2019-12-14 - The Brick Times

THE BRICK

Vol. 19 - No. 31

In This Week’s Edition

TIMES

Your FREE Weekly Hometown Newspaper For Brick and Lakewood Townships

Report Shows Why Greenbriar Flooded So Badly Community News!

FOR BREAKING NEWS

JERSEYSHOREONLINE.COM | December 14, 2019

Laurelhurst Roads To Get Improved

Don’t miss what’s happening in your town.

Pages 10-11.

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 16.

–Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn Roads in the Laurelhurst section of town are showing their age.

Dear Pharmacist Page 17.

Inside The Law Page 19.

Business Directory Page 20-21.

Classifieds

–Photo courtesy Brick police

An Aug. 13, 2018 storm flooded Greenbriar.

By Judy Smestad-Nunn BRICK – The township has finally received an engineering report from the county regarding the Aug. 13, 2018 flooding event that resulted in water damage to hundreds of homes located near the Garden State Parkway (GSP) Interchange 91, where major roadway

renovations had recently been completed.

Many residents in the area blamed the GSP renovations for f looding their neighborhoods, wh ich i nclu de d 10 6 homes in the age-restricted Greenbriar development. Some 8.5 inches of rain fell within two and a half hours, which is the normal rainfall for

a two-month period.

An Aug. 15 preliminary report by County Engineer John Ernst said that the reconfiguration of the Parkway Exit 91 was not the cause of flooding in the north section of Brick, that the design of the project “was adequate, but we had a storm beyond what any design standard was designed for.”

Shortly afterward, the Brick Township Council passed a resolution calling for the county to conduct an independent engineering study, since most of the affected areas were not in the floodplain and had never flooded before.

“We have been waiting since that time for this report, and we were (Flood - See Page 4)

By Judy Smestad-Nunn BRICK – The roads in the Laurelhurst section of town, located off Princeton Avenue, were paved in phases, often after the homes were sporadically built between the 1940s-1980s, so paving conditions vary throughout the area.

While miscellaneous roadway improvements have been done in Laurelhurst, the surface course is in excess of 20 years old and has experienced extreme wear, in addition to settlement associated with utility trenches, said Township Engineer Elissa Commins, and all the roads are in need of infrastructure improvements.

The estimated cost for the Laurelhurst Road Improvement Project is over $1.5 million, and with no funding source identified, the township applied for a 2019 New Jersey (Roads - See Page 6)

Page 22.

Fun Page Page 23.

Horoscope Page 27.

Wolfgang Page 27.

Winter Forecast: December OK, Watch Out In New Year

“Unwarmed by any sunset light The gray day darkened into night, A night made hoary with the swarm And whirl-dance of the blinding storm”

–“Snow-bound, A Winter Idyll,”

by John Greenleaf Whittier

By Patricia A. Miller OCEA N COU NT Y The snarling blizzard of 1996 dumped several feet of snow on the ground, choked streets, and dropped temperatures well below freezing. Many Ocean and Monmouth County residents were trapped in their homes for days.

Whether we will see a storm like that during the coming winter months remains to be seen.

While Northeast residents might see a “touch of winter” in December, the worst will come in “full force” after the new year, said Paul Pastelok, the long-range forecaster for (Winter - See Page 5)

–Micromedia Stock Photo This road in Brick near Brick Memorial High School had some snow after a small snowfall in early February.

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The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 3

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Page 4, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

Flood:

Continued From Page 1 recently provided with that, so I will give you a brief overview of what it says,” said Township Business Administrator Joanne Bergin during the Dec. 3 council meeting.

The county retained French and Parrello Associates Engineering firm to provide the analysis and review of available construction documents that the county provided as it relates to the interchange, she said.

They did some site reconnaissance and paid special attention to the Greenbriar development drainage system as well as all culvert crossings of the GSP and Burrsville Road, Bergin said.

The engineers did a topographic survey of those culverts, and field observations and hydraulic analysis of the drainage area, which resulted in several conclusions, she said.

First, the GSP roadway surface is approximately five feet higher than the westerly section of the Greenbriar development, and any backup of the GSP culverts due to severe rainfall would result in flooding of the westerly section of Greenbriar, preor post-improvements to Interchange 91.

“That is unavoidable based on the height of the roadway,” Bergin said.

Based on their hydraulic analysis, in flood events of a 10-year frequency or greater, a portion of the runoff to the GSP north culvert will overf low the banks of the upstream channel flow to the GSP south

culvert, the report says. (A 10-year storm is just a storm that is so severe that something like it only comes along once a decade.)

“So, what they’re saying here is that it’s a historic rain event, and the rain basically had nowhere to go,” she said.

The overflow was estimated to be 352 cubic feet per second, which almost doubles the flow to the GSP south culvert without any overflow.

The GSP south culvert is a smaller pipe with less capacity than the GSP north culvert, the report adds.

The engineers concluded that improvements to the GSP interchange 91 had “minimal impact on the degree of flooding at the Greenbriar development,” and that the nearby county improvements to Burrsville Road “had no impact” on the flooding event.

And fi nally, a comparison of pre-storm aerial photos from April 14, 2018 and post-storm aerial photos taken on March 11, 2019 show that the southerly/easterly bank of the upstream channel at the GSP north culvert has been armored with riprap stone, and the upstream face of the GSP south culvert has been stabilized using gabion baskets, which appear to have been completed after the August storm event.

According to the report, based on the extended duration of flooding conditions, there appears to have been some blockage of the flow at the culverts.

The next council meeting will be on Tuesday Dec. 17 at 7 p.m.

–Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn Every year different organizations decorate trees for the hallway at the municipal building. The organizations who donated trees this year were Brick Kiwanis, Rotary Club of Brick, Brick Garden Club, Brick Utilities, Brick PAL Youth Mentoring Program, Brick Library, Dottie’s House, Jersey Coast Shark Anglers, Complete Care of Laurelton, Jersey Shore Animal Center and The Arc.

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Winter:

Continued From Page 1 AccuWeather.

But the coming winter will be a busy one, he said.

“Whether or not it’s snowstorms, ice storms or mixed events, I do feel this is going to be an active year for the Northeast,” Pastelok said.

And that might include above-normal snowfall, he said.

Jersey Shore residents can also expect more nor’easters this winter. Nor’easters got their name from their location. They are on the east coast of North America, and the winds over the coastal area comes from the northeast. According to Weather.gov, these damaging storms form between New Jersey and Georgia.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac is calling for colder than normal temperatures and above normal precipitation in the northeast.

“Our outlook forewarns of not only a good amount of snow, but also a wintry mix of rain, sleet - especially along the coast,” the website states.

The nynjpa.com website breaks down the winter months in terms of precipitation and temperatures. The snow threat for December is moderate.

However, that won’t be the case for January and February. There are two chances for major winter storms. One will be at the beginning of January and another during the last third of the month, according to nynjpa.com.

“Look for the words Polar Vortex to be

The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 5 mentioned frequently with an arctic blast a high threat,” the website states. “The snow threat is very high.”

Snow will also be a major factor in February, with polar and arctic air masses making the threat very high. The snow threat for March (a wild card month) is moderate. But there’s a possible major winter storm in the first half of the month, according to nynjpa.com.

Winter temperatures will be near or slightly above normal, with the coldest periods in mid-December, mid- and late January, February, and early March, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

Precipitation will be below normal in the north and above normal in the south.

Snowfall will be above normal, with the snowiest periods in mid-November, early to mid- and late December, January, and early February.

And it will be a long winter, according to the Farmer’s Almanac.

“Winter will hang on with stormy conditions up through the official start of spring, especially for the East Coast,” the Farmer’s Almanac website states.

The National Weather Service will release its winter weather predictions on Dec. 15, according to the NWS website. The NWS will also introduce its new “Winter Storm Outlook” webinar on that date.

The webinar will focus on the possibility of hazardous snow or ice events, by sending key messages about significant winter storm threats during the fi rst three days of the forecast period. The Winter Storm Severity Index will be extended to all 116 NWS forecast offices in the United States.

St. Stephen UCC is Welcoming all Faithful to Celebrate Christmas at Our Parish SCHEDULE OF CHRISTMAS SERVICES: Tuesday, Dec. 24 “Vigil of Christmas” - HaДвeчip’я Piздвa Xpиcтовоrо At 10:00pm Vespers with Lytia and Divine Liturgy (Eng.-Ukr.) Wednesday, Dec. 25 “Christmas-Birth of our Lord” - Piздво Xpиcтове At 9:00am Divine Liturgy (Eng.) At 10:30am Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Thursday, Dec. 26 “Synaxis of the Theotokos” Собор Пpecвятої Бoropoдицi At 10:00am Divine Liturgy (Eng.-Ukr.) Friday, Dec. 27 “St. Stephen Protomartyr”- Пepвомyчeникa Cтeфaнa At 10:00am Divine Liturgy (Eng.-Ukr.) Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020 “New Year. Circumcision of our Lord.

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Page 6, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

Roads:

Continued From Page 1 Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Municipal Aid grant for the full amount to complete the entire development.

The NJDOT awarded $367,755 for the project, so the township engineering department assessed the roads and broke the development into phases to be completed on a “worst-is-fi rst” basis, Commins said.

Phase 1 would include Salem Road, Glenmere Drive, Sunnycrest Drive, Forest Drive and Laurelwood Road. Laurelhurst Drive might be added if funding allows, she said.

The township applied for additional 2020 NJDOT Municipal Aid grant funding to develop a Phase 2 construction plan for Laurelhurst Drive, Robbins Street, Robbins Court, Diane Drive and Edgewood Drive. The NJDOT awarded the township an additional $389,990 for the project.

