2025-10-11 - The Jackson Times

Fundraiser Shining Light On Metastatic Breast Cancer Research

New Township Leaders Chosen

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – October is Breast Cancer Awareness month but one particular type of it will be spotlighted during an upcoming fundraising walk.

The second METAvivor Glow Walk will open at 5:45 p.m. at the Jackson Justice Complex, 1 Jackson Drive on October 11. This event is unique because it will have teams wearing bright clothing and carrying glow-inthe-dark gear.

Breast cancer survivor Jessica Fioretti, 45, of Jackson, reached out to The Jackson Times about the fundraiser. She’s coordinating it with Kristi Halpin, 33, of Toms River who was diagnosed at 31 with Stage 4 de novo invasive lobular carcinoma, hormone positive, HER2 negative breast

Staff members of the

District supported their co-worker for last year’s fundraising walk. (Middle) Breast cancer survivor and township resident Jessica Fioretti is seen with members of her team during last year’s METAvivor Glow Walk that this year will be held on October 11 at the Jackson Justice Complex, 1 Jackson Drive. cancer and Melissa LaPorta, 45, Howell who was diagnosed at 37 with Stage 3C invasive ductal carcinoma.

Fioretti used to work for the township school district and was very pleased with the phenomenal turnout of last year’s inaugural event.

“We are holding it as a glow in the dark event because we are shining a light a metastatic breast cancer,” she explained.

She said the fundraiser is designed to highlight the importance of critical funding for metastatic breast cancer research, also known as Stage 4, where the cancer has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body.

“Similar to last year we’ll have different vendor tables set up and a lot of the local businesses that sponsored the event will be there. This year we will actually have a survivor thriver area for women with whatever stage of breast cancer they are in or where sur-

vivors can come in and connect and get some resources and meet one another and have a sense of community there,” Fioretti said.

She added, “Fit Chicks food truck is coming, Mr. Softee will be there, we have Party Zone who is DJing the event and they are from Jackson and we hope to have some donations of light refreshments, some water and snacks and glow in the dark accessories and for everyone to have a good time.”

“We’ll walk around the Justice Complex which is about a mile or more. We are looking forward to a really good event. Last year we raised about $30,000 and we hope to get to $50,000 or double our goal from last year,” Fioretti said. Fioretti added that all the money is going to METAvivor. “They are the only foundation that gives all their fundraising donations Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.”

Unlike the breast cancer awareness campaign that sports a theme of pink with a ribbon, “metastatic breast cancer has a tri-colored ribbon and we have those colors represented on our shirts,” she added.

(Fundraiser - See Page 2)

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – The township has a new mayor, council president and council vice president.

Council President Jennifer Kuhn was appointed as mayor during a special council meeting on the morning of October 3.

This led to the two council changes.

Mordechai Burnstein, who was serving as vice council president, moved up to serve in her spot as council president. A council president sets the agenda for meetings, deciding

(Leaders - See Page 4)

New Mayor Named In Multiple Complaints

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – New interim Mayor Jennifer Kuhn was sworn in during an early morning meeting on October 3. It was an occasion that was hailed by some officials as the beginning of a new era for the town, but some unfinished business in the form of complaints filed against her, remains.

Complaints were filed against then-Council President Kuhn by several township employees including Police Chief Matthew Kunz and six members of the code enforcement department.

There has been friction between Kuhn and staff of the Code Enforcement Department this year as well as criticism toward the leadership ability of Chief Kunz. Most of the complaints against her came from code enforcement employees, including its supervisor, Andrew Cheney. Cheney, along with the other workers, called for Kuhn to resign or be removed from office when she was

(Complaints - See Page 7)

Fundraiser:

Continued From Page 1

Metastatic 4 breast cancer awareness colors are pink, teal blue and green. “There is so much awareness out there and so much pink out there and that is fabulous but the metastatic community is so underrecognized. That is one of the reasons I am advocating for this. We are bringing this event to the community as it needs more awareness

and needs more funding.”

Fioretti stressed, “the community members who are metastatic need more support. I don’t think people really realize how much some of these bigger organizations actually donate funds to Stage 4. The bigger foundations raise millions of dollars every year for breast cancer however only two to five percent of that fundraising money from those foundations goes to stage 4 research.”

“That is why there are organizations like

Breast Cancer Research Foundation and METAvivor. A good portion of that funding goes specifically to Stage 4,” she added. Fioretti also explained that this funding goes toward research and approval for medications “like the ones I am on, that increase survival rates. So many young women are being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer.

She said, “it is so important to fund the research to be able to get newer medications,

different lines of treatment to help improve survival and ultimately find a cure. If we can cure Stage 4, we can cure all breast cancers.”

Some important facts about Metastatic 4 Breast Cancer include:

• Approximately 30% of early-stage breast cancer survivors will have a recurrence as metastatic disease

• Metastases can occur as early as several months to 25+ years after treatment 685,000 people a year die from metastatic breast cancer globally

• Only 31% of U.S. MBC patients live longer than 5 years, and only 11% of live longer than 10 years

• There is no cure

Fioretti told The Jackson Times last year that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019. “I went through what I had to and was just shy of my fourth year of being cancer free and felt a lump in my arm pit. I did all the testing and it came back that I was having a reoccurrence of breast cancer.”

She said recently, “there are so many things that have come out of research in the past year. I’ve been doing very well. The scans in the beginning of the summer came back great. I have no evidence of active disease which is where you want to be and stay at Stage 4.”

For more information visit metavivor.org/ and to register for the event, visit jacksonmetavivorglowwalk.raceroster.com/ There is a LightUpMBC link where people can donate to the Jackson event and it will stay up for a while afterwards at LightUpMBC. org/about-us

The LightUpMBC website will also feature a live stream event on October 13 for National Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. Fioretti and Halpin will be featured as part of their patient stories segment.

Food Addicts Anonymous Meetings

BAYVILLE – In person meetings are every Monday night at 7 p.m. at the Methodist Church just south of the Dinosaur in Bayville. (526 Atlantic City Boulevard, Bayville.) Come check it out if you’re wondering whether Food Addicts Anonymous could help you or someone you know!

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Continued From Page 1 what the council will vote on.

Councilman Giuseppe Palmeri was sworn in as vice council president through a unanimous vote of the council following Burnstein’s swearing in. Palmeri had described the change in leadership as a new era for Jackson Township.

Former Mayor Michael Reina resigned after nearly 18 years as mayor on September 23. The expiration of his term would have been December 31, 2026.

In a previous interview, Reina told The Jackson Times that “it was time” to depart and his resignation letter stated, “I have greatly appreciated the opportunity to serve the people of Jackson and be a part of such a supportive and dynamic administration over the last 17 plus years.”

