2026-04-25 - The Jackson Times

Patrick Muldoon Remembered By Local Director As Their Film Debuts

Kevin Interdonato (left) and Patrick Muldoon star in “Dirty

this weekend.

By Bob Vosseller

JERSEY SHORE – Independent filmmaker, actor and writer Kevin Interdonato is excited about the release of his new film “Dirty Hands,” an action thriller that he stars in, wrote and directed that is headed for a nationwide release after securing a domestic distribution agreement.

The township resident’s feature film has been acquired by Saban Films and was released across the United States on April 24. Interdonato was born and raised in Howell Township, where he continues to maintain ties to the community while building his film career.

Officials To Discuss Proposed Budget

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – For the last several council meetings, Councilman Nino Borrelli has mentioned that he was looking forward to reading, reviewing and voting on this year’s municipal budget. During the latest council meeting, others inquired when the spending plan would be revealed. The proposed budget is set for a presentation during the April 28 council meeting according to Council President Mordechai Burnstein. Resident Jim Silecchia had some pointed questions relating to the status of the budget noting it had not yet been released for review to members of council and a citizens committee.

(Proposed Budget - See Page 7)

Sadly, only days prior to its release, Interdonato and the world learned of the untimely death of his co-star actor Patrick Muldoon who died of a heart attack at age 57, on April 19. Muldoon captured the hearts of soap opera fans, having played boxer Austin Reed on the NBC daytime soap opera “Days of Our Lives” for more than 400 episodes and the popular villain Richard Hart on the primetime soap opera “Melrose Place” from 1995 to 1996.

Muldoon will appear posthumously in the new film alongside his former girlfriend and long-time friend Denise Richards who he co-starred with in the iconic

(Patrick Muldoon

Jones Road Wildfire Case Still In Court

By Stephanie Faughnan

OCEAN COUNTY – One year after the Jones Road wildfire forced evacuations across Ocean County, the criminal cases against those charged in connection with starting the fire remain unresolved as they move through the court system.

The April 22 anniversary comes with visible reminders of the damage left behind. Along stretches of the Garden State Parkway between the Waretown and Lacey exits, charred tree trunks and patches of dead forest still stand, marking the path of a fire that spread rapidly through

(Jones Road Wildfire - See Page 14)

Fire Officials Recognized

The governing body joins representatives from the township’s fire districts who accepted a proclamation that was originally presented during the recent dedication of a new fire tower

By Bob Vosseller

JACKSON – Fire officials received a proclamation celebrating a new fire tower located in the township. Mayor Jennifer Kuhn had attended the recent dedication of the tower, where she received a proclamation on their behalf. During the most recent Township Council meeting, she presented it to them. The tower dedication ceremony and the presentation during the council meeting served to honor firefighters and remind residents to be careful while in area woodlands and to showcase the efforts of the New Jersey Forest Service in maintaining safety during wildfire season.

Mayor Kuhn said, “it has been 78 years since we’ve had a (new) tower, we have one in Jackson.”

The nearly 80-year-old, 136-foot Lakewood tower was built by Jersey Central Power and Light in 1944 for a sum of $360. Back in 1974, the Lakewood Tower was moved about 300 feet due to a property

Patrick Muldoon:

Continued From Page 1

1997 science fiction film “Starship Troopers” directed by Paul Verhoeven, based on the 1959 novel by Robert A. Heinlein He played the role of Zander Barcalow.

Muldoon’s sudden unexpected death hit Interdonato hard.

“It was quite a shock,” he told Jersey Shore Online.com. “He was always full of life no matter what we were doing. He was an absolute pleasure on set and off.”

“We had a fight scene and while he is a few years older, he was really amazing with that,” Interdonato added. Action sequences were supervised by fight coordinator Jason Mello, whose previous credits include “Fallout.”

The main cast of “Dirty Hands” consists of five actors, Interdonato, Muldoon, Richards, Michael Beach, and Guy Nardulli.

Interdonato described “Dirty Hands” as a gritty crime thriller drama set against the backdrop of Chicago’s criminal underworld. It follows brothers Richie and Danny Denton, whose lives unravel following a drug deal gone wrong with deadly consequences. Rival gangs also serve as antagonists causing tensions to intensify within the brothers’ criminal organization.

“We filmed three weeks in Chicago but the story behind this was three years in the planning,” Interdonato said. The distribution deal was negotiated by Elisabeth Costa de Beauregard Segel of Storyboard Media.

Interdonato said the plot is driven by the bond between the two brothers who are forced into a violent fight for survival over the course of one night. In a world of elite underground fighters, the two brothers try to prove they are the best while pitted against a greedy rival and a merciless hired gun. They soon have to choose

between winning and vengeance.

The filmmaker added that the film’s story carries a theme to the classic 1937 John Steinbeck novella “Of Mice And Men” about two migrant ranch workers, George and Lennie, during the Great Depression, who dream of owning their own farm but are thwarted by harsh realities, loneliness, and tragedy, exploring themes of friendship, the American Dream, and the powerlessness of the marginalized. The narrative follows George and Lennie as they find work on a ranch, but their dream is jeopardized by Lennie’s accidental killing of a woman, forcing George to make a devastating choice.

Interdonato said that similar to that book which was adapted to film many times, “the brothers have a bond. My character chooses to support his brother at the risk of his marriage and his life.

The local filmmaker produced the film

through Take No Prisoners Productions alongside Nardulli, who also served as a producer under Safety24 Productions.

“Dirty Hands” is the second feature film for Interdonato’s as a writer-director-star. He told Jersey Shore Online.com that he continues to be happy with being an independent creator who can produce his own vision of stories that he has written.

His prior film, also a crime drama “The Bastard Sons,” received a theatrical release in January 2024 through Vertical Entertainment. He has also appeared as a writer and producer on the horror thriller “Malicious,” directed by John Fallon.

Beyond his work in independent film, Interdonato is known to television audiences for his recurring role on the Showtime crime drama “City on a Hill.”

A trailer for the new film can be found at youtube.com/watch?v=mDX2_d5FysY

Historical Society Plans Yard And Bake Sale Fundraiser

NEW EGYPT – The Historical Society is preparing to host a community yard sale and bake sale on May 9, offering residents a chance to shop, sell and support the local museum.

The event is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 125 Evergreen Road. Organizers are inviting vendors to reserve space for $10, with setup beginning at 7 a.m. Participants are asked to bring their own tables.

Those interested in reserving a spot or seeking more information can contact Stacy Reed at 609-903-0842.

In addition to vendor sales, the historical society will offer books and postcards for

purchase. Donations of items for the sale will be accepted between 7 and 7:30 a.m. on the day of the event.

Officials noted that the museum will not be open for tours during the fundraiser.

Fire Company Offers Free Wildfire Property Assessments

NEW EGYPT – With wildfire season nearing in New Jersey, New Egypt Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 is urging residents to prepare now and is offering free wildfire risk

and hazard assessments for local properties. Fire officials said the push comes after an especially busy 2025 wildfire season across the state, including in Ocean Coun-

ty. They warned that homes in and around the Pine Barrens face an elevated risk because of the region’s forested landscape and fire-prone conditions.

The department said the assessments are meant to help homeowners evaluate their properties and identify ways to reduce the chances of fire spreading or causing damage.

for

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

The Ultimate Lifetime Subscription

The best way to make money is to put your customer on a hook. Give them something they want, and an easy payment plan, and they’ll be loyal customers forever.

