2016-02-20 - The Howell Times

Times

MICROMEDIA PUBLICATIONS, INC.

T H E H OW E L L

Vol. 12 - No. 37

Inside This Week’s Edition

Business Directory............................ 14 Classifieds......................................... 12 Community News............................ 7-9 Dear Joel........................................... 11 Fun Page .......................................... 13 Government ....................................... 6 Inside the Law .................................. 13 Letters To The Editor .......................... 5 Wolfgang ......................................... 15 WWW.MICROMEDIAPUBS.COM

February 20, 2016

Your FREE Weekly Hometown Newspaper | Serving Howell and Farmingdale

ADMIN OUTLINES “STATE OF HOWELL” TWP. IMPROVING RATABLE BASE, GREEN INITIATIVES

–Photos by The Howell Times Among the items of note in Howell Township Manager Jeffrey Mayfield’s “State of the Township” report were the growth of commercial ratables such as Greenleaf Plaza, “green” initiatives, and the promotion of new Police Chief Andrew Kudrick after Ron Carter’s retirement.

By Jennifer Peacock HOWELL – With a tax collection rate of 98 percent, a commercial ratable base of $756 million, and flat municipal taxes, Township Manager Jeffrey Mayfield looked both back and forward in his

“State of the Township for 2015” address.

The township will go into 2016 with a healthy $5.2 million surplus, which Mayfield attributed to the continuing rise of residential and commercial ratables among other things.

A restructuring and defined continuity of service regiment applied throughout the municipal ranks has heightened the service residents can expect from their civil servants.

(Outlines - See Page 14)

Housing Recovery Centers Consolidate To Freehold

MONMOUTH COUNTY – With 99 percent of all Sandy-impacted homeowners in the Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Elevation, and Mitigation (RREM) Program now with signed grant agreements and more than 2,650 homes rebuilt through the program, the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs announced that it is consolidating its existing Housing Recovery Centers (HRCs) into two regional HRCs in Freehold, Mon-

Connect

mouth County, and Newark, Essex County, as of May 1.

The consolidation will allow the Department of Community Affairs to focus more of its recovery resources on construction and project completion, which are the predominant needs of homeowners in the RREM Program and LMI Homeowners Rebuilding Program, officials said.

According to the DCA, fewer than 50

With the

homeowners in the LMI Program have yet to sign a grant agreement and 99 percent of all homeowners in the program will have entered the construction phase by the May 1 consolidation.

Homeowners will still be able to work with their housing advisors by telephone and in person at the regional HRCs in Freehold and Newark.

(Housing - See Page 4)

Howell Hopes To Earn Silver Level For Green Team

By Jennifer Peacock HOWELL – The township has achieved a bronze level certification with Sustainable Jersey, but officials hope the higher level of certification is within reach.

Sustainable Jersey, based out of the College of New Jersey, equips municipalities with training and tools to improve waste and energy management and improve environmental quality. Municipalities then receive certification that they have met certain criteria outlined by the nonprofit.

“There’s a couple of reasons why this is a great thing for the community. First and foremost, it’s the right thing to do. And to leave a good footprint and be environmentally conscious as a municipality is a fantastic thing to do, to leave our town, our community, our state, our country and our world in a much better place for our children than what we have right now,” Mayor William Gotto said.

Obtaining its bronze certification opens up the possibility for grant money and programs to continue making environmentally friendly upgrades and changes around town, he added.

Brian Tannenhaus, a Planning Board member who also sits on the Green Team, spoke about the township’s achievements and future plans.

“Sustainable Jersey is not only a way to protect the environment and enhance the things we’re already doing in the town that are ‘green,’ we are already taking advantage of a lot of those types of initiatives. It’s nice now that we have a plaque that recognizes it,” Tannenhaus said.

Deputy Mayor Robert Nicastro, in an e-mail to The Howell Times, talked about the accomplishments and future goals.

“We had to meet some rigorous requirements, meeting a minimum of 150 points including two priority action options. Submitted were our Natural Resource Inventory, a very important document and maps

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Housing:

Continued From Page 1

For those who are unable to travel to the regional centers in Freehold or Newark, DCA has identified meeting locations in Atlantic City and Toms River where homeowners can meet with their housing advisors closer to their homes on an as-needed basis and, where necessary, the housing advisors will come to a homeowner’s house.

Also, DCA will continue to hold Housing Recovery Information Sessions in hard hit communities, including those in Atlantic and Ocean counties. The information sessions are open to all eligible RREM and LMI Program homeowners to provide them one-on-one attention with any housing recovery questions or issues they might have. The information sessions have been attended by nearly 2,000 homeowners since they started in October 2014.

“Once homeowners sign their grant agreement to begin construction, their need shifts away from the Housing Recovery Center to their builder and project manager. However, we want to assure people participating in RREM and the LMI Program that they will still be able to contact our knowledgeable housing advisors, who have been so instrumental in helping them move forward in their recovery from Sandy,” said DCA Commissioner Charles A. Richman.

Additionally, DCA’s Sandy Constituent Services Office is another resource homeowners can utilize if they have questions about their recovery effort. While their primary contacts for questions about their rebuilding project remain their project manager and housing advisor, if they need further assistance, DCA’s Sandy Constituent Services Office has experienced representatives who can address their questions. The office can be reached by calling 609-292-3750 or 609-633-1328 or by emailing sandy.recovery@dca.nj.gov.

Furthermore, DCA administers the Sandy Recovery Housing Counselor Program, which offers free housing counseling services on a wide array of housing-related issues to Sandy-impacted homeowners and renters who lived at the time of the storm in one of the nine counties the federal government

Green Team:

Continued From Page 1

used frequently to help guide smart planning.

Also included was the townships Prescription Drug Safety and Disposal Program,” Nicastro said. “I also gave you from a previous email some accomplishments that earned the needed points including: an energy audit of the municipal building, creating a local community garden, energy saving outreach campaign to local businesses, farmland preservation plans, anti- idling and enforcement campaign, community paper shredding day, electronic recycling program and grass cutting and leave it program, to name a few.”

He continued: “The team is continuing to work with other township committees, municipalities and Monmouth County to solicit ideas for our Silver Certification. We will be working on enhancing community education and outreach, including working with our school district and healthy decisions and healthy communities to

designated as most impacted by Sandy (Atlantic, Bergen, Cape May, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Union).

The counseling services include foreclosure prevention, homelessness prevention, and reverse mortgage/home equity conversion mortgage among other topics.

Contact information for organizations providing the counseling services and their locations in the most impacted counties can be obtained at renewjerseystronger.org/ renters/sandy-recovery-housing-counseling-program.

“The State remains fully committed to housing recovery, and each day is working to help people complete their projects,” Commissioner Richman said.

Housing Advisors have contacted all RREM and LMI Program participants in Atlantic and Ocean counties to inform them of the upcoming HRC consolidation.

The Regional Housing Recovery Centers that will continue to operate after the May 1 consolidation are: Essex County 2 Gateway, 9th Floor Newark Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monmouth County 3 Paragon Way, Suite 150 Freehold Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The RREM Program is the largest of the housing recovery programs launched by the State following Superstorm Sandy. The program provides grants to Sandy-impacted homeowners to cover rebuilding costs up to $150,000 that are not funded by insurance, FEMA assistance, U.S. Small Business Administration loans, or other sources.

The LMI Homeowners Rebuilding Program provides reconstruction, rehabilitation and elevation assistance to Sandy-impacted homeowners of limited financial means whose storm-damaged primary residence is located in one of the nine most impacted counties as determined by the federal government. The program aims to provide assistance to those LMI homeowners who did not apply to the RREM Program, and includes a portion of funding specifically set aside for owners of manufactured housing units/mobile homes.

start. The team just submitted for a $20,000 grant to update our NRI and digital mapping overlay capability.”

Municipalities must create a “green team,” implement two of 12 priority actions, complete actions in 6 out of the 19 categories. Each action has points attached to it; to achieve bronze certification, a municipality must have 150 points.

The categories range from green design to local economies, waste management to sustainability planning.

Nicastro said the township will work toward a silver certification, with hopes to submit that application by June. To achieve silver status, three of 12 priority actions must be met, with eight actions out of the 19 categories met for a total of 350 points.

The Green Team meets 7:30 p.m. the last Tuesday of each month in the municipal building conference room A. For more information about Sustainable Jersey, visit sustainablejersey.com/s.

