2023-01-14 - The Brick Times

Brick Resident Recognized For Winning Pageant Title

Council Plans Ahead And Takes A Look Back

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – An 18-year-old Brick Township resident was recently recognized by the Mayor and Council after being named International

United Miss New Jersey Teen.

Lauren Zycband, who has lived in Brick Township her entire life, recently received the title back in September

and will now move on to compete at Internationals in Orlando, Florida, this summer. Lauren originally started (Pageant - See Page 9)

─Photo courtesy Brick Township Lauren Zycband was honored by Mayor John Ducey and the Township Council recently.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township Council President Heather deJong took the reins from outgoing president Vincent Minischino.

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - Heather deJong was named as the 2023 council president during the Reorganization Meeting held on January 3. deJong has been a council member since 2014 and serves as the chair of the Business and Finance Committee, is a member of the Recreation and Land Use Committees,

is the council liaison to the Housing Authority, the Chamber of Commerce and the Mayor’s Senior Advisory Committee.

Andrea Zapcic was named council vice-president. Zapcic chairs the Recreation Committee, is a liaison to the Brick Municipal Anti-Drug Coalition (BMAC) and sits on the (Council - See Page 4)

Former Councilman Honored As Coaching Legend

TOMS RIVER - Ray Cervino’s career as the head girls basketball coach at Toms River High School North was chock full of championships.

There were five WOBM Christmas Classic titles. There were nine Shore Conference Class A South titles. There were three New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association titles. There was one NJSIAA Group IV state title, won in 1999-2000 when the Mariners (29-3) became the lone Ocean County team to reach the championship game of the

Tournament of Champions. And there was a 313-212 career record in 20 seasons.

Cervino’s name will live forever. The school’s gymnasium - the scene of many a Mariners success - was named the Ray Cervino Gymnasium during a ceremony in front of an estimated 200 fans - including some 40 of his former players - prior to North’s 56-23 conquest of Toms River South.

“Ray is looking down on us now,” North principal Ed Keller told the crowd. “We are (Legend - See Page 5)

─Photo courtesy Kim Peto

A sign honors Ray Cervino’s legacy.

Public Safety as well as the Business and Finance Committees.

Mayor John G. Ducey presented former councilman Art Halloran with a key to the city and a proclamation that declared January 4, 2023 as Art Halloran Day.

Halloran, who was elected in 2015, was a council member until September 2022 when he resigned due to some life changes. Halloran was instrumental in helping the township recover in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy.

He served on the Land Use Committee, the Planning Board and on the Flood Plain management team, the mayor said.

“He always had the common sense approach, the businessman approach, he was just the perfect councilman,” Mayor Ducey said. “Brick Township definitely misses you.”

During Mayor’s Comments, Ducey noted that this is his tenth year as mayor and said he wanted to take a look back at the past decade.

His first year as mayor was filled with Sandy recovery, and he was tasked with staffing Building Department inspectors which was important to have in place because of all the rebuilding that was going on, he said.

“We had many parks that were in disrepair, and I’m grateful to have overseen the renovation of Windward Beach, Herbertsville Park, Lake Riviera Park, Angela Hibbard Park, Hank Waltonowski Park, Bernie

Cooke Park, Forge Pond tennis courts, Bay Harbor Beach Park, Bayside Park and the Drum Point turf field,” he said.

The heroin epidemic was at its height in 2016-2017, and the overdose rate has been brought down due to the expansion of the township police department under Chief James Riccio, who is a “great proponent of community policing,” the mayor said.

The police chief used a three-pronged approach of education, enforcement and rehabilitation to help with the crisis, Mayor Ducey said.

On the business front, 2017 saw the demise of several big box stores, including Pathmark, A&P and Sports Authority. The mayor said his administration placed an emphasis on filling those large empty spaces as well as numerous empty stores in strip malls.

“It ended up being a success story as we were the first town in New Jersey to implement the Empty Storefronts Program… which has filled over nine football fields worth of empty storefronts in town,” Mayor Ducey said. (The program waives permit fees for spaces that are less than 5,000 square feet and have been empty for more than a year).

COVID created a “new normal,” the mayor said, with 60 township employees accepting furloughs to lessen the financial burden and everyone having to adapt to moving many of the activities of the Recreation Department and Senior Services online.

The council approved numerous appointments and professional contracts during the reorganization meeting, which included

The mayor also touted the stable tax rate.

“Since 2014, the municipal taxes have only

gone up $47.11 a year for an average assessed home which currently stands at $299,900, and that is remarkable in these times.”