There’s a dozen different streaming services. You can bundle it with cable. You can bundle your cable with the internet. You can bundle the internet with your phone plan.

The problem is that this is becoming the main way to make money. We let big box stores kill small stores and then Amazon killed the big box stores. So now your main roads have car washes where you can wash your car all you want as long as you pay a monthly fee.

It’s stopped becoming paying a subscription for what you want. Now, you’re paying a subscription for what you need.

What’s a car payment but a subscription for your car? What’s mortgage or taxes except a regular bill for the ability to keep living in your house? After I bought my house, I used to joke “I don’t

own my house. The bank owns my house; they just let me live there.”

The percentage of people who own their own homes is going down, because LLCs are buying up everyone’s house. They will charge you rent to live there - a monthly charge just to live. Or they might rent it out as an AirBnB.

The worst lifetime subscription is health insurance. Here, you’re literally paying money to live. A chunk of your paycheck comes out in order to get healthcare…even if the insurance company denies your coverage. You need medications: one pill a day, which could cost a few dollars a day.

You don’t own anything anymore. Some rich person owns your home, your car, your connection to the outside world, and even - in some way - your body. And it’s only going to get worse as long as rich people can continue to get richer off our backs.

Chris Lundy News Editor

Immigration Dealmakers

A federal official was under investigation for taking bribes. Then the White House shut down the investigation, presumably so they can keep taking bribes.

I’m talking about Tom Homan, who is Trump’s Border Czar. In September of 2024, Tom Homan allegedly accepted $50,000 from undercover FBI agents who he told “would facilitate securing contracts for them” if Trump won the election. The reason he was being targeted was that a CEO of a company that does immigration security for the US told undercover investigators that if you want to win a federal contract, you should give Homan one million dollars. The FBI’s $50K was just a bite of the apple. Unfortunately part of a bribe means getting something done for the money. The FBI waited until Homan was appointed to see what he would do. That was their mistake, because Trump’s appointee to the FBI, Kash Patel, shut it down. He said the investigation was without merit. This is the same Kash Patel who used the FBI jet to fly to Milan to party with the US Men’s Olympic Soccer team.

So, there was a federal official, Tom Homan, who allegedly took money to influence Trump, and then Trump’s people said there was no reason to investigate. Sounds like an open and shut case to me!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

hecklers who commit crimes. My opinion is this man is going far left and has no place in your Toms River Times

Is this publication turning into the other rags we stopped reading? If so, even though the paper is free it isn’t worth our time to read. We can see the same TDS articles from CNN, NBC and CBS. What a shame. At one time you had a paper we enjoyed reading.

Lorraine Moran Jersey Shore

Kudos To Nature Column

I really enjoy articles by Renee A Thomaier, retired Wildlife Rehabilitator, such as ‘Unique Benefits of Woodpeckers In The Balance of Nature.’

It’s like reading a fascinating, true short story peppered with tidbits. Very informative. (April 4, 2026) Thank you for publishing these.

Kathy Noyes Howell

Stick to the Map: Jackson’s Housing Goals Don’t Require Redrawing The Pinelands

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.

Ben Rine Freehold

No Kings Article Is One-Sided

Editor’s note: This letter was written in reference to the April 4 article “ICE, Voting Rights Discussed At No Kings Rally.”

No Kings article by Bob Vosseller was very one-sided making Americans that support ICE and Trump sound like a minority of

last year, the township passed multiple ordinances that are incompatible with Pinelands protections.

If the Commission grants this exception, what prevents other towns from asking for the same?

When the Pinelands Comprehensive Management Plan (CMP) was adopted decades ago, it struck a careful balance. The goal was not to halt all development, but to guide it - protecting the most ecologically sensitive lands while allowing growth in places that could support it. The plan created a mosaic of management areas, each with distinct development standards tailored to ecological conditions and existing patterns of growth.

That framework has endured. In the rare instances when the Pinelands map has been amended, the changes strengthened protections rather than weakened them.

Jackson Township is now asking the Pinelands Commission to move in the opposite direction.

rest of the housing stock. It was never intended to limit the growth of affordable housing. As a result, towns allow a much larger number of total units to be built - often as sprawling suburbs - to accommodate a paltry number of affordable units. Developer profits soar, at the expense of environmental responsibility.

History shows that environmental protections rarely disappear all at once. They are eroded incrementally - through exceptions, accommodations, and “one-time” adjustments that slowly become precedent. Jackson Township is now asking the Pinelands Commission to bend the rules for their specific circumstances - and we can’t let them.

As in the rest of NJ, all towns in the Pinelands are required to provide affordable housing. However, Jackson Township seems to view this obligation as a free pass to disregard environmental restrictions:

Town officials argue that Pinelands rules prevent them from meeting the state’s affordable housing requirements. About half of Jackson lies within the Pinelands, and officials claim this land is their only viable option for growth. But that claim rests on a flawed premise about how affordable housing must be built.

There is a common assumption that affordable housing can only be delivered through large inclusionary developments in which roughly 20 percent of units are set aside as affordable and the remaining 80 percent are market-rate in order to achieve financial viability. Many municipalities, including Jackson, have tied their own hands by writing this 20% figure into their ordinances.

This percentage was intended as a floor - not a ceiling. This would ensure that affordable housing would grow along with the

Jackson’s fourth-round obligation calls for 1,000 new affordable units. Officials propose placing 581 of those units on the Pinelands half of town. Those 581 affordable homes are not the problem. In fact, the properties Jackson has identified in the Pinelands could accommodate roughly 1,001 total units under existing zoning. That means projects approaching 50 percent affordability could meet the township’s Pinelands allocation - without rewriting the rules. Instead, Jackson proposes building 3,065 total units in the Pinelands - three times what current zoning allows. Affordable housing is essential to New Jersey’s future, and inclusionary development can offer real social benefits. But the idea that only 20 percent of new housing can be affordable is simply untrue.

Other communities have demonstrated that higher affordability percentages are both feasible and successful, such as a 45% affordable set aside in Sparta, NJ - not to mention the large number of developments that are 100% affordable units. Prioritizing market-rate development under the guise of affordability only serves to inflate developer profits rather than meaningfully expand access to housing. New Jersey can address its housing needs without sacrificing the Pinelands. The plan to do so already exists. We simply need the resolve to follow it.

Heidi Yeh, Ph.D. Policy Director Pinelands Alliance

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

Five Ways Trenton Can Reduce Energy Costs Now

Capitol Comments

TRENTON - When Governor Mikie Sherrill recently visited a nuclear power station to promote nuclear energy, it was a stark departure from the policies of the Murphy administration: to ignore, if not outright discourage, maintaining and building more of this reliable and carbon emission-free power source. Those cost-hiking policies were also supported by the same Democratic majority Legislature we still have.

That day, the Salem power plant was a backdrop for the governor’s signing of legislation removing a major permitting barrier to new nuclear generation in New Jersey, and to launch a state Nuclear Task Force. The stated goal was to expand instate electricity supply, improve reliability, and help lower energy costs.

It was a welcome but grossly overdue move back toward sanity in long-term energy planning in our state. Along with others, I’ve been calling for more nuclear and natural gas generation for years in order to secure energy for our future needs at a reasonable cost.

We have plenty of company. A recent poll by Fairleigh Dickinson University shows 76% of state residents support building

natural gas plants to bring costs down. That’s the fastest and most popular solution available.

