2023-03-04 - The Brick Times

BRICK The

Protesters Ask For Answers To Whale Deaths

Ducey Bids

Farewell, Resigns As Brick Mayor

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – John Du -

cey spent his last day leading the township on February 27.

The possibility of his departure was first publicized after Ducey confirmed his nomination by Governor Phil Murphy to serve as a Superior Court judge. On February 16, Ducey received an endorsement from the state

Senate Judiciary Committee, kickstarting the process to his approved judgeship. Ducey will be seated in Toms River, replacing Judge Michael T. Collins.

“I am humbled and honored to be considered for such an important position,” Ducey said.

Ducey was joined by family, friends,

(Mayor - See Page 5)

New Police Chief Sets Goals

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN COUNTY

– “Save the Whales” has been a slogan since at least the 1970s, and now in 2023 it’s still being used by people

concerned that offshore wind projects are leading to the deaths of these animals.

There have been several dead whales that have washed up

on the shore in recent weeks, which makes animal lovers wonder if the number of whale deaths is actually higher. Could there be other dead whales that didn’t

wash up? They also have been asking, if something is killing these large, strong animals, what is happening to the rest of the (Whale - See Page 8)

“Personal Dogs” Motion Left Undecided In Animal Hoarding Case

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – Four dogs will remain in the shelter as a decision has not been made whether the two women charged in an animal hoarding case can legally have their “personal dogs” back.

Aimee J. Lonczak, 49, and Michele Nycz, 58, were

charged with animal cruelty and child endangerment in December after authorities discovered nearly 180 animals in cages in a home and vehicle on Arrowhead Park Drive in Brick Township. Cats and dogs were found in cages, standing in their own feces (Dogs - See Page 5)

BRICK - Meet the township’s new Police Chief, David Forrester, who is a 27-year veteran of the police department here.

Chief Forrester, 50, succeeds Chief James Riccio, who retired on January 31 after serving as head of the department for seven years.

Born in Elizabeth to the son of an Elizabeth police officer - who eventually became one of the first five police officers in Brick in 1972 - Chief Forrester was mostly raised here.

Law enforcement runs in the family with his older brother, a 30-year veteran of the State Police, now a captain,

and a younger brother who serves as captain in the Brick Police Department.

The married father of three said being named chief “is very exciting for me, my family and my co-workers,” from his new office recently.

Asked if he’d always wanted to be the police chief, he said yes, but he never wanted to skip over any of the steps involved and wanted to achieve proficiency first as a police officer, detective, sergeant and captain.

Chief Forrester served the last few years as captain in the detective bureau under the Investigations and Street Crimes unit, and said he knew that leading (Police - See Page 4)

─Photo by Austin Downs

Dozens of protesters called for a halt to building the windmills off the coast until the source of whale deaths could be learned.

─Photo by Alyssa Riccardi Aimee J. Lonczak and Michele Nycz appeared in court asking for their own dogs to be returned to them.

Police:

Continued From Page 1

the department was within reach. He said he wants to continue with the former chief’s priorities of working with the community.

“I do believe in the importance of community and getting their help and assistance in solving crimes…they’re out there, they’re the ones seeing it, they need to report it, and working together, we need trust,” he said. “We need to build the trust between the Police Department and the community, and Chief Riccio definitely did a great job in starting those initiatives.”

Chief Forrester said he is going to con -

tinue with the department’s three-pronged approach for dealing with drug abusers (education, prevention and enforcement) and wants to look into some new diversionary programs - hopefully by the end of the year.

“That’s where we get low-level offenders - possibly people that have addiction, or have mental or behavioral problems or issues - help, instead of waiting for something to happen,” he said. “Maybe they don’t need to be in the criminal justice system. They need help and resources elsewhere.”

The department is working with Stafford Township Police Department/Ocean Mental Health Services On P.O.I.N.T. (Proactive Outreach In Needs and Treatment) program that provides on-site social

workers to aid police officers when they’re dealing with someone who has mental or behavioral health issues.

“We do have that resource now, and we’re looking to go even further and make that program bigger,” he said.

Asked what his goals are as the new police chief, Forrester said it is always to protect life and the community and to keep the community and to make the community feel safe.

“I want the community to know that we are here to help them; we want to continue to educate them and help us with crime prevention and to help themselves from being a victim, especially with a lot of

the fraud that we have going on with the elderly people,” he said.

Another of his goals is to keep the 141 police officers and all the department’s employees healthy.

“If we don’t have a happy and healthy workforce, it’s tough for them to go out and help others if they need help themselves,” the chief said.

As chief, he said he wants to continue to guide the department down the same path as Chief Riccio, stay on top of crime trends and make sure the officers are getting the resources and tools they need.

“It’s a very challenging and rewarding position, and I love it,” he said.

─Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn Police Chief David Forrester is heading the department after 27 years experience.

Dogs:

Continued From Page 1

and urine. Officials deemed these living conditions uninhabitable and the home was condemned by Brick Township code enforcement.

In addition, Lonczak’s 16-year-old daughter was living in the home with the 180 animals.

On December 8, the two women were released following a detention hearing. The judge subsequently set several rules prior to their release, which includes mandatory check-ins

Mayor:

Continued From Page 1

and township employees on February 27 outside of town hall to give a tearyeyed speech on his final day in office.

Ducey thanked the staff at town hall for supporting the town and being there for residents no matter what their need was.

“If you want something done, you come here to town hall to get it done. Doesn’t matter what department, you get treated with respect and perfect customer service,” Ducey said. “It just means so much that you were there, and you’ll still be there in the future, but it makes my life so much easier

with the court as well as no contact with Lonczak’s daughter and no contact with the animals. At the time, they were also not permitted to return to their home.

Previously, the women filed motions to have their personal dogs returned to them. They claimed that when the animals were seized by authorities, seven of the dogs personally belonged to them and wanted them released back into their care.

At that time, state representative Assistant Prosecutor Alexander Becker said that all the dogs were already surrendered. Dogs and cats that were

as mayor when you have such great employees.”

Ducey choked up while crediting Township Administrator Joanne Bergin for her service throughout the years.

“Without you, I definitely wouldn’t have any success let alone getting as much done as we did over our nine years together. Thank you so much… you’ll always be a close friend, more than just a coworker,” Ducey said.

“Hopefully my love for Brick Township has shown through for the past 12 years. I loved every minute of being able to serve you as mayor of the greatest town in New Jersey. Thank you to the voters for giving me the opportunity to be the mayor of this

found in the home are currently being set up for adoption or measures are being taken to find their original owners.

At their most recent appearance, the two women returned to court for a ruling on their personal dogs. Lonczak claimed five dogs while Nycz calimed two as personal pets.

It was agreed that Nycz’s two dogs are officially surrendered to the state and will be put up for adoption. As for Lonczak, four of the dogs will remain in the shelter with the decision pending until the March 14 court hearing Becker confirmed that one of the dogs was never under custody of the

great town and to try to get things done, and always do it every single day, in the right way. All the residents of Brick, whether you’re a voter or not, we always did what we thought was right,” Ducey said.

“It’s about thinking about families, thinking about people and thinking about how you can help people that’s what I always wanted to do, and hopefully that came through…Brick Township will be in fine shape from here. I’m going to miss it, I’m going to miss everything about it,” Ducey added.

At the end of his speech, Ducey was presented with the key to the city by Councilwoman Lisa Crate.

Bergin will serve as acting mayor for one day while the governing body

state, so this decision involves the remaining four dogs.

After the hearing several members of the community, who came out to advocate for the fate of these dogs, did not enjoy the outcome. Many were hurt that a final ruling was not made, and felt that the defendants to not deserve any more time on the decision

“Why should these poor dogs remain in the shelter? They need to be adopted. The right decision needs to be made,” one resident said.

Another said, “I guess two free dogs is better than nothing. But we’re stilling fighting for the rest.”

chooses a candidate to fill the mayor’s position during Tuesday’s municipal meeting. The role will be filled through 2023 and a special election will be held in November so voters can appoint a candidate to fill the remainder of the term, ending in 2025.

Dear Pharmacist

See Page 15 Page 18

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

When The Media Descended On Central Regional

This editorial might come off as strange since I’m the news editor of this publication. I read every single word in all seven newspapers we publish every week. Part of my job is to make sure that our stories are held to a certain standard.

Without naming names, due to professional courtesy, almost all of the stories I read about the Adriana Kuch tragedy had glaring errors, obvious bias, and even a lack of basic knowledge of how the world works.

I’m not going to use this platform to defend or condemn any member of the public or the school district. This is all going to be an insider’s look at how things went wrong in the media coverage.

If it bleeds, it leads: This is an unfortunate part of journalism. It’s a mantra you learn early in your

Jackson Residents Deserve Better

The open public meetings act in NJ was designed to create public access to the meetings of large government bodies at the state and local levels. NJSA10:4-6et seq section “Electronic notice requires governments to provide advance notice available to the public via electronic transmission of at least 48 hours, giving the time, date, location and to the

education for this field. A bus crash is going to be on the front page, but a story about a kid doing something nice might be page 3.

That’s why so many reporters descended on Berkeley. Like sharks, they smelled blood in the water. This kind of ambulance chasing gives the rest of us a bad name. These reporters wouldn’t be able to find Berkeley on a map. And they won’t come back ever again, unless something bad happens, of course.

