2023-04-08 - The Brick Times

STUDENTS FACE OFF IN COURT FOR MOCK TRIAL

By Alyssa Riccardi BRICK

– “Objection!” –was yelled throughout the courtroom in town hall as students from both Brick Township and Brick Memorial High Schools took the stand during their annual Mayor’s Cup mock trial. The event is a long-standing tradition in the town, and coincides with the Ocean

County Mock Trial Competition.

The two teams argued over a fictional criminal case that has real life facts. This year’s case was Dylan Salerno v Sam Arena: 17-year-old Rory Salerno died after participating in a social media challenge involving energy drinks.

(Trial - See Page 4)

Town Budget To Have No Tax Rate Increase

By Judy Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - Mayor Lisa

Crate introduced her first municipal budget since becoming mayor last month.

During the March 28 Council Meeting, the mayor said the “fiscally responsible”

$115,739,974 spend -

ing plan calls for no increase in the tax rate of the township’s portion and still provides the funds for all municipal services.

The budget shows an increase of about 3.4 percent over last year’s budget.

“This does not speak to any increases in the

portions of your property taxes controlled by Brick Township public schools, the Ocean County government or your local fire district,” she said.

The township portion is roughly 30 percent of the property tax bill.

The spending plan

School District Introduces $161.1M Tentative Budget

continues to move the township forward, the mayor said, and she considers the proposed budget to be “a statement of the values and a blueprint of what this administration wants Brick Township to be and how we get there.”

(Tax - See Page 20)

By Alyssa Riccardi BRICK – The

Brick Township Board of Education has approved a tentative budget of $161.1 million for the 2023-24 school year.

According to the recent board agenda, the tentative budget is $161,141,287, including debt service, and

$120,466,734 is to be raised by property taxes. The overall number includes the general fund, special revenues, and debt service.

The district’s general fund, which aids the majority of the district and its operation, is $147,075,262 with a tax levy of $120,332,599.

Brick was one of many districts suffering under S-2, a law that lowered state aid for some districts and sent it elsewhere. Despite the bill hurting state aid funding for Brick Schools, the overall tax levy increase is only 1.77% since the (School - See Page 8)

─Photo by Alyssa Riccardi

Defense lawyer Bryanna Morales presents their closing statement.

Trial:

Continued From Page 1

In this civil suit, Dylan, who is Rory’s grandfather and guardian, was suing Sam for negligence that resulted in Rory’s death.

Plaintiff lawyers Dominick Anthony and Frankie Bevacqua stated that Dylan’s grandson died due to Sam’s bad influence. In their case, they explained that Rory’s death could have been avoided if he didn’t take part in the energy drink challenge, which he was filming with Sam to post on social media.

They claimed Sam peer pressured Rory into filming crazy challenges often, used him for financial gain, and downplayed his death.

In defense lawyers Bryanna Morales and Aidan Murphy’s opening statement, they attested that Rory’s death was due to a medical condition that was not taken seriously enough by Dylan. With the evidence that Rory’s father died at a young age from the same heart condition, they argued that the medical issue was inherited and Dylan knew about Rory’s condition.

The plaintiffs had three witnesses: Logan Huntzberger played by Jake Storch, Dylan Salerno played by Jason Glandorf, and Dr. Alex Schwartz played by Mya Polanco.

The defense also had three witnesses: Bailey Patel played by Jakub Kriso, Sam Arena played by Belle Wurmser, and Dr. Jordan Scott played by Katie Andras.

Logan, who was Rory’s good friend,

witnessed Rory collapse while doing the energy drink challenge at the park. He called the ambulance and stated how Sam wasn’t urgent in this situation.

Dylan claimed that Rory changed after becoming friends with Sam, and Sam encouraged him to do the challenge. At one point, Dylan found several empty energy drink bottles in the house.

When Sam took the stand, she stated how she never forced Rory to film videos with her, he simply volunteered.

She said she didn’t understand how dire the situation was when Rory collapsed. Sam said that the video she and Rory filmed that day had been accidentally deleted and couldn’t be recovered because she got a new phone.

Despite getting emails to stop the challenge as it posed a danger, Sam said she never saw the email as it went to spam.

Dr. Jordan Scott claimed that Rory’s cause of death was due to an underlining heart condition. While Dr. Alex Schwartz claimed that Rory’s death was untimely and the excessive caffeine was the cause of death.

Once the mock trial concluded, Judge Joseph Grisanti (the township’s court attorney) scored each team on a point system and determined the winner of the evening.

Brick Township High School, a.k.a. the plaintiffs, scored the win and took home the “Mayor’s Cup” trophy.

Mock Trial Team Advisor Charles Pazmiño said students have been working since September to prepare for the competition.

“I’m very pleased that we were able to pull a win. Our kids did a remarkable job. They’ve been working all year long for it. We had a lot of new members this year; about 90% of our team were brand new members,” Pazmiño said. “We started from scratch and grew to compete in the County competition. We advanced there. Unfortunately, that was cut short, but luckily, we were able to win the Mayor’s Cup.”

“Shout out to Brick Memorial that did an amazing job. Their coach Diana Corde-Leone always does a great job preparing her students. It’s always great fun to see these kids work come full circle,” he added.

Mayor Lisa Crate attended the mock

trial for the first time and assured that it wouldn’t be her last.

“It was very exciting. The kids did a fabulous job and the preparation it must have taken them to actually understand the case and then plead the case and argue the case was very impressive. They should be commended for that,” Crate said.

Other students involved included: Dayanara Gavidia, Aidan Rozell, Justus Mess, Chase Roberts, Daniel Lohmeyer, Lacey Ireland, Clark Demarest, Benjamin Neller, Miles Dawson, Sophie Daly, Eva Caravassilis, Skylar Hillin, Daniel Lin, Laurel-Lye Severin, Michael Townley, William Smykowski, Kaylee Hender, and Morgan Satter.

