2023-04-15 - The Brick Times

Brick Little League Celebrates 40+ Years At Opening Day

Brick Little League Celebrates 40+ Years At Opening Day

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – Honoring its history and traditions, Brick Little League has returned to the baseball diamond to celebrate opening day.

Despite the rainy weather, players, coaches, volunteers and community leaders came out on April 1 for the start of a new season. The league commemorated its long history

at one of its oldest sports complexes in the township, Edmund Hibbard Park, which includes four NJ State Baseball Championships and over 40 years

(League - See Page 4)

BlueClaws To Go

Cashless As They Announce Season

By

Christopher

Jersey Shore

Beach Sweep

Rescheduled To April 15

By Bob Vosseller

OCEAN COUNTY – Area

-

major event venues, will be a cashless and fully digital venue beginning this season. This includes transactions involving tickets, food and beverage, merchandise, parking, (BlueClaws - See Page 6)

beaches were set to be cleaned as part of the annual Beach Sweep but an April Fool’s Day prank by Mother Nature had them be washed instead.

Clean Ocean Action had scheduled sweeps throughout the area on April 1 but now they have been rescheduled for April 15. Information on them

can be found at cleanoceanaction.org/beach-sweeps. Another is scheduled for October 21.

On the morning of April 1, volunteers arrived at Ortley Beach and started to set up for the day. They decided the mission would continue on, at least in Ortley Beach. They were joined by some dedicated volunteers who ignored the rain.

(Beach - See Page 5)

Chris

LAKEWOOD - Fans who attend

BlueClaws home games at the Shore

Town Ballpark in Lakewood can leave their money home. The facility, like other

─Photos courtesy Brick Little League The 2022 10-year-old District Championship Team celebrates opening day. (Inset): Volunteer Pete Tortorella received this year’s Volunteer Recognition Award.

─Photo courtesy Jersey Shore BlueClaws The BlueClaws announced its amenities for the 2023 season.

League:

Continued From Page 1

of youth baseball.

“Due to the growth of our League, we will require three Majors/Minors games being played simultaneously Saturdays and some weeknights. Over the past few years, the original Field served as mostly a practice field, but because of over 560 players playing in the League now, there is a need to host more games on it,” Brick Little League President Mike Desmond said. “Much restoration, investment and volunteer hours were needed to bring the once Jewel of the League back to life to make this happen. We are excited to bring back its past players, coaches, and families from Brick Little League and Brick National Little League to celebrate the history of baseball in Brick.”

Some guest appearances at opening day included Mark Hibbard (son of Edmund Hibbard), Buster from the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Red from Red Robin, NJ Little League District 18 Assistant Administrator Tim LeCras, Brick Police Honor Guard, and elected officials.

The League recognized the 2022 10-year-old District Championship Team managed by Coach Jason Burgess as well as honored the family of Edmund Hibbard - the Park’s namesake.

During the ceremony they gave out a Volunteer Recognition Award to Volunteer Pete Tortorella and raffled

away free tickets to the Brick Little League Night out at the BlueClaws on June 24.

Throwing out the ceremonial first pitches were Mark Hibbard, Councilmember Vincent Minichino and Tee Ball Player Bruce Woodruff. In addition, 12-year-old player Michael Bolen read the Little League Oath.

“The 2023 Brick Little League Spring Season will certainly be one to remember as the League celebrates 40-plus years of baseball at Edmund Hibbard Park. Thank you to all the Little League Volunteers, Brick Township Parks & Recreation, and Department of Public Works for all the efforts making Brick Little League a special place for the youth of Brick Township to play baseball,” Brick Recreation Superintendent Dan Santaniello said. The League presented a new throwback alternate logo at Legacy Field, which features a combination

Kids were ready for another season of fun.

of the old Brick National logo with the current Brick Little League colors. Legacy Field will also feature a new backstop, pitcher’s mound, signage and more. Brick Little League will be hosting its 3rd

Annual Volunteer Appreciation Day on April 29 which will include a BBQ, Coaches Lunch and ceremony. For more information visit Brick Little League’s website at bricklittleleague.com.

Photo courtesy Brick Little League

Beach: Continued From Page 1

Their unofficial mascot, a pig named Hamlet, came with Beach Captain Crystal DeCaro and her dog Aurora. “Rain or shine we’re going to make it happen,” she said.

“Clean Ocean Action has a spring sweep and a fall one. It is always in April and always in October and they usually shoot for a Saturday. In the last 10 years we’ve had so many windy days and rain before and other things that might deter volunteers but we always have people come out,” DeCaro added.

Laurie and Keith Huryk of Toms River were there despite the rain. DeCaro said, “they are extreme supporters and they always come in and get a selfie with Hamlet. They come prepared with cleanup items and everything.”

“I started coming when I was on council,” former Councilwoman Laurie Huryk said. “I didn’t know it happened before that. We enjoy it so much. It has been six years now. You help clean up the beach and help the environment.”

She and her husband later found a pair of eyeglasses that were left behind near the dunes.

Hamlet didn’t mind the rain. “He is our unofficial mascot of Clean Ocean Action. He is six years old. He’s been coming since he was a baby. I’ve been doing it for 10 years. He has been a hit ever since so I felt I couldn’t help

but bring him out. He’s my pet indoor pig and he loves the beach so that was also a motivation behind it because he pushes around the sand with his snout,” DeCaro said.

“I try to teach people to make sure you know what you leave behind and notice the trash. It isn’t only all about us it is also about the animals and our ecosystem,” she added.

Ortley Beach was just one of several sweep locations that were to be held that day. Other Beach Sweeps in Ocean County were to include Bay Head, Berkeley, Brick, Island Beach State Park, Lavallette, Long Beach Island, Mantoloking, Ocean Gate, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park, Normandy Beach and Tuckerton.

Three volunteers at the Berkeley location – Dudley Park – stayed at the picnic tables to let people know it was cancelled. They still picked up a few things while they were there.

Clean Ocean Action started the Beach Sweeps in 1985. It is one of the longest running cleanups of its kind in the world. The program grew from 75 people at one site in 1985, to over 10,000 volunteers in 2018.

Volunteers gather as groups (community, school, business, and organization), families, or individuals and collect and record valuable data about debris, which is presented in annual reports.

“If you want to change the world, people power is the answer,” COA Ex-

ecutive Director Cindy Zipf said. “The Beach Sweeps is proof positive of that fact. We are grateful and inspired by the dedication and true-blue spirit of volunteers.”

Fish, whales, birds, and other animals often mistake litter for food. As a result, animals get entangled in or ingest items, such as plastic bags, cigarette filters, and fishing line, with deadly results. Cigarette filters are made of plastic

fibers and trap carcinogenic chemicals that are introduced into animals’ bloodstreams.

Watershed Program Manager Alison Jones said, “last year, over 10,000 volunteers welcomed the opportunity to gather safely, get outside, and give back by participating in the Beach Sweeps. As always, their hard work and diligent data collection provided COA with interesting insights about litter at the Jersey Shore.”

