2025-01-18 - The Manchester Times

K-9 O icer Buck

Joins Police Department

Photo courtesy Manchester Police

Manchester Township’s Police Department has a new addition in the form of K-9 Officer Buck, seen here with his handler, Officer Jon Meaney.

By

Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER – The township police department is welcoming a new officer serving on the force, K-9 officer Buck.

The red American Labrador, who is less than a year old, was specially trained in detecting narcotics by scent as well as tracking with the New Jersey Police K-9 Association in Tinton

EMS Delay: “When

Falls, led by Lt. Antony Turso.

Buck’s handler is Officer Jon Meaney, who has been serving in the township police department since 2020.

The new addition to the department’s K-9 unit was purchased from Garden State K-9 in Succasunna, thanks to grant funding and the

(K9 - See Page 9)

Are They Coming To Help Me?”

By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY – Philip

Ponticello’s final moments haunt his brother John to this day. On August 15, 2015, Philip clutched his chest, grayfaced, gasping for air. “His dying words were, ‘When are they coming to help me?’” John recalls the memory of his brother’s anguish still vivid

nearly a decade later. Philip, 64, had never been seriously ill in his entire life, making his sudden distress all the more alarming. On that fateful morning, he stumbled into the living room of their Pine Ridge at Crestwood home in Whiting, clutching his chest like a man fighting for every breath. John acted

quickly, administering nitroglycerin tablets of his own and calling 911. But the system failed them.

The first 911 call was dropped. As he placed the second call, John barely got out a plea for help when the phone went dead again. It wasn’t until the third call that the voice on the (EMS - See Page 7)

Town Council Sets Tone For 2025

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

Township officials, staff and residents bade goodbye to Mayor Robert Arace during the recently held Township Council reorganization meeting.

This meeting served to pave the way for change within the governing body but the council president and vice president will remain the same.

Normally, the reorganization meeting starts with the swearing in

of any public officials elected or re-elected during the November general election which in this case would have been council members Craig Wallis, James Vaccaro and Michele Zolezi on the all-GOP council. The incumbents, who easily won re-election in an uncontested race, were sworn in prior to the 11 a.m. reorganization meeting so the first point of business was to select the council

(Tone - See Page 4)

Lakehurst Kicks O New Year With Renewed Energy

Jeffrey Emmons joins his family as he takes his first oath of office as councilman during the reorganization meeting of the Lakehurst Borough Council. His oath of office was administered by Borough Attorney Ian M. Goldman.

By Bob Vosseller LAKEHURST

– The Mayor and Council were joined by some residents for a brief reorganization meeting and a nice luncheon afterwards. The governing body covered all the necessary

(Lakehurst - See Page 5)

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Photo courtesy John Ponticello Philip Ponticello died almost 10 years ago – his brother blames a delay in emergency response time.

Tone:

Continued From Page 1 president and vice president.

Councilman Joseph Hankins nominated Councilwoman Roxy Conniff to serve another year in that role which will mark her third in the position. She took on that duty when she was fi rst elected and was part of the ticket with mayoral candidate Arace and fellow council candidate Hankins.

Returning for a third year as vice council president is Councilman James Vaccaro who is currently the senior serving member on the council. He was nominated by Conniff.

Councilman Craig Wallis resigned two years ago before Arace’s tenure began but he returned to the dais a few months later when he was appointed to fill a spot following the resignation of another councilman. Wallis abstained when it came to Conniff and Vaccaro’s nominations while the remaining council members voted in the affirmative for their reinstatement.

Mayor Arace provided a report that served as an overview of his time in office. His term concluded that day as he was later sworn in as a member of the Board of Ocean County Commissioners having won his seat on that panel in November. He would have served two more years as mayor but by law cannot serve both roles simultaneously.

He described the occasion as bittersweet but expressed confidence in the incoming leadership that will take his place and praised his staff that consisted of Judy Noonan, Frank Nicolato and Kaylan Ri-

cotta, the members of council, Business Administrator Carl Block, Township Attorney Lauren Staiger, Township Clerk Teri Giercyk, Police Chief Antonio Ellis and department heads for their professionalism.

Arace congratulated those re-elected to the council and reflected on his time as mayor. “I’ve learned so much - especially from the Carl Block Academy - over the last two years, he joked. Serving as your mayor has truly, truly been the highest honor of my life and I am deeply thankful that you have trusted me to lead our beautiful town. Together we have accomplished so much.”

He added, “we have preserved hundreds of acres of open space ensuring Manchester’s natural beauty and rural character will remain intact for generations to come. We have expanded services for our veterans and invested in public safety and on the infrastructure that effects our daily lives.”

“One of my proudest achievements has been our work toward vital community services. The mayor’s office has taken great strides in meeting the needs of those that give so much to our community, whether it is to address individual concerns or creating programs to improve the quality of life, this partnership has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my tenure. As I transition to service for the county I vow to continue with this focus with communication and accountability.”

He spoke about residents of not only Manchester but across Ocean County having a direct line of communication to those who provide services they rely on. “While I am excited to start this new chapter of my life

with the county leaving my role as mayor is very bittersweet. Manchester will always hold a very special place in my heart. It is where my journey began and it is where I learned the true meaning of community.”

Arace was thanked for his service and provided a plaque presented by 9th District Senator Carmen F. Amato, Jr. and Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf.

Resolutions And Appointments

The council approved a resolution appointing police officers to fill three vacant full-time positions. Appointments included Joseph Faccone of Samuel Klein and Company as township auditor, Matthew Wilder of Morgan Engineering as township engineer, Robert Mullin of Colliers Engineering as special projects engineer, Matthew Moench for legal services in the utilities department, and Colliers Engineering and Design as Townshp Planners.

The Council also voted to approve the appointment of Debra Rumpf as Rent Leveling attorney and a contract was also awarded appointing Brian and Debra Rumpf as conflict public defender while Bonnie Peterson was appointed as municipal prosecutor.

Other appointments include Coronato Law as Conflict Municipal Prosecutor, Parker

McCay as counsel on affordable housing matters and Water Resource Management for Water and Sewer Operator.

Meeting Dates

The governing body set its meeting dates for the new year at this session. Meetings will be held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, starting at 6 p.m. in the courtroom at the township’s municipal building at 1 Colonial Drive.

Two exceptions on the schedule occur. In May, the council’s second meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 27, due to Memorial Day, and in October, their fi rst meeting will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 14, because of the Columbus Day holiday.

Photo by Bob Vosseller Manchester Township Mayor Robert Arace, center, is presented a plaque of thanks for his service as township Mayor from 9th District Senator Carmen Amato and Assemblyman Brian Rumpf.

Lakehurst:

Continued From Page 1 business in approximately 16 minutes and that included the swearing in of incumbent Republican Councilwoman Bernadette Dugan whose son held the Bible as Borough Attorney Ian M. Goldman administered the oath of office.

Following that it was time for a new face on the dais with Jeffrey Emmons who was surrounded by his wife and children as Goldman administered the oath of office for his first three-year term on the council. Emmons, who has been active with the borough fire company for years, replaced long serving Councilman James Davis who chose not to run for another term last year. Emmons and Dugan won their council seats in the general election in November.

Mayor Harry Robbins announced the winners of this year’s Christmas House Decorations Contest which included 309 Maple Street that took first place, 507 Union Avenue that took second place and 608 Willow Street that took third place. The mobile home category was won by 5 Geneva Road and the 2024 winner of best decorated business was 2 Locust Street; Dimensional Designs.

Police Chief Matthew Kline was present for the meeting and was also appointed as agent to procure surplus items from the law enforcement support office program (LESO).

The borough’s attorney, prosecutor, public defender, alternate public defender, auditor, bond counsel, hearing officer, labor counsel and public agency compliance officer were all appointed during the meeting.

Council President Steven Oglesby was unanimously approved to serve once more in that role. He will join Councilman Brian DiMeo on the personnel committee. Councilwoman Dugan and Councilman Robert McCarthy will oversee the finance/administration committee.

McCarthy and Emmons will serve on the public safety committee, Councilwoman Patricia Hodges and Dugan will serve on the public works committee while Emmons and DiMeo will serve on the Building and Grounds/Rolling Stock committee.

DiMeo and Hodges will oversee the youth and recreation committee. Oglesby will be the liaison to the Shade Tree Commission while Emmons will serve as the liaison to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. The Ordinance Review Committee will be overseen by Oglesby and Dugan.

Mayor Robbins sits on all the committees.

Mayor Robbins noted that it was a goal of his to get younger people involved in the work of government, such as Emmons. “One of my goals has been to get some younger people to sit here at the table. I can’t talk for everybody but I’m getting older. I’m glad to see a new face up here.”

Councilwoman Dugan is starting her second term in office and also heads the Lakehurst Borough Historical Society. She wished everyone a happy new year. “The years go by quick,” she told Emmons.

She also noted the January 25 Soup R Bowl Chili Challenge which is one of two annual fundraisers held by the Historical Society. The popular event will start at 3 p.m. and will be located at the Borough Community Center on

Center Street.

One familiar face not present during the meeting was that of Councilman Jim Davis who decided not to seek reelection last year. He received a plaque on behalf of the governing body during their last meeting of 2024. He served on the council for nearly 30 years.

“This is my last meeting and it has been a pleasure and an honor. I’m proud of what we have accomplished,” Davis remarked.

The Manchester Times asked Davis what he would miss from serving on council and what his most memorable time on the dais was. “The one thing I remembered the most is when we stood down Navy Lakehurst when they tried to get us to pay for taxes when we used to take services in lieu of taxes and they had a young guy, a comptroller who came after Lakehurst to get that money and I spent time traveling to Cherry Hill and Mount Laurel to meet with Congressman (Jim) Saxton and (U.S. Senator Frank) Lautenberg and we stood them down and it was taken care of.”

