2022-12-24 - The Brick Times

Tree Lighting

Sparks The Holiday Season

Home to Town Hall, Brick Police Department, and its offices, the Complex transformed into a winter wonderland for the holiday season with residents enjoying candy canes, hot chocolate, and even snow blowing through the cold air.

“It’s an awesome night. It feels like Christmas. It’s nice and cold everyone has hats and gloves and scarves on,” Mayor John Ducey said.

At the ceremony, Mayor Ducey (Tree - See Page 4)

Electric Vehicle Charging Spots Named

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - The township’s Electric Vehicle Committee has recommended that the administration authorize the installation of two electric vehicle charging stations on township-owned prop -

erty. The governing body introduced an ordinance at their December 13 council meeting that gives the administration the ability to install the charging stations at the Drum Point Sports Complex and at Windward Beach Park

to be used by owners of private and public electric vehicles.

During the meeting, Mayor John G. Ducey said that the installation of the two charging stations would be funded by grant money. He said (Electric - See Page 6)

People Get Ready, There’s A Train Show Coming

By Mark Bator

LAKEWOOD - Little did anyone know that when the five founding members of a local hobby club first formed their group in 1987 that it would still be running strong 35 years later. But that’s exactly

what happened, and the Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders (OCSMR) recently had their open house Christmas Train Show on Dec. 10 and 11 to demonstrate to the general public just how

(Train - See Page 5)

─Photo by Alyssa Riccardi Residents had a special visit from Santa who helped with this year’s annual Christmas tree lighting.

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – Lights illuminated the town as families, friends, and township officials gathered in front of the Municipal Complex for the annual tree lighting.

- Photo by Mark Bator

The layouts for model trains, including the backgrounds, can get quite extensive.

Tree:

Continued From Page 1

was joined by Council President Vince Minichino, Council Vice-President Lisa Crate, Councilwoman Heather deJong, Councilwoman Andrea Zapcic and Councilman Derrick Ambrosino. Before the big reveal of this year’s tree, students from both high schools in town performed some holiday songs to get everyone in the holiday spirit: The Brick Memorial Caroling Choir, directed by Kevin Bettys and Brick Township High School’s Select Ensemble called “Voices of Fire,” directed by Christopher Capone.

Also at the event was Girl Scout Troop 462 who provided cookies and hot chocolate while Troops 124 and 70 led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Once the ceremony concluded, it was time for the big reveal and a surprise from a very special guest. Out from the crowd, the man himself - Santa Claus - appeared and helped light up the Christmas tree. After a countdown, Santa hit the red button and the tree magically lit up with a big shiny start on top.

Residents then walked around to snap a photo with Santa and kids enjoyed a train ride around the parking lot.

Another tradition the Township holds is their row of Christmas trees present -

ed in Town Hall.

“People always forget about this, but inside Town Hall is the Christmas trees. A lot of clubs in town and nonprofits, they all decorate Christmas trees in our hallway. Normally there is a theme, but this year the theme was ‘any choice.’ Tonight, Town Hall is open after business hours so everyone can check out some

cool trees,” Mayor Ducey said.

The mayor thanked the members of the Council as well as the Recreation Department for their endless hard work with putting events like this together.

“Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate. We wish you all a happy, healthy and safe holiday season!” Ducey said.

Housed in the basement of the Lakewood Historical Museum, the club’s rail layouts dominate two large rooms with scenic backdrops and detailed accoutrements that in all likelihood, due to constant upgrades and new ideas, will never be truly finished.

“We basically have our four operating lines on the layout,” says Ted Bertiger, the club’s president. “The guys model the layouts to look for realism like the real trains, and you make the layouts that way.”

The group had its first home in the back room of a former Amoco gas station along Route 88, but in 1992 was able to find a more permanent home in the basement of the All Saints Episcopal Church in Lakewood. There the club stayed for 24 years before completely vacating the site in 2016.

After more than two decades at that location the group migrated to their current location, which is the former Kuser Hall, part of the historic Newman School in Lakewood. In addition to the massive layout rooms, the basement serves as a storage area as well as offices and train repair workshops.