─Photo By Bob Vosseller Hamlet, the unofficial mascot of Clean Ocean Action decided to check out the 3rd Avenue ocean front of Ortley Beach for the scheduled COA Beach Sweep.

boardwalk games and all others as part of either a Jersey Shore game or event.

“From the outset of the pandemic (it cost Jersey Shore its 2020 season), this is something that we have been thinking about, but we first wanted to make sure the best plans and protocols were in place to make this a

smooth transition for our fans,” said president-general manager Joe Ricciutti. “We have spoken with numerous peers in the industry and all of our vendors and partners expect this to be a seamless process that makes things even easier for fans as they come to our games.”

The decision to go cashless follows 29 of the 30 major league baseball teams and stadiums, including that of the Philadelphia Phillies, the BlueClaws’ parent club.

“Two-thirds of our food and beverage transactions are already made with credit and debit cards,” Ricciutti said. “Moving to a cashless system will make transactions times faster and fans will be able to get back to doing what they came to the ballpark to do - enjoy a baseball game and take advantage of the boardwalk games, mini golf and everything else we offer.”

Fans can access their tickets at any time on their mobile device by logging into

their TicketReturn account, which existing customers already have and new customers create as part of the purchase flow. From there, they can have their tickets scanned at the gates or transfer tickets to either a family member, friend or colleague.

“TicketReturn is one of the premier ticket vendors in the industry and its mobile platform makes accessing and transferring tickets a very simple process for fans,” Ricciutti said.

Inside the ballpark, credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay will be the only form of payment for food and beverage transactions, Claws Cove transactions and at The Boardwalk and the Manasquan Bank Mini Golf Course. Fans will have access to a Reverse ATM inside the ballpark through which they can convert cash into a debit card. The debit card can be used inside and outside the ballpark.

Parking will also be cashless and fans can pay using either a credit card or a debit card as they arrive.

Numerous fan promotions are at bat throughout the regular season.

April 11 was billed as Opening Night at the Jersey Shore. The team is scheduled to play 132 regular-season games, including 66 at ShoreTown, which again figures to be a fun house for of all ages. The calendar includes 11 fireworks nights, beginning April 11 and every Friday beginning June 2 and July 4.

“These nights represent the best fan experiences from across the BlueClaws’ season,” Ricciutti said. “We know these games are going to sell out. We don’t want anyone to miss out.”

Among the new beverage options for fans is the Heavy Reel Brewing Taphouse behind Section 109. The area will include Heavy Reel brewing selections that will rotate throughout the season. The promotion is built off the success of Reel Claw, a BlueClaws-branded IPA launched last year.

Two of Jersey Shore’s 14 sellouts were Marvel Super Hero Nights and this year the team will host three - May 19 with Black Panther, June 24 with Spider-Man and Aug. 5 with Captain Marvel. As part of Minor League Baseball’s partnership with Marvel, Jersey Shore will wear a special Marvel-designed cap with special merchandise also available. The BlueClaws will host Summer Concert Series games June 10 (The Snakes), July 8 (Asbury Fever) and Aug. 19 (Splintered Sunlight).

A large Jumbo Adirondack Chair will be in right field. Everyone is encouraged to take pictures and share, using the hashtag #blueclaws to be entered to win special prizes from Focus Camera, the promotion’s presenter. It’s the second season of the Blue Wave Bar, a second-level full service restaurant open to fans at each game. The menu includes some items, including seafood, that aren’t available anywhere else in the ballpark. Kids will continue to run the bases after every game.

Daily promotions include Thirsty Thursday with $2 Coors Light cans and Sunday FunDays with Kids Eat Free where members of the BlueClaws Kids Club eat free.

The BlueClaws’ latest Player Development Contract with the Phillies began in 2021 and

(BlueClaws - See Page 8)

Congressman Slams American Company For Selling DNA Collection Kits To China

From The Desk Of Congressman Chris Smith

WASHINGTON, D.C. - At a congressional hearing, Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th), Chairman of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), called on the United States and international community to immediately step up efforts to combat the Chinese Communist Party’s genocide against the people of Tibet and hold its enablers to account, including and especially American company Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Chaired by Smith, the March 28th hearing included compelling testimony from Richard Gere - the renowned actor and Golden Globe winner who serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the International Campaign for Tibet - as well as the Sikyong, or head, of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile.

“All of us need to do a better job exposing and reversing - or at least mitigating - the ugly, hate-filled campaign by the Chinese Communist Party to erase an entire people - the people of Tibet,” said Smith, who has chaired

over 85 congressional hearings and markups on China’s egregious human rights abuses.

“Biometric data - DNA and iris scans - of over a million Tibetans have been harvested and stored by the CCP,” said Smith. “Blood samples were drawn even from children in kindergarten.”

“And you know what is even more shocking?” continued Smith.

“It is the role of an American company, Thermo Fisher Scientific in this genetic data collection and genetic surveillance program,” said Smith, who sent a bipartisan letter with his fellow CECC Co-Chairs to the company’s President and CEO Marc Casper in December 2022 asking him why DNA kits and DNA sequencer replacement parts were still being sold directly by his company to police in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) for use and abuse in collecting biometric data.

According to the Wall Street Journal , Thermo Fisher announced it would stop selling or servicing genetic sequencers in February 2019 “as consistent with Thermo Fisher’s values, ethics code and policies,” but a 2021 New York Times investigation revealed police were still purchasing their equipment.

In his testimony, Gere pointed to

reports that found China’s police may have gathered between 920,000 to 1,200,000 DNA samples in the TAR over the past six years, including by taking blood from children as young as five without their parents’ consent.

“China’s surveillance no longer halts at the Tibetan border,” said Gere. “The CCPs techno-authoritarianism and fear tactics extend to Tibetan communities abroad. This oppression is being perpetrated behind a digital iron curtain to hide reality on the ground. The development of these systems of repression, reaching all the way around the world, reflects the lengths the CCP will go to dismantle the Tibetan civilization.”

The Sikyong testified that “to speed up assimilation, large-scale forced relocation of Tibetans from their traditional homeland to Chinese territories and within Tibet, mass transfer of Tibetan youths to China for labor and incentivized migration of Han Chinese into Tibet are being carried out. Moreover, Tibetan children across Tibet are not only being coerced into colonial boarding schools but transferred to areas across China on a massive scale.”

According to a 2021 report by Tibet Action International, 80 percent of children in the TAR are educated in a massive system of colonial boarding schools, separated from their families and culture as part of the CCP’s forced

assimilation of ethnic and religious minority groups.

And a 2022 State Department report found the CCP also effectively placed Tibetan Buddhism under central government control and subjected Tibetan women to “coerced abortion or forced sterilization.”

Smith’s hearing - entitled “Preserving Tibet: Combating Cultural Erasure, Forced Assimilation and Transnational Repression” - also included expert testimony from Lhadon Tethong, Director of the Tibet Action Institute, and Tenzin Dorjee, Senior Research and Strategist at the Tibet Action Group.

