All Around Old Bridge- June 2024

each and every child of all abilities receive the best possible program that allows them to reach their greatest potential. One of SEPTA’s goals is always “community”.

In 2022 the SEPTA Boardwhich consists of 4 moms with children with IEPs - decided to provide Augmentative and Alternative Communication Boards (AAC) throughout our Old Bridge community. A communication board is a large symbol-based communication method for children through adults to use who require different forms of communication due to delay, disability or other special need. These boards are gaining popularity all over the country in all environments

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A Publication for the community of Old Bridge

ST. AMBROSE PARISH ANNUAL CARNIVAL JUNE 25TH-29TH 5-NIGHT SUPER MEGA-PASS AVAILABLE!

“Tiki Bar” all week long and enjoy ice cold beer, homemade sangria, and join in a friendly game of pool. (must be 21 yearssolutely no children allowed).able for $35.00 (unlimited rides/ good for any one night) at the-

HEALTH. FIND YOUR Y

The Y brings wellness and people together! From May 15 – July 1, take advantage of our membership with no enrollment fee 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, Freehold and Freehold Outdoor Swim Club. Join us at the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County for a season of fun, adventure, and growth. With our exciting summer promo, there’s never been a better time to discover all that the Y has to offer. Whether you’re a child, teen, adult, or senior, there’s something for everyone at the

Y. So come on out and join us as we unleash the fun this summer!

Learn more at www. ymcanj.org/summer.

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 36,000 residents

tions in Old Bridge & Matawan, and must be purchased before June 24th. This year, we are happy to offer a Super Mega-Pass for $100.00 for all 5 nights of unlimited rides, (a limited number available) only available on line at www.campys.com.

Purchase your ticket for our Super 50/50 Raffle and take a chance on winning our Jackpot on Saturday night (you do not need to be present to win).

Call our parish office at 732-679-5666.

See our full page ad on page 14 for more details.

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.

Follow the Y on www.facebook.com/ymcaGMC to connect with the Y community.

We’re stronger together!

MESSAGE FROM MAYOR DEBBIE WALKER

Dear Old Bridge Residents, With Memorial Day just past us, we can look forward to summer and lots of enjoyment, relaxation, and time with our families. We are so fortunate to be able to enjoy the days in all our beautiful parks in Old Bridge with playground and picnic areas to utilize for our parties and barbeques. June is Graduation month and I wish to extend my sincere congratulations to all the middle and high school graduates, in all our schools here in Old Bridge. These children and young adults are our future and I wish them the best as they move on to high

school and college and go out into the world to begin their life’s journey. I would also like to acknowledge all our recent college graduates and wish them the best as they begin their careers.

I am happy to report that Old Bridge Township was awarded over $158,000 in NJ Clean Communities funds, which is the 3rd highest amount in Middlesex County and the highest amount the Township has ever received. The Clean Communities grant program funds a variety of activities including volunteer cleanups of public spaces, cleanups of stormwater systems, educational outreach campaigns, enforcement of local anti-littering ordinances, and purchases of trash receptacles and recycling bins.

Most importantly this month, we celebrate Father’s Day, a day to honor all our fathers who so selflessly go to work every day to make a living for their families and who in their spare time volunteer in all the various activities available for their children in the township. There are no words

that can express the love of a father and the love that we all have for them. Happy Father’s Day!

Please be on the lookout for our grand opening of Cottrell Farm Park later this month. The park will include a playground, splash pads and picnic tables, and during a later phase, many more amenities.

On a final note, now that we are at the beginning of the summer break, please be mindful of the increased number of kids playing outside, particularly near the parks, out riding their bikes, or walking in the streets and having fun. Stay alert when driving and riding your bike so we can ensure that everybody has a great, safe, healthy summer. Please also remember to implement pool safety with children, make sure they are always supervised while in a pool area, and follow the important water safety guidelines. Please stay safe, be well, and enjoy the start of summer!

Mayor Debbie Walker

ENROLL TODAY!

Visit the Township of Old Bridge website at http://www. oldbridge.com and click the. CodeRED icon on the right side of the page. You can text OBTOWNNJ to 99411 to receive texts from the Township. You can download the CodeRED Mobile Alert app from Apple’s app store or Google Play store.

