2022-12-03 - The Brick Times

4.6 Acres Could Be Saved As Open Space

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

Holiday Meals To Be Given, Thanks To Students

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - Some 3,000 of the needy in Ocean and Monmouth Coun ties will have a Thanks giving meal with all the

No one is exactly sure

when “Feed the Need” started - the best guess is somewhere around 25 to 30 years ago - but it began when a church group asked if the culi nary arts students could

prepare 25 meals, said vo-tech teacher, Chef Gary Lesniak.

─Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn Mariah Blevins, a Pinelands High School Junior, and Xavion Moore, a senior from Lakewood High School, show off 1,385 meals stacked in packs of five in the walk-in refrigerators. There will be 3,000 prepared. fixings due to the hard work of culinary arts students at the Brick center of Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS).

The program has grown and grown over the years as the need (Meals - See Page 4)

Sheriff’s Officers Detail Border Crisis On Recent Assignment

By Stephanie Faughnan

TOMS

RIVER

– Two

Ocean County Sheriff’s Department officers bringing a fugitive back to New Jersey partici pated in a unique train ing exercise on their way to Yuma, Arizona.

“Knowing that one of the guys we were send ing down speaks Span

ish, I figured this was a chance to give them the experience of going to the border,” said Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy. “I called up some of my Sheriff’s friends down there, Sheriff (Mark) Daniels in Cochise County and Yuma County Sheriff (Leon) Wilmont who I am on the Board of

Directors with on the National Sheriff’s As sociation.”

Mastronardy said he felt both Sheriff’s of ficers Juan Mercado and Geoff Hyatt would benefit from training related to what’s hap pening at the border.

After flying into Phoe nix on a Wednesday,

BRICK - The Brick Open Space Savers Committee (BOSS) was formed earlier last year with the purpose of identifying undevel oped parcels of land in town and recommend ing that they be pre served as open space.

The Committee had its first meeting in Sep tember 2021 and since then, they have identi fied some 38 properties

they deem appropri ate for acquisition that could potentially be saved, said Mayor John G. Ducey during the November 22 Township Council meeting.

“We’ve been work ing on trying to figure out which properties in town we’d like to see the town and/or county acquire to keep it as open space - not for any particular purpose,” he said.

(Space - See Page 5)

Heating, AC To Be Added To 4 Schools

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – Four schools within the Brick Town ship School District will receive new or up graded heating, ventila tion and air condition ing systems after the board approved $10.7 million in HVAC proj ects.

Currently, out of the 12 schools that make up the district, 10 schools

do not have any air con ditioning. Only Brick Township High School and Brick Memorial High School have fresh air intake air condi tioning.

Earlier this year, the bond measure of each individual project was approved by the Board of Education. At the most recent Board of

(Schools - See Page 8)

─Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn 20 Brower Lane might be acquired as open space.

─Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

Ocean County Sheriff’s Officers Juan Mercado and Geoff Hyatt discussed what they learned during a training opportunity at the country’s southern border.

(Officers - See Page 6)

Meals:

became greater, he said, and they try not to turn anyone away.

OCVTS partners with Fulfill Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, who provided some 500 frozen turkeys. The birds arrived on November 4, just before the fall school break, he said.

It took a full week for the turkeys to defrost in the refrigerator, so when the students returned from break on November 14, they deboned them since they otherwise wouldn’t fit in the ovens, Lesniak said.

The culinary arts students learn that dark meat typically takes longer to cook since it contains fat, and the bones are used to make stock for the gravy, Lesniak said.

It takes more than just turkey to make a Thanksgiving meal. Tommy Yanisko, who is the Food Service Director at Community Hospital in Toms River, holds a cash fund raiser every year for Feed the Need.

Yanisko’s fundraiser pays for most of the groceries, including green beans, yams, onions, butter, potatoes and much more, Lesniak said. Yanisko prepared over 1,000 meals during the COVID pandemic, which was the only year Feed the Need was can celed.

OCVTS Chef Rosanne DelNero taught the students how to prepare the green bean casserole and stuffing. Chef Donna Squel ero showed them how to prepare the sweet potatoes, which included marshmallows and onion crisps.

Chef Jill Scott, who teaches Introduction to Culinary Arts to high school juniors and seniors, had organized two assembly lines on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving when the students packed the dinners that con sisted of 2 oz. of dark meat, 4 oz. of white meat, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet po tato mash, green bean casserole and gravy.

“They are learning volume feeding, which are far-reaching skills that are used in assisted living facilities, hospitals and manufacturing,” Scott said.

Brick vo-tech student Derek Whittom, who is a junior at Brick Memorial, helped to portion the turkey and prepare the mashed potatoes.

“I always wanted to learn how to cook because I want to work in a restaurant,” he said. “And it’s for a good cause.”

Maille Fitzpatrick, who is a post-secondary student from Bayville, said she enjoyed learning how to debone a turkey.

“It means a lot because this will help a bunch of people,” she said.

Xavion Moore, a senior from Lakewood High School, said his favorite part was cutting up and mashing 300 pounds of potatoes.

Mariah Blevins, a junior from Pinelands High School, said helping people get food for Thanksgiving “is a wonderful opportu nity; it puts the cherry on top.”

Lesniak said first year students are appre hensive during the massive Thanksgiving food preparation, but “once they get going, they realize the magnitude of Feed the Need.”

The meals will keep for a week because the

students plate them cold and keep them cold, he said. They are microwaveable, but Lesniak said he suspects a lot of the meals are eaten cold since many might not have access to a microwave or a stove.

The meals are distributed to a number of non-profit organizations, such as 750 to Jesus is Lord Fellowship in Brick; 180

to DCF (child protective services); 35 to Chambers Bridge Residence; 45 dinners to an at-risk-youth outreach program called TEAM, run by Brick Police Of ficer Sean Flynn; 210 meals to Seaside Heights Elementary School; 45 to Toms River Senior Center, and many others, Lesniak said.

─Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn Students cooked and packed meals for people in need.

“So we’ve had people join from all over town - the north, the south, the east to west, on the water, not on the water, and we all came together and the group actually voted on four properties that we would send letters out to, coming from myself, telling the owners that we’re interested in acquiring [their property] and keep it as open space,” the mayor said.

One of the four property owners responded to the committee’s letters, which the mayor said was good be cause he thought the letters would be ignored. “But only three ignored us,” he said.

The one who answered and is inter ested is the owner of 20 Brower Lane (Block 321, Lot 23) located off Drum Point Road, a 4.6-acre parcel that is adjacent to the Airport Tract, which is already open space, Mayor Ducey said.

“The great part of this is the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust is going to be funding it 100 percent,” he said, “but they need support from the town, which obviously we are more than in favor of since we started this commit tee for the purpose of trying to acquire as many properties as we can.”

The council passed a resolution that supports the acquisition of the land by Ocean County. The property would

be limited to passive recreation. Fu ture uses for the open space would be limited to activities such as walking and biking trails, and no buildings, the mayor said.

The Ocean County Natural Lands Trust Program was established in 1997 to acquire and maintain environmen tally sensitive lands, natural areas or open spaces that would generally remain in their natural state.

A 1.2 cent dedicated tax provides the County Board of Commissioners with the funds to purchase lands in Ocean County for conservation and farmland preservation. The program generates over $10 million per year and has funded the preservation of over 25,640 acres. Several important parcels have been preserved and acquired through partnerships with non-profit agencies, municipalities and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

One rule that the county has is that the town’s governing body must make a formal approval that the purchase be made, since the property will be coming off the tax rolls.

Mayor Ducey said the Brick Open Space Savers will send out another four letters to property owners to see if they are interested in selling their property to keep them as open space.

“We are going to keep going down that list and adding to it as time goes on,” he added.

The next council meeting will be on Tuesday December 13 at 7 p.m.