“I’m really never surprised when I hear how things happen in Washington because when Mr. Saxton came to our meeting and told us it was forgiven,” he added.

Davis said, “I asked him for a signed document and he signed it for me and 12 items

down from a bill that was actually for hog futures was an amendment and the amendment forgave Lakehurst; Long Beach, California; and Quonset Point, Rhode Island who were all in the same situation.”

“That was what I think stands out to what opened my eyes to politics and I think it was one of the things I’m most proud we did here,” Davis added.

In reading the proclamation, Oglesby noted that Davis was first elected to the governing body in 1989 and reelected to two subsequent terms in 1992 and 1995. He filled an unexpired term in 2005 and was reelected to six subsequent terms in 2006, 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018 and 2021. He has served 27 years as a member of the governing body.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Lakehurst Councilman Jim Davis, right, receives a plaque of thanks for his nearly 30 years of service on the governing body, from Council President Stephen Oglesby.

EMS:

Continued From Page 1

other end promised to send someone. By the time the ambulance arrived - 38 excruciating minutes later - family members had already arrived from as far as Bayville, and Philip lay unresponsive.

“I’ll never understand why they didn’t try to revive him,” John said. “They told me he would’ve died on the way to the hospital, but at least someone could’ve tried.”

Philip’s death underscores a dire problem in Ocean County: delayed emergency response times. John Ponticello has made it his mission to ensure no one else suffers the same fate. His advocacy efforts have reached local leaders and even the desk of Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy, who personally checks in with John at least once every year.

EMS Gaps Across Ocean County

John’s story is far from unique, and it refl ects systemic issues highlighted in a recent 133-page report prepared by RB Emergency Consulting LLC for the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. The report reveals alarming gaps in emergency medical services (EMS) across the county, driven by a dwindling volunteer base and uneven coverage.

Former Commissioner Gary Quinn addressed the problem and the results of the report during one of his fi nal meetings as an elected official.

“The southern parts of the county and the barrier islands suffer the most,” Quinn said. “No one should have to wait an hour for life-saving care.”

The report outlines that while some municipalities employ paid EMS teams, many still rely on volunteer squads with varying availability. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the issue, significantly reducing the number of active volunteers.

In some areas, mutual aid calls - where neighboring towns are asked to assistmakeup as much as 77% of total EMS responses. Even with outside help, response times remain unacceptably long. Nationally, the average EMS response time is eight minutes and 59 seconds. Ocean County’s average response time as of July 2024 was 14 minutes.

“Some of our residents have waited an hour,” Quinn said. “I know four families that have lost loved ones because they had to wait that long.”

A Community in Crisis

Some of the statistics are staggering: Ten municipalities in Southern Ocean County and Long Beach Island rely heavily on fi ve volunteer EMS squads and one private provider, Quality Medical Transport.

Lakehurst saw 77% of its 447 calls handled by mutual aid in 2023, while Beachwood relied on outside help for 40% of its 1,652 calls.

In Barnegat, Ocean Township, and Lacey, calls for mutual aid were collectively the highest in the county, despite the towns employing a mix of volunteer,

private emergency services providers, and career EMS personnel.

On the bright side, Lakewood’s call volume of 28,453 resulted in no calls for mutual aid because of the coverage in its community. The northern part of the county is serviced by several paid squads and the non-profit rescue squad Hatzolah.

Proposed Solutions

The consultant’s report recommends the creation of a regional county-wide EMS system. Even starting with just three ambulances strategically deployed across the county would improve response times, though the gap would still remain vast.

The plan would focus on insurance-based reimbursement, which would eliminate the practice of “balance billing.” In municipalities where towns have had to hire for-profi t EMS providers because they don’t have enough volunteers, residents are often surprised by unexpected ambulance fees.

The report suggests that the county not replace local EMS services but instead act as a support agency. By supplementing volunteer and municipal squads, the county could reduce reliance on mutual aid and ensure faster response times.

Some question whether the county should take on a role that limits service areas. They suggest that it would be unfair for all of Ocean County’s taxpayers to pay for additional EMS coverage when their own municipalities are not experiencing delays.

Without question, there are fi nancial challenges associated with creating a county EMS service. The consultant’s report referenced a number of grants available to fund start-up ambulance services – to cover the costs of vehicles and equipment, as well as career personnel.

The county has already taken steps to address the falling numbers of qualified emergency medical service workers. EMS training programs at Ocean County’s vocational schools and training centers are gaining traction.

One notable challenge to implementing the report’s recommendations is that Quinn is no longer a member of the board of commissioners. Quinn was a strong advocate for addressing the EMS crisis and emphasized the urgency in reforming services throughout the county. This year’s Board of Commissioners will need to consider whether funding strategies and logistical hurdles justify the creation of a regional county EMS service.

A Call For Change

For John Ponticello, efforts to improve response times and service reliability are critical. The fear is quite personal.

John, who has heart problems, worries about his own fate. “If I start getting chest pains, what’s going to happen?” he said. “At least my brother didn’t die alone. I was the last person he got to see on earth.”

The stakes couldn’t be higher, with every minute saved meaning a potential life spared. For John Ponticello, it’s a fight worth continuing - because no one should ever have to wait for help that comes too late.

BOROUGH OF LAKEHURST LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE

2025 SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that in compliance with N.J.S.A. 10:4, notice is given that the regular meetings of the Borough of Lakehurst Local Emergency Planning Committee are as follows:

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

The meetings are scheduled to commence at 5:00 p.m. at the Lakehurst Emergency Services Complex, 2 Proving Ground Road, Lakehurst, New Jersey.

Jeff ery Emmons Emergency Management Coordinator

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN COMPLIANCE WITH N.J.S.A. 10:4-18, notice is hereby given and posted that the scheduled regular meetings of the Redevelopment Agency of the Borough of Lakehurst are as follows:

July 17, 2025

February 6, 2025

March 6, 2025

April 3, 2025

May 1, 2025

June 5, 2025

August 21, 2025

September 4, 2025

October 2, 2025

November 6, 2025

December 4, 2025, and

Meetings are scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. Meetings can be canceled due to lack of quorum, illness, weather conditions, lack of agenda items, or by direction of the Chairman. Additional meetings may be called as required.

Redevelopment meetings are held in the Community Center, 207 Center Street, Lakehurst, New Jersey.

Maryanne Capasso, RMC Municipal Clerk

s PotLiGHt o n G oVeRnment

Endangered Species Act Protections Kept For Grizzly Bears

Capitol Comments

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-CA-02) applauded the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) decision to maintain protections for grizzly bears under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The agency’s decision was based on the best available science, as well as ample stakeholder input from state, tribal, and conservation partners.

“Biologists estimated that around 100,000 grizzly bears once roamed western North America, but human

encroachment and other threats have pushed this population to the edge of extinction,” said Senator Booker. “I commend the FWS for their decision to maintain Endangered Species Act protections for grizzly bears, and ultimately listening to the scientists and the local community. I will continue to advocate for science-based recovery plans and policies that ensure grizzly bears and other endangered species have the space and safety they need to recover their populations and thrive in spite of a warming climate, habitat loss, and other challenges.”

“The science is clear - we need strong protections for grizzly bears,” said Representative Huff man. “The compounding threats of climate change and politically motivated state policies have the potential

to decimate grizzly bear populations and dramatically impact their habitats. I’m glad the Fish and Wildlife Service understands these threats, has listened to stakeholders and scientists, and decided to maintain Endangered Species Act protections for this iconic species. I will continue to work with FWS over the coming comment period to determine whether any additional updates or revisions to the accompanying proposed rules are needed to ensure grizzlies are successfully recovered.”

Senator Booker and Ranking Member Huffman led a letter to U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Debra Haaland and FWS Director Martha Williams urging them to retain ESA protections for grizzly bears. The letter highlighted major threats to grizzly bears, including existing and proposed state laws and policies. The Montana state legislature, for example, recently passed a bill that allows livestock owners to kill griz-

zly bears, even on public land. In Wyoming, changes to grizzly bear counting methods could triple the number of grizzlies hunted compared to previous hunts.

“Furthermore, a warming climate is changing the nature of both grizzly bear habitat and biology. Regional observers are already noting shorter denning seasons, including later entry in the fall and earlier emergence in the spring. In order to adapt to climate change, grizzly bears need more room to roam and more protections - not less - as they explore different habitats and food availability,” the lawmakers noted.

The letter was cosigned by U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Jerry Nadler (D-NY-12), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-13), and Nikema Williams (D-GA-05).

Fewest Shooting Victims Recorded For Second Straight Year

From

The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Gov. Phil Murphy, Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way, Attorney General Matt Platkin, First Assistant Attorney General Lyndsay Ruotolo, and New Jersey State Police (NJSP) Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan announced major reductions in the number of shooting victims and auto thefts in New Jersey in 2024.

In 2024, 778 victims suffered gunshot injuries in New Jersey, a drop of 16 percent from 2023, when a then-record low of 924 shooting victims marked the fi rst time that fewer than 1,000 gun violence victims were recorded since tracking began in 2009. Of the total victims shot in 2024, there were 152 fatalities, a reduction of 20 percent from 2023.

Violent crimes, including shootings, many times stem from auto thefts. In 2024, the total number of stolen motor vehicles decreased by 11 percent from 2023, going from 16,694 down to 14,755 statewide, according to the NJSP’s Regional Operations Intelligence Center.

“The meticulous coordination of Attorney General Platkin, Colonel Callahan, our

legislative partners, and our local law enforcement officers has played a tremendous role in achieving historically low shootings for a second consecutive year. Together, we are determined to continue combatting violence and crime as we build a safer, stronger New Jersey for all,” Murphy said.