─Photo by Alyssa Riccardi

Brick Township High School took home the win at this year’s Mayor’s Cup.

Rain Plays April Fool’s Prank On Postponed Saint Patrick’s Day Parade

By Bob Vosseller

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – An April Fool’s Day Saint Patrick’s Day Parade? Would that mean an event chock full of shenanigans?

For the second year in a row, the Ocean County Saint Patrick’s Day Parade was postponed until April. This year, it took place on April 1. It was a rain or shine event and unfortunately, it rained.

The postponement didn’t stop people like Debbie Burghart-Platt and members of her family from celebrating on the weekend of the original date – March 11. They had already booked a hotel room in Seaside Heights and had made plans.

“We celebrated my big sister’s birthday but although the parade was canceled, the boardwalk was packed with revelers, even in the nasty rain,” she said.

“Some of the bars still put their green beer out and I guess they will do it all over again on April 1 when the parade happens,” Platt added.

Traditionally, the borough-based parade is held on the second Saturday of March. The Belmar Saint Patrick’s Day Parade - which began before Ocean County’s parade - kicks off the Irish heritage season at the Jersey Shore. The Asbury Park Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is held later in the month, sometimes on Saint Patrick’s Day itself. The COVID-19 pandemic prevented the parade from taking place in 2021and despite its

postponement, it garnered a decent sized crowd last year as well as this year.

The Ocean County parade once again kicked off around noon, between I and J streets in Seaside Park and moving toward Heiring Avenue.

For the Robbins family of Manchester, the parade is a tradition so Tim Robbins joined his son Trevor, 8, and his mother Donna Robbins for the event with chairs positioned in front of the Snooki Shop.

Donna Robbins said “I’m a third Irish. This is pretty much a tradition.”

“She’s one of the original teachers of the Manchester Middle School. She was hired even before it was built,” her son said.

As for the rain, “mother nature does what she does. We were definitely going to come no matter what. It is a tradition,” he added. He and his son were in green wearing shamrocks that lit up.

Another visitor from Manchester, Vince Robinson, said, “we’ve been coming for years and we enjoy the parade. It was a smaller crowd this year but that’s okay.”

“Seaside Heights Mayor Tony Vaz was my teacher. I was his star pupil so he knows me,” Robinson said. The mayor and members of the Borough Council strolled down the parade route a bit later dressed in green suit jackets.

“We enjoy coming out and seeing the people. This year we didn’t have to worry about

anyone standing in front of you,” his cousin Rich Robinson of Lakewood remarked. He noted his cousin’s emerald attire that included his footwear and said “he looks like he’s impersonating a lima bean.”

They joined two other friends who were sitting in front of the Montes Café which serves up Mexican food.

The parade featured plenty of pipe and drum bands and bagpipers and representatives of Seaside Park were there to remind people that the borough is celebrating its

125th anniversary this year.

Popular celebration points such as Klee’s Irish Pub were keeping busy. Klee’s is also a parade sponsor. Ryan’s Deli and Grill staff were once again busy dishing out corned beef sandwiches to parade watchers who wanted a spot of lunch before and during the parade.

For the second year in a row the band The Drunken Clams rocked the post parade party held at the Hershey Motel on the Boulevard.

─Photos By Bob Vosseller

Women of Irish heritage were recognized on a float.

New Data Shows Increase Of Children With Autism

From The Desk Of Congressman Chris Smith

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In response to new data showing an increase in the prevalence of autism in children throughout the United States, Reps. Chris Smith (R-4th) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Autism

Caucus, issued a joint call for increased awareness and expanded access to care, education and support services for families touched by autism.

The new data - released by the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) - revealed that 1 in 36 children have autism spectrum disorder, marking a significant increase from previous estimates of 1 in 44 children across the country.

“Autism is on the rise across the United States - and my home state of New Jersey

has the third highest rate of autism in the nation,” said Smith, who has authored four major laws to combat and treat autism, including the Autism CARES Act of 2019, which provides $1.8 billion to fund research, early detection and treatment for children and adults with autism through 2024.

“While much progress has been made to support the autism community, we must do better to ensure those affected by autism have access to the education and services they need to live healthy, independent lives - especially and including as they ‘age-out’ of school-based programs

and become adults,” Smith said.

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Autism Caucus, and as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have been committed to increasing funding for autism research and programs that serve people with autism and their caregivers,” said Cuellar. “The new autism prevalence numbers released by the CDC indicate there is still much work to be done.”

“I look forward to continuing to work with my caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Chris Smith, and my colleagues in the House to deliver crucial investments in autism research,” Cuellar added.

Senator Questions Incentives That Drive Up Cost Of Prescriptions

Senator Robert Menendez

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, during a hearing questioned witnesses about the impact pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) have on the prescription drug supply chain and how their warped incentive structure drives up prices for patients and consumers. PMBs are entities that manage prescription drug benefits and pharmacy networks on behalf of health plans, employers, and other payers.

“Pharmacy benefit managers are key players in alleviating a patient’s financial burden at the pharmacy counter as they frequently set patient out-of-pocket costs based on a drug’s list price. The higher the list price, the more the patient pays, an obvious bur-

den,” said Sen. Menendez. “Less obvious, but equally concerning, is that PBMs benefit significantly from high list prices and have no incentive to choose lower-priced drugs to drive down patient cost. PBMs extract rebates from manufacturers based on list price in exchange for a manufacturer’s drug receiving formulary placement. Those rebates are passed on to plans and employers, but almost never to patients.”

