John Hauser of Browntown Bus Service, Inc., was honored by the New Jersey School Bus Contractors Association on June 27th at the organization’s annual meeting at Forsgate Country Club. The lifetime achievement award “Roots to Routes” was given to John in recognition of his contributions during his 50 years in the school bus business and recognizes the important role farmers have traditionally played in school bus transportation. John is past President of the NJSBCA and has served as a director for more than 30 years. Dan Jauch, current President of the NJSBCA said, “John is a giver and a friend to many. If you need something, he shows up. He has given a lot to our industry and means a lot to the industry.” Browntown Bus Service was started by John’s father, Clarence in the early
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SALTWATER DAY KICKS OFF AUGUST 10TH
Saltwater Day is a fantastic festival on the beach, located at the Old Bridge Waterfront Park in Laurence Harbor on Saturday August 10, 2024, from 2pm -10pm.
Admission is free to this fun filled day!! Come over and join us; we have vendors of every type, from toys, face painting, henna, jewelry, homemade doggie treats, all kinds of beautiful handmade crafts, clothes, hats, handbags, and sunglasses just to name a few.
The kids will love the rides and keep them busy for hours, we have mechanical rides, obstacle courses, bounces, and interactive adventures. Tickets are $2 each, 7 for $12 or a wristband for $25 ride cost is 1-2 tickets each. Stay for Lunch or Dinner our handpicked food trucks are serving some delicious dishes!! We have BBQ, Seafood, Greek delights, Latin Cuisine, all American Burgers and Hot Dogs to
OFFICER DESARO SIGNS OFF AFTER 25 YEARS
On Monday, July 1, 2024, Chief Thomas J. Montagna and the rest of the Old Bridge Police Department celebrated the retirement of Officer Michael Desario, marking the end of his distinguished 25-year career with a heartfelt walkout ceremony and last call.
Officer Desario walked out of Police Headquarters for the last time, surrounded by his fellow officers, family, friends, and
other Township employees. The ceremony was a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated a significant portion of his life to serving and protecting Old Bridge Township with unwavering commitment and integrity.
Throughout his career, Officer Desario has been a model officer, demonstrating professionalism and compassion in every aspect of his duty. His contributions have helped shape a positive relationship between our department and the community we serve. From his service as a patrol officer to mentoring new
start off with!! Then on to dessert, our food court is loaded with all your festival favorites from Ice Cream, Ice’s, Zeppole’s, and fried everything!! The Laurence Harbor Fire Department will be back with the Beer Garden to wash down all that good food and rock the night away to the bands. $10.00 mugs and $2.00 tickets
Live Music starts at 5pm!!
Shaman, a fantastic Santana tribute band, and Stars of Motown
We are hoping to wrap up the night with our annual spectacular Fireworks Show at 930!!!
Any businesses out there who wish to contribute toward the fireworks show? Your company will be credited with your generous donation on our website, Facebook pages & the TV commercials. There is no onsite parking available, please visit www.
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Officers, Officer Desario has left an indelible mark on all of us.
As we bid farewell to Officer Desario, we express our deepest gratitude for his 25 years of service. His legacy will continue to inspire current and future members of the Old Bridge Police Department. We wish him a happy and fulfilling retirement.
Thank you, Officer Desario, for your remarkable service and dedication to the Old Bridge Township community. You will be greatly missed.
(reprinted with permission from OB Police dept)
MESSAGE FROM MAYOR DEBBIE WALKER
Dear Old Bridge Residents, I hope you are enjoying your summer!
Throughout the summer months, there is much to see and do here In Old Bridge Township. For great family and friend outings, please visit our local parks and fields for some outdoor recreation. We have fantastic outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy, including the beautiful recently unveiled Cottrell Farm Park.
By now you have received your new tax bill. The large increase you notice has come from the Old Bridge Board of Education which makes up 58% of your bill. The Board of Education is a separate entity with their own budget. For any questions, please contact the Old Bridge Board of Education Administration.
As a reminder the Old Bridge Public Library is a cooling center, charging station, and hydration station during its regular business hours. The Old Bridge Police Lobby serves as a cooling center after hours. For more information on cooling centers in New Jersey, please call 211, text
your zip code to 898211, or visit nj211.org.
