All Around Old Bridge-April 2024

YMCA HEALTHY KIDS DAY

At Healthy Kids Day, part of a national YMCA initiative, children and families will enjoy a wide variety of activities aimed at motivating and teaching kids how to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle and stressing the importance of mental and emotional well-being.

Local businesses, nonprofits, and other community groups, such as Old Bridge Library, Old Bridge Police and Fire Departments that support children and families, will be present at Healthy Kids Day to share resources that help strengthen kids and families.

“The Y is proud to bring our community partners together for a day of sharing good health,” said Christopher Nasta, Executive Director of the Old Bridge Y. YMCA activities will include:

> Fitness Classes

> Mental Health Resources

> Summer Camp & Child Care Info

> Facility Tours & Program Info

> YMCA Job Fair

> Arts, Crafts, Snacks & Giveaways

All Healthy Kids Day participants will receive a complimentary one-week family pass to the Y, and non-members will have a chance to win a free, three-month family membership.

Families are also welcome to attend Healthy Kids Day at the Freehold Family YMCA, the Red Bank Family YMCA, and Camp Zehnder. For more information about Healthy Kids Day, mem -

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PARTICIPATE IN THE MAYOR’S HEALTH AND WELLNESS “RUN FOR HEROES” 5K AND INSPIRE YOUR COMMUNITY!

The Mayor’s Health and Wellness “Run for Heroes” 5k, a signature event in our beloved

Township, will kick off the spring season on April 20, 2024. This exciting event promotes a healthier lifestyle and brings our community closer together, showcasing the spirit of unity and camaraderie that defines Old Bridge.

Mayor Debbie Walker envisions this event as an opportunity for all residents to challenge themselves physically and mentally.

In her own words, she states, “I hope that the ‘Run for Heroes’ 5k inspires everyone to step out of their comfort zones and push their limits. It’s not just about the race; it’s about discovering the strength within ourselves.”

What sets this event apart is

the emphasis on earning rather than purchasing recognition. Every participant will not only receive a well-deserved medal and a commemorative finisher t-shirt but also the satisfaction of achieving a personal goal. The Mayor believes that these tangible rewards serve as a reminder of the dedication and hard work required to accomplish something meaningful. So lace up your running shoes, join us at the starting line, and earn your place among the heroes of Old Bridge! We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our main sponsors, Giusseppes Pizza and Old Bridge

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OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP APPOINTS

THOMAS J. MONTAGNA AS NEW CHIEF OF POLICE

On March 11, 2024, Mayor Eleanor “Debbie” Walker, appointed Thomas J. Montagna to serve as the new Chief of the Old Bridge Township Police Department. Chief Montagna was sworn in by the Township

Clerk Kathryn Hutchinson.

“After a rigorous selection process, we are pleased to have a permanent police chief in Old Bridge Township. From the onset of my term as mayor this was one of my top priorities. I am confident that under Chief Montagna’s leadership, our police department will continue to thrive and make a meaningful difference in our community,” said Mayor Eleanor “Debbie” Walker.

“I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to Mayor Debbie Walker and all those who played a part in appointing me as the Chief

of the Old Bridge Police Department. It is a privilege to assume this role, one that comes with significant responsibilities, and I am truly honored by the trust and confidence you have placed in me. Thank you for this incredible opportunity. My vision for this police department is rooted in reducing crime, community partnership, transparency, and accountability. I am honored and humbled to lead this police department, and I pledge to work tirelessly to make a positive difference in the lives of the people we

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MESSAGE FROM MAYOR DEBBIE WALKER

Dear Old Bridge Residents, Spring is in the air here in Old Bridge Township. Hopefully, the winter is behind us, and we can look forward to spending time outside and enjoying the warmer weather.

Mayor Walker’s Clean Team will kick off the litter program on Saturday, April 6th. Any nonprofit organizations who are interested in participating should contact the Clean Communities Coordinator at (732) 721-5600 x6107, or by emailing Recycling@OldBridge.com. Volunteers will be cleaning up

local roadways on various weekends now through November. Please slowdown in our town and drive with care. Let’s also make a difference by educating others about the negative impact that litter has on our environment and the appearance of the town.