Scan this QR Code for the free CodeRED Mobile Alert app.

YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON

By Senator Owen Henry

Recently, I condemned Rutgers University on its weakness in ending anti-semitic protests on its campus. Rutgers’ reported capitulation to the demands of anti-semitic demonstrators is unacceptable. By prioritizing the demands of demonstrators that disrupted academic learning by spewing hateful rhetoric they have

demonstrated a glaring weakness that hurts the integrity of their institution and the Jewish community. It is imperative that higher education institutions ensure the safety and well-being of all their students by holding students and staff who perpetuated messages of hatred on their campus accountable. To that end, I have co-sponsored legislation condemning Rutgers acquiescence to anti-semitic protests as well as legislation addressing anti-semitism, specifically it’s definition and acts motivated by antisemitism.

Hatred of any kind targeting s a specific religious or ethnic group cannot be tolerated. Should you have any questions regarding this issue, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at SenHenry@njleg.org. Thank you..

Your voice in Trenton, Senator Owen Henry

SILVER LININGS AT OLD BRIDGE NEWS

Silver Linings at Old Bridge is the township run senior center for Old Bridge residents 60+. Programs and services are designed to enhance the quality of life for Old Bridge seniors, fostering both physical and mental well-being. Many older adults face loneliness due to the loss of spouses, friends, or a decrease in mobility. Silver Linings addresses this by creating a welcoming environment where seniors can engage in social activities and build a supportive community. Activities range from card games and art classes to dance classes and group excursions, all designed for social interaction and enjoyment. Health and wellness are also prioritized at Silver Linings. Exercise classes, such as yoga, Zumba Gold, Dancercise and strength training, help seniors maintain their physical health. Silver Linings offers health screenings, nutri-

tion advice, and health fairs, ensuring that Old Bridge seniors have access to vital health resources and information.

Educational opportunities such as classes in writing, art history, crafting, and lifelong learning courses allow seniors to develop new skills and hobbies. These programs not only stimulate the mind but also provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

Silver Linings often serves as a resource hub, providing information and assistance with navigating services such as Medicare, social security and social services. This support is crucial in helping seniors maintain their independence. Senior centers play a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of older adults. By offering social, physical, and educational activities at Silver Linings, members remain active, engaged, and supported in their communities. To become a member of Silver Linings at Old Bridge, residents must first call (732) 721-5600 x6600 for an appointment. Two proofs of Old Bridge residency are required, and the one-time fee for registration is $5. For more information, visit www.oldbridge.com/silverlinings

KNIGHTS WIN THREE GMC CHAMPIONSHIPS

By Avery Person

On May 16, the boys volleyball team won the GMC Tournament Championship over Monroe. The girls lacrosse followed suit, beating Monroe for the second straight year, and baseball finished the trifecta in a nail-biter over South Plainfield.

Oskar Lapinski led the volleyball team with 11 kills and Troy Markle contributed 27 assists to win in straight sets. “The team was able to check off a box for our goals this year,” said Markle. “That environment was great experience for everyone to get used to. With the stakes that game held, it has been able to prepare us for States.”

Girls lacrosse defeated Monroe in the GMC Championship for the second straight year. “It feels amazing knowing we were able to repeat exactly what we did last year against the same team,” said senior

goalie Gaby Malanga. “We have gone undefeated in the GMC for two years straight now, so winning the championship fulfilled the final matchup for the seniors and me.”

Senior Jessica Chin contributed three assists and freshman Reagan Connolly scored three goals, continuing her impressive recent run where she scored 14 goals in the three GMC Tournament games. “It was definitely a stressful game, but, as soon as I got on the field and the game started, my brain went into overdrive,” said Connolly.

The baseball team faced off against top-seeded South Plainfield, who bested them twice in the regular season, in a game that came down to the wire. “We had all the momentum going for us in the first inning, but we knew they wouldn’t go away easily,” said Akhil Penkala, who went two for three and drove in a run. “We knew it would come down to the last inning.”

In the bottom of the final inning, junior Justin Hascup came in to pitch and induced a ground ball back to him to end the game. “When Justin came in and fielded the grounder for the last out, that was the exact moment I realized we were champs,” added Penkala.

