The HOWELL Times
Vol. 24 - No. 14
In This Week’s Edition
BREAKING NEWS @
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Community News Pages 6-7
Dear Pharmacist Page 11
Inside The Law Page 11
Classifieds Pages 13
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Ospreys In Decline As Food Becomes Scarce
By Michela DiLorenzo JERSEY SHORE New Jersey’s ospreys are experiencing the “worst breeding season” i n more t h a n 30 years, according to Conserve Wildlife Fou ndation of New Jersey (CWFNJ), who say the blame could lie in the operations of offshore fisheries. CWFNJ recorded the lowest osprey breeding season in 2025, with similar declines documented throughout the Mid-Atlantic. Of the known osprey nests that were monitored, 57% failed to reproduce. Repeated nest failures and reproductive stress are linked to food stress. Ospreys prey on Atlantic menhaden, which encompass the largest industrial fishery by volume on the East Coast. This fish also supports predator and scavenger marine species on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, such (Ospreys - See Page 2)
Photo courtesy Ben Wurst Osprey nests have been found without eggs or young for the entire season, suggesting the lack of food needed to breed.
Schools Start Internet Ban In Age Of Smart Glasses
By Chris Lundy JERSEY SHORE – Smart glasses fall under the internet device ban that has started in New Jersey schools this year, but can school staff spot them? These glasses are made by a number of companies and have been given the name “smart glasses” because they have internet capabilities like a smart watch. A portion of the lens becomes like a computer screen, and they have cameras recording video. Many civil rights groups have warned that these glasses violate privacy, recording people without
their permission or even without their knowledge. This becomes an even larger problem since they could be brought to schools and record minors – in the halls, locker rooms and restrooms. Meta, the company that owns Facebook, secretly put in face recognition technology so that the wearer would learn information about anyone who they saw, according to online tech magazines such as Wired.com. The new law requires all school districts to create a bell-to-bell ban on phones and other devices that can access the net. It’s easy to see a student taking out
a phone. However, smart glasses hide in plain sight. That’s actually how they’re marketed. JerseyShoreOnline reached out to several local superintendents about how they would control this invasive technology. Only two responded. Toms River Superintendent Michael Citta clarified that the smart glasses are banned as per school policy as well as state legislation. “We will be in-servicing our staff before school starts” to teach them how (Internet Ban - See Page 2)
September 12, 2026
Superintendent Receives New Contract
By J. R. Warnet FREEHOLD - The Fr e e h old Reg io n a l High School Board of Education approved a new contract for Superintendent Nicole Hazel at a recent meeting. According to the meeting agenda, Dr. Hazel will remain as superintendent with the new contract ranging from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030. The new contract will replace and supersede all prior employment contracts with her. Dr. Hazel, who has been the superintendent of Freehold Regional High School District si nce Novembe r 1, 2023, will be paid a salary of $285,000 with a 2.5% increase each year after. The new contract will be an extension of the old contract, which was scheduled to expire June 30, 2027, according to the Board of Education. The Board determined the proposed salary by reviewing school districts similar to Freehold Regional. School districts such as: Princeton, East Brunswick, South Br unswick, and Toms River were deemed comparable, officials said. Some items were amended from the previous contract; including the elimination of the annual car allowance, no payments for longevity, no other allowance payments and no increases
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to sick, personal, vacation days or payout for any unused days. The resolution to approve the contract was passed, with a majority of the members voting yes. Diana Cappiello and Elizabeth Higley abstained from the vote. “Thank you to the Board of Education. I’m looking forward to many years here in the Freehold Regional High School District,” said Dr. Hazel. “Tremendous, tremendous work under way here, and I’m really proud of our team and our students and our families in the Freehold Regional High School District. So excited to take on the next set of work over the next four years.” During the meeting, another administrator was approved for the position of Ad minist rator of Finance. Francine Thompson was named to the position with a prorated per annum salary of $157,500, effective August 28, 2026, through June 30, 2027, according to the agenda. “I’m very excited for the appointment and I look forward to working with Freehold Regional School District,” said Thompson. She has 18 years of experience working in a public school district. Prior to this, Thompson worked in the private sector (Superintendent See Page 12)
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Ospreys:
Continued From Page 1 as humpback whales and dolphins, eagles and striped bass. The Atlantic menhaden are not caught for human consumption, instead they are processed into fish meal and oil, which are used in livestock and pet foods, nutritional supplements and a variety of industrial products. When their product is valued more than their place in the ecosystem, the marine food web is offset, creating a rift in ospreys reproduction, said Ben Wurst of CWFNJ. “The fish are mainly valued from an economical standpoint. When they’re removed from the water, it’s turned into a product,” he said. “But this fish, if you learn anything about it and just how crucial they are when left in the water, they’re much more valuable.” Atlantic menhaden are “filter feeders,” improving water quality because of what they eat. Without this vital fish to keep the ecosystem stable, Wurst said ospreys and other species spend more time searching for food, ultimately causing a poorer breeding season. “Ospreys nest in dense colonies on our waterways, near resources that normally would support them,” he said. “[Food stress] is causing them to not be able to breed or reproduce at the level needed to sustain the population.” Despite their current food challenges, the osprey’s population is classified as a “least concern” on the International Union
for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species, which indicates that their population is relatively stable. The birds are protected under the Migratory Treaty Act, which prohibits the taking or harming of these birds and their nests to allow for safe reproduction and growth. Wurst said ospreys’ population numbers may continue to shift, and that this shift is an indicator that the marine ecosystem is struggling because of the fisheries operations. “So we might see a decline in ospreys, the population may dwindle a little a bit,” he said, “but it really depends on the management of this fishery and whether or not fishery managers will decide on whether to impose new regulations or catch limits.” The Atlantic menhaden’s population is handled by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The NOAA assesses and predicts the status of fish stocks, implements catch limits, and works with fisheries to recover protected marine species while allowing economic and recreational opportunities. They also set quotas to decide how much of a species can be harvested for production or preserved. Wurst said the Atlantic menhaden are due for protection to prevent other populations in our local ecosystem from dwindling. “It seems like a good time for some more precautionary actions, maybe leaving more fish in the water,” he said. “Because they say the fishery is healthy, it’s not overfished, but the fish are just not here, and we’re seeing that through the lens of the osprey, with their failed reproduction.”