Jonathan Levitt, a Founding Partner of Frier Levitt Attorneys at Law located in Pine Brook, NJ, served as a witness during the committee hearing. He agreed with the Senator that it would be better for patients if the prescription drug supply chain was delinked from the list price and if PBMS and other supply chain entities were paid flat fees for the services they provide.

Sen. Menendez emphasized how PBMs prefer prescription drugs with a higher list price versus those with a lower list price, as

appears to be the case for Humira biosimilar drugs introduced into the market to treat rheumatoid arthritis, because they can obtain larger rebates. PBMs do this even though the patient would pay significantly less if they selected the drug with the lower list price.

“The Pharmacy Care Management Association which represents the PBMs, includes research on their website that states, “High list prices hurt patients who must pay these prices. If list prices were lower, out-of-pocket payments based on list prices would be lower and more affordable,” added the Senator. “If PBMs themselves acknowledge lower list prices would help patients at the pharmacy counter, why would they still place preference on higher list price products when a drug company has given them a better option for patients?”

The Senator highlighted his concern about how mergers and acquisitions in recent years have resulted in CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx now controlling approximately 80 percent of all U.S. prescription drug claims.

“This level of concentration gives these

PBMs market power over data, drug coverage, and contracting. The hyper-consolidation, with little to no regulatory oversight, creates inappropriate negotiating leverage that discourages competition and makes it difficult to achieve transparency, affordability, and timely access for patients,” concluded the Senator.

Sen. Menendez has long advocated for creating a more affordable health care system for every New Jerseyan and Americans all across the country. Last year, he played a pivotal role in passing the Inflation Reduction Act, which capped the price of insulin to $35 a month for seniors on Medicare, and he authored a smoothing provision that also capped Medicare beneficiaries’ out-of-pocket costs at $2,000 a year.

Each year, that will benefit about 46,000 New Jersey Medicare beneficiaries who would otherwise have out-of-pocket costs above the cap, according to estimates from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). Because of Sen. Menendez’ leadership, for the first time, all 1.2 million New Jerseyans with Medicare Part D will have the peace of mind of knowing their pharmacy costs are capped.

Former State Police Sergeant Sentenced For Misusing ID Card

By Alyssa Riccardi

OCEAN COUNTY – A former member of the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) from Ocean County has been sentenced to five years in prison for misusing an NJSP identification card to get out of police traffic stops, officials said.

Marc Dennis, 51, of Waretown, was sentenced on charges of official misconduct and a pattern of official misconduct.

In September 2016, Dennis was suspended by the State Police and ordered to surrender his NJSP identifications as well as relieved of his law enforcement powers.

Authorities later discovered that Dennis kept a State Police identification he had been issued and was presenting it to officers who pulled him over, all while he was suspended from duty. According to officials, he was pulled over at least

nine separate times.

“This defendant used a State Police ID he improperly retained after a suspension to benefit himself by violating the public’s trust,” Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said. “I am deeply grateful for the commitment, sacrifice and upstanding character that the vast majority of our state’s law enforcement officers exhibit on and off the job. We will not tolerate abusive behavior by one bad actor reflecting poorly on the numerous officers abiding by the law, upholding it and making New Jersey safer.”

“This ousted sergeant improperly and deceitfully posed as an active-duty member of the State Police to law enforcement during traffic stops to get favorable treatment,” OPIA Executive Director Thomas Eicher said. “The court’s decision in this case was a just outcome and illustrates that no one

is above the law.”

Dennis’ was initially suspended and charged back in September 2016 due to his job performance. Officials said he was accused of failing to follow State Police procedures while claiming otherwise in official records and certifications.

When he was told to hand over his NJSP identifications, investigators found he surrendered most of them, but not all. Officials said he held onto a NJSP ID that he had obtained after reporting in January 2016 that he had lost his wallet.

Investigators found that despite his suspension and pending criminal case, he used the ID and showed officers it when pulled over in Marlboro, Toms River, Berkeley Township, Lakehurst and elsewhere.

Dennis was stopped nine times from the date of his suspension, September 19, 2016, through

April 2018, and during those stops he had shown that ID and presented himself as an active member of the NJSP.

Following his trial, on May 10, 2022, a jury convicted Dennis of one count each of second-degree official misconduct, second-degree pattern of official misconduct, and third-degree theft by unlawful taking in connection with his misuse of his ID to avoid motor vehicle citations.

After hearing extensive arguments from both sides at the Monmouth County Courthouse in Freehold on March 15, Judge Lucas sentenced the defendant on both the official misconduct and pattern of official misconduct counts, with the sentences to run concurrently, and merged the theft count. The court also ordered that the defendant forfeit his pension and job, and banned him from public employment for life.

School: Continued From Page 1

debt service decreased. Debt service is akin to paying off mortgage or other kind of debt.

At the March 16 Board of Education meeting, Business Administrator James Edwards said the district is currently paying off a bond.

Although it is a tentative budget, it was approved all while state legislators were addressing school funding cuts.

The NJ Department of Education states that Brick School District is receiving a total of $14,632,033 in state aid, which is down $2,542,260 - a 14.80% decrease – from last year.

However, the Senate passed S-3732 on March 20. It states that if a school district suffered from a reduction in aid under S-2 for the 2023-2024 school year, they would receive 66% of the cut aid back. It appropriates $102,784,455 toward that goal. The money is coming

from the Property Tax Relief Fund. The Assembly version, A-5328, was passed on March 30 and that the governor has said he will sign it when it goes to his desk.

This additional money would be Supplemental Stabilization Aid, and it would only be a one-time award. A district will have to write to the Commissioner of Education with a plan on how they will use the fund, and how they will manage in future years if they don’t get the same kind of stabilization again. If successful in getting this additional aid, the amount to be raised by property taxes would go down in this budget.

