2022-12-10 - The Brick Times

BREAKS GROUND

─Photo courtesy Brick Township

Construction is underway and is expected to finished in the second half of 2023.

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – A groundbreaking ceremony was recently held for the new Senior Services and Police EMS building.

On November 10,

Mayor John Ducey and Council President Vince Minichino along with Brick Police Chief James Riccio, Senior Services Director Zulma Soto and members of the Brick EMS and

Township Building and Grounds staff gathered at the future home on Aurora Drive.

Formerly used by a Volunteer EMS Squad, the property was acquired by the Township

in 2020. The renovation is well underway, estimated to cost about $800,000.

The building will house a new Senior Center where the (Building - See Page 4)

Shelters Caring For Animals

Rescued From Brick Home

By Bob Vosseller OCEAN COUNTY

The 175 malnourished dogs and cats evacuated from a home at 111 Arrowhead Park Drive in Brick Township are receiving care from the Ocean County Health Department.

Ocean County Health

Coordinator Dan Regenye said the department was taking care of 175 of the 180 animals brought in by multiple agencies when the Brick Township Police uncovered the illegal operation and made two arrests.

Early in the process,

30 dogs and 17 cats were brought to the Northern Ocean County Animal Facility in Jackson while 17 dogs and eight cats were taken to the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter in Manahawkin, while 81 dogs and 12 cats were trans-

ported to the county’s Barnegat facility (formerly Barnegat Kennels) which is generally used to shelter animals in emergency situations, he said.

The animals were fi rst found in a ranch style residence in Brick Township being kept

in stacked crates. Regenye told Jersey Shore Online.com that he witnessed improvement in the animals who are being well taken care of at county facilities.

Regenye said that law enforcement agencies wanted to keep the

Parents Can ‘Opt-Out’ eir Child From Sex-Ed Curriculum

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – Parents of Brick Township School District students can now ‘opt-out’ their child from the controversial comprehensive health and physical education curriculum.

Over the past couple of months, the state’s new guidelines for sex education have been a major topic of conversation. The lengthy guidelines discuss little about sex education and instead aim towards sexuality and gender identity.

Despite the heavy concerns expressed over the new standards, school districts have control over how much detail they can include.

The mandated curricu-

lum was confirmed earlier this fall and school officials ensured the community that parents will have a choice.

“The Family Life parent guide has been uploaded to the Parent Portal for students in grades two, five and eight. Parents can review the guide and choose to electronically opt-out of the lessons that were added at each grade level,” Director of Curriculum Alyce Anderson said at a recent Board of Education meeting.

Brick Township School District is one of several other districts across the state that has offered an “opt-out” option. Some parents

(Sex-Ed - See Page 12)

Popeyes Restaurant Approved

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK – Popeyes Louisiana Chicken is coming to town and will be located beside the Wawa at 1906 Route 88 where the Laurelton Mobile Home Park was once located.

square-foot bank was previously approved.

(JSM is Jack and Sheryl Morris who developed the Costco shopping center in Brick and are redeveloping half of the former Foodtown site on Route 70).

Director of Engineering for the developer Ron Aulenbach said the driveway for Popeyes would be right-in and right-out only with a raised concrete island, or “porkchop” to discourage left turns.

(Popeyes - See Page 4) (Animals - See Page 5)

During a special Board of Adjustment hearing on November 30, professionals for the applicant JSM @ Martin Blvd. LLC said they were amending their original application for the 2,340 square-foot fast food franchise where a 4,500

Building:

From Page 1

township’s senior population can receive services and find resources, as well as attend special events like dance classes and social gatherings.

With nearly 29% of the population being over the age of 60, Brick Seniors Services has provided services to over 3,300 seniors and family caregivers.

“The activities at the Senior Center and

the Outreach services we provide are vital to our elderly community. Moving to the new site will allow us to continue offering the variety of activities we currently have and an opportunity to enhance our program,” Soto said.

“As Mayor it has been a long-time goal of mine for our Senior Center to have its own home. Brick Senior Outreach Services is currently working at Civic Plaza and the Senior Center is located offsite in rented space at the VFW building on Adamston Road. That has not been

ideal, and the pandemic inspired us to make relocating to a permanent home a top priority,” Mayor Ducey said.

In addition, the building will serve as the third post for Brick Police Emergency Medical Services, the other two being at Civic Plaza on Chambers Bridge Road and on Lanes Mill Road near the Parkway entrance.

“This location will serve as an EMS station for the south side of town. The civic plaza location has no garage facility and therefore the ambulances are

parked outside in inclement weather. The new location will house the ambulances and allow for a quicker response for emergencies on the south side of town,” Chief Riccio said. “We look forward to the new location being staffed which will allow us to better serve the residents of Brick.”

Construction is expected to be completed during the summer or early fall. For more information about Senior Services, visit bricktownship.net/index. php/departments/senior-services.

Popeyes:

The adjacent Wawa driveway allows for right and left turns in and out of the parking lot, which has resulted in traffic jams and at least 12 accidents since they opened in November 2021, some of those resulting in injuries, said Township Planner Tara Paxton.

NJ Department of Transportation (NJDOT) reached out to the township to ask if they could ban left turns after getting numerous complaints about traffic from residents.

In April Mayor John G. Ducey said the township hopes to come to a new access agreement with the owner of Wawa.

The 60-seat Popeyes restaurant would have a one-way drive aisle that wraps around the back of the building. Aulenback said

they would put up a fence if the speaker noise is too loud for the remaining mobile homes which are located in the back of the property. The closest home is 240 feet away from the speakers, he said.

The restaurant would be open from 10:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. seven days a week. A 40foot Popeyes truck would make deliveries two to three times a week between 8 - 10 a.m., and trash would be collected two to three times a week between the hours of 7 - 10 a.m. so there is no conflict during business hours, Aulenback said.

Traffic engineer Matthew Seckler prepared a traffic impact study since there has been “a change in tenant” from a bank to a restaurant. Banks don’t generate much traffic since many utilize mobile banking, he said.

Fast food franchises like Popeyes are “put in busy locations to draw in traffic from nearby roads.” The traffic expert said he had conducted site visits to existing Popeyes to

observe queuing at different times of day. Seckler said he never saw more than four or five cars in a queue, and noted that 12 cars are able to line up at the proposed Popeyes.