The 2023 council meeting dates were announced during the meeting, with the next

set for Tuesday, January 24 at 7 p.m.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township (Above): Mayor John G. Ducey presented former councilman Art Halloran with a key to the city. (Below): Council VP Andrea Zapcic was sworn in by Mayor John Ducey.

members on the Board of Adjustment, the Planning Board, the Property Maintenance Board, the Housing Authority Board and many more.

meeting

very

A life-size cutout of Cervino, who taught history at North, was unveiled. His ex-Mariners and current North players wore blue and gold long-sleeve shooting shirts sporting their last names and jersey numbers. The shirts were donated by the Toms River South Diamond Club, the booster club of the Indians’ baseball team.

“We are very grateful for the turnout,” said his daughter, Nicole Cervino, who starred for her father. “We are very touched. This honor is well deserved. Dad will always be part of the place he loved the most. Dad loved teaching and coaching. It is nice to know he will forever have a place here.”

“This did justice for his legacy,” said Dana Simonelli, who starred at center under Cervino’s tutelage. “He got the best out of us. I am ready to play basketball tonight. Mr. C was successful because he was genuine, intense, demanding and motivating. He was also trustworthy and he took time with you to try to understand you both as a player and a person.

A Cervino protege who attended the ceremony was Melissa Fazio.

“I can’t put it into words - my emotionsas I will start to cry,” she said. “I am very happy to be a part of this.”

Fazio excelled in women’s basketball at St. Bonaventure University and played 13

professional seasons in Italy.

“He is the reason I got as far as I did,” she said. “This night is perfect, well deserved. He was honest with us. He did not sugar coat anything. That’s what made him so good. He did not baby us. When we cried, he cried. He pushed us to the limit.”

Surrounded by his family, Cervino died Oct. 7 at the age of 78. Two of his former players, Sandy Bisogno and Kim Peto, quickly launched a petition drive to have the gymnasium named in his honor.

Bisogno, an administrative assistant in the Point Pleasant Beach School District Special Education Department, said Cervino’s family played a large role in his success.

“We really wanted to honor the Cervino family,” she said. “People don’t realize the sacrifices a coach’s family makes - missing dinners and holidays. His family sacrificed a lot. It’s nice to pay homage to coach Cervino and honor his family.”

“My dad was loved by so many people,” Nicole Cervino said. “A total of 1,000 people came to dad’s funeral. The number of past students, players, coaches, teachers, neighbors, family and friends who came blew us away and they all said the same thing: My dad made them feel special. He cared about them. He always made time for them. His personality was electric. He loved talking to people and he was so smart and very funny. He loved jokes.”

Bisogno and coach Cervino respected each other.

“Coach C trusted me and valued my input,”

(Legend - See Page 7)

368 Lakehurst Road | Suite 305 Toms River, NJ 08755 732-473-1123

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Ste 305 | Manahawkin, NJ 08050 609-597-9195 211 W Millstream Road Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 609-758-9595

S potlight o n g overnment

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

Bipartisan Legislation Will Establish Information Literacy Education

evaluate, and effectively use the needed information. Information literacy includes, but is not limited to, digital, visual, media, textual, and technological literacy.

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (S588) establishing the requirement of K-12 instruction on information literacy under the implementation of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. The signing of this bipartisan legislation reaffirms the Governor’s commitment to leading the nation in public education while preparing students for lifelong learning by equipping them with the skills they need to accurately assess information.

The bill requires the New Jersey Department of Education to develop New Jersey Student Learning Standards in “information literacy,” which is defined as a set of skills that enables an individual to recognize when information is needed and to locate,

“Our democracy remains under sustained attack through the proliferation of disinformation that is eroding the role of truth in our political and civic discourse,” said Governor Murphy. “It is our responsibility to ensure our nation’s future leaders are equipped with the tools necessary to identify fact from fiction. I am proud to sign legislation that is critical to the success of New Jersey’s students and essential to the preservation of our democracy.”

Primary sponsors of the bill include Senators Michael Testa and Shirley Turner, and Assemblymembers Daniel Benson, Pamela Lampitt, and Mila Jasey.

The bill requires the Commissioner of the Department of Education to convene a committee, including certified school library media specialists

and teaching staff members, to assist in developing the information literacy standards. The standards will be reviewed by experts as they are developed. This will provide an opportunity for collaboration among teachers and school library media specialists to advance information literacy in the K-12 learning standards. The proposed information literacy standards will also be subject to public input prior to their adoption by the State Board of Education.

“Information literacy is more important now than ever before, especially with the growing prevalence of social media and online news,” said Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education. “Students for generations will be well-served by this legislation, which sets into statute the requirement for schools to provide instruction on information literacy.” Each school district will incorporate instruction on information literacy in an appropriate place in the curriculum of students in grades kindergarten through 12 as part of the district’s implementation of the New Jersey

Student Learning Standards. The guidelines will include, at a minimum, the following:

• the research process and how information is created and produced;

• critical thinking and using information resources;

• research methods, including the difference between primary and secondary sources;

• the difference between facts, points of view, and opinions;

• accessing peer-reviewed print and digital library resources;

• the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information; and

• the ethical production of information.