Brick Board of Education will be going over the details of the budget during their April 27 meeting. A public hearing will be held before the members make a final approval and submit the budget to the state Department of Education.

Brick Superintendent Thomas Farrell has been a vocal critic of the state funding formula.

Happy Hour Networking

BRICK – Join the Brick Chamber of Commerce for their monthly after-hours networking event on April 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Mantoloking Road

Alehouse.

Enjoy lite fare included, cash bar. Cost is $15 for members; $25 for not yet members. Register at brickchamber.com.

Check out Dr. Izzy’s Sound News on Page 14

C ommunity n ew S

Local Pets Available For Adoption

BRICK – Rae came into JSAC from an overcrowded shelter in SC. Little did we know until her belly started growing that she was pregnant! Rae has been a wonderful mama to her seven babies and now they are old enough to be on their own. Mama has been spayed and she is ready to find a family to love her forever.

Rae has been waiting for 8 long months! She was the best Mom to her babies and now it is her time. Rae is approximately 4 years old and needs an adult home with cat experience. She is a beauty with a fun personality.

You can view this pet and more at jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org . They are located at 185 Brick Boulevard and can be reached at 732920-1600.

OFF WITH THE MAKEUP

Whether it’s the end of a long work day or a fun night out, most make-up wearers are guilty of sometimes going to sleep without taking off their makeup. Unfortunately, doing so frequently can lead to problems, especially when it comes to eye makeup (specifically mascara). When not removed before bed, tiny amounts of mascara can build up under the eyelids and create concretions, masses of solid materials that can erode the cornea and cause a good deal of pain. Mascara is also known for harboring bacteria, which can cause a multitude of issues from irritation to loss of vision. So, even if you don’t wash your whole face at night, at least remove your eye makeup before bed.

In severe instances, regularly leaving mascara on overnight can cause eyelid cysts. Comprehensive eye exams are important to determine if you need correction to see well and to maintain eye health. While some eye diseases have obvious symptoms such as red eyes, light sensitivity, or flashing lights, many serious, vision-threatening problems have no warning signs.

To schedule an eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. Failing to remove eyeliner before going to sleep can cause eye damage by rubbing off on your pillowcase and entering your eyes.

Since starting Ahoward Construction, we’ve been committed to providing service of the highest quality. Our mission at Ahoward Construction is simple: to provide high-quality services in a timely manner. Our team caters to each project’s specific needs to ensure excellence. We have expertise on building decks, pavers and roofs. We will work one on one with our customers to try and find a price that works for the both of us. We strive to keep our customers satisfied. Call for a FREE ESTIMATE!

MAY 4 SHEN YUN AT NJ PAK $229/pp

Includes lunch at Don Pepe & Orchestra Seat.

MAY 5 WIND CREEK CASINO $54/pp

Includes $30 Slot Play & 5 Hour Stay.

MAY 10 GREASE MUSICAL $155/pp

Join us for the day at Toby”s Dinner Theater in Columbia, MD. Includes Buffet lunch & Show.

MAY 23-27 5 DAY GREAT SMOKEY MOUNTAINS ADVENTURE $1098/pp Dbl. Occ.

Package Includes 2 Nights stay Dolly Parton Resort, 1 night in each direction,2 Live Shows, 4 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners, Step on Guide, Moonshine Distillery Tour, Hollywood Car Museum and more

MAY 28 ELVIS MUSICAL $144/pp

Join us for the day at the Dutch Apple Theater in Lancaster, PA Includes Buffet Lunch & Show.

MAY 30-31 2 DAY TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLI & FOUR SEASONS @ RESORTS WORLD CATSKILLS $232/pp Dbl.Occ.

Join us at the Resorts Catskills Resort in the Beautiful Catskill mountain region for one night and see A Tribute To Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Package Includes Day 1-$25 Slot Play & $20 Food Voucher. DAY 2-$25 Slot Play, Lunch and Show Ticket.

JUNE 4-6 3 DAY 1000 ISLAND & BOLDT CASTLE $739/pp Dbl.Occ

Package Includes 2 Nights Lodging at 1000 Island Hotel, Boldt Castle, Boat Tour 2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners, Antique Boat Musuem, Local Winery for Tasting.

JUNE 11-14 4 DAY NIAGARA FALLS & SAFARI $939/pp Dbl.Occ.

Package Includes 3 nights stay at the 5 star Hilton Fallsview Hotel with a Falls View Room, 3 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners, Step on Guided Tours, Lion Safari Adventure, Hornblower ‘’ride to the falls” & more

JUNE 25-28 4 DAY CAPE COD & MARTHA’S VINEYARD $817/pp Dbl.Occ.

Package Includes 3 Nights Lodging Fairfield Inn & Suites, Step on Guide Tours, Martha’s Vineyard, 3 Dinners, 3 Breakfasts. Whale Watching Cruise and more.

JUNE 28 MJ MICHAEL JACKSON MUSICAL $224/pp

Includes Lunch Before Show & Orch Seat.

AUG. 9 NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL $224/pp

Includes Lunch before show & Orch Seat.

AUG. 9 FUNNY GIRL MUSICAL $276/pp

Includes Lunch before show & Orch Seat.

AUG. 12 SOME LIKE IT HOT MUSICAL $224/pp

Includes Lunch before show & Orch Seat.

AUG. 19 YANKEE VS. RED SOX’S $189/pp

Includes covered seating, Hot Dog, Drink.

AUG. 28-30 3 DAY LAKE GEORGE & SARATOGA SPRINGS $659/pp Dbl.Occ.