Base Expands Solar, Energy Saving Projects

By Bob Vosseller

LAKEHURST – The Joint Base (JBMDL) and the firm Ameresco recently announced a new partnership to complete a $140 million infrastructure and energy resilience project.

As part of the federal government’s Climate Smart Building Initiative, Ameresco will install a solar facility, a battery energy storage system, microgrid controls and 90,000 smart LED light fixture retrofits.

This project is one of Ameresco’s largest federal solar projects and the overall renewable solutions will ensure that the military base will have uninterrupted access to power to maintain critical operations and generate more than $4.7 million in annual energy savings.

Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Energy executed a comprehensive $92 million second phase designed to add more onsite solar power, energy efficiency measures, and infrastructure upgrades to an initial $48 million task order issued in 2021 for on-site solar generation.

The project will both support JBMDL’s goals to enhance their mission through energy assur ance and advance the Climate Smart Building Initiative. This is a federal government program, announced earlier this month, focused on leveraging energy performance contracting to achieve emission reduction and accelerate the clean energy transition.

Ameresco has served as an energy services provider to JBMDL for more than 10 years, completing an initial ESPC project at the base in 2012 and supporting operations and main tenance (O&M) on the systems since their completion.

The total solar photovoltaic capacity to be deployed amounts to 32 megawatts - one of the largest solar installations that Ameresco has installed at a federal site.

Ameresco is also installing a 2MW/4MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) and inte grating the solar, storage, and backup generation assets within the new microgrid. The pairing of distributed energy generation systems with BESS and microgrid controls is designed to assure the base’s access to uninterrupted power in support of JBMDL’s critical missions.

“We are incredibly excited to expand our already robust partnership with the team at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst,” Nicole Bulgarino, Executive Vice President of Federal Solutions at Ameresco said.

She added, “we’re eager to get started on the integration of advanced clean technologies to create a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the base and deliver a project that meets the installation’s mission requirements while also advancing the Climate Smart Build ing Initiative.”

Along with the integration of distributed energy resources and microgrid controls, the project is designed to achieve energy demand reductions through more LED fixture retrofits, wireless streetlighting controls, and advanced interior lighting controls.

The Phase 2 ECMs are designed to gener ate more than $4.7 million in annual energy savings for JBMDL, a total energy usage reduction of 22%. The Phase 2 construction is scheduled to start soon and reach completion in early 2025.

Officers: Continued

Mercado and Hyatt drove southeast to Cochise County to spend the day with the Cochise County Sheriff. A day later, the two officers met with Sheriff Wilmont to see a different view of the United States/Mexico border. That Friday, Mercado and Hyatt returned to New Jersey with the prisoner.

“The border is so many miles and not enough law enforcement officers to cover it,” summed up Mercado. “The amount of illegal people coming across is just over whelming.”

The Sheriff’s officers noticed people walk ing towards the border with their backpacks on in broad daylight. As early as 10 in the morning, Mercado and Hyatt watched as various individuals looked for openings to make it into the United States.

Not all attempting to come across the border originated from Spanish-speaking countries, like those in Central America or South America. Some have traveled from far away places such as Afghanistan, the Ukraine and China, and are looking to seek asylum in the United States.

A designated entry point at the border processes those who turn themselves in to authorities.

“In the 20 minutes before we got there,” Hyatt said. “They already had about 200 people come right through. They had offi cers standing there waiting, knowing they were coming there.”

From Page 1 (Officers - See Page 12)

On a daily basis, thousands of people come through the detention area after they’re processed, they said.

Cartels appear to play a significant role in bringing the groups to the border – regard less of the country of national origin for those coming into the states. All migrants are expected to pay the cartels massive amounts of money.

“They control the whole border along the Mexican side,” shared Hyatt. “All the towns and all the paths to get to the other side.”

Cochese County authorities advised the two Ocean County Sheriff’s officers that the same is true even on the American side. There are stash houses for humans and for drugs.

“Some of the illegals that come over are put in safe houses,” Mercado added. “Now they have to pay the rest of the money they didn’t pay to come across. They have to work for the cartels to pay off the rest of the money they owe.”

The numbers can be as high as tens of thousands of dollars.

Meanwhile, transportation of illegals from Phoenix to other cities has become another booming business. Individuals are charged from $700-$900 each to hitch rides in ten-person vans.

Once a crowd of people entering illegally assembles, officers on the United States side are expected to process them. The proce dure can take hours and includes working with Border Patrol officers.

Both officers acknowledged that many

─Photo courtesy Geoff Hyatt

The border wall is shown near construction materials that would have been used to build more wall, but are sitting idle.

S potlight o n g overnment

$126M Will Support NJ Hospitals, Agencies For CovidRelated Services

JERSEY CITY – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-NJ) announced a combined total $126,278,315.30 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding to reimburse public agencies and sev eral hospitals across New Jersey for expenses incurred during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The early days of the pandemic proved challenging for hospitals across the country as they dealt with a spike in additional patients, less staff, and strapped resources,” said Sen. Me nendez. “But our hospitals throughout New Jersey faced the challenge headon, ensuring their patients and staff remained safe. This funding is critical so that these health care providers can continue providing quality care, while also taking care of the doctors, nurses, and administrative staff who keep their hospitals running every single day.”

“Since the onset of the pandemic, hospitals in New Jersey have been on the front lines caring for people with COVID-19,” said Sen. Booker. “This important federal award shows that we have their backs. I will continue fighting to secure the resources they need to protect public health.”

The following hospitals and agencies received funding:

• Hackensack Meridian Health Inc.$63,932,783.05

• Cooper University Hospital$28,719,845.82

• Atlantic Health Hospital Corp.$13,422,592.34

• Barnabas Health Inc.- $11,391,103.66

• N.J. Office of the Attorney General - $6,013,092

• Holy Name Hospital - $1,716,400.50

• Port Authority of N.Y. & N.J.$1,082,497.93

In September, Sens. Menendez and Booker announced over $32 million in COVID reimbursement expenses to Cooper University. In October, they announced $7.6 million for Valley Hospital and $5.4 million for the New Jersey Department of Health for costs incurred during the beginning of the pandemic.

Last year, Sen. Menendez, who led a years-long effort to reform how FEMA responds to disasters, announced that the agency answered his call to elimi nate the cost-sharing requirements for disaster grants. The directive issued by President Biden allows states and local governments to be retroactively reimbursed at 100% for eligible ex penses to combat COVID-19 incurred since Jan. 2020, and to apply for full reimbursement for additional eligible expenses going forward.

TOWNSHIP OF BRICK NOTICE OF MEETINGS

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 3, Township of Brick, County of Ocean, State of New Jersey, shall hold its regular monthly meetings for 2023 on the second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. on the following dates:

January 9, February 13, March 13 (reorganization), April 10, May 8, June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11, October 9, November 13 and December 11.

All meetings will be held at the Herbertsville Fire House, 601 Herbertsville Road, Brick, New Jersey. Public participation at the meetings shall be at such times as are set forth in the agenda of the meeting and in such manner as is established by the presiding officer.

The agenda shall include, but not be limited to, matters involving personnel, business and finance, approval of minutes, public session, administrative and operational reports, buildings and grounds, apparatus and equipment, maintenance and repairs, litigation, if necessary, legislation, communications and insurance.

Formal action may be taken at all meetings. The public may be excluded from portions of a meeting pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-12.

This notice is being given pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:46, et seq.

By authority of the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 3, Township of Brick.

ROBERT J. SALMON, CLERK Board of Fire Commissioners

Fire District No. 3 Township of Brick

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

President & Publisher

Stew Swann Vice President/COO Jason Allentoff

News Editor

Chris Lundy Assistant News Editor Bob Vosseller

Production Manager Allison Gradzki Graphic Artist Adriana Starcic

Distribution Manager

Laura Hoban

Sales Manager

Lorrie Toscano Layout Designer Sara Zorns

Schools:

Continued From Page 1

Education meeting, members voted to allocate the funding to subsequently allow contracts to be awarded.

