2021-03-27 - The Howell Times

The HOWELL Times

Vol. 18 - No. 43

MICROMEDIA PUBLICATIONS

JERSEYSHOREONLINE.COM

Memorial Honors COVID Victims, Now Needs Permanent Home

In This Week’s Edition

BREAKING NEWS @

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Inside The Law Page 13

Classifieds Page 16

Dear Pharmacist Page 17

Fun Page Page 18

─Photo courtesy Rima Samman A sandy memorial was created on Belmar beach using yellow-painted clam shells and rocks with victims’ names written on them.

By Alyssa Riccardi BELMAR – This local artist has not only impacted those from the Jersey Shore, but now globally, with her handmade memorial honoring those who have passed away from COVID-19.

Belmar resident Rima Samman designed the heart-shaped memorial on 3rd Ave. to honor her brother who passed away

in 2020 from COVID-19.

“It started on January 25. I started on that day because it would have been my brother’s 41st birthday. I lost my brother on May 10, 2020 and like everybody else we didn’t get a funeral or anything,” Samman said.

Decorated on the sands of Belmar Beach, clam shells painted yellow are placed in a shape of a

heart. Inside the hearts lay stones with the names of COVID victims written on them.

“I decided to do a local lighting and I invited locals from Belmar, Wall and Asbury Park. About 25 people showed up and I also asked online if anybody wanted to include their loved ones in there that are from New Jersey. I got about

150 names that day and that’s how it all started,” Samman said.

Little did Samman know that her small memorial would soon contain over 2,000 rocks with victim names.

“That evening I went out, I lit the heart and literally I thought I was going to go home, go to sleep and the next day (COVID - See Page 2)

Fundraisers Created For Families Who Lost Homes In Fires

By Alyssa Riccardi HOWELL – After two fires arose days apart in the Howell area, fundraisers have been set up for the families who have lost everything.

On March 11, police responded to as structure fire on Alex Drive,

which resulted in the home being completely destroyed.

“Sadly, today a family lost their home,” Police Chief Andrew Kudrick said on March 11. “Fortunately, everyone was able to escape.

The neighbor across

the street realized the house was on fire and ran over and alerted the residents who were not aware the entire exterior front of their house was ablaze.”

Local emergency crews were able to put out the fire, but unfor-

tunately were not able to save the home.

“As firefighters fought the main fire, several Howell police officers grabbed fire extinguishers from their vehicles, garden hoses from other homes and booster lines from ad-

ditional arriving fire trucks and got to work assisting neighbors as they attempted to put out smaller fires around their houses,” he said.

“The blaze was so intense the woods caught on fire, a shed and fence (Fires - See Page 4)

March 27, 2021

State Holds Hearing Over Poor Service By Altice/Optimum

By Bob Vosseller NEW JERSEY – At least 11 municipalities called for action during a state Board of Public Utilities hearing over poor performance and customer service by Altice, the Frenchowned cable conglomerate that operates the Optimum brand.

Among the Ocean County communities represented at the six-hour hearing were Jackson, Toms River, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park and Lavallette. They joined other municipalities such as Howell in Monmouth County and communities in Middlesex and other counties.

The hearing included two representatives from Altice. It was designed to address ratepayers’ concerns. Various municipal officials, town attorneys and citizens said they were looking for concrete actions from Altice to improve the performance of internet service as well as their customer service.

Lawanda Gilbert, the director of the board’s (Altice - See Page 8)

Students Send Loving Messages To Local Rescue Squad

By Alyssa Riccardi HOWELL – Elementary students sent heartwarming messages to the Howell Township First Aid and Rescue Squad No. 1 by making creative thank you cards.

“This evening the membership gathered together for our monthly drill meeting. As the meeting was called to order, we were presented with a very special gift,” Vice President Billy Mandelkow wrote in a Facebook post.

Students from the Newbury Elementary School had made thank you cards for the (Students - See Page 4)

Stay Connected www.facebook.com/jshoreonline

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COVID:

Continued From Page 1 we would just walk over and clean everything up. Instead, it hit social media and I woke up to about 198 messages of strangers just asking me if I could include their loved ones in the heart. I started adding names and then day by day the requests just kept coming in, it wasn’t slowing down. Now people are coming in from everywhere, nationwide, even internationally at this point. It’s grown into 11 hearts now,” Samman said. “Personally, I’ve probably placed approximately 2,000 names in there now. But there’s also locals that would go there and do their own rocks. With the locals included it may be 2,200.”

Samman decided to hold a second lighting on March 13 since the memorial was growing in popularity. She picked this date as it marks one year since the beginning of the pandemic at the Jersey Shore.

“At least 400 people or more showed up, which I was really shocked about. People asked me to light the hearts again since they saw the original photos of the lighting. I posted it on Facebook announcing that I’ll relight the hearts on this day, if anyone wants to attend, they’re more than welcome to come. I never in my life imagined

that many people coming. There was a family that flew in from Ohio just to come. There were some people that drove in from out of state and stayed in the area overnight. I never ever thought that would happen,” Samman said.

Currently, a GoFundMe has been started to raise enough money to find a permanent home for the memorial as well as create a museum that will remember the 532,000 lives lost to date.

“My goal is to get a permanent memorial going and to preserve the one that’s already been started. You know it can’t stay on the beach because mother nature is eventually going to get to it but also obviously the town is being tolerant right now and giving me the time to relocate it, but they’ve expressed already that it needs to be moved. We started the GoFundMe in hopes to raise enough funds to entice somebody to give us property to build a proper memorial,” Samman said.

Although she has paused on taking names, many locals are adding their own rocks with names to the memorial.

“Locals are still coming by doing their own thing. Somebody actually anonymously built the 11th heart. I didn’t build it myself. They actually went overnight and did it so I was really surprised, and the heart is already almost full,” Samman said.

As Samman works on gaining funds to relocate the memorial, she has plans to meet with County Commissioners and more to discuss ideas.

“Right now, I do have some meetings set up, and I’m hoping that it will eventually support the cause and help us. But I do have a meeting with County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone and then I also have a meeting with the Rotary Club of Asbury Park. I have reached out to Governor Murphy, Senator Booker and Senator Menendez as well, I just haven’t had any replies yet,” she said.

Samman expressed how important it is to find a permeant location for the memorial as she knows this is the only outlet many have had to honor their loved ones.

“I do want to stress that the goal is to relocate it. A lot of people think that we’re trying to re-imagine it.

I got around 75 messages on ideas, saying ‘you can put it on wood planks and stand it up on the board walk.’ We would still need permission to do that.

The biggest issue right now it to get a location for it. We can reimagine it if we have to, I’m an artist I can figure it out, I would just need the spacing,” she said. “I’m open to any location I don’t have anything in mind. At this point it would need to go anywhere. I don’t want to break the families’ hearts again. People are really attached to this memorial.”

“It’s really sad, but from meeting people at the lighting, some people still don’t even have a tombstone on their loved one’s grave and it’s been seven or eight months already. Then again so many of us didn’t get a funeral. This is a great way for people to honor their loved ones outside of a cemetery. I don’t want it to be demolished and ruined because we couldn’t find a place for it. The ideal thing would be something indoors, because of outdoor elements. Maybe creating like a gallery or like a museum-type atmosphere, where again names can be displayed and the hearts can be preserved, and people can come and visit and pay respects to their loved ones. Visually it would be serene and calming to them,” Samman said.

If you would like to support Samman and her COVID-19 memorial in Belmar, you can visit the GoFundMe page at gofundme.com/f/ ramis-heart-covid19-memorial.

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Students:

Continued From Page 1 Squad’s dedication and service during the ongoing COVID pandemic.

“The students wrote thank you, drew us pictures and some even told us that they want to be like us when they grow up,” Mandelkow wrote.

The Howell Township First Aid and Rescue Squad No. 1 is a non-profit organization that is comprised of volunteer members and have been serving the community since 1957. With the volunteers consisting of emergency medical technicians and drivers, their job is to answer a variety of emergency and non-emergency calls.

Mandelkow expressed how special each thank you card was and what joy it brought to the Squad.

“As I looked around the meeting floor while our membership was reading these cards, the smiles grew bigger and bigger with every card that was opened,” Mandelkow said. “In EMS, we don’t hear thank you very often. Especially right now, during

Fire:

Continued From Page 1 two houses down began to burn.”

