MILONOPOULOS TWINS TO PLAY SOFTBALL AT 2028 OLYMPICS: A GRAND SLAM FOR OLD BRIDGE
Growing up in Greece, Zoe and Dimitra were completely unfamiliar with the world of softball. Born in the United States in 2006, they moved to Piraeus, Greece, at six months old and resided there until 2012. It wasn’t until they returned to the United States at the age of 7 that they discovered softball.
Their initial exposure to softball was purely recreational, but their fondness for the sport grew rapidly, eventually leading them to competitive play. They credit much of their success to their father, who imparted invaluable knowledge.
After settling in Old Bridge in 2015 and graduating from OBHS in 2024, Zoe and Dimitra have accumulated many cherished memories. They represented Coach Goldheimer’s team at Salk Middle School and later played for Coach
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A Publication for the community of Old Bridge
COTRELL FARM PLAYGROUND AND SPLASH PARK IS NOW OPEN!
Old Bridge Township is proud to announce the opening of the beautiful new Cotrell Farm Park that will now include a Playground for children as well as a Spray Park. Both the playground the Spray park will be free to use. The hours of the Spray Park are 10AM –7PM, 7 days a week, weather permitting. This spray park is
designed for children. Adults are welcome if supervising a child. No children are allowed in the Spray Park without adult supervision and must be supervised at all times. Children under 13 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult. There will be no food will be permitted in the Spray Park and for a full list of rules and regulations please visit our website at www.oldbridge.com/ recreation or find the signs located on the fence entrance to both the Playground and Spray Park. To conserve water the Spray Park will shut off after 15 minutes and can be reactivated by the push of a button located within the Spray
Park. Within the spray park there are 3 private changing areas The facility also includes bathrooms for men, women and families. We hope this is a Park that children can embark on unforgettable adventures for many years to come.
The address of Cottrell Farm Park is 3910 Hwy 516, Old Bridge, NJ 08857- Please enter and use the parking lot located off of Cottrell Road.
JAR OF HOPE STAGING UNIQUE RACE TO SAVE CHILDREN
Two hundred years after its discovery, there is still no cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This is a muscle-wasting disease occurring only once in every 3,500 live births, mostly in boys. These kids are in wheelchairs as early as 9. On ventilators by their mid-teens. And generally, in graves by their early-twenties…from asphyxiation.
Jim Raffone, Founder/CEO of JAR of Hope (https://www. jarofhope.org/), has dedicated his life to raising funding for a cure for Duchenne md, ever since his son James Anthony (“Jamesy”) now 15 and in a wheelchair since 12, was diagnosed with it at four.
“Like most people, Karen and
I had never heard of Duchenne muscular dystrophy,” Raffone says. “And the doctors told us ‘just take Jamesy home and love him until he dies.’ But that didn’t sit well with us…because no parent should have to just wait for their child to die. So we sold our home-improvement business and founded JAR of Hope.”
To raise funds for a cure, Raffone, a muscular 53, has climbed on Mount Everest. He’s run in more marathons than he can count, and in blistering heat and freezing cold in week-long events like the Alps to Ocean in New Zealand and the Grand2Grand Ultra in Arizona/Utah. He’s even been in
three amateur boxing matches at the age of 50 – and won.
The New Jersey Run 4 Hope Half-Marathon will take place on Oct. 6 in a unique setting –Route 9 in eastern New Jersey. All proceeds will go to funding a cure for Duchenne md. And people are already signing up.
“We’ve taken great pains to plan unique events over the years,” Raffone says. “This race will be in a beautiful setting with picturesque landscapes and roads, and sections of Rt. 9 will open and close accordingly. We’re thankful for the support of Sen. Henry, Administration Fire Chief of Old Bridge Bob
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Photo Credit: Aime Alonzo OBTV D/P at Old bridge Township
COTTRELL FARM HISTORY
The Cottrell home property is a landmark in Old Bridge. The home was built in 1831, replacing a structure built in 1820 that was destroyed in a fire. William H. Cottrell sold the farm to his two sons Herbert and Franklin. Herbert Cottrell took sole possession in 1919, and his son Herbert Jr. lived here until his death in 2013 at the age of 95. The Cottrell family’s main farm crop were apples and the production of Browntown Apple Brandy. The recipe was
later sold to Laird’s of Holmdel in 1955.
