2023-09-16 - The Brick Times

12

Kids & Young Adults With Special Needs Enjoy The “Best Day” At The Beach

New Author Shares Funny Local Stories

Classifieds Pages 19

Special needs kids and young adults enjoyed this year’s Best Day event on August 12 and 13.

By Alyssa Riccardi BRICK – Children

and young adults alike made their way into the ocean at Brick Beach III to enjoy the “Best Day” ever.

The Best Day Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps children and young adults with special needs

build confidence and self-esteem through safe and fun adventure experiences.

They host their Best Day event annually, opening up the beach to those with developmental and physical disabilities. These include participants who have spinal cord injury, autism, Down

syndrome, blindness or other challenges, such as recovering from cancer.

Jennifer Steffener coordinates the event and is the co-owner of Coastline Adventures Surfing School, who have been helping provide equipment for the event when

By Judy Smestad-Nunn POINT PLEASANT BEACH

much more.

“(The rooming house) was kind of unusual, and it was filled mostly with drunks and drug addicts, so there were some stories that came out of that,” she said recently from a coffee shop while being interviewed for this story.

Eileen, 64, recalled a story from when she was 10 years old and one of the permanent rooming house guests, an older Irish woman named Aunt Bea, came clattering into the common living room with a tray

(Best Day - See Page 4) (Author - See Page 5)

- Over the years, friends and family of Eileen Flarity-Laterza have told her to write a book about some of her experiences growing up in a rooming house owned and operated by her Irish parents a block from the beach in Point Pleasant Beach. She got started on the project three years ago and just released her book, “Stop Me If I Told You This One…” that is filled with eye-wateringly funny and poignant tales about some of the rooming house residents and

Italian Festival Draws Crowd

By Bob Vosseller BRICK

–

of Italian heritage - or simply those who love the food and fun - recently enjoyed the Epiphany Roman Catholic Church Italian Festival.

The four-day festival was located at the church grounds on Thiele Road in Brick and featured a wide variety of delicious food

and treats, carnival midway with rides and games, entertainment, beer and wine garden, vendors, and fun for the entire family. You couldn’t beat a sweet sausage, pepper and onion sandwich at the vendor stand nor a dessert of brownie waffles with cannoli cream on top. There was music to be

heard featuring Italian favorites sung by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and more modern Italian entertainers.

The performers were seen on a large television screen along the game and vendor route that also included games of chance, children’s rides and various merchandise tables.

Attendees at the event had the opportunity to tour the church, buy a raffle ticket (daily and weekend ticket) browse through vendor tables or enjoy a variety of food, even non-Italian food like pierogies and tacos.

The Church of Epiphany has a long history, having

(Festival - See Page 4)

Photo courtesy Jennifer Steffener

Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn

Eileen Flarity-Laterza shows off the book that holds a lot of stories so strange they have to be true.

Those

Families stroll through the well-attended Epiphany Church Italian Festival.

Photo by Bob Vosseller

Best Day:

Continued From Page 1

it came to Brick Township about 12 years ago. “It’s just an amazing day. It really celebrates inclusivity, equity and diversity because we pull local volunteers. What’s unique about our organization is we assign each participant with a buddy depending on what their needs are. That buddy is responsible for making sure that they’re outfitted in all the safety equipment, and schedules them for the water activities and hangs out with them,” Steffener said.

This year, the two-day event had about 70 participants in total and nearly 200 volunteers throughout the weekend.

After registering, participants are greeted at the beach and led through warm ups with superheroes like Spider-Man, Captain America, and Thor. An obstacle course is set up on the beach for them to explore before heading into the water. The day ends with an award ceremony with each participant getting a medal.

Mayor Lisa Crate, Council President Heather deJong and Councilwoman Melissa Tra-

Festival:

Continued From Page 1

been established in November 1973 by Bishop George W. Ahr in the Herbertsville Section of the township. Father Edward A. Reissner was the first pastor

vers joined in on the fun this year, meeting all of the attendees.

Steffener explained how some of the participants may be wheelchair bound. However, they still get to enjoy all the activities thanks to special equipment that was made.

“We have a specific board and wheelchairs for the beach and water; chair mounted to a specialized surf board,” she said. “They’re able to sit in the chair, sometimes alone or with a buddy. Then they ride waves in on the chair… they still get the experience of riding a little wave and the chair board has really been a game changer.”

Steffener expressed how the event really is the “best day” for some of the participants, getting to experience things they normally aren’t able to.

“Sometimes we have participants who are resistant at first, to get on the surf board. They might be nervous about meeting new people, or scared to try out a new activity. Our team, we just have such gifted volunteers. We never force anyone to come out. But once they do, they have fun,” she said. “They smile sometimes for the first time in their lives. Sometimes they talk about it days after. We just see smiles, and expressions,

and the first Mass was celebrated on the evening of December 2, 1973 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Masses were held at Lanes Mill School until Holy Week 1974 when the Parish House was purchased and used as a center for parish activities and a residence. Epiphany immediately became

and reactions, and just an opening up that might not have been there before by having this experience.”

“It’s really incredible. It builds their confidence. It gives them something to be proud

of. Sometimes they build lasting relationships and friends with the volunteers and other participants, she added.

To learn more about the Best Day Foundation, visit bestdayfoundation.org.

an active parish with a music ministry, youth activities, hospital visitations, their first “From Ashes to Easter” program.

The church’s first deacon, Tony Krisak, was assigned in the Spring of 1974 and he was later ordained a priest on May 17, 1975. Epiphany’s first Re -

ligious Sister was Anne Campanella who joined the parish staff in the Fall of 1974.

According to the church’s website, it has been a home for its members; ministering to their personal and spiritual lives. “A place where everyone embraced each other.”

Photo courtesy Jennifer Steffener Special needs kids and young adults enjoyed this year’s Best Day event on August 12 and 13.

Author: Continued From Page 1

full of hot tea and cups just as the U.S. landed a spaceship on the moon.

“Would anyone care for tea?” Aunt Bea said as she stepped in front of the TV.

“All we heard was ‘One small step for man…’ there were 10 or 15 of us waiting for over an hour and we missed the whole thing,” she said.

The boarding house had nine rooms. In the summertime, Eileen shared a room with her two siblings, or if it was Memorial Day or July 4, the family would rent out all the rooms and sleep in the garage.

After her mother died, her father sold the rooming house “as is…he left everything. All he took with him was his shaving kit. There were probably hypodermic needles in the drawers. He left the family photo albums; he had no attachment to anything,” she said.

Eileen, who started her own consulting business 21 years ago after working as a project manager and vice president at Goldman Sachs, is divorced with two grown children.

One of her chapters is devoted to some of the dozens of blind dates she has been on. She recalled one where she let a friend fix her up with a nice man but warned her there was a catch: “he has a giant hook-nose and a glass eye.”

She went on the date, and the man was pleasant enough, but she decided not to have a second date with him after he told her he sometimes took out his eye, set it on the bar and told the bartender “Here’s lookin’ at ya.”

Flash forward a few months when Eileen and some girlfriends were at a karaoke bar in Asbury Park. On the stage she noticed a performer with a giant hook nose and a glass eye wearing a polyester dress and sensible shoes. “You can’t make this stuff up,” she said. On another blind date gone wrong, her date said he would be wearing a black turtleneck and a gray sweater. She spotted him immediately, and the two spent time getting to know

Police EMS Seeking New Members

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

BRICK – It’s almost time for the 12th Annual Blessing of the Animals at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. It will be held on October 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 714 Herbertsville Road, Brick.

