2019-12-28 - The Brick Times

THE BRICK

Vol. 19 - No. 33

In This Week’s Edition

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Pages 10-12.

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 16.

Dear Pharmacist Page 17.

Inside The Law Page 19.

Business Directory Page 22-23

Classifieds

—Courtesy Ocean County Historical Society

An early map of Brick.

By Judy Smestad-Nunn BRICK - The township was named for Joseph W. Brick, an astute businessman who established himself as a leader by taking a failing iron forge, which was located in present-day FirstEnergyPark in Lakewood, and turning it into a successful business that he operated from 1832 until his death in 1847.

Lakewood, which

was part of present-day Brick, was originally called “Three Partners Mill” when it was settled by Dutch and English sawmill operators. The first sawmills were located where Lakes Carasaljo and Manetta intersect in the Lake Shenandoah vicinity, and at the south branch of the Metedeconk river.

Lumbering was the main source of income

for early settlers until it was discovered that the soil was rich in ironstone.

In 1814, Jesse Richards of Batso organized a company to develop the ironstone. Soon “Three Partners Mill” became known as “Washington Furnace.” By 1832, the business started to fail, and that was when Joseph Brick purchased the iron forge, along with thousands of acres

of forest in what is now Lakewood, Jackson and Brick, plus considerable property in Monmouth County.

The forest provided the necessary fuel to operate Brick’s “Bergen Iron Works,” once again renaming the area from “Washington Furnace.” He converted local bog ore into pig iron which was used to manufacture water (Brick - See Page 4)

Page 21.

Fun Page Page 24.

Horoscope Page 27.

Wolfgang Page 27.

Holiday Tidings Mark A TraditionFor Big Brothers/Big Sisters Of Ocean County

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – Lacey resident Jackie Wilson and Samantha Brady, 15, of Toms River have a very special bond. They celebrated a decade of friendship and love as part of the Big Brother/ Big Sisters of Ocean County program during a recent holiday gathering.

Jackie (the big sister) and Samantha (the little sister) came together with more than a hundred others during the 19th annual Holiday Party of

| December 28, 2019

the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County held at the Toms River Ramada Inn. “It was right before my 5th birthday that we were paired up in the program. My parents felt that since I have older brothers it would be nice for me to have an older sister and it didn’t take long for us to be matched up and within a few weeks, we got very close,” Samantha said.

“It worked out so well and we have done a

By Judy Smestad-Nunn BRICK - All members of the governing body will be Democrats in 2020 since Vincent Minichino won the only Republican council seat up that was up for grabs in the November election.

It was a clean sweep for the Democrats in 2019 - which is a rarity in Ocean County - with Council President Andrea Zapcic, Council Vice President Lisa Crate and Art Halloran winning re-election. Minichino takes over Jim Fozman’s seat who ran as a Republican after switching parties in spring of 2018.

The opioid epidemic continues in Brick and in much of the country, although the anti-dr ug education programs in town have been effective, said Police Chief James Riccio.

The D.A.R.E. program at the elementary school level, Lead and Seed at the middle school level, and #NotEvenOnce at the high school level are reaching out to students and educating them about the dangers of opioids.

Also, police have instituted a new Neighborhood Watch program; a Blue HART program that encourages addicts to turn themselves in and get placement at a drug rehab facility; and a drug take-back program, all which are credited with a reduction in Narcan deployments and overdoses in 2019.

According to police statistics, in 2019 there were 64 Narcan deployments in Brick, down from 87 in 2018.

Overdoses also went down from 135 in 2018 to 123 in 2019. However, fatal overdoses were up slightly, from 22 in 2018 to 25 in 2019.

Meanwhile, it was announced that a new Veterans Administration outpatient clinic would be opened in Ocean County since the James J. Howard outpatient clinic at 970 Route 70 has become too small and parking is not adequate to handle some 400 primary care appointments a day.

The township has been lobbying to keep the new 80,000 square foot clinic in Brick (Year - See Page 8)

(Holiday - See Page 22)

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Brick:

Continued From Page 1

111 Drum Point Road • Brick, NJ 08723 • 732.477.0676 Rev. Dr. Barbara Booth Jarmon, Interim Pastor

Happy New Year!

Giving Our Best Wishes for a Happy, Healthy New Year!

pipes for New York City.

The waterpower needed to run the iron furnaces (and the sawmills that preceded them) was obtained by damming the cedar swamp streams, causing them to broaden out into lakes, which was how the two lakes in present-day Lakewood were formed.

The village of “Bergen Iron Works” included a store, a hotel, a post office and eventually a train station. It even issued its own currency. By 1844, nearly all of the 200 people living in the village were employed by the Works.

The railroad had not yet come to the area, so the products of the iron works were hauled by six team wagons over heavy planks laid over the sand. “Plank Road” (now Cedar Bridge Avenue) led to Furnace Dock in the Laurelton section of Brick, where they were loaded into scows which carried the pipes and other products down the Metedeconk River to Bay Head.

There, they were placed aboard schooners bound for New York and other areas by way of an inlet that was located by present-day

Chadwick Beach.

When Joseph Brick died, his property was passed on to his three daughters and two sons. In 1850, citizens of the “Bergen Iron Works” agreed to change the name of the village to “Bricksburg” to honor Mr. Brick.

The bog-iron industry began to decline as new foundries opened in Pennsylvania.

The two lakes adjacent to “Bergen Iron Works” were named after Joseph Brick’s family members. Many believe that “Carasaljo” is a Native American name, but it was created by combining the names of Brick’s three daughters, Caroline, Sarah and Josephine.

Lake “Manetta” was named after Brick’s wife, Margaret (nee Allen) who was the daughter of a wealthy New Egypt farmer.

The new township of Brick, which included present-day Lakewood, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach, Bay Head and Mantoloking, was established in the same February 15, 1850 charter that created Ocean County, which was formed from the southern portion of Monmouth County.

In 1892 some of the residents of present-day Lakewood perceived that its best interests were not being represented on the Brick Township Committee.

Without informing Brick Township officials, on February 25, 1810, “Bricksburg” changed its name to “Lakewood” after a spokesman got the State Legislature to pass a bill that created the new municipality, splitting off from the eastern 24 square miles of Brick Township.

In addition to Joseph Brick, the founding families of the township include the Woolleys, Burrs, Allans, Cooks, Havens, Herberts, Wardells, Osborns, Tiltons, Johnsons, Grants and Hulses.

These families made up most of the population of 1,558 residents in 1850. The Lovelands settled at the head of the bay in 1832 and formed a small hamlet of baymen after Michael Ortley had purchased large tracts of beach and farm lands in 1816.

Small settlements were formed in various areas, often names for families associated with the region.

The Ocean County Historical Society, located on Hadley Ave. in Toms River, provided documents, historical letters and books for this story, including “Ocean County: Four Centuries in the Making” by Pauline S. Miller; “The History of Brick Township”

by Eleanor Angott; and “The History of Lakewood” by Phoebe Theibault.

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OPINIONS & COMMENTARY Letters To The Editor

F EATURED L ETTER Toms River Shows Unity Against Trenton This letter was addressed to the Toms River community.

On Tuesday, December 10, thousands of us students, parents, board members and district staff, business owners, and everyday Toms River residents - traveled to Trenton in order to get the attention of Governor Phil Murphy and New Jersey lawmakers who hold the power to restore our state funding and revise the formula on which Bill S-2 is based. In doing so, we most certainly grabbed the attention of local media, and the coverage of our efforts was extensive and overwhelmingly positive.

The short- and longterm impact of the Rally to Save Toms River remains to be seen, but what is clear as day is the unity of this community and the quality of our collective character. I am tremendously proud of our students, whose righteous indignation was displayed with creativity, passion, and civility. Our message was heard loud and clear, and the positive impression we left on Trenton and on all who were present will resonate, and serve to enhance our reputation as a community that is equally strong-willed and respectful.

I am proud of our parents and community members who rearranged their schedules and altered their daily routines to come and fight on behalf

of our children’s future.

And I am proud of our board, my administrative colleagues, our faculty and staff, our PTOs, and supportive partnering organizations like Toms River Police Department and others who provided leadership, guidance, talent, and hours upon hours of work to help make Tuesday a success.

