2026-05-30 - The Manchester Times

School Awards Dinner Brings Community Closer

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

There seems no better way to bring the school district and township governing body closer together than breaking bread and honoring educators and professionals.

The school district’s first Labor Management Collaborative (LMC) awards dinner was recently held at the Clarion Hotel in Toms River. This marked a mile -

stone moment for the district bringing together district administration, union leadership, educators, support staff, and community members alongside their families.

The Labor Management Collaborative is a structural partnership between the Manchester Township School District administration and the Manchester Township

Remote Control Plane Group Hits New Heights

By Chris Lundy BERKELEY – Tucked

away between the roar of Route 9 and the pristine quiet of the woods is a small airstrip home to the Pine Barren Modelers RC Group, and on one recent day, they invited the public into their home. There’s 70’x30’ of

pavement here by Johnson’s pit, with some trailers set up for equipment. The group had six instructors ready to teach anyone how to fly. They share a “buddy box,” with the same controls. Think of it like a driver’s ed car, where the instructor is driving shotgun and

has their own pedals. In this case, the instructor can take over and right the plane if something goes wrong.

Dennis Spatcher, president of group, said they had a pretty good turnout that day. Flying went well, despite the crosswind making

(Plane - See Page 7)

Education Association. Its guiding philosophy is rooted in the belief that student success is maximized when those closest to the classroom - educators and administrators - work together in an environment of mutual respect.

Superintended Diane Pedroza - dressed in the school district’s colors of blue and yellow - described the event saying, “the Excellence

in Education Awards Dinner represents the very best of Manchester Township - our educators, staff, families, and community partners coming together in a shared commitment to students. Our district motto, ‘Excellence by Example,’ is not just a phrase, but a daily reality made possible by the individuals we honored tonight.”

(Awards - See Page 4)

New Councilwoman Sworn In

by Bob

Mayor Joseph Hankins administers the oath of office to Judy Noonan as she is sworn in during the latest Township Council meeting. Mayor Hankins Confidential Aide Jaime LaFalce holds the Bible.

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER

– A new member of council and a new non-lethal method of dealing with geese problems were subjects presented during the latest Township Council meeting. Judy Noonan took her oath of office and her

(Councilwoman - See Page 5)

Budget Hearing Set For

June 18

By Bob Vosseller

LAKEHURST - The Borough’s delayed budget was introduced during the latest council meeting but further details about the spending plan will be presented next month.

Councilwoman Bernadette Dugan, who heads the council’s finance committee, said that the total value of property in the borough is up a bit and there have been some tax appeals. “The public hearing will be held on June 18. The CFO (Chief Financial Officer) will be here to answer any questions and it will be posted online with the breakdowns for the taxpayer and all that stuff.”

Last year, the municipal budget included a tax levy reflecting a 2.86% increase over the previous year.

Detailed line-item breakdowns for the 2027 Lakehurst Borough budget have not yet been published, as New Jersey municipalities formally introduce and adopt their local budgets in the spring.

(Budget - See Page 7)

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“Their dedication, collaboration, and unwavering focus on students set the standard for what education should be, and I am proud to celebrate their impact on our schools and community. This evening reflects the strength of our partnership and the collective commitment that continues to move Manchester Township forward,” she added.

Manchester Township Education Association President Daniel Staples served as master of ceremonies for the event. He said the awards dinner “reflects what makes Manchester Township special. Our strength comes from collaboration. When educators, staff, and leadership work together with shared purpose, our students are the true winners. I am proud to celebrate the dedication and excellence of our members who make that possible every day.”

New Jersey Education Association Secretary Treasurer Tina Dare remarked, “the work you are doing here is absolutely amazing. What we do is help one another and that is what you do here in this district which makes it such a strong school district and a great place to work.”

Mayor Joseph Hankins also spoke to the strength of collaboration and the importance of celebrating those who serve Manchester’s students. “The residents here care and you do a great job. We never hear

anything bad about the schools. The bus drivers are fantastic. I just thank you for being here.”

The night started with the recognition of the nine inaugural recipients of the LMC’s Excellence in Education Awards, marking the first class of honorees in what will become an annual celebration of excellence across the district.

Established through community nominations, these honors celebrate outstanding staff members, administrators, volunteers, and community partners who exemplify excellence in education and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to supporting and advocating for Manchester’s students both inside and outside the classroom.

The following awards were presented: Legacy Award: To the family of Jill Ocone, in memoriam

Rookie Of The Year: Christopher Hoffman Friend Of Education Award: Tammy Rousseau

Mentor Of The Year: Melissa Tierney

In addition, the Manchester Township Education Association recognized outstanding support staff through its Educational Support Professional of the Year Awards, presented by MTEA Vice President for ESPs Lisa Mitchell.

MTEA Paraprofessional of the Year: Amada Gesualdo

MTEA Teacher Assistant of the Year: Marjorie Hunter

MTEA Secretary of the Year: Cindy Redd

MTEA Transportation Member of the Year: Jesse Dill

MTEA Buildings and Grounds Member of the Year: Crystal Stevenson

The program acknowledged the 2025 Governor’s Educator of the Year recipients. As part of the New Jersey Teacher of the Year and Educational Service Professional Recognition Program, each school forms a committee that gathers nominations and votes from colleagues to identify outstanding individuals within the building. These honorees are then submitted to the New Jersey Department of Education’s Governor’s Educator of the Year Program.

2025 Teachers of the Year:

Manchester Township High School: Brianna Mckiernan

Manchester Township Middle School: Robyn Struck

Manchester Township Elementary School: Amy Vasquez

Ridgeway Elementary School: Debra Johnson

Whiting Elementary School: Sarah Drew

Regional Day School: Ellie Hyland

2025 Educational Service Professionals of the Year:

MTHS: Clarice Pulcine Capala

MTMS: Tina DiMatteo

MTES: Monica Gonzalez

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

Ridgeway: Candice Bouillon

Whiting: Virginia Guise

Regional Day: Jessica Nolan

The evening also celebrated three Manchester Township educators who were nominated as 2026 Teachers Who Rock by local radio station WJRZ-FM. This recognition highlights not only their commitment to academic excellence but also the passion, creativity, and care they bring to their classrooms each day. Their dedication to inspiring student growth and making a meaningful difference is deeply valued within the Manchester Township School District community.

They were Karl Schaefer, teacher in a Multiple Disabled classroom at MTHS; Toni Basile, Basic Skills Teacher & Interventionalist at MTES; Valerie Schaefer, kindergarten teacher at Ridgeway.

Melissa Nazario of MTES was recognized with a classroom scholarship award from Applebee’s after one of her students won a contest by writing about how she goes above and beyond for her class.

Her fourth-grade student Aliyah, was named a winner of this year’s Applebee’s Above and ‘BEE’yond Teacher Essay Contest, which celebrates educators who make a lasting impact on their students. Aliyah wrote her essay about her fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Nazario, highlighting the positive influence she has had in the classroom.

Councilwoman:

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spot on the dais as the newest council member. Noonan previously served as the mayor’s confidential aide under former Mayor Robert Arace and current Mayor Joseph Hankins. In that role she served as liaison to the township’s senior services office. She also previously served as a member of the Berkeley Township Council when she was a resident of that municipality.

She was appointed to fill the council seat vacated when Councilwoman Roxy Conniff resigned due to her move from Manchester Township to Tuckerton.

“I will do my very best to serve the town and I will continue doing everything I did to help the seniors,” Noonan said.

She added that there were too many signs seen around town regarding for sale signs, signs for power washing and other things “that are really supposed to be taken down after a time and I’d like to see code enforcement look into this as it makes the town look cheap. I see them on poles and on the ground and I think it is something we need to go after.”

