2026-06-20 - The Manchester Times

Safety Taught During Annual Bike Rodeo

By Bob Vosseller

bicycle safety skills as it was a nice pre-summer community event that brought together youngsters, parents, officers of the borough’s police de-

ready to take a

partment, first aid squad and council members to Horicon Lake recently for the annual Bike Rodeo event.

The annual event featured a bike inspection area in the parking lot where bicycles were examined for safety, as well as a test bike ride around part of the lake led by a police officer.

One of the highlights was a specially crafted

(Rodeo - See Page 15)

Oyster Creek Could Have Four New Nuclear Reactors

By Stephanie Faughnan

LACEY – The Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station could once again produce nuclear power under a concept being explored by Holtec International that would place four small modular reactors at the Lacey Township site after decommis -

Council Focuses On Grants, Land Use And Manchester Day

By Bob Vosseller MANCHESTER –

The governing body applied for grants, prepped for the upcoming master plan, and touted the return of Manchester Day during the latest Township Council meeting. The town applied for a grant from the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) for the Roosevelt Boulevard bicycle path extension program. They are also seeking a DOT grant for the

First Avenue Roadway Improvement project. They also applied for a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant, known as the SAFER grant. This grant is a highly competitive federal program administered by FEMA to help local fire departments hire personnel and improve volunteer recruitment and retention. New Jersey fire departments frequently utilize these (Council - See Page 4)

Geese Run Afoul Of Borough Council

By Bob Vosseller

LAKEHURST – Councilman Steven Oglesby noted that the borough’s population is growing but the new residents are birds of a feather and they are causing a mess.

sioning is complete. The concept was discussed during a recent nuclear energy conference hosted by Rowan University’s Steve Sweeney Center for Public Policy, where state officials, lawmakers and industry representatives examined how nuclear energy could help meet New Jersey’s growing demand for electricity.

The discussion comes as New Jersey officials examine ways to meet growing electricity demand while maintaining carbon-free generation.

During the conference, Holtec Director of Government Affairs and Communications Patrick O’Brien identified Oyster Creek as a logical location for future nuclear development.

“The easiest place to site new nuclear is where you already have nuclear,” O’Brien said.

“You have a knowledge base, you have a workforce, you have an understanding of the risks and benefits of what nuclear is. Oyster Creek presents that opportunity.”

Holtec later confirmed additional details in response to questions. According to O’Brien, Oyster Creek is being considered as a follow-on project after the company’s first small modular reactors are deployed at the Palisades site in Michigan.

(Oyster - See Page 4)

“I know it has been brought up many times,” noting that a local street has been invaded “by our goose population. They are fouling our street. They are fouling our sidewalks. They are fouling the yards,” he said, pun intended.

“We have 40 new goslings that are growing rapidly. I’d love to snatch them all up and move them somewhere else.”

“People are now walking in the streets and not on the sidewalks and I am talking a whole lot,” he said, concerned about pedestrian safety.

Council President Jeffrey Emmons said he spoke with Police Chief Matt Kline in hopes of “fixing the situation. I’m not sure what

(Geese - See Page 15)

Council

:

Continued From Page 1 funds to meet industry safety standards without straining local municipal budgets.

There were three ordinances discussed.

Ordinance 26-34 involved fences, walls, screening hedges, trees and sight triangles while ordinance 26-35 involved a special emergency appropriation of $395,000 providing for the preparation of the township’s master plan.

The master plan is an overview of every parcel of land in town. Officials use a master plan to impact zoning to guide future development.

A third ordinance, 26-36 authorized the exchange of land between the township and developer Jeffrey Jerman at 624 Engelmere

Boulevard and 1524 Monmouth Avenue.

The governing body also urged the New Jersey State Legislature and Governor Mikie Sherrill to repeal the gas tax escalator and restore accountability to fuel tax increases.

Mayor Joseph Hankins also signed a license agreement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide as part of the township’s summer recreation program series.

The township approved a shared service agreement with the Borough of Lakehurst for fire prevention services. Lakehurst recently saw the decommissioning of their 113-year-old volunteer fire company.

A contract was also approved appointing Taylor Design Group Inc. as an as-needed landscape architect. A shared services agreement was also approved for the township’s tax assessor to provide services

to Plumsted Township. A similar arrangement was provided to Jackson this budget preparation service by Manchester Chief Financial Officer Jeannette Larrison who worked on Jackson’s municipal budget proposal as well as Manchester’s.

An employment agreement addendum between Manchester Township and Tax Assessor Martin Lynch was also established. Those with questions or issues involving the township’s Tax Office can contact them at 732-657-8121 extension 3802, fax them at 732-657-7237 or e-mail Lynch at taxassessor@manchestertwp.com

Office hours for that office are from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday – Friday except holidays. The office is located in the Manchester Township Municipal Complex at 1 Colonial Drive.

“Still early, as the Oyster Creek plans are for a potential project on our site to follow the first two Holtec SMR 300s being built at the Palisades restart project site in Covert Michigan,” O’Brien said.

Those reactors are expected to come online in the early 2030s.

Under the concept currently being evaluated, Oyster Creek would host four of Holtec’s Generation 3+ pressurized water reactors. “OC would be four 340mw reactors of our PWR Generation 3+ design,” O’Brien said. Combined, the four reactors would gen-

erate approximately 1,360 megawatts of electricity, more than double the output of the single reactor that operated at Oyster Creek before it went offline in 2018.

The original Oyster Creek reactor generated approximately 625 megawatts before the plant closed in 2018.

While no formal application has been submitted, local officials say they support redevelopment of the site, noting that discussions remain preliminary. “The township supports the redevelopment of the Oyster Creek site including the potential SMRs,” Mayor Steven Kennis said. “We will support the efforts of Holtec as best we can while also looking out for the best

interest of Lacey taxpayers and residents.”

Decommissioning

Continues

The discussion of new reactors may come as a surprise to some residents who believed Oyster Creek’s nuclear history was ending with the current decommissioning project. Oyster Creek ceased operations in September 2018 after nearly 50 years of service.

Holtec acquired Oyster Creek following its closure and is currently dismantling the former plant. “Decommissioning remains on track,” O’Brien said.

During the Rowan conference, O’Brien said former nuclear sites offer significant advantages when considering locations

Manchester Day

Township officials noted that Manchester Day will be starting at 2 p.m. on June 27 at Harry Wright Lake Park. This will also serve to not only celebrate the township’s birthday and heritage but the 250th anniversary of America.