The OCSMR is a 501(c)(3) organization and accepts cash donations as well as model trains and accessories that are donated by the general public. While some of the pieces donated by the public may be utilized by the members, often times they are cleaned up and repaired for sale at train shows to help

raise funds for the club.

While many members of the general public may remember having train sets that ran under the Christmas tree around the holidays, they are often surprised to find that the hobby is still very much alive in the age of computer games and advanced electronics.

But model trains have seen an increase in electronic sophistication, as well. The old lever-controlled transformers have given way to electronic radio-controlled trains that can even be set up with governors that regulate speeds. In addition, many of the accessories are no longer simply motion-activated by passing trains.

While many new manufacturers have gotten into the resurgence of model railroading, several of the largest players in the market may be familiar to those who enjoyed their model train sets in the past. Manufacturers such as Athern and Lionel are household names, but others such as Atlas, Walthers, and Bachmann are among the top brands that draw the attention of the modeling community.

Besides numerous websites dedicated to the hobby, aficionados will often pick up such popular periodicals such as Classic Trains, Model Railroader and Railroad Model Craftsman to get ideas, tips, and research ways to improve their layouts.

One reason that the hobby has seen something of a Renaissance was due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With reduced time spent in their usual social pursuits, train modelers found more time for themselves, which many used to re-ignite

(Train - See Page 19)

- Photos by Mark Bator

(Above): Club member Bud Phillips inspects one of the layouts at the OCSMR’s headquarters in Lakewood. (Below): Detail on the club’s layouts represent hours of painstaking work.

the ordinance is necessary because the stations would be installed on township land.

Private electric car owners would be charged an hourly rate to charge their vehicles and would be given a 30-minute grace period after their car is fully

charged to remove their vehicle.

During public comment, township resident Onofrio Ambrosino said he was thankful for the governing body’s efforts to provide electrical vehicle charging stations.

“I feel that is the way of the future, and that’s just another thing that keeps us moving ahead rather than stuck in the old,” Ambrosino said.

In other news, Brick Police Chief

James Riccio and Sgt. James Kelly were honored with a Heroes Against Hate award at the Jewish Federation of Ocean County’s annual Community of Caring Celebration for their work with the Cops and Clergy initiative.

The men accepted their award during a December 19 ceremony held at The Barn in Whiting on Route 70.

Mayor Ducey spoke about the initiative during the council meeting.

“We do this pretty cool program here that a lot of people might not know about,” he said. “It’s the Cops and Clergy group so our representatives from each clergy…get together on a monthly basis and Sgt. Kelly advises everybody there about what’s going on in town and the congregations raise whatever concerns they may have,” he said.

The clergy take the information back to their congregations and distribute what they learned, the mayor said.

And finally, Councilman Perry Albanese spoke about the recent pet hoarding situation at a residence in Brick where 180 animals - including 135 dogs and 45 cats - were removed by the authorities.

“Due to the generosity of the people of Brick Township and the county, we were overwhelmed with donations, so as of now we cannot accept donations at the shelters just because there’s no room, but we do appreciate everybody’s interest,” he said.

Albanese said if the public is interested in donating items, call the shelters every few days to see what is needed.

The animals that were rescued are not available just yet, the councilman said. They have to be spayed, neutered, vetted, get all their required shots, which is currently ongoing, so they might become available for adoption in the next couple of weeks.

“These animals are not your standard shelter animals,” Albanese said. “There are a lot of smaller dogs, and they just need a loving home.”

He said the shelters hope to be posting photos of some of the animals shortly on the OCHD website. For more information visit OCHD.org and click on animal shelters, he said.

“It’s overwhelming right now,” Albanese said.

The next council meeting will be on Tuesday December 27 at 7 p.m.

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.

S potlight o n g overnment

$857.9B Defense Spending Bill Passed In Senate

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J) applauded the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which included several of the senator’s priorities, including the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act. The $857.9 billion FY2023 defense spending bill provides vital funding to support our national security, American’s troops, veterans, and their families.

