2026-01-03 - The Brick Times

The BRICK Times Vol. 25 - No. 35

In This Week’s Edition

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Vigil Honors Residents Who Died W hile Homeless

Finance, Maintenance Discussed By School Board

2026 BREAKING NEWS @

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Government Page 5

Community News Page 8-9

Inside The Law Page 12

Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Page 13

Photos by Stephanie Faughnan (Left) About 50 people came out to pray for and remember those who were lost. (Right) Laurie Singer, outreach coordinator for the Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition, reads the names of Ocean County residents who died while homeless during the candlelight memorial service outside St. John’s AME Zion Church in Lakewood.

By Stephanie Faughnan OCEAN COUNTY – The glow of candlelight softened the evening darkness outside St. John’s AME Zion Church as about 50 people gathered to remember Ocean County neighbors who died this year while homeless. Names were spoken.

Prayers were offered. Silence settled in the spaces between breaths.

The Ocean County Homeless Persons Memorial Service was organized by the Ocean County Homeless Prevention and Assistance Coalition (HPAC) and the Ending Homelessness Group. It brought together a cross-section of the people who do the quiet work of showing up. Representatives from Monarch Housing Associates, Inc., Toms

River Housing and Homeless Coalition, HABcore, Inc., Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey, Ocean County Department of Human Services, and Family Promise stood shoulder to shoulder. They represented only a portion of the organizations working every day to prevent people from falling through the cracks.

Jennifer Hakeem of Monarch Housing and the Ending Homelessness Group explained the purpose of the Ocean County Homeless Prevention and Assistance Coalition. “The HPAC works to ensure that people who are experiencing homelessness or at risk for homelessness will have access to communities and services,” she shared. “We do (Vigil - See Page 4)

State Might End Graduation Tests

By Chris Lundy TRENTON – A bill that would eliminate the tests students need to graduate, leaving boards of education to determine graduation requirements has advanced to the State Senate.

Assembly bill A-4121 would eliminate the high school graduation

proficiency test, which is taken in 11th grade.

Graduation requirements would be determined by local boards of education, but the State Commissioner of Education would monitor these requirements.

The bill passed the Assembly (55-17-0). It now goes to the Senate Education Committee.

There was considerable discussion on it during an Assembly Education Committee recently.

Two people who were against the bill were given the opportunity to speak first.

“There needs to be a mechanism that clearly communicates prof iciency for ou r

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graduates,” said Athea Ford, vice president of government affairs for the New Jersey Business and Industry Association. Fut ure e m ploye r s ne e d t o know what graduates are capable of.

Whether this mechanism is the graduation proficiency test or something else, the

NJBIA doesn’t have a strong opinion, she explained. There just has to be something.

Wells Wingar, executive director of the New Jersey Policy Institute, also said that there needs to be something showing that schools are preparing students for the future.

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By Bob Vosseller BRICK – Board of Education members finished out 2025 with a look at some key issues and projects during their most recent meeting.

Vice Board President Mike Mesmer provided the Finance Committee report during that meeting noting that he, fellow Board member Frances DiBenedictis and School District Business Administrator Jim Edwards were present for a brief committee meeting where they discussed state aid legislation.

Mesmer said that Edwards had provided an update on the status of the district’s 2024-2025 audit. “There was no audit recommendations which is a great thing. There were a couple of things of note for us to look for in 2025-2026 budget that we will be considering when we work on that budget.”

Edwards told the committee that “enrollment (School - See Page 11)

Local Author Writes Book With Grandson

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON – A township author is passing the torch to his grandson to create a literary legacy.

Paul Mila coauthored a book with his grandson Luke recently proving that sometimes, lightning strikes from unexpected places.

Mila told The Jackson Times that “for the past year I had been struggling to come up with an idea for the fourth children’s book (Book - See Page 10)

Photo courtesy Paul Mila The front cover of Paul Mila’s latest children’s book which he co-wrote with his grandson Luke Chiappetta.

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Page 2, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

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Page 4, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

Vigil:

Continued From Page 1 this by working with community partners that are here with us tonight.”

Hakeem described the purpose of the evening’s memorial service to honor those who have passed away while homeless in the last year. The honor of reading the names of those memorialized at the service was given to Laurie Singer, outreach coordinator for the Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition.

Singer’s voice trembled as she asked those gathered to say a prayer for the families. She read six names known to the organizations: Mary Hoffman, Curtis Alan, Debbie Getius, Marlene Sullivan, Jerry Henderson,

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and Robert Jones. Causes were not shared, preserving dignity and privacy.

The sad reality is that the list of names was likely incomplete. Others may have died unseen, unnamed, or unknown to this group of service providers. Their absence from the list did not lessen their worth. Their memories, too, were held in the circle of light.

Youth Who Know The Reality Among those present at the vigil were residents of Ocean’s Harbor House, a supervised transitional living program for homeless teens and young adults ages 16 to 21. Their presence underscored a difficult truth. Homelessness is not confined to any one age, background, or story.

Sara McKenna, who experienced homelessness starting at the age of 15, shared her own journey. She spoke of crashing on couches, eating her friends’ food and living life the way she thought she wanted at the time.

“Quickly, my friends moved on as they should have,” said McKenna. “Suddenly, I was a minor with no food and no clothes.

Desperation hit fast. I started stealing, stealing food, eating out of barbecues, and getting into cars and situations no one should ever face.”

Ultimately, McKenna met a group of people who changed her entire world. They all felt forgotten, betrayed, but together built a unit of safety and care that she hadn’t felt in a long time. She discovered her values forged in some of the hardest parts of her life.

“The moral of my story comes down to four simple words,” she said. “Connection,

resilience, trust, respect. Without them, I truly believe I would be remembered here tonight, instead of speaking here tonight.”

Today, McKenna, now 32, works as a peer with the Mental Health Association of Ocean County and advocates for others still navigating the system. Her testimony was a reminder that survival is possible, but never guaranteed.

A County Without Shelter As it stands now, Ocean County has no shelter available for the general adult population. In freezing weather, some unhoused residents continue to live in tents scattered throughout the county. Others are temporarily placed in motels, with stays that may soon end. Some move from couch to couch, feeling like an imposition. Others wander during the day, seeking warmth in libraries and public buildings.