Internet Ban:
Continued From Page 1
to recognize smart glasses and how to respond, he said. Sources online have debated whether prescription glasses provide a loophole to use these devices. “Prescription alone would not qualify an exemption,” Citta explained. The policy has accommodations for some devices. For example, a child might need a device to compensate for a physical challenge or learning disability. These would all be specified in another document such as a health plan or an individualized education plan. Central Regional Superintendent Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder discussed this a bit further. If smart glasses are prescription, they can wear them. However, the district will be using an app to prevent them from being used inappropriately. “The app will block all apps, including Meta glasses, so it will not be able to record while in school,” she said. “They can still wear their glasses if they are prescription and teachers will not have to identify whether they are wearing them.” Therefore, the glasses are able to be worn in the same way that any pair of glasses will be worn. However, all internet usage will still be banned on all devices bell-to-bell. The ban came from concerns that constant
access to the internet hurts children’s attention span, self-esteem, and more. Guidance set by the New Jersey Department of Education explained that all school policies must define which types of devices are covered. It gave the examples of smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and smart glasses. The New Jersey Education Association lobbied in favor of the ban and successfully requested changes prior to its passage so that (1) NJEA and other education stakeholders would help develop the guidelines and (2) the state didn’t impose one-size-fits-all guidelines on all boards of education. “Growing Up Online, Findings and Recommendations from the New Jersey Commission on the Effects of Social Media Usage on Adolescents,” stated that there are many positives to social media, particularly for youth who struggle with connecting to peers in a local setting. It went on to say that “regulating social media use is a crucial issue for the well-being of the youth of New Jersey since it directly impacts their physical, mental, and emotional health. Their quality of life, now as adolescents and in the future as adult citizens, substantially depends on our immediately and decisively confronting the challenges posed by social media today.”
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OPINIONS & COMMENTARY EDITORIAL Put The Cap On Prescription Costs We have to do something to make healthcare affordable. No mat ter w h a t l a w s we w r i t e , pha r maceut ical CEOs stay millionaires on the backs of people who need their pills just to survive. The clearest way to solve this is to stop price gouging. I’d like my senators and representatives to introduce a bill that would stop phar maceutical companies from raising pr ice s whe neve r t hey want. My bill would cap the increases of prescriptions to no more than 2% per year and no more than 5% over the course of any three years. This will prevent drug compa n ies f rom a rbit ra r ily boost i ng costs for us, and padding their portfolios. Why did I choose 2%? I have no idea. It’s just an arbit rar y number I picked. Better than when a drug company picks an arbitrary number for an increase. I think the 5% is important, though. It ma ke s t he compa n ie s choose which years to increase, instead of just hitting us with 2% every year. Of course, there needs to be a way for businesses to appeal this. Everything’s getting more expensive for everybody.
There could be legitimate reasons for the increase, such as a supply chain issue. I strongly feel that any company that appeals needs to hand over their complete budget to the appeal committee. If it costs them $100,000 more to source their ingredients, and their board of trustees all made $100,000 or more last year, than the cost of the ingredients is not the cause of t he i ncreased cost. Greed is. I did a quick search online to see if there are any laws like this (Of course, if you’ve noticed, search engines are garbage these days). It seems that individual states have some laws, so it might fall to states to enforce. There are programs that keep drug costs lower, or free. These come from taxes, though. My bill would prevent my taxes from going to pay pharma salaries, because once a company finds a government payout, they will keep raising prices forever. There are a lot of people who are going without t hei r prescr ipt ions be cause they can’t afford t he m. Maybe it’s t i me for pharmaceutical CEOs to go without their third yacht. Chris Lundy News Editor
WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR! The Howell Times welcomes all points of view for publication and provides this page as an open forum for residents to express themselves regarding politics, government, current events and local concerns. All letters are printed as space allows unless deemed offensive by the editorial staff, and provided they are signed and include address & phone number for verification. Letters may not be printed if we cannot verify them. Names will not be withheld from publication. While most letters are printed as submitted, we reserve the right to edit or reject letters. The weekly deadline is 5 p.m. Thursday. Mail typed letters to: PO Box 521, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, fax 732-657-7388 or e-mail news@jerseyshoreonline.com. Letters may be limited to one per month per writer at the editor’s discretion. The opinions expressed in the Letters To The Editor section do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, management or sponsors of Micromedia Publications/Jersey Shore Online. Letters to the Editor are the OPINION of the writer and the content is not checked for accuracy.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Mayor’s Latest Stunt Is Petty, Beneath His Office Editor’s note: This letter is in response to reports that Mayor Daniel Rodrick has halted the pay of Township Council members amid the ongoing dispute concerning council members’ attendance for some classes. This is petty, ridiculous, and frankly embarrassing for the county seat of Ocean County. Whatever political disagreements exist between Mayor Rodrick and members of the Township Council, resorting to what amounts to drive-by political tactics involving the compensation of duly elected council members is not leadership. It is another unnecessary distraction from the issues Toms River residents actually expect their municipal government to address. Toms River is the county seat and one of the largest municipalities in New Jersey. Our residents deserve a government that conducts itself with professionalism and maturity - not one consumed by personal grudges, political retaliation and a seemingly endless series of manufactured public feuds. There is an appropriate process for resolving legitimate disagreements over training requirements, if needed, compensation and the respective authority of the Mayor and Township Council. Turning those disagreements into political theater does nothing to improve public safety, maintain our roads, protect our neighborhoods or make municipal government work better for taxpayers. This latest episode is particularly troubling because it sends the message that the machinery of municipal government can be used as leverage against elected officials with whom the administration disagrees. Enough. Toms River residents did not elect their government to watch an endless po-
litical food fight at Town Hall. They elected people to actually govern. Mayor Rodrick should end these petty tactics, try and work towards restoring professionalism to the Mayor’s Office, and focus his energy on doing the job taxpayers elected him to do. Toms River deserves better. Justin D. Lamb Former Councilman
