2023-02-18 - The Brick Times

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - James Riccio said he would be working until the last minute on his final day as Brick Township Police Chief, a job he has held for seven years.

“I just feel that it’s time to retire; I’ve been (in the department) over 36 years,” the 58-year-old said from his office on January 31, which was his last day. “There’s some good people coming up behind me.”

Born in Bayonne, Chief Riccio’s family moved to Brick just before he started high school.

“I always knew I wanted to be either a cop or a fireman because that’s what my family was in the business of doing,” he said.

As soon as he turned 18, he joined the volunteer fire department and has been a member ever since. (He has been a fire commissioner since 2012).

Shortly afterwards, he took the police department test and was hired as a police officer in 1986.

“So I fulfilled both dreams, I guess, working as a firefighter and a police officer,” he said.

Retiring Chief Looks Back On His Career Police Chief Forrester Sworn In To Serve Brick

(Retiring - See Page 5)

Lay-Offs Possible As Schools Lose More Funding

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – As the Brick Township School District continues to work out a budget for the 2023-24 school year,

Superintendent Dr. Thomas Farrell gave a disheartening update on the process.

“Our budget process

over the last few years has been a little dire since the cut in S-2. As I stated last month, the district is in the process of finalizing the budget from the 2023-24 school year,” Farrell said. “As we plan the budget for 2023-24, we have an additional loss

of state aid once again under S-2. This loss of state aid in cumulative, so now our total loss is over $22 million. This reduction has multiyear impacts on Brick Schools.”

The S-2 funding formula is a state change (Funding - See Page 4)

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - David Forrester was named as the new Chief of Police for the township, the fourth in the history of the Brick Township Police Department.

During a brief ceremony held on February 1 at the municipal complex, Mayor John G. Ducey administered the swearing-in of the new chief as well as a new captain, a new lieutenant and a new sergeant.

The mayor said that the township police department is one of the top departments in the state. He said

once he was elected and had the opportunity to work closely with the police department

and see what they do every day he developed a greater grasp on how demanding the job is

and how hard the officers work.

“Our officers are (Sworn - See Page 8)

─Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn Chief James Riccio’s last day was January 31.

Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn

Mayor John Ducey (left) swears in David Forrester as the new police chief.

Funding

: Continued From Page 1

that began several years ago. Every district receives aid, but the state started to redirect money away from districts that have seen decreasing enrollment and other factors. The exact formula has never been made public.

At the recent Board of Education meeting, Farrell made a lengthy statement explaining how the district is dealing with a decrease in state aid due to reductions under the S-2 bill. The district has been faced with a series of cuts in previous years and with the cycle continuing, he said the district anticipates a loss of positions once again.

However, Farrell hopes that retirements and attrition will play an integral part in minimizing job loss.

“Unfortunately, as was the case a few years ago, this process will most likely result in the transfer of staff, some non-renewal of staff and possibly a reduction in force. We would notify non-tenures of non-renewals and then staff transfers would be announced once after we resolved all the staffing moves based on certification and seniority for the budget,” Farrell said. “S-2 has deeply impacted our already underfunded district. Please know that with every cut made we’re doing our best to minimize the impact on our students and our staff. We’re grateful for all of our staff contributions and appreciate their understanding and patience as we move through this difficult process. During these tough times I assure you we are looking at all avenues that are in the best interest of

our students and their educational program.”

Farrell further explained how the rising inflation has also impacted the district with costs increasing exponentially and revenue sources reducing. The district is contending with higher costs for classroom materials, transportation, gas and fuel, electricity, food, salaries and benefits.

“Employees are feeling the pinch due to the cost-of-living increase and not surprisingly, collective bargaining agreements and contract salary increase rates have rose as well across the state. In this school year right now, the average we received from school boards was an averaged increased salary negotiations of 3.3% and rising. With districts having difficulties filling openings, Boards of Education do not have much leverage to cut back. In fact, many districts are losing tenured teachers to go to other districts offering higher salaries,” Farrell added.

Over the last year, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has increased to 7.1%. Farrell said school districts like Brick are still under the 2% tax levy cap that was instituted in 2010 when the inflation rate was 1.5% at that time.

“This is the perfect storm unfortunately, as I’ve said, and we need the state’s help. There’s a paradox with the state New Jersey school funding formula that it doesn’t provide relief nor afford a mechanism for districts such as Brick that are way under adequacy and have state aid reduced substantially, 49%.” Farrell said. “The time is now for Brick to advocate for our very efficient yet effective school district. We cannot allow Trenton’s insouciance to continue will us anymore and ignore us.”

Retiring: Continued From Page 1

Chief Riccio’s entire police career took place in Brick. He rose through the ranks and became a detective, and then as a sergeant oversaw the drug enforcement unit. In 2001 he was promoted to lieutenant and in 2004 he was moved into internal affairs, and was asked to work with an FBI task force to investigate corruption committed by public officials across New Jersey. In 2007 he was promoted to captain and in 2011, deputy chief.

Asked what he is going to miss the most as police chief, without hesitation he said, “The guys…the one thing in law enforcement, you make a lot of friendships, and they’re usually lifelong friendships.”

Asked what he was going to miss the least, Chief Riccio said the 24/7 job can be stressful, having to respond to constant phone calls and emails. “That I won’t miss,” he said.

He said the atmosphere of policing has changed since he started in 1986.

Asked about police reform, the chief said that in Brick, and in New Jersey, the police are very well-regulated.

“A lot of the things that came out over the past few years, in regard to police training and so forth, the rules and regulations, we have already been doing my whole career,” he said.

In New Jersey, police receive Use of Force training twice a year. Choke holds have always been banned here, Chief Riccio added.

