All Around Old Bridge- October, 2023

BARK FOR LIFE OF CENTRAL NJ: UNITING DOGS AND OWNERS IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER

The American Cancer Society is proud to announce their sixth annual Bark For Life of Central NJ event, a unique and inspiring canine cancer walk and festival that brings dogs and their owners together to support the fight against cancer. Dogs, their families, and friends from all corners of New Jersey and beyond are welcome to join this heartfelt event to celebrate cancer survivors and canine companions who provide comfort, respite, and support to individuals facing cancer.

Bark For Life is an offshoot of the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life, focusing specifically on the integral role that dogs play in the lives of cancer patients and survivors. It recognizes the unconditional love and unwavering loyalty dogs provide, making them perfect companions throughout the journey of cancer treatment and recovery.

This event promises to be a memorable day for participants and their four-legged friends. Attendees can look forward to a range of exciting activities including a dog friendly walk, canine demonstration, pet friendly vendors, a variety of contests including our annual Dog

Continue on page 25

OLD BRIDGE GOLF CLUB AT ROSE-LAMBERTSON NOW OPEN!

The Rose and Lambertson Tract Area, located on the north and south side of Lambertson Road, consists of four municipally owned parcels covering, approximately 208 acres of land, as well as a triangular parcel near the southwest corner of the Lambertson Tract, covering 9.96 acres. In a series of transactions, Old Bridge Township used New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres funds to purchase the Rose and Lambertson Tracts with the expectation of maintaining the property as recreational open space.

In March 2004, the Old Bridge Township Council authorized the Planning Board to undertake an area in need investigation study. At a public hearing held on April

Continue on page 30

SOBFD OPEN HOUSE OCTOBER, 14TH

The open house will include a demonstration, equipment on display, fire safety education for adults and children, fun activities, and refreshments. Learn about what the department does, meet the department’s dedicated firefighters, see the fire trucks and equipment, tour the historic firehouse, and learn about fire prevention.

National Fire Prevention

Week aims to teach children and adults how to stay safe in case of fire, according to www.nfpa.org.

will be hosting their annual open house. The event will be held on Saturday, 10/14/23, at

morton Lane, and on Sunday, 10/15/23, at Engine Company #1, 958 Englishtown Road. This event is open to the public.

First-year Department Chief Jeffrey Sellmeyer explained this is the perfect opportunity

Continue on page 22

Mayor's office of Economic Development

MAYOR HENRY MESSAGE

Dear Old Bridge Residents,

There’s a crisp in the air… welcome to Fall! The colorful foliage and autumn harvests abound in our community. October will be an exciting month for Old Bridge residents as we begin to celebrate and join in on harvest events and activities. I would like to start off by wishing our local athletes the best of luck as they begin to start off a new season. I look forward to visiting the schools and watching them play. I will be supporting and cheering them on from the crowd. Thank you for representing Old Bridge and making us Old Bridge Proud. A special fall paper shredding event will be held on Friday, October 13, 2023. This event is being held at 2 locations: Cheesequake Village from 10am -11am, and the Old Bridge

Recycling Center from 12pm -3pm. Only confidential documents will be accepted with a maximum of two boxes per car. Visit OldBridge.com/Recycling for more information.

Mayor Owen Henry

The Department of Public Works & the Old Bridge Food Bank will be hosting its 3rd annual coat drive this November! The “Share the Warmth Coat Drive” will be held on Saturday, November 4th from 9am to 12pm at the Recycling Center. Join us in helping our residents in need stay warm this winter by donating new or gently used coats, hats, scarves and gloves. This will be a drive-through drop-off so all you need to do is drive up and we will take care of the rest! We thank you in advance for your support!

Each year, the Department of Parks and Recreation offers a variety of activities and events. These exciting recreational activities and events are for residents of all ages. The Fall 2023Recreation Brochure for Old Bridge Township is available on our website at oldbridge.com.