The free, family-friendly event will run until 10 p.m. and will feature food and craft vendors, free rides, live entertainment, and fireworks. Harry Wright Lake Park is located at 1501 Lake Road in the Whiting section of the township. Other activities will include lake swimming and this year’s live music entertainment will include the band Soul Machine.

The rain date for Manchester Day is June 28, and the fireworks would be rescheduled to July 8.

for future reactors. Part of the appeal is the existing infrastructure and workforce already associated with the site.

“We’ll have that facility decommissioned by 2031. We’re on track there, and that lays us out as a follow-on project for the Palisades site,” O’Brien said. “That will be potentially four units at that site, which would exactly double what used to sit on the Oyster Creek site.”

Assemblyman Greg Myhre (R-9th), whose district includes Lacey Township, voiced strong support for the concept during the conference.

“I would 100 percent love to have all

Oyster:

Continued From Page 4

the focus on Oyster Creek,” Myhre said while discussing legislation intended to encourage small modular reactor development.

Myhre said many residents still view the plant’s closure as an economic loss. “They have not gotten over the closure of Oyster Creek,” he said. “When I say they, the majority, a big majority of the population wants to have a nuclear power plant operating there.”

Jobs And Economic Impact

Holtec officials said a future Oyster Creek project could bring hundreds of permanent jobs to the area. O’Brien said Holtec’s two-reactor Palisades project is expected to support roughly 540 permanent jobs, suggesting similar economic benefits could accompany future reactor development elsewhere.

Beyond employment, supporters argue that small modular reactors could help address increasing electricity demand driven by electrification, artificial intelligence and data centers.

At the conference, O’Brien said the nation faces a broader challenge of replacing aging power generation while meeting future demand.

“We have to get it right now,” he said. “You’re going to have to build new nuclear right now to meet demand, whether it’s AI, electrification. We’re also going to have to show that we can build new nuclear to

replace the current fleet.”

Safety And Fuel Storage

Holtec’s SMR-300 design remains under review by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and has not yet received final approval for construction.

The company says the reactors rely on passive safety systems intended to function without external power or operator intervention during certain emergency scenarios. “The reactors have passive safety systems allowing a potential Emergency Planning Zone to be the site boundary,” O’Brien said.

Traditional nuclear plants generally maintain emergency planning zones extending beyond plant property lines. Any reduction in emergency planning requirements would ultimately require approval from federal regulators.

Questions also remain about the spent nuclear fuel currently stored at Oyster Creek. O’Brien said the fuel from the original reactor will remain at the site until the federal government fulfills its obligation to remove commercial nuclear waste.

The fuel is currently stored in dry cask storage systems on the Oyster Creek property.

During the Rowan conference, O’Brien argued that long-term fuel storage is no longer a technical challenge. “At the end of the day, when you talk about spent fuel, it is not a scientific issue,” he said. “We know how to safely store fuel. It is 100% a political issue.”

Critics of nuclear power continue to raise

concerns regarding long-term disposal of spent fuel.

Plans Are Conceptual

For now, Holtec’s Oyster Creek plans remain conceptual and would require extensive federal review, licensing and financing before construction could begin. The company has not announced a timeline for any Oyster Creek application and says discussions about potential customers for the power remain preliminary.

When asked if there was a chance that a data center might be co-located on the site, O’Brien said there had been no discussions concerning the possibility.

Holtec officials believe Oyster Creek could play a significant role in the next generation of American nuclear energy.

“As a New Jersey company, we would love to build in New Jersey and get those deployed here,” O’Brien said.

Environmental groups have historically opposed expansion of nuclear power, citing concerns about radioactive waste, costs and long-term storage issues. Supporters counter that nuclear energy provides reliable carbon-free electricity and can operate regardless of weather conditions.

Any future Oyster Creek reactor project would require federal licensing, financing and environmental review before construction could begin. While Holtec’s plans remain conceptual, the company has now publicly identified the former nuclear plant as a preferred location for future small modular reactor development.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

Have A Fabulous 4th Of July Celebrating America 250

The Fourth of July is coming up fast and this year the birthday celebration should be bigger and better than most because we have reached the milestone year of 250, but it does seem like there isn’t a lot of hoopla going on nationally or even as much as expected, locally.

On the national front things are a bit chaotic. The Freedom 250 celebration looked like it was headed for cancelation after a wave of musicians pulled out.

President Donald Trump expressed his view that it should be canceled but that has since changed. For those unaware, Freedom 250 is the group that is organizing the administration’s events for the birthday celebration. They announced a series of nine musical acts would perform during a 16day exposition - known as the Great American State Fair - on the National Mall later this month with festivities surrounding America’s big birthday bash.

Trump’s alternative isn’t

all that inspiring. “We should have a giant Make America Great Again Rally, for 250, instead of having overpriced singers, who nobody wants to hear, whose music is boring, and yet who do nothing but complain,” the president said. One has to ask, well why did the administration choose those particular singers if that was the case?

The musicians were to have canceled because the event had become more partisan so now the president wants to make it completely partisan with his organization rally? Do we really need a political event to sidestep what should be a non-political celebration? I don’t think so!

I still recall our Bicentennial year in 1976 and enjoyed watching all those Bicentennial Minutes that commemorated the American Revolution with segments produced by CBS. The network broadcast each night from July 4, 1974 until December 31, 1976. Oh, how our world and country have changed in a

half century. That feeling of learning and celebrating our heritage seems to have been replaced by pessimism over our immediate future. Even without some grand celebration, we’re Americans, the party will happen locally.

Along the Jersey Shore we know how to have a patriotic good time. In Ocean County we have a variety of celebrations of fireworks, food trucks and get togethers but some of those have run into economic issues.

One town that provided a nice snapshot of Independence Day with its borough historical society sponsored car show, a street fair, vendors from the community (where the local Girl Scouts served up the best cheeseburgers ever grilled and a local church provided free lemonade) was Lakehurst Borough. It also included a fireworks display the night before and a parade along Union Avenue.

This year the car show was unable to be organized and due to the recent dissolve-

ment of the town’s 113-yearold Fire Company it was decided the parade would not be held but some kind of celebration would occur in the fall. At first fireworks looked to be too costly; an impact of the president’s tariffs had caused the price to increase as most came from China. A drone show alternative proved even more expensive. There does appear to be a plan for pyrotechnics in the borough after all.