“Today, I voted for the National Defense Authorization Act of 2022, a bipartisan

bill to safeguard our national security and support our service members with the resources they need to implement the National Defense Strategy. I’m glad we were able to come together in a bipartisan way and authorize a 4.6% pay raise, a 2% housing allowance increase, and expanded childcare benefits for our men and women in uniform. These measures will bolster our civilian military workforce, upholding the commitment we owe to those willing to put their lives on the line for our country, both domestically and abroad.

“This critical legislation contains many domestic priorities I have championed during this Congress, including the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act to protect judges on the federal bench and their families

from threats to their safety. It also authorizes funding for several U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects in New Jersey as part of the Water Resources Development Act of 2022, including the Rahway River, Sea Bright, Manasquan, Raritan Bay and Sandy Hook Bay, and other small flood control projects in South Jersey counties. And it provides funding for ongoing studies at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl - also known as PFAS chemicals - which have been linked to health complications when found in everyday items and drinking water and which I’ve proudly supported and urged for in previous years.

“With the passage of this legislation, we are also sending several of my priorities as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to the President’s desk for their signature into law. This includes my historic

Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act to strengthen the U.S.-Taiwan relationship; my United States-Ecuador Partnership Act to expand our nation’s cooperation with Ecuador; and my Department of State Authorization Act of 2022, which supports and invests in our nation’s diplomats, building on last year’s passage that broke a near 20-year streak of an authorization bill not being passed into law. Most importantly, we uphold our commitment to Ukraine in its fight against the unjust and unprovoked attack by Russia.

“Simply put, the FY2023 NDAA is a big deal for our nation and for New Jerseyans and their families. Supporting our troops, keeping our communities safe and investing in our national security is one the most fundamental obligations we have as Members of Congress. I thank partners from both sides of the aisle for supporting my priorities included in this historic legislation.”

Teacher Shortage Addressed By Streamlining Assessments

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed S896 w/GR into law, which prohibits the State Board of Education from requiring the completion of the Educative Teacher Performance Assessment (“edTPA”) as a condition of eligibility for a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing (“CEAS”) or certificate of eligibility (“CE”). The Legislature unanimously concurred with the Governor’s conditional veto of an earlier version of the legislation that prohibited consideration of any Commissioner of Education approved performance-based assessment as a factor in determining whether to recommend a candidate for a CEAS or CE. The Governor recommended changes necessary to maintain the elimination of the State’s current requirement that educator candidates pass the edTPA test, and instead moved the responsibility for administering a performance-based assessment to the educator preparation programs (“EPP”), which are best-positioned to select or create the most appropriate assessment for their candidates.

“As we face a national teacher shortage, we must work to establish effective and efficient solutions to grow this critical workforce on behalf of New Jersey’s students,” said Governor Murphy. “By eliminating edTPA, we will streamline

a process that has previously acted as a barrier in the transition between sitting in a classroom and leading a classroom. In New Jersey we recognize that teaching is not only a career, but a calling.

I am proud to sign legislation that empowers educator prep programs to appropriately assess their candidates, which will ensure that New Jersey continues to produce the nation’s best educators.”

The legislation signed eliminates the State Board of Education’s ability to require candidates to complete a Commissioner of Education approved performance-based assessment, including the edTPA, as a condition of certification. Rather, under the legislation signed today, CEAS and CE candidates will be required to complete performance-based assessments as part of their EPP, beginning with teaching candidates who complete their EPP in the spring of 2024.

“In the midst of a teacher shortage, we should assist teaching candidates rather than further obstruct their opportunity to teach in a classroom,” said Senator Shirley K Turner. “The edTPA assessment has been a hindrance to the progression of current and prospective educators. It is a costly, unnecessary, and unreliable exam that has complicated the accreditation process for teaching candidates. Eradicating this burdensome assessment is a step in the right direction to make New Jersey a more equitable state.”

