2020-02-08 - The Howell Times

The HOWELL Times

Vol. 17 - No. 37

In This Week’s Edition

Community News!

Pages 9-11

BREAKING NEWS @

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Dear Pharmacist Page 13

Inside The Law Page 20

By Bob Vosseller HOWELL − It was thu mbs dow n for a massive construction project which has been the subject of debate for around a year in the township and which sparked concerns over development and traffic in the community.

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Historical Society Plans For The Future

Connecting Homeless With Help They Need

−Photos by Bob Vosseller (Above) A display of old photographs and other historical items are seen during the meeting of the Howell Heritage and Historical Society held at the Ardena Baptist Church Hall.

(Right) Members of the Howell Heritage and Historical Society are sworn in to office during the group’s regular monthly meeting. Organization Secretary Leigh Shaffer, at left, joins Trustees Ellen McGirr and Virginia Krzyzanowski, President Bob Novak, Vice President Ann Malsbury, Treasurer Cathy McKee and not present for the photo but a member of the board is Trustee Ann Julian.

By Bob Vosseller HOWELL – The Howell Heritage and Historical Society may be an organization designed to preserve the past but their membership was looking toward the future during their first meeting of the year.

During their meeting, the reformed group’s officers were sworn in for 2020 and also allowed for the members make plans and catch up on the status of their organization’s main projects. The group meets at the Ardena

Baptist Church Hall, Adelphia Road.

Bob Novak was sworn in as the organization’s new president with A n n Malsb u r y t aking the oath as vice president. Other officers include Secretary Leigh Shaffer, Trustees

Monmouth Commerce Center Project Denied Unanimously

Members of the township planning board voted unanimously to deny approval to the Monmouth Commerce Center application on Jan. 30.

The denial prompted cheers and applause from residents in attendance at the plan-

ning board meeting.

A meeting held earlier in the month required a follow up session due to some revisions that would have to be presented to the board.

Ni n e w a r e h o u s e buildings, totaling 1.24 million square feet, 706 vehicle parking

spots, 142 trailer parking spaces and 234 loading spaces would have all been part of the Randolph Road project site.

T he applicant is Monmouth Commerce Center LLC and the property owners are Lawrence Katz and

Februrary 8, 2020

Ellen McGirr, and Virginia Krzyzanowski and Treasurer Cathy McKee. “We have received a signed contract from Howell Township for the purchase of the MacKenzie House,” (Plans - See Page 2)

Felix Pflaster.

The no votes came f rom De put y Mayo r Evel y n O’D o n nell, Chief A nd rew J. Kud r ick , Rober t Nicastro, Nicolas Hazar, Paul Schneider and Robert Seaman much to(Denied the irritation of the - See Page 8)

By Chris Lundy MONMOUTH COUNTY – There are a lot of places throughout the area that open their doors to the homeless and people who are at risk of being homeless. But one cold day at the end of January was different, because that was the day that helpers were tasked with counting the homeless coming in.

There were two reasons for the day. One was to connect at-risk people with services.

The other was to get a head count to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. HUD uses these figures to determine how to provide resources for the homeless in a given area.

However, it’s common knowledge among those who work with the homeless that not all of them want to be counted. So, the number that comes in will be lower than what it really is.

Total counts weren’t available as of press time. That information will be assembled later and provided to the federal government.

In Monmouth County, the counts were done at: Asbury Park – Jersey Shore Rescue Mission, 701 Memorial Dr. Freehold – New Beginnings Agape Christian Center, 133 Throckmorton St. Keansburg – St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 247 Carr Ave. Red Bank – Pilgrim Baptist Church, 172 Shrewsbury Ave. Food, clothing, health screenings and information about housing and employment services were available.

Statewide, the event was coordinated by the not-for-profit organization, Monarch Housing Associates, that works to fulfill the vision that every person will have quality affordable, permanent housing that fosters freedom, independence and community integration.

It identifies people living in emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, safe havens or with no safe place to go. Volunteers asked people who came in where they spent the night.

The night before the count was a Code Blue night, which meant it was freezing out and shelters were open. That helped the count (Homeless - See Page 4)

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Novak said. Novak signed the contract in order to have it completed before the meeting of the Monmouth County Historical Commission when they will be reviewing the status of the Society’s ownership to determine its eligibility for a grant.

The gathering also provided an opportunity for a meet-and-greet of the new executive board and other members of the group. The society was busy reforming last year and with that reformation brought its ongoing mission to restore the MacKenzie Museum located at 427 Lakewood-Farmingdale Rd. The historic home dates back to the 1700s and had been owned by the Howell Historical Society.

Krzyzanowski said, “I always had an interest in history and I joined the historical society right away and I was 20 years old when I joined.”

“I moved to Howell in 1982. I got interested in the Historical Society back in the mid to late 1990s and I was really inspired by the knowledge and hard work that many people there put into it. We had some unfortunate events and eventually the group disbanded and the MacKenzie House got abandoned but hopefully that will be taken care of now. I have found Ann Malsbury is a super source of information on everything to do with Howell. We are looking forward to getting control of the house and ownership of it,” McKee said.

As McKee noted, the prior owner of the museum, the Howell Historical Society, had been as dormant as the museum for years and Township Manager Brian Geoghegan reported to the mayor and council last year that the township attorney previously sent a

letter to the prior historical society putting them on notice of their noncompliance.

Last April, Geoghegan and officials became aware of the “new” historical society which was looking to keep the history of the MacKenzie house alive planned to reopen it.

The Howell Mayor and Council sold the MacKenzie to the new organization on Sept. 24, 2019 and plans immediately started on how to raise funds for restoring the schoolhouse and opening the MacKenzie house in 2020.

Deputy Mayor Evelyn O’Donnell provided some good news on that front. She was present at the meeting and is also a member of the new organization. “I am responsible for the MacKenzie house not being sold to the county which would have meant it would have been demolished because all they wanted was the property.”

“As a result of this new group showing enough interest to stop that it is my understanding that we are two to three weeks from actually getting the deed to the house and the closing will occur. I was just informed of that during our last council meeting,” O’Donnell said.

The existing group had to see to the proper termination of the previous society (Howell Historical Society) and identification of the ownership of the property of the MacKenzie house and the Ardena Schoolhouse.

“I remember being at the MacKenzie House years ago. You have a certain interest of things that really don’t exist anymore other than in pictures or memories. I appreciate the opportunity to help this move forward,” Novak said.

The organization discussed some ambitious fundraising efforts for the year as well as some speakers who will part of their meeting programs during the year.