The nationally accredited Silver Linings Center continues to develop new and exciting social, wellness and lifestyle programs to service the seniors of our community. A full calendar of activities is planned for August 2024. If interested in joining the fun, call 732-721-5600 x6600 to set up an appointment to register, or visit the Township website at oldbridge.com/ silverlinings for more information. The Silver Linings Center also provides services including a senior lunch program, transportation, guidance with healthcare and pharmaceutical plans, and so much more.
The Old Bridge Township Police Department will host its 2nd annual National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6th from 6pm to 9pm in the Municipal Complex parking lot. Come meet and interact with the officers of the police department, learn about the many vehicles they will have on display, and participate in various activities such as face painting, bounce houses, music, and demonstrations.
The Old Bridge Township Department of Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce our annual Saltwater Day which
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OLD BRIDGE WELCOMES TOP TOMATO WITH A RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY ON
THURSDAY, JUNE 27TH
MESSAGE FROM MAYOR DEBBIE WALKER
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will take place on Saturday, August 10th from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This event will have arts, crafts, vendors, rides, entertainment, food, and conclude with fireworks. Live music will be played throughout the day. For our 21 and older guests, the Laurence Harbor Fire Department will be hosting a beer garden, proof of age required. This event will take place rain or shine. I would like to thank all the local organizations that have participated during the summer months with the Clean
Team in conjunction with the Township’s Public Works Recycling Department.
As you enjoy the remainder of your summer, please continue to be safe and stay well.
Mayor Debbie Walker
WHEN AUTO ACCIDENTS OCCUR YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
Recently, I voted against Governor Murphy’s record breaking $56.6 billion budget. Murphy’s spending plan included state aid cuts to the Old Bridge Township School District. For seven consecutive years, Old Bridge Township schools have not received the State tax dollars they deserve based on equitable
distribution of monies paid by our residents. Rather, this money is sent to other districts. This has regretfully forced the district to make necessary decisions that impact the faculty, students and taxpayers.
Furthermore, Governor Murphy’s budget lacked transparency, having proposed his $56.6 billion budget one hour prior to the Senate Budget Meeting with no input from Republicans.
In a time when so many New Jerseyans are struggling to make ends meet, this State budget will only exacerbate the affordability crisis we are already dealing with. The people of the Garden State deserve better than this sham.
By Dr. Anthony DeLuca Director, DeLuca Family Chiropractic in Old Bridge, New Jersey
JOHN HAUSER HONORED BY SCHOOL BUS INDUSTRY
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Continued from page 1 1950’s transporting students to Matawan to attend high school. Later, in the 1960’s when then Madison Township saw the need to bus students to the new Madison Township High School, Clarence became the bus driver for many local students. It was also a good way to have income when their other business, Hauser Hill Farms, was in the off season. When John graduated from Delaware Valley College
in 1974, he returned home to farm and join his father in the bus business. Clarence passed away in 1986, and John continued farming and operating Browntown Bus Service. The business has grown over the years to include van and car service to local airports and cruise terminals. John has always given back to the community by serving on many boards and community organizations and he is an important member of the Old Bridge community.
SALTWATER DAY 2024
oldbridge.com or our Facebook page ‘Saltwater Day” https://www.facebook. com/obswd for the most up to date information, Shuttle schedule and pick up information will be posted by August 1st. General Shuttle & Parking Information- Shuttles will be available from… Cheesequake Village, Metro Park South, Memorial School, Cliffwood Beach 7-11, & Divers Cove Lot. Additional Parking will be available at Saint Laurence Church AFTER 6pm There’s something here for absolutely everyone, spanning every generation from
the nature lover, the gothic, the fashionista, pet lovers and everyone in between. Did you know the tradition of Saltwater Day started in the 1600’s with the Lenape Indians? Saltwater day is a long tradition in Old Bridge Township, and is sponsored by Old Bridge Township, Middlesex County and Laurence Harbor First Aid Squad. For additional information, vendor applications or if your company would like to be a sponsor, please contact Lisa Valsera, Deputy Director of Old Bridge Parks & Recreation. Lvalsera@oldbridge.com
THE ACT IS CHANGING
By Paul Pscolka
A few months ago, a student took a mock SAT and a mock ACT to see which test was comparably higher. When the results were in, it was no contest—she scored an 1170 on the SAT. Her 27 on the ACT was the equivalent of a 1280 on the SAT. Mother and daughter were both astonished— the daughter preferred to take the SAT because she found it easier. I explained that, if we prepped for the SAT, she would have to make a decent improvement just to be at the starting point of her ACT score. She prepped for the ACT.
