The JACKSON Times Vol. 23 - No. 12
In This Week’s Edition
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Post Office Overloaded According To Officials
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Photos by Bob Vosseller Officials heard complaints from residents that the local post office is too crowded, creating traffic conditions. By Bob Vosseller JACKSON– The township’s post office is apparently not getting any stamps of approval. Local and federal officials are saying that for some time now they have been hearing from residents about the growing concerns surrounding the Jackson Post Office on Bennetts Mills Road. Mayor Jennifer Kuhn said she’s heard complaints about the office’s “over- Although it was fairly quiet during a recent visit, officials crowding and excessive wait times to said the post office gets too busy for its small size. traffic congestion, inadequate parking, staffing issues, and, most importantly, the safety ing onto Bennetts Mills Road, traffic extending beyond the property, and residents struggling of those trying to enter and leave the facility.” “I have personally visited the location on nu- to safely access a federal service they depend (Post Office - See Page 4) merous occasions and witnessed vehicles back-
Rova Farms, Flooding Issues Addressed
Photo courtesy Rova Farms Historic District Association This concert venue and gathering spot became unsafe after abandonment and was torn down.
By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – Council President Mordechai Burnstein reported some progress on the Rova Farms recreation project, a topic that many residents have been eager to see move forward. He reported that a meeting of the Rova Farms Committee had been held recently. “It was actually one of our more well attended meetings with the new engineer who updated the team on the (Rova Farms - See Page 10)
September 19, 2026
9/11 Responders Thanked
By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – Township officials remembered the 25th anniversary of the attacks on September 11, 2001 during its latest council meeting and also recognized several residents who responded to Ground Zero to help. Council President Mordechai Burnstein recalled the events of 9/11 saying, “I was interviewing a person for a job today and she was 22 years old applying for a teaching position and it hit me they have no idea. It is after they were born. I still remember, I was in 7th grade. I lived in Cleveland …the planes had turned around and the rumors were that they were over Ohio for a few minutes and I was in a Jewish school with over a thousand children and obviously everyone was panicking and we went into lockdown.” “I will never forget that and obviously I can never relate to those who actually had dear ones in the towers or in Pennsylvania or in the planes but a special thank you to all the men and women from here to everywhere who went out of their way to give up their lives from their families and everyone in order to save fellow Americans. Your service will never ever go unnoticed,” Burnstein said. “We should do the best job possible in educating our children, educating next generations of what happened on that day because we are running out of people who remember World War II. We can’t ever forget. We already have deniers to what happened on 911. We must stand together as Americans and say never again and (9/11 Responders - See Page 5)
Ballot Box Blocked At OCC
By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY – Dozens of people lined the sidewalk outside the Ocean County Board of Elections building on Hooper Avenue before a recent meeting, holding signs calling for a mail-in ballot drop box at Ocean County College. Supporters said the campus location would make voting more convenient for students and others who regularly visit the college. Four Ocean County Board of Elections commissioners considered the proposed drop box at their meeting. Democrat commissioners Wyatt Earp and Jeff Horn supported the location, while Republican commissioners George R. Gilmore, the board chairman, and Justin Flancbaum opposed it. Earp and Flancbaum participated by telephone. Because neither was (Ballot Box - See Page 18)
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Post Office:
Continued From Page 1 on. I want our residents to know that your concerns have not fallen on deaf ears,” the mayor added. A formal letter was sent recently to U.S. Postmaster General David Steiner requesting a meeting to address what the mayor says “has become an ongoing postal service crisis in Jackson Township. What makes this especially important is that this effort is not coming from one office or one level of government. Congressman Christopher Smith (R-4th), State Senator Owen Henry, Assemblymen Alex Sauickie and Robert Clifton (R-12th), and I have come together to stand united on behalf of Jackson residents.” The letter calls on the United States Postal Service to strongly consider several solutions, including establishing a second full-service post office in Jackson, significantly expanding and modernizing the existing facility, and making immediate operational improvements to address staffing, wait times, traffic, and public safety while a long-term solution is developed. “Our residents deserve safe and reason-
able access to essential postal services, and they deserve to know that when they raise legitimate concerns, their elected officials will listen and act. There is still work ahead, but this letter represents an important step forward,” Kuhn said. Jackson Township was historically served by two postal facilities - the Cassville Post Office, located at 520 West Veterans Highway, and the Jackson Post Office, located at 915 Bennetts Mills Road - that helped distribute customer demand and provided residents in different sections of the municipality with access to postal services but in 2012, the Cassville facility closed its doors forcing thousands of residents to now rely upon a singular facility for their postal needs. In the conclusion of their letter, the lawmakers call for “decisive action” from the USPS and urge the agency to seriously evaluate the establishment of a second, full-service postal facility within Jackson Township to restore adequate access for residents and businesses. They also want a significant modernization and/or expansion of the existing Bennetts Mills Road facility, including improvements to parking, traffic flow, customer service areas, accessibility,
and operational capacity; and the immediate operational improvements to address staffing levels, customer wait times, and public safety concerns while long-term solutions are being evaluated. Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) who represents Jackson Township said there were “overwhelming concerns voiced by residents and businesses in the township who have repeatedly expressed frustrations over deteriorating service conditions, unsafe access, excessive wait times, and inadequacies of the existing facility.” Smith stated, “while the USPS has previously stated that they are aware of and looking into the ongoing challenges facing the Jackson Post Office, these issues have only intensified in recent years, resulting in poor customer service, and above all, serious public safety risks. As Jackson Township’s population continues to grow, so do the shortcomings and limitations of its only postal facility.” The Jackson Times visited that post office on a recent afternoon. Resident Victor Salvi has been using that post office for a long time. He’s been a Jackson resident for 38 years. “Since I’ve been here it has its days of high use but it actually seems to move
rather fast like today.” Resident Terry Shelby remarked “this is my second time here in five years and it does move fast but there isn’t a lot of space for parking.” Officials at the office directed The Jackson Times to Xavier Hernandez of the USPS through a phone number and email address which was used to reach out to him for further comment but nothing was received. Jackson Township is the third-largest municipality in the state by land area, encompassing approximately 100 square miles. The township’s population has grown exponentially in recent decades. The letter noted that according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township’s population jumped from 25,644 residents in 1980 to 58,544 residents in 2020. More recent estimates put the population at nearly 61,000 residents. The letter states that this growth has “significantly increased the demand for postal services. These conditions, the lawmakers argue, “create legitimate public safety concerns, not only for postal customers, but also for motorists, pedestrians, emergency responders, and the community as a whole.”
Library Program Examines Human Trafficking JACKSON – Teens and adults can learn about the warning signs and dangers of human trafficking during a free program at 6 p.m. September 24 at the Jackson Branch
of the Ocean County Library. The discussion will explain how trafficking occurs locally and globally, who is most vulnerable and how traffickers use manip-
ulation and technology to target people. Participants will also learn safety strategies, signs of potential trafficking and ways to support prevention efforts.
Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required at tinyurl.com/TraffickingJA, by calling 732-928-4400 or by visiting the branch at 2 Jackson Drive.