“Both of these grants are reimbursement-based, so Brick still has to fund the project through its capital improvement program and seek reimbursement after we pay a contractor,” Commins said.

“How much we can accomplish in each phase is directly proportional to funding. If we can get more streets completed in Phase 1 we would bump up streets from Phase 2 and 3 accordingly,” she said.

There was no construction money in the municipal 2018 or 2019 budget for these projects, Commins said. After the township was notified of the $367,775 grant, the engineering department developed construction plans for Phase 1, which are about 75 percent complete.

“I was already planning to request money for construction of Phase 1 in the 2020 capital budget, for which we will be reimbursed,” Commins aid.

Since the grant agreement is in place, and since the design has advanced thus far without any notifications from utility companies about confl icting work, it is likely that Laurelhurst Phase 1 would be

funded this year, she added.

With the notification of the additional $389,990 award, Commins said she would be requesting money for the development and construction of Phase 2 plans in the 2020 capital budget.

“I think we could save money and effort by combining the two [phases]; however there is no guarantee that we will also be able to fund Phase 2 this year,” she said.

“We haven’t received the grant agreement from the DOT yet, only the notice of award.”

The township has not started the design or notified any of the utility companies that the additional roads are being considered for paving, so funding it for construction this year may seem premature, especially when there are limited capital funds and so many other paving projects that are already partially designed in the township queue, Commins added.

The proposed work will include a combination of mill and overlay and reconstruction, based upon asphalt coring results.

The proposed work also includes soil erosion and sediment control measures, construction of curbing at existing drainage facilitates to direct stormwater runoff, and handicap ramps as required.

Also, the reconstruction includes (New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection) mandated stormwater management compliance, traffic control, milling of the surface, retrofitting of all drainage, castings, resetting of utilities, pavement excavation and repair as needed, a twoinch overlay with a hot mix asphalt course, sign repair/replacement as needed, restriping and site restoration, Commins wrote.

The Municipal Aid program is a competitive program intended to provide municipalities with transportation-based grants to supplement their transportation programs.

Starting in fiscal year 2018, the Transportation Trust Fund earmarked some $400 million in state aid to municipalities and counties for local transportation improvements.

PO Box 521 • Lakehurst, NJ 08733 Phone 732-657-7344 • Fax: 732-657-7388 e-mail: news@jerseyshoreonline.com jerseyshoreonline.com

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Send your letters, copy and news tips to news@jerseyshoreonline.com

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BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS FIRE DISTRICT NO. 1 TOWNSHIP OF LAKEWOOD OFFICIAL DISTRICT ANNUAL ELECTION FEBRUARY 15, 2020 VOTE BY MAIL NOTICE TO PERSONS WANTING MAIL-IN BALLOTS If you are a qualified and registered voter of the State who wants to vote by mail in the Annual Election for Commissioners for the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 1, Township of Lakewood, and for approval or disapproval of the 2020 budget for said District and determine such other matters as may be required such as, but not limited to, the position(s) of Fire Commissioner(s) and approval or disapproval of capital projects(s) and funding and approval or disapproval of cancellation of capital projects, to be held on February 15, 2020, complete the application form below and send or deliver to the undersigned, or write or apply in person to the undersigned at once requesting that a mail-in ballot be forwarded to you. The request must state your home address and the address to which the ballot should be sent. The request must be dated and signed with your signature.

If any person has assisted you to complete the mail-in ballot application, the name, address and signature of the assistor must be provided on the application and you must sign and date the application for it to be valid and processed. No person shall serve as an authorized messenger for more than 3 qualified voters in an election. No person who is a candidate in the election for which the voter requests a mail-in ballot may provide any assistance in the completion of the ballot or may serve as an authorized messenger or bearer.

No mail-in ballot will be provided to any applicant who submits a request therefor by mail unless the request is received at least seven days before the election and contains the requested information. A voter may, however, request an application in person from the County Clerk up to 3:00 p.m. of the day before the election.

Voters who want to vote only by mail in all future elections in which they are eligible to vote, and who state that on their application, shall, after their initial request and without further action on their part, be provided a mail-in ballot by the County Clerk until the voter requests, in writing, that the voter no longer be sent such a ballot.

Voters also have the option of indicating on their mail-in ballot applications that they would prefer to receive mail-in ballots for this Fire Election only. Voters who exercise this option will be furnished with mail-in ballots for this Fire Election only and not future Fire Elections.

Application forms may be obtained by applying to the undersigned either in writing or by telephone, or the application form provided below may be completed and forwarded to the undersigned. You can also download the application form at http://www.oceancountyclerk.com on the internet.

Dated: December 7, 2019 SCOTT M. COLABELLA County Clerk County of Ocean Court House Room 107 P.O. Box 2191 Toms River, New Jersey 08754-9913 (732) 929-2018 Email: SColabella@co.ocean.nj.us

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The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 7

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Page 8, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY Letters To The Editor

E DITORIAL Give Thanks, And Give Your Opinions I’m seeing a lot of articles online about how to deal with family members who don’t agree with your political beliefs during the holidays.

What’s supposed to be a nice time to get together tur ns into a Facebook argument in real time. Shouting, arguments of bad faith, “whataboutism.” It can spiral quicker than a spiral ham.

The other option could happen, too, when everyone is walking on eggshells because you’re never sure when your sister’s idiot boyfriend is going to open his trap and spew some conspiracy theory or something.

This opens the door to all the family turmoil you’ve kept buried. The fight quickly gets personal. Why waste your breath telling everyone about the ways they disappointed you over the year?

Don’t bother yelling.

Yelling never solved anything. If you feel strongly about something, register your dissention in a fair and open-minded way.

If that doesn’t sink in, that’s on them. You can always say you took the high road.

Then, afterward, when it’s still gnawing at you, get it off your chest in another way. Write us a letter. One thing you can be sure of is that there are a lot of other readers here who share your pain. And, there are probably a few who need to hear what you have to say because their own family won’t tell them the truth.

So, send us a letter talking about the things you shouldn’t talk about at the holiday dinner table (but please don’t write to us complaining about your sister’s idiot boyfriend).

Chris Lundy News Editor

Do you have something you want everyone to know? Is there an issue that needs to be addressed? Write a letter to The Brick Times and make yourself heard.

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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 veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or

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The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail or bring typed letters to: P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732657-7388 or e-mail news@ jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily re�lect 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.

Slow Down, Make Your Own Holidays I have always preferred low key holidays.

I see friends and coworkers going crazy trying to organize some event and tr y to manage umpteen schedules of too many people. We need to stop doing this. Not everyone can get everywhere on the holidays, so my thought is, stop trying.

Pick a different day. It isn’t Christmas or Thanksgiving or whatever you celebrate that makes the day special and puts fond memories in your heart. It’s the gathering itself. Pick a different day. Get everyone together on a day that doesn’t have any impor t ance on the calendar. Those will be the memories you will cherish, instead of trying to get to three family dinners, packing up kids and presents and spending half the time in the car.

Just my opinion. I hope everyone has a happy and safe holiday season and don’t let yourself get too stressed out.

Greg Gale Toms River

Governor Has To Stop School Cuts My name is Andrea McEwan. I am born and raised in Toms River. I am also a mother with two students in Toms River Regional Schools, and an employee for the last four years. I represent 2,400 staff members, 15,500 students, over 30,000 parents, more than 110,000 community members - 76,000 of whom are registered voters in Toms River and its surrounding communities. Because of school funding cuts from Senate Bill S-2, I may lose my job, my child will see fewer educational opportunities, my property values will likely fall.

S-2 is causing Toms River

Letters To The Editor Regional Schools fiscal es! Athletic programs are cian in office now or retired distress. The District has already cut staff positions.

Funding for supplies and extracurriculars is reduced, and non-mandated programs like full day kindergarten are being considered for cuts in the near future.

If state aid cuts continue as planned, our district will be stripped of millions. 400 positions would be cut for the long term. Academic progress will be hurt for years to come. The impact will change not only our schools but our towns for generations to come.

All children deserve an adequately funded public education!

Ocean County has one of the largest concentrations of opioid overdoses, foreclosures, and homelessness. (We also have the highest number of veterans in any NJ county.) Our low income population has doubled in the past decade with some of our district schools now having over 50 percent free and reduced lunch eligibility and special education populations continue to rise as well, with related expenses. We were the region hardest hit by Superstorm Sandy, from which as a community we are still recovering fi nancially and emotionally. Many have yet to rebuild. Parents here rely on our schools to care for our children’s academic and social-emotional health. We know children learn best from teachers who love them, in classrooms with low student/ teacher ratios where differentiated instruction is well practiced. How will they feel that love and get the individual attention they need with student/teacher ratios increasing each year due to the cuts forced by S-2? Who will encourage our reluctant learners to go to class and get good grades when athletic and co-cur ricular programs are a thing of the past because we can’t afford to pay the staff? Who will keep our at risk youth off the streets? Kids need coach-

really character education in disguise and they change lives. Without them our children will suffer.

Toms R iver Regional School District has the second lowest cost per pupil (at $16,300) of almost 100 large NJ schools. We operate $37 million under adequacy for our current enrollment. Despite that, we win awards for excellence in education and financial practices. Our teachers have become masters of doing more with less and admin relentlessly pursues grant funding to fi ll the gaps but that can only go so far.

SFRA and S2 are pitting district against district and student against student.