“I think what other law enforcement departments around the country should do, would be to follow New Jersey’s lead in training and regulation,” he said. “There’s always room for improvement, obviously, but I think New Jersey has been in the forefront of doing it right.”

The biggest challenge and difficulty facing law enforcement right now is finding people who are interested in becoming police officers, the chief said.

“People that we would never normally consider are applying, and we’re meeting some resistance with the state, who are trying to force us to hire people that we would have never hired,” he said. “My fear is that if we start to lower our standards we’ll start to see here what we’re seeing in other parts of the country.”

Chief Riccio says he is grateful for the support of the mayor, council and business administrator, who has supported the police department “110 percent…I always have to justify our [budget] needs [but] they’ve never once thought of the phrase ‘Defund the Police,’ so we’re very fortunate here in Brick.”

He said the Brick community is very supportive of the police department.

“One of my priorities was always to emphasize that - we have a very proactive community policing division,” said. “I’m probably most proud of all our community policing initiatives when we can interact with the community in a positive way.

“The police department is only as good as the relationship it has with its community, and that’s one thing I think we were able to accomplish here,” he said.

David Forrester was named as the new police chief, and was sworn in on February 1. Asked if he had any parting advice for his successor, Chief Riccio said they talked about how important the relationship with the community is.

“I think he knows that because he was part of the command staff, he’s not brand new to

this,” Riccio said.

“I don’t know that I would stay totally retired. We’ll see what opportunities present themselves,” he said.

He and his wife, Joy, have four children and seven grandchildren who all live in the area. “We plan to do a lot more with our grandkids,” he said. “They keep us pretty busy.”

─Photo courtesy Brick Police Chief James Riccio and other retiring officers were honored with a gathering of hundreds of people showing up on his last day.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

Pause Off Shore Wind Projects To Ensure Whale Safety

What is killing the whales? There have been at least nine whale deaths along the Jersey shore recently and local politicians and environmentalists feel their deaths are tied to offshore wind projects.

It does seem extremely odd that over the past several months that there have been repeated instances of dead whales washing up on New Jersey’s shoreline in close proximity of nearby offshore wind development. It is also happening at some New York beaches as well. Could it be the cause or just some strange coincidence?

There is a proposal by Congressman Chris Smith backed up by a dozen shore area mayors and some environmental groups to put a pause to such activities until we learn more.

Paul Kanitra, the mayor of Point Pleasant Beach, is among the mayors who have envi-

Remembering

Adriana Kuch

I join our entire community and all of New Jersey in sharing great sorrow for the tragic loss of Adriana Kuch.

In unthinkable moments of grief like these, it’s difficult to convey the words that bring comfort. But as these are the darkest of days for Adriana’s family and friends, it’s important to remember the light that she brought into their world.

From so many accounts of those closest to her, we have learned of her happy and strong personality and her love of all animals and nature, her helping children with special needs, and how she liked jogging with her brothers or walks in the woods. What was loved about her is already missed about her by those closest to her - and that must always be remembered

about her.

ronmental concerns about the mysterious string of whale deaths that has left officials and the public speechless.

On average, the Jersey Shore coast and in the tri-state area, there are one, two, or possibly three whale deaths a year but since the offshore wind energy development started conducting sonar testing in December, nine whale deaths occurred.

“That seems a lot more than a coincidence to us,” Kanitra said in an interview on “America’s Newsroom.”

The Biden administration and federal scientists are blaming the deaths on blunt trauma, related to boat strikes but whales use echo sonar location to navigate and it isn’t a stretch to have concerns about the sonar use messing with that ability which might actually be causing the boat strikes.

As Mayor Kanitra and some environmentalists have said, “it’s too much to be a coincidence.”

There is obviously a great deal of rightful anguish and emotion with Adriana’s passing, from her family, friends and within our community at large.

I commend the students who had peacefully protested against harassment, intimidation and bullying in our schools. Working with our police department, we will continue to have a strong presence in our schools, so students, parents and staff have a safe and secure learning environment.

I have spoken to our prosecutor, board members, administrators, teachers, parents and students about this tragic incident. Together, zero-tolerance policies will be implemented, and programs will be launched immediately to address these challenges.

It is critical that as leaders, as administrators, as teachers, as

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

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

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

Given the usual speed of government, this call for action by Congressman Smith seems right on the mark and prudent in order to act on the side of caution until a full scientific review can be made as to whether there is a connection to offshore wind projects and the deaths of the whales.

It is important get to the truth and as was said constantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to follow the science, so it seems like a smart idea to take a pause for the moment while a scientific based probe into their deaths takes place. Is the sonar work actually the cause? Let’s find out.

Doing so may ultimately save whales and other aspects of the environment. Smith’s request to suspend all work on such projects noted a time factor of “until such time that ecological safety can be assured.” I think we can afford to wait until this is done.

Likewise, it is gratifying to see our lawmakers

Letters To The Editor

parents and as a community as a whole, we unify and take this moment and try to learn and understand from it, so we can avoid future tragedies.

Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Jr. Berkeley

Teen’s Suicide Shows A Broken System

Been sitting on my feelings and emotions for several days as emotions have boiled over around me regarding the death of Adriana Kuch.

If you’ve heard the news reports about the 14-year-old who died by suicide after she was attacked at a New Jersey school, and who had been bullied relentlessly - that’s my town. That’s the high school my daughter graduated from.

I don’t need to add my opinions on how the school has handled this, because it was mishandled.

My opinion on why it was mishandled: Because the state’s Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying law is an utter disaster.

It does not address what is happening to kids in any meaningful way. It gives school districts cover to say “We followed the law.” That is all it does.