The NJSP has been increasingly using technology to guide its decision making on how to most effectively support local, state, and federal partner agencies in reducing the number of shooting incidents and victims. That approach involves the Attorney General’s Gun Violence Reduction Task Force (GVRTF), a statewide intelligence-sharing network across New Jersey’s 21 counties, which facilitates collaboration among law enforcement and prosecutors from all levels of government.

The GVRTF strategically focuses law enforcement resources on drivers of violence in New Jersey.

That targeted and technologically assisted deployment of resources combined with community engagement and law enforcement partnerships kept the number of New Jersey shooting victims at 778 in 2024. In 2023, the 924 victims shot represented a 13 percent decrease over 2022, which built upon the 25 percent decrease from 2021.

Disclaimer: Micromedia Publications has always provided a space in its newspapers to provide a place for readers to learn what their elected officials are doing. These items are lightly edited for such things as punctuation and grammar but are mostly unchanged from the source. These press releases are the politicians’ own views, not that of Micromedia Publications. We cannot vouch for the accuracy of information that these politicians are providing, and readers are encouraged to keep an open mind and consider multiple sources.

Under Governor Murphy, New Jersey has enacted tough anti-ghost gun and large capacity magazine laws, while the state’s strict liability law holds gun traffickers criminally liable when their weapons are used in violence. Last month, Attorney General Platkin announced that his Statewide Affi rmative Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Office filed a lawsuit against Glock Inc. and Glock Ges.m.b.H. seeking relief for multiple violations of the state’s fi rearms industry public safety laws through the knowing manufacture, sale, and distribution of its namesake pistols, which can easily be configured to fi re automatically as illegal machine guns, using an inexpensive device commonly known as a “Glock switch.” The fi ling came on the same day that New Jersey announced the formation of a 16-state coalition to hold irresponsible fi rearms industry members accountable for their devastating impact on gun violence. As part of that effort, Minnesota also fi led suit against Glock. Established by Attorney General Platkin in 2022, the SAFE Office seeks to hold irresponsible members of the gun industry accountable through civil lawsuits when their weapons are used to perpetrate criminal activity.

The Auto Theft Task Force (ATTF) led by the New Jersey Division of State Police (NJSP) was formed to address the serious spike in auto thefts. The task force works both to recover individual stolen vehicles as well as to pursue long-term investigations into car theft organizations. In addition to members of the State Police, the task force is comprised of officers from various county, state, and municipal law enforcement agencies. The task force recovered dozens of stolen vehicles with a value, in total, of millions of dollars.

The task force has played a key role in prosecuting offenders to deter auto theft and secure recoveries for vehicle owners.

Governor Murphy and the Legislature, with the support of the Attorney General’s Office, enacted legislation in July 2023 that has strengthened the criminal penalties for auto theft offenders, particularly for persistent, repeat offenders and large-scale automobile trafficking networks. The State works with law enforcement partners at every level to raise awareness of the new statutes and to utilize them in investigations and prosecutions statewide.

The State’s innovative approaches to public safety have become national models. The Alternative Responses to Reduce Instances of Violence and Escalation (ARRIVE) Together program – designed to improve outcomes when law enforcement responds with a mental health component – has expanded to all 21 counties, resulting in approximately 6,000 cases since its December 2021 inception in Cumberland County. The Community Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) program, overseen by the Division of Violence Intervention and Victim Assistance (VIVA), has made a meaningful impact on communities vulnerable to violence by supporting organizations with established credibility within the communities. Over the first three quarters of 2024, CBVI programming reached more than 16,000 community members through strategic partnerships with schools, community events, group and one-on-one programs, and responses to violent incidents.

To date, the Murphy Administration has invested more than $55 million in CBVI programs and more than $32 million to ARRIVE.

K9:

Continued From Page 1

support of the Manchester Police Foundation. Meaney and the rest of the department is looking forward to Buck’s graduation on January 20, 2025, and can’t wait to see him in action.

In a 2020 interview with The Manchester Times, Lisa Parker, then serving as the department’s police chief, reviewed the history of the department’s K-9 Unit that had been around 22 years prior. The unit was reactivated in 2015.

The reason the unit was reactivated was that an increase in narcotics responses was noted around 2014, according to Chief Parker. Storm was the department’s fi rst four-legged addition to the force when the unit was restarted. He came from the Netherlands while Lynk joined the department soon after and was from Hungry. Both dogs were trained at Shelly’s School for Dogs/ Green Leaf Pet Resort, Millstone Township.

The two dogs paid for themselves in the fi rst year through the number of items that were confiscated during arrests.

At that time, Manchester Police had seized 40 cars, and money-wise the actual cash seized was in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Law enforcement agencies can garner a designated amount from the value of confiscated vehicles and items from arrests through state police regulations.

Whiting Fire Company 33 Flea Market

WHITING – Looking for a place to sell your wares? Come to the Whiting Fire Company 33 Flea Market every third Saturday of the Month at 120 Lacey Road. All tables are $15. Contact Diane Serrano at 732-849-6959.

Parker previously said the K-9 officers are used “on side-to-side evenings but they sometimes are called in for some day shift work.” She noted that with the county, state and nation’s current opioid crisis the department has been working to bring drug use awareness to the school district.

In 2017, community donations helped fund the purchase of a K-9 kennel for police dogs Storm and Lynx.

Those in the community who would like to support the K-9 Unit and future initiatives can do so by visiting: manchesterpolicenj. com/administration-professional-standards/manchester-township-police-foundation.

The Manchester Township Police Foundation is a coalition of business and civic leaders, organizations and individuals committed to the idea that an educated, well-trained and modernly equipped police force leads to a safer community for all according to the Foundation’s website.

The Foundation was established in 2014 as an independent, non-profit organization to promote excellence in the Police Division and to improve public safety in Manchester Township.

PUBLIC NOTICE

BOROUGH OF LAKEHURST

PLEASE BE ADVISED that the reorganization meeting of the Borough of Lakehurst Land Use Board has been scheduled for Monday, January 27, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at the Lakehurst Community Center, 207 Center Street, Lakehurst, New Jersey.

Maryanne Capasso, Secretary Lakehurst Land Use Board

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN COMPLIANCE WITH N.J.S.A. 10:4-18, notice is hereby given and posted that the scheduled regular meetings of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Lakehurst are as follows:

January 1 and 16, 2025 July 17, 2025

February 6 and 20, 2025 August 21, 2025

March 6 and 20, 2025

April 3 and 17, 2025

May 1 and 15, 2025

June 5 and 19, 2025

September 4 and 18, 2025

October 2 and 16, 2025

November 6, 2025

December 4 and 18, 2025, and

Work sessions are scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. prior to the regular meeting. The regular meeting will begin immediately following the work session. The Reorganization Meeting will be held at 12 noon on January 1. Meetings can be canceled due to lack of quorum, illness, weather conditions, lack of agenda items, or by direction of the Mayor. Additional meetings may be called as required. The Mayor and Council may determine the need exists for a closed/executive session for discussion of permitted matters during any of the scheduled meetings.

Council meetings are held in the Community Center, 207 Center Street, located at the corner of Pine and Center Streets, Lakehurst, NJ.

If any member of the public wishes to discuss any matter with the Mayor and Borough Council, it would be advisable to give details to the Clerk’s Office, in advance, so that the matter may be placed on the agenda and any necessary research done to allow for an appropriate response.

Maryanne Capasso, RMC Municipal Clerk

February Programs For Adults At Library

MANCHESTER – The library announces February programs for adults:

February 2 at 2 p.m. - Art Reception by Rosemary Zangara. Enjoy the gallery and an opportunity to meet and engage with local artistic talent.

February 4 at 2 p.m. – Love Songs SingAlong. Celebrate the season of love with a sing-along to classic romantic tunes with fun lyrics and good vibes. Please register.

February 6 at 2 p.m. – Book Lovers Book Café. Come spend time with other book lovers, sharing books that you have read, and learning about new books that you might want to try. Please register.

February 10 at 11 a.m. – Heart Healthy Eating: Mediterranean and DASH Diets. Learn practical tips for incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals and gain insights into how these eating patterns can lead to long-lasting health benefits. Please register.

February 18 at 10 a.m. – Holiday Scarf –For Adults with Special Needs. Give the gift of warmth this holiday season with this scarf craft kit. Supplies are limited. Please register.

February 24 at 3 p.m. - Tales from African and African American Folktale Tradition. Storyteller Julie Pasqual will feature stories that were rooted in the tradition of the African people, and those stories that became part of the African American experience. Please register.

February 24 at 7 p.m. - All you Need to Know about AI for Humans. Join Ocean County College Professor Ken Michalek for a discussion of artificial intelligence (AI) basics, including its real-world applications, ethical considerations, and how it affects daily life for everyone. Please register.

February 26 at 2 p.m. – Age Related Hearing Loss. The Department of Audiology at Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus, presents Dr. Sue Ellen Boyer, AuD, FAAA, as she discusses age-related hearing loss and facts about hearing aids. Please register.

Girl Scouts Of The Jersey Shore My Promise, My Faith Retreat

WHITING – The My Promise, My Faith Retreat invites Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scouts of all faiths to experience an afternoon exploring the connections between the Girl Scout Law and teachings from the Catholic faith.

This retreat will include a guest speaker, Lexi Kross, an opportunity to help with a service project that will benefit women in need, and conclude with a Catholic Mass at 4 p.m. Girl Scouts should wear their Girl Scout uniform – vest or sash.

Lexi Kross is a parishioner of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and a recent Rowan University graduate. During her college years she was

Where indicated, advance registration is required by calling 732-657-7600 or online at theoceancountylibrary.org/events. The Manchester Branch of the Ocean County Library is located at 21 Colonial Drive in Manchester Township. a Rowan Catholic and Newman House leader and cantor. Lexi spent her time as a Catholic college student during the pandemic, as well as after the pandemic, where she helped to grow the Catholic community at Rowan and share the beauty of Catholic womanhood and femininity.