County Can Help Pets Get Adopted Editor’s note: This letter is in reference to the county push to promote animal adoptions this month. In honor of the Annual “Clear-the-Shelters” event, we are lucky in Ocean County to not only participate but our shelter animals are vaccinated, spayed/neutered, microchipped, and volunteer-tested. It’s a good deal for those wanting to add a 4-legged family member to their household. But, let’s mention the elephant-in-the-room, if you will.... And that’s that our 2 small county shelters are packed! We all know the 2 shelters which closed has had a huge impact in our area. Other smaller ones have closed too. And with our own population explosion in Ocean County it is clear that we need that 3rd animal shelter facility open, now. Our shelters are packed with strays, owner surrenders with multi excuses, owner in hospital or jail, animals in holding pending court cruelty cases. It’s heart breaking for volunteers and staff. Don’t be fooled that tough decisions aren’t being made to “make room.” 1. We need another shelter! Why not use the Barnegat location to absorb some of this? It’s empty & renovated by now. Isn’t it a waste of our tax dollars to have these 2 empty buildings? Especially when they can be utilized? It’s time to step-up and open the Barnegat shelter! 2. Can’t we find a way to expedite the court cases for
the “animal cruelty cases?” Instead of leaving a living being locked up for months, they could have the potential at being adopted or rescued by one of our rescue partners instead of taking up much needed space, if they don’t have to. Can’t there be a better plan for living beings in our court system? Prioritize cruelty cases! 3. Increased promotion of our shelters & their animals at the county-level wouldn’t go amiss either. Why not utilize the “County Connections” office located in the Ocean County mall to increase the awareness to a greater group of people? Not everyone is glued to social media. Some like to shop & walk the mall. Dog/ cat of the week for each shelter location? Anything. It is a county facility to assist county residents so, add shelter info to County Connections resource center. Not everyone is a match for everyone, but our need is continuous. Daily. So, all on board to make adoption your 1st option and let’s “CLEAR THE SHELTERS.” Thank you. Marion Barbato Toms River
Electric Vehicle Charge Unfair Governor Sherrill and Legislators, I am writing to express my strong opposition to New Jersey’s growing annual EV registration surcharge. As a senior citizen, I no longer commute and drive fewer than 8,000 miles per year. The justification for this fee is that electric vehicle owners do not pay gasoline taxes. However, the numbers simply do not support the magnitude of the surcharge being imposed on me and many other seniors and lower-mileage drivers. I purchased my Tesla Model Y in July 2021 in part because of the State of New Jersey’s EV incentives and encouragement to adopt cleaner transportation technologies. Now, only a few years later,
I am effectively being penalized through the EV surcharge added to my annual registration renewal. For example, a typical gasoline vehicle getting 28 MPG and driven 8,000 miles annually pays only about $140 per year in New Jersey gasoline taxes. Yet EV owners are now being charged approximately $270 annually through a flat registration surcharge regardless of actual road usage. This creates a disproportionate burden for residents who drive relatively few miles each year. This policy disproportionately impacts residents who invested early in cleaner transportation technologies, many of whom also invested heavily in solar energy, battery storage, and home charging infrastructure that directly support New Jersey’s clean energy goals. The current surcharge structure is inequitable because: • It is not usage-based. • Lower-mileage EV drivers subsidize higher-mileage drivers. • It discourages EV adoption at a time when the state claims to support electrification and emissions reduction. • EV owners already contribute substantially through sales tax, registration fees, tolls, and electric utility charges. If the goal is truly fair transportation funding, then New Jersey should pursue a transparent mileage-based road usage system applied evenly across all vehicle types rather than targeting one class of drivers with arbitrary flat fees. At a minimum, seniors and lower-mileage drivers should receive a reduced surcharge or exemption. This is yet another example of how increasingly expensive it has become to live in the state where I was born, raised, worked, and resided my entire life. I respectfully urge you to reconsider the current EV surcharge structure and work toward a fairer and more balanced solution. Nicholas Spaltro Forked River
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The Howell Times, September 12, 2026, Page 5
Spotlight On Government Correspondence & Commentary From Your Local, County, State & Federal Officials
Congressman Notes Historic Milestone Of Anti-Trafficking Law From The Desk Of
Congressman
Chris Smith WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Chris Smith (R-4th), a longtime leader in the global fight against human trafficking, commemorated the 188th anniversary of famed abolitionist and statesman Frederick Douglass’ escape from slavery on September 3, 1838. “Today, we mark 188 years since former slave Frederick Douglass - one of the most influential and awe-inspiring figures in American history - courageously self-emancipated from the shackles of slavery,” said Smith, a staunch and prolific human rights lawmaker. “After attaining freedom in New York City, Frederick dedicated the rest of his life to the noble cause of abolishing slavery and helping other enslaved individuals break
free from bondage. In recognition and appreciation of Frederick’s lifelong fight for freedom, I have continued to name America’s key reauthorization bill to combat human trafficking - the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Act of 2025 (HR 1144) - in his honor. “HR 1144 reaffirms and strengthens the United States’ commitment to combating and ending modern-day slavery, enhancing programs and creating initiatives to protect survivors, prosecute traffickers, and prevent human trafficking from happening in the first place,” continued Smith, the author of five major anti-human trafficking laws, including the landmark Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) (PL 106-386). “Inspired by Frederick’s extensive work to help newly emancipated African Americans acclimate to their free lives, HR 1144 - which was drafted with input from Fred-
erick’s great-great-great grandson, Kenneth B. Morris Jr. - assists survivors during their transitions out of trafficking situations. “This bill creates a wrap-around approach to provide survivors with safe housing, mental health support, education services, life skills training, and employment assistance,” noted Smith, the Co-Chair of the newly formed Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Protection and Prevention Caucus. “As Frederick once wisely said, ‘If there is no struggle, there is no progress.’ Each and every day - and especially today - we honor Frederick’s memory and continue the struggle against the global scourge of human trafficking and modern-day slavery.” HR 1144, developed in close collaboration with several survivor-leaders, upgrades and expands the U.S. government’s toolkit for fighting human trafficking by reauthorizing more than $1.2 billion in federal funding over the next five years. Once enacted, the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Act of 2025 will: • Reauthorize and bolster anti-human trafficking programs across numerous federal
agencies, including the State Department, Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of Health and Human Services; • Ensure robust prosecutions for human trafficking crimes, along with thorough investigations and jail time commensurate with the crime; • Authorize the first-ever housing program for survivors, ensuring wrap-around case management, including education, life skills training, mental health services, and employment assistance; • Continue funding the Angel Watch Center, a program mandated by Smith’s International Megan’s Law (PL 114-119) that prevents convicted child sex offenders from exploiting and abusing children abroad; • Train instructors, teachers, and students within elementary and secondary schools, in an age-appropriate manner, on building situational awareness, self-esteem, and resources to prevent, identify, and respond to human trafficking; and • Strengthen partnerships among federal, state, and local authorities.