But instead of creating more energy supply, New Jersey has been doing the opposite. Statewide power generation has dropped 21% since 2016. More than 1,600 megawatts of reliable in-state generation have been retired, with more closures on the way.

As a result, our state now imports over 40% of its electricity, sticking families with higher costs and a less reliable grid. While demand has grown, Trenton has allowed reliable energy sources to disappear. That needs to change, but power customers need relief now. Over a year ago, I proposed five ways to lower costs in the short term, or even immediately. If passed back then, they would have mitigated the impact of last summer’s 17-20% rate hikes.

The first measure, the “Energy Cost Reduction Act” (A4018), would lower costs immediately and year-round by eliminating the sales tax on utility bills. Two other bills address costs passed onto consumers to supposedly incentivize energy saving, or help power companies make back money they lose when conservation works. One of those is the “Energy Cost Fairness Act” (A4012), which gets rid of an outdated energy cost structure that penalizes customers when they have to use more energy, such as powering summer air conditioning. This structure, called an inclining block

rate, charges a higher per-unit rate when usage exceeds a certain threshold.

The intent is to encourage energy conservation, but a 2024 report prepared for the state’s Board of Public Utilities says the concept is not only outdated, but also not cost-reflective, meaning that the rates don’t reflect the actual cost of generating the power used.

The other bill (A4511) would repeal the energy conservation penalty – yes, that actually exists – that allows utility companies to increase rates on customers to make up for lost energy sales. I say the money you save from conservation belongs to you, not the power company.

The fourth measure (A2933) empowers consumers to find cheaper utility rates by requiring the BPU to provide up-to-date information on third-party energy providers in the state. Since 1999, New Jersey has separated what you pay for power supply from what you pay for power delivery, allowing customers to use a licensed third-party supplier. The state webpage listing these third-party suppliers has not been updated regularly, and recently was two years out of date.

Number five in my quick relief plan is a bill (A4518) requiring the BPU to fully review transmission projects, such as large-capacity power lines, which can be very costly but consumer advocates say they get little regulatory oversight. The power company would have to show the project meets a demonstrated need, and identify any alternative ideas that meet the

same need but at a lower total cost.

The BPU can approve a project that is reasonable, within the public interest, and cost effective. Why should customers have to pay for a project that doesn’t meet those basic standards?

I think those five ideas make for a good start on short-term relief, but eight ideas are better than five, right? I also have proposals to ban power companies from charging customers for their administrative costs, such as salaries, computers, office supplies, and legal expenses (A2916), or their legal penalties for illegal or improper actions (A2932).

Another proposal (A2907) stops energy companies from charging customers a monthly fee for opting out of “smart meter” installation. Costs are high enough without making people pay to keep their analog meter if they want.

Long-term planning is good and necessary, but short-term relief is needed as well, and not that hard to do.

Oh, and reduce or eliminate the extra “Societal Benefits Charge” that’s slapped on your bill and pays for unrelated government spending!

Nine and counting.

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.

Governor Highlights Commitment To Ending Veteran Homelessness

From The Desk Of The Governor

Mikie Sherrill

TRENTON – Governor Mikie Sherrill highlighted her administration’s commitment to effectively end veteran homelessness in New Jersey, backed by a dedicated investment in the Governor’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The budget includes $11 million for the existing Bringing Veterans Home initiative, which has successfully adopted strategies to transition homeless veterans from temporary housing place -

ments to stable, permanent housing solutions.

Governor Sherrill, a Navy veteran, has made honoring those who served a key priority.

Governor Sherrill was joined by Speaker Coughlin, County Commissioner Director Rios, and Mayor McCormac at the groundbreaking of the Petersen Commons in Woodbridge, a 60-unit 100% affordable senior and veterans housing community.

“This is the year we effectively end veteran homelessness in New Jersey,” said Governor Sherrill. “Today’s groundbreaking at Petersen Commons represents our commitment to ensuring every New Jerseyan

- especially those who have served our country - can age with dignity in a safe, affordable place to call home. As a military veteran, I am grateful to our partners for their shared efforts to expand affordable housing across New Jersey.”

Since its launch, the Bringing Veterans Home program has supported more than 1,450 permanent housing placements. The $11 million investment in the FY 2027 budget builds on that momentum, ensuring the program has the resources needed to fulfill the Governor’s historic pledge.

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs are anticipated to reach all known homeless veterans this year.

The brand-new Petersen Commons com-

munity, expected to be completed in the spring of 2027, will provide high-quality, affordable housing opportunities for older adults 55+, with a preference given to veterans.

These initiatives are part of a broader housing strategy outlined in Governor Sherrill’s FY 2027 budget, including $70 million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and increasing down payment support for first-time home buyers. In addition, the budget is designed to help brace against the impact of Trump Administration cuts to emergency housing programs.

The Sherrill Administration also intends to spend $25 million to expand programs to address homelessness more broadly across the state.

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. Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

Proposed Budget:

Continued From Page 1

“Tonight (April 14) is the final day permitted under the local finance board’s 2026 budget calendar for a municipal budget to be introduced. After tonight, Jackson Township will no longer be in compliance with the state authorized timeline and yet despite being the last permissible night, the budget is still not being introduced,” the resident said.

“This is especially troubling, given the mayor’s own public statement on January 27, 2026 when the administration announced the budget is done,” Silecchia added. “If the budget was completed nearly three months ago, then the responsibility for this failure to introduce it rests squarely with the mayor’s office.”

The budget work is being performed by Township Business Administrator Charles W. Terefenko the chief financial officer and by finance department staff. It is also being reviewed by the mayor.

Last year the budget was late and that delay was blamed on a late transition of a new business administrator, a new CFO and deputy CFO at the time. During that time then-Council President Jennifer Kuhn expressed concern with then-Mayor Michael Reina about the delay.

Silecchia noted, “residents deserve answers so council president I am going to ask you to allow the honorable mayor to answer

the following questions, if the budget was completed in January why isn’t it being introduced on the final night allowed by law, 74 days later?”

“Why has the mayor withheld the document from the public preventing any meaningful review or discussion? Why has the mayor excluded the Citizens Budget Advisory Committee, a committee the mayor created and pronounced as a transparency tool?” the resident asked.

He also questioned how refusing to release a completed budget “aligns with any stated commitment to openness, accountability or responsible fiscal management?”

Mayor Kuhn did not respond to his questions during the council meeting and The Jackson Times reached out to ask her a day after the meeting whether Silecchia’s timeline on the budget’s completion was accurate, what the status of the spending plan was and when it would be released for review to the entire council and the citizens committee. The mayor did not reply to these questions at press time.

Council President Burnstein responded to another resident’s inquiry about the budget saying “in this form of government the mayor puts together the budget and gives it to the council to introduce and they spend the time - they have a period of time, generally two weeks between meetings - to go through it and I have been updating our council that the mayor is hoping to introduce it by the

next meeting.”

The New Jersey Local Finance Board adjusted the CY2026 budget calendar, extending key deadlines to provide flexibility for municipalities and counties, including moving the Annual Financial Statement (AFS) filing deadline to March 10. For specific municipalities, the budget transmission deadline was moved to February 27.

Silecchia said this extension allowed municipalities more time to “plan, communicate and engage with residents. Instead, Jackson is ending the process with no introduction, no transparency, no public access to the most important financial document of the year and it begins with the mayor.”