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9/11 Responders:
Continued From Page 1 rise against hate of all forms,” he added. Councilman Guiseppi Palmeri called the anniversary a solemn time and “something we must always remember and teach the next generation. We must teach children what had happened and why it happened.” “I can’t believe it has been that many years since that beautiful, crisp September morning that began like any other day and turned very quickly into our nation’s worst tragedy,” Councilman Nino Borrelli said. He mentioned those Jackson residents who perished that day such as Ed Oliver and Joe Mangano as well as Richard Skinner who died four years ago from exposure to the elements from working at the World Trade Center attacks. Councilman Ken Bressi recalled that the area had been hit very hard. “(Former Mayor Michael) Reina lost his brother, some Saint Veronica’s teachers lost their husbands and we lost a coach. As for first responders we have three captains, they were officers at the time and they went out there almost immediately for five days and they stayed out there.” “I am from Staten Island and there were a lot of people from Staten Island lost that day. I had a best friend who lost their father. Another friend lost his uncle. My brother-inlaw was in there and thank goodness he got out safe. It affected so many people’s lives. It was an awful tragedy. What followed was
The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 5 a tragedy to whether it be long term wars, everything that happened after has been devastating to this country. The one thing that always stood out was the first responders. They ran in there,” Councilman Chris Pollak noted. Mayor Jennifer Kuhn said in a prepared statement, “as we gather here tonight, we approach a significant moment of remembrance, the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. It is a time for reflection of the profound impact that day had on our nation, our communities and our lives.” The Mayor and Council then proceeded to give proclamations to first responders who were present at the meeting and had served during 9/11. “We just wanted to thank you. Thank you for being here,” the mayor added. Recognized that evening were Fire Chief Stanley O’Brien Sr., firefighter Steve Gibson, Chaplain Reverend Dan Schaefer, firefighter Jimmy Kelen (Retired FDNY), firefighter Brian Alicia, and Lt. Joseph Candido. Fire Commissioner Alfred Couceiro was also recognized and was the only first responder from EMS in attendance to receive a proclamation. The Township also recognized several Jackson residents who responded to Ground Zero but who were not in attendance at the meeting. From Station 55, volunteers James Howles and John Hussy responded with the rescue truck. Gerard Moroney, a career firefighter from Fire District 3, Station 55, responded
as a member of the USAR Team. Those recognized from law enforcement who responded and were not in attendance at the meeting included Capt. Richard Bosley and retired captains Norman Goldfarb, David Newman, Andrew Cheney, Thomas Hratko, John Seidler, Steven Laskiewicz, John McBride, and John Giovanetti. Also noted were Lt. Joseph Candido and retired lieutenants Raymond Milewski, Christopher Parise, Wayne Olejarz, John Decker, and Frank Mendez. Also recognized were Sgt. Shawn Hobson and retired ser-
geants Russell Scialpi, Anthony Amalfitano, Edward Bennett, Donald Clark, Mitchell Cowit, Brian Geoghegan, Brad Reider, Arthur Salisbury, Charles Webster, Frank Cipully, Vincent Rubio, Patrick Mackin, Michael Grochowski, and Lawrence Logan. Police Officers recognized included Kevin Chesney and retired officers Richard Speidel, Joseph Olesky, Anthony Senatore, Patrick O’Shea, Paul Reagan, John Pejoski, Steve Scaglione, and William Campbell. Retired detectives Howard Bogan and Dominic Manion were also honored.
Photo courtesy Jackson Township Jackson Township first responders were recognized by the governing body during the latest Township Council meeting.
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Page 6, The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026
Spotlight On Government Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Public Safety Must Come First
From The Desk Of
Mayor Jennifer Kuhn As Mayor of Jackson Township, my responsibility is first and foremost to the safety and well-being of the people who call our community home. That responsibility requires me to speak up when I believe a state policy deserves to be reconsidered - not because of politics, but because of public safety. This is not about politics. This is about public safety. I believe strongly in legal immigration. Immigrants who come to our country legally, work hard, raise families, build businesses, and contribute to their communities are an important part of the fabric of America. At the same time, we must be willing to have an honest and respectful conversation about illegal immigration and the policies that govern how local and federal law-enforcement agencies work together. New Jersey has adopted policies that place restrictions on how state and local
law enforcement agencies cooperate with federal immigration authorities. I believe we should take a serious look at whether those restrictions go too far and whether they could prevent law-enforcement agencies from sharing information and coordinating when public safety is at stake. Law enforcement should be about cooperation - not barriers. Our police officers work every day to protect our residents. They respond to emergencies, investigate crimes, make arrests, and work with other agencies to keep our communities safe. When information crosses jurisdictions or involves different levels of government, communication and cooperation can be essential. I believe our policies should encourage that cooperation whenever it can help protect the public. That does not mean asking local police officers to become federal immigration agents. It means allowing appropriate communication between law-enforcement agencies when someone has been arrested, charged with a serious offense, or presents a legitimate public-safety concern.
A badge should not stop at a jurisdictional line when a person’s safety is on the line. As Mayor, I believe we can support legal immigration while also insisting that our laws be respected and enforced. These two principles are not contradictory. We can be welcoming and compassionate while still believing in the rule of law. We can respect people’s rights while also making sure law enforcement has the tools and communication necessary to protect our residents. And we can have this conversation without demonizing anyone. That is why I have called on the Jackson Township Council to place a resolution on the September 22, 2026, Council meeting agenda calling for a review and change to New Jersey’s expanded sanctuary policies. My goal is not to create division. My goal is to make sure Jackson has a voice in this important statewide conversation. I believe municipal leaders have an obligation to speak up when state policies directly affect the ability of our local law-enforcement agencies to protect the people we serve. The residents of Jackson expect their elected officials to ask difficult questions. They expect us to look at policies objectively and determine whether they are working as intended.
Most importantly, they expect us to put their safety first. That is exactly what I intend to do. Public safety should never be a partisan issue. Whether someone is a Republican, Democrat, or Independent, whether they were born in New Jersey or came here from another country, every resident deserves to live in a community where the law is respected and where law enforcement agencies can work together effectively. I am asking our Council to take a position because I believe Jackson should be part of the solution and part of the conversation. This is not about turning our backs on immigrants. It is about making a clear distinction between legal immigration and illegal immigration, supporting those who follow our laws, and ensuring that our law-enforcement agencies have the ability to communicate and cooperate when public safety requires it. As Mayor, I will continue to advocate for a safe, responsible, and well-managed Jackson Township. We can be compassionate. We can be fair. We can respect the law. And we can put public safety first. That is the standard our residents deserve, and it is the standard I will continue to fight for.
Twenty-Five Years After An Attack Brought Us Together Capitol Comments Assemblyman Alex Sauickie
TRENTON - Twenty-five years have passed since September 11, 2001. For an entire generation, 9/11 is something learned through photographs, videos, history books and the stories of others. For those of us who were there, however, it’s not just history. It’s a day that remains a living memory, a morning I can still replay in my mind almost minute by minute. I was working in lower Manhattan at the time, just blocks from the World Trade Center. At 8:46 a.m., as the first plane struck the North Tower, my bus was rolling along Broadway near the buildings, but I didn’t see the impact. A few minutes later, as I walked toward my office, pieces of paper and debris were floating through the sky. Confusion was everywhere. Then, at 9:03 a.m., I heard the second plane strike the South Tower. In an instant, confusion became fear. We knew America was under attack. From that point forward, the memories become almost painfully vivid: sirens echoing between
the buildings, smoke pouring through the streets, the smell of burning material hanging in the air, and papers and debris continuing to drift down from above. Then came the unimaginable. The towers that had defined the New York skyline began to fall. A massive roar rolled through lower Manhattan as clouds of dust and debris raced through the streets and daylight disappeared behind a wall of gray. Strangers grabbed strangers and helped one another move toward safety. Yet while thousands of people were desperately trying to get away from the danger, police officers, firefighters, EMTs and other first responders were moving in the opposite direction. That image has never left me. While everyone else was trying to survive, they were running toward the fire, the smoke and the collapsing buildings because people they had never met needed help. Many of them would never come home. But the physical destruction was only part of what changed that morning. September 11 changed us. Nearly 3,000 innocent people were murdered that day. Thousands more first responders, survivors and residents would later become sick from exposure to the toxic air surrounding
Ground Zero. Even today, families continue to lose loved ones because of what happened that morning. That is why “Never Forget” cannot simply be a phrase we repeat once a year. It must be a responsibility. We must remember the firefighters climbing stairwells while others were descending, the police officers guiding terrified people through smoke-filled streets, and the EMTs, ferry crews, construction workers, nurses, doctors and ordinary citizens who stepped forward to help. We must remember the passengers of Flight 93, who understood what was happening and chose to fight back. We must also remember what happened after the attacks. Americans came together. People lined up to donate blood. Volunteers came from across the country. Communities opened their doors. First responders worked until exhaustion. For a brief time, we remembered that what united us was far greater than what divided us. Twenty-five years later, that may be one of the most important lessons of September 11. Today, political disagreement is too often treated as personal hatred. Social media rewards outrage, and too many people in public life seem more interested in arguing than solving the problem. That is not the America I remember from the days after 9/11. September 11 showed us what Americans are
capable of when we stop looking at one another as adversaries and start recognizing one another as neighbors. That lesson matters in public service as much today as it did then. Holding office should never be about the title. It should be about the obligation to listen, to serve, to solve problems, and to leave our communities stronger than we found them. We can disagree about policy while still remembering that the person across the aisle, across the street or across the state is not our enemy. Today, lower Manhattan is again filled with the people and sounds of normal life. But time must never be allowed to erase the memory of what happened there. We owe that to those who died, to those who ran toward danger, and to the families who still carry that loss. On this 25th anniversary, we should remember not only what America lost on September 11, 2001, but what America showed the world in the hours and days that followed: courage, sacrifice and unity. Those values should not exist only in our memories. They should still define us. Alex Sauickie is a life-long Jackson resident who represents his home town and 12 other towns in the State Assembly. Follow him on Facebook (/AssemblymanAlex), Instagram (@ AssemblymanAlex), X (@AlexSauickie), and TikTok (@AssemblymanAlex) or visit his website at AssemblymanAlex.com.
