2023-01-07 - The Brick Times

By Alyssa Riccardi

-

After being lost for

Family Reunited With Dog From Hoarding Incident

Police, Other Groups Get Raises

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - The township administration has reached an agreement and has signed a four-year contract with Transport Workers Union Local 22, the bargaining unit that represents the township’s blue-collar workers, who will receive a six percent increase.

During the December 27 council meeting, the governing body unanimously approved the contract along with two other unions, representing four employee groups.

An agreement was also reached with Teamsters Local 469 which represents the township’s crossing guards and

supervisors, who signed a four year contract with an increase of five percent for guards and six percent for supervisors.

In addition, the Policemen’s Benevolent Association Local 230 negotiated a six percent raise for the township police officers and the command staff.

“I want to comment on our memorandums of agreement and just really give a shout out to the groups that that covers,” said Council Vice President Lisa Crate.

Noting that some of the workers attended the council meeting to hear the vote, Crate said the groups covered in the new contract agreements

(Raises - See Page 7)

Retiring Undersheriff: Police Work Has Changed In Over 40 Years

By Stephanie Faughnan

Lawmakers Criticize Ciba Deal

By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER

– The State Senate and Assembly members that oversee Toms River said that the proposed Ciba-Geigy settlement does not go far enough to protect residents from development or to punish the corporation for its poisoning of local

land and waters.

“This deal seems more like a slap on the wrist than punishment for despicable corporate malfeasance,” said Senator Jim Holzapfel (R-10th). “The Ciba site has been a primary source of stress, concern and even health problems for resi -

dents, and this shocking arrangement only adds insult to injury. It is appalling that this proposal was crafted without any input from local elected officials or families who have lived in fear of the water in their taps and under their feet.”

According to a settlement

announced by the State Department of Environmental Protection, about 1,000 acres would be preserved. Of this, approximately 790 acres will be maintained as open space and will include restoration projects. The remaining 210 acres will be (Ciba - See Page 5)

TOMS RIVER – More than four decades ago marked the beginning of two lifetime commitments for Nils “Rick” Berquist. After handing in his badge and gun at the end of the year, the 66-year-old Ocean County Undersheriff appeared more than ready to enjoy his retirement with his high school sweetheart.

“I started as a seasonal police officer with Seaside Heights in May of 1977,” shared Berquist.

“That same month, I

married my wife, Donna.”

Berquist’s retirement from the Sheriff’s Department comes five years after he joined the county law enforcement agency. After the short stint with Seaside Heights, Berquist served as an officer in Ocean Gate and Brick Township police departments. He moved up the ranks to retire as Brick’s police chief in 2015.

A great deal has changed in law

( Undersheriff- See Page 9)

─Photo courtesy Ocean County Health Department Rocky reunites with his family after being found in an animal hoarding incident.

(Reunited - See Page 4)

BRICK – One Brick

Township family re

ceived the gift of a lifetime this holiday season that they weren’t expecting at all.

Reunited:

Continued From Page 1

over seven months, “Rocky the Collie” has officially been reunited with his family.

Rocky was one of about 180 dogs and cats found in an animal hoarding situation inside a Brick Township home.

In early December, the malnourished animals were found stacked in crates in a home at 111 Arrowhead Park Drive. They were evacuated from there after police uncovered the illegal operation and were taken in by the Ocean County Health Department.

Eventually, the animals were brought to several different shelters for housing, one being the Northern Ocean County Animal Facility in Jackson. This is where Rocky was taken.

On December 17, the Ocean County Health Department shared the reunion story, with the 2-year-old collie jumping with joy getting hugs from his family.

“It was a very special Christmas present for the heart-broken original owners,” the Health Department said in a statement.

The Ocean County Health Department said Rocky spent the previous two weeks under the care of the Ocean County Animal Facilities. After finding out Rocky will be reconnected with his family, whose name was withheld by the health department, the animal facilities prepped him for an amazing homecoming, cleaning and bathing him squeaking clean.

“The family was emotional and so grateful Rocky was in overall good health and that their loving boy was coming back home,

and just in time for the holidays,” the Ocean County Health Department said, “It really is a Christmas Miracle!”

Brick Township Police and the Ocean County Health Department are continuously working to reunite animals who were turned over from “Crazy Rescue Ladies,” the facility responsible for the hoarding situation. If you are searching for your pet, you can send a photo of your dog or cat and a short description to Brick police at petrescue@brickpd.com.

─Photo courtesy Ocean County Health Department

Rocky reunites with his family after being found in an animal hoarding incident.

set aside for pollinator habitat and solar energy production.

There would be trails, a boardwalk, and an environmental education center. The project could break ground as soon as spring of 2023 and be open to the public in phases over the next five years.