New Jersey’s HIB law tries to quantify bullying as being directed at “a protected class” - weight, LGBTQIA, people of color - and further tries to quantify it based on how the victim reacts. Did a straight A student have their grades plummet? Did they stop coming to school? Did they have to get counseling?

The reality is kids get bullied across a whole spectrum. Did you get a bad haircut? Are you poor? Are you wearing handme-downs and not the expensive Air Jordans? Do you have freckles, a big nose, are you short, are you tall? Are you a boy who loves theater, loves to cook, loves fashion? Are you a girl who loves to hunt, wants to play football, loves activities we ascribe to boys?

I’ve shared my personal experience with being bullied in the past. I was the new kid in a very, very small town in Pennsylvania.

My black, curly hair, contrasted with my more pale Irish skin drew comments from adults who said “it must be a wig,” and kids picked up on it ... I was called “Wiggy” by classmates. School and grades came easily for me, and that only added to the hate and the bullying. My hair was pulled in class. I was pinched. I was kicked and punched and chased regularly on the playground ... and it continued until my dad was picking me up from school one day and the two boys who were the ringleaders tried to physically attack me. That was what forced the school district to address it.

My grades never slipped. I never stopped going to school (even though I wanted to, even when I was miserable).

Under New Jersey’s HIB law, what happened to me would have been brushed away as not a problem.

THAT is a problem. And it is happening in school districts

in Trenton address another issue that involves animals. There is legislation addressing animals who are suffering on factory farms. Mother pigs are artificially impregnated and confined to cages - known as gestation crates - that nearly immobilize them. Baby calves used in the veal industry are locked in similar cages, called veal crates. These crates are so small that the animals can’t even turn around. New Jersey could make history in a positive manner though the passage of legislation that would help these abused animals by passing Senate bill S-1298 and Assembly bill A-1970. These bills that deserve our support, would ban the extreme confinement of mother pigs and baby calves in the Garden State.

Bob Vosseller Assistant News Editor

across the state. Reports of bullying incidents are taken in isolation instead of being addressed, and the resulting accumulation of trauma is having disastrous results. You have the bullies attacking - because they believe they can, because they have gotten away with it all along.

For those who are the targets, despondency sets in, because you are completely powerless to stop the bullying - because the HIB law does nothing to force action by the schools to really take action to protect those who are being bullied. There were absolutely failures in what happened at Central and those need to be addressed, but the real issue is rooted in the very fabric of our society.

We have adults who bully others daily. How many videos have we seen of adults getting in people’s faces and screaming at them on the streets and in stores?

How many times do we see truly vile, hateful comments on social media mocking how someone looks, how they dress, what they eat, how they worship. We have an absolute unwillingness to learn about other people, and a knee-jerk nasty response to someone who doesn’t conform to our view of what should be.

The kids see our terrible example and they learn from us. They think it’s OK to just be hateful, to say whatever mean thing comes to mind, because they see adults do it - in the streets, in the stores, and on social media. And we as adults are completely unwilling to look in the mirror and see how the actions we take are teaching

our children to continue that culture of meanness.

We have people lying about what social emotional learning is - teaching children that people are different, teaching them to have empathy for others, and teaching them how to handle anger and frustration and disagreements CONSTRUCTIVELY - and trying to strip it from our schools, all while saying hateful, generalized comments about other people every day instead of taking people as individuals and learning about them.

This is what fuels the bullying culture every day.

We need to stop with the “just suck it up, we all went through bullying” mentality because we’ve NORMALIZED abusive behavior.

We have to stop normalizing being hateful and abusive to other people. Period.

We need school districts all across the country to have real policies that address these issues from the start and nip the bullying in the bud -rather than brushing it off as a child being oversensitive, or telling a child they are a tattletale. Parents have to stop with the “my kid would never” because EVERY child is capable of it.

We need to support the kids who stand up for others being bullied, rather than punishing those kids. (Yes, this happens.)

We need real conversations about our society.

No one is willing to have them.

Karen B. Bayville

Police – Mental Health Collaboration To Expand With $10 Million Investment

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy announced that his upcoming budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2024 will include $10 million in funding to expand the ARRIVE Together program to the entire state, creating the first statewide law enforcement and mental health co-responder collaboration in the country.

Governor Murphy, joined by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, also announced the upcoming expansion of the program, which connects mental health professionals with law enforcement officers to more effectively respond to mental-health-crisis calls, set to take place this year. Utilizing $2 million in funds set aside by the Governor and state lawmakers in the current FY2023 state budget, over two dozen municipalities in 10 different counties will be joining ARRIVE Together starting in May 2023.

“The ARRIVE Together program is a game changer, and I am incredibly pleased by the success the program has had during its pilot stages in connecting those experiencing behavioral health crises with a certified mental health professional,” said Governor Murphy. “This proposed investment and the expansion of the program will help our efforts to enhance law enforcement’s servicing of neighborhoods and will strengthen the bonds between our officers and the communities they serve. Attorney General Platkin, Colonel Callahan, and I will continue to work with our state’s law enforcement and mental health professionals to ensure these crises are de-escalated safely, fairly, and efficiently to protect individuals in mental distress.”

“ARRIVE Together began as a State Police pilot program, and through partnerships forged between law enforcement and mental health providers we are building it into a statewide program,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “It has been a transformative and powerful model, consistently de-escalating situations that could have had far worse outcomes for everyone involved. With the support and vision of Governor Murphy, I am committed to continuing to grow this program and improve services for our most vulnerable residents.”