Likewise nearby Manchester is incorporating the 250-celebration theme into its Manchester Day event on June 27. Jackson’s 4th of July festivities are said to feature a flea market and fireworks on July 11 at one of its parks. Toms River’s Independence Day celebration will center around massive waterfront fireworks, historic 250th-anniversary programs, and nearby regional festivities. Because Toms River serves as the county seat, several special events commemorate America’s 250th Independence Day starting on July

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

2 with a “Patriotic Extravaganza” which is an early Independence celebration with concerts and a drone show taking place at 1198 Bandon Road (Parks Administration Building) at 7:30 p.m.

On July 4, you can enjoy “Bells Across America” at the Ocean County Courthouse (118 Washington Street from 1 to 3 p.m. for a public reading of the Declaration of Independence and a statewide ceremonial ringing of bells.

The Ocean County Library’s Toms River Branch on Washington Street is hosting a special community 250th Anniversary concert from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on July 4. There will also be fireworks in Beachwood as part of that community’s 90-year-old tradition will light up the sky over Toms River at dusk. Seaside Heights will have its fireworks display off the oceanfront on July 4. Brick Township will host its annual SummerFest concert series with fireworks taking place on July 3 at Windward

Beach Park. This event will feature live music, food trucks, and a fireworks finale.

Close by in Point Pleasant Beach, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk will have their Independence Day fireworks display at dusk on July 4. The Jersey Shore BlueClaws based in Lakewood will host a “Red, White & BlueClaws” fireworks night after their baseball game at Shore Town Ballpark on July 3. For additional details, history tours, and schedule updates, visit the Ocean County Tourism 250th Anniversary or the Beachwood, New Jersey Government Calendar. Whatever you do, be safe, have fun and remember that America still has a lot to celebrate and no matter how bleak things may appear currently, the American dream remains for a brighter future for everyone!

Bob Vosseller, Assistant News Editor

New Jersey has more at stake in foreign aid than most realize. Johnson & Johnson and Merck have spent years collaborating on global health programs to save lives abroad and support jobs at home. When America retreats from the world, New Jersey loses too, including its contracts, research, jobs, and standing. And America is doing

The Manchester 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.

just that. Since the United States shut down USAID in January 2025, an estimated 800,000 people have died, with The Lancet warning that 14 million more could die by 2030. One was Peter Donde, a ten-yearold who lost access to the HIV medicine keeping him alive. I learned his name interning at the Alliance for American Leadership, and I have not forgotten his story since.

I am the daughter and granddaughter of immigrants who built a life in Holmdel because America opened its doors to them, which taught me that a nation generous inward must be generous beyond its borders. Studying abroad in Ireland showed me how American investment and diplomacy shape lasting goodwill in a country, with

foreign aid being the backbone of American leadership and global stability. American assistance has lifted nearly a billion people out of poverty and returns $5 for every dollar spent, helping create a stronger America. Peter should still be here, and so should millions of others. America, as well as New Jersey, must lead again before the damage becomes irreversible.

Alexia Zambito Holmdel

Will Lanier Sink Mystic?

I believe that the Lanier Project, consisting of 300+ homes, is a major concern regarding Little Egg Harbor Township and surrounding communities. Many of the newer home -

owners that now reside here are not aware of the damage caused by SuperStorm Sandy.

In the year 2012, when Sandy hit, this township did not receive the media coverage other areas had. People were unaware that some homes had over 10 feet of water in them and that over 4,000 homes were damaged.

Our home is located in the Atlantis section on Country Club Blvd. Our home is not on the water, but backs up to the golf course. Still in all, we had to evacuate our home and go to the township shelter for 3 days due to the flooding. When we came home our home was filled with dirty water (fresh, salt and sewage water). We were shocked to find out that our home was inundated by high tides

and water flow from Willis Creek. We had 4 feet of water and lost everything, as did our neighbors. Me and my neighbors have major concerns that if this Lanier Project goes through, which is where Willis Creek headway starts in this densely forested area, the water would have nowhere to go. It will no longer be absorbed naturally into the ground as it is now. It would force the flow of water to increase, impacting all the communities and developments with risk of flooding.

My fear is that if this project goes through and we should have a major storm, some communities like Mystic will end up under water.

Mayor Receives Meritorious Service Award

From The Desk Of

The Mayor

By Manchester Mayor Joseph Hankins

Mayor Joseph Hankins was honored with the 2026 Meritorious Service Award at the 200 Club of Ocean County’s 37th Annual Awards Reception. The Meritorious Service Award is among the organization’s highest annual honors, recognizing outstanding dedication, leadership, and selfless service among members of the fire service, law enforcement, EMS, and other first responders throughout Ocean County.

There is truly no one more deserving of this honor than Mayor Joseph Hankins, whose unwavering commitment, extraordinary leadership, and unparalleled knowledge have made a lasting impact on his community and on the firefighting profession across New Jersey.

Mayor Hankins has been an active and dedicated member of the Manchester Township Volunteer Fire Company for 40 years. His journey began in 1976, when he joined as a junior member, and through decades of faithful service he rose to the position of Chief, demonstrating outstanding leadership and integrity. His career embodies the

Capitol Comments

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

very spirit of public service - selflessness, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in protecting others.

In 2009, Mayor Hankins extended his commitment to the broader firefighting community by serving as the Ocean County Executive Committeeman for the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association, representing approximately 2,815 career and volunteer firefighters in Ocean County.

During his tenure as an Executive Committeeman, he recognized the needs of his fellow firefighters beyond the line of duty and took visionary steps to address them.

Working collaboratively with State Association officers and licensed in-home health care companies, Mayor Hankins was instrumental in developing an innovative

financial relief program. Funded by the Association, the program allows all 51,964 career and volunteer firefighters in New Jersey to receive partial reimbursement for in-home or nursing home care provided by licensed caregivers. His tireless efforts led to the program’s unanimous approval by the statewide Executive Committee in 2017, marking a milestone in firefighter welfare. The results of his initiative speak volumes about its impact:

• 47 Ocean County firefighters have benefited, receiving over $1,867,000 in reimbursements.

• Statewide, more than 1,227 firefighters have been assisted, totaling $63,881,000 in benefits.

(Hankins - See Page 14)

Lawmakers Seek Utility Tax Deduction

TRENTON - Three 9th District lawmakers have introduced legislation that would allow New Jersey residents to deduct certain taxes and fees charged on their electric and natural gas bills from their state income taxes.

Sen. Carmen Amato Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre are sponsoring the bills, S-4410 and A-5230, which target the sales tax and societal benefits charge that appear on residential utility bills.