That reality made the location of the memorial service especially meaningful.

St. John’s AME Zion Church is also a Code Blue warming center, opening its doors when weather conditions become dangerous. A Code Blue alert is issued by the Ocean County Office of Emergency Management in collaboration with the Department of Human Services after reviewing National Weather Service forecasts predicting hazardous conditions within 24 to 48 hours. Triggers include temperatures at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or wind chill readings of zero degrees for two hours or more.

When Code Blue is activated, St. John’s provides overnight shelter, meals, and

Holding Space For The Forgotten Hakeem closed the service by reading a poem written by Catherine Rippy Hanson in honor of her brother, reflecting on the humanity contained within what others might dismiss as scraps or debris. A shopping cart.

A blanket. A life.

As candles flickered, there was no political debate, no policy argument. Just names.

Stories. And the acknowledgment that remembrance itself is an act of dignity.

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access to additional services. Sister Diane Dew of the church explained, “We’re open seven days a week during Code Blue. We feed them dinner, and they get breakfast before they leave in the morning.”

Street outreach workers also addressed the crowd, describing what it means to meet people where they are. Jimmy Nappo of CSPNJ spoke about the importance of small acts of care.

“People experiencing homelessness deserve shelter, health, and most importantly love from others, just as much as anyone else,” he said. “Small acts of love can go a long way.”

Nina Rizzo of HABcore echoed that sentiment, describing outreach workers who defrost car doors, deliver meals to encampments, and make daily safety checks on people who are hesitant to come inside.

“We can listen without judgment,” she said. “We can speak with kindness, the power of kind and compassionate words can mend hearts and foster trust, while harsh words can push someone right back into a debilitating depression.”

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The Brick Times, January 3, 2026, Page 5

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

Congressman Cheers Halt On Offshore Wind Projects From The Desk Of

Congressman

Chris Smith WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), a longtime opponent of offshore wind industrialization, issued the attached statement following the Trump administration’s announcement that the Depts. of the Interior and War have paused the leases for five major offshore wind farms - including Empire Wind off the New Jersey and New York coasts - due to national security concerns: “I am grateful to President Donald Trump

and Secretary Doug Burgum for their leadership in assessing ocean wind’s threats to national security and radar interference. The safety and security of the American people should always be at the forefront of U.S. policy.

“As I have argued from day one - ocean wind projects pose significant, catastrophic impacts to radar, putting military and civilian aircrafts and vessels at grave risk.

“This concern has been raised in a number of studies, including the April 2025 Offshore Wind Energy report released by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), an analysis I requested, along with many of my colleagues, and was also called for in my legislation passed by the House - by a margin

of 244 to 189 - nearly three years ago.

“As early as 2023, I joined Fox News’ Madison Alworth in Middletown, NJ to highlight the numerous national security and navigational risks associated with offshore wind industrialization.

“That same year, the House passed my amendment requiring the President or his designee to certify that offshore wind projects ‘will not weaken, degrade, interfere with, or nullify the capability of radar relied upon the Federal Aviation Administration or the Armed Forces.’

“It is particularly important that among the five offshore wind projects suspended by the Trump administration, Empire Wind is one of them - a project I have vehemently opposed for years.

“Empire Wind’s close proximity to major

international airports, including Newark Liberty, LaGuardia, and JFK, and critical military installations, such as Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and Naval Weapons Station Earle, make the project especially dangerous. It must be halted.

“Projects like Empire Wind have already threatened New Jersey’s commercial and recreational fishing industries, as well as our tourism industry and the ocean environment, which is now recovering after years of pollution. And, these projects are extremely expensive, creating undue burdens on taxpayers - which I discussed with Martha MacCallum in July of 2023.

“I look forward to working alongside the Trump administration in ensuring that these dangerous offshore wind projects are stopped.”

Senators Ask If Price Gouging Is Being Blamed On Tariffs Capitol Comments Senator Cory Booker

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Three senators sent a letter to Chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Andrew Ferguson questioning how the Commission is working to ensure grocery companies do not use this Administration’s reckless tariff policies as cover for price gouging. The senators - Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ruben

Gallego (D-AZ), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) – also asked if the recently announced tariff exemptions on coffee, bananas, cocoa, and other tropical products actually result in lower grocery prices.

“It was a necessary but late step to remove these tariffs. However, while eliminating these tariffs reduces costs for grocery importers, we are concerned that consumers may not see the full corresponding price decreases,” the Senators wrote. “We are concerned that the highly concentrated grocery industry – combined with the Trump

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.

Administration’s insufficient antitrust and consumer protection enforcement – creates a perfect storm that could enable giant grocery chains to engage in price gouging or other anti-competitive behavior.”

To ensure President Trump’s reckless trade policies are not a “green light” for price gouging, the Senators push the FTC to investigate and prosecute companies engaging in “unfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce.”

The senators also want the Commission to require large grocery stores and food importers to report their costs and retail, and wholesale prices and the extent to which tariff reductions have decreased

their costs.

Additionally, the Senators requested answers to the following questions: • How will you ensure President Trump’s recent tariff removals do not result in sustained elevated prices?

• What steps will the FTC take to enforce competition and consumer protection laws against individuals and corporations in the grocery and food industry that attempt to price gouge consumers?

• If consumers have paid excessive prices for these goods since the tariff removals due to price gouging, what steps will the FTC take to ensure that consumers are made whole?

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Page 6, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

Tests:

Continued From Page 1 There are many problems with the proficiency test, he said, but at least it’s a general metric that can be used across all schools, so that teachers, parents and others can learn where students are excelling or need more help, and to find achievement gaps between groups.

A new administration should be part of the conversation, he said. They need to have some kind of test, even if it’s not this test.

“The bill is a hatchet, not a scalpel,” he said.

This was followed by others speaking in favor of getting rid of the test.

Nicole Ciullo, Associate Director of Policy and Development, Education Law Center said that standardized tests historically hurt students of color and those of lower economic class.

“The state spends millions of dollars

on tests without any educational value,” she said.

Deborah Cornavaca, New Jersey Education Association Director of Government Relations – Politics and Policy, said there are only six states that still have a graduation exam.