Neighbors of the family have now started a collection since the family has lost everything. Not only are they collecting clothes and other items, they are also asking for gift cards.

Listed below are the following sizes they are collecting: Men and women sizes M through XXL; women’s pants sizes 6, 10, 16, 18, 20 (or 2XL), 3XL; men’s pants sizes 38 through 32 (many of these), 44 through 30 and standard large; kids’ pants size 14 (girls); women’s shoes sizes 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9; men’s shoes sizes 12 and 13; kid’s shoes size 5.5.

Anyone can drop off items and gift cards at 5 Alex Drive or 12 Alexis Drive in Farmingdale.

Only three days later, another dangerous fire

these hard times, EMTs/EMS/Medics sometimes get forgotten about when the ambulance leaves. These cards certainly hit home with all of our membership and it was something that we all needed. We do not do this for the thanks nor for the glory.

We do this for all the young children who are striving to make a difference and who want to grow up and help someone. We do this for all of our township residents and visitors so they know that if they need us, we will be there at a moment’s notice. In the world of EMS, most days are dark as made up with people who are injured or having a medical emergency. But, small gestures like this certainly bring everything back in perspective, bring a smile to our faces and remind all of us why we do this.”

Mandelkow finished his statement by thanking the students and staff for their generous support and the wonderful gift.

“This will always go down as a memorable moment for us and won’t be forgotten,” Mandelkow said.

To learn more about the Howell First Aid and Rescue No. 1, visit htfars.org.

was ablaze in Howell Township. On March 14, Howell Emergency Services were on the scene of a residential structure fire on Citation Street in the Oak Hill development off West Farms Road. Police stated how along with the home, the vehicle parked next to the residence was destroyed as well.

Next-door neighbor Vanessa Zullo set up a GoFundMe to help raise money for the owner Dave.

“Dave has lost everything. Including his car in this fire. He is a single father of two little boys, 10 and 6 years old and now has no home or vehicle. I’m trying to raise some money for him to get back on his feet. Dave is a great father and person and would help anyone that needed it,” Zullo wrote online.

At the time of publication, the fundraiser has reached $3,529 of its goal of $5,000. To donate to the GoFundMe, visit gofundme.com/f/my-neighbor-daves-house-and-car-fire

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Fire Safety Tips Offered During Passover and Easter

By Bob Vosseller LAKEWOOD – The Township Board of Fire Commissioners is looking to the safety of residents during the upcoming holidays of Pesach “Passover” and Easter.

With the holiday season approaching the Fire Commission in conjunction with Fire Chief Jon Yahr, Fire Prevention Coordinator Jacob Woolf, Fire Depar t ment Chaplai n Rabbi Moshe Rotberg and the members of the Lakewood Fire Department are reminding residents to be mindful of the following hazards to ensure a fire safe holiday.

Self-Clean Ovens – Ovens should be pre-cleaned well before turning on the self-clean cycle. Never leave your home while the oven is self-cleaning.

B’Dikas Chometz (Search for the Bread) – Be mi ndf ul of the candle f lame as you are searching! Keep away f rom cu r t ai ns, sofas, clothi ng, etc.

Make sure the candle is completely extinguished before placing it aside.

According to many Poskim (Halachic Authorities) a f lashlight or the room’s ceiling fixture may be used. It’s safer to use a f lashlight to search in those smaller, tighter areas.

Bi u r C h o m e t z ( B u r n i n g of t h e Bread) – Only use a site that has been pre-designated and authorized by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office.

The Fire Depar tment asks that only Chometz (bread) which must be burned as required be placed in the burn sites.

We have seen people throw all types of garbage into the fires in previous years.

This contributes to larger than necessary fires that increase the risk of injury. DO NOT throw any f lammable or combustible items into the fire or any bottles, both glass and plastic. DO NOT wrap your bread in silver foil as

it will not burn.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic you bu r n t he Chomet z ( brea d) on you r own, only use a portable, outdoor, solid-fuel-burning fireplace that may be constructed of steel, concrete, clay or other noncombustible material.

Fireplaces (i.e., fire pits, chimeneas, charcoal barbecue grill, etc.) shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instr uctions and shall not be placed within 15 feet of a str ucture (i.e.: house, shed, deck, etc.) or combustible material.

Don’t leave barbecue grills unattended and keep children as well as pets away.

Avoid wearing loose fitting clothing when igniting and using a fireplace.

Make sure fireplaces are extinguished before leaving.

Covering the Stove Top – never cover any vents. Leave all vents open to allow heat to escape. Failure to do so may damage your oven and cause a fire.

Setting up the Stove Top – The Blech (metal stove top cover) should be positioned to allow heat to escape on all sides. Many people keep a burner on for the duration of the Holiday. Should you do so, it is preferable to choose a back burner. When not in use, it is a good idea to keep a pot of water over the lowered f lame to serve as visual reminder.

A safer method of cooking is to use an electric burner. These can be placed directly on your Blech and can be used w it h a n appropr iate U.L. approved heav y dut y timer as well. You will avoid any potential carbon monoxide buildup and it will only be on when needed.

However, if you must operate a stove, leave a window approximately fou r inches open near the stove with a sec-

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ond window open as well on the opposite side of the home. This will provide cross ventilation, fresh air and prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide.

Be certain all towels, curtains/draperies as well as other f lammable items are removed and secured away from the stove to prevent them from coming in contact with a burner and igniting.

Cooking – W hen cooking, roll up your sleeves and avoid wearing loose fitting clothing that can easily catch f ire. Do not reach over bur ners and other hot surfaces. Keep all f lammable items (dishtowels, curtains, etc.) at least three feet from the range top.

Always t u r n pot handles inward to prevent young children from pulling down a hot pan. Remain in the kitchen and keep an eye on the stove or oven.

Unattended cooking remains a leading cause of home fires.

Frying – When frying, it is important to keep children away from the stove and other cooking elements. Use the back bur ners so they are out of the reach of children. When reheating fried foods, be careful of the oil that is in the food as it reheats, since it can cause severe burns.

In the event of a grease f ire, smother the f lames with a lid only if it is possible. Do not use water to extinguish a grease f ire as this will just increase the size of the f ire. Don’t hesitate to call 911.

Appliances – keep all appliances away from the edge of the counter and all wires safely out of reach, especially when children are around. Leave ample space arou nd any appliances to allow air to circulate and minimize the buildup of heat.

Make sure all your appliances are U.L. compliant and that they are in opt i m al cond it ion. A n appropr iat e U.L. approved heavy duty timer may be used with hotplates, crock pots, etc.

Speak to your Rav, before Pesach, if you need further Halachic clarif ication on using timers.

Memorial Candles should be placed in safe stable holders and on sturdy nonf lammable surfaces, at least three feet away from f lammable materials and in a location where they cannot be knocked over or something can fall on top of them.

Don’t leave children unattended in a room with lit candles, and do not display lighted candles in windows or near exits in case you need these to escape. Never leave bur ning candles

unattended and keep matches, lighters and lit objects away from children.

Never hesitate to call the Fire Department during the holiday or Shabbos even for the slightest suspicion of danger. Fire Department Chaplain Rabbi Moshe Rotberg (with direction f rom other var ious local rabbinical authorit y) would like to remind the community, since it is impossible for the typical layman to determine from the time of the crisis if it poses a danger to one’s self or neighbors.

One should not hesitate to call the Fire Depar tment immediately. What may appear to the uneducated to be “nothing” may, in fact, be deadly.

The Commission reminds residents to make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors i n you r home are f u nction i ng per fectly. At a minimum, smoke alarms should be located outside each separate sleeping area and on every f loor of one’s home.

Place a carbon monoxide detector outside each sleeping area in the home.

Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly to make sure they are working. Carbon monoxide detectors are NOT substitutes for smoke alarms; they are not interchangeable.

Never disconnect your smoke alarms and /or CO alar ms – no mat ter how “an noying” they are and don’t rely on your sense of smell to alert you, by then it may be too late. If you r detectors are more than 10 years old, the detectors need to be replaced, not just the batteries.

The Commission reminds ever yone that 30 seconds and a 9-volt batter y can save your life.