That imminent expansion will bring the total number of law enforcement agencies

involved in the initiative to over thirty. In most jurisdictions, mental health professionals will accompany plainclothes officers in unmarked police vehicles to respond to 9-1-1 calls for service relating to mental or behavioral health crises, although each county may employ a slightly different framework of interaction between the mental health and law enforcement responders. Nine different health care providers around the state have signed on to dedicate their resources to work with police on this effort, which is designed to form relationships between individuals needing help and law enforcement and mental health professionals, in order to de-escalate situations and transition away from law enforcement relying on emergency rooms or use of force.

“The deployment of mental health professionals, in concert with New Jersey State Troopers, has provided vital services to those in mental distress at the time where it is needed the most,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “We have taken the program to the forefront as an investment into the well-being of the citizens we are sworn to serve. Just as emergency medical services are summoned to a scene to serve as a higher level of patient care, the State Police recognizes that the trusted partners of the ARRIVE Together Program have the ability to mitigate crisis, reduce the risk of physical harm, and potentially bridge the gap into continued compassionate care for citizens struggling with mental health issues. We celebrate the expansion of this indispensable plan of action and look forward to joining new law enforcement partners as they join in this altruistic project.”

The teams of law enforcement officers paired with mental health screeners have made over 300 contacts with residents suffering from mental health disorders or co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders. During those interactions, there have been no injuries, and no response by an ARRIVE Together team has escalated into an arrest. Responding officers have only used force for involuntary transports of individuals ordered by the mental health professionals who co-responded.

Police officers from the following local municipalities and agencies will soon be participating in the program: Beachwood, Berkeley, Ocean Gate and Pine Beach.

“We are pleased to see the steady growth of the ARRIVE Together program in New Jersey, as an increasing number of munic -

ipal police departments are collaborating with mental health providers,” said Thomas Dellane, president of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.

“While this program is only in its infancy, it has enormous potential. ARRIVE

Together has already demonstrated itself as a vital tool for law enforcement, as we

respond to incidents involving individuals suffering from mental or behavioral struggles. We salute Attorney General Matthew Platkin’s commitment to this initiative, as well as the State Police and local police departments that are already involved. We look forward to its steady expansion across New Jersey.”

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highly-trained and dedicated professionals,” the mayor said. “They are committed to making our community safe, and they stand ready 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to answer the call when the people of Brick Township need you, for whatever

purpose it may be,” he said to a standing-room only crowd of police officers, their families and others who attended the swearing-in ceremony.

Mayor Ducey said he wanted every police officer to know that “I truly appreciate your work” and said that that sentiment is shared by the township council and by the entire town.

“Our town loves our police department, which is something to say espe -

cially in the state of the United States at this point,” the mayor added.

Mayor Ducey said that appointing a new police chief is a great responsibility, and said he has the utmost confidence in his decision to appoint David Forrester, who has been a member of the Brick Police Department since February 1996.

According to Township Business Administrator Joanne Bergin, since Brick

Township is a Civil Service town, the state administers a test for police hires and promotions and Chief Forrester ranked number one on the chief’s test. He was appointed by the mayor and his appointment does not require council approval.

Over the past nearly three decades, Forrester has “consistently proven himself to be an exceptional law enforcement officer” who has served in many roles in the department “that are too many to list,” Mayor Ducey said.

Some of his past positions and responsibilities include patrol officer, field training officer, school resource officer, detective, member of CERT, sergeant, assistant accreditation manager, training supervisor, patrol supervisor, lieutenant, internal affairs, captain, community policing division commander and investigations division commander.

“This is all in addition to his constant efforts to expand his knowledge about law enforcement through education seminars as well as training,” the mayor said. “As you can see, his resume is incredibly impressive; his breadth of knowledge of the department and law enforcement made him the ideal candidate to be the next chief of police.”

In his brief comments, Chief Forrester thanked the mayor, the business administrator and the council for believing in him and selecting him.

“I really appreciate it. It’s a great honor, especially to lead the men and women I have in my department,” he said. “They make my job throughout my career very easy, and I’m looking forward to leading into the future.”

The first Brick Township police chief was Ronald J. Dougard, who was appointed in 1990. In 2008, Nils R. Bergquist became the second police chief, who served until 2015 when James Riccio became the new chief.

Three additional officers were promoted during the ceremony and were sworn in by Mayor Ducey: Capt. Henry Drew, Lt. Lawrence Petrola and Sgt. Kenneth Steinberg.

Senior Services Program Spotlight: Chair Yoga

BRICK – Chair Yoga is a great program that offers many benefits to older residents. Yoga postures are performed in chair or with the use of a chair. This gentle form of yoga has low impact on joints and can help improve flexibility, pain management, circulation, balance and more.

Chair Yoga is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 until 11 a.m. at the Senior Services Activity Center, 373 Adamston Road. It is free for residents ages 60 and over. For more information, call Senior Services at 732-920-8686.

Local Pets Available For Adoption

BRICK – Murphy is looking for his forever Valentine. Just look at this young man, 9-months-old, smart and oh so good looking! Murphy is no couch potato but he will be happy to take a nap with you after the adventures! Murphy’s Valentine search includes an active home with a fenced yard and kids ages 10 and up. He is dog friendly.

Murphy may be ok with cats that have lived with a dog. Pre-registered obedience class required to give him the start he needs to become the best canine citizen.

You can view this pet and more at jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org. They are located at 185 Brick Boulevard and can be reached at 732-920-1600.

Annual Hero Awards

BRICK – This year’s Annual Hero Awards will be held on March 31at 7 p.m. at Brick Township High School, 346 Chambers Bridge Road.

This event honors Brick residents and businesses that exhibit a remarkable effort to make the community a better place. The event is hosted by the Mayor’s Student Advisory Committee and will

include performances by local school choirs, theatre groups, dance teams, and more. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door.

To nominate someone in the community who exemplifies being a hero in everyday life, visit bricktownship.net/index.php/ events/annual-hero-awards. The deadline to submit nominations is March 13.

─Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center

Willow Springs And Eldergrow Launch Therapeutic Gardening Program

BRICK – Residents at Willow Springs Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in Brick Township are embracing their inner green thumbs thanks to the skilled nursing facility’s new partnership with Eldergrow. The Seattle-based company brings nature indoors with mobile gardening programs designed to promote hands-on enjoyment and learning.

At Willow Springs, Eldergrow’s Therapeutic Horticulture Garden program combines a sensory garden full of colorful and fragrant plants with in-person enrichment classes. The bi-monthly classes – on topics ranging from horticulture, to culinary, to garden arts – are facilitated by Eldergrow educators, who also assist with garden maintenance.

“Many Willow Springs residents have a lifelong love of gardening and are now delighting in the opportunity to spend time enjoying the mobile garden and participating in the therapeutic horticulture classes,” said Pam Montemurno, regional director of market development at Marquis Health Consulting Services, which supports Willow Springs and was instrumental in facilitating the Eldergrow partnership.

“Eldergrow is a perfect example of how life enrichment activities can promote both wellness and fun.”

Therapeutic horticulture is shown to offer significant mental and physical health benefits for seniors, including reducing

depression and improving balance, among numerous others. In a study, published in the International Journal of Environmental Health, scientists reported planting and cultivating a garden can “improve brain nerve growth factors related to memory, and can

(Gardening - See Page 11)

─Photo courtesy Willow Springs Willow Springs’ Vittori Baccari, life enrichment director, and Eldergrow’s Nick Neve, educator, with Willow Springs resident Colleen Phillips at the center’s Eldergrow launch party.

Gardening: Continued From

Page 10

improve functioning in the hippocampus, which is critical for memory, and cortical regions of the brain.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Willow Springs for this new program,” said Eldergrow’s Orla Concannon, founder and CEO.

“Therapeutic horticulture supports Willow Springs’ focus on programming aimed at boosting physical and mental wellness for residents by bringing nature – and its many benefits – indoors all year long.”

Willow Springs’ reputation for quality care and services is well established. The facility was recently named one of the nation’s top skilled nursing facilities in Newsweek’s “America’s Best Nursing Homes 2023” and maintains a five-star rating for quality measures from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). More infor-

mation can be found at willowspringsrehab. com

Founded in 2015, Eldergrow enhances the quality of life for older adults by creating meaningful connections to nature. In addition to its Therapeutic Horticulture Garden program for skilled nursing centers, it offers a DIY Culinary Herb Garden for assisted living communities, with fresh herb deliveries and engaging “Around the World” programming. Both programs are centered around Eldergrow’s indoor, mobile gardens which are beautifully handcrafted in the U.S.A.

Brick-based Marquis Health Consulting Services provides administrative and consulting services to skilled nursing facilities and senior housing communities along the Eastern Seaboard. The organization’s operational guidance enables its client facilities to overachieve their quality and customer service goals by embracing a progressive, multi-specialty approach to healthcare.

Life Line Screening

BRICK – St. Thomas Lutheran Church will be hosting a Life Line Screening on April 25 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 plaqueone 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.

College Planning Workshop

BRICK – Join for a free educational college planning workshop that will focus on high school and middle school students. Workshop will be held on March 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Brick Township High School. They will discuss college financial aid forms and all other information you need to understand in order to maximize the amount of aid you are eligible to receive!

Even if your family is not eligible for needbased aid, we will cover strategies on how to pay for college on the most efficient basis. They will discuss picking colleges that might give you the best opportunity to receive aid. How savings might impact your eligibility. How to get ahead by developing a customized plan and how to lower the out-of-pocket cost.

around thE JErSEy ShorE

$500K Donation To Benefit Health Sciences Education At Ocean County

College

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County College Foundation recently accepted a $500,000 donation from the Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad to establish the Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Public Health Scholarship Fund. The donation will be used to support the college’s health sciences programs.

“The Ocean County College Foundation is honored to receive such a generous gift from the Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad,” said Ken Malagiere, executive director of the Ocean County College Foundation. “This expendable fund will be dedicated to scholarships in nursing and the health sciences as well as support public health programming for Ocean County College students, and our broader community.

“This major gift is an example of the Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad’s commitment to healthcare and public health, a testament to its years of service to the Ocean County community, and a recognition of the important role Ocean County College plays in preparing our students to serve that community in the future,” added Malagiere.

“The Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad proudly provided prehospital emergency medical services along the Barrier Island sections

of both Brick and Toms River Townships for 70 years,” the organization said in a statement. “Founded in 1952, dedicated volunteers staffed ambulances and treated medical emergencies without charge to the public. In honor of those dedicated volunteers who gave of themselves and in celebration of their service to the community, Dover-Brick Beach First Aid Squad offers financial support to those pursuing studies in the Public Health/Sciences Fields.”

The Ocean County College Foundation, a private non-profit organization, is dedicated to the growth and development of Ocean County College through scholarships, endowments, and capital and special projects. Originally established to provide scholarships to students attending Ocean County College, the Foundation has expanded its outreach to partner with community leaders in business, industry, education, and government to reach a common goal to provide quality, affordable education for our students and to prepare them for successful careers while making a positive impact in our community.

For more information about the Ocean County College Foundation, visit go.ocean.edu/foundation or call 732-255-0492.

─Photo courtesy Ocean County College

Dualdiagnosisisalargepartoftherecoveryjourneyfor some individuals. Mental health issues and addiction areoftenverydeeplyconnected. Treatingtheunderlyingcauseofbothconditionssimultaneously, inintegratedtreatmentprograms,isthebestapproach.