“China is committing genocide in Tibet,” said Tethong, “and has been working for decades to change history, to distort and obscure the present situation on the ground so as to erase Tibet from the world stage, both in the past and in the present.”

“The US, and the West in general, has conceded so much ground to China in the last three decades and moved the equilibrium so far toward Beijing’s baseline,” said Dorjee. “It is time to liberate ourselves from the tragically misguided notion that sweeping human rights under the rug would somehow make China more likely to cooperate on issues of geopolitical interest.”

Bill Would Close Loophole That Allows Illegal Gun Purchases

Capitol Comments

Senator Robert Menendez

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In 2019, more than eight prohibited people a day were sold guns by dealers who do not wait for completed background check.

U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) joined a group of 20 Senators in introducing the Background Check Completion Act. The legislation would close a current loophole that allows gun sales to proceed if a background check is not completed within a certain time period, even if the gun buyer is not legally allowed to purchase a gun. The gap in existing law has allowed thousands of gun sales to prohibited buyers, includ -

ing the sale of the firearm used by the shooter in the deadly attack at Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church. U.S. Representative James E. Clyburn introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“An overwhelming majority of Americans support common-sense gun violence prevention measures –yet the Republican Party continues to choose to represent the NRA over protecting our kids,” said Sen. Menendez. “Background checks are effective and closing the Charleston loophole is a critical measure to prevent future tragedies across America.”

“Gun violence is a national crisis and the issue is exacerbated when guns fall into the wrong hands,” said Sen. Booker. “However, the gun lobby has continuously blocked common-sense gun

measures like universal background checks. I am proud to cosponsor this bill that will ensure that everyone who purchases a gun must complete a background check.”

When a criminal background check indicates that a firearm purchaser may have a criminal record, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tries to determine whether the purchaser can legally buy a gun. If this process takes longer than 72 hours for those 21 years of age or older, or 10 days for those under 21, gun dealers can complete the sale even though there is a heightened risk that the purchaser is legally disqualified from purchasing a gun.

The Background Check Completion Act would require a completed background check for every gun buyer who purchases a gun from a federally-licensed gun dealer.

Joining Sens. Menendez and Booker in co-sponsoring the legislation are Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.),

Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Dick Durbin (D-lll.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Bob Casey, Jr. (DPa.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.).

The legislation has been endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, Brady, Sandy Hook Promise and Newtown Action Alliance.

BlueClaws:

Continued From Page 6

runs through 2030.

Jersey Shore’s first-year manager is Greg Brodzinski, the club’s 16th manager in history. Brodzinski, 31, spent last year as the bench coach with Triple A Lehigh Valley, the Phillies’ farm club which competes in the International League. He was the Phillies’ bullpen catcher and catching coach in 2020 and 2021.

Jersey Shore began play in 2001 as the Lakewood BlueClaws. Since its inception, a total of 8,118,695 fans have purchased tickets to the club’s home regular-season games. A total of 256,141 fans plunked down their money last season.

“We’re very proud to reach 14 sellouts last year, finish third among all South Atlantic League teams in attendance and finish 14th among all 120 minor league baseball teams in group sales,” Ricciutti said. “We feel we have something to offer every family, every business, youth sports team, non-profit organization and other groups and we look forward to welcoming them back to ShoreTown.”

Jersey Shore’s pitching coach is Phil Cundari, who spent the previous three years in the Toronto Blue Jays’ minor-league system. The club’s batting coach is former BlueClaws player Brock Stassi, who was with the team for 59 games in 2021 when he hit three home runs and drove in 30 runs. He made his big-league debut with the Phillies on April 3, 2017.

The team’s bench coach is Chris Adamson, who was scheduled to manage the club

in 2020. He managed the team in 2021.

The team’s pitching development coach is Brady Lail, who pitched for the New York Yankees, the Chicago White Sox and the Seattle Mariners. The team’s athletic trainer is Meaghan Flaherty, who has been with the Phillies since 2020 and spent last season as the assistant athletic trainer with Lehigh Valley. The team’s strength and conditioning coach is Mark Jesse, Jr., who joined the Phillies’ system last season.

Two Jersey Shore players, No. 5 Hao Yu Lee and No. 28 Tommy McCollum, are ranked among MLB Pipeline’s Top 30 Phillies prospects.

A total of 119 former BlueClaws, including former Phillies stars Cole Hamels and Ryan Howard, have earned berths on major league rosters.

Ten former BlueClaws - Detroit’s Nick Maton and Matt Vierling, the Chicago White Sox’s Jake Diekman, Houston’s Hector Neris, Oakland’s Trevor May, Seattle’s J.P. Crawford, the Los Angeles Angels’ Logan O’Hoppe, Atlanta’s Travis d’Arnaud, the New York Mets’ Carlos Carrasco, Milwaukee’s Hoby Milner and the Chicago Cubs’ Mark Leiter Jr. - were on major league regular-season rosters at the start of the 2023 campaign. The latter pitched for Toms River High School North and the Phillies.

“We want our fans to say after visiting the ballpark, ‘That was fun. Let’s do it again,’ “ Ricciutti said. “They entrust us with three to four hours of their most precious commodity, which is time. If we do that (the team employs 300 persons when it plays home games), we did our jobs and that makes us incredibly proud.”

Blueclaws.com contributed to this report

Brick Morning Rotary 2023 “Ya Gotta Laugh”

BRICK – Laughing together for charity for fifteen years! Once again, this year the Brick Morning Rotary is set to host its Annual Comedy Night at the Brick VFW at 373 Adamston Road in Brick on April 22 at 6 p.m. Local favorite comedian and host Ryan Maher, as well as fellow renowned comedians Gene Trifilo and Jim Dailakas will be ready to entertain. All in attendance are encouraged to bring your own food; dessert will be provided by local food and chocolate retailers, and there will be a cash bar.

For many years this traditional event has played to a sold-out house, and tickets will be scarce. Since its inception, this event has helped the Rotary donate more than $250,000 to local charities and scholarships. Area bakeries and chocolate vendors are invited to share and promote their goods, while attendees are asked to laugh and have fun!

Advance tickets are $25 or $30 at the door. Fully reserved tables of 10 are encouraged, paid in advance for $250. There will be a tremendous gift basket raffle, cash bar, and

a BIG 50/50 drawing.

Club Vice-President and Comedy Chair-Woman Arlene Schwartz cannot hide her enthusiasm. “An amazing group of Rotarians donating their time and talents to help build a better community, while having a blast at the same time! What could be better? The Community supports us in so many ways, and this event has become the icing on the cake. We all get to laugh and make a difference together!”

Tickets and sponsorships are available. For more information or to support the event in any fashion, please contact Rich at 732267-0960, Arlene at 732-496-7228, Mike at 609-774-3288 or Charlie at 908-910-3564.

Funds raised from this event will help fund local scholarships, programs and charities supported by the Brick Morning Rotary Club Foundation (registered 501c3). The Brick Morning Rotary Foundation has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to our local Brick Community and the Rotary World since 1994.