This month my clean team will be hosting a few clean ups where volunteers are more than welcome to join in and receive community service hours. The Clean Team works closely with municipal government, schools, neighborhood committees and various local 501c groups to keep Old Bridge clean through public education and litter removal projects. Annual activities include park cleanups, beach front cleanups, and local roads. We also host special events such as Earth Day, International Coastal Cleanup Day, Old Bridge Day and education programs throughout our schools. Halloween and fall festivities are not just for children! Silver Linings at Old Bridge, our activity center for residents 60+

has fun classes, activities, and events each day throughout the month of October. To participate, residents can register by calling 732-721-5600 ext. 6600.

As a reminder, Election Day is on Tuesday, November 7th. Polls will be open from 6am until 8pm. Early Voting will take place on Saturday, October 28th through Sunday, November 5th at the Old Bridge Municipal Library. The hours of operation will be Monday through Saturday, 10am – 8pm, and Sunday, 10am – 6pm. The last day to

register to vote for the general election is Tuesday, October 17th. Forms can be obtained at the Municipal Clerk’s Office. Please call 732-721-5600 ext. 2200.

I hope to see you around town cheering on one of our sports teams, enjoying our many delicious restaurants, or at one of ourupcoming events. Have a healthy and happy Halloween.

Mayor Owen Henry

SOBFD VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH : HARRY DAVIS

MORE THAN 100 YOUNG RUNNERS ARE JOINING THE FUN EVERY SUNDAY!

HKRS-Old Bridge kicked-off its 5th season on September 24th with over 130 runners ages 2-14 with all abilities running on a beautiful sunny day at the Old Bridge High School back fields.

“It’s our fifth season running the program in Old Bridge and I am very happy to see kids that started running the 75yard dash at 4yo now are running .25 mile!. This is what running and this program are about. Get the kids to love the sport by keeping them active and living a healthy lifestyle” –said Laura Aliberti, race coordinator of the HKRS series in Old Bridge.

to practice and enjoy – stated Laura. “I’ve spoken to many parents who revealed just how much their child has looked forward to each race because of how good they feel after. They enjoy coming to a welcoming and fun environment at an event that is family friendly. For those interesting in racing, single race is available online on the race day and on-site. To register, visit https:// runsignup.com/hkrsoldbridge or arrive 15min prior the race start to register on site. Medals will be giving to all participants on October 15th.

Harry Davis has been a lifelong resident of Old Bridge Township, and at 18, he became a member of the South Old Bridge Fire Company. Harry held the rank of Deputy Chief but has since changed to serve on the administration side of the organization as the current Vice-President. Harry currently serves as the secretary of the Old Bridge Township Relief Association

and helps firefighters and their families who were injured, incapacitated, or killed in the performance of their duty. Harry is the 2nd Vice-President of the NJ State Firemen’s Exempt Association and serves as District Fire Warden for the State’s Forrest Fire Service. Harry is married to Gail, and they are avid college football fans.

The series started on September 24th and runs for 5 consecutive Sundays until October 15th at 12:00pm at Old Bridge High School 4209 County Rd 516, Matawan, NJ 07747.

Exercise is not only fun, but beneficial for the development of motor skills and coordination in younger participants. Running is the core part of many sports and fitness activities. Thus, making it important for children

A COMMUNITY UNITED – A RECAP OF BRADY’S WALK & MENTAL HEALTH WELLNESS FAIR

The 1st Annual Brady’s Walk & Mental Health Wellness Fair, held on September 10th, was highly successful and well-received. More than 500 people came together for an important cause: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. Through overwhelming generosity, we successfully raised over $60,000, which will directly benefit children as they navigate the complexities of mental health issues.

The event showcased over 30 mental health exhibitors, guest speakers, live music, food trucks and fun activities. The day was a celebration of community and awareness, with music provided by Mo Talent Live and Peter Hunt kicking off the opening ceremony. The Old Bridge High School JROTC presented the colors and Megan Valanzola beautifully sang the national anthem. The opening ceremony speeches were so impactful, thanks to Mayor Owen Henry, Superintendent David Cittadino and Bill Spadea.

