2026-02-14 - The Jackson Times

Love Found The Right Time For Local Couple

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – As the saying goes, “The heart knows what the heart wants,” which means that strong emotional desires, especially in love, often defy logic and reason. The sentiment was popularized by Emily Dickinson and echoed in many songs but love also has its own perfect timing.

Take the case of newlyweds Bill and Karen Moran, a couple in their early 80s who celebrated their nuptials on December 20, 2025, in Westlake Golf and Country Club in Jackson. They were surrounded by many friends and relatives who came from various parts of the country to celebrate this very special, happy occasion.

The ceremony was officiated by Jackson Mayor Jennifer Kuhn. It was the second wedding she performed as mayor. As residents of Westlake, an active adult community, the couple didn’t know each other until a fascinating phone call brought them together. That is when Cupid took aim with his arrow.

It bothered Bill that his

television was too small for his wall unit. His TV

was 58 inches; a larger TV would not fit in the space. Newer versions of 65-inch sets became available with a smaller

(Love - See Page 4)

Residents Speak Out On Police, Other Issues

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON- Town -

ship residents aren’t shy about what is bothering them and asking questions during Township Council meetings. The public comment period at one recent meeting had 11 residents come before the microphone to provide their input about a variety of township topics.

Among those who spoke was resident Donny Adelman, who is a regular speaker at meetings. He brought up an internal police matter between himself and the department and played a recording of an exchange that suggested information about him was released improperly.

Council President Mordechai Burnstein said it would be improper for the Council to comment on a police matter. He told Adelman “if you feel the police are not doing

what they are supposed to do there is a process in place to file a report with the (Ocean County) Prosecutor’s Office.” Township Attorney Gregory McGuckin said an individual making such a complaint would first have to go “through the internal affairs process whether you want to or not. That is where the initial complaint has to go.” He said that Adelman could file a complaint with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office as it oversees the internal affairs department of Jackson Township. Resident Joseph Sullivan, who serves as vice chair on the township planning board and chairs the Rent Levelling Board, spoke about the Council’s examination of when the public comment period might be held. There has been consideration of moving it earlier

Woman Fostered Over 100 Puppies While Seniors Taught To Recognize AI And Disinformation

By Sara Rafferty

BRICK – Seniors learned how to spot artificial intelligence and disinformation at a talk hosted by the local library.

Sarah Spellman, a volunteer for AARP, said she introduces elderly communities to the world of technology and how to protect themselves from scams.

The most important part of Spellman’s presentation was her advice on

detecting AI and avoiding scams. For deepfakes (fake images), look out for things that look too airbrushed. For example, a person’s undereye often looks much brighter, their hair appears blurred, etc. Pay close attention to a person’s body - AI often struggles to create the correct number of fingers and toes. Their muscle lines may not look entirely connected. If it’s an image of nature, pay attention

(Seniors - See Page 4)

Battling Rare Disease

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS RIVER– Danielle

E. Cicora never wanted her illness to define her. For more than half her life, the Toms River resident lived with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, a rare and debilitating nervous system disorder that left her on crutches at times, in a wheelchair at others, and occasionally unable to tolerate even the

touch of fabric on her skin.

But if you asked Danielle who she was, she wouldn’t have started with the diagnosis. She would have started with the puppies.

Born November 10, 1989, Danielle passed away January 20, 2026, at age 36. She is survived by her mother, Sandy Cicora, her father, Mike, her

(Puppies - See Page 7)

Love:

Continued From Page 1

bezel. His new screen fit perfectly. Now he needed to dispose of the older set, so he advertised it on an email that is only for Westlake residents.

Karen responded and asked, “Why are you selling your TV if it’s in perfect condition?”

Bill answered, “Forgive me for saying this, but ‘Size matters.’” She purchased his television. Bill was deeply saddened by the passing of his beloved wife. Karen Gerson herself is no stranger to sadness, having lost her husband in his 30s, leaving her to raise their two children alone. The couple learned they were raised in close proximity to each other in the northern end of the state.

They came to learn that they had both enjoyed the same movie theaters and ice cream parlors, such as Grunings - which they agree offers the best hot fudge around in South Orange - and Jahn’s (best kitchen sink, a large bowl of ice cream with all the trimmings, to be shared by

Seniors

:

Continued From Page 1 to the lines on trees, the flower petals, or if the grass appears airbrushed.

For voice cloning, fake voices are often much smoother than normal. A person’s natural accent may be distorted, there will be limited to no sounds of breathing, and they may sound more confident - they won’t hesitate or stumble on their words.

She focused on the disinformation spread by AI

many) in Union.

After laughing and reminiscing on many lengthy phone calls, Karen asked, “Bill, you live five blocks away, why don’t you come over?” He eagerly replied, “I’d love to!” Their relationship quickly blossomed. When Karen broke her foot, Bill was there for her. When Bill suffered a serious fall, Karen was with him every step of the way.

Both share October / Libra birthdays, a love for the theater, travel, the beach, good food and, most importantly, the glue that holds them together, dark chocolate.

Quite often they say the same thing at the same time. Their children were thrilled with their parents’ decision to wed. Karen was attracted to Bill’s intelligence and good looks, and Bill was attracted to Karen’s “whole package.”

In Bill’s vows, he exclaimed how Karen brought him romantic love that he never thought he would experience again after his loss. He said that he was in a dark and sad place until he met Karen who brought him light and

and the ever-increasing risks. She also highlighted the important difference between misinformation - the accidental spread of untruths, and disinformation - the purposeful spread of untruths. AI is everywhere now, especially online. It’s become easily accessible by scammers, who are quick to use a person’s voice as a way to mask their own identity and convince you to send them money, she explained.

AARP offers scam alerts, which helps people stay up to date on the current scams in your area. More information can be found

joy. There wasn’t a dry eye amongst the guests.

Karen began her vows with the fact that it was truly “meant to be” all because “size matters” as she had purchased his 58” TV, otherwise they wouldn’t be standing together exchanging their vows, which brought all the guests to laugh heartily.

The bride stated that Bill’s voice comforts her, that holding his hand and their connection means so much, and that she looks forward to becoming his wife and loving him for the rest of her life.

Joe Tatulli, president of the Westlake Board of Trustees, and his wife, Rae, were invited guests. They perform as vocalists in their spare time. Joe performed “Love Me Tender” for the newlyweds first dance as husband and wife. “It was beautiful and much appreciated,” the new bride said.

The couple are extremely active in and out of their community. Bill is an attorney; a graduate of Princeton University and he earned a JD from the University of Virginia Law School. He is a former President of the

on AARP’s official website, AARP.org, and there’s no membership required. Spellman urged people not to think AI is entirely evil, though. While scammers may be using AI, so can the police. Departments could use this advanced technology for things like facial recognition in crowded areas or searching the internet for information on a suspect. It can help with small tasks like quick questions - just stay mindful of the answers, as AI “learns” information by recognizing patterns online, and the internet is full of its own mis-

New Brunswick Bar Association, a former President of the Westlake Board of Trustees, currently a trustee on the Board, and he loves to play golf.

Karen, an entrepreneur, is the former president/founder of more than one successful business - most recently, Las Vegas Now Magazine, and Television and Radio programs under the same name. She is an artist, author, poet, and she’s currently writing her memoir. Karen has worked on behalf of Westlake’s 20th Anniversary Book, Westlake’s 25th Anniversary celebration, and many other projects. She explained, “Personality traits such as respect, kindness, honesty, and temperament are essential to create a loving relationship. That’s exactly what Bill and I found in each other. A simple phone call can change your life forever.”