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

─Photo courtesy Jersey Shore BlueClaws

The BlueClaws announced its amenities for the 2023 season

Local Pets Available For Adoption

BRICK – Kable was dumped out of a moving car and injured. He was so scared of people that he had to be trapped to be caught and was in the county shelter. Thankfully he was pulled by a rescue group and fostered until he was able to come up to the shelter. His foster home gave him a wonderful report.

He bonded with the 4-year-old child in the home and lived with two other dogs. He can use a bit of training;

he is still young so can get a little over excited when playing. This guy deserves the best home since he had such a rough start to life. It’s amazing how resilient animals are even after they have been mistreated, they still want to please us. Please open your heart and home to Kable.

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.

Memorial Day Parade

BRICK – Join for Brick Township’s Annual Memorial Day Parade on May 29 at 10 a.m. This long-running tradition is hosted by the Township, American Legion Post 348 and VFW Post 8867.

The Parade honors the brave men and women who have made the ultimate

sacrifice for our nation. The parade will march down Chambers Bridge Road and will feature veterans, marching bands, civic organizations, youth sports organizations, Boy and Girl Scouts, first responders and more. Following the parade, a ceremony will be held at the Municipal Building.

─Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center

Police EMS Employee Spotlight

BRICK – Each month Brick Police EMS will randomly select by drawing numbers, an EMT from their staff to share a little bit of their background and shed some positive light on their contribution to the Brick Township Community. For the month of April 2023 EMT Sean Regan #53160 number was drawn.

Sean joined the unit as a Part Time EMT in November of 2022. Sean has been an EMT since December 2020. Sean is one of the newest members of BTPD EMS and is the current youngest EMT at 20 years old. He has shown commitment and effort in his short time with them and will likely contribute plenty as his career advances. Sean has previous experience with a volunteer agency in Ocean County and a part time position in Burlington County. Job well done EMT Sean Regan. Keep up the excellent work!

Brick Garden Club

BRICK – The Brick Garden Club is a civic organization under the auspices of the Recreation Department of the Township of Brick. The purpose of the Club is to educate members and the public about gardening and related areas as well as to enhance the community with beautification projects.

Membership is open to anyone interested in gardening and community beautification. There are no dues. However, members are encouraged to participate in club activities and community service projects.

They meet at the Bob Anstett Cultural Arts Center, 515 Herbertsville Road, the 2nd Monday of every month at 7 p.m., with the exception of January and February (no meeting), July (Garden Tour & Tea), August (Garden Party), and December (Holiday Party).

For more information, visit the Garden Club Website at brickgardenclub.com.

Trip To Dairy Farm

BRICK – The Brick Township Historical Society is sponsoring a day trip to Kreider’s Dairy Farm and the Amish country June 16. The farm features a high-tech carousel for milking, and there is a drive down the Titanic-sized loafing barn. A guide will provide facts and humor.

Cost is $100 per person and includes the tour, time for shopping, the smorgasbord at Bird-in-Hand Restaurant, transportation and all gratuities. For a reservation call the Havens Homestead Museum at 732-7852500 and leave your name and number clearly. You will receive a call back.

─Photo courtesy Brick Police EMS

April 2023 Is Child Abuse Prevention Month

BRICK – Mayor Crate proclaimed the month of April 2023 to be Child Abuse Prevention Month in Brick Township. April is annually designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month and gives us a chance to renew our commitment to protecting children and preventing and responding to child abuse and neglect, promoting healthy families and building

a better future for all Americans. The Brick Township Women’s Club, along with Brick Memorial High School Key Club and Brick Township High School Voices are brining awareness to our community by placing pinwheels on their respective front lawns as prevention remains the best defense for our children and families.

─Photos courtesy Brick Township

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.

Medicare Advantage Plans May Be A Disadvantage!

The carnival barking celebrities are relentless on television. They attempt to persuade you to call to check your zip code with a promise of getting money put back into your monthly social security check when you sign up for the XYZ Medicare Advantage Plan.

Extra benefits are touted over and above regular Medicare at no cost to you. The problem is the taxpayer price tag is enormous and quality of benefits is putrid.

A couple decades ago, Federal legislation was passed to improve quality of health care and lower the cost through Medicare Advantage plans. Insurance companies are required to report financial data to State regulators. Today, it is estimated close to fifty percent of Medicare eligible policyholders have signed up for a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan.

An investigative article was published in the October 22nd, 2022 The New York Times. It was reported that nine out of ten MA providers were found to have committed and been accused of fraud. These private sector MA alternatives were supposed to be better than regular Medicare. They are not.

The MA companies inflated profits and received more money from the Federal government by reporting many patients more sick (increased number of diagnosis codes) with these over-diagnoses garnering higher payments. The Federal government spends as much on MA payouts as in funding the Army and Navy.

The $12-25 billion in overpayments are enough to cover hearing and vision for all individuals over the age of 65.

Federal expenditures for MA total more than budgeted for NASA, CHIP (children’s insurance), U.S. Customs & Border Protection, FBI, EPA, and the Federal prison system.

MA limits choice of physicians, specialists, and hospitals within a smaller network for coverage and payment. Additionally, policyholders must jump through hoops to acquire required care for their anomaly. Annual profit per enrollee for MA insurer is close to $2300. The MA program looks to pay out less money, restrict access to care, and gives providers a lower reimbursement.

For hearing aid benefits, an MA plan utilizes a third-party administrator. This company lowers the rate of reimbursement to audiologists to the bare minimum. This administrative company receives money from the Federal government through your Medicare payment and

your co- pay of $700 to $1000 per device, issues the hearing aids to the audiologist for your fitting, and 60-90 days later mails a service reimbursement of about 14% from the entire amount they collected. My own investigative inquiries with MA plans and administrative contractors, the actual dollar amount they pay is LESS THAN what is paid by medical assistance (MEDICAID) for the same service given to the indigent.

The MA model of providing hearing aids to policyholders encourages audiologists to get that handicapped patient in and out of their office quickly and sacrifices required care, counseling, aural rehabilitation, and computerized adjustments for patient success. “Best practices” are thrown out the door because dispensing audiologists cannot afford to spend the same amount of time for the 3rd party patient. The MA plan doesn’t typically have all manufacturers available and limits choice of product to be considered in patient fitting. Often it is a basic level hearing aid fitted with minimal care. From a business perspective, it is a churn and burn model emphasizing quantity versus quality.

Hearing handicapped patients are sacrificed. Dispensing audiologists are forced to severely reduce service and time to patients. In the MA model, policyholders are forced to lower their expectations because this is a race to the bottom mentality where the patient is neglected in product and continuity of continuing service.

Out of the delayed and low reimbursement (below the medical assistance fee schedule), to dispensing audiologists, they must pay taxes, rent, utilities, office costs, and attempt to make a profit to cover a salary. The patient may have 1-3 visits included during the first year of service. After this time period is up, the provider is permitted to charge $60 to $125 to $225 for every single office appointment lasting about fifteen minutes. The MA policyholder/patient may think they are getting a deal in hearing benefits. However, they will pay even more in the long run or avoid seeking the required hearing care due to the future cost. Your Medicare ADVANTAGE plan may ultimately place you at a DISADVANTAGE.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with informative information about your hearing care needs. Please visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com or call 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin).