The Parks and Recreation Department is in full spring mode getting our parks, fields, and courts in top condition for the upcoming season. The spring brochure is currently available and filled with programs for all age groups. The department is also looking for summer camp employees for Camp Robin, Full Day Summer Camp, and Half Day Summer Camp. Please visit www.oldbridge.com/recreation to view the job vacancies, classes, activities, and recreational opportunities Old Bridge has to offer.

I am excited to announce that the grand opening of the new turf fields at Mannino Park will be on Friday, April 12th at 10am. Please join us as we celebrate the expansion of our park.

I am also pleased to announce

the return of the Mayor’s Annual Health and Wellness 5K Race to honor our hometown heroes. The race is scheduled for Saturday, April 20th, at the Old Bridge Municipal Complex. Registration will be at 7AM, the 5K will start at 8AM, and the Kid’s Run will begin at 9AM. Participants will also be treated to a health and wellness fair at the municipal complex. For more information, and to register, please visit oldbridge.com/5k.

The Old Bridge Township Cultural Arts Committee will host an Earth Day Celebration at the municipal complex Civic Center on Saturday, April 20th, from 3PM to 6PM. The event will feature arts and crafts, vendors, displays of student recycling projects, and a performance from a recycling magician. This event is free of charge and open to the public.

Round one of spring leaf collection will begin on Monday, April 22nd in all wards. As a reminder, all leaves must be placed in paper leaf bags as plastic bags are not accepted. We will spend a few days in each ward and appreciate

your patience while collection is underway. For the full schedule, visit oldbridge.com/recycling.

I hope to see all our residents taking advantage of the many activities Old Bridge has to offer. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our coaches, parents and volunteers that work so hard to keep our children active and safe.

Finally, I hope everyone had a blessed Ramadan and Easter last month, and I wish everyone a Happy Passover with their loved ones.

Please continue to staysafe and be well.

Mayor Debbie Walker

Mayor

Debbie Walker

HACKENSACK MERIDIAN OLD BRIDGE AND RARITAN BAY MEDICAL CENTER’S NOW

Visit the Mayor ’s Office of Economic Development Old Bridge @ facebook.com\obetownedo or Twitter @ twitter.com/obedonj to check out all the exciting happenings from grand openings to groundbreaking events across the town.

YMCA HEALTHY KIDS DAY

Continued from page 1 bership or how to support the Y, visit the nonprofit’s website at ymcanj.org.

About YMCA of Greater Monmouth County

YMCA of Greater Monmouth County is here for all — to empower youth and teens, improve health and strengthen community. Over the past five years, the Y has provided more than $5 million in

financial assistance and subsidies to Y participants throughout greater Monmouth County. The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County has served the community for 150 years with programs that support healthy living and well-being for people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds. Follow the Y on www.facebook.com/ymcaGMC to connect with the Y community.

SOBFD FIRE FIGHTER OF THE MONTH: MICHAEL ALADICH JR.

Michael Aladich Jr. was born in Trenton, NJ, but has resided in Old Bridge for the last eight years. He joined South Old Bridge Fire Company and has been active for 18 months. Michael graduated from the Middlesex County Fire Academy and responded to over 250 emergency calls during his tenure. He is currently enrolled in Firefighter II,

which is advance firefighter training class. His passion for joining the fire company stems from a drive to assist the community with his interest in helping needy people. Michael’s short-term goal is to be a lieutenant within the organization and the possibility of being named captain in years to come.

Michael is a Project Manager for a renewable energy company in Hamilton, NJ.