These two have found their “Meant to be” soulmate and forever partner after tragedy, and they urged those who are in a similar situation to never give up, because you just never know whose TV might be for sale.

information and human errors. She explained that you should be mindful of content that is designed to elicit an emotional reaction. Always remember to fact check your sources; if you see something online and believe it’s worth sharing, it’s worth fact checking. If you can find a fact on multiple platforms, it’s more likely to be true.

Spellman recommends using verified, non-partisan websites when fact checking information. Her two favorite examples are Snopes.com or FactCheck.org

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OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Super Bowl Halftime Shows Through The Years

This is unfamiliar territory for me, since I’m not a sports fan. As I recently told my father, the only way I know if there’s a big game coming up is if I’m at the grocery store and chips are on sale.

The Super Bowl Halftime Show headliner transcends fans, though. It’s meant to get other people to tune in. It’s more for the millions watching at home than the thousands in the stadium.

Still, when they announced Bad Bunny, I was only a little surprised. I only know of this guy through his appearances on Saturday Night Live. I hate most rap, so I’m not the target demographic for his music (or for the Super Bowl for that matter).

I’ve gone beyond questioning the decisions made in the entertainment industry. I automatically assume that most of them are bad. But this one made me think (for a change). I mean, besides him having a stupid name, I really don’t know if he’s that big of a star. Again, not my rodeo. Maybe he is.

It made me look up the entertainers brought out during halftime shows throughout Super Bowl

VA Women’s Clinic Understaffed

I am writing to bring attention to an issue that has deeply affected many female veterans in our community.

The Women’s Clinic at the Toms River VA facility - an important resource that was promised to us - remains inaccessible due to ongoing staffing shortages. Despite the clinic being established with the support of a grant from the town and presented as a dedicated space for women veterans, it has yet to fulfill

history. This year isn’t the only weird choice. The first shows were marching bands, like any football game at your local high school or college. This gave way to big band leaders and slowly pop stars started showing up. In 1972, there was a salute to Louis Armstrong which featured the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Carol Channing (Channing returned in 1970, the first of many to do so).

I might be going out on a limb here, but I’d say the first big commercial halftime was in 1977 when the Walt Disney Company produced it and had some of their songs in it. Imagine seeing “It’s A Small World” live. It sounds like a nightmare, honestly. Pretty big jump from three years earlier when the performers were the University of Texas Longhorn Band featuring Miss Texas ‘73 on the fiddle.

Two years later, Carnival Cruise Lines produced the “Salute To The Caribbean” which I’m sure was a big ad for traveling on their boats.

1987 saw another Disney-produced show with the theme being Hollywood’s 100th anniversary. This show featured George Burns and Mickey Rooney, which is pretty awesome, actually. The next year saw Chubby Checker and The Rock-

its intended purpose.

For many of us, this clinic represented progress: a commitment to providing gender-specific care, privacy, and a supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of women who have served. Instead, we find ourselves unable to utilize the very services that were meant to address longstanding gaps in care. We are still able to be seen by our provider but not in the dedicated area for the female veterans. The community invested in this clinic. Female veterans were told it would be

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.

ettes. 1990’s theme was a salute to Peanuts, which also sounds great.

Then in 1991, Disney produced again and we got the New Kids On The Block. What a time capsule. A salute to the 1992 Winter Olympics featured Brian Boitano and Dorothy Hamill. Gloria Estefan was also performing.

And then in 1993, arguably the biggest star in any of our lifetimes: Michael Jackson. I feel like this was a turning point. Sure, New Kids and Estefan were big in the early 90s, but they were no Michael Jackson. The halftime show has probably been chasing this high ever since.

The next year was Clint Black, Tanya Tucker, Travis Tritt and The Judds. I guess they were the big names. I know only a little more about country music than I do about rap.

I’m just reading off a big list so I have no idea what the 1995 Indiana Jones performance brought to you by Doritos is. But Patti LaBelle and Tony Bennett were there.

Anywho, another big name in lights for 1996: none other than Diana Ross. That’s an impressive pull.

1997 was a Blues Brothers Bash with Dan

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

available. Yet without proper staffing, the facility sits underused, and the promises made to us remain unfulfilled. This is not simply an administrative oversight - it is a failure to honor the commitments made to those who have served.

I urge local leadership, VA administration, and the broader community to address this issue with the urgency it deserves. Women veterans deserve access to the care that was pledged to them, and the resources already invested should not go to waste.

Thank you for helping bring visibility to this matter.

Carolyn

Franzen US Air Force Female Veteran

Kudos To AristaCare

AristaCare in Whiting is an outstanding facility on so many levels.

I recently spent 2 months there for IV antibiotics and physical therapy. The care I received was wonderful: professional and compassionate. Virtually every staff

Aykroyd, John Goodman and Jim Belushi. James Brown and ZZ Top also performed. OK…

Then we go to Motown’s 40th anniversary with Smokey Robinson, Martha Reeves, The Temptations for pedigree and Boyz II Men and Queen Latifah for new fans.

The fact that I get to type out “Big Bad Voodoo Daddy” in my job is a wonder. Anyway, they were in 1999 with a celebration of soul, salsa and swing with Stevie Wonder (another great pull), Savion Glover, and oh, hey, Gloria Estefan’s back!

The big 2000 show was Phil Collins, Christina Aguilera, Enrique Iglesias and Toni Braxton. The 2001 show I remember watching: Aerosmith and NSYNC, with Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, and Nelly. In 2002, it was after the attacks on September 11, 2001 so we needed something a little more thoughtful and U2 was the answer. 2003 had Shania Twain, No Doubt and Sting which don’t seem to fit but maybe that was the point.

Then we come to the infamous 2004 Janet

(Editorial - See Page 13)

member: administrators, doctors, nurses, CNAs, aides all contributed greatly to my rapid healing.

One CNA in particular, Wanda, is a phenomenal caretaker and her encouraging spirit greatly aids healing. The physical therapy staff is beyond compare. They are respectful, thorough and challenging. The spirit of the staff is also reflected in authentic collaboration on all levels. I have immense gratitude to the whole team, and recommend them highly!

Young Candidate For Monmouth Commissioner

I’m Eduardo Castillo, a Marlboro resident and a working-class retail worker running in the Democratic primary for Monmouth County Commissioner. I am not a career politician; I am someone who has worked over six retail jobs and understands the daily grind of trying to make ends meet.

I know the stress of living paycheck to paycheck, the weight of mounting medical debt, and the frustration of watching grocery and gas prices climb while personal time with family disappears. At 22, I offer a unique balance of youthful energy and seasoned lived experience. This campaign isn’t a battle of young versus old, I deeply respect our older generations and connect with them through shared struggles. I believe that ideas, not age, define a candidate. My goal is to bring fresh, reasonable solutions to our local government, rooted in my identity as a son, a partner, and a proud American who believes in our collective potential.

As your County Commissioner, I will focus on the powers of the office, managing the budget, passing ordinances, and overseeing essential services like education, public safety, and health, to directly combat the rising cost of living. While the office has its limits, there is so much we can do to improve our infrastructure and social services. Together, we can make Monmouth County the number one place to live

The Unborn Lost On Election Day

Frank Couglin Whiting in New Jersey. Let’s work together to make our county bigger, better, and greater for everyone.

