This is the year of Champions. Following up with Old Bridge youth Baseball winning a State title. The Old Bridge Rebels 7th grade team wins the New Jersey Suburban Youth Football Super Bowl Game. Led by Coach Chino Muniz in a tight game going down to the wire vs Scotch Plans Fanwood the 7th grade team sealed the victory with a interception by Julian Muniz with under a min left. The team showed no quit from the start. They found their selfs behind early in The game until Julian Muniz broke a 75 yard run finding himself into the endzone 2 plays later with a 10 yard rushing touchdown. Coming out the half
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LAST FEW WEEKS TO DONATE TO TOYS FOR TOTS
Now, we are in our Holiday season again, All Around Old Bridge, Old Bridge Chamber of Commerce and Old Bridge Business Alliance wants to give back to our most prized community members, our children, this season with a goal of 3,000 toys to donate, we can reach that goal this year with your help. Just think the smiles we will bring to the children this year. Each year, the residents and businesses of Old Bridge support those in need around the holidays
by participating in our Annual Giving Event “Toys for Tots”, we will begin collecting donations through December 14th to help provide the much-needed joy the children deserve for the holidays. Over the last few years, we have collected 10,000 toys and watched as residents both from and outside Old Bridge lent a helping- hand. With a donation from each of our businesses and residents, we can help provide toys for many children this holiday season, together we can make a difference.
VFW HONORED FOR 125TH ANNIVERSARY
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) was founded in 1899 by a small group of veterans who returned from campaigns in Cuba and in the Philippines. They banded together to create a veterans organization that would advocate on behalf of all veterans. The VFW is a nonprofit service organization comprised of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, guard
and reserve forces. The VFW’s mission is to foster camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts, to serve our veterans, the military and our communities, and to advocate on behalf of all veterans. Since its inception, the VFW has been instrumental in the establishment of the Veterans Administration, the national cemetery system, and the creation of every national veterans’ memori-
To make your donation, you can drop off a toy at any drop off locations, page 6, or call Anthony Cosentino 732-7132295 for more information.
al. The VFW has played a vital role in virtually every significant piece of veterans legislation passed in the 20th and 21st centuries to include the Honoring Our PACT Act, the most significant expansion of veterans benefits in history.
The VFW’s 125th anniversary is observed on September 29, 2024, and this date shall officially be known as VFW Day. At the Town Council Meeting on November 18, 2024, Mayor Debbie Walker proclaimed September 29th as VFW Day in honor of the VFW’s invaluable contributions to the veteran community in Old Bridge and around the world. She read, “We hereby stand with the VFW to ensure veterans are respected for their service, always receive their earned entitlements, and are recognized for the sacrifices they and their loved ones have made on behalf of this great country”.
MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
Dear Old Bridge Residents, It’s hard to believe that we are now at the end of another busy, successful year and the holiday season is in full swing.
On Thursday, December 5th at 10am, at Silver Linings in the George Bush Center, Old Bridge Township will commemorate the 83rd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor with our annual wreath laying ceremony. All are welcome to join us as we lay the wreath and read a proclamation to honor and remember all our brave veterans.
To kick off the holiday season at the Township, we will be hosting our annual celebration by lighting the township Christmas Tree and Menorah. I would like to extend an invitation to all our residents to join us in celebrating with Santa in the Civic Center of the Municipal Complex on Tuesday, December 17th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. There will be pictures with Santa, cookies, face painting, arts & crafts, and more. The Tree and Menorah will be lit at 6:30pm in the municipal courtyard. I would like to take this opportunity
to reflect on the past year. Our Memorial Day parade and 9-11 Memorial Ceremony honored those who have sacrificed for our country. Due to inclement weather, our annual Saltwater Day was cancelled, and we hosted a Beach Bash at a later date for residents to enjoy. Our annual Old Bridge Day and Apple Festival events had great turnouts, and the Old Bridge Township Police Department hosted its 2nd annual National Night Out. We also celebrated the long-awaited grand opening of Cottrell Farm Park, in addition to the new turf fields at Mannino Park. We had many other ribbon cutting ceremonies throughout the year and are continuing to welcome many new businesses to town. My administration continues to work hard to keep our residents safe and to keep the economy growing.