“This is not a timing issue, it is a governance issue,” Silecchia added calling for an explanation. He noted that the Local Finance Board had increased the financial penalties from $25 a day to $100 a day for violations toward elected officials related to the time requirements established to introduce municipal budgets.

“That’s on you,” he told the council and asked the council if they had seen a recommended budget on February 28 as per requirements of the Local Finance Board.

Borrelli said no. He responded no to Silecchia’s follow up question as to whether they have seen a recommended budget since then. Councilman Chris Pollak shook his head as well.

“We are late and the council hasn’t looked

at it. This is a pattern in all government. You are going to push something through at the last minute and then you are going to give very little time for people to read it, review it and vote on it,” Pollak said.

“The people are sick of government like this,” he added. “Get it done early. Mr. Silecchia is pretty spot on the money. If you say something is done, why haven’t we seen it? I don’t want to wait last minute to review this.”

Pollak predicted, “what will probably happen is at the next meeting we will get it a couple of days before and I’ll probably have to take a day off work to sit and go through everything and read everything and bring up my objections and then we’re going to fight on it. You guys bank on that. Everybody is just going to say yes. This is the way this government works. This the way a lot of governments work.”

He noted the document would be between 100 and 200 pages long and he asked, “why did we set up a committee? What are we doing?”

Mayoral candidate Elliot Shem-Tov remarked, “it sounds like the issue we have in this town is transparency. It’s been a mantra hasn’t it. Transparency with the budget. It is harrowing enough that the budget is late but the fact that you have council members who haven’t even had a chance to review it. I’d like to know why we have this lack of transparency?”

Animals Ready For Adoption

JACKSON – Calling All Cats is a cat rescue group made up of volunteers, some of whom work at a spay and neuter clinic. People would drop off unwanted cats. As a group, they save the babies that are left alone, the countless mothers that have had numerous litters and those that are losing or have lost their home.

Sal is about 2 years old. He was an outdoor cat that was originally only meant to be neutered and released, but it became clear he was too social and affectionate to be released. He’s not a fan of other cats, so he would have to be the only one there. But,

courtesy of Calling All Cats he’ll more than make up for it – he loves to cuddle and is ready to find a cozy home to spoil him!

To help humanely lower the feline population, they spay and neuter feral cats and then find homes for the friendly adults and the offspring that have been born. The rescue works extremely hard to find the best homes for cats of all shapes, sizes, colors and ages. While these cats wait, they are cared for in safe, loving, and nurturing foster homes

To start the application process, visit Calling All Cats on Facebook and Petfinder.com

Spray Park To Open For Summer Season

JACKSON – The Spray Park is set to open for the season on May 23, offering residents and visitors a place to cool off as warmer weather arrives.

The facility will initially operate on a weekends-only schedule, open Saturdays and Sundays following its opening. Beginning June 29, the spray park will expand to a full seven-day schedule, continuing daily

operations through September 7. Hours of operation are scheduled from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., providing daytime access for families throughout the summer months.

Officials encourage visitors to check for updates or additional information online at jacksontwpnj.net or by calling 732928-1260.

C ommunity n ew S

Charity Golf Tournament To Benefit Multiple Organizations

JACKSON – A long-running charity golf outing will return, bringing together community members and supporters to raise funds for several nonprofit organizations.

The 41st annual Charity Golf Tournament is scheduled for May 11 at Pine Barrens Golf Club, located on South Hope Chapel Road. The event, held in memory of Brother James C. Kube, will feature a 10 a.m. shotgun start and is limited to the first 120 golfers who register.

Organizers said the $225 per golfer registration fee, due at sign-up by May 4, includes greens fees, a golf cart, access to the driving range and practice area, as well as meals throughout the day, including breakfast, a hot dog at the turn and dinner. Participants will also

have opportunities to compete for prizes such as longest drive and closest to the pin, along with a hole-in-one bonus.

Additional activities available for an extra fee include a putting contest, mulligans, a par-3 card game, a 50/50 raffle and a prize auction. The tournament will follow a scramble format, encouraging team play and broad participation. Proceeds from the event will benefit several organizations, including Deborah Heart & Lung Center, Catholic Charities, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Operation Homefront and Autism Speaks. Registration and sponsorship information is available at kofc6201.com, or by contacting event organizer Steve Stazko at 732-939-3975.

Summer Camp Registration Opens

JACKSON – Registration is now open for Jackson’s summer camp program, which will run from June 29 through August 14 at the Crawford-Rodriguez School, according to the Jackson Recreation Department.

The seven-week program will not hold camp on July 3. Camp-only hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with morning care, aftercare and full-day options also available. Fees range from $675 for camp only to $910 for the full-day program, and online payments include a $5 transaction fee. Campers will be grouped by grade level, including children finishing kindergarten through those completing eighth grade. Of-

ficials said trip opportunities are optional, subject to availability and not included in the registration cost. Children must be registered for camp before signing up for trips.

The recreation department said a $50 late fee will be charged after June 26. Officials also noted there will be no prorating, nonresidents must pay an additional $25 registration fee, and no nurse will be on site.

Families can register by visiting jacksontwpnj.net, then selecting Departments and Divisions, Recreation, and Civic Plus Online Registration. More information is available by calling 732-928-1260.

Pathfinders Promote Trail Access, Safety Across Community

JACKSON – The Jackson Pathfinders, a volunteer group dedicated to maintaining and promoting local woodland trails, continues its efforts to preserve and enhance outdoor spaces for public use throughout the community.

The group, made up of adults, teens and scouts, maintains five trails open daily for hiking, biking and nature appreciation. These include the Purple Heart Trail in the Bunker Hill Bogs Recreation Area and the Silver Stream Trail within the Metedeconk Preserve, where the organization serves as an official steward in partnership with the New Jersey Conservation Foundation.

Additional trails include the Steve Kitay

Living Trail, the Sports Perimeter Trail at the Jackson Justice Complex and the Jackson Jungle Children’s Trail near the Jackson Jungle Play Park. Officials noted that a section of the Sports Perimeter Trail near the skating rink is temporarily closed for an environmental study, though the remainder remains accessible.

More information, including maps and trail descriptions, is available at jacksonpathfinders.org. Visitors are encouraged to take precautions while exploring, such as wearing proper footwear, bringing water, hiking with a companion and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors.

VFW Post 4703 To Host Flea Market

JACKSON — VFW Post 4703 in Jackson will hold a flea market on May 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the post, 54 Magnolia Drive. Vendors may reserve space for $15 per spot if they bring their own table or $20 per spot if they use tables supplied by the VFW. Setup for sellers begins at 8:15 a.m.

Food will be sold during the event, including breakfast sandwiches, hot dogs, soda, water and coffee.

The post also will accept eligible donated items in an on-site donation bin to support VFW efforts. To reserve a vendor spot, contact Erin by call or text at 732-766-7685.

Mayors Association Announces Scholarships For Students C ommunity n ew S

JACKSON – High school seniors across Ocean County preparing for graduation will have a new opportunity to support their future plans as the Ocean County Mayors Association announces its latest round of scholarships, according to Mayor Jennifer Kuhn.

The association will award 27 scholarships this year, including 20 awards of $1,000 to one senior from each high school. Additional scholarships are available for students attending Ocean County Vocational Technical Schools and specialized academies, highlighting both traditional academic and career-focused paths.

Several $1,000 scholarships will also be offered to students pursuing studies in areas such as special education, health sciences, continuing education and political science.

