2023-04-22 - The Brick Times

EVERYDAY HEROES

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By Alyssa

RICK – Local heroes who have strived to make a difference in the community were recently honored with their own “cape.”

The 9th Annual Brick Hero Awards presentation was held at the Brick High School auditorium and hosted by the Mayor’s Student Advisory. The program gives the opportunity to

Farmer’s Market, Summerfest, Park Upgrade Planned

By

Judy

Smestad-Nunn

BRICK - Dogs will be permitted at the Farmer’s Market for the first time, on a trial basis, after the Township Council’s Recreation Committee reviewed and approved the measure.

(Farmer - See

acknowledge those who have made a positive impact in the community and awards them for their acts of kindness.

This year, they recognized 33 individu -

als with some of the honorees consisting of teachers, students, administration, community workers, residents and more. Throughout the night, each hero was (Heroes - See Page 4)

Parkway Changes Planned

By Chris Lundy

OCEAN COUNTY - Significant changes will happen on the Garden State Parkway between miles 80 and 83 as exits are renumbered and lanes and offramps are altered.

The New Jersey Turnpike Authority, which also oversees the Parkway, put out the plan, asking for feedback from drivers.

One of the biggest changes is that there will be a “Collector-Distributor roadway.” This is a few lanes in each direction,

- See

Riccardi

-Photos by Alyssa Riccardi

Pictured are members of Save Breton Woods and Save Barnegat Bay.

(Inset): Ptl. Scott Smith and K9 Echo (not pictured) were honored for leading the investi

gation of the recent animal hoarding incident.

separated from

─Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn Dogs will be allowed on the lawn area of Windward Beach Park but not the bandstand.

The governing body passed a resolution that allows dog owners to bring their canine companions with them to the Farmer’s Market held each Saturday from May through September at Windward Beach Park.

Page 8) (Parkway

Page 5)

Heroes

pinned with a green superhero cape.

The first honoree of the night was former mayor John Ducey. Ducey served as mayor for nearly nine years and had announced his resignation earlier this year.

Although Ducey was not present for the ceremony, he was honored with a cape and students from the Mayor’s Student Advisory gave a speech thanking him for everything he has done for the Brick community.

“Ducey was an admirable leader of Brick and extremely involved in the student body population. He treated students as if they were professionals, asked our opinions and really considered what we had to say. This was a great opportunity for us to be treated as mature individuals and to feel like our voices were being heard in our town,” student Aidan Murphy said. “He has spent his entire career as mayor ensuring the overall success of Brick Township, as well as the wellbeing of each individual and citizen. John Ducey is an excellent example of a community leader who cares deeply for the wellbeing and productivity of their community.”

Some other honorees included Dave Panebianco, a Brick resident who dedicated his time to making repairs for churches, businesses, neighbors and locals. He has also worked with various local police and fire departments.

Panebianco is a member of the Holy Name Society of Visitation Church, American Legion and Knights of Columbus. He has donated about $15,000 to the church to have the neces-

sary repairs and cleaning done. Additionally, Dave helps out each month at the church’s family gathering, the annual gift auction and presently cleaning the stained glass of the church.

Ptl. Scott Smith and K9 Echo were honored at this year’s Hero Awards for serving the Brick community for 16 years, four of which in the K9 unit. The most recent incident Ptl. Smith was involved in was the animal hoarding situation.

He was the first to arrive on scene was able to gain consented entry into the home. He was the lead operations investigator on that call and stayed on scene for about 10 hours. It was noted that he stayed well after his shift ended to ensure the safety of the animals as well as maintain proper procedure.

“K9 Patrol Officer Scott Smith, badge 231, and Echo deserve to be recognized not only for their role in shutting down the horrendous animal cruelty case, but his many years of continued service to the Township of Brick,” student Brody LaVallee stated.

Many educators and school staff were recognized at this year’s awards, one being Cindy Dornacker who is a social worker/counselor at Drum Point Elementary School. Dornacker was hired during the COVID pandemic and was nominated as a hero due to her commitment to build relationships with students, staff, and families, despite masks, social distancing, and the hybrid learning schedule.

“She has become an integral part of our team, and provides support and resources to assist anyone in need. Mrs. Dornacker has spent countless hours in supporting students with behavioral and mental health needs which have

stemmed from students’ limited opportunity to develop and build social skills over the last several years,” Principal Colleen Kerr said.

The last cape given out for the evening was shared between two local environmental advocacy groups: Save Breton Woods and Save Barnegat Bay. Members from both groups worked together to stop the development of 31 acres of property that’s been dubbed Breton Woods.

They attended months and months of countless Planning Board meetings and were able to raise funds to help provide attorneys that would speak out in opposition to the proposed development.

“These individuals were undeterred by the challenging mission, which was beyond many of the participants’ experience. As a community of deeply caring and selfless individuals, members of Save Breton Woods and Save

Barnegat Bay advocated for, and ultimately helped achieve the preservation of this land, making Brick Township and our environment better,” student Emily Farrell said.

The following is a full list of the Hero Award Recipients: John G. Ducey, Susan McNamara, Bonny DiBernardo, Diane Johnson, Nick Spanola, Dave Panebianco, Brick Children’s Community Theatre (BCCT), Edward Sarluca, Ptl. Scott Smith & K9 Echo, Morgan Blann, Diana Hoogvliet, Jean Benfanti, Maryann Biernat-Oldock, Jacqueline Janik, Cassidy Haugh, Jessica O’Brien, Kim Petillion, James lannarone, Dan Newman, Geraldine Bayles, Kathleen Oehme, Barbara Favato, Patty Griggs, Dave Kuster, Cindy Dornacker, True Life Church, Nicole Pannucci, Mary Ann Jacob, Debbie Thomas, Save Breton Woods/ Save Barnegat Bay, Marion Gallagher, Anne Leahy, and Katharine Hulse.