Senator: Merger Could Create Food Service Monopoly Capitol Comments Senator Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) are demanding the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) thoroughly investigate Sysco’s proposed $29.1 billion acquisition of Jetro Restaurant Depot, over concerns that the deal could further consolidate the nation’s food distribution system, weaken competition, and drive up costs for independent restaurants and consumers. In a letter to FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson, the senators warned that the proposed acquisition would eliminate an important source of competition for independent restaurants, caterers, farmers, and other small businesses. Restaurant Depot’s “cash-and-carry” model - which has no contracts, delivery fees, or minimum orders - provides small businesses with an alternative to traditional broadline distributors like Sysco and allows them
to compare pr ices and purchasing options. “A single dominant company monopolizing the food distribution system will allow one company unprecedented power to raise prices and reduce pu rchasing options for independent restaurants. The higher food and supply costs restaurants will likely incur from this merger will almost certainly be passed on to diners, as most of these small businesses operate on the margins of three to five percent even under favorable conditions. Or, these combined pressures could force many independent restaurants to close, resulting in layoffs and an economic loss to their local community,” wrote the senators. The deal comes as restaurants and consumers continue to face rising costs. According to the National Restaurant Association, menu prices have increased by at least 34 percent since 2020. The senators also raised concerns about the impact of further consolidation on farmers, noting that independent restaurants are often their largest commercial buyers of produce.
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.
The FTC has previously intervened to prevent consolidation in the restaurant distribution industry. In 2015, the Commission blocked Sysco’s proposed acquisition of US Foods, determining that the transaction would significantly reduce competition and likely result in higher prices and lower levels of service for restaurant-goers.
“Sysco’s action represents an effort to vertically integrate the food distribution space and eliminate a competitor price check that helps maintain lower-cost options. We urge the FTC to review this merger to ensure that consumers, farmers, and restaurant owners maintain their independence and competition can flourish,” the senators concluded.
Abandoned Vehicle for Sale VIN: 1MAG11C03M004329 2003 Mack Granite Date/location of auction: September 26, 2026 at 8:00 AM Rain or shine 1044 Route 33 Howell, NJ 07731
Starting Bid $12,800 Truck is Pre-admissions AS IS, WHERE IS Must be removed off property within 48 hours of purchase
Cash/Certified Check only
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Page 6, The Howell Times, September 12, 2026
Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements
Community Observes Suicide Prevention Month
HOWELL – The Howell Alliance is observing National Suicide Prevention Month in September by sharing information about mental health, warning signs and crisis resources under the message, “You Are Not Alone.” Federal data shows 48,824 people died by suicide in the United States in 2025, making it the second-leading cause of death among people ages 10 to 34. During that year, 13.9 million adults and 2.6 million adolescents reported seriously considering suicide. Possible warning signs include talking about death, expressing hopelessness or shame, feeling trapped, describing unbearable pain, increasing alcohol or drug use, acting recklessly, withdrawing from others, changing daily or grooming hab-
its, giving away important possessions or developing a suicide plan. The alliance encourages people concerned about someone to ask whether they are OK, listen without judgment and help them seek professional support. Discussing suicidal thoughts does not increase the risk and can help the person feel less alone. Confidential assistance is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988; the 2ndFLOOR Youth Helpline for ages 10 to 24 at 888222-2228; or the Crisis Text Line by texting “HOME” to 741741. Call 911 during an immediate, dangerous or life-threatening emergency. Additional resources are available through the Howell Alliance at twp.howell.nj.us/540/Substance-UseMental-Health-Support-Servi.
Join Howell Township First Aid & Rescue Squad #1
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KNOW YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS! (House Calls Available By Appointment) TOMS RIVER OFFICE 244 Main St., Toms River, NJ 08753 • (732) 505-1212 BERKELEY AREA (800) 556-7432 MANCHESTER AREA (732) 408-9455 BRICK AREA (732) 451-0800 VISIT US ON OUR WEBSITE AT: WWW. RCSHEA.COM
HOWELL – Are you ready to make a real impact? We’re on the lookout for passionate community members to join our life-saving team. Why Join? • Serve Your Community: Be the person your neighbors can count on. • Comprehensive Training: Learn essential skills with our top-notch training programs. • Team Spirit: Become part of a dedicated and supportive family. Cadet Program – For teens aged 14 to 18, our Cadet Program offers an exciting opportunity to dive into the world of emergency services. • Ages 14-15: Participate in engaging train-
ing sessions and squad activities. • Ages 16-18: Experience the thrill of riding on ambulances and assisting in real situations. Will you answer the call? Step up and become a vital part of Howell Township’s emergency services family. Your community needs you! How to Apply • Visit: Stop by on Wednesdays between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. at 16 Kent Road, Howell. • Contact: Call 732-901-5584 for more information. • Apply Online: Complete an application at htfars.org or apply directly at goo.gl/forms/ dpa7sPBaQxQ3Cxnk1.
Pie Baking Contest Planned At Fall Fest
HOWELL – A pie baking contest will be held October 17 during Howell Fall Fest at Soldier Memorial Park. Judging will begin at 12:45 p.m. at the stage, with entries evaluated on taste, texture and presentation. Awards will be presented for best in each category and
best in show. Apple, pumpkin and other fruit pies, including blueberry, cherry and peach, will be accepted. Entries containing nuts are prohibited. For an entry form, email dproffice@twp. howell.nj.us or call 732-938-4500, ext. 2451.
Library Plans Upcoming Programs
HOWELL – The Library will offer movies, music, crafts, book discussions and fiber arts programs for adults throughout September. Adult coloring will be held at 6:30 p.m. September 16, followed by a concert fea-
turing Fred Lehotay and the Ragtimers at 2 p.m. September 17. Kelly’s Knitting and Crochet Group will meet at 11 a.m. September 19. The library’s book club will discuss “The Berry Pickers” by Amanda Peters at 2 p.m. September 21.
Flu Shot Clinic Planned At Senior Center
HOWELL – The Monmouth County Office of Public Health will offer free standard flu vaccinations from 1 to 3 p.m. September 14 at the Howell Senior Center, 257 Preventorium Road. Eligible residents also may receive COV-
ID-19, RSV, high-dose flu, pneumonia and shingles vaccines through the participating pharmacy. Age and insurance requirements apply to those vaccines. For more information, visit visitmonmouth. com/health.
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The Howell Times, September 12, 2026, Page 7
Community News C lub N ews , A ctivities , E vents & A nnouncements
Hackensack Meridian Opens Freehold Wellness Center
Photo courtesy Hackensack Meridian Health Hackensack Meridian Health celebrates the opening of the Hackensack Meridian Health & Wellness Center in Freehold. FREEHOLD – Hackensack Meridian Health has opened a new Health & Wellness Center on Route 9, bringing primary care and numerous specialty services together at one location. The facility at 3499 Route 9 North is the health network’s seventh wellness center statewide and its second in Monmouth County. Services include primary care, behavioral health, endocrinology, neurology, obstetrics and gynecology, rheumatology, general and vascular surgery, chiropractic medicine, imaging, laboratory work, and physical, occupational and speech therapy.