Eligibility for those specific awards requires a family connection to elected office. The program will also include the William T. Hornidge Scholarship, given to the student with the highest academic achievement over four years.

Kuhn said the initiative reflects a commitment to helping students navigate the rising cost of higher education while recognizing their accomplishments. She encouraged all eligible seniors to apply and take advantage of the opportunity.

Applications must be submitted by April 27 through school guidance counselors or by email. Recipients will be recognized at the Ocean County Superintendents’ Roundtable Student Recognition Breakfast on May 18.

Westlake Women’s Club Opens Scholarship Applications

JACKSON – The Women’s Club at Westlake is accepting applications for its annual scholarship program for Jackson women pursuing college, trade school or other post-secondary training. The group said it has run the program since 2003 and has awarded more than $86,000 to 88 local women.

This year, the club plans to award four scholarships worth $1,000 each. Applicants must be female Jackson residents who have been accepted into an educational or job-training program after high school.

Eligible women include those finishing high school, already enrolled in a college, univer-

sity or trade school, or working women who want to improve job skills, change careers or continue their education. Women who are not currently employed but want training or retraining for work also may apply.

Applications are available at the Jackson branch of the Ocean County Library, the guidance office at Jackson High School, Ocean County Vocational Technical School, and the financial aid offices at Ocean County College and Georgian Court University.

The application deadline is May 15. Anyone seeking a copy by email can contact rochelleblum7@gmail.com

Sensory Fossil Program Planned At Library

JACKSON – Adults with special challenges will have a chance to explore paleontology through a hands-on program at the Ocean County Library’s Jackson Branch on May 7.

“Sensory Fun With Fossils” is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the branch and will feature a scientist from the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum.

Participants will learn about the history of the South Jersey attraction and the kinds of fossils found there.

The program will also give attendees an op-

portunity to handle real fossils and specimens and take part in an activity station designed around the theme. The event is sponsored by the Jackson Friends of the Library.

Library officials said caregivers must remain with participants throughout the event. Registration is required for each person attending, including caregivers.

More information and registration are available at theoceancountylibrary.libnet.info/ event/15863186.

Algonquin Announces Concert Series

MANASQUAN – Algonquin Arts Theatre has introduced a new concert series that will bring a mix of tribute shows, holiday productions and live special events to the Jersey Shore venue from summer through spring.

The lineup will feature performances inspired by a wide range of music and entertainment favorites, including yacht rock, surf music and tributes to Queen, Elvis and ABBA, along with seasonal programs and the theater’s fundraising events. Tickets are now on sale.

The theater said the series is designed to offer an

intimate live entertainment experience, blending music, storytelling and themed programming aimed at a broad audience.

Executive Director Pamela Ward said the series focuses on creating shared experiences through music and nostalgia, with performances curated to deliver both familiar favorites and new discoveries. Tickets and subscriptions are available online at algonquinarts.org, by phone at 732-528-9211, or in person at the Algonquin Arts Theatre box office, 60 Abe Voorhees Drive in Manasquan, open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Presented By:

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

Why Do Seniors Wait Too Long To Improve Their Hearing?

Many people who are diagnosed as candidates for hearing aids postpone wearing them for up to 9 years or more. This lengthy delay is seen globally and across various demographic groups. Several factors contribute to the procrastination:

• Social stigma linked to aging, disability, or perceived frailty leads to embarrassment and fear of exclusion.

• Financial concerns due to high device costs and limited insurance coverage.

• Lack of awareness means people underestimate their hearing loss or are uninformed about new advancements in AI technology which is embedded in hearing aids.

• Denial and coping mechanisms enable individuals to ignore or adapt to their hearing loss, delaying meaningful intervention.

• Family, friends, and social environment can discourage or delay an individual’s decision to seek help or purchase hearing aids.

Delays in getting hearing aids can:

• Worsen communication challenges in daily life, leading to social withdrawal, loneliness and isolation.

• Contribute to mental health issues and accelerate cognitive decline due to untreated hearing loss. How should we address the delay?

• Boosting public awareness about hearing loss and new hearing technologies.

• Every Senior should have a Cognitive screening free of charge.

• Reducing stigma through education and positive social messaging.

• Improve the affordability of hearing care and hearing aids. Medicare should pay a portion of the cost!

• Encouraging support from healthcare providers, family, and friends to facilitate earlier intervention.

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 Bereavement Groups

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

• Mondays: Ocean County Memorial Park in Waretown

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

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

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

• Fridays: Manchester Memorial Home on Schoolhouse Road, Whiting

Dear Pharmacist

5 Ways Palliative Care Can Help You Feel Better; Even If You’re Not Terminal

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Most people think palliative care is only for the final chapter of life. I understand why. I spent seven years as a Consultant Pharmacist in nursing homes in Florida, where I worked closely with patients receiving end-of-life care. The goal wasn’t to cure disease, it was to reduce suffering and improve comfort. That experience shaped who I am.

But over the decades, I’ve realized something important. You don’t have to be terminally ill to deserve that same compassionate approach.

I’ve worked more than 30 years as a pharmacist and also watched loved one’s struggle with chronic illness. Again and again, I see people who are not dying, but they’re not living well either. Their labs look fine, yet they’re exhausted, anxious, in pain, or worn down. This is exactly where a palliative mindset can make a meaningful difference.

Palliative care simply means focusing on quality of life. It asks a different question. Instead of “How do we cure this?” it asks, “How do we help you feel better today?”

Here are five ways a palliative approach can help, even if you’re not terminally ill.

First, it prioritizes symptom relief. Sometimes low-dose medications such as gabapentin, buspirone, or certain tricyclic antidepressants are used not to treat a diagnosis, but to reduce nerve pain, calm physical anxiety, or help you sleep. For some, these meds can make daily life better.

Second, it reduces medication side effects. Would it surprise you to learn that many feel worse from the treatment than the condition itself? Palliative care simplifies

regimens, lowers doses, or switches you to gentler meds and treatments.

Third, it’s targeted. Topical therapies like lidocaine patches or anti-inflammatory gels can provide localized relief without causing systemic side effects. This is especially helpful for people sensitive to medications.

Fourth, it supports sleep as a cornerstone of healing. Broken sleep amplifies pain, anxiety, heart problems and fatigue. Small adjustments in medication timing, herbal sleep aids, or calming strategies can help with restorative sleep.

Fifth, it considers nutrient depletion. Some medications quietly lower levels of magnesium, B vitamins, or other nutrients. Replenishing these can raise energy, muscle comfort, and nervous system balance.

None of this is about giving up. None of it’s about being terminal either. It’s about caring differently. When a cure isn’t immediate or even possible, comfort becomes essential. This is compassionate medicine at its best.

If you’re living in that middle space - not acutely ill, but not truly well - you deserve attention and relief. You don’t have to wait for a crisis or terminal diagnosis to employ palliative care. Sometimes the most meaningful thing to do is to stop chasing perfection and start focusing on comfort. That’s not surrender. It’s wisdom. It’s just about having better days and more comfort in them. For practical ways to ease symptoms, increase your level of comfort, and support your quality of life, plus my free weekly health insights, visit suzycohen.com and sign up for my newsletter.

(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.

A Couple Of Reasons Why Attorneys Decline Injury Cases

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

Unfortunately, in our personal injury practice, law firms cannot accept and undertake the responsibility for every potential case. However, when a case is declined it does not necessarily mean that the case is without merit.

