2025-12-27 - The Brick Times

The BRICK Times Vol. 25 - No. 34

In This Week’s Edition

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Brick In 2025: A Year In Review

By Judy Smestad-Nunn BRICK - The most newsworthy story in Brick this year might have been the re-election of Mayor Lisa Crate, who ran a tight race against Board of Education President Madeline Iannarone.

The race was so close that the final results were not certified by the Ocean County Board of Elections until nearly two weeks after the November 4 election.

Democrat Crate received 17,071 votes while Republican candidate Iannarone received 16,649.

T h e R e p u bl i c a n cou ncil candidates, including incumbent

Photo by Judy Smestad-Nunn The Brick Reservoir underwent structural modifications.

Perry Albanese, won reelection for the fouryear term, while two Republican newcom-

ers, Lisa Reina and Greg Cohen, defeated Democratic incumbent

Councilwomen Heather deJong and Democratic (Review - See Page 12)

Page 8-11

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 14

Inside The Law Page 17

Photo courtesy Kendra Zarrilli The Mantoloking Road Playhouse held its grand opening welcoming guests to the new space.

Local Teacher Sex Abuse Cases Add Up

By Stephanie Faughnan JERSEY SHORE - In classrooms across Monmouth and Ocean counties, and in schools beyond the Jersey Shore, teachers are entrusted with far more than academics. They hold authority, influence, and daily access to children

whose families trust that school is a safe place.

That belief has been repeatedly shaken.

Over the past several years, a growing number of educators along the Jersey Shore have been arrested, charged, indicted, (Cases - See Page 4)

HIGHEST RATED CASH FOR GOLD STORE IN OCEAN COUNTY

Commissioner Haines Looks Back On Decades Of Service

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan Commissioner Virginia Haines gestures toward artwork by local artists displayed in her office.

By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY - As Commissioner Virginia “Ginny” Haines prepares to leave public office, the words spoken about her during her final meeting and the reflections she shared in a recent interview reveal a consistent legacy. Her pride is not rooted in titles or longevity, but in outcomes. In land preserved, systems built, and institutions strengthened to serve the county long after her time in office.

Inside Haines’ office, that philosophy is visible.

Artwork by local artists lines the walls, scenes of Ocean County rendered with care and familiarity.

Old Barney rises from one canvas. Other pieces (Haines - See Page 5)

Island Beach State Park Reaches Milestone

By Chris Lundy OCEA N COU NT Y – Imagine driving through Seaside Heights and Seaside Park as it is today – hotels, rides, and the boardwalk.

As you keep going south on Route 35, you hit Island Beach State Park, but instead of the nature preserve it is now, it is also filled with hotels and tourist stops.

Imagine if Route 35 con-

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Photo courtesy Brick Township Mayor Lisa Crate along with members of the Brick Township Historical Society dressed in period costumes celebrate the town’s 175th birthday.

December 27, 2025

tinued to be a major road, with parking on either side for bars, restaurants and shops. Three-story hotels block the view of the water.

The heat of the summer sun is magnified as it’s reflected off black asphalt.

This could have been modern day Island Beach if history had played out differently.

It was 60 years ago – in (Beach - See Page 13)

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Page 2, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

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Cases:

Continued From Page 1 or convicted for sexually abusing students.

The cases span multiple districts and grade levels and involve both male and female teachers.

What has also emerged, experts say, is a persistent double standard: when the accused teacher is female and the student is male, public reaction often shifts, minimizing the harm or dismissing the victim altogether.

The case of Julie Rizzitello, a former Wall Township High School teacher, underscores how public perception can shift when the accused educator is female.

Rizzitello, 37, of Brick, pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree sexual assault, admitting to sexual encounters with two male students, according to the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office. Investigators said the conduct involved different victims in multiple towns over several years. She faces sentencing on January 9, 2026, when prosecutors are expected to seek a 10-year prison term, mandatory Megan’s Law registration, lifetime parole supervision, and a permanent ban from public employment.

Despite the guilty plea, public reaction revealed a troubling recharacterization of the abuse. In online discussions, some questioned whether the boys were victims at all.

“It’s the stuff high school boys dreams are made,” wrote one commentator. “And since a female can’t force a male to have sex, then they were more than willing participants.

It’s not the same as a male teacher having

sex with a young girl.”

Experts say such views ignore the law and the power imbalance inherent in teacher-student relationships, where consent is not possible regardless of gender.

The prosecution of a 44-year-old Jackson resident, formerly a special education teacher at Freehold Intermediate School, is another case in which the accused educator is female and the alleged victim is male.

Allison Havemann-Niedrach is charged with multiple serious sex offenses, including sexual assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and official misconduct, stemming from allegations that she engaged in an illegal sexual relationship with an eighth-grade student while employed in the Freehold Regional School District.

According to court records and statements placed on the record, the state’s case includes over 25,000 text messages and photographs that investigators describe as explicit.

Prosecutors placed a plea offer on the record that requires Havemann-Niedrach to plead guilty to a reduced charge in exchange for a recommended 12-year state prison sentence, along with mandatory parole supervision and sex offender registration.

Havemann-Niedrach is due back in court on January 21, 2026, to decide whether to accept the plea offer or move forward to trial.

Why Gender Changes The Narrative Experts say this disparity is rooted in long-standing cultural myths.

Research published in peer-reviewed jour-

nals including Archives of Sexual Behavior shows that male victims of educator sexual abuse are less likely to be believed and less likely to report abuse. Cases involving female perpetrators and male victims are more frequently minimized by peers, families, and even institutions.

Boys are often socialized to interpret sexual attention as a marker of success or maturity. Female educators are less likely to be perceived as capable of predatory behavior. Together, those assumptions distort how abuse is recognized and discussed.

Scholars emphasize that the power imbalance inherent in teacher student relationships does not change based on gender.

Minors cannot legally or developmentally consent to sexual relationships with authority figures. The harm does not lessen because the perpetrator is female.

Studies also show male victims are less likely to receive counseling and more likely to experience long term effects such as depression, substance abuse, and difficulty forming healthy relationships.

Male Educators And Clear Condemnation When the accused educator is male, public response tends to be swift and unequivocal.

In Middletown, former girls basketball coach and physical education teacher Justin McGhee pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a student under his supervision. Prosecutors described encounters that occurred outside school but within the context of his authority. The state is expected to seek a five-and-a-half-year prison term, along

(Cases - See Page 12)

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with mandatory sex offender registration and lifetime parole supervision.

In Manchester Township, former high school teacher and varsity basketball coach Ryan Ramsay was charged with sexual assault stemming from allegations involving a student in 2012. The case was filed more than a decade later, underscoring how long it can take victims to come forward.

Ramsay was approximately 32 at the time of the alleged sexual relationship. The victim was 17.

At the Ocean County Vocational Technical School, former performing arts teacher Douglas Bollinger admitted to inappropriate sexual contact with a student. He was sentenced to parole supervision for life, permanently barred from public employment, and required to register as a sex offender.

In another Ocean County case that has expanded across multiple jurisdictions, Darnell Williams, 34, of Manchester Township, was indicted by an Ocean County grand jury on child sex charges tied to alleged abuse spanning more than a decade. Prosecutors allege the abuse occurred between 2010 and 2013 in Manchester Township, while additional charges include accusations of inappropriate sexual contact with a minor between 2020 and 2023 in both Manchester, Stafford and Atlantic County. Authorities have said the investigation widened as additional allegations surfaced, resulting in multiple counts that include sexual assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and official misconduct.

The case has underscored concerns about how educators and youth-serving adults can

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Haines:

Continued From Page 1 capture bay waters and shore landscapes that generations recognize as home. The space feels intentional. It reflects a public servant who never lost sight of place.

Nearby, photographs trace decades of public life, moments when county service either came after or intersected with state and national history.

Haines’ connection to Ocean County runs far deeper than her years in office. Her family’s roots stretch back generations, long before Ocean County formally existed. That history has shaped how she views her role in government.

“I just love Ocean County,” Haines said in a recent interview. “It was a great place to grow up. You had the ocean, the bay, the natural lands, and the real downtowns. It was just a great place to live, and it still is.”

Over a career that spanned local, county, and state government, Haines held numerous roles, including service in the New Jersey Legislature as both a member of the Assembly and later as Clerk of the Assembly. She also served nearly eight years as New Jersey Lottery director, 20 years on the Republican National Committee, and four decades on the New Jersey Republican State Committee.