They might say they’re doing a good thing by shining a light on wrongdoing. But they’re not going to stay around for what happens next. They’ll have moved on to the next tragedy by then. For them, and the rest of their readers, Berkeley will be the place where this horrible thing happened and nothing more.

Bias: Most of the writers had already made their minds up by the time they arrived on

extent known, the Agenda of any regular, special or rescheduled meeting which notice shall accurately state whether formal action may or may not be taken at such meeting.”

Jackson Township Council President Marty Flemming has been posting amending agendas well within the minimum 48 hour notice requirement. We have discovered that over half of the Jackson Council meetings over the last 2+ years have

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.

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

scene. In print, you can tell by their choice of words. On TV, you can tell by their tone of voice. They weren’t here to inform the public, they were here to condemn and play hero.

We’re human. We can’t turn our emotions off, especially about a very emotional topic. But we’re also supposed to step back from the issue and challenge our own convictions.

There was a lot of information going around, but these reporters selected which parts fit their narrative. They edited video interviews to make some people seem good and some people seem bad.

In reality, no one is a hero or a villain – not in this situation or in any other.

Being naive: I feel like a lot of these reporters need to get out of the newsroom and live life. They had no idea how the world really works. They don’t know what really happens in a

school - in every school across America. Do they think online bullying is new? Do they think that violence doesn’t happen in every high school, every week of the year?

The reporters repeated rumors on Facebook assuming they were true. How can someone trained in the media have a complete lack of media literacy? There was a tornado of accusations – about the school, the family, the kids involved –and some of the reporters just took them as fact.

When the news of this tragedy first hit, the district stayed silent because it involved kids and an active investigation. Reporters said they were hiding things. Then, the superintendent tells his version of everything (which was the wrong thing to do), and reporters blasted him for sharing information about kids and an active investigation. You can’t have it both ways.

During the press conference,

Letters To The Editor

violated the 48 hour notice requirement. The majority of the amended agenda violations were posted the day of the Council meeting with some posted days after. This certainly makes it impossible for residents to determine what is going to be voted on prior to and during Council meetings.

a one-month timespan. This should not come as a surprise to us who live in New Jersey. I have lived in NJ 70 years. Living in Brick these past 50 years have shown me what chemical pollution has done to our planet Earth.

the reporters were literally shouting “what are you hiding?!” They know that the official isn’t going to suddenly open up. They shouted that for show. They were just playing up for their own cameras.

Preying on kids: The teens being interviewed were literally children. I watched as they were being paraded around, cameras shoved in their faces, told they were important, and then discarded.

One of the few rules these reporters actually managed to follow was to get names for the children speaking. This is a case that they shouldn’t have. A 14-year-old talking about cutting themselves because they’ve been bullied should not have their name in the paper for everyone to see. What do you think is going to happen to these kids when their bullies read this? Or when a future employer Googles their name? I admire these kids’ bravery, and society shouldn’t

Donate To

The NRA

In these times, when our freedoms are being taken from us right and left, it is important to support one of the only organizations that is fighting for us.

condemn mental illness, but that’s what’s going to happen.

Lack of compassion : Ultimately, all of these criticisms come back to one point: compassion. This was a horrible situation – that’s one thing everyone agrees on. However, when you craft a story, you have to have a goal in mind. What good will come of it?

Most of the articles I read didn’t care about the people involved. You could tell by the way they played up the violence of it. They loved the salacious details. They just wanted the clicks.

The reporters can say that they did all these things because they care about the children, but in reality they were just preying on a bad situation and making it worse.

Chris Lundy News Editor

New York Attorney General Letitia James filed the lawsuit against them alleging “financial misconduct” that added up to a loss of more than $64 million over a three-year period.

The weekly deadline is 5 p.m.

Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily 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.

This issue was ignored when brought up at the December Council meeting and again at the February 14th council meeting. Council President Marty Flemming’s response “they will take it into consideration” is not good enough. Each violation could be subject to a $100 fine.

Raymond Cattonar Jackson

Water Pollution Is Killing The Whales

I am responding to your article in the Brick Times about the … dead whales that have washed up on the New YorkNew Jersey coastline within

One-third of our oceans are polluted and one-third of our land is polluted. It doesn’t make any difference if you live in New Jersey or California or Maine or Florida. All of our land on this planet is polluted.

Scientists have been telling us decades now that man is destroying himself by polluting the very air we breathe, causing diseases and sickness to ourselves and our families.

We must stop this offshore wind development project, such as wind turbines that Governor Murphy wants to build. This does not help the environment. This causes harm to the endangered whales and the other sea creatures.

Rudy Ziadie Brick

That’s why they want to take down the National Rifle Association. They don’t want us to have our freedoms.

The attorney general in New York is suing them. They are spreading a story that (the NRA) is crooked. They want to shut them down!

The Democrats are claiming the NRA did fraud, giving money to family members instead of using it for legislation, and other stuff. Well, you know what they say – it takes one to know one!