Apparently, my student is not the only one who prefers the SAT. The ACT has been losing market share since the section adaptive, computer based, 41 minute-shorter SAT was rolled out. The ACT had to act fast.
The non-profit ACT was purchased in April by a private equity firm, Nexus Capital Management. Three months after the acquisition, the ACT announced the biggest changes to the test since 1989. The test will now
• have an optional science section (science is required in the current iteration of the test)
• be shorter—2 hours and 5 minutes
without the science, 2 hours and 45 minutes with the science (the current test is 2 hours and 55 minutes)
• have more time per question—58 seconds per question (the current test allots 49 seconds per question)
The new ACT will have a paper and a digital option but will otherwise be identical to each other. The test will first be administered online beginning in April of 2025 on national test dates. The first new paper and pencil test is expected in September of 2025 national test dates.
Will these changes begin the demise of the ACT or will it help increase the ACT’s market share? Only time will tell.
Suggestion for a topic? You can reach me at Paul.Pscolka@ivymasters.com
732-485-6480 www.ivymasters.com
SOBFD FIRE FIGHTER OF THE MONTH: GREGG LOCASCIO
Gregg is a lifelong resident of Old Bridge, with most of his time in the Sayrewood South section. He followed in his father’s footsteps as a trained plumber and being a firefighter at Engine Company #2, on Throckmorton Lane. Gregg graduated from the fire academy last year, and has two children. Gregg has shown interest in becoming a Company Trustee or Lieutenant. In his spare time, he plays the guitar and the drums. When not playing music, he could be found cheering on his New York Mets, New Jersey Devils, and most of all the Dallas Cowboys.
BACK TO SCHOOL AND PEDIATRIC SUBSPECIALTIES: ENSURING YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH
Patricia Carroll, FACHE, President and Chief Hospital Executive, Raritan Bay Medical Center and Old Bridge Medical Center
As the summer winds down and the new school year approaches, it’s important to ensure your child’s health is in tip-top shape. This includes scheduling any necessary checkups and appointments with our brand new pediatric subspecialist group.
As parents, we want what is best for our children. I’m proud to inform you of our brand new comprehensive range of pediatric subspecialty services to meet your child’s unique needs. Our dedicated team of experienced and compassionate providers are committed to providing the highest quality care for children of all ages.
Our Pediatric Subspecialties group at Hackensack Meridian
wide range of surgical conditions in children, from minor procedures to complex surgeries.
•Pediatric Gastroenterology: Our pediatric gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating digestive disorders in children, including abdominal pain, constipation, and inflammatory bowel disease.
•Pediatric Rheumatology: Our pediatric rheumatologists diagnose and
•Pediatric Nephrology: Our pediatric nephrologists specialize in treating kidney diseases in children, including kidney failure and urinary tract infections.
•Pediatric Pulmonology: Our pediatric pulmonologists diagnose and treat respiratory conditions in children, such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and pneumonia.
•And coming in October,
Pediatric Cardiology: Our pediatric cardiologists will specialize in diagnosing and treating heart conditions in children, including congenital heart defects and arrhythmias.
In addition to scheduling appointments, here are some additional tips for ensuring your child’s health as they head back to school:
• Make sure your child is up-to-date on all their vaccinations.
• Encourage your child to wash their hands frequently.
• Talk to your child about the importance of staying hydrated.
• Make sure your child gets enough sleep. I hope you and your family have a healthy and successful school year! Remember, we are always here to help you and our community.
• Pack healthy lunches and snacks.
OLD BRIDGE WELCOMES
SAYRE WOODS SOUTH BASEBALL KNIGHTS 12U WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP!