SOBFD FIRE FIGHTER OF THE MONTH: WILLIAM O’KEEFE

William is our dedicated Treasurer of the Fire Company. Since joining our team in 1999, William has been an integral part of our organization, consistently demonstrating an unwavering commitment to overseeing all financial paperwork. Before taking on the role of Treasurer, William served as the longest-serving trustee for 12 years, highlighting his loyalty and exemplary leadership skills within our organization. His impressive journey includes graduating from the fire academy in 2000 and achieving the esteemed status of a life member after 15 years of active service. Furthermore, William’s academic achievements, including graduating

from CBA High School and obtaining his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University, reflect his dedication to personal and professional growth.

Beyond his commitments at the Fire Company, William is a devoted husband to Lisa, a loving father to their three sons, and a caring owner of two dogs.

We are truly fortunate to have William on our team, and his contributions have significantly enhanced our operations.

BEAT THE HEAT, NOT THE ER: PRIORITIZING SUMMER SAFETY

Patricia Carroll, FACHE, President and Chief Hospital Executive, Raritan Bay Medical Center and Old Bridge Medical Center

At Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center we celebrated Nurses Week and Hospital Week last month. Our hospitals have earned for the 5th time, the coveted Magnet Award for Nursing, only with just 9.4% of hospitals in the United States receiving this designation. Our dedicated team of leaders are focused on your patient experience and we meet monthly to review and discuss our approaches to make your experience the absolute best. We continue to invest in new equipment, most recently state-of-the-art mammogram machines, and I am happy to share our collaboration in the Hackensack Meridian Health network resulting in new doctors joining to serve you.

This year we helped to sponsor the Health and Wellness Run in April and although the weather was very rainy, our Old Bridge team finished the 5K without any injuries! I want to share that the Old Bridge Medical Center emergency department has earned the Lantern Award from the Emergency Nurses Association. The Lantern Award is a national recognition of emergency departments who demonstrate exceptional and innovative leadership, practice, education, advocacy, and research performance. As we emerge from our rainy spring, it is time to prepare for some summer fun. I recall as a little girl the fun times at the Sea Bright beach but then the consequences of being in the sun all day without sunscreen and my mother covering me with Noxema! Summer is a time for fun and relaxation and as the weather heats up, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. We want you to stay safe and enjoy your summer and know we are here to care for you.

You most likely are familiar with these quick tips…but please take a moment and refresh yourself and share with your neighbors! And don’t forget about your pets too.

Hydration is Key: The summer heat can lead to dehydration quickly, especially for children and older adults. It’s essential to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which can dehydrate you further.

Sun Safety is a Must: Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, seeking shade during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and wearing protective clothing like hats and sunglasses.

Water Safety is Paramount: Whether you’re swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean, always supervise children closely and never swim alone. Be aware of water conditions and currents, and avoid swimming in areas with strong waves or riptides. Follow the rules of the lifeguards!

Now accepting PreK3,PreK4 and Kindergarten Enrollment.

• Top 15% Nationally in Mathematics & Language Arts.

• Award-Winning Academic Teams.

• Extra-Curricular Clubs & Athletic Programs

• Engaging & Differentiated Instructional Strategies.

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

• Enrichment and Intervention Classes.

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

Heatstroke is Serious: Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can occur when the body overheats. If you experience symptoms like dizziness, confusion, nausea, or rapid heartbeat, seek medical attention immediately.

Fireworks Safety is Crucial: Leave fireworks to the professionals. Even sparklers can cause serious burns. If you do use fireworks, follow all safety instructions carefully and keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.

Grilling Safety is Important: Keep your grill away from flammable materials and never leave it unattended. Use long-handled grilling tools and wear an apron to protect yourself from burns.

When to Seek Medical Attention: If you feel you might have heatstroke, severe dehydration, drowning, severe burns, etc., call 911 immediately. Together with our first responders, we are committed to care for you. Our Emergency

Department is designed to serve every patient from pediatric to geriatric, with private rooms, expanded number of ambulance bays, a crisis stabilization unit and on-site technology allowing for quicker diagnostics and faster treatment. We are your community hospital and are committed to providing the best possible care and if you need a higher level of care can expedite you to the right resource in our Hackensack Meridian Health Network.