But when asked what she is most proud of, her answers came quickly and specifically.

Open space tops the list.

“One thing people don’t realize is that about 60 percent of Ocean County is preserved,” Haines said. “That shocks people.

But it’s federal, state, county, and local

The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 5 land working together. That didn’t happen by accident.”

During her ten years on the county’s governing board, as the title “freeholder” changed to “commissioner,” Haines spent much of that time as liaison to the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Natural Lands Trust Fund.

Among the acquisitions she points to with pride are major natural land purchases such as Forked River Mountain and preserved farmland, including one of only two remaining preserved farms in Lakewood.

“Preserving farmland matters too,” she said. “It’s part of our history. Once it’s gone, you can’t get it back.”

She is equally proud of the county’s investment in public services that often operate quietly in the background.

“We provide a lot for our residents,” Haines said. “Ocean Ride, Meals on Wheels, human services, education. And we’ve done it while keeping the county affordable.”

Haines emphasized the importance of Ocean County College, calling it one of the county’s greatest assets.

“You can go to Ocean County College and Kean University for about $36,000 for four years,” she said. “That changes lives. That matters for families.”

Fiscal stewardship is another point of pride. During her decade as a commissioner, Ocean County maintained its AAA bond rating, a distinction that reflects long term fiscal discipline and allows the county to provide services while keeping costs lower for taxpayers.

“That doesn’t just sound good,” she said.

“It means we’re being responsible with taxpayer dollars. It means we can provide services without overburdening people.”

Those priorities were echoed during her final commissioners’ meeting, when the board paused its agenda to formally recognize her service. A resolution cited her decades of leadership, her role in expanding and improving the county’s park system, and her stewardship of thousands of acres of preserved land.

But it was the personal remarks that captured her impact most clearly.

Frank Sadeghi, Deputy Director of the Board of Commissioners, spoke about Haines’ deep and longstanding commitment to Ocean County, noting that it is something evident every time she speaks about her family and their history of involvement in the community. He also reassured onlookers that although Haines will no longer be an elected official, she will continue to make a difference.

“She’s involved in so many boards and commissions,” said Sadeghi. “We’re still going to see a lot of her at these meetings – she’s not really going too far.”

Haines was only the second woman elected to the county’s governing body, then known as the Board of Chosen Freeholders, following Hazel Gluck, who served from 1977 to 1980. Next year, Jennifier Bacchione will be the sole woman serving on the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.

Bacchione described Haines as a role model, noting that they first met when the Women’s Republican Club of Berkeley was formed. “One of the first things she said to

me after I was sworn in was that she always knew I would get up here,” Bacchione said.

“I’m proud to work with her, learn from her...It’s women empowering women.”

When Haines spoke, emotion overtook her. “I swore I wasn’t going to do this,” she said. “I love each and every one of you. I love what the county is and what it does.”

She thanked county staff across all departments, reminding them that the success credited to elected officials belongs just as much to those doing the work behind the scenes.

“You’re the ones who make us look good,” she said. “You’re the ones out there every day.”

At 79, Haines acknowledged that stepping away was not easy.

“I was very torn,” she said. “I love what I do. But it’s time. It’s time for younger people to step up.”

Her retirement, combined with Commissioner Jack Kelly’s election as Ocean County Clerk, will open two seats on the Board of Commissioners. Those seats will be filled by Sam Ellenbogen and Ray Gormley, who won election in November 2025, maintaining the Republican Party’s long-standing hold on county government.

Haines offered them encouragement.

“This is a great county,” she said. “We can all be very proud of what it has done and what it will continue to do.”

As she prepares to leave office, the pride she carries is clear and unmistakable. It is not about how long she served, but about what endures.

“I’m not leaving Ocean County,” Haines said. “I’m just stepping into a different role.”

Page 6, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

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The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 7

Spotlight On Government Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

Solutions Sought For Tick-Borne Diseases From The Desk Of

Congressman

Chris Smith

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chair of the Congressional Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Caucus, joined U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for a “game changing” discussion about new and improved diagnostics, therapeutics, and prognoses for Lyme disease patients.

The HHS’ Lyme Disease Roundtable discussion, convened by Sec. Kennedy, was also attended by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA), Lyme disease experts, and patients.

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Caucus, I was honored to join Secretary Kennedy and other distinguished stakeholders, such as my fellow members of Congress, experts, and patients, in discussing the present state and future possibilities of Lyme disease diagnostics, treatments, and therapies,” said Smith, the author of numerous laws to enhance federal

funding for Lyme disease research.

“This chronic, life-altering disease - which continues to rise throughout the United States, including and especially in my home state of New Jersey - deserves the federal government’s undivided attention and assistance,” stated the longtime advocate for Lyme patients.

“I want to thank, first of all, Congressman Chris Smith, who is the Chair of the Lyme Caucus and who has been responsible for getting some of the funding that we need to make sure that this works,” said Sec. Kennedy.

“One of the reasons we wanted to host this meeting is to announce to the world that the gaslighting of Lyme patients is over.

“We want to make sure that every physician in the country can recognize the symptoms of Lyme disease and test for it and then direct patients to the best possible treatments,” continued Sec. Kennedy.

Throughout the roundtable discussion, Sec. Kennedy - who described the personal impact of Lyme disease on his family - announced numerous, significant HHS initiatives to better research and treat Lyme disease.

The renewal of the $10 million LymeX Innovation Accelerator initiative, made possible through the partnership of the Steven &

Alexandra Cohen Foundation, which will advance new and improved diagnostic tools and resources. Smith has successfully advocated for and secured millions of dollars in federal funds for the continuation of the program.

The expansion of CMS’ Chronic Care Management program to include and support beneficiaries with Lyme disease and related conditions, increasing access to coordinated care and reducing financial barriers for patients with chronic Lyme.

“The highly productive and enlightening conversations between government officials, lawmakers, and experts at yesterday’s roundtable should serve as beacons of hope for all Lyme patients and advocates throughout the country,” stated Smith. “Lyme patients have suffered in silence for far too long. With stronger diagnostic criteria and improved treatment options, we can work towards finally finding a cure for this invisible yet debilitating illness.

“I am very grateful for Secretary Kennedy’s unwavering commitment to uncovering the origins, investigating the comorbidities, and developing new diagnostics and treatments for Lyme disease - significantly improving the qualities of life and care for patients. Lyme patients deserve answers, and under Secretary Kennedy’s phenomenal leadership, the HHS is steadfastly working towards procuring them,” concluded Smith.

The Lyme Disease Roundtable comes on the heels of another breakthrough for federal Lyme disease research - the House passage of Smith’s FY 26 NDAA amendment to probe whether the Cold War-era U.S. government weaponized ticks with Lyme disease to serve as hosts or delivery mechanisms for biological warfare agents.

Smith’s amendment - which compels the Comptroller General of the United States to perform an exhaustive review of research conducted by the military and other federal agencies between 1945 and 1972 regarding experiments involving two forms of tickborne bacteria, spirochaetales and rickettsiales - was included in the major 2026 defense bill.

The legislation was inspired in part by the explosion of Lyme disease in New Jersey and Kris Newby’s book, “Bitten: The Secret History of Lyme Disease and Biological Weapons.”

“Bitten” features in-depth interviews with and the personal files of Dr. Willy Burgdorfer - the federal researcher and U.S. bioweapons specialist credited with discovering Lyme disease - who later revealed that he and other bioweapons specialists injected ticks with pathogens in a quest to cause severe disability, disease, and even death to potential enemies in unsuspecting ways.

Bill Would Safeguard Small Businesses, Strengthen Antitrust Laws Capitol Comments Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights Subcommittee and a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, introduced the Fair Competition for Small Business Act of 2025, legislation to protect small businesses from anti-competitive pricing practices that favor large retailers. U.S. Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA-43), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Committee, introduced companion legislation in the House.

Independent grocers are the backbone of communities across the country, providing jobs, access to food, and stability in both rural and urban neighborhoods. According to the National Grocers Association, independent grocers support over 1.1 million jobs and generate over $41 billion in wages

annually. Yet large retail chains use their market power to secure discounts and favorable payment terms from suppliers that smaller grocers lack the leverage to negotiate. As a result, independent grocers are often charged higher prices for the same products - costs that are passed on to consumers - making it nearly impossible for them to compete with large retailers and jeopardizing their ability to remain in business.