In the past, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Thomas Farrell said it could cost them some $50 million to have all the systems installed. These air condi

tioning and HVAC system projects are being funded through the district’s capital budget. In addition, the projects are partially funded by the state from the $7.5 million that was granted to the district late last year, which was obtained from federal pandemic relief measures.

The projects will include installing air conditioning systems as well as efficiency upgrades at Lanes Mill

Elementary, Emma Havens Young El ementary, Drum Point Elementary, and Lake Riviera Middle School.

Additionally, the projects will in clude several improvements such as replacing rooftop-mounted HVAC units and reconstructing interior plant facilities. These upgrades will give the schools air conditioning and bet ter air filtration. Projects are set to be accomplished throughout the summer

of 2023.

The breakdown of the costs for each school, along with its contractors, are as follows:

• Drum Point ES: DeSesa Engineering Company, Inc. – $2,948,000

• Emma Havens Young ES: Preferred Mechanical Inc. – $3,049,000

• Veterans Memorial ES: Preferred Mechanical – $2,649,000

• Lake Riviera MS (no contract award ed yet) – $4,657,000 appropriated

Project Safe Lock

BRICK – The Brick Township Police Department has a program called “Project Safe Lock.” This program will allow quick access to a residence when time is of the essence, such as a medical emergency where the doors are locked and the patient is unable to get to the door. It is a voluntary program and certain restrictions as to who can obtain a lock box under this program may apply. Police issue the lock boxes on a case-by-case basis, measuring factors such as living arrangements, age, physical con ditions and medical status. This program is free to Brick Township residents.

Those interested in the program can obtain an application form on the Brick Police website under “forms,” or by responding to the Community Policing Office at the Brick Township Police Department during regular business hours. For more information, you may call the Community Policing Unit at 732-262-1158.

Brick Elks Holiday Toy Drive

BRICK - Once again, the Brick Elks Lodge # 2151 motorcycle committee is holding the annual toy drive for our community in need.

Toys will be given out with the Christ mas food baskets as they have done in the past. Please bring your unwrapped new toy and place it in the donation box in the grill room.

Donations will be accepted until December 16.

If you have any questions, please contact Elyse Russo at 732-644-6273. As always thank you for your support.

Brick Historical Society Holiday Cookie Sale

BRICK – The Brick Township Histor ical Society will host its 2nd Annual Holiday Cookie Sale at its Havens Homestead Museum, 521 Herbertsville Road. A one-pound decorated box of cookies is $10. Cookies need to be preordered by calling 732-458-6266 by December 1. They can be picked up at the museum on December 10 between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.

ommunity n ew S

Township Officials Honor Veterans

BRICK – Mayor John G. Ducey, Council President Vince Minichino, Council Vice President Lisa Crate and Councilman Derrick Ambrosino visited The Chelsea at Brick to say thank you to

─Photo courtesy Brick Township

the veterans who so proudly served our country. These veterans of our military services put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms we enjoy. Thank you for your service!

Officers Serve VFW Members On Veterans Day

─Photo courtesy Brick Township PBA#230

BRICK – On November 11, the Brick Township PBA#230 hosted the annual Veterans Day Breakfast and served members of the VFW on Adamston Road. Thank you to all who served our country in the armed forces.

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C lub N ews , A C tivities , e ve N ts & A NN ou NC eme N

DEC. 4 WIND CREEK CASINO

Includes $25 Slot Play,5 Hour Stay.

$56/pp

DEC. 12 A DAY IN AMISH LANCASTER $84/pp Includes Lunch at Shady Maple, Visit to Kitchen Kettle, Bird n Hand Bakery.

DEC. 12-14 3 DAY CHRISTMAS ON THE POTOMAC $598/pp Dbl.Occ. Enjoy the holidays with us on a spectacular Christmas themed trip. Ice returns this year with one of a kind amazing walk-through experience. Includes 2 nts. stay at the 5 star Gaylord National Harbor Resort, 2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners, 1 Christmas Musical with lunch and more.

DEC. 13 CHRISTMAS IN CAPE MAY $165/pp Includes Dinner at Lobster House, Trolly Christmas Lights Tour & More.

DEC. 15. ELF MUSICAL AT THE DUTCH APPLE THEATRE IN LANCASTER PA $138/pp Includes Lunch Before Show.

DEC. 31 NEW YEARS AT NOON $146/pp

Includes A Family Style Lunch, Live Music and Dancing, Comedian, 12 noon Champagne Toast.

JAN. 18 A BEAUTIFUL NOISE - THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL $219/pp Includes lunch before show & Orchestra Seat.

JAN. 18 SOME LIKE IT HOT MUSICAL $212/pp Includes Lunch Before Show & Orchestra Seat.

JAN. 22 MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS $144/pp Includes Lunch & Show at The Dutch Apple Dinner Theater.

JAN. 25 MJ MUSICAL $212/pp Includes Lunch Before Show & Orchestra Seat.

MAR. 30 MY MOTHER’S ITALIAN..MY FATHER IS JEWISH.. I’M IN THERAPY $99/pp Includes $25 Slot Play, $15 Food Voucher and Show Ticket.

APR. 19 A BEAUTIFUL NOISE - NEIL DIAMOND

ommunity n ew

Lighthouse Historian Speaks At Historical Society

Jersey Shore Animal Center’s Holiday Of Hope

BRICK – Jersey Shore Animal Cen ter’s Holiday of Hope, pet photos with Santa, will be on December 11 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Photos with Santa; bake sale; JSAC swag sale; refreshments. Bring your camera or phone. They supply the San

ta, you take the photos. Santa’s helpers can help you take your photo!

All pets must be leashed. No ag gressive animals. This event will be outdoors (weather permitting).

Jersey Shore Animal Center is located at 185 Brick Boulevard, Brick.

Presents

BRICK – The holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” will be performed at the Robert Anstett Cultural Arts Center located

Holiday Concert

BRICK – St. Thomas Lutheran Church, 135 Salmon Street Brick, will be hosting a Holiday Concert on December 11 at 2 p.m. Kick off your holiday season with a per

formance by the Greater Shore Concert Band! James R. Bast, Director. Kathryn Sarlo, Assistant Conductor. Featuring Da vid Smolokoff, Tenor. No tickets required.

Winter Craft Fair

BRICK – Brick Township High School Marching Dragon Caravan will be hosting their 56th Annual Winter Craft Fair on

December 10 at 9 a.m. at Brick Township High School. A variety of handmade crafts will be sold.

BRICK – At its November 15 meeting, the Brick Township Historical Society hosted Bill Dunn, the Sea Girt Lighthouse historian and author of several books. Dunn presented a program about the history of lighthouses going back through history to

the Egyptians in 200 B.C. and up to the present time in the U.S. with emphasis on the lighthouses along the New Jersey coast. The program was well received by a record crowd at the Herbertsville Firehouse in Brick.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township Historical Society

Brick Police EMS Announces EMT Of The Year

BRICK – Brick Township Police De partment EMS is proud to announce this year’s recipient of the EMT of the Year award Jesse Porcelli #5386! This year they polled the staff for input and although there were several other deserving candi dates, Jesse stood out just that much more. Jesse is a part time EMT with us that

contributes with the effort of a commit ted fulltime employee. Jesse is a Special Operations Team Leader, a member of TRT and TEMS, and is constantly bringing ideas to the table to improve our organization for everyone. This is well deserved. Congratulations EMT Jesse Porcelli!