We did not ask to be placed in this position, and I understand how easy it is to become frustrated and fatigued.

But throughout this ordeal our message has been clear, well-documented, and supported by the hard facts, and I am further emboldened by the level of support I witnessed from this community yet again on Tuesday. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who attended Tuesday’s Rally to Save Toms River, and to every single person who played a role in making it happen.

We should all be proud of the work we’ve accomplished on behalf of our students, and that work continues unabated until our funding is restored. Our rallying cry and hashtag says it all: #WeAreTRschools!

“Unity is strength ... when there is teamwork and collaboration wonderful things can be achieved.” – Mattie J.T. Stepanek David M. Healy Superintendent Toms River Schools

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Don’t Change Immigration Laws I grew up on a farm in Mon mouth Count y and am a strong believer in that adage attributed to farmers: “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.” That is the ca se for why we don’t ne e d “ 287(g)” i n New Jersey, more specifically Monmouth County.

(Editor’s note: From the website of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement: This sect ion of law author ize s the Director of ICE to e nte r into ag re e me nt s with state and local law e nforce me nt age n cie s, that per mit desig nated officers to perform limited immigration law enforcement functions.)

If one looks at crime statistics, the trend in crime, including violent crime, is downward. Our county is, relatively speaking, a very safe one. Therefore, there is no demonstrable need for ICE (“I m m ig rat ion a nd C u st om s En force ment”) to deputize local law enforcement officers to perform federal civil i m m ig r at ion d ut ie s a s is the case if “287(g)” is implemented.

Fu r t he r more, “ 287(g)” ag reement s u nder m i ne public t r ust but do not enhance safety. Benefits are achieved through the Immigrant Trust Directive (to be referred to as the

Letters To hearings?

The HeEditor “Directive.”). is 75 and around the area, that is There is nothing in the Directive that creates a so-called sanctuary state.

If someone breaks the law they go to jail regardless of immigration status.

The Directive allows county jails to identify and refer violent offenders to federal authorities.

There is no reason, under the Directive to release dangerous offenders back into the community.

The Directive does draw a clear line between the responsibility of New Jersey’s law e n force me nt of f ice r s a nd i m m ig r ation authorities (including ICE). By doing so, immigrant communities are more likely to report crimes as well as come forward as witnesses. The Directive allows referral of violent offenders to ICE. Again, under the Directive: It ain’t broke. Changing it will muck up the works so don’t change it.

That is why a large number of Monmouth County residents do not support 287(g).

Margaret S. Beekman Freehold

Mueller Knows Nothing This letter is in response to a let ter praising the Mueller report.

D id you not s e e t he man on T V du r ing the

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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: 15 Union Ave., Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline. com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

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shows it: feeble, stuttering and confused. Even David Axelrod, President Obama’s advisor, could not defend the incohere nt t e st i mony Muel le r presented.

Mueller was asked about Fusion GPS and he answered that he was not aware of them!

Anyone who spent any time reading or watching the news they felt sorry for this spectacle. Mueller was just a figurehead and signed the document placed in front of him. It took over two years for this sham.

R. Mundie Brick

One Way To Stop Flooding Ever y week I am reading about the f looding a lo ng t he Je r s e y b a ck bays. Yet, our illustrious lea der s i n Wash i ng ton and Trenton have failed to realize what a re all the contributors to this problem. T hey cont i nu a l ly p oi nt t o cl i m at e change and the melting of the ice caps. Which in all fairness is part of the problem. What they are failing to look at is the geographic condition of the back bays. The back bays are f illing in with sediments from natural erosion of the shore line!

To put this simply the back bays are f illing in with sediment, making them shoal and causing the water levels to rise.

I have lived on the water for 40 yea rs and there are now places and can no lo nge r go w it h my boat. The inlets allow so much water on each tide change but when we have a wind out of the east the water is held back from f lowing out and then the next t ide cha nge more water is pushed in, rising the water level and you have f looding. One of the state’s ideas is to build a 10-foot-high wall

in ever yone’s backyard.

I ca n se e t he lawsu it s now!

Recently the state decided to dredge channels i n t he up p e r Ba r negat Bay and I ag ree they were needed for marine traffic. The problem was they took all the dredge spoils and dumped them into a large f ishing hole of f of Br ick Be a ch i n t he bay by t he condos f illing in the bay. Yes, I understand you are just mov i ng sa nd a rou nd.

But you d id de st roy a f ish habit. I was told the dredge spoils were f ine, so why did they cap the dredge spoils?

My proposal is to dredge the channels in the bay to a depth of 10 feet, dredge lagoons to a reasonable depth. Even with a bulkhead, soil is washed out under the bulkhead and through the seams f illing in the lagoons. Take all the dredge spoils and spread them in marsh areas to help stop f looding, build retention basins for t he d r e d ge s p oi l s l i ke they make for run of water along highways and use the spoils for land f ill in ou r dumps. You can use the dredge spoils to f ill in the holes that are being dug for beach replenishment instead of paying for product.

T he last quest ion is, where are they going to get the money? First, I would like to say Congress! Then there is the issue were does all that money go f rom boat r eg i s t r a t io n s? It ’s n ot for law enforcement or d redg i ng or buoy i ng.

Where does all that highway tax we pay on fuel for our boats go? Finally, what about a percentage of the higher t axes we pay to live on the water, do we get anything back from the government for that privilege?

Capt. Robert M. Silva, USMM Toms River

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Year:

Continued From Page 1 since the VA is looking to lease a site that could accommodate a larger structure and 480 parking spaces. Neighboring Toms River has also been lobbying to have the new clinic relocated there.

The VA started seeking space for the new outpatient clinic in Spring 2015. A decision on its location has been pushed back several times. It is expected that an announcement will be made sometime in 2020.

The looks of shopping centers and strip malls are changing in town as a result of how people now shop. Mom and pop stores are fading away, making way for larger box stores and well-known chains.

With many people shopping online, there has been a big shift in the types of commercial properties that are opening, such as restaurants, hair and nail salons, medical and dental care, fitness and other kinds of services that cannot be bought online.

Many former stores in town have been reconfigured, including several locations at Brick Plaza which has become almost unrecognizable in recent years.

Gone is the A&P, Bon Ton, Ethan Allen, Sports Authority, the Mansion Nightclub and other stores, while new stores have either opened or will be opening, such as L.A. Fitness, Trader Joes, Home Goods, Michael’s Crafts, Gravity Vault, Meemom’s Kitchen, and Corrado’s Market, which has plans to open at the site of the former Pathmark at Laurel Square Shopping Center. Corrado’s has purchased the township’s last plenary distribution retail liquor license to be used at the location for $575,000.

Plans for a recreational marijuana d i s p e n s a r y we r e d a she d whe n t he governing body passed an ordinance that would prohibit the retail sale, cultivation, manufacturing and testing of marijuana products for recreational use within the township boundaries.

Jersey Shore Therapeutic Health Care (JSTHC) changed their application from a dispensary to 48,000 square-foot grow house at the site of a former OceanFirst Bank on Adamston Road, which was denied by the Zoning Board.

Meetings for the application became s t a nd i ng- r o om - o n ly a s t he r e we r e heated exchanges between neighboring residents and pro-marijuana individuals and groups.

JSTHC once again changed their application and wanted to grow lettuce at the site. The application was denied since cultivating lettuce in a grow house was not considered to be “customary and conventional far ming,” in the Rural Residential zone, which is not zoned for commercial use.

The 6.5-acre former bank property is now for sale.

The former Foodtown site on Route 70 remains an open parcel of land despite township Planning Board and council approvals for the const r uction of a sports dome and retail shops there.

The project still has a green light, but it is currently mired in red tape while developers wait for county and state approvals for utilities, soil, CAFRA and more.

Daisy Haffner and Melita Gagliardi each won second terms on the Board of Education while the district continues to grapple with the loss of some $22 million in state aid which will be cut incrementally over a seven-year period.

The district cut about 47 positions for this school year, class sizes are going up, and during the December Board of Education meeting, it was announced that Herbertsville Elementary School would be closing in a cost-saving measure.

Those children would be redistricted and the school would be repurposed as a preschool by using a $4.2 million grant for that purpose. The administration said it is probable that another school would be closing in the near f ut ure unless the funds are restored.

