Not all the news stories are doom and gloom. Recent happenings around the Jersey shore show the better side of everyday people who call the coast home.

Manchester Township:

Manchester Police K-9 Unit raises $3,100 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Pancake Breakfast Benefit

The event was the brainchild of retired Police Officer Sandy Drake, who approached Chief Lisa Parker several months back with a fundraising idea to benefit the K-9 Unit by offsetting the cost for care, maintenance, and training, and to cut down the use of township funding.

On Sunday August 7th at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Whiting, a community pancake breakfast raised raised $3,100.

"It was encouraging to see such a large turnout at this pancake breakfast," said Chief Parker in a release. "It truly shows that the generosity of our community is second to none."

The Manchester Township Police Foundation is a non-profit organization providing funding for youth and community outreach programs, specialized equipment and police charities.

They ask if you'd like to donate to the fund to visit them at www.manchesterpolicenj.com.

Pfizer and the Wakefern Food Corporation donate Senior Motion Wellness System to Manchester Township

The Senior Motion Wellness System, at Harry Wright Lake, will be used as a place for seniors to meet and exercise. Officials expect a six-week span until completion.

The combined corporate donation was accepted through a passed resolution by the Manchester Township Council.

“On behalf of the Council, I’d like to thank Pfizer and Wakefern for their generous contribution to Manchester Township,” said Council President James A. Vaccaro in a release.

The goal is to encourage senior residents to eat well, mingle with others, and embrace challenges of the mind.

“It’s going to be a great benefit to the town,” said Director of Public Works Al Yodakis, who represented the township in talks to determine a suitable spot for the equipment.

Manchester resident donates to Manchester Police Foundation in memory of wife

Edward Loughman of Manchester lost his wife, Joan, after she suffered a medical emergency in 2009, but the attempts to save her by responding police officers remains etched in his mind.

Sergeant James Komsa entered through a first floor window and gave CPR to Joan along with Whiting First Aid Squad members, struggling desperately and valiantly to help her survive.

On August 3, Edward donated $1,000 to the Manchester Township Police Foundation in honor of Joan and of Sergeant Komsa, who he says remains in his thoughts and prayers.

“We greatly appreciate the kindness and generosity of Mr. Loughman, as well as the many residents who continue to show their support for our officers and our community,” said Chief Lisa Parker in prepared comments.

Congratulations to the Manchester Police Youth Academy Class of 2016

During the first week of August, 23 Manchester elementary students learned, from inside the Police Department, what it means to be a guardian of township safety. The Police Youth Academy activities gave them the chance to see how the wheels turn, and how serious the profession really is.

Students learned the department's history, watched SWAT demonstrations at the Ocean County Fire Academy, met Ocean County Police Academy Cadets, and learned important safety tips along with other activities.

“This week, I saw a great group of cadets learn and demonstrate the principles of discipline, leadership, and dedication,” said Chief Lisa Parker in prepared remarks. “I’m proud that they dedicated a week of their summer vacation to such a worthwhile program.”

So what happened along with their graduation ceremony? A pizza party!

Ocean of Love receives Fitness Challenge donation from Manchester Police

Ocean of Love, the Toms River non-profit group that supports children afflicted with cancer and their families, received $2,325 from Manchester Police Detective David Fusaro and Patrolman Charles Gatnarek. The pair organized June's fundraisinge Fitness Challenge at Harry Wright Lake.

The event, in which members of law enforcement participated in tests of physical strength and endurance, amassed nearly $6,000 altogether.

Ocean of Love, under the guidance of Executive Director Linda Gillick, will devote the contribution to operating and maintenance costs..

“We’re grateful to everyone who took part in this year’s challenge," said Fusaro. "We’re looking forward to growing this fundraiser each year and continuing our partnership with worthwhile local charities."

“It was an awesome event, and it was great to see the community come together to compete in the fundraiser,” said Ms. Baer, a Social Worker for Ocean of Love.

Stafford Township:

Stafford Township resident raises $2,200 for K9 vests

Thomas King of Stafford, aware of the need for funding to help township police buy protective vests for the furry, four-legged partners in the K9 teams, took it on himself to seek donations from local business operators. They responded resoundingly, allowing him to present a full $2,200 in contributions.

Stafford Township Police extend their thanks to King and all the local venues who donated the money. They include:

Lucky's Bed & Biscuit, Stafford Veterinary Hospital, Taylor Made Cabinets, Holiday Inn, South Shore Towing, Manahawkin Magic Wash, Elements Restaurant & Bar, Buy Rite Liqours, Pietro's Pizza, All Floors Labor, and Mr.Ted Sicilliano.

Township of Ocean, Monmouth County:

Fire District #1 equips 13 fire vehicles with Spillman Flex Fire Mobile

Flex Fire Mobile sends real-time information about fires, locations of hydrants and apparatus GPS, along with building pre-plans which feature maps and other building details vital to those responding.

“The number one priority for our first responders is to ensure the safety of the people who live and work in Monmouth County,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden in prepared remarks. “That’s why fire departments, along with law enforcement agencies, must stay up to date in this ever changing world of technology."

He adds that the new Spillman software allows responders to gather information about an incident within seconds through the real time reports, locations and communications.

Monmouth County Fire Marshal Kevin Sout added that he's fully aware of the effect that technology has on firefighting capabilities. “I’m pleased fire agencies dispatched by the Monmouth County 9-1-1 Communications Center can utilize this new software, since it provides firefighters with a situational awareness that was not possible prior to Flex Fire Mobile.”

The Sheriff's office has been in use of this software since 2012 and their IT department is the host of the software.

“Knowing the incident details and exact the location of a fire hydrant is crucial and Spillman provides hydrant and pre-plan information all on one screen,” said Scott Nelson, Commissioner and Fire District President.

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