-Photo by Alyssa Riccardi

Cindy Dornacker, a social worker/counselor, was awarded for her commitment to students and staff of Drum Point Elementary School.

Parkway:

Continued From Page 1

the rest of the Parkway by a median. Drivers getting onto the Parkway will first be on this Collector-Distributor until either they get off at another Toms River stop or go on to the rest of the Parkway.

Between 81 and 82, there will be new roadways added, separated from the main Parkway by a concrete median. If you’re heading north, there will be a through lane and an auxiliary lane (for getting on and off). If you’re heading south, there will be two through lanes and an auxiliary lane.

Officials said that local traffic needs to have a separate roadway from the mainline of the Garden State Parkway. This is a heavily traveled area, and the goal is to give more room for cars. With the interchanges stacked up pretty closely together, there’s not enough room for drivers to get out of each other’s ways.

Other parts of the project include the rehabilitation or replacement of 11 bridges, replacement of guide rails, and upgrades to signing, striping and lighting. Shoulder widths would be widened (in some cases, they are non-existent). Utilities would need to be relocated.

The plan includes 23 basins and nine manufactured treatment devices to manage stormwater runoff.

Development

There are an above average number of crashes in these miles compared to other spots on the road, the Authority said. This part of the

road was originally constructed in the 1950s, and is not made to take the kind of traffic it sees now.

There will also be more construction projects that will bring even more cars. One of them that the Authority cited was the redevelopment of downtown Toms River, with proposed apartment towers. There’s also the rerouting of traffic downtown that’s being considered.

Another big project is a multi-use condo complex in South Toms River.

Changing Exit Numbers

The standard in numbering exits is that if they are part of a single exit, they will be assigned the same number. Therefore, 81, 82, and 82A will now be 82A, 82B and 82C. That’s because these will all be accessed from the Collector-Distributor.

Exit 80 Changes

If you’re heading north on the Parkway, there will be a new exit that will bring you to Route 9 south. In this case, we’re not talking about Route 166 or Atlantic City Boulevard or whatever it is called through Beachwood and South Toms River. We’re talking about that long road with no driveways on it that hits several lights before it joins what we commonly call Route 9. This is the road that gets backed up with traffic from Parkway south every rush hour and now traffic from Parkway north will also be routed to here.

If you’re heading the other way, onto Parkway north, you currently have two lanes which combine into one after the light at Route 530/ Dover Road. The new plan would have those two lanes both continue as auxiliary lanes.

They will lead to the Collector-Distributor roadway and to the rest of the Parkway. Also near this intersection, Dover Road westbound will be widened under the Parkway to accommodate two lanes. The idea is that the light before going onto the Parkway would stay green longer because cars going west wouldn’t need as much time to go through.

A new southbound entrance ramp will be created from Double Trouble Road to Parkway south.

If you’re driving west on Dover, you would take the jughandle at Railroad Avenue then make a left to travel south on the Parkway.

A lot of people in this area trying to go south on the Parkway just take Double Trouble to interchange 77. This would provide an alternative. It would likely be more popular for people leaving South Toms River (and the new development) and Manitou Park and would prevent adding traffic on local roads.

A new traffic light will be built at Double Trouble Road at the existing ramp with a designated left-turn lane. It will be coordinated with the traffic light that already exists at 530 so that traffic can flow through them both.

Currently, the off ramp at exit 80 is dangerous. There is a designated right turn lane that people new to the area don’t realize is there right away. Then, the rest of the exit opens into a spot where you can go left or right, but there’s not much room to make a decision if you’re not experienced with it. Then, making a left out of there is difficult because a truck sitting at the light can block your view of oncoming cars. Making a right is tricky, too, because Double Trouble is a bit higher on your left so you can’t see cars coming.

Sometimes cars line up so long at this exit that they are stopped on the Parkway. This new traffic signal will detect cars and will turn green if the line gets long.

Interchange 81

Interchange 81 will be called Interchange 82A. The Collector-Distributor roadways will have access to this.

Heading north, the exit ramp will be redesigned and will link with the proposed roundabout in downtown Toms River. The roundabout (fancy word for circle) is proposed to be at Highland Parkway, Lakehurst Road, and Water Street.

If you’re leaving Toms River and heading north, the traffic pattern won’t change on the ramp itself. The only change is that you will get onto the Collector-Distributor. From there, you would be able to either get off at 82B or the rest of Parkway north.

The bridge going over the Parkway at Lakehurst Road will be replaced. The new one will be constructed slightly to the north of the current bridge. That way, people will use the old one until the new one is ready. Then, the new one will open up and the old one will be demolished.

Heading south from downtown, the entrance ramp to the Parkway will be enhanced to meet the standards of other entrances but the traffic flow won’t change.

Heading south on the Parkway, your exit will be at a different spot. You’ll get off north of Lakehurst Road and the exit ramp will cut through the woods and come to the traffic light at Lakehurst Road.

(Parkway - See Page 20)

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

E ditorial

Celebrating

Our 28 Year Journey A Time For Thanks

It has now been a journey of 28 years since The Manchester Times was born with the publication of its first edition on April 18, 1995, a venture which I launched with my partner, Robyn Weber, in the basement of my home in Pine Lake Park. Since that time, we have been fortunate to add to our family of weekly newspapers with the introduction of The Berkeley Times (1996), The Jackson Times (2000), The Brick Times (2002), The Howell Times (2004), the Toms River Times (2005), and the Southern Ocean Times (2013). As our journey continued, the progress of technology meant the need for us to extend our offerings online, where information of all types is now consumed. This led to our development of a first-class website fully integrated with social media and the needs of both readers and advertisers. Jersey Shore Online, Toms River Online and Bricktown Online are seen by thousands of readers each day and our reach has never been greater.