Annual Holiday Cookie Sale And Coat Drive

BRICK – The Annunciation Orthodox Church Annual Holiday Cookie Sale and Coat Drive will be on December 10 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Featuring homemade Heritage cookies like Grandma used to bake. Choose from a wide selection of our family favorites including Linzer tarts, rich cold dough cookies, thumbprints, Russian tea cakes, buckeyes, decorated cut out cookies, and many more varieties! Premade cookie trays and grab n’

go gift boxes of delicious varieties will be available and don’t forget the freshly made walnut and poppy seed rolls are perfect for your holiday entertaining. They will also be offering ethnic items and unique gifts.

They will be collecting new and gently worn coats, gloves and mittens to help those in need.

They are located at 360 Van Zile Road, Brick. Come join for free hot chocolate and coffee.

Brick Chamber Of Commerce Installation Dinner

BRICK – Brick Township Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their Installation Dinner and Annual Award Ceremony on December 15 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel & Con ference Center, 815 Route 37 West in Toms River.

Join for the installation of the 2023 officers and board of directors and cel ebrate this year’s award honorees. Cost is $85 per person. Register at Brick Chamber.com . For more information, contact info@BrickChamber.com or call 732-477-4949.

─Photo courtesy Brick Police EMS

Officers: Continued From Page 6

people coming over the border do so to find work and a better life. However, there’s no way of telling their backgrounds and if their intent represents harm to those settled on the American side.

According to Hyatt, he and Mercado had a hard time booking a hotel in Cochese County. Hyatt attributed their frustration with the fact that the government pays for hotel rooms for those who cross until family members come to claim them.

The Border Wall

The entire U.S.-Mexico border is approx imately 1,933 miles. There was some kind of wall or barrier on 654 miles of this before Donald Trump became president.

During Trump’s presidency, 458 miles of wall were built. However, only 49 miles of new wall was built – the rest was either im provements or a replacement of an existing barrier.

The cost for the wall has been in the billions of dollars, and some of that had been directed away from national defense funding for this.

The Associated Press reported in the summer that although President Biden halted former President Trump’s wall project, Biden pledged to fill four gaps near Yuma. There was also 13 miles built by Biden’s administration in Texas.

Critics of the wall have stated that a wall only works if you have someone watching it. Customs and Border Protection docu ments leaked in March of this year showed that Trump’s new sections of wall had been breached 3,272 times, mostly with common power tools found at hardware stores.

The training in both Arizona county loca tions led the two Ocean County law enforce ment officials to similar conclusions. There’s not enough manpower to cover the border. In Cochese County, four Sheriff’s officers patrol an 80-mile stretch through the mountains.

It all changed when the current adminis tration came into power according to Hyatt. Materials intended to finish the border wall all sit by the wayside and are not being utilized to complete the job.

The wall itself was intended to be construct ed of steel pillars filled with concrete.

Nonetheless, Hyatt admitted the fence still came with limitations. Those with a will could find their way to go through it, under it or over

it. The bottoms could be torched with a hole allowing someone to slip through underneath.

“The cartels could have a 10-year-old kid sitting there with a hacksaw for two or three days,” said Hyatt. “But you’d still have more chance to catch someone by just having this open door and unfinished fence.”

When Mercado and Hyatt met with the Yuma County Sheriff’s officers, they sat through a presentation documenting how much crime had skyrocketed as a result of the open borders. The number of murders, thefts, burglaries and violent crimes showed a dramatic increase.

Mercado, who was born in Puerto Rico, had the benefit of understanding the language of many of the people who made the trip across the border. When he and Hyatt participated in a traffic stop, Mercado took the opportunity to ask questions.

“There were two illegal aliens in the back of the car, and I spoke with them,” Mercado shared. “One told me it was his second time trying to get across.”

The man said he was from Mexico and that his plan was to come to the states to find work because it was financially tough in his country. Mercado pressed to find out if a fee was involved in making the trip.

“At first he denied it and I kept talking to him,” said Mercado. “He eventually said his family paid half the money and would pay the rest when he got to the safe house.”

The total amount owed in this case was $6,000 – seemingly worth a possible new beginning.

While people from Puerto Rico can travel throughout the 50 states as American citizens, Mercado easily related to the reason his par ents decided to leave their birthplace. They wanted a better life for their children – just as is the case for many who take the risk of crossing the border.

“It’s just so frustrating because we have a problem and people don’t address it,” Mer cado shared. “We need to fix it and create some kind of program or temporary visa that lets people stay here legally if they have no criminal background. Let them pay their taxes here.”

Hyatt nodded his head in agreement. The trip to pick up the fugitive at the border turned out to be an eye opener for both county law enforcement officers. Both credited Mastro nardy for providing them with the opportunity to see the chaos at the border in person.

Chris Lundy contributed to this story

-Photo courtesy Geoff Hyatt

A view of the border wall from a distance.

Around the

Shoreline Project Fighting Erosion

By Bob Vosseller

WARETOWN – Native plantings, manmade devices to slow waves, and other efforts have been part of a plan to combat the loss of marshland and shorelines due to climate change, ex perts explained at a recent meeting.

The Natural Resource Education Foundation (NREF) hosted the meet ing at the Lighthouse Center for Nat ural Resource Education (LHC) in Waretown. Guests were able to visit the Living Shoreline Project and see its progress.

Nancy Eriksen, NREF Board Pres ident, explained the need for this project. The shoreline erosion and loss of marsh were the result of cli mate change and sea level rise which included increased flooding intensity and frequency.

Eriksen noted that the salt marshes that sit adjacent to Barnegat Bay at the LHC provide valuable ecosystem services to both the Center and the surrounding communities. These ben efits include nutrient filtration, storm surge protection, wave attenuation and blue carbon storage.

“We have lost a lot of our salt marsh habitat and in 2019 we were awarded a federal clean water grant through the New Jersey Department of Envi ronmental Protection,” Eriksen said. The first phase of this project includ ed the installation of wave attenuation devices (WADs) along the northern most 150 meters of shoreline. These are geometric sculptures that disperse wave energy before it hits the shore. This phase also included the planting of native vegetation to encourage sed iment deposition and provide habitat for critical shoreline species.

“We contracted with Sovereign Consulting who installed the WADs. We could not have done this project without Doug Janiec who ran this huge shoreline restoration project. It was very impressive. He put his heart and soul and probably his job, on the line,” Eriksen said.

Doug Janiec of Sovereign Consult ing provided some further technical details on what has been done so far and how the plan would progress. The work began in 2016 and involved an evaluation and lots of permitting.

“This year in the spring we came out and did the construction for the project and the plantings,” Janiec said. He noted that this type of ap proach in combatting erosion would

not necessarily work for other aquatic environments but that it was the best solution for this site.

Also present were NREF Board Vice President Dane Ward, Township of Ocean Deputy Mayor Ken Baulder stone and Ocean County Soil Con servation District Director Christine R. Raabe.

Baulderstone remarked, “the good news is we are on the Barnegat Bay. The bad news is the bay is growing. There is nothing we can do about the sea level rise. This project will help with the erosion. That soil is going somewhere and I suspect it is going into the lagoon.

“The township will of course learn from your experience and over time we can look at the benefits you have achieved and we can look at other areas of the town that maybe we can apply those techniques that you did here,” Baulderstone added.

Ward said, “I think we all appreciate that we are in a tight spot. Doug did a great job in showing us what was done in phase 1 but that isn’t the end. There are many folks here that will be helping continue the natural resource education here at the Lighthouse Cen ter. This is built on a long legacy of people doing academic research here at this site on the Barnegat Bay and we will be continuing to push that forward.”

He added that more funding was being secured for other projects that would collect additional data and allow for the designing of further designs that would help the facility “serve as a national laboratory.”

The location has an interesting his tory as well.

“We oversee this beautiful stateowned property. The Lighthouse Center was originally a camp for the blind that dates back to 1927. We were officially recognized as the overseer of this property by the State of New Jersey in 2001,” Eriksen said.