The stone outbuildings here were quite common in the area. The impressive size of this remaining one shows the care with which they were built. A cold storage building was built across the road where the picked apples were stored, and the NJ Apple Growers Distillery stood at the present site of the current Lightbridge Academy.
The apples were pressed into cider and distilled into large vats. For 20 years, this farm produced the apples that were made into Browntown Apple Jack, a well-known drink that the town was famous for. So today, we are dedicating Cottrell Farm Park to the Cottrell family and their descendants in honor of their contribution to our town’s history.
YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
Recently, my first sponsored legislation, S-3248 which would provide an exemption from the sales and use tax for the sale of cribs, child restraint systems, nursing bottles, and strollers was unanimously passed by the Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee. This bill will assist families with the
costs of necessary items to keep infants and children healthy and safe. As inflation continues to be a struggle for families across New Jersey, I am pleased that my first bill to advance out of committee will allow parents, guardians, and families to keep more money in their pockets. This is a commonsense change to the State sales tax law as many other critical care items are already exempt from the tax.
As this bill moves through the legislative process, I shall update the residents of my district with the legislations progress. Should you need assistance with any issue at the state level, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at SenHenry@njleg.org. Thank you.
Your voice in Trenton, Senator Owen Henry
FLAG RETIREMENT BOX AT ELKS LODGE FOR PROPER DISPOSAL
Mayor Walker, Business Admin Anahita Feltz, and Public Works Director Kasey Lenning joined the Elks Lodge to present them with a Flag Retirement Box. It will be permanently mounted outside of the Elks Lodge located at 67 Old Amboy Road. The American Flag is the proud symbol of our great nation and all the best things that it stands for. Did you know that the US flag is considered a living thing? So, what do you do if it becomes tattered, worn, and can no longer be flown? A worn American Flag must be properly and respectfully
disposed of and there are specific federal laws that govern how this must be accomplished. One way to dispose of flags is by placing them in a flag disposal box. Once disposal boxes are full, a flag retirement ceremony is held. Every year on June 14, we celebrate Flag Day, and it is considered the most appropriate day to hold flag disposal ceremonies. For more information on proper flag disposal please visit https:// www.defense.gov/News/Feature-Stories/ Story/Article/2206946/how-to-properly-dispose-of-worn-out-us-flags/
TODAY’S HIGH SCHOOLER: HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
By Paul Pscolka
Today, it seems everything in high schoolers’ life is extreme—studies and extracurriculars require much more time commitment than was required when today’s parents were teens. With academics, sports, and jobs all demanding time, it’s essential to find a balance that maintains mental well-being.
Prioritizing is crucial. Academics should take precedence; good grades are key to opportunity. That said, my alma mater—the now-defunct MCHS, one of 2 predecessors of OBHS—offered 2 AP classes in 1993. Now OBHS offers 33 dual-enrollment courses (including APs), which students take to earn credit in HS and college. While these courses offer opportunity, they also overload students who bite off more than they can chew.
Students learn great life lessons outside of school but must be smart about their time. Many students dance competitively, which requires many hours of dedicated practice. Athletes often play on their HS and travel team. Allocating time for studying, training, and working ensures no areas are neglected.
Time management is vital. Students can break down their tasks into manageable parts by never studying for more than 2 hours straight and taking a half hour break for every 2 hours studied. This improves productivity and retention. Time for relaxation is essential to avoid burnout.
Students should communicate with teachers, coaches, and employers about their commitments. Supportive adults can offer guidance, helping students navigate their responsibilities. Seeking advice from peers who balance commitments can provide further support.
If students find themselves exhausted, stressed, or falling behind, it may be necessary to reassess their schedule. Prioritizing mental health is paramount, and sometimes means cutting back on activities.
