2023-07-29 - The Howell Times

Howell To Buy Church For $3.6M

New Preschool Expansion Model Approved

By Alyssa Riccardi

HOWELL – Officials of the Howell Township School District have voted to approve a new school model for preschool full universe expansion, which is set to be implemented for the 2024-25 school year.

said. “We’re adding 12 preschool classrooms in our five existing preschool buildings. Everything in the presentation begins 2024.”

Howell

3071 Lakewood Allenwood Road.

By Stephanie Faughnan

HOWELL - In a unanimous decision, the Township’s governing body passed an ordinance setting aside money to purchase the Cornerstone Church property located at 3071 Lakewood Allenwood Road.

The ordinance appropriates $3.6 million for the issuance of $3,420,000 in bonds and notes.

Cornerstone Church has

a second location at 6550 Route 9 South within the municipality.

During the public hearing on the ordinance, local homeowner Lawrence White questioned the expense of the proposed acquisition.

“I read that the assessed value of the property is $1.46 million less than the purchase price,” said White. “It seems like an extrava-

gance to be spending that much more money than the assessed value of the property.”

According to Township Manager Joe Clark, the municipality has not entered into a formal contract of sale with the property owners. A separate ordinance approved by the council authorizes acquisition by negotiation or eminent domain for the

(Church- See Page 2)

At the July 10 Community Interaction Committee meeting, a presentation was held by the Early Childhood Advisory Council to show potential concepts and details of two different plans to residents.

“This is an exciting time, but that excitement brings complexity. Being able to offer free, high-quality preschool for our community we believe is an essential part of the work we do as a school district and as a Board of Education,” Superintendent Joseph Isola said.

“We’re still early in the stages. There will be no changes for September 2023 – status quo,” he

In 2022, Governor Phil Murphy and the New Jersey Department of Education (DOE) announced $26 million in funding to districts, which was apportioned in the FY2023 budget. With these grants, nearly 2,150 additional three- and four-year-old children will have access to a preschool classroom across the state. This would increase New Jersey’s preschool seats to nearly 70,000.

Howell was one of 27 districts across the state to receive funding to aid their preschool program in the 2022-2023 school year. They received an amount of $2,286,405 from the state grant.

At the time, Isola said the money will be used for a five-year plan to serve preschoolers in

( Preschool- See Page 2)

Recruits Graduate From Sheriff Youth Week

By Alyssa Riccardi MONMOUTH COUNTY

– Sheriff Shaun Golden handed certificates to 47 participants who completed the 30th annual Sheriff Youth Week Program.

The highly recognized program is not your ordinary summer camp. It provides high schoolers with a unique opportunity to explore interests in law

enforcement through police academy-style training, exercise activities and instructional sessions.

This year, recruits also had the opportunity to explore a NJ State Police helicopter and learned how it’s used.

The five-day camp began with the sheriff telling recruits to bring energy, enthusiasm and excite -

ment with them each day.

“We are so proud of the entire Sheriff Youth Week class for staying the course and commend all for completing this intensive week of law enforcement training. At the beginning of the week, I tell the recruits that they if they are engaged and excited about this program, it will be an experience of

a lifetime,” Golden said. “Sheriff Youth Week provides our youth to explore the realm of possibilities of a career in public safety. As a result, many will become future leaders in law enforcement.”

Recruits would begin each day with drills and end them with exercise. Throughout the week, they

(Youth Sheriff - See Page 3)

Photo by Stephanie Faughnan

officials plan to move forward with acquisition of the Cornerstone Church property located at

Photo courtesy Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office

A total of 47 recruits participated in this year’s Sheriff Youth Week Program.

Church:

Continued From Page 1 property to be used for municipal purposes.

“In terms of the assessed value being less than the purchase price, the assessed value is a different metric,” Clark explained. “We have an appraisal supporting the price of $3.5 million, and it’s done on a highest and best use analysis, whereas the assessed value takes into account its current use.”

Authorities are currently strategizing their approach to the property, with a primary focus on preserving it as open space and potentially securing Green Acres funding for that purpose. Monmouth County may also have grant money available that would help defray the cost of the bonds.

State rules for Green Acres funding come with strict guidelines and would include preservation of 13 acres of the property. The Green Acres designation acts as substantial

protection as far as concerns about future sales. County grant money would require the municipality to keep the land as open space for an indefinite time period.

“I can’t think of a situation where we would sell the property,” said Clark. “Typically, when we purchase property, it’s with the idea of holding it forever.”

The Shade Tree Commission is also expected to play a role in enhancing the initiative, contributing their expertise in planting

endeavors, similar to their involvement in other parts of the municipality.

In addition to keeping the property as open space, there may be an opportunity to consider some type of recreational activity on the site. No specific plans have been put in place during the preliminary stages of the acquisition.

White said he still found the acquisition to be a big investment for officials to make without stated plans or a speculated purpose.

According to Clark, acquiring land parcels of this size to safeguard open space is a rare opportunity for the township. A resident who spoke during the public commentary portion of the meeting agreed.

“We hear all the time that people want to stop the development,” Joe DiBella said. “If you want to stop development, at the right time in the right instances, in the right application, you buy open space.”

The property transfer process will span over some time, commencing with the contract of sale and applications for county and state funds.

Preschool:

Continued From Page 1

Howell. Its first year began in fall 2022.

Dorothea Fernandez, Director of Pupil Services, discussed how the district was able to accommodate year one and two which had 165 and 321 students, respectively. However, the district expects there to be around 900 students by year 5.

“We have been able to successfully place in our existing structure additional students. What we do know operationally, we cannot sustain in the current structure that we have,” Fernandez said.

“The sooner we get students in front of us, the more successful this will be for everyone,” she added.