“The site has been designed appropriately,” he said. “Right turns in and right turns out will help to alleviate traffic back-ups.” Full turns are permitted onto the side entrance onto Jack Martin Boulevard, he noted.

The applicant was asking for signage variance, including a proposed 64-square-foot monument sign when a township ordinance allows 50 square feet.

Also, JSM asked for a variance for a required three-foot berm along Route 88 and proposed low plantings instead so the property is not obstructed to pass-by customers.

Board Engineer Brian Boccanfuso said the plantings would effectively function the same as berm by shielding headlight glare and “an unsightly portion of the parking lot.”

During public comment, Van Zile Road resident Victoria Fabrycki said that traffic has gotten so bad in the area since the Wawa opened that nearby Laurelton Heights residents are “prisoners in their own homes… they can’t get in and they can’t get out,” she said.

“Wawa is an epic fail…it’s a dumpster fi re,” she said. “I’m begging you to think about this and not push it through,” she said to the board members.

The application passed with a vote of 4-3 with board members Glenn Fuchs, Eileen Della Volle and Raymond Noonan voting against it. As a condition of approving the application, NJDOT must follow through with eliminating left turns at the Wawa driveway, they said.

Traffic is likely to increase in the area since a 3,000 square-foot restaurant and 4,000 feet of retail space has been approved for the site but has yet to be developed.

animals as centralized as possible due to the continuing criminal investigation. The breed and size of the dogs range from chihuahuas to German shepherds, all of whom are now in need of adoption.

Brick Police, in their initial release, referred to the situation as a puppy mill. Later media reports referred to it as an animal rescue operation that went wrong.

Aimee J. Lonczak, 49, the owner of Crazy Rescue Ladies Inc. and Michele Nycz, 58, lived at the Arrowhead Park Drive residence with a 16-year-old child. The two women were arrested by Brick Patrolman Scott Smith who serves as the department’s humane law enforcement officer on animal cruelty charges and endangerment of a child.

Regenye wanted to dispel some commentary he read on social media about the OCHD not having the ability and facilities to handle this number of animals coming in. “We instituted our emergency response plan for animals related to this so not only do we have our Northern and Southern facilities in Jackson and in Stafford but we have the Barnegat Kennels which we operate in an emergency functioning capacity.

“We housed about 225 animals there during Superstorm Sandy,” he said. Some staff were moved from other locations as they were needed. Some came in from vacation or days off to help care for the animals.

He said, “that is where the bulk of these animals are. We have 100 of the 180 at that one facility alone which is strictly the animals from this situation. The balance was split between the Northern and Southern facilities and there is no concern of our being full. That is one of the challenges with it but I can assure that the animals we had prior to this situation and those that were brought in on Saturday are all in an adequate facility and getting care and treatment.

“Some of the animals had matted fur. Two were found onsite deceased. There was a couple that had to be transported immediately for urgent vet care. The vast majority were stable enough to be transported to one of our three facilities,” Regenye said.

“We had one situation on Saturday when I was down there that one had to be sent over to an on-call veterinary service to get some treatment. There are different stages. There are animals that are ready to go tomorrow (for adoption) if we had the green light in terms of temperament. We were vaccinating. A lot of these animals were flea infested, worms in the stool so we are deworming. We’re not going to put these animals back out on the street. We are going to fi nd them homes and rescues and we want to put them out in proper shape,” he said. The county facilities have volunteers walking the dogs at outdoor pens.

“I was down at each of the three sites on Saturday, Sunday and yesterday (December 5) and there is a difference between each of those three days. They are really

coming around. They are getting their personality back. Obviously they are a little skittish and scared but I really think they are on a good path and track to make a full recovery. It is good news going forward,” Regenye added.

He added, that it was a good thing that the situation was identified at the time it was by the township and law enforcement. “They did what they had to do and they are in good hands now and we are looking forward to getting these dogs and cats into homes and rescues.

“Most of these (animal) hording situations are well intentioned at the beginning but it quickly escalates. We promote responsible pet ownership with spaying and neutering. We recommend microchipping. The animals who come out of our shelters

are spayed or neutered and microchipped and get vaccinations,” he added.

Regenye said the OCHD appreciates the great response of donations of towels, blankets and other items. “We had to put a trailer at each two of our facilities to handle the amount of items coming in. We are pulling what we need from each of those facilities and pulling the trailer over to Barnegat to meet the need of the animals there,” he said.

Regenye said that those wishing to make fi nancial donations toward the treatment of these animals, there is an animal health trust fund. Send a check payable to the Ocean County Health Department, 175 Sunset Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08755. In the subject line, write Animal Health Trust Fund or Brick hoarding situation.

BRICK – Come join the Brick Township Police Department EMS family! Brick Police EMS is currently accepting applications for part-time EMT with potential of fulltime with expansion of the program in 2023. Full-time staff is hired fi rst from within the part-time roster. Brick Police EMS is a large progressive municipal based program selected as the 2022 Pre-Hospital program of the Year for the State of New Jersey,

running 11,000 calls for service per year with a Special Operations Division, Tactical Medical Team embedded in the Brick Police SWAT Team, water rescue and Technical Rescue with Brick Twp. Fire Companies. Part-time starts at $25 per hour with annual raises up to $27.50 per hour with eight paid holidays and a $200 uniform allowance annually. Those interested can visit: brickpoliceems.enrollware.com/enroll?id=7245475.

Brick Recreation Winter Camp

BRICK – Looking to keep your kids busy during the winter break? Sign them up for the Recreation Winter Camp. Brick Recreation will once again hold their Winter Camp for residents ages 6 to 12. The Camp will be held daily from December 27

through December 30. Campers will go on trips to Monster Mini-Golf, Funplex, Slime World and Adventure Aquarium. They will also spend time playing games and more. The cost is $150 per camper and includes the trips, daily breakfast and a t-shirt.

EPA Awards Nearly $169M For Water Infrastructure Projects

Capitol Comments

$12 million in regular funding to New Jersey’s Drinking Water SRF program in FY 2022.

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded nearly $169 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to New Jersey for water infrastructure improvements that will help communities access clean, safe and reliable drinking water, increase resilience, collect and treat wastewater to protect public health, clean up pollution, and safeguard vital waterways.