Senator Holzapfel, Assemblyman Greg McGuckin, and Assemblyman John Catalano (R-10 th) are upset by a portion of the proposal which would see BASF, the current owner of the site, surrender approximately 1,000 acres for preservation. The company has insisted the land has essentially no value, and won $17 million from Toms River taxpayers in a property tax appeal.

“By their own assessment, this acreage is worthless,” Holzapfel continued. “Since the land has no value, what is BASF really giving up? What is New Jersey getting out of this settlement? It is a lopsided deal, and I’m not comfortable with it.”

The superfund site is on 1,255 acres of land between Route 37 and Oak Ridge Parkway, west of the Garden State Parkway. The lawmakers said they worry that the remaining 255 acres under the proposed agreement could end up being developed.

“This leaves the door open for future projects that would give BASF an opportunity to make money on this settlement,” said Assemblyman McGuckin.

“The township is seeking to be granted control of the 255-acre parcel, and we agree that would be the best way to ensure responsible stewardship of a site that has created so many problems for Toms River neighborhoods.

“Before any agreement is finalized, BASF should be forced to give up any and all interest in the land that has been spoiled and devalued by the reckless actions of the previous corporate owners and their disregard for the environment and families of Toms River,” McGuckin said.

Ciba once manufactured dyes and other chemicals, and was one of the region’s largest employers. They were also dumping waste directly into the water and the ground, and burying drums of toxic chemicals. Many people attribute the area’s cancer cluster to its operation. The property changed hands several times over its history and is now owned by German company BASF.

“For more than a half century, Toms River officials and residents have been coping with this massive superfund site in their midst,” said Assemblyman Catalano. “It is unthinkable that DEP and BASF would get together and hash out a deal without including the people who have been – and will be – most effected by the poisons recklessly discarded without a plan to protect nearby communities.

“Considering the anxiety and inconvenience caused by negligent activities on the corporate property, Toms River deserves a seat at the table. No settlement

can be taken seriously if the innocent victims of this environmental catastrophe are not represented in the process,” Catalano continued. “Some residents have gotten sick due to polluted water in wells on their properties, and tainted groundwater from the site continues to flow under some local neighborhoods. For those reasons alone, it is clear the proposed resolution comes up woefully short. Toms River residents deserve better from DEP.”

Mayor Maurice Hill had previously said the preservation of open space is great news and he appreciated the remediation of the pollution and making the site safe for public access. However, he had three requests to take it further:

1. Given the devastation that Ciba-Geigy’s cancer cluster wreaked on Toms River families, the proposed environmental center should be required to include an exhibit that comprehensively documents the damage the pollution caused to our environment, the health of our residents, and the negative economic impact on our community. A committee of academics, environmentalists and Toms River residents should be appointed to create and maintain the exhibit. The exhibit should be generously funded by BASF.

2. The remaining 255 acres of the site, or a significant portion thereof, should be deeded to Toms River Township for perpetual preservation, so long as BASF remains responsible for the cost of ongoing remediation.

3. A fund to compensate the victims of

the cancer cluster should be set up by BASF and administered by a trustee appointed by the Township.

Ciba-Geigy opened in 1952 and closed in 1990. It became an Environmental Protection Agency Superfund Site in 1983. The settlement with the State DEP will not impact the situation with the federal EPA.

BASF assumed responsibility for the site in 2010 through corporate acquisitions. When BASF acquired Ciba, the property was undergoing remediation efforts such as excavation and capping of contaminated areas and the pumping and treatment of contaminated groundwater, the DEP said.

How To Comment

Comments about the settlement may be submitted electronically at onrr@ dep.nj.gov. Comments will be accepted until February 3.

There is a way to comment on the settlement on the DEP’s site as well. The proposed settlement agreement between BASF and the DEP can be found here: nj.gov/dep/nrr/settlements/index.html

For more information on the EPA’s remediation process, visit cumulis. epa.gov/supercpad/SiteProfiles/index.cfm?fuseaction=second.cleanup&id=0200078#Status

For information from the EPA on site background and cleanup progress, visit cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/SiteProfiles/ index.cfm?fuseaction=second.cleanup&id=0200

S potlight o n g overnment

Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

New Jersey Partners With Lions Gate Films Inc.

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON - The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced the award of the first-ever Studio Partner designation under the Garden State Film and Digital Media Jobs Act. The designation was awarded to Lions Gate Films Inc., which

is set to lease space at the Newark studio currently under construction by Great Point Studios, after approval by the NJEDA Board.

“Awarding this designation is a major step in New Jersey’s evolution as a film and television destination,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Bringing studios like Lions Gate to New Jersey will allow us to attract more and larger productions to our state and will create good, high-paying jobs for our residents.”