“When fighting a national teacher shortage, we must find ways to recruit and hire more, qualified educators quick-

ly,” said Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli. “With this bill, we remove another barrier to teaching for those who want to work with the next generation of students.”

“Recent years have presented our schools with many significant challenges, including a national teacher shortage. Our students deserve the best education possible, and to deliver that we must have a fully staffed teacher workforce,” said Assemblywoman Mila Jasey. “At our meeting of the Joint Committee on the Public Schools addressing the teacher shortage, the EdTPA was repeatedly identified as a contributor to the shortage. I am gratified we are eliminating this expensive test which does nothing to predict classroom success.”

“This is a win for students and educators in New Jersey,” said NJEA President Sean M. Spiller. “EdTPA was an unnecessary Christie-era holdover that was keeping highly qualified educators out of New Jersey classrooms at a time when they are more needed than ever. We are glad that our future educators will now be able to focus their time and energy on developing and practicing the real-world skills that will bring them success in their future classrooms so that our public schools can remain the very best in America.”

“NJPSA applauds Governor Murphy and the State Legislature for recognizing that edTPA is no longer necessary and that the real-world experiences of student teaching serve aspiring teachers more,” said Karen Bingert, Executive Director of the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association. “This shift both benefits teaching candidates both financially and professionally empowers

teaching interns to focus on developing their skills in the classroom, working with students, and learning from their mentors.”

“School leaders are grateful for the support of the Governor to place assessment of prospective teachers within their preparation program,” said Dr. Richard G. Bozza, Executive Director of NJ Association of School Administrators. “This action eliminates one hurdle to recruiting and retaining new teachers in New Jersey school districts and integrates candidates’ performance assessment within their preparation programs.”

“At a time when districts across New Jersey are facing an unprecedented teacher shortage, the Council of County Vocational-Technical Schools applauds the Legislature and the Governor’s action to eliminate the edTPA assessment as a requirement for teacher certification,” said NJ Council of County Vocational-Technical Schools Executive Director Jackie Burke. “The removal of this costly and unnecessary burden will allow our schools to attract more candidates into the teaching profession.”

“The New Jersey Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (NJACTE) applauds the Governor for his signature today on this important bill and his commitment and that of the Senate and Assembly to the teaching profession,” said Stacey Leftwich, President of the New Jersey Association of Colleges for Teacher Education. “As New Jersey continues to combat a growing teacher shortage, this new law will ensure that our members can meet the demand of preparing the teachers of tomorrow.”

From The Desk Of The Governor

Senator Robert Menendez

Garden Club Decorates Tree

BRICK – The theme for this year’s Christmas tree for the Brick Garden Club is “Winter Wonderland.”

Sue Fevola, Nancy Strassheim and Paula Kocmalski made 64 snowmen and snow-women. In addition to the snowmen/snow-women the tree has

lots of snowflakes with a scattering of blue and silver ornaments, white lights and finished off with white embossed ribbons and a silver star. Lots of white packages adorned with big blue bows finish the look. Sue and Nancy decorated the tree.

─Photo courtesy Brick Garden Club

Township Receives Town Of Excellence Award

BRICK – This year, Brick Township is honored to be the recipient of the Town of Excellence Award presented by the DART Coalition of Ocean County. Each year, DART recognizes one town within the county for their ongoing partnership and commitment to pre -

venting and reducing substance use.

Pictured from left are Ptl. Flynn, Chief Riccio, BMAC Coordinator Brandi White, Mayor Ducey, Councilwoman Andrea Zapcic, Council President Vince Miniccino, Ptl. Finelli and Ptl. Murphy.

Daddy & Daughter Dance

BRICK – Daddy & Daughter Valentines Dance will be on February 10 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Civic Plaza Gym. Cost is $25 and is only open to ages 4 to 9. To register visit Community Pass at bricktownship.net.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township

OUTPATIENT REHAB:

•

•

INPATIENT REHAB:

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

• Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

5 Reasons To Visit Us This Winter

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 impacted 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 Batteries 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 condensation, 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 compatibility, 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

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 ability 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 devices 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 available 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)

Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

7 Cool Ways To Use Geranium Essential Oil

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

While the geranium flower produces a beautiful bloom and is one of my mother’s personal favorites, the oil of this plant contains properties that we can benefit from in a variety of ways, both inside and out. Today I’m going to share with you several of the incredible benefits of Geranium Essential Oil (herein after GEO for brevity’s sake) whose health benefits have been used for centuries.