Event will be on January 25 at 2 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Cost for this event is $10 and will include the My Promise My Faith pin. RSVP and send payments (checks made payable to Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Troop 50427) to Melissa Street no later than January 18.

For more information, call 732-581-2094.

2025 Power In The Pines Air & Space Open House

LAKEHURST – The 2025 Power in the Pines Air & Space Open House will be hosted at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst from May 17 to 18.

The event is free and open to the public. The USAF Thunderbirds will headline the event along with other performers – a full

list of performers and static displays will be published at a later time.

For sponsorship inquiries, please see here: gomdl.com/commercial-sponsorship. Looking for more information? Visit the JB MDL website at jbmdl.jb.mil or email 87.abw.pa@us.af.mil.

Cedar Glen Lakes Country Western Dance

WHITING – Cedar Glen Lakes Country Western Dance will be on March 15 from 7 to 10 p.m. at 100 Michigan Avenue.

Doors open 6:30 p.m. Music by Nash East

Band. Chili, chili dogs, and soda for sale. BYOB. 50/50 Door Prize. Tickets are $15 per person. For tickets call Sue Golden at 609-240-7109.

Police Department Raises Funds For PAL

MANCHESTER – The Manchester Police Department proudly donated $1,800 to the Manchester Township Police Athletic League (PAL)!

This donation was made possible thanks to personal donations from our police officers and township employees through our No Shave November fundraiser, which extended into December.

The check was presented to John Hen-

ry and Kevin Rembach of Manchester Township PAL, an organization dedicated to promoting youth development by organizing safe and enjoyable activities for young people. As a youth center and boys and girls club, PAL provides programs that nurture physical, emotional, and social wellbeing, building a stronger future for our community.

Thank you to everyone who donated!

Light Up The Night Daddy Daughter Glow Dance

MANCHESTER – Light up the Night with the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Daddy Daughter Glow Dance on February 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Manchester High School Cafeteria, 101 Hawks Way.

Doors open at 5:45 p.m. Cost is $20 per person attending and includes pasta dinner with salad, bread, and dessert, DJ, dancing, photo booth, glow sticks, and a fun patch (for Girl Scouts registered by February 1). Dance is open to all girls preschool through 5th grade in Manchester, Whiting, and Lakehurst. Girls may bring their dad,

grandpa, uncle, or big brother (must be at least 18 years old).

Troop 176 is collecting non-perishable food donations for the Joel E Perlmutter Food Pantry. All girls that donate will receive and thank you gift.

Registration due by February 1. Emails and registrations at the door will not be accepted. Send form and check to: Debby Pease 305 Manapaqua Avenue Lakehurst, NJ 08733. Make check payable to GSJS Troop 176.

Questions? Email DebbyPease@aol.com.

Photo courtesy Manchester Police

Enhanced County Services Now Available At Whiting Annex

MANCHESTER – County services have been expanded at the Whiting Annex, located at 82 Lacey Road.

In addition to the Ocean County Veterans Services and Manchester Senior Outreach programs already offered at the facility, the Ocean County Connection has offi cially joined the building, providing an array of essential resources and services to our residents.

Ocean County Connection offers a wide range of services, including:

• Consumer Affairs

• Senior Services

• Surrogate Services

• Veterans Services & Job Assistance

• OCC Calendar of Events

• Safety Information

• Recycle Old Cell Phones

• Notary Services

• Health Screenings & Services

• Ocean County College Programs

• Ocean County Library Services

• Passport Applications

• Parks & Recreation Programs

• Government Directories

• Ocean Ride Schedules

The addition of Ocean County Connection further enhances the comprehensive support available at the Whiting Annex. Residents can now access a diverse range of resources, from passport applications to health screenings, all under one roof.

Residents are encouraged to visit the Whiting Annex to learn more about the expanded services or to utilize the many programs now available.

For additional information, contact the Office of Mayor Robert Arace at 732-6578121 or visit the Manchester Township website.

Help Support Student Cereal Drive Of 2025

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township School District’s students have a heart for community service and in the new year, will work hard to collect cereal boxes for local food banks.

The MTSD Cereal Drive 2025 is sponsored by the school district’s Junior Impact, Impact, and Interact Clubs. These clubs, an extension of the Lakehurst/ Manchester Rotary Club, are calling on the community to help them raise thou-

sands of new, unopened cereal boxes for donation.

Cereal box donations can be dropped off at any MTSD school between January 8 and February 14. The students will then work to distribute those cereal boxes to Ocean County residents through partner food banks.

Thank you for your continued support of our students and their community service initiatives!

‘Cuppa Tea With The DBE’

WHITING – Calling all ladies in Ocean County and the surrounding areas, that have British (Irish, Welsh, Scottish, English) or Commonwealth of Nations heritage or ancestry!

Come join for a ‘Cuppa’ Tea with the ladies of the DBE Duchess of Cambridge Chapter to learn more about who we are,

what we do and the New Jersey charities we support!

Event will be on January 22 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Whiting.

Registration is required for this free event; email njstateorganizer@gmail.com. Visit dbeinnj.org for more information.

C ommunity n ews

Whiting Fire Company Welcomes Two New Members

2025-26 Manchester Township Preschool Program

MANCHESTER – Please be advised that Manchester’s Universal Preschool Program for the 2025-26 school year is now at full capacity.

Is Full

Visit manchestertwp.org/preschoolreg to be added to the waitlist. Please call 732 350 5900 ext. 2251 with any questions!

The Lakehurst Board of Education will observe the following meeting schedule from January 2025 through December 2025:

The Regular Meetings will be held on the third (3rd) Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. (with exceptions). All meetings will be held in the Media Center, Lakehurst Elementary School, 301 Union Avenue, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 unless otherwise noted. Formal action will be taken at the Regular Meetings. Work Sessions will be held at 6:30 p.m. prior to Regular Meetings.

Schedule of Regular Meetings

January 28, 2025 July 15, 2025

February 18, 2025 August 19, 2025

March 18, 2025 September 16, 2025

April 15, 2025 October 21, 2025

May 20, 2025 November 18, 2025

June 17, 2025 December 16, 2025

Photo courtesy Whiting Fire Company

WHITING – Congratulations to Jim Moran and Tom Quinn, the two newest fire police members sworn in at Whiting Fire Company Station 33’s monthly meeting.

Manchester Democratic Club Monthly Meeting

MANCHESTER – Join like-minded residents of Lakehurst, Manchester and surrounding towns for the club’s monthly meeting.

The next meeting will be on January 18 at the Presbyterian Church, 101 Orchard Street, Lakehurst.

They are an active and growing club that gets stuff done! Doors open at 9:30 a.m. for social time; meeting starts at 10 a.m.

In December, members voted to elect Executive Board members for the next twoyear term (January 2025 to January 2027):

• President: Brenda Christian

• Treasurer: Bob Lanik

• Director of Fundraising: Bruce Polsky

Congratulations! They will be sworn in at our January meeting. The following positions are filled through the end of 2025:

• Vice President: Kathy Frisch

• Director of Political Affairs: Gloria

Adkinson

• Member-At-Large: Sandy Lewis

Are you willing/able to make an additional investment of your time, energy and talents to make the Manchester Township Democratic Club all that it can be? Then consider becoming part of the MTDC leadership team by volunteering for one of the current vacant positions:

• Secretary

• Director of Programming

• Director of Membership

You will have the full support of the Board as you take on this role, and the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to ensure the continued success and growth of the Club. If you are interested, or would like further information, reach out to any Board member at an upcoming Club meeting or send an email to info@manchesterdems.com.

Bereavement Support Group

WHITING – The next meeting is January 31 at 1 p.m. in the D&E room of Deerfield Hall, Crestwood Village Six, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting.

The meetings are open to anyone in the area not just Village 6 residents. Members help others deal with loss of spouse, family member, or friend. Most of the group has lost someone over the past years and help those new to grief understand the stages

of grief.

Meetings are free and refreshments are served. You do not have to register you can just show up.

Meetings for 2025 are February 28, March 28, April 25, May 30, and June 27. January meeting starts a six-session presentation on grief.

For more information, call Rosie at 732881-1044.

Rockabilly 101 Featuring Billy Penn And The Inside Drivers

Cost is $15 per person. Tickets are sold every Monday at the CV 6 Clubhouse from 10 to 11 a.m. Sold on a fi rst come fi rst serve basis. Raffle, 50/50 and doors prizes. Refreshments provided; fi nger foods welcome. (If availability allows tickets may be purchased at the door.)

WHITING – Crestwood Village 6 Residents Club proudly presents… Rockabilly 101 featuring Billy Penn and the Inside Drivers on February 15 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Deerfield Hall, 6 Congasia Road, Whiting. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. First time in Crestwood Village 6, so come join for a fusion of great music and style all in one night!

Hosted by the CV 6 Resident’s Club, Kathleen Casper, President.

Crestwood Village 1 Dinner & Movie

WHITING – Crestwood Village 1 presents “Leap Year” on February 7 at 5:30 p.m. at 92 Fairway Lane, Friendship Hall.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 in advance and on sale Tuesdays from

9 to 11 a.m. Tickets at the door are $8. Admission includes pasta and meatball dinner, popcorn and drink. Candy will be available for purchase at an extra charge. 50/50 ticket will be available to purchase.

Beginner Adult Yoga

MANCHESTER – Manchester Recreation is offering beginner yoga classes for those ages 18 and up. Sessions are held on Tuesdays from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at the Town Hall Civic Center. The next session will begin

January 21. Instructor: Peaceful Pathways Yoga. Please bring your own yoga mat, water & towel. Cost is $50 per session. For more information, visit parksrec.egov. basgov.com/manchesternj.