Although the Robinson-Patman Act prohibits suppliers from charging competing buyers different prices, federal regulators have historically failed to enforce the law, leaving small businesses to fend for themselves against large retailers. The law currently allows state attorneys general to enforce it, but their authority is limited to seeking injunctive relief; they cannot obtain monetary damages on behalf of affected businesses. This flaw limits states’ ability to fully protect small businesses when the federal government fails to enforce the law and limits small businesses’ ability to recover losses from discriminatory pricing.

The Fair Competition for Small Business Act protects small businesses and addresses this legal gap by explicitly authorizing state attorney generals to bring civil actions for damages when violating the Robinson-Patman Act, strengthening accountability and deterring anti-competitive practices. This will allow state attorneys general to pursue monetary damages against distributors and retailers that engage in unlawful price discrimination, giving states the same enforcement authority they already have under other federal antitrust laws.

By enabling state attorneys general to seek monetary damages for violations of the Robinson-Patman Act, the legislation gives small businesses a clear legal path to recover past losses and prevent future harms, ensuring fairer competition in the marketplace.

“Small businesses drive our economy, and it is essential that they are not forced to close their doors due to illegal pricing practices that larger retailers continue to exploit,” said Senator Booker. “By strengthening the Robinson-Patman Act, state attorneys general would be able to hold these retailers accountable, ensuring that small businesses can compete, and succeed, on a level

playing field.”

“For far too long, large retailers have been able to use their market power to demand price concessions from suppliers that smaller retailers are unable to secure, thereby threatening the ability of smaller retailers to remain viable, reducing competition, and increasing prices for consumers,” said Congresswoman Waters. “The Fair Competition for Small Business Act would permit state attorneys general to seek monetary damages on behalf of their constituents for these discriminatory practices and give them a vital tool to promote marketplace competition, fairness, and affordability.”

“Leveling the playing field through enforcement of the Robinson-Patman Act should be a top priority for all policymakers concerned with the survival of Main Street small businesses,” said Ron Knox, Senior Researcher & Policy Advocate at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance. The newly unsealed FTC complaint against PepsiCo shows how mega corporations drive up costs across the economy at the expense of smaller competitors and American consumers. “We applaud Ranking Member Booker and Representative Waters’ leadership on the Fair Competition for Small Business Act.”

Disclaimer: Micromedia Publications has always provided a space in its newspapers to provide a place for readers to learn what their elected officials are doing. These items are lightly edited for such things as punctuation and grammar but are mostly unchanged from the source. These press releases are the politicians’ own views, not that of Micromedia Publications. We cannot vouch for the accuracy of information that these politicians are providing, and readers are encouraged to keep an open mind and consider multiple sources.

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Page 8, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

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Brick Mayor Apologizes For Slow Snow Cleanup

BRICK – Township Mayor Lisa Crate acknowledged shortcomings in the township’s response to a recent snowstorm and said officials are reviewing procedures to improve how future winter weather events are handled.

In a statement released by her office, Crate said the December 14 storm created difficult conditions across the community and that many residents were frustrated by how long it took to fully clear roadways.

She said the township’s response did not meet residents’ expectations.

“As mayor, I take responsibility for guiding the township through storms like this,” Crate said, adding that officials are evaluating both preparation and response

efforts to identify needed improvements.

Crate noted that Department of Public Works crews worked extended hours, beginning Saturday evening, salting roads and continuing snow and ice removal throughout the storm and in the days afterward.

She also pointed to issues with the timing of private contractor deployment, which she said contributed to delays. Township officials are reviewing policies related to contractor engagement to ensure earlier deployment during future storms.

Crate said the township is committed to strengthening its snow response plan to better meet community expectations during severe winter weather.

The Arc Seeks Support For Aquaponics Garden

BRICK – The Arc of Ocean County is asking the community for help reaching a $20,000 fundraising goal to purchase and install an aquaponics system that would expand sustainable farming opportunities for adults with disabilities.

Several participants from The Arc’s Journeys and Discovery programs — including Brianne, Danny, Joe, Steve, Tim and TJ — have spent more than a year volunteering with Drop the Beet Farms, learning how to grow organic herbs and vegetables using aquaponics. Building on that experience, The Arc plans to bring the technology inhouse at its Adult Training Centers.

The proposed Aquaponics Garden would allow participants to take part in every

step of the process, from harvesting and packaging to distributing fresh produce.

The system is expected to support healthy meals at The Arc’s residential programs, provide lettuce for cooking classes, and supply produce to community partners where participants volunteer.

Program leaders say the project blends education and science while promoting confidence, independence and inclusion for individuals with varying abilities.

Donations toward the year-end appeal can be made online or mailed to The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, 393 Mantoloking Road, Brick, NJ 08723, attention: Annual Appeal.

You can also donate at arcocean.org/ get-involved/appeal.html

Part-Time Fire Prevention Specialist Wanted

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BRICK – The township’s Bureau of Fire Safety is accepting applications for a part-time Fire Prevention Specialist as the department works to strengthen local fire protection and inspection services.

According to Bureau Chief Kevin C. Batzel, the role supports a broad range of fire safety responsibilities, including code enforcement, inspections, complaint investigations and public education programs.

The position operates under the supervision of the bureau chief to ensure compliance with the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code and municipal fire safety regulations.

Job duties include conducting fire safety programs, preparing and maintaining reports, and assisting with various fire prevention initiatives. The specialist may also be called on to perform inspections in

challenging environments and changing weather conditions.

Applicants must hold a valid New Jersey driver’s license and possess state fire inspector certification or official credentials.

Candidates should be able to communicate clearly, complete detailed reports, meet physical job requirements and use bureau-approved software systems. The bureau notes that some tasks may require climbing, crawling or other physical activity.

The position offers eight-hour daytime shifts two to three days per week, with a pay range of $20 to $25 per hour.

Resumes should be submitted to the Bureau of Fire Safety, 253 Brick Boulevard, Brick, NJ 08723, or emailed to bureau@ brickfire.org.

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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The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 9

Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements

Historical Society Wraps Up Year With Holiday Cookie Fundraiser

Treat yourself to the pleasure of a Full Victorian Holiday Tea, surrounded by the festivities dazzling Christmas trees. Step into our enchating Tea Room adorned with crisp linens, fine English Bone China and charming tea pots with cozies.

Our five-course Holiday Tea includes a freshly brewed pot of tea of your choice, a seasonal salad, a petite cup of soup, a warm scone with clotted cream & lemon curd, an assortment of tea sandwhiches and a full plate of homemade desserts.

Reservations are required with advance payment of $50 per person plus tax and gratuity, $20 for children age 12 and under, and free for children 5 and under. Enjoy live music during your visit. Seating times are everyday, 11am and 3pm.

Overnight stay package for the Mathis House or Huddy House Bed & Breakfast with Holiday Victorian Afternoon Tea for two and a gourmet breakfast the next morning at $249.00 a night.

Photo courtesy Brick Township Historical Society LtR: Cadets Tiffanny Alegria, Ewaoluwa Oshiyoye, Deannie Castillo and Daisy Fernandez.

BRICK – The township historical society closed out its year of fundraising with its fifth annual Christmas Cookie Sale recently at the Havens Homestead Museum.

Volunteers from the historical society teamed up with cadets from the Youth Challenge Academy at the Sea Girt National Guard base to bake a wide variety of homemade cookies for the event. Cadets from the academy also

assisted with packaging and handing out festively decorated boxes to customers picking up their orders.

Organizers said the sale marked the society’s final fundraiser of the year, with proceeds dedicated to maintaining the Havens Homestead Museum, the Lizzie Herbert House and several other historic structures located on the property at 521 Herbertsville Road.

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Holocaust Exhibit Coming To Library

LAKEWOOD – The Ocean County Library will host Courage to Remember, a traveling exhibit from the Simon Wiesenthal Center, at its Lakewood Branch from January 6 through February 3.

The exhibit traces the history of the Holocaust from 1933 to 1945 through a powerful collection of archival photographs. Arranged in a chronological timeline, the images document the rise of Nazi persecution, the horrors of genocide and the consequences of indifference, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and education.

Described as both a memorial and a cautionary message, Courage to Remember has been viewed by millions of people across

six continents and continues to tour internationally.

The exhibit will be accessible during all regular hours of operation at the Lakewood Branch, located at 301 Lexington Ave. For additional information, residents can call 732-363-1435.