In other school news, Superintendent of schools Gerard Dalton resigned after serving less than a year of his four-year contract.

The administration is currently conducting a search for a permanent superintendent, which would be the 12th to hold that position in 12 years. Director of Human Resources Sean Cranston was named the Acting Superintendent until a permanent superintendent is found.

An October 22 shooting near Brick Memorial High School made the national news when shots were fired near the school just after dismissal, injuring a teen who ran back to the high school for cover.

Police Chief Riccio said the teen was not the intended victim, but the incident left residents and parents shaken. The next day, police arrested a 17-year-old for the shooting and arrested a second juvenile on October 26 in connection with the shooting.

Developers who hope to build an 82.2 foot-tall, 48,660-square foot banquet facility and restaurant at the southwest corner of the Mantoloking Bridge have appeared before the Board of Adjustment with their application three times and there will be more hearings in the new year before board members render their decision.

The applicant, Vilamoura, LLC needs a height var iance and a handf ul of minor variances and design waivers to build the facility, which has been opposed by the Mantoloking Borough, Save Barnegat Bay and others. The next hearing is a special meeting scheduled for Monday January 27 at 7 p.m.

And finally, Brick lost two beloved residents. On November 22, legendary Brick Township High School football coach Warren Wolf died.

Wolf, 92, was well-known in Brick having served as deputy superintendent of the school district, mayor from 1971-1975, councilman, Ocean County freeholder, and a member of the state’s General Assembly. His wife, Peggy, passed away a month later.

(Year - See Page 9)

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Year:

Continued From Page 8 Carol Wolfe, 80, had been the founder of Dottie’s House and Homes Now. She passed away after a life well lived.

Dottie’s House, named after her own mother, started in 1999 as a program for women and children to gain independence after domestic violence. Homes

The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 9 Now, started in 1997, is a non-profit that has built and monitors more than 200 quality affordable housing units. According to her obituary, she raised more than $30 million in funding through grants for her programs.

She retired from Homes Now in 2017.

She was married to Assemblyman David Wolfe (R-10 th), who announced his retirement earlier.

-Chris Lundy contributed to this story

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—Photo courtesy of T.J. Ventorino Ex-Brick players T.J.Ventorino and Robert Lutkiewicz honored their beloved coach, Warren Wolf, with a display.

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Page 10, The Brick Times, December 28, 2019

TOWNSHIP OF BRICK NOTICE OF MEETINGS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 2, Township of Brick, County of Ocean, State of New Jersey, shall hold its regular monthly meetings for 2020 on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. on the following dates: January 14, February 11, March 10 (reorganization), April 14, May 12, June 9, July 14, August 11, September 8, October 13, November 10 and December 8.

COMMUNITY NEWS C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

Officers Honored With Lifesaving Award

All meetings will be held at the Laurelton Fire House, Route 88 & Olden Street, Brick, New Jersey. Public participation at the meetings shall be at such times as is set forth in the agenda of the meeting and in such manner as is established by the presiding officer.

The agenda shall include, but not be limited to, matters involving personnel, business and finance, approval of minutes, public session, administrative and operational reports, building and grounds, apparatus and equipment, maintenance and repairs, litigation, if necessary, legislation, communications and insurance.

Formal action may be taken at all meetings. The public may be excluded from portions of a meeting pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-12.

This notice is being given pursuant to N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq.

By authority of the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 2, Township of Brick.

CHARLES F. TURNER, CLERK Board of Fire Commissioners Fire District No. 2 Township of Brick

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–Photo courtesy Point Pleasant Beach Police

By Kimberly Bosco POINT PLEASANT BEACH – Two officers were awarded at a recent council meeting for their heroic actions that saved the life of a local woman in October.

On October 28, Point Pleasant Beach Police responded to a borough residence for reports of an unresponsive female, later identified as Diane Cucci.

Once on the scene, PFC Kyle Boturla and Officer Antonio Garcia quickly realized that Cucci had no pulse and was not breathing. Boturla and Garcia jumped into action, administering CPR and one shock of the defibrillator. With the shock, Cucci’s heartbeat was restored. The officers continued to administer rescue breaths

until first aid and paramedics arrived.

“If not for their immediate actions, Mrs. Cucci would not be alive today. Based on these actions both officers were awarded with the departments Lifesaving award,” stated the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, Also recognized was part-time dispatcher Megan Palmer. According to police, Palmer maintained calm throughout the call, coordinated the EMS and paramedics, and regularly updated all parties on Cucci’s condition.

Dispatcher Palmer received a letter of commendation for her role in the incident.

At the Dec. 17 council meeting, the officers were recognized and the Cucci family came out to show their gratitude.

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OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County Dog Park ID’s will be available at the County Connection in the Ocean County Mall in Toms River on Saturday and the Ocean County Administration Offices in Toms River, Jake Branch County Park in Beachwood and Wells Mills County Park in Waretown on Monday.

Dog Park Rules & Regulations: • The Ocean County Off-Leash dog area is for use by permit only (With valid ID card) • Management reserves the right to close the area due to weather conditions • Children under eight (8) years of age are not permitted within the off-leash dog area.

• Children eight (8) years of age and older must be closely supervised by an adult.

• There is a limit of two (2) dogs per person.

• When others are waiting, please limit your use to thirty (30) minutes. The maximum number of dogs at one time is twenty (20).

• Owners are responsible at all times for the behavior and safety of their dogs and should

be considerate of others • Puppies under six (6) months old are prohibited.

• Dogs must wear collars displaying valid licenses at all times and have current vaccinations. Choke collars are prohibited in the Off Leash Dog Facilities.

• Dogs must be leashed prior to entering and upon leaving area. Owners must remain with their dogs at all times and must carry a leash for each dog at all times.

• Owners must clean up after their dogs.

• No dog treats, food or toys are allowed in Off-Leash dog area.

• Dogs in heat will not be permitted inside the facility.

• Dogs in heat and non-neutered male dogs will not be permitted inside the facility.

• All visitors are expected to adhere to the rules and regulations governing the use of facilities within the Ocean County Parks System as adopted by the Board of Chosen Freeholders.

Addiction Assistance In Brick

BRICK – The BLUE HART program is available on Thursdays in Brick at no cost.

People who are seeking help with addiction are urged to take advantage of the program.

Brick Township’s overdose numbers are continuing to decrease and we believe it is a result of all of our efforts which include education, enforcement, drug take back and treatment.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 11

COMMUNITY NEWS C LUB N EWS , A CTIVITIES , E VENTS & A NNOUNCEMENTS

FanNation Held At Toms River Library

By Bob Vosseller TOMS RIVER – There was plenty of geekery going on during the 5th Annual FanNation: The Geekstravaganza which was held on Nov. 23 at the Toms River branch of the Ocean County Library.

The free event featured all manner of fandom ranging from characters from Star Wars, Star Trek and there was some slime making Ghostbusters called up for the event as well.

Panels, meetup sessions, games, crafts and scavenger hunts were all part of the event which culminated with a cosplay contest.

Other activities included an artist alley, video games, a trivia contest, board games, various panels related to science fiction, fantasy, horror and comic books plus fandom meetups.

Author Andrea Towers discussed her new book “Geek Girls Don’t Cry: Real Life Lessons from Fictional Female Characters” which focused on how women can overcome obstacles and asked the question, “what does it mean for a woman to be strong--especially in a world where our conception of a “hero” is still so heavily influenced by male characters like Batman, Spider-Man, and Superman?”

“I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember and I always wanted to write a book. I never knew how to get into it,” Towers said. Towers worked in public relations at Marvel Entertainment and has written about superheroines for outlets such as Entertainment Weekly.

She said that her non-fiction book involved looking at how fictional characters such as her favorite Marvel Comics heroine, Black Widow had to deal with her own anxiety and obstacles and how they could be applied to real life. “Whether it is anxiety, or isolation or PTSD or from a certain situation they were in or something they were exposed to when they were young this is how we can learn from what they went through and how we can

apply it to our own life,” Towers said.

“We know about Batman and Spider-Man but a lot of people don’t know about more prominent female characters and their struggles and I wanted to shine a light on that in my book,” Towers added.