State Film and Digital Media Jobs Act, the New Jersey Film and Digital Media Tax Credit Program provides a credit against the corporation business tax and the gross income tax for expenses incurred to produce certain films and digital media content in New Jersey.

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• Solid knowledge of and ability to interpret tax rules and regulations

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• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

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PREFERRED SKILLS INCLUDE:

• Working knowledge of ProSeries (or comparable) and Microsoft Office applications

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Please submit resumes including salary requirements –INFO@ManchesterAccountingServices.com

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Job Types: Part-time, Seasonal, Full-time Salary: $30.00 - $45.00 per hour based on experience

Benefits: Flexible schedule

COVID-19 considerations: All clients are asked to wear a mask. Lobby seating was removed. Client appointments are limited. All staff in the office are vaccinated/boosted.

The designation awarded to Lions Gate is one of only three available under the film and digital media tax incentive program and will allow the studio partner to capture additional above-the-line wage and salary costs as qualified expenses. Abovethe-line wages and salary are payments made to highly paid individuals like directors, producers, writers, and performers. The studio partner may include in its application for tax credits above-the-line wages and salary expenses of up to $15 million, $25 million, $40 million, or $60 million depending on the amount of qualified film production expenses involved in the project. In addition, $100 million of the allocation for film and digital media tax credits is set aside for studio partners.

“This is great news for New Jersey’s flourishing film and television industry,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Lions Gate will be a welcome addition to the film landscape, and we look forward to seeing the ‘Filmed in New Jersey’ logo on Lions Gate films for years to come.”

Great Point Studios Co-Founder Robert Halmi said of the announcement, “This is a wonderful development for the many entertainment industry workers and performers in New Jersey and for the state itself. It could not have come about without the help of Governor Phil Murphy, who recognized the importance of this vast project to Newark, the state, and the region.”

Originally created under the Garden

The project sits on the former site of the Seth Boyden Housing complex in the South Ward section of Newark. The total planned costs are estimated to exceed $194 million to construct and fit out the 350,000- square-foot studio development.

When complete, the project will include five production stages ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 square feet and will offer a full set of production services on site, including grip and electric, equipment, props, set building, restaurants, location catering, cleaning service and security. Once fully operational, initial projections anticipate over 600 new fulltime jobs will be created as a part of the development of this facility. The project site will be developed and operated by Great Point Studios, which operates Lions Gate’s new studio complex in Yonkers, NY.

On September 15, 2022, Great Point Studios entered into a ten-year six-month lease with Lions Gate Films, Inc. for a substantial portion of the Newark studio complex. Pursuant to the lease Lions Gate Films Inc. has committed to occupy 253,000 square feet of the development Construction work commenced on September 16, 2022, and the studio complex is expected to be completed by September 2024.

Founded in 1998, Lions Gate Films Inc. is a subsidiary of Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. Lions Gate’s film and television subscription and location-based entertainment businesses include a library of over 17,000 titles including many iconic film and television franchises such as Mad Men, Orange is the New Black, The Hunger Games, La La Land, and the Twilight Saga.

NEED AN EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR? WE’RE HERE TO HELP AT NO CHARGE

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

Raises:

Continued From Page 1

include vehicle maintenance, EMS, police, dispatchers, Senior Services, Recreation, engineering, the clerical staff, crossing guards and “all the people who make Brick possible; without you as our employees for the town, we really wouldn’t have the great services that we have throughout the town.”

During public comment, resident Vic Finelli asked if the six percent raises across the board was over the course of one year or four years.

Township Business Administrator Joanne Bergin said the increase is for one year.

“What about the other three?” Finelli asked.

Bergin said they vary based on the bargaining unit. For the PBA the rates are six, five, four and three percent increases over the four year contract for a total of 18 percent.

For the Teamsters Local 469 representing crossing guards, the rates are five, five, four and four percent, she said. The supervisors would receive six, six, five and five percent over the four year contract for a total of 18 percent for crossing

guards and 22 percent for the supervisors.

Transport Workers rates are six, six, six and four percent over four years for a total of 22 percent.

“That’s not the answer I was hoping for,” Finelli said. In the past, contract salary increases were around three percent, he said. “This seems very generous. Is there a reason?”

Bergin said that in the years 2019-2021 the cost of living was in the range of two to three percent. This year the cost of living is 8.7 percent, she said.

“You have to make your contracts modified

based on the cost of living increase,” she said, which is the same as the Social Security increase for 2023. From 2020 to 2022, the cost of living increase was 5.9 percent at a time when contract renewals were three percent increases.

During his comments, Mayor John G. Ducey said negotiations had been taking place over the course of several months.

“It’s great to be able to come to an agreement and have this off of everybody’s plate, because there always is tension while the negotiations are

going on,” he said.