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!

The Power Of Lemon Juice: 7 Ways It Improves Your Health

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Lemon juice is a natural and versatile ingredient that offers numerous health benefits. In my article today, we will explore some of the many benefits of lemon juice. Most people enjoy a squeeze of lemon in their water and while refreshing, that only provides 1-2 mg of vitamin C. Lemons are thought to be a cross between the sour orange and a citron - two fruits brought to Europe from other countries. Here are 7 ways it helps you feel better:

1. Boosts immune system: Lemon juice is a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps to stimulate the production of more white blood cells to help you fight off infections and diseases.

2. Aids digestion: Lemon juice contains citric acid, which helps to stimulate the production of more digestive juices in your stomach. This can mitigate indigestion, bloating, and other digestive issues which in turn will improve hydration and energy.

3. Hydrates the body: Lemon juice is a natural diuretic, which means that it helps to increase urine production and flush out toxins from the body. Even though it’s a weak effect, it can help you prevent dehydration.

4. Helps to alkalize the body: Alkaline minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. By alkalizing the body, lemon juice is thought to help prevent the development of acid reflux, heartburn, and other digestive problems. That said,

lemon is sometimes a trigger for people with esophagitis and heartburn.

5. Supports weight loss: Lemon juice contains pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can help to reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness. It can also help to improve metabolism and increase fat burning, making it an effective aid for weight loss. This will directly improve energy.

6. Improves heart health: Lemon juice is a good source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure, reduce the risk of stroke, and improve energy.

7. Boosts energy levels: Lemon juice has a direct effect on energy levels. It supplies your body with a natural source of electrolytes such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These electrolytes can help to replenish energy levels and prevent fatigue.

In addition to these health benefits, there are many other uses for lemon juice. For example, it can be used as a natural household cleaner, a natural skin brightener, and a natural insect repellent.

Overall, lemon juice is a natural and versatile ingredient that offers numerous health benefits and can be used in a variety of different ways. I love to make Agave Lemonade in the summer. That recipe is at my website under the “recipes” tab. Anyway, by incorporating lemon juice into your diet and daily routine, you can enjoy its many benefits and improve your overall health and well-being.

Buying And Selling A Boat Are Fertile Grounds For Scammers

By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

If you are considering buying or selling a boat, then you should be aware that the market is full of bogus buyers and sellers. When it comes to buying or selling a boat, if anything seems unusual then proceed with caution. While fraudulent transactions apply to both purchase and sales, this article will focus on the seller’s side of the transaction.

If selling your boat is not difficult enough, these days the last thing you need is to encounter someone, somewhere, trying to trick you at least once, if not two or more times as you try to complete the boat-selling process. Because fraud comes in all shapes and sizes, it is not possible for us to focus on one type of transaction, so we will concentrate on the most common red flags.

Obvious poor punctuation and grammar. These scammers crank out a thousands of their “inquiries” every day and many of them have a poor grasp of the English language. Also, pay attention to their use of multiple phone numbers (and/or multiple email addresses) from the same individual. Everything the alleged buyer asked about was thoroughly detailed in your listing. Some of these scammers operate through robo or computerized forms of communication like e-mail or texting. So, if the potential purchaser is asking you for information that is already in your listing then this should raise a red flag and you should proceed with extreme caution.

Enlisting a third party to pick up the boat without the buyer ever having inspected it. Boats are not cheap. No credible buyer will purchase a boat sight unseen. A credible purchaser will at least obtain a boat survey, which is similar to a home inspection. In addition, most honest buyers will be present when the boat is picked-up, rather than sending an agent to do take possession of your boat.

The offer to pay by cashier’s check and pick up the boat after it had been cashed. This seems like a reasonable show of good faith, but scammers have become very good at printing fake checks so realistic that banks initially accept them. It isn’t until days or even weeks later that the scam becomes apparent, and then the bank can pull those funds right back out of your account. Check with your bank to confirm its policy regarding final acceptance of funds.

Paypal or Venmo variation of payment. The phony buyer will ask for your PayPal ID in order to send you a payment, possibly for substantially more than the purchase price. Shortly after that, you will receive a fake confirmation from PayPal with your user ID for more than the agreed purchase price, and the buyer will contact you asking you to forward the extra money to a shipper. Again, you’ll lose whatever money you’ve sent. An unwillingness to provide basic proof of identity such as a photo of their driver’s license. If they are who they say they are then there should be no issue with providing proof of their identity. Automobile dealerships will obtain proof of your identify when you try to purchase one of their vehicles. Strangers routinely share this basic information when they are involved in motor vehicle collisions, so it should not be sacred during the purchase of a boat or a car.

R.C. Shea & Associates is a full-service Law Firm. We are located at 244 Main Street, Toms River. Visit our website at www. rcshea.com.

Spring ‘Fur’ Paws Gift Auction

BRICK – Jersey Shore Animal Center will be hosting a Gift Auction to benefit the animals in their care. Join us on May 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Elks in Brick for another wonderful afternoon of gifts, fun, and winning!

Must be 18 years old or older to attend. Cost is $20 advance admission ticket price or $25 at the door/day of admission ticket

price. Please note: Reserving tables of 10 only. Purchase tickets at: jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org/springfurpawsga. Got questions regarding ticket sales? Call 732-920-1600 ext. 207 or email: admin@ jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org.

Got questions regarding item/basket donations? Call 732-920-1600 ext. 206 or email: director@jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org.

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.

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

•

Brick Elks Lodge Announces

New Officers

• Esteemed Leading Knight – Marty Bradley

• Esteemed Loyal Knight – Lisa Manetta

• Esteemed Lecturing Knight – Laura Cinquegrana

• Secretary – Barbara Derasmo

• Treasurer – PVP Greg Sheehan

• Chaplin – Cristiana Bradley

• Esquire – Carolyn Rodgers

• Tiler – Don Batiato

• Inner Guard – Angelena Williams

• Subordinate Justice – Erin Curtiss

• Mediator – Martin Crerand

Trustees are as follows for this year are as follows:

• 5 year – Dan Waleski

• 4 year – Tom Yutro

• 3 year – Bill Parssley

• 2 year – Jeff Holmes

• 1 year – Jerry

All of the members would like to congratulate the officers and the trustees. They are looking forward to a great year of accomplishments with this wonderful team. They all had a wonderful time on celebrating!

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.

BRICK – The Brick Elks Lodge #2151 swore in all of their new officers and their exalted ruler at a celebration on April 1.

Exalted Ruler – Toni Severini

─Photo courtesy Brick Elks Lodge

Shapiro

Officers Participate In Career Day

BRICK – Officers teaming up with other professions in law to present to the Brick Township High School students on career day.

