2026-04-25 - The Howell Times

Patrick Muldoon Remembered By Local Director As Their Film Debuts

Kevin Interdonato (left) and Patrick Muldoon star in “Dirty Hands” which has an April 24 release.

By Bob Vosseller

HOWELL – Independent filmmaker, actor and writer Kevin Interdonato is excited about the release of his new film “Dirty Hands,” an action thriller that he stars in, wrote and directed that is headed for a nationwide release after securing a domestic distribution agreement.

The township resident’s feature film has been acquired by Saban

Films and was released across the United States on April 24. Interdonato was born and raised in Howell Township, where he continues to maintain ties to the community while building his film career.

Sadly, only days prior to its release, Interdonato and the world learned of the untimely death of his co-star actor Patrick Muldoon who died of a heart attack at age 57,

on April 19. Muldoon captured the hearts of soap opera fans, having played boxer Austin Reed on the NBC daytime soap opera “Days of Our Lives” for more than 400 episodes and the popular villain Richard Hart on the primetime soap opera “Melrose Place” from 1995 to 1996. Muldoon will appear posthumously in the new film alongside his

former girlfriend and long-time friend Denise Richards who he co-starred with in the iconic 1997 science fiction film “Starship Troopers” directed by Paul Verhoeven , based on the 1959 novel by Robert A. Heinlein He played the role of Zander Barcalow. Muldoon’s sudden unexpected death hit Interdonato hard.

(Director - See Page 2)

Resident Concerned About Neighbor’s Religious Rituals

By Andrew Rice

HOWELL – During a previous meeting, the Town Council heard a public comment from one of the town’s residents that was intended to raise concern over a pole barn in the back yard of 126 Darien Road that he says violates local zoning laws.

According to the resident who spoke at that meeting, it appears that the entire back yard housing the pole barn has been concreted. That happened just before the weather changed in the fall. In January, a truck pulled up to that property, and just a few days later, a fully finished pole barn the size of the house appeared in the backyard.

This pole barn is believed by the property’s neighbors to be a mikvah. A mikvah is a spiritual bath in the Jewish faith that can be performed in a pole barn, so long as it is connected to natural water.

At the most recent council meeting, the same resident stepped up to the podium to talk to the council about the happenings in the backyard at nearby 11 Lexington Road in Candlewood. According to the resident, in March of 2025, he witnessed cement trucks going into the property’s back yard, and after calling the town to see what was going on, he found that the new owners had filed for a land use permit, but not a building permit.

(Resident - See Page 2)

Sea Glass Art Makes A Beautiful Fundraiser

By Andrew Rice

HOWELL – The Southard Fire Department No.1 Ladies Auxiliary, which is an organization of primarily women who volunteer a significant amount of their time to help support the Southard Fire Department, hosted a Paint N ‘ Sip fundraiser at the Southard Fire House banquet hall to help benefit the department.

Attendees of the event showed up with their own food and alcohol, sat at circle-shaped tables,

and socialized while creating sea glass art. A portion of the proceeds from each of the tickets went directly to supporting the Southard Fire Department.

To create the sea glass art, participants used various colors of sea glass and other beachthemed trinkets to fill in the different types of design templates they chose to use. The templates themselves had a Jersey Shore theme, with one being the shape of the state of New Jersey, and

the others resembling various beach-related symbols such as a crab, starfish, seahorse, wave, and a sea turtle.

The different colors of sea glass complemented the beach-like theme, as the colors included blue, gray, white, brown, and black, while the beach-themed trinkets included miniature starfish, shells, and mineral rocks. Glue was used to keep the sea glass in the shape of the

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Director:

Continued From Page 1

“It was quite a shock,” he told Jersey Shore Online.com. “He was always full of life no matter what we were doing. He was an absolute pleasure on set and off.”

“We had a fight scene and while he is a few years older, he was really amazing with that,” Interdonato added. Action sequences were supervised by fight coordinator Jason Mello, whose previous credits include “Fallout.”

The main cast of “Dirty Hands” consists of five actors, Interdonato, Muldoon, Richards, Michael Beach, and Guy Nardulli.

Interdonato described “Dirty Hands” as a gritty crime thriller drama set against the backdrop of Chicago’s criminal underworld. It follows brothers Richie

Resident:

Continued From Page 1

Despite this, construction continued for five months until August 14, after an inspector took a look at the site and handed out a violation for illegal work done and issued the property owners a summons for shed conversion without permits. According to the resident, construction has not continued since August.

A few weeks ago, he submitted a foyer application, and during the process of

and Danny Denton, whose lives unravel following a drug deal gone wrong with deadly consequences. Rival gangs also serve as antagonists causing tensions to intensify within the brothers’ criminal organization.

“We filmed three weeks in Chicago but the story behind this was three years in the planning,” Interdonato said. The distribution deal was negotiated by Elisabeth Costa de Beauregard Segel of Storyboard Media.

Interdonato said the plot is driven by the bond between the two brothers who are forced into a violent fight for survival over the course of one night. In a world of elite underground fighters, the two brothers try to prove they are the best while pitted against a greedy rival and a merciless hired gun. They soon have to choose between winning and vengeance.

that, he found out that the land use application for 11 Lexington discussed building walkways and did not mention any building. The landowners had submitted a few permit requests over the ensuing months, with their permit application in January being a development application. According to the resident, page two, Line E, which asks for a brief description of the proposed development, says “Legitimize Mikvah in the Shed.” That application has since been denied, but it is expected that the proposal will come

The filmmaker added that the film’s story carries a theme to the classic 1937 John Steinbeck novella “Of Mice And Men” about two migrant ranch workers, George and Lennie, during the Great Depression, who dream of owning their own farm but are thwarted by harsh realities, loneliness, and tragedy, exploring themes of friendship, the American Dream, and the powerlessness of the marginalized. The narrative follows George and Lennie as they find work on a ranch, but their dream is jeopardized by Lennie’s accidental killing of a woman, forcing George to make a devastating choice.

Interdonato said that similar to that book which was adapted to film many times, “the brothers have a bond. My character chooses to support his brother at the risk of his marriage and his life.

The local filmmaker produced the film

before the zoning board at some point.

To wrap up his five minutes of speaking time, the resident pleaded to both the council and the zoning board to get the building removed from the property and to wake up to the supposed happenings at 126 Darien Road.

