THANK YOU! 70 BOXES AND OVER 250 BAGS WITH THOUSANDS OF TOYS
orative efforts of Mayor Debbie Walker, Senator Henry, Steve Mamakas, Executive Officer, Councilman Erik DePalma and his family, Councilman Kevin Garcia, Councilman Darin Accettulli, Midge & John Hauser, Chief Bob Verney, David Lee Hernandez Jr -President of Old Bridge Chamber of Commerce & Publisher at All Around Old Bridge and his family, Anthony Cosentino-Vice President of Old the surrounding communities.
One of the primary benefits of Chamber membership is the invaluable networking opportunities it provides. By connecting with fellow business leaders, you can forge partnerships, share resources, and gain insights that can help your business thrive. The Chamber serves as a platform for collaboration, allowing members to work together towards common goals and mutual success.
Moreover, the Chamber advocates for local businesses at both the community and state levels. By becoming an active member, you lend your voice to initiatives that promote economic development, improve
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Old Bridge Business Alliance partnered with All Around Old Bridge to once again give back to the community’s most valued members - its children - this holiday season. Quality Chevy and All-American Ford played a pivotal role as the main toy dropoff centers, witnessing a steady increase in donations over the weeks leading up to the holidays. The success of this initiative was made possible through the collab-
Bridge Chamber of Commerce and Sales Manager at All Around Old Bridge. The collective effort of the community resulted in loading two large box trucks with 70 boxes and over 250 bags containing thousands of toys. The initiative was further supported by multiple weekly pick-ups made by Chief Bob Verney and Anthony Cosentino from 30 drop-off locations throughout the town, with the support of local businesses. This year’s partnership between All Around Publications and Matawan & Aberdeen PBA added 20 drop-off locations, expanding the initiative’s reach. Brian Gartley from Lawn Spa provided invaluable assistance with picking up and transporting a trailer full of toys to Old Bridge. A sincere appreciation is extended to the businesses that served as drop-off sites for five weeks and Continue on page 8
A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE IN OLD BRIDGE
The Mama Mare Breast Cancer Foundation was started in 2010 by Krista Kasper, who lost her mother, Maryellen Pernice, to stage IV breast cancer. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over one million dollars through
donor giving and events such as their 5K, galas and pub crawls. Many schools, sports teams and corporate offices have supported the foundation annually with their own individual efforts as well. Back in 2016, we lost one of our
biggest supporters and most fierce warrior, Jill Gregorin Lecorchick, to stage IV breast cancer. Her family was very involved with fundraising for the foundation and her passing was felt by all of us at the foundation. Jill was one of the very first recipients of our dream trip program and we had sent her and her husband on their honeymoon, during her cancer battle. After she passed, the Gregorin family came to me with an idea to start a new tradition in her memory…The Christmas Miracle Dream Trip
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MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
It’s hard to believe I am already ending my first term as Mayor. I am very grateful to all our residents for their support and encouragement thus far, and I look forward to continuing to make great progress in 2025.
As I look ahead, there are several initiatives that I hope to expand upon in the coming year. We are committed to Business Development, and our Business Alliance has worked hard to ensure the success of our hundreds of local merchants, both large and small, and to guarantee that our residents have desirable businesses available to them. We will continue to aggressively pursue bringing more top merchants and needed establishments to Old Bridge. We also pledge to continue providing outstanding essential services. Our Public Works and Recycling Departments will ensure that roads are maintained and plowed quickly and will continue to enhance our recycling services being offered, while our Building and Code Enforcement Departments guarantee that our structures are safe. Our excellent Police De-
partment will have the equipment and manpower necessary to ensure resident safety. I would like to thank all our youth sports volunteers. Old Bridge is a very large sports town, and we rely on this volunteerism of parents and guardians for the success and longevity of our programs. These board members and coaches that volunteer numerous hours of their time on a year-round basis to ensure that the children not only have a good time while playing the sport, but develop a lifelong love of that sport, is what makes our town a great place to live.
