All Around Old Bridge- May 2024

OLDBRIDGE ALL AROUND

VOL 10 , NO 5

OBPD ADDS K9 TO DEPARTMENT

Chief Thomas Montagna and Mayor Debbie Walker are excited to introduce you to Old Bridge Police Department’s second K9 police dog, Apollo, and his handler, K9 Officer Pietrulewicz. Apollo is a 14-month-old Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix.

Apollo is currently in training with Officer Pietrulewicz at the New Jersey State Police K9 Scent Class. Once training is completed, he will join him on patrol. Apollo is training for patrol tracking and drug detection. Police K9s can do this faster and more effectively than humans in many situations, which improves law enforcement’s overall effectiveness.

As our first K9, Zeus, demonstrated last week, police dogs can help protect police officers and the community by assisting in apprehending dangerous suspects. This reduces the risk of physical altercations and injury and, in many instances, just their presence can act as a deterrent to additional criminal actions.

While there are initial costs associated with training and maintaining a K9 unit, they prove to be cost-effective in the long run due to their efficiency in various law enforcement Continue on page 27

A Publication for the community of Old Bridge

On Monday May 27, 2024, please join us for the Old Bridge Annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. The parade will kick off at 9am from Memorial Elementary school on Ely Avenue.

The parade will proceed down, Laurence Parkway toward the waterfront, cross over route 35 and loop around Shoreland Circle before ending at Memorial Park in front of the Laurence Harbor Fire Company, where refreshments will be served, and we will commence with our ceremony.

Memorial Day is known for family, friends, barbecues, and beach days but we cannot forget the real reasons we celebrate this very important day!

Memorial Day began on May 30th, 1868, then called Decoration Day, to honor those who perished fighting in the Civil War. It has become a day to honor all American Veterans who sacrificed in so many ways to defend our nation and our flag.

Please join us in celebrating Memorial Day, to commemorate all our veterans who came home, and along with their families to honor and mourn all those who tragically did not.

Today we know all too well that freedom is NOT free and never will be! Gob Bless all of those that paid the heavy price with blood, loss of limbs, PTSD, and in all too often with their very

lives to keep and preserve the freedoms that we enjoy today.

If you have a group who would like to participate in the parade, or if you would like to nominate a service man or woman to be the Grand Marshall, please apply. The Grand Marshall must be past or present military personnel member, who lives or lived in Old Bridge. You can find the forms on the recreation page of the Old Bridge Township website. https://www. oldbridge.com/page/recreation For questions on the parade, email Ivalsera@oldbridge.com or call 732-721-5600 ext 4999

Join us for an evening of celebration and gratitude on Thursday, May 30, 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Palms Plaza in Matawan.

This event will benefit the Old Bridge YMCA’s annual campaign and commemorate our 15th anniversary of serving the Old Bridge community.

Since 2009, the Old Bridge Family YMCA has welcomed individuals and families through our doors. The Y is so much more than a place to swim or work out.

From fitness to mental well-being, from swim lessons and summer camp to college readiness, from

preschool to preventive health, the Y doesn’t just strengthen minds and bodies. It strengthens entire communities, across generations.

We are especially excited to honor the contributions of our Old Bridge YMCA c om mu n it y c h ampi ons .

Legacy Award, Russ Azzarello Community Partner Award, Rotary Club of Old Bridge – Sayreville, Service Excellence Award Old Bridge Family Y Aquatics Department Your support of this event ensures that the Y can provide opportunities for all in our com-

munity to learn, grow and thrive.

To purchase tickets and/ or to sponsor our event, visit https://give.ymcanj. org/2024OBYBDAYBASH

CHEERS TO 15 YEARS FOR THE OLD BRIDGE FAMILY YMCA!

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MESSAGE FROM MAYOR DEBBIE WALKER

Dear Old Bridge Residents, Memorial Day is the “unofficial” start of the summer and I am sure that all our residents are looking forward to upcoming pool parties and barbeques! It is an important time to acknowledge all our veterans and active military members of our U.S. Armed Forces. It is our duty to honor, reflect, and remember all those who may have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

You may notice volunteers with the Mayor’s Clean Team clearing litter in our parks and along our roadways. I would like to thank everyone who has

participated thus far and worked together to keep Old Bridge clean.