There was no comment on the issue regarding the property because it is likely going to go before the zoning board, and specific comments by the council and experts would be considered inappropriate.

Later on in the meeting, Town Mayor

through Take No Prisoners Productions alongside Nardulli, who also served as a producer under Safety24 Productions. “Dirty Hands” is the second feature film for Interdonato’s as a writer-director-star. He told Jersey Shore Online.com that he continues to be happy with being an independent creator who can produce his own vision of stories that he has written. His prior film, also a crime drama “The Bastard Sons,” received a theatrical release in January 2024 through Vertical Entertainment. He has also appeared as a writer and producer on the horror thriller “Malicious,” directed by John Fallon. Beyond his work in independent film, Interdonato is known to television audiences for his recurring role on the Showtime crime drama “City on a Hill.”

A trailer for the new film can be found at youtube.com/watch?v=mDX2_d5FysY

John Leggio announced that they will be moving their housing inspection efforts from code enforcement to the fire bureau. This is an effort to streamline operations in that regard by making it so that a single inspector can complete the process rather than needing two.

The council also used the meeting to introduce the 2026 municipal budget. There will be a public hearing on the budget and adoption on May 12.

The next Town Council meeting will take place on April 28 at 7 p.m.

Sea Glass:

Continued From Page 1 templates, creating a beautiful design once the template was removed.

In addition to the sea glass art, snacks and dessert were available for event goers. In addition, a raffle and a gift auction were held throughout the night, with the proceeds of those going to help out the fire department. Local businesses such as the Chapter House, Swing Time, Asbury Ale House, the Shoprite of Howell, and more sponsored the event and donated goods to the gift auction.

The goal of the entire event was to raise money for the Southard Fire House. The fire house itself depends on these donations to survive, and that money often gets used to fix issues around the station, buy new equipment, or anything that the department needs to stay up to standard.

The event was a huge success, according to Sara Tucker, the president of the Ladies Auxiliary. The event itself had over 60 people in attendance, which is one of their largest fundraising events in recent memory.

This event is just one of many different ways the Ladies Auxiliary helps out the fire department. They run more fundraising events just like this

one, assist in community outreach events, help out with matters around the firehouse, and much more.

J&J Sip N’ Paint was the company that came out to run the sea glass event itself. Based in Red Bank, J&J is no stranger to providing its art services to local emergency service organizations in the area that are trying to raise money, as they have run fundraising events all around the Monmouth and Ocean County Areas.

The event was also used as an opportunity to promote the need for volunteers, not just for the Ladies Auxiliary but for the fire department itself. Those who wish to join the auxiliary must be over 18 and willing to help the team. If you are interested, reach out by email at SFD1LadiesAux@gmail.com or call/ text 732-334-8705. Those looking to join the fire department can find the various requirements for service at southardfire. org /.

Ocean County Man Charged In Monmouth Parade Scare P olice B lotter

By Jason Allentoff

FREEHOLD – A 56-year-old Ocean County man who reported a suspicious device near a St. Patrick’s Day parade route in Monmouth County has been charged after authorities said his account of the incident raised concerns.

Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Tuesday that Christopher J. Otis, of Brick Township, faces charges including second-degree false public alarm, third-degree possession of a destructive device, and third-degree providing false information to law enforcement.

Police in Keansburg responded around 10:45 a.m. on March 28, to the area of Beachway and Bayview avenues after Otis reported finding what he described as a suspicious device near a beachside walking path.

Officers later located the item close to a staging area where participants were preparing for the borough’s St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Authorities immediately secured the area,

and the parade was canceled as a precaution. K-9 units conducted a sweep of the route and surrounding areas, but no additional threats were found.

Investigators later determined that Otis, who told officers he worked as a fire safety and environmental compliance officer at Brookdale Community College, gave inconsistent statements regarding how he came across the device, according to officials.

The case is being handled by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Bureau, with assistance from local, state, and federal agencies, including the FBI.

Otis is being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution pending court proceedings. He is represented by an attorney based in Mountainside. The case is assigned to Assistant Prosecutor Michael Luciano. Officials emphasized that the charges are accusations and that Otis is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

OPINIONS & COMMENTARY

EDITORIAL

The Ultimate Lifetime Subscription

The best way to make money is to put your customer on a hook. Give them something they want, and an easy payment plan, and they’ll be loyal customers forever.

There’s a dozen different streaming services. You can bundle it with cable. You can bundle your cable with the internet. You can bundle the internet with your phone plan.

The problem is that this is becoming the main way to make money. We let big box stores kill small stores and then Amazon killed the big box stores. So now your main roads have car washes where you can wash your car all you want as long as you pay a monthly fee.

It’s stopped becoming paying a subscription for what you want. Now, you’re paying a subscription for what you need.

What’s a car payment but a subscription for your car? What’s mortgage or taxes except a regular bill for the ability to keep living in your house? After I bought my house, I used to joke “I don’t

own my house. The bank owns my house; they just let me live there.”

The percentage of people who own their own homes is going down, because LLCs are buying up everyone’s house. They will charge you rent to live there - a monthly charge just to live. Or they might rent it out as an AirBnB.

The worst lifetime subscription is health insurance. Here, you’re literally paying money to live. A chunk of your paycheck comes out in order to get healthcare…even if the insurance company denies your coverage. You need medications: one pill a day, which could cost a few dollars a day.

You don’t own anything anymore. Some rich person owns your home, your car, your connection to the outside world, and even - in some way - your body. And it’s only going to get worse as long as rich people can continue to get richer off our backs.

Chris Lundy News Editor

Immigration Dealmakers

A federal official was under investigation for taking bribes. Then the White House shut down the investigation, presumably so they can keep taking bribes.

I’m talking about Tom Homan, who is Trump’s Border Czar. In September of 2024, Tom Homan allegedly accepted $50,000 from undercover FBI agents who he told “would facilitate securing contracts for them” if Trump won the election. The reason he was being targeted was that a CEO of a company that does immigration security for the US told undercover investigators that if you want to win a federal contract, you should give Homan one million dollars. The FBI’s $50K was just a bite of the apple. Unfortunately part of a bribe means getting something done for the money. The FBI waited until Homan was appointed to see what he would do. That was their mistake, because Trump’s appointee to the FBI, Kash Patel, shut it down. He said the investigation was without merit. This is the same Kash Patel who used the FBI jet to fly to Milan to party with the US Men’s Olympic Soccer team.