They are busy preparing for the special day, celebrating God’s Loving Gift of Animals in our lives. This community outreach event started as the Blessing of the Animals, and now, 12 years later it has grown to include

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

Brick Police EMS is a large progressive municipal based program selected as the 2022 Pre-Hospital program of the Year for the State of New Jersey,

running 11,000 calls for service per year with a Special Operations Division, Tactical Medical Team embedded in the Brick Police SWAT Team, water rescue and Technical Rescue with Brick Township Fire Companies.

12th Annual Blessing Of The Animals

Missions and other special groups from St. Paul’s to bring even more fun and fellowship to the day.

The updated event is St. Paul’s Church Festival & Blessing of the Animals.

They will have K-9 demonstrations by members of the Brick Police K-9s and their handlers, including their own Diesel and his handler Ptl. Glen Pacyna. Diesel is the K-9 which St. Paul’s Pet Ministry sponsored a fundraiser

to purchase Diesel’s bullet/slash proof vest when he began his career with his partner Ptl. Pacyna. Other highlights of the day are:

• Blessing of the Animals Ceremony, beginning at 12 p.m.

• DJ and Band Musical Entertainment

• Childrens Games

• Food Court and Dessert Court

• Shelters/Rescues with their “Adorable Adoptables” looking for their “Furever”

each other and were hitting it off until he said he had to go.

“He said he had to meet someone,” she recalled. Just then, she looked up and across the bar was another man wearing a black turtleneck and a gray sweater sheepishly waving at her.

“Match.com has become less of a place to find love and more of a place to get a great story,” she said.

Paperback and Kindle versions of “Stop Me If I Told You This One…Funny Stories About Growing Up at the Jersey Shore, Blind Dates Gone Wrong, and ‘What are the Odds of that?’ Tales,” can be found on Amazon.

Part-time starts at $25 per hour with annual raises up to $27.50 per hour with eight paid holidays and a $200 uniform allowance annually.

For more information, visit brickpoliceems.enrollware.com.

homes.

• Crafters and Vendors

They accept reservations for Crafter and Vendors. The spaces are only $30 for a 10’x10’ space. Contact Carol Kampf at Carolkampf@yahoo.com for further details! They offer a complimentary space to all non-profit organizations. For further information to become a non-profit at the event, send an inquiry to Ivykirn@aol.com.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

Governor Phil Murphy recently announced that yes New Jersey, we really do have a central region. That would have seemed a kind of no brainer topic but New Jerseyans have often argued about whether Central Jersey was fact or fiction.

Many in the northern end of the state believe that Central and South Jersey are sort of lumped together as one, while many in other parts of the state believe our state is made up of three distinct parts: north, south and central.

The governor put this old debate to rest, officially declaring the region of Central Jersey. Granted most of us base our living space on geographic boundaries concerning when pork roll (south) is referenced as Taylor ham (north) and where decorations supporting the Eagles and Phillies are erected as opposed to Giants and Yankees.

The governor’s decision

Support

Senator Gopal

Senator Vin Gopal has done much to support his constituents in New

Yes, New Jersey, We Really Do Have A Central Region

to do this was based on boosting tourism. Speaking of “Boost” that strange syrupy citrus soft drink was once a marker for where you lived in New Jersey and it definitely identified you as being from the southern end but I digress.

“Today, we settled the debate once and for all that Central Jersey exists by designating the area - rich in American history, innovation, and the outdoors - as an official tourism region of the Garden State,” the governor tweeted…or should I say he Xed that?

“If you’re making travel or vacation plans, come visit Central Jersey!” his message added. This suggests that New Jersey will update its tourism map to encompass and showcase Central Jersey and its diverse attractions, such as its vineyards, picturesque natural reserves, and beyond.

Murphy signed legislation that will require the Division of Travel and Tourism to redraw its tourism maps to include Central Jersey.

That once mythical region will include Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset Counties “at minimum,” according to the Governor’s Office.

Promotional materials, such as VisitNJ.org website, will also have to include references to Central Jersey.

Well, after 250 years when we just had north and south and nothing in between the debate is over but the border lines of what is and what isn’t north, central and south jersey has just begun!

Monmouth and Ocean counties are now considered South Jersey. That’s fine if you don’t think about how Ocean County’s own Plumsted Township has taken pride in being considered the center of the state. So, that would make it Central Jersey, wouldn’t it??

Many Monmouth County residents feel they were part of Central Jersey, that is if Central Jersey existed before this. One map however puts part of that county in Central Jersey.

North Jersey calls their sandwiches subs but that term is interchangeable in Ocean County where we have both sub shops and hoagie vendors despite our abundance of Wawas which feature hoagie fest specials each summer, but again, I digress.

According to one map I saw which put South Jersey in green, North Jersey in blue and Central Jersey in…another color, there was a big chunk of it in green. Clearly South Jersey dominates the state and I’m fine with that but how does the rest of the Garden State feel?

Our governor told talk show host Stephen Colbert in an interview that Central Jersey was kind of like Narnia - an ‘abstract mystical world’ that was tangible none the less. Vagueness and double speak from a political figure? Say it isn’t so? Governor Murphy said he himself is from Central Jersey. Hmmm??

Murphy is from Middletown and given the name

that seems to make some sense of the whole Central Jersey map location. “That is a little on the nose,” Colbert said.

When asked if he called the same item Taylor ham or pork roll, he replied as a Central Jersey resident that it was “Taylor pork.” He wasn’t as committal on the sub vs hoagie debate. He said it could be either one when shown such a sandwich.

He may be a tad biased toward the newfound Central Jersey because he said it had “rockin’ roll and rockin’ soul.” Okay, as a former resident of Middlesex County’s Edison Township, I can relate to that but I guess I’m glad I am a South Jerseyan. South Jersey has the best places. Right off the bat it has all of Ocean County which is the absolute gem of New Jersey hands down. We also have Vineland, Atlantic City, Ocean City, Cape May, Mount Holly etc. Okay we also have some areas we’d like to give away to Pennsylvania but that’s

okay too.

North Jersey has Passaic, Newark, Elizabeth and Jersey City. Central Jersey seems to be carved out in one map to include Long Branch and Asbury Park which are in Monmouth County.

Maybe there are those already seeking to revise or even jerrymander the social boundaries of North/Central/South.

So, whether you fly a Giants or Eagles flag this fall as you eat your hoagie/sub with Taylor pork on it while chugging down a cup of Boost, just remember when it all comes down to it, we are one state, the Garden State and despite our abundance of regulations, high property taxes and many things that make us scratch our heads, at least for now, we don’t have to pump our own gas. Let’s enjoy everything this state has to offer.

Bob Vosseller Assistant Editor

Jersey. Since there are so many bills he has sponsored and supported, I will focus on education in this letter.

Vin has, for example,

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

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

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

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.

voted for the new state budget, which includes $9B secured to help aid our schools. The Republican Assemblywomen of the 11th district voted against this most recent New Jersey budget, but likes to take credit for the money and aid which is now being sent to recovery high schools in Monmouth County. They also claimed that they have worked to reduce property taxes and increase funding but where are their bills?

Vin Gopal voted for free school meals and breakfasts for children while the Assemblywomen voted against school meals. Vin voted for a bill that requires any school that

receives federal funds, regardless if they are public or nonpublic, to adhere to Title IX and not discriminate based on gender. In addition, Vin voted for legislation requiring information of students’ rights under Title IX to be provided to each student, as well as requiring contact information of students’ Title IX coordinators. One of the Assemblywomen did not even vote for the Title IX bill.

Vin Gopal has worked hard for us and is willing to collaborate in a bipartisan manner. We need to vote to keep him in the Senate.

Margaret S. Beekman Freehold

Candidate Censors Free Speech

One of the candidates for the Toms River Council race has a campaign based on controlling information.