2024 NJ CLEAN COMMUNITIES MUNICIPAL PROGRAM AWARD

Clean Communities Coordinator, received the 2024 NJ Clean Communities Municipal Program Award at the annual Sustainability Conference in Atlantic City. This award is given each year to a local government agency who achieves measurable results in reducing litter. This award speaks volumes of Barbara’s commitment to advancing the Clean Communities objective and going above and beyond to engage the residents in litter abatement activities. The State recognizes the entire Mayors Clean Team staff at Old Bridge Township for being a valued

contributor of the collective mission.rector of Public Works, accepted an award on behalf of the Public Works Department for their dedication to the Mayors Clean Team. Both Kasey Lenning and Barbara Grippe, Clean Communities Coordinator, were recognized by the Administration and Council for their hard work and dedication to the Old Bridge litter abatement program, the Mayors Clean Team. (reprinted with permission from Old Bridge Township, photo

mission from Old Bridge

A Step Above...

• Top 15% Nationally in Mathematics & Language Arts.

• Award-Winning Academic Teams.

• Extra-Curricular Clubs & Athletic Programs

• Engaging & Differentiated Instructional Strategies.

• Curriculum Aligned to Data-Driven Standards for Academic Excellence.

• Enrichment and Intervention Classes.

• Offering Art, Music, Technology/Coding, P.E., World Language

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Townshp)

(from left to right) Barbara Grippe, Clean Communities Coordinator Mayor Debbie Walker Anna Feltz, Business Administrator Kasey Lenning, Director of Public Works

WAS THE MARCH 2024 SAT TOUGHER?

While the March 6th, 2024 SAT that Christian Brother Academy (CBA) administered was reported to be in-line with the difficulty level of practice materials released by the College Board, the March 9th exam has sparked discussion in academic circles due to reports that it was more challenging than those materials. Test-takers of the March 9th exam were surprised by the discrepancy in difficulty, prompting concerns about preparedness and the effectiveness of available study resources.

The digital transition of the SAT was intended to reflect a more accurate measure of students’ readiness for college-level work, incorporating adaptive testing that adjusts the difficulty of each content area’s 2nd module based on the examinee’s performance. However, students who sat for the March 2024 exam reported that the harder 2nd module—

particularly the math— was tougher than the practice materials provided beforehand.

Critics argue that while the College Board’s intention to modernize the test and make it more relevant is commendable, the execution may have fallen short. The lack of alignment between practice materials and the actual test can lead to misaligned study efforts and undue stress among test-takers. This disparity highlights the necessity for the College Board to ensure that their practice materials accurately mirror the actual exam in difficulty.

Educational experts stress the importance of comprehensive preparation strategies that go beyond the practice materials, advocating for a broader approach to test readiness. This includes familiarizing oneself with a wide range of question types and difficulty levels, as well as building test-taking stamina and adaptability.

The feedback from the March 2024 SAT underscores the need for continuous evaluation and adjustment of the preparation

materials provided to students. As the SAT continues to evolve, so must the resources and strategies employed by students to prepare for this pivotal examination. The College Board seems to have foreseen this disparity. Yesterday (as of the writing of this article), the company released digital and linear SAT tests 5 and 6. Early reports are that the test is more in line with the difficulty of the March 9th exam. Each SAT is equated to account for variability in difficulty between tests. Hopefully the “curve” on the March 9th test is generous to students. Suggestion for a topic? You can reach me at Paul.Pscolka@ivymasters.com 833-SATsACT 833728-7228 www.ivymasters.com

LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Light of the world. That is what Jesus called Himself along with the promise that if you follow him, you won’t walk in darkness, but have the light of life.

Oddly, Jesus stated this following a tense moment with a woman caught in the act of adultery. As she was thrown before Him, the religious leaders posed this question: What should we do to her since Moses prescribed stoning?

Jesus knelt and wrote on the ground as they pressed him for an answer, and finally, He said: He who is without sin among you cast the first stone—and then He wrote on the ground some more.

In those days witnesses to a broken law were the ones to administer the justice. But here, standing before Jesus and the adulterous woman, one by one they left— and by their leaving they acknowledged they were sinners. They were halfway to understanding Jesus now, but instead of discovering His power to forgive, they all walked away unwilling to have the light shined on their own sin. A tragic

mistake—He was there to offer forgiveness.