Package Includes 2 nights lodging at the Hampton Inn & Suites, Lake George, Saratoga Race Museum, Step on Guided Tour, 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners, Tiki Show, Boat cruise on Lake George & more

SEPT. 12 MOSES AT SIGHT & SOUND $144/pp

Lunch Included at Shady Maple & a center Orchestra Seat.

JAN. 7-27,2024 11 DAY EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE ONBOARD THE NORWEGIAN GETAWAY FROM NEW YORK CITY.

Please call for details.

Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center

Coffee With A Cop

BRICK – Thank you to everyone who came out for the Coffee with a Cop Event. It was a pleasure speaking with our residents and discussing questions and concerns they have in our community.

A special thank you to Owner of Manhattan Bagel, Shak Rasheed and sponsor

with

organized this event in effort to bring the community and police department together. We appreciate your continued support. We look forward to our next event which will be posted in the near future.

Robert O’Brien. Mr. O’Brien got together

Shak and

─Photo courtesy Brick Police

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES

C ommunity n ew S

Summer Camp

BRICK – Are you looking for a fun and exciting camp experience for your child? Look no further than Brick Recreation’s Summer Camp! The Summer Camp has been hosting Brick’s children for decades. Your child will enjoy six weeks of fun activities such as games, crafts, sports and more under the supervision of our camp staff.

Don’t let your child miss out on this opportunity to meet new friends and

create memories that will last their whole life.

Open to Brick children ages 5 to 13. Camp runs June 26 to August 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Windward Beach Park. Camp fees: $100 per camper (full time); $60 per camper (12 days). Mandatory parents meeting on June 13. For more information call 732-262-1073. Register at: register.communitypass.net/ bricktownship.

Police EMS Seeking New Members

BRICK – Come join the Brick Township Police Department EMS family! Brick Police EMS is currently accepting applications for part-time EMT with potential of full-time with expansion of the program in 2024. Full-

time staff is hired first from within the part-time roster.

Brick Police EMS is a large progressive municipal based program selected as the 2022 Pre-Hospital program of the Year for the State of New Jersey, running 11,000 calls for service per year with a Special Operations Division, Tactical Medical Team embedded in the Brick Police SWAT Team, water rescue and Technical Rescue with Brick Township Fire Companies. Part-time starts at $25 per hour with annual raises up to $27.50 per hour with eight paid holidays and a $200 uniform allowance annually.

For more information, visit brickpoliceems.enrollware.com.

EMT Basic Intensive Course

BRICK – EMT Basic Intensive Course will be in June 19 at 8 a.m. at 500 Herbertsville Road, Brick.

This course is designed to instruct a student to the level of EMT-Basic, who serves as a vital link in the chain of the healthcare team. It is recognized that the majority of prehospital emergency medical care will be provided by the EMT-Basic.

This course includes all skills necessary for the individual to provide emergency medical care at a basic life support level with an ambulance service or other specialized service. For more information visit: meridianhealth.enrollware.com/enroll?id=7005821.

Filling Bags With Care For Homeless Youth

BRICK – Join the Kiwanis Club of Brick on April 13 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Brick Library as they fill bags with personal care products for homeless kids living at Ocean’s Harbor House. Personal care products can be donated at the event or at the 502 Baking Company on Brick Boulevard, Wednesdays to Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

C ommunity n ew S

Giant Annual Yard Sale

James P. Anzano, President Glendenning

BRICK – The Brick Township Historical Society will hold its Giant Annual Yard Sale on April 22 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at its Havens Homestead Museum property, 521 Herbertsville Road, Brick. Rain date is April 23, same hours. There will be a large variety of reasonably priced merchandise including household goods, collectibles and costume jewelry.

The Society will hold a homemade bake sale and the Lizzie Herbert Gift Shop will feature specials.

Admission is free. Parking is in a lot 150 ft. east of the museum, accessed by a driveway with a sign that says “Havens Farm.” For more information see the website: bricktownshiphistoricalsociety.com or call 732-785-2500.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township Historical Society

Izzy’s

Sound News

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

Hearing Aids And Water

By now, you’ve probably heard that there are waterproof hearing aids. This is true, and they’re an amazing technological advancement, but most devices are only water resistant. This is made possible by a moisture-repellent nano-coating. It’s helpful but not impenetrable. Here are some tips to protect your tech from water damage: Want more advice on how to protect your investment in better hearing? Call us today — we’re HEAR to help! This may seem like a lot of things to keep in mind while wearing and caring for your devices, but the precautions are worth it. Over time, exposure to moisture can corrode the delicate electronics and shorten their lifespan. By doing what you can to keep them dry, you’ll save on repairs, replacements, and premature upgrades.

Avoid Moisture Altogether Remember to take your devices out of your ears before showering, hitting the pool, or getting into the hot tub. Be sure to store them in their own secure case rather than in a pocket or purse. The safest risk is the one you don’t take.

Wipe Them Down Wiping your devices daily with a clean, dry cloth helps clear moisture and debris. Audiowipes can be purchased from your hearing healthcare professional which is even a better option than using a dry cloth. This is especially important during the colder months when condensation is more likely to form.

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

Use Hearing Aid Covers These can help protect your devices from water splashes, sweat, humidity, dust, and dirt.

Try a Hearing Aid Dryer or Dehumidifier

This small appliance not only dries and sanitizes your devices as you sleep but can also double as their regular storage container. Hearing aids should be dried every night. Many rechargeable hearing aids incorporate a dehumidifier built into the charging unit. Keep a Hat on Hand You never know when an unexpected rain shower might crash your outdoor fun. Having a spare hat can help keep the rain off you as well as your hearing aids.

Act Quickly If the worst happens and your hearing aids get soaked, thoroughly dry them and call your audiologist — don’t put them in a bag of rice!