Geese Contract Criticized

During the portion of the meeting when members of the public can speak about any issue, several members of the Animal Protection League asked the governing body to cancel the contract the township has with Goose Control

Technology. Instead, they were urged to use the organization’s free habitat modification program which is humane and is used in many towns and businesses across the state.

Mayor Joseph Hankins told The Manchester Times prior to the meeting that the contract with the firm was first established in 2018 and he had voted for it while serving on council at the time. He noted that high fecal coliform levels had been causing closures of Harry Wright Lake which is the only operating swimming lake within the township currently and that other efforts had been tried with no success.

During the meeting, the mayor said he was open to working with the organization to consider other options but for now, the contract would still be in place as the geese population had been drastically reduced and the fecal count lowered.

According to township documents the contract covers services at Harry Wright Lake and Pine Lakes and covers dead bird removal, hazing (which uses lasers and noise makers), egg treatment (addling) used to eliminate a population increase with resident geese that nest in the area and geese removal during the annual goose molt when the geese cannot fly. They are snared with a wing net and removed from the site and cannot return.

APL members Doreen Frego of Saddlebrook and Valerie DeVine of Lake Hiawatha spoke during the public comment period along with Susan Kearny

of Manchester, Allison Lemke of Lacey and county resident Cory Suga. Frego noted that geese will be mottling soon and they called for their protection while also describing how the company was suffocating the geese with gas once collected from the lake. They each urged the governing body to reexamine the options available that would have the geese relocated from the site but without causing their painful demise.

Mayor Hankins said he and the council would be looking into other options and further investigating what could be

done but also noted that the geese were proven to be the cause of the environmental issues that caused the lake to be closed previously and that residents and visitors deserved to be able to swim in that lake.

It was with some irony that a goose was spotted on municipal complex grounds by the entry point to the night’s council meeting where the bird was seen after the meeting concluded.

The mayor also issued a proclamation to township first responders in honor of National EMS Week during the meeting.

Budget:

Continued From Page 1

You can access previous years and stay updated on the current proposed and adopted figures via the Lakehurst Borough Finance Department portal. To get the most accurate and up-to-date breakdown of the 2027 proposal as it moves through local review, you can attend the upcoming Borough Council meetings at Borough Hall or contact Municipal Clerk Maryanne Capasso to request a copy of the introduced user-friendly budget.

The spending plan had been delayed due to a shared services agreement that needed to be finalized with Manchester Township to provide fire coverage on a regular basis following the dissolvement of the Lakehurst Fire Company earlier this month. A tentative plan with Manchester is in place according to Councilman Robert McCarthy.

Plane:

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things a bit more difficult.

“We’re trying to get the public, especially kids, to gain an interest in flying,” he said. Sharing a hobby is the best way to keep it going, so club members will set up tables at locations like the Central Regional Middle School carnival with a flight simulator. Most of the planes were electric, but a few were gas-powered, while others run on a mix of methanol and nitromethane.

The 113-year-old fire company shut down due to issues of firefighter retention. Efforts to restore it to maintain reliable fire protection services were unsuccessful before a vote was taken this month to permanently dissolve the agency.

Councilman Steven Oglesby who is a longtime member of the Lakehurst First Aid Squad said that “a handful of members are doing their best to answer as many calls as possible, but it is a losing battle. Burnout is inevitable. And this is not unique to Lakehurst. Fire and EMS squads across the state are suffering the same problems.”

He noted that there is a strong push by the State to create paid EMS and fire companies “and while that may help provide 24-hour coverage every day, there are enormous costs associated with paid services. A typical ambulance runs $250,000 and up, and that doesn’t include the equipment. A new fire truck can easily top $500,000; again,

There could be as many as four pilots at a time. Those not taking a turn sat off to the side, watching the flights, doing maintenance on their own vehicles, and socializing.

New Jersey Institute of Technology students were also on site to field test a design they came up with for competitions. There are rules on how long the plane has to be from tip to tail, and how long the wingspan can be. Their team name is the Flylanders.

“The club sponsors us so they help us out a lot,” said one of the students. Then, one member made a suggestion about what kind

equipment is not included in that price.”

Resolutions approved during the most recent meeting included the authorization, issuance, sale, and execution of a construction financing program note to the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank, not to exceed $2 million along with the appointment of Jean Verrier as a police officer.

A salary increase was also approved for Deputy Municipal Clerk Amy Lowe. Renee James was appointed permanently as a Clerk 3. Also approved for permanent appointment was Kori MacLean as Clerk 2 while Michael Rochelle was hired as a crossing guard.

Councilman Robert McCarthy reported the Economic Development Committee would be meeting with borough business owners at 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on June 8 “to assist them in applying for low interest loans and grants and to help businesses.”

Also noted by Councilwoman Dugan was

of material to make a plane out of. This led to another member riffing off of that with another suggestion, then another member chimed in, and it became an impromptu brainstorming session, which probably happens a lot with these students.

Upcoming Flights

The Pine Barrens Modelers RC Club will be holding the 10th Annual Water Fun Fly on June 6 (weather permitting) at Deer Head Lake in Lacey. Sign-in begins at 8 a.m., and flying starts at 9 a.m. The event ends

the annual Bicycle Rodeo at 11 a.m. on June 6 at Horicon Lake that will involve Lakehurst Elementary students in Pre-K through 8th grade. Activities include a warm-up lap around the lake and requirements include a bicycle with properly working brakes and a mandatory helmet.

The rodeo will also feature a bicycle safety check during registration, a newly redesigned agility course, and a group lap around the lake with officers. There will be free food, snacks, and drinks provided. The event is sponsored by the Lakehurst Police Department and Lakehurst Youth and Recreation.

For further details about the event, you can contact Police Officer Joseph Ciaurro at 732- 657-7812 ext. 437 or email jciaurro@ lakehurstpolice.org.

Council President Jeffrey Emmons and Councilwoman Patricia Hodges were absent at this meeting.

at 2 p.m. This will be the first of two Float Flys for 2026.

There will be a $10 landing fee for solo flight, which includes lunch (hot dogs, chips and drinks). People can train on a buddy box for free.

Only electric planes will be allowed, up to an 80” wingspan. Electric boats are welcome.

The group’s website has a calendar with future club meetings and other events.

Learn more at pbm1727.org/ Contact info@pbm1727.org with questions.

Firehouse Announces Lineup Of Community Events

WHITING – The Volunteer Fire Company is inviting residents to mark their calendars for a series of upcoming community events planned throughout the year.

The lineup begins with a $3,000 bingo

event scheduled for August 15, offering participants a chance to win big while supporting the local firehouse.

Later in the year, the fire company will host a gift auction on November 21, followed by

its annual “Pizza with Santa” celebration in December, a family-friendly gathering that brings holiday cheer to the community. Organizers said additional details for each event will be released closer to the dates.

Officials also noted that more events are currently being planned and encouraged the public to follow the fire company’s Facebook page and local advertisements for updates.

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

Bill Would Fully Fund Schools, Prohibit Arbitrary Cap

Capitol

Comments

Senator Carmen F. Amato, Jr. 9th Legislative District

TRENTON - Senator Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-9 th) announced his intention to introduce legislation that would ensure school districts receive the full amount of state aid they are calculated to qualify for under New Jersey’s school funding formula by

preventing the State from artificially capping annual aid increases.

During a recent Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee hearing, the Office of Legislative Services announced that State revenues are up by $500 million. That, along with the billions of dollars in savings and responsible spending reforms Republicans have already proposed, New Jersey would have more than enough funding available to fully support every school district in

the state.

“School districts across New Jersey are being told they qualify for additional state aid under the funding formula, only to have Trenton turn around and cap that aid for budgetary convenience,” said Sen. Amato. “Not only is that unfair to students and educators, it is a direct tax increase for property taxpayers who are forced to make up the difference. This is simple, if the State’s own formula determines a district is entitled to a certain level of funding, then the State should fully deliver it.”