The lawmakers said the proposal is intended to provide direct relief to ratepayers as utility costs continue to rise across New Jersey.

“If Trenton is serious about providing relief to ratepayers facing high utility bills, then tax deductions should be included in any serious policy discussion about this pressing issue,” the legislators said in a joint statement.

They said a tax deduction would be a straightforward way to help residents struggling with higher monthly costs, particularly seniors on fixed incomes and families trying to manage household expenses.

The delegation also criticized the state for collecting more sales tax revenue as utility bills increase, saying officials must decide whether to keep benefiting from those higher costs or provide direct tax relief to residents.

The legislation would also require electric and natural gas public utility suppliers to itemize the sales tax and societal benefits charge on customers’ periodic utility bills. Supporters said listing those costs separately would give ratepayers a clearer picture of how much they are paying in taxes and fees in addition to the actual cost of electricity and gas.

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.

Wound Care Institute of Ocean County

C ommunity n ew S

New Officer Sworn In

New

By Bob Vosseller

MANCHESTER - William Kavanagh was sworn in to a full-time police officer position within the department during a recent Township Council meeting. He was sworn in by Mayor Joseph Hankins as his girlfriend Gianna held the Bible and his family joined him during the ceremony. He was pinned with badge 454

and is the newest hire of the 84-member department.

Police Chief Antonio Ellis reported that two long time officers of the department including Office of Emergency Management Coordinator Sgt. Robert Sharry will be retiring later this year. He said two additional officers are in consideration to fill those vacancies.

Travel Club Plans Surflight Theater Trip

WHITING – Crestwood Village 3 Travel Club will host a trip to see Irving Berlin’s “Holiday Inn” at Surflight Theatre with dinner at Calloway’s on Thursday, December 10.

The outing includes transportation, the theater performance, dinner and all gratuities. Dinner selections are broiled salmon, prime rib, penne ala vodka or chicken Francaise.

The show follows Jim, a performer who leaves show business for a quieter life at a Connecticut farmhouse, only to find that life

feels incomplete without music and dancing.

Participants will gather at Unity Hall, 250 Schoolhouse Road, at 11:45 a.m. and return at 7:45 p.m. The cost is $155, with a $50 deposit due with the reservation, another $50 due August 10 and the remaining $55 due October 19.

Tickets will be sold Monday mornings at Unity Hall from 9 to 11 a.m. Deposits will only be refunded if the trip is canceled. For reservations or more information, contact Donna Brown at 973-896-9964 or Rose Kantenwein at 973-903-5612.

First Aid Squad Seeks New Members

LAKEHURST – The Lakehurst First Aid Squad is looking for new members to help serve the community and respond when residents need emergency assistance. The squad said no prior experience is necessary, and training will be provided for those willing to volunteer. Organizers said members can make a difference locally, help save lives and become part of a team focused on neighbors helping

neighbors. It’s open to Lakehurst residents only.

The recruitment effort highlights the need for community members who are ready to give their time, build friendships and support emergency medical services in Lakehurst.

Residents interested in joining are encouraged to contact the Lakehurst First Aid Squad for more information.

Fire Company Hosts Weekly Jackpot Bingo

WHITING – Bingo players have a chance to win up to $1,000 every Wednesday night at Whiting Volunteer Fire Company No. 1. The weekly games are held at the firehouse,

120 Lacey Road. Doors open at 4 p.m., and calling begins at 6:30 p.m.

A kitchen will be available during the event.

Officer Rescues Trapped Baby Deer

MANCHESTER – A police officer recently came to the rescue of a baby deer that had become stuck between a resident’s porch steps and gutter.

Ptl. Kamar Gainey safely freed the fawn and reunited it with its mother nearby, police said. The department noted that, despite a common myth, mother deer do not abandon their young after human contact.

Police said the rescue was one of the many calls for service that may not appear in an annual report but still reflect the wide range of situations officers handle throughout the year.

The department praised Gainey for his efforts, saying the call was a reminder that serving the community often means responding to emergencies both big and small.

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Students Celebrate Garden Project

LAKEHURST – Fifth-grade students at Lakehurst Elementary School celebrated the completion of a weeks-long gardening project with a patriotic garden party.

Students in Mrs. Kathy Hoerster and Ms. Kaleigh Wilmott’s class worked with local Rutgers Master Gardeners, including retired Lakehurst teacher Mrs. Kathy Bixby, to learn

Photo courtesy Lakehurst School District the basics of gardening.

The students met weekly to plant, care for and maintain their garden while also learning lessons in teamwork, responsibility and cooperation.

The garden party gave students a chance to share the results of their work with classmates, school community members and their families.

Police Seeking Full-Time Class II Officers

LAKEHURST – The borough police department is recruiting applicants for full-time Class II police officer positions, offering an hourly pay range of $18 to $23. According to the department, officers will be responsible for patrolling borough streets, responding to calls for service, enforcing state laws and local ordinances, investigating crimes and accidents, preparing reports, making arrests and appearing in court. The position also involves community outreach and proactive efforts to reduce crime and disorder.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, hold a valid New Jersey driver’s license and meet physical and mental health standards established by the New

WHITING – The Ladies Auxiliary of Whiting Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 will host an Italian Night Spaghetti Dinner on October 18, featuring dinner, music and dancing. Dinner will begin at 5 p.m. Tickets are Fire

Jersey Police Training Commission. Candidates must also successfully complete a background investigation and all required training and certification standards for a New Jersey Special Law Enforcement Officer Class II.

The department said previous law enforcement or military experience is preferred, and candidates with New Jersey Police Training Commission Class II certification are encouraged to apply. Applications can be submitted through PoliceApp by searching for the Lakehurst Borough Police Department. Completed applications and resumes may also be emailed to Sgt. Jason Guide at jguide@ lakehurstpolice.org. The department is an equal opportunity employer.

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The evening will continue with music and dancing by Lou Abbato from 7 to 10 p.m. For information or tickets, call Diane at 732-948-6025.

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

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Eco Explorers Dig Into Fossil History

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township Middle School’s Eco Explorers Club wrapped up its year of outdoor learning with a fossil hunting trip to the Poricy Park Fossil Beds in Middletown.

The visit began at the Poricy Park Nature Center, where students learned how fossils form and how scientists identify them. Using fossil identification guides, they examined and classified specimens before heading into the field for a hands-on paleontology experience.