The NRA is under attack from the outside because the left knows that it’s strong. That’s why you should donate to the NRA. Your money will go toward helping 2nd Amendment policies. It will make sure pro-2A senators and congressmen are in office making decisions for us!

Of courses this is a political attack. The NRA said it was a “baseless premeditated attack on our organization and the Second Amendment freedoms it fights to defend... we not only will not shrink from this fight – we will confront it and prevail.”

The lawsuit tried to dissolve the NRA but luckily it was blocked this time. They’ll be back again and they’ll keep trying to dissolve it time and time again.

NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre has said that the NRA’s legal troubles have cost the organization $100 million.

That’s why we need to donate to the NRA in order to keep them in the fight for us. We need to give them the strength and money to fight for us.

Steve Alben Manchester

Legislators Introduce Toll Relief Program Legislation

TRENTON - In an effort to provide some financial relief for commuters, Senator Jim Holzapfel and Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and John Catalano (all R-10th) have introduced S-3552/A-5205 to appropriate $250 million to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and South Jersey Transportation Authority in the form of a toll relief program.

“Qualifying commuters have a unique opportunity to save big when they travel on toll roads across the state,” Senator Holzapfel stated. “Ocean County commuters make up a majority of the cars on our major highways each day and this legislation will make the average cost of the daily commute more affordable.”

This bill requires the New Jersey Turnpike

For E-ZPass Commuters

Authority and the South Jersey Transportation Authority to each create a toll relief program to provide a qualifying account that records 35 or more qualifying transactions per electronic toll collection system (E-ZPass) transponder for the calendar month with an account credit equal to 50 percent of the amount paid in that calendar month for the qualifying transactions per transponder.

“Many of our residents who travel along the Garden State Parkway rack up thousands of dollars each year on tolls,” added Assemblyman McGuckin. “Combine this with rising gas prices and inflation and commuting to work is a financial burden for many families. It only takes 35 or more E-ZPass transactions a month to qualify

Senators Oppose GOP Plan For 30% Sales Tax

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), joined a group of Democratic colleagues in introducing a Senate resolution opposing the plan led by Congressional Republicans to impose a nationwide sales tax on all goods and services, which would increase prices for hardworking families by 30 percent. Instead of this misguided tax increase, the resolution calls for supporting a tax cut that will help working families and grow the middle class while opposing cuts to Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid, or cuts to pay or benefits for servicemembers, veterans, or law enforcement.

“As New Jerseyans - and Americans all over the nation - are struggling to make ends meet while the economic recovery continues to take hold, the last thing we need is to create an additional tax burden that will further raise costs and squeeze the pocketbooks of hard-working families,” said Sen. Menendez. “This Senate resolution sends a clear message that Senate Democrats from all over the country are standing united in rejecting the misguided approach

by House Republicans. Any legislation that cuts vital programs like Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security or raises taxes to the middle class is dead on arrival in the Senate.”

The Senators’ resolution opposes the House Republican proposal to impose a 30 percent sales tax on all goods and services, which would raise prices for hardworking families and seniors. The resolution also supports the passage of a responsible tax cut to benefit hardworking families and grow the middle class, while ensuring that the ultra-wealthy and billion-dollar corporations pay their fair share.

Alongside Sen. Menendez in cosponsoring the resolution are Sens. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.).

NEED

for this program and that’s an easy number to hit for most of our Ocean County commuters.”

The bill appropriates $250 million to the NJTA and $250 million to the SJTA from the General Fund to support the provision of account credits issued under the toll relief programs.

“This is an opportunity for the state to give back to its loyal commuters and thank them for their continued support of E-ZPass,” Assemblyman Catalano said. “The NJTA and SJTA should be proud to offer this cost savings for the thousands of New Jersey residents who rely on our major highways every day to make a living.”

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Whale:

Continued From Page 1

creatures deep in the ocean?

Leslie Mangold, a retired Central Regional High School teacher, spoke with Trisha DeVoe, a naturalist on the Miss Belmar Whale Watching boat, to see what they can put together to spark awareness. Word spread through social

media and resulted in a huge crowd on the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk.

“We know something’s wrong. We don’t know what it is. We need to be asking questions,” DeVoe said.

It wasn’t just these two women who helped bring attention to it. That was Valentine, a whale that got her name because she washed up in Manasquan on February 13, DeVoe said.

The National Oceanic and Atmospher-

ic Association said this whale’s death might have been caused by getting hit by a boat. NOAA has said that there’s no direct link to the wind turbines being built off New Jersey’s shore. As climate changes, animals move to places where they can survive better. In this case, the whales’ prey has moved closer to shore, which means that the whales will follow them, and be closer to humans. They said 40% of

the whales have had evidence of boat strikes or entanglement.