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Opinion

The Howell Times, February 20, 2016, Page 5

&

C ommentary

Editorial The Importance Of Community Much of our news today contains evidence of a society seemingly in a state of disintegration. We can hardly view the evening news or read the morning paper without being confronted with images of violence, hopelessness and despair – in short, the symptoms of a society where people have lost a sense of control over their own lives.

We believe that many of the problems experienced in our country today have resulted from a lost sense of community.

What is a community?

It is certainly more than a place where people live or work.

It is a place where people interact in countless and vital ways.

It is a place where people raise their children, tend to their loved ones, pursue their friendships and retire after a lifetime of meaningful work.

In many ways, the strength of a community is reflected through the strength of its local institutions – its government, its schools, its numerous community groups and houses of worship.

The degree to which people interact with these institutions directly affects

the strength and cohesiveness of the community as a whole.

It is our conviction that the hope of America lies not in big government and the bureaucracies spawned by it, but rather by the sense of control people will experience in their lives with a renewed sense of community.

The hope lies in the simple associations we make in our community each and every day.

We believe that the mission of a local newspaper should be to promote the highest ideals of community life. With accurate, comprehensive news and lively commentary geared toward the interests of residents, The Times has always encouraged its readers to experience the fulfillment of participating in all aspects of their community. We are grateful to have been so warmly received into these communities.

As a local publication dedicated to the needs of our community, regular dialogue between us and our readers is essential.

We encourage your regular input, comments and criticisms so we can accomplish the purpose for which The Times has been established.

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Letters To The Editor Great Adventure’s Forest Should Remain Six Flags Great Adventure seems to have forgotten that Jackson Township residents once stood shoulder to shoulder with them defending New Jersey, Jackson Township, and Great Adventure from a toxic waste incinerator once proposed on their borders.

Great Adventure allowed thousands to attend a meeting at the park where we could assemble to defend our beloved township, protect the health and safety of our children and preserve the natural clean environment so abundant here in Jackson, at a time, “not so long ago.”

We were confident that Great Adventure would always be a “good neighbor” and a grateful steward of the woodlands that make the park so magical to visit.

You see, children dream of coming to the park where their fanciful imaginations can flourish and they share this time with Mommy and Daddy standing so patiently to ride the spectacular rides.

But what sets Great Adventure above all other such destinations is the setting!

It actually sits among the largest undisturbed forest in the North East United States.

It is this setting which makes Great Adventure so magical!

I recall being up so high in the sky with a view of the land surrounding the park and thinking, this experience alone is worth the admission price. And of course the Safari! Where parents and children alike marvel at the

sight of elephants, zebras, rhinoceros, and no one could forget those mischievous monkeys. The animals from their books, right there in real life surrounding the car or minivan. How unforgettable!

It surely was the intention of the creators and designers of the park to leave an indelible “love for nature” in the hearts and minds of visitors, especially the young.

For it is to them that we pass on the stewardship of nature, and the woodland creatures that live in the very forest that may be lost forever. Signed, a 35 year neighbor of Great Adventure.

Jim Rapp Jackson

What Is The President’s Legacy?

Every president, when they leave office, wants to know what their legacy will be. In simple words, what they will be remembered for. In the case of President Obama, it is rather simple. Number one and foremost, he will be remembered as the first black president. That is an achievement to be proud of.

Next he will be remembered for leaving office with the country in total chaos. One of the president’s main jobs is to leave office with the country better than it was. President Obama has done just the opposite. Instead of bringing the country closer together, he has managed to drive a split in the country. He somehow has managed to alienate all our allies. He forgot that he was president of all the people and became the president

We Welcome Letters To The Editor!

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

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

withheld from publication.

While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters.

The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail or bring typed letters to: 15 Union Ave., Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail newsdesk@micromediapubs. com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

Opinions expressed in letters do not reflect those of Micromedia Publications.

of the Democratic Party only.

He has gone against the will of the majority of the people.

He came into office with an agenda that he would not move off of, even if it was wrong. He is the first president who never made a mistake, for it was always the other guy who was wrong.

He started in office bashing George Bush and would not get off it. He always had someone to blame for his mistakes. He has managed to misuse the Constitution to suit his own needs. He kept us in a war that he didn’t believe in. That is sad. He tried to change all the branches of government. His main goal was to close Guantanamo Bay and to bring a strong gun law in place. He had every opportunity to be a great president. The people wanted him to succeed. They believed in him. Yet he didn’t believe in the people.

It is not that I’m bashing him. I’m just stating facts. I wish him the best and hope that our great country can get back on track.

P.S. This is not to say the president didn’t do some good, but the bad outweighed the good.

Herb Greenberg, Jr. Brick

Blinded By Dollar Signs Tell me, who can feel sorry for these Atlantic City moguls? They are blinded by dollar signs.

Remember when we enjoyed going to Atlantic City for the fun of gambling and winning a few bucks?

Now try approaching a game table unless you bet $25, $35 or $40. If you are a “high roller” you can be “comped” if you lose enough money. Remember when the casinos opened in the 1970s and you could bet $1, $2 or $5. These owners forgot that they could make enough dollars with the volume.

Let them go bankrupt. I would rather spend the airfare and go to Las Vegas.

So, “Don’t cry for them, AC gamblers.”

Bill McPhail Toms River

Smith Against Women’s Civil Rights

Congressman Chris Smith’s stance on human trafficking is commendable, which leads us to believe that he champions women’s rights.

However, Smith’s long-term voting record underscores an alternate stance on women’s civil rights and basic health care services.

Smith has voted to outlaw the birth control pill and wrote legislation blocking private insurance and personal flexible spending account money from covering women’s contraception and basic health care.

He voted against Income Equalit y, the Violence Against Women’s Act and voted to close needed health care facilities that provide breast and cervical cancer screening. Smith wrote bill HR3, redefining rape to “forcible rape,” which re-victimizes women and empowers rapists. In Smith’s world, women have no choice, even in cases of rape, incest or to save the life of the mother.

As chairman of the Congressional Pro Life Caucus, Smith leads Congress in the Personhood movement that relinquishes the civil rights of the mother to her fetus.

Personhood legislation also bans all oral contraception, stem-cell research and in-vitro fertilization, and it criminalizes abortion with no exception.

In addition, Smith does not support gun safety legislation that would keep guns out of the hands of domestic abusers and stalkers even though, on average, 57 women in America are killed by guns every month.

I thank Smith for his common sense approach to human trafficking. But whether in bondage, in poverty or in other dire straits, women want to know that their bodies, minds and spirits will not be controlled or crippled in any other way, and certainly not by their own congressman.

Bari Rosenberg Manalapan

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Page 6, The Howell Times, February 20, 2016

Spotlight

on G overnment Correspondence From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

From The Desk Of Congressman Chris Smith:

Congressman Chris Smith NEW JERSEY – A law to protect children in the U.S. and around the world from convicted pedophiles who travel in or out of the United States unbeknownst to law enforcement officials was signed into law, capping an eight-year effort to enact international notification legislation named for the late Megan Kanka, a seven-year-old from Hamilton, N.J. “This important legislation authorizes the creation of a comprehensive reciprocal notification system to significantly expand protections for children worldwide,” said U.S. Rep. Chris Smith who authored the new law commonly referred to as International Megan’s Law. “Now foreign governments will know when convicted pedophiles who are currently required to be on government sex-offender registries, are traveling to other countries.

Now they can assess the potential danger and take reasonable precautions to protect children including denial of a visa or limiting travel,” Smith said.

MONMOUTH COUNTY – Health officials throughout New Jersey and the United States are seeing increased influenza illness. Locally, the staff of the Monmouth County Health Department is also seeing increased flu activity reporting and they are closely monitoring this year’s flu activity at Monmouth County schools, hospitals and nursing homes.

“There are three basic everyday actions that we can all use to protect ourselves and our loved ones from getting the flu,” said Freeholder John P. Curley, liaison to the Monmouth Coun-

In 1994, Megan Kanka was sexually assaulted and killed by a convicted, repeat sex offender living across the street and unknown to the residents in the neighborhood. Public outcry in response to the terrible crime and tireless work

by Megan’s parents, Richard and Maureen Kanka, led to the New Jersey State Legislature passing the original Megan’s Law (NJSA 2C: 7-1 through 7-II) in 1994. The law required public notification of convicted sex offenders living in the community. Today all 50 states and all the territories have a Megan’s Law, an important tool in preventing more children from becoming victims.