At the fossil beds, students searched through the stream and sediment for prehistoric remains, uncovering fossilized shells, shark teeth and belemnites, an extinct squid-like marine animal. They also learned that the area was once part of an ancient ocean about 72 million years ago. While exploring, students observed present-day wildlife as well, including tadpoles in the stream. The outing ended with a picnic lunch and gave students a chance to reflect on their discoveries and celebrate a year of exploration, environmental stewardship and outdoor learning. The club will continue next year through a HIPP grant from the New Jersey Education Association and a donation from Tilton Body Works in Lakewood. Student feedback will help guide future Eco Explorers activities as the club continues encouraging scientific inquiry, environmental awareness and a love of nature.

Seniors Pass Torch To Youngest Hawks

MANCHESTER – Manchester Township High School seniors continued a growing district tradition recently as they welcomed kindergarten students for the second annual “Pass the Torch” program, a student-led event celebrating leadership, school pride and the future of the Hawks community.

The program was created by MTHS alumna Jamie Popek to connect the district’s oldest and youngest students. Before graduating, Popek passed leadership of the initiative to senior Marisiya Goins, who coordinated this year’s ceremony with help from district staff and student volunteers.

During the event, members of the Class of 2026 gathered on the high school field, where they will graduate later this month, as families watched from the stands. Kindergarten students from the Class of 2038 were welcomed onto the field, where each senior presented a student

and school spirit.

Goins said the ceremony is meant to remind students that “every journey begins somewhere” and that each generation has the ability to inspire the next. Superintendent Diane Pedroza praised the students for continuing a tradition that brings different generations together through reflection, celebration and connection.

As part of this year’s ceremony, Goins formally passed leadership of the program to Michael Fink, a member of the Class of 2027, who will lead the initiative next year. The event ended with kindergarten students performing a special version of “This Little Light of Mine,” with lyrics written for the program, reinforcing the message that leadership can begin early and grow through the example of those who came before.

In the June 13 article “Recital Brings Many Church Organists Under One Roof,” the name of the musician at Central Regional High School was incorrect. The correct name was Michael Snowhill. We regret the error.

Around the JerSey Shore

OCC Foundation Raises Over $200K For Scholarships

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County College Foundation raised more than $200,000 for student scholarships during its annual Scholarship Celebration on June 4.

The event, held on the college’s main campus, drew about 200 supporters for an evening benefiting the Foundation’s Scholarship Fund. The fundraiser featured entertainment, food, and silent and live auctions, with proceeds supporting students pursuing a college education.

Casey Yetman, chair of the Foundation Board, said the celebration showed the impact of community support in creating opportunities for students. She said the generosity of donors helps open doors for

Hankins:

Continued From Page 8

This program stands as a testament to Mayor Hankins’s foresight, compassion, and commitment to improving the lives of firefighters long after their active service.

In 2018, Mayor Hankins’s leadership and dedication were further recognized when he was elected Vice President of the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association, a posi-

those working toward their educational goals at Ocean County College.

Several honorees were recognized during the program, including Linda Novak for her years of service as a trustee of the Ocean County College Board and Foundation Board; Paul Chalakani, program chair of Performing Arts–Theatre at OCC and director of the OCC Repertory Theatre Company; and Kean University and the Kean Ocean Partnership, which marked 20 years of providing students with an affordable path to higher education.

More information about the event is available at occfoundation.org/scholarship-celebration2026.

tion he continues to hold with distinction. His service, both locally and statewide, epitomizes the values of honor, courage, and dedication that this award seeks to recognize.

For his lifelong devotion to the fire service, his leadership in advancing the welfare of his fellow firefighters, and his enduring impact on his community and state - this award is everything Mayor Joseph Hankins stands for.

Church To Host Tunes Of Yesteryear

WHITING – Whiting United Methodist Church will host Tunes of Yesteryear on June 28 at the church, 55 Lacey Road.

The music event is being presented in association with Jim Hankins, doing business as House of Bluegrass & Country Oldies LLC. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m., with music scheduled from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Admission is $5 per person, and refreshments will be available. All proceeds will benefit Whiting United Methodist Church. Scheduled performers include the Libby Prison Minstrels, Acoustic Rosewood, Elaine & Cimmaron Sky Band and Custom Blend Band.

The Manchester Times, June 20, 2026, Page 15

Geese

:

Continued From Page 1 to do.”

Oglesby suggested some snow fencing along the beach for a few weeks. “It should be fairly inexpensive. I don’t know - I’m grasping at straws.”

The subject of geese removal from Harry Wright Lake in Manchester dominated a recent council meeting of that municipality.

Township officials and local animal rights advocates (The Animal Protection League APL) are actively discussing geese management to balance ecological conservation with wildlife protection.

While animal advocates urge the township to use non-lethal deterrents to protect the

Rodeo:

Continued From Page 1 obstacle course set up by officers.

Police Lt. Iain James was back to take part in the program with several other police officers. Two picnic tables full of prizes were seen under the pavilion at the lake that children would take home.

“I’ve been here for 20 years and I’ve been involved with it for 20 years,” Lt. James remarked. “I’ve given the reins to Sgt. Madelyn Poss this year who is trying to change it up this year and do things a little different. We’ve always done it the same way but we got some fresh new ideas from her and we think the kids will enjoy it.”

“We have six officers out here today and

flocks, Manchester Mayor Joseph Hankins noted that geese have caused lake closures due to high fecal count contamination, requiring the council to find solutions that also keep recreational areas safe.

The discussions, which took place during the Township Council meeting centered on a few key methods to reduce goose populations and prevent them from settling at popular locations like Pine Lake and Harry Wright Lake:

• Egg Addling: Oiling the eggs to prevent them from hatching, a standard non-lethal practice for curbing population growth.

• Canine Patrolling: Utilizing trained border collies to chase geese away from beaches and disrupt their nesting routines, a method previously used by contractors

those officers on the road are going to try and stop by,” Lt. James said. One of the changes that Sgt. Poss brought into play was the location of the obstacle course. It had been previously located in the parking lot but it was moved to the street leading to the parking lot off Union Avenue which necessitated that road’s temporary closure that morning. “We changed the course up differently.”

“The chalk drawings and some of the other things we put in there are different,” he added. One notable obstacle device was a metal Slinky and there were some small stuffed animals positioned in the path to be avoided.

“The number of kids we get fluctuates - normally 30 - but it depends as it is a weekend and there are activities like soccer going on

like Geese Chasers, LLC.

• Habitat Modifications: Modifying parks and shorelines to make them less attractive to resident geese.

• Public Awareness: Enforcing “no feeding” regulations to prevent birds from losing their natural fear of humans and congregating in public spaces.