Special thanks to Officers Bryan Murphy, Victoria Finelli, Glen Pacyna, Vinnie Rustico, Steven Castaneda-Zepeda,

─Photo courtesy Brick Police

and Sgt. James Kelly.

Always good to present with representatives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the IRS, the NJDOC, and from the law offices of Carluccio Leone Dimon Dolye and Sacks, and Edward V. Murachanian.

Scouts Visit Police Headquarters

BRICK – Cub Scout Pack 38 took a tour of the Brick Township Police Station. The Cub Scouts sat in a patrol car, visited the Detec-

─Photo courtesy Brick Police

tive Bureau and got to hear about the dayto-day operations of a police officer. Thank you for your visit, we hope you enjoyed it!

Bingo Fundraiser

BRICK – A night of fellowship and fun! Join Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity at the Brick PAL at 60 Drum Point Road, Brick, on April 21 at 6 p.m. Bingo; 50/50; Cash prizes; Basket auction. Cost is $25 per ticket includes:

• Two bingo cards

• Five raffle tickets

• Light refreshments

Additional Bingo cards will be available for $1 each. BYOB; BYOF (bring your own food). For any questions, contact Renee Castrovilly at volunteercoordinator@nohfh.com or 732818-9500 ext. 101.

A FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM

189 Route 37 • Toms River, NJ (1/4 Mile W. of GSP) 74 Brick Blvd. • Brick, NJ (The Pavillion) 623 Lacey Rd. • Forked River, NJ 732-349-4949

New Wawa Officially Opens After Expansion

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – The newest Wawa located at 10 Lanes Mill Road in Brick, officially opened its doors to customers recently.

Originally, the Wawa at this location was a standalone store. However, in 2019, they were approved for an expansion which added a full gas station as well as building a brand-new store.

General manager Anthony Rao will lead a team of 60 associates, all of whom filled new positions with the expanded store, the company said.

“At Wawa, our core purpose is fulfilling lives every day, and since our first store

opened, we’ve believed that we all have a role in making this world a better place,” said Chris Gheysens, Wawa’s CEO. “Our associates deliver experiences and often create emotional connections with customers that go beyond what traditionally happens in a retail environment, and we look forward to welcoming old friends and making new ones in this wonderful community!”

In celebration, the store offered free coffee to its customers.

You will also be able to pick up your free copy of The Brick Times newspaper from the store each week.

Chronic Disease Self-Management Workshops

BRICK – Evidence-based programs designed by Stanford University. This free, interactive, dynamic program is offered in 2-hour long classes held in 6 consecutive sessions, once a week for six weeks. The workshop will address ways to:

• Manage your symptoms and everyday activities

• Eat healthier

• Exercise and become more active

• Communicate better with family, friends and doctors

• Use medication effectively

• Make and achieve small goals

• Problem solve

• Feel better and take control of your health

Classes are held at the Brick Township Senior Services Activity Center, 373 Adamston Road, Brick, NJ 08723 (located in VFW Post 8867). Classes held every Friday, April 21 to May 26 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Clients should attend all six sessions. The program is free; registration is required. Call 732-920-8686 to register.

Challenger Baseball

BRICK – The Brick Challenger Program was established in 1998 to provide young people with physical and intellectual disabilities with opportunities to participate in athletic social programs. For more information about the Challenger Program and how your child can be involved, call 732-262-1076.

The Challenger Baseball League is where it all started! Since 1998, this

program has given the Challenger athletes the opportunity to enjoy the National Pastime! Open to Brick Challenger Athletes ages 30 and under. Fee is $10.

Program meets Fridays from April 21 to May 19 from 5 to 6 p.m. at Hank Waltonowski Park and Joe Boland Field. Register at register.communitypass.net/ BrickTownship.

Silvi Neil

Honschke Ralph F. Fedele

─Photo courtesy Ocean County Scanner News

For Rent

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

Misc.

Comics Cards Show - Sunday, April 16 10 a.m. Elks Toms River Amvets. Writers, Costume, groovy toys, Anime, Mansa, crafts. Admission $5. 609-242-7756. (18)

Garage Sale

Garage Sale April 14-15 - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 211 6th Avenue, Ortley Beach. New items, tools, collectables, antique, jewerly, silverware, clothing, trees, ALL MUST GO. (18)

Items For Sale

Dining Room Set - Like new, other items. 732-350-0190. (18)

68 International Step Van - Four speed, six cylinder, aluminum, clean, 110,000 miles. All guages work. $5K, Bob 732-774-9000. (18)

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. (21)

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)

OCVTS Part Time Administrative Assistant - Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. $14.13 p/hour. Send resume to: 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

Home Health Care Aide - Needed for sweet elderly woman. Light transfer a must. Dressing. Simple meal prep. Holiday City. 609-349-0937. (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)

VFW Post 100092 - Barnegat, NJ 08005. Coffee - donuts every Wednesday 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Meeting 2nd Thursday1800-2000 hours each month. Looking for new members, call 609-698-4120. (21)

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)

Garden Advisory: Experienced (Master) Gardener - Assists homeowners with garden planning & design, plant care advice, plant selection & replacement recommendations, container gardens, soil testing. 732-232-8144. (21)

Housecleaning, Painting, Shopping, - Laundry, window cleaning, also we do typing services and run errends for you and also help paperwork. Very good prices. Call 732-7735078 or 848-287-3944. (21)

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 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

ing-Trusted

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

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

•

Estate/Garage/Yard Sales •

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 = $

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

Ocean County College Hosts Holocaust Remembrance Week Events

TOMS RIVER – The Center for Holocaust, Genocide, and Human Rights Education at Ocean County College will sponsor a week of special events from April 17 to April 20 in observance of Yom HaShoah and the Holocaust Days of Remembrance. All events will be held in the Technology Building (#25) Lecture Hall on the Ocean County College main campus in Toms River.

April 17

• Not Like Sheep to Slaughter: Jewish Resistance During the Holocaust (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. and 5 to 6:15 p.m. Despite starvation, dehumanization and the “Final Solution,” many Jews in the ghettos and camps throughout Europe participated in resistance efforts, be it spiritual and cultural, armed fighting, rescue activities, producing false documents, or joining partisan groups engaged in guerilla warfare and sabotage against the Germans.

April 18

• I Was a Hidden Child: The Maud Dahme Story; 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Our guest speaker is New Jersey resident Maud Peper Dahme. As a 6-year-old child living in the Netherlands, she and her 4-year-old sister were hidden from the Nazis. Ms. Dahme will discuss her experiences as well as her book and film, “The Hidden Child.” Prayer service to follow.

• Their Fate Shall Be Our Fate: The Righteous Among Nations (Dr. Justin Pfeifer); 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Whether smuggling and hiding Jews, providing false documents, taking in Jewish children, there were non-Jews from all denominations and walks of life who stand in stark contrast to the indifference that prevailed at the time and who risked their lives to save Jews.

April 19

• And Our Deeds Shall Live Forever: Uprisings in Ghettos and Camps (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Forcibly evacuated from their homes all across Europe to isolated crowded ghettos and eventually to

extermination camps, Jews maintained their religious and cultural practices, educated their children, smuggled in food and weapons, participated in uprisings, and maintained and hid documentary records of the atrocities they endured.