GEO is a wonderful oil and its health benefits which assist in the various bodily systems. The leaves, stem and petals of this plant are all used to produce the oil. It is commonly used to make fragrances, but that is only the beginning of the many uses of this incredible oil. You can buy essential oil of geranium and diffuse it in your home if you like it. The reason it has that bold but notable scent is because of the principal constituent called “geraniol.”

Here are the top 7 medicinal benefits of geranium oil:

1. Reproductive Health. The medicinal benefits are hard to overlook. This essential oil is also thought to help balance the system of the body responsible for regulating hormones and fertility, which might be helpful for those looking to conceive. It is an also anti-inflammatory oil and can help women with pain from menstrual cramps and PMS. Inhale the aroma, do not consume it.

2. Mind and Mood. GEO is a great option if you’re looking for something that produces an instantly calming atmosphere. It

it thought to offer a sense of peace when in emotional crisis, and can help one feel more grounded.

3. Skin Problems. People sometimes use this daily by putting a drop of it into their favorite moisturizer or cleanser, and then applying to the skin. This will help dry skin, clogged pores, acne, eczema, dermatitis and other blemishes. That’s because GEO contains strong anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds that make it great for skin health.

Briefly, here is a list of some other things that respond to GEO that you should know about. Please only apply topically and combine the GEO into a carrier oil, or the treatment you already use (for example, a drop in the Preparation H, or a drop in the lice shampoo you have).

4. Head Lice

5. Hemorrhoids

6. Minor burns

7. Neuropathy (nerve pain)

How to Use Geranium Oil

You can dilute this oil with a carrier oil or add a few drops to a diffuser. You can also just take a whiff of it from straight out of the bottle, or dab it to your palms or the bottom of your feet for relaxation. Do NOT ingest or consume geranium oil internally. It is only intended for topical use, or via diffuser/aromatizer.

The list of how many things this oil can be used for is astonishing! If you’d like to learn more about geranium oil, or other essential oils I have more comprehensive articles at my website suzycohen.com.

Council Introduces New Business

BRICK – On December 12, Mayor Ducey and Councilwoman Heather deJong attended the ceremonial ribbon cutting for SoHo Salon Suites located in Laurel Square Shopping Center. SoHo Salon Suites offers beauty and body professionals the ability

to be independent in owning and operating their own business. To find out more about the services they offer or to book an appointment visit their website at sohosalonsuites. com. Welcome to the Brick community, we wish you the best of luck!

Beach Badges, Beach Merch On Sale

BRICK – Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Why not give the gift of fun in the sun? Badges for the 2023 Season are on sale now at the Recreation Office. Season badges and parking passes are $30. Senior Citizen parking passes are $15.

Recreation is also selling Brick Beach hoodies, t-shirts, tank tops and magnets. These are great for people who enjoy spending summer days on

our beaches or for anyone who just wants to display their Brick pride! Hoodies are $30, t-shirts are $15, tank tops are $10 and magnets are $5.

Badges, parking passes and Brick Beach apparel and merchandise can be purchased Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Recreation Office, 270 Chambers Bridge Road. For more information call 732-2624622.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township

Court Finds In Favor Of Applicant: New Hotel To Be Developed In Toms River

By: Vinny DelRiccio, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

On August 30, 2022, the Superior Court of New Jersey entered an order in favor of the Toms River Planning Board’s decision to approve refurbishment of an existing motel, into a new and updated hotel to be located just off of Rt. 37 in Toms River. The applicant, who was represented by the law firm of R.C. Shea and Associates, sought approval to develop a modern hotel which would cater to the business traveler guest. The application for development was opposed by a rival business entity, who owned various other hotels within the town.