Hackensack Meridian Health CEO Robert C. Garrett said the center is designed to make medical care more convenient for patients with busy schedules. Network officials said offering routine, diagnostic and specialty care at one site can help patients avoid delaying checkups and screenings. Physicians at the Freehold center will use the same electronic health record system as Hackensack Meridian hospitals and outpatient facilities. That connection will allow medical teams to access patient information across the network and coordinate hospital care when a patient needs more advanced treatment.
Applications Open For County History Grants
FREEHOLD – Monmouth County is accepting 2027 applications for programs supporting local history organizations, public programming and the restoration of historic buildings. The History Regrant Program offers general operating support for historical organizations and special project funding for publicly accessible history programs. The Historic Preservation Grant Program provides matching awards ranging from $500 to $12,000 for work on historic buildings owned by municipalities or organizations. First-time applicants must attend a workshop in person or online. The History Regrant workshop is scheduled for Sep-
tember 16, while the Historic Preservation workshop will be held September 28. History Regrant applicants must declare their intent to apply by October 2 and submit completed applications by October 30. Historic Preservation applicants must file a newly required declaration of intent by October 7, with final applications due November 12. The preservation program’s maximum award has increased from $10,000 to $12,000. Applications, workshop details and additional information are available at visitmonmouth.com. The History Regrant Program receives funding from the New Jersey Historical Commission.
Accordion Music Highlights 1890s Melodies
MONMOUTH COUNTY – Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel will present an afternoon of 1890s accordion music from 1 to
3 p.m. September 19. The musical program is free. For information, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000.
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Page 8, The Howell Times, September 12, 2026
Around The Jersey Shore River Plaza Fire Company Receives $2,500 Grant
RED BANK — New Jersey American Wat e r h a s aw a r d e d a $2,500 grant to River Plaza Hose Company No. 1 through its Volunteer Fire and EMS Grant Program. The Monmouth County f ire company used the funding to purchase thermal imaging cameras, which help firefighters find heat sourcPhoto courtesy New Jersey American Water es, improve visibility a n d r e s p o n d m o r e New Jersey American Water presents a $2,500 Volunteer ef fe c t ivel y d u r i n g Fire and EMS Grant to River Plaza Hose Company No. 1. Pictured left to right: Dawn Turner, Major Accounts Lead, emergencies. The utility award- New Jersey American Water; Firefighter Richard Holton; e d a p p r o x i m a t e l y 3rd Lieutenant Bryan Dolan; President Joe Sole; and Ashley $50,000 to 21 volun- Bromiley, Superintendent of Shrewsbury Field Operations, teer f ire and emer- New Jersey American Water. gency medical service organizations 2011, New Jersey American Water has this year. Grants supported equipment distributed more than $587,500 through purchases including gas leak detectors, 353 grants benefiting 176 volunteer fire gas meters, defibrillators and thermal departments and emergency response units. More information is available at imaging cameras. Since establishing the program in newjerseyamwater.com/community.
United Way Plans Two Psychic Medium Events
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MONMOUTH AND OCEAN COUNTIES – United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties will host two “A Night With Spirit” fundraisers featuring food, wine and gallery readings by psychic mediums. The Monmouth County event will run from 6 to 9 p.m. October 15 at Sette, 130 South Main St., Marlboro. Psychic medium Catherine McCall will lead the readings. The Ocean County event is scheduled
from 6 to 9 p.m. October 22 at Gal Mediterranean Cuisine, 2 Route 37, Toms River. Psychic medium Joe Hicks will appear. Proceeds will support United Way programs addressing education, financial stability, health and basic needs for local families. Sponsorships range from $500 to $1,500 and include event signage or social media recognition. For tickets or sponsorship information, contact Marielaina LaRosa at 848-206-2041 or mlarosa@uwmoc.org.
Church Partners With Red Cross For Blood Drive
MONMOUTH COUNTY – Holmdel Community United Church of Christ will partner with the American Red Cross for a community blood drive September 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 40 Main Street. Church officials said the event will help meet the needs of hospitals and patients while giving residents an opportunity to potentially save lives. Someone in the United States requires blood every two seconds, according to the Red Cross. Donors of all blood types are needed, particularly those with O negative, A negative and B negative blood.
The congregation traces its roots to the 1660s and is among Monmouth County’s oldest. Its historic campus includes six Tiffany stained-glass windows, and the church continues to support social justice and community outreach programs. Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-REDCROSS or by calling the church at 732946-8821 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. For additional information, contact Sylvia Allen at 732-241-1144 or sylvia.allen@allenconsulting.com.
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The Howell Times, September 12, 2026, Page 9
Around The Jersey Shore YMCA Hosts Welcoming Week
Photo courtesy YMCA of the Jersey Shore JERSEY SHORE — The YMCA of the Jersey Shore will open its doors to the public for free programs, fitness opportunities and cultural activities during Welcoming Week, scheduled for Sept. 10 through 19. The nationwide initiative, organized in partnership with the nonprofit Welcoming America, encourages residents from different cultures and backgrounds to connect with one another and build stronger communities. “Every day, people from all ages, nationalities and backgrounds walk through our doors to improve their physical, mental and social well-being — side by side,” YMCA of the Jersey Shore President and CEO Laurie Goganzer said. “Welcoming Week is a chance for everyone to enjoy the feeling of belonging and respect that happens at the Y every day.” Visitors may use participating YMCA facilities at no cost during the celebration. Those who purchase memberships during Welcoming Week will not have to pay enrollment fees. Programs will differ by location and may include arts and crafts, fitness activities, job fairs, storytelling, performances, voter registration and information from community organizations. Representatives from Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, a recently added YMCA program, will also participate. The organization assists older adults in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex counties by offering
transportation to medical appointments, help with grocery shopping, therapy-dog visits and other services intended to improve their quality of life and reduce social isolation. The Ocean County YMCA in Toms River will provide refreshments and interactive exhibits. Its facility will be open to the public for free, and enrollment fees will be waived for visitors who become members during the event. Participating community organizations include Monmouth County Social Services, the League of Women Voters, the Monmouth County Division of Aging, Disabilities and Veterans, several area libraries, the VNA WIC Program, UnitedHealthcare, Kaleidoscope ABA Therapy and the United Methodist Church. Welcoming Week activities will be offered at the following locations: • Bayshore Family Success Center at the Henry Hudson Trail Activity Center, 945 Route 36, Leonardo • Freehold Family YMCA, 470 E. Freehold Road, Freehold • Ocean County YMCA, 1088 W. Whitty Road, Toms River • Old Bridge Family YMCA, 1 Mannino Park Drive, Old Bridge • Red Bank Family YMCA, 166 Maple Ave., Red Bank Additional details are available at ymcanj. org/welcomingweek-2026 and ocymca.org/ events/welcoming-week/.