Lynn O’Toole is the president of our Holiday City Board. Every time Mayor Hill wanted to come talk to the residents, she shot him down. She let her friend Dan Rodrick spread his lies and propaganda in the publications that our dues

pay for! But God forbid she allow even a little pushback or equal speech. Lynn O’Toole made people take down Mo Hill signs on our own property but she turned a blind eye to Dan Rodrick signs. Mrs. O’Toole, what are you so afraid of? Are you afraid of informed voters? Are you afraid that if they knew what was really going on, they wouldn’t vote for you?

Barbara Kirswan Toms River

Point Pleasant Beach Acquires Historic Coast Guard Station On Manasquan Inlet

From The Desk Of Congressman Chris Smith

POINT PLEASANT BEACH - The Borough of Point Pleasant Beach has officially acquired the historic United States Coast Guard station on the Manasquan Inlet, announced Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) and Point Pleasant Beach Mayor Paul Kanitra. “The Coast Guard station is nothing less than a national treasure - both for its part in the Coast Guard’s lifesaving search and rescue missions, as well as for its

stunning architecture and design,” said Rep. Smith, who worked diligently with Mayor Kanitra and Point Pleasant Beach officials since 2015 to get the station listed on the National Register of Historic Places and subsequently have ownership transferred from the Coast Guard to the Borough.

“The acquisition of the historic Coast Guard station and the planned restoration of it into a museum, committee meeting area and event space is a game changer for Point Pleasant Beach,” said Mayor Kanitra, who noted the town received the deed and keys on August 25th for a bargain price of approximately $1 million.

“The funding that will be generated by the kitchen and dining area will help offset any operating costs and fill a void for those recreating in our inlet area,” Kanitra said. “The project will also compliment the upcoming Channel Drive revitalization in many ways. We’re incredibly grateful to Congressman Smith for his years of hard work on helping to make this a reality.”

“This is just one of the old buildings in this town that has so much character that just was screaming to be saved,” said Point Pleasant Beach Borough Historian Jerry Woolley, who helps collect and preserve the rich history of the town.

After sustaining serious damage during Superstorm Sandy, the Coast Guard station become obsolete in 2017 when the Coast Guard built a new 20,276-square-foot

building designed to withstand 123 mileper-hour winds. One year later, the Coast Guard decommissioned the former station and began the years-long process of separating the property from the federal rolls.

Smith said adding the original station to the National Register of Historic Places was key to transferring the property to the Borough. After Smith and Kanitra strongly advocated for its listing, the Coast Guard initiated the historic registration process, which was approved on May 14, 2021.

“So many great people in the Coast Guard served here - and above all, saved lives,” said Smith. “It is only fitting that this iconic station - which is greatly admired by local residents and tourists alike - is now entrusted to the Borough so it can be preserved to enrich the community for generations to come.”

Governor Murphy Signs Bipartisan Bill Protecting Against Lawsuits Designed To Suppress Free Speech

From The Desk Of The Governor

Phil Murphy

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy signed the ‘Uniform Public Expression Protection Act’ to protect people from meritless lawsuits intended to intimidate them for exercising their free speech rights. Powerful entities and individuals often use lawsuits and litigation threats to punish and silence those who might speak unfavorably about them. The bipartisan legislation will enable defendants to seek the expedited dismissal of such lawsuits, commonly referred to as ‘Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation’ (SLAPP), which have historically been used against journalists, academics, advocates, and whistleblowers – among others.

A SLAPP is generally used to silence individuals or organizations from publicly criticizing or bringing legitimate issues to light about an individual or entity with greater power and resources.

“For far too long, the powerful have abused the justice system to suppress free speech through illegitimate lawsuits,” said Governor Murphy. “By pursuing meritless court cases, these powerful parties aim to silence their critics by making it impossible for those with fewer resources to spend the time and money necessary to legally defend themselves. This law will expedite the process to get these cases dismissed on behalf of the journalists, small businesses, activists, and countless others who have been unfairly targeted by these lawsuits over the years.”

If a SLAPP is initiated, the bill (S-2802/A-4393)

now allows eligible defendants to file paperwork requiring the plaintiff to demonstrate the basis for the lawsuit and requiring the court to consider the issues in an expeditious manner. This process will enable these kinds of cases to be dismissed quickly, and at less expense to the defendant, rather than being drawn out in court.

In addition to the expedited timeline, other related legal proceedings may be paused until the request for an expedited dismissal is resolved. The bill also allows defendants in some cases to recover legal fees if the lawsuit is dismissed.

“People should be able to speak their mind on the issues that matter most to them without the fear of becoming ensnared in an expensive, time-consuming lawsuit,” said First Assistant Attorney General Lyndsay V. Ruotolo. “The law signed by Governor Murphy today makes it much more difficult to use the legal system as a weapon, with the intent to bully individuals into silence. New Jersey is proud to become the latest state to enact a law that discourages, and creates a streamlined process to dismiss, baseless lawsuits that improperly target the lawful exercise of free speech.”

“I am thrilled that New Jersey has enacted the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (UPEPA), a strong anti-SLAPP bill that protects filmmakers, journalists, and everyday citizens from attacks on their First Amendment rights,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association. “Under the leadership of Governor Murphy and the state legislature, New Jersey has become a major hub of film and television production, making it ever more urgent and important that the state protect the principles of free speech and artistic freedom on which

a thriving creative ecosystem depends. Thank you, Gov. Murphy and the bill sponsors, Senator Joseph Lagana and Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, for working to enact UPEPA. On behalf of the MPA and our member studios, we look forward to further strengthening our excellent relationship with the Garden State.”

“The right to free speech is a cornerstone of our democracy, and we commend Governor Murphy and the bill sponsors for protecting this foundational right by making this bill law,” said ACLU of New Jersey Executive Director Amol Sinha. “This bill will help protect the public against serious and continuing threats to free speech in New Jersey by limiting the harms that people can face for speaking out on important public issues. The ACLU-NJ fights for New Jerseyans’ rights every day and we are proud to say that our rights have stronger protections today.”

“The enactment of the ‘Uniform Public Expression Protection Act’ represents a significant

milestone for the State of New Jersey,” said Peggy Arbitell, Executive Director of the New Jersey Press Association. “This legislation, which enables early resolution of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP), is designed to thwart lawsuits intended to intimidate or punish those engaged in constitutionally protected activity. The New Jersey Press Association strongly and enthusiastically supports this legislation, which now places New Jersey with the majority of States that recognize the importance of robust anti-SLAPP laws.”

“After unanimous passage in both the Assembly and Senate, New Jersey municipalities appreciate the Governor signing this legislation that protects the local government’s ability to function, without hampering the ability for residents to communicate, and ensuring that the threat of frivolous lawsuits is greatly diminished,” said Michael Cerra, Executive Director of New Jersey League of Municipalities.

Brick 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 September 2023 EMT Michael Magnetti #53108 number was drawn.

Magnetti joined the unit as a part-time EMT in September of 2016, eventually

Photo courtesy Brick Police EMS being promoted to full-time in April 2017. Magnetti has been an EMT since 1996 and obtained his Paramedic in 2001. Magnetti came to the unit with a lot of experience and background that spans decades and from different areas of the country. Magnetti plays a very active role for BTPD EMS, serving as an FTO, member of SOD and as a TEMS Medic. Job well done EMT Magnetti.

12th Annual Blessing Of The Animals

BRICK – It’s almost time for the 12th Annual Blessing of the Animals at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. It will be held on October 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 714 Herbertsville Road, Brick.