Despite having ample time to prepare, the objecting party appeared before the Planning Board without any expert witnesses and attempted to seek an adjournment of the application. The Board denied this request and took testimony from the applicant’s experts. The experts were also questioned by the objecting party, as well as members of the public, after which, the

Board voted to approve the application.

The objecting party brought suit in Superior Court against the applicant and the Planning Board, alleging among other things, that the hearing was never opened to public comment, and that the Board was obligated to grant his adjournment request. At the trial R.C. Shea and Associates, on behalf of the applicant, successfully argued against each of the objecting party’s claims. In entering a decision for the applicant, the Court found that the Board complied with all of the required procedures, and that the objecting competitor was not entitled to a further delay of the hearing. Furthermore, the Court found that the applicant had satisfied all required proofs to warrant a grant of the application.

If you are seeking approval for a development application, please give the Attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates a call for a consultation.

Brick Township Historical Society Meeting January 10

BRICK – The Brick Township Historical Society will hold its next meeting on January 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the Herbertsville Firehouse, 601 Herbertsville Road, Brick. The meeting will be devoted to “Remembrances of Brick.” Admission is free, and the public is invited to share their stories of the township. They encourage people to tell of their memories growing up, going

to school, vacationing and living in Brick. Gene Donatiello, the township historian, will share some of his stories.

Park in the rear of the firehouse and enter by the door on the right that is on ground level. For more information about the Society, visit its website at: bricktownshiphistoricalsociety.com or call 732-785-2500.

Volunteer Youth Club Donates To Senior Center

CERT Team Seeks New Members

BRICK – The Brick CERT Team is a group of citizen volunteers that are trained by a team of first responders in disaster preparedness. They assist during times of emergency. The CERT Team is looking for new mem-

bers. The next training program begins in February. Sessions are held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Interested citizens can call 732-262-1167 for more information.

BRICK – The Brick Recreation Volunteer Youth Club donated over 125 bags to Brick Senior Services to distribute to senior residents of the community that are homebound.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate

Jackson - House For Sale By Owner. Private Road Sits On 1.5 Acres. 2 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths, unfinished full basement, 1 car attached garage, baseboard heat. For sale as is $489,000. 732-691-9845. (1)

Seeking Home

Senior veteran - looking for room to rent. 609-389-4906. (2)

For Rent

Single Male Senior - To share apartment with other senior male. Crestwood Village, Whiting. $600 p/m. Private bedroom with kitchen-B/R privileges. Tel: 845-391-6430. (1)

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)

Pellet Stove - Englander Model 55-SHP10L. Heats 1,500 sq. ft. Very good condition. Used. $400, price negotiable. Call 732-350-1314 (3)

Main bath vanity top cultured marble w/ oval bowl 50"L x 22"D inclu backsplash excellent condition, $375 OBO, call (732) 929-3475, Lv Msg. (2)

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 crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (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, wardrobes, 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.

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)

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

Ca$h Paid For Old 45 RPM Records. - R&B, doo wop, soul, early rock & roll, and rockabilly preferred. Call between 8AM and 8PM 909-938-4623. (3)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY 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)

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

Help Wanted

Laundromat Attendant - For FT/

PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n)

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

Now Training School Bus Drivers - $3000 Sign on Bonus. Free CDL training. $22-$25 per hour, overtime available. Please call or email for more info: 732-905-5100. klarrtransport@gmail.com. (4)

P/T

Navy, Call Ted 732-674-7859 or e-mail shorearmynavy@gmail.com. (1)