The Simon Wiesenthal Center, based in California, works to combat antisemitism, prejudice and intolerance worldwide. The organization maintains offices across the United States, Canada, Europe, Jerusalem and Brazil and holds accredited non-governmental organization status with several international bodies, including the United Nations and UNESCO.

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American Legion Post 348 Serves Veterans

BRICK – American Legion Post 348 on Mantoloking Road remains a vital gathering place for Brick Township’s veterans.

The post, located at 822 Mantoloking Road, continues the Legion’s mission of

supporting those who served and strengthening the bond among local veterans.

Post 348 welcomes new members and community involvement. For details, call 732-477-1915.

NJ HIC 13VH08115000 | NJ HEC 13HE00001900

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Page 10, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements

Police Honor Dispatcher’s 35-Year Career

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BRICK – The police department recently marked the retirement of Donna Capper, a longtime dispatcher whose career spanned 35 years of service to the community.

Capper played a key role in the department’s communications operations, training numerous dispatchers over the years and helping shape the next generation of public safety telecommunicators. She also broke new ground during her tenure, becoming the department’s first Supervising Public

Safety Telecommunicator.

Department officials praised Capper for her professionalism, leadership and steady presence behind the scenes, noting that her contributions have had a lasting effect on both the police department and the township.

Police extended their thanks to Capper for her decades of dedication and wished her good health and happiness as she begins her retirement.

Library Joins National Yiddish Literature Program

LAKEWOOD – The Ocean County Library’s Lakewood Branch has been selected to take part in a national initiative exploring Jewish culture and religion through Yiddish NEED AN EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR? WE’RE HERE TO HELP AT NO CHARGE

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literature.

The branch was chosen by the Yiddish Book Center for its “Between Two Worlds” program and is one of 40 libraries across the United States to receive a grant. The initiative helps libraries introduce Yiddish culture while encouraging interfaith and intercultural dialogue.

Lakewood Branch librarian Rebecca Fried attended a training workshop in November that focused on Yiddish literature, community programming and the cultural intersections found in the works.

Participating libraries will host reading groups, receive educational materials and may receive up to $2,000 to support guest speakers or related programming. Libraries may also be eligible to host a traveling exhibit on the history and role of the Yiddish language.

Founded in 1980, the Yiddish Book Center has preserved more than 1.5 million Yiddish volumes and offers educational programs, translation projects and museum exhibits.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 11

Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements

Lakewood Expands Shuttle Fleet With Modern Transit Buses

LAKEWOOD – Township officials are reporting a sharp rise in ridership after adding three full-size modern buses to the township’s shuttle system in March. The system, now carrying more than 140,000 riders a year, has seen monthly ridership jump more than 50 percent.

Five additional buses are on order, with more expected as the service continues to grow.

The new buses were purchased through the Urban Enterprise Zone program and were custom built with features such as kneeling capability, dual doors, folding seats and trilingual signage to better serve the township’s

diverse ridership. Local officials, including Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein and LDC Chairman Rabbi Avrohom Moshe Muller, toured the vehicles and said rider feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Lichtenstein said the township plans to expand routes once more buses arrive, while Muller noted the UEZ investment improves access to jobs and shopping. Transportation liaison Lipa Klein said the upgrades are already improving the rider experience. Route and schedule information is available at lakewoodnj.gov.

Rain Barrel Workshop Planned

HOWELL – Residents will have an opportunity to learn how to conserve water and reduce runoff during a hands-on rain barrel workshop scheduled for January 17, 2026, at Echo Lake Park.

The program, held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., will guide participants through building a functional rain barrel designed to collect stormwater for gardening and landscape use. Organizers say harvesting rainwater can help limit basement flooding, cut back on pollution entering local waterways, and support the health of the Metedeconk River and Barnegat Bay watersheds.

Each barrel holds roughly 50 gallons and

measures about 34 inches tall and 25 inches wide. Participants should be able to transport the barrel home by laying it across the backseat of most vehicles.

The workshop is free, and all necessary tools and materials will be supplied. Attendance is capped at 25 people, and early registration is encouraged.

To sign up or request additional information, residents may contact Shari Kondrup at skondrup@ brickmua.com or 732-701-4282.

The event is sponsored by Brick Utilities and Howell Township.

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Page 12, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

Review:

Continued From Page 1 newcomers Rocco Lepore and Dan Ward.

The council still has a Democratic majority, holding four of the seven seats.

The Board of Education also saw the re-election of incumbent Fran DiBenedictis and newcomer Michael A. Mastroserio, who will serve three-year terms. Superintendent Dr. Thomas Farrell, who was hired in 2020, has a contract that runs through until June 2028.

The township celebrated a milestone birthday in February, 2025 when Brick turned 175. On February 15, 1850, Brick Township was officially established and was home to 1,558 residents. Today the township has an estimated 76,000 residents.

Also in 2025, the Brick Children’s Community Theater (BCCT) now has a permanent home since The Mantoloking Road Playhouse had their official opening in March.

The Zarrilli family, owners of Mantoloking Road Alehouse, found an old building for sale on Mantoloking Road and created the new 120-seat playhouse in just five months.

Township youth also benefitted by the re-opening of the Brick Township Teen Center in April after being closed for five years.

Located in the Civic Plaza, operations were forced to cease during the COVID pandemic until Mayor Crate, a former teacher, spearheaded a revitalization of the space, which is open to Brick residents in grades 6 through 12 during the school year.

In May, plans were announced for a multi-year, multi-million dollar renovation of the Department of Public Works when the governing body voted to budget $2.2 million for phase 1 of the department’s Master Site Plan.

The Master Site Plan includes infrastruc-

Cases:

Continued From Page 4 move between districts and jurisdictions, and how misconduct can remain hidden until victims feel safe enough to come forward.

In each of these cases involving male educators, public outrage was immediate and sustained. The students were widely recognized as victims.

A System Under Strain New Jersey has taken steps to address educator misconduct, including its so-called “passthe-trash” law, which aims to prevent school employees with substantiated abuse histories from quietly moving between districts.

But enforcement challenges remain, particularly when allegations do not surface until years later or when early warning signs

ture improvements, such as the construction of new storage facilities, two new above ground fuel tanks and fuel station, a new salt dome, a vehicle wash facility, storm drainage improvements, more office space and more.

The entire renovation will be funded over four budget cycles with a “guesstimate” cost of $9 million, said Township Business Administrator Joanne Bergin.

Also, groundbreaking on the new sports complex at the former Foodtown site on Route 70 took place in June where the developer, LCP Sports II Urban Renewal, is building a 135,000 square foot facility.

What started out as plans for a dome changed into a single, full-metal building due to fire code compliance. The privately-owned sports facility is expected to open sometime in early 2026.

In August, the popular 1.6 walking path surrounding the Brick Reservoir was temporarily closed to the public when structural modifications started on the 90-acre body of water.

The project extends the depth of the reservoir by stabilizing the interior sides with a concrete-filled fabric “blanket” that will allow it to hold significantly more water, bolster the water supply and prevent erosion.

The project is expected to last about 10 months, at which time the walking path is expected to reopen as it previously appeared.

And finally, the last Farmer’s Market of the year concluded in October, which marked the 11th season for the popular event, which featured some 50 vendors at Windward Beach Park.

The Farmer’s Market runs from the beginning of May and offers everything from produce to crafts, baked goods, prepared foods and much more. New vendors are added every year, so the 2026 season won’t disappoint.

are dismissed.

Experts emphasize the importance of training educators and administrators to recognize grooming behaviors, creating safe reporting pathways for students, and fostering cultures where allegations are evaluated based on facts, not gender expectations.

For Ocean and Monmouth counties, the growing list of cases represents more than a grim tally. It is a call to confront uncomfortable truths about trust, power, and perception.

Abuse does not wear one face. It does not follow one script. And it does not become less harmful if it defies stereotypes.

As courts continue to process these cases, families and schools alike are being asked to reckon with a difficult reality: protecting children means believing them, no matter who stands accused.

Food Addicts Anonymous Meetings

BAYVILLE – In person meetings are every Monday night at 7 p.m. at the Methodist Church just south of the Dinosaur in Bayville. (526 Atlantic City Boulevard,

Bayville.)

Come check it out if you’re wondering whether Food Addicts Anonymous could help you or someone you know!

jerseyshoreonline.com

Beach:

Continued From Page 1 1965 – that the Borough of Island Beach closed down, becoming a beautiful ghost town left to nature to reclaim.