OUTPATIENT REHAB:

• Have the ability to live at home or live in a sober home with the ability to see your friends and family

• Get the help you need without having to sacrifice your career, drop out of school, or miss out on important obligations

• Have more affordable addiction treatment & care options

INPATIENT REHAB:

• Have full access to doctors, nurses, and medical staff 24 hours a day

• Live full-time inside the facility, with medication management & monitoring

• Have a more structured daily life, with the entire day planned out for you by professionals

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

4 Reasons To Choose Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Better hearing should be as easy, accessible, and carefree as possible. So if you haven’t experienced rechargeable hearing devices, here are four reasons to give them a try:

CONVENIENCE No more frequent battery changes. Just store your devices in their charger overnight, and enjoy allday hearing power when you wake up.

STREAMING Using Bluetooth and streaming audio can drain hearing aid batteries more quickly, but a simple recharge puts you back in business.

SAFETY With the rechargeable battery sealed inside your device, there’s no worry about disposable hearing aid batteries getting into kids’ or pets’ hands, paws, or mouths.

SUSTAINABILITY Rechargeables may

go through a battery 1-2 yrs— give or take — compared to 100 or so disposable batteries with traditional devices. Much less waste!

RELIABILITY Traditional hearing aids that use disposable batteries (312, 10, 13, 675) are subject to moisture buildup which can destroy the hearing aid circuit. Rechargeable hearing aids have a “sealed” battery door thus moisture issues are dramatically reduced.

Call us for a closer look at rechargeable technology today. Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with solutions for your hearing care needs. Please visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com or call 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin).

Township Warns About Senior Scam

BRICK – Brick Township is warning seniors of scammers targeting riders of the Ocean Ride bus service. Scammers are calling and claiming to be County employees and asking for personal in -

formation.

Ocean Ride will never call you about a bill. Do not give out personal information over the phone (i.e., credit card info, bank account info, social security number, etc.)

DPE PTA Gift Basket Raffle

School

Gift

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!

BRICK – Drum Point

PTA will be hosting a

Basket Raffle on March 11 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the VFW on Adamston Road.

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Impressive Benefits Of Exotic Jackfruit

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Jackfruit is a tropical fruit commonly found in South America, India, Africa, and Asia. It is a superfood based on its incredible vitamin and mineral profile consisting of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, riboflavin, magnesium, manganese, copper, calcium, and potassium as well as fiber, protein, and phytochemicals!

Jackfruit, like many other fruits, is a powerful antioxidant. It is used quite frequently due to its antimicrobial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic qualities.

The ‘meat’ of the fruit is eaten, but it can also be used topically. Extracts of jackfruit and jackfruit seeds are very high in vitamins C and A. Which reminds me, I have just created a brand new face cream using jackfruit extract. I call it a “sleep mask” and it’s essentially a night cream that heals your skin while you sleep. Gives new meaning to the term beauty sleep! More details are at my website.

Jackfruit extract -when applied to the skin- will improve skin tone and reduce wrinkle formation due to its antioxidant power and collagen formation. It’s been studied for crow’s feet wrinkle reduction. People have used jackfruit to improve scalp health too. When the fruit is applied directly to the scalp and allowed to soak in for about 30 minutes (then rinsed off) it seems to help scalp problems. I would recommend you do your applications prior to a shower because things get sticky!

People eat jackfruit because it is good and it’s sustainable. Some people say it tastes like something between pineapple and mango. When cooked as a vegan meat alternative, it takes on the flavor of the spices you use, just like tofu. Jackfruit contains antioxidants that support and boost immune system health and functioning. It also increases white blood cell production. The calcium and magnesium in Jackfruit are great for bone health and muscle cramps. Eating Jackfruit may help with aches and pains.

Skincare is my interest because I’ve used this extract in one of my formulas. It’s amazing to think you can transform your skin while you sleep but I believe you can. Jackfruit contains vitamin C and antioxidants, which are anti-aging. Vitamin C is vital for collagen production, which you already know helps firm the skin and keep it looking supple and elastic. Not only that but vitamins A and C also help to repair wounds and aid in sun damage and UVA/UVB rays. This means that inflammation in the skin is reduced, and wrinkles are less likely to form.

What is “Sleeping with Jack” sleep mask? This is my custom face cream formula and I’ve named it “Sleeping with Jack” because it contains jackfruit extract. You apply it at night before bedtime just like any other night cream. It smells fantastic and promotes nighttime repair and renewal to give you soft, wrinkle-free radiant skin. I have more information at suzycohen.com.

Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s Community

Court Orders Sanctions: Lakewood Banquet Hall To Pay $12,000 In Attorney Fees

On January 30, 2023, the Superior Court of New Jersey entered an order mandating that the Defendant in a contentious case pay attorney fees to the Plaintiff in the amount of $12,000. The case itself involves the roughly 40,000 square foot Lake Terrace banquet hall in Lakewood, New Jersey, which to date, has operated allegedly without the requisite land use approvals. Specifically, the Complaint alleged the property was approved as a school with an accessory assembly hall in 2005 and received a Certificate of Occupancy for same in 2007. Plaintiff alleges that the school has since ceased operation, and morphed into one of the largest banquet halls in Lakewood despite failing to obtain any further land use approvals. The fee award comes as a result of R.C. Shea and Associate’s successful Motion to Enforce the Court’s prior Order of February 3, 2021.

The Court, in its February 3, 2021 Order, imposed restrictions on the use of the Lake Terrace property. The restrictions included: limiting events to a maximum of 700 patrons, prohibiting outdoor events, and mandating that all parking for events be limited to Lake Terrace’s own parking lot.

Vincent J. DelRiccio, Esq.