3D Artist (Job#: Artist1018) sough by Bonfire Productions, LLC in Toms River, NJ: Working closely w/ Creative Dir on animation & dsgn projs w/ many clnts. Dsgn complex graphics & animation using 3D pgrms such as Autodesk Maya, Redshift, Substance Painter, & using Adobe Photoshop. Create basic dsgns, dwgs, & illustrations for product labels, cartons, direct mail, or TV. Create 2D & 3D images depicting objects in motion or illustrating process, using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe AfterEffects, Substance Painter, & Autodesk Maya. Go thru look-dvlpmt process, make objects or characters appear lifelike by manipulating light, color, texture, shadow, & transparency of each 3-D model, or manipulating static images to give illusion of motion. Req: Bach's Deg in Computer Art, Visual Effects & Animation; 6mth work exp as 3D Artist, Animator, or rel; Prof in Autodesk Maya, Redshift, Substance Painter, Adobe Photoshop, & Adobe AfterEffects. Telecommunication is offered w/i NY/NJ area. Apply, mail CV w/ Job# to 105 Flag Point Rd, Toms River, NJ 08753. (1)

Services

CHEAP PAINTING Done RITE -

Free est. Senior discounts interior exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (28)

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)

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, hardworking, 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, Shopping, - Window cleaning, laundry, carpet cleaning, office cleaning. Very good prices. Call 732-7735078 or 848-287-3944. (43)

Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, 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” instructor. 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 computers at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 specialist. 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, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect. MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609-335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (15)

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

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, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

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

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 Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. 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 - Needed 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 insured. 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 instrumental music teacher. Please call 732-350-4427 for more information. All are welcome. (3)

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com . Winner 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 20

their passion.

By its very nature, train modeling is a somewhat solitary hobby, with extensive layouts involving carpentry, track work, scenery, and incredible attention to detail. While many club members maintain layouts in their own homes, their combined efforts shine in their club headquarters in Lakewood.

Modelers go to great length to get accuracy in their re-creations, and the OCSMR members are no exception. Many do research, find old photographs, and go to painstaking lengths to build realism and historical precision into their displays. Like craftsmen and artisans, modelers strive for perfection.

As may be expected, a local flavor dominates the displays at the OCSMR, with re-creations of Matawan, Aberdeen, South Amboy, Belmar, and Long Branch under construction.

“We haven’t had an open house in three years,” explains Bertiger about the COVID-19 restriction period. Normally, however, the club likes to do at least two open house events a year, with the next one earmarked for April, 2023.

“We have kids come down and they’re having a blast,” says Bertiger. “It’s basically a hands-on approach.”

The OCSMR currently has some 30 members, who come from all walks

of life, including former corporate executives, commercial airline pilots and even one who is employed as a train engineer. Club members range in age from 11 to 83, and the club is always willing to accept new modelers into their family. While they may meet several nights a week, not all members come on all nights. Wherever members hail from, all agree that the OCSMR is worth the modest club dues of $220 per year.

The club also gets requests to put on demonstrations at local events around the Monmouth and Ocean County area, as well. One such recent event was held in downtown Farmingdale in November. If it is feasible and fits their schedule, the OCSMR will look to make it possible, transporting equipment and displays to entertain the crowds with public participation strongly encouraged.

“I ran into this couple just by chance, meeting them at a hobby shop,” Bertiger explains, “and they said, ‘Does your club do events?’ They were [having] an outdoor vendor market in the middle of town, and we got hundreds of people who [came] to this. It was phenomenal.”

The club is open to visitors on Tuesday and Friday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Arrangements to visit the club may be done by calling them at 732363-7799 or by visiting their website (ocsmr.com) for further information.

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

This one will make Clark Griswold jealous. From all of us at Micromedia Publications, we wish you a very

Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanzaa and a very Happy New Year! If you would like to see your pix here, email them to photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Ocean University Medical Center Blood Drive

BRICK – An upcoming blood drive will be on December 29 from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ocean University Medical Center, Basement Conference Room A, 425 Jack Martin Boulevard Brick. Appointments strongly recommended. Make an appointment using the link: donor.cbsblood.org/donor/schedules/

drive_schedule/55343?fbclid. All donors will receive a long sleeve holiday shirt & $10 amazon gift card via email.

Donor Guidelines: Drink plenty of water before and after Eat a meal before donation Bring ID Weigh at least 110 lbs.

ames

also chief justice

Vogue alternative

“Mazes and Monsters” novelist Rona

To be, to Balzac

“Is it too risky?”