Reina served as mayor from November 2008 until the end of September. His resignation came after a deadline that would have allowed a special mayoral race to be added to the November 4 ballot.

Burnstein told The Jackson Times that the unusual early morning meeting was due to the availability of members of council. The Friday morning session was determined to have been the best time to reach a quorum.

Councilman Nino Borrelli joined the meeting through a phone conference call.

Nomination

Vote

Councilman Borrelli attempted to nominate Councilman Ken Bressi as mayor. However, Bressi nominated Kuhn first and

she was voted in with only Borrelli voting against her. She will serve the balance of Reina’s unexpired term.

“Together we will strengthen our community, support our local businesses, invest in our services and the infrastructure that makes our town thrive. The work will be challenging but I am confident that united we will achieve a greater, stronger and vibrant Jackson for everyone,” Kuhn said. She vowed not to increase the mayor’s pay - something that Burnstein also agreed to. Reina’s pay was cut in half earlier in the year from its $60,000 plus figure to $32,000. Council salaries were also reduced earlier this year. Both had been increased last year.

Kuhn noted that her township salary goes to support first responder agencies and township school programs. Her father James Kuhn Sr., held the Bible for her as Township Clerk Sandra Martin administered the oath of office.

Jackson Is Growing Kuhn said that “this administration and the council will be working together for the residents of Jackson. We truly are dedicated to this town; we love this town. We want to see it grow and we are going to take these challenges head on.”

Ocean County Commissioners Frank Sadeghi and Jennifier Bacchione were at the meeting, as well as Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore. Sadeghi swore in Burnstein as the council’s new president.

Sadeghi said Jackson is the epicenter of the growth in Ocean County. “You just have

to look at the trends that Jackson Township will have probably 150,000 to 200,000 people in 20 years.”

He said he knew Kuhn as a teenager. “Her father and I were partners in an engineering and survey company and we did a lot of work in Jackson Township.” Sadeghi’s firm Morgan Engineering has several contracts in the township including work at Rova Farms.

Recognizing Reina

Burnstein who is also the president of the Jackson GOP, spoke about Reina who was not present at the meeting. “As I reflect on the tremendous contributions of Mayor Mike Reina to our township, I feel both honored and humbled to put into words what so many in Jackson already know: our Township has been immeasurably shaped by his nearly 18 years of dedicated service as our mayor.”

“Mayor Reina has been more than Jackson’s longest-serving chief executive. On a personal level, I owe Mayor Reina an everlasting debt of gratitude. It was Mayor Reina who appointed me first to the Planning Board and then to the Township Council, opening the door for me to serve the people of Jackson in elected office.”

“Mike was always there to guide me as a mentor and friend. His wisdom, patience, and encouragement have been invaluable to me, and I will forever carry the lessons he has imparted. His leadership has left an indelible mark on Jackson Township, one that will literally endure for generations,” Burnstein added.

Meet The Council Sessions

Burnstein congratulated Kuhn describing

her as a hard worker. He also announced that the members of the Jackson council will soon be offering “Meet the Council” sessions and “Council Hours,” where elected representatives will be able to meet oneon-one with their elected officials.

“Years ago, former Mayor Michael Reina hosted these ‘Meet the Mayor’ sessions, and it was a great way for the community to sit face to face with our elected officials, it’s how I got involved in local government,” Burnstein said.

He said, “We are going to use these sessions and ‘Council Hours’ to hear directly from our residents to hear their concerns and ideas, and to use those sessions to continue providing results and solutions for our residents.”

Burnstein added each of the council members will soon be sharing an office at town hall and that each will be provided ‘Council Hours’ to meet one-on-one with residents. A schedule of available council hours will be published soon on the township website jacksontwpnj.net

The Council sessions will be inside the town hall main meeting room, and each session will feature two council members to sit with small groups and talk about what is happening in Jackson, and together, to address problems and come up with solutions. Those meetings will be held regularly throughout the year to provide residents with an opportunity to speak directly, outside of the formal setting of official council meetings.

Burnstein explained, “they will essentially be a public meet and greet, and all (Leaders - See Page 7)

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OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

FEATURED LETTER

A Plan To Preserve Open Space

Hard to believe, but it was a quarter of a century ago this November that the voters of our town approved a local open space program! It wasn’t even close. I remember it all very well: I was Mayor when the question was proposed and overwhelmingly approved by we the people.

The idea for a municipally run program to preserve land came out of two open space “summits” that we held 25 years ago in 2000. Many in our town - including me - thought that the township was growing too quickly and that the brakes needed to be applied to slow development.

The numbers told the

story as our population in the late twentieth century had grown by leaps and bounds. In 1950, the population was 7,707. After the Garden State Parkway opened in 1954, the population exploded. In 1960, it had more than doubled to 17,414. In 1970: 43,751; 1980: 64,455; 1990: 76,371; and by the late 1990s it was nearing 90,000. The summits were well advertised forums open to the public, moderated by me, and were attended by hundreds of people, both in and out of government. Numerous ideas on how to control growth were discussed and debated. The idea to create a LOCAL open space tax with the revenue generated from it to be

exclusively used to acquire and bank land came directly out of these citizens forums. It was democracy at its very best.

But not everyone supported this idea. I vividly remember the then-president of the local Chamber of Commerce scolding me on the steps of Town Hall: “We’re very disappointed in you, Mark.”

But, I, and others, pressed on, and the voters spoke loud and clear: 71 percent approval. Every election district voted yes - including places like Normandy and Ortley Beaches which had little or no open space left to preserve. 25 years later, hundreds of acres of land in our town have been preserved from

development.

But the work is far from over. The time is now to double down on the good work done so far and to do so with a new, up-to-date perspective. Let’s face it: there are few large tracts of land left available to save as there were when I was a kid growing up here back in the 60s and 70s.

But there still is land all over - and it’s right before our very eyes. Think about it as you drive around your neighborhood: are there not vacant lots all over - just down the block or on a street corner? Some might have a For Sale sign posted; others sitting vacant. I urge today’s town leaders to create a “pocket park” pro-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

gram in which these smaller, isolated spots of land that are all over town be evaluated for potential acquisition and preservation. The local government has recently done this a couple of times already.

The vacant lot at the busy intersection of Clifton Avenue and Batchelor Street as you near downtown comes to mind. So does the acquisition of the old Boat Works property next to Huddy Park - also a small spot of land - a narrow strip along the river.

In a pocket park program, some property could simply be kept virgin land, banked for future generations. Other land could become “mini parks” perhaps with a picnic table or two, a bench for re-

laxation, or a place just for quiet reflection - but always with a strictly passive use to preserve our neighborhoods, not change them. Area homeowners’ associations could be encouraged to help maintain them or such neighborhood associations could be created so as to help maintain them, in a true public-private partnership. Whatever we do, we should move forward and re-think how, over the next quarter century, we can better preserve Toms River. We owe this to future generations who shall one day call our beloved town “home.”

