jackson Schools

Photo Provided By Shannon Kulesa

Photo Provided By The Dream Factory Jake Kulesa (center) joins members of the Dream Factory team during a reveal party.

(Wish - See Page 5)

School:

Continued From Page 1 schools in September, there is simply no other way than to move forward with impactful decisions, including the immediate closing and readying for sale of the Sylvia Rosenauer Elementary School.”

“Making up for a $18 million deficit unfortunately requires broad, painful actions. We are heartbroken, and we know our Rosenauer family will be as well,” Pormilli added.

Board of Education (BOE) members and school administrators have expressed the view that Governor Phil Murphy has put the township school district in this position to meet costs caused by the State’s S2 state aid funding formula cuts of the last seven years.

While district would net approximately $8 million from the sale of the school building that would only serve as a one-time budgetary fix for its 2024 budget.

“Jackson needs to cut $18 million from the budget used to educate and hold extra curriculars for our students,” BOE President Giuseppe Palmeri said. “Governor Murphy and the state legislators need to be held accountable.”

The governor and some state officials feel schools like Rosenauer are redundant. Murphy has been urging school districts to begin closing educational facilities recommending some school buildings be consolidated as a means of reducing school district costs.

Pormilli said, “these steps are being taken under duress, but are necessary to be able to open the doors in September. Please also keep in mind this is a “big picture” update and that the details and impact of any actions will be

communicated to parents and staff in detail over the next weeks.”

“We have been through difficult times the last few years but have always pulled together to protect our students’ education and experiences. We can get through this difficult time by supporting one another so that our district continues to be a strong place for learning and connections,” she added.

Flawed Formula

Jackson’s school district has been hit hard since the S2 formula came into effect and school districts like Jackson and Plumsted that sought loans from the state this year to maintain educational programs and staff were denied consideration despite the loss of millions of dollars in state aid.

State mandates that school districts are forced to cover the cost of include bussing for private school students who live within the school district and English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction for Hispanic speaking students. Jackson’s state appointed fiscal monitor Carole Knopp-Morris, said the district has a “revenue problem not a spending problem.” Her salary is being covered by the school district and not the state and was a requirement of the state following last year’s budget loan application. She reviewed all aspects of the district’s finances.

The issue is a personal one for 12th District Assemblyman Alex Sauickie, who told The Jackson Times “I attended Rosenauer Elementary from grades K-5, and my mother taught countless students there during a good part of her teaching career. Make no mistake, your children’s Superintendent, Administrators, and Board of Education didn’t cause this problem.”

“The State, under this current administration

did, and it was calculated. In 2018, then Senate President Steve Sweeney, who now says he wants to run for governor, introduced Senate Bill #2 (S2), which Governor Murphy signed into law. S2 is doing exactly what it intended to do; it’s taking the income tax dollars that all residents of Jackson paid to the state, and instead of Jackson’s children getting it back in “state aid” for their schools, it’s going to other districts,” the lawmaker added.

Sauickie added, “what’s worse is this administration could have fixed the problem in any of the past seven years. One advantage of controlling the governorship, the senate, and the assembly, is if you want to change something, you have the power to do it.”

“This governor chose not to despite members of the legislature like me speaking about Jackson’s situation on the Assembly floor, testifying at budget committees, and introducing legislation to fix it,” Sauickie said.

He and other officials expressed the view that Jackson taxpayers were apparently funding school projects in larger northern New Jersey school districts such as Newark as well as southern jersey districts like Camden. Jackson is spending about $3,500 per student while Newark is spending around $30,000 per student.

Deep Cuts

Pormilli said the district’s plan involves the immediate closing and preparing for sale of Rosenauer Elementary School, which will provide the profits of a sale, and savings of operating, energy, and maintenance budgets. This will result in those students being redistributed to other elementary schools for the 2024-2025 school year (thereby raising class

size elsewhere in the district).

The district will also eliminate 70 positions in all areas, including administration; cuts to teachers will result in increased class size districtwide. The vast majority of these cut positions will be accomplished through attrition and not rehiring for a position when someone resigns or retires.

Courtesy Busing throughout the district will be eliminated along with all late buses districtwide, The High School Athletics budget will be reduced. The method in which to accomplish this has not been determined. There will also be drastic reductions to school and department supply and services budgets, reducing substitutes (teachers and paraprofessionals).

The middle school holding center (supervision for students staying after school for help or activities and waiting for a late bus) will also be eliminated along with afterschool enrichment programs districtwide.

Co-curricular advisors and clubs will be reduced and there will be reductions to budgets for event staff, homebound instruction.

Pormilli said, “unfortunately, we have exhausted our most recent rounds of negotiations, pleas, and advocacy and are being compelled to take some painful steps to be able to operate for the coming school year.”

The district was required to submit a balanced budget to the school board on June 26. Failure to comply would have caused the district to shut down on July 1.

Due to print deadlines, full details of that meeting were not available. Visit Jersey Shore Online.com for an update and next week’s edition of The Jackson Times.

Wish:

Continued From Page 1

celebrity meetings with Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, LeBron James, and the Jonas Brothers, as well as cruises, shopping trips, and the most popular dream, a visit to Disney.”

Jake Kulesa has had Cerebral Palsy (CP) since birth and has had many medical challenges, enduring several surgeries. At birth, his parents were informed that he would never walk, sit up independently, or potentially ever speak.

At three years old, he took his first steps with determination and hard work with therapists. Since then, Jake has had two major surgeries, one at age five on his spine and the most recently on both hips, knees, and femur. These surgeries help correct the toll CP takes on his body.

Wood said, “Jake will be facing one more surgery in November. He is the strongest 11-year-old you will ever meet and still loves making other people laugh.”

“Jake’s dream was to go to a Country Music Concert and DFJS provided him, his parents, and two brothers four-day passes to the Barefoot Country Music Fest in Wildwood.

She added, “I’ve been involved since our founding in 2010, and we are proud to have made over 50 dreams come true.”

His mother Shannon Kulesa is the president of the Jake’s Got This Foundation, a 501c charity organization. The organization was created by family and friends of Jake. “This weekend was incredible! Jake had the time of his life. All he kept saying was “this is amazing” “this is so cool” in between singing his heart out to all his favorite songs.”

“The “big” night for him was seeing Luke Bryan. That was the original wish he asked the Dream Factory for. I don’t think there was a song he didn’t sing as loud as could and he was up dancing as much as he could. This was definitely something he will always remember.”

Among the many performers at the concert were Bailey Zimmerman, Jake Owen, Scotty McCreery, Oliver Anthony,

and The Beach Boys. DFJS covered the family’s lodging, spending money and travel expenses.

DFJS volunteers revealed his dream to him on June 12 at the Allaire Care Center in Wall Township. The party featured a country theme, and the DFJS served up his favorite foods. Atillio’s of Wall donated pizza and pasta for the event.

DFJS started in 1980 with one all-volunteer chapter in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Since

then, the organization has grown into the largest all-volunteer children’s wish-granting organization in the United States. The organization has maintained its grassroots approach and continues to operate all 32 of its local chapters with very dedicated volunteers. These hard-working individuals raise funds within their own communities and then use those funds to grant the dreams of local children.