All children deserve adequately funded schools. No child should lose access to educational programs and resources so another can gain.

As ou r gover nor and elected officials, you have the power to do the right thing. By acting now you will support all children in the state and prevent the destruction of real lives and communities. Please stop all state aid cuts for the Toms River Regional School Dist r ict. Please work with our administration on long term change.

Toms River Regional students, staff and the communities of Beachwood, Pine Beach, South Toms River and Toms River are counting on you.

Andrea McEwan Toms River

Liberals Need To Stop Already I am a 90-year-old Korean War veteran (1950-1952Honorable Discharge).

I am so disgusted with the liberals in our country who are ready to give everything to everyone, including illegal residents, the rights of prisoners in jail to name a few.

I agree that every politi-

should make known their taxes and their wealth.

Where will the Clinton Foundation be on this one?

(Speaking of Bengazi Hillary’s husband Slick Willie the draft dodger, who was legally impeached and got away with it.)

I now suggest these liberals and their Hollywood friends take their game out of our great country.

God bless everyone – white, black, Asian, Latino – as one nation under God. God bless our military, living and dead who made the ultimate sacrifice for all of us.

My ultimate prayer is for all of us to agree and make things better for our country.

John C. Farrell Barnegat

The Death March Home Congestion from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Brick Boulevard in Brick to Hooper Avenue in Silverton...We all travel this road to nowhere. From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., it’s a death march, let alone to make one light. It’s crazy.

Everyone traveling this road knows the pain to drive on it. Maybe at 4 a.m. or midnight is the best time to travel this heavily congested route with no plan to improve it.

How about making the traffic lights extended and timed to the other four lights in the area to get the traffic flowing?

Everyone young and old are st uck, cutting each other off and getting into altercations on a daily basis. The police in Brick do a good job in enforcing the rules of the road but the cars overflowing from all intersections to the main avenue is overwhelming to say the least.

Can Brick and Toms River fi x this problem?

Patrick Casterlin Toms River

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The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 9

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Page 10, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

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American Legion To Serve Up “Breakfast At The Post”

BRICK - The event runs from 8 to 11 a.m. and is co-sponsored by Unit 348 Juniors and is $8 per person. Bloody Mary and Mimosa drink specials are $2.50 each.

Breakfast at the Post is held each fourth

Sunday of the month. Next month’s breakast will be held on Dec. 29.

The event is open to all American Legion members and accompanied guests only.

All proceeds benefit various Veterans funds chosen by Unit 348 Juniors.

Winter Camp Coming To Brick

BRICK - A winter camp for township boys and girls ages 6-12 will take place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from December 23-31.

The camp experience includes a T-shirt, bagels, and juice every morning and the the following trips, Knockerball, Eatontown, Speed Raceway, Cinnaminson Bowling,

Ocean Lanes Fun Plex, Mt. Laurel.

The fee is $150 per camper. Space is limited.

Register online at Parksandrecreationbricktownship.net.

There is a mandatory camp meeting on December 18 at 6 p.m. at the Civic Plaza. Call 732-262-1075 for additional information.

Brick Township’s Annual Menorah Lighting

BRICK – All residents are invited as the Township joins the congregation of Temple Beth Or to welcome Hanukkah at the Annual

Menorah Lighting Ceremony on December 23, 2019 at 5:30– 6:30 p.m. at 401 Chambers Bridge Rd, Brick Township, New Jersey.

Final 2019 Coffee With A Cop BRICK – Mark your calendars for Brick PD’s final Coffee with a Cop of 2019. On Saturday, December 21, from 9 to 11 a.m., join in for a special holiday Coffee with a Cop at the Brick Diner.

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The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 11

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Brick MUA Stormwater Improvement Project Receives Awards

By Bob Vosseller BRICK – Members of the Township Municipal Utilities Authority and several partners were recently honored for their work in improving the water quality and protecting the Barnegat Bay. Brick Township MUA Chairman Gregory M. Flynn announced last month that a recently completed water supply protection project has received awards from two prominent New Jersey professional organizations.

Flynn said, the Lake Carasaljo Stormwater Improvements project was awarded first place “Project of the Year” for municipal design projects from the New Jersey Society of Municipal Engineers (NJSME).

It also received an “Excellence in Water Resources Management Award” from the New Jersey Section American Water Resources Association (NJAWRA).

“This project was part of our ongoing efforts to protect the Metedeconk River, our primary source of water supply,” Flynn said.

Flynn added that the “Brick Utilities’ Board of Commissioners is honored that NJSME and NJAWRA have recognized this important work.”

The NJDEP grant-funded stormwater improvements project was undertaken at Lake Carasaljo Park to reduce runoff and nonpoint source pollution entering the lake. At six locations around the park, the existing stormwater system was retrofitted with rain gardens which serve as natural water filters. The project showcased several simple, effective and attractive rain garden designs that can be used in a wide variety of environments, including an urban setting. The rain gardens were installed along the heavily used public walking trail around Lake Carasaljo Park and include public education signs.

“The Lakewood Stormwater Improvements Project would not have been possible without the commitment and support of our project partners, Lakewood Township, Lakewood Township MUA, NJDEP and the Barnegat Bay Partnership,” Brick Utilities Executive Director Chris A. Theodos said.

Theodos added, “The design expertise provided by our engineer, Jeromie Lange of Maser Consulting P.A., was outstanding. The work of our contractor, Down to Earth Landscaping,

Inc., was efficient and thorough. All of the elements came together for a very successful project.”

The project’s goal of reducing pollutant loading to the river and managing antiquated stormwater management systems are high priority actions in the Metedeconk River Watershed Protection and Restoration Plan, which Brick Utilities completed in 2013. The plan identifies stormwater runoff as the main threat to the Metedeconk River.

Stormwater picks up pollutants from roads, parking lots, lawns and other areas as it runs off and carries these pollutants to local waterways.

The Metedeconk is a critical water resource for the region. It serves as the principle water supply for Brick Utilities, which provides drinking water to more than 100,000 shore area residents in Brick and surrounding communities, including a portion of Lakewood.

The river is also a major source of freshwater inflow to Barnegat Bay, one of 28 Congressionally-designated estuaries of national significance that are part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Estuary Program.

The NJSME award program gives recognition to municipal engineers and municipality engineering consultants who have contributed to the public health, safety and welfare by way of designing projects or implementing programs which are of an outstanding nature.

The award was received on November 20 at the NJSME’s 2019 Annual Award Reception in Atlantic City during the New Jersey League of Municipalities annual conference.

The NJAWRA award recognizes projects that exemplify outstanding management of water resources in New Jersey. Projects must demonstrate partnerships and apply innovative and effective approaches to water resources management. They also must embody NJAWRA’s mission of advancing water resources research, planning, development, management and education. The award was presented to Brick Utilities and Maser Consulting during NJAWRA’s 15th Annual Water New Year’s Eve celebration in Lawrenceville on September 27.

Additional information about the Metedeconk River Watershed Protection & Restoration Plan can be found at metedeconkriver.org.

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Page 12, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Holiday Hours Listed For Ocean County Mall

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1st Saturday of Each Month at 10am (Call for details) In a Safe, Comfortable Setting Like the Home They’ve Always Known!

Specialized care for the memory impaired from your home to our home Safe & comfortable care • 24-Hour supervision • Private bedrooms Safe & secure grounds • Activities 7 days a week Fully licensed and governed under the NJ Department of Health & Senior Service.

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By Chris Lundy TOMS RIVER – Some people have already started their holiday shopping. Most people still have a lot to still do.

If you’re in the second camp, you’ll be interested to know that the Ocean County Mall posted their hours for Thanksgiving through New Year’s (yes, they’ll be open both of those holidays, but Thanksgiving is a late night only).

The Ocean County Mall posted a list of “Special Hours” on its website. They are: • Dec. 15: 8 a.m.-10 p.m.

• Dec. 16: 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

• Dec. 17: 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

• Dec. 18: 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

• Dec. 19: 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

• Dec. 20: 8 a.m.-11:59 p.m.

• Dec. 21: 7 a.m.-11:59 p.m.

• Dec. 22: 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

• Dec. 23: 7 a.m.- 11:59 p.m.

• Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve): 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• Dec. 25 (Christmas Day): Closed • Dec. 26: 8 a.m.-10 p.m.

• Dec. 27: 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

• Dec. 28: 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

• Dec. 29: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

• Dec. 30: 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

• Dec. 31 (New Year’s Eve): 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

• Jan. 1 (New Year’s Day): 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Brick Elks Lodge Collecting Toys

BRICK – Members of the Brick Elks Lodge #2151 MC are once again holding their annual holiday toy drive for those in need.

Toys will be distributed with Christmas food baskets and items can be left off at the

donation box in the grill room.

“As always, thank you for your support,” MC Chairman Chris Russo said. For additional information call Elyse Russo at 732644-6273

Seaview Village Women’s Club Holds Atlantic City Bus Trips

BRICK – Seaview Village Women’s Club hosts a bus trip to Atlantic City, Golden Nugget every second Monday of month. If interested call 732-864-1151. Leave at 9 a.m., return approx. 5 p.m.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 13

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Officials: Protect Your Pets This Holiday Season

By Kimberly Bosco TOMS RIVER – While you’re scurrying around to grab those last minute holiday gifts or stringing up the Christmas lights, Ocean County officials remind you to keep your pets and their safety in mind!

“The Ocean County Health Department wants you to consider the potential health hazards that come with decorations, food, road trips, parties or having relatives and friends staying at your home during this festive time of year. Many of these things you may not think twice about until it’s too late,” said Ocean County Freeholder Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. “Pets really are creatures of habit, so a change of routine or environment can be stressful.”