So, there was a federal official, Tom Homan, who allegedly took money to influence Trump, and then Trump’s people said there was no reason to investigate. Sounds like an open and shut case to me!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

hecklers who commit crimes. My opinion is this man is going far left and has no place in your Toms River Times

Is this publication turning into the other rags we stopped reading? If so, even though the paper is free it isn’t worth our time to read. We can see the same TDS articles from CNN, NBC and CBS. What a shame. At one time you had a paper we enjoyed reading.

Lorraine Moran Jersey Shore

Kudos To Nature Column

I really enjoy articles by Renee A Thomaier, retired Wildlife Rehabilitator, such as ‘Unique Benefits of Woodpeckers In The Balance of Nature.’

It’s like reading a fascinating, true short story peppered with tidbits. Very informative. (April 4, 2026) Thank you for publishing these.

Kathy Noyes Howell

Stick to the Map: Jackson’s Housing Goals Don’t Require Redrawing The Pinelands

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

All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verification. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.

Ben Rine Freehold

No Kings Article Is One-Sided

Editor’s note: This letter was written in reference to the April 4 article “ICE, Voting Rights Discussed At No Kings Rally.”

No Kings article by Bob Vosseller was very one-sided making Americans that support ICE and Trump sound like a minority of

last year, the township passed multiple ordinances that are incompatible with Pinelands protections.

If the Commission grants this exception, what prevents other towns from asking for the same?

When the Pinelands Comprehensive Management Plan (CMP) was adopted decades ago, it struck a careful balance. The goal was not to halt all development, but to guide it - protecting the most ecologically sensitive lands while allowing growth in places that could support it. The plan created a mosaic of management areas, each with distinct development standards tailored to ecological conditions and existing patterns of growth.

That framework has endured. In the rare instances when the Pinelands map has been amended, the changes strengthened protections rather than weakened them.

Jackson Township is now asking the Pinelands Commission to move in the opposite direction.

rest of the housing stock. It was never intended to limit the growth of affordable housing. As a result, towns allow a much larger number of total units to be built - often as sprawling suburbs - to accommodate a paltry number of affordable units. Developer profits soar, at the expense of environmental responsibility.

History shows that environmental protections rarely disappear all at once. They are eroded incrementally - through exceptions, accommodations, and “one-time” adjustments that slowly become precedent. Jackson Township is now asking the Pinelands Commission to bend the rules for their specific circumstances - and we can’t let them.

As in the rest of NJ, all towns in the Pinelands are required to provide affordable housing. However, Jackson Township seems to view this obligation as a free pass to disregard environmental restrictions:

Town officials argue that Pinelands rules prevent them from meeting the state’s affordable housing requirements. About half of Jackson lies within the Pinelands, and officials claim this land is their only viable option for growth. But that claim rests on a flawed premise about how affordable housing must be built.

There is a common assumption that affordable housing can only be delivered through large inclusionary developments in which roughly 20 percent of units are set aside as affordable and the remaining 80 percent are market-rate in order to achieve financial viability. Many municipalities, including Jackson, have tied their own hands by writing this 20% figure into their ordinances.

This percentage was intended as a floor - not a ceiling. This would ensure that affordable housing would grow along with the

Jackson’s fourth-round obligation calls for 1,000 new affordable units. Officials propose placing 581 of those units on the Pinelands half of town. Those 581 affordable homes are not the problem. In fact, the properties Jackson has identified in the Pinelands could accommodate roughly 1,001 total units under existing zoning. That means projects approaching 50 percent affordability could meet the township’s Pinelands allocation - without rewriting the rules. Instead, Jackson proposes building 3,065 total units in the Pinelands - three times what current zoning allows. Affordable housing is essential to New Jersey’s future, and inclusionary development can offer real social benefits. But the idea that only 20 percent of new housing can be affordable is simply untrue.

Other communities have demonstrated that higher affordability percentages are both feasible and successful, such as a 45% affordable set aside in Sparta, NJ - not to mention the large number of developments that are 100% affordable units. Prioritizing market-rate development under the guise of affordability only serves to inflate developer profits rather than meaningfully expand access to housing. New Jersey can address its housing needs without sacrificing the Pinelands. The plan to do so already exists. We simply need the resolve to follow it.

Heidi Yeh, Ph.D. Policy Director Pinelands Alliance

S P otlight o n g overnment

Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials

NJ

And U.S. Seafood Industries Need Protection

From The Desk Of Congressman

Chris Smith

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th), Co-Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), co-led a congressional hearing on China’s illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices, which distort seafood markets, harm American fishermen, undermine law and order, enable human rights abuses, and threaten national security.

“From the earliest days of seafaring, the oceans have been governed not only by currents and commerce, but by rules - rules that distinguish lawful navigation from piracy, fair trade from exploitation, and order from lawlessness,” said Smith during his opening remarks.

“Today, we are confronted with a disturbing modern version of that lawlessness: a system of dark fleets, opaque supply chains, illegal fishing, and coerced labor that threatens not only American workers, but also human rights, the rule of law, and our national security.

“China’s cruel and unethical fishing practices not only harm their laborers, who are tortured, beaten, and exploited during the cultivation and processing processes - they also harm U.S. economic interests by taking away jobs, paychecks, and resources from

American and New Jersey commercial fisheries,” continued the China policy expert and senior lawmaker.

In 2023, Smith chaired his first congressional hearing in a series on China’s IUU fishing practices, entitled “From Bait to Plate: How Forced Labor in China Taints America’s Seafood Supply Chain,” where witnesses revealed how China’s distant-water fleets are marred by labor exploitation and illegal trespasses into the sovereign waters of other countries.

The seafood illegally caught on these fleets is then packaged and processed by predominantly Uyghur and North Korean laborers, the vast majority of whom are forced to work under grueling, inhumane, slave-like conditions.

This forced labor-tainted seafood makes its way into global supply chains, ending up in countries around the world - including the United States, making it difficult and patently unfair for U.S. and New Jersey fishermen to compete and earn their honest wage.

In 2018 alone, the seafood cultivated by NJ commercial fishermen was valued at over $170 million. In fact, Point Pleasant’s fisheries (in NJ-04) were ranked 35th in nationwide value by the NOAA, as they generated more than $32 million in revenue that same year.