• Creativity as Witness and Resistance: Art and Poetry by the Children at Terezin Camp (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 2 to 3:15 p.m. Theresienstadt, or Terezin, established as a ghetto and transit camp in 1941, was built by the Nazis as a “model” Jewish settlement camp for propaganda purposes. Despite congestion, hunger, and forced labor, educational and cultural activities abounded. This presentation will discuss the art and poetry by the children interned there.

April 20

• Forests of Valor: Jewish Partisan Fighters (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 9 to 10:15 a.m. 20,000-30,000 young underground freedom fighters who escaped the ghettos and work camps fled to the hidden forests of Poland, Lithuania, and Belarus. They blew up thousands of Nazi supply trains, destroyed power plants and other military and strategic targets, and carried out complicated smuggling and rescue missions.

• Sisters in Resistance: Women Partisans During the Holocaust (Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig); 12 to 1:15 p.m. Although often known for their support roles in Partisan groups –performing camp duties and providing medical care - young women also fought alongside men. Others braved danger and death as couriers; sometimes disguised as non-Jews, they transported documents, papers, money, and ultimately ammunition and weapons across borders and into ghettos. This lecture will highlight some of those courageous women.

All events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Ali Botein-Furrevig, director of the Center for Holocaust, Genocide and Human Rights Education at Ocean County College, at 732-255-0400 ext. 2368 or abotein-furrevig@ocean.edu.

2023 Farmers Market Vendor Application

BRICK – The Farmers Market will return to Windward Beach for the 2023 season on May 6. They are currently accepting applications to become a vendor. If inter-

ested, fill out the form at: townshipofbrick. seamlessdocs.com/f/2023FarmersApp. For more information, visit bricktownship.net/ index.php/brick-farmers-market.

HANDS FOR ALL

A Division of HOMES FOR ALL, INC.

A Not-For-Profit Affordable Housing Developer

680 Hooper Ave. • Building B 2nd Floor Toms River, NJ 08753

Tel: 732.286.7929 • Fax: 732.286.9698

p oli C e B lotter

Georgia Woman Charged For Stealing Attorney Trust Account Funds

By Alyssa Riccardi

clients were harmed.

POINT

PLEASANT

– A Georgia woman has been charged with theft for allegedly taking funds from an attorney trust account of a Point Pleasant law office, officials said.

Donna Frustieri, 55, of Thunderbolt, Georgia, was a legal secretary at a local law firm and had access to the financial instruments used by the firm’s attorney trust account. The trust account held funds belonging to numerous clients of the law practice.

According to officials, Frustieri unlawfully issued about 139 checks from the trust account between May 2015 and June 2021 totaling over $184,000. The checks were made payable to family members and others connected to her.

As a result, the law office reimbursed all of the stolen funds to the trust account so that no

On March 29, Frustieri was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Point Pleasant Borough Police Chief Adam Picca acknowledged the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad, Point Pleasant Borough Police Department, and Thunderbolt (Georgia) Police Department, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.

The charges referenced are merely accusations and the public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Senior Services April Activities

BRICK – Brick Senior Services provides residents ages 60 and over with a variety of services and access to activities and programs that are designed to improve their quality of life.

• “Talking with Jen” Presentation April 17 at 12 p.m.

• “Got Your Ducks in a Row” Preparing your financial and personal matters April 17, 24, 28 and May 1 at 1:30 p.m. Call 732-920-8686 to register.

• Chronic Disease Workshop 6-Week Class on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. April 21, 28 & May 5, 12, 19, 26. Call 732-920-8686 to register.

• The Book Nook Club meets April 24 at 10 a.m. Join for exciting discussions and review the latest best sellers. April’s Book: Mother

Angelica by Raymond Arroyo

• Ice Cream Social & Bingo sponsored by Concord Rehab April 26 at 12:30 p.m. Suggested donation $2. Must register.

• The Community Café Mondays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Lunch reservation by 11 a.m. the day before is required. Transportation provided to site. Suggested donation of $2. Call 732-920-8686 for reservations.

• Computers available for your personal use. Open access Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Senior Services Office is located in the Civic Plaza, 270 Chambers Bridge Road, Unit 12 and the Senior Services Activity Center is located in VFW Post 8867, 373 Adamston Road. For information call 732-920-8686.

Annual Brick Township Green Fair

BRICK – The 11th Annual Brick Township Green Fair, sponsored by the Township Environmental Commission, Green Team, Recreation Department and Tourism Development Commission, is scheduled for May 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Anstett Cultural Arts Center, 515 Herbertsville Road. The environmental and sustainability

showcase, which is free to attend, features vendors, exhibitors and student groups representing environmental and social responsibility, locally-sourced products and zero waste. Attendees can expect to come away with many simple but important ways to live a more eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle.

March Senior Shuttle Trip

BRICK – The Brick Senior Shuttle Service was started in 2019 by the Mayor, the Township Council and Brick Senior Services. The Senior Shuttle provides residents ages 60 and over with free transportation to Brick Township’s shopping areas as well as to special events in the township and surrounding communities.

Senior Shuttles are wheelchair accessible. Senior Shuttle rides are free; seating is limited and filled on a first-come, first served basis. Call 732-920-8686 to reserve a trip April Senior Shuttle Trip:

• Vintage Automobile Museum and Breakfast at Diner (your expense) – April 14

• Ocean County Mall – April 28 .

photo of the week

“All Aboard The River Lady!” The iconic genuine paddle-wheel boat, which is set to start its 34 th season, was spotted along the Barnegat Bay near the freshly painted & renovated Barnegat Lighthouse. Photographer

Matt Baron was in the right place at the right time and captured this magnificent picture. Have a photo of your own to share with the world? Email it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Deborah Heart and Lung Center Hosting Women’s Health EXPO

OCEAN COUNTY – “Because YOU Matter,” Deborah Heart and Lung Center is hosting a Women’s Health EXPO on April 29 at the Toms River Clarion on Route 37 West from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This day, focused on YOU, features a full array of health, wellness, and fun activities. A wide range of complimentary health screenings – provided by Deborah’s expert medical team – will be available, including blood pressure, pulse oximetry, body fat analysis, sleep apnea, and peripheral artery disease. As well, physicians and health professionals from Deborah will be on hand to discuss test results, chat about any ongoing health concerns, and share information about nutrition, health, and wellness.

The specialists from Deborah will be joined by a variety of regional healthcare providers offering additional screenings and community services, including:

• Garden State Hearing & Balance Center

• Ivy Rehab

• Mental Mediator

• Ocean County Health Department

• Ocean County Office of Senior Services

• Premier Dermatology Clinic

• Priceless Photo Video

• State of New Jersey Unclaimed Property

• The Eye Professionals of Burlington County

• The Navigator Exchange Program at Center for Family Services

• Wells Fargo Advisors

EXPO participants will be able to shop almost two dozen vendors offering the latest crafts, cosmetics, jewelry, and home goods, as well as enjoying a chair or arm/hand massage from therapists at the New Jersey School of Massage.