The Sayre Woods South Baseball Knights 12U team achieved an extraordinary and historical milestone by clinching the state championship, showcasing an impressive display of skill, teamwork, and determination throughout the tournament. Their journey to the state championship was marked by a series of intense and challenging games, where they consistently outperformed their competitors through strategic plays, exceptional pitching, and timely hitting. The championship game itself was a testament to their hard work and dedication, as they faced a tough opponent with resilience and composure. The coaching staff played a pivotal role, offering guidance and fostering a supportive environment
that encouraged the players to excel and stay focused under pressure. This victory not only highlighted the individual talents of the players but also underscored the strength of their collective effort and sportsmanship. The Sayre Woods South Baseball Knights 12U team’s triumph in the state championship is a source of immense pride for their community, symbolizing the culmination of a season filled with dedication, hard work, and a shared passion for the game. Their achievement serves as an inspiration to future teams and a shining example of the power of perseverance and teamwork in youth sports. Come be a part of our SWSBL Family and make memories that will last a lifetime.
PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE: YOUR LIBRARY AS A TRAVEL HUB!
Libraries are no longer just quiet places filled with books—we’re transforming into exciting travel centers! Imagine a place where you can get your passport, learn a new language, and have a blast preparing for your next adventure, all under one roof. Need a passport? We have you covered! You can make an appointment at the library or just pop in with your filledout forms, and you’re ready to jet off to new destinations. It’s super convenient. We even do your passport pictures! Don’t forget your travel guides. You can
download it straight to your phone using one of our many e-reader apps for easy access when you’re traveling, or you can pick up the physical book to bring with you!
But wait! Before you pack your bags, why not learn some local language? We offer fantastic resources like Pronunciator, a language learning database, that is free with your library card! You’ll be bargaining at markets in fluent Vietnamese in no time. And if online learning isn’t for you, we offer another way to acquire the skills to say “Where is the restroom?” in print format in our Language Learning section. And here’s the fun part—if you are unable to go away, we offer a diverse array of services and activities to help you escape. With access to books, movies, music, and community events, the library is a gateway to cultural enrichment right in your neighborhood, without leaving town. So, whether you’re planning a quick getaway, grand international adventure, or a vacation in your head, your library is the ultimate travel buddy. We’re here to help you make travel planning exciting and accessible for everyone. Bon voyage!
REDISCOVERING AMERICA’S FOUNDATION: A CALL TO RETURN TO MORAL ROOTS
George Washington, in his Farewell Address, highlighted the critical role of religion and morality in promoting national prosperity, quoting Proverbs 14:34: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”
Today, America finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with the dire consequences of moral decay and relativism. The recent attempt on former President Trump’s life has starkly revealed a nation that was once founded on biblical principles, now struggling with widespread discord and a loss of moral direction. Our founding documents, far from being oppressive, celebrated each individual’s inherent worth and dignity with a commitment to justice and virtue. How far have we strayed from the principles guiding our nation’s birth?
Deeply held religious beliefs in gender fluidity, critical theory, abortion, and
subjective truth stand in stark contrast to the values that once shaped our nation. Scripture is commemorated throughout our capital, echoing the influence of divine wisdom in shaping our laws and values. Even atop the Washington Monument, the words “Praise God” remind us of our spiritual heritage.
Psalm 33:12 declares, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD.” The founding fathers, deeply influenced by biblical teachings, embedded these principles into our nation’s framework. John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, and James Madison all drew upon Scripture to guide their vision for a just and prosperous society. Let us reclaim the virtue that once defined us, recognizing that our nation’s strength lies not in political ideologies alone but in our devotion to the timeless truths upon which America was built. In doing so, we properly honor our past, navigate our present challenges, and secure a future where righteousness continues to exalt our nation.
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor
OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS FACE SIGNIFICANT TAX INCREASE
Residents of Old Bridge Township recently experienced a substantial increase in their property tax bills. Notably, the Board of Education portion, which constitutes 58% of the overall tax bill, saw a 9.9% increase in their tax levy for the 2024-2025 school year. This latest tax bill, which is billed for calendar year 2024 reflects 5.7% of that increase. Breakdown of the Tax Increase
The fiscal year for the Board of Education runs from July 1st through June 30th. As such, only a portion of the tax increase is
currently reflected, with the remaining part impacting residents in the next tax bill cycle. Governance and Budget Approval
It’s important to note that the Old Bridge Board of Education operates independently from the township. The Board of Education has its own board members who vote on budgetary matters and decisions. Contact Information for Inquiries
For any questions or further details regarding the tax increase, residents are encouraged to contact the Old Bridge Board of Education directly.