To the woman, however, Jesus asked if there were any left to accuse her. To this, she said no, and He said: Neither, do I condemn you. Jesus wasn’t calling her innocent, but He was not condemning her, either. He was simply fulfilling His mission to rescue those honest enough to know they needed rescuing.

Please don’t leave earth without receiving the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ by acknowledging your sin and believing He can (and will!) forgive you. You will find no condemnation when you come to Jesus on earth—don’t miss the opportunity that today can be the day of your salvation!

(Reference John 8)

Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley

Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor

SPRING FUN & HAZARDS TO AVOID

By Anita Greenberg,DVM. member of Old Bridge Township Council since 2016

Much like you, your pet welcomes spring.

After a long winter cooped up indoors, it is nice to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, but take into consideration the safety of your pets.

As the weather gets warmer, fleas, ticks and heartworms become more prevalent. Be sure to use preventative medicine to stop flea infestations, tick borne illnesses and heartworm disease, which is transmitted by infected mosquitoes.

Fertilizer, herbicides, and insecticides can be toxic to pets. Keep your pets indoors while mowing the lawn, or using a weed whacker and trimmers, to avoid injury.

Decorative Easter grass or plastic Easter eggs represent choking hazards for pets and potentially intestinal obstructions, requiring surgery.

As the weather gets warmer, pets especially, cats love to nap on window sills and bird watch. Make sure the screens are secure to keep your pet from falling out the window, not only preventing injury, but also from running away.

Pets have spring allergies like their owners. With seasonal allergies the skin may be red or irritated and they may suffer hair loss. If your pet is scratching excessively, suffering from a nasal drip or watery inflamed eyes, visit your veterinarian to get medication to ameliorate the symptoms and make your pet more comfortable.

In severe cases, allergy testing (RAST blood test) is recommended.

Keep candy out of reach, especially chocolate and sugar- free candies that contain xylitol. Xylitol causes low blood sugar and, potentially, liver failure. With the time honored tradition of spring cleaning, remember to keep cleaners and chemicals away from your pets, avoid contact and consider products that are rated pet-friendly. Spring is a great time of the year for home improvements. Paints and solvents can be toxic for your pets and very messy with spills. Be cautious with nails, staples, insulation, blades and power tools. It is best to isolate your pets away from the work area.

CHAMBER CONNECTIONS:

By David L. Hernandez Jr, President Chamber of Commerce

Are you a business owner or professional looking to boost your network and energize your business?

Look no further than the exciting multi-chamber event hosted by the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Old Bridge Chamber of Commerce. Join us on April 25, 2024, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, NJ, for “Boost: A Multi-Chamber B2B Event.”

This event is designed to provide you with an exceptional networking experience while fueling collaboration among businesses. It brings together professionals from a wide range of industries, with members from the Central New Jersey Regional Chamber of Commerce, the East Brunswick Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the Old Bridge, Sayreville & South Amboy Chamber of Commerce.

One of the highlights of “B o o s t” is the speed-networking sessions. These sessions provide a fast-paced and efficient way to connect with professionals, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations. In just a short time, you can make valuable connections that can positively impact your business.

In addition to speed networking, the event also features a vendor showcase, creating opportunities for businesses to display their products and services. This showcase is an excellent platform to attract

new clients, promote your brand, and foster collaborations with other vendors. By securing a vendor table, priced at $125, you’ll receive admission for one person, a table, and two chairs, allowing you to showcase your offerings effectively.

To enhance your networking experience, the event will provide light fare to energize you throughout the evening. Additionally, a cash bar will be available, providing a relaxed atmosphere for further networking and relationship building. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to connect with professionals and explore new business opportunities.

Tickets for this event are $50 for chamber members and $60 for non-members. Whether you’re a member or not, this event offers tremendous value for your investment. Don’t miss out on the chance to boost your business and expand your professional network.

To purchase tickets or learn more about the event, visit the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce website at www. macocnj.com. If you have any questions or need further information, don’t hesitate to contact the MACOC office at info@ macocnj.com or call (732) 290-1125.