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.
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The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 7
OPINIONS & COMMENTARY EDITORIAL Deadline On Political Letters And Candidates It’s that time again. With election day looming, supporters of candidates like to get letters into their local paper. It’s important to note that there are deadlines to make sure that your letter gets in. In order to give enough
time and space for letters, given the print schedule for our weekly papers, we will not accept any letters rega rd i ng local ca nd idates after October 17. Keep in mind that the sooner you get the letter in, the more likely it is to run. After October 17,
there will only be t wo weeks of letters pages. The best length for letters is 300-500 words. I will not publish anything that is crude, insulting, or makes false accusations. This isn’t Facebook. I also tend not to run letters that are obvious-
ly workshopped. Sometimes, I get three letters in a row that are making the same point, in a similar format, showing that t he y we r e c o a che d by someone. I’ll usually run the f irst one I get, and toss the rest. Every week, we have a
government page where we run press releases from you r elected re presentatives. We will not be running any press releases from candidates that are on the ballot throughout the month of October. A ny ca nd id at e s who want to broadcast their
message to our readers, which number literally hundreds of thousands, can contact us at Sales@ JerseyShoreOnline.com. Than k you for you r understanding.
Alaska but also Hawaii so there’s some highs and lows throughout. The average temp for all of the Julys from 1901 to 2000 was 73.59. That means this year, July was 3.3 degrees hotter than the average of the entire last century. If you compare a year’s worth of data, from August of 2025 through July of 2026, the average temp (including all four seasons) is 55.92 degrees, which is 3.9 degrees hotter than the average of the entire last century (52.02). Going further, if you add up five years of data, the average temp across all those days is 54.76 degrees. This is 2.79 degrees hotter than all of 1901-2000. 2 or 3 degrees might not feel like much, but this is on average of every day. It proves that it doesn’t just feel hotter, it really is hotter. The above figures are focused on July but there’s also a way to look at every year, from January through December, and compare them to the average of the last century. It’s important to note these next figures aren’t cumulative. 2002 wasn’t 1.19 degrees hotter than 2001. 2002 was 1.19 degrees hotter than 19012000. 2001 was on average 1.87 degrees hotter than 1901-2000. 2002 was 1.19 degrees hotter. 2003 was 1.23 degrees hotter. 2004 was 1.07 degrees hotter. 2005 was 1.62 degrees hotter. 2006 was 2.23 degrees hotter. 2007 was 1.63 degrees hotter.
2008 was only .27 degrees hotter. 2009 was only .37 degrees hotter. 2010 was only .97 degrees hotter. 2011 was 1.16 degrees hotter. 2012 was 3.26 degrees hotter. 2013 was only .41 degrees hotter. 2014 was .52 degrees hotter. 2015 was 2.37 degrees hotter. 2016 was 2.87 degrees hotter. 2017 was 2.53 degrees hotter. 2018 was 1.5 degrees hotter. 2019 was only .65 degrees hotter. 2020 was 2.35 degrees hotter. 2021 was 2.49 degrees hotter. 2022 was 1.37 degrees hotter. 2023 was 2.35 degrees hotter. 2024 was 3.47 degrees hotter. 2025 was 2.62 degrees hotter. Notably, there isn’t a single year this century where the average temperature was less than the average temp of the entire previous century. We really need to do something to curb these temperatures that are slowly creeping higher. This information came from NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Climate at a Glance: National Rankings, published August 2026 and retrieved on August 20, 2026 from ncei.noaa.gov/ access/monitoring/climate-ata-glance/national/rankings
Chris Lundy News Editor
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Empty Sky On NJ’s 9/11 Memorial Editor’s note: This letter was sent to the governor and state lawmakers. I write to you today, with the knowledge that September 11th, 2026 will be the 25th Anniversary of the September the 11th attacks. While there is no doubt that to those who lost loved ones, and whose names are represented on this memorial, there is a special meaning in memorializing their names. We are grateful. A sacred place. It is also true that memorial serves as a reminder to future generations of what can be lost in an instant, of what evil did, and that evil may be harbored in mankind’s heart, yet still. The memorial’s reflection shines upon the souls of those lost with each sunrise, each dusk, and nighttime sky. Yet it remains unfinished as it was designed. To leave the outside façade blank, devoid of the ability to reflect the sun or moon or display the words of
the oath we all swore, “Never Forget,” is an abandonment of what we swore to do, our promise to never forget. I implore you to help resolve those issues that are preventing the completion of the memorial. That those in opposition and declare it finished not think not with the purse, but with their hearts, and compassion, and seek any additional funding to complete and maintain the memorial for future generations. Thomas J. Meehan III Toms River USAF Vet 62-66 DAV & American Legion Lifetime member Gold Star Family Member
Congressman Smith Is Never Around Editor’s note: This letter is in reference to items on our government page, which we take from elected officials. An interview with Peace is scheduled for later this month. Smith has not re-
WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR! The Jackson Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns. All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verification. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.
turned our calls. I am pulled that you will present a press release from Chris Smith as actual news in the government. It seems very biased that you are not presenting any news of the actual congressional race in the fourth district. Chris Smith has not been seen in this district for many years. Has no town halls and does not respond to phone calls. Last time I called his office for information, I was hung up on. There is another candidate in the race in the fourth district. Rachel Peace and her name has not been seen in your paper at all. Maybe actual coverage of the government would be beneficial to the constituents here. Helen McGrail Toms River
Free Health Care Isn’t Free I would like to address Sen. Andy Kim’s proposed MEDIKIDS program. It appears that Sen. Kim had his political finger into the wind and senses the socialist movement gaining steam and is jumping on board to keep employed in the future ( the same with Cory Booker, me too, me too). The 1st thing I would like to point out to those who aren’t paying attention is that this is a KIDS program and he is calling everyone up to 26 years of age a kid. He justifies this by saying that since we are providing healthcare to seniors, we should also do it for children. The next step in the socialist agenda after that is to say, ‘hey we do this
for seniors and kids, why discriminate against everyone else, let’s have universal healthcare for all.’ When the press contacted Kim’s office to see how much this suggested program would cost, they didn’t have a clue. More importantly, we don’t hear from Andy how we will pay for it. My guess is you will get the standard left wing reply “the billionaires will pay!” (Note: since many if not most of the politicians are millionaires, they always point at the billionaires). This nonsense leads me to propose that that we pass a law that in order for a bill to be brought up for a vote whether it be local, state or national, that a verifiable cost estimate go along with it and the suggested means of paying for it. I guarantee that if this happened 90% of this bull crap freebie stuff would disappear. Wake up America before it is too late ! Bill Dluzniewski Barnegat
This Year Is Heating Up Everyone knows that it’s been super hot this year. It’s not just in our heads. There’s statistics to back it up. The federal government has been compiling average temperatures for each year dating back to more than a century. They released helpful charts summing up all of 1901 through 2000, and you can compare it to more recent years. According to the latest statistics, July’s average temp throughout the country was 76.89 degrees. This includes
Devon Blank Long Beach Island
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Page 8, The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026
Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements
Ocean County Funeral Home Earns International Honor By Jason Allentoff JACKSON – Oliverie Funeral Home has received the National Funeral Directors Association’s 2026 Pursuit of Excellence Award for its service to families, professional standards and community involvement. The local business was among 301 funeral home locations worldwide selected for the honor this year. The annual award recognizes funeral homes that demonstrate high standards throughout their operations, including ethical conduct, staff development, family services, community outreach and innovation. Applicants must complete an extensive review process showing compliance with state and federal regulations, continuing education opportunities for employees and resources for families experiencing loss. Recipients must also demonstrate support for the funeral service profession and pledge to follow the association’s ethical guidelines.