Autumn shade

Children’s author Blyton

Gross less deductions

“Don’t cheer yet!”

One born under the sign of Cancer

Oomph

Refuse conduit

Dental care brand

Asian New Year

Court-ordered, as a review

Eased up

Born in the wild

“__ Jacques”

Live and breathe

Sun, for one

“500” initials on Wall Street

Repressed, with “in”

Harvests

It’s eight in Madrid

“Order up!” shout-

Italian sauce with pine nuts

Word before race or trap

Top dog

“SportsCenter” channel

Midterm or final

Crowded into

Elvis’ “__ Dog”

Camera setting that does everything except point and shoot

Best Actor winner for “On the Waterfront”

Hoity-toity sort

Parts of Western landscapes

Culturally pretentious

Get in shape

Pancake maker’s need

Metz man

Quite overweight

Fully aware of, as a scheme

Lofty verses

Post-WWII pres.

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

ARIES (March 21-April 19): An attitude of working together for the common good helps everyone get their projects completed. During the first half of the upcoming week, feel free to ask for assistance. Pay attention to timely advice.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Being impartial allows you to be a fair referee. By being fair and friendly, you can smooth over a situation between opposing factions to everyone’s benefit. Making money could be a priority in the beginning of the week.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In the week ahead, you may learn that there is no clear-cut winner if discord doesn’t end on a win-win. Although you might win a debate, you could lose by alienating someone. Avoid polarizing situations that could hurt others.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Practice can never make you perfect but absolutely makes you better. Want to improve your performance? Work at it. In the week ahead, a partner or loved one might inspire you to stretch your muscles or test new techniques.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Highlight the positive and embrace windfalls and miracles. Being an optimist will attract opportunities and make you more appealing to others in the week ahead. Make a conscious effort to give thanks for all the good things.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Outward appearances could be deceiving. In the upcoming week, you should dig deeply into information to reveal the facts before you make a commitment. Do extra homework before taking on any new projects.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You may have plenty of social activities on your calendar as the week unfolds. A minor misunderstanding with a loved one could be triggered by doubts in your own mind. Self-care will help you keep things proportionate.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Everyone loves being right, but you learn more by being open. When you embrace constructive criticism, it can lead you into leveling up. In the week to come, welcome someone’s helpful insights.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t play favorites. Find a solution that will offer advantages and benefits to everyone equally. Your generosity and optimism could be admired in the week ahead but beware of extravagant expenditures.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Party like its 1999; your social life could be more active than usual. Balance it with enough self-pampering. Achieving your ambitions may seem all important today but as the week unfolds you might wish you could slow down.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You can get there sooner by taking a good shortcut. Don’t wipe yourself out when it’s possible to achieve your goals with less effort. In the upcoming week, enjoy more free time to hand out and enjoy others.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Keep energies in balance. It can be easier to receive buy-in and support when you also find ways to be generous and make compromises yourself. In the week ahead, it could be easy to display the power of your convictions.

THIS FIZZY,

CHOCOLATY DRINK IS A

By America’s Test Kitchen

NEW YORK CLASSIC NEW YORK CHOCOLATE EGG CREAM

Serves 1

Notes: Fox’s U-Bet Chocolate Syrup is traditionally used in New York egg creams, but you can substitute other brands of chocolate syrup. Do not use low-fat or skim milk in this recipe. For a salty-sweet combination, chocolate egg creams are sometimes served with a pretzel rod, especially in Brooklyn, New York.

2 tablespoons chocolate syrup

1/3 cup cold whole milk 2/3 cup cold plain seltzer

1 pretzel rod (optional)

1. Add chocolate syrup to glass. Pour milk on top. Use a long spoon to stir until well combined.

2. Pour in cold seltzer. Working quickly, stir mixture hard until well combined and thick layer of foam forms on top, about 30 seconds. Serve immediately with straw (if using) and pretzel rod (if using).

For the week of dec 24 - dec 30

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

By Jeraldine Saunders