Ancient History Of course, the earliest inhabitants were native Americans. The Lenape had permanent settlements on the mainland, and seasonal homes here – a parallel could be drawn between modern inhabitants with their beach houses.

In 1614, Dutch cartographer Cornelius Hendrickson was likely the first European to set foot on Ocean County. He sailed through Barnegat Inlet to the Toms River and claimed the land for Holland.

The British pressured Holland to give up claim to the land and in 1635, the area was granted to the first Earl of Stirling. A few generations later and IBSP became known

The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 13 as Lord Stirling’s Isle.

In 1758, the Treaty of Easton forcibly removed all Lenape from New Jersey, requiring them to head west to reservations.

Through the early 1800s, through maritime warfare and a dangerous coast claimed hundreds of ships, giving the Jersey coast the nickname “the graveyard of the Atlantic.”

This led to three life-saving stations being built on IBSP. Tourism And Locals After the arrival of the railroad, this area became a place for vacationing. Two hotels – the Reed and the Haring – were opened for sportsmen on IBSP. While some were hunting and fishing for sport, the Baymen did it as a way of life – able to live almost entirely off what nature provided.

Henry C. Phipps, a partner of Andrew Carnegie, purchased the land in 1926. He wanted an exclusive summer resort. He

built the Ocean House, the Bay House, and the Freeman House. These three buildings are still used by the governor. The stock market crash ended the development plans and Phipps died in 1930.

His land manager, Francis Parkman Freeman, took over from there. He had a fascinating life full of remarkable wins and horrible losses. He managed farms, served in World War I, lost his wife and daughter in childbirth, moved to Armenia to teach agriculture, and then came back to become the foreman of the Phipps estate. He married children’s author Augusta Hueill Seaman.

Freeman, his wife, and retired Coast Guard Capt. Joseph Tilton created the borough of Island Beach. Freeman was fire chief, head of the board of education and mayor while his wife was borough clerk, tax collector, and borough registrar.

They managed the Phipps Barnegat Bay and Beach Company and sold passes to visitors. They also administered almost 100

land leases to people wanting to live there.

The builders were not to disturb any flowers or osprey while they built.

While the federal government had shown interest in purchasing the property, the 2,694 acres were eventually bought by the State of New Jersey in 1953 for $2.7 million.

The people living there had an agreement that when they passed away, their land would be given to the state. The park itself opened in 1959.

So when you visit Island Beach State Park today, take a long look at the unblemished shoreline. Hear the tinkling sound of shells that were used to line the walking trails.

Feel the breeze and the sun on your skin.

Notice that the only vehicles on the road are driven by people seeking to enjoy nature.

And then imagine what it would have been like without preservation.

This article contains information researched from the N.J. Department of Environmental Protection.

Brick Man Gets 14 Years In Child Exploitation Case

By Jason Allentoff TRENTON – A Brick Township man was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for receiving child sexual abuse material and exploiting multiple minors, federal prosecutors said.

Daniel Nilla, 37, was sentenced Dec. 2 to 168 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton. He

also was ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release following his prison term.

Nilla previously pleaded guilty to three counts of receipt of child pornography.

According to court records and statements made in court, Nilla communicated with at least five minor victims between December 2021 and April 2023 using

a multimedia instant messaging application. Prosecutors said Nilla knew the victims were minors and directed them to send images and videos of themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct, which he used for his own sexual gratification.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI, with assistance from the FBI’s Kansas City Division and the Edwardsville,

Kansas Police Department.

The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative aimed at combating the sexual exploitation and abuse of children. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Belgiovine of the Criminal Division in Trenton.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 14, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

A MESSAGE FROM OUR ADMINISTRATOR: Rose Garden is one of the few “mom and pop” skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers left ... in the state of New Jersey. The world has turned “corporate;” we have not.

It has been our core belief that the delivery of healthcare is quite personal. That “intimacy” is in danger when 5 to 100 facilities are operated in multiple states by large corporations.

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Here’s To Your Health Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

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

Early Hearing Treatment May Reduce Dementia Risk

Science has found growing evidence that treating hearing loss may do more than improve communication. It could also help protect brain health. A study published in JAMA Neurology in 2025 adds to the increasing evidence, showing that using hearing aids earlier in life may help lower dementia risk in some groups.

The investigation, “Self-Reported Hearing Aid Use and Risk of Incident Dementia,” drew on data from almost 3,000 U.S. adults ages 60 and older who were part of the long-running Framingham Heart Study. Participants without dementia were followed up to 20 years to track whether hearing aid use affected their chances of developing the condition.

What researchers found: Adults 60–69 who reported wearing hearing aids were about 61% less likely to develop dementia than those with unaddressed hearing loss.

Though the same potential benefit wasn’t found among those 70+ with an identified hearing loss, other research has already linked hearing aid use to lower dementia risk among older adults.

Timing might play a key role. Tackling hearing loss earlier — before significant cognitive changes begin — may help keep the brain active and connected.

Hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal and increased mental strain as the brain works harder to process unclear sound. Over time, the extra effort may

contribute to changes in brain structure and function. By improving sound clarity and communication, hearing aids may help reduce this burden and support longterm brain health.

The study’s findings build on past breakthroughs tying hearing care to cognitive wellness. In 2023, for example, the ACHIEVE study announced findings linking professionally fitted hearing aids and audiologic counseling to a slower rate of cognitive decline in older adults at higher risk over three years. These outcomes demonstrate hearing care’s importance in aging healthily and empowered.

Help protect your hearing and brain health. Call Dr. Izzy & Staff to set up an appointment for a complete hearing evaluation, 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com. We Hear You & We are Here for You! Self-Reported Hearing Aid Use and Risk of Incident Dementia (JAMA Neurology/ JAMA Network, https://jamanetwork. com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2837714, Accessed 10/21/25). New Study Finds 61% Reduced Dementia Risk Among Hearing Aid Users Under 70 (Hearing Health & Technology Matters, https://hearinghealthmatters. org/hearing-news-watch/2025/dementia-risk-hearing-aids/, Accessed 10/21/25).

His offices are in Toms River, Whiting, and Manahawkin. He can be reached at 732-451-3962 or via Web site at gardenstatehearing.com. Dr. Izzy & Staff gives Retirement Community Talks!

County Urges Seniors To Report Suspicious Medicare Calls, Mailings OCEAN COU NTY – Off icials are wa r n i ng resident s to st ay aler t for potential Medicare scams as reports increase about unsolicited phone calls, unexpected mailings and unannounced visits from individuals claiming to represent Medicare.

Authorities say some residents have received calls from people posing as Medicare representatives or plan providers, offering to change or “update” their coverage. Others have reported strangers arriving at their homes with f lyers or marketing materials promoting alternative Medicare plans.

Seniors are also urged to watch their mail

closely. If a packet arrives welcoming them to a plan they did not sign up for, it may indicate their coverage was switched without their knowledge or consent.

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted is encouraged to contact the Senior Medicare Patrol at 877-808-2468 or by emailing info@smpresource.org.

For residents who need assistance comparing plans or determining which Medicare option best fits their needs, the county’s Office of Senior Services offers free guidance through its State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Counselors can be reached at 732-929-2091.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 15

Here’s To Your Health Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

5 Ways To Recognize Oral Thrush And What You Can Do About It

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Oral thrush often arrives quietly, showing up as a strange taste or a subtle change in the appearance of your tongue before more obvious symptoms develop. It’s caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a yeast that normally lives harmlessly in the mouth. When the oral microbiome shifts because of antibiotics, illness, dryness or immune changes, yeast can become opportunistic and multiply enough to create the classic white or gray coating of the tongue associated with thrush.

Antibiotics are the most common trigger.

These medications reduce the protective bacterial populations in the mouth while leaving yeast untouched. Widely used antibiotics such as amoxicillin, cefdinir, doxycycline, metronidazole, and rifaximin are well known to provoke thrush. Thrush may appear a few days into therapy or after you complete the course. Steroid inhalers, chronic dry mouth, and a high sugar diet are additional factors that make thrush more likely.

Symptoms are subtle. A sour or metallic taste occurs first, followed by mild burning or the feeling of a film on the tongue. You can try brushing or scraping your tongue but it won’t work. The coating thickens and may involve the cheeks or throat. These symptoms are clues that the oral microbiome has shifted and needs attention.