C ommunity n ews

Cats Available For Adoption

By Chris Lundy

TOMS RIVER – An adoption center with a free roaming cat playroom is open in downtown Toms River on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and also by appointment.

Meet Bebe! This tuxedo kitty has lived in the playroom for a few years now and is quite fond of the staff here, but she is a little strange around strangers. There are over a dozen cats at the playroom who get more attention but this week we thought we’d shine the spotlight on little, overlooked Bebe.

The center is located at 34 Main Street (Route 9), Suite 1B. The adoption center is

run by the group called Lawyers In Defense of Animals. They can be reached at 908910-2522, or on Facebook at /lidarescue and on Instagram @lida_rescue.

A Santa Claus Christmas With The Tin Can Sailors

By Heide Dziardziel

TOMS RIVER – On December 18, the Tin Can Sailors held a Christmas party with Santa Claus at the American Legion Post 129 in Toms River. We meet once a month on the third Wednesday at 12 p.m. and food can be ordered at a reasonable price. Come join us!

Commander Jarrell Correll Jr. welcomed members and introduced Bill Schmidt, the chaplain, who commenced the event with an emotional prayer.

The socializing began with a delicious meal, served by Brenda Eddy, who has been with the caterers for the American Legion Post # 129 for eight years, and Karen Zimmerman who recently joined them. The menu consisted of a salad, chicken parmesan, roast beef, beef stroganoff, and roasted potatoes with a delightful chocolate cake and coffee. The meal concluded with the award of door prizes and an exchange of gifts.

Why do we celebrate the Tin Can Sailors? It is a non-profit organization, that promotes camaraderie among members through social media, reunions, and websites. It encourages understanding of its importance and mission and educates the public about the contribution made by soldiers who served on destroyers to preserve its history. The name itself is significant as it refers to the National Association of Destroyer Veterans in the United States. This term is affectionately called “tin cans” because of their light armor as compared to battleships and cruisers.

The Tin Can Sailors was founded in 1976. The Navy refers to the term as the strength of the Naval power during World War II given to sailors and destroyers.

Destroyers (DD) & (DDG) are warships that provide multi-mission offensive and defensive capabilities. They are capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare. As such, provided vessel escort services, but today are versatile warships that can fight alone.

james.mulcahy@wellsfargo.com

We honor our members who provided service to our country.

Jarrell Correll Jr. has served with the Tin Can Sailors for twenty years in the National sector and nine within our community. He functioned as a sonar technician who hunted submarine sounds screening ships in the areas to determine their intent. He is the commander of the executive board and we congratulate him for his determination to assist veterans in every necessity.

Richard Rickabaugh has served for six years in the sonar technology division searching for hostile submarine activity during Vietnam. His knowledge of codes is their operations is remarkable. As a trustee member in our community, he has served for the past seven years as a yeoman in charge of documentation of clerical activities and meetings.

Bud Carnes, a member for six years served as a Quarter Master, navigating destroyer logs. The information received was crucial and is preserved for posterity. He enjoys camaraderie with his buddies and wishes them well.

Daniel Bilinski, with the Navy from 19651968. In addition to serving in the reserves for two years as a Gun Fire Control Technician in marine ship transport, in the Atlantic Ocean area, he also was given the Sailor of the Year award.

As a member of the Tin Can Sailors, today, we are fortunate to have him and his wife, Christina, serve as volunteers at a church in Forker River helping the homeless at soup kitchens. Roy Hudec was in the Navy for four years and served as a Corpsman rendering counseling and guidance to members in need of medical advice and transport including personnel advice.

Although the number of members is too vast to name, we honor them all and wish them health, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year. Santa Claus came from the North Pole to help the Tin Can Sailors have GREAT Christmas party.

Photo by Chris Lundy

By Liz Ciocher

“48 Hours For The Fund” Local Teacher Runs For 48 Hours Straight

ABERDEEN – When Matawan Aberdeen Middle School teacher Anthony Certa was 18 years old, he did what many Americans did in 2002 - he enlisted in the United States military to defend his country. He enlisted in the Marines Corps from the ages of 18 to 22 and served in Iraq in 2003, 2004 and 2005.

Now, as a 41-year-old veteran, Certa continues to provide for his country, but in a different manner. By running extreme lengths and other physical challenges, Certa evokes awareness and donations from people to Semper Fi and America’s Fund - a nonprofit organization that helps veterans with PTSD and similar experiences to his own.

Most recently for the foundation, Certa took on a challenge that has not been accomplished, or even considered of, by many: he ran a consecutive 48 hours on a treadmill.

“I want to give back [to Semper Fi and America’s Fund] because once a Marine, always a Marine. We’re all in this together. Some of our injuries might be a little bit more than other people’s, but we’re all fighting the same fight,” he said. “I’m just grateful that I’ve been given this God-given opportunity to do something extraordinary for other people that have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we could do things like this.”

From December 21 to December 23, Certa

ran on a treadmill in Bradley Beach’s Jersey Shore Fitness Shop, a 24-hour gym. The total distance for his run was 152.8 miles.

To keep himself occupied, Certa watched outside windows, browsed social media and spoke with other gym goers about the foundation.

With a QR code and pamphlets explaining Certa’s mission, he was able to gather the attention of every visitor, and with their help and donations, was able to raise over $1,200.

On top of that, the Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation, which is partnered with Semper Fi and America’s Fund, matched all that Certa raised, totaling the donations to about $2,500.

“Other people have paid the ultimate sacrifice so I could do things like this. It hurt in different ways than other multi-day events that I’ve done, but when I remember them, it’s worth it.” he said.

Certa has run various extreme distances since his release from the military to raise awareness for the fund, including running the entire distance of the state of New Jersey from top to bottom (and then bottom to top again). It was the Semper Fi and America’s Fund that helped him to discover that running helps with his PTSD, he said.

Along with helping veterans combat their PTSD and other disabilities, Semper Fi and America’s Fund has helped veterans fi nd homes, start businesses and provide a foundational way of living. The non-profit has

service dog, Mando.

been an active foundation for over 20 years.

Outside of Certa’s monumental runs, he works as a 7th grade social studies teacher, teaching special education students at Matawan Aberdeen Middle School. The students, he says, serve as an additional inspiration for completing these physical challenges.

“It’s nice to reach them and let them know that things are not impossible,” he said.

“That’s kind of one thing that keeps me exploring new things of endurance sports, seeing their reactions when they don’t think something’s possible and I can show them that it is. It’s really cool to inspire the kids that way, and it just kind of gives you like a little bit of a breath of fresh air.”

Every three hours, Certa said, he would take a 10 minute break, but during this (48 Hours - See Page 21)

Photo courtesy of Anthony Certa

Anthony Certa was steady on the treadmill for 48 hours, occasionally accompanied by his

A MESSAGE FROM OUR ADMINISTRATOR:

Rose Garden is one of the few “mom and pop” skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers left ... in the state of New Jersey. The world has turned “corporate;” we have not.

It has been our core belief that the delivery of healthcare is quite personal. That “intimacy” is in danger when 5 to 100 facilities are operated in multiple states by large corporations. We have always strived for a close “family” atmosphere and believe we have succeeded. The environment is warm and inviting and exceedingly clean and spotless. Our homemade food and soups are outstanding, and the care is thoughtful, kind and productive.

We have been called the “Hotel of Healthcare.”

Please ask your friends, neighbors and, most importantly, other healthcare professionals. We are here, in your neighborhood, to serve you!

Sound News

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

Give Tinnitus Stress The Boot

Do you feel like you always hear an unwanted, stress-inducing background noise, such as ringing, buzzing, or hissing? It could be tinnitus — and spring cleaning is a great time to put your tinnitus stress out on the curb.

include tinnitus-management functionality.

• Masking : You listen to sounds that give your brain something to focus on other than your tinnitus.

• Habituation: You listen to a customized sound that leaves some tinnitus audible, which desensitizes you to your tinnitus and alleviates the associated stress.

• Coaching: We teach you skills that minimize your body’s involuntary reaction to your tinnitus.

nursing and rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. • Toms River, NJ 08753

732-505-4477 • www.rosegardennj.com

CLINICAL

Acne Treatment • Eczema Treatment

Mole Removal • Wart Removal

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Skin Cancer Treatment • Skin Infections

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CoolSculpting • Botox

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Microdermabrasion • Scar Revision

Treatment of Acne Scarring

YAG Laser

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Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Superficial Radiotherapy

Tinnitus isn’t a disease, but it may signal a health concern, such as earwax buildup or too much exposure to loud noise. Often, it goes hand in hand with hearing loss, so the best starting place is us! The Tinnitus Consultation First, we’ll provide a hearing evaluation to determine whether hearing loss is a factor in your tinnitus. If there’s an obvious physical cause, such as earwax buildup, addressing it should clear up your tinnitus. Often, though, the cause remains a mystery. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize your stress response. To determine how best to help you, we’ll evaluate your tinnitus. You’ll answer questions about your perception of the sound, and we’ll run tests to learn about its pitch and volume.

Treatment Options

Once we understand your needs, we can recommend a personalized treatment plan. It could include one of the following:

• Hearing aids: Wearing these has been shown to provide some relief, and they often

• Lifestyle changes: For example, the sound gets worse for some people when they drink caff eine or alcohol. Removing these can provide some relief. Often, the sweet spot is a combination of things from the above list. Everyone’s relationship with their tinnitus is unique, so each treatment plan is, too. Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always here to listen to your hearing care needs. Take charge of your hearing health — call us and give tinnitus stress the boot! Please feel free to contact our offi ce at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com

WE HEAR YOU & WE ARE HERE For YOU!