This may seem like a lot of things to keep in mind while wearing and caring for your devices, but the precautions are worth it. Over time, exposure to moisture can corrode the delicate electronics and shorten their lifespan. By doing what you can to keep them dry, you’ll save on repairs, replacements, and premature upgrades.

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always available to answer all of your hearing care questions. They can be reached at 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Discover Assistive Communication Technology

BRICK – People with disabilities, their families, teachers, and employers can benefit greatly from advances in assistive technology. Learn about augmented and alternative communication devices at the Ocean County Library Brick Branch, 6:30 p.m. April 17.

Kate Flaxman, MS CCC-SLP, Augmentative Communication Specialist for Advancing Opportunities (AO) will provide extensive details about the uses of assistive technology and augmented and alternative communication devices.

She will also offer information about AO’s technology lending library, which helps individuals identify effective technology for their goals, and also offers instructions for implementation. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation.

Advancing Opportunities, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is recognized as one of the leading disability service providers in New Jersey, offering solutions to foster independent living.

The presentation is part of OCL’s Milestones

in Neurodiversity & Literacy to Grow program, providing literacy-based services for the neurodiverse community, from birth to age five, through a Library Services and Technology Act 2022 (LSTA) grant administered by the New Jersey State Library, an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University.

LSTA 22 funds are awarded to library projects that address literacy needs including, but not limited to, early literacy, family literacy, adult literacy, digital literacy, and financial and English language learning activities. Awarded projects are designed to provide training or other literacy-focused support or activities for adults and/or children.

Funding for LSTA 22 grants is made possible by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, with the purpose of addressing literacy needs and supporting literacy projects across the state. Register at theoceancountylibaryorg/events to attend this free program. For more information, visit the Brick Branch, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, or call 732-477-4513.

Just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Can Vitamin C Replace Statins? Potential Benefits For Cardiovascular Health

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid plays a vital role in various physiological processes in the human body. We can’t make it ourselves. We have to eat it or take dietary supplements.

As you know, vitamin C functions as an antioxidant, protecting our body against oxidative stress caused by free radicals which destroy cells. This leads to chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and faster aging (due to a breakdown in collagen).

A deficiency of vitamin C can cause numerous problems to occur, mainly because of the lack of collagen production which C facilitates. Low collagen will cause more wrinkles as well as fatigue, endothelial dysfunction, anemia, frequent infections, anxiety, depression, and tender, bleeding gums.

Low collagen causes vasoconstriction which increases blood pressure. The collagen that C helps you produce ensures a more elastic blood vessel, and that’s what you want. Without enough collagen, the vessels are not as bendy and it’s this loss of elasticity (and resulting oxidative stress) that increases your risk for hypertension.

Several studies have shown that vitamin C supplementation can lead to a significant reduction in blood pressure in people with hypertension. For example, a meta-analysis of 29 randomized controlled trials found that vitamin C supplementation led to a modest but statistically significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Some studies suggest that vitamin C may have a modest beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. You can certainly take it with

a statin drug if your practitioner likes the idea because there’s no bad interaction. The C enhances the effect of the statin’s cholesterol-reducing power. But to answer the question, “Can vitamin C replace statins” the answer is no. It definitely doesn’t reduce cholesterol like the pharmaceutics, but it will contribute to better cardiovascular health if you maintain adequate levels. People like to supplement with vitamin C. The truth is that synthetic ascorbic acid will give you vitamin C - it’s made in a laboratory and derived from corn usually. It’s not bad, it’s just that some people think that all those supplements are made by squeezing oranges, and that’s just not true. There are some 100% natural vitamin C brands that are produced by extracting the nutrient from actual fruits like cherries, lemons, oranges, and grapefruits which is what I do.

Here’s a fun fact about blood pressure: Did you know that giraffes have incredibly high blood pressure, it’s around 280/180 mmHg, which is more than twice the average human blood pressure!

This is because giraffes have really long necks, so their hearts have to work extra hard to pump blood all the way up to their heads. But they’re generally healthy and rarely experience cardiovascular problems since their blood vessels are very elastic so they don’t rupture or tear.

Ask your physician about it if you take certain medications like antibiotics like tetracycline or erythromycin. High doses of vitamin C may interfere with the effectiveness of chemotherapy. I have a more comprehensive version of this article.

To read that, please visit my website, suzycohen.com.”

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2022 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Women’s Club Collects Sneakers For Recycling

BRICK – The Women’s Club of Brick Township is happy to report that their sneaker recycling initiative during the month of January was very successful! The collection of 601 pairs of sneakers and shoes were sent to Got Sneakers? a sneaker recycling organization. The impact on the environment was as follows:

• Landfill: 601 pairs displaced from landfills

• Carbon Dioxide: 18,030 pounds displaced

• Water: 1,356477 gallons saved

In addition, this initiative earned the club $499.50 that will be used for the scholarship fund, charitable donations, and operating costs.

They’d like to thank the Brick Township Public Schools for partnering with them on this initiative and assisting with the collection of sneakers! They will be running another sneaker recycling drive in September, so save those old sneakers when you get your ‘back to school’ sneakers! They appreciate your support.

Vendors Needed For Garden Tour & Tea

BRICK – Vendors needed! The 20th Anniversary Brick Garden Tour & Tea is scheduled for July 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you are interested in having a vendor booth at the event, contact Paula Kocmalski at 732-202-7211 or email paulatheneedle@comcast.net for more information.

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS! Expand your patient base by advertising in Micromedia Publications’ 7 weekly newspapers. Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!