Should you need to leave your home during a fire, due to a sounding smoke alar m, carbon monoxide detector or for another emergency, alert all the occupants if possible. This is especially important in multi-family dwellings, apartment buildings, etc. where other residents may not be aware of an emergency in another apartment.

You shou ld n’t dev iate f rom you r pat h of eg ress or delay t he escape of you and your family in any way; however, as you exit make an attempt to alert other occupants/residents of the building.

Also remember Stop, Drop and Roll: STOP – do not r u n if you r clothes catch on f ire. DROP – to the ground and cover your face. ROLL – continue to roll to smother the f ire.

Do you have something you want everyone to know? Is there an issue that needs to be addressed?

Write a letter to make yourself heard.

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

Arnone: Spring Weather, Vaccines Helping County Reopen

Happy Spring! I hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather this past weekend. I am looking forward to more nice weather.

I want to update everyone on a few initiatives going on throughout Monmouth County.

O n Mo n d ay, M a r ch 8th, Monmouth County launched a vaccine scheduling system for Monmouth County residents, who are currently eligible for the vaccine, to log on and make appointments themselves.

Residents are now able to make appointments for a vaccine at Brookdale Community College four days per week, from Tuesday through Thursday and on Saturday.

Appointments are open to Monmouth County residents who are currently eligible according to guide-

lines issued by the New Jersey Department of Health.

Information about who is currently eligible is also available on visitmonmouth. com/health. It is important to note that appointments will only be open for the upcoming week once we receive confirmation of the amount of vaccine the County will be receiving from the State.

There will be a number of appointments reserved here and at the Monmouth County Agricultural Building for those who are currently on the waiting list. There will also be appointments reserved at the Monmouth County Agricultural Building for seniors who do not have access to technology.

The appointments for these seniors are being coordinated with our Office on Aging.

In addition, my fellow

Commissioners and I announced on March 10th the County’s partnership with Long Branch and Neptune Township to offer COVID-19 vaccinations in their respective communities. Our goal is to be able to offer vaccines in locations that are convenient for all of our Monmouth County residents, many of whom rely on public transportation or walking to get where they need to go. Each municipality was given 160 Johnson and Johnson vaccines to distribute to members of their communities.

As I have stated many times before, Monmouth County will continue to advocate for more vaccines understanding that appointments will move quickly due to the limited supply of vaccine received through the State.

On a separate note, the Mon mouth Cou nt y Division of Plan ning has created the Spring 2021 Outdoor Reopening Guide, a guidance document for businesses looking to reopen outdoors in 2021.

This is another example of how the County is using all of its resources to support and assist small businesses during the pandemic.

Planning, Economic Development and Tourism are working together to get this guide to our towns and local chambers of commerce so businesses can continue to operate safely as the summer tourism season approaches.

The Reopening Guide references examples of real-life outdoor business designs to inspire readers as well as links to definitive sources on important issues

li ke COV ID -19 related spacing and design guidelines used by cities across the United States.

To access the document, go to visitmonmouth.com and navigate to Monmouth County Division of Planning. Hard copies are available and can be provided upon request.

Lastly, my fellow Commissioners and I want to congrat ulate Brookdale Community College for being ranked No. 24 in Academic Influence’s top 50 Best Community Colleges of 2021.

The entire Board of County Commissioners is extremely proud of Brookdale Community College for being recognized as one of the top 25 community colleges in the nation.

Through their tireless efforts, dedication and com-

mitment, Brookdale has clearly demonstrated that students will receive an exceptional experience and education during their time at the County’s community college.

Brookdale Community College offers a variety of degrees in 68 academic programs including, four Academic Credit Certificates and eight Academic Credit Certificates of Achievement. In addition, non-degree courses and non- credit cou rses a re available. My fellow Commissioners and I want to thank Brookdale President David Stout for his outstanding efforts to make Brookdale what it is today.

As always, it is a pleasure to serve as Commissioner Director.

Sincerely, Tom Arnone

Smith: Lakewood Health Centers To Receive Vaccines Directly From Federal Government

WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th) applauded the announcement that the federal government is bolstering the supply of COVID-19 vaccines at two Lakewood federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) to help meet the urgent and high demand for vaccinations.

“I greatly welcome this desperately needed federal support to increase the availability of vaccines to Lakewood

HOBOKEN – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez joined Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla to highlight a new $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund that was included in the American Rescue Plan (ARP), signed into law, to help struggling restaurants and bars that have been eco-

residents and those in the surrounding communities,” said Rep. Smith.

The Center for Health, Education, Medicine, and Dentistry (CHEMED) and Ocean Health Initiatives (OHI) are slated to receive a direct and additional allocation of vaccines from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to support their current vaccine supply from the State of New Jersey.

“We thank the federal government in recognizing our work to date and including CHEMED in the federal vaccine allocation program,” said Dr. Dovid Friedman, the Chief Executive Officer of CHEMED. “We look forward to receiving vaccines from both the federal government and working with our partners at the state in continuing to administer vaccines effectively.”

CHEMED and OHI are

among 700 health centers nationwide that will receive vaccines under HRSA’s expanded Health Center COVID-19 Vaccine Program designed to reach communities that have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Smith helped both health centers become FQHCs when they initially sought the designation, enabling them to qualify for much-needed federal support that continues to

this day.

“While nearly 20 percent of Ocean County residents have received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine, we must do more to expediate the vaccination process to help put an end to the tremendous suffering caused by this pandemic,” Smith continued.

“This additional support from the federal government will help New Jersey meet the urgent demand for vaccines in a more timely manner

Menendez: $28.6B Restaurant Revitalization Fund Part Of American Rescue Plan

nomically impacted by the pandemic. These establishments can use the funding to keep their doors open, cover COVID-related expenses, and pay their employees, rent and utilities. Hoboken was the first city in the entire nation to close bars and restaurants last year, affecting many of

the city’s mom and pop establishments.

“It’s been a difficult year for mom and pop restaurant and bar owners in Hoboken and across New Jersey. This grant program is a much-needed lifeline for so many struggling restaurants and can mean the difference between an ‘Open’

or ‘Closed’ sign on their front door. I fought hard for this funding and I’m proud to say ‘help is on the way’,” said Sen. Menendez. “Early on in the pandemic Mayor Bhalla made tough but necessary choices in order to protect the health and safety of his community. He has been one of the strongest

advocates for robust, targeted funding for the restaurant industry and I appreciate his leadership in our state.”

“Brighter days are ahead for Hoboken and our hospitality industry, in large part thanks to the historic American Rescue Plan championed

by Senator Menendez and our

and get them to the people who need it as quickly as possible.”

Smith strongly supported and voted for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Consolidated Appropriations Act - both of which provided funding for the federal government to directly purchase COVID vaccines and support federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) during the pandemic.

New Jersey federal elected officials. This new critical and targeted funding source from the economic relief bill will make a difference for our struggling restaurant and bar owners as they recover from the substantial financial impact caused by the pandemic,” (Menendez - See Page 15)

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Altice:

Continued From Page 1 office of television and telecommunications introduced the president of the board, Joseph Fiordaliso who said, “this matter was initiated based on numerous complaints to the board from many Altice/ Optimum customers and elected officials throughout the state regarding their quality of service.

“These services are essential for the residents of New Jersey. The Board is very concerned about the level of performance by Altice,” Fiordaliso said. He added the input from the hearing would guide the Board in determining “the appropriate actions to take going forward.”

The complaints included frequent and lengthy service disruptions across all services, inconsistent connections, long telephone wait times, poor customer service and an inability to get a satisfactory response to these issues both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Altice representatives Marilyn Davis, the senior director of government affairs at Altice USA, and Mike Alexander, senior vice president of the field operations team, were present for the hearing.

Davis said the company has 900,000 residential and business customers in New Jersey in more than 200 municipalities. “Altice is committed to ensuring that all our New Jersey customers receive reliable service. As a result of the pandemic and other events 2020 presented many unique and unprecedented challenges for Altice as it did for other companies and individuals across the nation.”

She said the company added to its investment in the state to meet its commitments. “We recognize that some of our customers experienced frustration with engaging with our customer care organization or due to network performance issues, broadband demand with the sudden shift to remote learning.