Ian Urbina, the Director and Founder of the Outlaw Ocean Project, who testified at Smith’s 2023 hearing about the prevalence of forced labor on China’s fishing fleets and

in their seafood processing facilities, spoke about how China’s IUU fishing practices have only worsened and are in blatant violation of the United States’ Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (PL 117-78), legislation co-sponsored by Smith.

“Our investigation mapped the supply chains of more than 1,200 fish farms in Xinjiang and Tibet. We found seafood from these farms going to a dozen countries, including the United States, and to companies supplying public institutions such as military bases, public schools, and congressional cafeterias,” stated Urbina.

“Let’s be clear: repression in these regions is one of China’s hidden costs. It is the externality that helps produce cheap seafood. It is part of China’s competitive advantage and helps explain the trade surplus in this commodity,” he continued.

The other witnesses, RADM Scott Clendenin (Ret.) and Hon. Dean Pinkert, Former Commissioner and Vice Chairman of the U.S. International Trade Commission - underscored the grave national security risks associated with China’s IUU fishing, as well as the legislative and economic tools Congress can use to cut forced labor-tainted seafood out of the global supply chain and protect America’s fishing and seafood industries.

“Under my tenure in the U.S. Coast Guard, we declared IUU Fishing to be the world’s top maritime security challenge - surpassing piracy,” testified RADM Clendenin (Ret.). “This issue goes beyond economic unfairness to our domestic industry - it is a direct subsidy to criminal networks.”

Governor Highlights Commitment To Ending Veteran Homelessness

RADM Clendenin described how China’s “IUU Fishing is a driver of conflict and deeply intertwined with the most dangerous transnational threats America faces,” such as drug and migrant smuggling.

“Congress has assembled a flexible toolkit of legislation that can be used to address this problem - Section 307 of the Tariff Act, the UFLPA, Section 1595a civil penalties, and Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974,” stated Hon. Pinkert. “The issue is not an absence of statutory authority; it is the failure to use these tools at scale, in combination, and with the creativity the circumstances demand.”

Towards the end of his opening statement, Smith reiterated the necessity of the United States holding China to account for the human rights abuses and unethical practices it perpetrates on its fishing fleets and in its seafood processing facilities.

“This hearing is about protecting American jobs and protecting national security as well. China’s distant-water fishing fleet does not operate in a vacuum. These vessels often advance the Chinese Communist Party’s objectives: asserting maritime claims, projecting presence in disputed waters, distorting markets, and exploiting vulnerable workers in service of larger geopolitical ambition.

“So, this is about more than seafood. It is about whether the United States will tolerate a system that rewards coercion, harms American fisherman, weakens sanctions enforcement, creates food insecurity in Africa, and erodes the integrity of global commerce.”

From The Desk Of The Governor

TRENTON – Governor Mikie Sherrill highlighted her administration’s commitment to effectively end veteran homelessness in New Jersey, backed by a dedicated investment in the Governor’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The budget includes $11 million for the existing Bringing Veterans Home initiative, which has successfully adopted strategies to transition homeless veterans from temporary housing placements to stable, permanent

housing solutions.

Governor Sherrill, a Navy veteran, has made honoring those who served a key priority.

Governor Sherrill was joined by Speaker Coughlin, County Commissioner Director Rios, and Mayor McCormac at the groundbreaking of the Petersen Commons in Woodbridge, a 60-unit 100% affordable senior and veterans housing community.

“This is the year we effectively end veteran homelessness in New Jersey,” said Governor Sherrill. “Today’s groundbreaking at Petersen Commons represents our commitment to ensuring every New Jerseyan - especially those who have

served our country - can age with dignity in a safe, affordable place to call home. As a military veteran, I am grateful to our partners for their shared efforts to expand affordable housing across New Jersey.”

Since its launch, the Bringing Veterans Home program has supported more than 1,450 permanent housing placements.

The $11 million investment in the FY 2027 budget builds on that momentum, ensuring the program has the resources needed to fulfill the Governor’s historic pledge.

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs are anticipated to reach all known homeless veterans this year.

These initiatives are part of a broader housing strategy outlined in Governor Sherrill’s FY 2027 budget, including $70 million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and increasing down payment support for first-time home buyers. In addition, the budget is designed to help brace against the impact of Trump Administration cuts to emergency housing programs.

The Sherrill Administration also intends to spend $25 million to expand programs to address homelessness more broadly across the state.

The brand-new Petersen Commons community, expected to be completed in the spring of 2027, will provide high-quality, affordable housing opportunities for older adults 55+, with a preference given to veterans.

Disclaimer: Micromedia Publications has always provided a space in its newspapers to provide a place for readers to learn what their elected officials are doing. These items are lightly edited for such things as punctuation and grammar but are mostly unchanged from the source. These press releases are the politicians’ own views, not that of Micromedia Publications. We cannot vouch for the accuracy of information that these politicians are providing, and readers are encouraged to keep an open mind and consider multiple sources.

Police Lead Little League Opening Day Parade

HOWELL – Officers from the Howell Police Department helped kick off Little League season by leading the Howell South Little League Opening Day Parade on a sunny morning in the community. The parade marked the start of the 2026

courtesy Howell Township Police Department baseball season, with players, families and supporters gathering to celebrate Opening Day.

Police said they were honored to take part in the event and wished all teams throughout Howell a fun, safe and successful season.

Youth Auditions Set For ‘Shrek The Musical’

HOWELL – PAL Theatre Company is preparing to launch sign-ups for its upcoming production of “Shrek The Musical,” with registration set to open May 10.

Auditions are scheduled for June 1 and June 3, with time slots available from 4 to 8 p.m. on both dates, according to the announcement. The production is open to performers ages 6

to 21, inviting young actors, singers and dancers to take part in the family-friendly stage show inspired by the popular animated film. Show dates are set for September 11, September 12 and September 13 at the Jersey Shore Arts Center.

For more information visit howellpaltheaterco.com

news@jerseyshoreonline.com • jerseyshoreonline.com

Burn Survivors Share Life-Saving Lessons With Students

HOWELL – High School seniors recently heard from two survivors of the 2000 Seton Hall dorm fire during the “After the Fire” program, sponsored by the Howell Township Fire Bureau and the Howell Alliance. Shawn Simons and Alvaro Llanos, who were severely burned in the fire that killed three students, now travel the country sharing their story and promoting fire prevention and sprinkler safety.