Officials offer the following tips to keep your furry friends happy and healthy this holiday season: • Keep people food out of the reach of your pet, and ask your guests to do the same • Make sure your pet doesn’t have any access to treats, especially those containing chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, onions or other toxic foods • Don’t leave your pet alone in the room with lit candles, a decorated tree or potpourri • Keep holiday plants (especially holly, mistletoe and lilies) out of reach of pets • Consider leaving the tinsel off your tree if you have a cat • Secure your tree to keep it from falling over if your dog bumps it or your cat climbs it. Hanging lemon-scented car air fresheners in the tree may deter your cat from climbing it.

• Pack for your pet as well as yourself if you’re going to travel together: i.e. food, medications, copies of medical records, information to help identify your pet if it becomes lost, first aid supplies, etc.

• Pets in vehicles should always be safely restrained and should never be left alone in the car in any weather.

• Provide a safe place for your pet to escape the excitement (such as a kennel, crate, perching place, scratching post shelf or hiding place) if you’re entertaining guests.

• Keep an eye on pets when people are entering or leaving your home. While you’re welcoming hungry guests and collecting coats, a four-legged family member may make a break for it out the door and become lost.

• Make sure your pet has proper identification with your current contact information – particularly a microchip with up-to-date, registered information.

“Unfortunately we see an increase of pets that are brought to the county animal facilities because an owner loses their cat or dog while travelling or visiting,” said Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department Public Health Coordinator. “That’s why it is so important to microchip your pet. The Ocean County Animal Facilities have reunited hundreds of pets with their owners over the years because of the microchip. Otherwise many of those dogs or cats would never have been found by their owners.”

In any situation, it is important to be prepared.

Officials advise that you know how to get to your 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic before there’s an emergency, talk with your vet in advance to find out where you would need to take your pet, and plan your travel route ahead of time.

Always keep these numbers posted in an easyto-find location in case of emergencies: • Your veterinarian’s clinic phone number and a 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic (if different) • ASPCA Poison Control Hotline: 1-888-4264435 “Don’t let a mishap that you could’ve easily avoided ruin your holiday,” Regenye added.

“Pets can sometimes find trouble but it’s our job to keep them from harm’s way.”

For more information about pet health and safety, visit ochd.org.

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LAKEWOOD – This program is for you if you’ve learned some English and want to practice speaking it with other English language learners. Improve your accents, learn new vocabulary and American slang and become familiar with people from other cultures.

Come any Monday night to the Lakewood Branch Library at 6:30 p.m. and practice with native English speakers and other people from a variety of countries. We have friendly, informative meetings. Everyone is welcome!

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This material is based on work supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) under cooperative agreement number SBAHQ-07-S-0001. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 14, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

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Prosecutor’s Office Launches “Ocean County Cares”

By Kimberly Bosco OCEAN COUNTY – A new program launched by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office is aiming to help kids that have been affected in some way by a traumatic event.

Ocean County Cares was created by the OCPO in cooperation with the Ocean County Chiefs of Police Association and the Ocean County Association of School Administrators.

“OCEAN COUNTY CARES is based on a model presented to me by Christopher Jakim, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas of New York and New Jersey (HIDTA),” stated Prosecutor Billhimer. “It really works as a tool for our law enforcement officers and school officials to communicate after any child is exposed to an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) that involved the police.”

The Ocean County Cares program is meant to help

local law enforcement and school administration with mitigating the negative affects experienced by kids that have been exposed to a traumatic event.

“A recent national survey revealed that 60% of children have been exposed to violence, crime or abuse. The data tells us that prolonged exposure to ACE’S can seriously undermine kid’s ability to focus, behave appropriately, and learn. Such exposure leads to difficulties in school, including truancy, suspension, dropping out, or involvement in the juvenile justice system,” Prosecutor Billhimer added.

Prosecutor Billhimer issued a Law Enforcement Directive codifying the process, which states that whenever an officer responds to a situation where a school aged child is present and may have experienced an ACE, the officer is required to complete a standardized form that is distributed to a designated point of contact at the child’s school. No specifics or details of the incident are provided, instead, the notification only serves to alert the school about the student’s exposure to a potentially traumatic event and allows for the appropriate resources to be utilized to address the needs of the student.

“The good news is, a lot of our police departments and individual schools in Ocean County were already doing this, OCEAN COUNTY CARES just formalizes the process so that children can get the attention they need,” said Billhimer.

BIllhimer credited the Ocean County Chiefs of Police and the Ocean County Association of School Administrators for their help with this program.

“It is my understanding that Ocean is the second county to have a county wide program like this, Cape May was first with “Handle with Care,” he added.

“I’d really like to thank Chris Jakim, Special Agent in Charge, DEA/HIDTA, Anthony Pierro, Chief Juvenile Prosecutor, Chief Robert Tapp, President of the Ocean County Chiefs of PoliceAssociation, Will Smith, President of the Ocean County Association of School Administrators and Kevin Ahearn, Executive County Superintendent for their assistance in establishing OCEAN COUNTY CARES. Little Egg Harbor Chief of Police Richard J. Buzby, Jr. was a tremendous help in resolving some issues in towns where the New Jersey State Police have jurisdiction, so thank you to Chief Buzby and the New Jersey State Police. This was a labor intensive project. We all shared the common goal of making sure that school aged children in Ocean County are afforded the services they need after experiencing a traumatic event,” Billhimer concluded.

OCEAN COUNTY NJ ONLINE

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The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 15

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Page 16, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

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Imagine yourself miniaturized and given the opportunity to take a grand tour through your hearing mechanism. For the purpose of illustration, your trip is being booked with Eartrak, a subsidiary of Amtrak. Eartrak departs from your ear canal and is scheduled to make stops at the tympanic membrane, ossicular chain, oval window, cochlea and auditory nerve. The trip begins now!

Eartrak slowly moves through your ear canal ... with most of you noticing that your ear canal is composed of car tilage and bone, as well as glands, which produce earwax and help maintain the temperature within that space. Eartrak enters your tympanic membrane or eardrum, which vibrates in response to sound. The tympanic membrane is composed of three layers of skin and attached to the membrane are three tiny bones (malleus, incus, stapes), which make up the ossicular chain. The ossicular chain vibrates in response to eardr um vibration and sends Ear trak through the middle ear space into

the in ner ear space (i.e., cochlea) through the oval window. The cochlea is snail shaped and is composed of many labyrinths and hair cells, which move in response to sound v ib r at ion . E a r t r a k slowly move s through the hearing mechanism until it reaches the auditory nerve (i.e., the 8th cranial nerve), which takes the auditory impulses and sends it up to the brain for interpretation.

Your hearing mechanism is quite complicated. Although hearing aids will help compensate for your hearing loss (to some degree), you will never hear like you were 20 years old. That’s why it is impor tant to have realistic expectations about the benefits of amplification. Before purchasing a hearing aid, it is important that you discuss (with your audiologist or dispenser) all the benefits and all the limitations of wearing a hearing aid. Being prepared (particularly if you are a first time hearing aid user) will significantly increase your satisfaction with your hearing instrument.

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SPOTTING SKIN CANCER

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, and early detection is essential to surviving it.

You can talk to your doctor about making skin exams a part of your regular check-up, but you should also do self-examinations. Using the ABCDE method for signs of melanoma, look for moles that are Asymmetrical, have Borders that are ragged or blurred, are more than one Color, are larger than a quarter inch in Diameter, or are Evolving in size, shape, or color. Basal cell cancers can present as flat, red patches or shiny bumps, while squamous cell cancers can appear as scaly red patches or wart-like growths. Any suspicious spots should be seen by your dermatologist.

Generously apply a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays at least 15 to 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, broad-brimmed hats and sunglasses when outdoors for extended periods of time. This will provide a level of skin protection. Our dermatologists specialize in the treatment of a wide range of skin conditions.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment — we are here to help. No need to wait months for an appointment – care for your skin and call today for skin cancer screening!

P.S. Open sores that either do not heal, or heal and then return in the same spot, can be signs of skin cancer and should be checked immediately.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 17

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Recipe Hacks To Make Mealtime Healthier

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. This time of year is when families gather and eat a lot of food. And shop! Today’s focus is how to indulge without increasing the bulge! My intention is to give you some recipe tweaks to make your meals healthier.

Here are my best tips: Turmeric. A quarter teaspoon of this spice added to your green bean casserole will go virtually unnoticed from a taste perspective, but it adds some anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory benefits. It also reduces the build up of brain plaque according to some mice studies.

Shiitake mushrooms. Using these mushrooms in your stuffing adds some biologically active compounds that may protect against cancer and inflammation. A 2015 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that regular consumption of these mushrooms resulted in improved immunity, and a reduction in the pro-inflammatory compound C-Reactive Protein.

Cauliflower. Most people know about making cauliflower mash, as a substitute for the high-carb regular mashed potatoes.

This also prevents a big blood sugar spike!

But what about “Cauliflower Macaroni and Cheese?” I have the recipe posted at my website and it’s awesome for both children and adults.

Coconut Water. In my cranberry sauce recipe, I always replace the plain water with a high quality coconut water and it doesn’t alter the flavor at all! Coconut water is hydrating and it contains compounds that are anti-fungal and antioxidant in nature. It may help if you are prone to kidney stone formation or if you have diabetes. You can

substitute coconut water in any recipe that calls for water.