J. Mark Mutter Toms River

Newspaper

Shouldn’t

Publish Hateful Letters

This is in response to the letter “Kamala Harris Loses Secret Service” in the September 13 edition.

I am very disappointed in your lack of oversight relative to your “Letters To The Editor” submissions.

Nicholas S. Molinari of Brick submitted a vile and very hateful letter that basically labeled any MAGA supporters as propping up a messiah and being anti-Christian. He goes on to refer to our president as a dictator and a modern day Hitler.

This type of broad-brush hatred is contributing to the violence we are seeing today.

Name calling, with either party calling the other Marxists, fascists, Nazis, communists or Hitler is terrible. The Toms River Times needs to be above this and do a thorough job of screening submittals and help eliminate submittals that simply spew hatred.

Roger Kliemisch Manchester

I met Jack at a local gathering where Jack fielded ques-

The Jackson Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verification. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

tions on important NJ issues such as “school choice,” highest property taxes in the US, high crime, lowest test scores ever and political corruption. Jack stated with his education, Masters degree in Accounting from Seton Hall University, he plans to end the illegal Sanctuary State that Sherill’s anti-NJ Taxpayers Governor Murphy burdened NJ citizens with - billion of wasted dollars by supporting over 300,000 illegal migrants who receive free housing, free Medicaid/ Medicare, free education, free hospital care and pushing to grant citizenship/ voting rights to increase the Left-Wing Democrat majority in NJ!

Sherill’s voting in two congressional terms shows she is another Democratic “sheep” who votes with her Democratic cohorts 100% of the time yet “NOW” Sherill claims she is independent and will help NJ voters after eight years of being a member of the worst administration in history that caused “soft on crime” policies, no cash bail and homeless veterans living on the streets! If this NEW approach were true than why did she not help NJ voters for over eight years she had to take action

as a Congressional Representative?

Jack supports the MAGA Trump policies that in 8 months resulted in illegal immigration at an all time low, stock market is hitting all-time highs, violent crime is falling, Iran’s nuclear program is history, largest tax cut in history, thousands of Biden bureaucrats were fired, health agencies getting overhauled and historic Supreme Court wins in spite of Democrats obstructing MAGA pro-American policies!

Why would any intelligent NJ voter continue 4 more years of Democratic incompetence when Jack Ciattarelli is going to “change NJ for the better?” Vote for Jack Ciattarelli to reduce property taxes and improve education in NJ !!

Tom Randazzo Barnegat

Crystal For Stafford Board of Education

I graduated with a BS in Education from the University of Virginia in 1986, and an M Ed in Special Education Technology from George Mason University in 1988.

I was a special education self-contained 5th-8th grade teacher in Arlington, Virginia from 1988-1993. I then served as a 9th-12th grade special education resource, and in-class support teacher at Southern Regional High School from 1993-2021. I have two adult daughters who attended Stafford Township Schools, and graduated from Southern Regional High School. Both of my daughters received an excellent educational foundation in Stafford. I firmly believe that all of our township’s children should also experience the same high quality of instruction. Over the last year, I attended two school board meetings to express my thoughts regarding serious issues. I was also distressed to learn about another situation that would directly affect our children. I, like many community members, felt that the official communication about, and the professional accountability measures involved in our superintendent’s incident needed to be enhanced. In addition, it saddened me to read that high quality teachers were opting to leave the district. In the past, the majority of Stafford teachers, like Southern Regional teachers, would spend most

of their careers working in their districts. Our students lose out when good teachers move on to other districts. As a former teacher, mother and long-term community member, the following are my priorities:

• To promote educational excellence

• To support our exceptional staff

• To listen to all - students, parents, families, staff, and community

• To provide oversight and transparency regarding district projects and concerns If elected to serve on the school board, I intend to initiate periodic listening sessions with community members. It truly takes all of us working together to provide our children with the best possible start on their educational journeys. I will also monitor district projects to ensure that they are conducted in an efficient, and fiscally responsible manner. I loved serving Stafford’s children and families as an educator, and hope to be able to give back to our community as a member of the Stafford Township School District Board of Education.

Capitol Comments

S potlight o n g overnment

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

More Dark Days And A Step Toward Protecting People From Violence

TRENTON - We just observed the second anniversary of the atrocious October 7 attack on innocent men, women, children and even babies in Israel. Forty-eight hostages taken that day are still being held in Gaza by Hamas and other militant groups.

Israeli authorities believe that about 20 of them are still alive, while the remaining 28 are believed to have died in captivity or during the initial attack. As I write this, an agreement has been reached to have the hostages released and to end the fighting.

Let’s hope that, by the time you read this, that deal will be implemented and hostages can return to their loved ones, families will be able to bury deceased hostages, and the fighting can come to an end. I would love to see peace and international cooperation take hold so that rebuilding can begin and the future may be brighter than ever for the region. I started this week wanting to recognize the anniversary of that terrible day, but otherwise go on to lighter subjects than my last three columns. But I’m afraid I can’t do that yet.

Unfortunately, we have seen yet another horrible attack within our own country,

and that will bring me to an important bill I’ve introduced to help keep innocent people safe from the bad actors who would do them harm.

On Sunday morning, September 28, a man drove his truck through the front doors of a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – also known as the Mormon church – during a service in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Police said the man then got out of the vehicle and began firing a long gun, as congregants shielded children from the bullets and chaos.

The attacker then set fire to the church. As I write this, no specific motive has been identified, but the FBI is investigating the attack as an “act of targeted violence.” Four people were killed, two by gunshots and two who were found dead following the fire. At least 10 people were injured, and police said that at least one of them was in critical condition.

Closer to home, another incident occurred in West Orange in November. Last month, the federal Justice Department filed a civil rights complaint against people and entities who targeted a synagogue there, alleging that the defendants committed threats of force, intimidation, and violent conduct against congregants of the Congregation Ohr Torah synagogue. Among other things, participants called congregants “Nazis” and blew large air horns, called “vuvuzelas,” dangerously

close to their ears. Worse, there is video footage of one “protester” violently choking and tackling one congregant at the synagogue, at an event memorializing a deceased rabbi.

Violence and threats against synagogues have despicably become so common and expected that most, if not all, have their own security present in case of danger. Shamefully, there were also 415 attacks on Christian churches in the U.S. last year, according to the Family Research Council.

Arson and attempted arson accounted for 13% of those attacks, and bomb threats constituted three percent. The 28 gun-related incidents were more than double those of the previous year, ranging from threats to the actual discharging of a weapon.