HS students can balance studies, sports, and work by prioritizing, managing their time, communicating, and recognizing their limits. Thus, they can ensure a fulfilling high school experience.
Free 15-minute consultation: https:// www.ivymasters.com/free-consultation/ Suggestion for a topic? info@ivymasters. com or 833-728-7228 www.ivymasters.com
SOBFD FIRE FIGHTER OF THE MONTH: TIMOTHY CHEVALIER
Timothy Chevalier was born in Hackensack, NJ, but has resided in Old Bridge for the last two years. He started his volunteer career at the age of 16 with the Edgewater Volunteer Fire Department. Timothy made his way up from a junior firefighter to 1st lieutenant of the Edgewater Fire Department. Timothy has joined the South Old Bridge Fire Company two years ago and is a 2nd lieutenant. Timothy’s short-term goal is to be named captain in the next few years.
UNVEILING THE SILENT THREAT: HOW ADVANCED CARDIAC IMAGING SAVES LIVES
Patricia Carroll, FACHE, President and Chief Hospital Executive, Raritan Bay Medical Center and Old Bridge Medical Center
As President of Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Centers, I am acutely aware of the devastating impact of heart disease. This silent killer often strikes without warning yet with the advent of advanced cardiac imaging, we have a powerful weapon in our arsenal to combat this threat.
Old Bridge Medical Center is proud to offer patients access to the most sophisticated noninvasive and minimally invasive diagnostic tools available. These tools, including CT Calcium Scoring Scans, and Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA), empower us to detect and manage heart disease with
unparalleled precision. The ability to detect coronary artery disease early, before symptoms appear, is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Advanced cardiac imaging enables us to identify individuals at high risk, allowing for timely intervention and prevention of potentially devastating events.
I am reminded of a case of a healthy 64 year old man. He ran 5K races, ate a well-balanced diet and never had any known health conditions. His primary care physician recommended he get a CT Calcium Scoring Test. CT Calcium Scoring uses a CT scan to detect calcium deposits within the coronary arteries. This buildup of plaque can signify the presence of atherosclerosis, which is the thickening or hardening of the arteries and put you at a higher risk of a heart attack. The test is simple and takes about 15 minutes.
Once he decided to go, the test resulted in an extremely high calcium score. Immediately following the test, he made an
appointment with a cardiologist, which resulted in triple bypass heart surgery. He had no symptoms but this test saved his life!
Another tool is the CCTA scan. This advanced CT scan generates detailed 3D images of the coronary arteries, revealing even the smallest blockages. Unlike traditional angiography, which requires invasive catheterization, CCTA is a non-invasive procedure, offering a safer and more comfortable experience for patients. The test takes about 3 hours as an outpatient. Our physicians have invested in this new knowledge so you can have an alternative, as appropriate, to a cardiac catheterization procedure. Both of these tests provide early detection and can prevent hospitalizations and long-term complications. Knowledge is power, and I encourage you to take a moment and take an active role in your heart health. At Old Bridge Medical Center, we continue to
be ready to serve our community. Advanced cardiac imaging plays a vital role in our mission to prevent, diagnose, and manage heart disease, ultimately saving lives and improving the cardiovascular health of our community. Although most insurances do cover the CCTA test, many insurances do not reimburse for the CT Calcium Scoring scan.
At Old Bridge Medical Center we offer the CT Calcium scoring scan at a discounted price of $99. If this is something you’ve been thinking about doing, feel free to give us a call, 844-HMHWELL, and schedule a scan.
We are here to keep you and your family healthy!
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
BEAT THE HEAT AND DIVE INTO BOOKS: YOUR LIBRARY’S SUMMER VACATION OASIS!
As the temperatures rise and the summer sun beckons, your local library is turning up the cool factor with a sizzling array of hot spots, Playaways, audiobooks, and eBooks to fuel your adventures!