Tea Seed Oil. Tea seed comes from the seeds of Camellia sinensis. That’s the plant that gives us green tea. The Tea Seed oil is cold-pressed and very popular in other countries. With a mild, neutral flavor this would be great to substitute for another inferior oil such as vegetable or canola. It has anti-fungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Pumpkin Seed Oil. Add 2 teaspoons to your pumpkin pie filling before cooking it for a profoundly richer flavor and powerful medicinal benefits. It’s rich in vitamin E, zinc, omega fatty acids and is well known to support prostate and breast health.

Dried tart cherries. Instead of cranberries (or in addition to), you can cut some dried tart cherries into your stuffing. These are known to contain natural melatonin which is deeply relaxing. They’ve been studied for their ability to support gout. Tart cherries reduce muscle breakdown and speed up recovery during fitness according to studies.

They have virtually no fat or sodium and taste very satisfying and not too sweet.

Almond Flour. To get the pain-relieving benefits of almonds, use ground almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for your gravy. If you want to reduce the sodium content commonly found in traditional gravy that starts with chicken broth, just substitute plain water! To avoid compromising flavor, you’ll want to add spices like onion and garlic powder, smoked paprika and fresh rosemary.

Avocados. Instead of mayo, you can use a crushed avocados as a spread. This might be something you do with leftover turkey subs.

(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) ©2019 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 18, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Long Branch Man Convicted Of Animal Cruelty

By Bob Vosseller FREEHOLD – A man who locked an 8-month-old pit bull dog in a small wire cage and left that cage in the rising tide of the Sandy Hook Bay in the Highlands has been found guilty of fourth-degree animal cruelty.

A Monmouth County jury delivered the guilty verdict of Aaron D. Davis, 36, of Long Branch, according to a statement by Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Davis heard the verdict after a three-day trial before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Marc C. LeMieux. He faces a maximum penalty of 18 months in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, and up to 30 days of community service when he returns to LeMieux’s courtroom for sentencing on February 14, 2020.

The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Division conducted an investigation

after a passerby spotted a dog in a crate on a small portion of sand between the bulkhead and the water at approximately 6 a.m. on July 30, 2018.

The passerby climbed over the ropes, down the rock barrier and onto the sand to rescue the dog, who was later named ‘River.’

Davis had taken the puppy following a domestic dispute in the early morning hours according to authorities. Highlands police responded to the domestic incident and captured video footage of the puppy which helped to identify the dog the next day.

“If it were not for the passerby’s actions, the dog would have likely drowned due to the rising tides,” Gramiccioni said.

The case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Amanda Dalton Clark. Davis is being represented by attorney Adamo Ferriera of Hackensack.

Northern Ocean Habitat For Humanity Wants To Help

OCEAN COUNTY – Do you know someone in need of home repairs? Are you or a neighbor struggling to maintain your home?

If so, Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity has various home repair programs available to the community including Aging in Place, Critical Home Repairs, Veteran Repair Program, Neighborhood Revitalization and Weatherization. These variety of home repair programs help low-income homeowners in northern Ocean County restore and maintain their homes. Habitat will partner with homeowners to alleviate critical health and safety issues and complete needed home improvement projects.

The selection of homeowners and repair applications is done by the Homeowner Services Committee in a way that does not discriminate because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or national origin.

Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope and a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

The criteria for selection is based on income, need and willingness to partner. We are here to help you, a friend or a neighbor complete the application process. Please call our construction office at 732-998-8638.

New Jersey Civil War Roundtable Meeting Schedule

TOMS RIVER - The Jersey Shore Civil War Roundtable meets on the second Wednesday of themonth, September through May. Meetings are held in Barlett Hall, Building 2, room 203 on the campus of Ocean County

College in Toms River.

Park in Lot 1 by the Library Clock tower, ascend the stairs and Barlett Hall will be the first building on the right. For further information call Richard Trimble at 732528-5387.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 19

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law UBER- LYFT Transportation Network Companies

Robert C. Shea Esq.

Are You Adequately Insured During A Ride Share?

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

Over the last few years, Transportation Network Companies such as Uber and Lyft have become the go-to livery service rather than the common taxi driver. Many people use these companies on a daily or weekly basis. But what happens when you are involved in a collision while a passenger in a Lyft or Uber rideshare vehicle? Are you covered?

Recently, the New Jersey Legislature defined the scope of mandatory insurance coverage for the transportation network companies and their drivers (such as Uber or Lyft). While an occupant of a prearranged ride, the transportation network company and or the driver shall maintain the following insurance coverage for your benefit: (1) primary automobile liability insurance in the amount of at least $1,500,000 for death, bodily injury, and property damage; and (2 uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage in an amount of at least $1,500,000.

This insurance coverage, which is to me maintained by the transportation network company (Uber/Lyft), shall not be dependent upon your automobile insurer first denying a claim, nor shall your automobile insurance policy be required to first deny a claim. This means that the insurance provided by the Transportation Network Companies such as Uber and Lyft is primary.

However, the Transportation Network Companies are not required to provide medical coverage in the event you are injured while an occupant of the rideshare vehicle. Moreover, because Uber and Lyft are a form a livery service, the ride share vehicle is not covered under your automobile Personal Injury Protection (PIP) med-

Michael J. Deem

ical expense insurance coverage. Consequently, unless you have access to health insurance, you will be uninsured for your medical expenses although, if you happen to fall into the uninsured status, you are not without recourse. An uninsured passenger may recover his/her medical expenses from the party who caused the collision. This is a departure from the previous concept of the personal injury protection laws which prohibited recovery of medical expenses from the at-fault driver.

Finally, the Limitation on Lawsuit Option which ordinarily restricts an injured motorists’ right to sue for personal injuries, shall not be asserted by a transportation network company or a transportation network company driver in defense to any action for damages arising from a prearranged ride, nor shall it be asserted against any party not receiving personal injury protection benefits in any action for damages arising from a prearranged. This means that your personal injury lawsuit will not be burdened with the requirement that you prove that the collision caused an objectively verifiable permanent injury. Rather, any disability related to the collision will suffice, which is a much simpler burden of proof.

Ridesharing has become much easier and transparent with the advancement of technology. So it’s about time the Legislature has acted to protect the interests of the consumer by mandating insurance coverage and removing the obstacles of a lawsuit in the event of an injury while riding in a livery vehicle.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM

960 Cedar Bridge Ave. • Brick, NJ 08723 (Near Carrabba’s)

732-507-9473

www.funonwheelstours.com • 609.857.6000 PO Box 211 • Lanoka Harbor, NJ 08734 Mar. 25 & Apr. 1 Mrs. Doubtfire Musical $149/pp | May 27 West Side Story $129-149/pp May 27 The Tina Turner Musical $159/pp Feb. 19th – MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO NEIL DIAMOND @ Resorts Casino $75/pp Includes $20 Slot Play Feb. 29th – PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW Themed Riviera Holiday $70/pp Mar. 14, 2020 – Day in Amish Lancaster $69/pp Includes Lunch, Bird n Hand Farmers Market & Kitchen Kettle Mar. 16-18, 2020 – Foxwoods Casino & Mystic Seaport Museum $349/pp DBL. OCC $20 Slot Play, 2 Dinners, 2 Breakfasts & Mystic Seaport Admission.

Mar. 22, 2020 – Harry Potter Musical 2pm Part 1 & 7pm Part 2 $295/pp Mar. 27-29, 2020 – 3 DAY Washington D.C. @ Cherry Blossom $595/pp DBL. OCC Includes: 2 Nts. Gaylord National Harbor Resort, 2 Breakfasts, Kinky Boots Dinner Musical, Odyssey Luncheon Cruise on Potomac & More.

Mar. 31, 2020 – Queen Esther at Sight & Sound Lunch at Hershey Farms $125/pp Apr. 14-15, 2020 – 2 DAY MOUNT AIRY CASINO $249/pp DBL. OCC Includes Bill Haley Jr. & The Comets Show; Day 1- $40 Slot Play, Dinner Buffet & Show; Day 2- $30 Slot Play @ Wind Creek Casino Apr. 25, 2020 – Shen Yun & NJ PAC Includes Lunch & Ticket $172/pp May 5, 2020 – “That’s Amore” A TRIBUTE TO DEAN MARTIN Included lunch before show $99/pp May 11-16, 2020 – Day Elkins, WV and The Ark Encounter $799/pp DBL. OCC May 17-23, 2020 – 7 DAY SAVANNAH & CHARLESTON $1399/pp DBL. OCC 2 nts. Savannah, 2 nts. Charleston; Charleston Tea Plantation, Guided Tours May 31-June 3, 2020 – 4 Day Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard $739/pp DBL. OCC June 7-11, 2020 – 5 DAY NIAGARA FALLS & TORONTO at the Hilton Fallsview Hotel $899/pp DBL. OCC

June 18-21, 2020 – 4 DAY BALLOONS OVER VERMONT $749/pp DBL. OCC Includes 3 nt. stay, 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners & attractions July19-25, 2020 – 7 Day Machinaw Island & Detroit Music Tour $1575/pp DBL. OCC July 30, 2020 – Tribute to Neil Diamond at Royal Manor Lunch & Show $99/pp Aug. 10-12, 2020 – 3 Day Finger Lakes & Wine Tour $549/pp DBL. OCC Aug. 13-28, 2020 – 6 Day Myrtle Beach $1095/pp DBL. OCC Includes Beach front resort, shows & meals Bus Departures LANOKA HARBOR Walmart (Rte 9) • Toms River (Exit 81 West Water Street) NJT Station Cheesequake Plaza (GSP) • Brick Target (Rte 70) • Monmouth Service Plaza

Please visit our website for ALL upcoming trips.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

Il Giardinello Ristorante

Serving Ocean County for 22 years

Stella Towne Center • 1232 Route 166 • Toms River

732-286-9111

NOW OPEN 7 DAYS B BYO Lunch Served Mon.-Fri. • Dinner Served Mon.-Sun. With Coupon

FREE ENTREE

Buy 1 Lunch or Dinner at Reg. Menu Price & Receive a 2nd Lunch or Dinner

FREE

Serving Lunch & Dinner Come Experience our Award-Winning Italian Cuisine!