The 80th anniversary of Batman was noted during the day with a meetup discussion. Pint sized caped crusader, Adrian Raspas of Little Egg Harbor darted around the second floor of the library as in pursuit of the Penguin or Joker.

The three-year-old was there with his parents who also enjoyed looking back to the Dark Knight detective’s varied career in comics, television and feature films.

“FanNation always brings people together.

People see each other dressed up as their favorite character or go to a panel about a subject they love and have an instant connection or friendship,” Cecilia Pasqualicchio, Librarian II – Teen Services and even co-chair said.

Pasqualicchio said, “this year we opened the event to families featuring more activities for children. These activities included a mermaid story time featuring a mermaid from the costuming company A Land and Sea Mermaid and a Jedi Training session for kids run by Saber Guild, a Star Wars costuming group that specializes in choreographed lightsaber shows.” ..You didn’t need to be a kid though to enjoy some fan based theatrics. Brick resident Steven Lance appeared as an extra 40 years ago in “Star Trek: The Motion Picture” portraying an alien but during the event he traded a toy phaser on loan from the USS Challenger, Star Trek fan club for a Star Wars blaster owned by a member of the 501st Legion, a Star Wars costume club who was in full Stormtrooper gear. The two posed for photos in front of a backdrop of the Deathstar corridor.

“You can be a fan at any age and my fiancé Lisa and I are having a great time today,” Lance said.

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Page 12, The Brick Times, December 28, 2019

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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 thor-

ough. 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.

Holiday Hours Listed For Ocean County Mall

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. 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.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 13

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Fact vs Myth: What You Need To Know About Flu Shots

By Kimberly Bosco OCEAN COUNTY – The Ocean County Health Department wants to help residents understand facts vs. myths when it comes to the seasonal flu and flu vaccines.

“People should do their homework when it comes to their families’ health and safety.

And when it comes to the flu it’s understandable that individuals have so many questions when it comes to the facts,” said Ocean County Freeholder Gerry P. Little, liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. “Trust the health experts. They can decipher the facts from myths and help understand what the best course is for you.”

Every year, OCHD officials are asked these three common questions: • Can a flu vaccine give you the flu?

• Does the flu vaccine cover all strains of flu?

• Do I need a flu shot every year?

To the first question, health experts say no; the flu vaccine cannot cause flu illness.

Flu vaccines administered with a needle are currently made in two ways: with the ‘inactivated’ (killed) virus, which is not infectious, or with only a single gene from a flu virus (as opposed to the full virus) in order to produce an immune response without causing infection.

According to OCHD officials, some people report feeling sick after getting their flu vaccine, despite these facts. This can be due to: • Some people can become ill from other respiratory viruses besides flu such as rhinoviruses, which are associated with the common cold, cause symptoms similar to flu, and also spread and cause illness during

the flu season.

• It is possible to be exposed to influenza viruses, which cause the flu, shortly before getting vaccinated or during the two-week period after vaccination that it takes the body to develop immune protection. This exposure may result in a person becoming ill with flu before protection from the vaccine takes effect.

Some may have been exposed to a flu virus that is unique from the viruses the vaccine is designed to protect against. There are many different flu viruses that spread and cause illness among people but are not included for protection in the current vaccines.

• And, the flu vaccine can vary in how well it works and some people who get vaccinated may still get sick.

Another common question OCHD hears each year is this: Do I need the flu shot every year? The answer is yes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot annually because a person’s immune protection from vaccines wears down over time.

“The bottom line is that flu vaccines can and do save lives,” said Daniel Regenye, OCHD Public Health Coordinator. “It’s important to speak with your health care provider if you need more information and facts regarding any vaccines. Remember, the internet doesn’t always have the best information that would pertain specifically to you or your family.”

For more information about the flu or for a clinic schedule, visit the OCHD website at ochd.org.

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

MANCHESTER TIMES • BERKELEY TIMES • BRICK TIMES JACKSON TIMES • HOWELL TIMES • TOMS RIVER TIMES SOUTHERN OCEAN TIMES President & Publisher Stewart Swann

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Jason Allentoff

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

Published Weekly Copyright by Micromedia Publications, Inc. All material printed in The Times’ is copyrighted by Micromedia Publications, Inc. unless otherwise noted. The reproduction of the contents, in full or in part, is prohibited, unless permission is granted by Micromedia Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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TOWNSHIP OF BRICK NOTICE OF MEETINGS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 1, Township of Brick, County of Ocean, State of New Jersey, shall hold its regular monthly meetings for 2020 on the first Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. on the following dates with the exception of September’s meeting which will be held on the first Tuesday of that month: January 6, February 3, March 2 (reorganization), April 6, May 4, June 1, July 6, August 3, September 8, October 5, November 2 and December 7.

All meetings will be held at Pioneer Hose Volunteer Fire Company No. 1, 312 Drum Point Road, Brick, New Jersey. Public participation at the meetings shall be at such times as are set forth in the agenda of the meeting and in such manner as is established by the presiding officer.

The agenda shall include, but not be limited to, matters involving personnel, business and finance, approval of minutes, public session, administrative and operational reports, buildings and grounds, apparatus and equipment, maintenance and repairs, litigation, if necessary, legislation, communications and insurance.

Formal action may be taken at all meetings. The public may be excluded from portions of a meeting pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-12.

This notice is being given pursuant to N.J.S.A.10:4-6, et seq.

By authority of the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 1, Township of Brick.

EDWARD P. SLOWINSKI, CLERK Board of Fire Commissioners Fire District No. 1 Township of Brick

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 14, The Brick Times, December 28, 2019

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE BlueClaws Announce Kickoff Date For 2020 Season

By Kimberly Bosco LAKEWOOD – Although we are just now entering the fall season, the Lakewood BlueClaws already have their sights set on springtime. The BlueClaws recently announced that their 20th season will open on April 16 with a 6:35 p.m. game against the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Pirates).

“It is an exciting time of the year for us,” said Joe Ricciutti, BlueClaws Team President & General Manager. “We’re in the midst of building out a great promotional schedule and celebratory events for our 20th season. We can’t wait for April 16th!”

All weeknight BlueClaws games will be at 6:35 p.m. throughout April and May and move to 7:05 p.m. beginning in June. Saturday games will be at 4:05 p.m. throughout April and May and at 7:05 p.m. from June through the end of the season. All Sunday games will start at 1:05 p.m. with the exception of the game on Sunday, June 28 which will begin at 5:05 p.m.

In addition to regular games, the BlueClaws will also feature:

• Education Days, 11:05 a.m.: April 22, May 12, and May 27 • Camp Days, 11:05 a.m.: July 14 and July 22 Additional promotions, theme nights, Premium Items, and Giveaway Items will be announced at a later date.

Affiliates of both the Mets and Yankees come to FirstEnergy Park this year. Columbia (Mets) will be in town from April 30 through May 3 and again from June 18 through June 21. Charleston (Yankees) comes to Lakewood from July 21 through July 23.

The BlueClaws are hoping to make the 2020 season another successful one. In 2019, the team saw 20 sell-out crowds, including a season-finale crowd of 10,754 that was the second largest in team history.

While the home opener isn’t until April 16, the BlueClaws will open the season on April 9 at Greensboro.

Get your tickets now by calling 732-9017000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com/ Tickets.

Join the Neighborhood Watch

BRICK – Part of being involved in our Neighborhood Watch (NW) program is a closer working relationship with your local police department. This results in being more informed on events that are occurring in our community, opportunities for special training, and the opportunity to relay con-

cerns and ideas directly to our NW Officer, Brenden Barnes.

If you’re not a member of the NW in your area and you would like to join, or if there isn’t one in your neighborhood and you would like to start one, contact Officer Brenden Barnes at bbarnes@brickpd.com.

Check out Dr. Izzy’s Sound News on Page 16

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jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 15

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Creativebug Project Platform Now Available through Ocean County Library

TOMS RIVER – Want to get more in touch with your creative side? Ocean County Library resident cardholders now have access to art and craft educative resource Creativebug.

Creativebug is a website and mobile app which offers thousands of free online art and craft classes, available anytime, anywhere. Its videos are produced by renowned artists and creative experts. Class categories include sewing, quilting, paper, knitting,

crochet, food, jewelry, kids, and more.