This legislation is the latest step in Senator

Amato’s ongoing fight to restore fairness to New Jersey’s rigged school funding system and ensure students, teachers, and school districts receive the resources they need to provide the quality education every child deserves.

In April, Sen. Amato and Senator Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth) sent a letter to Governor Sherrill requesting that immediate action be taken to fully restore school aid that was capped in the governor’s proposed budget, citing revised revenue projections and GOP budget solutions that make such increases achievable.

Heat Wave, Then Cold Snap Cost Farmers $300M

From The Desk Of The Governor

Mikie Sherrill

TRENTON – Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a State of Emergency following the agricultural damages that impacted the state this spring.

In mid-April, New Jersey experienced an unusual weather sequence that devastated the agricultural sector. A prolonged warm spell pushed temperatures above 90 degrees in some areas, causing fruit trees and crops to flower earlier than normal. That warm period was immediately followed by a sharp temperature drop, with lows in the 20s recorded across parts of the state between April 19 and April 22. The timing was particularly destructive as crops were at a critical developmental stage when the freeze hit, resulting in

severe injury to blossoms and newly forming fruit. The damage was widespread, affecting peaches, cherries, pears, grapes, plums, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, apples, and other crops across the entire state. Some farmers reported losses approaching or exceeding 90 percent. In several regions, the losses may prove season-ending for key fruit crops.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture in coordination with the Farm Service Agency County Committees, suggest at least $300 million in total crop losses for growers and farmers.

With the signing of Executive Order No. 18, declaring a State of Emergency across all 21 counties, Governor Sherrill is taking action to preserve farm operations, stabilize local economies, and protect New Jersey’s agricultural capacity for future seasons.

“New Jersey’s agricultural sector is a vital engine of our economy; it is the very reason we bear the name the Garden State,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “This executive order mobilizes a whole-of-government recovery effort out of Trenton, cutting through bureaucracy and accelerating results for impacted farmers and families. Our farming families are hurting, and I won’t stand by and let it happen.”

“Governor Sherrill’s declaration of a State of Emergency sends a clear message that New Jersey stands behind its farming community in the wake of the April freeze,” said Ed Wengryn, New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture. “This executive order cuts through bureaucracy and opens the door to immediate assistance for our tree fruit and berry growers, while laying the groundwork for broader relief ahead. As our farmers work to recover, we encourage New Jerseyans to continue supporting them by buying local. When the state and federal government move

together, our farmers are stronger for it.”

The Executive Order declares a State of Emergency across New Jersey in response to the severe agricultural losses across many different crops. Recognizing the Statewide impact of this event and its evolving downstream impacts to our communities, this declaration ensures a coordinated statewide response, empowers the State to identify barriers to an effective response and recovery, and grants temporary regulatory flexibility to facilitate recovery efforts.

The extent of the damages is preliminary and the impacts from this event are still evolving.

Sherrill sent a letter to Secretary Brooke Rollins of the United States Department of Agriculture, supporting a request for a Secretarial Disaster Designation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, seeking to unlock critical federal relief for New Jersey growers facing devastating losses following the unprecedented April freeze event.

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.

Movie Theater Cocktails Bill Advances In Trenton

By Jason Allentoff TRENTON

– Ordering a cocktail with popcorn at New Jersey movie theaters could move closer to reality under legislation advancing in the Statehouse.

The Assembly Oversight, Reform, and Federal Relations Committee voted 4-2 to advance a bill that would allow for-profit movie theaters to obtain liquor licenses and sell alcoholic beverages during movies and in the two hours before screenings. The measure now heads to the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee for further consideration.

Under the proposal, theaters could purchase a liquor license from their municipality for $210,000. The cost would drop to $150,000 if at least 10% of the alcohol sold comes from New Jersey breweries, wineries or distilleries. According to reports, the licenses would not count toward existing population-based liquor license caps, creating a separate category specifically for theaters.

Supporters say the change could help struggling theaters draw more customers as cinemas continue recovering from the effects of the pandemic and increased competition from streaming services. Bill

sponsor Assemblywoman Maureen Rowan told New Jersey Digest that the added amenity could encourage more people to return to theaters.

Opponents, including the New Jersey Licensed Beverage Association, argue the proposal could reduce the value of existing liquor licenses, which can sell for hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Critics have also raised concerns that expanded alcohol sales at theaters could hurt nearby restaurants and bars. The bill does not yet have a companion measure in the Senate.

C ommunity n ew S

Emergency Alert System Transition Announced

MANCHESTER – Residents are encouraged to sign up for a new emergency notification system as Manchester police transition from Nixle to Regroup for community alerts and public safety updates.

Officials said Regroup will deliver emergency notifications, weather alerts, road closure information and other important public safety announcements directly to residents. Community members can register online at manchesterpolicenj.com/ stay-informed-with-regroup or by texting “JOIN MNCH” to 58339.

The Manchester Township Police Department will also host several in-person registration events to assist residents with

signing up for the new system. Participants should bring their name, address, phone number and email address.

Registration events are scheduled for June 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ocean County Library Manchester Branch, 21 Colonial Drive; June 11 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Crestwood Village 6 Clubhouse, 6 Congasia Road in Whiting; and June 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Whiting Fire Station, 120 Lacey Road in Whiting.

Police said the new platform is designed to help residents stay informed and connected during emergencies and community events.

Holiday-Themed Theater Trip

WHITING – The Crestwood Village 3 Travel Club will close out the year with a December 10 trip to see “Holiday Inn” at Surflight Theatre, followed by dinner at Calloway’s Restaurant.

The $155 package includes transportation, the show, dinner and gratuities. Menu selections feature prime rib, penne ala vodka, chicken Francaise and broiled salmon.

The musical, based on Irving Berlin’s work, tells the story of a performer who leaves show business for a quieter life in Connecticut.

Attendees will gather at Unity Hall at 11:45 a.m. and return around 7:45 p.m. Reservations require a deposit and two follow-up payments, according to organizers.

Young Authors Celebrate Book Project

LAKEHURST – Students in Mrs. Garrigan and Mrs. Robinson’s class at Lakehurst Elementary School are now published authors and illustrators after completing a class book, The ABCs of New Jersey

Each student contributed original writing and artwork highlighting New Jersey landmarks, symbols and locations tied to the Lakehurst community.

After weeks of brainstorming, writing and drawing, the class submitted the project to Student Treasures, which professionally published and bound the book.

The project helped students build read -

ing, writing and art skills while encouraging creativity, teamwork and school pride. Students are now looking forward to sharing the book with their families and the Lakehurst school community.

School Honors Top Teacher

LAKEHURST – The Elementary School has named one of its early childhood educators as Teacher of the Year, recognizing her work in helping young students build positive first experiences in school. She joined the district in January 2019 after previously teaching and managing at Little PALs Preschool in Howell. A 2014 college graduate, she said her own childhood experiences inspired her to pursue education and help make school feel exciting and welcoming for children.

Her passion for preschool education grew early in her career, when she discovered how much she enjoyed working with children during their first years in the classroom.

Outside of school, she enjoys hiking, spending time outdoors, cheering for the New Jersey Devils and spoiling her pocket pittie, Zara, with her husband.

Travel Club Plans ‘1776’ Theater Trip

WHITING — The Crestwood Village 3 Travel Club will travel to the Surflight Theatre on August 20 to see the musical “1776,” followed by dinner at the Waterfront Restaurant.

The trip package includes round-trip transportation, theater admission, dinner and gratuities. Dinner selections include filet mignon, drunken parmesan, chicken Napoli or Barnegat Light sea scallops.

The Tony Award-winning musical follows America’s founding fathers during the

summer of 1776 as they debate and sign the Declaration of Independence. The production coincides with the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration in 2026. The total cost is $155 per person. Organizers are collecting a $50 deposit with menu selection to reserve seats. A second $50 payment is due by May 18, while the remaining $55 balance is due by July 13. Travelers will depart from Unity Hall at 11:45 a.m. and are expected to return around 8:15 p.m.