─Photo courtesy Women’s Club of Brick Township

Court Denies Reconsideration:

Temporary Restraints To Remain On Lakewood Banquet Hall

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

On March 17, 2023, Judge Hodgson, of the Superior Court of New Jersey entered an order denying the Defendants’ in a contentious case request for the Court to reconsider three of its prior orders. 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 order comes as a result of R.C. Shea and Associate’s successful opposition to Defendants’ Motion to Reconsider the prior Order of February 3, 2021, the Order of August 10, 2022, and the Order of August 26, 2022.

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. These restrictions were reinforced and elaborated upon in the August 10, 2022 and August 26, 2022 Orders, which specified that no parking for Lake Terrace events should take place in other property owners’ parking lots, nor should it take place on the street.

The Court heard Oral Argument on the matter on March 17, 2023. R.C. Shea & Associates, on behalf of Plaintiffs, argued that the Court, under Judge Ford, had previously heard, considered, and properly ruled on all of the substantive issues which Defendants brought forth in their Motion for Reconsideration. Judge Hodgson agreed with Plaintiffs position and refused to reconsider the substantive restraints issued by Judge Ford in the prior orders.

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. (732) 505-1212.

Find The Gold In The Golden Years

TOMS RIVER – Age like a winner. Enter your advancing years with optimism and energy. The Ocean County Library is pleased to present “The Art of Aging,” presented by the Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey and Senior Citizens Activities Network (SCAN).

“The Art of Aging” will be presented at the following OCL branches:

• Brick Branch, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, 732-477-4513, 2 p.m. April 12

• Toms River Branch, 101 Washington Street, 732-349-6200, 2 p.m. April 19

The lighthearted discussion will revolve

around methods of aging gracefully, and the importance of remaining socially engaged and active as the years roll by.

Eatontown-based SCAN conducts healthand-wellness-based workshops, classes, and podcasts, and also assists in applications for benefits by Medicare enrollees and disabled adults of limited incomes. Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey helps seniors to remain independent and socially connected, with a corps of more than 1,200 volunteers serving Ocean and Monmouth Counties, and affiliations with 60 local organizations. Keep up with Library programs and events at theoceancountylibrary.org.

The Brick Times welcomes your special announcements! Engagements, Weddings, Births, Birthday Wishes, etc. Please call 732-657-7344 for more details!

Vincent J. DelRiccio, Esq.

For Rent

Floating Dock Slip For Rent This Season - Private home in Baywood area in Brick 25 feet $990 Call 732-477-3053. (17)

Personals

Partner Wanted - To open thrift store. Also need garage rental for storage. Leave message and number for call back 732-678-6786. (17)

Senior Male - From Essex County wants to meet people from that area to discuss the good old days. Harry 732-269-1206. (17)

For Sale

For Sale - $3000 or Best Offer: Two Grave Plots At Ocean County Memorial Park Toms River. Location: Garden Of Remembrance Grave 277 and 278 (Singles). Number Of Spaces: 2. We hold the deed, and this sale will be conducted at the Memorial Park's office in Toms River. All paperwork will be signed over to new owner's name immediately. If interested, please call 201-400-9433 leave message, all calls will be answered within an hour. (16)

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)

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Blues, Reggae, Soul. Very good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (17)

Wanted Storage Space - Long term non-commercial use. Jackson, Manchester or surrounding area. Electric a plus, 732-278-5098. (16)

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)

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)

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

Jersey Child Care is hiring! We care for children from six weeks through 12 years old. Full and Parttime shifts available. Please call us for details! 732-262-3600 (18)

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

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)

mgritschke@mail.ocvts.org. (t/n)

Services

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (19)

DIRECTV. New 2-Year Price Guarantee. The most live MLB games this season, 200+ channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (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 732-3504427 for more information. (21)

C.B.J. ROOFING - Covering the jersey shore since 1984. All work guaranteed. We will beat ANY legitimate estimate. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (20)

Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, A family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. We transform kitchens in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Call today for a free estimate 1-844-367-2477. (t/n)

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

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)

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)

MASONARY REPAIR - Sidewalks, steps, driveways, pavers. For free estimate call 732-5896798, 848-210-2716. (20)

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)

Property/Management - Brick repair, brick restoration, mulch, stone, Spring/Fall cleanups, pruning, concrete repairs. Call Ken 732-814-7743. (14)

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)

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)

AAA Handyman - Carpentry, Painting, Flooring, Doors, Windows, Trim, Plumbing, Electrical, Masonry, Tile. Affordable, Reliable. New And Repairs. Licensed Insured. 609-384-9030. (16)

Computer problems? We can fix computers, printers, WiFi, networks, and more. njcomputerfix.com. CALL Chris at 732-575-3450. Located in Jackson. (16)

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)

Prepare

Male Care Assistant/Caregiver

Assistance - With all of your needs excluding hygiene. All daily routines including; Meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, safety monitoring, transportation, errands, Etc. Also assisting individuals with mild to moderate dementia and those on palliative and hospice care. 732-664-2833. (18)

ESTATE CLEANOUTS -

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)

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)

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

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.

Tax:

Continued From Page 1

Over the past 10 years, during former Mayor John G. Ducey’s tenure, the budget grew 17.5 percent while inflationary growth was 22 percent, she said. Over the previous 10 year period, from 2004 until 2013, the municipal budget exceeded inflationary growth. During those years the municipal budget grew 72 percent, while inflationary growth was 23 percent, Mayor Crate said. The financial plan funds all municipal departments, including police, police dispatchers and EMTs, who work

around the clock every day of the year, she said.

Also, the budget funds Senior Services, the Recreation Department, the Department of Public Works, the Parks Department, the Administration and more.

Brick Township has $128,750,678 in long-term outstanding debt, of which $39.6 million has been paid off since January 1, 2014 when Mayor Ducey became mayor.