The district stated that they hope by September of 2024 to expand to full universes. This means any family that has a 3- or 4-year-old that is eligible to attend preschool will be able to come to the district for the full day program at no cost.

The ECAC committee reviewed different scenarios and evaluated their educational and operational factors.

“There was a strong need that pushed us to having early childhood learning centers. Some of the momentum from the conversations kept pushing us to this determination. Some were that in early childhood learning centers we can ensure developmentally appropriate practices that are geared towards our youngest learners,” preschool teacher Danielle Moore said. “Also, (there would be) increased opportunities for inclusion of children with Individualized Education Plans going into the general classroom. They would also be a greater access to specialist and consultants.”

After reviewing each scenario, the committee believed models 2-4-2 and 2-8-2 would be possible to achieve knowing (Preschool - See Page 3)

Youth Sheriff:

Continued From Page 1

learned about various law enforcement topics and agencies as well as an overview of the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office Law Enforcement, Communications and Corrections Divisions and the Office of Emergency Management.

A major part of this year’s program involved recruits spending time with the Monmouth County Fire Academy, where they got to learn what it takes to become a firefighter. This included a tour of the smoke house, learning how to handle a hose and climbing the ladder.

Another day was spent at the Situa -

Preschool:

Continued From Page 2

the district would need potentially 60 classrooms for the full universe.

The 2-4-2 Model would offer two buildings of early learning centers. There would be four sister-pair schools for grades K-5, and then two middle schools. The 2-8-2 Model would offer two early learning centers, eight K-5 schools, and two middle schools. Both models would have a total of about 400 students per grouped grade section.

Isola added that these models were chosen as potential concepts after reviewing school boundary lines and how populated Howell is in each section.

tional Training and Response Simulator, STARS facility where recruits learned about the VirTra Simulator, a decision making and tactical firearms virtual threat simulator which is equipped with five large screens and shows real life scenarios.

In addition, recruits watched several demonstrations such as K9s, Project Lifesaver, vehicle simulators, drones, dive team and motor vehicle stops, as well as a display of special operations and equipment.

They also watched presentations on drug awareness, and entire regimen of health and fitness including a 5-K run.

“This experience as a sheriff youth week

During the presentation, the benefits and challenges of each model were listed along with a response. For the 2-4-2 Model, some benefits are: more teachers on the same grade level within each building, staffing for before/ aftercare, targeted attention to unique needs of each grade band, and better able to address developmental needs of students in the grade band. Some challenges are potential for siblings to be in four different schools/times, decrease in parent involvement, and inability for each grade level to have common planning periods.

Benefits of the 2-8-2 Model included longevity of student/teacher relationships, deeper understanding of educa -

recruit has been great. I’ve learned so much through the presentations, physical fitness and the interactive displays.

Sheriff Youth Week was very inspiring and a career in law enforcement sounds great,” said Jaxson Adkins, Manalapan.

“It’s been challenging but a lot of fun and you have to be motivated. The program has made me respect those who work in law enforcement because you learn what goes in to protecting the public,” said Jacenia Furman, Neptune.

“This is my second year participating in Sheriff Youth Week and there is nothing like it. I hope to attend West Point and possibly pursue a career in law enforcement after that. I think programs like

tional continuum, full time guidance/ special area teachers/less itinerants, and fewer sections at each grade level leads to greater collaboration. Challenges consist of fewer general education classes for inclusion of special programs, change back to k-5 creates transition to all 10 k-5, overcrowding/sustainability, and adequate staffing for itinerants.

“The social, emotional, and the well-being and mental health of all of the students was really at the forefront of those discussions,” said Lee Dugar, School Social Worker, CPIS/ECAC Chair.

Other topics discussed possible transportation tiers, an overview of the sixhour day, and the benefits of preschool and the economic benefit to the com -

this open your eyes to all aspects of law enforcement since it’s a great opportunity to learn and helps pave the way toward the future,” said Jake Dembowski, Middletown.

“The instructors do a great job, they challenge you and I’ve learned so much about all aspects of law enforcement. I also made new friends and it’s been a great experience,” Matteo Thompson, Tinton Falls.

The late Hon. Deputy Sheriff William Wingard and his wife, Marie, of New Jersey Gravel & Sand in Wall Township were recognized during this year’s graduation. Since 1992, the Wingard family has been the sponsors of Sheriff Youth Week.

munity.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, one person asked how S-2 cuts would affect preschool and the grant received. S-2 is the name of a bill that reduced state funding for many schools over a seven-year period. Isola said although they are losing state funding due to S-2, the preschool grant is outside of the state aid. He added that the grant is additional funding and that preschools should continue to be funded 100% even after the final year of S-2.

At the July 19 Board of Education meeting, a motion was made by member Ira Thor and seconded by member MaryRose Malley to adopt the 2-8-2 Preschool Model of the 2024-25 school year.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

E ditorial

How Many Hands Have Touched Your Food?

The inflation spreading through the country is hitting everyone really hard where it hurts the mostgroceries. I usually stick to store brands and I still get sticker shock. However, it’s not surprising.

Think, for a minute, about how many people are involved in getting food to your table.

Now let’s think about how much money each of those people are making.

Let’s start with something simple, like apples. Starting on the farm, I imagine that only the owners and a few supervisors are making a living wage. People getting their hands dirty might not be. A lot of them are probably undocumented or migrant workers. There are cases of children working in

farms and factories, even in the U.S., so I wouldn’t be surprised if something you ate in the last week was harvested by a 12-year-old. Not to mention the literal slave labor that takes place around the world.

The apples might be bagged up by the pound. The bags were created by someone, and the oil industry brings us the plastic. Someone also had to design the logo and lettering on the bag.