“It’s terrible financial times, everybody knows, no matter whether you’re a town, you’re spending a lot more on gas, or whether you’re a person on a fixed income, you’re spending a lot more on gas and on everything else,” the mayor said.

Costs are going up, the mayor added, and awarding the various salary increases for the different unions “is the right thing to do.”

The next council meeting will be on Tuesday January 24 at 7 p.m.

Chair-Based Ballet

BRICK – Perfect for the ballet beginner! Experience the joy of chair-based dancing in a class that combines both ballet and exercise specifically for adults while seated in a chair. Learn the basic ballet positions and achieve correct posture, muscle usage, balance, and grace all while having fun! Please wear socks or sneakers (if you do not own ballet slippers) and wear comfortable clothing. No experience necessary.

Workshop to take place on January 9 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Brick Branch Library.

BRICK – 2022 Documentary: In the shadow of the pandemic, a small-town rallies to protect a beloved local bookstore. A landmark in Lenox, Massachusetts. Film will be show on January 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Brick Branch Library. Sign up at theoceancountylibrary.com/events.

BRICK – You can now apply for free or reduced-price meal benefits. Starting January, all school breakfast and lunch menus will only be available online. To apply, visit schoolcafe.com. To view digital menus, visit schoolcafe.com/menus.

C ommunity n ew

Life Line Screening

BRICK – First Baptist Church of Laurelton will be hosting a Life Line Screening on December 5 at 9 a.m. Life Line Screening, the nation’s leading provider of preventive health screenings, will offer affordable, non-invasive and painless health screenings. A package of five screenings to identify cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions will be offered: Carotid artery ultrasound that scans the carotid arteries for buildup of fatty plaque-one of the leading causes of strokes.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound screening for an abdominal aneurysm that could lead to a ruptured aorta.

Heart Rhythm Screening (AFIB) A

quick and easy test using a 6-lead EKG placed on the arms and legs to identify the presence or absence of an irregular heartbeat.

Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening-Evaluates for PAD in the lower extremities, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Osteoporosis Risk Assessment-Ultrasound screens the shin bone for bone mass density. Osteoporosis is painless and silent in the early stages.

Schedule your appointment today and receive special package pricing. Register by calling toll free 1-800-690-6495, text the word “circle” to 797979, or register online at llsa.social/HC.

Brick Train Show

There will be a train show at the Brick Elks, 2491 Hooper Avenue, Brick. The Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders will be set up operating Legacy, TMCC, and Lionchief trains continously on fastrack layouts. They will have club applications and brochures for interested folks.

Also joining the show is Joe Mania, JLM Trains, Freehold, who is a Lionel authorized service center who repairs and restores prewar, postwar and modern trains. His repair and restorations work far exceeds anyone in the NJ area and the club highly recommend his services.

The Railroaders have regular hours in the basement of the Lakewood Historical Museum in Pine Park on Country Club Lane. 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.

Craft For Adults With Special Challenges

BRICK – Registration is now open! Registration is required as materials are limited. To ensure an accurate count of registrants, register only those individuals who will be making a craft (caregivers do not need to register).

Workshop to take place on January 11 from 10 to 11 a.m. Call the Brick Library at 732-477-4513, option 4 to register.

Undersheriff:

asserted Berquist. “Some people would argue that it infringes on their rights, and maybe it does to some degree.”

text and call.

non-verbal exchange includes everything from facial expressions to body language.

enforcement work since 1977 when a “salty old sergeant” told Berquist the job wasn’t the same as it used to be. Meanwhile, the words take on a different meaning some 45 years later.

“The young cops coming in need a higher level of intelligence to do the job,” Berquist began. “They have to be very competent in so many different technology fields. When I started, you only had to be proficient with a pen or a typewriter.”

Before the computer age, police looked up names by sorting through volumes and volumes of files maintained on cross-referenced index cards. Law enforcement agencies kept all types of records in hardcopy.

Berquist said that the tools used by modern-day police departments now give them a means of not only looking up people but also tracking them instantaneously.

Law enforcement agencies that needed to communicate with each other either picked up the telephone or used a teletype machine. The latter could take a long time to print and was not always considered reliable.

CAD systems, short for computer-aided dispatch, did not exist when Berquist started his law enforcement career in the three municipal police departments.

“When a call came in, the dispatcher logged it in a great big ledger,” said Berquist. “The ledgers were stored, and if you wanted to go back and look something up, you had to go through pages and pages of ledgers.”

The manual system came with one advantage as far as Berquist was concerned. If the power went out, work didn’t come to a standstill. Instead, officers used their flashlights.

On his way up the ranks, Berquist served as a member of the Brick Township Police Department’s Detective Bureau in the mid-1980s. Then, computers were still not prevalent, and typing up search warrants came with its share of challenges.