She added, “we are a 501C-3 non profit dedicated to environmental leadership education and communica tion. In the last 10 years our property has experienced significant shoreline erosion,” Eriksen said.

For more information about the Foun dation and its work e-mail nrefboard@ gmail.com or call 609-698-8003.

The Lighthouse Center for Natural Resource Education is located at 7th Street and Navajo Drive in Waretown.

Georgian Court graduates advocates, visionaries, humanitarians, boat rockers, achievers, and challengers of the status quo. These are the folks who change the world for the better.

Rooted in the mission of Catholic higher education with the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy, we welcome students from all religious, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

What else makes GCU so special?

• Diverse student population, many first in their families to attend college

• Devoted faculty & staff

• 37 majors, 45 minors

• 14 NCAA Division II Sports

• 50+ clubs & organizations, including campus ministry

• 114-acre campus in proximity to NYC, Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore

AT GEORGIAN COURT, STUDENTS EXPAND WHAT IS POSSIBLE.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

5 Reasons To Visit Us This

Ear Cleaning Cold weather can harden earwax, causing discomfort and muffled hearing. Come visit us and we will use Otoscopy to determine if you have im pacted wax and what the next steps are to remove it. As a general rule, if you’re already wearing hearing aids, this alone will increase the production of ear wax which can in turn effect the performance of the hearing instruments.

Hearing Aid Tune-Ups and Extra Bat teries Winter is a tough season for your hearing aids. Low temperatures affect the functionality of nearly all personal electronics and drain batteries quickly. Changes in temperature create conden sation, which can cause problems. Bring your aids in for a tune-up and inspection. We can ensure they are in great shape and send you home with an optional dehumidifier to store them in, along with extra batteries. If your currently wearing rechargeable hearing aid battery systems, in many cases we can check the integrity of the rechargeable battery.

New Tech Once your devices are more than four years old, we’ll need to make sure they’re still meeting your needs. From Bluetooth to telehealth compati bility, we can offer the perfect option to customize your hearing experience and filter out the annoying background noise that comes with busy shopping centers and family gatherings. If you’re due for

Winter

an upgrade, we can fit you with the latest model to keep you hearing everything you want and nothing you don’t. Many of the new hearing aid technologies utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and/or deep neural networking to maximize your abil ity to hearing particularly in noisy places.

Warranty Expiration Depending on when you purchased your hearing aids, your warranty may be expiring soon. We can help you maximize and protect your investment by cleaning, checking, and performing selected repairs while the de vices remain under warranty. Please keep in mind that if your hearing instruments break down and are “out of warranty” the typical repair cost is $350-$400.00.

Ear Infections - Flu and cold season is upon us! Any upper respiratory virus has the potential to cause a middle ear infection, which can lead to hearing loss if left untreated. If you come down with an earache, ear pain, and/or your ears feel “blocked”, please make an appointment with us so we can help determine the root cause of these issues.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always avail able to answer your questions about hearing health. His offices are located in Toms River, Manahawkin, and Whiting and can be reached by calling 732-8183610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-9788946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www. gardenstatehearing.com.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

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

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

Triphala Is A Remarkable Gut Soother For These 9 Problems

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Most experts today agree on one thing and that is that good health begins in the gut. And since herbal remedies represent the most ancient medicines of our healthcare history, I would like to focus today on one particular supplement that is foundational. It’s called Triphala. “Tri” refers to the number three, and “phala” means fruits. Triphala is a combination of three fruits: Haritaki, Amal aki, and Bibhitaki.

Many people experience gastrointestinal (GI) problems, including bloating, flatulence or abdominal pain. No matter the cause of these problems, Triphala, a unique botanical formula, has a long history of therapeutic value!

Before I get to the potential uses of Triphala, it’s important to note that reducing GI symp toms requires dietary changes, a good deal of time, and different methods! It is not like you take a pill (for example an acid blocker) and you’re good. That’s one thing that I think some people forget when it comes to relieving chronic GI symptoms.

buy a bottle of Triphala supplement, you are getting all 3 of those herbs. The supplement is available at health food stores nationwide, online retailers and most holistic-oriented clinics like at your acupuncturist’s clinic or naturopath’s office.

Do not take Triphala if you are pregnant or taking blood pressure medication. It may interact with many different medications, so please check with your pharmacist or physician if you take warfarin, or a statin cholesterol-reducing medication, or even an antipsychotic or antidepressant.

The herbal supplement is not intended for serious GI concerns such as appendicitis, pancreatitis, obstructions, jaundice or any major illness.

Historically speaking, herbal remedies are considered among the most powerful meth ods of supporting good health. Triphala is multi-tasing and can support many aspects of gastrointestinal health, but again, not emergencies.

Triphala is usually taken without regard to meals. It has a very mild diuretic effect, which some people do not even notice, but for that reason, some people do not take it at bedtime.

Dried herbal extracts of the above 3 fruits are what constitute Triphala so when you

Triphala has a very soothing anti-inflam matory effect on the entire gut, and can bring relief to some people very quickly. I have written a much longer article about Triphala and its impact on various cancer outcomes. I’ve found positive studies for Triphala’s use in pancreatic, gastric, prostate, colon and breast cancer! This article is available if you are interested, find it posted at my website, suzycohen.com.

08514 609-758-9595

Suzy

Why A Survey Is Essential For Successful Closing?

By: Marc S. Galella, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

During the process of purchasing a home, many buyers are concerned with the bottom line and look for ways to cut costs. One of the first items they may choose to forego to save money is to opt out of ordering a survey. This article is intended to provide information which will assist the purchaser in making a well-informed decision whether to obtain or forego a survey.

Many purchasers are not aware of all the various important components that a survey can disclose. A survey is not just a simple drawing showing boundary lines and location of the dwelling, but it also delineates right of ways, easements, encroachments, and/or gaps between property lines. The survey can also confirm the location of a water way, an existing improvement and determine whether all the structures on the property you are looking to purchase are within the property boundary lines such as sheds, pools, retaining walls and fences. Perhaps the most important pieces of information a survey will provide are the property’s zoning classification, dimension and size, which will allow you to determine if the property conforms to the local lot size requirements.

Once the survey is obtained your attor ney will forward it to the title company, who will also research the information contained therein. If the survey accurately shows that there are no property line en croachments then the title company will not require any exceptions in its policy, which will allow the title company to provide coverage and defend against any

Marc S. Galella Esq.

one who, in the future, challenges the accuracy of the property lines. If you do not have an accurate and current survey prior to clos ing then any disputes, whether it is with the seller, a neighbor or a governmental agency, as to the location of a fence, shed, or any larger structure such as a pool, deck or an addition will become yours to resolve. These disputes can be costly and you possibly may be precluded from seeking recourse from the previous owner. The basic survey cost is around $650-800 and of course the cost may be more if the property is very large or has irregular shape. If you chose to have metal stakes installed at the corners then that may in crease the cost of the survey. These mark ers are important for those homeowners who, after making the purchase, want to install a fence, pool, shed, or an addition to the dwelling.

The purchase of a home or lot may be overwhelming but the attorneys at R.C. Shea and Associates can assist you through that process. The law firm of R.C. Shea & Associates, Counsellors at Law, is a full service law firm representing and advising clients in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate Litigation, Personal Injury, General Litigation, Real Estate Law, Medicaid Law, Medical Malpractice, Workers’ Compensation, Land Use and Planning Law, Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney and much more. Call or visit our office Toms River office at 732-5051212, 244 Main Street, Toms River, email us at Rshea@rcshea.com or visit our website at www.rcshea.com

Enhance Your Retirement Lifestyle!