“As a result of the hard work

by Megan’s loving parents, Maureen and Richard Kanka, and others, first New Jersey and then all 50 states passed Megan’s Laws to require public notification of convicted sex offenders living in the community,” said Smith (NJ04). “Information is power and the interest of protecting children remains at the core of the federal and original state Megan’s Laws and the enactment of today’s International Megan’s Law.” Richard Kanka said the bipartisan agreement notifying foreign law enforcement of traveling child predators is paramount for the safety of

Megan’s Law Goes International

all children.

“The reason this legislation is so important is that it will provide law enforcement with the information needed to help prevent convicted sex offenders from moving secretly throughout this country and any other nation worldwide,” said Kanka. “Law-abiding citizens of this country did not create this problem. It was created by individuals who continue to terrorize our children and want to remain anonymous. When a sex offender has been convicted of violating a child, law enforcement and parents have a right to know where they are hiding.

Revealing the secret status of convicted child predators is what Megan’s Law is all about. Removing the secrecy will prevent more children from becoming victims in the US and abroad by simply making the facts known.”

Officially named The International Megan’s Law to Prevent Child Exploitation and Other Sexual Crimes Through Advance Notification of Traveling Sex Offender, H.R. 515, passed the House several times before being approved by Senate in December. The House unanimously passed the final bill on February 1 and sent it to the White House on February 4 with the President signing it February 8.

Smith first introduced the International Megan’s Law bill alongside the Kankas in 2008 in Megan’s Place, the small community park that bears Megan’s name, and has worked for passage ever since. The final version that moved out of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in October was crafted in close partnership with Senator Richard Shelby (AL), who championed the innovative passport provisions, Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Bob Corker (TN), Ranking Member Ben Cardin (MD) and Senator Barbara Mikulski (MD). Smith also acknowledged the strong support of Majority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy (CA), who helped advance the final bill in the House, and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce and Ranking Member Eliot Engel.

“Child sex-trafficking and tourism are a serious problem,” Smith said. “With the enactment of this law and the bipartisan hard work of so many lawmakers and advocacy groups, children in the U.S. and around the world will now have greater protections from roving child predators.”

The newly signed International Megan’s Law: Streamlines and coordinates the work of the Angel Watch Center with the Sex Offender

Targeting Center of the US Marshals Service so that the best information is getting to the right people in the shortest amount of time.

Makes it a crime, for the first time, for a sex offender to travel abroad without giving 21 days advance notice so that law enforcement has adequate time to vet the traveler and warn the destination country, if needed.

Mandates that the State Department, in consultation with the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice, establish, within 90 days, a program for issuing a passport provision on a traveling sex offender with an offense against a child and current duty to register, thereby preventing circumvention of the notification system by travelers who misreport which countries they will visit.

Requires federal agencies to properly collect notification response data to understand which countries are working with the U.S. on preventing re-offense by child predators.

Provides the authority for both the Angel Watch Center and the US Marshals Service to receive information from other countries about pedophiles intending to travel to the U.S. Clarifies the receipt and sharing within U.S. law enforcement of incoming notifica-

County Offering Free Influenza Vaccines

ty Health Department. “Cover your cough, wash your hands and stay home if you are sick are best ways to avoid getting and spreading the flu and many other illnesses.”

An extra step in the flu protection arsenal is getting a seasonal influenza shot. The county health department will offer free flu vaccines at their office located at 3435 Highway 9 in Freehold. To receive a vaccine, call the health department at 732-431-7456 to make an appointment.

Participants will be screened by a registered nurse regarding risk factors and educated about

the vaccine. A parent or guardian must sign a consent form for children six months to 18 years of age.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months of age and older be vaccinated against the flu annually.

Flu shots are approved for use in pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions.

“If you haven’t already done so, you should get this season’s flu shot,” said Christopher Merkel, Monmouth County’s Public Health coordinator.

“This year there are several different strains of influenza

circulating in our region. The flu shot is a way to be protected from some of the strains.”

When a circulating influenza virus is different from vaccine viruses, it is still recommended that persons get a flu shot. Even if the vaccine might not provide complete protection against one of the strains, it still offers protection against the other influenza viruses that are present in the vaccine.

Influenza symptoms are cough, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, chills and fatigue.

A fever may or may not be a symptom of the flu. Residents who have one or more of these

symptoms are urged to stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the illness to others.

“Residents need to be vigilant in protecting themselves and reducing the spread of the seasonal influenza,” said Curley.

“We are in the usual peak of influenza season right now.”

According to the CDC, most people with the flu have mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs. If, however, you have symptoms of flu and are in a high risk group, or are very sick or worried about your illness, contact your health care provider. For information

tions on known sex offenders traveling to the U.S. And also directs the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security, to seek agreements and use technical assistance with other countries so that the United States is notified in advance of incoming foreign sex offenders.

The new International Megan’s Law will work in conjunction with America’s landmark anti-human trafficking law, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 authored by Smith and the two other trafficking laws he wrote in 2003 and 2005.

According to a 2010 report by the Government Accountability Office entitled “Current Situation Results in Thousands of Passports Issued to Registered Sex Offenders,” at least 4,500 U.S. passports were issued to registered sex offenders in fiscal year 2008.

Typically a U.S. passport is valid for 10 years. The GAO emphasized that its numbers were probably understated due to the limitations of the data that it was able to access and analyze.

Estimates from the International Labor Organization indicate that 1.8 million children are victims of commercial sexual exploitation around the world every year.

about high risk groups, visit the CDC website at cdc.gov.

The Monmouth County Health Department recommends that all residents avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too, and stay home when you are sick. Most importantly, wash your hands to protect yourself from germs and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

For additional information, call the Monmouth County Health Department at 732-431-7456, or log onto visitmonmouth.com.

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The Howell Times, February 20, 2016, Page 7

Community N ews

Club News, Activities, Events & Announcements

Historical Association Now Renting Out Taylor-Butler House

MONMOUTH COUNTY – Monmouth County Historical Association is now offering historic Taylor-Butler House, one of the five historic house museums owned by the association, for wedding receptions and private parties.

“We have had several beautiful weddings, parties and gatherings at this historic home in Middletown,” Association Director Evelyn C. Murphy, said. “We also recently renovated the outdoor patio area and have completed interior re-painting and other improvements, making the home even more special and unique for private gatherings.”

The grand home has a full front porch, a Dutch door leading to the central foyer and several high ceilinged rooms with large windows on the first floor. There are several rooms for smaller gatherings along with a bridal changing room on the second floor, as well as another central foyer, along with bathrooms on both main floors. The front porch opens to a sweeping yard with large hollies and shade trees and a rear door leads to a recently renovated patio making for two wonderful settings for outdoor en-

tertaining. There is also a speaker system which allows for sound throughout the residence.

Taylor-Butler House is a restored Victorian mansion located on five wooded acres in the heart of the Middletown Village Historic District. It was built in 1853 by Joseph Dorset Taylor and his bride, Mary Holmes Taylor. It reflected the wealth and status the Taylors enjoyed from his business in New York’s China trade. The house stayed in the family for more than 100 years. In the 1940s, architect Henry Ludwig Kramer restored the mansion, making it one of the finest examples of the Victorian Italianate style or architecture. Monmouth County Historical Association acquired the property from the estate of George W. Butler in the 1950s and continues to maintain it as a historic house museum.

Those interested in touring the space for an upcoming event or to make a reservation can contact Christine Ciccosanti at the association by calling 732-462-1466 ext.19 or e-mailing cciccosanti@monmouthhistory.org. Further information is also available by visiting the association’s website at monmouthhistory.org.

UGLY HOMES WANTED FOR TELEVISION PROGRAM In this area We need 30 Ugly Homes with Ugly Kitchens, Bathrooms, Siding, Window, etc., inside or outside that need fixing or Remodeling. We will Repair and Remodel them and shoot video for training film and future TV show on Home Remodeling Work.

MUST SIGN RELEASE, for purpose of filming job! This must be a complete remodeling job, not just patch up work. This remodeling is to be specially priced out of work, with compensation back to the homeowner for signed release.

CALL 1-800-281-1582 Ask for TV Project Department, for job evaluation & estimate of cost & compensations!

SERIOUS INQUIRIES PLEASE!