Fire Marshal Brian Prochnow said the program helps students heading to college or the workforce better understand fire risks and make safer decisions. Officials said the presentation has become one of the school’s most impactful annual programs and has expanded to other schools in the Freehold Regional High School District.

More information is available at alandshawn.com.

Youth Flag Football Spring League

HOWELL – The Police Athletic League is introducing a new youth flag football spring league aimed at children ages 3 to 5, offering a fun and supportive way for young athletes to learn the basics of the game.

The program will take place throughout May, with sessions scheduled for May 3, 10, 17 and 31. Organizers say the league is designed to provide an early introduction to football through age-appropriate drills and activities.

The focus will be on building motor skills, coordination and confidence while also teaching teamwork, listening and fundamental football concepts in a positive environment. The league is open to both boys and girls.

Registration costs $100 and includes a jersey for each participant. Officials encourage families to sign up soon as the season approaches.

More information and registration details are available at howellpal.org.

Spring Garden Days Plant

Sale

Returns To Monmouth County

FREEHOLD – Gardeners and plant enthusiasts will have an opportunity to prepare for the growing season as the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Monmouth County host their annual Spring Garden Days Plant Sale in mid-May.

The event is scheduled for May 16 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and May 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Monmouth County Agriculture Building, located at 4000 Kozloski Road. The sale will be held rain or shine, with purchases limited to cash or checks.

Organizers said the sale will feature a wide variety of plants, including native species, annuals, perennials, vegetables,

herbs, trees, shrubs and hanging baskets. Many of the plants are grown or donated by Rutgers Master Gardeners, offering visitors a chance to purchase locally cultivated selections.

In addition to plant sales, attendees can take part in free garden tours, composting demonstrations and educational talks led by gardening experts. Topics will include pollinator-friendly planting, terrariums, pest management, growing dahlias and proper planting techniques.

More information about the event, including a full schedule of presentations, is available at monmouth.njaes.rutgers.edu/ master-gardeners/.

Around the JerSey Shore

Bear Cub Debuts At Six Flags Safari As Season Begins

By Jason Allentoff

JACKSON – Six Flags Great Adventure’s Wild Safari has introduced a new attraction this spring with the debut of a brown bear cub named JJ, park officials announced.

The cub, born just over two months ago to mother Hollywood, is now visible to visitors as the pair spend time together in a designated habitat within the safari’s brown bear area. The addition offers guests a chance to observe the early development of a young bear up close.

Visitors can view JJ and Hollywood through two safari experiences: the Wild Safari Base Camp truck tour, which is available as a standalone attraction, and the Safari Off-Road Adventure, accessible from Frontier Station at the theme park.

The debut comes as Six Flags launches its 2026 season, which includes a mix of new attractions and park improvements. Among the upcoming highlights is Shoreline Pier, a redesigned Boardwalk-style area set to open later this spring,

featuring classic-inspired rides, updated food options and a refreshed atmosphere.

Park officials also noted infrastructure upgrades, including new track sections on the El Toro roller coaster aimed at improving ride comfort, expanded Wi-Fi access and enhancements to dining venues such as the Main Street Pub.

To mark the start of the season, Six Flags is offering a limited-time promotion on its 2026 Gold Pass. The deal allows guests to upgrade

from a Silver Pass to a Gold Pass at no additional cost. The pass includes access to three attractions — Six Flags Great Adventure, Wild Safari and Hurricane Harbor — along with benefits such as free parking, unlimited visits and select discounts.

The Gold Pass also provides entry to several regional parks, including Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, Kings Dominion and Six Flags New England.

More information is available at sixflags.com.

Internet Exchange Zone

R.C. Shea & Assoc. Inside The Law

A Couple Of Reasons Why Attorneys Decline Injury Cases

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

Unfortunately, in our personal injury practice, law firms cannot accept and undertake the responsibility for every potential case. However, when a case is declined it does not necessarily mean that the case is without merit.

Each time an attorney prosecutes a personal injury case this process requires a showing of both liability (legal responsibility or fault of the tortfeasor), and damages (economic and non-economic losses) caused by the fault or wrongdoing of the tortfeasor. During a law firm’s assessment of a potential case, it must perform a careful review and analysis of the facts provided by the potential client and assess the clients’ personal and legal responsibility for the happening of this incident.

In New Jersey, if a personal injury plaintiff is found 51% or more responsible for the happening of an accident, then that client will, as a matter of law, be denied any recovery. N.J.S.A. 2A:15-51 et seq. Similarly, if a client is found 50% or less responsible for the happening of an accident, then that percentage of fault assigned to the client will cause any monetary verdict awarded to the plaintiff to be reduced by the plaintiff’s percentage of fault. So, if a plaintiff is awarded a $100,000 verdict for pain and suffering, but she is found to be 50% at fault for the happening of the accident, then the court will reduce her $100,000 verdict by 50%

or $50,000.00.

H ere ’ s t o Y our H e A lt H

Michael J. Deem, Esq.

In addition, law firms must consider the cost of litigation, and litigation these days is very expensive. Sometimes, it is our opinion that the amount of reasonable damages likely to be awarded to a potential client may be inadequate to justify the time and expense required of us to properly represent the potential client. Naturally, that is a matter of opinion, but if a law firm estimates that the cost of litigation will be $20,000.00 and that the likely recovery for the potential client may only be $30,000.00, then the attorney may decline the case. Under this scenario, the client would only recover $6,700.00 and the attorney’s fee for all the time and effort would be $3,300.00. An attorney’s fee is separate from the recovery of the attorney’s out of pocket litigation costs. Our Rules of Court require that an attorney’s litigation costs be deducted from the client’s gross recovery before the attorney calculates his fee and the client’s net recovery.

Michael J. Deem, Esq. is the only double Certified trial lawyer in Ocean County. He is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney, and he is Board Certified by the National Board of Trial Lawyers in Civil Trial Law.

Contact the attorneys at R.C. Shea & Associates for a free consultation of your personal injury case. (732) 5056-1212.

Creative Arts Festival Set At Thompson Park

LINCROFT – The Monmouth County Park System will hold its annual Creative Arts Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 9 at Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, offering a daylong showcase of visual art, music and family activities.