We regret any frustrations resulting from our services.”

Davis promised to follow up on any customer service issues raised by those who spoke during the hearing who provide their information to the BPU. She also said that the company added personnel to address the numerous customer complaints that were received by phone and tools to interact with the company outside of the phone including online messaging. “These investments have yielded real results.”

Many municipal representatives and customers testified that the service problems they experienced pre-dated the start of the pandemic and despite their complaints to the company spotty service and other problems continued.

Jackson officials filed two complaints to the BPU last year. The first was filed in October and after hearing nothing back from Altice, a second complaint was filed in December. Both complaints called for action plus a partial refund to customers as they had not received the service they should have.

Attorney Gregory McGuckin, who represents Toms River and Jackson townships, said that Jackson has roughly 60,000 residents serviced by Altice. “These service complaints pre-date Covid.

This service is not only the result of the pandemic.”

McGuckin said Altice service in Jackson had worsened since 2016, “We will be filing with the board approximately 150 pages of complaints from residents regarding the service of Altice. There must be a full investigation in this matter as to what Altice is doing or not doing in the communities they serve.

“We urge the commissioner and the board to require Altice to conduct an internal investigation to report on whether they are meeting their remedial obligation in accordance with the administrative code. Only they can provide that information.

I would simply add Toms River Township has three service providers in our community. You’ll notice we’re not here for Verizon. We’re not here for Comcast. We’re here only for Altice and there is a reason for that,” McGuckin said.

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Attorney Jean Cipriani represented Seaside Heights and Seaside Park at the hearing. “Both boroughs join in on the comments that have been made including the fact that these service problems predate COVID and they have been an intensifying factor in many areas. It is not the reason for the service problems.”

She added, “the mayors of Seaside Heights and Seaside Park have both been advocates for their residents making many, many personal calls. Ms. Davis has been very responsive but the answers to the problems aren’t there and are not solved.”

Ciprianni said two problems that Seaside Heights has is security cameras that are located on all streets “that the police and residents rely on. Unfortunately, approximately a third of those cameras do not work on a reliable basis due to connectivity and service issues. That is a different aspect of the failure of technology due to the problems caused

by Altice’s lack of commitment to service and to the infrastructure.”

She also noted that customers are receiving service charges that were supposed to be removed but never are removed from their bills. “There is a breakdown at every level of service with this company. Like many towns, this is the only service in town for these services and as long as that remains the case the advantage will be taken.”

BPU Commissioner Mary Anna Holden said “a transcript that will be produced from this hearing will be made part of the record and all comments will be taken into consideration when deciding action in this matter.”

Anyone with an individual complaint of service was asked to log it at the board’s website bpu.nj/gov and click on the ‘file a complaint’ tab. Questions about the hearing and its outcome can be e-mailed to board. secretary@BPU.nj.gov. The docket number CX21020139 should be included in the subject line of the e-mail.

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The attorney added, “while Comcast and Verizon faced their own challenges, they managed to overcome them in this state and in the communities they represent. Altice is a completely different situation.”

Jackson Council President Andrew Kern said, “within two weeks of asking our residents to voice their complaints for this hearing we received over 130 e-mails which will be submitted to the Board.

For television, customers suffer the loss of signal or the screen becomes pixelated and customers need to reboot their cable boxes over and over. TV programs are only partially recording because the cable was out at that time. There has been loss of channel with the guide saying information not available.

“For internet, residents suffer the complete loss of internet or Wi Fi, not connected to the internet and customers need to reboot both their router and modem throughout the day with a loss of internet at hours at a time. Internet speeds are not what they were advertised,” he said.

Howell Councilwoman Pamela Richmond commented, “Altice has approximately 15,000 customers in Howell Township. Starting before the COVID-19 pandemic our residents have raised substantial complaints about Altice’s internet and cable service as well as its customer service. These complaints have only worsened since the inception of the pandemic.

“The service got so bad and the complaints so numerous that in the fall of 2020 Howell created a forum for residents to submit their complaints about Altice online. The township has since received over 700 complaints,” Richmond said.

She added the complaints ranged from “long service blackouts and slowed internet speed, and customer service wait time. This poor level of service for our residents is unacceptable. It is also imperative that the residents of Howell and those across New Jersey have quality internet and cable service. Such services are essential especially in the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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The Howell Times, March 27, 2021, Page 9

Photo Of The Week

─Photo courtesy David Anderson Ward Photographer David Anderson Ward captured this beautiful Osprey in Sandy Hook. For more photos from his amazing gallery, visit davidandersonward.com/ Jersey-Shore

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Page 10, The Howell Times, March 27, 2021

Around The Jersey Shore

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Commissioners Congratulate Brookdale For Being A “Top Community Colleges” For 2021

LINCROFT – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners is congratulating Brookdale Community College for being ranked No. 24 in Academic Influence’s top 50 Best Community Colleges of 2021.

“The entire Board of County Commissioners is extremely proud of Brookdale Community College for being recognized as one of the top 25 community colleges in the nation,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone.

“Through their tireless efforts, dedication and commitment, Brookdale has clearly demonstrated that students will receive an exceptional experience and education during their time at the County’s community college.”

The criteria for ranking the top community colleges includes a minimum of 1,000 enrolled students, full accreditation, and exclusively a two-year or associate degree program. Academic Influence also considers how influential the school’s faculty is and factors in the student body size.

“It comes as no surprise that Brookdale would be ranked among the best. Brookdale offers the

opportunity to receive a diverse educational experience for students with more than 60 programs available,” said Commissioner Lillian G. Burry, liaison to Brookdale Community College. “Attending Brookdale is an affordable option to attend college and earn an associate degree or a certificate. Monmouth County is proud to see Brookdale as one of the only two New Jersey colleges that made the top 50 list.”

Brookdale Community College offers a variety of degrees in 68 academic programs including, four Academic Credit Certificates and eight Academic Credit Certificates of Achievement. In addition, non-degree courses and non-credit courses are available.

According to their website, AcacemicInfluence.com is the preeminent technology-driven rankings site dedicated to students, researchers, and inquiries from high school through college and beyond, offering resources that connect learners to leaders.

For more information about Brookdale Community College, go to brookdalecc.edu.

Crisis Hotline Volunteers Needed

JERSEY SHORE – Crisis Hotline volunteers needed for CONTACT of Ocean and Monmouth Counties’ training beginning March 17, once a week for 12 weeks from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

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The Howell Times, March 27, 2021, Page 11

Around The Jersey Shore

The HOWELL Times MICROMEDIA PUBLICATIONS

Howell PAL Theater Company Presents Godspell

HOWELL –The production of Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak’s rock musical Godspell is coming to Howell on March 26 at 7 p.m. live on the Showtix4U platform. 12 talented actors will delight audiences with the amazing musical score, colorful costumes, and wonderful stage portrayals sharing classic Biblical stories.

When the curtain goes up on Howell PAL Theater Company’s production, the cast and crew will be working hard to make sure the audience doesn’t miss out on the message.

“This musical speaks to our time that we are living right now. Godspell is a show about love, healing and how we are one family, based on ‘The Gospel According to St. Matthew.’ This story can be embraced by all people regardless of their spiritual preferences,” says Howell PAL Theater director Gillian Bryck. This uplifting musical shares stories of the Prodigal Son, the Good Samaritan, the Beatitudes, among others which are performed in various fun, uplifting ways with cheerful pop melodies such as Day

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The cast of Godspell features Howell’s Brennan Boyce who plays Jesus, a compassionate teacher who guides his friends to explore love, forgiveness, and sacrifice. Gavin Bailey of Brick portrays the dual roles of John the Baptist and Judas.

Soloists include: Ava Klugewicz, Howell, Giada Garcia, Manalapan, Ashley Burroughs, Brick, Kayla Brown, Freehold, Katie Kava, Howell, Michael Palmer, Brick, Sophie Nelson, Spring Lake, Alyssa Pray, Howell, Emma Rubinson, Freehold and Layla Caloia, Howell.

The Howell PAL Theater Company has strived to keep children’s community theater going through this difficult time. The Godspell cast, crew and production team has been working endlessly to put on this beautiful musical in hopes that the local community, friends and families will support our first Livestream Production.