In other business, Council President Emmons said Lake Street will be paved and a bicycle path grant application is under consideration.

Councilman Oglesby also noted that it was once again time for police contract negotiations while Councilwoman Patricia Hodges noted that a written agreement with the school district concerning snow removal by the Borough’s Department of

other events going on,” James said.

“It is all about safety. We do the course to try to incorporate all the safety features into riding a bike, (such as) the ability to make a turn and we have a zig zag course where they go through the cones and this year we incorporated the debris field.”

“We have a trash field where they have to go and pick-up a piece of trash and put it in the trash can. We have a misting tent now which is simulating riding in the rain. It is a timed course and that is how we determine the awards but everybody gets something. We also have a raffle ticket,” he added.

Members of the Presbyterian Church of Lakehurst provided free cold drinks of lemonade and cookies for all those involved. The Lakehurst First Aid Squad

Public Works needed to be finalized. She also said a rain barrel workshop would be held at the Community Center on Center Street on July 22.

“An ordinance for involving new construction might be something we need to address,” Hodges added. A proposal from DPW was requested that would involve comparison regulations from other area towns which will be presented to the appropriate Borough committee.

Councilman Robert McCarthy noted the police department’s receipt of two new police vehicles. He said a shared services agreement provided a quarter of a million dollars from a congressional fund that was approved by Senator Andy Kim and was expected to be received early next year.

stood by their rig just in case there were any incidents that required response and treatment. Councilman Steven Oglesby and Councilman Brian DiMeo and his wife Michele were also there helping out along with other volunteers.

The borough’s “Youth and Recreation Committee is helping out with registration and we’ll be give out prizes for the best art drawing,” Michele DiMeo said.

Borough Photo Historian Denise Maynard was out snapping photographs of all the activities and all the smiling young faces of the participants throughout the event. The event is supported primarily through donations. Borough companies like Dollar General and Wawa contribute toward the activity along with community organizations.

Sound News

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

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

Early Hearing Treatment May Reduce Dementia Risk

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Science has found growing evidence that treating hearing loss may do more than improve communication. It could also help protect brain health. A study published in JAMA Neurology in 2025 adds to the increasing evidence, showing that using hearing aids earlier in life may help lower dementia risk in some groups.

The investigation, “Self-Reported Hearing Aid Use and Risk of Incident Dementia,” drew on data from almost 3,000 U.S. adults ages 60 and older who were part of the long-running Framingham Heart Study. Participants without dementia were followed up to 20 years to track whether hearing aid use affected their chances of developing the condition.

What researchers found: Adults 60–69 who reported wearing hearing aids were about 61% less likely to develop dementia than those with unaddressed hearing loss. Though the same potential benefit wasn’t found among those 70+ with an identified hearing loss, other research has already linked hearing aid use to lower dementia risk among older adults.

Timing might play a key role. Tackling hearing loss earlier — before significant cognitive changes begin — may help keep the brain active and connected.

Hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal and increased mental strain as the brain works harder to process

unclear sound. Over time, the extra effort may contribute to changes in brain structure and function. By improving sound clarity and communication, hearing aids may help reduce this burden and support long-term brain health.

The study’s findings build on past breakthroughs tying hearing care to cognitive wellness. In 2023, for example, the ACHIEVE study announced findings linking professionally fitted hearing aids and audiologic counseling to a slower rate of cognitive decline in older adults at higher risk over three years. These outcomes demonstrate hearing care’s importance in aging healthily and empowered.

Help protect your hearing and brain health. Call Dr. Izzy & Staff to set up an appointment for a complete hearing evaluation, 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com. We Hear You & We are Here for You!

Self-Reported Hearing Aid Use and Risk of Incident Dementia (JAMA Neurology/JAMA Network, https:// jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2837714, Accessed 10/21/25). New Study Finds 61% Reduced Dementia Risk Among Hearing Aid Users Under 70 (Hearing Health & Technology Matters, https:// hearinghealthmatters. org/hearingnews-watch/2025/dementia-risk-hearing-aids/, Accessed 10/21/25).

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!

H

ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dear Pharmacist

The Placebo Effect Is Real

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

When someone says, “You’re just having a placebo effect,” they usually mean it as a put-down. But maybe it isn’t.

As a pharmacist, I’ve spent decades studying medications and helping people use them safely.

I believe in modern medicine. Some drugs are absolutely life-saving. But one of the most fascinating things I’ve learned is that the human brain can influence healing in ways we’re only beginning to understand.

The placebo effect occurs when you experience a real improvement after receiving an inactive treatment, such as a sugar pill. What’s remarkable is that the improvement isn’t imaginary. Researchers have shown that placebo responses can trigger measurable changes in your brain, including the release of dopamine and endorphins! Those are feel-good chemicals involved in pleasure, motivation, and pain relief.

Yeah, your brain has its own pharmacy.

One of the most famous placebo studies involved patients with severe knee arthritis. Some underwent actual arthroscopic surgery, while others received “sham” surgery that looked real complete with incision, but didn’t include anything therapeutic. Surprisingly, a lot of patients in the sham group improved just as much as those who got the real operation!

Then there are studies involving Parkinson’s disease. Scientists now see that placebo treatments can trigger measurable dopamine release in the brain. The expectation of improvement changed brain chemistry as much as a pill.

Your entire healthcare experience matters. A doctor’s office. Measurements of your heart rate or blood pressure. His or her confidence in your treatment, and a reassuring conversa-

tion… the ritual of taking a pill all influence the outcome.

There’s also a darker side called the nocebo effect.

If positive expectations can help people feel better, negative expectations can sometimes make them feel worse.

I saw this all the time at the pharmacy. Someone would read the package insert like it was forbidden government intel. Or we’d casually say, “Take this with food to minimize nausea,” and it more than likely trigger nausea. Every now and then we’d get a call by someone convinced they were experiencing one of those horrible side effects rattled off at warp speed during a TV drug ad. I’m kidding... mostly.

Side effects are absolutely real. But anxiety and expectation influence the nervous system far more than most people realize. Please don’t read this column and toss your prescriptions into the trash. Many meds are essential, and some require careful tapering if they’re discontinued.

But do learn to ask questions. How well did the drug perform compared to placebo? Are there lifestyle approaches that might help? Has sleep, stress, loneliness, or chronic inflammation been properly addressed? Is your nervous system stuck in a constant state of sympathetic fight-or-flight?