Babies frequently get thrush, and it can happen after their earache is treated with an antibiotic. They’ll become fussy during feeding or pull away from the breast or bottle.

Inside their mouth, you may see creamy white patches on the tongue (or cheeks) that don’t

wipe off. Sometimes a bright red diaper rash appears at the same time which is another sign of yeast overgrowth/thrush.

Treatment depends on severity but gentle home care can help when symptoms are mild. A simple rinse made with baking soda and warm water can reduce acidity. A saltwater rinse soothes irritated tissue. These remedies do not replace medical therapy, but they bring more balance to the oral environment. Reducing sugar intake for a few days can also make a difference because yeast thrives on glucose.

When thrush is more pronounced or persistent, see a doctor. The top prescription treatments they use include these three meds.

1. Nystatin suspension which is swished in the mouth before swallowing.

2. Clotrimazole troches which dissolve slowly and treat the affected surfaces directly.

3. Fluconazole tablets which work systemically. These are used less often since they’re for stubborn or severe cases.

Thrush is not a sign of poor hygiene.

Treatment involves restoring a healthy oral microbiome so the opportunistic yeast no longer has the advantage! Early intervention shortens the misery. I can share ways to do that and what supplements to look for if you’re interested. I wrote a longer version of this article which includes more natural options, specific antibiotic details, explanations of why thrush develops, and expanded guidance for home care. To read that, visit my website suzycohen.com and sign up for my free newsletter.

(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) ©2025 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Page 16, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

RC R.C.SHEA S

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The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 17

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law Choosing The Right Automobile Insurance Will Protect Your Family And Assets

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates In 1998, the State of New Jersey adopted the Automobile Insurance Cost Reduction Act (AICRA) to reduce the cost of automobile insurance by reducing the benefits available to persons who are injured in automobile accidents. This means less coverage to pay for medical treatment and less rights to recover monetary damages from careless drivers who injure your family. Protect yourself.

Automobile insurance is mandatory in New Jersey. The failure to carry automobile insurance may be punishable by imprisonment. When purchasing automobile insurance, you have two choices; you are required to select either a Basic Policy or a Standard Policy.

We do not recommend choosing the Basic Policy.

The Basic Policy only provides minimal coverage and leaves you unprotected in several areas. A Basic Policy only provides you with $5,000.00 of property damage liability coverage if someone makes a claim against you and only provides $15,000.00 of medical expense benefits should you require medical treatment for your injuries. The Basic Policy does not cover you if you injure someone else. The Basic Policy does not provide Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect you and your family if the careless driver who causes the collision is uninsured or is insured under a Basic Policy. Perhaps most importantly, the Basic Policy will not provide you with a free lawyer to defend any claim against your personal assets.

We recommend that you purchase a Standard Policy. A Standard Policy provides the best insurance coverage to protect your assets if you are sued and to provide compensation to you and your family if you/they are injured.

The Standard Policy does provide medical expense benefits (PIP) coverage which includes medical expenses up to $250,000.00 per person per accident. The Standard Policy also provides you with Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM Benefits), so if you are injured by someone who does not have automobile insurance, is insured under a Basic Policy or leaves the scene of the collision then you and your family are covered for your losses.

When you purchase the Standard Policy you must elect a “tort option” that will determine your right to make a claim.

You must select either the “limitation on lawsuit option” or the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” If you purchase the Basic Policy then you are assigned the “limitation on lawsuit option.” We recommend that you choose the “no limitation on lawsuit option.” Ask your insurance representative what is the actual dollar amount that your overall premium will increase if you elect the “no limitation on lawsuit option.”

By choosing the “limitation on lawsuit option” you are limiting you legal right to make a claim for monetary damages unless you sustain one of the following injuries: Death, Dismemberment; Significant scarring or disfigurement; Displaced Fractures; Loss of Fetus or a Permanent Injury that can been diagnosed by credible, objective medical testing.

Selecting the correct insurance coverage is extremely important when it comes to protecting your family and personal assets.

Call the Attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates (732-505-1212) if you have been injured in an automobile accident so we can help you protect your rights.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

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WIC Offers Breastfeeding Help For Ocean County Families

TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Health Department is reminding new and expectant parents that lactation support is available through the WIC Breastfeeding Warmline, a free service designed to answer common questions and provide guidance.

WIC staff members are trained to assist with a wide range of breastfeeding concerns, from how often to nurse and how long a feeding

should last, to recognizing a proper latch or dealing with discomfort. The warmline also offers advice for parents who plan to continue breastfeeding after returning to work or school.

Officials say the service is intended to be approachable and convenient, giving families access to help whenever they need it.

The WIC Breastfeeding Warmline can be reached at 732-678-0057.

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Page 18, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

Around The Jersey Shore Ocean County Commends Consumer Affairs Sting

By Jason Allentoff TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners is recognizing the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs following a weeklong undercover operation aimed at repeat offenders in the home improvement industry.

The investigation, dubbed Operation “This Old House,” was conducted Nov. 5–13 at a covert site in Manchester Township and focused on identifying contractors operating without proper licenses or in violation of state and county regulations. The effort was led by Senior Investigator Anthony Fontana and Investigator Andrew Chenacharick, working in coordination with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

Commissioner Robert S. Arace, the board’s liaison to the department, said the operation reflects a continued commitment

to consumer protection while supporting legitimate businesses.

“These efforts help ensure residents can hire contractors with confidence, while also protecting law-abiding businesses from unfair competition,” Arace said.

Officials said the sting resulted in 40 violations issued to six contractors with prior histories of unpaid penalties, legal issues and, in some cases, active arrest warrants.

Charges have been filed in Manchester Township Municipal Court, and the county is seeking more than $250,000 in fines. The cases have also been forwarded to the state Department of the Treasury and Division of Taxation for additional review.

Ronald Heinzman, director of the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs, said enforcement actions remain a priority.

“Our residents deserve honest and de-

pendable contractors,” Heinzman said.

“We will continue to take strong action to protect consumers and uphold the law.”

Contractors cited during the operation included Guru Waterproofing LLC of Manahawkin; BN Construction Co. of Brick; Zack of All Trades of Little Egg Harbor; B and J Asphalt of Toms River; Best Black Top of Toms River; and Frogmen Construction of Bayville, which faces both county and state charges.

Chenacharick said the violations uncovered were serious and not the result of minor paperwork errors.

“These cases represent significant failures to follow the rules and meet basic responsibilities,” he said.

Investigators also reported that three randomly selected contractors were found to be fully compliant, a result officials said

underscores the professionalism of many contractors operating in Ocean County.

Fontana said the operation serves as a warning to those who attempt to take advantage of residents.

“Ocean County will not tolerate contractors who ignore the law and put consumers at risk,” he said.

The Board of Commissioners also thanked Manchester Township Police Chief Antonio Ellis, Lt. Dave Fusaro, the Manchester Township Police Department and Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy for their assistance during the operation.

Arace said the investigation highlights the department’s ongoing mission to promote fairness and transparency in the marketplace while protecting county residents from deceptive business practices.

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NUMEROUS DISCOUNT PACKAGES AVAILABLE! FOR DETAILS, CALL 732-657-7344 TODAY! Please Check Your Ad The First Week It’s Scheduled To Run For Insertion & Accuracy.

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The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 19

CLASSIFIEDS For Rent Cabin For Rent - Jackson, NJ. Call for details 732-939-4540.

(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, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732849-6068 (new number). (t/n) COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY Looking to buy costume/es tate 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) 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) CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. 732-804-8115.

(3) Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac.

Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n) Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (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) I Buy Records - Cash paid, we answer the phone. Call Eddie at 732-829-5908. Records 33/45.

Walt buys comics, toys & collectibles. Call 908-278-3782.

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Help Wanted H VA C I n s t a l l e r / Te c h n i cian Hiring Now - Experience needed. Great Work Environment. Company vehicle. Full time, year round, paid holidays.

Call 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n) Certified Home Health Aides - Needed for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n) Laundromat Attendant - For FT/PT Good communication skills, math and min computer knowledge. Transportation needed. Long term commitment only. 732-286-1863. (t/n) Caregiver Help Needed - Need someone to stay at my house f o r 2 w e e k s t o c a r e f o r m e a fter hip surgery. $500 per week.

Also can clean house for $20/hr.

Call Richard 732-901-5397.