In the next coming months, I look forward to sharing with you more exciting developments at Old Bridge Medical Center. Please enjoy the start of your summer and know WE ARE HERE FOR YOU.

ELLIE MENTAL HEALTH’S GUIDE TO HEALING

June is a vibrant month filled with significant events and observances. It marks PRIDE month, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. June is also PTSD Awareness Month, highlighting a crucial mental health issue. PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, can manifest in various ways. Individuals with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, or severe anxiety related to a traumatic event. Trauma triggers flight, fight, or freeze responses in the nervous system. After an event, the nervous system can remain stuck, perceiving a constant, invisible fire alarm. Common symptoms include hypervigilance, easily being startled, self-destructive behaviors, substance abuse, chronic pain, and disconnection from others. Although summer can be positive, it can also bring PTSD triggers. Recognizing these signs is the first step

in addressing PTSD. Effective therapies include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These therapies help process traumatic memories and reduce their impact. Self-care practices are also vital. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep improve well-being. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, help manage stress. Building a strong support network provides emotional support and reduces isolation.

This June, as we celebrate PRIDE, the summer solstice, and Juneteenth, let’s also raise awareness about PTSD. Understanding and supporting those affected by PTSD can significantly aid their journey to recovery. Ellie Mental Health is now open in Old Bridge, accepting most major insurances, and looks forward to serving the community.

OLD BRIDGE, NJ 732-344-4583

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

HAPPY SUMMER FROM

summer Jersey produce. The fields have been planted, and we are moving in the right direction! Everything is looking good and we’re praying from some help from Mother Nature. Our stand is open and we are picking a variety of lettuces, asparagus, spinach and radishes. Blueberries will be coming soon!!!! We have lots of vegetable plants, bedding plants, shrubs, perennials and hanging baskets. Come see us at the stand at 261 Ticetown Road from Tuesday – Sunday 9-5 or at one of our Farmers Markets. This season we’ll be in Keyport and Rahway on Thursdays, Highlands on Saturdays and Red

the fields ready for everybody’s favorite

BE STRONG & COURAGEOUS

In a recent article, author Eric Metaxas shared how the “Silence of American churches echoes that of 1930s Nazi Germany.” He cited that 3,000 of the 18,000 pastors in Nazi Germany were supportive of Adolf Hitler’s rule, while approximately 3,000 greatly opposed it. Was the silence of 12,000 pastors a substantial contributing factor to why the Nazis prevailed and killed 6 million Jews and 5 million others? Perhaps they thought politics was not the business of the church. Antisemitism today has swept through our major universities. Where are the voices against this in the church now?

In addition, how many of the 60 million babies aborted since the 1970s would still be alive, raising families of their own, if so many believers were not silent or convinced it is merely a political issue? Where are the Christian voices objecting to the indoctrination of children in the religious cult of gender identity couched in terms of “inclusive teaching” (www.itsnotinschools.com) in our public schools?

In the face of the greater evils today,

there is a need for more extraordinary courage. Whether antisemitism, abortion, or vulnerable and impressionable school children led down paths of confusion and chaos about their identity, we need the courage to speak the truth in love. Why did 32 million Christians not vote in the last election? Silence means consent! “To him who knows to do good, and does not do it, to him it is sin,” James 4:17 states. Get informed, stand up, and show up! Be strong and courageous! There are many depending on it!

Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center is having its annual meeting on Monday, July 29 at 6:00 pm. Registration is required and the meeting will be held virtually. To register, please contact Theresa Dowd via email at Theresa.Dowd@hmhn.org

Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor

SEPTA INTRODUCES ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION PARKS

Continued from page 1 and serve the entire community. They promote independence, foster socialization and provide inclusion for all. SEPTA collaborated with:

• A Voice For All Foundation to individualize a board for each park – front English – back Spanish. 2XL printed each one.

• Andrew Borriello and Nancy Cogland - Old Bridge High School Woodshop - they collectively framed each and every sign with their students.