“Teaching children about information literacy will help them to weigh the flood of news, opinion, and social media they are exposed to both online and off,” said Senator Michael Testa (R-1st). “This law isn’t about teaching kids that any specific idea is true or false, rather it’s about helping them learn how to research, evaluate, and understand the information they are presented for themselves.”

$500M Loan To Modernize Water Infrastructure

Capitol Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) celebrated the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement of a $500 million loan to the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank to modernize wastewater and drinking water systems serving over 9 million people throughout New Jersey. This is the first loan issued through the State Infrastructure Financing Authority Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (SWIFIA) program, which provides loans exclusively to state infrastructure financing authority borrowers, commonly known as state revolving fund programs. The program was created by Congress in 2018 under the bipartisan America’s Water Infrastructure Act.

“Rebuilding New Jersey’s aging water and wastewater infrastructure and ex-

panding access to clean, safe water while creating good paying jobs is exactly the type of smart investment our communities and environment need,” said Sen. Bob Menendez. “I’m proud to have fought for many of the provisions in the bipartisan America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, which created SWIFIA, and will benefit millions of New Jersey families up and down the state with essential funding for state revolving fund programs. I thank the Biden Administration for recognizing this critical opportunity and choosing New Jersey as the first state in the country to receive a SWIFIA loan, which will ultimately have positive life-changing impacts for communities throughout the Garden State.”

“This historic infusion of federal funds will help New Jersey implement vital water infrastructure projects,” said Sen. Cory Booker. “I have championed programs to ensure every American has access to safe, clean drinking water. I am excited the EPA is issuing its first SWIFIA loan to New Jersey. This funding will create hundreds of jobs and

advance water infrastructure projects to address contaminants in drinking water, install water filtration systems, and replace lead pipes across our state.”

Thanks to EPA’s SWIFIA loan and funding from the New Jersey State Revolving Fund, over 90 communities across the Garden State will be able to implement critical water infrastructure projects - remediating contaminated groundwater, replacing lead service lines, and installing filtration systems to protect drinking water from PFAS contamination. These infrastructure investments will help communities maintain compliance with regulatory requirements, manage flooding, and improve climate resiliency. Projects that will receive SWIFIA funding are located throughout the state, including in 36 smaller communities and 39 disadvantaged communities.

“From critical resilience projects to the replacement of lead service lines, New Jersey remains at the forefront of innovative water infrastructure solutions,” said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. “The EPA’s SWIFIA loan will further solidify New Jersey’s status as a national model for water infrastructure, which serves as the foundation

for healthy communities. In addition to helping our state secure safe, healthy, and efficient wastewater and drinking water systems for all New Jerseyans, the EPA’s support will also help generate good-paying jobs in our expanding water workforce.”

“Improving New Jersey’s water infrastructure is a team effort, and we are grateful to our partners at U.S. EPA and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank for their work to close the State’s latest WIFIA loan,” said New Jersey Commissioner of Environmental Protection, Shawn M. LaTourette. “This loan will support the Murphy Administration’s continuing efforts to modernize water infrastructure in communities across the Garden State–ensuring the highest standards of protection for public health and the environment, as we create good-paying engineering, construction, and other jobs for New Jersey families.”

The SWIFIA program is housed within EPA’s WIFIA program. SWIFIA loans allow state infrastructure finance authorities to offer additional low-cost financing to communities and accelerate implementation of important water infrastructure projects.

Senator Robert Menendez

From The Desk Of The Governor Phil Murphy

she said. “He gave me the reigns to lead the team from the court while he led from the sidelines. After I graduated from North, coach C was a source of advice I could reach out to while at Iona College. He was never afraid to give me tough love. He went from a coach to a dear friend throughout my adult life.”

Peto and teammates Kelly Burger and Stephanie Huhn scored either 1,000 or more career varsity points on Cervino’s watch.

“He was no doubt a successful coach,” Peto said. “Obviously, he knew the game ... the x’s and o’s, how to teach a successful fast break, which is what we were known for, and how to get us to play team defense whether it was man-to-man or our stifling 1-3-1 zone. But there are many more reasons as to why he was such a successful coach. He had an incredible passion for the game and was a true motivator. His pregame speeches were second to none and he knew exactly what to say to get us ready to face our opponent. That motivation continued throughout the games as he always got the best out of his players for four quarters.

“He was a great communicator. He listened to his players. He welcomed our comments, questions and input. He always encouraged us to present our ideas and thoughts. He knew his players - not just our strengths and weaknesses on the court, but he truly got to know us off the court - our personalities, our likes and dislikes, our emotions. Coach Cervino was a true leader. He built relationships that fostered trust between him and his players. It was because of his leadership that we were so successful both on and off the court!”