The first edition of The Manchester Times contained an editorial entitled The Importance Of Community, which has been published within the first edition of all our newspapers since that time. It expressed the belief that the strength of our nation is founded upon the strength of our individual communities through “the simple associations we make in our community each and every day.” As such, the editorial continued, “We believe the mission of a local newspaper should be to promote the highest ideals of community life,” a mission we have tried to pursue faithfully throughout our journey.

The celebration of the 28th

Westlake Spared During Tornado Outbreak

Letters To The Editor

anniversary of our journey is first and foremost a time for thanks – to those who submit club and travel news to inform our readers of their events; to those submitting Letters To The Editor, thereby encouraging the debate and analysis of important issues; to our elected officials and other public officers who inform us of initiatives undertaken on behalf of the constituents they serve, and to the loyal advertisers whose advertising dollars make the fulfillment of our mission possible.

Finally, I extend my deep and heartfelt thanks to the dedicated employees of our company, without which the success and quality of our newspapers and online offerings would be impossible – to our office, layout, ad design and production staff, under the direction of production manager Allison Gradzki, who meet deadlines under often difficult circumstances; to our news staff, under the direction of news editor Chris Lundy, who offer complete and unbiased news reporting; to our sales staff, under the direction of sales manager Lorrie Toscano, who work diligently to ensure that economic targets are met; to the distribution department, under the direction of distribution manager Laura Hoban, who distribute our newspapers week in and week out on a timely basis, and to Jason Allentoff, our vice president and my business partner, who sees that all facets of the organization are effectively coordinated.

To all of you, thank you for sharing this wonderful journey with us, a journey that will continue for many years to come!

Stew Swann Publisher

The number of tornadoes that struck New Jersey on April 1 has been confirmed as seven by the National Weather Service. Jackson Township had two confirmed, one being a powerful EF-2 with winds exceeding 130 mph. I visited ground zero the next day, and it was obvious that the damage was typical of tornadic activity. I witnessed uprooted trees, storage sheds in the middle of West Commodore Boulevard, fences scattered like twigs, and vehicles with broken windshields with tree limbs on them. A few tree trunks had metal storage sheds wrapped around them, indicating the intense swirling winds. Tornadic wind damage was also reported on Frank Applegate Road and several other areas in Jackson.

To determine the details on any tornado, the NWS survey team must follow the path, from point of touchdown, to dissipation point. It is a long and tedious job.

According to the NWS report, the tornado formed along a “rotating supercell within a line of thunderstorms.” It first touched down near Patterson Road, just off West Commodore Boulevard and moved east about three-quarters of a mile, carving a path of damage 200 yards wide across homes on the north side of Stonehenge Court before going across homes and businesses across Wright-Debow Road and Hamilton

Road. From there the tornado moved east-southeast for about three-quarters of a mile, still over 200 yards wide, passing just north of GasTime, at the corner of Diamond Road and West Commodore Boulevard, then following West Commodore again. It finally dissipated just before reaching the Land ‘O Pines Mobile Home Park, where the tornado’s path ended. Another tornado formed near Aldrich Road in Jackson and left a trail of damage before dissipating in Howell Township.

The bubble at Adventure Crossings was deflated by flying debris. Great Adventure sustained heavy damage to signage and trees. A warehouse under construction off I-95 was destroyed.

Many streets were closed throughout our town, and school was canceled the following day due to power outages and debris on some streets. Luckily, no injuries were reported.

The rating scale for tornadoes is based entirely on the damage they cause. The enhanced Fujita Scale was implemented by the National Weather Service in 2007 to rate tornadoes in a more consistent and accurate manner. It ranges from EF-0 to EF-5.

Here in Westlake, many residents did the proper thing and took shelter in their basements or an interior room, some with their pets. Lights blinked a few times as transformers exploded in other areas of town, but luckily, here in Westlake no damage was reported. Residents who belong to the Facebook group:

“Westlake Weather Watches”

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

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

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

were kept informed minute by minute during the storm. One member was thankful after the all-clear was posted, saying she was glad to finally get out of her closet.

A tornado has a very specific definition. It is a violently rotating column of air, that extends from the base of a thunderstorm cloud to the ground. If it’s not rotating, or does not touch the ground, it is not officially a tornado. Only the strongest thunderstorms are capable of producing a tornado, and a storm must have the perfect combination of instability, moisture, shear, and lift to drop a twister. The sunny weather and warm temperatures that afternoon increased instability in the atmosphere, and combined with an approaching cold front; created the perfect formula for a tornado formation.

When a Tornado Warning is issued for your area, it is an urgent and very serious matter. That’s why your television, radio, and cell phones are instantly interrupted with the dramatic buzzing and beeping of the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts. You may only have minutes (or less) to seek appropriate shelter.

Let’s hope we don’t hear those warnings again.

Bruce Miller Jackson

Affordable Care Act Saves Lives And Money

The Affordable Care Act just celebrated its 13th year anniversary. In all those years the Republican Party has tried over fifty times to abolish the Affordable Care Act with absolutely no attempts to replace it with a plan of their own!

old college students won’t be immediately kicked off parents policies, seniors enjoying significant pharmaceutical benefits and many more health benefits for the American people!

Patricia Murphy Toms River

In Support Of Labor Unions

The Labor Movement has played a significant role in the lives of the working class and it continues to help families every day.

The Labor Movement emerged as a response to the cruel working conditions many people faced during the American Industrial Revolution. Factory owners treated their workers as disposable assets, forcing them to work long hours with low wages. In the 1880s, the first labor unions were formed; they advocated for safer working conditions and just wages. As more jobs became available, the concern for worker’s rights grew and in 1835 the National Labor Relations Act was passed. This act guarantees the worker’s rights to form and join unions.