Catering For All Occasions!

CATERING

Maximum Value $13 Not Valid On Saturday (Must be of Equal or Lesser Value) One coupon per couple. Limit 3 coupons per table. Must be present for discount. May not be combined with any other offer. Not valid on holidays. Not valid on Deliveries.

(Valid for Lunch & Dinner) BR

$

185

for 10-12 people

Includes: Chicken Francese Penne Vodka • Stuffed Eggplant Rollatini Salad • Bread & Butter

www.ilgiardinello.com – GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

Preferred Company

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Mon-Fri • 8 AM-10 AM 1160 & 1310 WOBM-AM “I love the show!

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Joel Markel

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“LOVE THE SHOW!” - Anne, Lakewood

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Check out our podcast on PreferredCompany.net

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Girl Scouts Of The Jersey Shore Whipping Up Cookie Challenge

FARMINGDALE – Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore is excited to announce a cookie dessert competition among chefs in Ocean and Monmouth counties to raise support that will give girls in need access to Girl Scout leadership experiences.

“TopCookie: A Girl Scout Cookie Competition” will take place on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020, 6-9 p.m., at Asbury Lanes, a vintage bowling alley and entertainment venue in Asbury Park.

The delicious fundraising event will feature desserts created by local chefs using iconic Girl Scout cookies, including Do-Si-Dos, Tagalongs, Samoas, S’mores, Trefoils, Thin Mints, and a new flavor that will be introduced at the start of Girl Scout Cookie season in January.

“Girl Scouts get their first taste of entrepreneurship from the Girl Scout Cookie Program,” said Eileen M. Higgins, chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore. “We are pleased to introduce a fun way to highlight this signature program, which has become the largest girl-led business in the world and make it possible to raise funds so more local girls can benefit from Girl Scout activities.”

Guests and celebrity judges will sample the tasty desserts and cast their vote for their favorite concoction, while the community will also be invited to weigh-in on their favorite participating restaurant by purchasing votes.

Restaurants vying for the People’s Choice Award and TopCookie title include: • Ocean County Center for Culinary Arts Training, Cuisine on the Green at Atlantis, Little Egg Harbor • Ohana Grille, Lavallette • McLoone’s Restaurants, multiple locations in Monmouth County and beyond • Nicholas Creamery, Atlantic Highlands and Fair Haven • Talula’s, Asbury Park Popular restaurateurs and philanthropists Steve Bidgood, owner of Salt Creek Grille in Rumson, and Tim McLoone of McLoone’s Restaurants, will be emcees at the cookie competition.

Celebrity judges include: world-renowned Chef David Burke of DRIFTHOUSE by David Burke in Sea Bright; Patty Caneda, owner of the Cuban- fusion restaurant Caneda’s White Rooster in Toms River; Jeremy Grunin, of the Jay and Linda Grunin Foundation; Tom Hayes, director of Consumer and Community Relations at New Jersey Natural Gas; and Carol Stillwell, chief executive officer of Stillwell-Hansen, Inc. Tickets for the benefit are $75 and include tastings of dessert entries, light dinner fare and bowling. A cash bar will be available.

For event information, sponsorship opportunities and tickets, visit gsfun.org/topcookie, call (800) 785-2090 or e-mail topcookie@ gsfun.org.

Island Singers Present Holiday Program

OCEAN COUNTY – The Island Singers will present two performances of their “Holiday Glow” a choral concert of holiday music this month.

The program is free, donations are appreciated and the concert will include American sign language volunteer interpreters.

The concerts will take place at 4 p.m. on December 15 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 130 Cable Ave. Beachwood and at 7:30 p.m. on December 21 at Pheasant Run at

the Barnegat Clubhouse, 219 Pine Oak Blvd. Barnegat.

Funding for this program is made possible in part by a grant from the New Jersey Council on the Arts/Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, administered by the Ocean County Cultural & Heritage for the Arts through a grant administered by the Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY JKD CUSTOMS GENERAL CONTRACTING

Specializing In: • Custom Building & Woodworking • Kitchens & Baths • Custom Deck Design • Custom Indoor/Outdoor bars

Call Joe for your FREE Estimate 732-232-7007 • Satisfation Guaranteed!

FULLY LICENSED & INSURED

LEAF CLEAN-UPS DARRYL LUZ

LANDSCAPING

732.320.0152

Please Check Your Ad The First Week It’s Scheduled To Run For Insertion & Accuracy.

Micromedia will not be responsible for errors occurring in an ad beyond the f irst week if we are not notif ied of the error.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 21

BUSINESS DIRECTORY LEAF

CLEAN-UP

Low Prices - Reliable Service - Free Estimates

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COMPLETE LINE OF WINDOW TREATMENTS Commercial

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THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS!

EFFECTIVE › AFFORDABLE VISA, MASTERCARD & AMERICAN EXPRESS ACCEPTED DISCOUNT PACKAGES AVAILABLE!

SERVING THE SHORE SINCE 1987

CALL 732.657.7344 TO FIND OUT HOW!

North: 908-925-3939 • Central: 732-539-2714 South: 609-693-9305

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New Installs • Repairs • Furnaces • Air Conditioners • Boilers Heat Pumps • Humidifiers • Inspections • FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FREE ESTIMATES for New Heating & Air Conditioning Equipment

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE! CHOOSE FROM ANY OR ALL PAPERS: Toms River Times • Manchester Times Berkeley Times • Brick Times • Jackson Times Howell Times • Southern Ocean Times

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We Also Do Sheetrock & Spackle Repairs!

With This Ad. Lic. No 13VH04848400

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

CLASSIFIEDS Real Estate

Auto For Sale

Help Wanted

For Sale Or Rent - NEW 1 BR/1Ba home. Homestead Run 55+ Community Toms River, NJ – www.home steadrun.com. Also NEW 2 or 3 Bedrooms homes! 732-370-2300.

(2)

2005 Mercury Grand Marquis - LS, V8, auto, all power. New tires. Leather seats. Only 90K. Senior owner. $3,200. 848-226-2474.

(51)

CNA/CHHA - The Pines Senior Living Community is currently looking for entry level and experienced Certified Nursing Assistants for our Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living Communities: Skilled Nursing Sign on Bonus of $1000 for FT 3-11 Skilled Nursing Hire (Payable in 90 days) Weekly pay coming in 2020! Full Time 3-11 (10 days per Pay) Part time and weekend commitment available for all shifts. $ Assisted Living Weekly pay coming in 2020! Full Time 3-11 (10 Days per pay) Part time and weekend commitment available for all shifts. All positions require every other weekend. Full Time positions offer competitive rate (based on experience), and excellent benefits including health, dental, life, paid time off and 401(K) with generous match after 1 year. Apply in Person to: The Pines , 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759 or email resume to rscully@thepinesatwhiting.org. (51)

For Rent 11'X11' Bright Office For Rent Main Street, Toms River. Professioal suite. Attractive waiting room. Available parking. $550. 732-600-8720. (51)

Personals Italian - American Gentleman seeks woman 65-75 yrs with same interest. I am loving, caring, and easy going. Loves music and dancing.

Give me a call 732-207-5338.

(3)

Items For Sale Full Length Mink Coat - size 14, dark brown. Silver blue fox cape fits any size. Both for $699 - negotiable. Call 732-477-3053. (52) Mausoleum - 3rd level, single, inside at Silverton Ocean County Memorial Park, $7,500. Call Al at 732-295-3284.

(52)

Items Wanted $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ 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) COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY 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) U s e d G u n s Wa n t e d - A l l 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) Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying Cash for Rock, Blues, Jazz, Reggae, Metal, Punk, Elvis. Very Good Condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104 (3) 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 FOR VINYL REORDS - LP records, stereos, turntables, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items.

Come to you. 732-804-8115.

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

(52)

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

(2) Part Time Food Service - STARTING RATE OF $10/hr. Scholarship opportunities. Flexible Schedules.

We have immediate openings for the following positions: Part Time Server/ Wait Staff. Part Time Dietary Aide.

Part Time Utility Aide/Dishwasher.

Apply in in Person to: The Pines at Whiting, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759 or email resume to rscully@ thepinesatwhiting.org EOE. (51) Now Hiring – The Goddard School on Route 70 is seeking full time Teacher’s Assistant and leads for the upcoming school year. We provide a warm, loving environment for children up to six years. Must have a flexible schedule, available Mon-Fri. Benefits include paid time off, 401k and paid lunch on Fridays. To learn more about these positions, email your resume to toms river2nj@goddardschools.com Need Auto Repair Man - To install a starter in a 2000 Ford Explorer. In my driveway. Call 718648-0705. Jackson, NJ. (1) Part Time Activities Assistant Skilled Nursing. Competitive Rate and excellent benefits The Pines is currently recruiting for a Part Time Activities Assistant to plan, coordinator, and implement activities in our Skilled Nursing Unit. This individual will work a schedule of 32 hours week Wednesday through Saturday. The hours are basically afternoon and evenings. Apply in in Person to: The Pines at Whiting, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759 or email resume to rscully@ thepinesatwhiting.org. EOE. (51) 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) Home Health Care Company Now Hiring RN’s, LPN’s and CHHA in Ocean & Monmouth Counties! Flexible scheduling. Work in your community.