DeVoe and other concerned citizens spoke, as did Cindy Zipf of Clean Ocean Action, Bonnie Brady of the Center for Sustainable Fisheries, Point Beach Mayor Paul Kanitra, Seaside Park Mayor John Peterson, and Congressmen Jefferson Van Drew (R-2 nd ) and Chris Smith (R-4 th).

The whale population has been growing, and the waters are more clean than they’ve been, DeVoe said. “How can we go backwards now?”

Recently, a letter was signed by 30 mayors all along the coast calling for an immediate moratorium on all offshore wind activity pending a thorough investigation by federal and state authorities. The officials represent the communities of Atlantic Highlands, Avon by the Sea, Barnegat Light, Bay Head, Beach Haven, Berkley, Brick, Brielle, Brigantine, Deal, Harvey Cedars, Linwood, Little Egg Harbor, Long Beach Township, Mantoloking, Margate City, North Wildwood, Ocean City, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach, Sea Girt, Seaside Park, Ship Bottom, Spring Lake, Stafford, Stone Harbor, Toms River, Ventnor City, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest.

According to the letter, they are concerned that the acoustic surveys used in the windmill process could damage their senses which would hurt their feeding and migration.

The environmentalist have strange bedfellows in conservative politicians, at least with this topic. Some right wing commentators have posted conspiracy theories that the scientific community is covering up whale deaths to advance windmills. This has led to some marine mammal groups receiving threats, according to a Time article published the day before Valentine’s Day.

Happy Hour Networking

BRICK – Join the Brick Chamber of Commerce for their networking mixer on March 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at TGI Fridays in Brick.

Meet up with local business professionals and make lasting connections through networking. Sponsored by Carpet Castle. Cost is $15 for members, $25 for guests. Includes light fare and one glass of wine or beer. Register now at BrickChamber.com.

Anthony Colucci Named To Dean’s List

BRICK – The University of Hartford is pleased to announce Anthony Colucci of Brick has been named to the Dean’s List for Fall 2022.

Local Pets Available For Adoption

BRICK – Meet Sal, a sweet and affectionate blind cat who is searching for his forever home. Despite his visual impairment, Sal is a confident and adventurous cat who loves to explore and play. He has a gentle and loving personality, and he enjoys cuddling up with his human companions for naps and snuggles. They are not sure if Sal was born blind, but he has adapted to his disability and navigates his surroundings with ease. He has a keen sense of smell and hearing, and he is able to find his way around using these senses. Sal is also litter-box trained and enjoys using a scratching post to keep his claws in good condition.

Sal is 9-years-old and would do best in a quiet home with a patient and understanding owner

who is willing to provide him with the love and care he deserves. He may need some extra guidance when it comes to navigating new surroundings, but with a little patience and support, he will quickly become comfortable in his new environment.

If you’re looking for a furry companion who will shower you with love and affection, Sal might just be the perfect cat for you. Don’t let his blindness hold you back from giving him a chance – he has so much love to give, and he’s waiting for the right person to share it with.

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.

Trip To Amish Farmlands

BRICK – The Friends of the Brick Library are sponsoring a bus trip to Lancaster Amish Country on May 10. Cost is $105 per person and includes transportation and gratuities. • Amish Farmland tour with local guide. • A visit to the scenic area of one the famous farm areas in the country.

• Smorgasbord at Shady Maple.

• Time to shop at different locations including Kitchen Kettle Village.

Bus leaves Target in Brick at 8:30 a.m. and returns to the same place. To make a reservation call 732-673-4451.

─Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center

Brick Cadets Take On CPR Training

BRICK – Thank you to Brick Township EMS Supervisor, Anthony Botts, for taking the time to teach the Brick Township Cadets CPR training.

The Cadets now have the knowledge to do CPR if an emergency arises. Knowing how to do CPR can mean the difference between life and death.

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.

─Photo courtesy Brick Police

Police Officer Reads To Students

BRICK – Officer Bryan Murphy visited Mrs. Disturco’s class in Drum Point School to spend some time reading and promoting healthy activities with the kids.

Students Watch K9 Demos

BRICK – Brick DARE graduates had a special treat and got to see K9 demonstrations from the Brick Township Police K9 officers and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. The K9s got to practice with the Dare Instructors, Ptl. Murphy and Ptl.

-Photo courtesy Brick Police Flynn.

A special thanks to the following officers: Ptl. Turrin and K9 Vader, Ptl. Pacyna and K9 Diesel, Ptl. LaPoint and K9 Rebel, Sheriff’s Officer Casullo and K9 Fiona, Sheriff’s Officer Braen and K9 Owen.

─Photo courtesy Brick Police

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 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 signifi-

cantly 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! 732-8183610 (Toms River & Whiting) or 609-9788946 (Manahawkin).

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

Take Thyroid Medicine? Don’t Do These 5 Things!