They are busy preparing for the special day, celebrating God’s Loving Gift of Animals in our lives. This community outreach event started as the Blessing of the Animals, and now, 12 years later it has grown to include Missions and other special groups from St. Paul’s to bring even more fun and fellowship to the day.

The updated event is St. Paul’s Church Festival & Blessing of the Animals. They will have K-9 demonstrations by members of the Brick Police K-9s and their handlers, including their own Diesel and his handler Ptl. Glen Pacyna. Diesel is the K-9 which St. Paul’s Pet Ministry sponsored a fundraiser to purchase Diesel’s bullet/slash proof vest when he began his career with his partner

Ptl. Pacyna.

Other highlights of the day are:

• Blessing of the Animals Ceremony, beginning at 12 p.m.

• DJ and Band Musical Entertainment

• Childrens Games

• Food Court and Dessert Court

• Shelters/Rescues with their “Adorable Adoptables” looking for their “Furever” homes.

• Crafters and Vendors

They accept reservations for Crafter and Vendors. The spaces are only $30 for a 10’x10’ space. Contact Carol Kampf at Carolkampf@ yahoo.com for further details! They offer a complimentary space to all non-profit organizations. For further information to become a non-profit at the event, send an inquiry to Ivykirn@aol.com.

2023 Business Brew – October

BRICK – Join the Brick Chamber of Commerce for their monthly Business Brew Breakfast on October 6 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Brandywine Living at the Gables, 515 Jack Martin Boulevard.

Make new connections and grow your network while enjoying a delicious breakfast. The fee is $15 for members, $25 for guests. For more information, email info@brickchamber. com. To register, visit BrickChamber.com.

2-Year-Old Continues To Battle Leukemia, Searching For “Perfect Match”

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM!

LOOK FOR A VARIETY OF PHOTOS SNAPPED ALL AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE!

Search: @ JSHOREONLINE

POINT PLEASANT – Billy Paterno, a two-year-old of Point Pleasant, was just like your average toddler who loved playing outside and with his toy dinosaurs. But six months ago, his life changed forever when he was diagnosed with ALL T-cell leukemia.

Billy has been undergoing treatment and intensive inpatient chemotherapy. Despite his strongest efforts, he and his family have learned that Billys’ leukemia persists. “Even with his illness, complications, and intense therapy, Billy has kept his bright determined spirit,” according to a written statement on DKMS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the fight against blood

cancer and blood disorders.

In March, a GoFundMe was made to help the family with medical expenses and had raised over $90,000.

Billy now faces his biggest challenge yet: inpatient hospitalization and preparation for a bone marrow transplant.

“Please pray for Billy, as he has a long road ahead,” Andrew Leustek wrote in an update on GoFundMe. Leustek organized this fundraiser on behalf of Billy’s parents William and Danielle.

To donate to the GoFundMe, visit gofundme.com/f/pzk8pw-billy. To see if you’re the perfect match as a donor for Billy, register at dkms.org/get-involved/virtual-drives/billy.

Join BWC Wrestling

BRICK – The Brick Wrestling Club puts young grapplers from our community on the path to adding to Brick Township’s tradition of success on the mats! The Club’s travel team competes in the Jersey Shore Junior Wrestling League.

Registration includes Singlet (No Singlet for Intro to Devo) and T-shirt. Mandatory parent meeting October 23 Intro to Devo and Devo 6 p.m./ Travel 7 p.m.

Intro to Devo

The intro to devo program is geared toward anyone who has not wrestled or has very little wrestling experience. This will be an instructional class learning the fundamentals of the sport. There won’t be matches in Intro to Devo.

Practices Tuesday and Thursday 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Intro to Devo will be held at Brick Memorial Highschool.

BWC Devo Team

This program is for young wrestlers who have participated in the sport with us for at least 1 year and are looking to improve

their skills and advance to a more competitive level. The recreation coaches will also advise if the child is ready for a more competitive environment. The Devo Team will have some home and away matches.

Devo Practices - Monday and Wednesday 60 and under 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.; 61 and Over 6:45 to 8 p.m.

Devo Practice in our Civic Plaza Wrestling Room. Devo matches start in January on Wednesdays at Vets Middle all purpose room and some will be at other club’s facilities.

BWC Travel Team

The Travel team is the program’s top wrestlers who represent our community by competing in the Jersey Shore Junior Wrestling League.

BWC Travel Team Practices Tuesday/ Thursdays/ Friday 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Practices will be held at the Brick Memorial Highschool.

Register on Community pass. For more information, call Brick Recreation at 732262-1044.

Photo courtesy DKMS

Register Your Car For Trunk Or Treat

BRICK – Brick Township’s Annual Trunk or Treat takes place on October 20 (rain date October 27) at the Drum Point Sports Complex. The Recreation Department welcomes residents, local organizations, PTOs, youth sports organizations and more to join the fun by decorating a trunk and handing out

Photo courtesy Brick Township treats. There will be prizes awarded for the best decorations!

If you would like to take part in Trunk or Treat, register on Community Pass. Please note, this registration is for trunks only. For more information, call Recreation at 732-262-1073.

Challenger Halloween Fest

BRICK – The Brick Challenger Program was established in 1998 to provide young people with physical and intellectual disabilities with the opportunities to participate in athletic and social programs Challenger Halloween fest will provide one pumpkin per child, paints for painting the pumpkin, hayride to the

pumpkin patch. There will also be blowup rides, cotton candy, popcorn, drinks and snacks, great decorations for photo ops and lots of fun.

Challenger Halloween Fest will be on October 7 from 12 to 2 p.m. at the Cultural Art Center/Playhouse. To register, visit bricktownship.net/departments/recreation.

Brick Recreation Volunteer Youth Club

BRICK – The Brick Recreation Department will be looking for youth volunteers to help assist in Township activities. This program is designed to build and strengthen the community by connecting people through

service and developing civic leaders. They will meet the first Monday of each month starting 5 p.m. at the Recreation Department. For more information call 732-262-1075.

Pirates Day

BRICK – Save the date, ye mateys! Shore Acres Yacht Club presents Pirates Day on September 30 from 12 to 4 p.m., 780 Drum Point Road, Brick.

Enjoy a live mermaid, treasure hunt, pirate battle, food, games. DJ, cash bar and more. Free admission. Open to the public.

Local Pets Available For Adoption

BRICK – Meet Buttercup! This sweet chihuahua mix is a year old, 13lbs of pure cuteness. She’s a bit shy at first, but give her a little time and you’ll see her heart of gold. Ideal for families with kids 12 and up, and if you know the breed, even better! Obedience classes would be the perfect way

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.

Brick Farmers Market

BRICK – At the Brick Farmers Market, you’ll find a wide selection of goods including fresh fruits and vegetables, pastries, cheese, pickles, coffee, prepared foods, donuts, jams and jellies, craft beer, flowers, soaps, honey, handmade items, jewelry and much more. The nearly 60 vendors are passionate about their products and are committed to providing you

with the freshest and highest quality items.

The Brick Farmers Market is held every Saturday until September 30 at Windward Beach Park from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The Market is pet-friendly in 2023. Admission and parking are free.

View a full list of vendors at bricktownship.net/index.php/brick-farmers-market.

Fall Fest Returns To Windward Beach

BRICK – Brick Township’s Fall Fest has become a popular autumn tradition since it was started in 2015.

Fall Fest returns on October 14 from 1 to 7 p.m. at Windward Beach Park (rain date Oc-

tober 15). Fall Fest features food trucks and vendors, a corn hole tournament, games, inflatables, fire pits and much more. The event concludes with an evening fireworks display. Fall Fest is free to attend.

Photo courtesy Jersey Shore Animal Center to build a strong bond with this little girl. Ready to give Buttercup the forever home she deserves?

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.