Our Recreation and Cultural Arts Departments will keep enhancing their programs and special events in 2025, offering a wide array of activities. The Recreation Department’s winter program guide is now available for viewing and there is plenty to do during the season. For more information, please visit oldbridge.com/recreation. Also, Silver Linings at Old Bridge has grown into one of the state’s most highly respected Senior Centers and strives to offer innovative programs and services that our active seniors desire, with an emphasis on health, wellness, and socializing. Furthermore, my heartfelt appreciation is extended to the residents and partners of Old Bridge Township who have made
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Debbie Walker
the first dynasty in the club’s history. Founded in 2018, Thunder has retained 7 of its original 9 members. The team has since expanded to 16 players, with 11 hailing from Old Bridge. Despite facing numerous challenges, their unwavering friendship and mutual support have been the cornerstone of their success. They exemplify true teamwork, constantly striving to improve and holding each other to high standards. In 2023, Thunder became the first team in Old Bridge Soccer Club to win the NJ President’s State Cup. They achieved
the rare feat of winning it again in 2024, marking a significant milestone not only for the club but potentially for all youth
solutely dominating performance during their tournament run raking up 13 goals and allowing 0 goals in 4 games. While soccer offers many tournaments throughout the year, there is only one chance to become State Champion, and Thunder has claimed this honor twice—a remarkable achievement for a township team. Winning the State Cup grants Thunder the opportunity to represent New Jersey at regionals in Valley Forge, PA, this summer. They will compete against other state champions for a chance to advance to Nationals in Tampa, FL
YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
Happy New Year to everyone in Old Bridge and across my district! As we welcome the new year with hope for continued progress, I want to reaffirm my commitment to serving you, the residents, as your state senator. I am grateful that you have entrusted me to safeguard their rights and advance our successes while improving everyone’s quality of life.
During my short tenure in office, I have introduced legislation which addresses the family affordability crisis in New Jersey and ensuring the safety and well-being of our most vulnerable residents, seniors and disabled individuals.
Senate Bill S3248 will exempt cribs, child restraint systems, nursing bottles, and strollers from sales and use tax. This bill would directly reduce the costs of caring for an infant child.
Senate Bill S3886 creates crime of victimization of a senior citizen or a person with a disability. Individuals who prey up our senior citizens or disabled individuals should receive stiffer penalties.
Again, best wishes for a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year. I remain optimistic and fully dedicated to the quality of life we deserve. Together, we can create more opportunities which will provide for a brighter future for New Jersey in 2025.
A HEARTWARMING HOLIDAY: REFORMED CHURCH HOME TOYS FOR TOTS SUCCESS
As the festive season envelops us in warmth and cheer, the Reformed Church Home has embraced the spirit of giving by organizing a successful Toys for Tots. This Year initiative brought together dedicated staff, generous community members, and the joyous hearts of children, creating a powerful testament to the magic of communal generosity. Our journey began with determination of our talented residents in Reformed Church Home assisted living ,who crafted an array of wonderful handmade goods for a special craft sale, raising
$633. These funds went directly towards purchasing toys for the Toys for Tots.
The idea to collect toys for children in need was not just an act of charity: it was a rallying call to foster hope and happiness among our youngest community members. The response was nothing short of remarkable from the moment the Toy drive was announced , donation began pouring in. The Reformed Church Home staff worked diligently to set up collection points and coordinate logistic while community volunteers joined the effort with enthusiasm. Thanks to the commitment and compassion of everyone involved, The Toy Drive exceeded all expectations. As we reflect on this wonderful experience, Reformed Church Home would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in the Toy for Tots drive. Your generosity kindness, and willingness to give back embody the true spirit of the holiday season.
IT IS ESSENTIAL TO KNOW IF SAT OR ACT IS BETTER FOR YOUR CHILD
By Paul Pscolka
When I receive a phone call, the first piece of advice I give to parents is for them to send their child for a mock SAT AND ACT. It is a bit easier for me to focus on just the SAT since everyone All Around Old Bridge seems to be taking that test…. So why would I suggest taking a mock test of each?...because, having taught these tests for the past 26 years, I have watched students over and over as they have struggled with the SAT when the ACT was likely a better fit for them. I have seen others, who have done their due diligence, shine on the test that was a better fit for them. As a result, these other students were admitted to universities that may have never accepted them had they not taken the right test. For example, a former student who found that the ACT was a better fit graduated from Emory, the #21 ranked university (out of over 2800 4-year insti-
tutions) on US News and World Report. To give you a mental toehold, Emory is among the top 99.993% of 4-year colleges. Another former student was admitted to an even higher-ranking school—an Ivy League— UPenn, after posting an ACT score that was comparably better than his SAT score. Granted, crushing both exams will only help students’ chances of getting into the nation’s most elite universities, but what about the rest of us? It is important to remember the purpose of these exams—to maximize a student’s chances of getting into his or her topchoice university. Mindful of this fact, why not first figure out which test is better? Suggestion for a topic? You can reach us at Paul.Pscolka@ivymasters.com 833SATsACT (833728-7228) www.ivymasters.com
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displayed the collected toys. Daniel Sclafani, General Manager at UHAUL on Rt 9 Old Bridge, generously donated a 26’ box truck for two days to facilitate toy loading. John & Midge Hauser lent their box truck for drop-offs at Toys for Tots in Neptune City. The Board of Fire Commissioners, District #3, and Chief Bob Verney are thanked for the use of their pick-up truck. Anthony Cosentino from All Around Old Bridge demonstrated exceptional leadership in organizing this year’s event, providing continuous support throughout. Thank you to everyone who donated this year to make this year the largest collection ever.