Creativebug is simple and intuitive, with features like chapter divisions, notetaking tools, 20-second rewind, saving classes, recommendations, and more.

This free resource is accessible to all Ocean County Library cardholders starting Jan. 2. Visit theoceancountylibrary.org on or after this date to join Creativebug.

For more information, call the Ocean County Library at 732-349-6200.

LA Fitness Opens At Ocean County Mall

By Kimberly Bosco TOMS RIVER – Now you can get your holiday shopping AND a workout in! LA Fitness has officially opened a state-ofthe-art facility at Ocean County Mall, Simon properties announced.

The new LA Fitness is a 34,000 sq. ft. fitness center featuring cardio areas, group fitness classes, free weights, a swimming pool and personal training.

“We’re excited to have LA Fitness opened as part of the redevelopment and excited for the future of Ocean County Mall,” said Tara Melodick, Mall Manager. “We are working full steam ahead to have the redevelopment completed by summer 2020.”

Planning on getting fit for the New Year? You can stop in today to check out memberships for 2020.

Blood Drive To Be Held At Ocean County Mall

NEW JERSEY - New Jersey Blood Services announced that it will be conducting a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan. 5, at the Ocean County Mall, 1201 Hooper Ave., Toms River.

Blood products have a short shelf life – from five to 42 days, so constant replenishment is necessary. Each day there are patients who depend on the transfusion of red blood cells, platelets and plasma to stay alive. But blood and blood products can’t be manufactured. They can only come from volunteer blood donors who take an hour to attend a blood drive or visit a donor center.

To donate blood or for information on how to organize a blood drive call Toll Free: 1-800933-2566 or visit: nybloodcenter.org

Any company, community organization, place of worship, or individual may host a blood drive. NYBC also offers special community service scholarships for students who organize community blood drives during summer months.

Blood donors receive free mini-medical exams on site including information about their temperature, blood pressure and hematocrit level. Eligible donors include those people at least age 16 (with parental permission or consent), who weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, are in good health and meet all Food & Drug Administration and NY or NJ State Department of Health donor criteria. People over 75 may donate with a doctor’s note.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 16, The Brick Times, December 28, 2019

H ERE ’ S T O Y OUR H EALTH Little Egg Harbor Location

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We would all agree that millions of Americans are struggling to hang onto their jobs in this economy. It is a fact that early treatment of hearing loss is critical for optimal job performance. Unaddressed hearing loss has a negative impact on overall job effectiveness, opportunity for promotion and even lifelong earning power. Now, even more than ever, people in the work force need to put their best foot forward and address untreated bearing loss which accounts for over 24 million in the United States. A recent Better Hearing Institute national study found that wearing a hearing aid reduces the amount of income lost. Specifically, untreated hearing loss negatively affects household income, on average, by nearly $23,000.00 per year depending on the degree of hearing loss. The continued use of amplification mitigates those negative effects by about 50 percent.

Additional research by the National Council on the Aging (NCOA) demonstrates that hearing aids are associated with improvements in the social, emotional, psychological and physical well being of people with hearing loss - regardless of whether their hearing loss is mild or severe.

Hearing aid use improved earning power, communication and relationships, intimacy and warmth in family relationships, ease

in communication, sense of control over life events, emotional stability, perception of mental functioning, physical health and group social participation. Those with untreated hearing loss suffer from hearing loss compensation behaviors such as pretending to hear, which results in anger and frustration in relationships, Depression and depressive symptoms, feelings of paranoia, anxiety, social phobias and self-criticism.

Too often, people with hearing loss delay the decision to get hearing aids because they do not realize that taking a hearing test and receiving early treatment has the potential to transform their lives and livelihood.

The hidden statistic, which people never think about, is the toll that untreated hearing loss takes on our overall economy. The estimated cost in lost earnings due to untreated hearing loss is 122 billion dollars, which is roughly 18 billion in unrealized federal taxes. With the current national debt in excess of 10 trillion, that is a number that we just can not afford.

For those individuals who suspect hearing loss, the next step would be to contact their local hearing healthcare professional for a complete evaluation. Dr. Izzy is always available to answer serious questions regarding hearing loss as well as other audiological issues,

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

ALOPECIA AREATA

Hair loss can be a sign of age, a symptom of an illness, or it may be caused by alopecia areata. Alopecia areata can cause hair loss anywhere on the body, and in five percent of people, everywhere.

Usually beginning in childhood, alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own hair follicles. Hair usually regrows but eventually falls out again. It is possible for alopecia to disappear completely, but the greater the area where hair loss has occurred, the less likely this is. People with other autoimmune conditions, like thyroid disease and vitiligo, are more likely to have alopecia as well. It is not contagious, however, and occurs mostly in otherwise healthy people.

P.S. Corticosteroids can treat alopecia areata by suppressing the body’s immune system to keep it from destroying hair follicles.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 17

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

Natural Solutions For Burning Mouth Syndrome

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Holiday foods are all around us at this time of year! And enjoying these pies, cakes and delicious meals is taken for granted by most us. But what if you had chronic mouth pain? This occurs with a condition called “Burning Mouth Syndrome” which feels like its name! There are usually no sores in the mouth, it is just the sensation of burning, or heat, or pain. The medical term for people who suffer with this is called “idiopathic glossopyrosis.”

Burning Mouth Syndrome or BMS is common in people who take medications for blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.The nutrient depletions that cause neuropathy are fully discussed in my paperback book, Drug Muggers.

There isn’t a lot that conventional medicine offers. There aren’t a lot of drugs to try, just a handful. Physicians work you up for the obvious, like GERD (gastroesophageal reflux) or Sjogren’s Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder. Some doctors admit that they don’t know what is causing the pain (termed “idiopathic”) but they’ll still try to help by prescribing a medication called gabapentin. This reduces the sensation of pain, but its use is limited due to side effects.

You will be told to drink plenty of fluids (to avoid dry mouth), suck on ice chips and avoid acidic foods that could aggravate the pain. Some acidic foods include tomatoes, citrus fruits, soda/carbonated water, sauerkraut, pomegranate juice and coffee.

A study once determined that B12 deficiency was definitely associated with BMS.

They also checked levels of iron, folate, calcium and magnesium but none of those were deficient in the patients they checked.

So if B12 is deficient in people who have this type of oral pain, it begs a new question about their intestinal microbiome. I say that because B12 is manufactured in the human body from your gut flora, and if you have an unhealthy probiotic stash down there, you won’t make adequate B12.

Could probiotics help? I think so, they’re worth a try anyway.

I can confirm that high levels of homocysteine are associated with BMS and the only way to lower homocysteine is with high quality B vitamins, not medicine! In 2013, researchers found that reducing high homocysteine could improve things. But be careful about the type of B vitamin you choose to take.

Some reports suggest that elevated blood levels of B6 are seen in patients with BMS. Higher serum levels of B6 imply lower cellular levels. Why isn’t the B6 getting inside the cell? You could exacerbate the pain if you don’t take a biologically active form of B6, or other Bs. Research has found that hypothyroidism (often undiagnosed) reason for both depression and oral pain. There’s a lot more information regarding low thyroid (and another vitamin that helps) in the longer version of this article (which I’m happy to email to you) after you sign up for my free newsletter at suzycohen.com.

I truly hope this information helps you feel better and makes mealtime more enjoyable.

Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s Community

(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 28, 2019

Holiday Victorian Tea & Private Party Bookings

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–Photo by Bob Vosseller Train sets were featured at the Ocean County Historical Society during a holiday event held on December 7-8 at the museum located at 26 Hadley Ave. Toms River.

By Bob Vosseller OCEAN COUNTY - Santa Claus brushed up on some Ocean County history during his December 7-8 visit to the Ocean County Historical Society.

During his visit he greeted children from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on both days enjoying the Victorian era museum now decorated for the holidays and located in downtown Toms River at 26 Hadley Ave. During that weekend the museum also hosted a miniature train show during the afternoon. Train sets took up the lower floor of the museum and children and adults stopped by to see the various sets which included a Thomas the the Tank Engine train model and one miniature village which had Batman and Robin parked in the Batmobile near the tracks.