Artificial Intelligence In Hearing Aids

Artificial intelligence (AI) is all over the news. Even hearing aids are getting solid press for AI advancements. It might sound like science fiction — but AI has been available in hearing aids for a long time.

Humble Beginnings. In 2006, the Centra hearing device hit the market. It included machine learning — your hearing aids learned how you adjusted a setting called gain (the level of sound boost needed). After a couple of weeks, your hearing aids would automatically set the gain to your preferences.

Fine-Tuning Abounds. At first, gain adjustments affected all sound output equally. But tech advancements let you adjust different parts of the sound spectrum — and your hearing aids would learn your preferences for each. You had to do this for each program on your device. Then hearing aids were developed that learned your sound preferences and set them accordingly across all your programs.

Beyond Programming. Now, developers are trying to reduce reliance on

distinct programs. One breakthrough, the deep-neural-network model — mimicking how your brain processes sound — constantly adapts to your environment, improving speech in background noise and listening comfort. Hearing aid manufacturer’s such as Oticon and Starkey utilize this deep neural network model.

The Next Horizon. Today’s hearing aids have embraced AI: One hearing aid combines nextgen machine learning with direct wearer input to optimize settings. Another keeps speech clear amid noise without sacrificing enjoyable sounds, like birdsong. Still a third has a wellness tracker, fall sensor that notifies loved ones, and digital personal assistant. As you can see, hearing aids have used AI for a long time to improve your well-being, hearing and otherwise.

Ready to see how AI can help your hearing? Contact Garden State Hearing & Balance Center at 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstate hearing.com.

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

A Need We Feed Fundraiser

LAKEWOOD – A Need We Feed to hold fundraiser on September 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Icarus Brewing on 1790 Swarthmore Avenue in Lakewood. Tickets are $55 per person which includes beer and donut pairing, $5. food voucher for The Nip N Truck Food Truck, which will be at the event. You will also receive a custom beer glass.

There will be live entertainment by Johnny and the Brue Crew, games, and gift auction. Additional beer and food will be available for purchase.

Join for a fun day while raising money to provide meals to our community’s veterans, seniors, families, and the homeless. Tickets can be purchased at aneedwefeed. org/brews-bites-fundraiser.

Senior Services Program Spotlight: Line Dancing

BRICK – Calling all seniors! Come and join Brick Senior Service’s Line Dancing Class! Keep your body and mind active while you have fun, learn new dance steps and make new friends. The classes are designed for seniors with

easy to learn dances and a fun, relaxed environment. Classes are free and held on Wednesdays from 10 until 11:30 a.m. at the Senior Services Activity Center, 373 Adamston Road (inside VFW Post 8867). Don’t miss out!

Celebrate 100 Years Of The Strand: A Multi-Chamber After Hours

BRICK – Celebrate The Strand’s 100 years, a multi-chamber after hours event on September 28 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the historic Strand Theater in Lakewood.

Cost is $30 for members, $35 for guests. Sponsorships available. For more information or to register, visit brickchamber.com.

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

5 Sweet Revelations: The Buzz On Honey And Its Medicinal Benefits

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Honey, a luscious golden elixir, has not only graced our breakfast tables and sweetened our tea, but has been revered for its medicinal benefits for millennia. While it’s a natural sweet treat for many, there are some intriguing facts about honey that may surprise you. Let’s go through the top 5 medicinal magic properties of honey:

1. It’s Anti-Microbial

Honey’s claim to fame is not just its sweetness. Rich in antioxidants, it fights off free radicals and repairs tissue damage. With its natural antibacterial properties, honey speeds up the healing of wounds and even combats certain harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, it’s also a soothing remedy for sore throats and coughs. The osmotic effect of honey draws out bacteria from inflamed pores, making it a darling in many skincare regimens. If you make homemade yogurt like I do, you should know that “raw” honey will not ferment because the natural antibiotic properties will kill your probiotic starter culture during incubation.

2. Different Flowers Are Used

Not all honey is created equal. From almost clear to deep brown, honey’s hue is largely determined by its floral source. Dark honeys, like buckwheat, are rich in antioxidants and flavor. By the way, buckwheat-derived honey is still wheat and gluten-free. Lighter honeys, such as those from orange blossoms, offer a milder taste. And then there’s the star of the honey world – Manuka. Hailing from New Zealand, Manuka honey boasts unique therapeutic properties, often used in wound care.

3. Honey and Babies

Honey and toddlers? Wait until their first birthday! Infants below the age of 12 months shouldn’t be given honey due to the risk of botulism. But as children grow older, they can safely savor its sweetness.

4. Is is Vegan or Vegetarian?

Honey’s place in the vegan or vegetarian diet stirs debate. While it comfortably sits on vegetarian menus, its vegan status is contentious. Since it’s a bee byproduct and some commercial honey practices may harm bees, many vegans prefer plant-based sweeteners like Bee Free® Honee, monkfruit, or stevia.

5. Allergies

If you are allergic to some flowers as many people are, it’s natural to question whether the honey derived from that flower’s nectar would also trigger an allergic reaction.

However, honey allergies stemming from floral sources are quite rare. This is because the pollen grains from flowers responsible for most pollen allergies are too large to be carried by bees. Instead, bees carry smaller, nectar-bearing pollen grains, which rarely cause allergic reactions. Once collected, bees return to their hive and transform this nectar into honey by a process of regurgitation, enzymatic activity, and evaporation.

In short, honey is not collected from a flower’s stems or leaves. That said, it’s always good to avoid potential problems with honey if you have severe allergies, and of course, consult your allergist/immunologist doctor.

I have a longer version of this article at my website suzycohen.com if you’re interested in more medicinal facts about honey.

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

Come Join The Brick Police EMS Family

BRICK – Brick Police EMS is currently accepting applications for Part-time EMT with potential of Full-time with expansion of the program in 2024. Fulltime staff is hired first from with-in the part-time roster.

Brick Police EMS is a large progressive municipal based program selected as the 2022 Pre-Hospital program of the Year for the State of New Jersey, running 11,000 calls for service per year with a Special Operations Divi -

sion, Tactical Medical Team embedded in the Brick Police SWAT Team, water rescue and Technical Rescue with Brick Township Fire Companies. Parttime starts at $25 per hour with annual raises up to $27.50 per hour with 8 paid holidays and a $200 uniform allowance annually.

Submit resumes by email: Tcranmer@ brickpd.com; or mail: Deputy Director Cranmer, 401 Chambersbridge Road Brick, NJ 08723.

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

Annual Antique Auto Show Returns In September

TOMS RIVER – Rose Garden Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and the Ocean County Vintage Automobile Club present the 18th Annual Antique Automobile Show. The event will be held on September 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The 1950s Recording Artists the Cameos will be there at 1 p.m. The event is being hosted by Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 1579 Old Freehold Road, Toms River.

New Jersey’s Favorite Oldies Group the Cameos, which first hit the charts in 1959 with “Rock and Roll Arabian Nights,”

has continued to entertain music lovers by keeping the “oldies” sound alive. The music of the 50s and 60s holds a special memory for those of us who grew up with it.

It was music you could sing along with, music you could dance to, music you fell in love with.

Free admission. Craft vendors. Refreshments, prizes for the kids. Trophies for show car owners. Special parking for car clubs. Ample seating area will be provided but you are urged to bring a lawn chair.

Project Safe Lock

BRICK – Did you know? The Brick Township Police Department offers a special program for residents who, due to advanced age, mobility, medical concerns, and other housing circumstances may be unable to answer their door in an emergency situation. It’s called “Project Safe Lock” and it is free of charge to any eligible resident.