Godspell will be performed Live on March 26 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 and are available online on the Howell PAL Theater company’s website at howellpaltheaterco.com or bit.ly/howellgodspell.

County Announces Mosquito Madness Tire Pick-Up Program

MONMOUTH COUNTY – Attention Howell Township residents: The Monmouth County Mosquito Control Division is holding its annual Mosquito Madness Tire Pick-Up Program now until April 15.

Tires stored outside hold enough rainwater for mosquitoes to grow. One tire can produce more than 10,000 biting mosquitoes.

Help protect your family and friends from mosquitoes by taking part in the March 2021

tire pick-up program in select neighborhoods of Howell Township.

Monmouth County Mosquito Control Division personnel will come to your property and pickup as many as 10 tires without rims – you do not need to bring the tires to the curb.

Call 732-542-3630 to make arrangements.

You’ll need to provide your name, address, number of tires and the location of the tires on your property.

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Page 12, The Howell Times, March 27, 2021

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Around The Jersey Shore “Asbury Band Aid” Will Benefit Shore Musicians And Artists

By Alyssa Riccardi JERSEY SHORE – Asbury Park’s The Stone Pony and Senator Vin Gopal’s Civic Association have come together to hold a virtual benefit concert to support everyone in the Jersey Shore music and art industry.

The Asbury Band Aid benefit concert will be held on April 20 at 7 p.m. Through the funds from the concert, artists, musicians, and the industry leaders that support them will be able to apply to receive a grant.

Artists and guests featured in the program will include: Governor Phil Murphy, Senator Vin Gopal, Harlan Coben, Anthony Krizan, The B Street Band, Beach Rats, Billy Walton Band, Bob Polding Band, Bobby Mahoney & The Seventh Son, Brian Kirk, Chris Buono, Colossal Street Jam, Danny Clinch, Dentist, Des and the Swagmatics, Eddie Testa, Emily Grove, Jarod Clemons, Jess Alaimo, Joe Boris, Jill Hennessy, Melissa Keeling, The Nerds, Pat Rody, Rachel Dobken, The Smokin’ Jackets, Splintered Sunlight, Shady Street Show Band, Tangiers Blues Band, Waiting on Mongo, The Weeklings and William’s Honor.

“Asbury Park is home to an incredible art community economically impacted by the

mandated shutdown. As the artists work to overcome the economic hardships caused by the COVID-19 global pandemic, we want to provide short-term relief to help meet their financial challenges,” Senator Gopal said. “I look forward to watching my favorite bands play once again at the Stone Pony Summer Stage when it is safe.”

“This has been a project months in the making. Everyone who participated did it with the hope of helping someone else,” Caroline O’Toole, General Manager, The Stone Pony said. “That is a true power of music and the spirit of the Jersey Shore.”

Merchandise will be available to purchase through The Stone Pony and will include signed guitars, private concert, t-shirts, posters and more. All proceeds of sales will benefit the artist grants. Donations will be accepted through the website AsburyBandAid.com.

Asbury Band Aid will stream live on AsburyBandAid.com, Facebook, Vimeo and YouTube.

Asbury Band Aid is sponsored by Tito’s, JCP&L, Pepsi, Truly, Grunin Foundation, Horizon, NJ Resources, Monmouth Park and CLB Partners.

Howell Township Announces Spring Farmers Market

HOWELL – Howell Township has announced their Spring Farmers Market will be held on March 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Howell Town Hall Parking lot.

The market will include artisan food, local

farms, entertainment, fresh produce, specialty crafts and décor.

Special guests include: Korrin Mara Photography, photo booth with the Easter Bunny, Howell High School PTA and the Howell First Aid.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Howell Times, March 27, 2021, Page 13

Around The Jersey Shore CDC Explains What Each Vaccine Does

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By: Christopher R. Shea Esq. and Robert C. Shea, Esq. of R.C. Shea & Associates

─Image courtesy CDC This chart shows the current efficacy of the three vaccines that have been approved.

By Chris Lundy NEW JERSEY – There’s been a lot of talk about side effects after receiving the vaccine, and whether one vaccine is stronger than another.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released information about what to expect when you get vaccinated.

The vaccines work by creating an antibody response without having to experience COVID-19, the CDC reported.

“COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) teach our cells how to make a protein that triggers an immune response.

The COVID-19 viral vector vaccine (Johnson & Johnson) uses a modified version of a

different virus (the vector) to deliver important instructions to our cells. Neither affects or interacts with our DNA in any way, and none of the authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus that causes COVID-19,” the CDC said.

All three vaccines have proven to be highly effective at preventing the illness, they said. So, residents shouldn’t wait for a specific vaccine. Supplies are limited, so eligible people should get any vaccine they have access to.

For more information, visit cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines.html

In New Jersey, if you sustain an injury arising out of or in the course of your employment, you are entitled to certain benefits under the law. This is more specifically set forth in the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Act. Primarily, should your injury require medical attention, the Workers’ Compensation carrier for your employer is to provide this to you. The insurance carrier pays for reasonable and necessary medical care until you reach a medical plateau. In turn, however, the insurance carrier does have the right to direct your medical care. In other words, the insurance carrier has the opportunity to choose the physicians with whom you treat, as well as the facilities where any treatment or therapy is administered.

In the event that your injury is such that you are medically unable to work for more than seven (7) days, the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Act provides that the insurance company is to pay temporary disability benefits. This entitles you to seventy percent (70%) of your wages, up to the statutory maximum for the year in which you sustained the injury. These payments continue until the authorized physician permits you to return to work or until you reach a medical plateau, whichever is sooner.

Should permanent effects of your injury remain after achieving a medical plateau, you may be entitled to benefits to compensate for those permanent effects. This is based on a statutory value determined according to the part of your body which was injured and the permanent residuals of your treatment and injury. This process progresses after your physician has returned you to gainful employment. In the event that you are deemed medically unable to return to work, you may be entitled to total disability benefits.

The questions often arises, “What happens Christopher R. Shea Esq. if I am injured during the course of my duties as a volunteer for a municipality?” It has been determined that volunteer firefighters, first aid or rescue squad workers, ambulance drivers, forest fire wardens or firefighters, board of education members and auxiliary or special reserve police officers are provided for within the Workers’ Compensation Act in New Jersey.

Although, as a volunteer as listed above one would not have been compensated for the acts performed within the scope of that position, if injured while performing those duties, and medically unable to work, you would be entitled to compensation at the maximum rate for the year of that injury.

Furthermore, the injured volunteer is entitled to reasonable and necessary medical treatment as if an employee. In the event that the volunteer suffers permanent residuals from the injury in question, the volunteer would also have the right to seek payment for those residuals, the same as if a paid employee.

The law firm of R.C. Shea & Associates 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, Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney. Call or visit our firm at 732-505-1212, 244 Main Street, Toms River, Manchester Area (732) 408-9455 or our Brick Area at (732) 451-0800, email us at Rshea@rcshea.com or visit our website at www.rcshea.com

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Page 14, The Howell Times, March 27, 2021

Drive Thru Safari Reopened At Six Flags

By Bob Vosseller JACKSON - Six Flags Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure kicked off the 2021 season March 20. Guests will see the babies of 2020, including four giraffe calves and two Siberian tiger cubs.

The park will introduce the rare bongo species including an adorable calf in midApril. The bongo is the world’s third largest

antelope, native to Africa. They are most active at dusk and dawn.

New babies making their debut include eland, dama gazelle, and ankoli cattle calves in the Wilde Plains; wildebeest calves in the Serengeti Grasslands; kangaroo joeys in Didgeridoo Pass; bison calves in The Americas; zebra foals and Asian water buffalo calf in Afrikka; nilgai calves in Tigris

Asiana, and baboons in Baboon Village.

Six Flags Great Adventure’s safari operated as a self-drive-through experience from 1974 through 2012. Since 2013, Great Adventure has offered guided truck tours of the safari. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure reopened in late May, 2020 and will continue to operate until the theme park is

able to reopen its guided Safari truck tours.

The attraction will take guests on a self-guided journey through 1,200 exotic animals from six continents. For the safety and privacy of their own vehicles, guests will slowly wind through 11 simulated natural habitats seeing animals such as giraffes, elephants, rhinos, lions, tigers, bears and baboons.

