On July 7, suicide bombers attacked the London transit system. More than 50 innocent people were killed and hundreds more were injured, some of them critically.

As we learn about the recent terrorist attack on London, and about these events, it is to be expected that many of us will feel not only sad and horrified, but also anxious about our own safety and that of our loved ones.

This type of anxiety is natural and even to be expected. Indeed, for some people, this tragedy type of violence can bring back powerful emotions associated with 9/11 and other traumatic events in our lives.

Most of us, however, will be able to manage these feelings by using our natural support systems, and healthy stress reduction methods such as exercising, and eating well.

Experts say that remaining engaged in our world, staying connected to family and friends and maintaining a routine helps us to successfully manage the challenges of our current world.

Sometimes though, you may experience particular difficulty managing your emotions during these trying times.

It is not uncommon to experience feelings of disbelief, fear and anxiety about the future, irritability, sadness and powerlessness. Some people may also experience headaches and/or stomach problems, difficulty sleeping or excessive use of alcohol or drugs.

If you are experiencing difficulties like these, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Staff at the New Jersey Disaster Mental Health HelpLine is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (877) 294-HELP (4357) to help you cope.

The HelpLine is provided through the Mental Health Disaster and Terrorism Branch within the New Jersey Depart-ment of Human Services, Divi-sion of Mental Health Services, and is part of the package of services that will be expanded as a result of Gov. Codey’s comprehensive plan to improve mental health services state-wide.

James M. Davy

commissioner

New Jersey Department

of Human Services

Trenton

Committee served residents’ best interests

On behalf on our entire neighborhood, a huge thank you to the Jackson Township Committee for reinstating our R-3 zoning (residential, 3 acres) on July 11.

When we came to you regarding the Ashlie Plaza Neighbor-hood Commercial (NC) zoning issue and asked you to look into this matter, you listened.

When you realized it was an error when sections of our rural neighborhood were rezoned to NC, you acted.

We are a residential community; as such this property is not a suitable site for any commercial development.

It is abundantly clear that this entire committee is devoted to serving the best interests of the residents. Thank you for “Doing the Right Thing.”

We truly appreciate your sincere dedication to the residents of Jackson and Freehold Town-ship, our neighbors who have every right to be concerned as they would be just as impacted by any potential development as this property abuts the Jackson/Freehold Township border.

This is a tremendous victory for our neighborhood as we are determined to preserve our rural neighborhood and will do whatever is necessary to protect our homes for our children and for all future generations as well as our quality of life and the environment.

To the many wonderful friends and neighbors whose hard work and determination helped make this happen, thank you. We couldn’t have done it without you.

We realize that this struggle has not necessarily ended. But our neighborhood has united and built a strong alliance. If Equity Builders files an appeal, be assured we will be there also.

Paul Mika

Jackson

Rabies remains a concern throughout Ocean County

A rabid raccoon in Lake-hurst and a rabid fox in Brick Township. These are the latest confirmed rabies cases in Ocean County.

Rabies is a year-round health concern throughout Ocean County. Wild animals are active throughout all municipalities. Feral cats, raccoons, foxes, skunks, and bats enter developed areas, including residential communities, in search of food. These animals forage garbage cans and bird feeders.

Our citizens can help to reduce this problem by making sure their garbage cans are secure and that food items are not left in open areas.

Already this year, 14 animals have tested positive for rabies. In the most recent incident, a teenage boy came into contact with the rabid fox and must now undergo a series of rabies shots.

Common sense goes a long way in protecting our families against this disease. Citizens should be observant for wild animals acting strangely. Contact with these animals should be avoided. Families are reminded to have their pets vaccinated against rabies.

Anyone observing a wild animal acting strangely or in an unusual manner in distress should notify their municipal animal control officer or local police department to provide details about the location of the animal and the time that it was spotted.

No communities are immune from rabid animals and the threat of this disease. The Ocean County Department of Health urges our citizens to take appropriate steps to protect their families.

Gerry P. Little

deputy director

Ocean County

Board of Freeholders

Toms River