The free event will feature more than 50 juried artists displaying work in mediums including pottery, painting and jewelry. Festival activities will be spread across the grounds of the Creative Arts Center and two historic barns at the park. Live performances, sponsored by Musicians on a Mission, are scheduled by Pat Guadagno, Carolann Solebello, Dan

Toye, Renee Maskin, Brian Molnar and Rich Norman. Visitors also can watch art demonstrations by Sandra Lupo in jewelry, Karin Trunz in painting, Kristen Kunc in portrait painting and Konstantin Zingerman in portrait sculpture. Organizers said this year’s festival will also introduce the Creative Arts Center’s Pottery Challenge, where students will compete using different pottery techniques. Children can help create a community mural and take part in crafts, while food trucks will be on site. Admission and parking are free. More information is available at MonmouthCountyParks.com or by calling 732-842-4000.

Dear Pharmacist

5 Ways Palliative Care Can Help You Feel Better; Even If You’re Not Terminal

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Most people think palliative care is only for the final chapter of life. I understand why. I spent seven years as a Consultant Pharmacist in nursing homes in Florida, where I worked closely with patients receiving end-of-life care. The goal wasn’t to cure disease, it was to reduce suffering and improve comfort. That experience shaped who I am.

But over the decades, I’ve realized something important. You don’t have to be terminally ill to deserve that same compassionate approach.

I’ve worked more than 30 years as a pharmacist and also watched loved one’s struggle with chronic illness. Again and again, I see people who are not dying, but they’re not living well either. Their labs look fine, yet they’re exhausted, anxious, in pain, or worn down. This is exactly where a palliative mindset can make a meaningful difference.

Palliative care simply means focusing on quality of life. It asks a different question. Instead of “How do we cure this?” it asks, “How do we help you feel better today?”

Here are five ways a palliative approach can help, even if you’re not terminally ill.

First, it prioritizes symptom relief. Sometimes low-dose medications such as gabapentin, buspirone, or certain tricyclic antidepressants are used not to treat a diagnosis, but to reduce nerve pain, calm physical anxiety, or help you sleep. For some, these meds can make daily life better.

Second, it reduces medication side effects. Would it surprise you to learn that many feel worse from the treatment than the condition itself? Palliative care simplifies

regimens, lowers doses, or switches you to gentler meds and treatments.

Third, it’s targeted. Topical therapies like lidocaine patches or anti-inflammatory gels can provide localized relief without causing systemic side effects. This is especially helpful for people sensitive to medications.

Fourth, it supports sleep as a cornerstone of healing. Broken sleep amplifies pain, anxiety, heart problems and fatigue. Small adjustments in medication timing, herbal sleep aids, or calming strategies can help with restorative sleep.

Fifth, it considers nutrient depletion. Some medications quietly lower levels of magnesium, B vitamins, or other nutrients. Replenishing these can raise energy, muscle comfort, and nervous system balance.

None of this is about giving up. None of it’s about being terminal either. It’s about caring differently. When a cure isn’t immediate or even possible, comfort becomes essential. This is compassionate medicine at its best.

If you’re living in that middle space - not acutely ill, but not truly well - you deserve attention and relief. You don’t have to wait for a crisis or terminal diagnosis to employ palliative care. Sometimes the most meaningful thing to do is to stop chasing perfection and start focusing on comfort. That’s not surrender. It’s wisdom. It’s just about having better days and more comfort in them. For practical ways to ease symptoms, increase your level of comfort, and support your quality of life, plus my free weekly health insights, visit suzycohen.com and sign up for my newsletter.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2026 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Estate Sale

ESTATE SALE - 26 Balmoral Drive, Jackson, NJ 08527. Saturday, May 16th 10am-5pm. (23)

Real Estate

SELLING??? - Warning::: other realtors charge 2-3 Times more~~ I get sellers more money for their real estate~~~ Less than 1% sellers agent fee and I use only the best photography and expertise in dealing with engineer and municipal and mtg. inspections and negotiations 5STAR reviews on Zillow!- call joe S. 609-713-1727 or go to listforlessnj.com (22)

Two half-acre clear lots for sale on Peach Tree Street, Jackson, NJ. Quiet cul-de-sac off Route 571. Asking $700k. 732-354-2413 (21)

Misc.

Seeking To Trade - 2022 JL Wrangler 4 door hard top gray, with sun rider top for full soft top. Can be seen on South Chestnut Ave CW 7. 973-388-7793. (22)

Auto For Sale

1991 Mercury GrandMarguis - One owner - Leather Seats. 34,000 miles - Garage Kept. Excellent Condition. V-8. $10,000. 732-264-5928. (21)

Items Wanted

$$$ WANTED TO BUY $$$

Jewelry and watches, costume jewelry, sterling silver, silverplate, medals, military items, antiques, musical instruments, pottery, fine art, photographs, paintings, statues, old coins, vintage toys and dolls, rugs, old pens and postcards, clocks, furniture, bric-a-brac, select china and crystal patterns. Cash paid. Over 35 years experience. Call Gary Struncius. 732849-6068 (new number). (t/n)

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 PAID!! LP records - stereos, musical instruments, guitar, saxophone, CD’s, reel tapes, music related items. Come to you. Brian cell 732-804-8115. (19)

JScott Firearms FFL dealer appraising and purchasing firearms from estates or individuals. No obligation. Discreet, fair offers. Call 215-595-5480 (38)

Cash - Top dollar, paid for junk, cars running and nonrunning, late model salvage, cars and trucks, etc. 732-928-3713. (t/n)

CA$h PAID For OLD 45 RPM RECORDS - R and B, doo wop, soul, rock and roll, and rockabilly. 909-938-4623, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., bobo78rpm@verizon.net. (19)

Used Guns Wanted - All types: collectibles, military, etc. Call 917-681-6809. (t/n)

CASH, CASH, CASH! - Instant cash paid for junk cars, trucks, vans. Free removal of any metal items. Discount towing. Call Dano 732-239-3949. (t/n)

CLASSIFIEDS

Items Wanted

Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying Cash for LP Albums, Rock, Jazz, Reggae. Call Rick 908-616-7104, also buying Comic Books. (21)

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)

I Buy Records - Cash paid, we answer the phone. Call Eddie at 732-829-5908. Records 33/45. Walt buys comics, toys & collectibles. Call 908-278-3782. (19)

Items For Sale

Sofa with reversible chaise lounge, $400. Power swivel, rocker, recliner, $375. Both hardly used. Like new. 1 year old. 732-547-1193. (20)