Project Safe Lock utilizes a realtor’s style lock box which could be mounted to a door or railing of a home. The lock

box will be owned by the Brick Township Police Department. A key, supplied by the resident, is locked in the box. When an emergency exists, responding Brick Township Police Officers will be able to access the key and make entry in emergency situations quickly and expediently, avoiding any necessity to damage doors or windows in the process.

More information and a downloadable application form can be found by visiting brickpd.com.

Holiday Craft/Vendor Fair

TOMS RIVER – Save the date! November 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The American Legion Auxiliary located at 2025 Church

Road will be hosting their Annual Holiday Fair. Vendor space still available if interested contact Laurinda at 732-272-7552

1579 Old Freehold Rd. Toms River, NJ 08753 732-505-4477

www.rosegardennj.com

Saturday, September 23, 2023 • 11 AM - 3 PM Featuring The Cameos at 1 PM

Ample seating will be provided however, please bring a lawn chair. We look forward to seeing you and hope you enjoy our Summer Concert Series.

Ocean County’s Ultimate 5-Star Nursing & Rehabilitation Getaway!

Trophies to be Awarded! Food & Entertainment!

RAIN OR SHINE! (Covered area available for Cameo Concert)

Rally For Allie 5K

BRICK – On October 29, Brick PBA will be hosting the Rally for Allie 5K. The event will take place at the Drum Point Sports Complex at 10 a.m. and registration at the Brick PAL at 9 a.m. This is event is dedicated to Allie Puccio as she has recently been battling a rare form of acute myeloid leukemia. Allie is a strong, selfless, kind and caring mother, daughter, sister and friend. Allie is a workout enthusiast and true competitor whom embraces fun and fitness. They are looking forward to sharing Allie’s passion with all of you in this fun filled event!

The Brick Township PBA would like to thank you in advanced on behalf of the Puccio family for all of your support! Visit runsignup.com/brickpba for more information. They are also seeking sponsors for the event. Any local business/ company interested, contact Brick PBA Local #230.

Senior Movie & Dinner

BRICK – Brick Seniors Dinner & Movie for ages 65 and over. The next dinner and movie will be on September 22 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Civic Plaza/Gym. Movie: TBA.

For more details, call Madeline at 732-262-1076. Must pre-register. Register at bricktownship.net/departments/ recreation

2023 Point Pleasant Fall Leaf Pickup Schedule

POINT PLEASANT – Point Pleasant Borough’s public works department has announced the fall leaf collection schedule.

The schedule is based on your garbage collection zone:

Section 5A&B – November 1 and December 1

Section 4A&B – November 6 and December 8

Section 3A&B – November 13 and December 15

Section 2A&B – November 16 and December 20

Section 1A&B – November 22 and December 27

Leaves are collected by the department twice during the fall, and once each spring. Schedules are printed in the town planner calendar that is sent to each resident annually. Be sure your leaves are out at the curb prior to the first day of collection in your area. Leaves cannot be put out more than seven days in advance of your pick up. Leaves

may not be placed in the curb line any closer than 10 ft. from a storm drain inlet. Violators risk a fine. Ornamental grass in no longer accepted with leaves or brush. It must be bagged or put into cans and put out with your normal household trash. Leaves are accepted at our Arthur Avenue Recycling Center year-round. For more information, call the Department of Public Works at 732-892-1287.

Removing Points From Your Driving Record

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

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission allows drivers who have accumulated points on their driving record to take a voluntary defensive driving course to remove some of those points. Most road accidents are caused by driver error. To reduce the likelihood of being involved in an accident drivers need to understand the concept of “defensive driving.” A defensive driving course will provide you with standard accident-preventing techniques. Upon completion of a defensive driving course that is approved by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, two (2) points may be removed from the accumulated points you currently have on your license. However, you may only receive a two-point (2) reduction once every five (5) years and only if there are points on your driving record at the time you complete the course. Another way to remove points from your record is to go one year without any violations or suspensions which will eliminate three (3) points from your record. In addition, by completing an approved defensive driving course you may also qualify for an insurance rate reduction. Thereafter,

you can take another course in three years for additional insurance savings.

Fortunately, with the advancement of technology, many of the defense driving programs may be taken on-line. You no longer have to be concerned about scheduling, boredom, or other hassles of attending an in-person course outside of your home or work. Some programs allow you to complete the course in one day. Other programs allow you up to one week to complete the course, so shop around. In addition, while in-person courses are available, on-line access may provide you with the ability to access your registered course 24 hours a day, so you can study whenever it is most convenient.

If you have been charged with a motor vehicle violation, call the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation. (732) 505-1212.

Mayor Crate Announces Township’s First Ever Longest Table Event

BRICK – This September Brick Township will join the list of cities and towns throughout the country that have hosted The Longest Table, a community meal that provides neighbors the opportunity to gather and have conversations about the town.

Mayor Crate will be hosting Brick’s 1st Annual Longest Table on September 23 (Rain Date September 24) beginning at 1 p.m. at the Robert Anstett Cultural Arts Center on Herbertsville Road. The event will feature a buffet style meal as well as fun and stimulating topics of conver-

sation with the common theme of Brick Township.

The event will accommodate approximately 200 attendees and, in order to facilitate civically minded conversations, guests should be a minimum of 15 years old.

Additionally, while groups are encouraged to attend, individuals will not necessarily be seated together for the duration of the event. To RSVP, email the number of attendees along with their names and mailing address to longesttable@bricktownship.net. For more information, call 732-262-1050.

Fall Fest Returns To Windward Beach

BRICK – Brick Township’s Fall Fest has become a popular autumn tradition since it was started in 2015.

Fall Fest returns on October 14 from 1 to 7 p.m. at Windward Beach Park (rain date Oc-

tober 15). Fall Fest features food trucks and vendors, a corn hole tournament, games, inflatables, fire pits and much more. The event concludes with an evening fireworks display. Fall Fest is free to attend.

Ocean County Seniors Offered New Transportation Options

OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County seniors can access another method of transportation to get to medical appointments with assistance from the Healthy Hop Transportation Program.

“As we age many of our residents are no longer driving making it difficult to get a ride to appointments that are important to one’s health,” said the Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as Chairman to the Ocean County Office of Senior Services. “We are fortunate to have this new program offered by Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey to make traveling to doctor appointments a little easier for our seniors.”

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, a nonprofit agency that is dedicated to providing free, supportive services to seniors received funding from the AARP Community Challenge Grant sponsored by Toyota Motor North America. This funding has helped create the Healthy Hop Transportation Program,

which is designed to help seniors age 60 and older have access to reliable transportation for medical appointments by using Uber, Lyft and local taxi services.

Funding for the program is currently limited and services will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

To register, call the office of Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey at 732-505-2273 to ensure all the necessary information is provided for a safe and efficient transport. Once registered, seniors can get one local ride per week.

“I commend Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey for their continued support of our residents and for working closely with the Ocean County Office of Senior Services to provide quality programs to our seniors,” Vicari said. “Ocean County is home to more than 200,000 seniors and many of our seniors are reaching 85-years-old and older.”

The eligibility requirements for the Healthy Hop

Transportation program are:

• Residents must be 60 years or older and live in Ocean County

• Canes and walkers can be accommodated (no wheel chairs)

• No appointments that require anesthesia are allowed

• Must be able to get in and out of the car with gentle assistance

“This program is a great addition to the transportation services already established for seniors in Ocean County through our Ocean Ride program,” said Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Gary Quinn, who serves as liaison to the Ocean Ride program. “The partnership between Ocean Ride, the Ocean County Office of Senior Services and Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey allows for everyone to work hand in hand to offer convenient transportation for our

Cougar, Puma, Mountain Lion

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Probably the most common reference used to describe this big cat is cougar. Other common references include puma, mountain lion, and panther. The cougar is a very adaptable predator having the widest range of any land mammal in the western hemisphere. They can be found throughout the United States, particularly in the urban areas of southern California, the swamps of Florida and the forests in Canada. California sees their numbers increasing, sharing more space with people.