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

The disgraced, twice impeached Trump once said he could give America a healthcare plan, he said “it would be easy!” As usual another Trump lie to the American people. How many millions of Americans have enjoyed the peace of mind over these 13 years that the Affordable Care Act has brought them? People with pre-existing health issues can obtain insurance, 22-year-

Without this act, the Monmouth and Ocean County Central Labor Union would cease to exist. The union supports the rights of all, no matter what background, and actively uses its power to ensure a respectable workplace, implement anti-discrimination laws, and secure fair wages. These laws have improved the lives and working conditions of millions of workers, including my family. As a child of a member of this union, I have witnessed firsthand how it is a driving force of societal change. Not only does the union protect the rights and dignity of the workers, but it also promotes economic justice and encourages democracy by allowing the people to rally together and make their voices heard. By working together and supporting the Labor Movement, we can create a more equitable society for all.

Elissa Oliveri Brick

High School Artwork Now On Display At Local Hospital

From The Desk Of Congressman Chris Smith

BRICK - Artwork submitted by local high school students for the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for New Jersey’s Fourth Congressional District is now on display at Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center in

Brick, announced Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th).

“The 2023 Congressional Art Competition is now underway, showcasing the amazing creativity and artistic talents of more than 85 students from 10 high schools across Ocean and Monmouth counties,” said Smith, who hosts the annual contest for high school students in his congressional district as part of a nationwide competition sponsored by the Congressional Institute.

“The impressive submissions from

students in our area will be judged by a panel of three local professional artists, whose inspiring works of art are also on display,” Smith said.

Members of the community can view the artwork at the Outpatient Pavilion Building located at 425 Jack Martin Boulevard in Brick Township through the end of April before winners are announced at a ceremony in May.

“Thanks to Hackensack Meridian for hosting this year’s competition and providing a space to display the incredible works of our student artists for the community,” said Smith.

“We are privileged and honored to host this year’s Annual Congressional Art Competition and Exhibition at Ocean University Medical Center,” said Frank Citara, MBA, president and chief hospital executive. “Thank you to Representative Chris Smith for giving us the opportunity to foster the artistic talent of high school students in our community. The exhibition will be uplifting and inspiring to our patients, visitors, physicians, and team members who walk our halls every day.”

Returning to judge the 2023 art contest are local professional artists Debbie Jencsik, Jim Inzero, and Rich Thompson.

New Liquor License Laws Will Empower Towns, Small Businesses

ATLANTIC CITY – Speaking at the New Jersey Conference of Mayors 58th Annual Spring Conference in Atlantic City, Governor Phil Murphy announced the formation of a bipartisan coalition of mayors from across New Jersey who support the Murphy Administration’s comprehensive plan to reform and modernize New Jersey’s antiquated, Prohibition-era liquor license laws.

The coalition – “Mayors for Liquor License Reform” – includes 90 charter members who represent urban, suburban, and rural towns across a vast swath of New Jersey, all of which would benefit from the economic development generated by modernizing the State’s liquor license laws to make them more affordable, equitable, and accessible.

In lending their support and advocating for reform, all 90 charter members of the mayors’ coalition signed an open letter noting, “Given the exorbitant costs for a license, coupled with the lack of availability and the existing population cap for municipalities, the present system favors the economically advantaged while hampering mom-and-pop businesses and town with smaller populations.”

Governor Murphy first announced his goal of reforming New Jersey’s liquor license laws during his State of the State address in January, citing the exorbitant costs – sometimes as high as seven figures – and the lack of availability created by outdated population caps, all of which hinder small, diverse, and mom-and-pop establishments from flourishing. The Governor then unveiled a comprehensive proposal in February, that has since been introduced in the Legislature by Senator Gordon Johnson and Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, which would:

Gradually phase out the existing population cap on licenses over five years until it is permanently eliminated;

Maintain local control;

Establish progressive prices and associated fees based upon business size and a cap on the annual renewal fee not to exceed $2,500; Repatriate inactive licenses to boost availability;

Eliminate the secondary market that currently makes licenses unaffordable for small business owners; Permanently ease the restrictions that have hampered breweries; and Provide a mechanism to support existing license holders.

Since then, numerous chefs, restaurant owners, brewery owners, and now mayors have voiced their support for reforms to create a more equitable playing field with the potential to generate massive economic opportunities for small businesses and communities statewide.

“These mayors come from counties across the state. They represent more than one million residents of historic small towns, growing townships, and mid-sized cities,” said Governor Murphy. “But most important, they represent hundreds of small restaurants whose owners are being left out – and whose investments in their establishments are being left at-risk – because they do not have access to the liquor license that can allow them to better compete and stay in business. They understand the patent unfairness of our current liquor law regime and the significant local economic benefits that our proposed reforms would bring.”

From quaint Woodbine in southern Cape May County, to historic Clinton in northwest Hunterdon County, to the shore region of Bay Head, and the booming northern urban center of Newark, the growing list of mayors echoed Governor Murphy’s sentiment that liquor license reform will not only “create greater equity across the board, it will also serve as a major catalyst to spur economic development and strengthen and revitalize downtowns throughout New Jersey.”

The Murphy Administration continues to engage stakeholders and advocate for equitable reforms and looks forward to working with lawmakers to finalize a comprehensive plan that will eliminate the existing roadblocks and unlock New Jersey’s economic development potential.

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Summerfest:

Continued From Page 1

“Dogs are allowed in township parks as long as they’re leashed and their owners clean up after them as needed,” said Councilwoman Andrea Zapcic. “However, the bandshell area at Windward Beach is considered a beach area where dogs are not allowed.”

Over the years, responsible dog owners have expressed dismay at not being allowed to bring their dogs to the Farmer’s Market, and the township staff requested the committee consider this exemption, she said.

“We are doing this by resolution so we can see how it goes this season, and if all goes well we’ll continue the practice, and hopefully all will go well,” Zapcic said.

In other news, final plans are in place for Summerfest 2023 when bid awards for food truck vendors, fireworks exhibitions and the beer and wine garden were announced.