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The treatment of thyroid disease has a long and rich history that spans a century. Natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) medicine is made from the thyroid glands of pigs, termed porcine. It was first developed in the late 1800s which was a good thing because, at the time, doctors were transplanting thyroid glands from animals into humans via surgery, which in and of itself was dangerous!

The advent of pills - even those extracted from pig glands - grew in popularity for good reason until the 1950s when synthetic (T4 drugs) became available.

Today, both synthetic thyroid hormones and natural NDT drugs remain popular today, however, I have 5 important warnings for you if you take any type of thyroid medication. They are as follows:

1. Don’t Drink Coffee with Your Medicine. Coffee contains compounds called tannins that can interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormone in the gut. The tannins bind to the medication like metabolic ‘glue’ and prevent it from being absorbed properly so it doesn’t do its job or obtain proper blood levels. If you take thyroid medication, wait at least 60 minutes after taking your medication before drinking coffee.

2. Don’t Take Calcium Supplements with Your Medicine. Calcium can interfere with the absorption of all thyroid medications whether they are T4 drugs like Synthroid® or NDT drugs like Armour®. If you need to take calcium supplements for other health reasons like a parathyroid condition, osteoporosis, or hypocalcemia, take your medication 3 to 4 hours after

your medicine.

3. Don’t Eat Yogurt with Your Thyroid Medicine. Just like calcium supplements, eating calcium-rich foods right after you take your thyroid medication will interfere with absorption. So don’t take your pill and then eat a bowl of yogurt, a bowl of cereal, or drink a glass of milk! Wait about 3 - 4 hours after you take your medication.

4. Don’t Drink Green Juice with Your Medicine. Some people like to take their thyroid medication, then drink a green juice smoothie. This is almost always going to be a problem! Some examples of goitrogenic foods to eat in moderation include cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as well as soy products. Consuming goitrogens in moderation is fine, but don’t overdo it. Goitrogens may contribute to hypothyroidism as well as autoimmune Hashimoto’s flare-ups. This, and much more, is discussed in my book called Thyroid Healthy available on Amazon.

5. Don’t Take Thyroid Medication at Night. Thyroid medication is stimulating. This means that it will speed up your metabolism, burn fat, increase energy levels, and improve hair and nail growth. The best time to take thyroid medication is in the morning when energy is welcome. Take it on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating.

If this topic interests you, I have a longer version of this article posted at my website, as well as some free thyroid ebooks and magazines which I can send as a gift for you to download. To learn more or receive those, visit my website, suzycohen.com.

INC.

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

How To Fight A Charge For A Prescription Drug DUI

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

Most people know that DUI stands for “Driving Under the Influence,” however, many people don’t realize that you can still be convicted of a DUI while being under the influence of legally prescribed drugs. This misperception comes from the fact that many people believe that a DUI is only based on a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). This is actually not true. In order to receive a DUI charge, the driver must be both: (1) operating/driving a vehicle; and (2) intoxicated or “under the influence.”

According to NJ law, “under the influence” applies to more than alcohol or illegal drugs; it is also applicable to any substance that can cause impairment in a driver, including prescribed or over-the-counter medications. These requirements lead to two different types of DUI charges: “per se” and “impairment.”

Per Se is a Latin term meaning “in itself” or “by itself.” Consequently, a per se violation of law means that the act itself is inherently illegal, without requiring proof of any surrounding circumstances. Thus, a per se DUI occurs if a driver’s BAC is .08% or higher, without needing any further evidence or proof of impairment.

When an individual has no BAC reading, the police must determine whether the driver is mentally and/or physically impaired. In order to do so, the police will typically request that a driver perform a field sobriety test (FST). The FST is designed to assess balance, coordination, and the ability of the driver to divide his attention to more than one task.

Robert C. Shea Esq.

The FST encompasses three (or more) separate tests that include the horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN), the walk-and-turn, and the one-leg stand test. Over the course of time, these tests have been scientifically proven to validate the impairment of individuals “under the influence” of alcohol or drugs.

However, the FST does not distinguish between whether a driver is under the influence of illegal drugs or prescription medications. The FST simply determines whether you are mentally and/or physically impaired, and the source of the impairment is not taken into consideration. Therefore, even if the drug/ medication you are legally prescribed has resulted in your impairment, you could still be charged with a DUI.

Defenses to impairment DUI charges normally focus on providing innocuous explanations for observations the arresting officer attributed to intoxication. For example, providing evidence of physical disabilities to explain poor FST performance. Or, an appearance of intoxication because of nervousness or mental distress. These defenses, and others, considerably help in the plea-bargaining process, and can be considered mitigating circumstance justifying lenient penalties.