“This educational exam is a barrier and a waste of time and money,” she said.

The purpose of a test should be to see where a student needs more help and then follow up on those areas. That’s not what’s happening here, she said.

“Teachers want to have the freedom, and the time to help the ones who are struggling - not to pass that test but to succeed in the areas of their interest,” she said.

Debra Bradley, Director of Government Relations for the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association, warned that the issue has become politicized. However, administrators know that there are many tests throughout high school that provide metrics for learning, and this one

adds no new information.

“Some kids understand which tests matter,” she said, and which ones they don’t take seriously.

Steve Beatty, president of the NJEA, and Harrison Silver, Legislative Advocate, New Jersey School Boards Association, also spoke on behalf of getting rid of the test.

Other groups who wrote in to advocate for removing the test included the Great Schools Of NJ, Garden State Coalition of Schools, and Save Our Schools NJ. When it came time for the Assembly Education Committee to vote on the matter, there was one no vote.

Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia said that she’s seen it happen where education standards slide without something like this keeping them high. She mentioned Asbury Park students being given community service in order to pass.

“What doesn’t get measured, doesn’t get done,” she said of testing.

Assemblyman Al Abdelaziz said he works at a high school and sees what these high stakes tests do to kids. If they have issues at home they could fail it, and it doesn’t accurately represent their knowledge.

“These high stakes assessments need to go,” he said.

Assemblyman Avi Schnall said “I’m from Brooklyn, New York. I’m still recovering from the Regents Test. I do believe in parental choices and home rule.”

Assemblywoman Rosaura Bagolie also spoke about test anxiety and failing a test just because of health issues. She said that passing this test doesn’t mean they are graduation-ready; it just means they are good at taking this particular test.

Assemblyman Sterley S. Stanley said he had a PTSD reaction when Assemblyman Schnall mentioned the Regents Test. He said the graduation exam is redundant.

The bill now goes on to their Senate counterparts for a discussion and vote.

Shore Community Seeks Assistant Managers For Beach Season

SEASIDE PARK – The borough is accepting applications for two Beach Badge Checking Assistant Manager positions for the 2026 summer season.

The seasonal, full-time roles will run from

May 1 through September 7 and support daily beach operations during the peak summer months. Assistant managers will help oversee badge-checking activities, supervise seasonal staff and ensure beach

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

rules are followed.

Duties include providing guidance and training to badge checkers, maintaining accurate records of badge sales and daily operations, and interacting with beachgoers in a professional and courteous manner.

The positions also involve assisting with enforcement of beach regulations and handling issues as they arise.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills. The borough is seeking individuals who can manage staff effectively, resolve situations calmly and work flexible schedules, including weekends and holidays.

Those interested should submit a resume by email to beachcontrol@seasideparknj.org.

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The Brick Times, January 3, 2026, Page 7

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Page 8, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

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LAKEWOOD – For the first time, Lakewood Township joined communities across the nation in observing National Wreaths Across America Day, honoring military veterans laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery on Clifton Avenue.

Hundreds of veterans are interred at the cemetery, which dates back to 1872. As part of the nationwide observance, volunteers place wreaths on the graves of U.S. service members at Arlington National Cemetery and thousands of other burial grounds across the country and overseas to ensure their service and sacrifice are remembered.

This year, Lakewood Township sponsored 100 wreaths for placement on local veterans’ graves. The effort was organized

by Mayor Ray Coles, who participated directly in the ceremony and personally laid many of the wreaths.

Coles was joined by members of his family as well as township employees

representing the Lakewood Police Department, Lakewood EMS and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union.

Volunteers placed each wreath individually, pausing at every grave to read the veteran’s name and service details.

Standing among the headstones, Coles said the experience carried deep meaning.

“There is something uniquely moving about standing before the grave of a veteran who served our country, and in some cases gave their life in that service,” Coles said. “Multiple generations of my family and township employees of all ages came together to say thank you, ensuring our local heroes are remembered and honored, no matter how much time has passed.”

National Wreaths Across America Day is observed annually as a reminder of the nation’s commitment to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach future generations the value of freedom.

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POINT PLEASANT BEACH – Residents will have an opportunity to speak directly with Point Pleasant Beach Mayor Douglas Vitale during a “Meet the Mayor” program scheduled for 6:30 p.m. January 19 at the Point Pleasant Beach Branch of the Ocean County Library.

The informal event is designed to encourage open dialogue between local off icials and the community. Vitale

is expected to answer questions from residents, provide updates on ongoing municipal projects and discuss plans for the borough’s future, according to library officials.

The program is free, but registration is required. Residents may register online at tinyurl.com/PBMayorJan26, in person at the library at 710 McLean Avenue, or by calling 732-892-4575.

Springsteen-Themed Program Set For Historical Society Event

BRICK – The Brick Township Historical Society will host a public meeting and program January 13 featuring a presentation on the cultural impact of Bruce Springsteen’s landmark work.

Monmouth University professor Melissa Ziobro will present “Born to Run and the American Experience,” a talk examining the historical backdrop, lyrical meaning and

lasting influence of Springsteen’s music on American culture.

The program is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

Attendees are asked to park in the rear of the firehouse and use the ground-level entrance on the right.

For more info, visit bricktownshiphistoricalsociety.com.

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The Brick Times, January 3, 2026, Page 9

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

Brick Senior Center Reopens After Repairs

BRICK – Officials in Brick Township announced that the township’s Senior Center has reopened following a temporary shutdown for building repairs, allowing programs and activities to return to their regular location.

The facility at 500 Aurora Place has resumed full operations, with all Senior Services programs once again being held inside the building, township officials said.

Senior Services were temporarily relocated during November and December while emergency construction work was completed. The building, a former Brick Volunteer EMS squad hall, was converted

into a senior center after the township transitioned away from volunteer emergency medical services.

The renovation project, which cost approximately $800,000, primarily supports the Senior Center while also accommodating ambulances operated by the Brick Police EMS-Rescue unit.

Township officials thanked residents for their cooperation during the disruption and said staff members are eager to welcome participants back to the center.

“Senior Services staff looks forward to continuing to serve the community at the Brick Senior Center,” the township said in a statement.