“Earning the NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award is a significant achievement and a testament to the dedication of the entire Oliverie Funeral Home team,” NFDA Director of Public Relations Jessica Koth said. “Their commitment to serving families, investing in their staff and strengthening their community represents the very best of what funeral service has to offer.” Owner and Manager Geraldine Oliverie said the award reflects the compassion and professionalism her staff strives to provide each day. “For us, excellence is not a goal we reach once—it is a standard we recommit to every single day,” Oliverie said. “This recognition affirms the dedication, compassion and professionalism our staff brings to every family who walks through our doors.” Oliverie Funeral Home has two locations - Manchester and Jackson.
Spanish Dance Company To Perform At Library
JACKSON – The Alborada Spanish Dance Company will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with traditional costumes, Flamenco dancing and live music at 3 p.m. September 19 at the Jackson Branch of the Ocean County Library. The performance will explore the diverse dances and musical traditions of Spain, offering audiences a closer look at the country’s cultural heritage through several Spanish art forms. Founded by Maria Alba in 1965, the
company was revitalized in 1980 under Alba and current Artistic Director Eva Lucena, who introduced new dancers and choreographers. Alborada became a New Jersey nonprofit organization in September 1995 and now reaches approximately 11,000 to 15,000 people annually through its programs. The free event is intended for adults and seniors. Registration is required at tinyurl.com/ SpanishDanceJA, by calling 732-928-4400 or by visiting the branch at 2 Jackson Drive.
Boozy Bingo Returns To Firehouse
JACKSON – Jackson Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 will host its Halloween-themed Boozy Bingo fundraiser October 17 at Station 55, 113 North New Prospect Road. Doors will open at 5 p.m., with the first game beginning at 6 p.m. The event will feature regular and special bingo boards, gift
raffles, a 50/50 drawing, snacks, a costume contest and a table-decorating competition. Tickets cost $20 per person. Tables accommodate eight to 10 guests, and all tickets for a group must be purchased under the same name. Tickets are available through Eventbrite at shorturl.at/GQ9p8.
High School Band Sets Vendor Fair
JACKSON – The Jackson Township High School Band will host its 13th annual Vendor and Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. December 5 in the school gym, 125 North Hope Chapel Road. The event will feature more than 100 vendors and crafters, a mega 50/50 raffle, a mini gift
auction and a concession stand. Admission and parking are free. For more information, email vendorfair4jthsmarchingband@gmail.com. Organizers caution that this is the only authorized email address for the event.
Church Plans Fall Flea Market
JACKSON – DeBows United Methodist Church will host a flea market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 10 at the intersection of routes 537 and 571. Vendor spaces cost $15, and participants
must provide their own tables. There will be no rain date. To reserve a space or obtain more information, call Sue at 609-631-4306. Additional details are available at debowsumc.org.
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The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 9
Community News
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Lakewood Fire Station 1 LAKEWOOD – The Township Committee unanimously approved renaming Division Street in downtown Lakewood as “Chief Richard C. Wallace Way” in memory of longtime Fire Chief Richard C. “Dick” Wallace, who died in July. Wallace began serving with the Lakewood Fire Department in 1963 at Fire Station 1, located at Division Street and Monmouth Avenue. The U.S. Air Force veteran started as a volunteer, became one of the department’s first career firefighters and served as chief from 1988 to 1990. He remained a department member until
Photo courtesy Frantasy Enterprises, LLC his death. Wallace was a life member of the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association and Lakewood Firemen’s Exempt Association. He also served with the New Jersey Forest Fire Service from 1963 to 2011, eventually becoming a district warden. Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein said the street dedication will serve as a permanent tribute to Wallace’s commitment to Lakewood and its residents. He praised Wallace for remaining an active member of the local first responder community throughout his life.
Pup Strut Dog Parade Planned
NEW EGYPT – Residents and their dogs are invited to participate in the Pup Strut Dog Parade from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 3 at New Egypt Recreation Field, 26 Brindletown Road. The event will include a quarter-mile walk on pavement and grass, followed by vendors and dog demonstrations. Costumes are optional, and prizes will be awarded in several categories. Spectators are welcome and should bring chairs or blankets.
Registration costs $5 per dog for New Egypt residents and $10 per dog for visitors. Animal shelters and rescue groups may enter adoptable dogs at no charge. Participating organizations will include Amazing Mutts Puppy Rescue and New Jersey Boxer Rescue. Proceeds will support the historic Oakford Lake walking bridge. For registration, vendor, sponsorship or volunteer information, email BridgeBrigade08533@gmail.com.
Vendors Sought For Christmas Village
JACKSON – Officials are seeking about a dozen vendors for the Christmas Village during the township’s Christmas Tree Lighting Extravaganza from 4 to 8 p.m. December 5 at 95 West Veterans Highway. Organizers are particularly interested in vendors offering handmade or personalized ornaments, stocking stuffers and other holiday merchandise.
Vendor spaces measure 10 feet by 10 feet and cost $20. Participants must provide their own tables, tents and other equipment and arrive for setup at 3 p.m. Interested vendors should email fmeabe@ jacksontwpnj.net with “Xmas Vendor” in the subject line. The community event will also feature live music, holiday activities, food and drinks, photos with Santa and free ice skating.
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status of the submissions and he gave us a commitment for everything that would have to be submitted.” The project concerns open space property that was purchased years ago and proposed to be revitalized to be used for passive and active recreational purposes. The property has a significant historical legacy for the township and once housed a nightclub tavern where Bruce Springsteen performed during the early days of his career. That structure had to be torn down as part of the restoration project. Since it’s in an environmentally sensitive area, more care and permits are required for work being done. Burnstein noted that a bill for $2,885 was added on to the list of bills to be paid at a recent Township Council meeting. This is “a check from the town to the Ocean County Soil Conservation District. The business administrator (Charles Terefenko) signed the paperwork today so we can reach out to the engineer and we can submit it to DEP (NJ Department of Environmental Protection), to Ocean County Soils, and to Ocean County Planning Board so we can finally move it to the next step.” Burnstein said for “the residents who have been waiting for this for many, many years, we apologize and we are going to continue to keep our foot on the gas and try and move it forward.”