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law presents a unique opportunity to provide historical amounts of funding over five years for critical water infrastructure projects, especially in underserved communities,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “This is just the beginning, and we look forward to providing additional Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for this critical work to New Jersey in the years ahead.”

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law 2022 funding allocation awards are distributed through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF) - over $73 million through the Clean Water SRF and over $95 million through the Drinking Water SRF for a total of $169 million. The Clean Water SRF primarily funds wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. These funds supplement nearly $48 million in regular funding to New Jersey’s Clean Water SRF program in fiscal year (FY) 2022.

The EPA has awarded New Jersey a total of over $95 million in FY 2022 grants from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law through the Drinking Water SRF, which includes $31 million for supplemental drinking water projects, $48 million to identify and replace lead service lines, and nearly $17 million to address emerging contaminants like PFAS. The funding supplements approximately

New Jersey has submitted and obtained EPA’s approval of its plans for the use of the FY 2022 funding. These grants will continue to be awarded, on a rolling, state-by-state basis, as more states receive approval throughout FY 2023; states will also receive awards over the course of the next four years. Once grants are awarded, state programs will begin to deliver the funds as grants and loans to communities across their state.

“I was proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass the bipartisan infrastructure bill last year. This additional funding will move our state closer to ensuring every New Jerseyan has safe and clean drinking water in their homes, schools, and businesses,” said Sen. Menendez. “Our state and municipalities need federal support to upgrade our water infrastructure and I’ll continue fighting for the resources we need to improve water quality and ensure the health and well-being of New Jersey’s families.”

“The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act was a once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure, and it will do much more than just fix our crumbling roads and bridges,” said Sen. Booker. “Communities all across New Jersey need resources to replace their aging water infrastructure, which is why I proudly worked to deliver these resources. We know that disadvantaged communities disproportionately bear the impact of contaminants in water, from PFAS to lead exposure. Over the next five years, this historic infusion of federal funds will allow New Jersey to provide an unprecedented amount of funding to projects that will replace lead pipes, improve drinking water, and update wastewater infrastructure across the state.”

“Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding from EPA is helping to power New Jersey’s Water Infrastructure Investment Plan, enabling the Murphy Administration to reach even more communities with needed improvements to drinking water and wastewater systems,” said New Jersey

Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette. “Together, we can ensure that generations of New Jerseyans

receive reliably clean drinking water and enjoy fishable and swimmable waterways free of pollution – creating thousands of good-paying, family-sustaining jobs in the process.”

U.S. Representative Andy Kim said: “When I voted for the bipartisan infrastructure bill, I knew that projects like these would change people’s lives and give them faith that the water coming into their house to drink, shower, brush their teeth, and wash

their dishes would be clean and safe. This also brings investments in good paying New Jersey jobs, pollution cleanup, more resources for desperately needed flood mitigation in both Burlington and Ocean counties, and ecosystem restoration to help create healthy animal and marine habitats from the Delaware River to the Jersey Shore. I’m glad to see this important work getting underway and look forward to more infrastructure projects coming to New Jersey soon.”

TOWNSHIP OF BRICK NOTICE OF MEETINGS

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Joint Board of Fire Commissioners, Township of Brick, County of Ocean, State of New Jersey, shall hold its regular monthly meetings for 2023 on the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. on the following dates with the exception of January’s meeting which will be held on the third Tuesday of that month and February’s meeting which will be held on the third Tuesday of that month:

January 17, February 21, March 20 (reorganization), April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, September 18, October 16, November 20 and December 18.

All meetings will be held at the Laurelton Fire House, Route 88 and Olden Street, 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.

e 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, insurance, training and education, technical rescue and the Bureau of Fire Safety.

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

is notice is being given pursuant to N.J.S.A.10:4-6, et seq.

By authority of the Joint Board of Fire Commissioners, Township of Brick.

STEPHEN W. EARL, JR., CLERK Joint Board of Fire Commissioners Township of Brick

Senator Robert Menendez

Senator Cory Booker

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

E DITORIAL

Time Is Never On Our Side

Big life moments always mark the passage of time. They make us stop us in the middle of our obligations and habits and say “oh, things are changing and they’re never gonna be the same.”

I had a few of them happen in quick succession recently. The fi rst was a good one. My daughter went to her friend’s quinceañera. There were a group of girls who had been friends since kindergarten through Girl Scouts and now they were all in high school.

Next was my uncle’s death. Richie was a tall, strong, vigorous man who was always active and never slowed down. We used to call him Richie the whale (not a size thing) because he would swim back and forth beyond the breakers at the beach for long periods of time. This year, he descended quickly into dementia before a stroke put him in the hospital. My theory is that in the beginning of the year, when his mind started to decline, he also had a stroke that no one noticed. It makes sense but there’s nothing to be done about it either way.

Two people my age died within weeks of each other. One was a former co-worker whose obituary asked for donations to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. The other was a high school friend who had a skinny build but didn’t eat right or exercise. Heart attack in his 40s.

Unfortunately, it’s the bad life moments that make us reflect more. Maybe I’m just past the age of going to weddings and baby showers, and

death is the only life moment left. Is retirement a life moment? For those lucky enough to do so, I guess it is.

Life moments are usually followed by motivation. I’m going to eat better. Exercise. Take up that hobby I’ve always meant to. No one comes home from a funeral and thinks “I’m going to spend more time on my phone.”

Obviously, we don’t know when our time is going to come. I don’t want to write this with the idea that you have to be maximally operational 110% of the time.

I struggle with anxiety so I always have to tamp down any motivation or else I’m going to be buzzing around like a fly stuck in a car for the rest of the day.

The problem with motivation is that it comes with guilt if you don’t accomplish your goals.

If you haven’t stuck to your New Year’s Resolution by the time February rolls around, you beat yourself up over it. After a few missed goals, you stop making any at all.

I have a friend who always tells me I need to waste more time. Play a video game for an hour. Watch a stupid movie. He’s right, of course.

Is it possible to push yourself to relax? It seems an impossible goal, but one to strive for. Those life moments are going to hit you, whether you want them to or not. Might as well enjoy the ride.

Time isn’t on our side and it’s never going to let us win. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t play.