Thank you to all our residents, businesses, and township employees for making 2024 such a successful year. I wish you all a blessed and merry holiday season and a happy and healthy New Year.
Debbie Walker
OB VOLLEYBALL WINS CENTRAL JERSEY GROUP IV CHAMPIONSHIP
By Dayami Viloria
On November 12, the girls’ varsity volleyball team won the Central Jersey Group IV Championship against number one seed Hunterdon Central. The girls dominated the game, winning 2-1. The Knights battled in front of a hostile home crowd and their own fans who took the game bus on the road. “The
game was going back and forth the entire time, but as soon as we hit game point, 24, I immediately got a burst of emotions flood my body, knowing we were so close,” said junior Weronika Malinowski, who contributed five kills.
The girls played an intense match, but they stayed focused. “The team has put so much effort and dedication this whole season, and it’s amazing to see it all come together,” said sophomore Ashely Markle, who led the game with 18 kills. “We came in very prepared and ready for whatever is to come.”
Last year, the Knights lost the CJG4 Championship but redeemed themselves in the Hunterdon match. “The fact that we came so far and were so close to actually winning it was also a key factor,” said Maya Lupinski.
“Our energy just kept going up every single play,” said freshman Jannah Khali. “Every time we got a kill, a good up or serve, my motivation just kept going up.” The team won the first set 25-15 and the third set 25-20, securing the victory. Originally posted on KnightLifeOB.com.
YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
I am writing to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who participated in the recent elections. Your commitment to our democratic process is truly inspiring and essential to the health and vitality of our community. A special thank you to all the candidates who put their names on the ballot. Democracy thrives when citizens actively participate in the electoral process. By casting your vote, you have exercised one of the most fundamental rights and responsibilities we have as citizens. Your commitment to our democratic values ensures that or government remains of the
people, by the people, and for the people. I also want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the election workers and volunteers who made this election possible. Their efforts are the backbone of our democracy, and we owe them a debt of gratitude for their service.
As we move forward, I encourage you to stay informed, get involved in community issues and continue to advocate for positive change. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your holidays be filled with joy, warmth, and good cheer.
DON’T LET PAIN & DEPRESSION CONTROL YOUR LIFE
By Dr. Anthony DeLuca Director, DeLuca Family Chiropractic in Old Bridge
Senator Owen Henry
PREPARING KIDS FOR COLLEGE
By Paul Pscolka
Sending a child off to college is a proud yet daunting time for families. Preparing early can help both parents and students navigate this transition with confidence.
Fostering Independence
Encourage independence long before move-in day. Teaching children to handle challenges on their own during high school can ease their adjustment to college life and bring parents peace of mind.
Balancing Support and Space
At university, students need to feel supported yet independent. Regular but non-intrusive communication reassures them that they are loved while giving them space to grow.
Teaching Self-Advocacy
Students who know how to advocate for themselves—whether by seeking help from professors or addressing personal issues—tend to thrive. Parents who instill this skill worry less.
Building Responsibility
Time management and academic discipline are key to success in college. Reinforcing responsibility during the teenage years helps prepare students to juggle deadlines, classes, and social life effectively.
Discussing Finances
Open conversations about budgeting and
spending ensure both students and parents avoid financial strain. Setting boundaries on expenses prevents surprises down the road.
Encouraging Exploration
College is a time for discovery. Students flourish when they explore new interests, whether through courses or extracurricular activities. Parents should encourage curiosity, knowing growth often comes from stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
Celebrating Achievements
Only 7% of the world’s population holds a bachelor’s degree, making this milestone worth celebrating. Parents can take pride in their child’s journey and accomplishments.