609.857.6000 • PO Box 211 • Lanoka Harbor, NJ www.funonwheelstours.com08734

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.

Always Included Bottled Water & Snacks, Company Escort, All Gratuities

Bus Departures Toms River (Exit 81 West Water Street NJT Station) • Brick Target (Route 70)

Please Visit Our Website for All Upcoming Trips & Itineraries

Food truck vendors include hot food, sausage sandwiches and cheesesteaks, grilled fried items, ice cream, funnel cakes, fried Oreos, butterfly fries, Italian mozzarella donuts, Italian nachos, fettuccine bread pockets and surf & turf.

Bid notices were provided to 106 prospective bidders. Of those, 14 picked up bid packages, 10 bids were received, and awards went to the highest bidders in each category.

Schaefer Pyrotechics of Ronks, Pa. will be paid $26,040 to provide fireworks

exhibitions for the Summerfest concert series and for the Fallfest. Bid notices were provided to 12 prospective vendors. Six of those picked up packages and one bid was received.

Windward Tavern will once again run the beer and wine garden concession for Summerfest, for which they will pay $9,100. Bid notices were sent to 25 prospective bidders. Three submitted bids, and Windward Tavern provided the highest responsible bid.

And finally, construction will begin on Cedar Bridge Manor Park after a $465,412 bid was awarded to Robbie Lane Enterprises of Towaco, NJ, one of six bids that were submitted. Bids ranged from a high of $572,385 to the lowest winning bid.

Permits for the project were delayed since the .91-acre waterfront park on Manor Drive was located in a geographic area of high sensitivity where Native American artifacts might be found.

An archaeological survey was conducted and no historical artifacts were identified.

“The township has all the necessary permits to proceed with this project,” said Councilwoman Zapcic. “The project includes shoreline restoration - specifically riprap stabilization edge with vegetation mulch, much like we did at Bay Harbor Beach.”

The project also includes playground equipment, exercise equipment, a kayak launch, a walkway and a bike rack, she said.

The next council meeting will be on Tuesday April 25, 2023 at 7 p.m.

Fire Camp

BRICK – The Brick Township Fire Department has announced Fire Camp, July 10 to 14. Open to kids ages 12 to 16. Must be a Brick Township resident. Email bureau@

brickfire.org for an application. Applications must be submitted by May 12. Only 25 spots available! Call 732-458-4100 for more questions.

IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE

Blinking is an unconscious action, although we often “forget” to blink when focusing intently on something, such as the phone, tablet, or television. Blinking is essential for keeping eyes moist and healthy, and for the most part we don’t even notice when we do it. If blinking is accompanied by pain, however, it could mean your eyes need attention. You may have dry eye, which means you aren’t producing enough tears to create lubrication between your eyes and eyelids. Conjunctivitis (pinkeye) can also cause pain when blinking, although it is more common in children than adults. It is also possible that you have a foreign object under your lid that is causing friction when you blink.

A likely cause of eye pain when blinking hard is corneal abrasion. The term corneal abrasion is used to describe scrapes and scratches sustained on the cornea – the transparent surface part of the eye. Over-use of contact lenses and wearing ill-fitted contacts are some of the predisposing factors for corneal abrasion. Children and adults who also work in dusty environments are also at higher risk of getting corneal abrasion. For your eye health, please schedule an appointment with SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. When trying to remove debris from your eye, be sure your hands are clean and rinse your eyes with clean water. Do not use your fingers or other devices to try and remove debris.

Hoagies For Heroes Hoagie Building Competition

BRICK – Mayor Crate, Council President Heather deJong, and Council members Vince Minichino, Perry Albanese and Melissa Travers were honored to be a part of the ceremonial ribbon cutting for Wawa located at 10 Lanes Mill Road. Mayor Crate joined the Brick Township Police Department’s team for the Hoagies for Heroes hoagie building competition. The Brick Police competed against Herbertsville Fire Department.

Wawa will be donating $1,000 to the Brick Police charity of choice, Helping Hands. Hoagies for Heroes is one of Wawa’s ways of showing their support and appreciation to the men and women who serve as everyday heroes; local firefighters, police officers and emergency responders. Hoagies for Heroes is a charity fundraising contest that benefits the charity of choice of the participating everyday hero.

─Photo courtesy Brick Township

C ommunity n E w S

Beach Information

BRICK – Brick Township operates three ocean beaches. Beaches are staffed with lifeguards on weekends starting on Memorial Day Weekend and then staffed seven days a week from mid-June through Labor Day. Beach hours of operation are 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m, weather permitting. Beach badges are required for access to beaches. No refunds for lost, stolen, misplaced or unused beach badges or parking passes. Season badges can be purchased at the Recreation Office (until June 9) or at Brick Beaches 1 or 3.

2023 Beach Fees:

• Season Badge (on or before May 15) – $30

• Season Badge (after May 15) – $45

• Daily Wristband – $10

• Season Parking (on or before May 15)

– $30

• Season Parking (after May 15) – $45

• Senior Citizen Season Parking – $15

• Daily Parking – $10

• Children 12 and under – free

Senior Beach Badges

Seniors who will be age 65 by September 1, 2023 may receive a free daily wristband for access to Brick Beaches on any day of operation. Each individual requesting a wristband must provide proof of age. Senior wristbands are available at the beaches only. Additionally, residents who will be age 65 by September 1, 2023 may purchase a senior season parking permit for $15. Parking permits may be purchase at Brick Beaches 1 and 3 and the Recreation Office.

Veterans Beach Badges

Any veteran of the United States Armed Forces can obtain a free daily wristband for access to Brick Beaches on any day of operation by showing a military ID at the beach. Limit one wristband per day per person.

Surf Chairs

Individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to reserve a specially-designed wheelchair that can provide easy access to Brick Beaches 1 and 3. Wheelchairs are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve a wheelchair at Brick Beach 1, call 732-451-2074. To reserve a wheelchair at Brick Beach 3, call 732-451-2073.