Motives for these attacks aren’t always apparent, and some seem to be motivated by factors unrelated to religion, such as common thefts and random vandalism. Nonetheless, additional steps need to be taken to keep people safe at places of worship.

Our state has a New Jersey Nonprofit Security Grant Program to provide funds to eligible nonprofit organizations to hire permanent or temporary security personnel, and to acquire target-hardening equipment. It’s clearly a good and necessary program, but I believe current circumstances require stepping up our efforts.

I’ve introduced legislation (A5882) to

expand the program to include security-related training and planning, and to increase the recommended funding for all grants. The bill also permits applicants to qualify for all categories of grants in a grant cycle.

The bill increases the maximum grant from $10,000 to $50,000 per approved application for personnel or security-related training or planning, and from $50,000 to $150,000 for target-hardening equipment. It also requires the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness to include at least $10 million in its budget request to fund the grants, rather than the current $2 million.

While there is now hope for peace in Gaza and Israel, and we all hope for peace and safety as we attend religious services and events, recent news shows that we must be prepared to counter and thwart those who would do harm to others based on religion or some extremist ideology. These grants can help your house of worship keep you safe, and my bill can expand those safety measures across our state. I hope the place where you gather to pray can benefit from my bill, but I hope even more fervently that those protections, once in place, will never be needed.

Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 12 other towns in the State Assembly. Follow him on Facebook (/AssemblymanAlex), Instagram (@AssemblymanAlex), and TikTok (@AssemblymanAlex) or visit his website at AssemblymanAlex.com.

Capitol Comments Bill Would Help Law Enforcement Prosecute Child Abusers

Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act, which would close loopholes in existing criminal child sexual abuse statutes to help law enforcement better prosecute offenders and protect victims, passed the Senate unanimously.

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) published the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, which made a series of recommendations for Congress to strengthen

federal enforcement of child exploitation laws.

The Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act aims to incorporate those recommendations and define the DOJ’s authority to prosecute perpetrators by:

• Closing the kidnapping loophole by clarifying that kidnapping of a child can occur by deceiving a third party and the circumstances where consent can be used as a defense;

• Closing the international travel loopholes by clarifying that traveling to sexually abuse a child includes crossing international lines and that committing a sexual abuse felony against a child while abroad is a crime;

• Closing the sexual contact loophole by clarifying that causing a child to commit a sexual act themselves is also a crime;

• And closing the attempt loophole by clarifying that attempting to commit the sexual contact offenses is also a crime.

The Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act is endorsed by the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, Major County Sherriff’s of America, Rights4Girls, Hope for Justice, Street Grace, 3Strands Global Foundation, Fraternal Order of Police, the National Children’s Alliance (NCA), Protect All Children from Trafficking (PACT), and the National District Attorney’s Association (NDAA).

U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statements:

“Last Congress, Senator Cornyn and I introduced and passed this bipartisan legislation in the Senate to ensure that those who exploit and abuse children are held accountable,” said Senator Booker. “This bill would close loopholes in current law to better allow us to protect our nation’s most vulnerable from predators. I urge my colleagues in the House to pass this critical legislation so we can better protect children from exploitation and sexual abuse and provide justice for victims.”

“Perpetrators who attack our children must face consequences for their heinous actions,” said Senator Cornyn. “By closing loopholes in current law, our legislation would ensure these dangerous offenders aren’t able to escape accountability on a technicality and are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

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.

Complaints

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Continued From Page 1

council president stating in the complaint that “this would hopefully relieve some of the toxic work environment currently taking place within the township.”

He accused her of constant harassment and releasing their private e-mails to the media. Other code enforcement officers made similar complaints of harassment, including GPS tracking on their township vehicles.

The complaints list issues of harassment, bullying, ordinance violations, abuse of power, false reports and police investigations being launched and a hostile work environment by Kuhn.

Police Chief Kunz also filed a complaint towards her. His complaint states that her prepared public statements were “disparaging me with false information, public attacks at council meetings on my job performance without a RICE notice.”

He added that she sent “numerous e-mails to multiple people designed to harass, malign, bully, annoy and intimidate me.”

Listed in area of the complaint asking if the filer was afraid that someone may retaliate against them because of the complaint, Kunz stated, “yes, Council President Kuhn, she has already used her position to bully me through demands for ‘reports,’ creating a position over me to drive me out.”

That was in reference to the council’s creation of a public safety director position that was filled by Joseph Candido. Candido recently vacated the spot following a lawsuit that Kunz filed against the township

that accused Candido of overstepping his authority which was found not to extend to disciplinary actions toward Chief Kunz. “Ms. Kuhn does not have the temperament to serve in a leadership position in local government and should both apologize and resign,” the chief stated regarding the portion of the complaint form that requested a remedy for the complaint.

Kuhn stated during the meeting that the accusations made in the complaint were hurtful and that “I will be vindicated. I am just going to continue to do everything that I have been doing because I have done nothing wrong.”

She has responded that she wasn’t harassing anyone but was looking for accountability and noted the township has 10 code enforcement officers which is twice as many as most surrounding communities.

Council President Mordechai Burnstein also defended Kuhn during the meeting stating that she would be vindicated when the investigation by a third-party agency was completed.

Township Gregory McGuckin said he was not sure of the name of the legal firm as it had recently changed its name but the contract hiring the third-party firm was available at Town Hall for review by the public. “That contract is available for inspection at any time. That firm is contracted to perform that service.”

Another Complaint

One complaint filed involved the Township Clerk’s office. Township Clerk Sandra Martin who was hired early this year has a complaint filed against her by her co-worker Deputy

Municipal Clerk BethEllen Gencurelli. That complaint states that on August 25, Gencurelli was asked a question and was told to put it in an e-mail. “She would not even look directly at me. I was informed that I will be handling all after (council) meeting items, ‘it’s my job’ and the next day she got annoyed I did not send e-mail out fast enough. Every day there is something I have done wrong.”

The deputy clerk who was also hired earlier this year and performed Martin’s duties when she went out on maternity leave last spring stated “it will get awkward for my office” and asked “to be transferred to another department if possible.” Veronica Pedroza-Dagher, alternate deputy clerk III, was present along with Martin during the October 3 meeting.

Town Business

During the council’s last meeting of September, the council introduced Ordinance 2025-38 which amends administrative code

Leaders:

Continued From Page 4 questions are on the table” and that it would give the public a chance to inquire about “new parks, policing, housing, development, even to openly discuss the rampant rumors that always circulate on social media, we’ll talk about any topics. The residents will choose the agenda and topics of the day, not us.”

of the Department of Administration to create the Division of Rental Housing Safety.

Recently approved resolutions include the appointments of James Silecchia as alternate member of the Township Zoning Board and Vincent Cucuzza to the township’s Commission for the Disabled.