Park System Sets Fall Golf Tournaments
MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Monmouth County Park System will host two golf tournaments in September and October, with team registration available online. The Two Person Over/Under Best Ball Tournament is scheduled for September 16 at Howell Park Golf Course. Registration costs $185 per team and includes greens fees, a power cart, range balls and boxed lunches.
The Jersey Devil Tournament will be held October 17 at Charleston Springs Golf Course. The $205 team fee includes greens fees, a power cart, range balls and boxed lunches. Registration and additional details are available at reg.monmouthcountyparks. com. For course conditions or golf-related questions, contact the individual golf centers or email info@monmouthcountyparks.com.
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Page 10, The Howell Times, September 12, 2026
Photo Of The Week
Summer is going out in a whirl! Riders soak up the final thrills of the season beneath the dazzling lights at Casino Pier in Seaside Heights. This great shot was taken by Alyssa Miller who is now heading to Six Flags Great Adventure – on us! Want to see your photo in this space? Email photos@jerseyshoreonline.com and you may win a prize!
Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally
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.
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The Howell Times, September 12, 2026, Page 11
Here’s To Your Health
R.C. Shea & Assoc.
Dear Phar Pharmacist macist Liposomal Vitamin C Vs. Regular Vitamin C: Which Is Better? By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph. A reader recently asked me, “Is liposomal vitamin C better than regular vitamin C?” It’s a fair question because liposomal vitamin C is sold everywhere. It’s promoted as more advanced, better absorbed and sometimes almost comparable to intravenous vitamin C. That last claim makes my antennae stand up. Vitamin C is water-soluble. A liposomal product packages it within microscopic structures made from phospholipids, the same general type of fatty material found in cell membranes. This delivery technology is legit, and a few studies do suggest liposomal formulations provide higher blood levels of vitamin C than conventional oral forms. But here’s the question I think gets overlooked: Do we need higher absorption? If we eat a nice diet, ordinary vitamin C is already efficiently absorbed. The body also regulates vitamin C rather tightly. As doses climb, the percentage absorbed falls, and excess vitamin C is urinated out. In one classic study, healthy adults absorbed, essentially all of a 200-mg dose of vitamin C. As the dose increased, however, the percentage absorbed began to drop. That’s not necessarily a problem; it’s your body doing its job. My point is does greater bioavailability demonstrate better health? Those are two different things. I still need convincing evidence that liposomal vitamin C (versus regular, normal, natural C) leads to fewer infections, stronger arteries, more collagen synthesis or a longer life. Most people don’t realize this, but our arteries require vitamin C to stay juicy and flexible. You see, collagen provides structural support throughout your body, including
your blood vessel walls, gums, skin, bones, and tendons. Without adequate vitamin C, normal collagen synthesis and stability are impaired. Deficiency causes scurvy, with symptoms like bruising, bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and fragile blood vessels. So in short, healthy collagen requires vitamin C. And your collagen-making enzymes don’t require vitamin C to arrive chauffeured inside a designer fat bubble. Severe vitamin C deficiency damages collagen and makes blood vessels fragile. Linus Pauling and Dr Mathias Rath have proposed that inadequate vitamin C might encourage Lp(a) deposition as your body attempts to reinforce those cracked and vulnerable arterial walls. Fun fact! Most animals manufacture their own vitamin C. Dogs do it. Cats do it. Bears do it. But we humans can’t. We lack a functional enzyme required to complete vitamin C synthesis, which means we have to obtain it from food. Fortunately, you have plenty of choices. Red bell peppers are surprisingly rich in vitamin C, along with kiwi, strawberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, potatoes and, of course, citrus. I personally favor moderate amounts of vitamin C rather than mega dosing. Liposomal technology is interesting, and improved absorption is real with some formulations. I simply don’t think “more gets into your bloodstream” automatically means “better for you.” Sometimes the human body was doing a pretty good job before we improved upon it. Want the deeper dive? I’ve written a much more detailed article at suzycohen.com comparing liposomal and regular vitamin C, including the absorption research, dietary sources and reflux tips.
(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.
Inside The Law Slip And Fall Cases Usually Turn On One Question
Michael J. Deem, Esq.
By: Michael J. Deem, Esq. R.C. Shea & Associates People assume that falling in a store means the store is responsible. It does not work that way. A property owner in New Jersey is not automatically liable because someone was hurt on the premises. The owner has to have been negligent. For a customer in a business, the owner owes the highest duty the law recognizes. The store must keep the property reasonably safe and inspect for hazards it ought to know about. Even so, the case usually comes down to a single question: did the owner know about the dangerous condition, or should it have known? That is the notice requirement, and it is where these cases are won and lost. If a jar of olive oil broke thirty seconds before you walked through it, the store had no real chance to clean it up. If the same spill sat there for an hour while employees walked past, that is a different case. How long a hazard existed can be shown through surveillance video, inspection logs, employee testimony, or the condition of the spill itself. Dried edges and cart tracks through a puddle say something. There is an exception worth discussing. Under what is called the “Mode of Operation” rule, when a business uses self-service in a way that makes spills
foreseeable, such as a salad bar or loose produce bins, the customer does not have to prove the store knew about the hazard. Snow and ice follow their own rules. Commercial owners must clear accumulation within a reasonable time after a storm ends, and generally have no duty to clear while the storm is still going. The latter is known as the “On Going Storm Rule”. What helps most is evidence gathered early. Photograph the spot before anyone cleans it. Report the fall and ask for a copy of the incident report. Get names of witnesses. Keep the shoes you were wearing. Store video is often recorded over within thirty days, so a preservation letter has to go out quickly. If you fell and were seriously injured, call before that video is gone. It is usually the best proof in the case. Michael J. Deem, Esq. is Certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Civil Trial Attorney. R.C. Shea & Associates, Toms River, New Jersey. (732) 505-1212 This article provides general information about New Jersey law. It is not legal advice about any particular situation, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Our clients’ success is our greatest reward. 732-505-1212 • RCSHEA.COM
Utility Plans Energy Assistance Events
WALL – New Jersey Natural Gas will hold 27 Energy Assistance Days across Monmouth, Ocean and Morris counties during September, October and early November to help customers prepare for the winter heating season. Customers can meet individually with bilingual representatives from the utility and community action agencies to determine eligibility for assistance, complete applications and discuss payment arrangements. A family of four earning up to $164,337 may qualify for certain programs. Available programs include the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Universal Service Fund, Payment Assistance for Gas and Electric and NJ SHARES
Energy Assistance Grant. Income-eligible customers may also qualify for weatherization services designed to reduce energy use and improve home comfort. Applicants should bring Social Security cards for household members, government-issued identification, proof of residence, recent gas and electric bills and income documentation for household members older than 18. Households without Social Security cards may apply only for the Universal Service Fund. Event dates, locations and program information are available at njng.com/energyassistance. Customers may also call 800-221-0051 and say “energy assistance” at the prompt.