Cougars rank number four in size of the big cats, outnumbered by lions, tigers and jaguars. Their build is stocky with large hind legs and a long tail which provides them with balance. With their strong legs, they can leap horizontally about 40 feet, with a single vertical jump of 18 feet. Incredible.

Cougars are solitary creatures. They hunt and raise their young (birthing three or four kittens) on their own. The downside to single parenting is that there is only one provider to feed the young, and no protection for young when away from their den hunting. Typically hunting occurs at dawn and dusk, preying on mostly deer, but will also utilize opportunities to

feast on moose, coyotes, wild sheep, rodents, and birds. They silently stalk their prey, pouncing on them, delivering a fatal bite to the back of the head or neck. Feeding upon a carcass will occur immediately, eating as much as they can before they hide what’s left to keep other hunters away. Generally, cougars are not a threat to humans as encounters are rare.

However, in areas, for instance, California, where they are losing their natural habitat and therefore being forced into human areas, encounters might be more likely.

Threats to cougars are loss of habitat, poisonings, retaliation killings, vehicle collisions, along with

senior communities.”

Ocean Ride provides two major services for senior residents, “Reserve-a-Ride” that provides door to door, non-emergency medical transportation service, and 11 fixed bus routes throughout Ocean County designed to connect key residential areas with popular destinations such as local governmental facilities, healthcare, shopping, employment, social services and other transit connections.

For more information on Ocean Ride programs, residents can call 732-736-8989.

“Ocean County is a large county in area and public transportation is at times limited. As our senior population continues to grow, it is important to make sure that there are increased opportunities for them to access transportation,” Vicari said. “The Healthy Hop Transportation program provides important assistance to our seniors as does Ocean County’s Ocean Ride program.”

hunting. The importance of cougars is the role they play in keeping the deer population in check, may be saving lives preventing injuries and deaths from vehicle collisions with deer. Animals in nature - doing what they were born to do. I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

For Rent

Seaside Park - Yearly one bedroom apartment $1,450 and Bayfront, Marina, three bedroom private Capecod home with waterfront deck and sunsets $3,200. 908-278-5491. (43)

Misc.

St. Maximilian Flea Market - The

K of C of St. Maximilian Kolbe Church will be holding a flea market on Saturday, Sept 30 at parish hall, 130 St. Maximilian Lane. Rain or shine. Call Rich Muller for details 732-255-4834. (42)

First United Methodist Church Fall Rummage Sale - Friday, 9-15-23 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat., 9-16-23 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 1st United Methodist Church, 129 Chestnut Street, Toms River, NJ 08753. $5 Bag sale Sat. only. Clothes, kitchen items, holiday items, bedding, toys, games, puzzles, picture frames and more. Snacks and lunch available. For info: 732-349-8155, or email: Office@Fumctr.com. (39)

Comic Book Festival - Sunday, September 17. Elks, Toms River. Cards, Toys, Crafts. Meet artist Keith Williams (Spider-Man). www.jerseyshorecomicbookshow. com or 609-242-7756. (40)

Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEW -

ELRY 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, Reggae, Blues, Jazz. Very Good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104. (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)

Junk or Wrecked Cars and Trucks

Wanted - Cash paid. 732-6577251, Steve. Thanks. (38)

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

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

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)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items For Sale

Maple Dining Table - With 2 leafs and 6 chairs. 7'x39" with leafs. Good condition. $975 or best offer. Text for picture of furniture, 732-207-7414 and/or call Connie Magill 732-657-6166. (39)

Help Wanted

Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company. E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n)

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)

Services Services Services Services

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. (t/n)

Housecleaning - Painting, shopping, laundry window cleaning, carpet cleaning. Very good prices. 732773-5078, 848-287-3944. (44)

Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)

ALL American Home Health AidesExperienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in. Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605. (t/n)

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)

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

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)

Painting - Simply the best. "It's all in the name." Interior/Exterior. Unbeatable pricing. Meticulous work. All materials and jobs guaranteed. Fully licensed and insured. $ave. Call 732-850-5060. (39)

THE RIDE GUY - Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. Call Charlie 732-2163176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. References. Let's Go! (t/n)

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

PET SITTER my home. Reasonable rates. Must meet pet prior to commitment. You supply all. References available. 201-519-4659. (38)

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. (42)

I Am Looking For A Housekeeper Job - For every morning. Please, write a text message! 1-908-910-4401. (39)

Wallpaper and Bordering - Hanging and removal of old. No job too big or small. Great references. Call Angela 609-891-8544. (47)

DIRECTV Sports Pack - 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213. (t/n)

Interior Exterior Painting - 27 years experience. Fully insured, free estimates. Call Tommy 609-661-1657. Lic# 13VH04548900. (41)

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)

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

Car Rides and Messenger Service - Doctor's Offices, Hospitals, Lawyers, Engineers, All Airports, NYC, Philadelphia, Small Packages and Envelopes. Call Paul. 848-2800195 or 732-832-9098. (40)

Handyman Solutions One call fixes it all! - Carpentry • Doors • Windows

• Decks • Vinyl Railings • Bathrooms

• Tile • Masonry • Flooring. Licensed Insured 609-384-9030. (39)

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

• Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Auto For Sale

• Items For Sale

R.C. Shea and Associates is seeking to hire a paralegal with civil/commercial litigation experience as well as an administrative assistant. Pay and benefits commensurate with experience. Please call Pam Williams, office manager at (732) 505-1212 or email at pwilliams@rcshea.com (t/n)

Bus Driver NEEDED! - Flexible Scheduling. Perfect for Retiree in Retirement Community. CDL w/ Passenger endorsement required. Call SilverWoods Clubhouse for more information at 732-341-4825. (t/n)

Full Time receptionist Magnolia Gardens - Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking to fill full time receptionist position. Weekend help needed. All positions start at $15 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. (42)

Dietary Aides Full time, part time, Weekends - Magnolia Gardens

Family owned and operated Assisted living community looking for full or part time Dietary aides. 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. (42)

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

Cedar Glen West is looking for a new Bus driver. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and 1 local trip on Sunday. During the Summer there will also be 2 Saturday trips a month to Columbus Mart. We are also looking for a full time office assistant which is eligible for health insurance and 401K. You may call 732-657-5525 or e-mail at williams@cedarglenwest.net. (39)

Needed part-time worker - Help 72 year old female driving to medical appointments, shopping, light housekeeping. Call 732-678-3161. $25/hr. Hours flexible. Brick area. (39)

Animal Lovers - Volunteers needed to help feed homeless cats 1 or 2 days weekly. Call 732-3672932, leave message. (41)

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)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations, decks, finished basements and much more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (52)

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-833-901-0309. (t/n)

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)

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. (26)

Typing Services - business letter, resume, poam, etc. Call 7327773-5078 or 848-287-3944. (43)

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)

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.

• Items Wanted

• For Rent

• Help Wanted

• Services

• Real Estate • Other

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 = $

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

Total = $

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS – NO DISCOVER – 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 go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

6. Please include your BIlling address and contact phone number (this is required)

Address Town ZIP Phone Number

Deadline For Classified Ads: noon Monday (For that Saturday’s publications)

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

photo of thE wEEk

Laura Magner recently moved to Brick Township. Lucky for us, she had her camera out at the right place at the right time. Just look at that amazing scenery! Want to see your photos in this space? Wanna win a prize? Email your pics to photos@ jerseyshoreonline.com and you may hear from us!