“Because we do not employ people on a local level, 90-percent of all money raised by The Dream Factory is used to grant the dreams of critically and chronically ill children,” Wood said.

She added, “this record of success has been recognized by Charity Navigator when they ranked the Dream Factory as a four-star charity, their highest rating. Charity Navigator is the largest and most utilized evaluator of charities.”

Capitol Comments

S potlight o n g overnment

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

Different Kinds of Education

Just about everyone knows that education is one of the most valuable things a person can have. It provides the ability to do and succeed at things that would otherwise be out of reach. It makes lives better, allowing untold numbers of people to benefit from the education of not only themselves, but of others as well.

Of course, that’s the reason I’m doing my part as best I can in Trenton to preserve the educational opportunities of our children in my hometown of Jackson and in our neighbor Plumsted, among others I represent. What I’ve found in this effort is that education is not just what we’re trying to preserve, but also a tool to use in working toward that goal.

As a councilman, I learned quite a bit about Jackson even though I’ve lived here my entire life. But to be more effective as an Assemblyman at making the case to stop the brutal cuts in state school aid, I had to educate myself on the facts and numbers.

So I went to school, so to speak, on the specifics of state aid cuts and, even more importantly, on the real-world impacts those cuts were having on students, school staff, and property tax payers. To learn those things, I had to seek out the real experts: the school superintendents, the school business administrators, the school board members and others.

Jackson has been, of course, the center of this learning experience for me. It’s clearly been hit the hardest of all the school districts in the area I represent. But I also had to study up on how state funding cuts have affected Plumsted, Old Bridge and the Manalapan-Engilshtown regional school district, all of which are in my legislative district.

However, since I was trying to get others in Trenton to care about the schools that are so important to my constituents and me, I had to go beyond them and learn about schools I don’t represent, but should care about because they are getting financially brutalized as well. I met with top administrators of Toms River and Brick schools and spoke with Lacey officials, and decided to help tell their story as well.

There are a couple of reasons why I talk to other legislators about schools I don’t represent. One is that things only get done in Trenton when legislators from different districts work together. Especially when different legislative districts are facing the same problem, it helps to build alliances and press toward the same goal.

Arguably, this has met with limited success over the past two years, as the Legislature has passed partial and temporary relief from even more devastating state aid cuts that had been proposed. This year, a bill I cosponsored was passed to restore 45% of the aid proposed to be cut. Last year, another bill I cosponsored restored two-thirds of the aid reductions that had been planned.

But even though by those actions, the

Legislature implicitly recognized that the current school aid system is bad for many schools across the state, no action has been taken toward making a lasting, permanent change. That brings us to another, more important reason that I speak to my colleagues in specifics about schools I represent and some that I don’t.

It’s because, for whatever reason, not enough of my colleagues seem to be aware of how much the last seven years of aid cuts are really hurting our kids’ education and development. Legislators are used to hearing from their colleagues about the perceived need for more state money, in one form or another, to go to the districts they represent. They’re not used to hearing from one legislator about needs in another legislator’s district.

I’ve found that using examples from outside my district gets more attention when speaking to a committee or on the Assembly floor, and even more so in oneon-one conversations. Being very specific about the differences in state aid per student among school systems, and about the actual classes, programs and staff that have been eliminated due to aid cuts, helps to educate others about what’s actually happening to schools around the state.

Several weeks ago, I wrote here about

speaking before the Assembly on school aid. In those remarks, I said that while at least one school district is getting $30,000 in aid per student, Jackson is getting less than $4,000, Brick is getting $2,800, and Toms River is getting $2,000 per student. I also spoke about the student-to-teacher ratios in Jackson’s high schools, and the cuts in sports and AP programs. I spoke about the student clubs Plumsted has had to eliminate.

Afterward, a high-ranking member of the Assembly leadership came over to me and said he wasn’t aware of those facts. More recently, in a private conversation with another high-ranking leader, I got the same reaction.

Using examples from areas I don’t represent also shows that it’s a systemic issue in which the state is at fault, not the local administrators who are doing their best with what they have.

But I will continue to advocate as strongly as possible for Jackson, especially given the personally heartbreaking news about the possible sale of Rosenauer Elementary, which I attended and where my mother taught. It’s a crushing new sign of how Trenton is failing our kids.

If we can’t change minds in Trenton, we’ll have to change the leaders there.

Senator Applauds Legal Protections To Keep Immigrant Families Together

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded the Biden Administration’s announcement to offer relief to certain undocumented spouses and children of U.S. citizens, which will protect these individuals from deportation, offer them work permits, and ease their path toward permanent residency. This announcement will also streamline the process for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) holders to obtain a nonimmigrant visa.

The executive order is expected to impact approximately 500,000 undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens and 50,000 undocumented children of U.S. citizens nationwide.

“President Biden’s announcement today is one of the most impactful presidential actions to protect immigrants in more than a decade. Under this new policy, nearly

half a million people who have built their lives in the United States will have a path to citizenship and the right to work legally. They will no longer have to live in fear of deportation or family separation while contributing to their communities. Actions like this move us a step closer to a more compassionate, commonsense immigration system that recognizes the contributions and sacrifices of immigrants who are building their American dream.

“Even so, Congress must overcome Republican obstruction and act to pass comprehensive immigration reform that reflects our nation’s values, modernizes our outdated immigration system, and will protect American families from being torn apart by a broken system.”

In March, Senator Booker joined a group of 19 Senate Democrats in a letter to President Biden requesting this administrative relief for undocumented immigrants - including allowing undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens to seek protection and streamlining the process for DACA holders to change their immigration status.

Senator Cory Booker

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

Budget:

Continued From Page 1

developer and a municipality. Instead of the developer paying property tax, it pays a set amount, which would be lower. It’s an incentive to get builders to work with towns.

Lennar’s PILOT program is for 30 years and for the first five years, the builder will pay a reduced rate based on taxes and then after year five, years six-30 will be at the regular rate. The development, Venue at Longview is located off Province Line Road.

Mayor Dominick Cuozzo and Committeeman Robert Bowen disagreed over the use of PILOT funds fueling this year’s spending plan.

Committeeman Bowen voted against the budget’s introduction in May which totals $6,865,095.39 and the amount to be raised by taxes at $2,491,032.31.

Mayor Cuozzo said “our budget went from $6.5 million to $6.8 million. The cost of doing business for the town increased by about $300,000 and were able to anticipate revenue with the PILOT program – none of which has hit yet but we were able to anticipate revenue from it at $250,000 so it took some real work for us to hone things down at another $50,000 to really balance things.”

“I voted against the introduction (and the budget itself) because the proposed budget increases expenses by $425,272.58 (6.6 percent) and increases the amount from taxes and PILOT fees by $258,930.09 (10.4 percent),” Bowen told The Jackson Times

“While the $250,000 in PILOT fees by residents in the Lennar development have already been collected, this is the fi rst time these funds have been used to balance our township budget.”

Bowen added, “rather than one-time budget fi xes, we should control our expenses and invest the PILOT funds in long-term tax and PILOT fee relief; strengthen the Plumsted Municipal Utilities Authority (PMUA); redevelop Main Street; repave our roads and correct drainage problems; upgrade our recreation facilities and open spaces; increase our funding for the Plumsted Township Police Department, Plumsted Township Fire District #1, and Plumsted Township EMS Services.”

