CNJ+ November 2024

WARM WEATHER HAS BEEN AFFECTING THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY POSITIVELY AND NEGATIVELY By Surabhi Ashok

Timmy’s Story: A SENSORY FRIENDLY BIRTHDAY By, Pam Teel Young Author Tim Rohrer, who has overcome many obstacles in his life due to his autism, is set to release his second children’s book. The book is a sequel to his first book, Timmy’s Story: A Story About Autism and Friendship . His first book, focuses on inclusion, and is based on his own past life experiences. His second book, Timmy’s Story: A Sensory Friendly Birthday, also is a reflection of his past, and teaches one about autism through the eyes of someone who lived it. For those with autism, sensory sensitivities may make birthday parties difficult to enjoy. Tim’s second book tells a true story, with that in mind, about how his teacher and his classmates made his birthday party one that he could enjoy. Tim’s brother Daniel, who is a senior at Allentown High School, is doing his senior practicum helping behind the scenes of “Tips4Inclusion.” He did the book editing for his brother. Tim has not only become an author but a speaker, self-advocate, and educator of disabilities. He has been asked to speak at schools, conferences, and has also received a commendation from the NJ State Senate and Assemblymen. He is also a managing partner of a teen founded nonprof it organization called 5Help Foundation. To learn more about Tim and the amazing resources he created, check out his website at: https://tips4inclusion.wixsite.com/disabilityinclusion. Tim’s new book is now available to purchase on Amazon. The winter of 2021-2022 was an unusu ally warm one for the state of New Jersey. While some may welcome the warmer temperatures, the effects of this atypical weather pattern have both positive and negative impacts on the state. One of the most notable benefits of the warm winter is that it has made it easier for people to get outside and engage in outdoor activities. Parks and other public spaces are seeing more visitors, and people are taking advantage of the mild weather to exercise and spend time with their fam ilies. Additionally, the warm winter helped to reduce heating costs for homeowners and businesses, resulting in savings on energy bills. However, the warm winter also had some negative effects on the state. For example, the warmer temperatures caused some plants and trees to begin blooming early, which could lead to a higher likelihood of damage from late-season frosts. Additionally, the lack of snow and ice could lead to water shortages in the summer, as much of New Jersey’s water supply

comes from snowmelt in the winter. Furthermore, the lack of snow and ice could also have a negative impact on the state’s tourism industry, as skiing, snow boarding, and other winter sports are popular activities for visitors. Many re sorts and businesses that rely on winter tourism may be impacted by the lack of snow and ice this year. Additionally, the warm winter could have implications for the state’s wildlife. Some animals, such as bears, may come out of hibernation early, while others may not be able to find enough food due to changes in the ecosystem.

Overall, warm winters have both positive and negative effects on the state of New Jersey. While some may enjoy the mild temperatures and the op portunities to engage in outdoor activities, others may be concerned about the impact on the environment and the economy. It remains to be seen how these effects will evolve and what the long-term implications will be for the state.

6 4 CNJ+ | FORMERLY THE MILLSTONE TIMES CNJ+ | FORMERLY THE MILLSTONE TIMES

NOVEMBER 2024 MAY 2023