Students Collect Pet Supplies

MANCHESTER – High School students are collecting donations for local animal shelters as part of a senior service project. The “Paws for a Cause” drive is seeking supplies to help animals in need. Requested items include toys, collars, harnesses,

leashes, coats and sweaters.

Donations may be dropped off at Manchester High School as students work to support shelters caring for local animals.

Organizers thanked the Manchester community for supporting the effort.

MTHS Student Honored As Ocean County Unsung Hero

MANCHESTER – Township High School student De’Jah H. was recognized by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office as an Unsung Hero during a ceremony held recently.

The Unsung Heroes program celebrates young people throughout Ocean County who have faced challenges, shown resilience and displayed strong character and

determination in their communities and schools.

School district officials praised De’Jah for earning the recognition and highlighted the achievement as a reflection of perseverance and dedication.

The Manchester Township School District shared its congratulations to De’Jah, calling the honor well deserved.

Community Celebration Planned With Fireworks And Festivities

MANCHESTER — A summer tradition will return this year as the community prepares to celebrate Manchester Day.

The event is scheduled for June 27 at Harry Wright Lake, where festivities will begin at 2 p.m. Organizers say the annual celebration will feature a full slate of activities for families and visitors throughout the day.

Attendees can expect food and craft vendors, free rides and games, and live entertainment, including a performance by

the band “Soul Machine.” The evening will conclude with a fireworks display.

Manchester Recreation officials are also warning residents and potential vendors to be cautious of scams. They emphasized that the department is the only authorized contact for event applications and advised people not to share personal information or send payments to anyone claiming to offer vendor opportunities outside official channels.

Police To Host Annual Bicycle Rodeo For Youth

LAKEHURST – The Police Department will host its 2026 Annual Bicycle Rodeo from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 6 at Lake Horicon, at the corner of Lake Street and Church Street.

The free event, presented with help from Lakehurst Youth and Recreation, is open to Lakehurst Elementary School students in pre-K through eighth grade.

Activities will include registration, bike

safety checks, a warm-up lap around the lake with officers, a new agility course, refreshments, prizes and closing activities. Helmets are required, and bikes must have working brakes.

Free food, snacks and drinks will be provided. For more information, contact P.O. Ciaurro at 732-657-7812, ext. 437, or jciaurro@lakehurstpolice.org.

Girls Golf Returns

MANCHESTER – Girls golf has returned to Manchester Township High School after an 18-year absence.

The season marked a new chapter for Hawks Athletics, with students taking to the course to learn the game, develop their skills and compete as part of a team.

School officials said the program also gives students a chance to build friendships while representing Manchester Township High School.

More information is available at manchestertwp.org.

MTHS Students Earn Scholarships

MANCHESTER – Three Township High School students were honored at the 2026 Superintendent’s Roundtable Student Recognition Breakfast.

Katherine Estevanell received the Mayor’s Scholarship Award.

Alexa Vasquez and Bill Wang were each presented with Superintendent’s Roundtable Scholarship Awards.

School district officials congratulated the students for their achievements and recognition.

Photo courtesy Manchester Township School District

Church Concert To Mark 250th Anniversary

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will present a free patriotic music concert July 5 in recognition of the country’s 250th anniversary.

The concert will begin around 8:45 a.m. and feature Organist and Choir Director Esther Graham, the church choir and congregation. The Rev. Charles Lockner will lead the 9 a.m. service following the music program.

All are welcome. For more information, call the church office at 732-350-2121 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Jersey Shore Lawn & Sprinkler Construction Listens To Clients To Provide Maximum Satisfaction

By Bob Vosseller

The motto of Jersey Shore Lawn & Sprinkler Construction Company, Inc. is “When Quality Is Your Number One Concern,” CALL US!

The company owners of this Toms River based firm focus on client needs and by using that one simple rule has helped their business grow to become one of the 75 largest irrigation companies in the country, according to Irrigation Business & Technology; the official publication of the National Irrigation Association.

“We go into everything with an open mind,” said Anthony Sierchio Jr., the president and co-owner of the family-owned and operated business. Their company is celebrating its 41st year.

Sierchio added, “We listen to our clients. We take their needs and break them down to devel-

op a customized plan.” The firm provides irrigation, drainage and LED landscape lighting services for residential, commercial and municipal clients in Ocean and Monmouth counties.

The company is also headed by co-owners Christopher Sierchio, who serves as treasurer, and Donato Sierchio, who serves as vice president. “Whenever the company takes on a project, we stay from start to finish and ensure our clients’ needs are 100% met,” they said.

The owners added, “we’re there for you when you need us. Having three co-owners who are actively involved with the company helps set Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler apart. We all bring different viewpoints to the table and we consider alternatives and seldom make a mistake.”

The company meets the irrigation needs of a wide range of clients and works on not only residential homes but government projects, school systems, sports fields and health care clients - including one of their largest customers, Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune.

Other projects include condominium and apartment complexes, churches, golf courses, parks, cemeteries and shopping centers. The company also works for developers and builders throughout New Jersey.

Sierchio noted that one of the company’s most impressive projects in recent years was the home of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, a minor league baseball team.

“We completed an irrigation project for FirstEnergy Park (now known as Shore Town Stadium) in Lakewood.”

The firm got its start in 1985 when the Sierchio brothers’ father, Anthony A. Sierchio Sr., a police lieutenant was asked by a friend to install an irrigation system for his new shopping center.

Sierchio Sr. and his son Donato learned to do the work and spent two weeks installing the system on a part-time basis.

“From there my father and brother continued doing irrigation projects for others in the community though the company didn’t officially receive a name until 1988,” Anthony Sierchio Jr. explained.

At that time, Anthony Sierchio Jr. honorably discharged from the U.S. Marine Corps and was

looking for a career. He stopped by to talk to the owner of a gas station under construction to ask if he needed an irrigation system.

The owner gave him a contract and soon after, brother Christopher joined them after graduating from Ohio State University with a degree in accounting.

“That is when the company officially became Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler,” Sierchio Jr. proudly said.

The company’s growth was rapid when the brothers learned how to bid for government contracts and won a project for Ocean County.

“By then, we were well on our way to becoming a successful irrigation and well drilling company.”

The full-service company installs, services and maintains irrigation systems, providing effective solutions at an affordable price.

Sierchio Jr. added that spring startups and winterization services help protect the investment in an irrigation system.

He added, “we provide a two-year warranty on all parts and labor and include two-year spring start-ups and winterizations on new installations.”

The irrigation industry has changed over the years to have a greater emphasis on efficiency and conservation of water. Sierchio Jr. noted that the company employs sophisticated technology to manage water use. ET sensors use solar radiation, air temperature, relative humidity and wind to calculate evapotranspiration (evaporation and plant transpiration) and communicates this information to the irrigation system’s software.

The software calculates application amounts and run times and communicates these to the system. In addition to the use of innovative technology, Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler has extensive experience working on LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) projects designed to conserve water and protect the environment.

Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler Construction is also driven by core team members who have been with the company for more than 25 years. “We always put our clients’ needs above ours. It is who we are and how we service our clients,” Sierchio Jr. said. “The company has 37 employees who work seamlessly together. We have nine service crews and three installation crews that can provide same-day or next-day service. Our crews work year-round.”

The company is licensed by the state of New Jersey in irrigation, irrigation well pump and well drilling.

“We’ve been licensed since 1991, the first-year licensing became available,” he added. He served on the state board for licensing for six years and helped write the law that made licensing a requirement in the irrigation industry.

“We want to make sure the customer understands how to use their system,” he said adding that all employees are always respectful of a property. “They leave the job site cleaner than when we got there.”