Square Dance Offers Family-Friendly Fun
LINCROFT – The Middletown Ramblers will lead a free open house square dance from 7 to 9 p.m. September 18 at the Thompson Park Activity Barn. The program is open to participants
ages 14 and older. Anyone younger than 18 must attend with an adult. For infor mation, visit MonmouthCo u nt yPa rk s.com or cal l 732- 8424000.
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Page 12, The Howell Times, September 12, 2026
Superintendent: Continued From Page 1
with a total almost 30 years accounting experience. Thompson said she will most likely start her position some time toward the end of October, 60 days after the appointment at the Board of Education Meeting. Dr. Hazel said they are welcoming 42 new staff members to the district. She also said they have about 9,500 students. “We have been extremely busy this summer preparing for the opening of schools,” said Dr. Hazel. Renovations include new tennis courts at Colts Neck High School and Marlboro High School, according to Dr. Hazel. Howell High School and Freehold High School tennis courts will be completed soon. New bleachers and new gym floors have been installed in Manalapan High School,
Marlboro High School, and Freehold High School. Dr. Hazel also spoke about three reports the district has completed. The annual District and School Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Self-Assessment Rate Report (HIB), the 2025-2026 Dynamic Learning Maps, and the Spring 2025-26 ACCESS report were discussed at the meeting. To learn more about the annual reports, visit frhds.com Dr. Hazel lastly referred to the student attendance report, with chronic absenteeism being an issue in the school district, and how the district is planning to handle student attendance this year. Another topic discussed at the meeting was the approval of Policy 5516, which refers to Student Use of Internet-Enabled Devices. The New Jersey statewide law was signed into effect by then-Governor Phil Murphy
on January 8th, 2026, and calls for a “bellto-bell” cell phone ban for all K-12 public schools. These include, but are not limited to, any device that can access the internet. The Freehold Regional High School District plans to fully implement the law, stating the district will have consequences for offenses. The first offense calls for the device to be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the school day. The second offence calls for the device to be confiscated, and a parent or guardian must pick up the device after school or at a time set by the administration. The third offence calls for the same as the second offence, with additional disciplinary consequences that may be assigned. The Board of Education discussed this policy during the meeting, with a question about medical exemptions being brought up. Dr. Hazel spoke of a form the student
and family will have to fill out and bring to the district, notifying the district about using any such devices for medical or health exemptions. Some students will need access to a smart watch or other internet enabled devices for certain health conditions. During the Board of Education’s comments, Peter Bruno discussed the 13th Annual Howell Twp/Farmingdale Memorial 5K Run & Race Walk. This event was held on Wednesday, August 19, at Howell High School Athletic Complex. He wanted to thank those who participated and helped with planning and implementation of the event. Looking ahead to the school calendar, the schools opened on Tuesday, September 8. Schools will be closed on Monday, September 21 in observance of Yom Kippur. The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Thursday, September 24 at 7 p.m., at the Administration Building.
Health Experts Share Back-To-School Safety Tips
NEPTUNE – Physicians at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital are urging families and motorists to take precautions as students return to school. Children should arrive at their bus stop at least five minutes early, remain about 10 feet from the curb and never walk behind a school bus. Once aboard, students
should sit promptly and avoid distracting the driver. New Jersey motorists must stop at least 25 feet from a school bus displaying flashing red lights. Traffic traveling in both directions must stop on roads without a physical divider. Drivers should also slow down near schools and prepare to stop for
children in crosswalks. Backpacks should weigh no more than 10% to 20% of a child’s body weight, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Backpacks should have wide padded shoulder straps and a padded back, while children should use both straps to distribute weight evenly.
Children who suffer a blow to the head should receive medical attention, particularly if they experience confusion, headaches or vomiting. Proper protective equipment can help reduce injuries during sports and recreational activities. Additional safety information is available at hackensackmeridian.org/kids.
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The Howell Times, September 12, 2026, Page 13
CLASSIFIEDS Personals
Items Wanted
Services
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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)
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'79 Corvette and T-Top - V8, Auto. 88,000 miles. Teal exterior. Blue interior. Excellent condition. Must sell. Asking $12,500. 732-597-6176. (40) VW Passat SLE 2013 - Blue, Low 63K miles, Black Leather Interior, New Battery. $8,700. Ocean County, Cell 848-459-7957. (39) 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 305 motor runs strong. White with blue interior Maintained for everyday driving. Asking $5,050 OBO Call or Text 732-278-5424. (40)
Moving Sale Moving Sale - Saturday, September 12. 832 Chelsea St., Forked River 08731. (40)
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)
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Vinyl Records Wanted - Paying cash for LP albums Rock Jazz Blues Psychedelic. Call Rick 908-616-7104. Also Buying Comic Books. (41) 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) 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) 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) 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. (40)
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) DO YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO LOOK GOOD AND SHINE? Call Lenny, Lenny's Mobile Auto Detailing 908-868-4609. (42) MASON - All Types Of Mason Work. Steps & porches, patios, walks. CALL KEN 908-964-7526. (40) Cleaning, Organizing, Errands - For seniors. 732-773-7789. (37) Lisa Cleaning - I have my own supplies. Reliable. Dependable. Please call 732-581-0409. (37) Astro Appliance Sales and Service Moved to new location. Around for 40 years. Call 609-971-9318. (37)
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Page 14, The Howell Times, September 12, 2026
FUN & GAMES SUDOKU
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Across 1 Org. regulating the airwaves 4 Luxurious 11 “The Marvels” director DaCosta 14 Contented sigh 15 As requested 16 Meditation syllables 17 Ermine, polecat, mink, etc. 19 Tats 20 Red shade 21 Less than zero: Abbr. 22 Citrus drinks 23 Prince in “The Little Mermaid” 24 Bouncing off the walls, frenzied, feverish, etc. 26 Quaint contraction 27 Salon job 29 Muse of poetry 30 Dolts