Nicole Cervino, now known as Nicole Kirk after her marriage to retired Point Pleasant Boro High School head wrestling coach Dave Kirk, played point guard for her father from 1987-90. She scored 1,175 career points. She graduated second on the Mariners’ career assists list (543). She was second in assists in a single season with 220. She starred at point guard at the collegiate level at Monmouth from 1990-94, earning All-Northeast Conference honors and leading the league in assists.

“I always wanted to make dad proud and I took great pride in having him as my coach as it was always evident that he was the best of the best,” the seventh and eighth grade teacher at the Spring Lake Heights Elementary School said. “To play for someone like that is a dream as a player. He influenced me to be the player I was. He loved being a people person. He felt building and maintaining relationships was very important. He believed in telling people how he felt and loved to compliment people.

Coach Cervino had many sayings on

the court. Among them was “Geez O Man.” Another one was, “You frost my apricots.” Yet another was, “Flippin’ for the F bomb.” He pointed to his head and bellowed, “Very unintelligent play.”

Off the court, he said, “Yeah...I said, Yeah!” There was, “Squeeze me,” for excuse me or “Oatmeal brain” if he did something silly. Another saying was, “It went the way of the rotary phone.” When frustrated, the legend also used the phrase, “That bloody thing.”

Toms River Regional athletics director Ted Gillen praised Cervino in a speech.

“l’d like to personally welcome Ray’s family, his wife, Mary, his daughters, Nicole and Vicky, and his son, Adam, back to the court where their dad and husband spent so much time,” he told the crowd. “I would also like to recognize his many former players who played for Ray and wanted to be present tonight. Tonight, we have placed a name on this gymnasium that is synonymous with great coaching, great teaching and great character.

“Conversations with Ray made you think, made you smile and made you laugh. They are some of the greatest attributes that any student-athlete could hope for from a teacher or coach. As his longtime friend, Kevin Williams (a journalist), told me just last week in this building - and his family can attest to this statement - ‘This was Ray’s home away from home.’ I’d like to thank the family of coach Cervino for sharing him with the many student-athletes who benefited so immensely because of him.”

Cervino was a Point Pleasant Beach councilman from 2007-2010. The Republican became embroiled in a controversy involving a pre meeting reading of the Lord’s Prayer on Nov. 30, 2010, the Associated Press reported.

The dispute developed enough traction to draw a New York City-based television crew to the meeting. As the cameras rolled, Cervino stood up and intoned, “God, we beseech you to provide us with the wisdom to make the correct decisions on this night and all the days going forward. In your name, Amen,” before giving himself the Sign of the Cross.

Mossa said Cervino was an intense admirer of President Reagan, resulting in the cutout.

“There was a picture of President Reagan on the back wall of Ray’s classroom,” she said, “and Ray would salute the picture each day.”

Cervino was employed by the Toms River Township Regional School District from 1971-2001 and coached the Mariners from 1980-2001. He was inducted into the district’s Athletics Hall of Fame with Nicole Cervino in 2010. He was inducted into the New Jersey State Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2001. He was named Coach of the Year numerous times by the media.

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Brick Police EMS Employee Spotlight

BRICK – Each month Brick Police EMS will randomly select by drawing numbers, an EMT from their staff to share a little bit of their background and shed some positive light on their contribution to the Brick Township Community.

For the month of January 2023 EMT Kristin Deleeuw #5383 number was drawn. Kristin joined the unit as a Part Time EMT in May of 2013 later being promoted to Full-Time in July of 2013. Kristin has been an EMT since 2008. Kristin has served in several roles within BTPD EMS previously as an FTO and a member of SOD. Kristin regularly makes attempts to interact positively with the public, particularly with children. Job well done EMT Kristin Deleeuw. Keep up the excellent work!

Annual Free Rabies Vaccine Clinic

BRICK – Brick Township’s Annual Free Rabies Vaccine Clinic will be held on January 22 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Drum Point Sports Complex. Registration will begin on January 9 at 10 a.m. on the Brick Township website, bricktownship.net. Time slots will be given out on a first come first serve basis. Please do not register if you cannot attend since we have a limited supply. We’d also like to remind pet owners that all dogs and cats, 7 months or older, in the Township of Brick, must be licensed for 2023 during the month of January. You can renew your pet’s license by mail. A certificate of rabies vaccination is required and must be current through November, 2023 for a one-year license or November, 2025 for a three-year license. Also, if your dog and/or cat has been spayed or neutered, you must present a statement from the veterinarian.

If you’d like to renew by mail, please include the rabies certificate and a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The fees for spayed/neutered pet are $10 for a 1-year license or $26 for a 3-year license. The fees for non-spayed/neutered pets are $13 for a 1-year license and $35 for a 3-year license.