The company helps the community by supporting local sports teams with donations and supports volunteers for nonprofits that benefit those in the special needs sector. The company installed a garden at The HOPE Center in Toms River, a nonprofit that assists those in crisis.

Sierchio Jr. said the company also provided irrigation services for the Children’s Memorial Garden in Toms River, a garden for parents to remember children who passed. As a Marine Corps veteran he noted that “we have hired a number of fellow veterans who served in the Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Sierchio Jr. said “Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler is unlike any other company you’ve worked with. We care about our clients’ needs including their schedule and their bottom line. Our team has been providing quality you can trust since 1985 and will continue for many decades to come.”

Sound News

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

Relief Contrast And Tinnitus

Many of my patients receive tinnitus relief coupled with wearing hearing aids. Tinnitus could be a “symptom” of your hearing loss, so hearing aid relief is quite common. However, some patients report that when they remove their hearing aids, their “tinnitus gets louder.” This is a subjective phenomenon called Relief contrast (also called the contrast effect)/ This refers to the common experience where tinnitus suddenly seems louder when background sound stops — even though the actual volume of the tinnitus has not increased.

It is a perception shift created by the brain, not a physical change in the ears.

Why It Happens

• Masking disappears – Background sounds were partially covering the tinnitus.

• Auditory gain increases – The brain increases sensitivity in quiet environments.

• Contrast effect – The difference between sound and silence makes tinnitus stand out more clearly. Example During the day, ambient sound and hearing aid

amplification may make tinnitus feel softer. When hearing aids are removed at night and the room becomes quiet, the tinnitus may seem louder. This change in perception is relief contrast.

• Is It Dangerous? No. Relief contrast does not mean tinnitus is worsening or that new damage is occurring. It is a normal brain response to changes in surrounding sound levels.

How to Reduce Relief Contrast

• Use low-level background sound at night (fan, white noise, or sound machine).

• Keep gentle ambient sound in very quiet rooms.

U

• se hearing aids with tinnitus masking programs if recommended.

• Avoid complete silence if tinnitus is bothersome.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide answers to all of your hearing care needs. Feel free to visit www.gardenstatehearing.com or call 732-451-3962 We Hear You & We are Here for You!

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!

Six Shore-Area HMH Hospitals Earn High CMS Ratings

NEW JERSEY – Six Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals in Central and South Jersey earned four-star ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in the agency’s Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating program.

The hospitals recognized were Bayshore Medical Center, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Ocean University Medical Center, Raritan Bay/Old Bridge Medical Center and Southern Ocean Medical Center. Mountainside Medical Center also received four stars but is located in North Jersey.

The CMS ratings evaluate hospitals nationwide in areas including mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience and timely, effective care. Hospitals receiving four or five stars are considered among the top-performing facilities in the country. Hackensack Meridian Health officials said the recognition highlights the network’s continued focus on patient-centered care and quality outcomes. The annual ratings are designed to help patients compare hospitals and make informed healthcare decisions.

Senior Support Program Launches Weekly Services

MANCHESTER – Seniors in Ocean County can now receive personalized support through the Senior Success Program, which will be available weekly at Somebody Cares, located at 48 Schoolhouse Road. The program, funded in part by a grant from the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, will offer one-on-one services to local seniors every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The initiative is designed to help older adults navigate challenges and access community resources. Organizers encourage seniors or their caregivers to call Somebody Cares at 732-350-1400 to schedule an appointment.

The Senior Success Program is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen support systems for the aging population across the county.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dear Pharmacist

Why Some People Can’t Stop Picking Or Biting

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Have you ever caught yourself picking at your skin, biting your nails, or running your fingers over a rough spot until suddenly you realize… you’ve been doing it for ten minutes?

And even when you tell yourself to stop, you somehow keep going.

Most people think these behaviors are simply bad habits or nervous quirks. But as a pharmacist, I can tell you there’s often more going on beneath the surface.

In clinical medicine, these are sometimes grouped under the term body-focused repetitive behaviors, which includes nail biting, skin picking, cheek biting, and even hair pulling in more severe cases. But honestly, labels don’t help people very much.

Understanding does.

What’s important to know is that these behaviors are often tied to the nervous system’s attempt to regulate itself. They are not necessarily about lack of discipline or poor self-control.

Sometimes people do these things when they’re anxious. But just as often, they happen when someone is bored, trying to think, reading, driving, or watching TV. That tells us something important… it says it isn’t purely emotional. There’s a neurological component too.

Dopamine, the neurotransmitter involved in motivation, reward, and focus, appears to play a role. There’s also a sensory component. The act of touching, picking, or biting can create a brief shift in how the brain feels. In a strange way, the behavior becomes regulating.

The brain is getting something from it.

Over the years, I’ve also noticed patterns

involving nutrient deficiencies. Iron is one example because it’s required for dopamine production. When iron becomes slightly deficient, people may feel mentally foggy, restless, or oddly unfocused. Iron deficiency will also make you eat ice.

Magnesium matters too. It helps calm excessive signaling in the brain, and low levels can leave people feeling wired but tired. Zinc and B vitamins also support neurotransmitter balance and nervous system health.

I’m not saying supplements magically cure nail biting or face picking or other habits like this, but your brain chemistry and nutrient status plays a role.

Medications could contribute too. Some stimulants may increase repetitive behaviors in certain people, while other medications can create restlessness or sensory discomfort that indirectly worsens them. This is why I always encourage people to look at the whole picture, not just the behavior itself. When it comes to skin picking specifically, I’m not talking about the occasional pimple. I mean the cycle where the brain locks onto an imperfection, and the skin never gets a chance to heal. At that point, it’s not really about the skin anymore. It’s about the loop.

I don’t personally bite my nails, but I’ve spent decades talking with people who do, and I’ve never once thought, “Why don’t they just stop?”

Because it’s rarely as simple as a choice. These are nervous system patterns not character flaws. Sometimes what looks like a bad habit is actually your nervous system trying to solve a problem. For a more indepth version on this topic, plus my free newsletter and archived health articles, visit 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.

By Chris Lundy

Around the JerSey Shore

Toms River Book Show Returns June 5

TOMS RIVER - The Toms River Book Show will take place from 6-9 p.m. on June 5 in the Toms River Artist Community gallery located at 40 Main Street (Route 9) in the downtown area.

It’s the perfect opportunity to meet and support two dozen New Jersey authors.

The show takes place during one of the very well attended Downtown Night Out events. A section of Washington Street from Main Street to Hooper Avenue is closed to vehicles. People eat outside, enjoying live music and ambiance. Hundreds of people come from miles around. There will be three performances:

6:15 p.m.: Original songs and covers by Benjamin Lundy on bass.

6:45 p.m.: Readings and original music by Anthony Kisko (Gandalf Lebowski).

7:30 p.m.: Gregory Andrus, creator of “Portraits Of The Jersey Shore” will speak about his journey.

The book show is a fundraiser for the Toms River Education Foundation which helps provide extracurricular activities to enrich local children. A full list of authors is at TomsRiverBookShow.wordpress.com, including:

Gregory Andrus: Author, speaker, photographer, and founder of Portraits of the Jersey Shore. He’ll be speaking at 7:30 p.m. at the

gallery as well as signing copies of his books, “Portraits of the Jersey Shore,” “A Walk Along The Jersey Shore,” and “Sand, Sea, and Rescue.” potjs.com/

J.R. Bale is a science fiction author whose works include “Cognition Chronicles: The Redstone Legacy.” Can a soul be duplicated? Can one man’s madness save civilization? Can an artificial intelligence have a heart? These are the questions the author attempts to answer. jrbale.com

Michele Baumann: Haunted by the vengeful spirit of her dead mother, a young witch is forced to turn to dangerous and unexpected allies to survive in “The Witch Hunter’s Daughter.”