Chris Lundy News Editor

Rebuttal To “It’s Time To Stop

Celebrating Columbus”

The following is a rebuttal to “It’s Time To Stop Celebrating Columbus” letter to the editor. The writer claimed Columbus doesn’t deserve a holiday or a parade, making a number of inaccurate statements to support his assertion. Like Columbus “didn’t ‘discover America.’ He was nowhere near America.” But that contradicts his acknowledgement of Columbus’ landing in Central AMERICA, South AMERICA and the Caribbean, which is part of America.

True: Columbus “never set foot on United States soil.” Neither did Amerigo Vespucci, whom America’s name is derived from. Perhaps America’s name should be changed since he never reached the USA that bears his name. Not to mention Vespucci reached the continent a year after Columbus discovered it. And Vespucci reached it using Columbus’ own map. However, North America was reached because of Columbus. The reason is that Columbus sent his brother Bartholomew to the King of England, while he lobbied for his discovery project in Spain, to see who would give him the “green light” first, since other countries had rejected his proposal. Once the news

Letters To The Editor

of Columbus’ discovery reached England, the King sent John Cabot to explore North America. Later on, Juan Ponce de Leon, who was one of Columbus’ sailors during his second voyage, discovered Florida, which is in the USA.

ALL the explorers and settlers that followed, were not independent from Columbus, but fully dependent on his initial discovery. That’s the reason why settlers came to what later became the United States. All thanks to Columbus’ 1492 enterprise!

Next, the writer claimed Columbus “enslaved natives, murdered and raped them. When they revolted, “he had them killed, dismembered and paraded their body parts through their villages.”

I think the writer is confusing Columbus with the Caribs. The Caribs were a tribe of cannibals who constantly raided the Taino tribes in the Caribbean. They raped the woman, castrated the young men, enslaved people, and sometimes cannibalized entire islands. Those were the ones Columbus sent to Spain as prisoners of war as he had made a treaty with a Taino chief to protect him from them and other enemies.

The writer added, “How can you say you care about history when you don’t even know the history?”

I agree!

If those are the reasons

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The Brick Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns.

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to

edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/ Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

to not celebrate Columbus, then that’s more reason to celebrate him, since what was written originally to the editor against Columbus is false. The fact is, without 1492 there is no 1776. Happy Columbus Day forever!

Rafael Ortiz

Note: The writer is of indigenous heritage who has authored books advocating for Columbus, such as “Christopher Columbus

The Hero: Defending Columbus From Modern Day Revisionism” and three others.

Thank You For Your Support

Wow, thank you, thank you to the greatest town in the world and the people in it from giving me a downtown birthday party from all the merchants and the love and kisses blown to me at the Toms River Halloween Parade along with the doctors, council, lawyers etc. who came over to my parade car to lift me on top (my other parade car became disabled so we hurriedly had a change and decorate the other car completely causing me to be late. But i made the parade and enjoyed the blowing kisses in the cameras for TV 21, Youtube, etc.

Thank you for the great TV shots and photographer shots too! They enjoyed my “Wowie” signs. Thank you TV announcers, Matt Knight (my knight in shining armor) and Jimmy Steal (Super Steal Built) for your nice comments about me on the air. Thanks to the students and local designers, Linda and Karen, for decorating my gown with feathers, 24 carat crystals, fringes, garters etc. to help celebrate my little can-can dance for the traditional Toms River Halloween Parade which brings all of our wonderful community together.

Thank you TV 21 Phillys director for the great shots of me blowing kisses into

your cameras. Every year you do a great job, along with our great media (Micro Media Publications, Asbury Park Press and USA Today).

Thanks also to the police department (Cops Are Tops), firemen and more. Our local schools are great. I enjoy being a VIP guest at all the high school graduations with VIP parking and seating, etc. and being read about to the students by the New Jersey Book which is stored in all the New Jersey schools. I also enjoyed appearing at all the proms and being a mascot for sports like football, wrestling and basketball - both female and male teams.

I salute all of you wonderful people. You make our community the best in the world - not the second best, the very First best.

Happy holidays with love and respect.

Sondra Fortunato Miss Liberty USA, etc, etc. Toms River

Biden’s Border Policy Is Working

Some of my Republican friends were posting on Facebook about how Biden’s border patrol wasn’t working, and the numbers they posted actually proved the opposite.

They listed a bunch of numbers of people on the FBI terror watch list that were arrested by the Border Patrol each year. In 2017, it was just 2. In 2018, it was 6. In 2019, it was a whopping 0. And in 2020 it was 3. These were all Trump years. Then, in 2021, it was 15. This year, I’m proud to say, that 98 people so far have been caught by Biden’s border security policies – and that’s just those who are on watch lists; it doesn’t count the total number of people detained.

So tell me, who was really tougher on terrorists?

Beverly Smith Penn Toms River

N EWS

Brick PAL Cookie Exchange & Ugly Sweater Dance

BRICK – Brick PAL Cookie Exchange & Ugly Sweater Dance will be on December 13 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at 60 Drum Point Road. Beginner lessons 6:30 to 7 p.m.; Open dance 7 to 9 p.m. Admission is $10 and includes coffee and tea; Soda and water are $1. BYOB beer, wine, snacks.

Join for their Holiday Cookie Exchange. Rules: Bring two dozen of your favorite holiday cookies and a copy of your recipe and share your recipe. Don’t forget to bring a small container to take some of your favorite cookies home with you.

• All cookies should be homemade

• Label your tray on the bottom if you want

it back

• Two dozen cookies per person

• Arrange cookies in whatever you would like to display them (platter, basket and be creative!)

• Bring a container to carry away your cookies.

• Bring copies of your recipe to the event.

• RSVP as soon as you can to BTK email FB or text 908-415-4777so there is no duplicate recipes.

If you don’t have time to bake or have burnt your cookies, but still want to participate in the exchange, you must go to a real bakery and buy two dozen yummy cookies.

Township Public Works Department Now Hiring

BRICK – The Township of Brick is seeking applicants able to perform the duties of mechanic/welder in the Township Public Works Department. The position entails performing skilled mechanical work involving the maintenance, repair and servicing of various vehicles and other equipment.

Required skills: ability to perform various tasks in arc and oxyacetylene welding and cutting, repair/rebuild/replace defective parts, rewiring, brake replacement and adjustments, auto body work, wheel alignment and balancing, etc.

Minimum two years of experience is necessary. CDL is required. Experience with diesel engines preferred. Basic welding training required. The salary range is $45,280 to $67,697. Compensation will be based on experience and other factors. The Township of Brick is a NJ Civil Service jurisdiction and an Equal Opportunity employer.