The Bottom Line
Sending a child to college is transformative for any family. By fostering independence, teaching responsibility, and celebrating milestones, parents can guide their children to thrive in this new chapter while embracing the journey themselves. Suggestion for a topic? You can reach me at info@ivymasters.com
833-SATsACT (833-7287228) www.ivymasters.com
WISHING YOU A SAFE AND JOYOUS HOLIDAY
The Fire Prevention Staff of Old Bridge Fire District #3 would like to extend our warmest wishes to all township residents this holiday season. As you celebrate with family and friends, we encourage everyone to prioritize safety while enjoying the festivities. Remember to check your smoke detectors and ensure they are functioning properly. If you’re using space heaters, keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended. When cooking, stay in the kitchen to avoid accidental fires, and
PRIORITIZING MENTAL HEALTH DURING THE HOLIDAYS
Patricia Carroll, President, Chief Hospital Executive, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Centers.
As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to the joy, warmth, and togetherness this time of year promises. Yet for others, the holidays bring an emotional burden that can feel overwhelming. As the President of Old Bridge Medical Center, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles that many in our community face during this time. The pressures of family expectations, financial concerns, loneliness, and grief often surface more intensely during the holiday season, leading to increased mental health challenges. This year, it’s more important than ever to address this issue head-on and provide the support our community needs. The holiday season amplifies existing stressors. “For individuals battling mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, this time can exacerbate symptoms. The sense of isolation can be particularly stark for those who may be without close family or who have recently experienced a loss. In my role, I see how grief, when coupled with festive gatherings, can feel
especially acute. Furthermore, the added stress of managing finances, meeting expectations, and trying to create “perfect” holiday experiences can take a toll on mental well-being,” states Dr. Arunesh K. Mishra, Chair of Psychiatry for Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Centers.
At Old Bridge Medical Center, we recognize that mental health care is just as vital as physical health care. That is why we offer emergency psychiatric services 24 hours a day in a secure and safe setting. Our psychiatric emergency services team includes psychiatrists, nurses and clinical professionals with a passion and specialized expertise to care for individuals in crisis. These services and care, provided in our emergency department, allows us to conduct evaluations immediately, de-escalate and stabilize individuals who are experiencing a psychiatric crisis or episode. So, how can we navigate the holidays while prioritizing our mental well-being? Here are some tips:
1. Manage Expectations: Let go of the pressure to create the “perfect” holiday. Instead, focus on creating meaningful moments and traditions that resonate with you and your loved ones. Remember, the holidays are
about connection, not perfection.
2. Prioritize Self-Care: Don’t neglect your physical and mental health during the holiday hustle. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk in nature, or practicing mindfulness.
3. Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no to invitations or commitments that feel overwhelming. Prioritize your energy and well-being, and don’t feel obligated to attend every event or fulfill every request.
4. Connect with Others: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for connection and emotional support. Sharing your feelings and experiences can be incredibly helpful in navigating difficult emotions.
5. Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists and counselors can provide valuable guidance and support in managing holiday-related stress and anxiety. We are here to help you! As we enter this holiday season, I urge all of us to focus on creating an environment of compassion and understanding. Let us be aware of the invisible burdens many carry, and let’s respond with kindness, not judgment. Mental health struggles don’t take a holiday break, and neither should our support for one another. Together, we can make this season not just about celebration, but also about healing, care, and connection.
HMH Raritan Bay Medical Center Perth Amboy: 530 New Brunswick Ave, Perth Amboy
HMH Old Bridge Medical Center Old Bridge: 1 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge
THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
Light is necessary to see. Jesus said, “I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the Light of life.” (John 8:12).