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Freehold Orthodontics

Wear Your “Genes” Day

HOWELL – Fighting H.A.R.D. Foundation was formed by two Howell Township sisters, Allie and Jonna Crocker, who both have separated chronic illnesses that are rare.

To be considered a rare disease in America it means that there has to be fewer than 200,000 people nationwide that have that particular disease.

You might find it interesting that “rare” really isn’t so rare either. It’s estimated that one in ten Americans have a rare disease from the list of more than 7,000 rare disorders. That’s approximately 30 million Americans. Nearly

two-thirds of all rare disease patients are children. That’s around 20 million kids.

That’s why Fighting H.A.R.D. Foundation was formed. Despite these large numbers of kids who fit the profile of a rare disease, there really wasn’t a foundation out there to represent them spreading awareness and making sure these children know that they are not alone in their battle.

On February 29, the foundation asks that you wear your favorite pair of jeans to show your support of rare diseases of which over 80 percent are caused by faulty genes.

Soroptimists Bingo Fundraiser

FARMINGDALE – Baskets ‘n’ Bags presented by the Soroptimists International of the Central Jersey Coast, will be held March 6 at the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Program Activity Center, 127 Yellowbrook Road. Doors open at 11 a.m., with bingo starting at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 advance, $30 door and include 10 regular games.

No one under age 18 will be admitted. Outside food/drinks cannot be brought in.

Additional cards may be purchased, as well as five special games, wild cards, daublers and food and beverages.

Prizes include Longaberger baskets and pottery,

Vera Bradley bags, genuine Coach, Michael Kors and Kate Spade bags.

Profits benefit Soroptimist charities. For tickets, call 732-349-4800 or email: lbenson@baskb-law.com.

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WE ACCEPT MOST INSURANCES! 55-77 Schanck Road B-15 Freehold, NJ 07728 Pinho Professional Center (Across from iPlay America)

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Senior Citizens Advisory Council Meetings

HOWELL – The Howell Senior Citizens Advisory Council meets on the second Tuesday of every other month at 1 p.m. in the Senior Center Crafts Room.

The schedule for this year is as follows: April 6, June 8, August 10, October 15 and December 14.

4/15/16

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Page 8, The Howell Times, February 20, 2016

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Community N ews

Club News, Activities, Events & Announcements

Integrated Preschool Program Now Accepting Applications HOWELL – The Howell Township Public School District is pleased to announce the 12th year of its integrated preschool program beginning September. The program will serve three and four year old children; classes will be balanced based on age. Morning and afternoon sessions will be held five days per week. Special needs and typically developing preschoolers will come together in an inclusive classroom where language, academic and social skills will be developed in a nurturing environment.

Enrollment is open to typical preschool students who will be selected via a lottery process. Children will be selected for further screening using a preschool readiness instrument in the order of their lottery selection. Tuition for the program will be $2,625 for the 2016-2017 school year.

Parents may choose to make one payment for the entire cost or pay the tuition as per a

specified fee schedule. Transportation may be available for a fee; otherwise parents will be responsible for transporting their child/children to and from the program.

The lottery drawing will be held on May 6 at Howell Township Middle School North at 2:30 p.m. To qualify, a child must be three years old by October 1, but not five years old.

Applications for the program are available at the Howell Township Public Schools’ Administrative Office at 200 Squankum-Yellowbrook Road. They will also be available in your local school’s main office and on the website, howell.k12.nj.us.

Applications must be mailed to the Howell Township Public Schools’ Administrative Office, Post Office Box 579, Attention: Mary Kinzel no later than April 27.

For additional information, contact Patricia Callander, assistant superintendent, at 732-751-2480 ext. 3808.

Administrators Present At Regional Forum FREEHOLD – Superintendent Charles Sampson, Chief Academic Officer Dr. Nicole Hazel, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Jeffrey Moore and Director of Guidance and Operations Shanna Howell took part in a discussion regarding increasing student access to rigorous courses. The group spoke alongside colleagues from Bergenfield High School about how the district has increased the percentage of students taking AP courses over the past several years. As a part of empowering its students, FRHSD has revised academic programs to maximize acceleration into AP courses, and in addition implemented summer programs to prepare students for the

rigors of AP. Sampson also took part in a separate panel discussion on how FRHSD is utilizing tools like the redesigned SAT and PSAT/NMSQT to evaluate a student’s college readiness and determine which advanced courses are a good match without heightening student stress.

“Working collaboratively with other districts is a vital asset in advancing a district’s program. The giving and sharing of ideas provides an opportunity to see what works and how things can improve. It was an honor to have our administrators invited to speak about the advances we have made here in the Freehold Regional,” Sampson said.

Monmouth Civic Chorus Sings Music For Lent

MONMOUTH COUNTY – The award-winning Monmouth Civic Chorus will perform meditations on Lent from the 17th to the 20th centuries at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 101 Chelsea Avenue, Long Branch, in a concert titled “Passions” on March 6 at 4 p.m.

The music includes “Membra Jesu Nostri” by Dieterich Buxtehude, “Crucifixus” by Antonio Lotti, “O Vos Omnes” by Pablo Casals and

“Hear My Prayer, O Lord” by Henry Purcell.

The chorus will be accompanied by a string quartet, organ and five professional vocal soloists. Listeners are invited to sponsor the performer of their choice with a donation.

Tickets are $30 adult, $27 senior, $25 group, $5 student. Tickets and information are available at monmouthcivicchorus.org or 732-933-9333.

Citizen Outreach Program

HOWELL – The Howell Township Office of Emergency Management offers speakers for civic groups, senior citizen groups, scouting and other groups.

The outreach program offers free hazards and preparedness presentations covering home-

land security,- severe weather/emergency preparedness topics and identifying hazardous materials scenarios.

For more information about this service contact Daniel Foglia, OEM coordinator, at 732-938-4500 ext. 2906.

United Republican Club Upcoming Meetings

HOWELL – Want to find out what’s going in our town and get involved in your community?

Have a passion for politics?

Attend a United Republican Club of Howell meeting: March 15 and May 17 at the Howell

First Aid building, 16 Kent Road, near the Wawa.

Both meetings start at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend. For more information, call 732773-5204 or e-mail naborrelli@yahoo.com.

www.micromediapubs.com

The Howell Times, February 20, 2016, Page 9

Community N ews

Club News, Activities, Events & Announcements

DEP Closes Diamondback Terrapin Season Early

NEW JERSEY – Due to continued concerns about harvest pressures on northern diamondback terrapins in coastal areas of New Jersey, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin has signed an Administrative Order immediately closing the remainder of the commercial harvest season for this turtle species.

The diamondback terrapin is the only species of turtle that lives in the brackish waters of New Jersey’s coastal marshes and estuaries. The commercial harvest closure is effective immediately and will remain in effect through the end of the harvest season on March 31.

“The diamondback terrapin has long been special to many people who live in or and visit our coastal communities,” said Commissioner Martin. “Many people have dedicated countless hours to protecting its habitats and raising awareness about this unique species. We need to ensure the terrapin remains part of our coastal ecosystem.”

This is the second Administrative Order Commissioner Martin has issued closing the commercial harvest of this species. The Commissioner issued a similar order in March 2015, when the New Jersey Marine Fisheries Council (NJMFC) and the Endangered and Nongame Species Advisory Committee advised that excessive harvesting was taking place in New Jersey to provide terrapins for out-of-state aquaculture operations and for overseas markets.

Division of Fish and Wildlife conservation officers will be on the lookout for anyone illegally harvesting terrapins. In addition to civil penalties, anyone charged with illegally harvesting a diamondback terrapin will be assessed a $200 replacement fee for each terrapin in his or her possession.

The DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife has also been working with the NJMFC, as well as neighboring states, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other terrapin experts to develop management strategies to enhance protection of diamondback

terrapins in order to sustain the species in New Jersey.

“As evidenced by our recommendation to DEP, the New Jersey Marine Fisheries Council fully supports the extended closure of the diamondback terrapin harvest as we continue to establish future regulations,” said Council Acting Chairman Dick Herb.

In the past, commercial harvesting of terrapins in New Jersey was reported on a small-scale basis. But increased demand, particularly in Asian food markets, has put excessive pressure on the species.

In a 2014 incident, more than 3,500 terrapins were harvested from two locations in southern New Jersey to provide terrapins for an out-of-state aquaculture facility that raises them for overseas markets. More than 14,000 offspring of the wild adult terrapins were then exported to Asia.