Each time an attorney prosecutes a personal injury case this process requires a showing of both liability (legal responsibility or fault of the tortfeasor), and damages (economic and non-economic losses) caused by the fault or wrongdoing of the tortfeasor. During a law firm’s assessment of a potential case, it must perform a careful review and analysis of the facts provided by the potential client and assess the clients’ personal and legal responsibility for the happening of this incident.

In New Jersey, if a personal injury plaintiff is found 51% or more responsible for the happening of an accident, then that client will, as a matter of law, be denied any recovery.

N.J.S.A. 2A:15-51 et seq. Similarly, if a client is found 50% or less responsible for the happening of an accident, then that percentage of fault assigned to the client will cause any monetary verdict awarded to the plaintiff to be reduced by the plaintiff’s percentage of fault. So, if a plaintiff is awarded a $100,000 verdict for pain and suffering, but she is found to be 50% at fault for the happening of the accident, then the court will reduce her $100,000 verdict by 50% or $50,000.00.

In addition, law firms must consider the cost of litigation, and litigation these days is very expensive. Sometimes, it is our opinion that the amount of reasonable damages likely to be awarded to a potential client may be inadequate to justify the time and expense required of us to properly represent the potential client. Naturally, that is a matter of opinion, but if a law firm estimates that the cost of litigation will be $20,000.00 and that the likely recovery for the potential client may only be $30,000.00, then the attorney may decline the case. Under this scenario, the client would only recover $6,700.00 and the attorney’s fee for all the time and effort would be $3,300.00. An attorney’s fee is separate from the recovery of the attorney’s out of pocket litigation costs. Our Rules of Court require that an attorney’s litigation costs be deducted from the client’s gross recovery before the attorney calculates his fee and the client’s net recovery.

Michael J. Deem, Esq. is the only double Certified trial lawyer in Ocean County. He is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney, and he is Board Certified by the National Board of Trial Lawyers in Civil Trial Law.

Contact the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation of your personal injury case. (732) 5056-1212.

photo of the week

A stunning bald eagle soars above the Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge in this beautiful recent shot by photographer Denise Maynard. What an amazing creature. Have a Jersey Shore photo to share? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com for a chance to win a prize.

Fireworks And Food Trucks Event

JACKSON – A summer evening of fireworks, live music and food trucks is planned for July 11 at Johnson Park, offering residents a family-friendly celebration from 4 to 9 p.m.

The event will feature a lineup of entertainment throughout the evening, beginning with a DJ from 4 to 9 p.m. Live performances include “Shorty Long and the Jersey Horns” from 5 to 6:30 p.m., bringing a mix of hits from the 1970s to today, followed by the “Sideways Willy Band” from 7 to 8:30 p.m., performing classic rock, alternative and dance favorites. A wide variety of food vendors will be on site,

serving everything from pizza and empanadas to steak dishes, dumplings and shaved ice. Among the participants are Little Caesars, Mister Softee, Empanada Guy, Twisted Steaks and Kona Ice, along with several other regional favorites.

The event will take place at Johnson Park, located at 200 Kierych Memorial Drive. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early to enjoy the full lineup of music, food and festivities leading up to the fireworks display. Additional information is available at jacksontwpnj.net or by calling 732-928-1260.

Town Launches

“Litter Free Jackson” With Six Flags

JACKSON – The township is proud to announce the official kickoff of its first-ever “Litter Free Jackson” Community Cleanup Initiative, taking place on May 17, in partnership with Six Flags Great Adventure.

Following a productive meeting on April 19th between Mayor Jennifer Kuhn and leadership from Six Flags Great Adventure including the Park’s President and Regional Public Relations Manager the township secured an enthusiastic collaboration to support this important community effort. Without hesitation, Six Flags representatives asked, “What can we do to support this initiative?” and their response reflects a true commitment to community partnership.

As part of this collaboration, the first 1,500 residents who participate in the Litter Free Jackson kickoff event will receive a FREE general admission ticket (good any day) to Six Flags Great Adventure.

Mayor Jennifer Kuhn emphasized that this initiative comes directly in response to residents’ concerns regarding community cleanliness. The Kuhn Administration is taking proactive steps to ensure Jackson Township remains a clean, safe, and beautiful place to live.

“We have heard our residents loud and clear,

and we are taking action,” said Mayor Kuhn. “I am incredibly excited to launch our Litter Free Jackson Initiative on May 17th from 1 to 4 p.m. This is about community pride, teamwork, and setting an example for future generations. Together, we can make a lasting difference in our beloved town.”

A special highlight of the event will be the introduction of the township’s youngest environmental leaders. Children ages 12 and under who participate will be officially sworn in as “Deputy Litter Free Officers” and will receive certificates of recognition for their service. This initiative is designed to engage youth, promote environmental responsibility, and make community service both fun and meaningful. Snacks and refreshments will be provided for volunteers.

The township encourages residents of all ages to join in this community-wide effort and help set the tone for a cleaner future.

Residents can sign up by emailing litterfree@ jacksontwpnj.net, attention Pauline Dressler. Jackson Township invites everyone to come together, take pride in their community, and be part of a movement that will make a visible and lasting impact.

Jones Road Wildifre:

Continued From Page 1

dry conditions and threatened nearby homes. Joseph W. Kling, now 20, was the first person charged in connection with the wildfire. A juvenile was later charged in a related case that is being handled in family court. Kling appeared in Ocean County Superior Court on April 6 as attorneys discussed next steps in the case. Kling has been charged but has not been convicted of any offenses and is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

The April 6 appearance was an initial disposition conference before Judge Guy P. Ryan, where Kling was represented by defense attorney Joseph J. Compitello. Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Heisler appeared on behalf of the state. The proceeding reflected a case still in its early stages, with no motions filed and key reports pending.

Inside the courtroom, the tone was largely procedural, but there were moments that revealed something more. At one point, Kling turned and looked back toward the courtroom gallery, appearing to look in the direction of someone seated behind him. The glance was brief, but it stood out in an otherwise routine proceeding. Compitello told the court that expert reports are still being obtained and shared with prosecutors. He indicated that no motions are being filed at this time, suggesting the possibility that the case could be resolved without trial while preserving the option to challenge evidence later if necessary.

Judge Ryan indicated that issues involving statements or admissibility would typically be addressed closer to trial through formal

hearings.

There were also references to Kling’s release conditions. Defense counsel noted that an ankle bracelet had been removed. They also indicated that a motion could be filed to further modify those conditions. No additional details about the conditions were discussed during the hearing.

Legal Questions

And Separate Charges

The case is further complicated by a separate aggravated assault charge for Kling, stemming from an incident dated January 5, 2025. Court records describe the charge as an attempt to cause significant bodily injury. It was not immediately clear during the hearing whether that charge is directly related to the wildfire incident, though it has been discussed alongside the arson case.

During the proceeding, Heisler, the prosecutor, outlined the possibility of a plea offer that would reduce the aggravated assault charge to a third-degree offense carrying a flat three-year sentence, with that time served at the same time as the arson case, rather than adding additional years. He indicated that the structure of that offer may need to be revisited as legal questions surrounding the charges are worked out.

The discussion came amid broader uncertainty in the law, as Judge Ryan pointed to discrepancies tied to recent changes in sentencing statutes. He noted that portions of the law may have been “inadvertently deleted” during legislative revisions, leaving courts and prosecutors to determine how to proceed.