Holocaust Remembrance Program Set At Library

BRICK – In recognition of Holocaust Remembrance Day, the Brick Branch of the Ocean County Library will host a special presentation highlighting one family’s firsthand account of survival during one of history’s darkest chapters.

Amy Goodman will present “Through My Grandfather’s Eyes: A Personal Retelling of Holocaust Survival” at 2:30 p.m.

January 20, at the Brick Branch, located at 301 Chambers Bridge Road.

Goodman, the oldest granddaughter of four Holocaust survivors, grew up immersed in their stories, hearing about their experiences as a normal part of family life.

As a child, she believed such histories were common among Jewish families, only later

realizing how uncommon and extraordinary her grandparents’ survival truly was.

Following their passing, Goodman said she feels a deep obligation to ensure their stories continue to be told.

The program will focus on the life of her grandfather, Joseph, who was born in Poland in 1920 and endured the Holocaust. Goodman will share his journey of endurance and resilience, offering a personal perspective on survival and remembrance.

The event is free, but registration is required. Those interested may register online at tinyurl.com/BrickHolocaust, call 732-477-4513, or sign up in person at the Brick Branch.

Community Wellness Screenings Scheduled LAKEWOOD – Free wellness screenings will be offered January 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wellpoint, 100 Clifton Ave., with services provided from a Community Wellness Van. Participants can receive checks for blood

pressure, pulse, body mass index, glucose, cholesterol and stroke risk. Fasting is not required.

More information can be found at HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or by calling 1-800-560-9990.

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Page 10, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

Book:

Continued From Page 1 in my ‘Harry Hawksbill’ Sea Turtle Adventure series, published by Best Publishing Company.”

“On a sunny July Saturday afternoon this past summer, my 10-year-old grandson Luke Chiappetta opted for some alone time with grandma and grandpa, instead of hanging out at the nearby sports complex between games of his sister’s softball tournament,” Mila added.

“While Luke and I were snacking at the kitchen table, he asked, ‘Grandpa, where do you get the ideas for your books?’

Luke asked the question casually, like an experienced reporter doing an interview,” Mila said.

“I explained that the ideas for my six adventure novels and three children’s books came unexpectedly, from meeting interesting people and encountering fascinating sea creatures on my scuba diving adventures.

I never know where the inspiration for the next story will spring from. I told Luke that I couldn’t come up with an idea for the next book in the Harry Hawksbill series, which involves mostly sea turtles,” he said.

Mila said his grandson’s next question jarred him a bit. Luke said, “So Grandpa, why don’t we use a different sea creature in the next one?” “‘We?’ I thought. The idea of writing a book together had never occurred to me. I asked Luke if he really wanted to write the next book with me. He smiled and nodded enthusiastically. I was pleasantly amazed by his response. Also, I had been so laser-focused on sea turtles I just never thought ‘outside the box’ to use a different animal.

Luke’s fresh perspective breathed life into the project,” the author added.

“I use my underwater photography instead of using an illustrator, to provide a sense of realism for children reading a fictional story. I went through my photo archives, and found many interesting stingray photos, in addition to sea turtles. So, I suggested to Luke that the story could involve Harry the hawksbill turtle helping a lost stingray find its way home after being swept away by a giant hurricane,” the writer remarked.

“Luke helped me select photos, explaining why he thought some worked better than others. He also wrote some of the text and dialogue. For the ‘teaching points’ that I

provide in every story, I had Luke Google the information for research experience, such as what stingrays eat, how they find their food, and how sea turtles navigate, even though I knew the answers,” Mila added.

The author explained, “one day, when I was stuck trying to insert a thought bubble showing what a character is thinking, Luke surprised me with his technical savvy, probably typical of our young internet generation. His impatience with me made me laugh.”

“Grandpa! Move the cursor here! Click, then drag it over here and click again,” his grandson suggested.

“Finally, our project was completed and Best Publishing Company accepted our proposal. When the graphic designer sent us the cover for our review, I blinked and skipped a breath seeing our author names together: Paul Mila and Luke Chiappetta,” Mila said.

“Luke loves writing, so I wondered what this experience could mean for his future.

Was I passing the torch, to inspire a writing career?” the author asked. “For myself, I thought about the legacy. I felt a moment of peace and happiness knowing that after I’ve left this planet for parts unknown, I’ll always be on a bookshelf in Luke’s room, not just a name carved on a cold tombstone.”

The book, “Sally Stingray Finds Her Way Home” is perfect for any young person interested in the ocean and its creatures. For information, email pjmila@hotmail.com, or visit milabooks.com.

Photo courtesy Paul Mila Luke Chiappetta, 10, pets a stingray which inspired him to co-author a children’s book with his grandfather Paul Mila of Jackson.

jerseyshoreonline.com

School:

Continued From Page 1 projections have been completed and the staffing projections have been going on as we speak so we are kind of in the thick of things with budgeting season for next year,” Mesmer reported.

He added, “we had some new advertising agreements - one from Renegade Heating & Cooling, a bus add-on, a three-year deal. Another is JAG physical therapy for a football banner for both high schools for a three-year commitment.”

He also mentioned a third advertiser, “My Guy Plumbing with two stadium banners and two arena banners (at) both high schools.

Additional advertisements is a great way that we try to put some extra revenue in our budget. That was a big win.”

Board member Alison Kennedy reported on the latest meeting of the Facilities Committee saying she, Mesmer, Edwards and others discussed the Warren H. Wolf Preschool air conditioning. An update was given on the completion of the work. There was also

The Brick Times, January 3, 2026, Page 11 a change order for the roof drain and all inspections were passed.

Kennedy added the Herbertsville Elementary School air conditioning project had some items that still needed to be done, specifically the need for pads, a condensing unit and the installation of a boiler pump over the holiday break.

The Osbornville Elementary School kitchen project was reported to be “almost wrapped up,” she said. A punch list needed to be completed before the project was closed out.

The Midstreams Elementary School, the air conditioning project’s electrical monitoring results “showed there was no need for a service upgrade however the electrical engineer is doing one final review of the solar (power) system’s impact on the study to further understand what additional load is available for the district’s future considerations,” Kennedy added.