Presented

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He

or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Truth About GLP-1 Agonists: Weight Loss, Side Effects, And Regaining Pounds

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Let’s talk about GLP-1 agonists which are the popular drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Their popularity has led to off-label use, especially among celebrities who may not meet these criteria but want a quick path to looking thin on the red carpet.

What happens when you stop taking them? Are they safe long-term? This article will explore everything from eligibility to side effects, so you can make informed decisions.

To use GLP-1 agonists for weight loss, you need to have a BMI of 30 or higher. However, if your BMI is at least 27 and you have weight-related health issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes, your doctor may still offer them to you.

GLP-1 agonists work by mimicking a hormone that controls blood sugar and appetite. They make you eat less by increasing satiety. These medications work only with consistent use, typically weekly injections. However, as with any drug, they come with potential risks and side effects.

GLP-1 agonists can cause some side effects the most common ones being nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhea. Eating smaller, slower meals and avoiding greasy foods may help. But for some, serious side effects to the pancreas or kidneys can occur. More recently, there appears to be an increased incidence of thyroid cancer in animal studies. On the bright side,

having a healthy BMI can reduce risk for heart attacks.

Another consideration is nutrient depletion, a “drug mugger” effect where GLP-1 agonists can reduce levels of vital nutrients. It’s wise to supplement and the list of vitamins and minerals that you need is posted at my website, just use my search box.

One major drawback is that the weight loss isn’t permanent for many people. GLP-1 agonists suppress appetite and modify metabolism, but once you stop taking them, old habits—and the pounds—may return. Studies suggest up to two-thirds of the weight lost can come back within a year after discontinuation. To maintain your progress, you’ll need to adopt lifestyle changes, such as portion control, regular exercise, and mindful eating. While long-term use of these medications is an option for some, it’s not a decision to take lightly due to cost, potential side effects, and the psychological aspect of reliance on a drug for weight control.

Should you try GLP-1 agonists? These drugs can be life-changing for people with type 2 diabetes which is sometimes accompanied with obesity, offering both weight loss and cardiovascular benefits. However, they’re not magic bullets. They work best as part of a comprehensive plan, and for short-term use. If you’re interested in a deeper dive into this topic, I’ve written a longer, more comprehensive blog on my website 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.

Dr.Bartisshasoftenbeenreferredtoas“adoctor’sdoctor”,andisfrequentlycalled upon for his diagnostic skills. He is founder and Medical Director of ICAM and a member of the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, the American AcademyofAnti-AgingMedicine,theAmericanAcademyofOzoneTherapists,and adiplomateoftheAmericanAcademyofFamilyPhysicians.Dr.Bartissisamedical writer, lecturer and author who is recognized as one of the top ten specialists in thefieldofBio-IdenticalHormoneReplacementTherapy(BHRT).

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There are many spots to go fishing around the Jersey Shore. One popular place is the Manasquan Reservoir in Howell Township, Monmouth County. This great shot was captured by photographer John Gaeta. Have a pic you would like to see in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

‘Tunes Of Yesteryear’ At Whiting UMC

WHITING – Whiting United Methodist Church will be hosting “Tunes of Yesteryear” on January 26. Come out for an afternoon of country oldies, from a variety of bands, straight from

Albert Hall! Admission is $5 per person, doors open at 12 p.m. (pay at the door). Music from 1 until 5 p.m. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Consumer Rights And Data Breach Protecting Yourself From Identify Theft

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

The recent data breach by Equifax meant that sensitive personal information for 145 million Americans was potentially exposed, including Social Security numbers, birthdates, addresses and, in some instances, driver’s license numbers. This incident has left many consumers wondering how they can protect themselves from identify theft.

Monitor your Account

Check your financial account transactions regularly. Opt-in for alerts that screen for questionable transactions and opt-in for multifactor authentication. Look for charges that you don’t recognize, even if they were for small amounts. Sometimes scoundrels test the waters with small charges. Be aware of communications claiming to be from credit reporting agency or financial institution.

Review Credit Reports

annualcreditreport.com, by phone or mail. Any site other than annualcreditreport. com is not part of the legally mandated free annual credit report program. Make sure you spell the annualcreditreport.com domain name correctly and avoid lookalike scam sites.

By law, all consumers are entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). You can request a free credit report from

Place a Freeze

A credit freeze prevents new creditors from accessing your credit file and others from opening accounts in your name. A freeze could stop identity thieves because most (but not all) businesses will not open credit accounts without checking your credit report. A credit freeze does not prevent identity thieves from taking-over your existing account.

Set a fraud alert!

A fraud alert requires creditors who check your credit report to take steps to verify your identity before opening a new account, issuing additional card or increasing your credit limit on an existing account. A fraud alert is free. You can place an initial alert on your account for 90 days if you have not been a victim of identity theft.

48 Hours:

Continued From Page 16

48-hour run, there were only four total hours that Certa was not actively running on the treadmill: he took two one-hour breaks and one two-hour break. Sleeping was too uncomfortable, he said, but he did take a few opportunities to put his feet up.

Although the run was successful in spreading awareness and raising donations for the fund, Certa said he would not do it again. In comparison to outdoor runs, the repetition of the treadmill setting was one of the hardest feats to overcome.

“I’ve run every single day since June 5, 2021, so I know what I like,” he said. “The sense of adventure that you get when you’re running outside is completely different than being on a treadmill. There’s no adventure on the inside, but all I had to do to keep me going was remember what I was there for.”

In addition to fi nancial support, some members of the gym were physically sup-

portive of his treadmill run, joining him for the last couple miles of the trek. According to him, there were about six guys that showed up between 4:30 a.m. and 5 a.m. to help him see his adventure through.

“There were some points where time really dragged, and then there were parts where it was like, ‘holy smokes, where did the last six hours go?’ and that’s because of all the people that were supporting me. My wife, friends, family and even strangers were there to support me and this cause, which was really inspiring,” he said.

For his next cause, Certa plans to arrange a run from the Liberty Bell in Constitution Hall to the 9/11 Memorial, Philadelphia to New York City. This would be just over a hundred miles, which, to him, is “nothing crazy.”

While Certa has concluded his run, giving donations to the fund is still available through Semper Fi and America’s Fund website at thefund.org/upcoming-events/48hours-for-the-fund/.

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

ARounD tHe JeRsey sHoRe

New Jersey Nonprofits Receive More Th an $740,000 From FirstEnergy, FirstEnergy Foundation In 2024

HOLMDEL – To bolster the social and economic well-being of the communities served by FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) electric company Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), FirstEnergy and the FirstEnergy Foundation have donated more than $740,000 in 2024 to organizations that support a wide array of community-enhancing endeavors. These initiatives help promote workforce and economic development, enhance the social and cultural landscape of the region and champion crucial safety initiatives.

Lorna Wisham, Vice President of Corporate Affairs & Community Involvement and President of the FirstEnergy Foundation: “Electricity is the lifeblood for homes and businesses, but it’s the people that are the lifeblood of our communities. These non-profits are people-driven, and they give opportunities, hope and security to the people who need it the most. We are proud to be able to help them make our communities such great places to live, work and raise a family.”

A total of 113 nonprofit and civic organizations in northern and central New Jersey are making progress on their missions, thanks to grants from FirstEnergy and the FirstEnergy Foundation. Areas of impact include:

• More than $120,000 to programs that combat food insecurity and local food pantries.

• More than $65,000 to eight local United Way chapters in support of their community-focused events and efforts

• A $64,000 grant to NJ SHARES to fund a program for the completion of required

repairs identified during the smart meter installation process for income-qualified JCP&L customers

• More than $58,000 to homelessness and housing security initiatives.

• More than $35,000 to veteran-focused programs and charities.

Beyond providing grants to local non-profits, the FirstEnergy Foundation encourages employees to give back to their local communities and provides support in helping employees make a larger impact. FirstEnergy provides each of its employees with 16 hours of volunteer time off (VTO) annually, allowing team members to provide time and manpower to 501(c)3 non-profit organizations. How to Apply for a FirstEnergy Foundation Grant in New Jersey: The FirstEnergy Foundation provides support to 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits, including health and human services agencies, educational organizations, cultural and arts programs and institutions, and civic groups in areas served by JCP&L and FirstEnergy’s other electric companies and in areas where the company conducts business.

The FirstEnergy Foundation does not accept unsolicited grant applications. To inquire about grant opportunities or corporate sponsorships, contact Alix Hayes, Community Involvement Consultant at 732-904-9778 or ahayes@firstenergycorp.com.

Learn more about FirstEnergy and the FirstEnergy Foundation’s commitment to their communities at firstenergycorp.com/ community.

Be The Music! Cumbe Dance Workshops

TOMS RIVER – Absorb rhythms of Africa and let them move you. In honor of Black History Month, the Ocean County Library is pleased to offer Traditional West and Central African Dance and Drumming by the Cumbe Center for African and Diaspora Dance at four branches in February:

• Lacey Branch – 2 p.m. February 1, 10 East Lacey Road, Forked River, 609-6938566.

• Little Egg Harbor Branch – 2 p.m. February 8, 290 Mathistown Road, 609-294-1197.

• Berkeley Branch – 2 p.m. February 15, 30 Station Road, Bayville, 732-269-2144.

• Point Pleasant Borough Branch – 2 p.m. February 22, 834 Beaver Dam Road, 732295-1555.

Feel the energy, joy and vitality of rhythms that originated half a world away in the all-ages performance workshops. Come away with artistic and cultural nourishment and new levels of understanding, relatability, connectivity and confidence.

Based in Brooklyn, NY, donation-based Cumbe celebrates African and Diaspora culture as a vibrant legacy for people of African origin and as a source of spirit and knowledge for everyone, with a commitment to worldwide racial equality. Register at tinyurl.com/OclCumbe for the program at the branch of your choice. For more information, stop by or call any participating OCL branch or visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events.