If any not-for-profit groups are interested in volunteering, please visit the township’s website at OldBridge.com/CleanTeam.

Please note the Township Recycling Center accepts paint and florescent bulbs the 2nd Saturday of each month, as well as a long list of other items that are accepted weekly. Visit OldBridge.com/Recycling for the full list. Additionally, the Department of Public Works offers appliance pick-ups, as well as brush collection by appointment only. Please call 732-721-5600 x6140 to be placed on the list, or email recycling@oldbridge.com.

On Friday, May 24th, we invite all our veterans, VFW Posts members, and residents of Old Bridge to join us in the Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony. This annual event takes place at 10:00 a.m., in the Silver Linings Senior Center at the Old Bridge Municipal Complex, One Old Bridge Plaza. We begin the program by

reflecting and remembering all veterans with a few words from our VFW Post Commanders.

As Mayor, I will also read the Memorial Day Proclamation and the Old Bridge Seniors are happy to provide a medley of music which is sure to inspire. The ceremony concludes with the VFW members laying the Memorial Day Wreath by our memorial site.

We are also pleased to announce our Memorial Day Parade will take place on Monday, May 27th. The parade will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Memorial School, 11 Ely Avenue, Laurence Harbor, and will conclude with Memorial Day services at Memorial Park, which is located directly across the street from the Laurence Harbor Fire House. It is a wonderful community event for all our residents and families to enjoy. It is also a great opportunity to show your thanks and support for veterans and military personnel who have dedicated their lives for our country. If you or your organization or troop would like to march in the Memorial Day Parade,

please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at x4999.

Now that the warm weather will finally be arriving, this is also a great time to enjoy all the wonderful parks and programs the Township has to offer. The 2024 Summer Recreation Program Brochure is available and includes another exciting line up of classes, programs, and events for residents of all ages. Registration for Half Day Camp, Camp R.O.B.I.N. and all our summer programming starts on May 8th at 6pm.

For complete details, please visit our website at oldbridge.com.

I would like to wish all our wonderful Moms a Happy Mother’s Day, and for everyone to have a very healthy and enjoyable start to summer.

Continue to stay safe and be well.

Mayor Debbie Walker

MAY 2024

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FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY In accounting, fiduciary responsibility is not usually heard in everyday conversations.

A Fiduciary is someone who is responsible for managing money for someone else. When you are named a fiduciary and you accept the role, you must care for the person’s money for their benefit, not yours. In any organization or relationship, the financial responsibly requires trust, care and attention. As a fiduciary, the duties require you to act in the person’s/ organization’s best interest; manage and protect the income, expenses, and accounts; keep the funds separate from your own; and keep true and complete records.

Itisnotaquestionoftrust;itisamatterofcare.

In a family relationship, caring for an elderly parent, or acting as care giver, it is necessary to provide the information to family members. Have the detailed information available during care, but also for estate purposes if something happens. The details show how much you care about the person, and the trust the family members relied on you.

In an organization, it is the role of the fiduciary to provide detailed records to the Executive Board of the organization, and the Board should regularly review the details. By-laws of any organization should include the process for review.

Examples include, the Vice President review the bills, two people review the checks, three people count cash, etc.

Board members accepted the positions knowing the they are acting on behalf of the members, and the members should be able to rely on the Board to act on their behalf and trust that the Board members protect the organization.

Bank records, loan statements, credit card bills record the transactions, but do not provide details of the transaction.

Receipts and check copies provide details.

As a fiduciary you must have records available for review. Regular review is the care for the money and the details to back it up. In accounting we use the term auditing, in the real world, it should just be considered as part of the job.

Nora L Schmitz EA MBA Litz Tax & Consulting 21 Ernston Rd Parlin, NJ 08859 732-952-5252

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YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON

By Senator Owen Henry

Public school districts like Old Bridge are not only struggling with Governor Murphy’s funding cuts, but they are also being forced to make tough choices by cutting educators and programs which are vital for students’ success. I am committed to fixing this formula have co-sponsored the Republican-led legislation, S-3076, that would responsibly restore Governor Murphy’s funding cuts, without raising local property taxes.

I shall keep you apprised of my efforts on this matter and any other pertinent issues in the legislature. If I can be of further assistance to you, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly by calling 732.607.7580 or by email at SenHenry@njleg.org.