Food inspectors are probably (hopefully) involved at some point. I had a friend who used to work at a lab where she would take something like a potato chip and run it through tests to determine if the ingredient label was telling the truth.

Then, the apples have to be loaded on a truck and driven to a distribution center.

The distributor then sends it to your grocery store. That involves drivers. And mechanics. It also includes gas station workers and the entire oil industry (again). Then, a grocery store clerk puts them out on display for you to buy.

This doesn’t include all the people involved in logistics, inventory, and accounting –the behind the scenes stuff.

Those apples went through dozens of hands before reaching your table (that’s why you should always wash your produce!).

How many dollars were spent? How many people were paid?

When you think of it that way, it’s amazing that apples are $2-3 a pound. The only way for everyone involved in the process to actually make money is to

sell a huge quantity of it.

And all of this for apples. Now, imagine if the apple is an ingredient in something, like cereal. Then, there are even more workers for each ingredient.

You might not know this, but a lot of grocery stores hire predominantly part time workers. That way, they don’t have to pay health insurance (because in this country, the only people who have health insurance are those with full time jobs).

Grocery stores also hire merchandisers. I did that job for a bit, when my daughter was a baby. We were a separate company, and would drive out to grocery stores all over New Jersey for a week or so at a time. We would take everything off the shelf, (sometimes) clean the shelf, (sometimes) check

Letters To The Editor

Letters To The Editor

energy options are being crammed down the throats of the American public.

The letter in your May 13, 2023 edition (“GOP Spread Lies About Offshore Wind To Protect Big Oil Companies”) from a long list made up mostly of never before heard from faceless supposedly organizations is an example of how many available

Accordingly, let’s examine just a could have the known reasons that encourage care and research into the proposed alternative pushed by this letter … offshore wind power.

The New Jersey coastline provides a major route for birds, fish and marine mammals for their semi-annual migrations.

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 typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion.

The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/ Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

We are aware that over 300 dead whales have been found in the New York bight in a fairly short period of time.

What effects have construction involving offshore wind had on those whales and dolphins? Little research has been done and cross checked on these biological events.

What about proofs received about other offshore wind projects around the work, and many on land too, that have shown that birds of many species do not fare well when they have to fly through huge blades of wind machines set several hundred feet above the water?

Then we have the economic costs of offshore wind. Due in no small part, the salt air environment above the ocean is no place for heavy duty equipment.

Those of you who have a shore property or keep a boat at the shore are well aware of the incredibly corrosive effects of salt

expiration dates, and stock the products in a new location. And the biggest scam was that if no grocery store hired us that week, we filed for unemployment for that time period!

Some companies have their delivery people do merchandising for their own products. Companies buy space on a shelf, sometimes entire sections, to display only their products. Customers want low prices. Obviously. So the grocery store has to figure out the sweet spot to be able to pay for the product, their own employees, utilities and taxes and everything else while still making it cheap enough for you to buy. When the prices of everything started going up, it was not a surprise to me. There are so many people involved

in making a pound of apples that I’m amazed they are so cheap. During those early times of COVID, the system broke down and we started to realize just how important the supply chain really is.

There are dozens of people involved in producing something as simple as produce – and most of them are not making a living wage. Some of these companies are starting to realize the value of their supply chain, so they are paying better salaries. While everyone else was up in arms about the increase in food costs, I shrugged my shoulders and said “It was good while it lasted.”

Chris Lundy News Editor

infused air and water. Those corrosive effects and the fact that when men work in and around the ocean, miles from shore, costs rise exponentially. Nowhere in that letter do the writers take those dramatically higher costs into account.

But you will get stuck, readers, you will get stuck. Right in the pocketbook just the way elitists normally stick it to you!

Other offshore wind projects have proved out the fact that offshore wind generates far more than electricity when there is sufficient wind but not too much.

What else could the offshore wind mills generate other than electricity?

Far larger electrical bills for the poor souls living around that particular offshore wind facility and that would mean customers of PSEG, Atlantic City Electric, Jersey Central and, possibly, Long Island since PSEG operates Long Island Power. If you

read the backs of your electricity bills you will see the rates per kilowatt hour broken out to show the costs of generating the electricity and the costs of transmitting the power to you. My latest PSEG bill shows the generation costs are $0.04 per kilowatt hour. That charge is a good deal less than charged by other utilities around the country. Why might that be, you might ask. The answer is simple. In PSEG territory over 85% of power is generated in nuclear generating plants and the rest are mostly natural gas fired plants of one type or another.

Now compare the generation costs for offshore wind with your current sources. Offshore wind averages $0.40 per KWh not the $0.04 that I am paying today. THAT’S 10 TIMES MORE!

Maybe offshore wind is too environmentally risky and too expensive to be considered at this time.

There are thousands of

other scientists who are not convinced that there are unusual environmental effects occurring at this time. Many point out that there are over 900 confirmed cycles that Earth is involved in at this time and none of those cycles suggest a quick end to our Earth. In fact, after Al Gore thumped his political drum years ago with dire threats of doom he called the risks “global warming” only to discover some years later that Earth is currently in a cooling cycle so the Worriers quickly checked out of “global warming” and climbed in bed with “climate change” instead. Remember that?

But, heck, we’ve had climate change for millennia. Summer, fall, winter and spring.

We have enough to face at this time without throwing Trillions of Dollars at what just might be a phantom!

Capt. Lindsay Fuller Medford

Bill Would Give Farm Workers Overtime, Protections

American agricultural industry on fields across the country are protected and equitably compensated.”