INVESTING IN CHILDREN’S HEALTH: A NEW YEAR’S COMMITMENT TO PEDIATRIC CARE
Patricia Carroll, President, Chief Hospital Executive, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Centers.
As we step into the new year, we are reminded that respiratory infections are an inevitable part of the winter season. This year has proven no exception, with children and adults alike contending with a variety of illnesses, from common colds and the flu to mycoplasma pneumonia—a bacterial infection that can cause walking pneumonia. This particular illness has seen a notable rise, especially among children, both in New Jersey, and across the United States.
“In many cases, children recovering from such infections may benefit from follow-up care provided by a pediatric pulmonologist. At Old Bridge Medical Center, we are proud to offer access to pediatric pulmonology as part of our commitment to comprehensive, specialized care for children,” said Susan Maksomski, director, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, one of the hospitals of the Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health.
Our newly opened multispecialty pe-
diatric practice is designed to meet the diverse healthcare needs of children in our community. Located in the Medical Arts Building at Old Bridge Medical Center, this 1,200-square-foot facility features state-of-the-art exam rooms and cutting-edge diagnostic capabilities.
Starting this month, we are expanding our services to include pediatric cardiology and diagnostic cardiac screenings, further enhancing the breadth of care available to our patients.
The multispecialty practice is staffed by a team of exceptional providers specializing in:
• Pediatric General Surgery
• Pediatric Gastroenterology (GI)
• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Pediatric Nephrology
• Pediatric Cardiology
• Pediatric Sleep Medicine
These highly skilled physicians are part of the esteemed team at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital. Along with Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center, K. Hovnanian has been ranked #1 in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report for delivering outstanding pediatric care.
At Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health, our mission is clear: to provide expert, compassionate, and comprehensive care to all children. The establishment of our multispecialty pediatric practice at Old Bridge Medical Center is a testament to that commitment. By investing in accessible, world-class pediatric care close to home, we are ensuring that children in our commu nity have the support they need to recover, thrive, and reach their full potential.
As we embrace the promise of the new year, let us continue to priori tize the health and well-being of our children. They are our future, and their health is our greatest investment.
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
HOW SHOULD WE LIVE TODAY?
In 1976, Francis Schaeffer wrote a powerful book and created a documentary series called “How Should We Then Live?” In it, he explored the rise and fall of Western culture, tracing history from Ancient Rome to the 20th century. Schaeffer examined how science, philosophy, and religion have shaped our society.
One of the key lessons from his series is that modern people have put “personal peace” (a life without trouble) and “affluence” (wealth and comfort) above everything else. Schaeffer warned that this desire might cause us to accept more government control in exchange for temporary peace and prosperity. He also explained that future authoritarian governments wouldn’t look like the obvious dictatorships of the past. Instead, they would use lies, subtle tricks, and psychological manipulation to influence people.
Schaeffer gave a serious warning: “Unless we return to the Christian foundation of our society, we’ll face eco-
nomic collapse, war, growing chaos, and shortages of food and natural resources.”
Have we not witnessed the results of trusting a culture that has pushed God and the Bible aside for decades? Now is the time to open our Bibles once again and return to the truth that made our nation strong. We need to ask God to show us what is broken in us and open our hearts and minds to see Jesus—the humble Savior born of a virgin, sent to rescue a damaged world weighed down by sin. Returning to God is the only way to find the peace our souls long for. His truth leads to treasures in heaven that far surpass anything this world can give us.
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor
BridgeLife Thrift is a wholly owned, single member LLC of Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, NJ with all proceeds supporting Bridge Women’s Center, and Calvary Christian School.
COPS FOR KIDS” HOLIDAY PARTY
The Old Bridge PBA Local 127/127a “Cops for Kids” holiday party has been a cherished community event aimed at spreading holiday cheer to children in the area for the past 30 years. This year, it took place on December 6th at the George Bush Senior Center. Organized by Sgt. Jim Ford and members of Old Bridge PBA Local 127, the event seeks donations of new, unwrapped toys and games or monetary contributions to support our mission. The
hand out many gifts to all the children in attendance. The children were also able to take some photos with Santa before his return to the North Pole.