The trains sets were provided by members of the Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders who will be running their own

Christmas themed train show from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday December 28 and Sunday December 29 at 502 Country Club Rd., Pine Park/Kuser Hall, Lakewood. The show is free though donations are appreciated. For further information call 732-363-7799.

The show will feature holiday themed trains such as the Nutcracker train, Rudolph the Red nosed Reindeer and the Polar Express. The Thomas the Tank Engine will be making an appearance there as well.

The Ocean County Historical Society is already planning ahead for the new year with their first event at 2 p.m. on January 19, 2020.

Author Rick Geffken will be the guest speaker and will discuss the roots of Ocean County through the hidden history of Monmouth County.

For further information about upcoming Ocean County Historical Society events call 732-341-1880.

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

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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.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 19

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

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A significant percentage of the motor vehicles that travel though our community are either uninsured or underinsured.

To protect against the harms and losses caused by uninsured or underinsured motorists, automobile insurance companies are obligated by law to provide uninsured motorist (UM) coverage to those motorists who purchase Standard policies.

Although underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is not mandatory, typically they are sold hand-in-hand with UM endorsements and are found in virtually all Standard automobile insurance policies in New Jersey.

As the name suggests, UM /UIM coverage is that element of an insured’s own policy of insurance under which he or his family may be compensated for injuries and losses suffered at the hands of an uninsured or underinsured motorist.

This coverage also applies when you are injured as a passenger in someone else’s vehicle.

UM/UIM insurance is very inexpensive yet very important. It is designed to protect you and your family. For in-

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Automobile insurance is mandatory in New Jersey. And although the failure to carry automobile insurance may be punishable by imprisonment many people deliberately do not carry insurance or do not realize that their insurance policy has expired or been cancelled.

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TOWNSHIP OF LAKEWOOD NOTICE OF MEETINGS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 1, Township of Lakewood, County of Ocean, State of New Jersey, shall hold its regular monthly meetings for 2020 on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. on the following dates with the exception of March’s meeting which will be held on the second Thursday of that month, April’s meeting which will be held on the third Monday of that month, May’s meeting which will be held on the second Tuesday of that month and October’s meeting which will be held on the second Tuesday of that month: January 13, February 10, March 12 (reorganization), April 20, May 12, June 8, July 13, August 10, September 14, October 13, November 9 and December 14.

All meetings will be held in the meeting room at 733 Cedar Bridge Avenue, Lakewood, New Jersey. Public participation at the meetings shall be at such times as are set forth in the agenda of the meeting and in such manner as is established by the presiding officer.

The agenda shall include, but not be limited to, matters involving personnel, business and finance, approval of minutes, public session, administrative and operational reports, buildings and grounds, apparatus and equipment, maintenance and repairs, litigation, if necessary, legislation, communications and insurance.

Formal action may be taken at all meetings. The public may be excluded from portions of a meeting pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-12.

This notice is being given pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

By authority of the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 1, Township of Lakewood.

AVRAHAM Y. LIEBER, SECRETARY Board of Fire Commissioners Fire District No. 1 Township of Lakewood

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Brick Times, December 28, 2019

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE!

CALL 732.657.7344 TO FIND OUT HOW!!

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Officials: Remember To Check For Refund Policy

By Kimberly Bosco OCEAN COUNTY – One important thing to always consider when doing your holiday shopping: can this item be returned? Ocean County officials are reminding residents to be aware of this consumer right while hitting the stores this holiday season.

“With all the excitement and anticipation of the holidays, it is easy to overlook things like store refund policies,” said Ocean County Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as Chairman to the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs. “You do not want to make a large purchase only to find out later that the return policy does not fit your expectation if needed.”

In New Jersey, every retail establishment is required to disclose its refund policy, whether it be: • On a sign attached to the merchandise itself.

• On a sign affixed to each cash register at

the point of sale.

• On a sign which can be easily viewed by the consumer while standing at the cash register.

• On a sign posted at each store entrance used by consumers.

The disclosure should tell you your refund options – cash, credit, or store credit – provided the merchandise you are returning has not been used or damaged. It also must inform you if there are any other terms or conditions which must be met in order for you to receive a refund.

“It is a good idea to take a minute to review the store policy before making any purchase,” said Vicari. “A little time spent in so doing can save a lot of potential aggravation if a return is desired.”

For more information, visit the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs at 1027 Hooper Ave., Building #2 or call 732-929-2105.

Government 0fficials... Have news that you would like the community to be involved with? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper!

Send it to news@jerseyshoreonline.com.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 21

CLASSIFIEDS Real Estate 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)

For Rent Seaside Park - Yearly 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments. Super clean and cozy. No Pets. Application and credit check - from $995. 908-278-5491. (4) Seaside Heights - 3BR, 2BA, furnished condo apartment. A/C, W/D. Available 12/15/2019 – 1/5/2020.

No pets/no smoking. $1950/month + utilities. 732-822-7688.

(4)

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 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) Buying World War I and II Helmets, hats, swords, daggers, medals, flags, Marine uniforms, women's uniforms, etc. All Countries.

Call 609-581-8290.

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

(52) 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)

Items For Sale Help Wanted Mausoleum - 3rd level, single, inside at Silverton Ocean County Memorial Park, $7,500. Call Al at 732-295-3284.

(52) Tr a n e X R 9 5 - G a s H . V. A . C 5000 BTU 6 years old. $1000 OBO. 732-370-8628.

(2) $20 Seamless 55 Gal Tank - Fully equipped. $10 motorized Treadmill. $5 Free Standing Bicycle.

Formal Dining Room Set. 908305-4830 Leave Message.

(1) Troy Built Snow Blower - 28 inch. Runs. Needs repair on track. $300 OBO. 732-370-8628.

(2)

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) 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)

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)

Services Don Carnevale Painting Specializing interiors. Some exterior. Quality always. Very neat. Prompt courteous service.

Reasonable-affordable. Senior discounts. Honest-reliable. Low rates. Free estimates. 732-8994470 or 732-915-4075.

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

Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows. Repairs on small jobs.

Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned.

Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (48) Clean Outs, Clean Ups - hauling, small moves, minor interior and exterior repairs. Honest and dependable. LIC 13VH05930800.

Tony 732-678-7584.

(3) 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) Paint Your Rooms, Fast Clean Neat Starting @ $50. Per room, wall paper removal, power washing, exteriors, free estimates, 732864-6396 leave voicemail.

(1)

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.

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Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

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You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office.

Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

Calculate Price As Follows: 3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ *In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad

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:

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

Or go to jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

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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.

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jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Brick Times, December 28, 2019

Holiday:

Continued From Page 1 lot of things together. She learns from me and I learn from her. Now I have a 2 1/2-year-old daughter, Nevaeh, which her mother pointed out is heaven spelled backwards,” Jackie said.

There was a time when Samantha required foster care and Jackie was there to step in at that time and serve in that role. “I couldn’t let her struggle. She went back with her parents and it all worked out.”

“We love each other and even when I age out of the program (at age 18) we’ll always be close,” Samantha said.

The two have enjoyed dinners together, movies, walks on the beach, trips to the

boardwalk and “sometimes we just get together and talk,” Samantha added.

“It really has been a lot of fun and it remains so and she and my daughter love each other,” Jackie said.

“She is always honest with me and I admire that. She tells me the truth even if I don’t want to hear it,” Samantha added.

Santa Claus was of course the big star in the eyes of the many children present but he had a lot of help in providing the magic that took place.

Each little receives presents from Santa and a lunch. Music also sets the festive mood of the afternoon provided once again by DJ Justin Love.

Jackson resident Scott Mar tin has played an active role in the the event since its inception, helping to raise mon-

TOWNSHIP OF BRICK NOTICE OF MEETINGS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 3, Township of Brick, County of Ocean, State of New Jersey, shall hold its regular monthly meetings for 2020 on the second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. on the following dates: January 13, February 10, March 9 (reorganization), April 13, May 11, June 8, July 13, August 10, September 14, October 12, November 9 and December 14.

All meetings will be held at the Herbertsville Fire House, 601 Herbertsville Road, Brick, New Jersey. Public participation at the meetings shall be at such times as are set forth in the agenda of the meeting and in such manner as is established by the presiding officer.

ey for the gifts for the children, as well as entertainment.