“The wheels of legislation being drafted don’t necessarily turn quickly,” the judge said, adding that the issue is still being worked through at multiple levels.

What Investigators Say Happened

Records released by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office indicate the wildfire began with a bonfire made from wooden pallets in a wooded area off Jones Road. Authorities say the fire was not fully put out before it spread.

“The cause of the fire was determined to be an incendiary by an improperly extinguished bonfire,” investigators wrote.

According to documents provided by authorities, a small group gathered wooden pallets from a nearby recycling area and transported them by pickup truck into the woods, where the pallets were stacked and lit with a lighter.

Part of the investigation began after police responded to a separate incident involving a dirt bike rider identified in records as J.M., a juvenile whose name is withheld due to his age. As officers followed up on that crash, investigators began identifying others who had been in the area earlier that day.

Multiple individuals were interviewed, including J.M. and others identified by initials in the records. According to statements in the investigation, J.M. and his girlfriend told authorities that Kling had started the fire by throwing an unknown object soaked in gasoline and adding more pallets as the fire began to die down.

Investigators say Kling later gave a recorded statement describing his account. He told detectives he picked up J.M. and others, collected pallets from a vacant lot off Route 9, and drove to the wooded area off Jones Road. He said he and J.M. unloaded the pallets and that he provided a lighter used to ignite the fire.

Kling also described an altercation involving J.M., who then left the area on a dirt bike. A

short time later, Kling and others also left. He told investigators the fire was still burning when they departed, even after attempts were made to put it out.

According to investigators, Kling later encountered J.M. near the intersection of Jones Road and Wells Mills Road, where police had responded following the crash. He said he then went to a car wash in Waretown to clean his truck before continuing on.

Authorities say the fire spread quickly from that point, fueled by dry conditions and wind, ultimately threatening more than 1,300 structures and forcing approximately 3,000 residents to evacuate.

Charging documents allege that Kling purposely started the fire by lighting the bonfire and leaving it unattended, creating a risk of damage to nearby property, including the Liberty Door and Awning facility. He is also charged with giving false information to law enforcement officers.

J.M. has also been charged separately, including counts of aggravated arson, arson, and hindering apprehension.

Investigators built the case using surveillance footage, witness statements, and digital evidence, including cell phone records and messages sent in the hours after the fire began.

In one message cited in the documents, a person warned, “You better hope they don’t figure out it was you,” reflecting concern in the hours after the fire began.

For many residents, the anniversary of the Jones Road wildfire is more than a date. It is a memory of smoke-filled skies, hurried evacuations, and uncertainty about what would come next. A year later, the forest still carries visible scars, as the legal process tied to how it began continues to unfold.

Officials: Continued From Page 1

dispute but remained operational after that. The structure was decommissioned in July of 2024 and later demolished.

The 133-foot Veterans Fire Tower, which fire officials described as being located at “an ideal site” based at the Forest Resource Education Center (FREC) on 370 East Veterans Highway cost approximately $1,648,900. It offers improved wildfire detection and coverage in Ocean County. It will be used to monitor for wildfires especially with the older tower’s decommissioning.

The new tower began construction in early 2025 and features modern observation capabilities as part of the NJ Forest Fire Service’s

network of over 20 towers. The towers are used for fire detection and to coordinate response with ground units and aircraft. Veterans Fire Tower will be staffed during firethreat days.

“I was at the ribbon cutting and Senator Latham Tiver, (a Republican member of the New Jersey Senate, representing the 8th Legislative District) presented it to me and I as well as council felt it deserves to go to our fire departments. So, we asked them to come here.”

“This newly constructed fire lookout tower in Jackson replaces a previously dismantled structure and represents a significant advance in fire monitoring capacity improving visibility, response time and overall public safety,” Kuhn said reading the proclamation.

Firefighting Ordinance

That evening Fire District 3 representative Michael Grossman, Fire District 2 representative Scott Rauch and Fire District 4 representative Stanley O’Brien explained the fine points of Ordinance 2026-13 entitled Fire Prevention that was voted on and unanimously adopted by the council and concerned firefighting procedures.

Grossman said, “We were audited by the DCA (NJ Department of Community Affairs) years ago and they said we had to revamp our township ordinance for the fire prevention code and bring it up to date because it was old and antiquated. That is chapter 204. We worked with the DCA with our verbiage and what they wanted to see in it.”

“For example, we did a few changes. We

moved the fire hydrant which was 100 feet to the fire department connection and reduced it to 50 feet on new construction when we do our plan reviews. It’s actually safer that way,” he added.

Grossman said, “we implemented a ‘click to enter’ requirement for all unmanned gates at developments so we can access the gate. Fire trucks, ambulances, police cars can access the gates to enter these developments to get in rather than break through the gates and sit with the siren that’s not working at two in the morning and waking everybody up.”

He noted that updates were made based on issues that the DCA wanted to change within communities for better response. “It brought it up to date with the verbiage.”

Historical Society Plans Spring Open House Tours

NEW EGYPT – The Historical Society Museum will welcome visitors for a series of open house tours throughout May, offering a chance to explore local history and collections.

The events are scheduled for May 3, May 17, May 21 and May 31, with tours running from 1 to 4 p.m. on each date. Docents will be on hand to guide guests through the museum and provide insight

into exhibits.

Organizers say the open houses are designed to give the public an opportunity to learn more about the area’s past while viewing artifacts and displays community heritage.

The museum is located at 125 Evergreen Road, where visitors can tour the historic building and engage with knowledgeable volunteers during the events.

Estate Sale

ESTATE SALE - 26 Balmoral Drive, Jackson, NJ 08527. Saturday, May 16th 10am-5pm. (23)

Real Estate

SELLING??? - Warning::: other realtors charge 2-3 Times more~~ I get sellers more money for their real estate~~~ Less than 1% sellers agent fee and I use only the best photography and expertise in dealing with engineer and municipal and mtg. inspections and negotiations 5STAR reviews on Zillow!- call joe S. 609-713-1727 or go to listforlessnj.com (22)

Two half-acre clear lots for sale on Peach Tree Street, Jackson, NJ. Quiet cul-de-sac off Route 571. Asking $700k. 732-354-2413 (21)

Misc.

Seeking To Trade - 2022 JL Wrangler 4 door hard top gray, with sun rider top for full soft top. Can be seen on South Chestnut Ave CW 7. 973-388-7793. (22)

Auto For Sale

1991 Mercury GrandMarguis - One owner - Leather Seats. 34,000 miles - Garage Kept. Excellent Condition. V-8. $10,000. 732-264-5928. (21)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY

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

CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. Brian cell 732-804-8115. (19)

JScott Firearms FFL dealer appraising and purchasing firearms from estates or individuals. No obligation. Discreet, fair offers. Call 215-595-5480 (38)

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

CA$h PAID For OLD 45 RPM RECORDS - R and B, doo wop, soul, rock and roll, and rockabilly. 909-938-4623, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., bobo78rpm@verizon.net. (19)

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

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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items Wanted

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying Cash for LP Albums, Rock, Jazz, Reggae. Call Rick 908-616-7104, also buying Comic Books. (21)

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)

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. (19)

Items For Sale

Sofa with reversible chaise lounge, $400. Power swivel, rocker, recliner, $375. Both hardly used. Like new. 1 year old. 732-547-1193. (20)

