The SOUTHERN OCEAN Times Vol. 12 - No. 17
In This Week’s Edition
BREAKING NEWS @
jerseyshoreonline.com
Community News Pages 9-13
Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 16
Inside The Law Page 18
Classifieds Pages 21
MICROMEDIA PUBLICATIONS
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Barnegat Pavilion To Undergo Repairs, Preserving Community Landmark By Stephanie Faughnan BARNEGAT - On a clear day, you could climb to the second level of the pavilion at Barnegat’s Municipal Docks and see Old Barney, the Barnegat Lighthouse, across the bay. Since June, however, that view has been out of reach. Local officials discovered structural issues with the pavilion, leading to the closure of the second floor. The steps were taped off for safety and will hopefully be open again by next summer. The two-story structure has been a favorite spot for families and friends for generations. People gathered there to watch boats, enjoy the shade or share some special romantic moments. The pavilion holds many memories of peaceful afternoons and community celebrations. Despite concerns, Barnegat Township officials have confirmed that the pavilion will not be torn down but instead undergo repairs. Township Engineer Kurt Otto said that he is working through an engineering forensic analysis to determine what needs to be rehabilitated. “An architect who looks at the structure will determine more or less of a design and written report as to what needs to be replaced,”
said Otto.” Then, we have to put it out to bid.” Otto said the repairs are necessary due to age-related deterioration, including rotted wood and outdated hardware. The project should be completed by the summer of 2025. Cost estimates range from approximately $120,000 to $160,000. Research into the pavilion’s early history uncovered few written records. However, the municipal clerk and a representative from the Barnegat Historical Society provided photographs of the structure
from years past. Giovanni Rawley, a 2021 graduate of Barnegat High School, also contributed to the history, sharing his collection of local memorabilia, which includes postcards showing the structure’s appearance over several decades. The pavilion appears to have been a fixture at the Barnegat Municipal Dock since at least the 1930s. It has been more than a simple structure by the water and holds a special place (Pavilion - See Page 4)
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan The pavilion is located at the Barnegat Municipal Dock and is considered a treasured icon within the community.
October 26, 2024
A Vet Describes His Calling To Advocate For Other Veterans
By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY - With more than 35,000 former service members, Ocean County has a larger veteran population than any other New Jersey county. Men and women who have served in conflicts across generations face unique challenges in civilian life. Phil Zimmerman, Director/Service Officer of the Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau, leads the local fight for their rights. Zimmerman’s own personal journey makes him an advocate who truly understands the struggles faced by those who have worn the uniform. His own case file is several inches thick, representing years of bureaucratic battles and personal hardship. It’s also a symbol of Zimmerman’s commitment to fighting for veterans who face their own challenges, whether they are dealing with the complexities of healthcare, disability claims, or the emotional scars of service. “I know what it feels like to be lost, to not know where to turn,” Zimmerman said. “That’s why I’m here - to make sure no veteran feels like they’re alone in this.” One Soldier’s Journey Zimmerman’s path to championing veteran causes began with his own (Veterans - See Page 4)
Aging Drivers: A Delicate Conversation By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY – The roads are getting older in Ocean County. According to Maria LaFace, Director of Ocean County Senior Services, the Older Americans Act defines a senior as anyone aged 60 or older. Ocean County has around 200,000 seniors, approximately 29.6% of the county’s total population. At 628 square miles, Ocean County’s residents depend heavily on driving to get around. The growing number of seniors behind the wheel has some advocating
for age-based retesting for drivers. Others insist that age is just a number. At least one expert seems to agree. Dr. Lauren Snedeker, an assistant professor and Director for the Aging and Health Certificate Program at the Rutgers School of Social Work, emphasized the importance of addressing ageism in discussions about elderly drivers. “It’s really important to recognize how ageism is so pervasive in this world,” Snedeker cautioned. “We really need to make sure that we’re not approaching or consid-
ering the decision (to stop someone from driving) simply because of age.” The Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA) last reviewed state laws regarding mature drivers in March 2024. Currently, 37 states and the District of Columbia have established special provisions for older drivers. These provisions may include increased renewal frequency, restrictions on online or mailed renewals, vision tests, road tests, or reduced or waived renewal fees. States like Illinois (Aging Drivers - See Page 5)
Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Phil Zimmerman, Director/ Service Officer of the Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau, proudly shows a hand-crafted gift a veteran gave him.
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