Interested candidates should forward a complete resume to humanresources@ twp.brick.nj.us or fill out an application at: townshipofbrick.seamlessdocs.com/f/EmploymentApplication.

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 Christmas 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.

Marching Dragons Winter Cra Fair

BRICK – Marching Dragons Winter Craft Fair will be on December 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brick Township High School.

Free admission, over 75 hand crafted vendors, 50/50, music by the marching band, bake sale and raffle baskets.

Historian Shows New Acquisitions For Museum

BRICK – Recently at a meeting of the Brick Township Historical Society at the Herbertsville Firehouse, Gene Donatiello, Brick Township historian and curator of the Havens Homestead Museum, showed the audience some new acquisitions for the museum.

A past president of the Society, Dolores Waddill, donated the items. She was the third president in the history of the Society (from 1985 to 1989) which was founded in 1976 with Donatiello as the first president. Waddill, formerly a long time Brick resident, moved to North Jersey to be near family. However, before leaving, she contacted Donatiello to give him two treasures for the museum. Donatiello is shown in the picture displaying what looks like a plunger. It was used as a hand operated washing device. By pushing it into a basin of water and clothes, its holes would release the water and move the clothes up and down. It is similar to a present-day agitator but operated by hand.

In his left hand, Donatiello was holding a floating thermometer which was used by dairy farmers when pasteurizing milk. It floated upright and indicated when the milk reached the right temperature.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township

Historical Society

The Brick Township Historical Society’s next meeting is January 10 and the public is welcome. Admission is free. For more information see its website at bricktownshiphistoricalsociety.com or call 732-785-2500.

OMMUNITY N EWS

C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

“A Grinchmas Light Show”

BRICK – The Casqueira Holiday Light Show proudly presents, “A Grinchmas Light Show,” celebrating 60 years of the Grinch stealing Christmas.

Located at 843 Downey Avenue, in Brick, the Casqueira Holiday Light Show is a family run, charity-driven, light show consisting of over 100,000 lights. The show is synchronized and broadcasted over Radio Station 103.1FM. This year, we have done things a little differently, and we are encouraging viewers to exit their vehicles at any point during the show, to also visit an animatronics display in our driveway. There will also be a Ford Model-T wooden replica in the driveway, for visitors to take free holiday photos with. On the busiest of nights, Santa himself makes an appearance to hand out candy canes, and pose for photo opportunities (also free).

Show will begin on November 26, and will run through Christmas; with Christmas day as your last opportunity to see the show. The show will begin promptly at 5 p.m. and will run on a continuous loop, with the last loop ending shortly after 10 p.m.

Similar to prior Christmas shows, our family will be collecting Letters to Santa in the life-size red Letter-to-Santa mailbox. This year, it is located just off the driveway, closer to the garage. It is in a safer location for you and your family to enjoy pictures away from traffic. As we do not take any donations from the show, we do really appreciate when parents place a self-addressed envelope with postage, alongside their children’s letter, in the mailbox. Melissa will respond (as Santa of course), and typically creates Nice List certificates, and mails letters out on a daily basis to return them to your children before Christmas.

As always, we remind you to please be courteous to other viewers and our

neighbors. Our neighbors are in full support of what we do, so we ask that you respect their property and please do not block any driveways. Also, be respectful to others.

We are delighted to announce: This show is collecting monetary donations for PetStock. PetStock, the predecessor to Rock2Adopt, is an annual charity event held at Popcorn Park Zoo, that raises money and awareness for the Associated Humane Society. As rescue parents ourselves, we love that we can give back to a cause that is helping orphaned animals find loving homes. For more information about PetStock, visit petstocknj.com. We would like to publicly thank Samantha Feinen, the creator of PetStock, for the opportunity to donate to her selfless volunteer efforts and cause.

To help fund our cause, you can support our custom crafts and designs business: The Casqueira Holiday Light Show Custom Shirts and Custom Crafts, which can be found here: facebook.com/ casqueiraholidaylightshowCRAFTS. We hope to again, partner with Jennifer Judge at Homemade with Grace, to create and sell awesome PetStock merchandise both online, and at the 2023 PetStock, to raise money and awareness for the cause. More information can be found here about Homemade with Grace here: facebook.com/homemadewithgrace

On the weekends, you may see us with Christmas merchandise, holiday popups, tumblers, shirts, and much more out front of the house during the day, as well as during the show! Purchasing from our craft business helps aid our cause in so many ways.

Feel free to visit us, bring your Santa mail, donate to the Associated Humane Society, shop our craft business and have an amazing holiday season with us here, at the Casqueira Holiday Light Show.

Sex-Ed:

Continued From Page 1

criticized the new curriculum, some saying it’s not age-appropriate to teach young children about sexuality and gender identity.

Others were in favor of the new standards, stating it’s becoming progressive.

Brick parents can log into Parent Portal and will be presented with information on

the topic. There, they can choose whether to opt their child out or not. Alert messages will ensure parents know the curriculum standards. Those students who are opted out will be given alternative work, officials said.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, Madeline Iannarone, who was recently elected as a new school board member, spoke up about the opt-out decision. She asked the board to consider having parents ‘opt-in’ instead as she stated that’s

more important to parents.

“It’s mandated curriculum unless if you opt-out, so you can’t have an opt-in,” Board President Stephanie Wohlrab explained.

Anderson joined into the conversation and explained that legally, the district could only offer an opt-out option in order to comply with regulations. If this option wasn’t presented, then the parent(s) would have to take the initiative and talk to the district.

“A parent would have to write a letter to a

principal… We wanted to remove that piece of it so parents could be fully informed,” Anderson said. “If parents don’t respond in the Parent Portal, our health and PE teachers will reach out.”

Anderson stated that at any time, parents can reach out with questions and what the lessons will be discussing. Parents can also ask for the lesson plans so they can preview it with their child.

New Sex Ed Standards

Standards undergo a revision process every five years and include a series of public hearings throughout the state. The new guidelines were actually adopted in June of 2020, then each district fi nalized their versions this year.

The Comprehensive Health and Physical Education guidelines encompass a great deal more than sex and gender. It is 66 pages. There are entire pages on fitness, and just a few sentences on gender identity, but that is what some parents are concerned about. Other topics include addiction, nutrition, and resolving conflicts.