Land Use Updates Burnstein provided some other project updates noting that Council Vice President Giuseppe Palmeri and Councilman Chris Pollack had been working on ordinances pertaining to warehouses. “I had the opportunity to speak to our attorney (Gregory McGuckin) and our engineer this week. I got an email with some of the ideas we’re working on to try to better protect some of the surrounding areas of the warehouses are located or are going to be located potentially in Jackson.” He added that buffer zones might be employed. “I am hoping to have a draft ordinance by the end of this week to get it over to the council and to go from there.” The council president said he also spoke with the council about a stormwater ordinance that had been put on hold. “I do believe it is a very big issue. We are continuing to see more and more flooding within some of our neighborhoods as some people make additions and lose some of the impervious coverage. I would like to introduce it this year because I do think it is something important.” Impervious coverage describes how much of a property is covered by a building, or asphalt, or something else that doesn’t allow rain to filter into the soil. The rain has to go somewhere, which is usually the street. “I think it will help some of our higher density neighborhoods in town so we will be moving forward on that,” Burnstein added.
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Coin Club Honors Youth Director OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County Coin Club President Doug Ball presented Young Numismatists Director Jeff Thompson with a Certificate of Appreciation for his commitment and dedication to the club’s youth program. Thompson was recognized for his continued efforts to challenge, engage and educate young coin collectors at each meeting. Club members congratulated him on the honor and thanked him for supporting the next generation of numismatists. Photo courtesy Ocean County Coin Club
Ricky Martin To Perform At Hard Rock Live
ATLANTIC CITY – Ricky Martin will perform at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City at 8 p.m. October 16. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. July 31 through HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com. The concert schedule is subject to change. Martin has sold more than 95 million albums worldwide and earned two Grammy Awards,
four Latin Grammys, 14 Premio Lo Nuestro Awards, 12 Latin Billboard Awards, nine World Music Awards and two American Music Awards. The Puerto Rico-born performer first gained prominence as a member of Menudo before beginning his solo career in 1991. His bestknown songs include “María” and “La Copa de la Vida.”
Farmer’s Market Now Open
JACKSON – The Market at Adventure Crossing is now open at 515 Monmouth Road. The outdoor market runs Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October 24 and includes local produce, food vendors and handmade merchandise.
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The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 11
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Page 12, The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026
H ere ’ s T o Y our H ealth
Dear Phar Pharmacist macist
Dr. Izzy’s 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.
Hearing Aids Could Benefit Your Brain If You Wear Them
Hearing aids do much more than improve communication. Research continues to show a strong connection between hearing health and cognitive well-being. Treating hearing loss may help support overall brain function as we age. Recent research has found that people who wear their hearing aids consistently experience greater cognitive benefits than those who wear them only occasionally or not at all. Successful outcomes depend on proper fitting and daily use. When hearing loss goes untreated, the brain works harder to understand speech. This extra listening effort may leave fewer mental resources available for memory, attention, and thinking. Communication difficulties may also contribute to social withdrawal, which has been linked with cognitive
decline. Hearing aids improve access to speech and environmental sounds, reduce listening effort, and help people stay engaged with family, friends, and everyday activities. The greatest benefits occur when hearing aids are worn consistently during waking hours. If you already wear hearing aids, use them every day. If you have been delaying treatment, this research provides another important reason to have your hearing evaluated sooner rather than later. 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!
OCC Nursing Students Gain New Financial Aid Option TOMS RIVER – Ocean County College nursing students will soon be able to receive interest-free loans and other assistance through the New Jersey Pay It Forward Program. Beginning in fall 2026, eligible students may apply for loans carrying no interest or fees to help pay tuition and related educational expenses. Some participants could also receive monthly living allowances, emergency aid and mental health services that do not have to be repaid. Dr. Tracy Walsh, dean of Nursing and Health Sciences at OCC, said the resources could ease financial pressures and allow nursing students to concentrate on completing their degrees. The statewide initiative was established in 2022 by New Jersey, the NJ CEO Council and Social Finance, which manages the program. It supports education and workforce training connected to high-demand professions, including health care. Money repaid by participants returns to the fund to assist future students. Gov. Mikie Sherrill said reducing the cost of nursing education will help New Jersey residents prepare for stable careers while expanding the pool of qualified workers available to health care employers. An additional $1 million was included
for the program in Sherrill’s fiscal year 2027 budget. Officials said the expansion at OCC could benefit hundreds of nursing students as New Jersey works to address a continuing shortage of nurses. The state has provided $20 million to the program since its launch, while the NJ CEO Council has contributed approximately $5 million. Organizers expect it to ultimately assist 1,000 students. Kirstin Hill, president and chief operating officer of Social Finance, said the organization has seen promising outcomes from its investments in New Jersey health care students. She said adding OCC will help more students remain in school, finish their training and enter the nursing workforce. OCC President Pamela Monaco said the partnership advances the college’s efforts to make higher education more accessible and remove financial obstacles that can prevent students from completing their studies. OCC’s nursing program combines coursework with clinical training. Graduates receive an Associate in Applied Science degree and may take the National Council Licensure Examination. Those who pass the NCLEX-RN qualify to become licensed registered nurses.
6 Nutrient Deficiencies That Can Feel Like Something Is Wrong With Your Heart By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. Your heart suddenly flutters. You feel unusually tired walking upstairs. Maybe you’re lightheaded or your legs feel weak. Naturally, your mind goes straight to your heart, and sometimes that’s exactly where it should go. But nutritional deficiencies can produce surprisingly similar symptoms. I find that so fascinating, so today we’re going to discuss 6 nutrients deficiencies that might make you think your heart is failing. One thing though, as a pharmacist, I don’t want you diagnosing palpitations as a “magnesium deficiency” and popping supplements while ignoring a genuine problem. Some of you reading this could very well have n abnormal heart rhythm unrelated to nutrient deficiencies. So, keep this in mind: New or persistent palpitations, chest pain, fainting, significant shortness of breath or a rapid/irregular heartbeat definitely deserves medical evaluation. 1. Magnesium helps regulate the movement of calcium and potassium across cell membranes. Significant deficiency can cause weakness, muscle cramps and abnormal heart rhythms. Long-term use of acid blockers can contribute to low magnesium. 2. Vitamin B12 deficiency is another potential masquerader. It can cause megaloblastic anemia, resulting in fatigue, weakness and sometimes palpitations. B12 deficiency may also produce tingling, numbness or balance problems. If you take metformin, you may be particularly vulnerable to low B12. 3. Folate, vitamin B9, works closely with B12 in red blood cell production. Deficiency can also cause anemia, weakness, fatigue and shortness of breath. 4. Iron. When iron deficiency progresses to anemia, oxygen delivery suffers. Walking
upstairs can suddenly feel like mountain climbing, and the heart may beat faster to compensate. But don’t take iron simply because you’re tired. Too much iron isn’t benign either. Testing levels is useful before supplementing. 5. Potassium deserves special respect because both too little and too much can cause dangerous rhythm disturbances. Diuretics may lower potassium, while drugs such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs and spironolactone may raise it. This is one electrolyte I’d rather you measure than guess about. 6. Vitamin D deficiency is more strongly associated with bone and muscle problems than with palpitations, but vitamin D status can indirectly affect heart rhythm because it influences calcium balance. Too much vitamin D can raise blood and urinary calcium, potentially triggering rhythm disturbances. The larger lesson is simple: Symptoms are clues, not diagnoses. A fluttering heart doesn’t automatically mean magnesium deficiency, fatigue doesn’t automatically mean low B12, and weak legs don’t automatically mean low vitamin D. Sometimes nutritional status is part of the puzzle. And sometimes the answer really is your heart. Feed it well, correct genuine deficiencies, review medications that may affect nutrient levels, drink plenty of water (and add electrolytes sometimes), and just pay close attention when your body sends you unfamiliar signals. I know… we’re just too busy and we tend to brush off the obvious. I do it too. Please don’t, because sometimes your body whispers before it shouts. Want to know which nutrient I left out? Read the full article at suzycohen.com to discover the seventh nutrient, and why it matters to your heart.
(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.