Contract agreements included Heyer, Gruel & Associates for planning services and Colliers Engineering & Design, Inc. to prepare an open space and recreation plan. Also passed was the adoption the Affirmative Marketing Plan for Jackson and the purchase of portable radios and accessories for the Police Department (not to exceed $224,992.20) from Motorola Solutions, Inc along with the purchase of body armor and accessories for the police department from Atlantic Tactical.

Burnstein noted during the October 3 meeting that he would be stepping down as liaison to the Planning Board in lieu of his new duties as council president. “One of my colleagues will step up to serve in that position.”

Council Vacancy And Upcoming Election

The dais has a vacant seat that is expected to be filled in a few weeks. The November 4 general election has two council candidates vying for the unexpired council seat of Scott Sargent who died in May. Bressi was chosen to fill that vacancy but he opted not to run for the spot. Political newcomers Chris Pollak and Al Couceiro are candidates in that race.

Fire District

Welcomes New Firefighter

JACKSON – The Jackson Fire District #4 Board of Fire Commissioners officially welcomed a new member to the department with the swearing-in of Firefighter Nikki Mastrodomenico.

Mastrodomenico recently completed Firefighter Level I/II training at the Toms River Fire Academy, as well as specialized Wildland Firefighter instruction through the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service. She is also working toward earning her EMT-B certification.

Officials praised her dedication and commitment to public service. “We are proud to welcome Firefighter Mastrodomenico to our ranks and look forward to her contributions in keeping our community safe,” the board said in a statement.

Residents are encouraged to join in congratulating Mastrodomenico as she begins her career in Jackson.

Schools Remind Families Of Immunization Deadlines

JACKSON – Parents of preschool, kindergarten and sixth-grade students in the Jackson Township School District are being reminded that state law requires children to have certain immunizations completed before the start of the 2025-26 school year.

School officials said proof of vaccinations must be submitted to each school’s nurse’s office by October 10. Students who have not provided documentation by then will not be allowed to attend classes starting

October 14.

The requirement applies to all preschoolers, kindergartners and sixth-graders, as well as children who turn 11 during the school year. Officials emphasized that the mandate does not involve any COVID-19 vaccines.

Preschool students have an additional deadline of December 31 to receive the flu shot.

Parents can download an immunization update letter and form at jacksonsd.org.

Town Creates Separate OPRA Portal For Police Records

JACKSON — Residents seeking Jackson Police Department records must now file requests through a dedicated online link following the Township’s adoption of Resolution 288-2025.

The measure designates the Chief of Police as the Police Department’s custodian of record and directs the Township website to list the chief in that role. According to the resolution, the police custodian is responsible for ensuring compliance with New Jersey’s Open Public Records Act.

Requesters should continue to use the Jackson Township website to submit Open Public Records Act requests, but will see

two options: “Request for Municipal Offices” and “Request for the Police Department.” Individuals seeking police records should choose the Police Department link, complete the form, and also send a confirmation email to pd_opra@jacksontwpnj.net as listed at the top of the form.

Township officials said the change aims to streamline responses amid a high volume of subpoenas and OPRA requests. Copies of the resolution will be provided to the Chief of Police, the Township’s IT department and the Government Records Council. An approved copy of the resolution is available for review.

Play Mahjong At The Jackson Senior Center

JACKSON – Come and play Mahjong at the Jackson Senior Center! Beginners welcome! Group meets on Mondays at

11 a.m. and Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. Call the center if you’d like to register or have any questions.

C ommunity n ew S

Firefighters Host Training For New Recruits

JACKSON – Thirteen aspiring firefighters took part in a hands-on training session hosted by Jackson Mills Volunteer Fire Company as part of the township’s monthly junior and probationary training program.

The drill, held on the last Thursday of September, focused on aerial ladder operations, courtyard hose lays and search techniques. Experienced officers and senior firefighters from Cassville Volunteer Fire Company #1, Whitesville Volunteer Fire Department and Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 (Station 55) led the instruction.

Organizers said the training is designed to better prepare new members for fire academy schooling and give them valuable skills they can use immediately on the fireground. Recruits wear yellow helmets until they complete their training and officially earn a black helmet.

Fire officials praised both the instructors and the participants for giving their time to strengthen the township’s emergency response.

Anyone interested in volunteering with

Gift Auction

Planned At Moose Lodge

JACKSON –Moose Lodge #1459 will host a gift auction fundraiser on November 7, with doors opening at 6 p.m. at 560 Monmouth Road, Millstone.

Advance tickets are $25 and can be purchased ahead of time, while admission at the door will be $30. All are welcome to attend, and donations are encouraged to help support the event.

Guests can look forward to a lively evening with food and drinks available for purchase. Adult beverages will be offered for those 21 and older.

For more information or to donate, contact 732-367-0011 or email chapter2342@ gmail.com.

a Jackson fire company is encouraged to reach out to one of the departments.

Jackson Little Leaguers Score Well This Summer

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – Winning regional and state tournament championships isn’t new to the Jackson Holbrook Little League Baseball team and after their big win over Elmora in late July, the unbeaten baseball team were on their way to regionals at

The Jackson Times

your

Bristol, Connecticut.

Team members and coaches traveled to Connecticut for the regionals that began on August 2. Their place there was assured after their 12 to 5 victory against Elmora for the New Jersey Little League title.

VETERAN’S DAY CELEBRATION

Please

Protecting Our Community From Nursing Home Abuse

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

People put their elderly parent or grandparent in a nursing home so that they can be safely taken care of, so that someone can properly look after them in their old age. No one expects that these nursing home residents should get anything less than the proper care and respect that they deserve, but with the horrifying rise in nursing care abuse, this is not always the case. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse in the United States, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in America indulge in some form of resident abuse.

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

Even more alarming is the prediction that the problem will only worsen in the near future. More than 91% of nursing homes lack adequate staff to properly care for patients. A Health and Human Services Department report found patients in understaffed nursing homes were more likely to suffer from a variety of problems, such as bed sores, malnutrition, weight loss, dehydration, pneumonia, and serious blood born infections. It’s a serious concern that will only increase with time, given that the population of people aged 85 or older is expected to

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

double to 8.9 million by the year 2030. Signs of abuse and neglect may be (but are not limited to) evidence such as patterns of bruising, unexplained injuries, frequent infections, bedsores, questionable hygiene, appearance of malnutrition, emotional distress, and unsanitary living conditions. Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of your attorney. Neglect can be just as harmful in the long run as abuse, leading to additional health problems and possibly death. Nursing home abuse isn’t limited to physical abuse; there can also be emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, where an elder is demeaned or humiliated in other ways.