While most animals roam freely in the safari, predators are safely kept behind fences. All animals are clearly visible from car windows.

The safari journey will offer a contact-free experience. All safari tickets must be purchased online and in advance. Ticket sales will not be available at the gate. To prevent overcrowding and provide proper social distancing, the safari will require all guests to make advance reservations using Six Flags’ online reservation system.

Active Members, Season Pass Holders, and single-day ticket holders can make reservations at sixflags.com/reserve. Those without advance reservations will not be permitted to enter.

A list of safety requirements is available on the park’s website and include keeping all windows, doors, and convertible tops closed; not feeding or touching the animals; no smoking, littering, or stopping; cars, SUVs and consumer pickup trucks with empty beds only – no campers, RVs, commercial vehicles or trucks larger than a consumer pickup truck; maximum speed of 5 mph and maintaining safe distance between other cars and animals.

Pets are not permitted inside vehicles. All vehicles will be inspected prior to entering the safari, rules will be enforced throughout the journey by park staff, and anyone who violates the rules will be ejected from the park without a refund and possibly prosecuted.

Restrooms are located at the entrance/ exit only, and light snacks are available for purchase. Six Flags encourages guests to plan accordingly for restroom breaks, gasoline, and food.

All Six Flags employees will be temperature and health screened each day and will wear masks and gloves where appropriate.

Guests are required to wear cloth face coverings when speaking with a Six Flags team member.

Art And Music Festival

LINCROFT - The Creative Arts & Music Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 1 at Thompson Park, Lincroft. The festival will feature fine art vendors, live music, creative activities and food vendors. Thompson Park is home to the Park System’s recently expanded Creative Arts Center, which hosts a variety of fine arts and craft classes throughout the year including ceramics, pottery, jewelry and painting.

To learn more about the Creative Arts & Music Festival or the Park System, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732842-4000.

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Howell Times, March 27, 2021, Page 15

Menendez:

Continued From Page 7 said Mayor Bhalla.

Because of the necessary lockdowns and restaurant capacity limits that were imposed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the food service industry has been one of the hardest-hit sectors. According to a study by the National Restaurant Association, 110,000 restaurants and bars have been closed temporarily or for good, as of December. The study also found that up to eight million restaurant employees were laid off or furloughed during the height of the lockdowns last year. In New Jersey alone, 30% of restaurants have been closed permanently or temporarily, impacting over 350,000 jobs.

“We stand here today, a year after we were forced to close due to the effects of a virus that crippled our state and our nation. The impact that COVID-19 had on the hospitality industry was devastating and life changing. There was nothing

that prepared us for the challenges that needed to be faced,” said Jeanne Cretella, a member of the New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association. “If you’re a suffering restaurant, and after 12 months most of us are, we now have the ability to plan ahead, rebuild our teams and strengthen our communities.”

The ARP established a $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which is based on the RESTAURANTS Act that Senator Menendez cosponsored. The program will provide up to $10 million in grants to eligible restaurants, bars and eateries. The funds can be used to cover the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other upgrades to protect customers and staff from COVID, in addition to payroll, mortgage or rent, supplies, utilities, paid sick leave and other operational expenses. In general, restaurants will receive grants that equal the difference between their 2019 and 2020 gross receipts.

In an effort to target funding to the smallest small businesses and minority-owned businesses, $5 billion is set aside for restaurants with 2019

gross receipts of $500,000 or less. Also, for the first 21 days that the program is open, the Small Business Administration (SBA) is required to prioritize applications from businesses owned by women, veterans and those in disadvantaged communities.

The ARP also expanded the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) by providing an additional $7.25 billion in funding for PPP loans. The plan also provides $15 billion for new targeted Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) grants; $10 billion will provide full $10,000 grants to any prior EIDL applicant located in a low-income community and with losses of at least 30 percent, the other $5 billion will go towards providing supplemental grants of $5,000 to severely impacted businesses with ten employees or less and losses of at least 50 percent.

Last week, Sen. Menendez outlined the $10.2 billion in direct, flexible assistance to every state, county and municipality he secured in the ARP. Hudson County will receive a combined $424.6 million in state and local relief, including $130.4

million to the country government and $294.2 million split among its 12 municipalities. Hoboken will be allocated $27.2 million. The flexible funding can used to pay COVID-related expenses, cover lost revenues, avoid layoffs of essential workers, and provide additional assistance to residents and small businesses.

Sen. Menendez and Mayor Bhalla held a press conference outside the Madison Bar & Grill in a heated, outdoor eating space which owner Dave Carney spent thousands to construct on Washington Street to help offset indoor dining restrictions.

“Like many other restaurants in Hoboken and New Jersey, we’ve been hit hard by the pandemic.

This funding could not come at a better time, and will help us as we survive until we get back to full capacity,” said Dave Carney. “We’ll utilize this grant funding to pay rent, staff, and help make up for lost revenue as we overcome the pandemic for good. Thank you to Senator Menendez for championing this funding in the Senate, and to Mayor Bhalla for advocating for our restaurants and helping keep our community safe.”

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Page 16, The Howell Times, March 27, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS Real Estate

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Looking To Purchase 2 or 3 Bedroom Home - In Howell or Freehold. Will pay up to $200,000. 732-890-1330. (14)

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

(17)

HIRING NOW!! Looking for outgoing, positive, and engaging teachers to join our Toms River – Route 70 Goddard Family. We are primarily hiring teachers for our elementary school aged children to foster a learning environment in which these children can continue to do their elementary school work. This would include helping them with worksheets, zooms, google classrooms etc. Some of the great perks of being a part of the Goddard Family include a benefits package, paid time off, holiday events and free food and Goddard swag. Call today to inquire about this job posting and start as early as next week!

We can be reached through phone at 732-363-5530 or email at TomsRiver2NJ@GoddardSchools.com.

For Rent Furnished Room For Rent - in senior complex, $600. 732-779-7432. (15)

Misc.

Crafters and Vendors Wanted For craft fair $20. May 8th at New Egypt Elks. Please contact Nancy 609-903-2675, cassnan-66@ yahoo.com.

(7)

Personals Single White Male - Searching for female to stand beside me for love, romance. 53-63. Open to any race.

609-709-5087. I'm submissive. (16)

Items For Sale Hoveround Electric Wheel Chair For Sale - 3 years old. All new tires, battery and motor. Comes with charger. $3,000. Price negotiable. Please call 848-2079431 or 732-252-6546.

(14)

Items Wanted $$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$ Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, brica-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732-364-7580. (t/n) COSTUME/ESTATE JEWELRY Looking to buy costume/ estate jewelry, old rosaries and religious medals, all watches and any type of sterling silver, bowls, flatware candlesticks or jewelry. Same day house calls and cash on the spot. 5 percent more with this AD. Call Peggy at 732-581-5225. (t/n) Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713.

(17) CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n) Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums. Rock, Jazz, Blues, Reggae, Metal.

Very Good condition only. Call Rick 908-616-7104.

(17) U s e d G u n s Wa n t e d - A l l types: collectibles, military, etc.

Call 917-681-6809. (t/n) Entire Estates Bought - Bedroom/dining sets, dressers, cedar chests, wardrobes, secretaries, pre-1950 wooden furniture, older glassware, oriental rugs, paintings, bronzes, silver, bric-a-brac.

Call Jason at 609-970-4806. (t/n) CASH PAID!! LP records - stereos, turntables, musical instru-ments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you.

732-804-8115.

(12)

Pastrami House Delicatessen - at 363 N County Line Rd, Jackson is NOW HIRING! Counterperson, Grill person, and Cashier needed. Full time and Part time positions available. Must have experience! If interested please contact: Nick 917-502-4948.

(16) Are You Bored? - Merri-Makers has part time employment for "Young at heart" individuals. You decide when to work, experience NOT required. $12 an hour plus occasional gratuity. Please contact Lauren Bott atlaurenb@merrimakers.com or 609-494-9100, ext. 1.

(14) Enable, Inc. - is looking for reliable caregivers to support adults with disabilities in Monmouth and Ocean County. Apply at www.enablenj.org/careers.

(16) Ocean Community Church (oceanchurch.squarespace.com) seeks Director of Music Ministry.

Permanent P/T. Keyboardist. Direct Band and choirs. Salary negotiable. 609-597-5151.