If necessary, you can renew in person at the Municipal Building, 401 Chambers Bridge Road, Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Exact change, check or credit (no American Express). There is an administrative charge of $1 per month for any dog or cat registered after January 31 of each year.

─Photo courtesy Brick Police EMS

pageants when she was 8 years old, and started competing in International United Miss four years ago.

“I was very shy when I was younger and my mom’s friend’s daughter did pageants and she said I should try it, thinking I would like it. So, I went to an open call for a pageant and I got accepted. I’ve been doing it ever since,” Lauren said.

According to their website, the International United Miss Pageant aims to celebrate girls and women for their accomplishments and seeks to foster positive self-image while encouraging girls to be involved in their local communities and give back to society.

Lauren is currently a freshman at High Point University in North Carolina majoring in Media Production and Entrepreneurship. She’s a member of the Hillel, Circle K, High Point University (HPU) Vision and the Women’s Club Soccer Team and enjoys making and editing films around campus.

Additionally, Lauren volunteers with several organizations and established “Lauren’s Lunches,” a program where she makes and distributes bag lunches at homeless shelters, which is also her platform for the International United Miss competition.

Recreation Department Offers Pickleball Clinics

BRICK – Pickleball-mania is sweeping the nation! Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in America and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and athletic abilities.

The Recreation Department is offering Pickleball Clinics to help residents become familiar with the sport and to improve their skills. There is a clinic to learn the basics and a clinic for those familiar with the sport who want to get better.

All sessions held at the Civic Plaza Activity Center. Sessions held 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Brick residents only. Clinics are $20 per person. Equipment provided - please feel free to bring your own.

Basics Clinic: Discover what the craze is all about! Learn the basics to start playing this fun sport. This clinic will cover equipment, scoring, rules and all of the fundamentals of serve, volley and strokes. You will be playing games by the end of the evening. A great way for new players to start playing this sport. Dates: December 15, February 16, April 20.

Intermediate Clinic: Bring your pickleball game to the next level with the Intermediate Clinic. Learn new shots to improve your game. Strategies will be discussed and practiced. Improve your shot selection and positioning while playing with others of your level. Many new serves will be learned. Supervised play will help develop a better game. Dates: January 19, March 16.

Register online at: register.communitypass.net/Brick Township. Call 732-262-1044 for more information.

When asked if she would continue with pageants after Internationals, Lauren stated how she has no end date in mind.

“This year was very hard for me because it’s my first year at college. It’s not about winning. You meet so many amazing people throughout the years and I’ve learned all these life skills; I would never not want to do it,” Lauren said. “But as I’m getting older, I realized it’s hard to balance since I go to school in North Carolina, and I compete

in New Jersey. It’s also hard with going to school full time. I don’t have a time in mind when my final pageant will be, but at this time I’m doing pageants and school at the same time.”

On December 27, Mayor John Ducey and the Township Council honored Lauren for her achievements and proclaimed December 28, 2022 as Lauren Zycband Day. “It [the recognition] feels amazing. I’ve known Mayor Ducey my whole life as he

lives right by me in my neighborhood. So, he’s seen me grown up. I’ve lived in Brick Township my whole life. Being able to represent my town feels good,” Lauren said.

For Internationals, Lauren is currently looking for sponsorship from local businesses. “If any local businesses would like to support me and my journey to Internationals, they can reach out at Laureniumteen@gmail.com. Sponsors will be listed in the program.”

By

Local Pets Available For Adoption

BRICK

─Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center

yard, pre registered obedience class required, kids in the house must be at least 12 years old. Find out more at jerseyshoreanimalcenter. org. They are located at 185 Brick Boulevard and can be reached at 732-920-1600.

Chris Lundy

Unwanted Holiday Gifts Needed By Shelter

BRICK – Did you receive unwanted gifts during this holiday season? Are you cleaning out your closets for the new year? No need to re-gift it, PAW it forward!

Jersey Shore Animal Center is collecting new, unopened, unwanted holiday gifts, gift cards, wine or spirits for their upcoming Spring FUR Paw Gift Auction

(save the date: May 7).

Donation items may be dropped off Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please hand it to the staff behind the front desk, and mention to them that the item(s) is for the upcoming gift auction. Thank you for helping the animals.

Clothing Drive

BRICK – The Ocean County Columbus Parade Committee will be hosting a clothing drive to support their scholarship fund on February 4 from 2 to 3 p.m. Drop off location is Riviera Plaza, 560 Brick Bou-

levard; rear of the Taco Bell Restaurant. You must call 732-477-6507 or email info@columbusnj.org and advise as to the number of bags you will be dropping off by February 1.

DPE PTA Gift Basket Raffle

BRICK – Drum Point School PTA will be hosting a Gift Basket Raffle on March 11 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the VFW on Adamston Road.

Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

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Strand Theater Receives 2022 Best Of Lakewood Award

LAKEWOOD – The Lakewood Award Program has named the Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, the 2022 Best of Lakewood in the category of Performing Arts Theater.

Each year, the Lakewood Award Program identifies companies believed to have achieved exceptional marketing success in its local community and business category.

The Lakewood Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Lakewood area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

Officials of the Lakewood Award Program said, “These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their

customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Lakewood area a great place to live, work and play.”

Amy A. Freeman, executive board president, said, “I am very proud to share and announce that The Strand Theater has been selected as the Winner for the 2022 Best of Lakewood Awards in the category of Performing Arts Theater.”

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2022 Lakewood Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Lakewood Award Program and data provided by third parties.

For more information, visit the Lakewood Award Program at recognitionlocalbiz.com or PublicRelations@ recognitionlocalbiz.com.

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H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

• Dr. Izzy’s

4 Ways Hearing & Vision Work Together

Hearing actually enhances sight, According to a UCLA study, both senses work as a team to help you perceive and participate in the world around you. Study participants ran through a series of trials to correctly identify the direction in which a display of dots moved. Hearing the direction in which the dots were collectively traveling enhanced participants’ ability to see the direction of the movement.

Visually challenged seniors are more likely to experience hearing loss, A study published in the medical journal JAMA Ophthalmology uncovered links between age-related vision and hearing problems. Researchers found that even after considering age, the two conditions are somehow linked and “have a cumulative effect on function and well-being, significantly affecting both physical and mental domains.”

Vision and hearing loss accompany cognitive decline; Research shows that either condition is connected to reduced brain functioning over time. One study found that participants with the most profound vision impairment had the lowest average scores on cognition tests. And hearing-challenged seniors on average

may experience significantly reduced cognitive function at least three years before their normal-hearing counterparts. Healthy eyes and ears help you keep your balance. It’s pretty obvious that seeing your best helps you stay upright, but many people may not realize that the inner ear also plays an important role in maintaining balance. Conversely, untreated hearing loss could nearly triple your risk of a fall, per a study from Johns Hopkins. We all know that eyes and ears play a huge role in experiencing life’s adventures. Seeing and hearing the people, places, and moments that matter create wonderful, lasting memories. What fewer people know is that sight and hearing are intertwined. Here are four reasons to make regular checkups for hearing and vision an important part of your wellness plan:

Hearing and vision work together to help you live your best life, so remember to keep them both healthy. Start with a hearing checkup by contacting us today! 732-818-3610 (Toms River & Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin).

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer any hearing care questions you may have. Visit us at www.gardenstate hearing.com.

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

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

How To Properly Take Gabapentin And Restore Lost Nutrients

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The focus of the blog today is on the number one selling anti-convulsant drug in America, and it’s known chemically as gabapentin. One popular brand name for gabapentin is Neurontin.

Some people take this prescription medicine even though they do not suffer from epilepsy because it seems to help other conditions like pain management, neuropathy or insomnia.

Some off-label uses for gabapentin include anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, and possibly even hot flashes.

Gabapentin is a favorite among prescribers because it offers many advantages over traditional anticonvulsants, and sedative-hypnotics. The dosage can be easily changed and titrated upward since it has a wide variety of strengths. Gabapentin may be taken without regard to meals. Do NOT stop gabapentin without a proper taper and physician supervision.

If you have trouble swallowing the capsules, you can empty the contents of the capsule and mix it into applesauce, yogurt, pudding, or grape jelly, really whatever you like! Do not do this if your formula is long-acting or sustained-release.

Knowing what nutrients your drug is stealing (ie the drug mugger effect) can help you solve side effects and that’s my primary goal today. I wrote a whole book to help people on this topic entitled, Drug Muggers which is available by book sellers and Amazon.

Gabapentin is known to reduce or deplete the following nutrients:

• Calcium which leads to bone brittleness

• Vitamin A which leads to visual deficit

• Copper and zinc which leads to hypothyroidism

• B complex which leads to neuropathy

• Vitamin D which leads to immune challenges

Please note the following caution nowhere am I suggesting that you stop your gabapentin. The list of nutrients below and their related deficiency symptoms may lead you to think that the medication is somehow bad for you and that is NOT what I am saying. I am just informing you of the nutrient depletions so that you can supplement properly, and feel better while you take your medication. It’s really for educational purposes, and not intended as advice.