She reported that in reference to plans down the road, the New Jersey Department of Education long range facilities plan system “is still in beta testing with roll-out being projected sometime in January to February.”

Brick Kiwanis Club Hosts Monthly Informational Meetings

BRICK – The Kiwanis Club of Brick invites residents to attend its monthly informational meetings held the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Brandywine The Gables by Monarch, located at 515 Jack Martin Boulevard.

The club, dedicated to community service and youth engagement, is planning a variety of events aimed at benefiting the local community. Families and children are welcome to attend.

For more information, contact president@ brickkiwanis.com.

jerseyshoreonline.com

Page 12, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026 • Pre-School/Pre-K/After School Programs • Experienced Teachers • Age Appropriate Curriculum • Sibling & Military Discounts • Homework Assistance Grades K-5 • Licensed Nurse on Staff • Morning & Afternoon Snacks State Programs Accepted 145 Drum Point Road - Brick

Monday-Friday 6:30am-6pm

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law The Importance Of Surveys In Residential Real Estate Purchases

Robert C. Shea Esq.

By: Robert C. Shea, II, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates FREE ENROLLMENT ($60 Value)

During a real estate transaction, parties sometimes try and cut corners to reduce closing costs. One such cost cutting method is for a buyer to forego obtaining a new survey of the property they are purchasing. However, this can lead to even greater expenses and headaches down the road.

A survey is one of the primary tools for defining what’s yours and what isn’t during a real estate transaction. A survey will locate and mark the true boundaries of a property, and will identify any encroachments, easements, and/or title defects which could impact the valuation of said property. Foregoing this, a buyer simply guesses where the property lines are, and prays for the best.

A survey can also provide a checks and balance system in the event some closing documents are not correctly labeled or identified. Sometimes closing

documents, although technically correct, fail to accurately depict the property the buyer is attempting to purchase. Having the property illustrated on a survey map should uncover any such discrepancies.

Lastly, a buyer may not be able to qualify for title insurance without an updated survey. Or a buyer may later come to find out that his/her title insurance is void because they never obtained a new survey.

Without title insurance, any defects in the chain of custody, third party encroachments, or property line disputes will solely rest on the purchaser’s shoulders.

While a buyer may forego obtaining a new survey to reduce closing costs, the risks must carefully be weighed. A survey can uncover errors that would potentially save the buyer much more money in the future. Call R.C. Shea & Associates for all your real estate needs.

(732) 505-1212.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM

The Giant Leopard Moth Caterpillar

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator This is a fascinating creature. The giant leopard moth caterpillar, also known as the giant woolly bear, stands out with its unique look. Primarily active at night, as caterpillars they are usually spotted crossing roads in autumn or tucked beneath leaves and wood piles in yards during spring and fall. In fact, after a recent rainstorm, I happened upon one lying on the street and picked it up. At the time I had no idea about what it was, but it felt it needed some help. Surely, it’s chance of surviving was compromised. I brought it to an area nearby and placed it on the leafy ground. Eventually, becoming a striking giant leopard moth, they will feature white wings covered with numerous black spots.

As caterpillars, their large size, and bearing spikes like black hair, some consider them intimidating. Not known for stinging or harming upon contact, you might wish to protect your hands if handling.

It possesses a mild sting that could result in skin irritation. In comparison to other stinging caterpillars, such as the spiny oak slug, their danger and toxicity levels are considered relatively low.

The adult wingspan is 2.25 – 3.6 inches.

Wings are white, with hollow black or iridescent blue spots on the thorax and black spots on the wings. Caterpillars are fuzzy black with red to orange bodies growing up to 2 inches long. They are native to North and South America living in a variety of habitats, including meadows, gardens and forests. Eggs are deposited on plants, and the larvae (caterpillars) will feed upon the leaves, most commonly violets, dandelions and plantains.

There are very few predators of the giant leopard moth caterpillar, as they will coil into a defensive pose which exposes their red spines, that often will send the predators elsewhere. The pros of having these creatures in the garden is that they can help control pests, adding to the biodiversity of a garden. To the opposite end, some may find them to be a nuisance because of their appearance.

Information for this article comes from various sources, so statistics may differ.

For inquiries, call 732-244-2768. It is illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without state and/or federal permits is illegal. Violations are subject to legal penalties.

Send your community events to news@jerseyshoreonline.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, January 3, 2026, Page 13

H ere ’ s T o Y our H ealth Dr. Izzy’s Sound News Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

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

Taking On Brain Drain: Hearing Care That Supports More Than Hearing

Your ears and brain work together to help you hear. So, it’s no wonder that hearing loss might impact brain health.

With a growing number of studies connecting hearing problems to other serious conditions such as cognitive decline and dementia, let’s discuss how hearing loss might affect the brain and how we can help.

Most people don’t realize that healthy hearing involves teamwork. The outer ear collects sound waves, which ultimately reach the inner ear as sound signals. The cochlea, a small organ within the inner ear, has tiny hair cells that transmit those signals to the brain, which interprets them and helps orient body positioning for optimal hearing.

How might hearing loss affect the brain?

Scientists continue to explore this critical question, but some of the possibilities may be that hearing loss: Makes the brain work harder to process sound May reduce the brain’s capacity for thinking, remembering, and more Might lead to brain atrophy or shrinkage from sound deprivation Put more simply, the brain, while remarkably complex, has limited resources.

Hearing loss, and associated problems like tinnitus (ringing in the ears or head) and balance disorders, may drain those resources — diverting them from import-

ant everyday functions — and might even cause physical changes to the brain which can result in brain atrophy.

It’s one of the reasons we take a medical approach to hearing care. This includes our science-backed focus on brain and body connections. After all, we’re HEAR to help the whole you. With comprehensive hearing evaluations, patient education, prevention strategies, personalized treatment plans, and regular follow-ups, we work to support your total health.

As increasing research links professional hearing care — including properly fitted hearing aids — to better cognitive functioning or slowed cognitive decline among some populations, it’s more important than ever to stay atop your hearing wellness.

Think of it as an investment in the present and your future. A future with clear, crisp sounds and an empowered mind.

Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always here to listen to your hearing care needs. Hearing health is brain health — don’t wait. Regular hearing evaluations are recommended, so call to book for yourself or a loved one today!

Please feel free to contact our office at 732-451-3962 or visit our website at gardenstatehearing.com.

WE HEAR YOU & WE ARE HERE For YOU!

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!

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!

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Star Anise: The Little Star That Warms Your Gut And Supports Immunity

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

If you’ve ever spotted a small, star-shaped spice floating in a mug of winter tea or tucked into a simmer pot, you’ve met star anise. It’s beautiful, aromatic, and quietly powerful. Most people assume it’s there for looks or fragrance, but as a pharmacist, I can tell you there’s far more going on beneath that pretty little star.

Star anise comes from the dried fruit of an evergreen tree native to parts of China and Vietnam. It has been used for centuries in cooking and medicine, long before anyone thought to isolate its active compounds. The flavor is licorice-like, similar to fennel or anise seed, but more comforting.

From a digestive standpoint, star anise helps soothe bloating, gas, and intestinal discomfort. This is one reason it shows up so often in warming winter teas and broths. When digestion is sluggish or irritated, especially during the holidays when meals are heavier and stress is higher, star anise can help the gut relax and move more comfortably.

Star anise contains shikimic acid. This naturally occurring compound is the starting material for the synthesis of the antiviral medication called Tamiflu (oseltamivir).

This is why researchers became interested in its immune-related properties.

Laboratory and animal studies suggest that shikimic acid can help modulate inflammatory signaling. In immune cells exposed to bacterial toxins, shikimic acid reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta. That’s a big deal. In other animal studies, it reduced

pain signaling. Essentially, the studies all concur to show that it can calm inflammation and in doing so, reduce a person’s pain and discomfort. Will it replace hydrocodone? Nope, that’s a much stronger pain medicine, but having a cup of star anise tea wouldn’t hurt.

So even though shikimic acid is not a painkiller, it’s effects are useful. It works by quieting inflammatory signaling rather than blocking pain outright. That’s why I think of star anise as supportive, not curative. It fits beautifully into the “food-as-medicine” category, something that nudges the body in a healthier direction rather than forcing a result.

I want to remind you that the immune system lives largely in your gut, so anything that calms digestion while providing gentle immune support is doing double duty.

Star anise is easy to use at home. A single pod steeped in hot water with ginger and cinnamon makes a lovely, caffeine-free tea that feels grounding and restorative. It’s the kind of drink you reach for when you’re overstimulated, run down, or just need your nervous system to take a deep breath.

I wouldn’t suggest replacing prescribed medications or structured supplements with a cup of tea, but I absolutely believe there’s room for both. Star anise reminds us that sometimes the smallest ingredients carry the most wisdom, quietly supporting the body in ways that feel gentle, familiar, and deeply human. If you enjoy articles like this, I’d love to stay in touch, you can sign up for my free health newsletter at suzycohen.com.

(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 14, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

jerseyshoreonline.com

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, January 3, 2026, Page 15

Around The Jersey Shore Veteran Moves In To Donated House

By Andrew Rice HOWELL – Army Maj. Darlene “Dolly” Harris cut the ribbon on her new home during a house unveiling event held by Homes For Our Troops.

Harris suffered intense injuries during her time serving our country in Iraq and was having trouble navigating life in her previous home because of it. Harris needs a wheelchair to get around due to her injuries, and her previous house in Point Pleasant was not set up to accommodate her situation.

The house was donated to her by Homes For Our Troops, a publicly funded national nonprofit dedicated to building and donating specially adapted custom homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans.

This will give her a greater amount of independence in her own life. The house itself comes specially equipped with more than 40 different accessibility modifications. These modifications include widened doorways, an open floor plan, roll-under countertops and sinks, a roll-in shower, automatic door openers, pull-down shelving, and backup power generators.

Harris, who was born in Jackson, was allowed to choose from several different plots of land on which to build her new house, and she decided to establish her

primary residence on a plot of land in Howell.

During the event, Harris was given the keys to her new house, and she will now be able to start living in it full-time.

Before entering the house, an American flag was raised in the front yard, and a ceremonial ribbon was cut to mark that the project was complete. Once she entered the house, she was given a tour and explored all of the house’s new features.

The event featured several guest speakers and presentations. One of these guest speakers was Howell Mayor John Leggio, who welcomed Harris to her new town.

She enlisted in the New Jersey Army National Guard in 1988.

“In 2005 I was exposed to environmental toxins,” she said in a previous interview.

This happened during her combat deployment in Iraq when she was serving with the 42nd Division as a logistics officer.

She was exposed to burn pits and damaged vehicles.

Homes For Our Troops hosted a volunteer day back on October 25, as volunteers from around the local area showed up to help landscape Harris’s new house in preparation for her move-in day. They did such things as laying down sod, planting f lowers, and spreading mulch around the yard. Around 80 volunteers in total

showed up at the event to help out.

T his housewar ming event is the satisfying payoff for the time and effort that Homes For Our Troops puts into making sure that each house is tailored towards the recipient’s needs. This is a culmination of a process t hat st a r ted over t wo years ago when Harris initially applied for her custom accessible home.

Photo courtesy Homes For Our Troops Homes For Our Troops Dolly Harris signals that her new house is now ready to has one goal, which is be lived in by cutting a ceremonial ribbon stated on their website.

That goal is to enable every severely in- of the citizens of our country to care for jured post 9/11 veteran and their family these veterans and their families who to rebuild their lives. According to the voluntarily served….it is our country’s website, nearly 90 cents out of every responsibility to take care of them bedollar spent has gone directly to program cause they voluntarily served and have services for veterans. Homes For Our sacrificed greatly so that we can continue Troops builds these homes where the to enjoy the freedoms we have today,” said veteran chooses to live, and continues its Homes For Our Troops President/CEO relationship with the veterans after home Brig. Gen. (Ret) Tom Landwermeyer.

With the prep work and ceremony comdelivery to assist them and their family in pleted, Harris is set to start living in her rebuilding their lives.

“We don’t believe that our mission is new home full-time.

For additional information about the charity. That is not how we look at it, we really look at it as the moral obligation organization, visit hfotusa.org

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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.