Cuozzo said funds were put into the budget for infrastructure. “We are putting $140,000 in capital outlay into the police officers’ budget for their two new vehicles and the new radio and over $23,000 will be applied directly to road paving and another $175,000 will go toward the sewer program.”

Gower went over some of the numbers with the budget that includes a .000 cent increase in the tax rate with the total municipal tax rate being $0.317. The average Plumsted home was valued at $281,705 last year. This year that total is $282,986.

The estimated average homeowner tax bill features 60.63% in school taxes at an estimated tax rate of 1.839 with estimated tax coming in at $5,204.11. The County percentage is 16.9% at .512 estimated tax rate ad $1,448.89. The township percentage is 10.41 at an estimated tax rate of .317 with an estimated tax of $897.07

The percentage from the fire district is 11.4 with an estimated tax rate of .345 and an estimated tax of $56.60. The total percent at 100% has an estimated tax rate of 3.033 and an estimated tax of $8,583.97

Committeeman Leonard Grilletto, who heads the fi nance committee said, “the municipal tax rate stayed the same.” He noted that Plumsted was more of a residential community than a commercial one.

The township’s net valuation ratable base was $782,700,600 in 2022. In 2023 it was $784,267,800 and this year it is $786,669,000. Salaries jumped from $1,997,071 in 2023 to $2,107,905 this year.

“The MUA (Municipal Utilities Authority) and the Sewer Department has reached out to us. They have a $1.3 million budget and a $700,000 revenue stream which is an annual $600,000 deficit and the school (district) also has a large deficit and though it is not the purview of this Committee I think it is incumbent upon us to help them,” the mayor remarked.

He said there were requests made from the sewer department and from the school district “and I want the public to know that as a committee we are taking those things very seriously and we are going to consider those requests and to do everything we can to be a help to them.”

A public hearing on a budget amendment will be held during the July 11 committee meeting.

BlueClaws Fundraiser Supports Student Veterans

TOMS RIVER – Round up your family and friends and take them out to the ball game – for a terrific cause!

Ocean County College is once again partnering with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws for a ticket sale fundraiser in support of the college’s Veteran and Military Resource Center (VMRC).

Come on out to ShoreTown Ball Park on July 11 or August 17 and enjoy a great night of family fun while showing your support for veteran and military-affiliated students at OCC. Tickets are just $15 and proceeds from each purchase will go directly toward supporting the VMRC, which provides scholarships, academic support, campus and community resources, mentoring, advocacy, counseling services, and so much

more to help veterans and military-affiliated students achieve their goals.

Discounted tickets are available for Military Appreciation Night (July 11) or Salute to Heroes Night (August 17). Can’t make it on either of these dates? Buy a ticket to donate for a veteran to attend in your place!

Tickets are available now: July 11 (Military Appreciation Night): fevo-enterprise.com/Oceancounty241

August 17 (Salute to Heroes): fevo-enterprise.com/Oceancounty242

The VMRC at Ocean County College is 100% committed to helping our military-connected students succeed. Learn more about the Veteran and Military Resource Center at Ocean County College at go.ocean.edu/military.

Bus Driver Becomes Grand Champion Of Annual Road-eo

– The students of Jackson know driver Jim Zapata as “Mr. Z” but now, he’s got a new title - “Grand Champion” and the safest bus driver in the state!

Jackson School District School Bus Driver Jim Zapata earned the title at the NJ School Transportation Driver Safety “Road-eo,” an annual competition sponsored by the School Transportation Supervisors of New Jersey (STSNJ) and the New Jersey School Bus Contractors Association (NJSBCA).

The competition has three parts - an event where the driver has to find all the planted defects on a bus, a written test and the final challenge of an intricate and difficult course that has to be driven perfectly utilizing honed skills to execute a flawless safe bus stop.

When asked about his accomplishment,

Zapata first wanted to compliment his fellow staff on their equally impressive performance on that final course. Joining him in representing Jackson were Santosh Mhatre, Kerri Ann Sine, Kyle Torres and Kristen Zapata.

“Every single person from Jackson did their school bus stop 100 percent correctly, not one deduction,’’ he said. “I really felt that was the most important part of the day.’’

Transportation Director Kris Soto said the drivers’ performances are a tremendous source of pride for the district, as the competition was steep in this annual event. He said Zapata, who has been with the district since 2006, is one of the district’s top trainers and is a big part of how the district has been able to retain and train drivers to fill district needs.

“It was not a surprise to learn he won at all, he did a great job,’’ Soto said. “All of our drivers represented us so well and I’m proud of them and our entire department. We take our responsibilities very seriously and it is nice to see our team recognized for their commitment.’’

Zapata was a driver for Switlik Elementary and Jackson Memorial High School this year but said he picks a different route each year to get to work with kids all over the district. He said he was surprised and honored for the recognition.

“I had no clue I was going to win, there was a lot of competition and everyone sent their ‘A’ game,’’ he said. “I’m honored.’’

Congratulations to Grand Champion School Bus Driver Jim Zapata!

Plunge Into New Jersey Shipwreck History

JACKSON – New Jersey’s coastline is notorious for the oceangoing vessels that foundered and sank in its waters. Historical diver Dan Lieb will take you through nearly 300 years of “New Jersey Shipwrecks” at the Ocean County Library Jackson Branch, 7 p.m. on July 15.

Dan will provide revealing details about the circumstances and aftermaths of Jersey Shore maritime disasters including those that took place in both World Wars, and will discuss his extensive work in undersea archaeological expeditions.

Dan has led New Jersey marine historical expeditions for more than 30 years as a shipwreck mapper. A member of the New Jersey Historical Divers Association, he

holds a Divemaster rating by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and has executed more than 2,300 dives since 1974.

Register at tinyurl.com/OclJacksonLieb for this free program, sponsored by the Jackson Friends of the Library.

The Friends are volunteers who support the Library through programs, fundraising and advocacy. New members are always welcome. Application forms are available at all OCL branches and reading centers and at theoceancountylibrary.org/oclfriends.

For more information, stop by the OCL Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, call 732-928-4400, 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!

JACKSON

Photo courtesy Jackson School District

Learn About The Jackson Pathfi nders

JACKSON – The Jackson Pathfi nders are a friendly group of men, women, teens and scouts who love to be out on a trail in the beautiful natural lands of our town. We charge no dues or fees. All we seek from our participants are interest and enthusiasm.

Pathfinders volunteers maintain four woodland trails in Jackson:

The Silver Stream Trail, across from 254 Frank Applegate Road and within the Metedeconk Preserve of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation. The Pathfi nders are honored to be designated by NJCF as official guardians of the Silver Stream Trail.

The Steve Kitay Living Trail, on Jackson Township land, accessed via the Silver Stream Trail.

The Purple Heart Trail, across from 820 East Veterans Hwy (Routes 527/528) and within the Bunker Hill Bogs Recreation Area of Jackson Township.

The Jackson Jungle Children’s Trail, within the Jackson Justice Complex. Adjacent to the Jackson Jungle Play Park, it is to the left on your way to the Ocean County Library.