Center Players Presents “Same Time, Next Year” Written by Bernard Slade, this 1975 romantic comedy will be directed by Anthony Marinelli, and tells the story of Doris and George, who are married, but not to each other. They first meet in 1951 and begin an affair that spans 24 years, meeting at the same Northern California cottage on the same weekend every year. As time passes, their relationship develops into an emotional intimacy that grows deeper as the years go by. Everything else may change in their lives but there is one thing that remains the same - their love for one another. Vince Faye of Matawan and Donna Nicholle of Freehold star in the production.

Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Tickets are priced at $26-28 and are available online at centerplayers.org or by calling 732-462-9093.

Following Same Time, Next Year will be California Suite by Neil Simon, running May 15 - June 14. Next will be an original musical, Coyote by Tim McCorry, running July 17 - 26. Rounding out the season will be Jitney by August Wilson, running Aug. 21 – 30.

Manalapan resident Marinelli has written and directed for both theater and film. On stage, he produced and directed Fool for

Love and Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune, in NYC. His one-act plays include Acoustic Space, (Winner Best Play 2014 Strawberry One Act Festival), Another Famous Dead Artist, Max & Domino, Visitors, Sartre Was Wrong and Missing Life. His film adaptation of Acoustic Space won Best Short in the 2018 Ridgewood Guild International Film Festival and Best Original Screenplay in the 2016 Richmond International Film Festival. Another short he directed, Walt Whitman Never Paid For It, won the Audience Choice Award at the Richmond International Film Festival in 2014. Both films are available on Amazon Prime.

At Center Players, Marinelli has directed productions of Butterflies are Free, Play It Again, Sam and Chapter Two. He is also the co-founder of post-production company, TwoPoint0 and owner of AntHill Productions.

Celebrating its 19th 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 readings and other special events and offers dinner and theater packages with several local restaurants.

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Homeless:

Continued From Page 1 because volunteers were able to get some of the folks from the shelters and bring them right to one of the sites.

In Ocean County, the sites were: • Ocean Christian Community Church, 405 Washington St., Toms River • Lakewood Community Center, 20 4th Street, Lakewood • Ocean Community Church, 1492 Route 72, Manahawkin At the Toms River location, the meeting hall was full of food, supplies, and tables for various special services.

Representatives made themselves available from Family Planning, Ocean County Social Services, Legacy Treatment Services, Soldier On, Ocean Mental Health Services, Just Believe, South Jersey Legal Services, and the county library system. Food came in from Fulfill, which was formerly the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

Volunteer group A Need We Feed had brought coats that were the culmination of a nine-week coat drive associated with Burlington Coat Factory. They also brought blankets and dufflebags from Court Appointed Special Advocates of Ocean County.

“Also, we’re providing lunch and snacks,” said Christine Hernandez, COO of A Need We Feed.

Outside, the Ocean County Health Department had a van linking people to medical services. Susan Heil, the ARCH nurse (Access to Reproductive Care and HIV Services) was performing testing for HIV and hepatitis C. They also do training and distribution for naloxone, the chemical nasal spray that blocks receptors in the attempt

of stopping an overdose.

“The high-risk populations are people who don’t have access to medical facilities,” she said.

Ocean Christian Community Church is one of a trio of churches – including Toms River Community Church in the downtown area and Shore Vineyard Church across the river – that form a network to help homeless and at-risk people.

“The homeless become your family,” said Betty Santoro of Ocean Christian. She shared a story about how some of them thanked her for her help, but felt bad that they had nothing to offer in return. So, they volunteered to help out the programs.

The church also has regular free family dinners called Abraham’s Tent, put on not just for the homeless but for seniors who are alone.

She and some of the other volunteers at the event kept each other updated on individuals that they have helped.

Robin DeVoursney had a career in nursing before she found herself homeless and needing the help of local services. She used to live in Jersey City and came down to this area for vacation.

The Code Blue shelter that Toms River just started at Riverwood Park Recreation Center has been a tremendous help.

“They make it so warm,” she said. She’s also appreciative of all the help she’s received at these churches.

“I had to leave in a hurry,” she said of her former place of residence. She didn’t even have a winter coat when she left.

Simple things that most people take for granted, like a coat, hat and gloves, are very difficult to come by after being displaced, she said. Having delicious free meals on a regular basis can’t be understated.

─Photo courtesy Monmouth County Freeholder Sue Kiley poses with volunteers at the Jersey Shore Rescue Mission in Asbury Park

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─Photo courtesy Monmouth County Freeholder Sue Kiley speaks with workers from the Monmouth County Office on Aging at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Keansburg.

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The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020, Page 5

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OPINIONS & COMMENTARY E DITORIAL Cross-Party Swearing In A f t e r w i n n i ng a n election, a politician is often sworn in by a member of their own par t y. A Republican mayor will be sworn in by a Republican assemblyman or a senator, for example.

It makes sense. These people are often colleagues, allies, or mentors. I’m sure it’s an honor for both people.

They forge those bonds within the party.

That’s if I’m being ge nt le. Pe r h a p s it ’s more like an indoctrination. The new politician is being kept in line by the veteran politician. Control starts at the top, and works its way down to every elected official.

But for once I’d like to see a politician get sworn in by someone of another party. “In the spirit of cooperation,” it would be nice for a Republican to get sworn in by a Democrat, or vice versa.

Af ter all, they are supposed to be worki ng t oget he r, r ig ht?

They should all have the same basic goal of making life better for their constituents. Sure,

the way they go about it might differ wildly.

But what better way to cross that valley between the two parties?

Members of the Senate and Assembly know that the best way to get a bill turned into a law is t o have some one from the other party co-sponsor it. That way it won’t be a “Democrat bill” or a “Republican bill.” Because if only Republicans sponsor a bill, the Democrats will challenge it and if only Democrats sponsor a bill, the Republicans will challenge it. But, if they work together, one from each party, there’s a better chance for the bill to become a law. The Republican and the Democrat will gather support for the bill from their respective allies.

Same principal on swearing in ceremonies. If you are looking for state help for your tow n, you m ig ht be more likely to get help if you branch out. Why only stick to one side of the political spectrum?

Chris Lundy News Editor

W� W������ L������ T� T�� E�����!

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 veri�ication. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or

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 re�lect 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.

Letters To The Editor In Support Of Letters During WWII, a well-known radio commentator by the name of Gabriel Heatter would open his broadcast with the phrase: “There’s good news tonight.”

Well, there’s not good news today.

For the last 50 years, there were two things I enjoyed every morning: sitting down with my cup of coffee and reading the editorial page and letters to the editor in the Asbury Park Press – no more!

The Press will no longer publish an editorial page nor letters to the editor daily. Now, both will be published only on Fridays and Sundays.