The party started as a gathering of 30 children, Martin said, and has grown incredibly over the years. “We have some great sponsors who each year are happy to write a check and help us provide a wonderful experience for these kids.

There are a number of people here today that have put in a lot of time and effort to make this all happen.”

Among those people who brought the party to life were Patty Trustan and Jordan Lindquist who coordinated the event.

Both noted that the party was all about making the children happy.

As per tradition, along with Santa himself who garnered cheers as he entered the room carrying his big crimson bag filled with toys, a few warm up activities were held. Members of the Manchester Township High School Girls Basketball team came out to get the children onto the dance f loor and to help out the event where they could.

Children also enjoyed some the balloon animal creations of Rockin Roxanne’s Party Magic who returned once again for the event.

Cliff Baker, president of A Need We Feed, a non-prof it charity which delivers f ree hot meals to those i n need, was present for the event and his group has partnered with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Ocean County. On December 17 his group provided meals

for a gathering of “littles” at the Hugh J. Boyd Elementar y School in Seaside Heights.

“We just provided meals at a Christmas par ty with Santa at the Walnut Elementar y School in Toms River. I work in the restaurant supplies business and work with a lot of people from restaurants who provide us donations.

We’ll also be providing 40 hot meals for Big Brother/ Big Sister families again on Christmas,” Baker said. For information on A Need We Feed visit ANeedWeFeed.org.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Ocean County offers a scholarship program to Ocean County College sponsored by an anonymous donor. The program is for juniors and seniors and they get to tour OCC during the spring and attend class in September.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Ocean County continues to work with the police departments of Toms River, Lakewood and Brick as part of the Bigs in Blue program which involves getting police officers involved with the organization.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is part of a national network of affiliates sharing best practices in order to ensure the safety and finest care for the children they serve. The program involves local volunteers mentoring local children in a program supported by local donors. For information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County call 732-505-3400.

The agenda shall include, but not be limited to, matters involving personnel, business and finance, approval of minutes, public session, administrative and operational reports, buildings and grounds, apparatus and equipment, maintenance and repairs, litigation, if necessary, legislation, communications and insurance.

Formal action may be taken at all meetings. The public may be excluded from portions of a meeting pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-12.

This notice is being given pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-6, et seq.

By authority of the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 3, Township of Brick.

ROBERT J. SALMON, CLERK Board of Fire Commissioners Fire District No. 3 Township of Brick

–Photo by Bob Vosseller Nevaeh Wilson, 2 ½, Lacey, left, joins her mom Jackie Wilson who has served as the big sister to Samantha Brady, Toms River for 10 years as part of the Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of Ocean County program.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY JKD CUSTOMS GENERAL CONTRACTING

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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 28, 2019, Page 23

BUSINESS DIRECTORY LEAF

CLEAN-UP

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Page 24, The Brick Times, December 28, 2019

FUN & GAMES

SUDOKU

C ROSSWORD P UZZLE

Across 1 Dench of “Philomena” 5 Alternative strategy 10 “Ladies First Since 1916” sneakers 14 Tourney format, briefly 15 Secretary Thomas Perez’s department 16 Chicken vindaloo go-with 17 Sister of Rachel 18 Jazz pianist Blake 19 Logician’s word 20 Sasquatch, for one 22 Rub the wrong away 24 Head covering 25 Walk of life 29 Home of the Oregon Ducks 32 Limited portions of 34 L.A. commuter

org.

35 German coal region 37 New York Harbor’s __ Island 38 Large pears 41 Sing-along syllable 42 Colonial hero Silas 43 Home of the Imagination! pavilion 44 Cookout choice 46 Animation sheet 47 Extremely focused 49 Promising performers 52 Carpentry tool 53 “That’s so __!”

54 With 57-Across, negotiate ... and what needs to be done to make sense of this puzzle’s circles 57 See 54-Across 61 Poet Angelou 64 Dry up 66 Sing in the shower, say 67 Fivers 68 Bored with it all

69 Fingerprint feature 70 Skin condition 71 Sasquatch kin 72 Mid-month time Down 1 Crystallize 2 Film beekeeper 3 Laptop screen meas.

4 “Anybody around?” response 5 Certain campus newbies 6 Renowned ‘70s-’80s batting coach Charley 7 French friar 8 Roulette bet 9 Chicken serving 10 Desk space 11 Whisperer’s target 12 Hammarskjšld of the UN 13 __-Caps: candy 21 One with a habit 23 Spotted 26 Wrap around 27 “This Is Spinal Tap” director

28 Motown flops 29 War zone journalists 30 Ideal setting 31 Lawn maintenance accessory 32 __ to go 33 Sleek horse 36 Abruzzi bell town 39 Payment required of known deadbeats 40 1943 penny metal 45 Grain cutters 48 Pay a call 50 Awe-ful sound?

51 Breakfast mix 55 Word with bake or fire 56 Logician’s “E” 58 Yummy 59 70-Across application 60 Boston __ 61 Spoil 62 Esq. group 63 Assent 65 CBS series with a N.Y. spin-off

(c)2019 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble:

GROVE CLOUT DOODLE SCRIPT - STOOD CORRECTED

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The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 25

This is a coloring raffle, meaning the picture will NOT be judged. Open to ages 12 and under.

All submissions due by January 31st, 2020. Please mail all artwork to: Coloring Contest, P.O. Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

We wish everyone good luck in the raffle and happy coloring!

NAME:___________________________ TOWN:________________________ AGE:________ PHONE NUMBER:______________________ SPONSORED BY JERSEYSHOREONLINE.COM

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Page 26, The Brick Times, December 28, 2019

BUSINESS PROFILE Give Care Temp Heating And Air Conditioning A Call Now And They’ll Get Back To You Before You Even Finish Reading This Article

By Michael Vandenberg It’s the middle of February and it’s 15 degrees outside. A blizzard is forecast for later in the week. You’re at home, watching TV on the couch late at night, thinking about heading to bed.

All of a sudden, you hear a weird noise coming from the furnace room. You get up and go investigate, but everything looks okay from the outside at least. Before you know it, you can see your breath and it’s starting to get chilly, even though your thermostat is set at a cozy room temperature.

Your heat’s broken. But it’s 11:00 at night, what are you going to do? Easy! Call Care Temp: they’ll get back to you in seven minutes or less and try and do whatever it takes to keep you warm.

“They tell us that as soon as they turn around to walk into another room, the phone is already ringing,” Jennifer Paprocky, manager at Care Temp, LLC, told me. Indeed the HVAC contractor based in Toms River prides itself on being able to help with all of your home gas heating and central air conditioning repair quickly, generously, and effectively. It’s no wonder they maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Care Temp (Master HVACR Lic

#: 19HC00852400 and NJ HIC #: 13VH02253000) has been based r ight here in Ocean County since its founding 25 years ago this winter. In 2006, Jen was hired for the summer to help transition the company to electronic record keeping and establish their website. After a couple months, she was hired into her current managerial position. From the office, she has the tough job of coordinating Care Temp’s 15 certified and technically cross-trained employees on service calls, installations, and routine maintenance appointments all over the county and beyond.

Even when you factor in Care Temp’s 24/7 emergency service, technicians are scheduled flawlessly fast. While waiting for your installation during the wintertime, Care Temp will install strip heaters to keep you warm in the meantime.

Jen doesn’t want you, “sitting there in the cold, especially in the wintertime when your pipes could freeze. And that way you don’t have to go to a hotel or a neighbor’s house; you can still be in the comfort of your own home.”

Likewise, if your central air

breaks down during a July heat wave, Care Temp will happily hook up a window unit to keep you cool. “That way at least the customer goes into their bedroom or living room and has temporary relief while we’re installing it.” Or, if need be, you can make it through the night to the next day.

Treating people well like this results in customer loyalty. One person (whom we’ll call Sally) was originally referred to Care Temp for an estimate on an air conditioning installation. One day, in the midst of the project, Jen needed to drop off a part.

When she got to the house, Sally invited her inside for an iced tea. Jen remembers Sally telling her that, “we were the company she was looking for because we’re very personal and truly cared”. Sally went on to thank her that they were there right away and was very happy that she offered her a temporary window unit while the installation was going on.