As we look at the last governor race in New Jersey, Christians who voted did not reflect what the Word of God says. America had a covenant with God, and we should not sacrifice our children through the sin of abortion which is MURDER! Exodus 20:6 How could we elect those who continue to slaughter the unborn who were made in the image of God. And we will be accountable before the Lord. Looks like a heart issue and hopefully there will be a spirit of Repentance. May God forgive us!

Proverbs 8:35-36 “For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord; But he who sins against me wrongs his own soul; all those who hate me love death.”

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

From The Desk Of

Mayor Jennifer Kuhn

Dear Neighbors,

Over the past week in Jackson, we’ve seen our community come together in moments of challenge, recognition, and progress. I want to share updates on important developments, highlight local achievements, and continue the dialogue that keeps our township strong.

One of the most significant events this week was a fire at The Club at Jackson Twenty One condominium development on Mantoloking Drive on February 3. Thanks to the rapid and coordinated response of our Jackson fire districts, Jackson Police Department, volunteer responders from Hatzolah and Chaverim, and EMS units,

Capitol Comments

Assemblyman Alex Sauickie

the fire was brought under control without injuries. Officials later determined the cause was accidental. My gratitude to every first responder for their professionalism and service. Your work protects all of us and demonstrates the heart of our community. Public safety continues to be a top priority. Captain Mary Nelson has been appointed Jackson Township’s first female Interim Chief of Police, a historic milestone. Chief Nelson, along with other promoted officers to senior ranks of captain, lieutenants and sergeants who brings extensive experience, professionalism, and leadership to the department, ensuring strong, forward-looking public safety leadership for our community.

We also continue to keep attention on the ongoing case of Mortimer “Morty” Wortman, who has been missing since November. I want his family to know that finding Morty remains a top priority, and

I am grateful for the continued support of our residents. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Jackson Police Department.

In other township initiatives, we are moving forward with a community Environmental Resource Inventory (ERI). This project, authorized after consulting with the Environmental Commission, will help Jackson better understand and protect our natural resources while planning responsibly for future growth.

We also celebrated achievements that inspire community pride. Jackson Township formally recognized local youths Aaron Joseph Neitzel and Luciana Juchniewicz for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Their dedication and leadership exemplify the values we cherish here in Jackson.

Behind the headlines, your local government continues working to strengthen services and bring resources into Jackson without burdening residents with increased taxes. From pursuing grants for public

Alex’s Agriculture Agenda For 2026

TRENTON - Last week, I wrote about my partial “to do” list for 2026. There are a lot of important items on that list, but a major interest of mine was left out due to space. New Jersey is the Garden State because of our great farms, cranberry bogs, orchards, vineyards and more. The towns I represent in the Assembly host many of these great agricultural producers.

I’ve been fortunate to serve on the committees handling agriculture since I was first elected to the Assembly. In this new term, I plan to make the most of my seat on the newly more focused Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.

In that time, I authored a landmark law revitalizing the state’s farmland preservation program that was called a national “game-changer.” I was also humbled to be named the 2025 Farms and Food Legislator of the Year by the NJ Food Democracy Collaborative, a group dedicated to making the state’s food and agriculture system more resilient, safe, and prosperous.

When local Cranbury officials sought to seize the long-time Henry family farm, currently owned by veterans, by eminent domain to build high-density housing, I and others fought against the plan and won in a battle that received national attention. You

don’t treat veterans and other farmers that way without a fight from me.

Closer to home, I also went to bat for Samrock Stables in Howell, whose owners endured a two-year attack on its status as a commercial farm and allegations of unallowed activities there. I spoke up for them before the Monmouth County Agriculture Development Board, which then unanimously dismissed the township’s charges.

I’ll take on more fights against government overreach if they arise, but meanwhile I’m going to focus on efforts to make positive change to improve conditions for New Jersey growers, which will benefit all of our state by improving our agricultural marketing and therefore the state’s economy, and also connect more residents with the local, fresh farm products that they will enjoy. One way to do this is to increase support for the Jersey Fresh marketing program.

Jersey Fresh is one of the most successful agricultural marketing campaigns in the country, so much so that other states copy it. But compared to the financial backing such programs get from copycat states, our program is grossly underfunded.

I’ve reintroduced legislation to change that. My bill (A4026) provides an additional $500,000 for Jersey Fresh marketing and promotion.

It’s perhaps no big surprise when a legislator proposes more money for a given program, so it’s important to understand the context here. Jersey Fresh began in 1984 as a $50,000

campaign before appropriations increased to over $1 million per year, but funding has since been reduced by over 90%, to $100,000 annually.

This was despite a 2004 study by The Food Policy institute, when the spending was roughly $1 million annually, that found every dollar invested in Jersey Fresh returned $54.49. The report also said the program’s impact on the state’s economy was about $63.2 billion. A “54x” return and tens of billions for our economy seems to me a great investment for taxpayers.

At a total of $600,000, my proposal doesn’t even reach the peak amount of over $1 million. Rather, it sensibly uses the new appropriation to replace the use of the federal Specialty Crops Block Grant for the Jersey Fresh program.

By doing this, the amount of federal money available to farmers and organizations from this important federal grant program will be increased, as up to 50% of those grant funds are used to fund the Jersey Fresh program. The bill would rebalance the funding of Jersey Fresh and the amount available for USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant awards so that both benefit the state’s farmers to the fullest.

Following this approach to promoting New Jersey agricultural products, I’ve also proposed a bill (A2900) creating a “Jersey Vines” program to promote our state’s rising wine industry, and another (A2910) creating a “Jersey Spirits” program to promote local distilled liquor products. Building on the success of Jersey Fresh, these programs will not only help our state’s adult beverage industry and the growers behind them, but

safety staffing to supporting community development projects, we are focused on initiatives that make a tangible difference in residents’ daily lives.

I encourage all residents to stay engaged and connected with Township updates, whether through our official website, social media channels, or community events. Open dialogue and participation help ensure your voices guide the decisions we make together.

Leadership has its challenges, but whether responding to emergencies, celebrating achievements, protecting our environment, or strengthening public safety, I remain committed to serving Jackson with transparency, responsiveness, and integrity.

Thank you for your continued trust, engagement, and partnership as we work together to keep Jackson safe, strong, and thriving.

Respectfully, Jennifer

Kuhn Mayor, Jackson Township

also will increase revenue from out of state to help our economy.

Also being drafted is a “Jersey Brew” bill to similarly help our great breweries. I’ve learned a lot about them by visiting as many New Jersey breweries as possible - for strictly research purposes of course.

These bills would organize advertising campaigns and create marketing programs to promote adult beverages produced in our state, and disseminate information about the fine growers involved. Labeling similar to the “Jersey Fresh” labels would identify these quality local products as Jersey originals.

California spends millions on its wine advertising alone to promote a $67 billion annual sales market. New Jersey has great wine, beer and spirits that, if properly and aggressively promoted, could do much more business than they do today.

Having enough funding available for proven effective economic strategies is partly why I fought against the last-minute spending spree under Gov. Murphy that even Gov. Sherrill called an “incredibly frustrating” “feeding frenzy” that cost billions. And it was partly to send a message about protecting our farmers and other growers that drove my advocacy for the Henry Farm and Samrock Stables.