“We had to use carbon paper to make three copies,” Berquist explained. “You took your time because making a mistake was really an arduous process to get the warrant fixed and get back on track.”

As a young detective, Berquist recalled the first thing he did when investigating a crime scene was to canvass the neighborhood. This meant knocking on doors to look for witnesses or further reports of suspicious activities.

Officers looking to solve crimes now have an additional tool to assist them in finding answers. The advent of cameras on front doors has become a tremendous resource for documenting evidence.

“You can’t go anywhere anymore in this world without being on camera,”

While there’s no doubt that technology has enhanced police work, the newly retired Undersheriff suggested that it comes with a small downside.

“I don’t say that disparagingly, as I believe these are good, hardworking people and good cops,” continued Berquist. “But it’s a skill they didn’t pick up like we had to; we had to know how to look someone in the eye.”

Continued From Page 1 (Undersheriff - See Page 19)

“Young people coming on to the job don’t always have the communication skills that we had back then,” Berquist said. “So many of them would rather

Berquist submitted that only sixty percent of communication is verbal, and a great deal can be lost in the balance. What’s missing as part of the

The public’s perception of police work has had some impact over the last four decades. However, Berquist said he had not personally experienced the negativity, which he attributed to a “few bad apples” who made it tough for others.

“On some occasions, people in our

BRICK

Donations Made To Animal Shelter

─Photo courtesy Brick Police EMS

County Animal Shelter. Thank you to everyone who supported the collection for the animals rescued last month.

Happy Hour Networking

BRICK – Join the Brick Chamber of Commerce for their networking mixer on January 19 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Mantoloking Road Alehouse. Meet up with local business professionals

and make lasting connections through networking!

Register now to save your spot: $15 members; $25 not-yet members. Lite faire included, cash bar.

– On December 21, Brick Police EMS EMTs Sweeney, Pearce and Supervisor Botts took ambulance 537 filled with donations to the Ocean

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

How Colds, The Flu & Covid 19 Affects Hearing

It’s been well over 2 years, and the Covid 19 variants are still wreaking havoc in our area. For the most part, the new variants just present with “cold-like” symptoms but the rate of infection spread is typically higher than the common cold. Unfortunately, once you start to exhibit symptoms such as a sore throat, headache, sinus pressure, post nasal drip, etc., you already have Covid 19 and more than likely you have spread the germs to others. Many individuals are taking in home rapid tests and are commonly “negative” for a few days before the result is positive. In my opinion, this is reason enough to frequently wash your hands, don a mask (when in large in group events), and get vaccinated. Unless you physician recommends otherwise, vaccinated individuals typically experience a significant reduction of Covid 19 symptoms and the recovery time is generally less.

Upper respiratory viruses often create fluid buildup in the middle ear, leading to congestion, pain, muffled sound, and secondary infections. The flu virus has been known to affect the auditory nerve,

which can cause permanent hearing loss. Similar to the flu, COVID-19 has shown an alarming ability to attack the hearing and vestibular systems, although the exact reason is still under investigation. Patients with long-haul COVID are at increased risk. Luckily, serious hearing damage from viral infections is rare, though the temporary effects are uncomfortable — stuffiness, dizziness, tinnitus, and ear infections could put a damper on your future holiday plans.

If you have experienced hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo during a bout of COVID 19 and these symptoms are continuing to “linger” I would contact your hearing healthcare professional for a complete hearing and dizziness evaluation. Protect your hearing by supporting your health!

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)

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Which Of These 4 Magnesium Supplements Is Right For You?

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

First, you should know that magnesium is an essential mineral required for strong bones and teeth. It plays a crucial role in mood, brain health and cognition.

Having adequate levels of magnesium ensures attention span and focus. Furthermore, low magnesium (relative to calcium) will lead to long-lasting cramps and spasms. Severe hypomagnesemia will lead to cardiac irregularities and palpitations, as well as migraines and hypertension.

You can get magnesium from your diet by eating various foods such as leafy greens, nuts, and yogurt. With the acidification of soil, our crops are magnesium deficient, so you may not get enough. Another cause for magnesium deficiency is drinking a lot of caffeinated beverages or taking proton pump inhibitor (acid-blocking) drugs.

Allow me to briefly explain the various types of magnesium that are sold over the counter and online:

Magnesium Oxide - When people take this type of magnesium, they may develop stomach upset, bloating, diarrhea and a lot of gas. The magnesium breaks off from the oxide, but not very much of it. In other words, you don’t get a lot of magnesium absorption. Think of magnesium like a rock, it’s not going to break apart into tiny little particles and get absorbed well.

Magnesium Citrate - This type of magnesium is sold in tablets and in liquid. The citrate form doesn’t really get to your bones or your brain easily. The green liquid bottles of mag citrate you see at the pharmacy are used to evacuate the bowel prior to imaging procedures. They’re called “saline” laxatives.