Imagine this: lounging by the pool with your toes dipped in the water, but instead of flipping through a soggy paperback, you’re streaming your favorite eBook borrowed from the library. Whether you’re into thrillers that send shivers down your spine or romances that warm your heart, the library’s got you covered with digital treasures for every taste. Planning a road trip? Say goodbye to endless “are we there yet?” choruses with Playaways—compact audio -
books that fit snugly in your pocket. Pop one in, press play, and let the story whisk you away as you cruise down the highway or relax in a cozy cabin.
And for those who need to stay connected (or maybe just want to post beach selfies), grab a hot spot!
With portable Wi-Fi courtesy of your library, you can Instagram your ice cream cones, TikTok your sandcastle, and Snapchat your sunset views—all without eating into your data plan.
The best part? It’s all free! Just your library, bringing you the hottest tech and the coolest reads for your summer escapades. So, whether you’re jetting off to far-flung destinations or enjoying a staycation in your backyard, swing by the library and stock up on your summer essentials. From eBooks that don’t weigh down your suitcase to audiobooks that turn NJ traffic jams into thrilling adventures, your library is your ultimate vacation companion. Beat the heat, chill out with a good book and remember your adventure begins at the library.
FREEDOM TO SOAR
There’s a short story titled Mr. Yahweh’s Kite, which, though seemingly for children, holds a great lesson for everyone.
Mr. Yahweh fashioned together a kite and, to the great joy of the little kite, made her fly in the wind. But a seagull pointed out that the kite was not truly flying free after all due to the string attached that controlled her. At the counsel of the bird, the kite pulled with a gust of wind and broke the string, exclaiming, “I’m free!”—only to flutter to the ground, landing in a thorn bush, being torn to shreds by the wind.
Mr. Yahweh, bloodied by the thorns, retrieved his kite, repaired her, and sent her back into the air. When the bird once again mocked her about not being free, the kite exclaimed, “I was created to be attached to my creator, and in that attachment, I’m most free!”
We wrongly imagine freedom without a connection to God—but God is the one who made us and knows what will fulfill our ultimate purpose! You’ll only flounder and suffer when
you break the cords to your Creator. Some say freedom is finding your true identity apart from the oppressive rules of God and the Bible. But we were created male and female and directed to honor marriage and family with moms and dads giving nurture and training. Rebellion against God’s design by redefining oneself does not lead to freedom, but truly, to confusion and hopelessness.
Read your Bible! See that Jesus came to rescue us, restore our broken connection with God, and lead us to a greater purpose for our lives!
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor
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Verney and all the Mayors of the five Municipalities we run through. And every cent will go to save these kids.”
The event will start at All American Ford in Old Bridge and end at iPlay America in Freehold. But the real winners will be kids suffering with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
“People are really excited about this race,” Jim Raffone says. “Our goal is to save the first child. And then to save all the rest.”
For Race: https:// TheRace/NJRun4Hope.com
MILONOPOULOS TWINS TO PLAY SOFTBALL AT 2028 OLYMPICS: A GRAND SLAM FOR OLD BRIDGE
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D’Amico’s squad at OBHS. They express gratitude for their exceptional coaches, whose unwavering support and encouragement were crucial to their success. They also speak highly of OBHS, acknowledging the impact it has had on their journey. From the welcoming smile of Dr. Sasso to the dedicated teachers who made learning enjoyable, the exemplary sports program overseen by AD DiMino, and the security guards like Pat. They are thankful to the entire OBHS community for helping them achieve their dreams.
Now, the Milonopoulos Twins are focused on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, where they aspire to compete for the Greek Team. They are preparing
for upcoming qualifying tournaments in Canada’s World Cup, European World Cup, and the XV11 World Cup in Netherlands. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, please scan the QR codes below. Your support is invaluable to us!
HELP ZOE M. RAISE
$5,000 TO COMPLETE IN TWO COMPETITIONS WITH HELLAS SOFTBALL!
HELP DIMITRA RAISE
$5,000 TO COMPLETE IN TWO COMPETITIONS WITH HELLAS SOFTBALL!