I will always fight to defend and promote agriculture here in the Garden State.

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), X (@AlexSauickie), and TikTok (@AssemblymanAlex) or visit his website at AssemblymanAlex.com.

Puppies:

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brother, Michael, her significant other, Sean Tomesco and five devoted “furbabies” - Serenity, Minty, Stewie, Emmett and Akela.

To the volunteers at All Fur One Pet Rescue in Toms River, Danielle was more than a foster mom. She was a force.

“If you ever saw a foster mom carrying a literal sea of puppies with her bright red hair flowing, you likely knew Danielle,” the rescue wrote in a tribute following her death. “She was a firecracker… funny, smart, and radiating a beautiful energy that could fill any room.”

But behind the vibrant hair colors and easy smile was a woman who quietly fought battles most never saw.

A Purpose Found

Danielle had once been a gymnast. A fall and subsequent knee injury at 19 marked the beginning of a very different journey, one filled with specialists and years of chronic pain.

“She always said, ‘I never want this disease to define who I am,’” her mother recalled. “I’m not a person with RSD. I’m me. I just happen to have that.”

There were stretches when she couldn’t walk without assistance. Months when even a blanket brushing her legs was unbearable. Her family rigged bars across her bed so the blankets wouldn’t touch her skin.

Still, when transport night came and a litter of puppies needed a safe place to land, Danielle’s response was always the same: “I’ll take them.”

She began volunteering at All Fur One about five years ago. At first, she helped around the rescue. Then came her first foster, a small fluffy dog named Furby. Three days later, he was adopted.

Soon, one puppy turned into litters. Litters of three. Litters of six. One unforgettable litter of ten.

Over the years, Danielle fostered well over 100 puppies. “She never looked at it as work,” Sandy said. “She said, ‘These are living things that can’t fight for themselves, so I have to fight for them.’”

Mint’s Story - And Hers One litter in particular changed everything.

The “Candy Land” litter, named for board game characters, included six puppies. All six contracted parvovirus. Five responded to treatment.

Mint did not. “He’s not going to make it,” the rescue founder warned.

Danielle refused to accept that. She learned how to administer subcutaneous fluids. She slept on the floor in the foster room for nights, listening for the faintest cry.

One morning, Mint lifted his head and wagged his tail. That was the moment Danielle knew she had found her calling.

Mint became her “foster fail,” the puppy she couldn’t let go. He grew into her emotional support dog, rarely leaving her side, especially during lengthy IVIG treatments at home. If the treatment lasted six hours, Mint stayed six hours. If nine, he stayed nine.

“He gave back to her a millionfold,” Sandy said.

After Mint, Danielle began volunteering for the hardest cases - parvo puppies, sick litters,

those other fosters felt unequipped to manage. She would switch assignments if another litter fell ill. She went to fellow volunteers’ homes to help treat puppies.

She understood suffering. “As sick as she was,” her mother said, “she’d say, ‘Mom, I know what they’re going through. I live it every day.”

The Letting Go Fostering means goodbye. Sometimes after three days. Sometimes after nine months. Was it hard?

“Of course I’m going to miss them,” Danielle would say. “But there’s more that need me.”

At her funeral and viewing, families arrived with dogs she had once cradled in her arms.

“She reached out to see how my pups were doing,” one adopter shared. Another wrote, “They were so loved and well cared for.”

According to the rescue’s founder, it’s rare for adopters to remember the name of the foster. With Danielle, they did.

The Ones She Couldn’t Let Go

Among the hundreds she fostered from All Fur One, four remained. Mint, Stewie from the “Dinosaur” litter, Emmett from the “Airline” litter, and Akela, the two-pound runt she refused to let be bullied. And then there was Serenity, the 11-year-old rescue who predated All Fur One but anchored Danielle’s world.

Mint and Serenity still search for her. Mint walks through the house crying, sniffing her bed. Serenity has become quiet, watchful.

“When you hug one of the dogs,” Sandy said, “it feels like you’re hugging her.”

The Pit Crew Danielle didn’t do it alone. Her mother described herself and Sean as

Danielle’s “pit crew.” On bad health days, they cleaned pens, administered medicine, loaded cars for adoption events. If Danielle couldn’t attend, Sandy brought the puppies, often unaware that her daughter had texted other volunteers ahead of time: Please make sure my mom’s okay.

Sean, 44, met Danielle a year ago. She told her mother he was the love of her life, the first man who truly understood her limitations without seeing them as burdens.

“She said, ‘No one’s ever taken care of me the way he does,’” Sandy recalled.

Sean embraced the puppies as readily as Danielle. Recently, while working, he recognized a dog that looked like Emmett, only to discover it was Emmett’s sibling. The owner remembered Danielle instantly.

A Legacy In Motion

Danielle once feared she had no purpose because she couldn’t work. Fostering changed that. “It turned her world around,” Sandy said.

Today, her mother has become an adoption coordinator with All Fur One. Sean stands beside her. They are considering fostering again in time. Because that is what Danielle would have wanted.

In its tribute, the rescue imagined her at the Rainbow Bridge, greeted by her beloved Makota and a joyful, wagging crowd of every puppy she ever saved.

They called her “a hero to the voiceless.”

Somewhere, in homes across New Jersey and beyond, more than 100 dogs are safe, loved and alive because Danielle E. Cicora decided her disease would not be her story. The puppies were.

Girl Scouts Partner With Local Pizzeria To Boost Shelter Adoptions

JACKSON – Two local Girl Scouts are thinking creatively to help dogs and cats find permanent homes at Ocean County’s animal shelters.

Adelynn and Abigail approached the Ocean County Animal Facility with a service project idea designed to raise awareness about adoptable pets and the county shelter system. Rather than relying on traditional outreach, the girls partnered with Enzo’s Pizza to deliver the message directly into residents’ homes.

Over several months, the pair designed and distributed flyers featuring photos and details about shelter animals. The flyers were placed on pizza boxes, reaching families across the area. Shelter officials said

roughly 200 flyers per month were sent out through the partnership.

The project aimed not only to highlight individual dogs and cats available for adoption, but also to increase public awareness of the county’s animal shelters and the services they provide.

County officials thanked Adelynn, Abigail and the local business for helping connect homeless pets with potential adopters and supporting animal welfare through an innovative community collaboration.

The Ocean County Animal Facility operates shelters in Jackson and Manahawkin. The Jackson location is at 615 Freemont Ave., while the Manahawkin shelter is located at 360 Haywood Road.

Estate Planning Lunch Program Planned

JACKSON – Residents interested in learning more about estate planning and end-of-life preparation are invited to attend a Lunch and Learn program March 18 at Oliverie Funeral Home in Jackson.

The informational session will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wisteria, located at 125 South Cooks Bridge Road. The program will be hosted by Geri Oliverie, manager and funeral director at Oliverie Funeral Home.

Guest speakers will include represen -

tatives from the Van Dyck Law Group, who will discuss estate planning and elder law topics, as well as Melissa Meegan of Affinity Hospice and Palliative Care, who will address care planning considerations. The event is free to attend, and lunch will be provided. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 732-657-4900.

Organizers say the program is designed to help attendees better understand how to plan ahead and make informed decisions for themselves and their families.