Magnesium citrate and oxide forms are perfect to use if you want to relieve constipation, but not for treating magnesium deficiency.

Chelated Magnesium - This is a slightly more expensive form of magnesium than the two listed above. The term “chelate” confuses people sometimes but it just means that the magnesium is bound to another thing (usually glycinate).

It’s a rock that breaks apart easily and therefore the crumbling allows for higher bioavailability. With higher absorption of magnesium into the bloodstream, you now see benefits to the bones, brain, and heart.

MagTein® Magnesium L-ThreonateThis is a chelated, patented brand name of magnesium that is found in high-quality formulas including my own MagFocus® powder which is also available on Amazon. Using my analogy of a rock, you might imagine that MagTein® crumbles into tiny particles. It transports itself out of the gut and goes where it’s needed, especially the brain to help with attention span, relaxation and mood.

Do not opt for cheap forms if you’re treating a chronic condition. It’s apt to cause you embarrassing gas or diarrhea! Some people insist on taking these ‘laxative’ forms of magnesium and think, “I don’t care because it’s so cheap, I’ll just take more!” Don’t.

Consuming extra pills to compensate for poor bioavailability is harmful. It just causes a significant laxative effect and one that comes on quickly. You may not have time to get to the bathroom! If you’d like to read the longer version of this article, visit my website, suzycohen.com.

Around the JerSey Shore

Something Spectacular –Berkeley Township, New Jersey

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Near my house is a waterway that runs beneath Charlotteville Road from one side to another. For weeks there had been the carcass of a whitetail deer floating in it. I was waiting to see how nature would play out. A floating meal for some is not possible. Eventually, the carcass rested upon the dam, and by this time with the cold snap, it had frozen.

It was the day after Thanksgiving, 2022, the weather had warmed up, when I took my dog Andi for her walk. As I turned the corner onto Charlotteville Road, my eyes captured an anomaly. I ushered Andi home to grab my cellphone. When I returned, I began snapping as many pictures as I could. This was something spectacular. I scanned the landscape and saw black vultures feeding on this carcass. Not just a few of them, but dozens. A few were feeding, others waiting along the dam, in nearby yards, perched in trees, and others on light posts. All were waiting, some edging their way in, for their chance to feed on this animal they had been eyeing from the sky for weeks. Hallelujah!

In populated communities, you will rarely witness this. Why? Since most larger carcasses will become food for coyotes, foxes, for example, who show up in the quiet evening hours where they might briefly feed on the carcass, even dismembering and carrying some pieces away to feed. How this animal ended up in the waterway is anyone’s guess. Was the deer struck by a car and just ended up collapsing by the waterway? Partial feeding of the animal had occurred prior to the vultures arriving, my guess is the snapping turtles began the process. The carcass took a little more than one day for the vultures to consume.

It’s important for us to understand and ‘appreciate’ the value of all the wild animals. For instance here, we may view vultures as disgusting or even ugly, but they are naturally designed to do what they do. It’s what we call ‘the balance in nature.’

To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/or federal permits. Violating New Jersey laws protecting wildlife, which include harm inflicted upon an animal, are subject to punishment.

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.

Do I Need To Challenge An Ordinance?

By: Robert C. Shea II, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

An “Ordinance” is a municipal law, rule, or regulation that applies to a specific town or city. Typically, townships pass laws that attempt to protect your right to peace and enjoyment of your property and to ensure the civility of its citizens. However, sometimes a township may pass an Ordinance that negatively impacts your real estate interests. Such an Ordinance usually takes the form of an amendment to the zone where your property is located. A zone is nothing more than an area of a Township which restricts the type of construction or activity allowed within it. Most people live in areas zoned for “residential use.” Restricting the type of construction allowed within a zone is one tool used to prevent the area from morphing into something unintended, like having a factory built next to your home. Each zone has dimensional, or “bulk,” requirements defined by Ordinance. Examples of these dimensional requirements can be seen as the height of the structure and set back requirements for building on the property, which is the minimum distance the structure can be to the property line.

Sometimes a local governing body attempts to pass an Ordinance which changes the character of a zone, thereby negatively impacting its residents. An example of this can be seen by an Ordinance recently passed by the Township of Lakewood. Lakewood Ordinance 2022-46 was passed to allow schools to operate as a

Robert C. Shea Esq.

private banquet hall, at any time, in every non-residential zone simultaneously. In essence, every school is now permitted to host a wedding or other similar event, with little to no municipal approvals or oversite. Such an ordinance will negatively impact its residents in numerous ways, including parking concerns, traffic safety, and noise & light pollution.