Weekly pay. Career advancement. Comprehensive benefits.

Call 732-505-8000 today. (t/n) Family Law Firm - Has an opening for an experienced Paralegal working Monday - Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. This candidate must have a minimum of 3 years Paralegal experience in family law. If you do not have this experience, you will not be considered. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented self-starter with the ability to multi-task. You must have a proficiency in Word, excellent written and verbal skills. Must have the ability to work constructively with others in a high intensity team-oriented work environment and remain flexible, proactive and efficient with a high level of professionalism.

Please send your resume, which must include your salary requirement to be considered for this position. No phone calls will be accepted. Email: HR@greenbaumlaw.com with job code: RB2020. Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination.

Qualified minorities and women are encouraged to apply.

(2)

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. (1) Affordable House Cleaning Free Estimates - Get your house nice and fresh and ready to be enjoyed. Very detailed. Flexible schedule spot available now. Excellent references. Call us now 305-8332151 - Cini.

(52)

Services

Services

All American Home Health Associates - Expert, compassionate, trustworthy, hardworking care giver.

Proficient in all phases of Home Health Care. Skip the rest, come to the best. Guaranteed, you will be impressed Available hourly or live in.

Overnights in hospital or care facility.

Your loved ones health and quality of life is my specialty. Your stress levels will be lowered comsiderably with your loved one in experienced, expert hands. Call 732-664-3605.

(2)

Cheap Painting Done Rite Free estimates. Fully insured.

38 years experience. 732-5067787 cell 646-643-7678.

(37) Need A Ride - Senior discounts.

Airports: NEW, PHIL, AC, Trenton.

Tom. Save ad. 551-427-0227.

(4) Handyman - All masonry work, repairs, sidewalks, paving, stone, decorative stone. Call Andrew 848299-7412. Free estimates.

(2)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

1. Below, circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under: • Estate/Garage/Yard Sales

• Items Wanted

• For Rent

• Auto For Sale

• Help Wanted

• Real Estate

• Items For Sale

• Services

• 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.

Don Carnevale Painting Specializing interiors. Some exterior.

Quality always. Very neat. Prompt courteous service. Reasonable-affordable. Senior discounts. Honest-reliable. Low rates. Free estimates.

732-899-4470 or 732-915-4075. (7)

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention.

Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n)

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

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. (48)

17

18

19

20

Clean Outs, Clean Ups - hauling, small moves, minor interior and exterior repairs. Honest and dependable. LIC 13VH05930800.

Tony 732-678-7584.

(3)

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.

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) Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience.

Call Jim 732-674-3346.

(45) 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) Handyman, Electrical, Construction Services, Dock Repairs - Abe is able to help your home upgrades & repairs. 305-246-9677.

(52) 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. 203 for more information.

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

Total = $ must run over the requested weeks.

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS info. below:

Credit Card#

Exp.

Cardholder Signature: Print Name:

TO: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

5. MAIL Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388.

Or go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

6. PHONE NUMBER

(THIS IS REQUIRED)

Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (Ads will run the Saturday of that week)

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

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 23

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 Workbench gadget 6 Antlered beast 10 Glasses, in ads 14 Popular depilatory 15 Campaign staffer 16 Rochester’s bride 17 Part of the soft palate 18 Lady of the knight 19 Concussions generally aren’t visible on them 20 Goal for some college-bound students 23 “What was __ was saying?”

24 Tie __ 25 Rat Pack member 29 Growing concerns?

33 Like a used hibachi 34 Record-setting slugger in the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame 38 General on a menu 39 Gadgets

40 One of 34-Across’ 2,170 41 Ocular organs of cephalopods, say 43 Aspirin target 44 Nocturnal carnivore 45 Perambulates 47 Piece of cake 51 Poet’s contraction 52 Period needed to fulfill a request ... and a hint to words hidden in three long puzzle answers 58 Homey 59 Pack firmly 60 “__ making this up” 61 Spigot issue 62 Site with tech reviews 63 Trilateral trade agreement, briefly 64 Tag line?

65 Grinder 66 Speed units Down 1 Mštley __

2 Fiery flow 3 Bleu hue 4 Placate 5 Beseech, as a deity 6 Anti-DWI gp.

7 Venetian valentine message 8 Ones in charge, for short 9 Sixth-day Christmas gift 10 Workshop 11 One who likes to light up?

12 “__ go bragh!”

13 Chooses, with “in” 21 Two-front, as a Coast Guard rescue 22 Divans 25 Trunk piece 26 Put a value on 27 Words before “Yeah, you!”

28 Brubeck of jazz 30 Like much of New York

31 Company with a longtime travel guide 32 They often have guards 35 Self-help letters 36 Super-duper 37 1959 Ben-Hur portrayer 39 Let out gradually 42 Use an Enigma machine, say 43 “Black Swan” Best Actress Oscar winner 46 Bad bottom line 48 “No prob!”

49 Origami staple 50 Reason to trot 52 Corrida beast 53 Israeli weapons 54 Until 55 Scoop 56 Suffragist Lucretia 57 RR station predictions 58 Govt. health org.

(c)2019 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

OUNCE THINK TRUDGE BROACH - INTO THE GROUND

Page 24, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

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The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 25

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Justice Dept. Awards $4M For NJ Public Safety, $15K To Lakewood

By Kimberly Bosco NEW JERSEY – New Jersey will be receiving over $4 million in grant funding from the Department of Justice to support public safety activities. This is part of a total $376 million in grant funding to enhance state, local and tribal law enforcement operations and reinforce public safety efforts in jurisdictions across the United States.

The $4,561,569 awarded to the District of New Jersey will be portioned out amongst various counties and townships, including $15,572 to Lakewood Township in Ocean County.

“These awards provide substantial resources to support important public safety initiatives sponsored by our state and local law enforcement partners,” US Attorney Craig Carpenito, District of New Jersey, said. “This kind of support from the Department of Justice encourages greater cooperation among federal, state and local law enforcement, as we work together to protect the people of New Jersey.”

T he g r a nt s w i l l supp or t va r iou s “crime-fighting initiatives,” including: • The Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grants Program, which funds public safety efforts in 929 state, local and tribal jurisdictions.

• Sex offender registration and notification Law enforcement-based victim services • The testing of sexual assault kits • Programs designed to address youth with sexual behavioral problems.

Other awards will focus on wrongful convictions, intellectual property enforcement, innovative prosecution strategies and the safety and effectiveness of corrections systems, according to state officials..

“Crime and violence hold families,

friends and neighborhoods hostage, and they rip communities apart,” OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan said. “These programs help restore the health and safety of crime-ravaged communities by supporting prevention activities, aiding in the apprehension and prosecution of perpetrators, facilitating appropriate sentencing and adjudication, and providing communities and their residents the means for recovery and healing.”

In New Jersey, the following are the local recipients of the Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program: • Union County, $167,387 • City of Passaic, $180,339 • Asbury Park, $51,346 • Mercer County, $131,756 • Newark Police Department, $434,882 • City of Camden, $208,291 • Vineland, $82,671 • Lakewood, $15,572 • Atlantic City, $68,318 • Perth Amboy, $86,689 At the state level, the New Jersey Division of Law & Public Safety was awarded $3,817,827 through the Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office was awarded $350,345 through the BJA Intellectual Property Enforcement Program: Protecting Public Health, Safety, and the Economy from Counterfeit Goods and Product Piracy.

The New Jersey Dept. of Corrections was awarded $246,146 through the BJA Implementing the Prison Rape Elimination Act Standards, Protecting Inmates, and Safeguarding Communities Program.

For more information about OJP awards, visit ojp.gov.

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Page 26, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

BUSINESS PROFILE Bella Terra, Also Known As Home

By Michael Vandenberg “This is their home. We’re guests here,” said Kim Greer, Executive Director of Bella Terra, a beautiful senior living community which happens to be an independent and assisted living community in Jackson. When you’re a resident here, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of home and some extra amenities. Kim Greer and Paula Douglass, Director of Sales and Marketing, were happy to discuss the incredible amenities of Bella Terra.

Established over 20 years ago, the Senior Lifestyle Community took the name Bella Terra, which is Italian for “Beautiful Earth.” The name fits: the building is surrounded by preserved wetlands where no construction is permitted. The result?

Even though it’s off of Route 526/West County Line Road, it’s hidden away from the hustle and bustle of that busy highway thanks to a serene, quiet setting of beautiful trees. It also boasts amazing views from the upper floors.

Bella Terra’s atmosphere is certainly a main reason why people want to come here, and it was no different for Kim and Paula.

Kim was hired six years ago into her current role,

leading an impressively low-turnover staff. Many of the managers have been here over two years, and Paula herself has been warmly welcoming newcomers for almost 16 years!

The staff’s longevity makes things run smoothly, helpful when you need such a wide variety of people to make it completely all-inclusive: housekeepers, dishwashers, servers, chefs, and nurses, just to name a few. Independent living is essentially, “a next step up from a 55 plus,” Paula explained. They have a concierge and offer continental breakfast and an elaborate, chef prepared, served dinner.

They also do housekeeping and the linens once a week. You’ve spent enough time worrying about house chores your whole life; it’s time to relax!