Many elders needlessly suffer from nursing home abuse in which they are manipulated, humiliated, or physically harmed by the very people entrusted with providing them with loving and tender care. Instances of physical, sexual and verbal abuse have taken place at the very nursing homes where elders are actually supposed to be well taken care of; unfortunately, cases of nursing home abuse in America and also in New Jersey are rising rather than falling.

If you think a loved one is the victim of Nursing Home Abuse call the trial attorney’s at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation to discuss their rights. (732) 505-1212.

Presented By:

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

’ s t o Y our H e A lt Dear Pharmacist

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

5 Signs It’s Time For A Hearing Test

Hearing loss often happens gradually, so many people don’t notice the small changes until they begin to affect daily life. The truth is, the sooner you identify hearing challenges, the easier it is to treat them — and the better your overall quality of life can be. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to schedule a hearing test, here are five common signs you shouldn’t ignore.

1. You Struggle to Follow Conversations in Noisy Places — Restaurants, family gatherings, or busy stores can feel overwhelming if you’re straining to hear. Many people dismiss this as ‘background noise,’ but it can actually be an early sign of hearing loss.

2. The TV or Radio Volume Keeps Creeping Up — If your family is constantly asking you to turn down the volume, your ears may be compensating for missed sounds. What feels comfortable to you may be too loud for others.

3. You Frequently Ask People to Repeat Themselves — A casual ‘What?’ every now and then is normal, but if you’re asking family, friends or coworkers to repeat themselves regularly, your hearing may need attention.

4. You Avoid Social Situations Be -

cause It’s Too Hard to Hear — Hearing loss doesn’t just affect your ears — it affects your confidence and relationships. If you’re skipping events because conversations feel exhausting, it’s time to check your hearing.

5. Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus) — A constant ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears may indicate tinnitus, often linked to hearing loss. While not always serious, it’s worth discussing with a hearing professional.

Why Early Testing Matters — Untreated hearing loss is associated with increased risk of social isolation, depression, and even cognitive decline. The good news? Today’s hearing technology is smaller, smarter, and more effective than ever before.

Take the First Step — If any of these signs sound familiar, schedule a professional hearing test. At Garden State Hearing & Balance Center, we’ve helped thousands of hearing-impaired individuals reconnect with the sounds that matter most.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff will continue to educate you about hearing care choices. Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-451-3962 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Slow Flow Yoga

JACKSON – Come and join the Jackson Township Senior Center on Fridays at 10 a.m. for Slow Flow Yoga! Call the Senior Center at 732-928-2313 they will be happy to answer any questions and get you registered. As always, please check their calendar for any changes.

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

7 Alternatives To Tylenol During Pregnancy

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

For decades, acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol, sold under the brand name Tylenol® in the U.S.) has been considered safe for pain and fever during pregnancy. Unlike ibuprofen or aspirin, it doesn’t thin the blood or irritate the stomach.

But recent observational studies have raised concerns about frequent use in pregnancy and possible effects on children later in life, such as ADHD or autism. These are associations, not proof, but they’ve left many moms-to-be wondering: If not Tylenol, then what?

First, know that fever itself can be harmful during pregnancy. A high fever in the first trimester has been linked to neural tube defects, heart problems, and even miscarriage, while later in pregnancy it may increase the risk of preterm labor. That’s why high fevers need attention.

That said, it’s wise to be cautious with medications - they can carry side effects, and pregnancy adds another layer of concern. Whenever possible, start with safe, natural measures. For example, if you twist your ankle, you might try the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) before reaching for medications with side effects.

7 Simple Remedies to Try Before Acetaminophen

1. Stay hydrated. Sip water, coconut water, broth, or an electrolyte drink to replace fluids lost through fever and sweating.

2. Cool down gently. Try a lukewarm compress on the forehead or neck, or a short lukewarm bath. Avoid ice-cold water, which can trigger shivering and actually raise your core temperature.

3. Light clothing and rest. Wear breathable fabrics and keep bedding light so your body

can release heat through sweating. Pair this with plenty of rest to give your immune system the energy it needs to heal.

4. Ginger tea. Warm ginger tea provides gingerols and activates “zingerone” which helps with nausea, and mildly reduces fever.

5. Chamomile tea. Studies in mice have shown that chamomile can reduce fever, improve sleep, and ease inflammation.

6. Peppermint tea. It is used to relieve morning sickness sometimes, so one cup a day might be soothing and cooling if you have a fever.

7. Elderberry tea (Sambucus nigra). Traditionally used for immune support, elderberry tea may help the body fight viral infections and gently ease fever. It’s sold in most grocery stores.

Acetaminophen should be used only when truly needed, since it depletes your liver’s main antioxidant, glutathione. In the brain, glutathione protects neurons from oxidative stress, and low levels have been linked to brain fog, poor focus, and even conditions such as ADHD, Parkinson’s, and depression. If you must take it regularly (for arthritis, for example), consider NAC (N-acetylcysteine) to offset its “drug mugger” effect. To look up your medicine, visit drugmuggers.com. Avoid willow bark (natural aspirin), blue or black cohosh, pennyroyal, and concentrated essential oils such as oregano or clove (cooking with them is safe). NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are also discouraged in pregnancy, especially in the third trimester.

Want more trusted pharmacist tips? Sign up for my newsletter at suzycohen.com. I share real science in plain English so you can make the best choices for your health and your family.

(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) ©2025 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Auto For Sale

2007 Chevy Cobalt LSWhite. Auto. Excellent condition. Manual windows. Only 54,000 miles. Inspection 08/27. $5,700. 848-389-2436. (45)

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

Services Services Services Services

2019 Jayco Jayflight Camper34' long. Excellent condition. King size bed. Theater recliners. 55" TV. Fireplace. Three slides. Full bathroom. Call 732-644-3067 or 732-644-3260. (44)

$1850 2 bedrooms 1 bath - Living room, dinning area, washer and dryer, central air, private parking. Available 10/1 Ocean County accepting voucher. 609-618-1941 text ok. (44)

For Sale For Rent Items For Sale

Rowboat - 12', deepV, Tracker. Very good condition. Never used. $950. Call 732-477-7709, leave message. (45)

Attention Drummers - Cymbals and stands for sale. Paiste, Zildjian, Sabian. Great deals. Moving and retiring, must sell. 732-948-7121. (46)

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, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-849-6068 (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)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums Jazz, Rock, Reggae, Blues. Call Rick 908-616-7104. Also buying Comic Books. (46)

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)

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

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

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

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

I Buy Records - Cash paid, we answer the phone. Call Eddie at 732-829-5908. Records 33/45. Walt buys comics, toys & collectibles. Call 908-278-3782. (44)