Once abundant, terrapins decreased dramatically by the 1930s, due primarily to harvesting for food. Numbers started increasing again by the 1960s, but in recent decades the terrapin has been at risk again due to habitat loss, drowning in crab traps and vehicle strikes.

Although the diamondback terrapin has not been listed as threatened or endangered in New Jersey, its status is listed as decreasing. As part of the state’s recovery effort, the DEP will be conducting investigations of populations, ecological data and habitat needs as it develops management strategies.

Diamondback terrapins, so named for the diamond-shaped patterns on its shell, are more closely related to freshwater turtles than marine turtles and spend their entire life cycle in coastal marshes. They are an important part of the ecosystem, feeding on snails that can overgraze marsh grasses, leaving them barren mudflats.

For a copy of the Administrative Order, visit: nj.gov/dep/docs/ao2016-02.pdf For more information on diamondback terrapins, including a range map, visit: conservewildlifenj.org.

Know Your Risk For High Blood Pressure MONMOUTH COUNTY – In February, Barnabas Health recognizes Black History Month and encourages its communities to take steps to prevent high blood pressure.

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common problem in the United States. It’s even more common in African Americans than among other ethnic groups, often developing earlier in life and becoming more severe.

Researchers have discovered that there may be a gene that makes African Americans more sensitive to salt which increases the risk of developing high blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association. Individuals who possess the gene may experience an increase in blood pressure by as much as five millimeters of mercury with as little as a half a teaspoon of salt. Greater percentages of people with diabetes and obesity may also contribute to increased rates of high blood pressure among African Americans.

While we can’t always fight genetics, there

are lifestyle changes we can adopt to help lower blood pressure and prevent hypertension. The Barnabas Health Heart Centers suggest the following: do not smoke or quit smoking, keep yourself at a healthy weight, or a body mass index below 25, get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days, buy low-salt or salt-free foods, use little or no table salt, eat two cups of fruit and two and a half cups of different colored vegetables a day, eat fewer foods from animals to avoid saturated fat, use only nonfat or low-fat dairy products, drink fewer sugary drinks and limit how much alcohol you drink (no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women).

Because high blood pressure often has no signs or symptoms, it is important to get your blood pressure checked each time you visit your physician.

For a referral to a Barnabas Health cardiologist or primary care physician, call 888-724-7123.

732-349-1448

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NJ HIC #: 13VH02253000 Michael J. Belanger, NJ Master Plumbing LIC #: 9465 RT Brown, NJ Electrical LIC #: 10584

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Page 10, The Howell Times, February 20, 2016

DeGraff

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Serving all Faiths, Traditional Funeral Service within the means of all.

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Sherry DeGraff, Mgr. NJ Lic. No.3921 (732) 657-7868

Specialized Care for the Memory Impaired ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP 1st Saturday of Each Month at Noon, Call for Details

Celebrating the 5th Anniversary of our Toms River location!

In a Safe, Comfortable Setting Like the Home They’ve Always Known!

Private bedrooms • Professional nurses available 24 hrs 3 meals daily, snacks & beverages • Bathing, toileting, ambulating & dressing Housekeeping & laundry service • Special diets available Walking paths • Safe, secure grounds • Stimulating activities Daily, respite or long-term • 24-hr supervision • Alzheimer’s specialists Fully licensed, R.N. directed community regulated by the New Jersey Division of Community Affairs and County Board of Social Services.

732-290-CARE (2273) www.alcoeurgardens.com

Brick • 320 Herbertsville Road | Toms River • 1126 Lakewood Road

Here’s To Your Health

Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

5 Ways to Save Your Brain, Learn Faster and Calm Down

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

I lost my car at the mall and had to ask the security guy to drive me around and find it. I was practically in tears after roaming around the parking lot for 20 minutes. At the time, I just thought, “I’m losing my mind, how do I not remember this?!”

Then I thought about it, I have a hundred million thoughts in my head, and when I parked, I parked at a location I never usually park in near a store I never go to. And I had been wrapped up in an important and intense conversation on the phone (while I was driving and parking) and… are you assuming these are excuses? Maybe so.

But it made me think that memory loss and other injuries of the brain could impact your quality of life. It’s scary.

Your brain should be properly ‘fed’ and ‘exercised’ and in good shape. I can teach you how to save your brain and support yourself if you’re dealing with memory issues, brain fog or mild issues related to traumatic brain injury (TBI) or Toxic Encephalopathy.

I’m only offering suggestions to save your brain today, I’m not sure what’s safe for you or effective for your individual condition so please speak to your neurologist before trying any of these supplements: Fatty Acids – Why not, your brain is made of fat? Fat is an integral part of your brain, so it’s first up for that reason. One of the most important types of supplements you can take would be something high in DHA, docosahexaenoic acid. You’ll find DHA in supplements labeled “DHA” as well as in Salmon Oil, Fish Oils, Chia

Seed Oil and Krill.

Mu l l e i n Root – A little harder to find, it has a mild anti-spasmodic effect. Since it has an affinity for facial nerves, some holistic doctors suggest Mullein for Bells Palsy, Trigeminal Neuralgia or other facial nerve pain syndromes associated with brain-injury.

Acetyl L carnitine – It’s capable of repairing brain cells (neurons) and it is known to prevent age-related memory decline. It turns into acetylcholine in the brain which can help you with learning. Doctors often suggest it for stroke victims.

Ginkgo biloba – A well-known herb that sends blood up to your brain and it could help with both short and long-term memory. It seems to help balance the various catecholamine neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, adrenalin) as well as serotonin and cortisol levels. Taken together this can help revitalize a fading memory, reduce anxiety and improve your mood.

Ashwagandha- This is known to help with thyroid function over time by raising thyroid hormone levels, but it can make you sleepy. Studies suggest that it’s a good choice if you have insomnia related to any brain injury, including TBI. For a more comprehensive list of brain-saving supplements, please sign up for my newsletter at suzycohen.com and I’ll send you the extended version of this in a 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) ©2015 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Bartley Healthcare To Hold Whole-Hearted Health Event

JACKSON – Febr u a r y is Nat ional Hear t Health Month and Bar tley Healt hca re encou rages you to t a ke cont rol of you r hear t health. Lear n ways to keep your blood pressure down and reduce your risk of a stroke and other heart diseases at a presentation on February 24 at Bartley’s campus at 175 Bartley Road.

Heart disease is one of the leading

causes of death in the United States especially among adults who are over the age of 65. The great news is that this disease can be prevented through early action and making healthy choices.

Register to learn more at 732-3704700. Bartley Healthcare is teaming up with Barnabas Health to bring you this educational presentation. A light, healthy dinner will also be served.

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

www.micromediapubs.com

The Howell Times, February 20, 2016, Page 11

Dear Joel

By Joel Markel

Another Day Older And Deeper In Debt

Dear Readers, As I began to write this week’s column, my assistant brought me today’s letters and I want to address this readers concerns. A woman is heartbroken over an older son (in his 50s) who is not capable of managing money. A sibling had been put in charge, and, after what sounded like much grief, refused to do it any longer.

She is in her 80s and I’m sure she is concerned about the future, perhaps when she passes. I receive many similar letters, but hers touched me in a certain way.

Answer: When there is someone who is incapable of managing their own affairs there are many alternatives. In this case it sounded as if this son was irresponsible with money. Mishandling money often comes with illness. People who are bipolar can have episodes of selling the farm in exchange for luxuries, etc. They are not in a healthy state of mind and are delusional about outcomes and consequences. T he same goes for people with addiction

issues.

In this Dear Joel letter, it sounded to me as if she at one time managed her son’s money and then delegated it to another son.

They both had enough and will not do it any longer. For all of you who may have similar issues, there are guardians that can be trusted to take on this role. You can start with an elder law attorney or trust and estate lawyer.

Banks have departments that for a fee will manage finances for those who are not capable. Certain people that we meet at Preferred Home Health Care & Nursing services cannot trust their children and turn these responsibilities over to an attorney or bank or financial planner.

You can also start with social workers which are in abundance here in New Jersey. If there is not enough money to pay for a money manager, there is certainly enough to have a consultation with any of the above. Start somewhere and move in a different direction. Doing the same thing over and over again will accomplish nothing. Best of luck.

If you or anyone else is in need of home health care, call Preferred at 732-840-5566. “Home health care with feeling. Joel Markel is President of Preferred Home Health Care and Nursing services inc. serving all of New Jersey in adult, senior and pediatric home health care.”