The first 200 visitors will receive a swag bag and giveaways, and all participants will have an opportunity to win a designer handbag.

“It is vitally important that we gather women together to focus on themselves,” said Renee Bullock-Palmer, MD, Director of Deborah’s Women’s Heart Center. “Women often put themselves last on the list, but we want them to take some time out for themselves, pause and take stock of their physical and emotional health. We are so excited to bring this opportunity to Toms River.”

The Women’s Health EXPO is being supported by Event Sponsor Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson. Additional sponsorship support is being provided by Liberty Bell Bank and OceanFirst Foundation, with support from partners Arista Care Whiting & Manchester, Bayada Home Health Care, Hampton Behavioral Health Center, and NJ School of Massage.

Deborah’s Women’s Health EXPO is April 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Toms River Clarion, 815 Route 37 West, Toms River. Admission is free. For more information, call 609-893-3372.

F un & G ames S udoku

C rossword P uzzle

40 One with a need for speed

41 Bread spread

42 Bro’s sib

43 Mexican state south of Veracruz

44 Local political gathering

47 “Acid”

48 Capricorn critter

49 Poker variety

51 Chosen groups 54 Watched 55 File format for digital books

59 Upscale restaurant’s offering

62 Christian on a label

63 “Marriage Story”

actor Alan 64 “We didn’t do it”

65 Tall tale

66 Itchy red area

1 Lavish party

2 Film segment

3 Many a Zeiss product

4 Shine

5 Toy retailer __ Schwarz

6 Meditation word

7 __ mater

8 Piggy in a crib

31 Hot rod attachment

32 Management bigwigs

33 Highly coveted violin

35 Right that isn’t right, e.g.

39 Paleo __

40 Tortellini topper

42 Five-armed ocean creature

43 When a football may be snapped

45 Springfield bar

46 Old Testament prophet

50 Exorcist’s target

51 Jacuzzi effect

52 Kylo Ren’s mother

53 Composer Stravinsky

54 Criteria: Abbr.

56 Best of the Beatles, once

57 Word on U.S. coins

58 At it

60 __ carte

61 Omaha-to-St. Paul dir.

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of apr 15 - apr 21

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You can look on the bright side even on the darkest day. Your optimistic and cheerful outlook can help make even anxious people feel relaxed. You will be delighted if you open the door wide when opportunity knocks.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): It can be easy to express your deep love and affection. You may experience an intense need to have someone by your side. A difficult situation could be sidestepped if you remain discreet and avoid emotional reactions to criticism.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You might be happier if everything is bigger and better, and when everyone benefits. You could be prompted to perform altruistic acts or to upgrade your goals. Ask trusted friends for advice if you want problems solved easily.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Step up to the plate. When it is your turn at bat, apply enthusiasm and you could knock the ball out of the park. Show maturity by forgiving those who may have made mistakes and by generously helping out your friends.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Show off your initiative, competitive prowess and leadership abilities during the coming week. If you dwell on past mistakes, you could hesitate to act on an opportunity. Join in with fun activities and actively widen your horizons.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) : Put any thoughts of business on the back burner for now. A romantic companion may start a conversation by sharing their passions or fantasies. Your goals and dreams may develop into a grand design that can bring you closer together.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You can get ahead faster if you put past conflicts behind you and focus on forgiveness and work toward a mutually satisfactory compromise. Ask for clarification if you are confused by assignments or need more time to grasp the details.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Your fairy-tale wishes might be fulfilled. A partner may awaken your feelings and invite you to join them on some romantic adventures. You can capture and use creative ideas or write down your intriguing thoughts for later use.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You may find it challenging to remain still if it seems like there is too much time and energy on your hands. Occupy yourself with constructive projects that offer physical activity and scope for your wide-ranging interests.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You could end up feeling too solitary if you are a lone wolf. Attend community events or family gatherings to find other pack members. This might be a good day to concentrate on togetherness and share your feelings.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Nobody is perfect, even you. Do not expect a partner or loved one to live up to standards that even you may not be able to meet. Aim for the best and highest without criticizing those who may not reach their goal. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Do not let an opportunity to possibly make a profit pass you by. You might find that luck is on your side when you need it. It may take courage to demonstrate negotiating skills, but you can be up for the challenge.

LEMON-OLIVE OIL TART

By America’s Test Kitchen

While most lemon tart recipes feature butter in both the crust and the filling, in this recipe we use extra-virgin olive oil to take some of the fuss out of your prep work. Simply mix flour, sugar and salt with the oil and a little water until a soft dough forms; crumble it into the tart pan; press it into the sides and bottom; and bake it right away. There’s no rolling or chilling required! Using olive oil in the filling as well allows the lemons’ acidity to shine through, allowing you to use a bit less juice than you’d need to enjoy the bright flavor if you had used butter instead. You also won’t lose any of the firmness or sliceability you’d expect in a tart, because the filling gets plenty of structure from the protein in the eggs.

LEMON-OLIVE OIL TART

Serves 8

Notes : Use a fresh, high-quality extra-virgin olive oil here. Make sure that all your metal equipment — saucepan, strainer and whisk — is nonreactive, or the filling may have a metallic flavor.

For the crust :

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

5 tablespoons (2 1/4 ounces) sugar

1/2 teaspoon table salt

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons water

For the filling :

1 cup (7 ounces) sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon table salt

3 large eggs plus 3 large yolks

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest plus 1/2 cup juice (3 lemons)

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the crust :

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Whisk flour, sugar, and salt together in a bowl. Add oil and water and stir until uniform dough forms. Using your hands, crumble three-quarters of dough over the bottom of a 9-inch tart pan that has a removable bottom. Press dough to an even thickness in the bottom of the pan.

3. Crumble remaining dough and scatter evenly around the edge of the pan, then press crumbled dough into fluted sides of the pan. Press dough to even thickness.

4. Place pan on rimmed baking sheet and bake until crust is deep golden brown and firm to touch, 30 to 35 minutes, rotating pan halfway through baking.

For the filling :

1. About 5 minutes before the crust is finished baking, whisk sugar, flour, and salt in a medium saucepan until combined. Whisk in eggs and yolks until no streaks of egg remain. Whisk in lemon zest and juice.

2. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly and scraping corners of the saucepan, until mixture thickens slightly and registers 160 degrees, 5 to 8 minutes.

3. Off heat, whisk in oil until incorporated. Strain curd through a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl. Pour curd into warm tart shell.

4. Bake until filling is set and barely jiggles when pan is shaken, 8 to 12 minutes. Let tart cool completely on a wire rack, at least 2 hours. Remove the outer metal ring of the tart pan. Slide a thin metal spatula between tart and pan bottom, then carefully slide tart onto serving platter. Cut tart into wedges, wiping the knife clean between cuts if necessary, and serve. (Leftovers can be wrapped loosely in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to three days.)

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

(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.