Doctor Urges Men To Discuss Prostate Cancer Screening
JERSEY SHORE – About one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, making conversations about screening and early detection critical, according to a Hackensack Meridian Health specialist. Dr. Mina Fam, medical director of urologic oncology at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and robotic surgery at Ocean University Medical Center, said a primary care doctor can help patients understand their individual risk. Men at average risk should generally discuss screening around age 50, while Black men and those with a family history should begin around 45. Men with certain inherited risks, including a BRCA mutation, may need to start between ages 40 and 45. The prostate-specific antigen blood test is commonly used to establish a baseline and identify
potential problems. Fam said doctors consider changes in PSA levels over time, along with a patient’s age and prostate density, rather than viewing a single result as a pass-or-fail test. An elevated PSA level does not necessarily mean a biopsy is needed. MRI scans and newer blood and urine tests can help doctors determine whether further testing is appropriate. Fam also noted that urinary symptoms often result from noncancerous conditions, while early prostate cancer may cause no symptoms. Treatment is similarly individualized. Some patients with early-stage prostate cancer may qualify for active surveillance instead of immediate surgery or radiation. More information is available at hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/ urology/prostate-cancer.
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The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 13
R.C. Shea & Assoc.
Inside The Law What To Do After A Car Crash In New Jersey
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates Most of the people I meet after a car crash tell me the same thing: the first few days were a blur. That is normal. But a handful of decisions made in that first week tend to shape everything that follows. Start with medical care. If you feel any pain, get checked out, even if you waved off the ambulance at the scene. Soft tissue injuries and concussions often do not announce themselves for a day or two. Gaps in treatment also give an insurance company room to argue later that you were not really hurt. Report the crash to your own auto carrier promptly. In New Jersey, your own policy pays your medical bills first through Personal Injury Protection, no matter who caused the collision. That surprises people. It is the trade-off in our no-fault system, unless you elected otherwise. Be careful with the other driver’s insurance company. An adjuster may call within days asking for a recorded statement. You are not required to give one, and a casual answer about how you are feeling on day three can be read back to you a year later. Photographs help more than most people expect. Damage to both vehicles, the resting position of the cars, skid marks,
the intersection itself. So do the names of anyone who stopped to help. Witnesses become impossible to find once everyone drives away. Fault matters, but it is not all or nothing. New Jersey uses comparative negligence. If you are found partly responsible, your recovery is reduced by your share of the fault, and you are barred entirely only if you are more than 50 percent at fault. Being partly to blame is not a reason to assume you have no claim. Finally, watch the calendar. Most injury lawsuits in New Jersey must be filed within two years of the crash. If a public entity is involved, such as a municipal truck or a NJ Transit bus, written notice is generally due within 90 days. If you were hurt in a crash and are not sure what to do next, call and ask. Answering that question costs nothing. Michael J. Deem, Esq. is Certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Civil Trial Attorney. R.C. Shea & Associates, Toms River, New Jersey. (732) 505-1212 This article provides general information about New Jersey law. It is not legal advice about any particular situation, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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Photo courtesy Ocean County Health Department OCEAN COUNTY – The Ocean County Health Department’s Division of Clinic Services participated in the 100 Waves for Recovery event to connect residents with information about opioid overdose prevention, treatment and recovery. Department representatives provided
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Page 14, The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026
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Photo by Wendi Bennett By Jason Allentoff JERSEY SHORE — Ryan Fisher and Kyle Rumaker completed a demanding rowing expedition along the Jersey Shore, traveling from the Cape May Lighthouse to the Statue of Liberty while raising money for coastal preservation and a lifeguard scholarship. The pair generated more than $13,000 in donations during the journey, according to a social media post from Fisher’s family. A portion of the proceeds will support the American Shore & Beach Preservation Association, a national nonprofit that promotes shoreline protection and restoration through scientific research, responsible coastal management and public education.
Funds will also establish a college scholarship for one or more members of the Upper Township Beach Patrol. Fisher and Rumaker, who served as lifeguards together for eight years, will select recipients who demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting local beaches and receive recommendations from their peers. Family members followed the rowers along the coast and celebrated as they reached their destination, completing a challenge that combined physical endurance with support for causes closely connected to their years on the beach patrol. More information is available at lighthouse2libertyrow.com.
County Parks Announce Fall Events OCEAN COUNTY –Parks and Recreation will offer six seasonal events from September through December, including historical programs, family activities and holiday celebrations. The Old Time Barnegat Bay Decoy & Gunning Show will take place September 25 and 26 in Tuckerton. The 32nd annual Pine Barrens Jamboree will follow from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. October 10 at Wells Mills County Park in Waretown. Admission to the jamboree is free. Sunday Fun Day will be held from noon to 4 p.m. October 11 at Ocean County Park, 659 Ocean Avenue in Lakewood. The free family event will include a magician, juggler, games, a petting zoo, Touch-a-Truck activities and hayrides.
Awesome Autumn Fun is scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. November 7 at Jakes Branch County Park, 1100 Double Trouble Road in Beachwood. The free event will feature hayrides, a petting zoo, lawn games, live music, children’s crafts and a food truck. The Affair at Cedar Bridge will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. December 6 at Cedar Bridge Tavern, 200 Old Halfway Road in Barnegat. A free Winter Solstice Celebration featuring games, crafts, animal programs, carriage rides, campfire stories, food and a visit from Santa will conclude the schedule from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 12 at Cattus Island County Park in Toms River.
Casino Night to Benefit Local Nonprofits TOMS RIVER – Open Arms will hold its 37th annual fall fundraiser, “A Magical Night Under the Stars,” from 7 to 11 p.m. October 17 at Toms River Elks Lodge 1875, 600 Washington Street. The casino night will feature card games, roulette, craps and activities for nongamers. Admission includes finger foods, desserts and $1,000 in play money, with additional play money available for purchase. A cash bar will also be available.
Participants can exchange their winnings for raffle tickets offering chances to win gift baskets valued at more than $200 each. No real money will be awarded. Guests must be at least 21 years old. Tickets cost $75. Net proceeds will benefit Ocean’s Harbor House and CONTACT of Ocean and Monmouth Counties. For tickets, call Dawn Samaritano at 732-735-2738 or email dsamaritano@oceansharborhouse.org
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The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 15
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Photo courtesy Ocean County Columbus Day Committee SEASIDE HEIGHTS – An acclaimed folk ensemble from Calabria will bring traditional Italian music, dance and culture to Ocean County during the 35th annual Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival. Pro Loco di Castrovillari is scheduled to arrive in the eastern United States on Oct. 7 as a guest of the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee. The group will make its first appearance in Ocean County during the three-day festival, which runs from Friday, Oct. 9, through Sunday, Oct. 11. The Columbus Day Parade will begin at 1 p.m. Oct. 11 in Seaside Heights. Committee Chairman Michael Blandina said the annual celebration has grown into one of New Jersey’s most popular cultural festivals. For 26 years, the committee has invited performers from Italy to give visitors an authentic look at the country’s heritage and traditions. Pro Loco di Castrovillari traces its roots to 1929, when the ensemble was established as I Canterini di Castrovillari. It adopted its current identity after becoming part of the newly formed Pro Loco di Castrovillari organization in 1959. The performers have spent decades researching and preserving the customs of Castrovillari, a city in northern Calabria near
Pollino National Park. Their work highlights the region’s traditional songs, dances, music, clothing and daily rituals. The group has received awards and cultural recognition in Italy and abroad. During a 2004 trip to New York, the performers were honored by New York City and Westchester County for their contributions to Italian cultural heritage. John Giavatto, the committee’s international relations chairman, helped coordinate the group’s visit. Organizers plan to arrange trips to New York City, Atlantic City and destinations throughout the region during the performers’ stay. Additional appearances are expected at Ocean County high schools and other local locations before and after the festival. Blandina said the celebration requires a full year of planning and fundraising by a small group of volunteers. Their efforts, he said, have allowed the parade and festival to continue for more than three decades. Organizers are still accepting sponsors, parade participants and volunteers. Most community groups and organizations may participate in the parade at no charge. Volunteers are also needed to serve as parade marshals and assist throughout the weekend. For more information, call Blandina at 732-477-6507.