Always Ask To See Identification

NEW JERSEY – With reports of individuals falsely representing themselves as utility workers, New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) wants to remind customers to always ask to see identification any time a company representative arrives at their home or business. All NJNG employees carry photo identification, as do contractors working on behalf of the company.

Additionally, NJ NG employees drive commercial vehicles clearly marked with

the company name and logo.

If approached by someone claiming to represent NJNG, ask to see their identification. If a situation seems suspicious, call NJNG’s Customer Services department at 800-221-0051 and ask to speak with a supervisor to verify the representative’s authenticity or call the local police. Customers should never open the door to anyone who cannot produce proper identification or whose badge does not seem genuine.

Upcoming Root To Rise Fundraiser

MONMOUTH COUNTY – A gift auction fundraiser and donation yoga class will be presented by Root to Rise on March 12 from noon to 3 p.m. at Porta in Asbury Park. The fundraiser will help to support the organization which provides free programs and services to those recovering from drug and alcohol addiction.

Amy Budinich is the founder of Root to Rise, and is hoping this gift auction will help raise the necessary funds to provide Root to Rise a permanent home

in Asbury Park. “We want to bridge the gap between rehab and reality. Beautiful things happen in rehab centers and detox facilities, but when one leaves there they are most likely reentering their previous environment. We want to help these individuals cultivate new healthy habits, as well as offer a safe space for at risk youth in our community,” said Budinich.

The yoga class will be taught by various certified yoga teachers from the surrounding areas and suggested admission to the event is $20.

Molly Pitcher Stamp Club Meetings

FREEHOLD – The Molly Pitcher Stamp Club meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the back of the Hope Lutheran Church, 211 Elton Adelphi Road. There is a stamp auction and visitors are welcome.

RC R.C.SHEA S

&ASSOCIATES COUNSELLORS AT LAW

HAVE YOU BEEN INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT OR ON THE JOB? AUTO ACCIDENT, SLIP & FALL, DOG BITES, PRODUCT LIABILITY, MEDICAL MALPRACTICE AND WORKER’S COMPENSATION SERIOUS LEGAL MATTERS REQUIRE SERIOUS AND EXPERIENCED ATTORNEYS

KNOW YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS! (House Calls By Appointment) MANCHESTER AREA TOMS RIVER OFFICE (732) 408-9455 244 Main Street BRICK AREA Toms River, NJ 08753 (732) 451-0800 (732) 505-1212 WWW. RCSHEA.COM

www.micromediapubs.com

Page 12, The Howell Times, February 20, 2016

For Rent

Help Wanted

Commecial Lease - Brick - 231 Brick Blvd., Unit #2. Commercial store rental 1022SF - $18 per sq. ft. Plus CAM charges with a triple net lease. Has exposure on main highway. Gloria Nilson & Co., Real Estate 732-946-3200, ext. 181 or 732-841-4433, cell.

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Micromedia Publications is seeking a Part Time Reporter - Candidate should have writing/reporting experience. Candidate must be available to cover evening meetings of the local government, generally one night per week, and may also be asked to attend community events, fundraisers, etc. Conducting phone interviews is understood to be part of the job. In addition, the ideal candidate will have the ability to take photos to accompany features.

The position requires providing 3-4 stories per week, with photos, every week, on deadline. This PART-TIME position is an at-home job; stories will be submitted via email. A full-time position is not currently available.

Candidates should send their resume along with 1-3 writing samples or links to your writing. Resumes without writing samples WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.Email resumes and writing samples to Catherine at newseditor@micromediapubs. com. (t/n)

Misc.

Let’s Fish - Stripers and fluke.

Wo m e n w e l c o m e . Wa r e t o w n .

Bay/ocean. 28-foot Truworld.

Falcon@evanscoffee.com.

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Items Wanted $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius.

732-364-7580. (t/n) Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n) Costume/Estate Jewelry - Looking to buy costume/estate jewelry.

Same day house calls. Religious items too. Immediate cash. 5 percent more cash 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) Guns Wanted - Old or new pistols, rifles, shotguns, ammunition. Licensed collectors, state legal transfers. Cash paid. Call Jeff. 609-713-0637. (t/n) Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac. Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n) AAA Cash For Cars, Trucks - We pay the most for junk and running cars, trucks. We buy it all. 7-days. $ cash, cash $. 732-536-8030. To 25,000 paid for cars.

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Help Wanted Food Service - The Pines at Whiting have an immediate need for the following: PT food servers/ waitstaff, dietary aides and utility aides. Apply in person at The Pines, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ or email resume to rscully@ thepinesatwhiting.org. EOE. (11) Full Charge Bookkeeper - Must have proficiency in QuickBooks desktop v10 or later, Microsoft Office and Outlook. And ability to learn new programs easily.

Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; initial training 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Benefits after 90 days.

Call Tara 732-240-7007.

(10) Now Hiring Property Inspectors- FT/PT in your area. Full, free training provided. jim.g59@ comcast.net or msangelabove@ comcast.net. 732-766-4425, 201259-0734. Ask for Mel. (t/n)

Health Care - Senior living community is seeking FT CNA (11-7 shift), per diem and w/e package positions available. Apply in person at The Pines, 509 Route 530, Whiting, NJ or email resume to rscully@ thepinesatwhiting.org. EOE. (11) Wanted 2 Home Health Aides Experienced. Must be finger printed and drug tested. good salary. 732-2694442 or 908-814-7662.

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

(11) 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) Aluminum Mechanic and Helper Wanted - Call 609-6614111. Must have license.

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Services Don Carnevale Painting - Specializing in interiors/exteriors.

Very neat. Special senior discounts.

Reasonable, affordable, insured.

References. Low winter rates.

License #13VH3846900. 732-8994470 or 732-814-4851.

(10) Bobs Waterproofing - Basem e n t a n d c r a w l s p a c e w a t e rproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention. Family owned.

Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) ATCO Painting - Quality work.

Prompt service. Call for free estimate. License #13VH04548900.

609-661-1657. 609-276-9213.

(3) Electrician - Licensed/Insured.

Will do the jobs the big guys don’t want. Free estimates, senior discount. Call Bob 732608-7702. LIC #12170.

(17) Polish Lady - Mature. Will do light housekeeping, cooking, shopping, doctors, companionship, etc. Very reliable. Call Ava 732-581-4726. (14) Get Floored - Get Floored’s blow out. Plush carpet installed over pad - $1.89 sq. ft. Quick Step Laminate installed - $2.99 sq. ft. Free shop at home. (Repair work, restretching, etc.) 732-581-2700 or 732-4772272. Free estimates. (t/n)

C lassifieds Services

PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Celebrating almost five decades of service. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice. com. See all our anniversary and monthly specials. 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)

circle the heading you would like your ad to appear under: 1.• Below, Estate/Garage/Yard Sales • Items Wanted • For Rent • Auto For Sale

• Help Wanted

• Real Estate

• Items For Sale

• Services

• Other

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My 2 Girls Cleaning - Bonded and insured. 20 years experience.

Homes, offices. Call for a free estimate 732-914-8909. We clean weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or a one time treat. Senior discount given. Donna 732-232-7058.

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Peace Of Mind Caregiving, Meal Planning - Nutritional needs, bathing, dressing assistance. Light housekeeping. Call Ms. Kmetz 609-772-0740.

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House Cleaning - I will clean your home. Very good prices.

Call 732-552-7513.

(12) Painting - By neat, meticulous craftsman who will beat any written estimate. Interior/exterior. Free estimate. Fully insured. 732-5067787, 646-643-7678.

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House Painting - Interior. Over 30 years in business. Licensed and insured. Lic#13VH06956700. Call Bob 732-929-4399.

(11) Computer Tutoring for Seniors – Retired, “Microsoft Certified” instructor. Very Reasonable rates. Very patient with slow learners. I’ll teach you in the comfort of your home on your computer. I can trouble shoot your slow computer! I also teach iPhone and iPad. I set up new computers at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 specialist. I can also build a beautiful small business website at a fraction of the going rates. Special Projects always welcome! Tony 732-997-8192. (t/n) We Unclog All Drains - Including main sewer lines. Toilets repaired and replaced and more. Lic #13VH05930800.

732-678-7584, Tony. (t/n) C l e a n i n g S e r v i c e - We e k l y, bi-weekly or monthly. Over 20 years experience. References available. Call Lois for free estimate, 732-330-4931.