Attention business owners and professionals! Mark your calendars for April 25, 2024, and join us at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, NJ, for “B o o s t: A Multi-Chamber B2B Event.” This event promises to be a powerful platform to energize your business, fuel collaboration, and expand your network. We look forward to seeing you there!

SPRING INTO WELLNESS: EMBRACING RENEWAL WITH ELLIE MENTAL HEALTH

Billie-Jo Stuto LCSW, LCADC, CCS Clinic Director Ellie Mental Health, Old Bridge

Spring is much more than a seasonal shift; it presents an opportunity for mental and spiritual renewal. As nature undergoes its annual rejuvenation, we are reminded of the potential for fresh beginnings and revitalization. Spring cleaning, a beloved tradition, not only helps us organize our physical spaces but also encourages inner decluttering and mental rejuvenation.

Just as we clear physical clutter, we can also free our minds from negative thoughts and habits. Creating space for positivity and growth can lead to reduced stress, improved mood, and mental clarity. Here are three effective areas to jumpstart your wellness journey:

Movement: Engage in activities like walking, gardening, or dancing. Connection: Reach out to friends, attend wellness events, or sched -

ule a therapy appointment.

Cultivation: Set intentions for the new season, practice gratitude, and try new experiences.

At Ellie Mental Health, we understand the significance of this transformative process. We are excited to announce the opening of our new outpatient mental health clinic in Old Bridge. Our approach is centered around innovative, community-based solutions, focusing on you as the core of our efforts.

As we open our doors, we invite you to join us in this journey of self-renewal and growth. Let’s work together to break down barriers to mental health care and build a stronger, healthier community. Contact us today and take the first step towards nurturing your mental health and revitalizing your spirit this spring.

OLD BRIDGE, NJ

732-344-4583

PARTICIPATE IN THE MAYOR’S HEALTH AND WELLNESS “RUN FOR HEROES” 5K AND INSPIRE YOUR COMMUNITY!

Continued from page 1

Medical Center, whose generous support has made this event possible. Carlo Castronovo, Owner of Giusseppes, is no stranger to running. He once completed one of the most challenging races in the country called the “Grand to Grand” to raise funds for children’s medical research. He said,”I love the opportunity to be a part of this great town and to give back. Its also nice to be able to have a race in our back yard with so many friends”. All of our sponsors are committed to the well-being of our community is truly commendable. We would also like to thank our numerous event sponsors for their contributions, as their support ensures that this event is accessible to all.

The Mayor’s Health and Wellness “Run for Heroes” 5k is not just a race; it is an experience that will create lasting memories. Whether you are a seasoned runner or a first-time participant, this event offers something for everyone. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of unity, resilience, and healthy living that defines our

IN MEMORIAM

ROBERT PATRICK GROSS

MARCH 16, 1960 - MARCH 24, 2024

wonderful community of Old Bridge. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to challenge yourself, inspire others, and be part of something greater. Register now and mark your calendars for April 20, 2024. Together, let’s run for heroes!

NICHOLAS RICHARD GENTILE

DECEMBER 26, 1997 - MARCH 22, 2024

NICHOLAS DE LEO

NOVEMBER 19, 1959 - MARCH 22, 2024

CORNELL B. DATZKIWSKY

JUNE 25, 1951 - MARCH 10, 2024

DIANE SCHRODER

SEPTEMBER 11, 1954 - MARCH 7, 2024

MARY ROSE MULVANERTON

JUNE 10, 1959 - MARCH 6, 2024

For more information and registration details, please visit our the ad on page 5.