Brand New Mobility ScooterRed, 4 wheels. Lists for $2,900. Complete with charger and extra basket. Never used. Asking $1,800. 732-485-1390. (19)

Frigidaire Gas Range - 5 burner, $200. Frigidaire Refrigerator Freezer, $150. Jackpot slot machine, $150. Call Joe 732-859-9266. (20)

Help Wanted

Hiring qualified Thai Cuisine Chef with minimum 5 years experiences. Restaurant is located at 1174 Fischer Blvd Toms River, NJ 08753. 609-994-4325. (20)

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)

Crestwood Manor Job OpportunityBeauty Shop Operator. Thursday & Friday 9AM – 5PM. State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling License Required. 732-849-2538. Email: jtuite@springpointsl.org. (20)

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a part time Certified Medical Assistant or LPN for the afternoon shift. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms river 08755. (19)

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

PAINTING By Neat And Me-

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

Services

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)

Life Coach - Facing a challenge? Talk with me, a safe, arms-length listener. Gain insight. Nonjudgmental support unique to you. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas, 732-754-4891. (22)

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. (17)

PERSONAL GARDEN ADVICE FOR SENIORS - Home visits to assess winter plant damage and provide clear, practical advice on plant care, pruning, garden planning, houseplants and creating beautiful seasonal interest. Experienced Nurseryman/Trained Master Gardener. Joseph Pezzano – Call for appointment 732-232-8144. (15)

Services Services Services

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FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

outcomes 41 Front-end alignment

Star-nosed diggers

Skin care brand

United

*Swimmer that can expand to three times its normal size 19 Boy of the fam 20 Not needing an MD’s script

“Black-ish” father

Like some arcade games

Ego

*Dreamhouse occupant

Bath bathroom

Skilled

Put in a little oil, say

Back tooth

*Employee responsible for minimizing

“Veep” role for Louis-Dreyfus 44 Many a Jordanian 47 CGI-heavy superhero franchise 49 Intl. oil cartel

51 *Greek salad component

55 “The Possibilities Are Beautiful” retailer 56 Contributing element 57 Catan resource 59 Century divs. 60 That, in Spanish 61 Postshow cast celebrations, and what can be found in the answers to the starred clues 65 Trig function 66 One holding things back? 67 Gulf of Suez peninsula

Explosive material

Reproduce like salmon

70 Boot camp figs. Down 1 Create a design that stands out? 2 Small beards

Safe call

“Doin’ Time” singer Lana __ Rey 5 Strengthen, in metallurgy

6 “What’s the __?” 7 Pic above a username

8 Joe of “Casino” 9 Largest NorthAmerican alpine lake 10 Mingle (with) 11 Join the club 12 Folks 14 Roll on the lawn 18 Planet, e.g. 23 Goading words

25 Frugivorous flying mammal

27 Colleen Hoover’s genre 28 Godsend

33 General on American Chinese menus

34 Scrape (by)

36 Quick getaway

37 Number on a birthday card

39 Silent actor

40 Getting back (to)

43 Opposite of charge

44 Have an impact on

45 Motivation

46 For neither profit nor loss

48 Tournament won by Coco Gauff in 2023

50 Black currant liqueur

52 Some sweater necks

53 Corp. employee in charge of recruitment

54 Cy Young stat

58 Triage ctrs.

62 Filmmaker DuVernay

63 Syllable in a blaster imitation

64 “Verily!”

FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 25 - MAY 1 BY JERALDINE

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Plan initiatives for the first part of the coming week — beginning Thursday, Universal Day Scores plummet into negative numbers which lowers odds of happy outcomes. A recent glow up could still be glowing.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): If it’s a no-win situation, disengage even if it’s tempting to remain involved. Your energy is like money, spend it wisely. Tomorrow isn’t just a new day, or Monday, it’s also a re-emergence into more of a spotlight for you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Today you could be restless on a deep level that’s hard to identify — if you can break free for a few hours it could be the reset you need. Your soul tribe, family or friends or both, can make life sweet.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A period of focus on your contributions in the world could soon shift into more concern with your social relationships. Run free today with kindred souls or make a plan for a future adventure.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): New skills or ideas can find their practical applications as you begin to deploy them into your day-to-day process. Ambitions could awaken, hungry for attainment. A friend could be part of your strategy.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A long situation could be concluding or at least resolving itself enough that you don’t need to keep it on the front burner, which could feel like freedom. A show of force isn’t likely to be the answer now.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You could

SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

become less focused on one-to-one relationships; your mind may begin to delve into intricacies of shared resources or finances. Effective teaching is done by planting seeds, not by dropping bombs.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Relationships are likely to come into the spotlight, some task-related or health-related matters could wind up enough to shift your attention. Side note: The bulldozer method doesn’t build teamwork.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A health matter could need some attention. Roll past discouragement, roll up sleeves and get busy on the solution — good maintenance keeps the vehicle in top shape. A relationship could need nurture, not force.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Once your foundation is more secured, you have the base camp to play from. This can come full circle as your creative talents could likely be monetized. See what ideas emerge, these best solutions aren’t forced.

A QUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Some attention to home matters in the next month or so could yield benefits beyond your quality of life, a home-based business or side gig is one possibility. Don’t get involved in an unresolvable tangle.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A nice conversation, likely related to money, could suddenly devolve into a dead-end argument. Free yourself from the need to pick every single battle, put more than a few back or you’ll never have peace.

AN EASY WEEKNIGHT DINNER FOR TWO

peppercorn vinegar

This is a delicious variation on the usual chicken liver, onions and bacon. Here the flavors are combined to create an outstanding main course.

Chicken livers should be browned yet slightly pink inside, so they retain their silky quality. If overcooked, the chicken livers will have a grainy texture. Pancetta, Italian cured bacon, will give the sauce a subtle bacon flavor. Regular bacon will add a smokey touch. The green peppercorns bring zest, while the cream softens the sauce to give it elegance as well as spice.

For an easy weeknight dinner, prep everything in the morning and put this together just before serving. Serve with steamed white rice and sauteed green vegetables. Complement this with a delicious California chardonnay or pinot noir for a pleasing pairing.

SAUTEED CHICKEN LIVERS WITH GREEN PEPPERCORNS

Serves 2

1/4 pound pancetta or bacon, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

2 tablespoons oil, divided

1 pound fresh chicken livers, rinsed and cleaned

2 medium shallots, finely chopped

3/4 pound mushrooms, thinly sliced

1/3 cup white wine vinegar or green

3/4 cup chicken or veal stock

1/3 cup whipping cream

1/2 teaspoon green peppercorns, rinsed well

1/4 teaspoon salt

Pinch finely ground pepper to taste Italian parsley sprigs, for garnish

1. In a medium skillet fry pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble. Drain off drippings.

2. To skillet add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add livers and brown over very high heat, turning frequently, for about 2 to 3 minutes. The interior should still be pink. Remove from pan onto a plate and let rest.

3. Add remaining butter and oil to pan. Add shallots and saute over medium heat until softened. Add mushrooms and continue cooking 2 minutes. Remove vegetables. Drain off excess fat but do not wash pan.

4. Place pan back on medium heat and add vinegar and stock. Bring to boil, stirring and scraping browned bits. Boil about 1 minute, until reduced to 1/2 cup. Add cream and green peppercorns and simmer until slightly thickened. Add salt and pepper.

5. Add livers, bacon, and vegetables to reheat and taste for seasoning. Arrange on a plate, garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

(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.