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R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law

The Howell Times, February 20, 2016, Page 13 Robert C. Shea Esq. Stacie A. Brustman Esq.

The Interaction Between Workers’ Compensation And A State Disability Pension

By Robert C. Shea, Esq. & Stacie A. Brustman, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates As you may be aware, if you are injured his or her employment. In most cases, in while working as a result of an occupational order to be considered for an ordinary disexposure or a specific traumatic event, you ability pension, you will have had to be in are statutorily permitted to file for workers’ the State pension system for 10 years. This compensation benefits. In addition, if you also may only provide a pension benefit of are in a position that you are involved in the approximately 43 percent of your salary.

State pension system, you may be entitled As in the accidental disability pension, to an accidental or ordinary disability the decision as to whether you are disabled pension. from your job duties rests with the Division Generally, if you are involved in a trau- of Pensions. matic event at work that ultimately deems In New Jersey, there is a long-standing you unable to perform your duties any public policy against double recoveries longer you may be entitled to an accidental for the same injuries. In New Jersey, an disability pension. There is no minimal injured employee may receive an ordinary time of employment to be eligible for this disability pension and workers’ compenpension. The jurisdiction as to whether sation benefits. However, the workers’ you are disabled from your job duties as a compensation benefits may be subject to a result of the traumatic event rests with the dollar for dollar offset for pension benefits.

Division of Pensions. However, the acciHowever, an ordinary disability pension dental disability pension may entitle you is generally not the result of one traumatic to in excess of 70 percent of your wages event that deems the worker unable to perand family health benefits. form his or her duties, but generally is the However, if you are approved for an acci- result of numerous and varied disabilities dental disability pension, there is a direct that may or may not be work related, or dollar for dollar offset for any workers’ related to the workers’ compensation injucompensation benefits you receive. This is ry. As such, there only exists an offset for to say, you may still file for workers’ com- those injuries incorporated in the approval pensation benefits, and may be entitled to of the disability pension and are specifically benefits pursuant to same, but your pension involved in the claim for workers’ compenbenefits will be reduced by any recovery sation. In converse, the disabilities unremade. This, in fact, does not decrease your lated to workers’ compensation then are financial benefits, but merely may change not included in the calculation of the offset. from whom the money is received.

As you can see, your choice as to whether However, the law is different when a to pursue workers’ compensation benefits person involved in the state pension sys- when eligible for either disability pension tem is approved for an ordinary disability is a difficult and law sensitive decision pension, and that person also has an injury that should be reviewed with an attorney with permanent residuals in the course of in depth.

The law firm of R.C. Shea & Associates, Counsellors at Law, is a full service law firm representing and advising clients in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate Litigation, Personal Injury, General Litigation, Real Estate Law, Medicaid Law, Medical Malpractice, Workers’ Compensation, Land Use and Planning Law, Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney and much more. Call or visit our office Toms River office at 732-505-1212, 244 Main Street, Toms River, Manchester Area 732-408-9455 or our Brick Area at 732-451-080; email us at Rshea@rcshea.com or visit our website at www.rcshea.com.

Solutions

Across 1 Recitals showing promise 6 A way off 10 Big name in PCs 14 Braid 15 Where to get a bite on the street 16 Clue weapon 17 Abe’s youngest son 19 Friend on “Friends” 20 West Point newbie 21 Latin phrase usually shortened 23 Old hand 25 Exhortation from Santa, in Moore’s poem 28 Wrestling maneuver 30 Term of respect 31 “Liar!” in a playground 32 Nerdy types 35 Target 37 Shipping wts.

38 Halls product 41 NCR product 44 Reed in a hall 45 Stable rides for kids 49 Whodunit surprise 51 Org. with Eagles 53 Coin with 12 stars on its reverse side 54 Late-inning substitute 58 Like some grins 59 Crate up 60 Organisms of a region 62 Not fer 63 Gets the unspoken message ... which includes one of five synonyms found in this puzzle’s longest answers

68 53-Across fraction 69 Maui music makers 70 Lingerie fabric 71 Envelope-pushing 72 Huff and puff 73 Bard’s “between” Down 1 Go (for) 2 __ francaise 3 Pond juvenile 4 “This Kiss” singer Faith 5 Kept in a pen 6 Tap into 7 __ Schwarz 8 CIO partner 9 Keep up on the issues?

10 Neat arrangements 11 Nuclear reactor need 12 Delta-zeta connection

13 Seasons a bit more 18 Pistons’ org.

22 Worker who gives people fits?

23 Honorary deg., perhaps 24 Fracas 26 Uppermost 27 Three-time MLB home run king 29 Advent mo.

33 Voting enclosures 34 Deli order 36 Word with modern or cave 39 Mongolian expanse 40 Key lime __ 41 Free from strife 42 Hurt suddenly, as a muscle 43 Preparing garlic, in

a way 46 Persian Gulf native 47 Make a faux pas 48 Traditional Asian sauce base 50 Like a string bikini 52 If all goes according to plan 55 Hopping mad 56 Frozen Wasser 57 Holiday entree 61 Turn to slush 64 Letters in a police record 65 Novelist Kesey 66 Eighty-six 67 Explosive stuff (c)2016 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

www.micromediapubs.com

Page 14, The Howell Times, February 20, 2016

Outlines:

Continued From Page 1

“Although government is often looked at with a skeptical and critical eye, we, the township administration, in close cooperation with the governing body, are striving to provide the many essential and beneficial services in the most cost effective and efficient manner while also striving to uphold the values of integrity, character, and transparency,” Mayfield said.

One of the biggest staffing changes was the retirement of beloved long-time police Chief Ronald Carter, with Captain Andrew Kudrick stepping up to fill those shoes.

With a new motto, “Committed to Community,” the police department is building trust and increasing service through social media and community engagement.

Mayfield said doing what’s best for the community is at the forefront of the officers’ many duties.

“This is accomplished by treating each and every contact with the citizenry in a professional manner, handling each call with the utmost competence, ensuring the fair and impartial enforcement of the law and aggressively prosecuting those who have harmed or intended to harm their fellow citizens,” Mayfield said. He praised the department as being one of the most highly regarded in the state, with

its selective hiring process and ongoing training of all personnel.

The restructuring of the department created a Criminal Suppression Unit, aimed at stopping the heroin epidemic.

In 2015, that Unit arrested 240 people and seized 10,000 “decks” of heroin. Other illicit drugs, vehicles, weapons, and cash were also seized by that unit alone. They also maintained high visibility last year and performed more than 1,000 motor vehicle stops.

The entire department made more than 13,000 stops.

The department also assists persons trying to beat their addiction, and Mayfield credited the use of Narcan as saving numerous lives throughout the township.

Speaking to township finances, Mayfield stressed that only 16 percent of residents’ tax bills goes for municipal use. While the 2015 municipal budget decreased by $500,000, there was no tax increase on the municipal side, Mayfield said. Of course, home reassessments for 100 percent of fair market value sent some residents tax bills spiking upward.

Mayfield then switched gears and spoke of Community Development, headed by James Herrman and staffed by 24 fulltime and 3 part-time employees, and oversees various other departments. Last year, Code Enforcement received 287 complaints from the public and wrote 997

notices of violation warnings, 406 of those which turned to summonses. The town collected $15,850 in fines paid.

“However, it should be noted that compliance is always the primary goal, which is why the rather lengthy process of enforcement is in place to allow significant time for most warnings prior to a summons being issued,” Mayfield said.

Mayfield discussed the other duties and revenue generated from various divisions.

Most notably, there are 160 properties on the abandoned property registry maintained by Land Use, more than double the number from 2014.

The Department of Public Works, headed by George Gravatt Jr. for many years, spruced up the interior and exterior of the Senior Center, performed curb improvements throughout the township, helped replace the police department’s generator, and renovated several parks and playgrounds, Mayfield said. That department also oversees recycling, which saw a 2 percent increase last year. Howell received a $51,713 Monmouth County Recycling stimulus grant.

After the presentation, Deputy Mayor Robert Nicastro commented that the township is still in the phase of doing more with less.

“A lot of that credit is because we foresaw leveraging technology, simple things like giving our staff iPads to work out in

the field. The challenge is, we’re not out of the woods. People are still overtaxed in this state. We hear it all the time. So the challenge is going to be, how do we continue to do more with less? Those are the days we live in.”