Crisis Hotline Seeks Volunteers
TOMS RIVER – CONTACT of Ocean and Monmouth Counties is seeking volunteers for its 24-hour crisis intervention hotline, which also connects callers with community resources. Free, in-person training will begin October 20 and continue from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays for six weeks. Classes will be
held in the Toms River area, with the location to be announced. The hotline provides free, confidential and anonymous support to people in distress. For registration or additional information, call 732-240-6104 or email contact@contactoceanmonmouth.org.
Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services
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Ballot Box:
Continued From Page 1 in the room, Horn made a point at the beginning of the meeting to describe the turnout for the drop-box discussion. “There are about 60 or 70 eager citizens here, eager voters here,” Horn said, later referring to the gathering as an “enthusiastic audience.” Earp and Horn voted in favor of the college location. Gilmore and Flancbaum voted against it. The resulting 2-2 tie left the proposal without the majority needed to pass. There are only four members of the board, and it is made up of two Republicans and two Democrats by law. League Pushed For Campus Drop Box The proposal grew out of an effort by the League of Women Voters to reach younger voters while making another drop box available to the broader public. Patti Russo, one of the voter services
chairs for the League of Women Voters in Ocean County, said members regularly visit Ocean County College to register voters. The League is a nonpartisan organization that does not support or oppose political parties or candidates. “The League has been visiting the college campus for about three years, twice a year, multiple days at a time, registering students to vote,” Russo said. “So, the drop box was a natural extension in my mind. We’re trying to expand voter rights and defend democracy.” The proposed box would not have been reserved for students. Any Ocean County voter could have deposited a completed mail-in ballot there. The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at Tufts University reported that 47 percent of voters ages 18 to 29 participated in the 2024 presidential election. By comparison, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that 65.3 percent of the overall voting-age popula-
tion cast ballots that year. In a July 8 letter to the Board of Elections, Ocean County College President Dr. Pamela Monaco offered her full support for a drop box on the college’s main campus. “We believe a ballot drop box on campus will be a valuable resource for our campus community and Ocean County residents while reinforcing our shared commitment to civic participation and accessible elections.” Are Drop Boxes Required? Before voting, the commissioners considered whether New Jersey law required a drop box at the community college or simply gave the commissioners the discretion to approve one. Board of Elections Supervisor Jason Varano read relevant language from a book used by the board. “Any municipal government building in which the main office of the municipal clerk is located in municipalities with populations larger
than 5,000 residents; the main campus of a county community college; the main campus of a state college or university; and the main campus of an independent fouryear college or university with enrollments larger than 5,000 students,” Varano read. Horn said it appeared to be “a matter of linguistics.” In his reading, the semicolons made “the main campus of a county community college” stand as its own category, separate from the requirement that a municipality have more than 5,000 residents. The wording Horn relied upon was not the only language at issue. Gilmore pointed out that the statute was amended in 2021, when the Democratic-controlled Legislature removed county community colleges from the list of locations where drop boxes are required. Gilmore argued that the omission was intentional. He said law makers had deliberately removed the community college requirement, leaving the decision (Ballot Box - See Page 20)
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The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 19
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Page 20, The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026
Ballot Box:
Continued From Page 18 to add one to the county’s four election commissioners. The words “the main campus of a county community college” remain elsewhere in the statute, but in a provision concerning certain boxes installed near police stations before the 2021 law took effect. They are not part of the current list of mandatory locations. Gilmore said his opposition was not based solely on the statute. He also saw no practical need for another drop box. “Because there’s no need for it. That’s why,” Gilmore said. “Everybody that goes there commutes one way or another. They’re going to pass various locations
where you can early vote, and they certainly can pass a location where they can vote.” He questioned the number of ballots one person could place inside a drop box. Someone delivering ballots directly to election officials must identify themselves and comply with limits on authorized bearers, he said. New Jersey law generally limits a bearer to ballots from three voters, or when the voters are immediate family members living in the same household. “But you can go to a drop box and put all 10 in that drop box,” Gilmore said. “So, explain to me why that’s fair. Why is there such an inconsistency?” When comparisons were made to college drop boxes in other jurisdictions, Gilmore responded. “I don’t care what other states do,” he said. His remarks drew interruptions and chal-
lenges from the audience. Among them, was Rachel Peace, the Democrat candidate for Congress in New Jersey’s 4th District opposing longtime Congressman Chris Smith. Peace argued that community college students often have less flexibility than students living at four-year schools. “People that go to a county college are going to a county college for affordability and work at least one other job, as well as going to school,” Peace said. “So, they don’t have as much time as someone who is on a campus somewhere all day going to school.” Peace also raised concerns about relying on the mail to return completed ballots. “With everything that’s going on with the U.S. Postal Service right now, there are going to be a lot of people who are afraid to put their ballot in the mail and are going to
need to rely on a drop box,” she said. “And there aren’t that many around.” Tie Ends Debate For Now Peace’s question did not change the outcome. The two Democrats voted in favor and the two Republicans voted against, leaving it without the majority required for approval. Neither the statute, the state drop-box guide nor the board materials reviewed appear to provide a procedure for breaking a tie over adding a discretionary location. State law allows the county clerk to cast a deciding vote in one limited circumstance, when a county board deadlocks over selecting a secondary location for two drop boxes less than 2,000 feet apart. That provision does not appear to apply here.
jerseyshoreonline.com
The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 21
Photo Of The Week
Sometimes the meaning of life is found in the quiet moments — a fishing pole, calm water and a beautiful Jersey Shore sky. Photo by Sara Rotolo, taken in Island Heights. Want to see your photo in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!
Food Pantries Receive Major Hunger Relief Grants
JERSEY SHORE – The FirstEnergy Foundation has awarded $1.3 million to 25 New Jersey food banks and pantries, including 13 organizations serving Ocean and Monmouth counties. The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $250,000, are expected to provide more than 3.8 million meals statewide. The funding is part of a $5 million regional initiative supporting nearly 140 hunger-relief organizations across six states and Washington, D.C. Local recipients include A Need We Feed, Bradley Food Pantry, Freehold Area Open Door, Fulfill, The Helping Hand Food Pantry, Interfaith Neighbors, Jersey Shore Dream Center, Lacey Food Bank, Lunch Break, Mercy Center, Nourish Asbury Food Pantry,
Somebody C.A.R.E.S. and Trinity Center for Community. A Need We Feed, Freehold Area Open Door and The Helping Hand Food Pantry are first-time recipients. FirstEnergy New Jersey President Doug Mokoid said the grants will help food banks respond as rising costs place additional pressure on household budgets. Feeding America estimates that more than 1.2 million New Jersey residents experienced food insecurity in 2024, including about one in six children. Jersey Central Power & Light employees also support food banks and other nonprofits through volunteer service. FirstEnergy employees contributed about 28,500 volunteer hours across the company’s service territory in 2025.
Police Academy Welcomes Recruit Class 127
OCEAN COUNTY – The Police Academy welcomed Basic Police Recruit Class 127 as its members began training for careers in law enforcement. The class includes 57 recruits and one waiver candidate representing 14 law enforcement agencies: Bay Head, Brick, Harvey Cedars, Island Heights, Long Beach, Manchester, Marlboro, Mantoloking, Point Pleasant Beach,
Seaside Heights, Seaside Park, Trenton and West Long Branch, along with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office. Over the coming months, recruits will undergo physical, academic and mental training while developing the skills, discipline and professionalism needed to serve their communities. The class is scheduled to graduate in February 2027.