As per the allegations, throughout the months of May and June of 2022, Lake Terrace held roughly eleven (11) events in violation of one or more provisions of the February 3, 2021 Order. The Plaintiff stated that during the largest of these events, held on June 9, 2020, chairs, speakers, and a wedding tent were erected on Plaintiff’s property by the organizers of a wedding taking place at Lake Terrace. Allegedly, when asked to vacate the premises, the wedding was moved into the street, completely blocking access to Plaintiff’s adjacent businesses.

R.C. Shea and Associates, on behalf of the Plaintiff, filed a Motion to Enforce the February 3, 2021 Order. The Court found that the Lake Terrace owner and operator had committed “repeated” and “bad faith” violations of the February 3, 2021 Court Order. The Lake Terrace Defendants were ordered to pay both $5,000 sanction to the Court, and $12,000 in attorney fees to Plaintiff’s counsel.

If you are facing disruptions to your business as a result of a neighbor’s potential misuse of their property, please give the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates a call for a consultation.

CLASSIFIEDS

Items For Sale Real Estate

Lakewood 55+ Covington Village - Newer construction, gorgeous 2BR/2BA Condo 1165 sqft, hdwd floors; CAC; Washer/Dryer; balcony, pool, gym/amenities; billiard/card/theater rooms; parking; $2,700/Taxes; $416/HOA; ONLY $239,000; 201 390-7377/Julianne_ matskin@yahoo.com (11)

Personals

Bus Trips

Philadelphia Flower Show - Bus

Trip Saturday, March 11. $88 includes admission and bus fare. Toms River departure. Call Bill, Morano Tours, 732-278-2059 (10)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEWEL-

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

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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)

Junk or Wrecked Cars and Trucks

Wanted - Cash paid. 732-6577251, Steve. Thanks. (10)

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. (13)

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)

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

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

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

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

Ca$h Paid For Old 45 RPM

Records. - R&B, doo wop, soul, early rock & roll, and rockabilly preferred. Call between 8AM and 8PM 909-938-4623. (3)

Perfect Beige LaZBoy - Reclining loveseat with console and cupholders. 18 months old. Paid $1,200, asking $600 OBO. You transport. 404-513-8897. (9)

Kitchen/Dining Room Table - Oak, 60" x 40", 8 chairs and leaf. Like new $400. 201-755-8933. (9)

Pets

MISSING - Black and tabby female cat lost at 733 Old Burnt Tavern Road, Brick. Call 732-840-1434. (10)

Help Wanted

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)

Part Time Bus Driver - 55+ Community in Brick looking for a CDL licensed driver for 22 passenger bus. 2-3 weekly morning trips to local stores & restaurants. For full details call 732-458-3400. (10)

Animal Lovers - Volunteers needed to help feed homeless cats 1 or 2 days weekly. Call 732-3672932, leave message. (8)

Male Health Aide - Needed occassionally for senior male assisting with daily routine. $25 hourly. Call 732-319-6358. (10)

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

Home Organizer Wanted - Empty packing boxes, organize closets etc. Must be personable, competent. $20 per hour. Time is flexible. References required. Victoria 508-680-6088. (10)

Seeking Responsible Individual With Good Phone Skills - Experience In Hvac &

Services

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

ESTATE CLEANOUTSProperties, Houses, Attics, Garages, Sheds, Storage Units, ect. Handyman Disposal provided 901a Dumpster Service LLC. Licensed, Insured, call or text Jim 609-335-0330. (27)

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)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums from a NJ State Certified Teacher of instrumental music, in your home! Call 732-350-4427 for more information. (11)

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)

A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267-475-7962. (10)

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)

Services Services Services

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

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)

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)

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

A+CLEANING SERVICE - Homes, Offices, Air BNB, Shopping, Thorough, Reliable, References, Senior Villages, Free Estimates. Call Barbara 732-948-4730. (8)

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)

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)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under:

2. Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

Services

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

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 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000. NO JOB TOO SMALL! (20)

Assembly Man I’ll Put Anything Together - At your home plus minor handyman service. 40 year certified mechanic. Free estimates. Flexible schedule. 973-459-8831. (13)

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)

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)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19)

You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office. Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

Calculate Price As Follows:

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

2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $

*In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad must run over the requested weeks.

Total = $

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS info. below:

Credit Card# Exp.

Cardholder Signature:

Print Name:

5. MAIL TO : PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388. Or visit jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

6. PHONE NUMBER (THIS IS REQUIRED)

Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (Ads will run the Saturday of that week)

If you have any questions, please call Ali at 732-657-7344 ext. 203.

Male 70s - Partially homebound looking for woman for companionship. I am onest, of good character and trustworthy. 732-930-6183. (10)

God Bless America! The American Flag flies over the Barnegat Bay in Long Beach Island. This photo was taken by Jo Lucas. It’s an amazing shot. Whether you are a

pro or someone with a smartphone, we want your pix for our Photo of the Week! Email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you could win a prize!

More NJ Bed Bath & Beyond Stores Set To Close

By Alyssa Riccardi

NEW JERSEY – Bed Bath & Beyond has announced plans to close more of its stores across the state, including its Manahawkin location.

The New Jersey-based home goods retailer began closing locations over the past couple of years, closing up to 200 stores nationwide due to financial struggles.

The company has confirmed the following New Jersey stores will be closing: Elizabeth, Manahawkin,

Marlton, Paramus, Watchung, North Brunswick, Ramsey, Flemington, Matawan, Bridgewater, Mays Landing, Mt. Laurel, and Kinnelon. In Ocean County, the previous Toms River store located on Hooper Avenue closed in October 2020. At the time the company stated how COVID-19 affected the business and its sales. Currently, the Brick Township location is still open on Chambers Bridge Road, with no announcements of closing in the future.