Hair Stylist and Nail TechnicianVery busy salon in Manchester looking to add 2 or more stylist and nail techs to our salon. Looking for reliable individuals who love what they do. Part time to start. Salary discussed at interview. Please call Arleen 732657-2100 between 10-4. (44)

Part Time Caregiver - For mildly disabled 74 year old female. Brick, Light housekeeping, transportation, shopping. $20-$25/hr. Call Maryann 732-678-3161. (43)

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

HVAC Installer/Technician Hiring Now - Experience needed. Great Work Environment. Company vehicle. Full time, year round, paid holidays. Call 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

Certified Home Health AidesNeeded for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n )

Services

PAINTING By Neat And Meticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)

Anthony’s WINDOW CLEANING - CLEAN WINDOWS INSIDE OUTSIDE SCREENS & LEDGES CLEANED INSURED QUALITY, NEAT PROFESSIONAL. FREE EST. REFERENCES 732-278-5914. (45)

Bilingual Therapist - Online sessions only. Accepts most commercial health insurances. Specialty: anger, grief, anxiety, adjustment challenges, and relationship issues. (732)7241841. Ages 21 plus. Find me at https://www.psychologytoday. com/us/therapists?search=carla+Marmelstein (45)

Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (t/n)

Interior And Exterior PaintingSmall home repairs. 30 years of experience. Free estimates. Fully insured. LIC: 13VHO4548900 Call Tommy: 609-661-1657. (36)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, repairs, painting. 732-6743346. License #13VH03469200. (41)

DO YOU WANT YOU CAR TO LOOK NICE AND SHINECALL LENNY < Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (46)

Private Care Management - Companions, Aides. Hourly 24/7. Appointments, Food prep, Shopping, Laundry. Well Experienced for all needs. Call JoAnn 732-600-6812. (43)

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

SENIOR HOME CAREHave the best care with years of experience and medical background. Available hourly, daily or nights with Irma. 732-604-9291-Irma. (39)

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

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)

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)

DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/ mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (t/n)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)

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. (43)

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICES -

Over 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379. (43)

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (t/n)

Handyman Available - 15 years experience. Light plumbing and electrical repair. Install fixtures, etc. No job too small. 646-734-9141. (33)

Highly Experienced - Reliable, Reasonable, Responsible, Compassionate At Home Caregiver is Available for your Elderly loved ones. Live in/Hourly. 732-912 5876. (29)

Car Service - LBI, Bayville, late night, long distance and airports. Year round. Text or call Keith 609-351-2462. (43)

"Stick With the Man That Covers Your Can! - Residential and Commercia Pump-outs FREE 1 year supply of enzyme treatment with each septic pump-out. Septic Inspections. Septic System Installations and All Repairs. Grease Traps installation and pump outs. Tank Abandonment and Demolition. 24 Hours Emergency Service! 732-244-0189. (5)

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)

- Painting, powerwashing, electrical, plumbing, light hauling. Call Joe 732-859-9266. (19)

Life Coach - Facing a challenge? Talk it out in person. Sense your way. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas, 732-754-4891. (44)

Retired R.N. - Available for help in your home. Appointments, meal prep, laundry, etc. Call Chris 845-430-1853. (43)

Anyone Interested In Having Their - Office, home or apartment cleaned, contact Diane. Honest and reliable. Free estimates. 845-762-9952. (49)

Handyman Solutions - Affordable prices that are budget friendly. All phases of Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry • Laminate

Flooring • Painting • Drywall • Doors • Windows • Siding • Hand and Vinyl Railings • Decks • Minor

Plumbing/Electrical and more. Licensed Insured. 609-384-9030 (50)

Excellence Hypnosis - Lose weight, stop smoking, release stress, overcome fears, manage pain & improve sport performance. Call 732-2094125 free consultation (46)

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

Fall Gardening Services - Expert indoor/outdoor plant care, repotting, container arrangements, winterizing, spring bulb planting. Keep your garden thriving all season! Call today for reliable, professional care & advice. Joe 732-232-8144. (44)

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED:

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

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

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

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

Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

Auto For Sale • Items For Sale

Items Wanted

2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

If

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

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in Mastercard/Visa/American Express SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:

Around the JerSey Shore

Rescue Ridge Seeking Donations To Support Homeless Pets

HOWELL – Rescue Ridge, a no-kill, all-volunteer animal rescue group founded in 2001, is calling on the community for donations to help care for cats and dogs in need.

The nonprofit, based in Spring Lake, operates seven cat adoption centers, foster homes for both cats and dogs, and two local kennels, including Highland Kennel at 1424 Maxim Southard Road in Howell. With about 200 volunteers and numerous

adoption events throughout the year, Rescue Ridge works to save pets from high-kill shelters, take in strays, and provide second chances to animals awaiting homes.

The group is asking for monetary donations, gift cards to PetSmart or Pet Supplies Plus, and essential supplies. Items most in need include:

For Dogs: Wee Wee pads, waste bags, chicken-based food (Purina ProPlan or Blue Buffalo), USA-made treats, Nylabones or

Benebones, and durable rubber toys like Kongs.

F or Cats: Friskies or Fancy Feast wet food, clumping litter, cat treats, new cat toys, and pet-safe cleaners.

Shelter Needs: Paper towels, laundry detergent, industrial garbage bags, bleach, Clorox wipes, dish soap, and hand soap.

Office Supplies: Copy paper and stamps.

Donations can be dropped off daily at Highland Kennel from 8 a.m. to noon and

2:30 to 4:30 p.m. A collection bin is located at the front door.

Rescue Ridge emphasized it does not need additional sheets, blankets, collars, or leashes at this time.

“We rescue because it’s our mission,” the group said in a statement. “Our dream is that one day, we won’t have to.”

For adoption information or questions, call 732-546-8805, email rescueridgeshelter@ gmail.com, or visit rescueridge.com.

OceanFirst Bank To Cut 114 Jobs In Mortgage Shift

TOMS RIVER – OceanFirst Bank will eliminate 114 positions in December as the longtime Ocean County institution phases out its in-house residential mortgage operations.

The bank disclosed the move in a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice filed with the New Jer-

OCEAN COUNTY – Toms River American Legion Post 129 is joining forces with the American Red Cross to host a

sey Department of Labor in September. The layoffs are expected to take effect December 18.

The reductions are tied to a “strategic decision regarding its residential loan origination business.” About 1,035 people currently work for OceanFirst.

Founded in 1902 as the Point Pleasant

Building and Loan Association, OceanFirst built its reputation on home lending.

But Hewitt said the residential mortgage industry has increasingly been dominated by large-scale wholesale lenders and financial technology firms, forcing traditional banks to reconsider their approach.

As part of the shift, OceanFirst will part-

American Legion Post To Hold Blood Drive

blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 4.