Free and open to the public every day, our Pathfi nders trails are for nature appreciation, hiking and mountain biking (no bikes on Children’s Trail). Visit our website for downloadable PDF maps and interactive Google maps of these Pathfinders trails and of several other trails in Jackson, including those at the Forest Resource Education Center.

See our photos from our June 1 trail event marking national trails day and our 25th anniversary!

Trail Tips: Whenever you go out on any trail, wear sturdy shoes or boots and bring drinking water. Bring a trash bag with you in case you find something discarded on the trail. There is always a trip-and-fall risk, so have a friend walk with you. Never go out alone. For the best protection against ticks, mosquitos and chiggers, spray your clothing with Permethrin a day in advance. Then, when leaving home, apply Picaridin or other insect repellent to your skin.

More about the Jackson Pathfi nders: Our volunteers trim branches and briars, clear fallen trees, install trail markers and signs, maintain boardwalks and bridges - and much more. We love the beauty of nature and do everything we can to pass that love along to others. The Pathfi nders are supported by Jackson’s Town Council, Public Works Department, Recreation Department and Environmental Commission. We serve as the local advocacy group for New Jersey’s Forest Resource Education Center, and we gladly partner with Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts on their own special projects.

The beauty of Jackson’s natural lands calls to us. Out on the trail we experience the refreshing scent of the forest, the clean and awesome streams and the freedom from crowds and traffic. The Jackson Pathfinders look forward to sharing with you our love for nature and for the trails which lead us there!

Concerts will be held on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

August 7 – County Night featuring The Grouser Girls

August 21 – Folk/Country Rock Night featuring Williams Boy

Photo courtesy Jackson Pathfinders

JACKSON – Jackson Township presents their 2024 Summer Concert Series to be held at Johnson Memorial Park, 192 Keidrich Memorial Drive, Jackson.

Local Teacher Selected For NASA Liftoff Institute

JACKSON – Brett Mallinson, a teacher from Jackson Liberty High School, has been selected for the prestigious LiftOff Summer Institute this summer. This nationally competitive program sponsored by NASA’s Texas Space Grant Consortium and the University of Texas Center for Space Research selects teachers who will increase their knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and math through space education.

LiftOff 2024’s theme is Growing on Earth for Space Exploration! The workshops provide teachers the rare - and for most, unique - opportunity to spend a week working with professional scientists and engineers at the cutting edge of space exploration. As human space exploration advances so should our knowledge and expertise to grow plants on long-duration space missions, on

the moon, and on other planets. Participants will increase their understanding of specialized environments for growth and development on Earth, in microgravity, and beyond!

Program Features:

Presentations by NASA scientists and engineers

Hands-on, inquiry-based classroom activities aligned to educational standards

Teacher Feature (sharing of classroom lessons and activities)

Opportunity to interact with researchers dedicated to space missions

LiftOff is a collaborative effort of University of Texas Center for Space Research, Texas Space Grant Consortium members and affiliates, NASA, and industry. Teachers apply for LiftOff and are selected competi-

an aerospace or space science theme drawn from NASA’s diverse engineering and scientific research programs. The weeklong institute features a series of workshops, hands-on activities, field investigations, and presentations by NASA scientists and engineers working on various missions.

We celebrate all that NASA has contributed in the past and will contribute to the future and the engineering behind its accomplishments at LiftOff 2024. Teachers selected for Liftoff will return to their school districts to not only use materials received in their own classroom, but to train other educators.

Educators selected will come together to conduct experiments, hear from NASA subject matter experts and astronauts, and network with other educators while sharing innovative lesson plans and ideas. The LiftOff workshops prove that the excitement teachers, and more importantly, their students, feel about earth and space science can be used to enrich STEM education and inspire the next generation of explorers.

JACKSON – Ocean County Parks is offering the following programs at the Ocean County Tree Nursery, 499 South Stump Tavern Road, Jackson.

Composting: Black Garden Gold – July 10, 10 to 11 a.m. Reap the rewards from composting at home. Reduce household waste, while creating wonderful, nutrient rich compost for your flowers and vegetables. Outdoor event, please dress accordingly. Fee is $5 per person. Open to adults. Flower Arranging With Flowers From Your Garden – July 24, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bring the natural beauty of your garden indoors. Join us for this fun instructional class on how to create delightful flower arrangements using flowers from your garden. Out-door event, please dress accordingly. Fee is $5 per person. Open to adults. Pressing Flowers – August 14, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Capture moments in time from your garden or from a bouquet of flowers you received. Learn how to preserve all your favorite flowers in this fun instructional program. Out-door event, please dress accordingly. Fee is $5 per person. Open to adults.

Photo courtesy Jackson School District

C ommunity n ewS

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.

Introducing Ace. Ace is an adorable 8-week-old boy. He was recently trapped with his sister Ava and their mom who has been TNR’d. Ace is very sweet and adjusting really well to indoor life. He is extremely attached to his sister so we are looking for an adopter who will take both. The few

Photo courtesy Calling All Cats times that they’ve had to be separated (for baths and medical) Ace cried non-stop until he was reunited with Ava. Both will be ready for adoption in about four weeks. 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.

Fred Lehotay And The Ragtimers To Perform

Sing along or tap your toes while the band whisks you back to the “Roaring ‘20s” with patriotic songs, Jazz Age melodies and rollicking ragtime tunes.

Saxophonist Fred Lehotay, guitarist Bob Estler, banjoist Tom Rittenhouse and bassist Gary Nokes have performed rousing ragtime and sentimental favorites since 1968. Fans view the group’s videos on YouTube. Register at tinyurl.com/OclJacksonRagtimers for this free concert, sponsored by Jackson Friends of the Library.

The Friends are volunteers who support the Library through programs, fundraising and advocacy. New members are always welcome. Application forms are available at all OCL branches and reading centers and at theoceancountylibrary.org/oclfriends

For more information, stop by the OCL Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, call 732-9284400, or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

JACKSON – Take yourself back to an era when folks gathered around a bandstand on a balmy summer evening. Fred Lehotay and the Ragtimers will evoke sweet memories during their performance at the Ocean County Library Jackson Branch, 7 p.m. on July 10.

Photo courtesy Ocean County Library

Meditate To Higher Awareness

JACKSON – Sharpen your attentiveness and reach new levels of serenity through the technique of Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture. Meditation practitioner Shazia Zaman will lead you through “Mindfulness Meditation: R.A.I.N.” at the Ocean County Library Jackson Branch, 10:30 a.m. on July 13.

R.A.I.N. is the acronym for qualities of attention that compose a complete moment of mindfulness. An open mind and heart will help you to navigate thoughts and emotions with calmness, compassion and wisdom.

Shazia Zaman, CMMT, CMT-P, is certified through the International Mindfulness Teachers Association (IMTA) and has taught since 2017. The certification is supported by the Awareness Training Institute and the University of California at Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center.

Shazia is also a Master Level-I Crystal Bowl Practitioner and a certified Reiki Master. Resources, book recommendations, poetry, free meditations and more can be found at meditatewithshazia.com. Register at tinyurl.com/OclJacksonRAIN for this free program, sponsored by Jackson Friends of the Library.