Parents have expressed concerns that the state’s rules are causing students to be “indoctrinated” into lifestyles of which the parents wouldn’t approve, or they say the parents should be the ones having these conversations with the children.

Whenever parents bring up these points, school administrators throughout Ocean County have continually said that while the state created the guidelines, each district was able to craft their own lessons. There is still an element of home rule.

According to the state document, “Today’s students are continually bombarded with physical, mental, and social influences that affect not only learning in school, but also the lifelong health of the citizens that schools are preparing for graduation. To that end, the New Jersey Student Learning Standards - Comprehensive Health and Physical Education (NJSLS-CHPE) were revised to address the need for students to gain knowledge and skills in caring for themselves, interact effectively with others, and analyze the impact of choices and consequences.”

One philosophy of education is that teachers shouldn’t just teach facts, but should create lifetime learners – something that lasts after graduation. One of the goals of the curriculum is to create healthy exercise and nutrition habits for the rest of their lives.

There is language about “health literacy,” and that if someone doesn’t know anything about health issues, then they won’t know where to turn if something is wrong. They might not even know if something is wrong. Thus, there are topics for older kids about consent, sexting, and sexual assault.

The lessons are split across age levels. The youngest is “by the end of 2nd grade.” The other steps are “end of 5th,” “end of 8th,” and “end of 12th.”

For example, the core idea for sexual health by the end of 2nd grade is “Every individual has unique skills and qualities, which can include the activities they enjoy such as how they may dress, their mannerisms, things they like to do.” By 5th grade, that has evolved into “All individuals should (Sex-Ed - See Page 18)

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

Hearing Loss Can Impact Cognition

Research shows that hearing loss may lead to the rapid progression of cognitive decline. The evidence in the literature suggests that:

• The slow onset of hearing loss can have a significant impact on several key brain functions, including the memory, hearing, speech and language portions of cognition.

• Hearing impairment is a greater risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia than other individual midlife risks.

• The proactive management of hearing loss can delay or slow the onset or progression of cognitive decline.

• Studies show the use of hearing aids can slow down the rapid progression of cognitive decline.

Garden State Hearing & Balance Center is on the front line of promoting

cognitive health. We now offer a computerized test of cognitive function called Cognivue Thrive. This screening tool objectively and reliably identifies changes in cognitive function that could be indicative of an impairment that requires physician referral.

In our opinion, driving brain health awareness and improving access to cognitive screenings are among the most important challenges of the 21st century. Although cognitive decline is a normal part of aging, early identification of underlying conditions such as untreated hearing loss will lead to appropriate management, thus improving cognitive health.

If you would like to schedule a Cognivue Thrive screening, please feel free to contact our Toms River office at 732-818-3610.

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!

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 David Smolokoff, Tenor. No tickets required.

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

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

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

5 Helpful Solutions For Seasonal Affective Disorder

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

In certain parts of the world, the cold winter season causes a mood disorder called Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD and it happens at the same time of year.

The winter blues impact over 10 million people just in the USA alone and 80 percent of those with SAD are women leading researchers to believe there is a hormonal component to the condition.

Symptoms include feeling depression in the wintertime along with low energy as compared to the summer.

Other signs and symptoms of SAD include:

• The uptick in headaches or other aches and pains

• Difficulty sleeping

• Feelings of anxiety or annoyance

• Sensations of feeling worthless or guilty

• Hopelessness

• Thoughts about self-harm or suicide

• Loss of interest in going places or meeting people

We know that certain risk factors increase the incidence of seasonal affective disorder. For example, there is a strong correlation between reduced sunlight hours and circadian rhythm alterations. There is also a change in levels of melatonin (it increases while cortisol decreases), and finally, where you live matters. People who live closer to the equator (for example Florida) seem to do better than those who live further away like in Alaska.

5 Helpful Solutions and Considerations for SAD

1. St. John’s wort has been tried for people with SAD, however, the results are inconsistent.

2. Vitamin B12, again it may help, but results are inconsistent.

3. Vitamin D appears to help some folks, but not all.

4. Prescribed antidepressants such as Bupropion.

5. Hormone replacement, specifically progesterone or cortisol.

Let me offer one quick comment about number 5 above (the progesterone and cortisol). Restoring those hormones must be done very carefully, by a hormone specialist. This may require you to have some baseline hormone testing, either blood, saliva, or urine. If your doctor recommends hormone testing, you can purchase a DUTCH test kit and do it at home. I have this available on my website as well because I am a Provider. But do not replenish hormones ‘in the dark’ get yourself tested first because you can’t self-treat yourself hormones.

There are light therapy devices sold online as well, however, I do not think they will have much impact. They’d be fun to try and can’t hurt anything.

Most of us do not have the means to travel to Hawaii or New Zealand just to get to a sunny warm part of the world when it’s cold here in America. So if you have SAD, please try some of the potential solutions I’ve listed above, and make sure you are being seen by a licensed, qualified professional, whether that is a physician or therapist or other. Don’t go it alone! Share your feelings with your family members or friends so they can support you. And keep in mind one very important thing. SAD goes away. It is a seasonal condition. No matter how you feel right now, it will lift.

If this topic interests you, please read the longer, more detailed version of my article. It is available at suzycohen.com ”

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

Enjoy The Holidays But Be Mindful Of Scams!

By: Michael J, Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

Have you thought about giving a fancy new gadget as a holiday gift? Or maybe there’s something on your wish list that Santa forgot to bring? If so, you might be tempted by an Ad to purchase high-tech gadgets for a low price. But if a merchant, other than Amazon.com, asks you to pay using an Amazon gift card then it’s probably a scam. In fact, Amazon’s gift card terms don’t allow you to use Amazon gift cards to make payments anywhere besides amazon.com and a few specific sites.

Here’s how the scam happens: You discover a website that sells new HDTVs, GPS devices, and other tech-gadgets for deeply discounted prices. You haven’t heard of the site, but you’re diligent and you do some research. You fi nd a few reviews from satisfied customers, you think the site is legitimate, and you go for it.

During checkout, you’re instructed to purchase an Amazon gift card and then hand over the gift card information as payment. Unfortunately, if you do, you’ll be out the money, and you won’t get anything in return. These scammers know that bad reviews scare people away, so they may post a few positive reviews about the site. They shut down the site before people post complaints — usually

in less than a month — and open under a new name somewhere else.