HANDS

Local Pets Available For Adoption

BRICK – Ziggy and Ricky were surrendered by the family of their senior owners who were no longer able to care for them. They are both Siamese mixes. Ricky was originally adopted from us in 2008 and is 14 years old. Ziggy was adopted from another local rescue in 2008 and is 11 years old. They are a bonded pair so we need to find a home where they

can be together. Ricky does like to play with a wand toy and the ball tower. He is super sweet and easy to handle. Ziggy is a little grumpier old man but can be seen playing with his stuffed mice.

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.

─Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center

Chronic Disease SelfManagement Workshops

BRICK – Brick Township Senior Services presents Chronic Disease Self-Management Workshops. Evidence-based programs designed by Stanford University. This free, interactive, dynamic program is offered in two-hour long classes held in 6 consecutive sessions, once a week for six weeks. The workshop will address ways to:

• Manage your symptoms and every day 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 through May 26, 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.

2023 Educational Foundation Scholarship Awards Dinner

BRICK – Join the Brick Township Education Foundation at the annual Scholarship Awards Dinner on May 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at River Rock Restaurant & Marina Bar, 1600 Route 70 in Brick.

Admission is $45 to attend. Supporting Sponsorships available ($250). Includes one attendee, logo on all promotional materials and event signage. For more information, visit brickchamber.com.

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.

Dr. Izzy’s

Sound News

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

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

4 Ways Hearing & Vision Work Together

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

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

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

ly reduced cognitive function at least three years before their normal-hearing counterparts.

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

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

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

He can be reached at 732-276-1011 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

Brick PBA Basketball Game To Raise Funds To Help Township Families

BRICK – The Brick Township PBA Local 230 will hold its 33rd Annual Helping Hands Benefit Basketball Game on April 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Lake Riviera Middle School. Members of PBA Local 230 will take on the Brick Township High School Green Dragons Football Team in a game of basketball to raise funds for the families of Billy Paterno and John Lynch.

Billy Paterno is a 2-year-old who was recently diagnosed with leukemia. John

Lynch is a teacher at Brick Township High School who recently suffered a stroke. The funds raised by the game will go to Billy and John’s families to help deal with the financial hardships caused by their health conditions.

Tickets are $5 per adult and $3 per student. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. For information, call Officers Joe DeLuca, John Turrin or Mike Zolezi at 732-262-1100.

Brick UNICO Texas Hold’Em Tournament

BRICK – Brick UNICO Texas Hold’Em Tournament will be on May 5 from 7 to 11 p.m. at VFW Post 8867, 373 Adamston Road. First card dealt at 7 p.m. $100 Buy-In; $500 chip bonus if registration sent in by April

28. Prize Distribution: Final table receives Visa gift cards.

For more information or to register contact Phil Terranova at 908-783-0384, or Alan Floria at 732-920-9222.

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin.

The 5 Potential Uses For Medical Cannabis

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Cannabis is an herb often referred to as marijuana. Most people think of it for recreational use, but it has medical benefits just like other herbs. In 1839, Irish physician Dr. William O’Shaughnessy introduced cannabis to Western medicine. After that, it was used as one of our primary go-to medicines for more than 200 years.

Its freedom has been controversial for decades. Unlike the freedom enjoyed by ginseng, ginkgo, echinacea, and St. John’s wort, cannabis has been controlled because it causes psychoactive effects.

When used medicinally, cannabis can be a treatment option for a wide range of conditions and symptoms. It used to be illegal in the United States, but lately, more and more states are decriminalizing it.

Here are 5 potential medical uses for cannabis:

1. Pain relief: Cannabis has long been used as a pain reliever, and some evidence suggests that it may be effective for reducing chronic pain. A 2018 review of studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that cannabis use was associated with statistically significant reductions in chronic pain. However, there are also risks associated with cannabis use, including the potential for addiction, impaired driving, and other negative health effects. If you have chronic pain you should speak with your doctor before considering cannabis as a treatment option.

2. Anxiety and depression relief: Cannabis may hold potential as a treatment for anxiety and depression. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that cannabis use was associated with

significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety and depression. However, I just want to note that cannabis may have negative effects on your mental health, including increased anxiety and paranoia, and may not be suitable for everyone. It’s a very individual thing!

3. Nausea and vomiting relief: Medical cannabis has been shown to be effective for reducing nausea and vomiting in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, at least according to a 2018 review of data published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

4. Neurological disorder relief: Medical cannabis has also been investigated for its potential benefits for neurological disorders such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Seizure control is one critical area of research that focuses on cannabis benefits.

5. Sleep aid: Cannabis may also have the potential as a sleep aid for people with insomnia. The downside of that is sometimes there is daytime sleepiness and impaired driving associated with nighttime use. Again, the individual response comes into play. Some people process cannabis very slowly.

If you’re considering medical cannabis you should speak with a doctor that is registered with the state to treat you and prescribe it. I do not recommend street dealers! I want to caution you that there are adverse events possible if you use too much, misuse it, or even if you are allergic to it. While rare, contamination is possible too. Once prescribed, you should always follow recommended dosing guidelines and regulations. I have a longer version of this article posted on my website, suzycohen.com.

around thE JErSEy ShorE

Harrogate Celebrates The “Pride Of Brielle” Honorees

LAKEWOOD – Harrogate Life Plan Community is celebrating Brielle’s Chamber of Commerce choice of the ‘Pride of Brielle’ honorees. The chamber has chosen Kevin and Mary-Jo Kinneally as this year’s recipients. This is the first time a couple has been jointly named as honorees. The award recognizes the Kinneally’s as the community’s outstanding citizens of 2022. The award is to honor upstanding members of the community who have given of themselves for the benefit of the Brielle community. The Kinneally’s have lived and volunteered in Brielle for over 30 years. Mary-Jo Kinneally is the Director of Financial Services at Harrogate Life Care Community. She had worked for an auditing firm prior to joining Harrogate. Mary-Jo knew from her volunteer work in Brielle, she loved working as part of a team, whose contributions benefit the community. When the opportunity at Harrogate was presented, it seemed like the perfect position for her to use her financial skill set and to be part of a community where she could contribute. MaryJo added, “my husband and I are honored to be recognized by the town of Brielle. I am over-

whelmed by the support I have received from the Harrogate community. After over 30 years in public accounting, I made the right decision in joining the amazing team at Harrogate.”

Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, upon hearing about Mary-Jo’s recognition as the “Pride of Brielle,” commented, it comes as “no surprise to the residents and staff of Harrogate.” “Anyone who engages with Mary-Jo recognizes she gives 100% of herself to better our community. Whether it be her meticulous preparation of financial statements or dancing the night away with residents at one of the Harrogate parties, her immersion in our community has been a blessing as I am sure it has been for Brielle.”

Mr. Benjamin, and members of the Harrogate Life Plan Community leadership team will be participating in the recognition event in May to thank Kevin and Mary-Jo for their contributions to both Brielle and Harrogate!

If you would like more information about this topic, call Gloria Walsh at 732 905 4650, or email gwalsh@hgate.org.

Kids’ Stuff Flea Market

LAKEWOOD – Commissioner Virgin -

ia E. Haines announced that the Ocean County Department of Parks & Recreation will be hosting their Kids’ Stuff Flea Market at Ocean County Park, located at 659 Ocean Avenue, Lakewood, on May 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will be taking place in the Beach Complex parking lot.

Vendors will be selling their wares at this

bargain-filled event. Come on down and do some shopping, or register to become a vendor. This event is free to the public for shopping. Vendors will be charged $15 for two parking spots, one to park their vehicle and one to sell their stuff. If you are interested in becoming a vendor, contact Sarah Dowdy at 732-506-9090 ext. 5964 or email her at sdowdy@co.ocean. nj.us. This event will occur rain or shine.

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

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.

Senior Services Hosting An Ice Cream Social & Bingo Event

BRICK – Brick Senior Services is hosting an Ice Cream Social & Bingo event on April 26 at 12:30 p.m. at the Senior Services Activity Center, 373 Adamston Road. Spend an afternoon playing bingo and hopefully

winning some prizes and enjoying a tasty ice cream treat. The event is for residents ages 60 and over and is sponsored by Concord Rehab. Register by calling Senior Services at 732-920-8686.

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

Estate Sale

Estate sale April 29 10-3 at 2 Lilac Springs Court, Lakewood in Four Seasons. Beautiful furniture, clothing, decor, curtains, kitchenware, etc. Accepting cash only. (20)

Garage Sale

Garage Sale - Saturday, April 22

9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Rain date April 29. 13 Sheffield Dr. Forked River, 08731. Everything can go. (19)

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)

Junk or Wrecked Cars and Trucks

Wanted - Cash paid. 732-6577251, Steve. Thanks. (22)

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)

Advertise in the main sections of Micromedia’s weekly newspapers. Your ad will be seen by thousands. Our skilled team of account executives can work with any budget. Call 732-657-7344 ext. 206 for more information.

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

Weekend Receptionist - Magnolia Gardens Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill weekend receptionist position. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732-557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (22)

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)

Certified Aides - Full time, Per Diem, Weekends, Magnolia Gardens

Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill nursing, and medical aide positions. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732-5576500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (22)

Full/Part Time Dietary Aid - Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill positions for Full time and part time, Dietary aids. All positions start at $15.00 an hour. For more information call 732557-6500 or come to our home and fill out an application at 1935 Lakewood Road, Toms River 08755. (22)

Home Health Care Aide - Needed for sweet elderly woman. Light transfer a must. Dressing. Simple meal prep. Holiday City. 609-349-0937. (21)

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)

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)

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)

A+ CLEANING SERVICEHomes, Offices, AIR BnB, Summer Rentals, Expert in Senior Villages. Reliable, references. Free Estimates. Call Barbara 732-948-4730. (20)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 -

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)

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

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

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)

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)

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Parkway:

Continued From Page 5

The Park and Ride will be reconfigured but the number of parking spaces will remain the same.

Interchange 82

Interchange 82 and 82A will be called 82B and C. It will still remain as a cloverleaf. However the entrances and exits will be improved and updated to modern design standards. They will connect to and from the Collector-Distributor roadway. Weaving lengths along this stretch and Route 37 will either be the same or be lengthened.

Interchange 83

At Interchange 83, the Authority is working with engineers working for Ocean County for a new southbound exit ramp to Indian Head Road.

Between 82 and 83, there will be a fourth lane as well as a widening of the roadway to create standard shoulders on both sides.

Neighboring Land Impacted

The Authority wants to acquire about 15 acres for these changes. Of these, 8.81 acres are “partial fee acquisitions,” however 7.3 of these acres are publicly owned. Only .08 acres of residential property is proposed to be bought at Interchange 80.

Concrete barriers are expected to minimize the impact to local properties since the lanes

are going to widen, encroaching on neighbors. Recently, residents of Evergreen Woods in Brick have complained that after the construction several years ago, the lack of trees has created a constant drone of noise that is sometimes extremely loud.

Timeline

Given the scope of the work and the number of applications that need to be made, this project will be years before completion. Construction is expected to begin in late 2025 and will take about four years.

There are several approvals that would be needed before the project starts. Included is the New Jersey State Historic Preservation Office since the Parkway is a “historic district.”

The project is going through wetlands, flood hazards, and riparian zones. It’s also subject to the Coastal Area Facility Review Act, which means the State Department of Environmental Protection has to do a thorough and notoriously lengthy review.

Other environmental approvals will be needed from the NJ Pinelands Commission and the Ocean County Soil Conservation District.