If you would like to support this initiative, donations are always appreciated and can help ensure the continued success of the program. The event showcases the commitment of the Old Bridge Police Department in fostering a positive environment and helping families in need during the festive season.
Old Bridge PBA Local 127 would like to thank all those who donated to this event. We hope everyone, especially thenity, has a very happy holiday season!
dig·i·ti·za·tion noun
The conversion of text, pictures, or sound into a digital form that can be processed by a computer. Libraries are about information – regardless of the multitude of formats it comes in. Images, text and sounds all convey information whether they’re created in digital or physical forms. We stay on top of the evolution of technology by helping you to convert your physical materials into digital formats. In the same way that the library helps you scan written documents, we can help you convert your VHS tapes, film negatives, slides, pictures and DVDs into digital formats that be saved on your computers, streamed or stored on external drives. Technology means change. The library helps you to make sure that change doesn’t equal loss. Protect your information – your family memories, mementos and images with digital preservation services at Old Bridge Public Library. Call our Digital Support Services desk at x5040 at the
FIND YOUR WELLNESS.
FIND YOUR Y!
At the Y, you’ll find more than a place to work out. With opportunities to connect with new people, develop skills and explore interests, you’ll find better health in spirit, mind and body!
Start the new year off strong at Freehold, Red Bank and Old Bridge branches with a special membership promotion: Become a member in January with no enrollment fee or contract. Visit YMCA Open Houses on Saturday, January 25, become a member that day, and get February FREE! There are wellness activities for every member of your family—from quality swim lessons, sports and enrichment for kids, to a variety of classes that help adults look and feel their best. Kids Club is offered free for family memberships to support a commitment to good health.
In addition to wellness branches, the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County serves over 42,000 people through programs such as preschool, before and after school care, teen leadership and mentoring, personal and family counseling, mental and behavioral health care, community outreach and summer day camp.
Visit our YMCA open houses on Saturday, January 25 for information
on membership benefits and 2025 summer camp fun for kids of all ages!
The Y is here to strengthen lives. 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.
Follow the Y on www.facebook.com/ ymcaGMC and www.ymcanj.org/findyour-y for affordable opportunities to jump-start a new year of good health. The Y is here for all and here for good, and their doors are always open to help all people reach their fullest potential.
A Step Above...
• 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
• Pre-K3 through 8th Grade
• 3 & 4 Year Old Preschool Programs
AMBOY BANK’S ANNUAL FOOD DRIVE!
Amboy Bank’s annual food drive was deemed another success after collecting gift cards and shelf stable foods across all 22 local branches throughout Monmouth and Middlesex counties throughout November, as well as its administrative office headquartered in Old Bridge. After decades of
Bridge Food Bank sends a truck to the Amboy Bank Administration Headquarters to pick up the food donations every year and Business Administrator, Anahita Feltz, commented on the wide variety of food donations included, as well as the impressive $550 in gift cards to local grocery store chains that had been generously donated.
Bank Manager, J. Otken, Food Bank Coordinator, A. Feltz, Business Administrator.
PETCENTER’S PICTURES WITH SANTA EVENT BRINGS
HOLIDAY CHEER AND HELPS
SHELTER
ANIMALS
PetCenter hosted its highly anticipated Pictures with Santa event, delighting the local community with festive fun and holiday spirit. Families, friends, and their beloved pets flocked to the store for a chance to snap professional photos with none other than Santa Claus and the mischievously lovable Grinch. Adding to the excitement, 101.5 FM radio hosts Bill Spadea and Steve Trevalese made special guest appearances, bringing their signature energy and charm to the event. Their presence created an electric atmosphere, drawing in fans and raising the holiday vibes. The event wasn’t just about spreading seasonal joy; it also had a heartfelt mission. The proceeds from the professional photo sessions were donated to the Old Bridge Animal Shelter, a cause near and dear to the hearts of PetCenter and the community. The funds raised will support the shelter’s ongoing efforts to provide care, medical at tention, and loving homes to animals in need.
PetCenter’s Pictures with Santa event
beautifully blended festive fun with meaningful philanthropy. It served as a reminder that the holiday season is not just about celebration but also about giving back. Thanks to the combined efforts of PetCenter, the radio hosts, and the generous attendees, the event made a significant impact on the lives of shelter animals while creating lasting memories for all who participated.