If you are 62 years of age or older and have sufficient home equity, you may be able to:

• Pay off your existing mortgage2

• Pay off bills, loans or other debts

• Access cash for unplanned expenses

• Live in your home and maintain ownership2

• Increase monthly cash flow

• Fund necessary home repairs

A Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), commonly known as a reverse mortgage, is a Federal Housing Administration (FHA)1 insured loan which enables you to access a portion of your home’s equity without having to make monthly mortgage payments.2

We are your local Reverse Mortgage Specialists and are happy to discuss the benefits and availability of a reverse mortgage with you, at convenience. Call the name you can trust for a FREE in-person consultation!

James P. Anzano, President Glendenning Mortgage Corporation Office: 732-240-7227 • Cell: 908-330-1446

JAnzano@Glendenning.com • 81 E Water St, Toms River, NJ 08753

NMLS ID: 209792 • WWW.GLENDENNING.COM 800-354-8286

Around the JerSey Shore

$171,000 Raised For American Cancer Society

ATLANTIC CITY – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City has raised a total of $171,554 through their PINKTOBER initiative benefitting the American Cancer Society. The funds raised by Hard Rock Atlantic City will benefit the American Cancer Society’s mission locally. More than $110,000 of the total was raised by Jim Martin, Hard Rock Atlantic City’s Director of Employee

and Labor Relations, who was named the top ambassador for Real Men Wear Pink of the Greater Philadelphia area and the No. 4 fundraiser in the nation.

“I was humbled to be a part of the Real Men Wear Pink 2022 Campaign,” noted Martin. “My wife is a survivor, and I am so proud to be a part of this Hard Rock Team that continues to support the re search to help band together for a cure.”

─Photo courtesy Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Around the JerSey Shore

$116.5 Million Will Strengthen Public Health Infrastructure

TRENTON – The New Jersey Depart ment of Health (NJDOH) announced $116.5 million in grants that will help strengthen public health infrastructure across the state.

“The pandemic highlighted more than ever before just how critical it is for gov ernment to invest in public health,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “A robust network of county and local health departments can make all the difference in helping states identify, address, and respond to public health issues. This investment will strengthen our public health infra structure by making us more resilient and prepared to meet the challenges facing New Jersey both today and in the future.”

“There is great need to make improve ments to our physical and technological infrastructure as well as our public health workforce,” said New Jersey Health Com missioner Judith Persichilli. “The past two-plus years have shown us the need for and value of a strong public health system in addressing emerging health threats and health equity. This money will bring county and local health departments the resources needed to support their efforts.”

The County Health Infrastructure Grant Program will provide $41.5 million in direct support to the state’s 21 county health departments to continue their efforts in addressing and responding to complex public health emergencies, such as COVID-19 and monkeypox (hMPXV), emerging local needs, and other key public health priorities. The funds come from the federal Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund established pursuant to the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Under this program, funding can be used to invest in physical or technological infrastructure, or to bolster workforces to prepare for future surge responses against public health threats. County health departments are encouraged to collaborate with local health departments and other partners and share services as necessary to serve vulnerable communi ties and minimize health disparities. Such coordination and collaboration has been essential in vaccination and testing health campaigns during the pandemic. Funding amounts for each county are based on the Census Bureau’s 2021 Population Estimates.

Funding amounts by county:

• Department of Health, Mon mouth County Health Infrastructure: $2,873,271

• Department of Health, Ocean County Health Infrastructure: $2,889,495

The other grant, Enhancing Local

Public Health Infrastructure Partner Or ganization Grant, in the amount of $75 million was awarded to the New Jersey Association of City and County Health Officials (NJACCHO) to administer grants to eligible county, municipal and regional local health departments (LHDs) across the state. The goal of these funds is to support the development or expan sion of long-term health infrastructure improvements with a key emphasis on health equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. Grants will be awarded to LHDs based on a funding allocation for mula that accounts for population served and greatest need.

LHDs may select any of the following goals to address in their grant application to NJACCHO:

• Increase health equity for dispro portionately affected populations;

• Streamline processes supported by technology and automation;

• Strengthen organizational ca pacity to drive progress on public health priorities and increase capacity across LHDs;

• Expand data collection and in frastructure to drive data-driven decision making with an aim to improve equity;

• Develop multilingual, cultural ly-appropriate communications/public health campaigns and share across LHDs;

• Codify institutional knowledge and COVID-specific lessons learned; or

• Enhance and/or continue ongoing COVID-19/communicable disease mitiga tion efforts.

The Enhancing Local Public Health In frastructure Partner Organization Grant was made possible through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC) funding, which provides funding and technical assistance to state, local, and territorial health departments to implement and maintain surveillance for human disease and their vectors, improve diagnostics, and to implement and evaluate prevention strategies.

“The New Jersey Association of Coun ty and City Health Officials is delighted with this opportunity to continue our partnership with the State Department of Health. The ELC grant award is a step forward in addressing the signif icant needs of our public health infra structure. Supporting our local health agencies is of utmost importance at this critical time as our communities recover from the pandemic,” said Mar coni Gapas, President of NJACCHO and Health Officer for the Township of Union Department of Health.

Around the JerSey Shore

Residents Urged To Destroy Spotted Lanternfly Egg Masses

NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Depart ment of Agriculture Secretary Douglas Fisher is encouraging New Jersey res idents to help take part in eliminating spotted lanternfly egg masses. While the adult spotted lanternflies cannot survive the freezing temperatures, they do lay egg masses that survive the winter and then hatch in late April or early May.

“The more of these egg masses that can be destroyed now and before spring, the less of these nuisance pests there will be next year,” Secretary Fisher said.

Spotted lanternfly egg masses hold between 30 to 50 eggs of the invasive species. One sign to look for to see where spotted lanternfly has been is a black sooty mold on a tree. The spotted lanternfly prefers the Tree of Heaven, which is common in New Jersey. The egg masses can be found on almost any kind of surface, including on ve hicles, park benches, steps or outdoor stairways, or on the sides of buildings.

The egg masses can be scraped with a credit card (or something similar). It is important to press against the egg mass and hear the eggs popping as they are being scraped. The popping sound signifies the eggs are being destroyed. Scraping cards are available at the Rut gers Extension office in each county.

Since October 1, 2021, NJDA and USDA staff have scraped nearly 340,000 egg masses and treated almost 20,000 acres.

While the Spotted Lanternfly is not a threat to humans or animals, it is known to feed on numerous types of vegetation.

The Spotted Lanternfly is native to Asia, but arrived in the U.S. in Berks County, Pa., on a shipment in 2014. The species has been advancing ever since. Due to the insect’s excellent hitchhik ing ability, there are now 14 states that have confirmed populations.

For homeowner and business resourc es, and other information about spotted lanternfly go to badbug.nj.gov.

Ocean County’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Around the JerSey Shore

3rd Annual Victorian Holiday Open House

TOMS RIVER – On December 3, the Ocean County Historical Society will again be offering its very popular Victo rian Holiday Open House. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“I love bringing my grandchildren to have their pictures taken with the Vic torian Santa Claus,” stated OCHS Board member Pat Moore.

Santa will be available for picture tak ing from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The festive

day also includes tours of the house, a model train show, gifts for children and refreshments. Best of all, the event is free to the public.

“The day is really fun for the entire family and I run into so many old friends there,” according to Pat Moore.

The Historical Society is located in Downtown Toms River at 26 Hadley Avenue For additional information, call Jeff at 609-339-9134.

Family Awareness In Addiction Recovery

TOMS RIVER – Join Quantum Be havioral Health Services every last Wednesday of the month for informa tive discussions surrounding the role of family in addiction recovery. They will discuss things like boundaries, rebuild ing trust, and repairing relationships.

Meetings are in person at their facil ity and can also be attended via live stream, by visiting qtreatment.com/ family-awareness and clicking the link provided. They take place on the last Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Beacon Of Life Toy/Food Drive

LAKEHURST – Beacon of Life will be holding a Toy/Food Drive to Benefit Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

Drop off new toys or non-perishable food items to Beacon of Life, 800 Route 70 Lakehurst, by December 12.