Your body isn’t necessarily broken. Sometimes it’s overwhelmed. The placebo effect reminds me that healing is about more than metabolic pathways and genes. It’s also about expectation, hope, connection, and the powerful conversation between your mind, body and spirit.

If you enjoy learning about the fascinating intersection of medicine, nutrition, and natural health, you’ll find hundreds of articles and resources at suzycohen.com.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2026 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

the

make it a night to remember at

and summer fun at a Jersey Shore

Want to win tickets of your own? Email your best shore pics to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may hear from us.

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.

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Graduation Parties and Social Host Liability: What New Jersey Parents Need to Know

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

Graduation season is a time for celebration. Families across Ocean County will soon be hosting parties to honor their high school and college graduates. While these gatherings create lasting memories, they also come with important legal responsibilities that every parent should understand.

Under New Jersey law, adults who provide alcohol to individuals under the legal drinking age may face serious consequences if someone is injured as a result. In certain circumstances, a homeowner or host can also be held financially responsible if an intoxicated guest causes injuries to another person.

This concept is known as social host liability

For example, if a parent knowingly allows underage drinking at a graduation party and an intoxicated teenager later causes a motor vehicle accident, the injured parties may pursue claims not only against the driver but also against the adults who provided or permitted access to the alcohol.

Even when guests are over the age of 21, hosts should take reasonable steps to

promote safety. Encouraging designated drivers, arranging rides through family members or rideshare services, and monitoring alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of tragedy.

The purpose of New Jersey’s social host laws is not to discourage celebrations. Rather, these laws recognize that those who furnish alcohol may have a role in preventing foreseeable harm.

As graduation season approaches, parents should have open conversations with their children about alcohol use and establish clear expectations for parties held in their homes. A few precautions can make a significant difference in protecting both guests and the broader community.

Graduation should mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter—not the aftermath of a preventable accident.

Michael J. Deem, Esq. is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney and is employed by R.C. Shea & Associates, P.C., in Toms River. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, call (732) 505-1212 to discuss your legal rights.

HGTV Show Seeks Shore Homes For $150K Makeover

JERSEY SHORE – Homeowners living near the beach with unusual, outdated or hard-to-explain houses could have a shot at a major renovation through the HGTV series “Ugliest House in America.”

Casting is now open for homes near the water that stand out for all the wrong reasons. Producers are looking for properties with mismatched designs, awkward floor plans, odd additions or décor choices that leave visitors scratching their heads.

The casting call says the show is not searching for minor repair projects. Instead, producers want homes that are especially strange, dramatic or visually overwhelming.

One selected homeowner will receive a $150,000 renovation intended to turn the property into a more stylish and practical living space.

Homeowners can apply at ugliesthouseinamerica.castingcrane.com.

Shrek: The Musical Coming To Algonquin Arts Theatre

MANASQUAN – Algonquin Arts Theatre will present Shrek: The Musical from July 11 through July 26.

Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, the stage production brings Shrek, Fiona, Donkey and a cast of familiar fairy-tale characters to life in a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud adventure. The musical

celebrates friendship, acceptance and the importance of being true to yourself.

Tickets are on sale now and start at $27. They can be purchased online at AlgonquinArts.org, by calling the box office at 732-528-9211, or in person Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the theatre box office.

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Help Wanted

HELP WANTED - Sheet Metal

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4.

Around the JerSey Shore

Jersey Shore Pop-Up Parties Lead GOP To Call For Crackdown

By Briana Vannozzi, Anchor (NJ Spotlight)

JERSEY SHORE - Pop-up parties that have taken over parts of the Jersey Shore in recent summers are leading Republican lawmakers to push for stiffer criminal charges against unruly crowds.

A video posted to social media last month showed hundreds of people gathered at the oceanfront Pier Village in Long Branch, some leaping onto cars and blocking traffic. Law enforcement was visibly outnumbered,

several fights broke out and six people were arrested. In response, Sen. Robert Singer (R-Monmouth) is calling for fellow lawmakers to take action on a bill that would increase penalties for riot and disorderly conduct.

“Seeing this pop-up party in Long Branch,” Singer said. “It’s worrying us that this could be the beginning of a problem for the entire season.”

The gatherings are organized on social media. In recent years, though some towns

have banned backpacks and set curfews on boardwalks, the parties have continued — putting a strain, Singer said, on local resources.

“We’re taking a look and reaching out to the State Police, the Attorney General’s Office and New Jersey Transit to say, ‘You’ve got to do better.’”

As the height of summer tourism approaches, Singer stressed the importance of cracking down on these parties to preserve Jersey Shore’s welcoming and family-friendly

environment.

“The people who spend money down at the Jersey Shore are families … they spend the dollars that are very important to our economy,” Singer said. “But more importantly, they have to feel safe.”

This story is made possible in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people. This story was originally published by NJ Spotlight News through the NJ News Commons.

Around the JerSey Shore

Veterans Invited To Lunch And Learn

JACKSON – Veterans and their families are invited to attend a Lunch and Learn event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 8 at Oliverie Funeral Home, 125 S. Cooks Bridge Road.

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST – Hiring Our Heroes, an initiative of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, will host a career summit July 16 at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

The program will feature guest speakers Shira Tiner of Veteran Care Services and Lauren Feldman of Braven Health, who will discuss benefits available to veterans

and their families.

Topics will include what benefits veterans may qualify for, whether the Department of Veterans Affairs helps pay for a veteran’s

Career Summit Set At Joint Base

The event is open to transitioning service members, veterans, military spouses and military caregivers. Organizers said the summit will focus on resources, training and networking opportunities for members

of the military community preparing for civilian careers.

Job seeker workshops will run from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the JBMDL Base Theater, 2909 Tuskegee Airmen Ave. A hiring fair

funeral, and what spouses may be eligible to receive.

Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by calling 732-719-7250.

will follow from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at Tommy B’s Community Center, 2705 E. Arnold Ave., McGuire Air Force Base. Registration is available at HiringOurHeroes.org/jbmdl.

Spotlight On Business

What “Good Legal Counsel” Really Means: Practical Guidance Clients Can Rely On

When clients seek legal representation, they are often navigating uncertainty, critical decisions, or situations they have never encountered before. In those moments, good legal counsel means more than simply understanding the law, it means providing practical guidance clients can trust. At Dasti & Staiger, our attorneys believe effective legal representation is rooted in communication, strategy, and helping clients confidently navigate complex situations.

“Trusted legal counsel means translating complex legal frameworks into practical guidance that clients can confidently act upon” Attorney Brandon DeJesus states. Strong legal counsel also requires honesty, responsiveness, and the ability to help clients understand difficult realities.