The Friends are volunteers who support

the Library through programs, fundraising and advocacy. New members are always welcome. Application forms are available at all OCL branches and reading centers and at theoceancountylibrary.org/oclfriends. For more information, stop by the OCL Jackson Branch, 2 Jackson Drive, call 732-928-4400, or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Photo courtesy Shazia Zaman

Fair:

Continued From Page 1 he said.

Pirate Dan will be wandering through the fairgrounds interacting with fairgoers and singing shanties.

Last year, there was a Verizon cell tower set up and it will return for this year, he said.

The website oceancountyfair.net/ has a full schedule of events, but this article will provide highlights.

The fair will be July 10-14. Hours are:

Wednesday, 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Wristbands available for $45.

Thursday, 5 p.m.-11 p.m.

Friday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Rides open at 1 p.m. Wristbands available for $45 from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. only.

Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Rides open at noon.

Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Rides open at noon. Wristbands available from 12-5 p.m. only for $45.

Concert Nights

Live music will be on stage every night at

7 p.m., Feimster said. Some of the acts are from New Jersey and some are travelling.

Wednesday will be the Libby Prison Minstrels performing historical music from the Civil War era.

Thursday will be the Strictly 60s Tribute Band.

Friday will be country music favorite After The Reign.

Saturday will be the Animal House Band.

Other concerts and performances will be held at various times during the fourday event.

History

The Ocean County Board of Agriculture held the fi rst annual “4-H Achievement and Agricultural Ocean County Field Day” on September 6, 1947. There were approximately 500 people there. By way of comparison, for the 1967 show, that number was up to 60,000 people.

It started at the Ocean County Park in Lakewood, but outgrew it in the 1980s. It was then relocated to the Robert J. Miller Airpark in Berkeley. The fi rst four-day fair was in 1982.

4-H had a number of animals you could see and learn about in

from 2022.

It used to be an agricultural show for local farmers to show off their crops. However, as farming gave way to housing and commercial development, there are far fewer farms left locally. The 4-H has taken on the

Plumsted Township 2024 Events

PLUMSTED – Mayor Dominick Cuozzo would like to remind residents to “save the dates” for the impressive lineup of Plumsted Township events scheduled for the enjoyment and participation of all

within the charming community. More specifics to follow soon. You may contact the PIO at pio@plumsted.org with any further questions related to these planned events.

July 13 – Fireworks 2024

August 6 – National Night Out September 11 – Plumsted Remembers

October 12 – Fall Street Fair

October 19 or 26 – Fishing Derby

agricultural aspect of the fair, showing off what families have grown and nurtured.

The only years the fair wasn’t held were 2020 and 2021 due to pandemic restrictions.

October 31 – Main St. Trick or Treat

November 11 – Pride in Plumsted Veteran’s Event

December 7 – Christmas Tree Lighting and Photos with Santa

Photo by Chris Lundy

this archived photo

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Tinnitus Relief Is Possible?

You don’t have to “just live with it.”

Do you feel like you often hear an unwanted background noise, like ringing, buzzing, or whooshing? It’s called tinnitus, and you’re not alone — so do more than 50 million adults in Canada and the U.S.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus isn’t a disease. It’s a symptom, a sign that something is impacting your auditory system. It shows up as a sound that your brain generates — so only you can hear it. Tinnitus isn’t always ringing, buzzing, or whooshing. Each person’s tinnitus is unique: Some hear ringing, others screeching, hissing, ocean waves, and even music!

What Causes Tinnitus?

It’s linked to many health issues, from hearing loss to high blood pressure to head injuries, so the cause of your specific case of tinnitus might be tough to pinpoint. The sound can be temporary or permanent. Fortunately, for many, the sound is easy to ignore. But for others, it can be stressful or even debilitating.

Is It TIN-uh-tis or Tin-EYE-tis?

The internet offers plenty of answers to that question. Dictionaries, language experts, and medical experts disagree. There

are many well-reasoned arguments bandied about. But we think you should pronounce “tinnitus” however you’d like — our concern is helping you find relief!

Is There a Tinnitus Cure?

There’s no true cure for tinnitus. But relief is possible. Some methods that can help you get free of the stress it causes include: Sound therapy: Using specific sounds to give your brain something else to focus on. A relatively new device on the market is Lenire which incorporates sound therapy & tongue stimulation.

Hearing aids: Tinnitus tends to accompany hearing loss, so hearing aids often provide relief. Most hearing aids incorporate tinnitus maskers which can assist in alleviating the bothersome tinnitus

Habituation: Putting your tinnitus in the background so your brain can learn to ignore it

Counseling: Teaching you skills to minimize your body’s involuntary reaction to your tinnitus.

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.

Ocean County Bereavement Groups

OCEAN COUNTY – Therapist/Clergy, Rev. Dr. Anthony Lipari, FCM, has been offering Grief Support Group sessions for over 21 years during the last week of every month. The sessions are offered at 1 p.m. throughout Ocean County. The locations are as follows:

• Mondays: Ocean County Memorial Park in Waretown

• Tuesdays: Timothy Ryan Funeral Home on Fischer Boulevard, Toms River

• Wednesdays: Quinn Hopping Funeral Home on Mule Road, Toms River

• Thursdays: Anderson Campbell Funeral Home on Ridgeway Road, Manchester

• Fridays: Manchester Memorial Home on Schoolhouse Road, Whiting

Isidore Kirsh

The Health Benefi ts Of Niacin: 4 Ways To Stop The Niacin Flush

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Niacin, or vitamin B3, plays a vital role in energy production, cholesterol management, skin health, brain function, and DNA repair. One common yet misunderstood effect of niacin supplementation is the niacin flush, a temporary redness and warmth in the skin.

It is always in a “B Complex” vitamin in case you take one of those supplements. The niacin flush is a common reaction to niacin, characterized by redness, warmth, and a tingling sensation in the skin. It alarms some people, and I’ve heard of people racing to the Emergency Room over it. This reaction is normal and to me it means that the maker actually put real niacin into your supplement, and that it’s working! Niacin helps as a natural anxiolytic, and it helps with cholesterol.

You can take a B vitamin for years and never get the reaction, and then one day you do! It is normal. It occurs due to the dilation (opening) of your blood vessels, which suddenly increases blood flow and causes the flushing and heating effect. While it may be uncomfortable, the niacin flush is generally harmless and indicates that the vitamin is being effectively absorbed by the body. It is also good for you, and yet most people avoid it!

For those new to niacin supplementation, or B vitamin supplementation (where niacin is in your B vitamin), the niacin flush can be an unpleasant surprise. I do nothing when it happens to me. I just drink ice water and lay down for 20 minutes until it is over.

I welcome it, especially in the cold

winters of Colorado. I take my Mito B Complex in the morning and crawl back into bed and wait for it! So, my strategy is to do nothing, and relax until it passes. However, some people don’t like it. There are several strategies to minimize its intensity and duration:

1. Start with Low Doses: Begin with a small dose of niacin and gradually increase it over time. This allows your body to build a tolerance to the flush.

2. Take Niacin with Food: Consuming niacin with a meal can help reduce the severity of the flush. Foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados or nuts, are particularly effective.

3. Use Extended-Release Niacin: Extended-release niacin formulations release the vitamin slowly, reducing the likelihood of a flush. However, consult with a healthcare professional before switching to this form.