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

Page 16, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

CLASSIFIEDS For Rent

Help Wanted

Services

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

(3)

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time Dietary Aides If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755.

(7)

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)

Real Estate Selling Your Real Estate - Pay Less - Get More. Go to listforlessnj.com. I sell homes for TOP $ call-609-713-1727-joe.

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Misc.

Are You Looking To Do Something Special - For your Jewish loved one who passed away? Call or text Abe 347-861-5174.

(4)

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)

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a full time Receptionist. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732-557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms River 08755.

(7)

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) 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)

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)

YMT Vacations. Over 50 guided tours available. Affordable, social and stress-free travel designed for mature travelers. Our tours include accommodations, transportation, baggage handling, sightseeing, entrance fees, a professional Tour Director and select meals. For a limited time SAVE $250 on all tours. Call YMT today. 1-866-296-9071 (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)

Life Coach - Not sure how to handle something? Talk it out, get unstuck. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas, 732-754-4891.

(5)

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)

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)

Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (t/n) 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) A PLUS CLEANING - Homes Offices AirBnB Thorough Reliable Honest Specializing in Senior Villages Call Barbara 732 948-4730. (3) 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) "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)

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

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

Text/Call Keith 609-351-2462. (2) 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) 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) Garden State Property Maintenance - All yard work. Tree-trimming and removal, stump grinding, pavers, decks, flower beds, weeding. 609-661-5470. (t/n)

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.

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

• Items Wanted

• For Rent

• Auto For Sale

• Help Wanted

• Real Estate

• Items For Sale

• Services

• Other

clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within 2. Print 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 SORRY NO DISCOVER info below:

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Cardholder Signature: Print Name: Billing Address:

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(THIS IS REQUIRED)

If you have any questions, leave a message for Ali 732-657-7344, ext. 203.

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

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Brick Times, January 3, 2026, Page 17

Photo Of The Week

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.

We have always strived for a close “family” atmosphere and believe we have succeeded. The environment is warm and inviting and exceedingly clean and spotless.

Our homemade food and soups are outstanding, and the care is thoughtful, kind and productive.

We have been called the “Hotel of Healthcare.”

Please ask your friends, neighbors and, most importantly, other healthcare professionals. We are here, in your neighborhood, to serve you! nursing and

Happy New Year from the Jersey Shore! This stunning sunrise was captured by one of our favorite photographers, Kylie Monica, along a Jersey Shore beach. We wish all of our readers a happy, healthy and successful year ahead. Want to see your photo featured here — and have a chance to win a prize? Email your best shots to photos@jerseyshoreonline.com

County Promotes Free Property Alert Program

OCEAN COUNTY – Ocean County officials are urging homeowners to enroll in a free service designed to help protect against property fraud and unauthorized filings.

The Ocean County Clerk’s Office Property Alert Service notifies property owners by email whenever a document connected to their property is officially recorded. The alerts are intended to give residents early notice of activity that could indicate errors or potential fraud, allowing them to respond quickly if something appears suspicious.

The program is open to all property owners and is also being promoted as a safeguard for families who want to monitor property records for elderly relatives or others who may be vulnerable to scams. Officials say the service does not prevent fraudulent filings but provides an added layer of awareness so issues can be addressed promptly.

Enrollment in the Property Alert Service is free, and participants can sign up online through countyclerkpas.co.ocean.nj.us/ PropertyAlert

Miniature Golf Fundraiser Planned At OCC

TOMS RIVER – The Community Medical Center Council of Emerging Leaders and the Ocean County College Foundation will hold their annual miniature golf tournament on January 23 at the Jon & Judith Larson Student Center on the Ocean County College campus.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with cocktails and light fare, followed by a 7 p.m. shotgun start.

Individual admission is $125, with four-

somes priced at $400. Spectator tickets are $50. Organizers also are seeking sponsors, with packages ranging from a $300 hole sponsor to a $3,000 presenting sponsor.

The event will include awards for top-finishing teams, best dressed and a hole-in-one prize.

For information, call 732-557-8131 or email kelly.servodio@rwjbh.org. Details are also available at cmcgiving.org and occfoundation.org.

Send your community events to news@jerseyshoreonline.com

rehabilitation center

1579 Old Freehold Rd. • Toms River, NJ 08753 732-505-4477 • www.rosegardennj.com

RC R.C.SHEA S

&ASSOCIATES COUNSELLORS AT LAW

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KNOW YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS! (House Calls Available By Appointment) TOMS RIVER OFFICE 244 Main St., Toms River, NJ 08753 • (732) 505-1212 BERKELEY AREA (800) 556-7432 MANCHESTER AREA (732) 408-9455 BRICK AREA (732) 451-0800 VISIT US ON OUR WEBSITE AT: WWW. RCSHEA.COM

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Page 18, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 Yoda trainee 5 Superhero accessory 9 Bar food?

14 Got rid of 15 Smell 16 Overacts 18 No matter the outcome 20 San Francisco-to-Salt Lake City interstate 21 Pig’s digs 22 Make yawn 23 Fingers 24 Actor Cariou 25 Pairing at a cocktail party 28 Nevada whose mystery novels are set in national parks 31 Udon alternative 32 Trivial objection 33 Irrefutable statement 36 Greens over 38 Presidential

warm-weather getaway 43 Stew 44 Chestnut horse 45 “And there you go!”

46 Photoreceptor cell 48 Jeans line 49 Peripheral with a dongle 54 Spanish “that” 55 Minecraft material 56 “¿Qué __?”

57 One in a zillion?

60 Shape on a bingo card 62 Snappy remark, and a feature of four long answers in this puzzle 64 Toyota full-size pickup 65 Diva’s time to shine 66 At some point in the past 67 Unsuccessful Ford 68 Costner’s “The Untouchables” role 69 Went green?

Down 1 Spielberg thriller set on

Amity Island 2 Stage direction 3 Publicist’s recommendation, perhaps 4 Unmarried person’s last words 5 Subtitle intro 6 Dig a lot 7 Pretend to be 8 Bardly before 9 Some pods 10 Sect that adheres to Ordnung 11 Piece of firewood 12 Style that includes designer yoga pants 13 More than loathe 17 “Auld Lang __” 19 Stat for a slugger 23 “Seems highly likely” 25 “Keep in touch!”