Senator Robert Menendez

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both-D-N.J.) joined Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and other Senate colleagues in reintroducing the Fairness for Farm Workers Act. This legislation would update the nation’s labor laws to ensure farm workers receive fairer wages and compensation. The bill would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide overtime and additional minimum wage protections for farm workers.

“Farm workers play a vital role in driving our economy and keeping Americans fed, and as such, they deserve the fair wages and just compensation their hard work calls for,” said Sen. Menendez. “At a time when loud and angry voices insist on erasing the backbreaking work our domestic and agricultural workers do each and every day, legislation like the Fairness for Farm Workers Act ensures those who fuel the

“It is an injustice that the millions of farm workers feeding our nation lack basic protections afforded to nearly every other American worker,” said Sen. Booker.

“I have seen firsthand their crucial contributions to our country, and know that too many work for low pay and in dangerous conditions because of a lack of federal protections. This legislation will ensure farm workers receive the fair wages and overtime pay they deserve by putting an end to their exclusion from our labor laws, ending decades of this discriminatory policy.”

The Fairness for Farm Workers Act would update the nation’s labor laws to ensure farm workers receive fair wages and compensation. 85 years ago, the Fair Labor Standards Act established federal standards for minimum wage and overtime pay but excluded millions of domestic and agricultural workers who were overwhelmingly people of color. Although farm workers gained some minimum wage protections

in 1966, exclusions on overtime pay persist. This bill would implement overtime pay over the course of four years and bring greater equity to the American agricultural industry. As of 2020, over a trillion dollars of America’s GDP and one in ten jobs are linked to agriculture.

Specifically, the Fairness for Farm Workers Act: Requires time-and-a-half overtime pay for all agricultural workers, with additional compliance time for small farms. Removes exemptions to overtime for agriculture generally and ends the exemptions for overtime and minimum wage requirements for certain small farms, hand harvest laborers, non-local minors, and range livestock production. Maintains the family farm exemption to these requirements. Removes exemptions to overtime for workers employed in irrigation projects, livestock auctions incidental to farm work, small country grain elevators, certain sugar processing, certain types of intra-state transportation and preparation for transportation of fruits and vegetables, cotton ginning, and cotton compressing.

The legislation is endorsed by over 130 organizations including United Farm Workers (UFW), NAACP, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, Latino Justice PRLDEF, Farm Labor Organizing Committee, National Center for Law and Economic Justice, Legal Aid Justice Center, Hispanic Federation, Coalition on Human Needs, Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries, National Organization for Women, Migrant Justice, Southern Poverty Law Center, and Equal Rights Advocates.

In May, Sens. Menendez and Booker, alongside several Senate colleagues, sent letters to nine companies that contracted with Packers Sanitation Services, Inc. (PSSI), which the Department of Labor found were unlawfully employing migrant child labor at these host companies’ facilities. In the letters, the senators ask each host company to detail the changes to their contractor monitoring and procurement processes they plan to implement or have made since the discovery of PSSI’s use of child labor to ensure this never happens again.

Access To Behavioral Health Care In K-12 Schools To Expand

From The Desk Of The Governor Phil

Murphy

TRENTON – As part of his efforts to address youth mental health needs both at the state and national levels, Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill (A-3334) expanding expenses that New Jersey’s K-12 public schools may be reimbursed for in regards to behavioral health services that are provided to students and their families who are Medicaid recipients.

“It’s undeniable that many young people are facing mental health challenges right now and would benefit from the support of compassionate, trained professionals,”

said Governor Murphy.

“Through the work of my Administration, in collaboration with local, state, and national partners, we are taking decisive action to address the mental health needs of our youth. By ensuring schools will be reimbursed for the provision of behavioral health care services to students covered by Medicaid, this legislation will advance our ongoing efforts to expand affordability and access to the mental health support New Jersey children need.”

The Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS) within the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) and its contracted managed care organizations will be responsible for reimbursing local education agencies for

the provision of behavioral health services covered under Medicaid to students who are eligible Medicaid beneficiaries. This builds upon the impact of programs like the Special Education Medicaid Initiative (SEMI), in which public school districts are reimbursed a portion of the costs associated with providing health-related services to Medicaid-eligible students in their special education programs. The covered services offered either in-person or via telehealth must be provided by either a licensed medical practitioner or local education agency approved as a Medicaid provider. Schools are allowed to submit a request for reimbursement through Medicaid if they are unable to be reimbursed through a legally liable third party.

With this authority, DHS will begin seeking federal approvals for this program. Once the program is approved over the course of the

next few years, DMAHS, along with the New Jersey Departments of Education and Treasury, will assist schools in implementing a plan to submit Medicaid claims for reimbursement for these services.

“In the midst of a youth mental health crisis, ease of access to emotional, behavioral, and mental health supports and services are critical to youth wellbeing and parent peace of mind,” said Department of Children and Families Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer. “The ability to expand these services into schools through Medicaid reimbursement reduces barriers to students accessing support delivered by their district. Services provided through DCF’s Children’s System of Care have long been on the Medicaid platform, and expansion of that coverage to district-driven mental health services helps to enhance the existing continuum for students and their families.”

“Howell Police Text-a-Tip” Digital Community Crime Prevention Program

HOWELL – “Howell Police Text-a-Tip” is a technology program that allows concerned Howell Township residents, business owners and visitors to easily, quickly and anonymously provide information about non-emergency criminal or suspicious activity such as personal, property and drug crimes to the Howell Township Police Department, without exposing their personal identities or information.

P3 Tips is not monitored 24/7 and is not for emergencies or crises. Any emergency or crisis situation must be reported by calling 9-1-1.

To report a non-emergency tip, simply go to p3tips.com online or download the P3Tips app in App Store or Google Play and follow the prompts from there.