Your voice in Trenton, Senator Owen Henry

As your newly elected Senator, I am honored to work on your behalf to address key issues facing our residents of the 12th Legislative District. One of the most pressing issues being the funding of our children’s education.

It is abundantly clear that the current school funding formula is broken.

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3RD ANNUAL BLUES & CRUISE CAR SHOW IN MATAWAN.

The Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that we are once again assisting the Economic Business Development Commission of the Borough of Matawan with the 3rd Annual Blues & Cruise Car Show in Matawan. All are welcome to stroll down Main Street from 6:00 - 9:00 pm on May 29th to enjoy the vintage cars, jazz music, vendors, and variety of food from local restaurants and food trucks. A limited number of vendor spots are available for crafters and resellers. Visit our website at macocnj.com or call 732-290-1125 if interested in a spot. There is no rain date, so let’s hope for good weather

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SOBFD FIRE FIGHTER OF THE MONTH: JEFFREY SELLMEYER

member, Jeff demonstrated exceptional commitment and was even permitted to attend emergency calls during school hours by the Madison Central principal.

Throughout his tenure, Jeff held various roles within the organization and was rightfully elected as the 30th Fire Chief in 2023. In addition to his service in the fire department, Jeff serves as a Police Sergeant with the Jamesburg Police Department.

Ex-Chief Jeffrey Sellmeyer, who is recognized for his significant contributions to the fire company. Born and raised in Old Bridge, with the majority of his time spent in the Sayrewoods South section, Jeff’s dedication to serving the community is commendable. Jeff followed in the footsteps of his father, Alfred, and older brother, John, by joining the fire company at a young age. Despite still being in high school when he became a

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MAY 2024

STROKE AWARENESS MONTH: KNOW THE SIGNS, SAVE A LIFE During Stroke Awareness Month, I encourage everyone to take steps to reduce their risk of stroke and to be prepared in case of an emergency. Here are some tips: • Control your blood pressure: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke.

• Manage your cholesterol: High cholesterol can narrow arteries and increase the risk of blood clots.

• Quit smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of stroke.

• Get regular exercise: Exercise helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

• Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to reduce the risk of stroke.

• Know your family history: If you have a family histor y of stroke, you may be at increased risk.

• Talk to your doctor: Discuss your risk factors for stroke and develop a plan to reduce them.

Remember the acronym FAST: • Fa c e : As k t h e p e rs on

to smile. Does one side of their face droop?

• Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Do they slur their words or have difficulty speaking?

• Ti m e : If you o b s e r ve any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Here are some things you can do to take action during Stroke Awareness Month: • Learn the signs of stroke a n d h ow t o r e s p o n d .

• Talk to your doctor about your risk factors for stroke

HMH Raritan Bay Medical Center Perth Amboy: 530 New Brunswick Ave, Perth Amboy

and how to reduce them.

• Share information about stroke with your family and friends.

• Donate to organizations that support stroke research and awareness.

• Vo l u n t e e r y o u r t i m e to help stroke survivors.

By taking these steps, you can help to make a difference in the fight against stroke.

Stroke Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness about stroke, its risk factors, and its treatment. By working together, we can reduce the impact of stroke and save lives.

We a r e h e r e f o r y o u !

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May is Stroke Awareness Month, and I urge everyone to learn the signs of stroke and take steps to reduce their risk. Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States, affecting millions of Americans each year.

At Old Bridge Medical Center we are a designated Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission. This means we are equipped to provide emergent care, including clot-busting therapy to stabilize acute stroke patients and provide patient care in accordance with best clinical practice guidelines established by the American Heart Association.

Time is of the essence when it comes to stroke treatment. The sooner a person receives medical

attention, the better their chances of recovery. That’s why it’s crucial to recognize the signs of stroke and act quickly,” said Milagros Gonzales MSN, RN, Stroke Center Coordinator, Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Center’s.

The results at Old Bridge Medical Center have been 100% compliant with guidelines which means we are administering life saving medication that can reverse a stroke under 60 minutes of arrival. The national average is 65 minutes.

“A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause a wide range of symptoms, including sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, and dizziness.

We are a well rounded stroke facility, where our stroke program is made up of many disciplines including, RNs, Licensed Providers, Rehabilitative Services, Dietary, Stroke Coordinator, PCTs, Professional Development, Senior Leadership, Pharmacy, and Radiology.