For some people, including myself, the daily editorials were an important source of news and information that kept readers advised on important issues of the day, especially on local matters.

The Press’s decision to discontinue publishing these two parts of its paper daily will significantly reduce the public’s ability to stay informed, which is essential for a healthy republic. In addition, their limiting letters to the editor to only two days a week will also greatly diminish the public’s ability and opportunity to be heard – the Press has done a disservice to the residents of Ocean and Monmouth counties.

“Let not your hearts be troubled!” However, the Press will continue to publish daily: Beetle Bailey, Hagar the Horrible and Hints from Heloise.

Borden Applegate Jackson

Solutions To The Heroin Epidemic Toms River is ranked the sixth highest town in New Jersey for heroin abuse; we have 700 annual abuse cases according to the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services in the New Jersey Department of Human Services; and Ocean County has 400 annual overdoses according to the County Health Ranking.

Tragic as overdoses are,

Letters To The Editor efforts to combat them have a drug and was unaware of Asian street markets are virtual been aimed in the wrong direction. Strategies are concentrated in the bolstering of law enforcement to arrest and sentence users and dealers with possession for three to five years in attempts to eradicate the drug but it still has a presence in our communities.

The hysteria surrounding heroin makes the elimination of it sound like the only option but that is not feasible. In fact, other options such as sound drug education programs, drug checking services, and other harm reduction strategies would be easier to implement and more likely to save lives.

We often hear about “heroin” overdose deaths. However, these deaths are more accurately referred to as “heroin-related” deaths. The vast majority, about 75% of heroin-related overdose deaths are caused by combining heroin with other drugs. Benzodiazepines (Xanax), alcohol, and other opioids are the most dangerous drugs to take in combination with heroin. These drugs are dangerous if mixed with heroin because they can produce additive sedative-like effects.

Too often we miss the opportunity to warn heroin users about the potential dangers of combining heroin with another sedative.

Fentanyl-related overdose deaths are another concern.

Since fentanyl is more potent than heroin, unsuspecting fentanyl users have an increases risk of overdose. A successful way to avert adulterants like fentanyl is to establish drug checking facilities. They have implemented these drug checking facilities in places like Spain and have acquired a 1.04 overdoses per 100,000 people, says the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. For comparison, the United States has an average of 21.7 overdoses per 100,000 people and New Jersey has 29.3 overdoses per 100,000 people according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse. Users of any drugs, not limited to heroin, can take the drugs they intend to use and make sure it is the drug they purchased. If a user bought

the adulterants it contains, not only can it be unpleasant, it can be fatal.

If these overdose prevention tools fail, naloxone can still save the lives of those overdosing. Naloxone is an overdose prevention drug that binds to the same receptors that heroin does and can reverse an opioid overdose. This drug can save many lives but it needs to become more readily available.

This is one of the simplest solutions to prevent heroin overdoses because anyone can use a needle. If EpiPens are incredibly common, naloxone can be normalized as well.

This drug will allow anyone to save a life and they would not need to wait for medical professionals for revival.

Ocean County can be thought of as having a heroin problem but the first step to fix it is to recognize and accept the fact that heroin will never stop being used. If the same strategy has not worked for decades perhaps it is time to change the approach. The war on drugs was based around crack but the mentality is still around and being used. Heroin and many other drug problems can be solved in news ways to prevent more deaths.

AJ Meyers Toms River

Coronavirus Is Not The First Or The Last Fifty million Chinese locked down! Fifteen countries affected! Three confirmed cases in the U.S.! These dramatic headlines announce one more pandemic caused by our abuse of animals.

Indeed, 61% of the 1,415 pathogens known to infect humans originate with animals. These so-called zoonotic diseases, claiming millions of human lives, include Asian flu, Hong Kong flu, West Nile flu, bird flu, swine flu, dengue fever, Ebola, HIV, SARS, and yellow fever. The pandemic “Spanish” flu of 1918 may have killed as many as 50 million people worldwide.

Western factory farms and

breeding grounds for infectious diseases. Sick, crowded, highly stressed animals in close contact with raw flesh, feces, and urine provide ideal incubation media for viruses.

As these microbes reach humans, they mutate to defeat the new host’s immune system, then propagate on contact.

Each of us can help end these deadly pandemics by replacing animal products in our diet with vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. These foods don’t carry flu viruses, or government warning labels, are touted by every major health advocacy organization, and were the recommended fare in the Garden of Eden. The internet offers ample recipes and transition hints.

Henry Traconi Toms River

Driving Rules Not Fair Though I am no longer a CDL licensed driver, I have a bone to pick with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.

The new requirement for CDL drivers age 75 or older to have a physical every six months instead of two years, if physically fit, is outright age discrimination!

Why not make all NJ senior drivers, commercial or not, take a physical every six months to test their ability to drive? How many times have you seen a driver struggle out of the driver’s seat and use their walker to go shopping?

I haven’t seen drivers of any truck or bus do this so why only pick on them?

If there is no confidence in the ability of our senior drivers because of age or disabilities or mentality lets go one step further: require all our senior legislators, and especially whoever designated this new CDL driver requirement, have a mental health evaluation every six months.

After all, they have greater responsibilities than just driving a vehicle.

Donald G. Calvert Barnegat

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The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020, Page 7

SPOTLIGHT ON GOVERNMENT Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

UN Urged To Appoint SeniorLevel Official To Combat Anti-Semitism From The Desk Of

Congressman

Chris Smith WASHI NGTON, D.C. - Represent at ives Nit a L owey ( D -N Y ), Ch r is Smith (R-NJ), Eliot Engel (D-NY), Kay Granger (R-TX), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Randy Weber (R-TX), Marc Veasey (D-TX), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), the Co-Chairs of the House of Representatives Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism, joined Representatives Lee Zeldin (R-NY), David Cicilline (D-RI), Brian Mast (R-FL), and Brad Sherman (D-CA) in sending a letter, signed by 104 members, to Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), that applauds a recent UN report focused on anti-Semitism and urges the appointment of a senior-level official to engage global leaders and fight against hatred of the Jewish people.

In the letter to the UN Secretary-General, the lawmakers conveyed their fear of rising anti-Semitism in the United States and their “deepest appreciation

to the United Nations for releasi ng the U N Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief ’s repor t.” T he law makers expressed gratitude “for the leadership and commitment of the Special Rapporteur, Dr. Ahmed Shaheed, whose thoughtful research made this historic report possible.”

The repor t found what many lawmakers feared: many world leaders do not k now the extent of hate and anti-Semitism in their count ries, in large part because they don’t have the infrastructure to monitor hate crimes, and many victims do not report their experiences. The report concluded that a senior-level official in the UN should be appointed to assist in combating anti-Semitism and address the issues outlined by Dr. Ahmed Shaheed.