You should have a conversation with your practitioner about what vitamin and mineral doses are right for you, as well as if you should even supplement or not. As for supplementation, if you choose to do that, you should start only one formula at a time. Never begin numerous items at once because there are too many variables and if you are intolerant to something, or reactive you won’t be able to tell which supplement caused the problem. I have a much longer version of this article, along with more cautions. That is posted at my website, suzycohen.com

Around the JerSey Shore

Several Lakewood Officers Promoted

LAKEWOOD – On December 28, Chief Gregory H. Meyer and Township Officials held a promotional ceremony in attendance, Sheriff Mastronardy, OCPO Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, Chief Anthony Carrington, in the presence of family and friends to witness a memorable joyous moment in the swearing-in of the following: Promoting from Lieutenant to Captain: • Captain Leroy Marshall

Promoting from Sergeant to Lieutenant:

• Lieutenant Thomas D’Elia

• Lieutenant Chase Messer

• Lieutenant Dan Tworkoski

Promoting from Officer to Sergeant:

• Sergeant Tyler Distefano

• Sergeant Caitlyn Kicki

• Sergeant John Macerino

• Sergeant Kenneth Schall

• Sergeant Andrew Solomon

Recreation Girls Softball And T-Ball Registration Now Open

BRICK – Attention parents of Brick girls in grades K to 8 - registration for Brick Recreation’s 2023 Spring Softball and T-Ball Leagues is now open.

Whether your daughter is a seasoned player or new to the sport, all skill levels are welcome! The 12-game season held

from April 22 through June 24. This is a great opportunity to have your daughter(s) be part of a team, make new friends and most important - have fun!

For more information and to register, visit bricktownship.net/index.php/departments/ recreation.

─Photo courtesy Lakewood Police

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

& Reasonable Accommodations For Breastfeeding Mothers

Christopher R. Shea Esq.

By: Christopher R. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) amended the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) to include pregnancy, including medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery, as well as breastfeeding, as protected classifications under the law. The PWFA:

• Prohibits employers from treating pregnant or breastfeeding employees less favorably than other employees;

• Requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation upon the request of employees and based on the advice of a doctor, unless the accommodation poses an undue hardship; and

• Examples of pregnancy-related accommodations may include permitting increased breaks for increased water intake, bathroom use, or rest; providing assistance with manual labor; restructuring jobs; modifying work schedules; and temporarily transferring employees to less strenuous work.

• Prohibits employers from penalizing employees who request such an accommodation. Unlike other NJLAD accommodation claims, the PWFA contains its own “analytic structure” to determine a claim for failure to accommodate. Under the PWFA, an employee must show (1) that she was pregnant or breastfeeding; (2) that she made a request for a reasonable accommodation; and (3) that the employer failed to provide a reasonable accommodation.

Critically, employers are required to make such accommodations when an employee requests them, however, once the request is made based on the advice of a physician, the employer in most cases must provide the requested accommodations. With a physician’s note, the only way an employer can avoid having to provide the accommodations is if the

employer can show that the accommodations would impose an “undue hardship” on its business operations. This is typically a very high burden under the law, and is not easy for employers to meet. Some of the factors in this “undue burden” analysis are the overall size of the business; the size of the budget; the nature and costs of the accommodation; and whether the employee can still perform the essential functions of her job.

Notably however the Supreme Court recently stated that unlike the undue hardship defense in other NJLAD accommodation actions; an employee’s inability to perform an essential function of her job is merely a factor to be considered when assessing undue hardship in PWFA cases. As such, the Supreme Court has determined that PWFA cases are the only category of cases where a jury should determine the question of undue hardship.

In summary the PWFA law goes beyond the normal protections extended to disabled employees. In the context of disability laws, such as the NJLAD and the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, employers should be cautious in their treatment of pregnant or breastfeeding employees’ special needs and should consider broad any and all forms of accommodations presented. This is particularly true, in the post, covid era where telework has been recognized as a reasonable accommodation by the judicial system and the equal opportunity employment commission.

If you believe you are a victim of employment discrimination based on pregnancy or breastfeeding, contact the Employment Lawyers at R.C. Shea & Associates at 732505-1212, or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.

known as a

(FHA)1

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

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

JAnzano@Glendenning.com • 81 E Water St, Toms River, NJ 08753 NMLS ID: 209792 • WWW.GLENDENNING.COM 800-354-8286

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

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

Pets For Sale For Rent

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

Items For Sale

Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company. E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n)

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)

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)

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.

week* at $29.95

SWOLLEN EYELIDS

There are many issues that can end up with swollen eyelids, which are the result of inflammation or excess fluid in the eye’s connective tissue. Injuries, other trauma, and infection are among the most common causes, with allergies often cited as the most frequent trigger. However, swollen eyelids may also be a sign of more serious problems such as orbital cellulitis (an infection of the soft tissue), which can be life-threatening. In addition, Graves’ disease or ocular herpes can cause the eyelids to swell, especially when the swelling is accompanied by eye pain. If swelling occurs with excessive discharge, conjunctivitis may be the culprit, which is very contagious and should be treated immediately.