Sa

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

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MAY 2024

HELLO FROM HAUSER

By Paul Pscolka Grade Point that rely on GPA to discern ability. comprehensive student profile. HILL FARMS! GPA IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS Average (GPA) has been the most important factor in college admissions. It reflects a student’s capabilities, which are essential for success at university. It is intended to distinguish students.

However, grade inflation has complicated reliance on GPA. In 1966, 20.8% of high school seniors applying to university reported A averages. Through the years, that percent gradually increased until, post-covid, 80.6% reported A averages. “We’re not trusting, frankly, of GPA these days. Grades are definitely inflated and not as connected to true class performance as they used to be.” (John Latting, Emory Dean of Admissions) GPA does not seem to convey the distinction it once did and has been used by many universities to reject students who do not have an A average. It has become challenging for colleges

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) began requiring SAT or ACT scores again. UT Austin found that students who submitted scores were 55% less likely to be on academic probation (GPA under 2.0). Submitters also had an average of .86 grade points higher, the difference between a 2.4 (in danger of academic probation) and 3.26 (mix of As and Bs).

Grade inflation has necessitated a reevaluation in college admissions. Admissions officers consider many factors to obtain a holistic view of an applicant’s capabilities and potential contributions. “Standardized test scores are a much better prediction of academic success than high school grades.” (Christina Paxson, President of Brown University) Extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, letters of recommendation, and personal essays also offer insights into a student’s interests, character, and resilience. These diverse criteria build a more

While GPA remains a significant indicator of academic readiness, grade inflation has required college admissions processes to evolve, placing greater emphasis on other evaluations to identify capable students.

Thank you, Brian Eufinger, of Edison Prep in Atlanta, for some of these statistics, and Barak Moore, of Barak Moore SAT-ACT Tutor in New York, NY for the quotes.

Suggestion for a topic?

You can reach me at Paul.

Pscolka@ivymasters.com 833SATsACT (833-728-7228)

The season is in full swing, and we have been very busy on the farm planting vegetables and preparing the fields. Despite all the rain, we’re hoping to begin to harvest some early produce very soon! All the orchards have been pruned, as well as the raspberry and blackberry fields and soon we will begin the arduous task of thinning peaches. Peaches and apples must go through a thinning process. This process “thins out” the crop by removing fruit from the trees so that the fruit that is left can size up and reach its full potential. If we were to skip this process, all the fruit would be very small….and nobody likes a tiny peach! We thin mostly by hand on the farm, so it takes

quite a long time to complete almost six acres of peach trees.

We still have lots of bedding plants, flowers, shrubs, vegetable plants and hanging baskets available. Make sure you come by for some strawberries! They are the best! Come see us at our farm stand at 261 Ticetown Road Tuesday – Sunday from 9-5. Visit our website at hauserhillfarmsnj. com or find us on Facebook and Instagram for updates on what crops are available. We’ve been on Ticetown Road for about 150 years and are we the last family owned farms left in Old Bridge.

Support small business by purchasing locally grown produce and know where your food comes from. Buy fresh, buy local!

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THE MAKER OF ME

Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor Read the biography of one of America’s greatest inventors, Thomas Edison, and you will realize the profound impact a mother can make. A poor student, Edison’s mother decided to homeschool him, and he attributed much of his success to her sacrifice and training. “My mother was the making of me. She was so true, so sure of me, and I felt I had someone to live for, someone I must not disappoint,” Edison shared.

Research also proves the immeasurable value of mothering. Mothers are crucial to the emotional, behavioral, intellectual, and social development of their children. Family expert Steve Biddulph sums it up this way, “It now appears that mother-baby interaction, in the first year especially, is the very foundation of human emotions and intelligence. In the most essential terms, love grows the brain.”

And history, too, underscores the point. Mothers have for generations sacrificially given of themselves for the sake of their families. As early as the third century AD, early church father John Chrysostom said, “Higher than a painter,

sculptor, than all artists is he who is skilled in the art of forming the soul of a child.”

Perhaps the most famous mother of all time, Mary the mother of Jesus, epitomized this picture of sacrifice, laying aside her youth, comforts, plans, and ultimately experiencing the greatest pain any mother can face—watching her son die. Theodore Roosevelt described the picture of such sacrificial mothering perfectly, saying, “Mothers, and not churches or theological seminaries, make the faith of people.”