Brand New Mobility ScooterRed, 4 wheels. Lists for $2,900. Complete with charger and extra basket. Never used. Asking $1,800. 732-485-1390. (19)

Frigidaire Gas Range - 5 burner, $200. Frigidaire Refrigerator Freezer, $150. Jackpot slot machine, $150. Call Joe 732-859-9266. (20)

Help Wanted

Hiring qualified Thai Cuisine Chef with minimum 5 years experiences. Restaurant is located at 1174 Fischer Blvd Toms River, NJ 08753. 609-994-4325. (20)

Certified Home Health AidesNeeded for Ocean County area. Hourly and live-in positions avail. P/T and F/T. Call CCC at 732-206-1047. (t/n)

Crestwood Manor Job OpportunityBeauty Shop Operator. Thursday & Friday 9AM – 5PM. State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling License Required. 732-849-2538. Email: jtuite@springpointsl.org. (20)

Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living is hiring a part time Certified Medical Assistant or LPN for the afternoon shift. If interested, please email resume to HR@magnoliaal.com or call us at 732557-6500. You can also visit us in person at 1935 Route 9 Toms river 08755. (19)

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

Services

PAINTING By Neat And Me-

ticulous European Craftsman - who will beat any written estimate. Senior discounts. Interior, exterior. Call 732-506-7787, cell 646-643-7678. (t/n)

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 732500-3063 or 609-356-2444. (t/n)

Life Coach - Facing a challenge? Talk with me, a safe, arms-length listener. Gain insight. Nonjudgmental support unique to you. $25 for 1 hour. Melissa Lekas, 732-754-4891. (22)

APlus Home Improvements - Over 30 years experience. Everything from small handyman tasks to large renovations. Fully insured and licensed. Seniors 10% off any job $500 or more. Lic #13VH11453600. No job too small give us a call. 908-278-1322. (17)

PERSONAL GARDEN ADVICE FOR SENIORS - Home visits to assess winter plant damage and provide clear, practical advice on plant care, pruning, garden planning, houseplants and creating beautiful seasonal interest. Experienced Nurseryman/Trained Master Gardener. Joseph Pezzano – Call for appointment 732-232-8144. (15)

Services Services Services

DIRECTV - All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/ mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-877-557-1213 (t/n)

Affordable Landscaping - Spring Cleanups, Complete lawn maintenance, Sod & seed lawns, Shrubs & tree pruning, Topsoil & mulch and much more. 732-808-7477. (t/n)

"Stick With the Man That Covers Your Can! - Residential and Commercia Pump-outs FREE 1 year supply of enzyme treatment with each septic pump-out. Septic Inspections. Septic System Installations and All Repairs. Grease Traps installation and pump outs. Tank Abandonment and Demolition. 24 Hours Emergency Service! 732-244-0189. (5)

Handyman Service - Carpentry, masonry, repairs, painting. 732-6743346. License #13VH03469200. (41)

Nor’easter Painting and Staining, LLC - Interior and exterior. Decks, powerwashing. Affordable. Senior discounts. References. No job too small. Fully insured. 732-6910123. Lic #13VH09460600. (t/n)

Learn To Play The - Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or drums, from a NJ State Certified Teacher of Instrumental Music, in your home! Call 732-3504427 for more information. (7)

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

Car Service - 24/7. Doctors, shopping, airports, hospitals, cruise, shops, Atlantic City, family functions, NYC accomodations for large groups. Call for reasonable rates. Kerry 732-606-2725. (42)

- Kind, Christian compassion from one who understands. Ladies only. Call/ text Adriana 732-231-4818. (18)

Joe's Handyman ServicePainting, powerwashing, electrical, plumbing, light hauling, cleanouts. 732-859-9266. (17) Recovering from narcissistic abuse?

Transportation Services - Airports, Cruise Ships, Casinos, Appointments, Light Hauling with Pick-Up Truck. Call Bill 732-674-0378. (19)

MASON CONTRACTOR - All types of mason work, steps & porches, walkways, patios, pavers, brick & block work.Quality work since 1975. CALL KEN 908-964-7526. (16)

Lightning Strike Electric - You can rely on us to get the work done! Service/panel upgrades switches, outlets, dimmers, spot lights, fans & more! Call Dmitriy 856-631-7519. lightningstrikeelectric. com. Lic #34EI00941600. (t/n)

THE RIDE GUY- Takes you anywhere! No limits. Comfy mini-van. References. Call Charlie 732-216-3176 or Email: cr@exit109.com. Let's Go! (t/n)

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-833-901-0309 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (t/n)

DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK GOOD AND SHINE? CALL LENNY 908-868-4609. (23)

Car Service - Tuckerton-LBI-Bayville. Airports, cruise ports, casinos. Local or long distance. Text or call Keith 609-351-2462. (19) Lisa Cleaning - Meticulous. Reliable. I use my own supplies. Excellent references. Call Lisa 732-581-0409. (19)

Housecleaning - Laundry, window, carpet, office cleaning, food shopping, painting. Call 732-3304189 or 848-287-3944. (1)

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

Around the JerSey Shore

School District Announces Wide Range Of Job Openings

FREEHOLD – The High School District is seeking applicants for a wide variety of employment opportunities, including teaching, administrative and support staff positions.

District officials said several long-term substitute roles are currently available in subjects such as art, business, mathematics, social studies, health and physical education, and special education. Additional openings include positions for school psychologist, principal secretary and administrative support staff.

The district is also hiring for full-time roles, including assistant principal, school

counselor, athletic trainer, bus drivers, custodial and maintenance staff, and a school and community liaison officer.

Teaching positions are available across multiple disciplines, including English, mathematics, science, music, physics and social studies, along with specialized roles in bilingual education, special education and world languages, including Italian and Spanish.

Officials encourage interested candidates to review qualifications and apply online through the district’s application portal at applitrack.com/frhsd/onlineapp/.

Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally

MONMOUTH COUNTY - Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 888-944-5678.

Surrogate Launches Will Initiative

FREEHOLD – Monmouth County Surrogate Maureen T. Raisch has launched the “I’m Just a Will” initiative, a public outreach campaign that includes an activity book and weekly social media posts to help residents better understand wills and estate planning.

Raisch said the effort is meant to show that creating a will is easier than many

people think and can spare families added stress after a death. The activity book features a character named Will N. Testament, who helps explain common terms and concepts tied to wills, probate and future planning.