But this doesn’t have to happen to you. Before any Ordinance is approved by the local governing body, the public must be given the right to challenge the proposed Ordinance and place their objections on record. Further, the governing body must then render a determination that the Ordinance itself is consistent with the township’s own Master Plan. A Master Plan is a document developed to monitor the use of property within a municipality in order to protect the public from inequitable and chaotic development. So, if an Ordinance is not consistent with the township’s Master Plan then you may be able to prevent the Ordinance from being adopted.

Contact the Attorney’s at R.C. Shea & Associates for your free consultation if you are aware of any potential Ordinances that may negatively impacting your property.

CLASSIFIEDS

Cockapoo Pups - Females - great personalities, health cert, shots, parents on site. 321-377-4000. (4)

Misc.

Pets For Sale For Rent

Notice of Cessation of Services

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

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)

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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)

Storage Space - Non-commercial use approx. 800sf Manchester Jackson or surrounding area. Electric A Plus. 732-278-5098. (4)

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

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. (31)

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

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

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

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

Services Services Services Items For Sale

- $500. 36x80 Doggy Storm Door. New - $50. Adult Tricycle. New - $50. Call 732-703-2176! (4)

Room For Rent - In Toms River, NJ. Couples allow. $1100. Call 201-844-5526. (7)

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)

Dietary Aid - MAGNOLIA GARDENS ASSISTED LIVING. Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill full time, and part time positions. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732-557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (7)

RECEPTIONIST - MAGNOLIA GARDENS ASSISTED LIVING. Family owned and operated assisted living community looking to fill full time, and part time positions. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732-557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (7)

Services

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)

Get DIRECTV for $64.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over 1st year. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-877-557-1213. (t/n)

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

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-791-2033 or visit dorranceinfo.com/micro. (t/n)

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

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)

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)

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-855-634-0529. (t/n)

Donate your car, truck or van. Help veterans find jobs or start a business. Call Patriotic Hearts Foundation. Fast, FREE pick-up. Max tax-deduction. Operators are standing by! Call 1-833-885-0359. (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)

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 =

Undersheriff:

profession have done some bad things,” shared Berquist. “There are also some good people that made mistakes. Unfortunately, this has hurt us and continues to hurt us and is not helping our ability to hire people.”

Once considered one of the best jobs across the nation, fewer applicants are signing up to take the test to become cops, according to Berquist. At a foundation of federal law enforcement officials, Berquist heard an interesting analogy made by the Commandant of the Marine Corps, who spoke on the value of service.

The Commandant recalled how people spit on soldiers returning from Vietnam. However, he pointed out that people now have a whole different appreciation for military service and said the same would return to police work.

No doubt that Berquist has seen a lot over four decades in law enforcement.

The answer to what he viewed as his most rewarding experience provides insight into his personal value system.

“We helped a young boy whose mother couldn’t make it home for Christmas,” Berquist recalled. “We passed a hat at the hospital and got him toys and other gifts.”

Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy worked with Berquist when the Undersheriff was part of Brick Township’s Police Department. He highlighted some of Berquist’s accomplishments while working for the county law enforcement agency.

“He took the lead on the body camera project,” said Matronardy. “He also took the lead on some equipment projects such as the safety holster one.”

Mastronardy said Berquist had always been a consummate professional in dealing with the judges and court staff and was a fantastic liaison who will be missed.

The Sheriff has not yet announced who will replace Berquist as Undersheriff.

─Photos by Stephanie Faughnan Undersheriff Nils “Rick” Berquist on his last day as a member of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department

Around the JerSey Shore

Toy Drive For Dottie’s House

POINT PLEASANT – Thanks to the generous community, the Point Pleasant Police Department had another successful toy drive collected for Dottie’s House. Dottie’s House is an organization that

assists families and children who have been exposed to the traumas of domestic violence. Your generosity will help to bring cheer to many families this holiday season.

Prom Dress Collection

OCEAN COUNTY – Because of your community support, Prom Dress Giveaway will bring joy to young women, who prior to this charitable event, were unable to attend their spring formal or prom.

They are accepting new or gently used prom dresses for this great event from January 2 until February 17 at all Ocean County Library branches.

Before you donate, ensure that it meets the following criteria:

• They only need short and long styles within the last five years

• Ideally donate dry cleaned dresses ready for attending Prom.

• All dresses must be clean and in good condition (ie. no rips, tears or stains)

• No accessories, shoes, purses, and bridesmaids dresses.

─Photo courtesy Point Pleasant Police

you all have a great new year. If you want to see your photo featured in this section, email it to photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Family Awareness In Addiction Recovery

TOMS RIVER – Join Quantum Behavioral Health Services every last Wednesday of the month for informative discussions surrounding the role of family in addiction recovery. They will discuss things like boundaries, rebuilding trust, and repairing relationships.

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

performer who’s hopelessly off course?

protester’s emotion?