“We strongly urge you to implement this recommendation,” wrote lawmakers, “as we believe the appointment of a senior-level leader – similar to roles that have been created in the United States, European Union, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom – would enable the United Nations to take significant steps in the fight against the hatred of the Jewish people.”

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applicant’s attorney Meryl Gonchar Sills, who said the applicant had met all requirements for the site noting it was zoned for such development.

She told the board that her applicant wasn’t seeking a use variance but was proposing s project that the township had said was permissible for the property.

According to township zoning, warehouses are allowed in the special economic development zone in the south-central region of Howell.

The proposal however raised various questions regarding safety and entry and exit access as well as fears of heavy traffic flow.

While O’Donnell said she found some of the project testimony questionable Nicastro said he opposed the application beause of the egress and ingress concerns and traffic off and onto the site.

While the project could have provided a significant tax ratable to the township and hundreds of jobs, opponents expressed that the complex would draw hundreds of tractor trailers daily which would travel several miles around the area’s rural roads toward the highway and a potential safety issue.

Justin Tayler, the applicant’s traffic engineer previously testified before the Howell Planning Board hearings and presented an animated video his firm produced imagining a drive past the site.

His testimony did not satisfy those with traffic concerns of those fearing safety might be compromised through numerous tractor-trailers passing through Lakewood-Farmingdale and Randolph roads near Route 547.This is an area that already has a traffic problem according to officials and township residents.

While traffic concerns alone were not deemed to be sufficient to deny approval to the application, Board Attorney Ronald Cucchiaro the safety factor surrounding entering and exiting the site was something that would support a denial of the project.

Residents and officials have stated over the last several months of the proposal’s presentation and testimony made by the applicant’s professionals, that the scope of the project was to extensive for that area of the township.

Gonchar’s response concerning traffic and increased development was for residents to “deal” with the situation noting that New Jersey is a heavily developed state.

That remark didn’t sit well with those in the audience many of whom feared the heavy truck traffic through township roads would result in their damage.

Planning Board Traffic Engineer James Winkowski would not give an opinion

on the project because the applicant had not submitted concept plans for a traffic signal at Randolph Road and Lakewood-Farmingdale Road.

During a Monmouth County Development Review Committee meeting held in October 2019, a proposal was made that included three requirements before the committee would fully hear the project and take any action.

During that session the applicant was requested to submit a road improvement plan, as well as a traffic signal plan for the Lakewood-Farmingdale (County Route 547) and Randolph Roads intersection.

It was Gonchar’s position that were such a traffic signal installed, Monmouth County officials would give it their nod.

Winkowski asked the attorney why the concept plans for it had not been shared with the planning board for review, she responded that they had not been sent to Monmouth County.

Gonchar told Winkowski that her client was not aware that the township had requested a copy of the plan up front.

Members of the board have been listening to testimony about the application since April 2019. Members of the citizen group Howell for Open Land and Preservation of the Environment, (HOPE) were present in large number during the latest planning board meeting.

HOPE members and township environmentalists also opposed the project citing that it would cause a halt in the natural absorption of rainwater and would transfer polluted runoff into the region’s water supply and would remove oxygen-generating trees.

Another concern raised was that the project might cause an increase in the township’s affordable housing requirement.

That requirement is partially based on development and growth in the township.

Township resident Dawn Van Brunt, the leader of HOPE was pleased with the meeting’s outcome. Van Brunt had said that she was hopeful that members of the board would “re-examine this project and allow Howell to stay the humble little town that I fell in love with 19 years ago. I created HOPE a few years back as I started seeing the over development in Howell. Members are coming together to try to help our town and preserve green areas and open land.”

“Randolph Road has been a specific thorn in our side as of late. Previously, we tried to stop 41 Randolph, another industrial project. unfortunately, we were unsuccessful,” Van Brunt said.

She said in a prior interview with The Howell Times, “a defeatist attitude gets you nowhere. We have seen concerns raised by the planning board at each meeting. I truly feel many on the board see this is not good for anyone.”

Caregivers & First Responders Groups HOWELL – The Howell Municipal Alliance will host Trauma and PTSD Support for Caregivers & First Responders on the first Monday of each month

• 6-7 p.m.: Support Group • 7-8 p.m.: Chakra Bowel Meditation Groups will be held at 260 Casino Drive in Farmingdale. RSVP to healingus.org/care.

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The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020, Page 9

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

HPV Vaccination Can Help Prevent Cancer

NEPTUNE - Many viruses cause a host of symptoms and conditions, including colds and the flu. Most people are able to overcome viral infections in a couple days to a couple weeks but there are other viruses like human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common sexually transmitted disease, that can cause long-term health problems including cancer.

“HPV is probably the most common sexually transmitted disease which a lot of people don’t know about,” Dr. Tracy Proverbs-Singh said.

Singh, a gastrointestinal oncologist at Hackensack Meridian Health Hackensack University Medical Center. “It can remain latent in the body for a lifetime.” Most sexually active people have been exposed to HPV and many times it’s harmless and goes away on its own.

The cancer most commonly associated with HPV is cervical cancer, but it can also lead to vulvar and vaginal, anal, penile and oral cancers. “Ninety percent of cervix cancers are found to have HPV in their DNA,” said Dr. Karim ElSahwi, attending gynecologic oncologist at Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

Gynecologists use a Pap test to screen for the presence of HPV in the cervix. They may find cervical cancer early, when it’s most easily treated, or even when it’s at a pre-cancerous stage. About 90 percent of anal cancer is also

caused by HPV. You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus.

Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV and develop symptoms years after having sex with someone who is infected. Using condoms every time during sexual intercourse can help reduce the risk. However, condoms are not as effective against HPV as they are against other STDs like chlamydia and HIV. HPV vaccination can provide protection against the most common types of HPV which cause cancer and genital warts. The vaccine is less effective once sexually active, because people probably have come in contact with HPV already. For this reason, the vaccine is recommended for children age 11-12, giving them protection before being exposed to the viruses. “Getting the vaccine and preventing the infection decreases the risk of cancer dramatically, because over 90 percent of the strains that could cause cancer are represented,” Dr. Proverbs-Singh said.

Normally, people will not experience any symptoms of HPV infection until it has already caused a health problem. Consequently, it is important for people to have regular checkups with their physician to find abnormal changes in their health before it turns into something more serious.

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Page 10, The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020

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

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Teen Social Media “Challenge” Ignites Concern Of Howell Fire Bureau

By Bob Vosseller HOWELL - Members of the Howell Township Fire Bureau are concerned over a new viral video that is involving teenagers.