We celebrate Mother’s Day this month, and it bears remembering, that motherhood is perhaps the single most influential, even revolutionary role in our culture. Women can be anything, but only women can be mothers!

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MAY 2024

INCLUSIVE SOCCER FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Photos by Danny Green

If you live in Old Bridge, New Jersey or in a nearby town and would like your child to play soccer, Just4kixs has a great program for your special child. Boys and girls can play on this league. Just4kixs and the Old Bridge Soccer Club welcome any child with special needs to play on our inclusive soccer program.

The program runs in the Fall and Spring seasons on Saturday mornings. vist http://

GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION

just4kixs.org/ for more information.

The Buddy Program: Just4kixs will pair your child up with a teenager buddy to help them learn the ins and outs of basic soccer skills, one on one. It’s a wonderful opportunity for teens to have an enriching experience while helping their community. Buddies will receive all the training they need before the season begins.

Continue on page 16

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY with Old Bridge township

MAY 11TH AT 12 NOON

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MAY 2024

TREATING PET ANXIETY

INCLUSIVE SOCCER FOR

By Anita Greenberg,DVM. member of Old Bridge Township Council since 2016 Pets, like people, can tive by chewing, are all too common. CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS suffer from anxiety.

S ometimes the source is the anxious p e t o w n e r, w h o can project anxiety o nt o t h e i r p e t s .

Pets cannot tell us how and what they are feeling. Anxiety may be brought on due to the pet’s environment, including inappropriate interaction with their owner or other pets in the household.

Another reason pets do not thrive is there is not enough interaction with their owner.

Fear or anxiety is an emotion triggered by the perception of a threat. When your pet is anxious, he or she may experience an increase in heart rate, pupil dilation, panting, pacing, trembling, and drooling. Often they will have elimination problems, causing them to urinate and defecate inappropriately. They may even release secretions from their anal sacs.

Your pet may also hide. Cats especially need a safe area where they can retreat if they feel anxious.

Behavioral signs such as nocturnal wakefulness, excessive vocalization, house soiling, and being destruc-

Vi s i t s t o t h e v e t e r i n a r i a n , groomer, car rides, thunderstorms and fireworks may be triggers.

Separation anxiety is also prevalent.

Desensitization can be used by playing soft music when your pets are left alone.

Behavioral modifications is possible by leaving your pet for short intervals, gradually increasing the time you are away. This gives your pet confidence you will return.

Proper training and positive reinforcement are essential to control anxiety. Give your pet special treats when the trigger is present in order to form a positive association. Socializing and exposing your pet, especially when young, to many sounds and environmental stimuli aids in the prevention of certain fears from developing.

Remain calm and soothe your pet when they are anxious. Petting your dog or cat lowers the stress hormone cortisol.

Social interaction between people and their pets increases the level of oxytocin, which is the feel good hormone.

Exercise and mental stimulation are critical to minimize and eliminate stress.

Photos by Danny Green Continued from page 13 Sophia Hernandez, who is in 7th Grade and a new Buddy for Just4kixs, said, “I love Just4kixs! I am always so excited to go. Me and my buddy have a good relationship and we always have fun.

The coaches are sweet and kind. I am so thankful to do Just4kicks. It is truly the

best. You would have such a great time there, plus you get to make new friends.”

Ava Lattarollo, a 13 year old in 8th grade agreed by saying, “J4K is so much fun and I look forward to seeing my buddy every Saturday. It’s amazing to see all these teenagers come together to help kids in need play soccer and have a good time.”

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2024 NICOLE’S HEART 5K WALK/RUNOnSCHEDULED Saturday, a cardiac event brought on by an undiJune 8, 2024, Nicole’s Heart Foundation will sponsor its 6th annual 5K Walk/Run at Thompson Park (Preston Grove area), 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ. This fundraising event supports the foundation’s mission concerning the importance of cardiac screening for high school students and student-athletes. The 5K is USA Track & Field sanctioned.

Established more than a decade ago, Nicole’s Heart facilitates free cardiac screenings for high school students, administers a scholarship program for graduating high school seniors, and donates defibrillators to various organizations.

The foundation honors the memory of Nicole Trott of Old Bridge, who passed away shortly after graduating from St. John Vianney High School in 2011, following

agnosed congenital heart defect known as Anomalous Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA).