Clients rely on their attorneys not only for legal knowledge, but for guidance that helps them make informed decisions with confidence. “Good legal counsel means providing responsive, cost-effective legal guidance,” says Christopher Dasti, Managing Partner of Dasti & Staiger. “Sometimes that legal guidance is providing counsel and information to your client that they do not want to hear. Our job as lawyers is to counsel our clients in order to deal with the realities that anger a situation.”

Effective counsel must also be practical and forward-thinking. Legal advice should not only address the issue at hand but help clients anticipate risks and understand how

decisions made today may impact them long term. “To me, reliable legal counsel means providing advice that is not only legally sound but operationally feasible,” says Brigit Zahler, Attorney at Dasti & Staiger. “It requires understanding both the theory the advice promotes as well as any potential hurdles to implementation.” At Dasti & Staiger, attorneys work closely with clients to ensure they feel informed, prepared, and supported throughout every stage of the legal process. Whether representing individuals, businesses, or public entities, the firm’s focus remains the same: delivering practical, reliable counsel tailored to each client’s unique needs. Because ultimately, strong legal representation is not just about solving problems, it is about helping clients move forward with clarity and confidence.

About Dasti & Staiger

Dasti & Staiger is a New Jersey-based law firm providing comprehensive legal services to individuals and businesses across a wide range of practice areas. With offices serving Ocean and Monmouth Counties and beyond, the firm is known for its client focused approach, combining experienced legal counsel with practical, results-driven strategies. Dasti & Staiger is committed to clear communication, personalized attention, and guiding clients through complex legal matters with integrity and professionalism. To learn more, visit https://www.dastilaw.com.

Antique Appraisal Fair Planned

WHITING – Whiting United Methodist Church will host an Antique Appraisal Fair on July 11 at the church, 55 Lacey Road. Doors will open at noon. A $10 donation fee includes admission and one open appraisal, with each additional appraisal

available for $5.

Guests are invited to bring treasured items and learn more about their possible value, from family keepsakes to household antiques. Light refreshments will be served during the event.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Thinking or talking your way through a financial situation or series of decisions could be just right today, both your heart and your mind should be engaged, and Universal day scores are positive today and through next week.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Money is likely on your mind, though the vibe is less toward processing ideas and having conversations than for Aries, above. For you, today could be about making tangible moves that can sweeten your financial future.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): With today’s Sun and Moon hanging out with asteroid Midas, most signs have some kind of financial focus now. Yours relates to how you identify with money and wealth, the degree to which you feel your financial status identifies you.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): For you, Cancer, today’s money process is taking stock of your beliefs around abundance and scarcity. Inner beliefs drive outer realities. What are you holding from your past that’s limiting your future?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Finances and friendships are the mix for you today. Do you do business with friends? How should boundaries work in dual relationships? One obvious thing is to always vet opportunities thoroughly regardless of where they originate.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Career/workplace is likely your focus today — how you put your energies into the world, how the world compensates you for your contributions. More money could be coming through your pipeline.

FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 20 - 26 BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Teach and learn not just about money, but what it represents energetically. Money is fundamentally a means of exchange, but because of its relationship to power, it can corrupt also and morph into endless greed for more.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Money can become more complex when resources are shared. Everyone has different thresholds for safety, risk, wealth, scarcity, then egos get involved. Even if everyone is fully in integrity, it can get very complicated.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A business or financial partner should be working harmoniously with you now, interests appear to be well-aligned. When both people share the same objectives and working style, synergy can multiply results.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The costs of daily routines could come up to be examined — how much did that latte cost? It’s not necessarily due to lack, it may just be time for a review. Consider your health hacks too.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You might find a way to monetize something you’d do for free just for the joy of it. When work is also play, it’s not so heavy. When work is a personal joy, it’s not so boring. See if you can connect these dots.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Building a safety net has become nearly impossible for most today, but your foundation can rest on something more powerful than a bank account. Rest your security on the richest, most creative resource of all, the Universe.

THIS BRIGHT SOUP TASTES LIKE PURE SUMMERTIME

Diane Rossen Worthington

Chilled soups are light, flavorful, refreshing and Seriously Simple to prepare. They can be made well in advance to allow them to chill properly. This means that you can prepare your soup early in the day (when it’s cooler in the kitchen) or even the day before, a real boon to the summer cook. And best of all, these soups cool us off when the temperatures are crazy hot. This bright soup tastes like pure summertime with its fresh just-picked corn, golden yellow sweet peppers, and yellow cherry tomatoes. Yellow tomatoes are sweeter and less acidic than their red cousins. If you can’t find yellow tomatoes, use the red variety and sweet red peppers for an equally delicious variation.

I like to garnish a soup with an interesting topping. Feel free to decorate as you wish. Try corn kernels or chopped tomatoes on top. Some chopped green basil leaves on top add a pretty contrast. Remember to adjust the seasonings of the soup once it has been chilled. Cold soups usually need more seasoning since the chilling process reduces the flavor.

Serves 6 to 8

2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 medium ears)

1-pint yellow cherry tomatoes or 1 large yellow tomato, stemmed and coarsely chopped

1 sweet yellow pepper, seeded and diced into 1/2-inch pieces

3 tablespoons olive oil

6 scallions, white and light green part only, finely chopped

6 cups chicken or vegetable stock

6 basil leaves

1/4 cup whipping or heavy cream

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon hot pepper oil

To garnish: 1/2 cup sour cream

Extra basil leaves, finely chopped; add just before serving to avoid darkening

1. Reserve 1/4 cup corn, 2 tablespoons diced yellow pepper and 1/4 cup tomatoes. Immerse the reserved corn and yellow pepper in a saucepan of boiling water for about2 minutes. Drain, chill, and reserve with the tomatoes.

2. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add scallions and saute until slightly soft, about 3 minutes. Add the remaining tomatoes, yellow peppers, and corn to the pan and saute for about 3 minutes. Add chicken stock and basil; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer slowly, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. Remove the basil leaves.

3. Puree the soup in the pan with a hand blender or in batches in a blender or food processor fitted with a steel blade. Transfer to a bowl. (For a smooth consistency if desired, pass through a food mill or strainer into a bowl, pushing down to get all the essence.) Add the cream, seasonings, and hot pepper oil. Taste for seasoning. Chill for at least three hours.

4. To serve: Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with sour cream, tomatoes, yellow pepper, corn, and chopped basil.

(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.