“This equates to $528 of debt eliminated for every resident of Brick Township,” Mayor Crate said. “This debt reduction is a result of carefully considering what projects are neces -

sary to keep Brick Township safe, clean, and a great place to live, and then funding those projects.”

Council members unanimously voted in favor of the spending plan on its first reading. A public hearing on the budget is planned for April 25 during the regularly-scheduled council meeting.

In other news, Mayor Crate announced that she would be hosting a new program called “Crate Conversations” where she will meet with different people and groups around town and produce 10- to 15-minute segments to be aired on the township website, YouTube and BTV.

“I’m looking forward to talking with different people around town who do different things ,” she said. “[10- to 15-minutes] is the right amount of time for people to see what’s really going on in our town, some people that you may want to know about.”

The first conversation was taped with the Brick Garden Club, who talked about spring planting and other events they have scheduled.

Mayor Crate said ideas and suggestions are welcome for future conversations. She can be reached at mayorbricktownship.net

The next council meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 11 at 7 p.m.

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword P uzzle

Across 1 Technique providing percussion with a string note

9 Character in “The Iliad” but not “The Odyssey”?

3 Big letters in security services

4 Is far from a good sport

5 Perennial #1 NCAA football team since 2008

6 Even slightly 7 Fifth-cen. pope called “The Great”

8 Monkey’s do partner?

9 As well

10 Long way to go?

11 Look here!

12 Depressions

13 __ Jamison, one of two NBA players with 20,000+ points who’s not in the Hall of Fame

14 “From your mouth to God’s ears”

20 Rears

30 Synagogue text

32 Performs surgery on, in a way

33 Cambridgeshire cathedral city

34 Like a sure thing

35 Company founded in 1939 as Auto Avio Costruzioni

36 Key of Beethoven’s Violin Concerto

38 Submission to a radio station, briefly

39 Garden guardians

40 Will of “Blue Bloods”

43 Ice cream alternative, casually

44 Moved between banks, maybe

47 Berserk

48 Refuse

2

22 Feel bad about 24 Succeeded in 27 1992 Mamet drama 29 Three-time WNBA MVP

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SolutionS

50 Amps (up)

53 Once-big storage unit that’s now quite small

54 Farm female

Crossword Puzzle

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of apr 8 - apr 14

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): When your bills are paid, you may feel free to make extravagant purchases, but it might be best to save up for items of higher quality. Capitalize on your good reputation to make forward progress but be careful not to overstep others’ boundaries.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Enjoy an active social life while simultaneously focusing on achieving your fiscal dreams. You can find others may want to bring you back to reality so it would be best to keep large scale dreams or plans close to your chest for now.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Ideas that may have seemed feasible a few days ago could have more complications than expected. You might have more on your plate: look at plans with a more discerning eye. Taking a step back can help you reflect and find the best route.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): An optimistic and enthusiastic mood can make anything seem possible. Review all the minute details with a partner or loved one and plan things carefully. This is not the time to trust in luck if you hope that important matters will succeed.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Appearances count so give your look a second glance. When you find yourself with a financial surplus, you could feel an impulse to spend. If you make a less sensible financial decision, think through a way you’ll be able to quickly recover.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Whenever you speak from the heart, you cannot go wrong. You might have insights to share that no one else has considered. Be sensitive to the opinions of other people

even if they seem much too demanding or pessimistic.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Extra sympathy and understanding may be needed to keep things running smoothly. Do not forget to offer encouragement and to explain your plans in detail. Offering unconditional love and consistent displays of affection can help turn the tide.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Strategize ways you can turn your good reputation into greater financial rewards. If you are willing to work hard, you can impress people with your integrity and may find making money can be a rewarding pastime.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Keep your ear to the ground. Someone might give you valuable input on how to enhance your public image or ideas to use to upgrade your reputation. Other people may inadvertently reveal their strategies and confidential information.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Address potential security issues that could impact your finances so you are not vulnerable to unwanted intrusions. This is not the time to borrow on credit or go on a spending spree that can create extra financial obligations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Use more gentle methods instead of force. Inquiring minds are curious and want to know more. You may feel it necessary to ask more probing questions, but someone could feel you are asking for intel that is none of your business.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Any unintentional evasiveness or refusal to be pinned down could be counterintuitive when business tactics are being discussed. You may spread yourself too thin when you would be better off spreading your enthusiasm on thick.

RAW ASPARAGUS MAKES A LASTING

IMPRESSION IN THIS SPRING SALAD

By America’s Test Kitchen

ASPARAGUS SALAD WITH GRAPES, GOAT CHEESE AND ALMONDS

Serves 4 to 6

Note: Parmesan can be substituted for the Pecorino Romano. Grate the cheese for the pesto with a rasp-style grater or use the small holes of a box grater; shave the cheese for the salad with a vegetable peeler. For easier slicing, select large asparagus spears, about 1/2-inch thick.

For the pesto:

2 cups fresh mint leaves

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest plus 2 teaspoons juice

1 garlic clove, minced Salt and pepper

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the salad: 2 pounds asparagus, trimmed 6 ounces grapes, thinly sliced (1 cup) 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled (1 cup)

3/4 cup almonds, toasted and chopped

Salt and pepper

1. FOR THE PESTO: Process mint, basil, Pecorino, lemon zest and juice, garlic, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a food processor until finely chopped, about 20 seconds, scraping down bowl as needed. Transfer to a large bowl. Stir in oil until combined and season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. FOR THE SALAD: Cut asparagus tips from stalks into 3/4-inch-long pieces. Slice asparagus stalks 1/8 inch thick on bias into approximate 2-inch lengths. Add asparagus tips and stalks, grapes, goat cheese, and almonds to pesto and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 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) 2023 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.