(17) Senior Living Community Cook/Dishwashers/Maintenance Technician/Restaurant Servers/Bus Drivers/Lifeguard (Indoor Pool). 1700 Rt. 37 West ∙ Toms River, NJ 08755.

Call or email for details 732-341-4825 info@Silverwoodsliving.com. (t/n) Home Health Care Company Now Hiring RN’s, LPN’s and CHHA in Ocean & Monmouth Counties!

Flexible scheduling. Work in your community. Weekly pay. Career advancement. Comprehensive benefits. Call 732-505-8000 today. (t/n) IMMEDIATE JOB OPENINGS Saba Home Health Care. Working with a quality team with over 25 years’ experience. NOW HIRING RN, LPN, Certified Home Health Aides, Live-ins, & Companions. Full-Time/Part-Time. Flexible schedule. Incentive Programs. Referral Bonus Paid time off. Fill application on-line at Sabahomehealthcare.com or call us at 732-797-0700. Please send resume to Ssalu@sabahhc.com. (t/n) Marina Help Wanted - Join our expand team at our new marina in Toms River. We are seeking experienced marine mechanics, assembly techs, yard help and parts & service department staff. Great pay & benefits to qualified candidates. If you're underappreciated or under compensated contact Jared today: 732-859-1007 or Jared@trkawyam.com.

(15) 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) Business Manager - Church of the Visitation seeks a flexible, self-starter individual to oversee the general office and financial activities of the parish 20 hours per week. Duties include: overseeing general office operations, payroll and financial reporting, providing support for consultative groups including Pastoral and Finance Councils, liaison to the Diocese and civil agencies. College degree or equivalent, experience in nonprofit operations, human resources, document and spreadsheet development. No phone calls. E-mail resume: PastorEd@ visitationRCchurh.org or mail: Pastor, Church of the Visitation, 730 Lynnwood Ave., Brick, NJ 08723.

(14)

Services Don Carnevale Painting Specializing interiors. Some exterior. Quality always. Very neat. Prompt courteous service.

Reasonable-affordable. Senior-Veterans discounts. Honest-reliable. Low rates. Free estimates. References. 732-8994470 or 732-915-4075.

(50) Car Detailing For A Great Job Do you want your car to look nice?

Call Lenny 908-868-4609.

(14) DIRECTV - Every live football game, every Sunday - anywhere - on your favorite device. Restrictions apply. Call IVS - 1-844-945-4510. (t/n) Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, painting repairs large and small. 40 years experience.

Call Jim 732-674-3346.

(39) Computer Tutoring for Seniors – Retired, “Microsoft Certified” instructor. Very Reasonable rates. Very patient with slow learners. I’ll teach you in the comfort of your home on your computer. I can trouble shoot your slow computer! I also teach iPhone and iPad. I set up new computers at less than half the price the retailers charge. Windows 10 specialist. I can also build a beautiful small business website at a fraction of the going rates. Special Projects always welcome! Tony 732-997-8192. (t/n) Bobs Waterproofing - Basement and crawlspace waterproofing. Mold testing, removal and prevention.

Family owned. Fully licensed and insured. Call Bob 732-616-5007. (t/n) GENERAC Standby Generators provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-833-901-0309. (t/n) Roofing Repairs Etc. - Roofing, siding, windows. Repairs on small jobs.

Utility shed roofs replaced. Prompt service. Insured. Gutters cleaned.

Call Joe Wingate 551-804-7391. (16)

Services

Services Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (19) LANDSCAPING - Fall Cleanups.

Restorations, Repairs, Stones, Mulch, Sod Installs, Hedges, Shrubs, Bushes, Downed Branches Trimmed & Removed, Demolition, Cleanouts, ect., Dumpster service provided by A901 Licensed Hauler ect.

MAN WITH VAN LLC. Jim 609335-0330 HIC# 13vh10806000.

NO JOB TOO SMALL! (52)

Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the new iPhone 11 or Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e ON US with AT&T's Buy one, Give One offer. While supplies last! CALL 1-877-373-0131. (t/n) Life Alert. One press of a button sends help FAST, 24/7! At home and on the go. Mobile Pendant with GPS. FREE First Aid Kit (with subscription.) CALL 877707-2722 FREE Brochure. (t/n) Cheap Painting Done Rite Free estimates. Fully insured. 38 years experience. 732-506-7787 cell 646-643-7678.

(37)

Services PQ Painting & Home Improvement Services - Over 5 decades of service in NJ. Visit us online at pqpaintingservice. com. Winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award. Free estimates, reasonable rates, fully licensed and insured NJ Lic #13VH06752800. Call 732-5003063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n) Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates.

Kerry 732-606-2725.

(19)

CLASSIFIEDS CANNOT BE PLACED OVER THE PHONE.

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

• Items Wanted

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Print clearly your ad as you want it to read. Include Phone # within ad below (counts as 1 word). Use separate sheet if necessary.

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You are responsible for checking your ad the first time it runs and notifying us of any errors. If we make an error, we will correct it and rerun the ad. We will not be responsible for multiple insertions if you do not call us after the first ad run. No refunds for classified ads. Newspapers are available at our office.

Please feel free to stop in and check your ad.

Calculate Price As Follows: 3. 1 week* at $29.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 2 weeks* at $44.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 3 weeks* at $60.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ 4 weeks* at $74.95 for 20 words + $0.40 ea. add’tl word = $ *In order to qualify for discounts, the same ad

Total = $ must run over the requested weeks.

4. Make check payable in advance to Micromedia Publications, or fill in MASTERCARD/VISA/AMERICAN EXPRESS info. below:

Credit Card#

Exp.

Cardholder Signature: Print Name:

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. No job too small. Give us a call. Fully licensed and insured. 908-278-1322.

(12)

MAIL TO: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733.

5. Credit Card Orders Only can be faxed to: 732-657-7388.

ALLAmerican Home Health Aides Experienced experts in the field of trauma and recovery. Holistic approach to healing-nutrition, physical therapy, and quality of life improvements. Hourly or live in.

Honest, hardworking, etc. Includes housekeeping, rides to doctors/ pleasure. Skip the rest, come to the best. 732-664-3605 (t/n)

6. PHONE NUMBER

Or visit jerseyshoreonline.com to place your classified.

(THIS IS REQUIRED)

Deadline For Classified Ads: 12pm Monday (Ads will run the Saturday of that week)

If you have any questions, please call Ali at 732-657-7344 ext. 203.

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The Howell Times, March 27, 2021, Page 17

H ere ’ s T o Y our H ealth Dear Pharmacist Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

What To Do For Chronically Itchy Skin

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The average person is estimated to scratch an itch on their body about a hundred times a day, and that is considered pretty normal.

But what if you have a chronic itch? The scratching could be non-stop and you could scratch yourself to the point of bleeding! I can help you today.

Itching is one of those symptoms that will drive you mad unless you get to the root cause and treat it. This can be the most difficult part. Unfortunately, digging deep isn’t what happens at first when you show up at the doctor’s office with an itchy rash. You will have to go to the pharmacy to pick up a with steroid like a Medrol Dose pack, and some Benadryl. If you’re among the lucky, the itchy sensation will clear up with those.

But what if it doesn’t?

The misery of chronic itchy sensations, and an accompanying painful rash could baffle you and your practitioners for weeks, sometimes months and years! Today I’ll cover a few conditions that cause itch, along with my suggestions for treatment. Please ask your doctor about what’s right for you.

Tinea Versicolor. This common fungal infection results in discolored patches of skin that are lighter or darker than surrounding skin. Since this is caused by a fungus, you will need to eliminate refined sugar in your diet because that feeds fungus. You could rub some coconut oil on the area since that is an easily accessible natural anti-fungal. If it’s all over, you could take a shower and use a Selenium Sulfide body wash (like Selsun Blue) or buy a soap containing Zinc Pyrithione.

Hot Tub Folliculitis. This is sometimes also called Pool Folliculitis and the rash can cause

itchy, red and tender bumps that contain pus.

You can get this from a swimming pool or whirlpool that looks like it has perfectly, clean water because the causative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa will survive in water that’s been chlorinated! Treatments usually include silver-containing creams or gels. Some people try compresses with distilled vinegar. In serious cases, an antibiotic will be prescribed.