Nicole’s athletic background included track, gymnastics, and cheerleading. In addition to her academics and extracurricular activities, the 18-year-old also volunteered at the Old Bridge Animal Shelter and expected to start a pre-veterinarian college program the following fall.

The fact that this year’s 5K falls on Nicole’s birthday is particularly meaningful to Nicole’s family and friends as the organization reflects on its accomplishments. Nicole’s Heart has awarded $31,000 in scholarships, donated 8 AEDs, and facilitated cardiac screening for more than 2,000 students.

Anyone interested in participating in this year’s 5K Walk/Run may register at the Race Forum website (https:// www.raceforum.com/nicole). Register

by May 15 to guarantee a free t-shirt.

For additional information about this 501(c) 3, the scholarship program, or to make a donation, visit Nicole’s Heart Foundation at www.nicolesheart.com.

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NAVIGATING MENTAL WELLNESS WITH ELLIE MENTAL HEALTH THIS MAY

May marks the unofficial start of summer and Mental Health Awareness Month! Anticipated social events can often lead to increased social anxiety. While gatherings with family and Billie-Jo Stuto friends offer joy, they LCSW, LCADC, CCS can also trigger mental Clinic Director Ellie wellness challenges.

Mental Health, Many of us may Old Bridge grapple with reluctance to attend events, feeling guilty for not feeling joyful, and debating attendance. This internal conflict can lead to feelings of guilt and shame, potentially causing disputes with loved ones. Our brain’s instinct to protect us from perceived threats may result in avoidance behaviors.

However, there are effective strategies to navigate these feelings. Employing DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) techniques, such as opposite action, can significantly disrupt this cycle. If you’re not ready for that step, DBT distress tolerance skills offer another supportive route. Additionally,

OLD BRIDGE, NJ 732-344-4583

soothing the five senses—seeing the blue sky, feeling the warm breeze, hearing birds chirping, tasting the salty air, and smelling fresh mulch—can help manage these internal debates, turning what may seem impossible into something achievable.

Aligned with our commitment to mental health, Ellie Mental Health actively participated in the mayor’s local 5K and ‘Happy Kids Day’ at the Old Bridge Y. These events highlight our dedication to community outreach and supporting Old Bridge residents.

We currently offer virtual consultations (accepting all major insurances with no waitlist), and we’re excited about our new facility opening soon on Rt 18, near the Wawa. This space will provide a welcoming environment to address various mental health issues. We look forward to partnering with you to challenge stigma and improve access to mental health care in Old Bridge and surrounding areas.

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OB LIBRARY AS AN ART SPACE

A New York Times article from October 2, 1977 lists an exhibit of etchings and photographs by Ave Marie Walwark and the dedication of the storybook mural by Elizabeth Case at the library in a column entitled “New Jersey/This Week”. That mural, “The Wrong Elf ” still enchants visitors today with dozens of traditional tales and fables artfully woven into a large frame that dominates the Childrens’ Area.

Generations of Old Bridge residents have grown up marveling at the depictions of Hans Brinker or Maurice Sendak’s Wild Things found in its brushstrokes.

Encouraging arts literacy, appreciation and and skills for all ages is an important role for the library in the community. From the example of the mural, to the columns in the Teen area that are hand painted by

student volunteers, original works of art can be viewed during all of the library’s open hours. In April OBPL welcomed the “Cute Monsters Stories” exhibit created by Old Bridge High School students in Laura Grozovskaya art class. The Old Bridge Cultural Arts Committee manages a group of regularly changing displays at the library featuring the talents of local artists in the community. From the Astral Photography to Ukranian Folk Arts, the Committee keeps us inspired and gives us an opportunity to learn more about our neighbors.

From our weekly coloring club to technology-based creativity with our 3D printer – we offer a chance to explore or enhance your artistic abilities with group and individual learning opportunities. The Creative Bug database is free to Old Bridge library card holders and offers access to thousands of tutorials from artists and crafters.