4. Pre-Treat with Aspirin: Taking a low dose of aspirin 30 minutes before niacin can help minimize fl ushing by reducing the dilation of blood vessels.

Niacin can be obtained through diet because it’s in poultry, fish, lean meats, and nuts. There is also a prescription medication available called Niaspan.

The niacin flush, while initially uncomfortable, is a sign of effective absorption. By understanding and embracing the niacin flush, you may improve cholesterol ratios. For a longer, more detailed version of this article, visit suzycohen.com and sign up for my free newsletter. I will email it to you on Tuesday.

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.

ArounD the JerSey Shore

OCC To Support Those Involved In Child Welfare System

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College has partnered with the nonprofit organization Embrella to make higher education more accessible to individuals who are in or coming out of the child welfare system.

Leaders at OCC and Embrella signed a memorandum of understanding outlining an agreement which indicates their shared commitment to providing educational opportunities to diverse students throughout New Jersey, and empowering community members in the development of skills to promote self-sustainability.

Embrella, founded in 1972, provides services, training and support for foster, adoptive and kinship families. Their mission is to embrace, support and advocate for children, youth and families within the child welfare community. The New Jersey Foster Care Scholars Program (NJFC) and Pathways to Academic and Career Exploration to Success (PACES) are two programs that Embrella promotes. These initiatives provide funding for students to pursue post-secondary education as they transition out of high school.

The partnership will introduce Embrella’s clients to opportunities at Ocean County

College and provide individualized assistance with their educational experience, including onboarding, success coaching, academic advising, help with fi nancial aid, and connection to on-campus resources and support services.

“Most individuals with experience in the foster care system face barriers that can make pursuing higher education difficult,” explained Calleigh Kearns, OCC’s Enrollment Services Advisor for Partnerships and Outreach. “We are seeking to combat that by putting all the support measures in place to ensure these students are successful— from application to graduation and beyond.”

The partnership will enable Embrella’s clients to enroll at OCC at the in-county tuition rate and take advantage of a direct point of contact and coordination of services that will help them achieve their short-term and long-term goals.

“The goal is to provide new opportunities to a population of students that can benefit from extra assistance – to make college accessible, which is part of our mission statement at OCC, and to support them from all angles and throughout the process, from beginning to end,” said Kearns.

Ocean County Carousel Of Music

OCEAN COUNTY – The Line-Up for the Annual Ocean County’s Carousel of Music 2024 has been set. Bring a blanket or beach chair. For more information, visit oceancountyparks.org. Enjoy!

Ocean County Parks & Recreation Administration Offices, 1198 Bandon Road Toms River. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• July 5 – Underwater Airlines

• July 12 – Strictly 60s

• July 19 – Lenny Davis Band

• July 26 – 80’s Revolution

• August 2 – The Fleetwood Mac Experience

• August 9 – Sensational Soul Cruisers

• August 16 – The Kootz Band

• August 23 – Wilbur Wittemann Orchestra

• August 30 – Mushmouth

Tuckerton Seaport, 120 West Main Street Tuckerton. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• August 10 – Jersey Gold

• August 17 – Blondage Rocks Deerhead Lake, 1740B Deerhead Lake Drive Forked River. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• August 28 – High in the Mid 80s Ocean County Library, 101 Washington Street Toms River. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• July 4 – Toms River Municipal Band

• July 11 – Garden State Philharmonic

• July 18, 25, August 1, 15, & September

5 – Toms River Municipal Band

• August 8 – Brass Tacks

• August 22 – Wilbur Wittemann Big Band

• August 29 – Sentimental Journey Big Band

Heritage Gazebo, Bay Avenue Lavallette. Start time 7 p.m.

• August 25 – Wilbur Wittemann Big Band Gille Park, 102 Manchester Avenue Forked River. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• July 31 – Billy Joel Tribute &Here’s Elton Tribute

Veterans Park, 489 Forest Hills Parkway Berkeley Township. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• July 10 – Sketchy Medicine

• July 24 – Jukebox Legends

• August7 – Dominique & Julian 23rd Avenue Seaside Park. Start time 5 p.m.

• August 24 – Alotta Colada Waterfront Park, 10th Street & Shore Avenue Ship Bottom. Start time 6:30 p.m.

• July 3 – Simmerr

• July 11 – Pure Petty

• July 18 – Studio 2

• July 25 – Tequila Rose Band

• August 1 – The Verdict

• August 8 – Dread Pilots

• August 15 – The Chris Fritz Band

• August 22 – Danny’s 52nd Street Band

• August 29 – Jimmy and the Parrots

VERIZON UPGRADES NETWORK ALONG JERSEY SHORE TO BOLSTER PUBLIC SAFETY, HANDLE MASSIVE DATA INCREASE

Sea Girt, Lavallette, Brick, Seaside Park, Ortley Beach, and Asbury Park get network upgrades

Verizon has just completed a major network upgrade at the Jersey Shore. Specifically, in Sea Girt, Lavallette, Seaside Park, Ortley Beach with additional upgrades coming in Asbury Park and Brick this summer. This is a response to the dramatic increase we’ve been seeing in usage from people at the beach, both summer visitors and year long residents, but also small businesses and public safety o cials - who need reliable communication in high density areas.

The upgrade is going to support more customers simultaneously using their phones with improved reliability and speeds.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

Identifying Nursing Home Abuse And Neglect

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

Nursing Home Abuse can take many forms. It can be intentional, visible, obvious or it can be more subtle-abuse through neglect and general lack of care on the part of nursing home staff. Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, or even sexual. Each of these takes a heavy toll on any person, but nursing home abuse and nursing home neglect can be especially hard on the elderly -- some of the most vulnerable members of our society. Whatever form nursing home abuse takes, it is urgent that you and your loved one open a dialogue about this extraordinarily sensitive topic. Communication is necessary to end the abuse and let the healing begin.

The first step in opening a dialogue is identifying suspected abuse. There are many signs of nursing home abuse that you can look for.

The first sign you may notice is a change in behavior. The emotional effects that often accompany abuse can manifest as sluggishness or depression, a lack of enthusiasm for things your loved one once enjoyed, or even a loss of interest in visits. The change in attitude can be significant and sudden, or it may be subtle and prolonged. The most important thing is to be observant and notice if the change is taking place on any level.

Of course, it is also possible that signs of abuse will be far more apparent. Physical signs of nursing home abuse or nursing home neglect can take the form of bruises, sores, cuts, scars, or any similar injuries. These may be

from simple accidents, but if there is anything suspicious about the injury, the problem should be addressed immediately. Suspicious signs might include a reluctance to talk about how the injury occurred or claiming not to remember the cause. Even more obvious signs are bedsores which are a common signs of nursing home neglect. They are painful and, if infected, can be potentially lethal.

Statistics show that nearly 50 percent of all nursing homes are short staffed. The staff people who do work in these facilities are underpaid, overworked, and all too often overburdened, which in turn leads to elder neglect and abuse.

When abuse or neglect are identified or suspected it is important to notify the authorities and contact a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer to discuss your legal rights.

Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of the local authorities and your attorney. Neglect can be just as harmful in the long run as abuse, leading to additional health problems and possibly death. Nursing home abuse isn’t limited to physical abuse; there can also be emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, where an elder is demeaned or humiliated in other ways.