Sunday Worship Services of Holy Communion at 10 a.m. &Wednesday spoken Holy Communion at 9 a.m. Christ Lutheran Church

The Rev. Dr. J. Francis Watson, Pastor 40 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ 08759 Phone 732.350.0900 • Fax 732.350.0343

E-mail: christlutheranchurch2@verizon.net Website: christlutheranwhiting.com

NEED

HANDS FOR ALL

A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC.

A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer 309 Hooper Ave. • Toms River, NJ 08753 Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

WHY ARE MY EYES SO RED?

Red or “bloodshot” eyes can have a wide variety of causes and symptoms, which is why it can be incredibly frustrating trying to figure out the source of the problem. Red eye occurs when the blood vessels in the eye become swollen, making them suddenly visible. For many people this occurs without any other symptoms, but more often it comes with eyes feeling itchy, burning, dry, and light sensitive, and accompanied by leaking tears or other discharge and pain. Your eye doctor can help in determining the cause of your red eyes, but you should watch for triggers such as airborne allergens, chemical exposure, contact lenses, or fumes from paints or solvents.

There are many possible causes of a red eye or eyes. Some are cause for concern; some are medical emergencies. Others are of no concern at all. The degree of redness or appearance of blood usually does not correlate to how serious the situation is. It is generally more important whether you also have eye pain or impaired vision. SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES offers a full range of care for your eyes, from your yearly vision exam to the treatment of medical eye conditions. To make an appointment, please call 732-349-5622.

P.S. Red eyes may be a sign of something serious like an infection, acute glaucoma or a corneal ulcer.

MARLBORO (732) 972-1015 TOMS RIVER (732) 349-5622 BRICK (732) 477-6981 BARNEGAT (609) 698-2020 www.oceancountyeye.com

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate

Jackson - House For Sale By Own

er.

2 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths, unfinished full basement, 1 car attached ga rage, baseboard heat. For sale as is $489,000. 732-691-9845. (1)

For Rent

Don't Miss The Opportunity Of Rent ing - A single-family home in Howell. For more details call Rut from Lifestyle International Realty (908)344-7230. (50)

Misc.

Notice of Cessation of Services

by Maureen Kubisz DVM, dba

Total Pet Hospital LLC, on October 14, 2022. Medical records will be stored online by Idexx Laboratories, Inc, One Idexx Drive, Westbrook, Maine 04092. Send records re quests by email to totalpethospital@ gmail.com, or by mail to PO Box 8881, Hamilton, NJ 08650. (47)

Items For Sale

CHRISTMAS PASTELES - Puerto Rican Tradition. Pork or Chicken $40/ dozen, $75/2 dozen, $110/3 dozen. Call/text Cary 908-770-8537. (2)

Three piece queen bedroom set like new, $394. was origionally $1,200. Cat carrier $18. Walker with wheels and seat $39. Beige carpet runner 25 ft. 732-503-3263. (51)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crys tal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Blues, Reggae, Soul. Very good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (52)

Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/ dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, ward robes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n)

Buying Selmer Saxophones And Other Vintage Models - Also buying World War II Military items. Cash Paid! 609-581-8290. Email: mymilitarytoys@optonline.net. (31)

CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, turntables, musical instru-ments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115. (30)

CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n)

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)

Cash Paid LP Records - 33/45's, reel to reel's. Fast response, we answer the phone 732-829-5908, 24/7, Eddie. (41)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL

RY Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n)

Help Wanted

HIRING NOW!! The Goddard School of Toms River Route 70 is urgently hiring Assistant Teachers and Teacher Aides to float between the In fant through School Age classrooms. No teaching experience necessary. On-the-job training provided. Mul tiple PT and FT positions available. Call 732-363-5530 or email dtoms river2nj3@goddardschools.com to schedule an interview today! (t/n)

ISO Experienced Body Shop WelderTo work on old car. No schedule. Call Bart 201-249-2400. (43)

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/ PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Trans portation needed. Long term com mitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

Dental Assistant - We’re currently looking to hire a qualified DENTAL ASSISTANT. Will train the right per son. Call 732-938-2800 for details. (2)

Garden State Medical Centercurrently looking for qualified candi dates to fill their medical assistant, re ceptionist, and surgical technician posi tions. If you would like to apply or have any questions, call 732-202-3000. (45)

Website Skills Required - Wordpress, Adobe, Maestro, Google Workspace. Key person needed. Great opportuni ty. Part time. Dependable, committed. Whiting area. 609-284-3142. (47)

Services

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITEFree est. Senior discounts interi or exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (28)

Anyone Interested In Having Their - Office, home or apartment cleaned, contact Diane. Honest and reliable. Free estimates. 845-762-9952. (49)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)

Custom House Painter - Pays at tention to detail, interior, cracks, nail pops,wall repair. Benjamin Moore paints. Wayne 908-327-5471. (52)

MY HANDY CREW - Home re pairs, carpentry, painting roofing and siding, decks, powerwashing, yardwor,k all your home main tenance needs. $ave. Call Clark 732-850-5060. Insured and NJ License #13VH11804800. (46)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardwork ing, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605 (t/n)

Services

Experienced Home Health Aid(s) Available hourly or 24/7 and ready to assist you with personal care, medication monitoring, driving, grocery shopping, cooking, light housekeeping, companionship, etc. (including patients suffering from Dementia/Althheimer's or any other disabilities). References available. Call 732-910-8869. (42)

Absolute best home improvements!"Building the shore since 1984" Additions, carpentry, windows & doors, roofing & siding, painting & staining, flooring, kitchens & baths, finished basements, masonry, fencing, custom decks, fully insured, license #13VH11804800. $ave. Call Brien 732-850-5060. (28)

House Cleaning, Painting, Shop ping, - Window cleaning, laundry, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Very good prices. Call 732-7735078 or 848-287-3944. (43)

Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, sid ing, windows. Repairs on small jobs. Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned. Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (19)

Computer Tutoring for Seniors –Retired, “Microsoft Certified” in structor. Very Reasonable rates. Very patient with slow learners. I’ll teach you in the comfort of your home on your computer. I can trouble shoot your slow computer! I also teach iPhone and iPad. I set up new com puters at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 special ist. I can also build a beautiful small business website at a fraction of the going rates. Special Projects always welcome! Tony 732-997-8192. (t/n)

LANDSCAPING - Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Dem olition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster ser vice provided by A901 Licensed Haul er ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (15)

DOWLING FENCE LLC - WE'VE RECENTLY MOVED TO TOMS RIVER! CALL US FOR ALL YOUR FENCING NEEDS. RESI DENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL, BEST PRICING AND WORK MANSHIP! CALL 732-771-5150 OR 732-644-0627. (46)

Property/Management - Brick repair, brick restoration, mulch, stone. Spring/Fall cleanups. pruning, concrete repairs. Call Ken 732-814-7743. (42)

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shop ping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family func tions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

Santucci Painting LLC - We paint it all, interior and exterior, drywall re pair, pressure washing, decks, stained. Email santwag@aol.com. 908-3275471. 13VH05784200. (41)

Prepare for power outages today - with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)

Nor’easter Painting and Stain ing, LLC - Interior and exte rior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-691-0123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)

Services Services Services

Certified Home Health Aides - Need ed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned. Fully licensed and in sured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience. Call Jim 732-674-3346. (39)

Music Lessons In Your HomeBy state certified instrumen tal music teacher. Please call 732-350-4427 for more informa tion. All are welcome. (3)

PQ Painting & Home Improve ment Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Win ner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

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Private Road Sits On 1.5 Acres.

Around the JerSey Shore

The Comings And Goings Of Hibernating And Migrating Species

Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

You may already be in touch with nature and understand that there are those species who will vacate their native area, while new ones will arrive. Then there are those who will live here all year long. Wildlife has a unique way of coping with climate change, food shortages and reproductive cycles.