Jennifer Beilis: “Hear I Am” & “Making Positive Changes” are about self help, mental health, education and disability accommodations/advocacy.

Christopher Michael Blake: “I write horror, mystery, sci-fi thriller and a coming-of-age series about witches – Midnight Macabre, Trespass Against Us, The Cape May Murders, The Four Marks, Pyramid of the Parasite, Prey for Dawn, and the Witches Of Summer’s End series.” ChristopherMichaelBlake.com

Erin Bowker: “The Pleasant Pineapple” is a warm, engaging picture book that helps young children explore emotions in a gentle, relatable way. booksforlittlemind.wixsite.com/author

Karen Cino: Many books including “Seaside Beer Festival:” Vicki runs a beach shop on wheels and likes life uncomplicated: sun, sandals, and selling beach towels. When a finalist in Seaside’s beer festival turns up dead, Vicki and her retired police photographer friend Angie Knowles are the ones who find her. KarenCinoBooks.com

Marian Colton: “To The Glory Of His Name!”: A collection of poetry, reflections, and ruminations from her time working as a paraprofessional in the Special Education Department of Brick Schools to her life in retirement living in a 55+ community.

Lauren Covaci: “Bulletproof Heart” is 17-yearold Lena Novick’s journal entries from the fall of 1989, written while she lives with her grandmother in a small beach town in NJ. It’s the year everything changes: her friend group dissolves, her parents get divorced, she meets Ant, the Ukrainian boy across the street, and she discovers the truth about her family. Laurencovaciauthor.wordpress.com

Robert DeSando: “A Titanic Loss For New Jersey” explores, for the first time, how the tragic loss of the world’s grandest ocean liner in 1912 impacted dozens of passengers and crew with connections to New Jersey.

William Elias: “As a child, my imagination ran wild with stories that played out like vivid films

in my mind. Late at night, I’d turn those visions into tales, building worlds meant to leap off the page and into the hearts of readers. Step with me into the patchwork of my life—as a husband, father, pastor, and retired policeman—and discover how these roles have shaped both the man and the writer I am today.” williameliasnovelist.com/

Luke Giordano: “The Dead Showrunners” –Who is killing Hollywood’s top TV writers?

Chick Natale is a technical consultant for cop dramas, but he’s not quite the former cop he’s told the studios he is. But when the case falls in his lap, who else could solve a murder in the city where no one tells the truth but the biggest liar in town? LukeGiordano.com

Awgwyn Havardr: “SPOREFALL” is an award-winning, horror sci-fi novella focused on Mya, a girl losing her identity, a disease that wants to control both her body and mind, and spores falling from the sky like snow that seek to claim all of humanity. awgwynhavardr.crd.co

Patrick Johns: In “The Hoarding,” an evil sorceress hoards sorcery to gain power for world domination. Her vile devastation turns kingdoms into a Junkland. patrickjohnswrites.com

Karen Kamenetsky: “Stage Frightened To Death”: Singer-songwriter Sam Cook expects to perform with her trio at the Oak Hill Folk

(Book Show - See Page 20)

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Know Your Rights And The Importance Of Requesting Treatment If You’re Injured At Work!

By: Christopher R. Shea, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates

According to N.J.S.A. 34:15-15 of the Workers Compensation Act, every employer within the state of New Jersey has an absolute duty to provide proper and adequate medical treatment to any employee who is injured at work. Benson v. Coca Cola Co., 120 N.J. Super60, 66 (App. Div. 1972). However, this duty only comes into effect if the employee notifies the employer of the accident and request treatment.

In 1972 the Supreme Court stated Benson v. Coca Cola Co. that if there is no demand upon the Employer to provide treatment, then the employer will not be responsible to pay for treatment, unless the request by injured worker would have been futile.

In this case the injured worker, Mr. Benson, fell off of a tank tuck and injured his head, back, and neck. He went to the company clinic with significant complaints. The company doctor examined, took x-rays (negative), and prescribed heat, muscle relaxers, and pain meds.

The injured worker refused the treatment at the company clinic and failed to follow up the next day at the company clinic as prescribed.

Later that same day the injured worker utilized his private health insurance schedule an appointment with his own doctor without notifying his employer or the workers compensation carrier. This orthopedic doctor diagnosed him with a concussion, possible spinal fracture doctor and recommended that he be hospitalized for a possible cervical injury.

After this appointment, the employee

admitted himself to the hospital without asking the employer for the recommended medical care. Thereafter, the injured worker stayed for approximately one week and was then released.

After being released the employee demanded that his employer pay the medical bills associated with his hospital stay because the employer failed to provide adequate medical care. The employer contended it was not given the opportunity to provide treatment.

At trial, the Workers’ Compensation Judge ruled that the employer should not be responsible for the treatment bills finding that the Worker’s Compensation Act did not automatically give discretion to the injured employee to seek independent medical assistance. Therefore, since the employee did not provide his employer with the opportunity to provide the recommended medical care the Judge found the outside medical treatment and hospitalization was unauthorized.

The worker appealed, and the Appellate Court found that the worker would be responsible for the cost of unauthorized treatment unless said worker can establish that he requested his employer provide him with said treatment or that he did not make the request because it would have been futile. The Appellate Court then sent the case back down to the trial court for further testimony on this issue.

Moral of the story. Always ask for treatment from the employer first, preferably in writing, unless you can prove that the request would be futile.

Bluegrass And Blueberry Social Planned

WHITING – St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will host a Bluegrass and Blueberry Social from 1 to 3 p.m. July 11 at 180 Route 539.

Guests can enjoy blueberry shortcakes, beverages and bluegrass music. The event will also include a bake sale, 50/50, door prizes and a treasure auction. Tickets are $10 and are available at the church office from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. For more information, call 732-350-2121.

Ocean County Plans Resource Fair

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County residents can learn more about local programs and services during a Human Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 4 at the Ocean County Mall Center Court.

A lone angler casts a line into the calm waters of the Jersey

as a

sunset closes out the day, offering a peaceful reminder that the summer season is just about here. Photo by Patrick

of Howell. Want to see your Jersey Shore photo in this space? Email your pictures to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com.

Book Show:

Continued From Page 18 Festival, but discovers her friend’s body and wants to find her killer. She eventually finds the clue that solves Kat’s murder, but the killer is one step behind.

Anthony Kishko: He will be performing and reading from his book, “American Fool’s Day.” Duke The Suit is mysteriously warped into a 1939 film noire just as a new and advanced technology grips power through propaganda. He teams up with the likes of Hedy Lamarr and Louis Armstrong.

William Lewis: Our newest release is titled “My Daily Piney: Heartfelt Stories Rooted in the Pine Barrens.” But we will have our other 4 bestselling books about local history as well. pineytribe.com

Olivia Martel: “How To Fly” is a coming-ofage story and a love letter to late bloomers. At the heart of the narrative is the question, Who are you when you are not being “good?”

Dawn McDonnell: “I Love You Like FOOD” is a book that showcases a unique and original artwork inspired by the love of the people in our lives. Love is a feast, a banquet of flavors, textures, and shared moments. It’s not just about food; it’s about nourishing your soul.

Paul Mila: He has incorporated the ocean and diving as the core of his writing, which includes six mystery/thriller novels, three children’s books, and a nonfiction book about ocean encounters. Vibrant underwater photography illustrates the stories. milabooks.com

Fish Nealman: “Born Posthumous” is a haunting view of identity, legacy, and time. The story follows the life of Manny Old, a legendary musician, and how his life continues even after his death. tales.fish

Pamela Martoranda: “Turning Pain Into Her Power” is an anthology comprised of 22 inspiring stories, life lessons and strength strategies

to help you rise and roar. These stories don’t just inspire; they equip you with the tools to stand taller, stronger, and more unshakable. LiveYourBestLifeNJ.com

Donna Parsons: “The Excel Level 1: SkillzSet Instruction Manual is a spiral bound beginner-friendly guide designed to help students, adult learners, instructors and new professionals confidently build foundational Excel skills. DonnaMParsons.com

Susan Pitch: “Holly and Maple” is a children’s book geared toward grades 2-4. This book follows the unlikely friendship between a holly leaf with an attitude and a maple leaf who is sweet. Its emphasis is on love, friendship, jealousy, loss, and second chances infused with science.