Township Recruiting Class II Police Officers

JACKSON – The police department has opened its application period for Class II Special Law Enforcement Officers and is encouraging anyone interested in a law enforcement career to apply.

The position provides recruits with direct, on-the-job experience working alongside sworn officers, offering practical training

and exposure to police operations that can help lead to full-time employment.

Candidates can access the application portal directly at the department’s recruitment link: shorturl.at/AA4CI

Questions regarding the position or application process may be directed to Detective Lieutenant Robert Reiff at Rreiff@jacksontwpnj.net.

C

n ew S

Prosecutor’s Office Warns Students About Online Risks

JACKSON – An agent with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office met with students at Jackson Township Middle School to discuss the risks tied to social media use, including cyberbullying and the long-term consequences of poor online decision-making.

Agent Michael Colwell addressed how students’ digital behavior can affect their safety, reputations and relationships both online and in school. The presentation emphasized responsible communication,

awareness of cyber threats and the importance of thinking before posting or responding on social platforms.

The program was coordinated with the help of Student Assistance Counselor Stacey Fisk, who invited Colwell to speak with the students as part of the school’s ongoing focus on student well-being and safety.

Also in attendance were Director of School Security John Pejoski and Fisk, who joined Colwell during the visit.

Pipes And Drums Group Seeks Snare Drummers Ahead Of Parades

OCEAN COUNTY –The Pipes & Drums of Barnegat Bay is looking to add several snare drummers as the band prepares for upcoming St. Patrick’s Day parades and related events.

The local pipe and drum band said instruments and uniforms will be supplied to new members. Rehearsals are held at Christ Episcopal Church on Washington

Street in Toms River.

Organizers said the group is seeking musicians interested in participating in parade performances and becoming part of the band’s regular lineup. Those interested can contact the group by phone at 848-333-9784 or by email at pipesanddrumsofbarnegatbay@comcast. net.

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.

Jackson Times, February 14, 2026, Page

JACKSON FIRE DISTRICT #2

Meeting the Demand for Safety In 2025, Fire District #2 responded to 1,575 calls for service, a significant jump from the previous year. To ensure the safety of our growing community, the district has achieved several historic milestones over the past year:

• 24/7/365 Coverage: On July 13th, the District moved to fulltime career firefighter coverage— the first 24-hour shifts in township history.

• Enhanced EMS Response: As of December 1st, EMS First Responder coverage was extended to 24 hours a day to provide life-saving care faster.

• Modernized Operations: The district is integrated with Fire District No. 3 via the First Due software system to streamline emergency response, maintenance, and reporting.

Why Your Vote Matters

The 2026 budget is essential to maintaining these 24/7 operations. Approval of the budget ensures that residents continue to receive rapid response times. The Voting for the Referendum- Adds 4 New Career Firefighters and necessary equipment/improvements.- Adds new Fire Inspector to the District.

1. In-Person Voting

When: Saturday, February 21, 2026

Time: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM Where: Jackson Fire Station #56, 785 Miller Road, Jackson, NJ.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt

Dear Pharmacist

Why You Can’t Sleep Without A Blanket Even In Summer

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Have you ever kicked the blanket off because you’re too hot… only to pull it right back up five minutes later? Or is that just me?

I love being covered at night. Even in August. Even with the air conditioning on. Even when logic says, “You’re overheating, woman.”

And here’s the strange part, it’s not really about warmth. I looked this up and wanted to share my research with you in case you like to be covered too when you sleep. It has everything to do with your nervous system, not the temperature in your bedroom.

As a pharmacist who’s spent decades helping people sleep better without jumping straight to prescription sedatives, I find this endlessly fascinating because it’s so common, so instinctive, and yet so misunderstood.

We assume blankets are used only to stay warm. What your body is actually responding to is the light pressure and containment. Think swaddling! Even a thin sheet provides gentle sensory input that helps shift your nervous system out of “alert mode” and into “rest mode.”

That shift is governed by your parasympathetic nervous system, the part responsible for slowing your heart rate, lowering stress hormones, and allowing sleep to unfold naturally. For context, the sympathetic nervous system is your “fight or flight” mode. Parasympathetic is better described as “rest and digest” and it’s what’s activated when you cover up.

In other words, your blanket isn’t just a comfort habit. It’s a regulatory cue to put you into parasympathetic mode.

Light pressure on the skin sends calming signals to the brain and supports vagus nerve signaling, a pathway deeply involved in relaxation, digestion, and sleep. This is the same reason weighted blankets help some people sleep more soundly.

There’s also an ancient, evolutionary layer to this. Long before memory or logic kicks in, the nervous system asks one quiet question at bedtime: “Am I safe enough to let go?”

Covering yourself creates a subtle sense of enclosure that reduces nighttime vigilance. Your modern brain knows you’re safe in bed. Your primitive brain is skeptical.

Then there’s temperature regulation. Stable skin temperature matter more than being cold. A light cover helps your body regulate heat evenly, which supports the natural drop in core temperature required for sleep. Melatonin plays a role too.

This blanket instinct also overlaps gently with anxiety. Not panic attacks. Not diagnoses. I’m talking about the far more common experience of being wired but tired, mentally exhausted yet unable to settle, restless at night, or easily startled awake.

In those moments, your body often reaches for self-soothing tools like being covered up. It’s your nervous system telling you it wants to downshift gears.

But this whole blanket thing also explains why sleep feels worse sometimes in hotels, or when your husband ‘steals’ the covers in his sleep. It’s not just annoying. It’s the loss of a calming signal your body expects.

For more natural sleep insights, including melatonin timing and gentle nervous-system support, visit me 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) ©2026 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

What Is The Impact Of Untreated Hearing Loss On Brain Function?

Untreated hearing loss is more than an inconvenience –it can significantly affect mental health, quality of life and brain function. Depicted below are the major consequences of untreated hearing loss and the benefits of early intervention.

CONSEQUENCIES OF UNTREATED HEARING LOSS

Consequence

Cognitive Decline

Cognitive Overload

Auditory Deprivation

Social Isolation & Depression

Impaired Balance

Cognitive Treatment

Impact on Brain Function & Health

Increases risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s; Accelerates brain aging and atrophy

Brain strains to process sound, reducing focus, Memory, and thinking capacity

Brain “forgets’ how to interpret certain sounds, worsens Speech understanding over time

Leads to withdrawal from conversations; contributes to Loneliness, anxiety, and cognitive decline

Increases risk of falls due to reduced spatial awareness Less effective when hearing loss is untreated

BENEFITS OF TREATING HEARING LOSS

Treatment Benefit

Slowed Cognitive Decline

Improved Quality of Life

Reduced Risk of Depression

Better Speech Understanding Greater Safety

Enhanced Cognitive Therapies

Positive Effects on the Brain and Life

Helps preserve memory, focus, and overall cognition

Enhances communication, confidence, social engagement Improves emotional health & reduces long term risks Restores the brain’s ability to process speech effectively Enhances balance and reduces fall risk

Supports better outcomes from mental health treatment

Dr. Izzy recommends that you have an initial hearing evaluation when you turn 50 years of age. The consequences of untreated hearing loss are far too great to procrastinate. 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!

OCEAN COUNTY – Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 888-944-5678.

photo of the week

A white-tailed deer hunkers down in deep snow during a powerful winter storm that blanketed the area in ice and heavy snowfall. The image was captured by Thomas Smith of Berkeley Township. Have a pic to share with our readers? Email it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may see it here.