26 Sushi wrapper 27 Back 28 “Speaking of which,” briefly 29 MSNBC host Melber 30 Chases a toddler, say

34 “Catch my drift?”

35 Onetime breakfast option marketed by a 1980s TV icon 37 “There it is!”

39 “__ side are you on?”

40 Farm layers 41 Neptune’s domain 42 Tree with serrated leaves 45 Langoustine soup 47 Red Delicious kin 49 Dominic of “The Crown” 50 “Casablanca” actor Peter 51 Spot for a much-needed drink, perhaps 52 “__ directed” 53 Cul-de-__ 57 Amusingly unconventional 58 “Behold!” of old 59 __ out a living 61 App annoyances 62 Pallid 63 Photoreceptor cell

(c)2025 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

SOLUTIONS

SU DOK U

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Jumble: OUTDO LIGHT HOLLER SPRUCE -- LOST THEIR COOL

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OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 3 - 9

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS FORECAST ARIES (March 21-April 19): It could be life is in the spotlight, and a beautification efa great day for accomplishment and get things fort or post-holiday clean-up could yield both done. Today is the last Best Day of 2025 for beauty and order. A partner may just be down anything important you want to kick off. If your and discouraged, but improvements should individual cycles align, use the day for a FIRST. quickly arise.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): An insight SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You could could bring something to light that really moves find just the language to couch your message your needle; it’s those mega ‘a-ha’s that can turn for best integration and understanding. The Uniyour life toward a new direction or lay down old verse, and those around you, are listening. Move past an early frustration to keep things moving. problems and limitations permanently.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): It’s a great SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): blessing when family are also friends and The right moves reveal themselves at the right friends become family, may you receive this times, not a moment before. When the Universe gift in your life. A financial collab or agreement is ready, the steps are clear. Money matters should have improved and should continue to could begin to deliver more abundance.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): It’s easier improve even more. to show up and put out the effort when you CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): When feel seen and appreciated. When a workplace you’ve got both the grace and the high energy, can support relationships among teammates, a good impression isn’t hard to make. Time at all benefit. A partner may be able to decisively home could bring concepts to monetize or allow for bonding. Innovation could be calling you. assist you.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You should have AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): If you the energy to handle the tasks in front of you can break time free for self-exploration today, today, and you could get some genuine appre- do. It could be powerful day for new insights. ciation. Grab someone to help, their compan- Since you are the common denominator for ionship and their ideas can elevate your efforts. everything in your life, the more self-mastery, VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Create, play, the better your life. make music, dance. You likely have the energy, PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A money the joy, and the artistic inspo to cut loose and heartbreak could be moving into a space where create. A money situation could finally reach magic is made, pay attention to new ideas but the innovative solution you’ve been waiting for. also do all needed homework before you jump LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Your home in. Grab some time with friends if you can. (c) 2025 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

The Brick Times, January 3, 2026, Page 19

SERIOUSLY SIMPLE: THIS CLASSIC JEWISH DELI SOUP REMINDS ME OF MY MOTHER Diane Rossen Worthington My mom really wasn’t a great cook , which I sometimes think is why I was so interested in food and cooking. She had four kids and making dinner every night was not a thrill for her, to say the least. But she did have her specialties like barbecued steak and great California salads.

And this delicious soup is the taste memor y I think about and make when it’s cold and I’m feeling nostalgic. I prepare a pot of this and invite friends to stop by and have a casual This substantial dish is a meal on its own. CREDIT:(Didinner. ane Rossen Worthington /TCA).

This hearty reinterpretation of my mom’s mushroom barley the flanken on each side, about 2 to 3 and flanken soup is chock-full of both minutes per side. Remove from pot and pungent dried mushrooms and fresh reserve on a plate. cremini and shitake mushrooms. Feel 2. Add the onion and leek and saute free to select your favorite dried mush- for 3 to 5 minutes, or until softened. room to create your personal stamp; Add the celery, carrot, and shiitake and cremini mushrooms, and saute for follow the same soaking directions.

Flanken is the short rib that is sliced 3 to 5 minutes longer, or until slightly across the bones into thin strips. It softened. Add the garlic and saute for adds another layer of flavor for sure. another minute. Add the barley, reAlso, the touch of soy sauce amplifies served flanken and stock, stir together and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the the mushroom flavor.

This substantial dish is a meal on its heat to medium-low, and simmer for own. A simple green salad would be a about 1 1/2 hours, or until the barley is tender but not mushy. nice accompaniment.

3. Meanwhile, in a bowl, soak the dried MUSHROOM, BARLEY AND mushrooms in the boiling water for 30 minutes. Drain, reserving the soaking FLANKEN SOUP liquid. Squeeze the mushrooms dry Serves 6 to 8 and cut them into 1/4-inch cubes.

2 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound beef flanken, 1/2-inch thick, Set aside. Strain the reserved liquid through a fine-mesh strainer to remove about 4to 6 slices any grit.

2 onions, finely chopped 1 leek, white and light green parts only, 4. When the barley is cooked, add 3/4 cup of the strained liquid to the soup cleaned and coarsely chopped or to taste (reserve the remainder for 2 stalks celery, coarsely chopped 3 carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped another use or discard) along with the 1/4 pound fresh shiitake mushrooms, dried mushrooms pieces, soy sauce and parsley and simmer for 5 more sliced 1/2 pound fresh cremini mushrooms, minutes. Remove flanken with tongs and cut into small pieces, discarding sliced the gristle and bone, and return to the 2 garlic cloves, minced soup pot. Taste for seasoning.

1/2 cup pearl barley 5. To serve, ladle into soup bowls.

8 cups chicken or vegetable stock 1 ounce dried porcini or morel mush- Serve immediately.

Advance preparation: The dish can rooms be prepared up to three days ahead 2 cups boiling water through Step 4, covered, and refrig1 tablespoon reduced salt soy sauce 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley erated. Reheat gently. This soup also freezes well for up to one month. Ad1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive just the seasonings when you reheat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the frozen soup.

(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 20, The Brick Times, January 3, 2026

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