What’s taken in some court proceedings, and also (in two ways) from the answers to starred clues

Birdbrain, or an extinct bird

Claim with confidence

Home to the van Eycks’ “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”

Rhine siren

Europe’s Bay of __

Chant

Record setters

“And all that beauty, all that wealth __ gave ... “: Gray

Remove with difficulty

“My Lord!”

Wanton gazes

Story to spin

Sgt., e.g.

“What’s the __?”

Sinus doc

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Tiny misunderstandings can put you in an awkward position as the new week and new year begins. You may be overconfident, be careless, or go overboard. Your enthusiasm, however, makes everyone happy to be around you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): It is a new year, and the question is whether you are ready to be a new you. Clear the decks: Think about ways to clear up outstanding debts and any other old business to prepare for a beautiful new beginning.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You’re pretty limited if your only tool is a hammer. In the upcoming week, you might want to believe that every problem can be handled quickly, but you’ll make more progress if you broaden your problem-solving skills.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Be open to messages from the universe and key information may arrive that empowers you to improve your outlook. You can rest on your laurels or move forward to achieve your goals in the new year.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Feast on thoughts and plans for the future. You could embrace limitless possibilities as you make your New Year’s resolutions. Be sure to attend to relationships if loved ones might have been feeling a bit neglected.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Sleep late or do some other replenishing self-care. Rest up and enjoy a relaxing day at home or playing with your tribe. Make a note to remind yourself to follow up on recent opportunities that seemed intriguing.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Get organized and make a list of the things you want to do and places you want to visit. You may not be able to afford everything now, but you can save up for the future. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance in the week ahead.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Even if you are busy and preoccupied in the week ahead, you may also need to help a loved one or partner who may need some extra support. Do your best to bring some bright New Year’s energy to the situation.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Take pride in your accomplishments. This is a week when you can enjoy the perks of having a good reputation. Set your sights on becoming financially stable and avoid spending too much money on extravagances.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Being deep in your emotions is the worst time to make a major decision or vow. Take time to understand a situation rather than reacting with a knee-jerk response. You do not need to take this personally.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Ask the right questions if you want the right answers. Pause to ask yourself what will truly make you happy and contented before you make New Year’s resolutions. Go beyond just considering the same old objectives.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Dip your toe in the pool to check the temperature before you dive in. In the week ahead, you should test the atmosphere before you make changes or decisions that affect loved ones. Use caution to not overspend.

IT’S COOKIE SEASON! GRAB THE KIDS AND GET READY TO BAKE (AND DECORATE)

By America’s Test Kitchen

GLAZED SUGAR COOKIES

Makes 12 to 18 cookies (depending on the size of your cookie cutters)

For the cookies:

1 1/2 cups (7 1/2 ounces) all-purpose flour

1/8 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup (3 1/2 ounces) sugar

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces and chilled

For the glaze:

1 1/3 cups (5 1/3 ounces) confectioners’ (powdered) sugar

2 tablespoons milk

1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened

1-2 drops food coloring (optional)

For the cookies:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together egg and vanilla.

2. In a food processor, process until sugar is finely ground, about 30 seconds. Add chilled butter and process until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add egg mixture and flour mixture and process until no dry flour is visible and mixture forms crumbly dough, about 30 seconds.

3. Use a rubber spatula to transfer dough to the center of

a large sheet of parchment paper on the counter. Use your hands to pat dough into a 7-by-9-inch oval. Place a second large sheet of parchment on top of dough. Use a rolling pin to roll dough into a 10-by-14-inch oval (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick), rolling dough between parchment.

4. Slide dough (still between parchment) onto one baking sheet. Refrigerate until dough is firm, at least 1 1/2 hours.

5. While dough is chilling, adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and heat oven to 300 degrees. Line a second baking sheet with parchment.

6. When dough is ready, remove dough from refrigerator. Gently peel off top sheet of parchment. Use cookie cutters to cut dough into shapes.

7. Use spatula to transfer shapes to parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 1/2 inch apart. (If dough becomes too warm and sticky to transfer shapes easily, return it to the refrigerator to firm up again, about 10 minutes.)

8. Bake cookies until beginning to brown around edges, 18 to 22 minutes.

9. Transfer baking sheet on cooling rack and let cookies cool completely on baking sheet, about 30 minutes.

For the glaze:

1. While cookies are cooling, in a second medium bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, milk, softened cream cheese, and 1 to 2 drops of food coloring (if using). Use a clean rubber spatula to stir until very smooth.

2. Use a small icing spatula or the back of a spoon to spread glaze in an even layer on each cookie, starting in the middle and working yourway to the edges. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle it with sanding sugar, sprinkles, crushed cookies or candy. Serve.

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

For the week of jan 7 - jan 13

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

By Jeraldine Saunders