Yiddish Film Seminar Set At Ocean County College

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College will host a free seminar in February exploring the history and cultural significance of Yiddish film, a genre that once reflected the daily lives, struggles and traditions of Jewish communities in Eastern Europe and the United States.

The three-hour program, Celebration of Yiddish Film, will begin with silent films documenting Jewish life in the shtetlach of Eastern Europe, many produced by Polish and Soviet Jewish filmmakers. The seminar will also examine the genre’s American

“Golden Age” in the late 1930s, when films blended humor, drama and social commentary on immigration, family life and identity. All films will be shown with English subtitles.

The event will be held February 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Technology Building Lecture Hall, Building 25, Room 115, on the college’s main campus. Admission is free, but registration is required.

To register or for more information, contact Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig at 732-255-0400, ext. 2368, or abotein-furrevig@ocean.edu.

Ceramics At Jackson Senior Center

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

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

Residents:

Continued From Page 1 during council meetings.

Sullivan said he’d prefer to have it after the business of council was conducted and post council reports “but I’ve seen it work either way in many communities but my personal preference is to have public comments at the end of the meeting.”

Resident Nick Moccio reminded the mayor and council that his best friend Mortimer Wortman was still missing. “It is still clear to me and it is clearer every single day that this town can do so much more to locate its missing residents.” He said he had been assured by the council president and mayor that the police are doing everything they can

to find him.

Moccio played a recording of a conversation with Burnstein who indicated to that due to legal issues between the former police chief and township at the time that the police had asked the official “not to contact a search and rescue squad. What more will you do to ensure that Mortimer Wortman is located and what will you do to repair the mistakes of your police department?”

“You are aware of your shortcomings and the shortcomings of your law enforcement. Mortimer Wortman is still missing. It has been 68 days and we still have no answers,” Moccio said.

Burnstein replied that he had referenced a volunteer organization that did great work. “I definitely do agree that the township could

continue to do more. I think since the last meeting the township has done a little more. I think the results we’re looking for is obviously to find Mortimer. I am not in the position to instruct the police on how to do their job.”

McGuckin backed up Burnstein’s statement saying it was not the Council’s role to tell the police department how to do their job. “As to how they do their police function their boss is the Ocean County Prosecutor and ultimately the Attorney General of the state of New Jersey.” He advised the resident that if he felt that the township police department was doing something wrong in relation to this criminal investigation to report it to the county prosecutor’s office.

Moccio said the case was to be headed by the Prosecutor’s Office and that Jackson’s Police Department was to have handed off their initial police report to them and that at the time he spoke to the Prosecutor’s Office, that had not been done yet.

McGuckin did say a letter could be written on behalf of the mayor and council to the Prosecutor’s Office asking for an update on the investigation. Mayor Jennifer Kuhn said she would authorize such a letter to be sent.

Councilman Christopher Pollak thanked Moccio for “talking about the issue. I think we all agree we should have done more from the beginning and we admit to that and we are trying. I look at this case and I am like ‘what the hell happened?’ It’s surprising. It’s shocking and it shouldn’t be. I am a big supporter of the police. I am looking at this case and nothing looks good to me.”

Resident Anna Marie Sgroi sought clarification on a new regulation. She has properties

rented out to two young families in 60 Acres and asked about the new safety inspection fee.

“I was told when I called about the registration that there was no staff for this and not to worry about it.” Later, she was told by a neighbor that this wasn’t the case and she should go to town hall and pay the fee. In talking to the code enforcement office, she was told she needed to pay the fee but there wouldn’t be an inspection as the township lacked the staff to conduct it.

“I said doesn’t that sound ridiculous that I am going to pay $100 for an inspection that actually is not going to happen,” Sgroi said. She got the same message when she came to town hall, to pay the fee but that the inspection wouldn’t be performed.

She was told later that someone would do the inspection but that it couldn’t be scheduled yet but she could pay the fee in advance. “This seems kind of weird. I’m all for the inspections and getting rid of these bad landlords. I’m just confused why I am paying $100 and for what?”

Burnstein apologized for the employee not providing accurate information and said the township business administrator would address that. He also said that housing inspectors were being interviewed. “We have over 150 applications and resumes,” Burnstein said.

He added the $100 fee would be going toward paying the salaries of those in this new department, the Bureau of Housing and Safety. He said in future years once the fee is paid an inspection will be scheduled at that time.

Editorial:

Continued From Page 5

Jackson/Jusin Timberlake show. You know what happened here, because it was talked about forever, and was very controversial. But also P. Diddy and Kid Rock were there? P. Diddy was later sentenced for sex trafficking, and Kid Rock later wrote a song about liking underage girls, and the controversy was the wardrobe malfunction? Jeez…oh, and Jessica Simpson was there, too.

Then we got spoiled. 2005: Paul McCartney. 2006: Rolling Stones. 2007: Prince. 2008: Tom Petty. 2009: Bruce Springsteen. 2010: The Who. What a run.

2011 was Black Eyed Peas featuring Usher which is another time capsule, honestly. I hate Madonna with the heat of a thousand suns but it makes sense for her to be a headliner, and she was in 2012. However, there were also LMFAO (lol), Nicki Minaj, MIA, and Cee Lo Green, who were all a little less timeless.

Beyonce and Destiny’s Child hit 2013. Valid. Bruno Mars the next year with Red Hot Chili Peppers. OK sure. Katy Perry in 2015 - again, big name, big stage presence, makes perfect sense. She was joined by Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott.

Coldplay was 2016. They were joined by Beyonce, Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson. Kind of a strange mix but fine. 2017 was Madonna again (Oh, I’m sorry, I meant Lady Gaga). 2018 Justin Timberlake returned. 2019: Maroon 5 with Travis Scott and Big Boi. Whatever.

Then in 2020 we saw Shakira and Jennifer Lopez featuring J. Balvin and Bad Bunny. Wait, what? This is his second time at the Super Bowl? How is that even possible?

Ladies and gentlemen, The Weeknd was in 2021. 2022 was Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and Kendrick Lamar. Again, no fan of rap, but these are some of the most commercial rappers so it’s not a huge surprise to see them here. Rihanna headlined 2023.

Usher headlined 2024, his second appearance, despite being a despicable person. He was joined by Alicia Keys, Jermaine Dupri, H.E.R., will.i.am (second appearance for this Black Eyed Peas member), Lil Jon, and Ludacris. Last year was Kendrick Lamar again, with SZA.

A lot of these shows also had marching bands. The best named one was “the Sonic Boom of the South.”

The nonprofit music group Up With People performed five times in the 70s and 80s, with a message of multiculturalism and racial equality, so programming like that isn’t new.

Looking at this list puts things in perspective. Someone like Bad Bunny isn’t even the worst choice based on this history. Once they started getting superstars, the producers were always chasing the biggest names (even if they would be forgotten just a few short years later).

How many of this list are for football fans? Way less than half, I’d say. That’s why the performers face the cameras and not the stands. The point is to get non-football fans to tune in. To be eyes on the screen during the commercials and the ads in the stadium itself. It’s to get people like me, who don’t care about football or pop music, to talk about it, to hype it up, and to tune in or be left out of the conversation. So I guess I’ll stop talking about it now.