P3 Tips encourages citizens to actively participate in keeping their community

safe, similar to programs such as Crime Stoppers and Neighborhood Watch. Should responding police officers need more information, they can establish direct dialogue with the tipster via P3 Tips push notifications and real-time chat. Tipsters are also able to upload relevant photos, videos, audio recordings, and documents.

Since its 2017 launch in Howell, P3 Tips

has been sponsored annually by the Howell Alliance. The Howell Alliance collaborates across the community to prevent substance abuse, underage drinking and marijuana use, alcoholism, tobacco/ nicotine use, vaping, and other at-risk behaviors. Howell Alliance stakeholders include law enforcement, educators, town officials, businesses, civic organizations, and concerned citizens.

Kenya Mission Trip Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

HOWELL – Kenya Mission Trip Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser will be on July 30 at 3 p.m., at the Howell Elks Lodge #2515. Tickets available at the door - $10 per person and includes spaghetti with meatballs, salad, beverage, dessert, and three tickets for the Tricky Tray!

Jesus made his instructions very clear; love one another! For that reason, we are excited to share with you an opportunity that Jimmy Guierro has accepted. He has been chosen to go on a mission trip to Nakuru, Kenya in August! During his time in Kenya, he will be serving alongside Groundbreakers NJ and Metro Church in Kenya. Their mission trip will include feeding children,

visiting orphanages and schools, bringing supplies to both women’s and men’s prisons in Kenya, rescuing women enslaved in prostitution and most importantly sharing the gospel with the people in Nakuru in hopes of seeing lives come to know Christ as their personal Savior.

The total cost of the trip is $3,000. This will cover his airfare, ground transportation and lodging. In addition, the cost of an injection that will free a child from the worms that often live under their skin is about 1 cent! The cost of “purchasing” a woman sold on the sex trafficking market is about $20. Any gift you can give would be greatly appreciated. Please help him to help them!

Life Line Screening

HOWELL – Life Line Screening, the nation’s leading provider of preventive health screenings, will offer affordable, non-invasive and painless health screenings on October 20 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church LCMS. A package of four screenings to identify cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions will be offered:

• Carotid artery ultrasound that scans the carotid arteries for buildup of fatty plaqueone of the leading causes of strokes.

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound screening for an abdominal aneurysm that

could lead to a ruptured aorta.

• Heart Rhythm Screening (AFIB) A quick and easy test using a 6-lead EKG placed on the arms and legs to identify the presence or absence of an irregular heartbeat.

• Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening-Evaluates for PAD in the lower extremities, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Schedule your appointment today and receive special package pricing. Register by calling 1-800-690-6495, text the word “circle” to 216-279-1607, or register online at llsa.social/HC.

Summer Safety Tips

HOWELL – With summer in full swing, the Howell Township Bureau of Fire Prevention reminds everyone to keep the following tips in mind so you and your families can enjoy a safe summer.

•Attend public fireworks displays put on by professionals.

• Propane, and charcoal grills should be used outdoors and away from buildings and other combustible materials. Place

coals in a noncombustible container to dispose of in the event hot embers remain.

• Swim with a buddy and never leave children unattended in the water.

•Assign a designated lookout while swimmers are in the water.

• Have a phone available in the event you need to dial 9-1-1 and know the address of the location you are spending time at.

Howell Farmers Market

HOWELL – The 2023 Farmers Market Season has kicked off at their new location, Echo Lake Park! The regular Market Season this year is every Sunday until October 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This is a rain or shine market, they do make exceptions for weather that would be unsafe for the vendors or shoppers.

More information can be found at twp.howell. nj.us/555/Howell-Farmers-Market-Association.

Educator Named National Title

FREEHOLD – Congratulations to Freehold Township High School’s Angello Villarreal, Ed.D. for being named the 2022 Emerging PDS Leader by the National Association for Professional Development Schools, as well as an Emerging Leader

by both ASCD and by American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE)!

Dr. Villarreal also received a letter of congratulations from Governor Murphy in recognition of his achievements.

n E w S

Local Animals Ready For Adoption

MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Monmouth County SPCA has a number of pets available for adoption.

Sweet and petite Jade is waiting at the Eatontown shelter for her forever home. Jade came with a bunch of other cats and a dog when their owner couldn’t care for them anymore. Jade has kept a light and happy demeanor throughout her transition to the shelter and will make a great addition to any home - she is playful, affectionate, and

always ready for a snuggle. Jade is around 1 & 1/2 years young, can go home with other pets, and is ready to find her forever home

The MCSPCA only does adoptions in person (please bring all family members). They will ask you to fill out an Adoption Survey and speak with an Adoption Counselor to help find your perfect match.

They are located at 260 Wall Street in Eatontown. They can be reached at 732542-0040.

Breakfast Networking Event

HOWELL – Join the Howell Chamber of Commerce for a Breakfast Bonanza Networking on August 8 from 8 to 9 a.m. at Big City Bagels, Route 9, Aldrich Road, Howell.

Meet other chamber members, network with local businesses, share what’s happening with your business and any upcoming events/promotions.

Cost to attend is $7 for members, $14 for not yet members, whether you eat or not (cash only). Includes coffee/tea and a bagel with butter or cream cheese. If you wish to order a different item, you will have a $6 credit (the additional $1 is gratuity for staff) and you pay the restaurant the difference over $6. Not yet members are welcome to attend up to two Chamber meetings/events.

Howell Schools Now Hiring

HOWELL – Howell Township Public Schools is now hiring for school cafeteria workers, cooks, and lead cooks.

No nights or weekends. Part-time available. Onsite training. Holidays off. Actively interviewing. For more information visit howell.k12.nj.us.