Comments Welcome

The Authority is open to suggestions or comments via email to GSP80to83@njta. com. Written comments should be submitted to: New Jersey Turnpike Authority; Engineering Department; P.O. Box 5042, Woodbridge, NJ 07095-5042; Attn: Vincent Mignella, PE, Project Engineer

photo of thE wEEk

This beautiful Cardinal was seen recently hanging out in Ocean County. Heidi Lotter was able to snap the pic before it took off. There are only about six weeks left until Me-

morial Day! Where has the time gone? Have a photo of your own you’d like to share with our readers? Email it to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!

Brush Fire Starts In Swamp

By Chris Lundy

– Firefighters put out a brush fire that started at around 7 p.m. on April 13 in the marshland area of Cedar Island Drive and Mandalay Road.

BRICK

Police said that the firefighters quickly put out the bulk of the fire, but hotspots kept popping up. In order to control the spread, they back-burned the area to eliminate fuel for the fire.

There were no injuries or property damage reported, police said. No one was evacuated, however, some people had to be escorted to their homes. That’s because smoke conditions and firefighting equip -

ment made driving hazardous. So, drivers parked at Angela Hibbard park and officers gave them rides to their homes on Mandalay Road, Saint Lawrence Boulevard, and the Seawood Harbor neighborhood. The scene was cleared by midnight. Police Chief David Forrester thanked all of the agencies and personnel who responded, including Breton Woods, Pioneer Hose, Herbertsville and Laurelton Fire Companies from Brick; Bay Head, Mantoloking, Howell, Ramtown, Silverton and Point Pleasant Beach Fire Companies, as well as the State Fire Bureau and the Brick Fire Bureau.

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43 Frisbees, e.g.

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45 One on a regimen, perhaps 49 Mountain guide

51 Cornerstone word

52 What a theater hopes its “Bus Stop” revival will be?

56 Evidence of surgery

57 Soffits are under them

58 Audiophile’s flat, say?

65 Big 12 rival of the Longhorns

66 Knowledgeable (in)

67 Indications of humanity?

68 Upper crust groups

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2 Paris’ Rue __ Martyrs

3 Indian honorific

4 Guitarist Paul

5 Where Mark Watney was stranded for about 560 sols, in a 2015 film

6 Wonderland service

7 Raring to go

8 Rest 9 Tentacle analog 10 Fragments 11 Law group 12 Passed-down property 14 Kierkegaard, e.g.

16 “Get on it!”

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SolutionS

32 Family __

34 Theme park offering

36 More vast

37 “The Great Movies” series author

38 Actor Fiennes

39 One of ten in Baldwin’s “Notes of a Native Son”

41 “Hey” assistant 45 Court figs.

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Crossword

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

For the week of apr 22 - apr 28

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You could reach your goals by displaying unwavering devotion to your cause. Validate yourself; you might not receive the personal glory you hope for if you are one small part of a large team.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Purpose can satisfy more than pleasure. Plant a tree or find other ways to support Mother Earth. Connect with some idealistic friends or immerse yourself in passionate environmental or humanitarian efforts.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): It’s easier to get along with people if you go along with their ideas, but that may not be the best strategy long term. A slip of the tongue or brief misunderstanding could be forgiven with a quick apology. Give someone the benefit of the doubt.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): When you handle hot stuff, it can be a good idea to use hot pads. Your enthusiasm could irritate someone who thinks you are being pushy. Do not hesitate to spend a few extra dollars if you want to obtain the best quality.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Hang a flag or root for the home team. You can share in the rewards when there is a team effort. You could make social headway by agreeing to a compromise, by making an apology, or by politely ignoring a difference of opinion.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Do not be shy about sharing your thoughts but at the same time be receptive to the opinions of others. Be tolerant when someone makes impulsive decisions so you can keep the lines of communication wide open.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You could have the imagination to turn an idea into something profitable. Join forces with other people to achieve your personal ambitions. Look for the perfect opening to ask for favors or request preferential treatment.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): There may be an opportunity to find common ground and form relationships with people who share your interests and ideals. If a close relationship has undergone a rift, today might be a suitable time to knit things back in place.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): This could be the best day to try to kiss and make up. Family spats can quickly be forgotten if you exercise some diplomacy. Address the needs of other people before your own and everything will be fine.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Make field goals in your business and financial affairs or score points by profitably using astute observations. You can power through problems but should be cautious about new and unproven investments.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Count on a generous partner who can make your life brighter. Because you might be busy with your obligations, you may develop a blind spot. Double check your receipts and credit card statements.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You can be comfortable and demonstrate good taste without spending too much cash. Avoid impulse purchases just to show off or to be in lockstep with current trends. Purchase the best your money can buy.

SOUP SEASON ISN’T OVER JUST YET!

By America’s Test Kitchen

While we await warmer days this spring, there’s often a chill in the air. The kind of crisp temps that leave you craving for something cozy to warm you up. This hearty bowl of soup is the perfect meal to do just that. Coconut milk kept our broth creamy and comforting, while ginger and curry powder added spicy heat to keep it lively.

CURRIED CHICKEN SOUP WITH COCONUT AND KALE

Serves 4

Note: Garnish this soup with sliced scallions. If desired, you can serve this soup with brown rice for a heartier meal.

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and chopped

2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger

1 tablespoon curry powder

1 1/2 teaspoons table salt

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, plus extra for seasoning

8 ounces kale, stemmed and chopped

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch chunks

2 cups water

1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk

1 tablespoon lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving

1. Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to brown, 6 to 8 minutes. Add ginger, curry powder, salt and cayenne; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in kale, chicken, water, and coconut milk and bring to boil, scraping up any browned bits.

2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until chicken is cooked through and kale is tender, about 15 minutes. Off heat, stir in lime juice and season with salt and extra cayenne to taste. Serve, passing lime wedges separately.

(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.