Sally ended up getting a maintenance contract with Care Temp that she renewed every year, even after she stopped living in the house fulltime.

“Whenever she’d call she would

tell stories, and she would tell her friends to call and ask for me. She was just a wonderful lady that constantly recommended us and trusted us.”

Even further, Sally greatly appreciated that the technicians really took the time to explain everything to her and answer any questions with a smile.

For the people at Care Temp, being kind is just the right thing to do. “I can honestly say that I love what I do,” Jen said. “I like dealing with the customers, scheduling, and finances.” It’s a positive attitude that is shared by the whole team there.

It’s time to put your heating and air conditioning needs in the hands of the friendly professionals at Care Temp, LLC. Feel free to call 732-3491448 or their local Manchester number 732-657-1000 today.

You can also visit them online at caretemp.com or in person at 891 Route 37 West in Toms River. Right now, you can also take advantage of their current special: NEW CUSTOMERS-SWITCH FROM YOUR CURRENT HVAC COMPANY AND RECEIVE A FREE HEATING CONTRACT! (Call for details.)

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 28, 2019, Page 27

wolfgang puck’s kitchen Classic Recipes Reimagined Have The Power To Surprise, And Delight, Unsuspecting Guests

By Wolfgang Puck

BINGO TUESDAY

7PM • DOORS OPEN 5PM

1. Early Bird 50/50 | 2. Regular Bingo “T” (Anyway) 3. 50/50 Special Event | 4. Regular Bingo Letter “L” (Anyway) 5. Block Of “9” Event

INTERMISSION

6. Progressive: Full Card | 7. (2 Bingos The Hard Way) 8. 50/50 Special Event | 9. Full Card THERE WILL ALSO BE A POWERBALL! KITCHEN OPEN!

ST. STEPHEN UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 1344 White Oak Bottom Rd. Toms River, NJ 08755 • 732-505-6293

TOWNSHIP OF BRICK NOTICE OF MEETINGS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Joint Board of Fire Commissioners, Township of Brick, County of Ocean, State of New Jersey, shall hold its regular monthly meetings for 2020 on the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. on the following dates: January 20, February 17, March 16 (reorganization), April 20, May 18, June 15, July 20, August 17, September 21, October 19, November 16 and December 21.

All meetings will be held at the Laurelton Fire House, Route 88 and Olden Street, Brick, New Jersey. Public participation at the meetings shall be at such times as are set forth in the agenda of the meeting and in such manner as is established by the presiding officer.

The agenda shall include, but not be limited to, matters involving personnel, business and finance, approval of minutes, public session, administrative and operational reports, buildings and grounds, apparatus and equipment, maintenance and repairs, litigation, if necessary, legislation, communications, insurance, training and education, technical rescue, Explorers and the Bureau of Fire Safety.

Formal action may be taken at all meetings. The public may be excluded from portions of a meeting pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4-12.

This notice is being given pursuant to N.J.S.A.10:4-6, et seq.

By authority of the Joint Board of Fire Commissioners, Township of Brick.

STEPHEN W. EARL, JR., CLERK Joint Board of Fire Commissioners Township of Brick

I’ve seen it happen many times in my restaurants, and you’ve no doubt been on the receiving end of this phenomenon: Guests order a classic dish, something they’ve enjoyed elsewhere many times before, and when it arrives it looks nothing like what they’d been expecting.

The first reaction may be puzzlement or consternation or delight - or a combination of all three. But most of the time they’ll eventually inspect the dish more closely and realize that it looks and smells delicious. Then they taste it- and realize it’s even better than they had imagined.

That’s a big part of the pleasure for a chef, or a home cook, in reimagining a classic recipe. Once you’ve decided to come up with a new version of a familiar dish, all the rules - except, of course, the fundamental ones of good cooking - no longer apply. You can alter - or maybe I should say “tweak,” because the changes are often subtler - the ingredients, the way you prep and cook them, and how you present them. Even the subtlest changes can add up to a dramatic new version of a dish that better suits the way people like to eat today.

Take, for example, the recipe I share with you here for Eggplant alla Parmigiana, as it’s prepared by executive chef Vincenzo Scarmiglia at my Cucina by Wolfgang Puck in Las Vegas. Ask most people who say they know this Italian classic to describe it, and they’ll tell you it’s an oven-baked casserole consisting of multiple layers of breaded and deep-fried eggplant, tomato sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan, served occasionally in individual baking dishes but more often cut into generous squares like a lasagna.

Your mouth is probably watering at that description, as mine is writing it. But let’s also admit that most versions of the dish are heavy, and the flavors blend together so much during baking that you sometimes can’t tell the eggplant from the breading, cheese or sauce.

That’s why I like how Vincenzo prepares it. He first makes an intensely flavorful tomato-basil-garlic sauce - a staple in many of my restaurants.

Then, he carefully coats the eggplant slices to keep them from absorbing too much oil during their brief frying. Finally, he tops each slice with its own dollop of sauce and cheese and pops a trayful of individual rounds under the broiler until the cheese melts, before arranging several slices side by side atop more sauce on dinner plates, topping each serving with a mound of simple baby arugula salad.

The results taste exactly like a great Eggplant alla Parmigiana - but cleaner, simpler and more focused than ever. I hope you enjoy this recipe, and that it will inspire you to try reimagining other classics in a similar spirit.

EGGPLANT ALLA PARMIGIANA Serves 8 TOMATO-BASIL-GARLIC SAUCE 2 cans crushed San Marzano tomatoes, each 28 ounces (794 g) 1/2 cup (125 ml) extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons chopped garlic 1/2 pound (250 g) fresh basil leaves, chopped 1 cup (250 ml) tomato paste 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus extra as needed 6 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar FRIED EGGPLANT 3 large globe eggplants, each about 2 1/4 pounds

(1 kg) Kosher salt Canola oil, for deep frying 2 cups (500 ml) all-purpose flour 3 large eggs, beaten in a bowl with 3 tablespoons cold water 1 pound (500 g) packaged Italian-style dried breadcrumbs Freshly ground black pepper FOR SERVING 1/2 cup (125 ml) fresh basil leaves, cut into julienne strips 8 ounces (250 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese 1 pound (500 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced 8 ounces (250 g) baby arugula leaves, rinsed, drained, and patted dry 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper For the sauce, first strain the tomatoes in a colander over a nonreactive bowl. Set aside both the solids and juice.

Heat the oil in a saucepot over low heat. Add the garlic and basil, and saute, stirring, just until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and stir until it darkens slightly, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the tomato solids and cook just until the mixture starts to simmer; then stir in the tomato juice, sugar and a little salt. Continue simmering gently, stirring occasionally, until reduced to a thick but still fluid consistency, about 2 hours.

Taste and add more salt, if needed. Then pass the sauce a ladleful at a time through a food mill with the fine disc; or carefully pulse in batches in a blender. Set aside.

Meanwhile, for the eggplants, trim off the stem ends and, with a vegetable peeler, remove the shiny skin. Cut crosswise into slices 1/2 inch (12 mm) thick. Layer the slices in a colander in the sink, sprinkling each lightly but evenly with salt. Leave for an hour. Rinse the slices with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

In a thermostat-controlled deep-fryer or a deep cast-iron casserole using a deep-frying thermometer, heat 2 to 3 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) of oil to 300 F (150 C). Arrange the flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls nearby.

One at a time, dredge the eggplant slices on both sides in flour, shaking off excess; then dip into egg; then dip in breadcrumbs to coat evenly; and, finally, gently drop into the hot oil. Continue with more slices, taking care not to overcrowd the fryer. Cook until each slice is deep golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes, using a wire skimmer or slotted spoon to turn them once halfway through and then to lift them out to drain on paper towels.

Preheat the broiler. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, gently reheat the sauce.

Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on 1 or more baking sheets. Spread each with some sauce and top with basil. Evenly distribute Parmesan and mozzarella on top. Cook under the broiler and cook until the cheese has melted, 3 to 5 minutes. Spread the remaining sauce on the bottoms of 8 large heated serving plates. Distribute the eggplant among the plates.

In a mixing bowl, quickly toss the arugula with the olive oil, balsamic, and salt and pepper to taste. Mound in the center of each plate. Serve immediately.

(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 28, 2019

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