The Bureau has issued a warning to parents of teens concerning about the video, which may result in fire incidents and cause serious injury.

While the Bureau of Fire Prevention has received no reported incidents within the township so far, the agency has been made aware of incidents across the country.

The video concerns a “challenge” seen on the popular video app, TikTok. It involves using the plug part of a phone charger, partially inserting it into the wall outlet, and then sliding a penny down the wall onto the exposed prongs. The result is sparks, electrical system damage, and in some cases, fire.

These videos are a concern and similar to past viral videos that encourage unsafe behavior. The Bureau

is alerting parents of this challenge, and advises them not only to look for signs of fire play like scorched outlets but to have conversations about fire and electrical safety with tweens and teenagers.

The Bureau released the following electrical fire safety tips: • Insert plugs fully into sockets • If you have young children, install tamper-resistant electrical outlets • Replace wall outlets if plugs do not fit tightly, or show signs of damage • Do not overload outlets • Never force a three-pronged plug into a two-slot outlet In addition to electrical fire safety, the Bureau of Fire Prevention would like to remind parents and children to discuss the dangers of particular online “challenges” and recognizing the dangerous activity on the internet.

Hospice Volunteers Needed

Compassionate Care Hospice is looking for Volunteers who are willing to give companionship to a patient and or their family. This is a gift one gives to his or her self as the rewards are

abounding - to help one at this time in their lives.

For more information please contact Kathleen O’Connell, Volunteer Coordinator 914-275-5766 or Kathleen.oconnell@cchnet.net.

Special Occasion Announcements The Howell Times welcomes your special announcements!

Engagement, Wedding, Anniversary, Birth, Birthday Wishes, etc.

Publication fee of $24.95 includes photo* and 200 word limit.

The announcement will appear in Color and on ourWeb site!!

Mail to: The Howell Times, PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733 or e-mail to agradzki@jerseyshoreonline.com.

Enclose check or Visa/MasterCard/American Express information.

For more information or questions, please call 732-657-7344. *Photos will not be returned unless accompanied by a self addressed, stamped envelope.

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The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020, Page 11

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

Young Patients Get To Rap With Cap During Hospital Visit

─Photo courtesy Hackensack Meridian Health K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital Captain America gives Domir Simmons, of Lakewood, a hug during his Jan. 23 visit to the K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital on the campus of Jersey Shore University Medical Center, in Neptune.

By Bob Vosseller NEPTUNE – He’s red, white and blue and carries an oval shield but his biggest weapon is providing hugs to children who are patients of K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital.

Captain America visited Hackensack Meridian Health K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital on Jan. 23. The Marvel Comics superhero’s secret identity was that of Kenneth Noto, a State Trooper with the Pennsylvania State Police.

Noto volunteers his time to visit as ‘Captain America,’ bringing happiness and a welcome distraction to children receiving care in the hospital’s pediatric unit, day stay and emergency department. He has been visiting almost monthly, during his off time, for a little over four years as different superheroes, after visiting the children’s hospital to see his niece receiving care for a severe head injury.

“I visited my niece several times while she was at K. Hovnanian. I was so impressed with the excellent care she received from the doctors and nurses, and I noticed how they were caring for so many children in the pediatric unit, who could use some joy,” Noto said.

“It inspired me to give back. Around that

time, the Batman Vs. Superman movie was released. I thought how fun it would be to play Batman in a movie, but even better, wouldn’t it be great to get an authentic Batman suit and bring some happiness to the kids I saw at the hospital. This way I could show my gratitude to the nurses and doctors for the care they provided my niece.”

Noto soon registered as a volunteer at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, where the children’s hospital is located and began visiting as Batman and over the years added Green Arrow and Captain America costumes as those heroes grew in popularity.

“Our team members look forward to Kenny’s visits and really appreciate the joy and excitement he provides our patients,” Vito Buccellato, MPA, LNHA, chief hospital executive, Jersey Shore University Medical Center said.

Buccellato added, “our teams and I are very grateful he makes the trip from Pennsylvania to visit us.”

Jersey Shore University Medical Center’s programs and services have received numerous national recognitions, including designation as high-performing in cardiac, stroke, surgical and oncology services.

Support Your Local PAL

HOWELL – Howell Township Police Athletic League is a non-profit organization whose mission is to foster positive relationships among the youth and police officers in our community.

Above all, Howell PAL strives to maintain its positive communication between the youth, adults and police officers to better the community we live in.

Every kid needs a PAL, and it’s the Howell

Township volunteer community that makes that happen. We would like to take this moment to thank all of our volunteers. Without all of you, Howell PAL would not have the ability to excel and reach the depths of the community like it does.

A donation made to PAL, is a donation to the betterment of the community. Any contribution is greatly appreciated! Donate at howellpal.org/ donate.html.

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Page 12, The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020

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AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE 3 Jackson Residents Indicted In Murder

By Chris Lundy FREEHOLD – Three Ocean County residents were indicted Jan. 29 for their roles in the shooting death of Narciso Rodriguez-Corona, 43, of Manalapan.

On Oct. 5, 2019, police responded to a fight at 25 Fawn Run in Manalapan where there had been a shooting victim. They found Rodriguez-Corona suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where he was pronounced dead.

Gerard A. Grimes Jr., 23, of Jackson, was arrested that night. This week, he was indicted on one count of first degree Murder, one count of first degree Felony Murder, two counts of second degree Possession of

a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose, two counts of second degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, one count of second degree Burglary, one count of second degree Conspiracy to Commit Burglary, two counts of fourth degree Aggravated Assault, one count of second degree Eluding, one count of fourth degree Resisting Arrest, and one count of fourth degree Tampering with Physical Evidence.

Grimes and two others, Zoey S. Monte and Tyler J. Martucci came to the residence that night. Police said their investigation revealed that a few altercations ensued, resulting in Grimes shooting Rodriguez-Corona. The three then fled the area.

Grimes’ vehicle was located, but he refused to stop for police, and then he fled the vehicle. Later, he was found in the back yard of a nearby home. Monte and Martucci were arrested in the vehicle.

Tyler J. Martucci, 22, of Jackson is currently be held in the Ocean County Jail in Toms River on separate, unrelated charges.

Martucci was indicted on one count of second degree Burglary, one count of second degree Conspiracy to Commit Burglary, one count of second degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, one count of second degree Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose, one count of fourth degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and one count of third degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose.

Zoey S. Monte, 20, of Jackson, was arrested after she turned herself into authorities at the Manalapan Township Police Department on Jan. 29. Monte was indicted on one count of second degree Burglary, one count of second degree Conspiracy to Commit Burglary, one count of second degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, one count of second degree Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose, one count of fourth degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and one count of third degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose.