33 Bird: Pref. 34 Sodium chloride, potassium cyanide, calcium phosphate, etc. 38 Past 39 Not plugged in 41 Help desk staffer, briefly 44 __ Cruces, New Mexico 45 Toll rd. 46 On the house, gratis, comped, etc. 50 Wells race of the future 51 + or - particles 52 Fawn mama 53 “Groovy!” 55 __ drop 56 Violaceous, heliotrope, mauve, etc. 58 Cover letters? 59 Nail polish remover 60 Vast body 61 Sharp bark 62 Doesn’t just ask for
63 The Oilers, on ESPN tickers Down 1 Big name in 1970s Angels 2 General Mills staple 3 Personal magnetism 4 Heavy-duty vehicles, for short 5 Global extreme 6 Plant 7 Lifelong pal 8 Seller of TV spots 9 High precipice 10 Urgent care ctrs. 11 “Beats me” 12 “Wait your turn!” 13 Invites for 18 [Not my mistake] 22 Related to a heart chamber 24 Alternative to high water 25 Variety shows 27 Ending for many D.C. addresses 28 Go up and down
31 Solar phenomena 32 Spotted 33 Uttar Pradesh tourist site 35 River fed by Lake Victoria 36 Break out 37 Embraced 40 Group that’s always looking for a lift? 41 Polite interjection 42 Three-horse ride 43 Preventer of some shirt stains 47 Draw out 48 “Our Town” composer Ned 49 Anatomical dividers 50 Fumble 53 Stave (off) 54 Parrots 56 Paw cushion 57 Chaney known as “The Man of a Thousand Faces”
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SOLUTIONS
SU DOK U
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Jumble: DITCH PICKY HELMET CANCEL -- KEEP THAT IN MIND
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The Howell Times, September 12, 2026, Page 15
OMARR’S ASTROLOGICAL FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 12 - 18 BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS FORECAST ARIES (March 21-April 19): This last week could have tested almost everyone, today’s the last day of an unusual six-day run of below-zero star scores. Stay present and stick with what you know works today. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Waiting until tomorrow is the right idea if you have something to say — a much better Universal Day Score makes for much better odds and much better outcomes. Embrace your creativity. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Tomorrow is a much better day than today for a purchase or financial decision, it’s enough better that it’s worth the wait. Investing time and energy into your home could bring a wonderful payoff. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Whatever your mood, insulate those around you for a day or two — you could go down some wrongheaded rabbit holes, and you’ll be glad you didn’t overshare. Vet anything new and don’t sign up until at least tomorrow. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Subconscious resentments can drive behavior straight off the cliff — what you’re aware of is much less likely to sneak up and sabotage you. Process internally, enjoy the external benefits of fewer problems. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): It could be easy to tangle with a friend or acquaintance today; stars are poor and there are plenty of contentious energies in your sector of friendship. Money could be an especially touchy issue. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If you are
working or just out in the world, energies could get extra spicy for a few hours. Don’t let discouragement or frustration drive choices whose consequences you won’t appreciate going forward. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You could get extremely triggered by news or online content today. Do not, DO NOT, make reactive posts that could come back to bite you. You’ll be less excitable in a day or so. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Financial discussions today could blow sky high, don’t even try to go there. Give it a day or two before you step into this circle. Strategic planning for career could pay dividends. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Avoid relationship issues, not because that’s a sustainable choice over time, but because the timing is straight-up wrong today, and possibly tomorrow too. Try to get through without making anything worse. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): If routines seem rougher than usual to accomplish, taking a break of even a few hours could help things flow more smoothly. Since today is a below-zero day, it’s not a day for a big decision or big purchase. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A lot of angst can express through art or music, today could be one of those days. Though this week’s stars have been unusually poor, you could be staged for upcoming improvements in a relationship.
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SERIOUSLY SIMPLE: LATE SUMMER SALAD OFFERS A COLORFUL ARRAY OF SEASONAL PRODUCE
Fresh corn brings sweetness, while Parmesan shards add a nutty note. CREDIT:(Gabe Sachs/TCA). Diane Rossen Worthington Every year, as summer winds down, I like to improvise on my late summer salad. Sometimes I use baby gems — a cross between butter and romaine lettuce — along with radicchio and arugula; other times, I return to the classic recipe that follows. It features a mix of flavorful greens, including arugula, spinach and sweet romaine, tossed with raw corn, sweet peppers, cucumber and shreds of imported Parmesan. For a lighter first course, leave out the chicken. For a more substantial salad, add avocado, tomato and bacon. And if you love seafood, swap the chicken for cold chopped shrimp or shredded crab meat. Select crisp romaine, bright green arugula, and sweet bell peppers at their peak. Fresh corn brings late-summer sweetness, while Parmesan shards add a nutty note. Chop the salad as finely or coarsely as you prefer, then serve it in an attractive bowl to highlight its colorful ingredients and varied textures. Offer warm focaccia with olive oil for dipping. To complement the creamy dressing, pair the salad with a crisp, dry white wine, such as sauvignon blanc or riesling. Rosé works nicely too.
SERIOUSLY SIMPLE LATE SUMMER SALAD
Serves 2 to 3 as a main course or 4 to 6 as a first course For the dressing: 1 medium shallot, finely chopped 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons plain yogurt Salt and freshly ground black pepper For the salad: 1 medium head of romaine lettuce, light green and white leaves only, chopped 1 bunch of arugula, coarsely chopped 1 small bunch baby spinach, coarsely chopped 1 skinless medium whole chicken breast, cooked and diced into 1/4-inch pieces 1/2 medium red bell pepper, diced into 1/4-inch pieces 1/4 European cucumber, diced into 1/4inch pieces 1 ear of white or sweet yellow corn, huskedand shucked (about ½ cup corn kernels) 1/4 cup coarsely shredded Parmesan cheese (use a shredder or peeler) 1. For the dressing: combine the shallot, vinegar, lemon juice and mustard in a small mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Slowly add the oil, whisking to incorporate. Add the yogurt, salt, and pepper and blend well. Taste for seasoning. 2. Combine all salad ingredients in a large salad bowl. Add dressing and toss until all vegetables are well coated. Sprinkle freshly ground pepper on the salad, if desired, and serve. Advance preparation: The dressing can be prepared up to one day ahead and refrigerated. Remove from refrigerator one hour before using and whisk the dressing well. The salad can be prepared two hours ahead, covered and refrigerated.
(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.
Page 16, The Howell Times, September 12, 2026
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