Jesus came as the Light to first expose humanity’s depraved moral state. John 3:19-21 explains, “Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.” While the present culture dances to the tune of “follow your heart,” Jesus exposes the darkness in the heart of humanity as desperately evil (Jeremiah 17:9), challenging us to confess and repent of sin and respond to His offer of grace. But Jesus came into the world not to condemn the world, but to save it (John 3:17). He came to reveal the greatness of God’s love, patience, and kindness by His coming as a babe in a manger to eventually die a cruel death to rescue us from that evil, sinful heart. The Light of His love shone brightest as He bore humanity’s sin, demonstrating a sacrificial
love unparalleled in history (Romans 5:8).
Jesus shined forth a perfect life and called His followers to be lights in the world (Matthew 5:14-16). Today, those who uphold unchanging biblical truth shine His Light. But as human culture continues to decline morally, those who believe in Him are labeled extremists like Jesus and persecuted and canceled as He was.
Jesus’ Light empowers us to shine, not with condemnation, but with grace and love, inviting others out of darkness and into His marvelous Light (1 Peter 2:9). May the season of Christmas bring to mind the love and kindness of God who gave His best gift—the Light of the world that we might be saved!
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor
As we watch the sun set on the print version of the Star Ledger (it will be available “online only” starting in the early part of 2025), we can only wonder how long print versions of any magazines and newspapers will be around (periodicals). The cost for print publication is ever increasing. I recently borrowed 4 magazines from the library. Purchasing would have cost me more than $40. The success of a physical publication used to be judged by the number of subscribers each had. Now? Every article you click on is tracked to monitor “hits” and “likes”. This
has implications for how things appear online, which articles will appear in search engine results. It changes the experience of how you view news and journalism and your access to it. On a news website, it can be really hard to tell what a legitimate article is, and what is a sales pitch. Here at OBPL, librarians can search the NewsBank for Star Ledger articles all the way back to 1989 without sharing your information, preferences or IP address. For those who prefer the experience of a print article, we will still carry the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and the Asbury Park Press. Library users save up to $10 per day when they come in to read the papers and we have regulars who do so daily. We stay on top of these trends for you, making sure that you can navigate your choices and stay informed.
NEW PHONE #
UNWRAP THE GIFT OF GOOD HEALTH AT THE Y!
The Y brings wellness and people together! This holiday season give the gift of good health to yourself or those you care about with our special membership. From November 29 –December 31, 2024, buy 3 months of Y membership, for the price of 2 months.
This special Gift of Health membership provides 1 free month of membership with no joiner fees or contract, access to unlimited group and aqua fitness classes, healthy activities for all ages and abilities, and full access to all 3 YMCA branches in Red Bank, Old Bridge and Freehold. Gift of Health membership must be activated by March 31, 2025. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org/giftofhealth.
There are wellness activities for every member of your family—from quality swim lessons for all ages, to a variety of programs that help adults feel their best in spirt, mind and body. Membership includes YMCA360, a 24/7 virtual platform with over 1,000 on-demand and livestream classes. Y membership is so much more than access to fitness facilities and pools. The Y makes our community stronger. In
addition to wellness branches, the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County serves over 42,000 residents through programs such as preschool, child care, before and after school care, teen leadership and mentoring, personal and family counseling, mental and behavioral health care, community outreach, and summer day camp.
A non-profit charity, the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County has served community for 150 years with programs that support healthy living and well-being for people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds. All are welcome and no one is turned away for the inability to pay.
Visit www.ymcanj.org/giftofhealth to purchase membership starting November 29. Follow the Y on www.facebook.com/ymcaGMC to connect with the Y community. We’re stronger together!
ST. LAWRENCE KIDS CHRISTMAS CRAFT EVENT
St. Lawrence Church in Laurence Harbor had a fall craft fair on November 16th hosted by the Altar Rosary Society. There were 40 tables full of different handmade crafts, two authors having a book signing. They sold hot food and a bake sale of homemade items the altar rosary society made and contributed to this event. It was a great turn out that the vendors would like to come back when there is another craft fair.
The next event hosted by the Altar Rosary Society is on December 8th for a kids Christmas crafts event. There is a $5 fee per child that includes crafts,
games and even a surprise visit from St. Nick himself. There will be food sold and the bake sale to buy some more items.