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Services

Services

PAINTING By Neat And Meticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice.com. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award.

Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

Handyman Solutions - Affordable prices that are budget friendly.

All phases of Home Improvement and Repairs. Carpentry • Laminate Flooring • Painting • Drywall • Doors • Windows • Siding • Hand and Vinyl Railings • Decks • Minor Plumbing/ Electrical and more. Licensed Insured. 609-384-9030.

(50) Anthony’s WINDOW CLEANING - CLEAN WINDOWS INSIDE OUTSIDE SCREENS & LEDGES CLEANED INSURED QUALITY, NEAT PROFESSIONAL. FREE EST. REFERENCES 732-278-5914. (45) Life Coach - Facing a challenge?

Talk it out with me in person. Be more likely to sense your way. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas, 732-754-4891.

(50) Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (t/n) Dana's Cleaning Service - Let us make your home or office Sparkle and Shine for the holidays. Book now and get 20% off for all new clients.

Call 609-703-3922.

(50) Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725.

(42) DO YOU WANT YOU CAR TO LOOK NICE AND SHINE CALL LENNY < Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (46)

Housecleaning - Laundry, window, carpet, office cleaning, food shopping. Call 732-3304189 or 848-287-3944.

(1) APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations. Fully insured and licensed. Seniors 10% off any job $500 or more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (7) Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, repairs, painting. 732-6743346. License #13VH03469200. (41) DIRECTV - All your entertainment.

Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/ mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (t/n) Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n) Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information.

(7) A1 HANDYMAN SERVICES Over 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267475-7962 or 732-477-0379.

(43)

A PLUS CLEANING - Homes Offices AirBnB Thorough Reliable Honest Specializing in Senior Villages Call Barbara 732 948-4730. (3)

T H E R I D E G U Y - Ta k e s you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (t/n)

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

Handyman Available - 15 years experience. Light plumbing and electrical repair. Install fixtures, etc. No job too small. 646-734-9141.

(33)

Dana’s Cleaning Service - Let me make your home or office sparkle and shine for the Hollidays. Book now receive 20% for your first cleaning. 609-703-3922.

(1) Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-833-901-0309 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (t/n) "Stick With the Man That Covers Your Can! - Residential and Commercia Pump-outs FREE 1 year supply of enzyme treatment with each septic pump-out. Septic Inspections. Septic System Installations and All Repairs.

Grease Traps installation and pump outs. Tank Abandonment and Demolition. 24 Hours Emergency Service! 732-244-0189. (5) Retired R.N. - Available for help in your home. Appointments, meal prep, laundry, etc. Call Chris 845-430-1853.

(43)

Car Service - Based in Bayville & LBI area. Airports, long distance, late nights, holidays. Dependable.

Text/Call Keith 609-351-2462. (2) Handyman - Painting, powerwashing, electrical, plumbing, light hauling. Call Joe 732-859-9266. (19) Anyone Interested In Having Their - Office, home or apartment cleaned, contact Diane.

Honest and reliable. Free estimates. 845-762-9952.

(49) Interior And Exterior Painting Small home repairs. 30 years of experience. Free estimates. Fully insured. LIC: 13VHO4548900 Call Tommy: 609-661-1657.

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

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED: • Mail this form to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733. OR • Go to jerseyshoreonline.com, click classifieds, fill out the form and pay by credit card. OR • Fax this form to 732-657-7388 ATTN: ALI.

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Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (For that Saturday’s publication)

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 20, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

YOUR AD COULD BE SEEN IN PRINT & ONLINE! CALL US AT 732-657-7344 TO LEARN MORE!

Around The Jersey Shore New Fulfill Vans Hit The Road To Fight Jersey Shore Hunger

Photos courtesy Fulfill Seeds of Service with Triada Stampas and Brick Mayor Lisa Crate.

By Jason Allentoff JERSEY SHORE – If you’ve ever wondered how food gets from grocery stores to local pantries, Fulfill just made that process a whole lot easier.

The Monmouth and Ocean County food bank has donated five brand-new refrigerated 2024 Ford Transit vans to area food pantries, giving them a major boost in their ability to pick up and distribute fresh food.

The vans were paid for through a Feeding America Retail Capacity Building Grant and are already making a difference. With refrigeration and more space, pantries can now make bigger and more frequent trips to grocery stores, rescuing food that might otherwise go to waste and getting it onto pantry shelves faster.

The new vans went to Bradley Food Pantry in Neptune City, Our Lady of Gu ad alupe i n La kewood , t he Hope Center in Toms River, Starve Poverty in Barnegat and Seeds of Service in Brick.

Fulfill President and CEO Triada Stampas said the donation goes far beyond handing over keys.

“More than 130,000 of our neighbors rely on our pantry network for food assistance,” Stampas said. “This isn’t just a vehicle. It’s a lifeline that will help our partners serve their communities for years to come.”

Every month, Fulfill and its partner pantries provide enough food for about 1.3 million meals across the two counties.

That need has more than doubled over the past five years as food prices and basic living costs continue to climb.

By pairing each pantry with nearby food retailers, the vans help move fresh produce, frozen foods, meat and baked goods directly from stores to families in need.

Jonathan Rowe, Fulfill’s vice president of operations, said the partnerships are a win for everyone involved.

“These vans allow pantries and retailers to work hand in hand,” Rowe said.

“They help rescue more fresh food, reduce waste and serve more neighbors than ever.”

Fulfill says the approach is already paying off. Pantries that received vans earlier this year saw donated food from retail pickups jump by about 30,000 pounds in their first year. Those same pantries are now on track to increase donations by another 55,000 pounds, far outpacing the rest of the charitable food network.

For pantry leaders, the impact is immediate.

“The van truly transformed our operations,” said Geralyn Fraggetta-Drury, executive director of the Freehold Area Open Door Pantry, a previous recipient.

“We no longer have to turn food away.

If it’s donated, we can get it and get it to our neighbors.”

Fulfill says vehicle grants like these are part of a long-term effort to strengthen local pantries and build food security across the region, a mission the organization has focused on since helping communities recover after Superstorm Sandy.

Stampas said the work is far from over.

“The need keeps growing,” she said. “We have to keep growing with it.”

For more information, visit fulfillnj.org.

Check out Micromedia Publications’ website, jerseyshoreonline.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 21

Around The Jersey Shore

DeGRAFF CREMATION SERVICES DIRECT CREMATION $1875

Non-Profit Spreads Holiday Support Across Ocean County

OCEAN COUNTY – During the holiday season, Ocean Partnership for Children (OPC) rallied community support to provide assistance, connection and holiday cheer to children and families across Ocean County.

Through a series of holiday initiatives, OPC combined celebration with impact, ensuring families facing mental health challenges, trauma, substance use issues, developmental disabilities and financial hardship received meaningful support.

A highlight of the season was Santa Snaps & Sips, a festive community event featuring family and pet photos with Santa that raised critical funding for OPC programs.

Proceeds from sponsorships, raffles and activities directly supported care management services that connect families with mental health resources and basic needs.

In addition, OPC addressed food insecu-

rity through holiday food drives, with staff delivering pantry items directly to families’ homes throughout the county. Toy and gift card drives, supported by more than 20 local businesses serving as collection sites, helped provide youth up to age 21 with gifts during the holidays while giving families flexibility to meet individual needs.

OPC officials said the success of the holiday efforts reflects the strength of community partnerships and the generosity of donors, volunteers and local businesses. While the programs are most visible during the holidays, the impact continues year-round.

Ocean Partnership for Children thanked all who contributed to the initiatives and remains committed to supporting youth and families through coordinated care, advocacy and collaboration. More information is available at oceanpartnership.org or by emailing info@oceanpartnership.org.

Volunteers Sought For Ocean County Student Mentoring Program

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County officials are seeking residents interested in mentoring elementary school students through a county-run lunchtime program aimed at providing children with extra support and guidance.

The Ocean County Mentoring Program is recruiting volunteers who can commit to meeting with a student once a week during their lunch break. Organizers say the sessions are informal and focus on conversation, listening, and building positive

connections.

Barry Steinmetz, the program coordinator with the Ocean County Department of Juvenile Services, said the initiative offers a simple but meaningful way for adults to make a difference in a child’s life.

The program is sponsored by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and the Department of Law and Public Safety.

Those interested in volunteering or seeking additional information can contact Steinmetz at 732-288-7723.