More information is available by calling 732-431-7330 or emailing Surrogate@ co.monmouth.nj.us.

Classic Rock Acts Headline Concert

HOLMDEL – A pair of classic rock favorites will take the stage as part of the Garden State Arts Foundation’s free concert series at the PNC Bank Arts Center.

The May 28 show at 7:30 p.m. will feature Cousin Brucie presenting Tommy James & the Shondells along with Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone.

The concert highlights the foundation’s

focus on bringing well-known acts and nostalgic performances to local audiences at no cost.

Officials encourage attendees to reserve tickets early as demand is expected to be high.

Details and reservations can be found at gsafoundation.org/news-events/upcoming-events/.

FUN & GAMES SUDOKU

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

outcomes 41 Front-end alignment

Star-nosed diggers

Skin care brand

United

*Swimmer that can expand to three times its normal size 19 Boy of the fam 20 Not needing an MD’s script

“Black-ish” father

Like some arcade games

Ego

*Dreamhouse occupant

Bath bathroom

Skilled

Put in a little oil, say

Back tooth

*Employee responsible for minimizing

“Veep” role for Louis-Dreyfus 44 Many a Jordanian 47 CGI-heavy superhero franchise 49 Intl. oil cartel

51 *Greek salad component

55 “The Possibilities Are Beautiful” retailer 56 Contributing element 57 Catan resource 59 Century divs. 60 That, in Spanish 61 Postshow cast celebrations, and what can be found in the answers to the starred clues 65 Trig function 66 One holding things back? 67 Gulf of Suez peninsula

Explosive material

Reproduce like salmon

70 Boot camp figs. Down 1 Create a design that stands out? 2 Small beards

Safe call

“Doin’ Time” singer Lana __ Rey 5 Strengthen, in metallurgy

6 “What’s the __?” 7 Pic above a username

8 Joe of “Casino” 9 Largest NorthAmerican alpine lake 10 Mingle (with) 11 Join the club 12 Folks 14 Roll on the lawn 18 Planet, e.g. 23 Goading words

25 Frugivorous flying mammal

27 Colleen Hoover’s genre 28 Godsend

33 General on American Chinese menus

34 Scrape (by)

36 Quick getaway

37 Number on a birthday card

39 Silent actor

40 Getting back (to)

43 Opposite of charge

44 Have an impact on

45 Motivation

46 For neither profit nor loss

48 Tournament won by Coco Gauff in 2023

50 Black currant liqueur

52 Some sweater necks

53 Corp. employee in charge of recruitment

54 Cy Young stat

58 Triage ctrs.

62 Filmmaker DuVernay

63 Syllable in a blaster imitation

64 “Verily!”

FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 25 - MAY 1

BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS

OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Plan initiatives for the first part of the coming week — beginning Thursday, Universal Day Scores plummet into negative numbers which lowers odds of happy outcomes. A recent glow up could still be glowing.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): If it’s a no-win situation, disengage even if it’s tempting to remain involved. Your energy is like money, spend it wisely. Tomorrow isn’t just a new day, or Monday, it’s also a re-emergence into more of a spotlight for you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Today you could be restless on a deep level that’s hard to identify — if you can break free for a few hours it could be the reset you need. Your soul tribe, family or friends or both, can make life sweet.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A period of focus on your contributions in the world could soon shift into more concern with your social relationships. Run free today with kindred souls or make a plan for a future adventure.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): New skills or ideas can find their practical applications as you begin to deploy them into your day-to-day process. Ambitions could awaken, hungry for attainment. A friend could be part of your strategy.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A long situation could be concluding or at least resolving itself enough that you don’t need to keep it on the front burner, which could feel like freedom. A show of force isn’t likely to be the answer now.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You could

become less focused on one-to-one relationships; your mind may begin to delve into intricacies of shared resources or finances. Effective teaching is done by planting seeds, not by dropping bombs.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Relationships are likely to come into the spotlight, some task-related or health-related matters could wind up enough to shift your attention. Side note: The bulldozer method doesn’t build teamwork.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A health matter could need some attention. Roll past discouragement, roll up sleeves and get busy on the solution — good maintenance keeps the vehicle in top shape. A relationship could need nurture, not force.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Once your foundation is more secured, you have the base camp to play from. This can come full circle as your creative talents could likely be monetized. See what ideas emerge, these best solutions aren’t forced.

A QUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Some attention to home matters in the next month or so could yield benefits beyond your quality of life, a home-based business or side gig is one possibility. Don’t get involved in an unresolvable tangle.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A nice conversation, likely related to money, could suddenly devolve into a dead-end argument. Free yourself from the need to pick every single battle, put more than a few back or you’ll never have peace.

AN EASY WEEKNIGHT DINNER FOR TWO

Diane Rossen Worthington

SAUTEED CHICKEN LIVERS WITH GREEN PEPPERCORNS

Serves 2

1/4 pound pancetta or bacon, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided 2 tablespoons oil, divided 1 pound fresh chicken livers, rinsed and cleaned

2 medium shallots, finely chopped

3/4 pound mushrooms, thinly sliced

1/3 cup white wine vinegar or green peppercorn vinegar

3/4 cup chicken or veal stock

1/3 cup whipping cream

1/2 teaspoon green peppercorns, rinsed well

1/4 teaspoon salt

Pinch finely ground pepper to taste Italian parsley sprigs, for garnish

1. In a medium skillet fry pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble. Drain off

drippings.

2. To skillet add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add livers and brown over very high heat, turning frequently, for about 2 to 3 minutes. The interior should still be pink. Remove from pan onto a plate and let rest.

3. Add remaining butter and oil to pan. Add shallots and saute over medium heat until softened. Add mushrooms and continue cooking 2 minutes. Remove vegetables. Drain off excess fat but do not wash pan.

4. Place pan back on medium heat and add vinegar and stock. Bring to boil, stirring and scraping browned bits. Boil about 1 minute, until reduced to 1/2 cup. Add cream and green peppercorns and simmer until slightly thickened. Add salt and pepper.

5. Add livers, bacon, and vegetables to reheat and taste for seasoning. Arrange on a plate, garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

(Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including “Seriously Simple Parties,” and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at www.seriouslysimple.com.) ©2026 Diane Rossen Worthington. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.