If you think a loved one is the victim of Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect, call the trial attorney’s at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation to discuss their rights.

Non-Profit Groups & Vendors Wanted For Beach Ball Blast

BERKELEY – The 12th Annual Beach Ball Blast is rapidly approaching. This year it will take place on July 26 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at John C. Bartlett, Jr. County Park at Berkeley Island, Berkeley Township.

This premier event hosted by the Ocean County Parks and Recreation Department usually draws a large crowd of all ages. The evening will include a variety of food trucks, vendors, and music by Jimmy and the Parrots, who were named the best

“Trop Rock” band in the country. Non-profit groups are invited, free of charge, to use this event as a fundraiser by providing various activities, information, or food. They are also accepting food and craft vendors for a small fee.

All vendors must be family friendly and provide a summer/beach theme and or product. If you are interested in participating, contact Jake at 732-506-9090 ext. 5964 or email him at JHaug@co.ocean.nj.us.

Resident Club Flea Market Village 5

WHITING – Come out to the Flea Market on July 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to see what you have been missing out on. They have over 50 friendly vendors. Come on in and check it out our great bargains. If you just want to catch up with your friends, stop by the kitchen for breakfast or lunch

8:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. Hope to see you here at 325 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. The Flea Market is every third Saturday of every month. The next one is August 17. If you are interested in renting a table the cost is $10 per table. Call Ronnie at 908303-7377.

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

Conserve Outdoor Water Usage As Heat Wave Grips New Jersey

By Alyssa Riccardi

NEW JERSEY – As we prepare for more hot days in a row, New Jersey American Water is asking that customers in Monmouth and Ocean Counties to conserve water usage.

“Summer has officially arrived, and the hot, dry weather seems to be here to stay,” said Lindsey Olson, senior director of operations at New Jersey American Water. “During heat waves, it’s common to see increases in

household water usage, but we are asking customers to voluntarily limit their outdoor watering now to potentially avoid more stringent summertime restrictions of water usage.”

By limiting outdoor water usage, the company can manage a finite supply of water allowing customers to ability to still maintain their lawns and gardens.

New Jersey American Water has provided

the following guidelines for outdoor conservation:

• Water early or late in the day to minimize evaporation.

• Generally, lawns only require one inch of water per week, most coming from precipitation and dew or by watering two times per week at a maximum.

• Raise the level of your lawnmower blade to avoid lawn burnout and the need for watering.

• Avoid adding new plants or sod to your landscape during this time of excessively hot and dry weather.

“These small but impactful actions are designed to help alleviate stress on water sources and infrastructure, all while helping customers save money on their water bills,” Olson said.

For more information and tips, visit new jerseyamwater.com.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Personals

Europian Lady - Honest, faithful. Looking for serious man 65-75 year old. Build strong, stable relationship with our love, trust, respect. 732-551-7051. (29)

NOTICE: N.J.S.A. 39:10-16, application was made to Chief Administrator NJMVC for title papers to authorize a NJ Certification of Ownership for 96’Wellcraft, VIN/ Hull ID WLFUH6I596. Objections to Chief Administrator NJMVC, Special Title Unit, Box 017, Trenton, NJ 08666-0017. (30)

Kayaks - Santee Sport 126 Red/ WH, $650. Santee Sport 116 orange/ WH, $650. Cash only, regular price over $1,000. 732-673-7072. (30)

Kayak Thule Roof Rack - Two ullavators $650 each. Two crossbars $150 each. Regular price over $1,000. 732-473-1893. Cash only. (30)

Items Wanted

JEWEL-

COSTUME/ESTATE

RY Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-849-6068 (new number). (t/n)

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)

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

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

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)

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Help Wanted

Two Part Time Custodian Positions - At Crestwood Village 7 Clubhouse. Call Al at 856-520-3432. (31)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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

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. (33)

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)

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:

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

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

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

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Auto For Sale

• Items For Sale

Items Wanted

Help Wanted

Services

For Rent

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Calculate Price As Follows:

3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $

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5. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)

DEGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES

photo oF the weeK

T. DeGraff NJ Lic No 3921

DIRECT CREMATION $1875

Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Local Hospital, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory Located at: DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst 732-657-7868

WWW.DEGRAFFFUNERALHOME.COM

Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Cremains & Certi ed Copies Of Death Certi cates, Permit, Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services

Without Making Nests – Th is Bird Leaves Its Young To Foster Parents

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Brown-headed cowbirds are found in the open grasslands of middle North America, but with the surge in numbers and range, they are now found in developed areas occupied by humans. If you tend to maintain bird feeders, you might see them flock with other blackbirds. The brown-headed cowbird is categorized as a blackbird. Males are recognizable by their black body, shorter tail, and its brownish head. Females have a brown body and a lighter colored brown/taupe head. They are a stocky bird with an unusual behavior in raising their young. They will produce more than three dozen eggs each summer. While other birds are busy gathering materials to bring to their chosen nesting site, the cowbird prefers to exert all their energy into producing eggs.

You might be wondering how they can do so without having a nest. They locate nests of other birds to lay their eggs. Often these nests already have eggs of smaller birds in them, resulting in at least some of the host’s own chicks being sacrificed. Unbeknownst to the builders of the nest, they are now raising some cowbirds. This

unusual behavior in egg-laying, has caused some people to consider them pests. The result of this behavior has contributed to the decline of several endangered species.

Brown-headed cowbirds are not monogamous. In fact, genetic studies indicate that males and females will have multiple mates during a single season. The eggs of a cowbird hatch quicker than the other species of eggs, giving their own young (nestlings) a greater advantage in receiving food from their parents. Most hosts will not recognize cowbird eggs. To the contrary, the yellow warbler will recognize the eggs do not belong to them. Since the warbler is smaller and cannot oust the egg(s) from the nest, they construct a new nest above the top of the old one, hoping the cowbirds won’t return. Larger birds recognizing the difference in the eggs/nestlings will simply toss them out of the nest.

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

The beaches at the Jersey Shore are great places to relax. No one knows that better than these two swans just chilling in the water. Local resident Courtney Schlick was able to capture these two in this great pic. Have one you would like to share with our readers? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Sherry

ArounD the JerSey Shore

Positive Outlook For Jersey Shore Tourism, Rentals Th is Summer

By Bob Vosseller JERSEY SHORE

– The summer season is upon us, and that means rental units in the area will soon be populated by vacationers from the northern end of the state, New York, Philadelphia and beyond.

Duane Watlington, founder of Vacation Rentals Jersey Shore LLC, who has rental sites in Long Beach Island, Ocean City and the Wildwoods, provided Jersey Shore Online with his thoughts concerning summer season 2024.

Watlington said, “the Jersey Shore is always popular. It’s a great vacation destination. It’s affordable. There are all different ranges from $1,000 a week cottages all the way up to $50,000 a week luxury ocean front homes with pools and everything in between.”

He also noted, “there are all different types

of experiences too. The Jersey Shore has so many unique things and every town has its own flavor that brings out rentals to the shore. Our company is engaged in connecting renters and owners in the three markets we serve.”