Hibernating animals will take a break from showing up each day. Bats and large rodents such as groundhogs are those species who slow down their metabolisms, requiring less food due to their lack of activity. The black bear prepares for hibernation by consuming as much food as they can to last them thru the hibernation period. Because their size is so large, they don’t allow their body temperature to drop.

Squirrels, deer, foxes, coyotes, rac coons, and skunks don’t hibernate. They will remain here doing their best to survive through the colder months. Chipmunks will enter a restless hi bernation as winter approaches and become less active from late fall thru the winter months.

Migrating birds of New Jersey fly south spending their winters where food is available. Thrushes, vireos, hummingbirds and warblers are some

examples of birds who will leave the area. Since migrating birds travel long distances to support their climate and food needs, new arrivals to New Jersey will also occur. For those birds our climate is warmer than their northern states. Snow geese, snowy owls, loons, just to name a few, will come to winter over in the Pine Barrens and along the coast. Seals from New England will arrive in large numbers at Sandy Hook and Barnegat Light.

A few birds who will stick with us during those cold months will be the various species of sparrows and finch es, titmice, woodpeckers, cardinals, and blue jays.

Feeding during the colder monthsplease do not feed ANY human food. Human food does not provide daily re quirements (and then what’s the point?) and can be dangerous and sometimes fatal. Instead consult your local regu lations on feeding and stick to the food sources that are formulated to provide the nutrition they need.

The information for this article from was gathered through multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper New Jersey State and/or Federal permits.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Garden State Hearing And Balance Center

Acommitment to pa tients, coupled with technology and value have set Garden State Hearing & Balance Center apart for years, with recent investments making the treatment of hear ing loss and similar conditions more manageable than ever.

The practice, which has offices in Toms River, Mana hawkin and Whiting, was the first in the United States to be Audigy-Certified, a testa ment to its adherence to the industry’s best practices that are required for certification.

“Any business that is Au digy-Certified, from a best practices standpoint, is in the top two to three percent in the coun try,” said Dr. Isidore Kirsh – commonly known as Dr. Izzy – found er and director of the practice, who holds a doctorate degree (Ph.D.) from the Union Insti tute & University.

The Center performs testing for patients with auditory pro cessing disorders and testing for people who are suffering from tinnitus – ringing in the ears – as well as hearing loss and balance issues.

Dr. Kirsh’s practice includes state-of-the art equipment to evaluate hearing and balance issues, which are often related to inner ear disorders.

“Seventy percent of patients who complain of balance problems usually have an inner ear component,” Dr.

Kirsh said.

Hearing loss, unfortunately, often goes untreated since it is not painful and often not a pri ority for patients. But for the 40 million people who suffer from it, Dr. Kirsh explains, it is important that they seek diagnosis and treatment to improve their life and ensure good health.

“Over the last few years, there have been a lot of stud ies that show a relationship between untreated hearing loss and memory deficits such as dementia and Alzheimer’s, which means your suscep tibility to obtaining these memory issues increases as a function of the hearing loss that you have,” Dr. Kirsh said. With rare exception, the only way to help preserve your hearing is through a hearing aid –sometimes a stumbling block for patients who are self-con scious about wearing one. But technological improvements have led to the devices becom ing virtually invisible, and more helpful than ever.

“They can be 100 percent invisible, they can have Blue tooth as well as Wi-Fi capa bilities,” Dr. Kirsh explained. “You can stream a signal through your iPhone or your television, even movies and Broadway shows, right to your hearing aid. Most of today’s hearing aids are very inconspicuous, meaning the

Pictured is Dr. Isidore Kirsh. His offices are located at 250 Route 37 West, Toms River, 732573-4020; 53 Nautilus Drive, Suite C, 1st Floor, Manahawkin, 609-489-5415; 75 Lacey Road Ste 1B, Whiting, 732-606-4912. Visit gardenstatehearing.com for more information.

cosmetic issue is really not an issue anymore.”

Hearing aids also can have features such as GPS locator capability.

“The technology is improv ing significantly every year,” Dr. Kirsh said.

For patients, hearing aids can be financed interest free for 24 months, and Dr. Kirsh’s practice provides free battery replacements for life. Patients can also return a hearing aid during a 75 day trial period, during which time they return to Garden State Hearing &

Balance Center a minimum of three times to check on their progress.

“We don’t over schedule or double book, so people are generally seen on time,” said Dr. Kirsh.

The practice has thrived on accessibility for patients, investments in technology, and the easing of the financial aspect of treatment.

“We try to give people as much value as possible, and

that really separates us from some of the other hearing care professionals out there,” Bet ter hearing is a priceless gift! Dr. Kirsh said.

“We don’t over schedule or double book, so people are generally seen on time.” Dr. Kirsh

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(c)2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC. skateboarding likely originated,

49

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Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

By

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Sometimes we just have to dig down into our reserves and make it happen. You may need to exert extra effort to meet deadlines as the week begins. Your sincerity and commitment to excellence should be noticed.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Someone you think of as a friend may want more than that. It might be better to wait until a few more days pass to focus on romance. In the upcom ing week, concentrate on making money to take home the winnings.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Your ideas can work if you do things more efficiently. When you remain fully transparent, you never have to worry about talking your way out of having put a spin on the facts. A partner could set a shining example of excellence.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Make lists and stay organized so everything gets remembered and gets done. If you fulfill all of your obligations and honor your commitments, you can enjoy some personal time to relax and reboot without guilt.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In the upcoming week you could decide to follow through on a lifelong dream. Create a new you by selecting qualities to emulate from the people you admire. Adopting a winning mindset and making strong choices can take you far.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Come to terms with a partner or friend. It takes two to make problems and it takes two to solve them. In the week ahead, you may have an ideal opportunity to negotiate an agreeable compromise or iron out differences.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): The longer you live, the more opportunities you have to learn. It would be wise to be skeptical of facts early this week. The spotlight may be on those in close connection, so it is up to you to gracefully accept waiting in the wings.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23- Nov. 21): Where there is a will, there’s a way. Your determina tion to succeed, especially when working in a partnership, can give you an added edge in any undertaking. Watch out for ways to save money in the week ahead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You might be given a starring role in a creative project or other activity. Confusing conversations could be difficult to sort out now. It makes sense to be prepared for extra bills in the coming week.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may have blinders on because your attention is riveted on your work or a key project. A partner or loved one might provide the common sense you need to hear to finalize a decision as the week unfolds.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): A frosty mood could quickly melt away when warmth is applied. A few thoughtful and sincere words can change someone’s attitude toward you. Keep working diligently in the week ahead to complete a creative project.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Give your self plenty of time to find the right response; don’t impulsively take action over what is probably just a misunderstanding. Take what ever you are offered in the week ahead and you should be content with it.

LOOKING FOR A LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY MENU ADDITION? THIS IS THE EASIEST SIDE DISH TO MAKE

By America’s Test Kitchen

CHIVE SOUR CREAM

In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 table spoon minced fresh chives, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. For extra zing, stir in 1 minced garlic clove.

GARAM MASALA YOGURT

In a small bowl, stir togeth er 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garam masala, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.

ROASTED FINGERLING POTATOES Serves 4 to 6

2 pounds fingerling or small red potatoes, cut in half lengthwise 2 tablespoons extra- virgin

olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper

1. Adjust oven rack to lowest position and heat oven to 450 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parch ment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, oil, salt, and pep per. Use your hands to toss potatoes and coat evenly with oil and seasonings.

3. Transfer potatoes to the baking sheet. Turn each potato cut side down and spread potatoes into a sin gle layer. Bake until skins are wrinkled and spotty brown, 30 to 35 minutes.

4. Place baking sheet on cooling rack and let cool for 5 minutes. Serve.

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2022 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

For the week of DEC 3 - DEC 9

Jeraldine Saunders

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.