Zumba Classes

WHITIING – Crestwood Village 6 announces Zumba with Ashley every Thursday afternoon from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Deerfield

Clubhouse, 6 Congasia Road, Manchester. All villages are welcome. Cost is $5. For more information, call 609-405-3234.

Ghost Forests – What They Are And What They Do

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

There are forests that exist where dead and decaying trees live. Like something out of an Alfred Hitchcock movie, these sites are eerie, even disturbing. They are dramatic reminders warning us of a growing problem within the global ecosystem.

When the ocean rises and floods coastal lands, sea levels rise, and ghost forests are born. Tsunamis occur, creating waves caused by seismic (earthquake or earth vibration) activity thereby devastating low-lying coasts. Salty ocean water meets and mixes with fresh water forming pools of brackish marshy water. Since the salt content in this mixed water is higher than

most trees can tolerate, it poisons them. Decades of this exposure to seawater has caused hundreds of healthy forests to die. One might think the dead tree falls not long after death. In fact, a tree can remain standing for a decade or longer once it has died. Eventually over time, the marshy land succumbs to the death of these trees, and the area becomes part of the open sea.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Although the term ghost forest comes from the earliest record of the term in the 1920s, when their studies began, ghost forests had existed for far longer. The world has experienced cold periods and warm periods throughout Earth’s geological history, causing large amounts of freezing and melting. It’s during the 21st century that (Ghost - See Page 28)

For Rent

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Real Estate

Trusted Local Home BuyersWe buy houses, any condition. A+ reviews. Get a fair cash offer today. Call 609-699-3767. (8)

Items For Sale

Priced 2 Sell Musical InstrumentsEntry & Intermediate Banjos, Keyboards, Acoustic & Lapsteel Guitars. Ocean County Resident. Call Mike at 201-315-8608. (6)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732849-6068 (new number). (t/n)

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY

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

CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (3)

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)

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

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

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

WANTED TO BUY - Old Records for LPs & 45s Rock/Jazz/Soul/Blues

Call Eddie (732-829-5908) For 45/78 RPM Doo Wop/Soul/R&B/Rockabilly Call Bob 909-938-4623. (6)

Help Wanted

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)

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Services Help Wanted

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring full time Cooks. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms river 08755. (9)

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)

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)

Part Time House Cleaner NeededVaries week to week. Must be reliable and willing to work. Must have reliable transportation. Pet friendly. Trustworthy. Serious Inquires only. Call Donna 732-330-5916. (5)

Services

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Avon Sales - Eyeliner, eye shadow, perfume, men's cologne. Call for a brochure 732-330-4189 or 848287-3944. If you are interested in selling Avon contact 732-3304189 or 848-287-3944. (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)

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)

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APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations. Fully insured and licensed. Seniors 10% off any job $500 or more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (7)

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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. (8)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)

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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. (4)

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

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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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If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203. Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication) 3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Sgt. or cpl.

Last name of both “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs” filmmakers

JERSEY SHORE – The Jersey Shore BlueClaws will host a Job Fair at ShoreTown Ballpark on January 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The team is once again hiring a group of hard-working, energetic professionals for a wide variety of gameday staff positions for the 2025 season.

A RounD t He J eRsey s HoRe

BlueClaws To Host Job Fair

“We have had a tremendous group of gameday staff members every season and we look forward to continuing that tradition in 2025,” said BlueClaws General Manager Bob McLane. “Providing a top-notch fan experience relies on our gameday staff and we look forward to welcoming new members to the family this year.”

Positions are available in a wide variety of departments: Game Day Operations (box office, security, parking, bat boys, Boardwalk game attendants), Concourse Level Food & Beverage (cashiers, food runners, cooks, portable cart operators, picnic attendants and grill cooks, kitchen positions, and more), Suite Level Food & Beverage (bartenders, suite servers, food runners, and party deck attendants), Back-of-House Food & Beverage (both day and night time warehouse

positions), Merchandise/Retail (Claws Cove positions), Production (camera operators, music & audio positions, instant replay, and PA-announcer), Promotions (including on-field emcee, Claws Crew team members, and mascot performers), Grounds Crew, and Clean Team.

With any questions, please email employment@blueclaws.com.

All positions are part-time and begin with on-boarding and training in March. Opening Night is set for April 8. Positions run through the last home game in September,

though there is opportunity for additional work at team and ballpark events as needed. Applicants must be 16 years of age by April 1 and pass a background check. Nights and weekends are required.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Ticket packages, group tickets, and single-game tickets are currently on sale for the 2025 season. Additional information is available online at BlueClaws.com.

Opening Night at the Jersey Shore, presented by Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, is set for April 8.

ARounD tHe JeRsey sHoRe

Congratulations To Speaker Mike Johnson

OCEAN COUNTY – The Ocean County Republican Organization congratulates Mike Johnson on his re-election as Speaker of the House for the 119th Congress!

With his commitment to combating inflation, securing our borders, and restoring energy independence, Speaker Johnson is leading the charge to make America affordable and strong again. As he said, “We’ll make America affordable again for America’s hardworking people.”

Authors Wanted For Book Show

AREA (732) 451-0800

TOMS RIVER - Authors are wanted for the Toms River Book Show, where they will be able to meet future fans and sell their books. It will take place from 6-9 p.m. on June 6 in the Toms River Artist Community gallery located at 40 Main Street (Route 9) in downtown Toms River.

The show takes place during one of the very well attended Downtown Night Out events. A section of Washington Street

from Main Street to Hooper Avenue is closed to vehicles. People eat outside, enjoying live music and ambiance. Hundreds of people come from miles around. Interested authors will pay $50 for the space. The event is a fundraiser for the Toms River Education Foundation which helps provide extracurricular activities to enrich local children. Please read more about it at facebook. com/TomsRiverBookShow

Caring For Our Kin

TOMS RIVER – “Caring for Our Kin” is a program co-developed by Penn State Extension and West Virginia University Extension for relatives and close family friends caring for children and teenagers.

This support group has 12 classes, each covering an important aspect of caregiving. Participants will build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to handle various situations and provide the best care for the children they’re looking after.

This is a 12-Part Kinship Caregiver Sup-

Ghost:

Continued From Page 24 these events have led to an increase in the formation of ghost forests in the last two decades. One result of ghost forest emergence is the replacement of healthy wetlands and forests in coastal areas, preventing carbon from being released into the atmosphere.

With the number of extreme weather events increasing, climate scientists report ghost forest formation is occurring at a rapid rate in areas where drought has occurred followed by a tropical cyclone.

port Group for Ocean County residents. It will take place monthly throughout the year in the evenings beginning January 29 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. This is a free program. Space is limited – Registration is due by January 17. The workshop will be held at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, 1623 Whitesville Road, Toms River on April 18. For more information, visit our website at ocean.njaes.rutgers.edu/fchs. Contact Dina Baudo with questions 732349-1247.

These formations contain carbon. This release of carbon into the atmosphere is a large contributor to global warming. Adding trees to shorelines, preventing and controlling wildfi res will limit the amount of carbon that enters the atmosphere. I gathered 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.

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

Photo courtesy Ocean County Republican Organization

ARounD tHe JeRsey sHoRe

Catt us Island Gingerbread House Contest Winners

TOMS RIVER – The Cattus Island Gingerbread House Contest results are in! Congrats to all who entered!

People’s Choice Winner: Sedona Z.

Adults:

1. Barbara S.

2. Christi S.

3. Jennifer H.

4. Brenda J. Teen:

1. Bryce J.

2. Alexis Y.

Youth 1 (0 to 6 years):

1. Anthony L.

2. Elijah D.

3. Vedder Z.

Youth 2 (7 to 12 years):

1. Girls Scout Troop 50086

2. Sedona Z.

3. Mason C.

OCC Receives Over $5.7M In Funding

OCEAN COUNTY – The U.S. Department of Labor announced the award of $5,742,966 to Ocean County College to support programs that help community colleges scale affordable, high-quality workforce training to meet employers’ and workers’ skill development needs in critical industry sectors, such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, semiconductors and biotechnology.

Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, the fifth round of Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants will use proven strategies to enhance career pathway programs and support more equitable outcomes for marginalized and underrepresented populations. This funding will harness the unique strengths of community college partnerships to drive broad, lasting improvements within the system.

“The Biden-Harris administration is investing in training programs that end in a job, rather than a job search,” said

Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su. “Our Strengthening Community Colleges grantees run programs that help lift whole communities, like by helping community colleges equip workers with the skills they need right now, while strengthening workforce infrastructure. This is how we fundamentally shift workforce training programs to better invest in improving the lives of America’s workers.”

Grantees will provide training across multiple sectors, many of which align with the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda, such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, IT, agriculture and infrastructure-related sectors, including transportation and broadband.

Through five rounds of grants to date, the department has invested $265 million, allowing 207 colleges in 35 states to address major workforce priorities for employers and workers in their respective states and local communities.

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.

Photo courtesy Ocean County Parks & Recreeation

Jewish Federation Honors Heroes Against Hate

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS

RIVER

- The Jewish Federation of Ocean County honored five individuals and one organization for their dedication to combating hate and promoting unity at a special event at the Clarion Hotel. The evening, which celebrated local “Heroes Against Hate,” was attended by community members, activists, and leaders.

“In recent years, we’ve been honoring local heroes against hate, recognizing that hate, in all its forms, including antisemitism, has been on the upswing,” said Jewish Federation of Ocean County Chairwoman Annabel Lindenbaum. “And the best way to counter that is for diverse communities and people to be upstanders and stand up against hate together.”

The recognition aligns perfectly with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office’s “Hate Has No Home in Ocean County” campaign, which earlier this year received the Attorney General’s Initiative Award for its success in addressing bias and hate crimes.