If you, or a loved one, are currently suffering through such a situation, the Law Office of R. C. Shea & Associates can provide the legal knowledge and experience required to defend you against such DUI charges, and seek the outcome that has the least adverse impact on your life.

Sport Saturday Offered For Children Ages 9 To 12

BRICK – The Brick Municipal Alliance Coalition (BMAC) is hosting the Sports Saturdays program for township youth ages 9 to 12. The program will be held on Saturdays from March 18 through June 17 at the Civic Plaza, 270 Chambers Bridge Road. There are two 90-minute sessions every Saturday - one at 8:30 a.m. and a second at 10:30 a.m. Sports Saturday connects drug use prevention with enhancement of fitness

levels, sports training, food nutrition, development of leadership qualities, problem solving and other pro-social behaviors.

Participation in Sports Saturday is free. Each Saturday is a stand-alone session; you do not have to register for every Saturday. You can register for either or both sessions each Saturday. For more information, email bwhite@bricktownship.net.

Real Estate

Lakewood 55+ Covington VillageNewer 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; pet friendly, close to beaches, shopping and all major highways; 201 390-7377/Julianne_matskin@yahoo.com (15)

Estate Sale

ESTATE/GARAGE SALE - Toms River, 230 Cabrillo Blvd. 08757, HC West. Dir: 37 to Bimini. LR, DR, BR furniture, antiques, vintage items, collectibles, clocks, lamps, radios, cameras, china, crystal, glassware, toys, Disney, books, CD’s, DVD’s, VHS, tools, holiday. Too much to list. Cash Only Sat. 3/11/23 9-4. Sun. 3/12/23 9-2. (13)

Super Clean, Beautiful - Greenbriar Blue Moon Estate Sale, Friday, March 17 & 18 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1806 Sweetbay. 609-338-2532. A fun treasure hunt awaits! (12)

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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items Wanted

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)

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 Custodian/Maintenance for 55+ community - MondayFriday mornings 8 a.m.-noon. Experience as custodian or in a similar role preferred. Familiar with basic handyman practices. Attention to detail and conscientiousness. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. Follow written work orders as directed. Apply in confidence to Tom 732-552-3634. (12)

Part Time Position, Whiting AreaExcellent computer and social media skills required please be dependable and committed 609-284-3142. (12)

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

Full time Administrative Assistant - Wanted for Adult Community in Whiting. Hours 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon-Fri. No benefits offered. Must be proficient in Word and Excel. Knowledge of TOPS condo software a plus, but will train. Please fax resume to 732-350-2838. (14)

Seeking Responsible Individual With Good Phone Skills - Experience In Hvac & Permits A Plus.

Filing/Answering Phones/Scheduling/Permits/Ordering Parts/ Customer Service. Great Work Environment. $15/Hour 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Paid Holidays. Call Care Temp Heating & AC at 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

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 609-335-0330 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)

Male Companion/Caregiver - To assist you with all your needs except hygiene. All daily routines. Also, companion and helper for those on hospice care. $22/hour. 732-664-2833. (14)

PET SITTER My Home - Reasonable rates. MUST meet pet prior and pet MUST have current inoculations. Call 201-519-4659. (25)

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 CLEANOUTS -

Properties, 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. (15)

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)

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)

Services Services Services

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

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)

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.

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 = $ Total = $

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

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.

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.

around thE JErSEy ShorE

Learn ‘Hidden Dangers’ For Families Of Special Needs Individuals

TOMS RIVER – Families, guardians, parents, and professionals who interact with children and adults with autism, developmental challenges, and special needs can discover effective safety steps during upcoming programs at the Ocean County Library.

Brick Township-based POAC will present its “Hidden Dangers” program at the following branches:

• Brick Branch – 6:30 p.m. March 20. 301 Chambers Bridge Road, 732-477-4513.

• Stafford Branch – 10 a.m. April 24. 129 North Main Street, Manahawkin, 609597-3381.

• Little Egg Harbor Branch – 5 p.m. June

6. 290 Mathistown Road, 609-294-1197.

The presentation will offer potentially-lifesaving information and recommendations related to a wide range of special needs and independence levels in the course of a lifetime. Topics include:

• Wandering – how to address it, and use of high-tech tracking devices

• Home and classroom modifications

• Emergency and disaster preparedness and fire safety practices

• Personal safety regarding sexuality, the

Internet, and bullying

• Behavioral interventions such as social stories, visual cues, activity schedules

• School and transportation matters

• Ongoing support and assistance resources

“Hidden Dangers” is supported in full by funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the New Jersey State Library (NJSL) under Award Number LS-252474-OLS-22.

The New Jersey State Library, an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University (TESU), connects people with informa -

tion and resources through its service to libraries, government, TESU students and staff, and New Jersey residents.

NJSL provides support for public, school, academic, and special libraries, including key areas of continuing need such as literacy, business outreach, workforce development, disaster preparedness and technology. For more information, visit njstatelib.org.