“We want to keep vacations affordable for families. With inflation, it is ever so important to save every penny you can, and so our website has no booking fees for the vacationers when they connect to an owner through our website. We call that renting direct,” Watlington explained. He urged renters to be aware of booking fee inclusion and to avoid that added expenditure.

“When you rent direct, with an owner, you don’t pay any fees and most likely you won’t pay any taxes either. When you stay at a hotel or when you rent through Vrbo (a rental booking agency) or a bed and breakfast, you must

Officials: Leave Fireworks

To The Professionals

By Bob Vosseller OCEAN COUNTY

– More than 2,000 children nationwide are injured each year by fireworks, with a large percentage of injuries taking place around the Fourth of July weekend.

Store-bought legal fireworks and illegal explosive devices are the cause, so the Ocean County Commissioners are once again cautioning residents to be careful and leave the fireworks to the professionals.

Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Barbara Jo Crea said, “many of our communities have exciting fireworks displays planned for the July Fourth holiday. I encourage our families and visitors alike to enjoy one or more of these professionally arranged spectacular shows.”

Some types of fireworks are legal to purchase and use in the state but even these devices can pose a serious hazard, especially to children. A common sparkler can burn at nearly 3,000 degrees and cause third-degree burns, according to physicians at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital.

Burns account for 33 percent of all fireworks-related injuries. Crea expressed concern that during the summer holiday children may be tempted by the colorful packages of fireworks displayed at stores and sidewalk stands. Crea said, “if you insist on buying legal fireworks, please follow the safety instructions carefully and keep the items away from small children.”

The Consumer Product Safety Commission also has safety advice for the handling of common fireworks:

• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of an accident or fire.

• Light fireworks one at a time and quickly move to a safe distance.

• Don’t hold lit fireworks in your hand.

• Do not pick up or attempt to re-lite fireworks that fail to work.

There are more destructive types of fireworks that sold legally in other states and travelling out-of-state and bringing those items back to New Jersey can carry stiff penalties according to Gary Quinn, Deputy Director of the Board of Commissioners. Quinn said, “the kinds of fireworks common in other states are often not legal to possess or use in New Jersey.”

Many retail fireworks are imported from China and other countries making quality control an issue.

“When you light that fuse, you never know what is going to happen. A rocket can fly out of control and strike a child or land on a roof and start a fire. Don’t risk injury to yourself or others. Instead let’s make sure everyone enjoys a safe and happy Fourth of July,” Quinn said.

A number of professional fireworks shows will be held during Independence Day weekend in Ocean County. The full list can be found at the Ocean County website: co.ocean.nj.us

Beacon Of LIFE - Golden Wheels Showcase

LAKEHURST – Join at the Golden Wheels Showcase for an unforgettable experience. Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled day of classic cars, fun, and excitement!

Golden Wheels Showcase will be held on June 29 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Beacon of LIFE, 800 Route 70, Lakehurst.

pay a short-term rental tax. If you go direct, with an owner or realtor you save that tax and you don’t pay any booking fees as well to the platform,” Watlington added.

He noted that his websites are a “virtual classified advertising listing website that connects owners and vacationers to rent at the shore. I think a great tip for anybody whose budget might be tight because of inflation and what we are going through right now and who wants an affordable vacation they can find it at the Jersey Shore.”

“When you add up those two fees it averages up to 25% to the cost of your vacation. Imagine a family of four that is going to spend $3,000 to rent a home for the week at the shore, they are going to pay an extra $750 in taxes and fees,” Watlington said.

Watlington added, “that $750 can go a long way. That is over $100 a night for a week’s vacation. Right there, that covers a reasonable dinner or a night out for every night of the week for that family. That would be spending money for every night.”

When asked if he was seeing the impact of the economy causing some vacationers to reconsider going away or reducing the number of days they escape from their regular life routine, Watlington replied, “there is a much bigger demand for smaller stays. The

economy has something to do with that, but so does the generational shift in preferences for vacations.”

“Your younger people - 35 and under - they would rather do a couple of long weekend vacations instead of a week-long vacation. However, at the Jersey Shore there are not a lot of opportunities for that in July and August. It is pretty much weekly rentals during those months,” he added.

“Families this year are thinking about whether they can afford a vacation or not, and my answer to that is yes, go to the shore. For one, you don’t have to pay for airline tickets or travel. It’s a tank of gas maybe to get there. You can rent a house and be at the shore. You don’t have to go out to dinner every night. You can cook in the house because it is fully equipped,” he said.

Watlington said, “there are fun things to do that don’t cost a lot of money. You can go out and play mini-golf. You can go to an arcade. You can go to some of the more reasonable places to eat. There are plenty of burger joints and not so expensive places to eat. You can enjoy the boardwalk.”

“If you go to every shore town, they are all different for their own reasons. I think it is a great option for people to consider to vacation at the shore,” he added.

Highlights:

• Classic cars, vintage wheels, and more!

• DJ, Grilled Food and Bingo for the ladies.

• Free admission!

Register your car here: forms.gle/TzZr46eo9fJ1r5FK8.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

“__ Moon”: man-

Pull the plug on

Squeals (on)

Opposite sides of a rather pointed fight?

Challenging puzzle

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Remember, even a thorn can become a blessing if it gives a rose a chance to bloom. Something challenging today might prove invaluable later in the week. New information might shift your perspective and bring something unexpected.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Act now on an educated guess and you might make a favorable impression. Capture various sources of inspiration as they come across your path. Consider writing them down since they might contain the seeds of future creativity.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Appearance isn’t everything, but you might desire to seek new ways to improve your look. Your optimism and openness could attract helpful people and new opportunities. Prioritize spending money on things of lasting quality.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Life is like a canvas waiting to be painted. Collaborating with someone may further enhance a project. You might not receive all the feedback you desire but keep your passion burning and joint efforts could ignite something beautiful.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): A partner might have a valuable idea and your input could bring it to life. Consider moving forward with caution when faced with investments and major purchases in the upcoming week. You might be drawn in by the idea of possibility.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Rise above the mundane. Stories of frustration or despair may bring important lessons but don’t dwell on them. Your current challenges may change with communication and examination. Focus on being inspiring and uplifting.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) : Something once contradictory may now harmonize beautifully. You may take on an agreeable viewpoint, meet someone’s expectations, and avoid unnecessary disputes. Consider taking your time when making major decisions.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Collaboration might help to make dreams come true. Others might be quick to act while you lead a project. Trust in their confidence as it is a test of the strength and solidity of your partnership. Focus on your home environment.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Assess your goals and keep your reasons for desiring these outcomes at the top of your mind. You may benefit from taking an intentional approach to spending. Don’t risk everything on something that could end up being short-term.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) :

Feeling that you are part of a larger community might bring comfort. Your willingness to handle physical tasks may draw others closer to you. You could forge ahead and earn recognition for your achievements this week.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Your support system should cheer you on. Whether you are motivated by attaining nice things or wish to help others, your drive can be unstoppable. Others may trust your dedication and interest in helping to amplify their happiness and wellbeing.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Balance between competence and compassion. You may handle challenging situations by changing direction and following your gut. Consider using objectivity and clear thinking to handle details and apply understanding to emotions.

A SINGLE BATTER GOES INTO THE OVEN BUT COMES OUT AS A TWOFER

By America’s Test Kitchen