New members are always welcomed and needed to create more events like the fair to bring our communities together. Please come join in a monthly meeting every 1st Sunday of the month in our parish center at 9am. Look out for future events to be published. Or look up St. Lawrence Altar Rosary Society on Facebook to see what is coming up. If you have any questions, please feel free to email stlars2021@gmail.com.
A BIG HIT FOR A LOCAL FAMILY
On Sunday November 10th, members of Old Bridge PBA Local 127 and Sayreville Local 98 came together to support
one of our township families in need. Officer Fuentes organized the flag football fundraiser between the two PBA’s for the Doolin family of Old Bridge. Mr. Doolin tragically took his own life and left behind a wife and two young daughters.
The flag football game was a great success. Thanks to the efforts of friends, family, law enforcement agencies and the local community, we were able to present the Doolin family a donation check of $8200. Its a small gesture for such devastating news to a family but we all wanted to ease a bit of the pain, especially for the children.
We want to thank everyone who made this day possible for the Doolin family and an extra thank you to Officer Fuentes for organizing the event from start to finish.
ALL AMERICAN FORD AND SUBARU HOST FEEL BETTER BEARS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
All American Ford and Subaru in Old Bridge are proud to have taken part in Feel Better Bears once again this Holiday Season. Imagine you’re a child in an emergency situation going on in your home, a fire, a burglary, a crime of any kind. You’re anxious and confused, and the adults around you are busy trying to deal with the situation at hand. But when the police arrive, they take the time to dedicate a few minutes to calm you down and hand you a cuddly teddy bear to hug and take your mind off things. That’s the idea behind Feel Better Bears, an initiative designed to help police make children feel better during emergencies,
giving them brand-new bears to hug. You can help by donating a new and unwrapped stuffed animal less than 18 inches tall. All donations are given to the New Jersey State PBA. The stuffed animals will go from your hands to squad cars to help children on the scene of crisis situations. They have been proud to take part in this initiative for the last 6 years and it is one of their favorite charities to take part in. Donation bins will be located throughout the All American Ford and Subaru showrooms which are located at 3698 Route 9 South, Old Bridge, NJ 08857. Please consider donating and giving comfort and love to a child this holiday season.
$1,500 DONATION FUELS OLD BRIDGE ICE HOCKEY PROGRAMS
On November 18th Old Bridge Funeral Home and All Around Old Bridge presented a check of $1,500.00 for the hockey rink in Old Bridge to promote ice hockey for youth, adults, and those with disabilities through programs ran through Old
Bridge Township Park and Recreation. Picture: Matt Mecurio, Director of Park and Rec, David Lee Hernandez III, Gritty (David Lee Hernandez Jr.), Mayor Debbie Walker, Anthony Cosentino All Around Old Bridge.
O.B. REBELS 7TH GRADE NJSYFL
SUPER BOWL CHAMPS
Continued from page 1 they were still down by 6pts until late in the 4th quarter when Gab Rios scored the go ahead touchdown to take the lead 14-12 .
The Old Bridge Rebels Football and cheer program has been around for over 64 years and has been the feeder program to our high school football team. The future looks bright with all our youth sports in Old bridge winning New Jersey titles.
Old Bridge 7th Grade B-level Team
Head Coach Chino Muniz
Coach : Maurice Daniels, Pete Hazel , Jesse Rios , Kenny McLaughlin, Matt Malloy , Rocco Pluchino
Players: Julian Muniz , Leo Pluchino, Gab Rios , John Price , Colton Uveges , Ben Reyes , Branden Lutomski, Christian Torres, Darien santos, Jake Franke, Jared Stweart, Joel Reyes, John Smith, Justin Lopez, Kenny McLaughlin, Maurice Daniels Jr, Lukas Soural, Noah Endez, Omar Mohamedali, Robert Hazel, Sebastian Freedman, Shauntez Hanks, TJ Cregg, Tyler Watson.