D.T. Scarola: “Jesus Take My Wheels” is the compelling fictional story of an athlete’s journey from devastating injury to wheelchair basketball stardom. Combining raw vulnerability with spiritual grit, the book explores the power of faith and perseverance in redefining “ability” and finding a triumphant new purpose on and off the court.

Doug Snelson: “Who’s Got The Face” is for early and beginner readers. “The Fable of the Snake Named Slim” teaches persistence, perseverance, and creative problem solving. “Everybody Deserves A Hug” is about love, kindness and understanding. “Pickleball Poetry” contains fun and whimsical verses for pickleball players of all ages to think about.

DougSnelson.com

Iolanda S.: “The Wolfe and the Sparrow”: WWII shatters the world of prima ballerina Julienne Auclair. When a defiant performance lands her in a prison camp, Julienne is drawn into dangerous proximity with the camp’s Commandant. Julienne faces a moral dilemma: Is it safer to stay silent, or will she risk everything to save others? – 18+ Readers for dark themes and content. TikTok: @IOLANDA.S

1957 Chevy Belair - New tires, shocks, V8, 283, 3 speed, 4 door, $6,250. 732-740-9906. (26)

Garage

GARAGE SALE - 55 Franklin Lane, Whiting, NJ 08759. Saturday, May 30th 9am-4pm. (24)

SELLING???- The realtor you are looking for - Secrets of getting more for your property-best price/ lowest expense - www.listforless.com 609-713-1727. (27)

Items For Sale

Retired Electrician's Surplus For Sale - Wire, PVC pipe, breakers, etc. Some tools. Shelving for Chevy van also. Whiting area. 732-890-4663. (24)

Rowboat - 12', deep V, Tracker. Very good condition. Never used. Ideal for Summer fun. $900. Call 732-477-7709 leave message. (24)

Special Hospital Bed - Only used a handful of times. Great condition. Perfect for a rehabilitation facility or for a loved one who has trouble getting up. The bed turned to a 90 degree angle to transfer someone in to a chair. 718-610-9244. (23)

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)

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. (24)

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)

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

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

CASH, 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

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)

Help Wanted

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)

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

Services

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

Registered Nurse - Knee or Hip surgery pre or post orthopedic speciality Registered Nurse comes to your home for assistance. Free consult Call Barbara RN @ 516-4601729, Toms River area only. (25)

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

Clean Sweep Pressure Washing & Home Repairs - No job to small or large. (NEW SEASON SPECIAL!) Free dryer exhaust/vent cleaning with every free estimate! A $75 value! Call or text to book your appointment 201-835-9394 (26)

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

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

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

Lightning Strike Electric - You can rely on us to get the work done! Service/panel upgrades switches, outlets, dimmers, spot lights, fans & more! Call Dmitriy 856631-7519. lightningstrikeelectric. com. Lic #34EI00941600. (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)

Experienced Gardener specializing in container gardens and house plants. Planting, design, refresh containers. Seasonal care, problems diagnosed, DIY advise. Free 5 step care plan with visit. Keep your containers thriving in all seasons. Joseph 732-232-8144. (24)

Joe's Handyman ServicePainting, powerwashing, electrical, plumbing, light hauling, cleanouts. 732-859-9266. (17)

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

Transportation Services - Airports, Cruise Ships, Casinos, Appointments, Light Hauling with Pick-Up Truck. Call Bill 732-674-0378. (19)

MASON CONTRACTOR - All types of mason work, steps & porches, walkways, patios, pavers, brick & block work.Quality work since 1975. CALL KEN 908-964-7526. (16)

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)

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)

DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK GOOD AND SHINE? CALL LENNY 908-868-4609. (27)

Car Service - Tuckerton-LBI-Bayville. Airports, cruise ports, casinos. Local or long distance. Text or call Keith 609-351-2462. (19)

Housecleaning - Laundry, window, carpet, office cleaning, food shopping, painting, driving. Call 732330-4189 or 848-287-3944. (1)

YMT Vacations. Over 50 guided tours available. Affordable, social and stress-free travel designed for mature travelers. Our tours include accommodations, transportation, baggage handling, sightseeing, entrance fees, a professional Tour Director and select meals. For a limited time SAVE $250 on all tours. Call YMT today. 1-866-296-9071. (t/n)

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Around the JerSey Shore

Boardwalk Claw Machine Named NJ’s Most Unexpected Romantic Spot

NEW JERSEY – Forget candlelit dinners. In New Jersey, romance may be hiding between flashing arcade lights and one more attempt to grab a stuffed animal.

A new survey from ACE.com found that the Jersey Shore boardwalk claw machine ranked as New Jersey’s most unexpectedly romantic place, topping a list of ordinary spots where singles say sparks can fly when no one is trying too hard.

The survey of 3,024 respondents looked at everyday places where people might strike up an unplanned connection, especially

as warmer weather and wedding season bring more social outings. ACE.com said the findings point to a shift away from high-pressure dating environments and toward casual settings where conversations feel more natural.

New Jersey’s top five unexpected romance spots were:

1. The Jersey Shore Boardwalk Claw Machine: The arcade game won the top spot, with its mix of playful frustration, friendly competition and repeated failed attempts offering just enough drama to start

a conversation.

2. American Dream Mall in East Rutherford: With shopping, indoor skiing, water attractions and plenty of places to get turned around, the massive entertainment complex offers no shortage of chances for strangers to laugh, wander and connect.

3. Princeton Record Exchange: The record store made the list for its easy conversation starters, from album choices to shared opinions on music.

4. Wawa Hoagie Touchscreen: The touchscreen ordering station may not seem

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

romantic, but ACE.com said it can quickly show personality through sandwich choices, confidence and courtesy.

5. Hoboken PATH Platform: A delayed train, shared commute and a little mutual frustration can sometimes be enough to turn small talk into something more.

The survey also found that rising costs may be changing how people think about dating. According to ACE.com, 96% of respondents said higher prices have made traditional date spots such as restaurants, bars, concerts and

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Around the JerSey Shore

Challenge Day Facilitator Remembered For Impact

OCEAN COUNTY – Challenge Day officials and community members are mourning the loss of longtime facilitator Pam Dunn, whose work over more than two decades reached students and adults across the country, including many in Ocean County.

Dunn spent 23 years with Challenge Day, a program focused on building empathy, connection and emotional support among participants. During her time with the organization, she worked with more than 200,000 students and adults.

Organizers said Dunn had a gift for helping people feel seen, heard and supported during Challenge Day events and workshops. Her efforts left a lasting impression on schools and communities that participated in the program.

Photo courtesy Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office

Community members described Dunn as a compassionate presence whose work helped

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paid activities less appealing.

That does not mean people are less interested in romance. Instead, the survey suggests many are more open to low-cost, low-pressure encounters in places such as grocery stores, coffee shops, bookstores and transit stations.

Manners also matter. The top “green flag” respondents noticed in public was being polite to service workers, chosen by 18%. Other positive traits included helping someone with bags, directions or a photo, returning a shopping cart, offering the last seat and staying calm during a delay. On the other hand, rude behavior can quickly end any romantic possibility. Being rude to staff was the biggest turnoff, selected by 15% of respondents. Cutting in line, constant complaining and aggressive

many people feel less isolated. Those who knew her said her impact will continue to be felt through the lives she touched over the years.

behavior over parking also ranked high among romance killers.