Progesterone Dermatitis. This is an immune-driven condition that causes itchiness in a recurring fashion due to the rise in progesterone with every menstrual cycle.

Managing hormones and suppressing the immune response may help this.

Neuropathic Itch. This type of itch is a difficult one to diagnose because there is no presentation of a rash or bump, or scaly skin or anything! It’s your word basically, and nothing to show for it. You can change your shampoo, soap, laundry detergent, bedding and clothing and the itch will stay with you.

One of the most promising treatments for neuropathic itch are the JAK inhibitor drugs.

One in particular is Xelganz (tofacitinib). I researched like crazy to find a natural JAK inhibitor and it appears that thymoquinone might be helpful. Black Seed oil supplements are rich in that compound.

In closing, I will refer you to the work of Dr. Brian S. Kim who can be found on twitter as @itchdoctor. Dr. Kim has done pioneering research on the topic of itch. If you’re interested in the longer version of my article which includes more causes for chronic itch, I can email it to you if you’re part of my online community. Just sign up for my newsletter at suzyochen.com.

NURSES, IT'S TIME

TO CA$H IN! WORK

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(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) ©2021 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

HOW CAN I GET THE WORD OUT ABOUT MY SAILING CLASS?

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Page 18, The Howell Times, March 27, 2021

Fun & Games

Sudoku

C rossword P uzzle

Across 1 Turning point 6 Pagoda instruments 11 Outdo 14 Big game setting 15 No-frills type 16 “Yo, Hadrian!”

17 Where the farmer relaxed to update the books?

19 Cooper’s creation 20 Not behind 21 Long-term digs in orbit: Abbr.

22 Landscaping stones 24 Three-time Cy Young Award winner Scherzer 26 Visibility reducers 27 Story of how the spider monkey climbed the tree?

33 Asian language 34 Takes up 35 Cookware brand

36 Dethrones 38 Low digit 39 Tries 40 One with a password 41 Notably different, with “a” 43 JFK alternative 44 Obstetrician’s job, sometimes?

47 Manicurist’s tool 48 NBC skit show 49 Sad-eyed hound 51 Moody rock genre 53 Not too many 57 Hundred Acre Wood know-it-all 58 Put the fix in on Black Friday?

61 Med. scan 62 “Middlemarch” novelist 63 Mastery 64 Competition pass 65 Nicks 66 Cut back

Down 1 Nickname for Haydn 2 Press 3 Cummerbund alternative 4 As scheduled 5 __ sushi: Japanese sea bream 6 April 1 array 7 Swingers on a perpetual-motion desk toy 8 “NCIS: Los Angeles” actress Long 9 Laverne and Shirley, e.g.

10 Vulgar content 11 Is arrested, in slang 12 Exceeding 13 Cello parts 18 Put the kibosh on 23 Sporty Chevy 25 Sounds of realization 26 Sophisticated, in a way, briefly 27 Take a minute

28 Ygritte portrayer on “Game of Thrones” 29 __ public 30 Cricket, for one 31 Tee size 32 Idina’s “Frozen” role 33 Vibrant, as colors 37 Cuts back 39 “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” e.g.

41 Good for growing 42 Do a lawn job 45 Went off course 46 Yukon neighbor 49 Have a rough night at the comedy club 50 Not as planned 51 Four-award acronym 52 1969 MLB upstarts 54 Midway event 55 Redbook rival 56 Fuse 59 Sling spirits 60 Deadly biter

(c)2021 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.

Solutions

Sudoku

Crossword puzzle

Jumble:

GOING ODDLY DEFIED SCENIC - “DO” DILIGENCE

jerseyshoreonline.com

The Howell Times, March 27, 2021, Page 19

Omarr’s Astrological Forecast For the week of mar 27 - apr 2

By Jeraldine Saunders

ARIES (March 21-April 19): By now you may have realized that addressing problems as they occur can erase the worries that bog you down. In the week ahead, the good example that you set can filter down to loved ones who might imitate your efficiency.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): “Everything changes” could become your favorite motto as you learn to flow with the times and adapt to new concepts. Friends could encourage you to schedule more time for entertainment in the upcoming week.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Take pride in showing that you can be a responsible and reliable individual as this week goes by. You may find yourself locked into important routines that prevent you from hanging out with friends.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You might be torn in different directions when friends go against the status quo or become involved in new interests. Part of you wants to join them, but another part of you may be doubtful. Remain balanced this week.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Stay on top of the tasks and obligations you’ve agreed to handle in the week ahead. A partner or loved one might be immersed in fulfilling their own responsibilities, which can make it challenging to find time to spend together.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): There are plenty of fish in the sea, so if one friend isn’t available, another can fill in. As the week unfolds, you may find it is rewarding to be methodical about your tasks and abide by the rules.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): As this week goes by, you may often be reminded that being neat and organized can make your life easier. There likely will be time to rearrange your desk so that everything is where you can find it when needed.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You might be put in contact with someone who wishes to change the world, so enjoy seeing a different perspective. As the week unfolds, you may become more aware of the ways traditions enrich your family life.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): During the week ahead, you may face a gap in your knowledge that must be filled. The subject could be formidable and challenge you to commit to learning. You’ll likely succeed in mastering the subject if you persevere.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You might not be able to power through obstacles to reach your objectives in the upcoming week.

Exercise patience and self-discipline to help reach your goals. Your persistence and refusal to quit can eventually pay off.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The determination to attain your career aspirations might grow as this week unfolds. You may need some extra knowledge, a professional certification or additional experience to improve your resume.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Interacting with an array of people and forming new friendships in the week ahead might give you new perspective on your place in the world. And yet you’ll also see the things people have in common.

(c) 2021 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

A NEW SPIN ON A WEEKNIGHT FAVORITE

By America’s Test Kitchen

Piccata sauce is a simple but powerful mix of lemon, capers, white w ine and butter. This tangy, bold sauce is a great match (and foil) for salmon’s rich, full flavor.

When cooking salmon fillets, we like to buy a whole center-cut piece and cut it into individual portions ourselves. Doing this ensures that each fillet is similar in size, which means that they’ll cook at a similar rate.

Because fish is prone to sticking in the pan, we decided to pat the fillets dry and sear them in oil in a preheated nonstick skillet.

We found that if we covered the pan, the steam gently cooked the fish without requiring a flip, keeping the fish from breaking apart. This method provided browning on only one side of the salmon, so we opted to use skinless salmon and served the fillets browned side up.

After cooking the fillets to 125 degrees (for medium-rare), we let them rest on a platter to ensure that they’d still be juicy when we dug in.

While the salmon was resting, we started the piccata sauce by sauteing some sliced garlic in the oil left behind in the pan.

Then we added flour to help thicken the sauce, along with a good glug of white wine, water to temper the sharpness, a handful of punchy capers, and lemon zest and juice for energetic citrus flavor. We cooked the mixture down before whisking in butter, one piece at a time, off the heat to ensure a viscous pan sauce and then finished with a sprinkle of dill.

SALMON PICCATA Serves 4

1 (2-pound) center-cut salmon fillet, about 1 1/2 inches thick 1 teaspoon table salt, divided 1 teaspoon pepper, divided 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 3 garlic cloves, sliced thin 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour 1/2 cup dry white wine 1/4 cup water 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon juice 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill 1. Cut salmon crosswise into 4 equal fillets. Pat salmon dry with paper towels and sprinkle all over with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

2. Heat oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Add salmon flesh side down. Cover and cook until browned on the bottom and registering 125 degrees (for medium-rare), about 5 minutes, or 135 degrees (for medium), about 7 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and transfer salmon, browned side up, to a platter or individual plates.

3. Return skillet to medium heat.

Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 15 seconds. Whisk in wine, water, capers, lemon zest and juice, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Bring to boil and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Off heat, whisk in butter, 1 piece at a time, until combined. Stir in dill. Spoon sauce over salmon.

Serve.

Recipe note: For skinless salmon, we refer to the side opposite where the skin used to be, which is typically more pink in color and more rounded, as the flesh side.

(For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America’s Test Kitchen for rigorously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www.americastestkitchen. com/TCA.) (c) 2021 AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Page 20, The Howell Times, March 27, 2021

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