The murder conviction would carry a minimum sentence of 30 years in prison without parole. All of the second degree crimes could be up to 10 years in jail each.

They are being held for their trial. They are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

CORRECTION In the Howell Times Feb. 1, 2020 edition, a stor y concer ning the passing of former Howell Mayor Robert Walsh, Juan Malave, should have been referred to as Howell Township Republican chairman. We regret the error.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020, Page 13

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

6 Surprising Benefits Of Deer Nut Oil

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

There is a plant that has beautiful foliage which also provides year-round food for deer, so they call it the deer nut plant! But you might know it as jojoba.

Just like cactus plants, jojoba is one of those plants that is a desert plant which can tolerate high heat, long hours of sunlight and very little water. It’s botanically known as Simmondsia chinensis. Other delightful, hilarious names include goat nut, pignut and quinine nut! Call it what you will, this is still an exceptional ingredient to find in your lotion, face cream and serum!

It’s so similar to your own sebum that jojoba absorbs immediately into your skin, penetrating deep into the skin’s layers where it can enhance the absorption of other topical treatments, nutrients or medication. I think jojoba is one of the healthiest, most moisturizing, skin-healing, and wrinkle-reducing oils one can use on the skin! It’s available nationwide and online, and I’ve put it in a facial serum that I formulated for anti-aging benefits.

Here are 6 scientifically proven benefits of jojoba oil.

1. Collagen synthesis. In several studies, jojoba oil has been used to accelerate the production of both keratinocytes and fibroblasts. This could mean improved skin wound healing, reduced scar formation and hair growth.

2. Anti-inflammatory. Jojoba-based products may be useful for rosacea, psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, sensitive skin and redness.

3. Hair Growth. If you are currently

dealing with some eyebrow loss due to aging, dieting or hypothyroidism, jojoba oil might be good to apply to your brows.

4. Strengthen the Barrier. Our skin’s barrier is termed the stratum corneum and it traps moisture inside, while keeping out pollutants, environmental toxins, dirt and pathogens. This strength of your barrier is important because it is what keeps your skin looking clear and moisturized. Studies have proven that jojoba oil has major skin barrier reparative powers.

5. Scars. Jojoba oil is known to be a wonderful scar healer, especially for those pitting, acne scars. There was a study showing that after just six weeks, 154 participants using a jojoba oil-based face mask experienced a 55% perceived reduction in acne scars. The magic is from the high content of vitamin E in jojoba which is an age-old remedy used on scars.

6. Nourishing. Jojoba oil contains a natural source of skin-loving nutrients such as Vitamins E, zinc, iodine, copper, selenium, and chromium. Zinc is known to help with acne. Vitamin E protects us from sun damage and free radicals).Copper and selenium may help with collagen formation. Iodine is a natural type of skin antibiotic.

Jojoba is a perfect oil and you can simply buy a plain bottle of it to use for manicures or pedicures, or even a massage. You can add any essential oil to jojoba as well. One of my favorite things to do is rub jojoba oil onto my dry, itchy or cracked heels. It keeps my feet looking pretty and softer. Be well and pamper yourself like crazy with this hydrating, natural oil.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2019 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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Page 14, The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020

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A Successful Year For Monmouth County Library

MANALAPAN – Community clubs, partnering with local groups, education and lectures were all part of programming in 2019 which has kept the Monmouth County Library as much a community center as a reference resource, said Programming Coordinator Laura Migliore.

The library’s broad range of programs and activities contributed towards its receipt of the best public library Readers’ Choice Award from a local daily newspaper.

Migliore reported on the variety of programs offered at the Headquarters Library as well as its branches during 2019 at a recent meeting, noting that programs which have been popular in the past are continuing, while newer activities and programs are always added.

As examples, the coordinator said as a result of the Monmouth County Library Commission request for recognition of the many book clubs that meet at the various libraries, the first Book Club Festival was held in October, coinciding with National Reading Group Month. The event attracted close to 200 attendees, she said, with best-selling authors Diane Chamberlain and Lisa both giving lectures and offering question and answer sessions for attendees at the library

by Skype. The event was further enhanced by in-person presentations by author and TV journalist Mary Calvi, and book signings with author Rosaline Reisner.

The library joined forces with the AARP Tax Aide to over assistance to more than 1,200 attendees at the Headquarters branch, including preparing more than 900 tax forms, thanks to 360 volunteers who offered their services. The library also participated in a county-wide Food Drive, collecting more than two and a half ton of food from all the branches.

For military interest and information, the Library joined with the Manalapan Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee, Bookdale Community y College and the NJ Alliance for Learning and Preserving History of World War II in Asia (NJ ALPHA) to provide documentaries, lectures and programs during the year.

Joining with the state Library and the state Library Association, the library offered programs, workshops and training for all its branch directors on active shooter training, sustainability and administering NARCAN. For entertainment purposes, the library presented more than 1,000 programs, concerts and meetings, reaching close to 45,000 people, with jazz concerts averaging attendances of 150 followers.

Technology programs on iPhone basics, options to cable TV and other specialties intermingled with chess, bridge and mahjong as popular programs, Migliore continued, as well as four programs on poetry presented by former Programming Coordinator Flora Higgins and Russian Poet Raisa Silber.

With a successful year behind it, the library has set goals for 2020 which include more emphasis and programming on health and wellness programs, an accent on World War II programs to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the war’s end, and the 60th anniversary of the onset of the Korean War 60 years ago.

The library also has special programs set to observe Women’s History Month in March.

For more information on the Monmouth County Library, visit monmouthcountylib.org.

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The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020, Page 15

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Page 16, The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020

HOWELL – Howell EMS is currently accepting applications for Part Time Emergency Medical Technicians.

Requirements: • One year experience working within a 911 based EMS system.

• Must possess a valid NJ Driver’s License.

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Howell EMS In Need Of EMTs

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• Candidates will be required to work at least four (4) days per month.

• The right candidate will be a highly motivated, well organized, professional who embraces new challenges. The candidate must

able to work well within a team environment • The candidate should exhibit excellent oral and written communication skills.

What we offer: • Competitive salaries based on experience, education and certification level.

• Free refresher and continuing education courses.

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Applications can be picked up any day at Howell Police Headquarters located at 300 Old Tavern Rd in Howell Township or at the EMS Annex located at 51 Windeler Rd. For more information, call 732-938-4575 ext. 2850.