Chris Lundy News Editor

Legal Advertisement

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

Have you obtained a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) loan from Citizens Bank within the last 6 years and have elected to have your payments automatically deducted from your Citizen’s bank? If so, you may be entitled to a cash award with absolutely no financial risk to you.

We believe Citizens Bank committed FRAUD by promising its consumers a discount for using their automatic payment features, but never actually giving their consumers the discount associated with their HELOC loan. So, if you have a HELOC loan with Citizens Bank and you have been making automatic payments from your Citizens’ account then please

contact R.C. Shea & Associates to discuss your potential claim. We will need to review some of your monthly loan statements and your loan documents to determine whether you qualify for this potential claim. Please call our consumer protection attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates by dialing our toll-free number (800) 556SHEA or (732) 505-1212. Our consumer protection attorneys are interested in speaking with you about your potential case. This is a legal advertisement. We do not guarantee results. Your consultation is free.

Senior Slow Pitch Summer League Registration

By Chris Lundy

BERKELEY - Registration is now available for the Berkeley NJ Over 60 Senior Slow Pitch Summer League. Tryouts will soon be held. Players are welcome from anywhere in New Jersey.

The registration link is leaguelineup.com/ welcome.asp?Url=berkeleyssl

Note: Once you click the link, you may see a message stating “This site does not support secure connection with HTTPS.” Not to worry, if you are using wifi at home, you’re OK, as your wifi router has security protection. Click continue to access the website. Concerns? Call Mike Singer, Web Administration Group at 732-580-0633. Registration available on the welcome page under the heading register online. After you submit the register form, you get a new window with another link “please click this link to complete the registration.” Click that link to finish the registration process. Registration is for new, previous, and existing players who want to change teams.

The summer league is a franchise league, meaning the majority of the teams are sponsored by various businesses. Players who tryout and are drafted will be joining an existing team. And possibly a new team.

Games are played on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10 a.m. at Veterans Park, Bayville, and Whispering Pines Park in Berkeley (although many believe that this is in Toms River).

New players must be at least 60 in the 2026 calendar year. New Players: Legal bats: If you are 60 to 69, your bat must be ASA or USA-certified. Players 70 and over can use an ASA, USA, or a Senior Bat. Note: Must turn 70 in the 2026 calendar year to use a Senior Bat.

All new players must attend the tryout to be eligible for the draft. The tryout is scheduled for April. Date “to be determined.” The venue for the tryouts is Whispering Pines Park fields, located at the corner of Orlando Boulevard and Selkirk Avenue, Berkeley. Questions regarding the league, contact Tom Olson at 609-743-1226 or email: tomolson451@gmail.com

If you have issues registering for the draft contact Mike Singer at 732-580-0633 or Email at singemi43@gmail.com

The league plays Tuesday/Thursday mornings at Veterans Park and Whispering Pine Park.

For more information visit leaguelineup. com/berkeleyssl.

Ocean County Library To Close For Presidents’ Day

TOMS RIVER – All Ocean County Library branches and reading centers will be closed February 16, in observance of Presidents’ Day.

Regular operating hours will resume February 17, according to library officials.

While physical locations are closed, patrons will still have access to the library’s digital offerings, including online databases, eMagazines, eBooks, streaming video and audio, and virtual classes through the theoceancountylibrary.org.

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Living Room Furniture For Sale - Bay window couch, like new. Antique marble coffee table. Two side coffee tables. Asking $1,000 for the set. Can be sold as individual pieces. 732-773-9415. (9)

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)

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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. (9)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY

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

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Now Training School Bus Drivers! - NO CDL NO PROBLEM we are willing to train. $23-$26 per hour. Full benefits package & paid sick leave. Start CDL Training today! 732-905-5100. (13)

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)

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

Services

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Services

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A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 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)

Fix And Build It - All while being fair and honest. Call and I'll show up and will beat anyone's price. Discount for Vets, Police, Fire and EMS. Home builder for over 25 years. Tony 201-303-7923. (10)

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)

In-Home Chores & Organizing for Older Adults - Available for home & closet organizing, meal preparation, errands, house cleaning, and more. Call Mary 732-703-6502. (8)

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

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

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

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:

Auto For Sale

Items For Sale

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

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.

Calculate Price As Follows:

*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks. • Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ Total = $

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

Credit Card# Exp.

Cardholder Signature: Print Name:

Billing Address:

5. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)

If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203. Deadline For Classified Ads:

County Launches Website To Mark Nation’s Semiquincentennial

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County has officially launched a new America 250 website, signaling the start of a countywide effort to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and to spotlight the region’s role in the American Revolution.

The initiative is being led by the Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission and is centered on a digital platform designed to serve as a one-stop resource for Revolutionary War history and upcoming commemorative programming. The website features information on historic sites, educational materials, lectures, reenactments and community events planned as the nation approaches its semiquincentennial in 2026.

In addition to event listings, the site includes historical summaries, interactive maps highlighting Revolutionary War locations and patriot burial sites, scouting resources and details on traveling exhibits, including “War at the Shore.”

Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the county’s Cultural and Heritage Division, said the launch reflects a long-term effort to preserve and share local history.

“Ocean County’s history is deeply connected to the founding of our nation, and America 250 gives us the opportunity to share that story with residents of all ages,” Arace said. “This website demonstrates our commitment to making our Revolutionary heritage accessible and engaging for today’s

Ocean County Warns Of Growing Health Risks Tied To Kratom Products Around the JerSey Shore

community.”

County officials said the website also marks the start of an official countdown to the 250th anniversary of American independence. Programming tied to the initiative will follow a multi-year roadmap extending through 2033, aligning with major milestones in local and national Revolutionary War history.

Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione, liaison to the Ocean County Division of Business Development and Tourism, said the project is designed to appeal to a broad audience.

“America 250 connects Ocean County’s rich Revolutionary history with opportunities for learning and exploration,” Bacchione said. “The website invites students, educators, families and lifelong learners to discover the stories and places that bring our history to life.”

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners said it supports the initiative as a way to recognize the county’s contributions to the nation’s founding.

“As we continue the countdown to America’s 250th anniversary, we are proud to support this effort celebrating Ocean County’s pivotal role in our history,” the commissioners said in a joint statement. “We encourage residents and visitors alike to explore, learn and take part in the programs that will make this milestone meaningful.”

You can access the website at ocean250. org.

By Jason Allentoff

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Health Department is urging residents to use caution as officials report a rise in overdoses and medical emergencies linked to kratom products sold in convenience stores and other retail outlets across New Jersey.

Health officials say the plant-based substance, sometimes labeled as 7-OH, is often marketed as a natural supplement despite mounting evidence that it can cause serious health complications. Kratom products are unregulated in New Jersey and can be purchased in convenience stores, smoke shops and online, frequently without age restrictions.

Ocean County Commissioner Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione, the county’s liaison to the Board of Health, said the accessibility of the products is fueling concern among public health leaders.

“What is often promoted as natural or safe can carry very real dangers,” Bacchione said. “Young people in particular may not understand the risks associated with these substances.”

According to the health department, kratom contains active compounds that affect opioid receptors in the brain, increasing the potential for dependence,

abuse and withdrawal symptoms. Daniel Regenye, the county’s public health coordinator, said kratom is not approved for any medical use and has been linked to seizures, liver damage, nausea, vomiting and hallucinations.

Officials also warned that, because the products are not regulated, some may be contaminated with heavy metals or bacteria.