PASQUALE GIMELI

NOVEMBER 9, 1956 - MARCH 20, 2024

MICHAEL D’AMICO

JUNE 3, 1947 - MARCH 15, 2024

CAROL IRENE CROCCO

DECEMBER 23, 1943 - MARCH 11, 2024

ELMER TAYLOR

JULY 5, 1934 - MARCH 5, 2024

LINDA JOHNSON

APRIL 25, 1949 - MARCH 1, 2024

FREE ADMISSION TO SOME OF THE BEST MUSEUMS IN THE AREA FROM OBPL

Visit some of the area’s best loved arts, science and cultural destinations for free with the museum pass program at Old Bridge Public Library: Academy of Natural Sciences (Philadelphia)

Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial (NJ)

Brooklyn Botanic Garden (Brooklyn)

Intrepid Museum (Manhattan)

Morris Museum (New Jersey)

Newark Museum (New Jersey)

The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms (NJ)

Wheaton Arts (NJ)

While the Battleship New Jersey is currently being renovated, it will reopen in June – just in time for summer vacation. OBPL passes can save you up to $120 for four adults and children. Similar with Intrepid. Art and craft lovers can flock to the Morris, Newark, Stickley and Wheaton Museums for glass blowing demonstrations, historic architecture, fashion, sculpture and design. Gardening and nature fans can save up to $36 when visiting the Japanese designs at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Save up to $40 when visiting the Academy of Natural Sciences AND being inspired by Dinos at Dark or Animals of the Rainforest.

At Old Bridge Public Library we love bringing the world’s knowledge and learning home to our community. Whether you want to check out books, download movies, access news online or take a trip to have an in-person

CREDITS, DEDUCTIONS: ITEMIZED OR STANDARD

If you lived in a “flat tax” world when you receive income, you pay tax on the money received. We don’t live in a flat tax world.

Money received is income, but is all the income taxable? Accountants talk about credits “above the line”, “tax deductible”, or “tax exempt”, but what does it really mean?

A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar amount of money that can reduce your income and is an “above the line” amount. A credit lowers the income amounts and determines your adjusted gross income (AGI). A 401k or IRA contribution is a credit and reduces your adjusted gross income, AGI.

A tax deduction is an expense you can subtract from your adjusted gross income. Itemized expenses are charitable contributions or medical expenses that can be deducted from your income. A credit is better

than a deduction at lowering your income. Combined, a credit and a deduction lower your taxable income. Your income level determines your tax percentage rate. Your percentage rate determines your tax. The lower your income level, the lower your tax. A standard deduction is a flat deduction, it does not include your expenses, it is a final amount to deduct from your income. To determine your final tax, use the higher amount, either itemized or standard. You can decide which one to use, itemized or standard. The choice is yours.

Nora L Schmitz EA MBA

Litz Tax & Consulting

21 Ernston Rd Parlin, NJ 08859 732-952-5252

HELLO FROM HAUSER HILL FARMS!

It’s a busy time of year here on the farm and we are happy to see some warmer weather. We have been busy getting everything going in the greenhouses, seeds planted, and cuttings made. We appreciate your business through the winter for self-service eggs and some produce we had leftover. We are planning on opening May 1, but may be open some weekends in April depending on the weather. Keep an eye out and follow us on Instagram and

Facebook for more information. We’ll have lots of vegetable plants, bedding plants, shrubs, perennials and hanging baskets. Come see us at the stand at 261 Ticetown Road from Tuesday – Sunday 9-5 or at one of our Farmers Markets. We’re in Keyport and Rahway (Rahway starting 6/6) on Thursdays and Red Bank on Sundays (starting May 12). Highlands will begin in June. Hope to see you soon!

OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP APPOINTS THOMAS J. MONTAGNA

AS NEW CHIEF OF POLICE

Continued from page 1 serve. Together, we can build a stronger and safer community,” said Chief Montagna.

Chief Thomas Montagna served in the Old Bridge Police Department for almost 25 years starting in 1999 as a patrol officer. He has also served in the Detective Bureau-Criminal Investigations and the Narcotics Bureau. He was promoted to sergeant in 2015 and to lieutenant in 2022. He was instrumental in establishing the school security program in 2018 which put Old Bridge at the forefront of school security.

Chief Montagna began his law enforcement career with the Spotswood Police Department in 1993 where he served for six years. Throughout his 33 years of service, Chief Montagna has received numerous commendations and awards including the Honorable Service Award from the Monmouth and Ocean County Intelligence Bureau, the Unit Citation Award, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Life Saving Award, and the Gallantry Star. He has also received many letters of gratitude from the public for his assistance and support.