Even before he was mayor, William Gotto said the administration had goals he envisioned.

“We had a list of objectives, to increase commercial ratables and stabilize taxes.

We wanted to do some things with our debt. When I look at the numbers that go into your message tonight, and I see that the average township assessed property owner is paying $25 less in municipal taxes today than they did 4 years ago, and we did that in an environment that I hope no elected official ever has to go through again with dwindling revenue, people not being to afford to pay their taxes, no income coming in…I don’t know how we did that,” Gotto said. “It’s not a pat-yourself-on-the-back conversation, but it’ a discussion to have that, we did this to leave our town in better hands for when we get done. That’s amazing that that happened. ” The $75 million increase in commercial ratables over 4 years has gotten “that tax levy off the back of residential property owners.”

The state of Howell Township is “strong,” Gotto said, and he’s glad to be part of it.

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The Howell Times, February 20, 2016, Page 15 For the week of Febuary 20 - Febuary 26

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Harshness can be harmful. You may not like an opponent but you can be respectful and polite this week even when your views differ. Someone may go to extravagant lengths to get your attention.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Rushing ahead will only put you more behind this week.

Don’t let minor squabbles or a tendency to fight fire with fire impede your progress. Consideration and tactfulness make achieving your ends much easier.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Keep a mental sifter on hand to separate the fluff from the substance. You may be so swept away on a magic carpet ride of romance or wishful thinking that you forget to look for safe landing places in the week ahead.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Relax on your laurels. In the week ahead you may not need to wheel and deal or enter into new agreements.

Maintain your momentum with an existing project and focus your energy on being as precise as possible.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Put the brakes on spending and scrutinize bills. You could be careless about possessions and finances in the week ahead.

The spirit yearns for excitement but a practical side demands that you exercise thrift.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Be sensitive without becoming a pushover. A working relationship can be blocked by someone’s emotional hang-ups in the week ahead. Investigate the facts and don’t quibble about what might have been.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): It is impossible

to create heat without light. Examine the underlying reasons behind friction or competitiveness.

Your reflections and insights may reveal the true source of a rift. Re-evaluate a relationship this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scientific studies may bring some benefits. The latest gadgets may help you become more efficient. Rather than being frivolous with cash, use self-discipline to remain within the budget in the week ahead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You may wear a lot of hats in the upcoming week.

Don’t be afraid to try on some new ones. Pull up the shirtsleeves and apply yourself to new ideas and responsibilities. Turn brain power on high for success.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In the week to come you may nurture the romance in your life. Those in close proximity may be more snuggly than usual. Take time to discuss joint resources and other confidential matters with sensitivity.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You maybe trigger happy with cash in the upcoming week. Someone might criticize you for not being down to earth. Your expectations might be too high so avoid making irrevocable financial decisions.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Find blessings in every misstep as this week unfolds.

Asking for forgiveness will tighten the bonds of affection. Firm up financial plans and use your business skills while the stars are on your side and money can grow. (c) 2016 TRIBUNE CONTENTAGENCY, LLC.

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Use Your Rice Cooker To Make The Best Rice Pudding Ever

By Wolfgang Puck

“Do you always make everything from scratch, the old-fashioned way?” That’s a question I’m asked often by people who love to cook.

My answer has two parts, just like the question itself. I begin by telling people that, yes, I make everything from scratch whenever possible -- and within reason. At Spago, for example, we bake our own breads every day, and whisk up mayonnaise from egg yolks and oil, and simmer our own stocks.

For the best quality at home, too, I prefer preparing my own mayonnaise, and I’ll keep a supply of homemade stock in the freezer; but we’ll usually eat bread from a good bakery rather than baking it ourselves.

The second part of my answer, though, may be different than you might expect: The old-fashioned way isn’t always the best. Take making stock. Like many chefs, I’ve found that modern pressure cookers make the best stock. They dramatically cut cooking time while extracting maximum flavor. And the pressure prevents the bones from releasing impurities that can cloud stock. The result is beautifully clear and delicious.

I never mind using smart, efficient modern appliances that deliver great results. I’ve successfully used immersion blenders, for example, to make mayonnaise in seconds. And I’m devoted to my countertop electric panini maker, as many of you no doubt already know.

Another example of appliances I like is the countertop electric rice cooker. Add measured amounts of grain and liquid, plug it in, close the lid, press a button, and you get perfectly cooked rice every time.

I also like to extend the use of my rice cooker to make more than just that simple side. In the past, I’ve shared with you an easy recipe for delicious rice cooker macaroni and cheese. Today, I’d like to offer up my recipe for a great version of my grandmother’s custardy rice pudding, cooked in a rice cooker and then layered parfait-style with fresh fruit.

This recipe calls for short-grained Arborio rice, the kind used in classic risotto, but you could use other short or medium-grained varieties. You can also make variations using different fruits, and by adding other spices such as ground cinnamon or ginger.

Since the recipe includes a custard mixture that’s combined with the rice to cook inside the rice cooker, it’s important to watch out for curdling, the formation of lumps as the yolk mixture thickens. If that happens, save the mixture simply by removing it immediately from the heat and whisking it briskly until smooth, as directed in the recipe.

Regardless, you’ll find this recipe surprisingly simple, and the results are outstanding. Nothing beats making a great dessert from scratch, using a newfangled appliance to make an old-fashioned recipe.

Rice Pudding Parfaits With Fresh Fruit Serves 6 1/2 cup (125 ml) Arborio rice 1 cup (250 ml) cold water 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups (500 ml) milk

Grated zest of 1 orange 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise in half, seeds scraped out and reserved 1/2 cup (125 ml) plus 2 tablespoons sugar 1/4 cup (60 ml) Grand Marnier 4 large cage-free egg yolks 1 cup (250 ml) each fresh organic blueberries, diced strawberries and raspberries Put the rice in a fine-meshed sieve and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. Drain well.

Put the rice in an automatic rice cooker with the 1 cup (250 ml) cold water. Add the salt and close the rice cooker. Plug in the cooker and set it to “Cook.”

(The “Keep Warm” light will turn on after about 15 minutes, but keep the cooker closed for 20.)

Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan combine the milk, orange zest, vanilla bean and seeds, sugar and Grand Marnier. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat, cover with plastic wrap, and set aside to steep for 15 minutes.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. While whisking continuously, pour in 1/2 cup (125 ml) of the hot milk mixture; continue whisking until thoroughly blended. While whisking continuously, gradually pour the milk-and-egg mixture into the pan containing the hot milk.

Hold a wire-meshed strainer over the rice in the rice cooker. Pour the milk-and-egg mixture from the pan through the strainer into the rice; discard the vanilla bean. With a heatproof rubber spatula, stir together the liquid and rice, using the spatula’s flexible blade to dislodge and incorporate all of the rice from the bottom of the cooker pot.

Turn the rice cooker back on to the “Cook” setting and, leaving the lid open, stir constantly with the spatula until the mixture begins to steam and thicken.

Watch carefully that it doesn’t come to a boil.

As soon as thickening begins, switch the rice cooker to “Keep Warm” and continue stirring over the lower heat for about 2 minutes longer. Then, close the rice cooker lid and leave the mixture to sit for 8 minutes, opening the cooker halfway through to stir it thoroughly but briefly. Meanwhile, fill a large bowl with ice cubes and water and rest a medium bowl in its middle.

Open the rice cooker and carefully remove its pot.

Scrape the rice pudding mixture into the bowl set in the ice bath. If you observe any curdling, briefly whisk the mixture until smooth. Leave the pudding to cool in the ice bath.

Use six tumblers, large martini glasses, or wine glasses for assembling the parfaits. Divide one third of the cooked pudding among the 6 glasses, spreading it evenly on their bottoms. Top the rice with a layer of blueberries, dividing all of them evenly among the glasses. Spoon in another layer of about half of the remaining pudding, and top it with a layer of all the strawberries. Finally, add the remaining pudding and arrange the raspberries on top.

Cover the glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours until thoroughly chilled. Serve cold.

(Chef Wolfgang Puck’s TV series,“Wolfgang Puck’s Cooking Class,” airs Sundays on the Food Network. Also, his latest cookbook, “Wolfgang Puck Makes It Easy,” is now available in bookstores. Write Wolfgang Puck in care of Tribune Media Services Inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, NY 14207) © 2014 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Page 16, The Howell Times, February 20, 2016

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