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The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020, Page 17

AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE Community Health Centers Receive Greenlight To Provide Group Therapy

NEW JERSEY – Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are now able to provide mental health and substance use disorder group counseling. This allows FQHCs, also known as Community Health Centers, to provide behavioral health treatment to as many as eight patients at a time. Federal and state legislators actively supported the provision of these services, which are especially important for patients and their families during times of a mental health crisis.

“New Jersey FQHCs provide integrated, quality healthcare to over half a million patients. The expansion of group therapy will be a critical breakthrough for the patients we serve. Group therapy is especially important since opioid overdose deaths in New Jersey only decreased by 3 percent last year.” said Jillian Hudspeth, New Jersey Primary Care Association President and CEO. Earlier this month, state officials announced that there were 3,021 suspected drug-related overdose deaths in 2019, compared to 3,118 in 2018.1 Despite the small decrease in deaths, New Jersey has been experiencing an epidemic. According to the most recent data from the CDC, New Jersey surpassed the national rate of overdose deaths in 2017.

“The mental health and substance abuse crisis has torn apart New Jersey families and caused pain in communities all over our state,” said U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee that sets national health policy. “Individuals in need of behavioral health services now have a new path to receive proper treatment in a dignified and timely manner. I applaud the hard work and commitment of Community Health Centers throughout New Jersey and our country.”

“Mental health and substance use disorder treatment services must reach all who need them,” said U.S. Senator Cory Booker. “Now that Federally Qualified Health Centers are able to offer group counseling services, a

proven treatment option will be accessible to communities struggling through America’s mental health and substance abuse crises.

I was proud to support efforts to expand these services in New Jersey’s world-class FQHCs, where more than 560,000 patients access high-quality, cost-effective care.”

Community Health Centers meet the ever-growing demand for behavioral health services throughout the state. In 2016, New Jersey FQHCs provided 16,284 patients with mental health services. Just two years later, that number increased to 25,755 patients. During the same period of time, the number of substance use disorder patients treated by a New Jersey Community Health Center almost doubled from 1,244 patients in 2016 to 2,167 patients in 2018.

“This is good news for the state of New Jersey.

Federally Qualified Health Centers provide comprehensive quality care to almost 570,000 New Jerseyans every year. With the addition of mental health and substance use disorder group therapy, health centers will be able to improve access to behavioral health services for thousands of families and help further the fight against the opioid crisis,” U.S. Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

“Too often, those suffering from mental illness do not have access to treatment so they can seek help. As a result, severe mental health illnesses have gone undiagnosed, and people have been left stranded, not knowing where to turn for help,” said N.J. Senator Troy Singleton, who serves as N.J. Senate Community and Urban Affairs Chairman.

“Thankfully, here in New Jersey, residents will have readily available access to mental health care. By providing mental health care at Federally Qualified Health Centers, our most vulnerable populations will be able to receive the treatment they need to have a better quality of life.”

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Page 18, The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020

New Law Teaches People How To Dispose Of Meds

By Chris Lundy TRENTON – A bill that requires pharmacists to educate patients on how to dispose of unwanted medications was signed into law.

The law is designed to keep prescription drugs out of the hands of addicts, said sponsor Sen. Robert Singer (R-30th).

The law will require pharmacists to educate patients on how to safely discard unused, unwanted, or expired drugs and needles.

It is named “Charlie’s Law” in memory of Charlie Van Tassel, who succumbed to his addiction at the age of 33, according to Smith.

“All too often addiction begins at home, stemming from abused prescriptions or unused medication falling into the wrong hands,” Singer said. “To someone like Charlie, who fought to stay sober, a bottle left unattended can be life-threatening. We can avoid addiction through proper disposal of unused drugs. Ensuring pharmacists ed-

ucate patients on how to best dispose of unused medication will save countless lives.”

According to the specifics of the law (which can be found by looking up A-5667 or S-3933), the pharmacist who issues the prescription must provide written instruction to patients on how to properly dispose of drugs, along with a warning of potential risks if the medication is not discarded safely. Additionally, the pharmacist is tasked to provide an easy way for the customer to dispose of the medications. This could be through a pharmacy drop-box or kiosk, or a drug deactivation product, which neutralizes 98 percent of medication and reduces the chance of drugs infiltrating a landfill or water supply.

Several local municipalities have places where you can drop off old, unused prescriptions and they will be destroyed.

The annual drug overdose death toll remains above 3,000 in New Jersey, Smith said.

Health And Wellness Workshop Series To Start In February

By Bob Vosseller HOWELL – A four-part workshop series called “Howell Community Health & Wellness” has already “garnered great public interest” according to Township Alliance Coordinator Christa Riddle.

The series to be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Howell Middle School South, Media Center, 220 Ramtown-Greenville Rd. will kick off on Feb. 13 with presenter Nicki Francis of Wellspring Prevention.

Francis will present the program, “Vaping: What You Know; What You Need to Know.”

The program “Youth Mental Health & Wellness Part 1” will be held on March 11 with facilitator Summer Deaver of Yoga Peace Kula. The second part of this program will be held on May 13 with speaker Alisha DeLorenzo of Living Yes. On April 22, Kaitlin McCarthy of Prevention First will provide a program called “Young Athletes and Opioids.”

The series provides professional development credits for Howell K-8 school district staff. Free childcare will be provided by members of Howell PAL. For additional information or questions, call Riddle at 732-938-4500 ext. 4012 or e-mail her at criddle@twp.howell.nj.us or visit the alliance website at twp.howell. nj.us/169/Municipal-Alliance.

Soup Kitchen Open HOWELL –The Soup Kitchen of Immanuel Bible Church is open from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Monday of the month.

Anyone in need of a meal or fellowship is welcome to come as the facility is open to the community.

The Soup Kitchen is located at the Immanuel Bible Church at 1244 West Farms Rd. For information call 732-431-0299 or visit ibenj.org

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020, Page 19

R.C. Shea & Assoc.

Inside The Law Helpful Tips To Ensure Your Mortgage Application Is Approved By: Dina M. Vicari, Esq. and Robert C. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

A necessary but intensive task during your journey to purchase your new home will be providing your mortgage representative with all of the financial records and additional information they may require during the home buying process. Equally, during a re-finance of your existing home many of the same financial records will be required. In either case, the process is started with an application and then moves through the underwriting process until the loan is clear to close. This time period may span from 30 days to several months, depending on the complexity of the loan program. There are several tips to remember which will help achieve a smooth closing.

First, as an applicant, you never want to open new credit cards, switch credit card balances to new credit cards or make large purchases on existing credit cards. Even the smallest of purchases on a new card may lead to a much larger available line of credit. This is important to remember when you are paying for movers or looking to purchase new appliances and/ or furniture for your new home. All of these actions can disrupt your income to debt ratio which can be a major obstacle in getting to that clear to close position. Make sure prior to utilizing any credit that it is discussed with your Attorney and mortgage representative to avoid delays in obtaining clearance to close your loan.