Photo courtesy MCSPCA

Center Players Presents “A Black And White Cookie”

FREEHOLD – Center Players will conclude its successful 2022-23 season with a Signature Series production of “A Black and White Cookie,” an insightful new play by playwright/novelist Gary Morgenstein. The comedic drama will run August 11 to 27 at Center Playhouse at 35 South Street in downtown Freehold.

Named “Best Play” in BroadwayWorld. com’s Regional Awards, “A Black and White Cookie” centers around Harold Wilson, a gruff, conservative African American in his early 70s who finally re-opens his Manhattan newsstand after the pandemic lockdown, but an exorbitant rent increase forces him to close after 30 years and retire. Enter Albie Sands, an eccentric white liberal in his 70s who persuades Harold to fight back. Overcoming their differences, Harold and Albie form an unlikely yet powerful friendship which shows there’s more that unites us than divides us.

Center Players’ Artistic Director Bernice Garfield-Szita will direct the play. She also directed the 2022 production of Morgenstein’s “A Tomato Can’t Grow in the Bronx,” which was awarded “Best Original Play” at the 2022 Perry Awards by the NJ Association of Community Theaters (NJACT).

After a sold out run at Center Playhouse, the production moved to Off Broadway in December 2022.

The cast features New Jersey actors Arthur Gregory Pugh, Jackie Kusher, Vince Fay, Jacynth Apora and Dale Genesis. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced at $28 to $30 and can be purchased at centerplayers.org or by calling 732-462-9093.

“We are thrilled to present another one of

Gary Morgenstein’s poignant, socially conscious plays,” noted Garfield-Szita. “His characters and themes are penetrating reflections of today’s world and offer insightful and amusing observations which make for great theater.”

Gary Morgenstein’s novels and plays have been featured in national media from the New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, Parade Magazine, the New York Post, Sports Illustrated and NPR. This summer, “A Black and White Cookie” will make its West Coast premiere in Los Angeles at Sky Pilot Theater. An award-winning playwright, Morgenstein’s stage dramas include His Perry Award-winning (Best Original Play) poignant dramedy A Tomato Can’t Grow in the Bronx is about a working-class family in the tumultuous 1960s, while Free Palestine tackles the threat to academic freedom, antisemitism and political bullying triggered by the firing of a Jewish social studies teacher. Morgenstein’s latest work is the romantic dramedy “Walking Charlie,” about a widowed owner of a door factory and a recent immigrant who’s fled Venezuelan oppression, brought together by a pug dog named Charlie. His seven novels include the critically acclaimed dystopian political thrillers “A Mound Over Hell” and “A Fastball for Freedom.”

Celebrating its 21st season at Center Playhouse, Center Players is a respected, award-winning organization, presenting high quality, engaging productions featuring local talent in downtown Freehold. In addition to their signature plays, the group also sponsors free play reading events and offers dinner and theater packages with several local restaurants. For tickets and more information go to centerplayers.org.

Photo courtesy Center Players

Mental Health Services Are Available

FREEHOLD – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners is reminding residents that there are mental health services available through the Monmouth County Department of Human Services.

“With the 988 National Suicide Prevention Hotline launching nationwide, we want residents to remember that Monmouth County stands ready to help anyone who may need assistance coping with a mental health issue or emergency,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “Mental health is an essential part of overall health and well-being, and we encourage those who need help to take

advantage of the numerous resources that the County has to offer.”

According to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to trained counselors who will listen, understand how the caller’s problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary. The current Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, even after 988 is launched nationally.

“Monmouth County is proud to offer mental health resources and services

through our Stigma Free program, which is a county-wide initiative that aims to reduce or eliminate any negative beliefs or stereotypes associated with mental illness and substance use disorders,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley, liaison to the Department of Human Services. “One in four adults experience a diagnosable mental disorder each year (approximately 61.5 million Americans) and 1 in 17 adults live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Anyone who would like to learn more is strongly encouraged to visit our website, stigmafree-monmouth.org.”

The Monmouth County Stigma-Free Action Committee believes that every individual deserves to be treated with respect and that every person needing treatment regardless of the type of injury or condition should be able to get help without the fear, and the stigma of reaching out for help. There are also a wide variety of resources available through community-based organizations to help those in need of mental health or related services.

If you or someone you know is in need of immediate access to mental health counselors, dial 988 to be connected to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. If there is an emergency, dial 911.

around thE JErSEy ShorE

4th-Grader Named Semi-Finalist In NASA Competition

By Alyssa Riccardi

BRICK – A local student was one of 45 kids selected as a semi-finalist of a national competition hosted by NASA.

The “Power to Explore Challenge” required students to submit a 200-word essay on how they would use Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) to succeed in their own science mission. RPS is a type of “nuclear battery” that NASA uses to explore the solar system and more.

Sofia Chiaravalle, a 4th grade student at Midstreams Elementary School, wrote about her idea titled “Project Cousteau.” Project Cousteau would be a rover that would investigate the depths of oceans on Europa, which is the smallest of the four Galilean moons orbiting Jupiter

In her essay, Sofia asked: Is there any existence on Europa? Is there an ocean underneath the ice? How frigid is the water? Can you breathe on Europa?

Sofia went on to explain that the rover would collect samples, take pictures of any species, and record temperatures of the environment.

When asked what excited her the most about NASA’s RPS, Sofia expressed her eagerness to learn more about the planets within the solar system.

“I love space and writing so I started working on my entry right away. What I’m most excited about NASA’s RPS probes is that they allow us to

learn more about all the planets in the solar system and they may help find life on Europa like in my essay,” Sofia said.

After being named a semi-finalist and recognized by NASA, Sofia said, “I was watching the video when they announced the semi-finalist on the screen at school, I was very excited and screamed in joy when my name popped up!”