For conjunctivitis caused by bacteria, the treatment will usually be antibiotic eye drops or ointment. This generally clears the symptoms within a few days. Be sure to complete the full course of antibiotic treatment. For more stubborn infections, an oral antibiotic may be prescribed. SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES offers a full range of care for your eyes, from your yearly vision exam to the treatment of medical eye conditions. To make an appointment, please call 732-349-5622.

P.S. Although they seem similar, there is a difference between swollen eyelids and the puffy eyes that are caused by fatigue, age, or water retention.

photo of the week

Planetarium Holds 50th Anniversary Show For Pink Floyd Album

TOMS RIVER – Fifty years after its conception, Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon is still considered the most recognizable album in rock history. Spending a record-breaking 741 weeks on the US top albums charts, the release cemented Pink Floyd’s reputation as the

premier rock band of a generation. What better way to celebrate the album’s 50th anniversary than to pair it with laser lights! After all, it’s the quintessential soundtrack to laser shows! Show will be on January 27 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Robert J. Novins Planetarium.

Rita English, a resident of South Plainfield, was in Brick Township last week and captured these Bufflehead Ducks taking off along the Metedeconk River. Amazing and beautiful! If you would like to see your pictures in our Photo of the Week feature, email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com - you may win a prize!

Where one may be taken to be reprimanded

Omarr’s Astrological

Forecast

For

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Using some initiative can make a positive difference in the week to come. You might dream or believe anything you are told. Develop constructive strategies and take practical steps to overcome any family problems.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Loyalty is more than skin deep. Dig deep and you might find that a close friend or cherished partner is a true treasure. You may feel pressured to keep up your end of a bargain as the week begins to unfold.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gratitude is a key ingredient for contentment. Enjoy the things that you already have rather than hoping for things you don’t have. Wait until late in the week to make major purchases or decisions about investments.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Postpone taking on extra obligations or commitments until later in the week. Right now, your efforts could be subject to misunderstandings or cause disruptions. Someone may give you a good reason to mistrust their intentions.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Look for the silver lining in every cloud of controversy. You might not agree on key issues but you can be tolerant of someone else’s point of view. Wait until late in the week to launch fresh initiatives or a new project.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Uphold high standards. Using substandard materials or cutting corners could ruin a project this week. Use a discriminating eye to help you achieve the highest level of quality. Being empathetic is a valuable gift.

By Jeraldine Saunders

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Consider who you are dealing with. Consider giving good friends more leeway than business contacts in the upcoming week. Uplift your spirits with a brisk walk outdoors, hitting the gym, or playing sports with friends.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Hit the ground running this week. Your kindness and understanding will likely be needed if a loved one is feeling stressed in the week ahead. If any key vulnerabilities are a concern, mastermind a solution.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): If someone is coming on too strong, try to take it in stride. Focus on creative projects in the week ahead but do not ignore job-related obligations. Got paperwork to do? Get it done and enjoy the relief.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A partner may have high expectations so do your best to deliver. Don’t let dreams and wishful thinking curtail your progress this week. Once you’ve made a firm decision, go full-speed ahead or you might be stuck in neutral.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Preparation and planning can prevent a poor performance. Get organized before you begin a new project in the week ahead. Be sure to observe social cues, consider adding more warmth to your approach.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Walk a balance beam in the week ahead. You can be generous with your time and talents without being extravagant or going to extremes. Don’t let misunderstandings fester this week; clear the air as soon as possible.

MISO PERFECTLY PAIRS WITH SWEET ORANGE AND TENDER SALMON

By America’s Test Kitchen

SALMON WITH MISO-ORANGE SAUCE Serves 4

1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest plus 1/4 cup orange juice, zested and squeezed from 2 oranges

3 tablespoons white miso

1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar

1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar

1/4 teaspoon cornstarch Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

4 (6- to 8-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets

1. Add orange zest and juice, miso, sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, and cayenne (if using) to a small saucepan. Whisk until smooth. Set aside.

2. In a 12-inch nonstick skillet,

sprinkle salt and pepper in an even layer. Place salmon fillets, skin side down, in the skillet. Wash your hands.

3. Cook salmon over medium heat, without moving salmon, until fat begins to puddle around fillets and skin begins to brown, 6 to 8 minutes.

4. Gently slide spatula under fish to loosen skin from skillet, then use tongs to flip fish. Cook, without moving fillets, until the center of each fillet registers 125 degrees on instant-read thermometer, 6 to 8 minutes.

5. Bring miso mixture in saucepan to a simmer (small bubbles should break often across the surface of the sauce) over medium-high heat. Simmer, whisking occasionally, until thickened, about 1 minute. Turn off heat. Spoon glaze evenly over salmon. Serve.

the week of jan 14 - JAN 20

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