Second, in a situation where you are either re-financing your existing home or purchasing a home that requires repairs prior to closing, make sure all home improvements/repairs are completed prior to the home appraisal. Nearly all loans require an appraisal. Therefore, in order to avoid any delays with your closing,

Robert C. Shea Esq.

Sunny Days Are Here Again, Thanks To Dried Summer Stone Fruit

By Wolfgang Puck Dina M. Vicari Esq.

make sure you properly plan the timing of your appraisal. Timing of the appraisal should be discussed with your Attorney and mortgage representative to ensure that there are no on-going improvements within the property that would require a re-appraisal, which will delay the process and cost an additional fee.

Third, it is important to make sure you are prepared for closing and have enough money saved-up to bring to the closing table. At the time of closing there are lender costs and third-party costs, such as payments to insurance companies, surveyors, title companies, home owner associations, tax office, municipal utilities and many more, which must be paid at closing. It is important to communicate with your Attorney and mortgage lender to review all of the closing costs that you will be responsible for at the time of closing.

The above items may be overwhelming but we at R.C. Shea and Associates can help you through the process. 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, email us at Rshea@ rcshea.com or visit our website at rcshea.com.

Our clients’ success is our greatest reward.

732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM

wolfgang puck’s kitchen

If you have read any of my cookbooks, or eaten in my restaurants, you may have noticed that I have a certain fondness for dried fruit. You’ll find them in my desserts, of course. But you’ll also find them turning up in many savory dishes, from stews braises, and sautes to appetizers and side dishes, to salads and soups.

Some of those guest appearances trace back to culinary history. In Austria, where I grew up, it was traditional for frugal people to save some of the harvest for culinary use at other times of year. That’s why raisins would appear with fresh apples in a strudel, or prunes and apricots might help thicken the red wine sauce for slowly braised short ribs.

Flavor, of course, is another key reason why dried fruits are used in so many savory dishes. I like to talk about how good cooking should have a “yin-yang” quality; that’s the Asian term sometimes used to describe the way that opposites can complement each other in the right balance. For instance, I like how tart, tangy dried fruit can brighten something savory or highlight and pleasantly contrast the brightness of sweet ingredients.

There is also another reason why I like to use dried fruit. During the cold months of autumn and winter, when our choices in fresh, locally grown produce can be more limited, they make it possible for you to enjoy the taste of the warmer months. That’s reason enough to keep a good supply of dried fruit in your pantry - all sealed in airtight bags or containers that help keep them from drying out any more than they already have.

To illustrate that last point, I’d like to share one of my longtime favorite recipes: An apricot pine nut tart that offers up the golden color and tangy-sweet flavor of a signature late-summer stone fruit in the middle of this chilly winter.

After prunes (dried plums) and raisins, apricots are among the most widely available dried fruit. You’ve probably seen them sold in two different forms: sulfured and unsulfured. That refers to the common use of sulfur dioxide gas as a preservative during the drying, which also helps the apricots keep their bright orange color. The Food and Drug Administration has found that only the slightest traces remain by the time the apricots are packaged; but if you’re at all sensitive to sulfites, or have any concerns at all, you can certainly make the recipe with unsulfured dried apricots, which will have a dark brownish color but still taste delicious.

Feel free to experiment with other dried fruit in this recipe, too. It will give you many ways to enjoy the cornucopia until spring and summer arrive.

APRICOT PINE NUT TART Makes one 10-inch (25-cm) tart, serves 8 to 10 1 cup (250 mL) water 8 ounces (250 g) dried apricots 1/3 cup (85 mL) Grand Marnier 1/4 cup (60 mL) orange juice Sugar dough (recipe follows), or store-bought frozen pastry for a double-crust pie, thawed 9 ounces (280 g) shelled pine nuts 1/3 cup (85 mL) sugar 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 tablespoon finely chopped orange zest 2 tablespoons apricot jam Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving First, prepare the filling: In a small saucepan, combine the water, apricots, Grand Marnier and orange juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, remove from the heat, and leave to soak for 1 hour.

Meanwhile, divide the Sugar Dough in half and, on a lightly floured work surface, roll out one half to a circle about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick and large enough to line a 10-inch (25-cm) tart pan. Loosely roll up the dough around the rolling pin, unroll onto the pan, and gently press into the bottom and sides. With scissors or a sharp knife, carefully trim the edges, adding the trimmings to the other half of dough. Refrigerate the lined pan.

Roll out the second half of the dough to a 10-inch (25-cm) square; then, using an inverted 9-inch (22.5cm) round, cut out a circle. Loosely roll up the circle around the pin and unroll onto a lightly floured sheet of waxed paper. Using a 1/2-inch (12-mm) circular cutter or pastry tip, cut out a random pattern of circles, leaving a rim of dough about 1/2 inch (12 mm).

Gather up the cutouts and refrigerate or freeze for another use. Refrigerate the circle of dough.

Strain the liquid from the apricots. Transfer the apricots to a bowl and return the liquid to the saucepan.

Boil until reduced to 3 tablespoons. Set aside to cool.

In a large skillet, lightly toast the pine nuts over medium heat, stirring constantly and taking care not to burn them. Stir the sugar and a third of the pine nuts into the apricots.

Using the paddle attachment of an electric mixer, or a handheld electric beater, beat the butter until fluffy.

Stir in the cooled liquid and orange zest.

Preheat the oven to 375 F (190 C).

To assemble the tart, spread the jam over the bottom pastry. Arrange the apricot mixture evenly on top.

Sprinkle with the remaining pine nuts. Top with the butter mixture. Carefully top with the cutout pastry circle.

Bake until golden brown, about 35 minutes. Transfer to a rack. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature, accompanied by vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

SUGAR DOUGH Makes 1 1/2 pounds (750 g), enough for one double-crust tart 2 1/3 cups (585 mL) cake flour or pastry flour 1/3 cup (85 mL) sugar 1/2 pound (250 g) unsalted butter, chilled, cut into small pieces 3 large egg yolks 1 to 2 tablespoons heavy cream In a food processor with the stainless-steel blade, combine the flour and sugar. Add the butter and pulse until it resembles fine meal.

In a small bowl, whisk together the yolks and 1 tablespoon of cream. Scrape into the machine and process until a ball begins to form, adding a little additional cream if necessary. Remove the dough to a lightly floured surface and press down into a circle.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using.

(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) © 2020 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Page 20, The Howell Times, Februrary 8, 2020

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