Sofia expressed that when she grows up, she would love to be a veterinarian and have the opportunity to work at NASA.

“I do enjoy astronomy and learned the basics from my dad. We visited the planetarium at the college a few times and I’m always asking questions. When I grow up, I would love to become a veterinarian and work at NASA where I can help a create a habitat on Mars. Maybe I can go there someday!” Sofia said.

“I’m so proud of Sofia!” Sofia’s father Dennis said. “She took days to research everything she could on Europa, Jupiter, and RPS probes. It took her a long time to make it under 200 words, the original report was over 20 pages. Being able to see her learn about Europa and discovering that there might be life somewhere else in the solar system was a great joy.”

“We were thrilled when she was recognized! Sofia is very smart and she worked really hard on this project. I can’t wait to see what else she will accomplish,” Dennis added.

Vendors Wanted For Fair

HOWELL

currently

seeking vendors. Cost is $30 per space, must bring own table. If interested, email kabennett32611@gmail.com.

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

– The Howell Elks will be hosting a vendor fair on September 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are

Photo courtesy Dennis Chiaravalle Sofia Chiaravalle extensively researched technology and astronomy for her essay.

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The Anatomy And Function Of The Thyroid Gland - A Pharmacist’s Perspective

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

I used to have hypothyroidism about 15 years ago, and I fixed myself. Ever since I’ve been okay! It dawned on me today while talking with a neighbor that she actually has hypothyroidism too, but her lab tests are considered normal for the most part, so today, let’s dive into the remarkable thyroid gland. It’s a small but powerful player in our overall health.

Located just below the Adam’s apple and resembling a butterfly, the thyroid gland measures only about 2 inches in length but carries significant responsibilities. It acts as a conductor, harmonizing various bodily functions and regulating your metabolism. It helps you feel warm and plays a role in hair and nail growth. If you have hypothyroidism, you will not be able to lose weight no matter how hard you try.

Named for its shield-like shape, the thyroid gland was studied and described in medical literature for centuries. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that its role in metabolism was confirmed. The thyroid gland secretes hormones like Triiodothyronine (T3), Thyroxine (T4), and Calcitonin.

T3 and T4 control our metabolic rate, influencing everything from heart rate to calorie burning. If you often feel cold, you may be low in thyroid hormone. When these hormones are balanced, we feel energetic, our metabolism functions optimally, and our hair, eyebrows, and nails grow beautifully. Imbalances can lead to conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Worse, if left untreated, hypothyroidism may contribute to OCD, depression, anx-

iety and brain fog. These conditions will get treated with psychiatric medications instead of what’s really needed, natural thyroid hormone replacement!

The thyroid gland is part of the larger endocrine system, closely coordinated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Together, they form the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, which maintains thyroid hormone levels. Disruptions to this axis can result in thyroid disorders. Hypothyroidism, characterized by reduced thyroid function, can cause fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, results from the overproduction of thyroid hormone and may lead to rapid heart rate, weight loss, and feeling hot. Trouble is that a TSH lab test won’t usually detect this. I can tell you exactly what tests with resources provided at my website suzycohen.com.

Understanding the thyroid gland’s anatomy and function is crucial for managing all sorts of signs and symptoms in your body. As a thyroid thriver, I’ve become a bit of a warrior to help others find the root cause of their problems when lab tests don’t! You probably know about my best-selling book on Amazon called “Thyroid Healthy” which is intended to help you navigate this condition and find appropriate treatment.

In conclusion, the thyroid gland is a small but essential part of our body. Its optimal function contributes to our overall well-being. So, let’s take care of this little butterfly-shaped powerhouse in our neck and appreciate its tireless efforts in keeping us at our best.

(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) ©2023 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Real Estate

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Items Wanted

COSTUME/ESTATE JEW -

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$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

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Help Wanted

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)

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Services Services Services

Absolute best home improvements!"Building the shore since 1984" Additions, carpentry, windows & doors, roofing & siding, painting & staining, flooring, kitchens & baths, finished basements, masonry, fencing, custom decks, fully insured, license #13VH11804800. $ave. Call Brien 732-850-5060. (28)

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Properties, Houses, Attics, Garages, Sheds, Storage Units, ect. Handyman

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Paid

Holidays. Call Care Temp Heating & AC at 732-349-1448 Or Fax Resume To 732-349-6448. (t/n)

R.C. Shea and Associates is seeking to hire a paralegal with civil/commercial litigation experience as well as an administrative assistant. Pay and benefits commensurate with experience. Please call Pam Williams, office manager at (732) 505-1212 or email at pwilliams@rcshea.com (t/n)

Are you bored? Looking for something to do? We are looking for the “Young at Heart”. Be part of the Merri-Makers Ambassador team! Start pay is $15 an hour with guaranteed tips, and a very flexible schedule. For more information contact Jessica at mmhiring@merrimakers.com or call 732-225-0009 (33)

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Micromedia Publications is looking for a high-energy account rep to sell print and online advertising in Ocean County. Competitive base, bonuses & company benefits. Successful applicant should possess good communication skills & a desire to grow with the company.

E-Mail resumes to jallentoff@jersey shoreonline.com. EOE. (t/n)

Services

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Railings

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• Repairs Welcomed. Licensed, Insured. 609-384-9030. (32)

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A1 HANDYMAN SERVICESOver 30 years experience in all phases of home improvements. Free estimates and referrals. Call John 267-475-7962. (22)

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(20)

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Educating Our Community On Nursing Home Abuse

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

an” by Sherlock Holmes 9 Dos y dos 10 Suitable 11 “__ on it”: “You can be sure” 12 Best 13 Experience schoolyard highs and lows?