While kratom remains legal at both the state and federal levels, lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at restricting or banning its manufacture and sale in an effort to curb unregulated access.

Kimberly Reilly, the county’s alcoholism coordinator, said misuse patterns are beginning to resemble those seen with other addictive substances, including self-medication and withdrawal symptoms.

The health department advises residents to avoid kratom use without medical guidance, exercise caution with unverified herbal products and report adverse reactions to local health officials or poison control. Officials also note that naloxone may help reverse respiratory depression in suspected kratom overdoses.

More information is available through the Ocean County Health Department at oceancountyhealth.gov.

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!

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BlueClaws To Mark 25th Anniversary Season In 2026

LAKEWOOD – The Jersey Shore BlueClaws will celebrate a milestone summer in 2026 as the franchise marks its 25th anniversary season at ShoreTown Ballpark. Team officials said the anniversary will focus on the fans who have supported the club since its debut in 2001. BlueClaws General Manager Bob McLane said the organization is planning a season-long celebration recognizing the community’s role in the team’s success.

As part of the anniversary, the BlueClaws are asking fans to submit photos and memories from the team’s first 25 years. Selected submissions will be featured throughout the season on the video board,

the team’s website and social media platforms.

The team will also unveil a 25th Anniversary All-Time Team, with fan voting conducted by position group. Voting is scheduled to begin later this month with catchers, followed by infielders, outfielders, starting pitchers and relief pitchers in subsequent weeks.

Several anniversary-themed game nights are planned during the season. Opening Night at the Jersey Shore is scheduled for April 7 and will mark the 25th home opener in franchise history. A commemorative ticket giveaway is also planned for April 11, when the first 1,000 fans

will receive a special ticket honoring the anniversary of the team’s first-ever home game.

Players will wear a special home cap throughout the season featuring a 25th anniversary patch. The design resembles a beach badge and includes the surfing crab logo along with the years 2001 and 2026.

The BlueClaws have served as a Philadelphia Phillies affiliate since the franchise’s inception, with the original player development agreement signed in 2000. Over the past quarter-century, 127 former BlueClaws have reached the major leagues, including 87 who made their de -

buts with the Phillies. Former BlueClaw Ryan Howard was the first alumnus to appear in a major league game in 2004.

Attendance milestones are also approaching. More than 8.9 million fans have attended BlueClaws games since 2001, leaving the club fewer than 100,000 fans shy of reaching the 9 million mark entering the 2026 season.

Single-game tickets are now available for select dates, including Opening Night, Father’s Day on June 21 and the July 4 game tied to America’s 250th birthday celebration. The season opens April 7 with the BlueClaws hosting Brooklyn, the High-A affiliate of the New York Mets.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

FOR THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 14 - 20 BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

ARIES (March 21-April 19): If it’s important, plan your week so that it happens Thursday or Friday — those are the days with the most momentum for achievement in the coming week. Release desired projections so you can see facts.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): People often want to believe in something or someone but can then be mis-served by investing in the insubstantial. Assess with open eyes before you leap; wait until the above-zero stars later this week.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Do your own research before you share something, it’s easy to be blinded to reality for the next few days. Give others space too if they’re grappling with faulty assumptions or misinformation.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Believe in yourself with all you’ve got, express with full-throated joy. But know that below-zero Universal stars don’t necessarily bring the response you’d like. Do it just for you, not for critics.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Build a home life that supports your efforts — a better ‘charging station’ can allow you to feel solidly rooted in yourself, giving you a platform from which to grow tall and to thrive with all that you are.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Even the best efforts can get tanked if what is actually needed is misunderstood. Start by clarifying the need, then apply the effort. This could be more difficult until you get to Thursday or after.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): What you believe could be because it’s what you want to believe. Sidestep assumptions and lazy thinking and dig until you have all the facts if the matter is important. Be patient as you look for answers.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Something about the domestic scene may not add up, some foundational piece of intel could be missing or skewed to create different optics. Stand up for truth, it’s the only place worth living.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Drill down to facts before you open your mouth. While everyone could be more easily fooled now, don’t be the one remembered for delivering bad intel. Extra caution is advised on this below-zero day.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

Freeze yourself from making any major purchases for the next few days, you are especially prone to a financial error due to some kind of inadequate understanding, whether deliberate or accidental.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You don’t need to add any glow up to your already glowy self now, it could be seen as some kind of false front for a few more days. Stay solidly in your authenticity, no frosting needed on this cupcake.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): An old untruth could cycle around for another level of understanding and processing. Upholding things that are no longer real for you doesn’t serve your evolution. Discern what’s ready to release forever.

THIS DISH IS A FAVORITE FRENCH BISTRO CLASSIC

Diane Rossen Worthington

Leeks are like onions but have a milder, slightly sweet flavor, making them a versatile ingredient that blends well without overpowering other flavors. They can easily substitute for onions in any recipe. They look like large scallions with a white stalk and green stalk.

For this recipe, select medium-sized leeks, roughly 1 1/2 inches in circumference. Larger, thicker leeks can be fibrous and lack sweetness. Choose leeks with their long, dark green leaves attached and trim them just before cooking for maximum freshness (save the dark green stalk for making soups). If you’re unable to find medium leeks, Trader Joe’s typically offers packs of two that are the ideal size. For guidance on cleaning and cutting leeks, you can refer to the YouTube video on my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@seriouslysimplecook.

2 teaspoons lemon zest

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For garnish: Cooked, chopped egg

Baby red and yellow tomatoes

Browning and braising the leeks in broth adds a rich, distinctive flavor. Finished with a simple vinaigrette made from the braising broth and enhanced with lemon zest, dill, Dijon mustard and garlic, this dish is delicious served hot or chilled as a first course on a beautifully arranged platter.

For a special garnish, top the leeks with 1/2-pound cooked shrimp or crabmeat and drizzle with sauce. I also like to sprinkle chopped, cooked egg along with fresh dill on top and arrange colorful baby tomatoes around the perimeter of the dish. This dish is truly Seriously Simple and will garner raves from friends or family.

VINAIGRETTE

Serves 4

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 8 leeks, white and light green parts only, cleaned (see above)

1 3/4 cups chicken broth

3 tablespoons finely chopped dill weed, divided, plus more for garnish

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1. In a skillet large enough to fit the leeks in a single layer, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add leeks and cook, turning with tongs, for about 5 minutes until lightly browned. Pour in the broth, add 2 tablespoons dill weed and cover. Cook for 10 minutes or until the leeks are tender when pierced with a knife. Transfer the leeks to a rimmed serving platter.

3. Remove the skillet from heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, remaining 1 tablespoon dill weed, the lemon juice, mustard, lemon zest and garlic. Whisk to combine, then season with salt and pepper.

4. Taste for seasoning. Spoon the vinaigrette over the leeks and garnish with chopped egg, fresh dill weed sprigs and baby tomatoes. Serve immediately or chill.

Recipe notes

Leeks are very dirty, so clean them thoroughly. When cleaning, split the leeks down the middle, ensuring the root remains intact, and rinse under cold water to remove any dirt.

Advance preparation: This dish can be made up to one day ahead, covered, and refrigerated. Garnish just before serving.

(Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including “Seriously Simple Parties,” and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at www.seriouslysimple.com.) ©2026 Diane Rossen Worthington. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.