Buying an Amazon gift card to make a payment is NOT the same as using Amazon Payments, which provides some protections for buyers. Amazon Payments is a feature that allows Amazon members to pay for merchandise on other websites by logging in and using a payment method they’ve stored on their Amazon account. For example, if you use a credit card stored in your Amazon Payments account, you’re still using your credit card to make the purchase, and you get certain protections when you use a credit card. You don’t have the same protections when you pay with a gift card — virtually or physically. It could be tough to trace the money or get it back if something goes wrong. Of course, that’s not a problem if you’re sending the gift card to a friend or family member as a gift.

When shopping online, consider using a payment method that offers protections if you don’t get what you paid for.

From everyone here at R.C. Shea & Associates, have a safe, happy and healthy Holiday season.

Alumni In Recovery Now Looking For Brick Chapter Speakers

Sex-Ed:

Continued From Page 12

feel welcome and included regardless of their gender, gender expression, or sexual orientation.” The points under that, for end of 5th grade, are: “Describe gender-role stereotypes and their potential impact on self and others; Differentiate between sexual orientation and gender identity; Demonstrate ways to promote dignity and respect for all people (e.g. sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, differing ability, immigration status, family configuration).”

One point of contention for some parents is that by the end of 8 th grade, one of the guidelines is “Define vaginal, oral, and anal sex.”

The state’s guidance is based on best practices from throughout the nation. Educators have said that creating a place where schools welcome everyone regardless of gender identity will

reduce suicide, drug abuse, and other harmful actions of teens who feel they don’t belong. In this case, it’s literally life or death for kids going through tough times.

Children are being asked to “respect and accept differences of an individual’s race, religion, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity, disability, socioeconomic background, and perspectives of health-related decisions.”

The state requires that schools include the contributions of African Americans, people with disabilities, as well as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people “in an appropriate place.”

While politically-motivated media reports have targeted model lesson plans prepared by third parties, these were often extreme examples. The State of New Jersey does not endorse any of them.

The state’s guidelines can be found here: nj.gov/education/ cccs/2020/2020%20NJSLS-CHPE.pdf

Chris Lundy contributed to this article.

Moderate Training Noise At Joint Base For December

By Alyssa Riccardi

LAKEHURST – Expect to hear moderate noise from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) throughout the month of December.

Every month, JBMDL releases their “Noise Level Calendar” so residents know when to expect mild or severe noise. This is to deter calls to local 911 dispatchers. The calendar is labeled with three different levels of noise: slight

noise, moderate noise and abundant noise.

For almost the entire month of December, days are scheduled for “moderate noise.” Some key days to look out for are December 3 and 13, which are scheduled for “high noise.” Additionally, December 24 and 25 are scheduled for “low noise.” Noise levels are subject to change without notice due to training requirements and weather, JBMDL said.

Man Sentenced To State Prison In Toms River Hotel Stabbing

By Alyssa Riccardi

TOMS RIVER – A man has been sentenced to 15 years in New Jersey State Prison after stabbing a woman multiple times, police said.

Carles Bryant, 34, of Millville, previously pleaded guilty to Attempted Murder, in connection with an incident that occurred at the Howard Johnson Hotel in Toms River on March 3, 2021. The attack took place took place around 10:30 p.m. in the hotel lobby. After the fight, the woman was left with multiple stab wounds and was subsequently brought to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment.

Bryant was on the run but was ultimately apprehended in Atlantic City on March 19 by the United States Marshals Service.

Bryant will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his prison sentence before he may be

considered for parole eligibility.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Victoria Veni who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Advocacy Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Township Police Department, United States Marshals Service, New Jersey State Police, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation, ultimately resulting in Bryant’s apprehension, guilty plea, and lengthy state prison sentence.

Police Seize Drugs And Firearms From Brick Resident

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – A search warrant led to the arrest of a 50-year-old man for possessing drugs and firearms, police said.

On November 28 around 6 a.m., the Brick Township Police Department executed a search warrant on a home in the Maple Leaf Condominium Complex. As a result, detectives seized illegally possessed .40 caliber handgun, two high capacity magazines, ammunition, and over 100 grams of cocaine.

Resident Daryl Pierce was charged

with three counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS), distributing a CDS, possession of a firearm during a CDS offense, paraphernalia, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, unlawful possession of a weapon, high capacity magazines, certain persons not to possess firearms, prescription legend pills, and possession of more than 6oz of marijuana. He was lodged in Ocean County Jail.

C harges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Humanitarian Awards Presented At Annual Gala

FARMINGDALE – It was an evening of mystique and recognition at the Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus (MMCSC) Foundation ‘Masquerade’ Annual Humanitarian Gala.

More than 200 attendees were present at the Eagle Oaks Country Club to honor three individuals who have supported the hospital and the surrounding community for decades.

The honorees include: Avinash Gupta, MD, Chief of Cardiology at MMCSC. Dr. Gupta and his wife Geeta have been practicing medicine in the Lakewood area since 1994 and have organized volunteers from the Monmouth and Ocean County Association of Physicians from India (MOCAAPI), in which he is a member, to assist in the COVID-19 battle both here and abroad in India.

Robert Sickel is the owner of Pine Belt Enterprises which has been a staple in the community for more than 80 years. Sickel serves as Chairman of the MMCSC Foundation Board and a trustee of the MMC/MMCSC Board of Trustees. One of many contributions from Rob and the Pine Belt family were hosts of the Flavors of the Jersey Shore event for multiple years, which benefit

Cancer Services at MMCSC. Rob and Pine Belt were also contributors to the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams recreational complex, dedicated and designed to benefit special needs individuals of all ages and abilities.

Alan Krupnick, President of Sydney Krupnick Realty, an investment and brokerage firm in Lakewood, has followed in his mother, Charlotte’s footsteps. Charlotte was a founding member of the Foundation Board and Alan continued the Krupnick legacy of philanthropic work at the medical center and within the community. Krupnick also serves on the MMCSC Foundation Board of Trustees.