WHEN AUTO ACCIDENTS OCCUR
By Dr. Anthony DeLuca Director, DeLuca Family Chiropractic in Old Bridge, New Jersey
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tistics listed by DriverKnoweldge.com should stun staggering anyone who does not regularly wear a seatbelt. As stated by the website,1 in 7 people do not wear a seatbelt while driving even though they reduce the risk of death by 45% and cut the risk of serious injury by 50%. In addition, people who don’t wear seatbelts are also 30 times more likely to be ejected from the vehicle during a crash. Next, do not drink and drive. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the National Safety Council and National Institute of Health reported more than 10,000 deaths from drunk driving collisions from 2006-2016. Every day, almost 30 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes daily, while more than 1,900 people in 2018 were killed in alcohol-related crashes where drivers had lower alcohol levels as stated by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Another serious problem on today’s road is distracted driving. Once again, DriversKnowledge.com’s statistics are spot-on. Every year, more than 1060 people are injured in crashes that involve a distracted driver. This includes being more than 23 times more likely
to crash while texting and driving.
In addition, researchers have proven the correlation between cellphone use and reckless driving. Some studies have even equated handsfree operation to driving drunk. One university found that motorists who spoke on handsfree cellphones were 18 percent slower in braking.
So, you can be the safest driver in the world and still be the victim of the other guy’s bad decisions. As a result, it’s always important to drive safe and smart. But, if catastrophe or the other guy should strike, it is imperative to reach out for the proper certified care. The right treatment can oftentimes not only reduce pain and increase flexibility, but overcome weeks, months, or even years of needless suffering. For more information on methods for treating the injuries and pain associated with motor vehicle incidents please contact DeLuca Family Chiropractic at (732) 679-2414 or visit our website at www.dfccares.com. The office’s professional staff located at 2309 Hwy 516 in Old Bridge, NJ is dedicated to tailoring chiropractic programs targeted toward wellness and personal injury.
DETECTIVE SPINOLA 25
On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, Chief Thomas J. Montagna and the rest of the Old Bridge Police Department celebrated the retirement of Detective Addie Spinola, marking the end of her distinguished 25-year career.
Detective Spinola began her career with the Old Bridge Police Department as a patrolwoman in 1999, following in the footsteps of her father and brother, who also proudly served as police officers in the Old Bridge Police Department. In 2015 she joined the Detective Bureau where she made a significant impact through her professionalism, integrity, and compassionate approach to law enforcement.
Detective Spinola has been a mentor and
a friend to many of their colleagues. Her experience, generosity, and sense of humor will be greatly missed by all who have had the privilege to work alongside her.
As Detective Spinola steps into this new chapter of her life, we wish her all the best in retirement. We know she is looking forward to traveling and spending time with her family and her beloved dogs, and we hope she enjoys every moment of her well-deserved time off.
Thank you, Detective Spinola, for your many years of service and dedication. You have made a lasting impact on our department and our community. Congratulations on your retirement!
• Top 15% Nationally in Mathematics & Language Arts.
• Curriculum Aligned to Data-Driven Standards for Academic Excellence.
• Enrichment and Intervention Classes.
• Offering Art, Music, Technology/Coding, P.E., World Language
EVERY DONATION CAN HELP SAVE UP TO 3 LIVES
Jessica Uveges LoNigro was a loving daughter, wife, granddaughter, sister, auntie, niece, cousin, teacher, coach, friend and member of the Old Bridge community. She had a talent unsurpassed for enhancing the lives of everyone she touched.
To continue her tireless circle of outreach, her family and friends created this blood drive in her memory.
From year one it became apparent that, like Jessica, this bi-annual event was going to be more than a blood drive. In her likeness a special community was born.
Each year the event grew bigger. The same donors were back and brought friends. The young children who were entertained at the kids table are now grown and eager to donate.
The staff from New Jersey Blood Services became very familiar faces.
Each year the banter and laughter from that side of the room gets louder.
We sponsor a drive each September and again in December. In our 9 years, our drives have collected over 2600 units of blood, which have gone forward to reach and help 8031 recipients!
Our family would like to thank our loyal volunteers for their time and efforts, as well as the businesses and organizations that have supported us.
Created by a grieving family to honor the memory of a remarkable woman, this drive has grown into a wonderful lesson on how to serve others. May it continue for years to come.