A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE IN OLD BRIDGE
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giveaway. We find a candidate, or someone is nominated, and we devise a plan. Dale Gregorin, Jill’s father, dresses as Santa, while the rest of our family’s head to the house of the recipiant along with others within the community who are in on the surprise, and they begin to carol. Santa and I arrive on a firetruck and are further accompanied by police, EMS, the mayor, etc. Santa reads a customized poem of T’was the Night Before Christmas that lets the family know that they’re receiving the trip of a lifetime! It brings us immense joy to give back in memory of my mom and Jill. It’s
one of the best days of the entire year. Old Bridge blew me away and Matt Gregorin, Jill’s brother, who is a teacher at Cooper Elementary, orchestrated this year’s crowd and details. We even had a local singer who is currently touring with KidzBop, Cliff Donadio, show up to carol! The South OB Fire department, EMS, police and Mayor Debbie Walker along with council members, were all there to show their support. The recipient, Allison Gallo, is a local teacher, mom to two girls and wife to Ralph. The family was truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of community support!
IN MEMORIAM
ELAINE DINSMORE
JUNE 17, 1942 - DECEMBER 23, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
JIMMY I HAYNES
JUNE 27, 1967 - DECEMBER 22, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
DOROTHY A FISHER
JANUARY 6, 1927 - DECEMBER 22, 2024
Services held at Waitt Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
JONATHAN VAWTER
SEPTEMBER 6, 1958 - DECEMBER 21, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
PHYLLIS AGNES MARUCCI
MAY 1, 1932 - DECEMBER 20, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
MARLENE SHERMAN
MAY 21, 1938 - DECEMBER 19, 2024
Services held at Bedle Funeral Home & Cremation.
MARK LESCHINSKI
APRIL 28, 1959 - DECEMBER 17, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
BERNICE DAMIANO
JUNE 24, 1941 - DECEMBER 17, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
JOSEPH MAGIELNICKI
DECEMBER 12, 1941 - DECEMBER 16, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
ISILIO M VILLA PENA
SEPTEMBER 4, 1937 - DECEMBER 16, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
ANITA SMITH
MAY 27, 1965 - DECEMBER 14, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
PHILIP MCGOVERN
NOVEMBER 19TH,1949- DECEMBER 28, 2024
Services held at Old bridge Funeral Home.
ANN M. DEVIZIA
JANUARY 27, 1930 - DECEMBER 13, 2024
Services held at Waitt Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
GRACE PARISI
NOVEMBER 11, 1938 - DECEMBER 13, 2024
Services held at Waitt Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
ELIZABETH MARY GILLARD
SEPTEMBER 21, 1934 - DECEMBER 12, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
MAUREEN DIBATTISTA
JUNE 7, 1960 - DECEMBER 11, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
DOMINICK N. BUONPANE
MARCH 11, 1926 - DECEMBER 11, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
ANNE MAUREEN-RASMUSSEN
AUGUST 26,1966 – DECEMBER 27, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home
JOHN QUINN
JANUARY 23, 1943 - DECEMBER 11, 2024
Services held at Waitt Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
JOANNE ST. JOHN
AUGUST 7, 1960 - DECEMBER 11, 2024
Services held at Waitt Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
PHILOMENA VIVONA
JUNE 27, 1939 - DECEMBER 10, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
HERMAN R DEISSINGER, JR.
NOVEMBER 9, 1932 - DECEMBER 10, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
MARY ROCHE
AUGUST 16, 1946 - DECEMBER 4, 2024
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
JOIN THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN 2025
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business conditions, and enhance the overall quality of life in our region. Your participation not only furthers your own interests but also contributes to the collective strength of our business community.
As we approach the time for annual membership dues statements, we encourage all businesses to renew their commitment to the Chamber. Your involvement is crucial in helping us champion the interests of our members and drive initiatives that benefit everyone. If your business is registered in town you will receive a statement in the mail or you can join by visiting www.chamberofcommerceobssa.org
.This year, we are proud to report that our annual Toys for Tots campaign witnessed the largest outpouring of gifts the community has ever seen. This remarkable achievement underscores the power of collective action and the positive impact we can make when we come together as a community.
We look forward to having you as an active member in the Chamber of Commerce, where together, we can continue to strengthen our businesses and enhance the vibrancy of Old Bridge and beyond.
Warm regards,
David Lee Hernandez Jr President Chamber of Commerce
MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
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a significant effort to give back to the community over the past year. We have witnessed your generosity through donations to the Old Bridge Food Bank, toy drives, and food drives. Our Toys for Tots program was a great success this year with one of our largest collections at 25 locations. You all have truly made a difference!
In closing, I would like to thank the residents, dedicated volunteers, first responders, council members, and staff members for their commitment to make Old Bridge Township a great place to live, work and raise a family. I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays amongst family and friends and I wish you all a healthy and prosperous New Year!