When asked which errands have the most underrated flirting potential, grocery shopping ranked first at 23%. Picking up coffee followed at 16%, with buying pet food at 12% and browsing a bookstore at 11%.

ACE.com also asked which movie-style meet-cute seemed most believable in real life. Asking someone to take a photo ranked first at 16%, followed by reaching for the same grocery item at 15% and laughing at the same strange moment nearby at 14%.

A spokesperson for ACE.com said the survey shows that romance does not always need a dramatic setting.

“When people think about romance, they usually picture candlelit dinners or nights out, but our findings suggest the odds of meeting someone special may be just as strong in the places people least expect,” the spokesperson said.

Around the JerSey Shore

Police Recruits Graduate

OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County Police Academy Basic Police Recruit Class No. 124 graduated during a ceremony at Georgian Court University after completing five months of training.

The recruits trained under the direction of Ocean County Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy and were joined at the ceremony by family, academy instructors, law enforcement leaders and county

officials.

Ocean County Commissioner Director Frank Sadeghi and Commissioner Sam Ellenbogen, who serve as liaisons to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department, also attended.

Ellenbogen told the graduates the ceremony marked a turning point as they move from preparation into the responsibilities of law enforcement.

Funeral Planning Seminar Held

TOMS RIVER – Senior Success Program, in partnership with Oliverie Funeral Homes, recently hosted a Funeral Planning CHOICES seminar at The Oaks at Toms River.

The program, presented by Geraldine Oliverie, owner and operator of Oliverie Funeral Homes, offered information on funeral planning options, costs, planning ahead and making decisions that reflect

courtesy Mental Health Association of NJ

personal wishes and values.

Attendees were able to ask questions in a supportive setting and also enjoyed a light lunch, giveaways and a raffle.

Organizers thanked attendees, partners and supporters for helping make the program a success and said WISE plans to continue offering educational opportunities throughout Ocean County.

Around the JerSey Shore

Students Honored In County Poster Contest

TOMS RIVER – Four fourth-grade students from schools across Ocean County were recognized by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and the Ocean County Clerk’s Office for creating winning entries in the annual “My County Poster Contest.”

The contest invited students to design posters showcasing landmarks, themes and images that capture the spirit and identity of Ocean County. Winners were determined based on the number of “likes” their art-

work received on Facebook.

Ocean County Deputy Clerk John Catalano and Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione joined together to congratulate the students and their families during the recognition ceremony.

Officials said the contest continues to encourage young residents to celebrate their communities while highlighting the places and qualities that make Ocean County unique.

Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally

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.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 Warby Parker array 7 Shipping inquiry 13 Wine gadget 15 Flow swiftly 16 Like many Basquiat works 18 Swahili for “trouble” 19 Baby gear that allows safe snug

gling 21 Booking.com option 22 Some farm ruminants 23 Takes steps? 25 “In order to be, never try to __”: Camus

Soak (up)

8 Freedom to __: rights of public access

9 Routinely insured against a crash 10 Collapsed dramatically 11 Prizes 12 Domains 14 Prepares to go home

17 Sets of slides 20 “Video Games” singer Lana Del __ 24 Time to enforce bedtime 27 Italian ride, casually

Bang-up stuff 27 Product with a leprechaun mascot 29 Puts on the spot? 30 Privileged ones 2 Celebrity 3 Creative gift 4 Posts 5 Extension that makes something smaller? 6 Raison d’être 7 Old film channel

28 “The Little Mermaid” star Bailey 29 Dessert ingredient also called ube 31 One of the two major Sanskrit epics in Hinduism

32 __ nerve

33 Is underhanded 34 All over the lino, perhaps

35 Deep fissures 36 FDR power project

37 Meals that tell a story of liberation 38 Bodysuit

39 Tacos al __

42 More likely to win the annual Gerber Photo Search, perhaps

44 Forecast no.

46 You, once

48 Like some reno projects

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Communications could become easier around money and financial matters, a lot could be moving from confusion to clarity. Drawing on old well-tested methods and habits can be the best way to get tasks done today.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Continue to work on financial solutions, the stars are helping you for another week or so until the current pattern falls apart in the sky. If you can break free, even for an hour, do it: Create, sing, dance, play.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): While you may not want to prioritize money, it’s a survival necessity and you’re likely to be exploring the topic for the next little bit — learn what the Universe is teaching. Spend time in your home base.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You could be moving away from consternation and confusion and toward a greater sense of self, deep down. Self-exploration and self-discovery are pieces of self-love. Share from the heart.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): A confounding plot twist in a friendship or group might be over now, things could revert to a more normal state. It’s a poor time to make economic decisions, there’s too much impulsivity and reactivity in your financial sector now.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Career matters could be smoothing out, there could be a shot at a new job, a raise, or a profitable side gig. Today could be a fun day for a low-key glow up but don’t make big changes to appearance for another day or so.

FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 30 - JUNE 5 BY

JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If you find a financial guru, investigate and at least consider their advice, you could learn things that help you monetize more effectively. Self-work is like other forms of hygiene, you have to keep things clean to move forward.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The deepest bonds can be in platonic friendships, sometimes they can be truer because romantic attraction doesn’t need to be present and isn’t a driving force. Shared resources could become more equitable.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You and someone close may need to consider joint financial interests for the next few days, there could be greater clarity and fewer power plays now. When you work with love, it’s not only work, it’s also love.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Little happens when entangled in a no-win situation, you might be able to make a lot more progress today. If you don’t feel understood by the people around you, consider participating in an online community.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When creativity and earning capacity meet, a lot can be accomplished that is also enjoyable. You could get the idea that puts these themes together soon. Don’t negotiate now, you could be too emotional.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A domestic tangle could be resolving, and new financial resources could emerge to help support your life. Deep sharing with a partner could happen now, what’s unclear is whether it’s warm feelings or revisiting the past.

SPLIT PEA SOUP WITH CRISPY BACON PERFECT FOR A CHILLY DAY

Diane Rossen Worthington

Spring can have surprising weather swings from sunny, warm days to rainy, cold ones. This soup is always appreciated at those unexpected chilly times.

A wonderful weekday main course soup for lunch or dinner, this soup is full of flavor, color and very hearty; a meal in one. Split peas don’t need soaking, so you can make this in about an hour at the end of the day. If you’ve ever wondered what a split pea is, they are field peas that are grown especially for drying.

Bacon is included in the soup and as a garnish on top. The smoky flavor adds an important layer of flavor to the soup. The crumbled bacon garnish adds a savory counterpoint to the creamy, naturally sweet split pea flavor. For a variation, garnish the soup with chopped honey-baked ham or crispy prosciutto.

Serve this with a simple vegetable salad and warm, crusty French bread. A glass of a full-bodied pinot noir or zinfandel is a nice beverage accompaniment.

Serves 4

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 stalk celery, sliced

2 small carrots, peeled and sliced

1 cup split peas, green or yellow, rinsed and picked over

4 cups chicken or vegetable stock

2 bacon slices

2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh marjoram or 1/4 teaspoon dried 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried

Salt and small pinch freshly ground black pepper

To garnish: 1/4-pound bacon, fried until crisp, drained on paper towels, and coarsely chopped

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Saute onion for 3 to 5 minutes or until softened. Add celery and carrots; saute for another 3 minutes or until just slightly softened.

2. Add split peas, stock, bacon slices and herbs. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Partially cover and cook for about 50 to 60 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Remove bacon slices.

3. Coarsely puree 2 cups of soup in a food processor fitted with a metal blade or process with a hand blender in the pot just until the desired texture is reached. Return the pureed soup to the soup pot and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 more minutes. Taste for seasoning.

4. To serve: Ladle into heated soup bowls and garnish with the crispy crumbled bacon. Serve immediately. Make ahead: This soup can be made up to three days ahead, covered and refrigerated. It also can be frozen for up to three months.