• Boy Scout Troop 129 - Six scouts

installed, beautified and made wheelchair accessible each communication board to gain their Eagle Scout badge. At this time, SEPTA successfully installed alternative and accessible communication at Higgins Field, Geick Park, Mannino Park, Glenn School, Southwood School, Lombardi Field and Veterans Park with more to come.

Let’s inspire other towns to follow SEPTA’s lead in creating equal and accessible opportunities, ensuring everyone has a voice and belongs. #OldBridgeSEPTArocks

OLD BRIDGE WELCOMES PEAK COLD PLUNGE STUDIO

The health & wellness scene in Old Bridge just got a refreshing new addition with the grand opening of Peak Cold Plunge Studio, a state-of-the-art Cold Plunge studio promising to invigorate the body and mind through the transformative power of cold water immersion.

Stepping into an ice bath might seem daunting, but the immediate and long-lasting benefits are well worth it. The invigorating cold water triggers a host of positive physiological responses. “A Cold Plunge makes you feel incredibly refreshed and rejuvenated,” says James Felitti, the co-founder of Peak Cold Plunge. “The cold water stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feelgood hormones, leading to an improved mood and a sense of overall well-being.”

Combat Inflammation and Soreness, Boost Mental Clarity

One of the primary reasons athletes and fitness enthusiasts swear by ice baths is their ability to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. “Whether you’re an athlete recovering from a tough workout or someone dealing with chronic inflammation, our cold plunge can help alleviate discomfort

and speed up healing,” explains Felitti.

Beyond physical benefits, regular cold plunges have been linked to improved mental clarity and reduced stress. The sudden immersion in cold water prompts deep, controlled breathing, which helps calm the mind and enhance focus. Many users report feeling more centered and mentally sharp after a session.

Peak Cold Plunge offers individual and group sessions, along with guided introductions for newcomers. With a commitment to holistic health, this new studio is set to become a staple for those seeking a natural and invigorating path to wellness. Also included in all cold plunge sessions is access to our traditional stone sauna for those looking for a relaxing post-plunge warm up!

Located inside Powerhouse Gym (no membership required), 1091 Rt 9 Old Bridge.

BOOST SUMMER LEARNING AT LIBRARY!

Research shows that kids who don’t keep up their reading and math skills during the summer lose about 20% of what they learn in school. When children learn during the summer, they’re healthier and smarter when September rolls around. Let the library be a support in engaging your children during the summer months. Parents, don’t let this stress you out! We can help and it’s free! With our summer learning programs, your kids can retain the knowledge that they acquired during the school year. We offer many STEAM programs to keep your child on track, including our popular Reading and Math Buddy series. Our trained teen volunteers will tutor your child one on one. If the timing doesn’t work for you and you can’t get to the library, we offer

many databases that your child can log onto in the comfort of your home, so they too can combat that summer slide.

We offer many volunteering opportunities for your teens (Grades 6-12) to earn community service hours at the library this summer, including the option to become a mentor for our learning programs!

Kick off the summer at the Old Bridge Library on Saturday, June 22 from 11-2 as we host a fun filled party! We’ll have a petting zoo on a bus, games, activities and food truck vendors. While there, don’t forget to sign up for our summer reading programs for all ages to win prizes. Adults even have their very own program filled with activities and incentives.

To learn more, visit our website at oldbridgelibrary.org.

IN MEMORIAM

LEONARD J. DETOMA JR.

SEPTEMBER 15, 1953 - MAY 5, 2024

ARTHUR ACQUAVIVA

AUGUST 5, 1929 - MAY 6, 2024

FRANCES MARZOCCHI

AUGUST 23, 1929 - MAY 6, 2024

RONALD A SICINSKI

DECEMBER 18, 1946 - MAY 8, 2024

VIVIAN IVEY

FEBRUARY 11, 1941 - MAY 11, 2024

GLORIA DIAZ

APRIL 8, 1944 - MAY 11, 2024

ERIC JENS TERWILLIGER

SEPTEMBER 7, 1955 - MAY 12, 2024

ANTHONY J. MEZZACAPPA, JR.

FEBRUARY 2, 1962 - MAY 14, 2024

RENEE D BAILEY

JANUARY 17, 1976 - MAY 15, 2024

BARBARA MARIA KLIER

MARCH 19, 1941 - MAY 22, 2024