“We are so grateful for the support of all of the evening’s sponsors and Gala Committee members who supported us in creating a magical event to honor three humanitarians who give so much to their communities,” said Dr. Philip Passes, Chief Administrative Officer, MMC and MMCSC. “Dr. Avinash Gupta; Alan Krupnick and Robert Sickel, are tireless advocates for their communities and our hospital. Their constant generosity and commitment to the hospital enables us to provide outstanding care to our community.”

─Photo courtesy RWJ Barnabas Health Pictured: Among the honorees at the Annual Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus Foundation Gala was, from left, Eric Carney, President and CEO, Monmouth Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus; Robert Sickel, Pine Belt Enterprises; Denice Gaffney, Vice President, MMCSC Development; Avinash Gupta, MD; Alan Krupnick, and Caitlin Olson, Regional Vice President of Development, MMC and MMCSC

Should You Feed Wildlife? If You Do, What You Should Know

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Having access to wildlife can be very rewarding. We can watch them and learn from their behaviors and perhaps better understand them. So naturally, when hard times hit during the colder months our first instinct is to help them along as many of their natural foods have become dormant, died off, or simply left the area as is possible for migrant species.

Before you get started, here are some potential consequences to feeding. Animals may start depending on you for their food sources and will likely return. You will notice more and more animals appearing in your yard. Too many animals at the feeding station may cause aggressive behaviors, and a lack of fear when being around humans. That can be a dangerous situation. Some neighbors may not welcome wildlife in the same way. Never ever feed foods consumed by humans, as their nutritional requirements are different from ours. Never be outdoors with the animals during feeding.

Feeding wildlife is only good if you do so properly. By that I mean you need to keep yourself and the animal(s) safe and healthy. Before you start feeding, make sure you research

the animal(s) you specifically want to feed and plan accordingly. Every town has ordinances addressing wildlife feeding – research that beforehand so you know what restrictions you have. Some general rules are placing the animal-specific centralized feeding station away from your house to avoid animals wandering through your yard. Feed once and vary your feeding times. This will help keep predatory animals away as the routine is changing. Where animals feed there will be predators on ground and in the air waiting to prey upon their next meal. Feed where there is overhead protection. Clean the area at the end of the day to avoid contamination. Only small amounts of appropriate food to fit the animal’s diet should be offered. If you notice the number of animals increasing or competition among them, you are overfeeding – cut back. The more animals feeding, the risk for transmitting disease to each other increases.

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.

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Dolls

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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)

3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for

Jackson - House For Sale By Own er. Private Road Sits On 1.5 Acres.

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Harrogate Resident Celebrates 106th Birthday

LAKEWOOD – Join in wishing Harrogate Resident Jeannette Mazur a Happy 106 th birthday!

Born on November 23 in Newark and spending most of her life in Union County, Jeannette also lived six years in Iowa and six years in Illinois to be closer to her grandchildren.

After high school Jeanette took some accounting classes at Rutgers and was employed as treasurer for the Red Devil tool company.

After she was married Jeanette and

─Photo courtesy Harrogate

her husband moved to Mountainside where she raised her three children enjoyed volunteering at the local town library. That volunteer position turned into a secretarial job that lasted 17 years!

Jeanette has lived at Harrogate for 19 years; she loves jigsaw puzzles and keeps herself busy with the many programs at Harrogate.

In addition to her three children Jeanette also has six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC.

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

Commercial fishing boats in Point Pleasant. This pic was taken by Jim Fisher. Wanna see your snaps featured in this space? Email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and

Whittling, for one

Wavy patterns in some op art

Stretching muscles

Piece of rebar, essentially

Suppress, in a way

Part of NAACP: Abbr.

Jaguar, e.g.

Genetic molecule

Actor’s rep.

Data storage medium

Country club employee

Stretches on a couch?

Some can be used forever--but only once

Signs

In the neighborhood of

Overblown critique

Elaborate entryways

Physician wear-

a pink ribbon, perhaps

Like potato chips, often

Showed up

Farm measures

Curly slapper

Crime boss

“That’s well within my abilities”

How to receive a freebie, perhaps

Yo-Yo strings?

Official doc.

Belief system

In the previously mentioned work, briefly

Initialism for Tom Brady, according to most

2000s toon heroine __ Possible

Finger Lakes locale: Abbr.

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Slow and steady might not win the race, but at least you won’t end up in an unwinnable argument. Losing your temper or rushing ahead after making hasty decisions can land you in trouble during the week ahead.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In the upcoming week, you may go looking for love in all the wrong places. Perhaps it is a better idea to look closer to home, where you’re unlikely to be fooled by surface appearances. Extra bills could pile up.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Use your energy and enthusiasm wisely. Stifle any tendency to be overly competitive. You might find an illuminating insight and realize how your own actions may factor into tensions or disputes.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : Your intuitions might not be reliable in the week ahead, especially if you are making a purchase or saddled with financial decisions. Thankfully, you can count on a partner or loved one to be more down to earth.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Your ambition may make you yearn for more success in the week ahead, but an impractical streak could rear its ugly head. Be sure to understand where your loyalties lie and get business agreements in writing.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Be sure there is a soft place to land. Let good intentions prevail, and always stay fully in your integrity. Spending your money on things of lasting value makes more sense than indulging in passing whims.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): It might be a good idea to keep your opinions to yourself as the week unfolds. Someone may be too wrapped up in achieving their business objectives to indulge in romantic fantasies or other personal activities now.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The simplest explanation is usually the best one. Be direct and to the point when presenting your ideas. Avoid making major purchases in the week to come because you might be too trusting and believe a sales pitch.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In the upcoming week, you may dream you can conquer the world while safely hanging out in your own little zone. Out in the world, however, you should concentrate on making every effort work on your behalf.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Bring your practical side and your creative one to the table now. This combo can be one of your greatest strengths and can bring out wonderful solutions. Wallow in a romantic dream or two, then go back to minding the store.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Loved ones might have unrealistic ideas or romanticize the importance of their spare time activities. Watch your money carefully in the week ahead since you might be paying attention to the spin rather than the substance.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You may feel your allure and attractiveness is slipping as the week unfolds. Even if you are in “ugly” stars, they will pass. Watch for some imaginative ideas that can be put on the back burner until the timing is better.

A

By America’s Test Kitchen

CREAMLESS CREAMY TOMATO SOUP -- NOW THAT’S DREAMY! CREAMLESS CREAMY TOMATO SOUP

For the week of dec 10 - dec 16

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

By Jeraldine Saunders