Assisted living provides an additional level of care for residents, including 24 hour nursing care. Add-on features are mostly customized to the specific resident, but examples can include medication assistance, bathing, dressing, and extra security. Memory care goes even further on the security front, but in a way that never jeopardizes residents’ comfort and sense of freedom.

Here in the memory care neighborhood residents are in a safe area that is still part of the rest of the building, but with its own courtyard. They can go in and out of the courtyard during the day and evening as they please.

Visitors are encouraged, and scheduled trips occur on a regular basis.

Although at Bella Terra, fun is available to everyone! You’ll never be bored here; there are organized trips to Atlantic City, an exercise program, an indoor pool, floral groups, arts and crafts, and educational pieces. A travel log often stops by to teach residents about states and countries all over the world. Bingo, Mahjong, and Canasta are big hits.

They even do a happy hour with drinks and host entertainers.

Twice a year, Bella Terra hosts a vendor fair inside the building. Without leaving their home, residents can buy crafts, food, and personalized items. It’s a huge event with, “anything and everything,” said Kim. Also, residents often form their own bible studies and other social groups as well. There are too many fun things to list here, but suffice it to say there is always something to do at Bella Terra.

It’s all because the staff

truly believes in going the extra mile to make this a fun, stress-free place to live. Prior to moving in, you’ll have a conversation with Kim and a member of the frontline staff so they can make sure they know all about your wants and needs. “The day of move in, everybody meets the family and resident,” said Kim. “Honestly, throughout their entire lives here, every single resident gets to know pretty much every staff member in this building.”

That happens when you live here for many enjoyable years, like most Bella Terra residents do. Currently their oldest resident is 105

years young, and it’s not uncommon for people to be here 8-10 years or more. After all, moving here changes your life for the better. One woman who moved into assisted living temporarily while she rehabbed an injury loved it so much that when she got healthy she decided to move into independent living permanently.

Kim also remembers one couple who moved into an independent living apartment together.

The wife unfortunately suffered from dementia, and taking care of her consumed most of her husband’s time. With the help and guidance of the Bella Terra staff, the family decided to move the wife into the memory care neighborhood. It turned out to be the best decision they could have made: the wife was able to get the round-the-clock care she needed, and the husband

was able to have some free time to be himself again. “He got to live his own life,” said Kim. Rather than constantly being a caregiver, “he got to be the husband for a change”.

Even though they slept in different sections, they were able to see each other plenty because they still lived under the same roof.

It’s convenient having the comforts of home and more in one place, especially when primary care doctors, eye doctors, dentists, podiatrists, and chiropractors come here and do house calls! And of course, if you prefer your own doctor, they’re more than happy to provide transportation for you.

Apartments are available now so give Bella Terra a call today at732-730-9500 or visit seniorlifestyle.com/ property/bella-terra/ for more information. They’re located at 2 Kathleen Drive, Jackson, NJ 08527.

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The Brick Times, December 14, 2019, Page 27

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast For the week of DEC 14 - dec 20

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): History doesn’t need to repeat itself. If you see that you are headed down a similar, ill-advised path that has previously caused trouble, you could change your course of action. Trusted sources give good advice.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): Help shoulder someone’s burden. Offer all the aid and support you can when it comes to the needs of a loved one or close friend. You may reach a breakthrough of understanding with a love interest.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): There’s no criteria for true love. Having preconceived notions about your “ideal” mate may lead you on a wild goose chase for a fantasy that doesn’t truly exist. Consider giving someone a chance before judging them.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You might notice a co-worker’s habits seem more productive than yours and try to improve your processes this week by emulating the work ethic of someone with a successful track record. Minor sacrifices could improve your personal economy.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Let it all hang out.

Dedicate your day to doing the things you enjoy most in life, as the week ahead may not be very generous with personal time. Look for projects that require creativity and imagination.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You don’t have to do everything yourself. Friends or loved ones could be more than happy to add their two cents about key decisions, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice. Give a love interest room to breathe.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): Welcome constructive criticism, as it may be to your benefit.

Run your ideas by friends or colleagues to get feedback as to whether you should greenlight a project. People with honest opinions are better than yes-men.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The early bird gets the worm. You can accomplish any objective you set for yourself by starting the day off with the right attitude and staying motivated and enthusiastic. Hang around positive, upbeat people to build your momentum.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Dare to be different. A little change in your appearance or style could go a long way toward improving your confidence, self-esteem and holiday cheer.

Look for bargains that might help ease Santa’s financial burden.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The best choice may not be the most popular one. The consensus may be against your better judgment, but in the end, you have an obligation to do what is right. Have faith that you’ll be proven correct.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Stand on your own two feet. Others could follow you based on your obvious merits, rather than because of who you know. Be receptive to other people’s thoughts and ideas when faced with a leadership role.

PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): Try it, you might like it. Be open to experiencing things that are new or different to you, and you may discover a whole new world you had no idea existed.

Public appearances may yield fringe benefits.

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wolfgang puck’s kitchen Chocolate Coconut Cookies Have Intriguing Spice Notes

By Wolfgang Puck If you’ve been a reader of my column these past many years, you know you can expect one thing from me as surely as the fact that I love to help people cook and eat the best food possible: When December rolls around, at some point I’m going to turn my attention to Christmas cookies.

My love of holiday baking goes back to my earliest childhood memories. Every year, the kitchen of our little home in the southernAustrian town of Sankt Veit an der Glan seemed always full of the rich, sweet, and spicy aromas of Christmas cookies being baked by my mother and grandmother. Guests who dropped by were offered cookies with coffee or tea.

When we visited friends, we brought assortments of our homemade holiday treats. And, of course, my brother, sisters and I ate plenty of the cookies ourselves at home, some of which we’d be served as snacks or desserts - and some, of course, that the four of us would sneak when the grownups weren’t looking.

This year, I’d like to share with you yet another cookie recipe you haven’t seen from me before in this column: Chocolate Coconut Spice Cookies, a classic from Spago. I think they make a great cookie to add to your seasonal repertoire, for a number of reasons.

First of all, they’re easy to make. I think that is essential not only because this is the busiest cooking time of the year but also because they are something the whole family can enjoy preparing together.

You probably already have all the ingredients in your pantry or can find them in any supermarket.And, being slice-and-bake cookies, the dough can be mixed in advance and kept chilled in the refrigerator, ready for baking as needed.

Next comes the wonderful way in which these cookies are both familiar and yet different enough to make people open their eyes with surprise and delight at first bite. At first glance, they’re simply chocolate-flavored, buttery cookies with an attractive rim of shredded coconut. But the very first bite reveals a very pleasing surprise: very subtle but noticeable hints of black pepper and cayenne, not too spicy at all but just enough to counterpoint and emphasize the delicious chocolaty flavor.

When you think about how many other traditional Christmas cookies have the word “spice” in their names, you’ll instantly understand how perfectly appropriate these seasonings are here.

With the recipe’s yield of five dozen cookies, easily multiplied if you allow yourself sufficient time to make several batches, you’ll have enough to share as festive gifts. Pack the cooled cookies in colorful airtight containers, with single layers separated by sheets of waxed paper. They’re a gift anyone on your list will welcome!

CHOCOLATE COCONUT SPICE COOKIES Makes about 5 dozen

1 1/3 cups (335 ml) all-purpose flour 3/4 cup (185 ml) unsweetened cocoa powder 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 6 ounces (185 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into small pieces 1 cup (250 ml) granulated sugar 1 large egg 11/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup (250 ml) unsweetened shredded coconut In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour cocoa powder, cinnamon, salt, and black and cayenne peppers.

Set aside In the large bowl of an electric stand mixer, using the paddle or beaters, soften the butter at medium speed.

Sprinkle in the sugar and, as soon as it is incorporated, raise the speed to high and continue mixing until fluffy, stopping as needed to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula.

Reduce the speed to medium, add the egg and vanilla, and continue beating just until they are incorporated.

Reduce the speed to medium-low and, still beating, gradually add the flour mixture, continuing to mix just until combined.

Scrape the dough out of the bowl onto a clean work surface. If it seems too soft to shape, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate until it firms up a bit, about 1 hour.

With very lightly floured hands, roll the dough into an even log shape about 15 inches (37.5 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Sprinkle the coconut evenly on the work surface and then roll the log in the coconut to coat it evenly all around and from end to end. (Gather up and reserve excess coconut.) Wrap up the log in clean plastic wrap and refrigerate until well chilled and very firm, preferably overnight but at least 2 to 3 hours.

Before baking, position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 1 or 2 baking trays with parchment paper.

Remove the plastic wrap from the dough log. Sprinkle the remaining coconut on a clean work surface and reroll the log as needed to coat areas that don’t have enough coconut. With a very sharp knife, cut the log crosswise into slices about 1/4 inch (6 cm) thick, forming about 60 slices total, placing them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart on the prepared baking trays.

Bake until the coconut looks lightly toasted, about 10 minutes total, rotating the baking trays back to front about halfway through.

When the cookies are done, use a wide metal spatula to remove them from the baking tray, transferring them to a wire rack to cool. When completely cooled, store at cool room temperature in an airtight container in single layers between sheets of waxed or parchment paper.

(Chef Wolfgang Puck’s TV series,“Wolfgang Puck’s Cooking Class,” airs Sundays on the Food Network. Also, his latest cookbook, “Wolfgang Puck Makes It Easy,” is now available in bookstores. Write Wolfgang Puck in care of Tribune Media Services Inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, NY 14207) © 2019 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Page 28, The Brick Times, December 14, 2019

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