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HEALTHY KIDS RUNNING SERIES CELEBRATES 15 YEARS NATIONWIDE AND 6TH SEASON IN OLD BRIDGE! FIRST OF FIVE SUNDAY RACES SET each week, and receive points based on FOR MAY 5TH AT 11AM The Healthy Kids Running Series is underway at Old Bridge High School Back Fields - 4209 County Rd 516, Matawan, NJ 07747 Beginning on MAY 5th, kids with all the abilities in Pre-K through 8th grade are able to attend the five week running program. The program takes place on Sundays at 11am on May 5th, 12th, 19th, June 2nd and 9th, and offers age-appropriate running events including the 50 and 75 yard dashes, quarter mile, half mile, and one mile runs.

Kids will race in their respective divisions, challenge themselves to improve

finish for Kindergarten through 8th. Registration includes race bibs for each week, a runner shirt, finisher medal, sponsor giveaways, and trophies for the top place finishers in timed divisions. Registration is open at https://runsignup.com/hkrsoldbridge Single day race registration is also available one hour prior to the start of each race at $20, or you can join us for all five races for $50. For more information, contact the Community Coordinator, LAURA ALIBERTI, at 917-674-9456 or email at oldbridgenj@healthykidsrs.org.

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IN M EMOR I A M

NANCY QUINN 03/31/1946 - 04/22/2024

Nancy Quinn, 78, passed away on April 22, 2024 in Holmdel, NJ. She was born on March 31, 1946 to and Joseph and Susan (Alario) Azzarello in Jersey City, NJ. Nancy worked as a Legal Secretary for Lerner Law Firm. She met her husband William “Billy” while he was a police officer, crossing children after school on her corner. Nancy & William moved to Old Bridge in 2000, where they became lifelong residents.

Nancy will be remembered for the love she gave to her family, especially her many nieces, nephews, grand nieces & grand nephews.

Nancy is survived by her two brothers; Russell Azzarello (Joan) & Guy Azzarello (Nancy); nieces; Elaine Aqui-

lone & Dianne Vice; nephews; Michael Azzarello & Joseph Azzarello; grand nieces & nephews; Tino & Avery Azzarello, Russell & Lisa Azzarello, Stephanie Giglio, Shawa & Thomas Vice, and Isabella, Mario, & Nicco Aquilone.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband William “Billy” Quinn, and her parents Joseph and Susan Azzarello.

Visitation was held on Monday, April 29, 2024, at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge, NJ. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at the St. Lawrence Church, Laurence Harbor, NJ. Entombment took place on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 in the St. Joseph’s Mausoleum, Keyport, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Hackensack Meridian Health for all of the care and compassion they have shown Nancy.

Online condolences can be given at www.oldbridgefh.com.

REMEMBERING BRADY: COMMUNITY GATHERS AT MEMORIAL BENCH UNVEILING

In a heartfelt tribute to Brady, a beloved 15-year-old who we tragically lost to suicide in 2022, a dedicated memorial bench was unveiled today at the Old Bridge Golf Course.

The event was graced by the presence of Senator Henry, who, along with the Old Bridge Golf Course, generously donated the bench. Hops Squad also played a crucial role as a sponsor, contributing to the success of the day. Ryan and his team at the Old Bridge Golf Course ensured

everything ran smoothly, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It was also great to see Mayor Walker, Councilwoman Dr. Anita Greenberg-Belli, Councilmen Erik DePalma, and Councilmen Darin Accettulli attend this special day.

Participants enjoyed a day of sunshine, perfect for the activities planned.

Children had fun playing miniature golf and practicing their swings, making the event not only a memorial but a celebration of life and community spirit.

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OLD BRIDGE RAISES FLAG FOR DONATE LIFE MONTH

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In honor of April being Donate Life month, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center nurses, team members and administration raised the NJ Sharing Network flag in memory of those who have given the gift of life through organ and tissue donation.

OBPD ADDS K9 TO DEPARTMENT Continued from page 1 tasks. The Old Bridge Police Department’s K9 program is fully funded by the town. In addition, we receive donated food from The Pet Center of Old Bridge and discounted veterinary services through Touchstone Veterinary Center. Recently, many generous residents and community organizations have reached out because they would like to make donations to our K9 program. In fact, just this week, Friends of Solo Foundation committed to donating a bullet proof vest for Zeus. Apollo is not ready for

his vest yet. Another business in town has expressed interest in donating his vest.

If you would like to be a part of supporting our K9 program, you can make a check out to the “Township of Old Bridge” and put “K9 Trust Fund” in the note section. We cannot accept cash. Thank you all for your generosity and well wishes.

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MAY 2024