Register at theoceancountylibrary. org/events to attend one of these free programs. For more details, call the participating branches or the Toms River Branch, 732-349-6200.

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photo of thE wEEk

Forum on Facebook. Want to see your photos in this space? Email them to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Safe Boating Class

TOMS RIVER – The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, Flotilla 16-05 located in Brick will be offering a one-day Boating Safely class on March 12, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, Unit 129 located at 2025 Church Road in Toms River. This is a comprehensive course in the es-

sentials of Safe Boating with instruction by certified Coast Guard Auxiliary instructors. Students upon successful completion will receive their NJ State Boating Safety Certificate. The cost for materials is $60. For registration and information call: 732-7017849 or email 0531605@5nrdivision16.net.

What is a “Mom & Pop” Business?

“

A peaceful sunshine along the Barnegat Bay in Ocean County, captured by Olivia Bauso and shared with us on our Jersey Shore Online Public

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword P uzzle

31 Creme Egg candymaker

35 Hearty holiday drink

36 *Body-lifting exercises

37 Spigot

40 Ambushed 41 Corn Belt tower 42 Storybook brutes 45 Tracks down 47 *Veers from the straight and narrow 51 Pet rabbit’s home 52 Wallop 53 Feel crummy 54 Carpenter’s clamp

55 Source of milk for pecorino cheese

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SolutionS

44 Ebb

46 Rather smart

48 Cook in some olive oil, say

49 Tugs at a fishing line

50 Choir section

54 November honorees

56 Pic taker

57 Shade on a color wheel

58 Plead

59 Big __ Country

Crossword Puzzle

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of mar 4 - mar 10

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Try not to lose focus; When it comes to navigating your life, a positive outlook and sincerity may be your best tools. This could be a wonderful time to be generous with your praise and thoughtful with your advice.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : You may find your aspirations grow stronger as the week unfolds. Hone your skills with diligent practice even if you are your own harshest critic. You should be well rewarded for every job done to the best of your ability.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Trust in friends and loved ones to listen when you discuss your goals and issues. This might not be the time to obtain a firm promise, but you may gain the support and understanding of others.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : An argument could cause hurt feelings. A key relationship may settle down and become less challenging if you work to avoid confrontations and remain patient. Try not to read too much into an innocent gesture.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): When you are enthusiastic about innovative ideas, there may be a tendency to make broad over-generalizations. You might want to avoid making promises that are well meant but could be hard to fulfill. The wisest people may offer the best counsel.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Making your mark in the material world could seem like a game to you. You may find yourself growing more ambitious. Using your charm and your common sense, you could develop successful strategies to reach your goals.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If your committed relationship needs a little extra attention, offer it. If single, you could have the desire to tell someone about your feelings. Embrace your braver side and put yourself out there.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): It’s always best for you to be sincere about what you do and do not say. It could be especially important when you are performing a job. Your coworkers might be depending on you to hold up your end of the bargain.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Good vibes may lead to victory, so allow yourself to get caught up in the rhythm of a project. You may remain upbeat and recharge your inner batteries by enjoying some indoor entertainment or a nature walk in the park.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : Turn the kudos you can earn into cash. You could fill a quota or reach a milestone by being dedicated and persistent. There could still be time to perform favors and charitable deeds for loved ones.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Applying restraint and humility could put you on top if you face criticism from your boss or someone else. You can combat negativity by admitting mistakes and being committed to putting your best self on display.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You might want more than you can afford currently or feel you must be competitive. Remain contented with what you may already have. Trying to keep up with affluent trends may put you in a deficit and leave a dent in your wallet.

THIS CHEESY BEAN BAKE IS FAMILY-FRIENDLY

By America’s Test Kitchen

CHEESY BEAN AND TOMATO BAKE

Serves 4 to 6

2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed

1 tablespoon plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1 small onion, chopped fine

3/4 teaspoon table salt

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1/3 cup water

Pinch sugar

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 ounce)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 ounces)

1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 475 degrees. In a 12-inch oven-safe skillet, heat

1 tablespoon oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes

(oil should be hot but not smoking).

2. Add onion and salt and cook, stirring often, until onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, oregano and pepper flakes (if using) and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.

3. Stirin tomatoes, waterand sugar. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.

4. Add beans to skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beans are warmed through, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

5. Stir Parmesan and half of mozzarella into beans. Spread beans into an even layer. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella evenly over top.

6. In a small bowl, combine panko and remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Stir until panko is coated with oil. Sprinkle panko evenly over top of cheese.

7. Transfer skillet to oven. Bake until cheese is melted and panko is well browned, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer skillet to a cooling rack (skillet will be VERY hot). Let beans cool for 5 minutes. Serve.

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

(c) 2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.