The blood drive which is open to the

public will be held at the Post located at 2025 Church Road, Toms River. Sign up through the American Red Cross link:

ner with Rhode Island–based Embrace Home Loans to provide mortgage options to its customers.

The positions being cut are primarily in the residential mortgage division. The bank said affected employees will receive severance and career transition assistance.

redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive to schedule a blood, platelet or plasma donation.

Around the JerSey Shore

OceanFirst Grant Boosts Food Pantry At OCC

courtesy

OceanFirst Bank WaveMakers shop for groceries to stock OCC’s Helping Hands Food Pantry during CommUNITYFirst Day.

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College has received a $2,500 grant from the OceanFirst Foundation to support food-insecure students through the school’s Helping Hands Food Pantry and to strengthen volunteer engagement across campus.

The support was highlighted during OceanFirst Bank’s annual CommUNITYFirst Day, when about 100 OceanFirst Bank WaveMakers and OCC staff volunteers purchased groceries from a local market and stocked the pantry for the start of the fall semester.

“We are so grateful for the support from the OceanFirst Foundation,” said Michelle Youngs, assistant director of Student Life at OCC. “With the cost of food continuing to rise, our students are looking for our help

now more than ever.”

Food insecurity affects roughly one in four college students, and the demand at OCC has grown significantly. The Helping Hands Food Pantry recorded 2,054 visits in fiscal year 2023, 5,029 in 2024 and 7,582 in 2025.

“Thanks to partners like OceanFirst, we’re able to continue meeting this growing demand,” Youngs said. “This grant will enable Helping Hands to carry out its mission of a hunger-free campus — because everyone needs support at times.”

Founded in 2018, the pantry assists OCC and Kean Ocean students with food, drinks and other essentials, while also connecting them with resources for housing, financial assistance and additional support.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Hiking gear

Stops and stares

Race car or kayak

Banded gemstone

Home state of Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion

Suspicious

Think of fondly

Captain cook? 44 Rented a yurt, maybe

“The Bells” poet 46 Hollywood hrs. 48 Strive (for) 51 Slight depression, with “the”

Tiny issue

Cracked just a bit

Mackerel relative

Potent prefix

Life times?

Wish __ a star

Tuts

Squeeze play stat

Menorah liquid

Guffaw 29 “I take it back”

“Aloha ‘Oe” instrument, briefly

Granola grain

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Stars are sliding again through next Wednesday, so odds are lowered, and risks are increased. October is the worst opportunity month of 2025. IYKYK—be the savvy one who waits for stars with best odds for best outcomes.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Communications are likely to go well for you despite dark stars, there’s more likelihood of understanding than of misunderstanding overall. That said, a housemate or partner could come across as defensive.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Avoid asking for favors when the stars are under water, people are less receptive, less likely to return the ‘yes.’ Pushing any agenda isn’t likely to serve you now, the Universe is serving plenty of pushback for the next few days.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Don’t go out on any limbs, the Universe doesn’t have anyone’s back well today. There’s still always plenty to do when the stars don’t support big outer moves — use the time to invest in yourself, stage offerings, smell the roses.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): A worry or concern could get magnified for the next few days, don’t let intrusive thoughts take over, dark general stars affect everyone negatively. Make no big decisions and take no action until after you reassess late this week or after.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A friend might need support, you could offer some real ‘been there, done that’ empathy and understanding. Or a friend could ride to your assistance in a similar way. Support systems help us navigate challenges,

FOR THE WEEK OF OCT. 11 - 17

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

keep yours strong.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If you can’t fix it today [you probably can’t] then don’t worry about it. The specific anxiety may have blown over by tomorrow anyway, and today’s poor stars won’t help much of anything get fixed. A friend could be over the top.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): So much comes down to the approach, both the vibe and the timing — today isn’t offering you either advantage. When tides are flowing in one direction, don’t try to paddle in the other. You’ll have better support next Thursday or after.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

‘Trustworthy’ is a better moniker than ‘Slick.’ Be the person others know they can count on, and curate a friend circle which supports reciprocity. Networks of care can be there if other systems fail.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A partner or a pet could be anxious and need extra attention and understanding, you should be well-suited to provide it. Some career planning or prep could set you up for next week. Communicate with caution.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Someone could talk out of school, outing your plans or goals before you’re ready to tell all, better to build in silence for now. Resistance to authority could be a big factor, think through actions and consequences in real time.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Your path ahead could seem more obscured than usual but this should clarify in just hours. A lighter and more aligned way of being is calling you, asking you to go all-in on authenticity. Decide after stars move back into sunshine in a few more days.

Environmental Nutrition

Here’s To Jicama

Lori Zanteson

Rough-skinned and oddly shaped, jicama is rather humble looking. A peek inside reveals a creamy white flesh with the crisp and juicy texture of a pear and the mild sweetness of a water chestnut.

The folklore

Also known as yam bean or Chinese potato, jicama remains a popular ingredient in global cuisine, known for its uniqueness and versatility, and as a good source of fiber and vitamin C.

The facts

Part of the bean family of plants, jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus) is related to chickpeas, green beans, and peas. Jicama refers to the slow growing root, but above ground, it grows similar to other pole beans, vining and flowering. About 90 percent water, jicama is refreshing, hydrating, and low in calories. A one-cup serving has just 49 calories, but is an excellent source of fiber to satisfy hunger. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, with nearly 30 percent of the recommended daily value, as well as smaller amounts of iron, potassium, folate, and magnesium.

The findings

Jicama is high in fiber, including inulin, a type of soluble dietary fiber that may support digestion. A prebiotic, inulin helps stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome (Food & Function, 2023). Emerging research has shown that adding jicama to probiotic yogurt may help lower blood sugar levels in subjects with

Curious about jicama? Why not give it a try? (Dreamstime/TCA)

diabetes, which may be due to the inulin in jicama (KnE Life Sciences, 2019). Research also associates jicama with heart health. One study found that jicama root juice intake may help reduce risk of developing blood clots and it lowered diastolic blood pressure, two risk factors for heart disease and stroke (BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 2016).

The finer points

Available all year, jicama is in season from early winter through spring. Smaller jicamas tend to be tender and sweet, while larger jicamas may be tough and fibrous. Refrigerate unpeeled up to two weeks, or peeled and sliced in a sealed container with water up to three days.

Peel away skin with a vegetable peeler, cut into sticks or rounds for snacking, julienne to make slaws and salads, and dice into salsa. Jicama may also be stir-fried, boiled and mashed, added to soups, or enjoyed as a fun twist on French fried potatoes.

(Environmental Nutrition is the award-winning independent newsletter written by nutrition experts dedicated to providing readers up-to-date, accurate information about health and nutrition in clear, concise English. For more information, visit www.environmentalnutrition.com.)

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