Billboards throughout Ocean County serve as a reminder that “Hate Has No Home in Ocean County.” However, when Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer congratulated the various award recipients, he spoke on the significance of the signs, which have been adapted in other areas of the state.

“It’s about sending a clear message to the communities that we want to live in,” said Billheimer. “About how we want to be treated and to treat one another…it’s more than just putting up billboards. It’s our job – and we have a zero-tolerance policy.”

Recognizing Upstanders

Managing Director of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County, Keith Krivitzky, emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to combating antisemitism and fostering unity in the community.

“The Jewish Federation is committed to combating antisemitism in our community and elsewhere, and we recognize that this fight is not just about us,” Krivitzky said. “It’s one thing for a particular community or individual to complain that they’re being picked on or bullied or targeted. It’s another when others come to their defense - when others step up proactively, are the first voices to speak up, and the loudest. When multiple voices rise up, that’s when we can make a difference and really affect change.”

Before transitioning to naming the award winners, Krivitzky credited the Federation’s efforts to stand against hate to partnerships with other groups. These included the Prosecutor’s Office, the Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission, the Center for Holocaust, Human Rights, and Genocide Education (Chhange), and Ocean County College.

St. Junipero Serra Parish

The parish uniquely unites two Roman Catholic churches, specifically Saint Catharine of Siena in Seaside Park and Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Seaside Heights. St. Junipero Serra received the Organizational Upstander Award for its work promoting peace and unity. Father Michael Gerard Lorentsen, the parish pastor, accepted the award.

“After October 7, the parish showed support for the local community affected by that tragic day, putting up banners calling for peace with Father Michael sharing a message about the deep meaning of shalom,” said Krivitzky. “There are images

in the stained-glass windows of the Star of David and the Ark of the Covenant. The church calls the Jewish community their brothers and sisters.

Krivitzky praised the parish’s commitment to fostering interfaith understanding. He said their show of support embodied the idea that hate has no home in the community.

Father Michael said that when the terrible events of October 7th started the war, it was a terrible and painful reminder of the need for peace in all of the world. He also echoed the words of Pope Francis, who said one could not be a Christian and antisemitic.

“As a Christian community within the Catholic communion,” he added. “We continue to strive to be agents of compassion, charity and humbleness so that all of us can know peace.”

Lakewood Police Chief

Chief Gregory Meyer received the Public Leadership Upstander Award for his efforts to unify Lakewood’s diverse populations. Under his leadership, Lakewood established a coalition that brings together various community groups to address common concerns.

“Lakewood is home to diverse populations that often remain isolated from each other, despite living in close proximity,” Krivitzky said. “Chief Meyer has worked with local community leaders and rabbis to create after-hours programs for young people. He’s also worked to promote understanding and strengthen relationships within the community.”

Meyer’s coalition meets quarterly and has been so successful that other towns have adopted it.

Congressman Chris Smith sent a proclamation recognizing Meyer commitment to building bridges in the community.

In an interview after the event, Meyer’s said that his department is also committed to ensuring members of the community are aware of the resources available to them.

“Rather than duplicate efforts, my officers have put together a network of resources within our community,” said Meyer. “Our department has created an index of groups so that if officers are out on a call and someone needs something, they know where to direct them. We want to give everyone the care they need – whether it’s clothing, food, mental health referrals, or medical help.”

OCC’s Dr. Henry Jackson

Dr. Jackson received an Individual Upstander Award for his leadership in educational initiatives combating hate. He has played a significant role in organizing student leadership conferences at Ocean County College, bringing together over 1,300 students from 29 schools.

“Dr Jackson has been a leader in educating about respect for differences and ways to combat hate in all its forms, including racism, bigotry, and antisemitism,” Krivitzky said.

A Gulf War veteran, with an impressive educational dossier, Jackson claimed he was a “bad kid” in his youth. That is, until he showed up for his senior prom in a white tuxedo and witnessed a young man screaming at his date.

Jackson intervened and tried to correct the situation, which unfortunately resulted in a bit of a rumble. Despite his treasured suit changing to black, that prom night stood as a lasting memory and the impetus for his approach towards life and standing up for others.

“From there on, it just became a part of what I did,” said Jackson. “To help people wherever I went.”

Lindenbaum

Avi Kotler

Avi Kotler, a member of the Orthodox community, was honored for his work in building bridges across Ocean County’s diverse communities.

Kotler has been involved in initiatives like the homeless Super Bowl party and the Toms River Rotary Club. He also helped organize participation in the rally for Israel after October 7.

“Avi embodies the idea of bridge building and meeting people where they are, regardless of label,” shared Krivitzky.

Kotler credited his community involvement to a chance encounter with Colin Lewis, a local community activist. He found building bridges with those outside the non-orthodox and non-Jewish communities imperative.

“When we connect in person, we realize we have so much more that unites us than divides us,” Kotler said. “I’ve always preferred working behind the scenes, but seeing the impact of these connections has been rewarding.”

Reisa Sweet

Reisa Sweet, chair of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Human Relations Commission, was recognized for her lifelong commitment to fighting bias and fostering dialogue.

Sweet and her husband marched with Dr. Martin Luther King during the civil rights movement. Krivitsky said that her life is marked by building bridges between people of diverse communities to eliminate hate, bias, injustice and discrimination.

“She is the current chair and longtime member of the Ocean County Human Relations Commission focused on preventing bias crime and encouraging community members,” said Krivitzky. “A major focus has been on how to encourage strangers to engage with each other and start a dialog, to bring people together with different lived experiences, and have them get to know each other, to listen to each other and see their commonality.”

Sweet confessed that her late husband had initiated the joining of Martin Luther King across the bridge. She recalled the days as troublesome and said there were even rumors that a bomb was going to be thrown on the plane they rode.

“You had to write out your will before you went on the plane,” she shared. “Because they didn’t know if the people would be coming back.”

Sweet spoke of the importance of connecting with others as part of the Human Relations Com-

mission. She recalled the “Say Hello” campaign initiated by Reverend Simmons of the group during the pandemic.

“We were in a state of isolation,” said Sweet. “And it was a very difficult time because people were in such fear of spreading anything or talking to anyone.”

People responded positively to messages on buttons that just said, “Say Hello,” and opened a dialogue among strangers.

Ariel Ifrah

A native of Jackson and a Rutgers University student, Ariel Ifrah received the Student Upstander Award for his steadfast activism supporting Israel and combating hate on campus. In addition to his role in the university’s student government, Ifrah has hosted pro-Israel gatherings on campus and is a member of the Students Supporting Israel. Last summer, Ifrah further demonstrated his commitment by volunteering in Israel.

Krivitsky acknowledged the college student’s accomplishments as no small feat, particularly with the rise of anti-Israel sentiments and antisemitism on college campuses.

“It’s important to encourage and recognize student leaders who stand up for their beliefs and their friends and family in Israel, educating their fellow students,” said Krivitsky. “While also making the statement that hate, bias and double standards have no place on campus.”

Reflecting on his experiences, Ifrah said that he was spit on when he first started classes at the university – just for being Jewish. He’s been called names, received threatening text messages and faced ongoing hostility. His experiences only strengthen his resolve.

Ifrah said he drew inspiration from the Jewish concept of “tikkun olam,” or repairing the world. “To repair the world, you have to take steps as individuals,” he said. “Unfortunately, our world isn’t perfect - we see hate and injustice in the streets, on the news, and on our campuses. But even small actions of courage can make a big impact.”

He emphasized that everyone has the power to create change. “We can take these steps, these small actions of courage, these small steps forward to stand up, even a bully in school, just something that may seem so miniscule to you or to other people, can make a really big impact,” he added.

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

(L to R) Avi Kotler, Father Michael Lorentsen, Prosecutor Brad Billhimer, Reisa Sweet, Dr. Henry Jackson, Ariel Ifrah, Managing Director of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County Keith Krivitzky and Chairwoman of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County Annabel

(not pictured Chief Gregory Meyer).

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Responsibilities may be plentiful and take over your time for sleep and relaxation. You could be very busy because there are commitments and promises that you are honor-bound to fulfill. Try to find time for a break.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The one who pays the piper calls the tune. This week it might be your special someone or your close friend who is full of ideas. It could be in your best interest to go along with their suggestions and be a team player.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Instead of striking a pose, aim for a happy compromise. You might be able to put a positive spin on your ideas all by yourself. Inviting others to share their thoughts and suggestions could result in a better outcome.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Let your creativity flow this week. A happy person is often one who makes good use of their imagination. You might find the greatest satisfaction by immersing yourself in a special interest or pastime.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Don’t limit yourself. You may have the ability to choose the best of the best. With romantic feelings emerging in the background, there might be a chance for you to express affection for that special someone.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Roll up your sleeves and dive into new ideas. Turn up your creative power for the best possibility of success. Others may be impressed by your dedication to your craft, even if they don’t agree with your methods.

FOR THE WEEK OF JAN 18 - JAN 24

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Your charm could make a significant impression on someone you want and need by your side. If there is a misunderstanding this week, it might be simple to clear up. Any conflict may improve in a few days.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Be patient, as good things may come to those who wait. There might be a reason some deals are called “arm’s length” transactions – it could be wise to keep a professional distance from someone you do business with.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Compromise makes the world go round. Be willing to cooperate with others this week, even if it means postponing your own needs. Give a little, pay it forward, and karma could bring great rewards later.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

Knowledge is invaluable. However, it could be how you use and interpret that knowledge that truly impacts the results. Wisdom can’t be bought; it may only be earned through observation and learning from mistakes.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Focus on developing wealth, willpower, and social skills. Being willing to cooperate with others doesn’t mean you’re weakwilled. You might be able to create a beneficial compromise without losing traction.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Enjoy your environment. People you encounter in your surroundings may have your best interest at heart. Those who attract you the most could have high expectations, consider if you really need their approval.

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