Fall Fest Returns To Downtown Toms River
TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Downtown Business Association, Toms River PBA 137 and Autoland of Springfield will present the second annual Fall Fest from 5 to 9 p.m. September 28 on Washington Street. The family-friendly celebration will feature inflatables, raffles, face painting, police demonstrations, children’s characters, axe throwing, food trucks, ice cream and a live
radio broadcast. The event, formerly known as Vest-A-Cop, will be held in downtown Toms River. A rain date is scheduled for October 5. Autoland of Springfield and downtown businesses are sponsoring the festival in partnership with the Toms River Regional School District. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/PBA-137-Fall-Fest.
Page 22, The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
jerseyshoreonline.com
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Across 1 “Jurassic Park” resin 6 Big name in champagne 10 Pigpen 13 Glacier-climbing tool 14 First word of a fairy tale 15 __ vez: again, in Spanish 16 Arbitrary allowance for error 18 Sonnet or ode 19 Phony 20 Margaret of “Fire Island” 21 Play parts 23 Ivy in New Haven 24 Poker player with the tallest stacks 26 Out of __ world 28 Not online, online 29 Dove’s sound 31 Prefix similar to quad33 38-Down dispenser
35 Talk a big game 36 Sweet treats for a valentine, or what the starts of 16-, 24-, 47-, and 59-Across are 40 Inning’s six 41 Tyrannosaurus __ 42 Many Omanis 43 Shivered syllable 44 Barinholtz who won “Celebrity Jeopardy!” in 2023 46 Community FYIs 47 Rite of passage for a Jewish boy 51 Cheeky answers 55 Legal scholar 56 Organ with a lobe 57 Desert flora 58 Shortly, shortly 59 Words on a novelty apron 62 Piffling 63 Uffizi display 64 “Love that” 65 NNW opposite 66 Body positive activist
Holliday 67 Brick-and-mortar worker? Down 1 Honda luxury line 2 Olympian’s aspiration 3 French loaves 4 Struck through 5 Penalty caller 6 Sweet rice cake 7 In first place 8 Prefix with hotel or tourist 9 Less verbose 10 Crustacean eaten by sea turtles 11 Moving sidewalk creators? 12 Thanksgiving tubers 13 Not without risk 15 Opinion piece 17 German cries 22 Berkeley, briefly 24 Bologna bye-bye 25 Long ride, for short 27 Bits of time? 30 Need to repay
31 Band wagons? 32 Like a limited edition 33 Hardware chain that celebrated “100 Years of Helpful” in 2024 34 “appreciate u” 35 Mensches 36 __ for apples 37 Lose sleep, maybe 38 Money 39 “Your Song” singer Rita 44 Online convos 45 Apt candy for a snack break? 46 Take different paths 48 Like peaches in summer 49 Cocktail twists 50 Bouquet bearers 52 Sneeze sound 53 Oktoberfest mug 54 Verb in a bread recipe 55 Scone spreads 57 John of “Argylle” 60 Anger 61 That guy
(c)2026 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.
SOLUTIONS
SU DOK U
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Jumble: MUDDY BERET GENTRY ALLEGE -- GREEDY AGREED
jerseyshoreonline.com
The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026, Page 23
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 19 - 26 BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS FORECAST ARIES (March 21-April 19): September’s stars could continue to throw you up then down for another week before you get improved opportunity for a consistent period. Decide and move on above-zero days, refine and stage on below-zero days like today. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A quiet hobby day could be a satisfying way to use a Sunday with poor stars for adventuring but helpful stars for creativity. Tasks could go smoothly enough if you stick with what you know works. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): An attempt at a fun escape could quickly get co-opted into taking on more responsibilities, or the plan might require more work and less play than you signed up for. Time at home could strike the right note today. CANCER (June 21-July 22): A breakthrough in your domestic arrangements could emerge, whether regarding people, pets, design, or practical needs. Let it percolate at least for today, put it into effect tomorrow or on another above-zero day. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Major purchases on below-zero days usually fail to perform well, don’t ignore today’s underwater stars just to grab a ‘deal.’ An idea could be promising but wait for a positive day in the Universal sky make an announcement. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Stay grounded in yourself — even as a parent, your own self-care will impact your ability to care for others. Your values could be clarifying dramatically but don’t act yet, today’s Universal stars do not support
helpful outcomes. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Who you are and how to present yourself could come even more into focus — you’ll know when the resonance feels deep and clear. Your outer presentation is just the book cover; your inner frequency is the actual content. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Some inward time could bring a significant inner breakthrough; your stars are lining this up for you. Don’t let too much noise and movement sandbag this opportunity for greater self-mastery. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t discount a friend’s advice, they might know something you don’t. Still, wait until at least tomorrow to act — below-zero Universal stars correlate to poorer outcomes. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): An intuition regarding career could be significant or could be nothing — today’s poor stars could bring false insights rather than true ones. Be aware: Your intuition is impacted by Universal stars and your individual cycles, too. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Learn what you can today but always consider whether something truly aligns before taking on anything new in your life. Don’t force anything, especially later in the day PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Any kind of purchase or any other financial move is strongly discouraged today but do nothing and you should be able to skate through just fine. Save a conversation for a better day.
(c) 2026 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
THIS DISH IS AN ODE TO LATE SUMMER
The cod’s mild flavor and flaky white texture let the bright sauce take center stage. CREDIT: (Diane Rossen Worthington/TCA). Diane Rossen Worthington
These last days of summer call for tomatoes, corn and sweet peppers at their peak, and this colorful cod dish makes the most of them. The sauce comes together first, with clam juice added at the end for a light, briny consistency, and crisp bacon is folded in for smoky depth. Best of all, the sauce can be made a few hours ahead, so the fish only needs a quick steam just before serving. Cod is ideal here: Its mild flavor and flaky white texture let the bright sauce take center stage. Use one large skillet or braiser with a lid, then nestle evenly sized fillets into the hot sauce, cover and steam until the fish flakes easily, about 10 minutes. With the ingredients prepped in advance, the dish comes together quickly; serve it with farro, quinoa or rice, a green vegetable, and a chilled pinot grigio or pinot blanc.
STEAMED COD WITH CORN AND TOMATO SAUCE
Serves 4 4 (6 ounce) cod fillets from center cut For the sauce: 3 tablespoons olive oil 3 ounces bacon, cut into 1 1/2-inch dice 2 leeks, light green and white part only, finely chopped 1 orange or yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1 1/2-inch dice 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 cup dry white wine like pinot blanc or grigio 1 (14 1/2 ounces) can diced tomatoes and juice or 1 pound skinned and diced fresh, ripe tomatoes 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1/4 cup chopped basil 1 1/4 cups fresh yellow corn kernels
(about 2 1/2 cobs) Salt and pepper Smoked paprika 2 teaspoons balsamic syrup 1 cup clam juice For garnish: Extra basil leaves 1. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Saute the bacon for about 4 minutes or until crisp and golden. Remove with slotted spoon onto paper towels, drain and reserve. 2. Add remaining oil and saute the leeks for 5 to 7 minutes or until the leeks are soft but not brown. Saute the diced peppers for a couple of minutes. Add the garlic and saute another minute. Add the white wine and increase heat to high and reduce for about 4 more minutes to burn off the alcohol. 3. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and 2 tablespoons chopped basil. Lower the heat to medium and stir 5 to 8 minutes or until slightly thickened. Add the corn and cook another minute. Season to taste with salt, pepper and smoked paprika. Add the balsamic and mix to combine. 4. Just before cooking the cod, add the clam juice, reserved bacon and remaining chopped basil and bring to a simmer. Taste for seasoning. 5. Season the fish with salt and pepper and arrange each fillet in the skillet surounding the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook on medium high for about 10 minutes, depending upon the thickness or until the cod is cooked through. You can use a sharp knife to test it. Place a small basil leaf on top of each fish fillet. 6. Arrange each fillet and some sauce on serving plates. Add your favorite grain like quinoa, farro or rice on the side and serve immediately.
(Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including “Seriously Simple Parties,” and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at www.seriouslysimple.com.) ©2026 Diane Rossen Worthington. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Page 24, The Jackson Times, September 19, 2026
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