Arrangements Available In Your Home, Removal From Local Hospital, Alternative Container, Wood #ODZ, Transfer To Crematory Located at:

DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home 119 Union Avenue, Lakehurst

732-657-7868

www.degrafffuneralhome.com

Additional Costs: Crematory Fee, Urns, Disposition Of Sherry T. DeGraff Cremains & Certified Copies Of Death Certificates, Permit,

NJ Lic No 3921

Removal Assist. & Mileage, Viewings Or Memorial Services

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 22, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 Calibri, Arial, et al.

6 Early show featuring Robin Roberts, for short 9 Jargon 14 Childish retort 15 Sought office 16 Not just in one’s head 17 Actor who voices the panda in the “Kung Fu Panda” films 19 Layered dessert 20 Addams cousin 21 Visionary 23 Source of an oil with medicinal properties 26 Ireland’s “Amhrán na bhFiann,” for one 29 Brazilian supermodel who’s a face of Maybelline 32 Original Beatle Sutcliffe 33 Carol contraction

34 “Queen Sugar” creator DuVernay 35 Flying Cloud and Royale 8 36 With 40-Across, a punny title for this puzzle 39 Some amount 40 See 36-Across 41 North Carolina university 42 Org. that approves cosmetics 43 “U slay me!”

44 “I’ll take that as __” 45 “Slumdog Millionaire” actress 50 Vex 52 “Totally fine” 53 “Give me one moment” 56 Sat. antecedent 57 Wake-up call, for many 59 “Family Guy” voice actor who co-created “Robot Chicken” 62 Leads

63 Mature 64 Meaningless 65 Fine and dandy 66 Walk very quietly 67 Pop-__ Down 1 Sizzling serving 2 Provided an address 3 Hummingbird’s drink 4 Sound of shame 5 Blubber 6 Primo 7 Spice related to nutmeg 8 “Diana” singer Paul 9 Cuban woman, perhaps 10 “You beat me” 11 Water between Antwerp and Aberdeen 12 Belly 13 Loving words 18 Property claims 22 Title in Tibet 24 Nashville athlete 25 Parade spoiler 27 Hugh Laurie’s alma mater 28 Tousle

30 Hawaiian island 31 Dartmouth, for one 35 Artifact 36 Try, as a case 37 Radius neighbor 38 Excursion during a lunar landing 39 Beverage suffix 40 Good songs, casually 42 Worry 43 Close securely 45 Floppy 46 Intermittently fasted, perhaps 47 Daredevil quality 48 Sign in an apartment window 49 QB protectors 51 Factor in Hindu reincarnation 54 “Quickly!” letters 55 Video game giant 57 “Got it!”

58 Summer fire sign 60 “Scram!”

61 Molecule in some vaccines

(c)2025 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SU DOK U

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble: NIECE MODEM INWARD TARGET -- “RIDE” ON TIME

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, December 27, 2025, Page 23

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FOR THE WEEK OF DEC. 27 - JAN. 2

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS FORECAST ARIES (March 21-April 19): An ally or colleague could bring a lot of heart to the role.

If you’ve been staging something important and your individual cycles line up, later this week brings big opportunity with great odds for success.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Hold your mindset, don’t let a brief tremor in confidence upend your day. The more you build your inner mental foundation, the less the world can bring you down. You could get all the applause, anyway.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Taking action when the time is right is a boss move, better odds are better odds. The stars in the coming week are ramping up into the last great opportunity days of 2025. Do it or launch it if everything critical lines up.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): An active day with a partner could be perfect, too much sedentary time might foster discord if kinetic energies don’t have a constructive outlet. True confidence is obvious, build it inwardly for your own benefit.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Efforts to build community are never wasted, don’t hesitate to roll up your sleeves and pitch in. And, the alliances that are made could pay off in other places.

Don’t get emotionally invested in something illusionary.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A playful activity or artistic or musical expression could be fulfilling now, high energies could want to cut

loose. Despite today’s above-zero helpful stars, you might want to believe in someone who’s other than they represent.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Weigh the idea or communiqué on merits, not on glossy persuasion, the two are not the same thing. Action at home could move a helpful needle with satisfying effect. Share time with a friend.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Speak out or up, you may need to be heard and your audience should be receptive, the ideas you spark could be valuable. Learning something new can deepen your skillset and uplevel your options.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Applying the right leverage could move a financial situation. You may have been eager to take action, the outlook is better than it’s been. Someone could have important intel to share.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): As a multi-talented person, you have a variety of cards you could play. Pick the right one for the situation at hand. In a collab with the right person, you could both rise more quickly.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Your shadow becomes a treasure chest when you get out a shovel [set aside time] and dig into your inner self. The more you clear that’s no longer resonant, the more you bring forth your truest gifts.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Build selflove/self-care game that’s consistent and strong and that sets up all the rest. Confidence is built inwardly, not in owning status stuff, posting thirst traps, or other outer performance.

(c) 2025 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

NEW YEAR’S EVE SHRIMP AND SCALLOP STEW, A CELEBRATORY DISH Diane Rossen Worthington If you are planning on staying home this year and having a small group for dinner, I recommend making this crowd-pleasing stew for your main course. Seafood has become so expensive that I usually save it for special occasions. And New Year’s Eve is certainly a time for celebration.

The soup base and aioli can be made ahead and finished at the last minute, making this an excellent choice for entertaining. You’ll only have to reheat the base and make the toasts on the day of serving. The tangy aioli This quick stew is perfect for this time of year when topped on French bread it is cold and blustery. CREDIT:(Noel Barnhurst/TCA). toasts brings all the flavors together.

If you are feeling pinched with the seafood 1. Heat the olive oil in a medium soup cost, go for less-expensive fish like sea bass, pot. Add the onions, carrots and fennel, cod or halibut. You could also throw in some stirring occasionally, and sauté for about mussels and clams. Begin with your favorite 5 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic green salad topped with a sherry vinaigrette and saute another minute. Add the clam and crumbled goat cheese. Choose a lemon juice, wine, tomatoes, water, anchovy or apple tart or roasted pears for dessert. A paste, orange peel and salt and pepper and glass of Champagne would be a nice addi- simmer, partially covered, on medium-low heat for 20 minutes. tion to dessert and to ring in the New Year.

2. Meanwhile make the toasts. Preheat the NEW YEAR’S EVE SHRIMP AND oven to 350 F. Rub the garlic on one side SCALLOP STEW WITH PARMESAN AIOLI of each bread slice and very lightly spray it with olive oil spray. Place the toasts on a Serves 4 to 6 baking sheet and toast for 7 to 10 minutes For the stew: or until lightly browned. Remove and re2 tablespoons olive oil serve. (Do this the day of serving.)

1 onion, finely chopped 3. Combine all the ingredients for the aioli 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped in a small bowl and mix to blend. Taste 1 fennel bulb, finely chopped for seasoning. Cover and refrigerate until 4 medium garlic cloves, minced serving.

1 cup bottled clam juice 4. When the soup is cooked, remove the or1 1/2 cups dry red wine 1 (28-ounce) can peeled, diced tomatoes ange zest and season to taste. With a hand blender, blend the soup until it is roughly with juice pureed with some texture remaining. If it 1/2 cup water is too thick, add a bit more water or clam 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste juice to achieve a soup-like consistency.

2-inch-long strip of orange peel 5. Return the soup to medium-high heat.

Salt and black pepper 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined with Add the shrimp and scallops and simmer for about 3- to 4 minutes or until the seatail left on food is just cooked through.

12 medium scallops 6. To serve: Spread some aioli on each For the toasts: toast. Ladle some soup into each soup 12 slices French bread bowl (I like to use shallow soup plates 1 garlic clove, sliced in half for a pretty presentation) Arrange a few Olive oil spray aioli toasts around the edge and dollop a For the Parmesan Aioli: 1/4 cup mayonnaise2 garlic cloves, minced teaspoon of the aioli in the center of each bowl. Garnish with chopped chives. Serve 1 teaspoon lemon zest immediately.

1 teaspoon anchovy paste 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan Advance preparation: This stew may be made up to two days ahead through Step cheese 4, covered and refrigerated. Make the white pepper toasts the day it will be served. Reheat To garnish: before continuing.

2 tablespoons finely chopped chives (Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including “Seriously Simple Parties,” and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at www.seriouslysimple.com.) ©2025 Diane Rossen Worthington. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Page 24, The Brick Times, December 27, 2025

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