Men’s Bible Study

BRICK – Meet the Brotherhood Ministry of New Beginnings Church on Tuesday mornings for an in-depth Bible study with Pastor Joe and the guys from NBC! Invite

friends or coworkers to come out with you. They start promptly at 7 a.m. and end at 8 a.m. The next Bible study will be on February 21.

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword P uzzle

40 Chest of drawers

41 Valiant

42 Sound like a pig

43 Press coverage

44 *Folds?

46 Must-haves

48 Shares again, on Twitter

49 Energy Star certifying org.

50 Tammy Duckworth’s title, briefly

51 “Oh, admit defeat already!,” and advice that was followed to form the answers to the starred clues

57 Shoyu __: noodle dish

60 Fallon’s predecessor

61 Tire swing holder

62 Peabody, e.g.

63 Shoots the breeze

64 Continent with 11 time zones

65 Insurance spokeslizard

66 Root word?

67 “To Kill a Mockingbird” star

Down

1 Pre-release software version

2 Asgard god

3 Leaf blower

4 Buffalo

5 Intro to physics?

6 Fringe benefit

7 Frozen drink

8 Nurture

9 “Schitt’s Creek” co-creator 10 “__ we done here?” 11 Lancelot or Mix-aLot 12 Vital 15 Really stinky 21 Unrealistically common affliction in soap

(c)2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SolutionS

27 Baby birds?

28 Sagittarius symbol

29 Mum

30 Stockpiles

31 Beast of burden in many fables

32 Support for a proposal?

33 Hi-__ graphics

36 Tres __ cake: dairysoaked dessert

39 Sea plea, briefly 40 Took care of 42 Really hot

45 In a fitting way

47 Set up

50 Smidge

51 Weightlifting move

52 Reverse

53 “Eso Beso” singer

54 Sprinkler attachment

55 “Awesome, dude!”

56 Pipe problem

57 Tattered cloth

58 Blow away

59 Big name in laptops and lipstick

Crossword Puzzle S

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of feb 18 - feb 24

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You might feel a real yearning to be pampered and to look forward to enjoyable pastimes and social activities. Set aside time for some self-care. Later, you may be in the mood to cuddle up with someone who tickles your fancy.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You could feel you are living out a fantasy if a romantic partner or a loved one indicates that you are especially attractive. Never succumb to an urge to act on your worst instincts; nip these in the bud as the week unfolds.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Think on your feet. You might be quicker on the uptake than usual for the next few days. Since you can work rapidly and accurately, this may be a good time to take the lead on projects that need attention to detail.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : Once a clear picture is in your mind, you can enthusiastically work toward manifesting it in the real world. You’ll eventually get there if you stay with it, even if you take baby steps. Start the week off with an energetic attitude.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Turn ordinary concepts into something more valuable. This is a week when you may find a new interest or study that can become your personal philosopher’s stone. Don’t let a past problem make you reluctant to try something new.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): It is a good idea to read the fine print and analyze things before you make a financial commitment. You may be too interested in getting a good deal and ignore basic problems. Quick thinking is a great asset on any job.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Just wishing upon a star is seldom enough. You may be wrapped up in romantic fantasies now, but later in the week, you might find the real thing. Peer pressure may persuade you to alter or adjust your business habits.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Romantic feelings may arise, but you must remain realistic. Sometimes people appear more talented and honest than they are. You could be hesitant about giving a family member another chance at making amends.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) : Weigh your choices. Keep on track by listening to your heart and understanding the difference between right and wrong. Your week will go better if you concentrate on fulfilling your promises and commitments.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may look for ways to whittle down the demands on your wallet in the upcoming week. Pay off some debts and cash in any perks from your credit cards. A loved one might inspire you to be more creative.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Life goes on. Ponder recent events and put them into proper perspective so you can move forward. Follow the rules even if other people want you to bend them. Investing in the best quality can give longer-lasting satisfaction.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Focus on learning to love yourself unconditionally while holding yourself accountable. Today could mark the start of several weeks when you can display creativity and actively make your ideals a reality.

By America’s Test Kitchen

Making these candied jalapeños is as easy as heating the sliced fresh chiles in a seasoned simple syrup and then letting them cool. Yet for such a seemingly basic recipe with so few ingredients and steps, the end product is extraordinarily versatile. The key to their versatility (and to the success of this recipe) proved to be in the balance of flavors and textures.

Ample sweetness — from 3/4 cup of sugar — helped keep the potent heat of the chiles in check. Fruity, tart cider vinegar complemented the vegetal flavor of the fresh chiles and balanced the sugar’s sweetness, and a generous amount of salt accentuated all the flavors. Whole coriander seeds contributed vibrant pops of complexity and a welcome textural contrast. Finally, using both red and green jalapeños not only provided a pretty contrast between emerald green and ruby red but also ensured a balanced, assertive level of heat, since the ripened red variety tends to be spicier than the green.

CANDIED JALAPEÑOS

Serves 12; makes about 1 cup

4 green jalapeño chiles, stemmed and sliced ¼ inch thick (about 1 cup)

4 red jalapeño chiles, stemmed and sliced ¼ inch thick (about 1 cup)

3/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup cider vinegar

1/4 cup water

2 teaspoons table salt

1 teaspoon coriander seeds

1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)

1. Combine all ingredients (including turmeric, if using) in a small saucepan and bring to boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until jalapeños just soften, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely, about 1 hour.

2. Using a fork or tongs, transfer jalapeños to an 8-ounce jar. Pour syrup over jalapeños to fill the jar, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Affix jar lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. (Candied jalapeños can be refrigerated for up to one month.)

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YOU’LL WANT THESE JEWELS OF SWEET HEAT ON EVERYTHING YOU EAT