SUDOKU

People put their elderly parent or grandparent in a nursing home so that they can be safely taken care of, so that someone can properly look after them in their old age. No one expects that these nursing home residents should get anything less than the proper care and respect that they deserve, but with the horrifying rise in nursing care abuse, this is not always the case. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse in the United States, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in America indulge in some form of resident abuse.

Statistics show that nearly 50 percent of all nursing homes are short staffed. The staff people who do work in these facilities are underpaid, overworked, and all too often overburdened, which in turn leads to elder neglect and abuse. Even more alarming is the prediction that the problem will only worsen in the near future. More than 91% of nursing homes lack adequate staff to properly care for patients. A Health and Human Services Department report found patients in understaffed nursing homes were more likely to suffer from a variety of problems, such as bed sores, malnutrition, weight loss, dehydration, pneumonia, and serious blood born infections. It’s a serious concern that will only increase with time, given that the population of people aged 85 or older is expected to

double to 8.9 million by the year 2030.

Signs of abuse and neglect may be (but are not limited to) evidence such as patterns of bruising, unexplained injuries, frequent infections, bedsores, questionable hygiene, appearance of malnutrition, emotional distress, and unsanitary living conditions. Document any such evidence you observe, and bring it to the attention of your attorney. Neglect can be just as harmful in the long run as abuse, leading to additional health problems and possibly death. Nursing home abuse isn’t limited to physical abuse; there can also be emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, where an elder is demeaned or humiliated in other ways.

Many elders needlessly suffer from nursing home abuse in which they are manipulated, humiliated, or physically harmed by the very people entrusted with providing them with loving and tender care. Instances of physical, sexual and verbal abuse have taken place at the very nursing homes where elders are actually supposed to be well taken care of; unfortunately, cases of nursing home abuse in America and also in New Jersey are rising rather than falling.

If you think a loved one is the victim of Nursing Home Abuse call the trial attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation to discuss their rights.

(c)2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE SUDOKU

FOR THE WEEK OF JULY 29 - AUG 4

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

ARIES (March 21-April 19) : Life is full of whims and now may be the time to follow them. Spend some time or money on things that can help you appreciate life’s simple pleasures. Overcoming objection can be easier when your respect other’s opinions.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) : You could be content to be highly visible in public, but enjoy your romantic moments in private. You may be happy to spend more time with family or friends and can easily balance your social life and your obligations.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You could only want to hear what you want to right now. Double check your figures or reexamine contracts and try not to get distracted by freelunch schemes or be persuaded into making major changes to your financial situation.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Seeing is believing, they say, but there are times when you view an optical illusion. Some situations are like the intricate paintings of a woman’s face that reveals a field of flowers when seen at a different angle.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) : You may have a reputation for being able to easily adapt to new situations or rethink your current position. Surprising events might offer challenges, but you could be well prepared to shift gears if the occasion calls for it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your eagerness and can-do attitude can impress others.An enthusiastic approach to innovative ideas and valuable information could earn you the title of wunderkind. Your loved ones may benefit from your positive input.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If weighty personal or relationship concerns are at the front of your mind it may be time to give yourself some breathing room. Your wellhoned business skills can be useful on the job or when considering financial matters.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): A puzzling situation may freeze you for a few hours. You could be stopped in your tracks, afraid to move in any direction right now. Take your time to find your way out of this dilemma and work towards a resolution.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

When you feel you are in too deep you may not know which way is up. Regain your sense of direction by looking for the light. A good friend might put business matters into perspective and provide sound financial advice.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) :

Your smile could win someone’s heart or light the fires of affection. New friendships may lose their luster quickly, but loyal relationships can bring joy for a long time to come. If someone creates a mix-up offer forgiveness.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): It may be best to choose the sure thing rather than gambling with your valuable resources. You could be distracted by surprising family disclosures or by friends’ invitations to participate with them in their hobbies.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): If given the right incentive even an old dog can learn new tricks. There may be moments when you feel you’re past your prime. A new and interesting partner could be a welcome source of motivation and inspiration.

(c) 2023 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

CREAMY AND UNDENIABLY MEATY, THIS PASTA IS SURE TO BE A CROWD-PLEASER

By America’s Test Kitchen

PASTA ALLA ZOZZONA

Serves 4

5 ounces guanciale

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

5 ounces sweet Italian sausage, casings removed, broken into 1-inch pieces

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

3/4 cup passata

8 ounces rigatoni

Table salt for cooking pasta

1 ounce Pecorino Romano cheese, grated fine (1/2 cup), plus extra for serving

2 large egg yolks

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1. Slice guanciale into 1/4-inch-thick strips, then cut each strip crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces. Heat guanciale and oil in a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fat is rendered and guanciale is starting to brown, 4 to 6 minutes.

2. Add sausage and onion and cook, using a wooden spoon to

break meat into pieces no larger than 1/2 inch, until sausage is no longer pink, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in passata; reduce heat to medium-low; and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until fat is fully incorporated, 2 to 4 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, bring 2 quarts water to boil in a large pot. Add pasta and 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring often, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup cooking water, then drain pasta and return it to the pot. Add tomato-meat sauce to pasta. Set pot over medium-low heat and stir until pasta is well coated, about 1 minute.

4. Whisk Pecorino, egg yolks, and pepper in a medium bowl until combined. Slowly whisk 1/2 cup of reserved cooking water into egg yolk mixture (mixture will not be smooth). Off heat, stir egg yolk mixture into pasta until sauce looks glossy and is slightly thickened, about 1 minute. Adjust sauce consistency with remaining reserved cooking water if needed. Transfer pasta to platter and serve immediately, passing extra Pecorino separately.

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