Recreation Basketball Leagues

BRICK – Attention all basketball enthusiasts and young athletes! Brick Township is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for the Brick Recreation Basketball Leagues for the upcoming season. This is your chance to join a dynamic and competitive basketball community in Brick Township, where you can showcase your skills, make new friends, and embrace the

spirit of teamwork.

The Leagues are for Brick boys in grades 4 through 12 and girls in grades 4 through 9. Registration fee is $75 per player. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be part of the Brick Recreation Basketball Leagues. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting your basketball journey, there’s a place for you in our leagues.

Senior Services Hosting Vendor Fair

BRICK – Brick Senior Services’ Annual Vendor Fair will take place on September 29 from 9:30 until 11:30 a.m. at the Senior Services Activity Center, 373 Adamston Road.

This annual Vendor Fair is designed to empower seniors and caregivers with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their well-being. Whether you are a senior seeking information about senior living options or a

caregiver looking for support services, this event is for you! Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to engage with your community, gather valuable insights, and discover the services available to enhance your senior years or caregiving journey.

Admission to the Vendor Fair is free. There will be door prizes as well as complimentary pizza for lunch. Call 732-920-8686 to register.

Youth Yoga Classes Set For Autumn

BRICK – Looking for a fun and healthy activity for your kids? Why not try children’s yoga class?

Classes are held on Wednesdays from September 20 to October 25 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Brick Civic Plaza. The classes are designed to help kids develop strong bodies, clear minds, and peaceful spirits. Yoga teachers will lead your child through a variety of age-appropriate yoga

poses and breathing exercises, helping them build flexibility, strength, and balance. The classes are fun and interactive so don’t delay sign up now and give your child the gift of yoga – it’s a gift that will last a lifetime!

Mats are included. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water. Classes are open to Brick boys and girls ages 7 to 14. The cost is $60 per child.

Winter Basketball Registration Coming Up

BRICK – Take part of the 21st season of one of the township’s most popular recreation programs. Every year, over 700 youths participate in basketball leagues. The league features a 12-game season and all participants receive a T-shirt. (They cannot guarantee sizes if you register after the registration deadline).

All 4th grade boys will tryout. There will be a mandatory assessment for all players in grades 4 to 8. This assessment will focus on basketball rules and drills and will also help us assess players for team placement.

Registration opens August 28. Any questions, call 732-262-1095.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across

1 Dinner with donors

5 Mardi Gras wear 9 Britcom with Eddie and Patsy, for short 14 Minnesota representative Ilhan

15 Not pro 16 Gibbs of “The Jeffersons”

17 Admonition to an Egyptian boy king?

19 Helps out illegally 20 Ending for “Black,” “Mixed,” and “Grown,” in sitcom names 21 Olfactory assault

23 “Everything

Everywhere All at Once” star Michelle 24 Conical shelter 26 “Which of the two will it be?”

34 Was sure about

67 Far from posh

68 Gels

69 Inquires

Down

1 “Duly noted”

2 Cause to chuckle

3 Sudsy

4 Class with easels

5 Like low-shine lipstick

6 Get the poker pot going

7 Leave speechless

8 Vehicle that’s built after it’s bought

9 Doc’s org.

10 Brand-new sibling, perhaps

11 On the house

12 Palo __, California

13 Big celebration

18 Didn’t waste

22 Hair removal substance

25 Like energy bars, in adspeak

27 “Go team!”

29 Bar bill

30 Mechanical arithmetic aids

31 Card sets sold in New Age shops

32 Prayer ending

33 Expose to danger

34 Single-serve coffee pod

35 Words of denial

36 Mass communication?

40 Floor-washing tool

43 Actor Cage, casually

47 Comparison shopper’s data

48 Green Jedi with his own grammar

50 Parts of mandolins

51 “Wicked Game” singer Chris

52 Euro fractions

53 Woeful word

54 Formally transfer

55 Truth or __

57 “Ask me if I __!”

58 Make mittens, say

61 Secret agent

63 Hush-hush org.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST FOR THE WEEK OF SEPT 16- SEPT 22

ARIES (March 21-April 19): TRight now, your thoughts could revolve around your personal appearance, demeanor or how your reputation may affect your social life. Don’t let the reactions of others make you feel self-conscious.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : Project confidence in all your current successes. Feel free to brag a little and showcase your talents when you can. Sales jobs might seem to like a glove, but the most important thing to sell might be yourself.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) : Earning the credentials you may need could be taking longer than you first anticipated. Try not to feel disappointed if you sense a lack of family support. You might have a crowd of friends ready to cheer you on.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) : Your friendly approach could persuade others that you may be the right person for extra responsibilities. If past mistakes come back to haunt you, try not to worry. Be fully accountable and you can turn criticism into assets.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : Put key financial decisions on hold for now. Even the best researched and prepared people can still hit a snag if the conditions are not optimal. The spotlight could be on your trustworthiness, charm, and great attitude.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Hurt feelings can’t be repaired with just gifts. Look into their eyes and make sincere amends. They do not have to forgive, but they might be more likely if you show them your heart instead of your wallet.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You can

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

accomplish more in the future if you exert a little extra effort now. Follow through on your projects even if you feel discouraged by possible setbacks. The key to success is usually found in perseverance.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) : Your rock-solid business skills could be in high demand currently. By spending some time with other ambitious go-getters, you can expand your skillset and broaden your network of allies or supportive friends.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Now might not be the best time to discuss family drama with your friends or challenge authority figures. Remain cooperative and discreet and you can increase your financial base. Think things through before making a move.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) : The only way to save time is to use every moment as efficiently as possible. Wait for the most powerful timing for your biggest initiatives, try not to fret over the little details, and take big steps towards your goals.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) : Do your best to avoid trouble by remaining diplomatic in group situations. Now may not be a favorable time to make new investments. If you find yourself in a tricky situation it might be best to take a step back.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Life can be messy and complicated, but true and loyal friends could get you through. Bouncing from loyalty to loyalty may be damaging to your trust-worthy reputation. Let those you care about know you will not walk away.

LIKE WEARING WHITE, IT’S OK TO GRILL AFTER LABOR DAY

By America’s Test Kitchen

GRILLED CHICKEN AND CABBAGE WITH LEMONY BROWNED BUTTER DRESSING

Serves 4

4 (6- to 8-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed

1 3/4 teaspoons table salt, divided 3/4 teaspoon pepper, divided

1/2 head green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges through core

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 lemons, halved, plus 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

8 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 cup sliced almonds

2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and patted dry

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1. Pat chicken dry and sprinkle with 1

teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Brush cabbage all over with oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Grill chicken, cabbage, and lemon halves over hot fire (covered if using gas) until cabbage is charred and chicken registers 160 degrees, 6 to 12 minutes, flipping chicken and cabbage halfway through grilling. Transfer to a cutting board and tent with foil.

2. Squeeze lemons to yield 3 tablespoons juice. Melt butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add almonds and capers and cook, stirring frequently, until butter is deep golden brown and almonds are toasted, 4 to 6 minutes. Off heat, carefully stir in lemon zest and juice and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, scraping up any browned bits.

3. Arrange cabbage on a serving platter. Slice chicken 1/2 inch thick and arrange over cabbage. Drizzle with sauce and sprinkle with parsley. Serve.

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

Package includes: 2-Hr Memorial Visitation (during regular business hours) a complimentary select Urn, removal from Hospital or Facility with-in 25 miles of Funeral Home, all Funeral Home service fees, required cremation container MCDDT-01. Package excludes residential removal fee and Crematory charges.

Serving All Faiths

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

2023 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.