The pre-walk warm-up was led by THE MAX Challenge of Old Bridge and their incredible team. The walk around the school premises was both fun and

meaningful, culminating in an afternoon of live music from The E Street Shuffle and KiDz HuB, Roland Dillon interviewing James Clabby (Hope Squad), Jarrett Lynn (Coordinated Family Care), and Nickiesha Radway (KiDz HuB). In addition, our gratitude extends to Matthew & Danielle Behounek for their generous donation of $22,000 to Brady’s Voice.

Our deep appreciation goes to Mayor Henry and Superintendent Cittadino for their swift action in relocating the event indoors to Carl Sandburg Middle School, due to unforeseen weather conditions. Their support ensured the event’s smooth execution.

We extend a resounding thank you to all of our donors, attendees, volunteers, and sponsors, including Rosemarie Rivoli, Matt Mercurio, Dan DiMino, Ellen Gregory, Kelly & Anthony Vitale, Kathryn Hutchinson, and the Office of Emergency Management. Your collective efforts were instrumental in making the event a landmark success.

The outpouring of community support

Continue on page 22

YOUR LAST OPPORTUNITY FOR THE PAPER AND PENCIL SAT

As December approaches, high school students across the United States are gearing up for one final opportunity to take the paper and pencil version of the SAT. This iconic standardized test, administered by the College Board, has been a staple in the college admissions process for decades. With this December SAT being one of the last chances to experience the classic format, it’s important to understand what’s at stake. The transition to a digital format for the SAT began in 2020, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The convenience of computer-based testing has undeniable advantages, such as faster score reporting and more flexible testing schedules. But for many, the nostalgic allure and familiarity of the paper SAT remain unmatched. For some students, taking the paper SAT may represent a more comfortable and less stressful experience. Answering questions with a pencil and flipping through pages can provide a sense of security and familiarity that’s hard to replicate on a computer screen. It’s a format many grew up with, making it a fitting way to bid farewell to a test that has played a crucial role in their academic journey. However, December’s paper SAT is more

than just a stroll down memory lane. It also serves as an opportunity for those who may have struggle with a digital format to potentially perform better on the traditional version. The pacing, navigation, and overall test-taking experience can differ significantly between paper and digital formats and, for some, the transition has been challenging.

December’s paper and pencil SAT is more than just a test; it’s a chance to commemorate the legacy of a standardized assessment that has influenced countless academic journeys. For those who prefer the traditional format or have struggled with the digital transition, it’s a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills one last time. So, if you’re considering taking the SAT in December, seize the moment to embrace the classic experience before it becomes a relic of the past. Suggestion for a topic? You can reach me at Paul.Pscolka@ivymasters.com 833SATsACT (833-728-7228) www.ivymasters. com Use this coupon code to save $20 on any of our services: ALLAROUND20

PETS ARE SUBJECT TO EYE CONDITIONS, INCLUDING CATARACTS

By Anita Greenberg,DVM. member of Old Bridge Township Council since 2016

Dogs and cats with eye problems are common, and while some are mild and can be managed at home, others are more serious and can threaten your pet’s vision.

“I’ve had two diabetic dogs who became blind,” Dr. Anita Greenberg noted. “Both had cataract surgery, and it was so rewarding to have them both be able to see again.” If the central part of the pet’s eyes appears cloudy, as the lens loses transparency, it could be cataracts, which are common in diabetics. Like in humans, they occur naturally due to aging. At the point of significant vision loss or blindness, the only option is surgery, replacing the affected lens with a plastic or acrylic lens. The procedure has a very high success rate. But cataracts are not the only eye concern. You may notice a greenish, yellowish discharge draining from your pet’s eyes, a loss of hair around the eye, a crusty build up with the conjunctiva red and swollen. Your pet may be

squinting, and holding his eye closed.

It may be a bacterial infection, virus or fungal infection that can be treated with a topical medication, but it could be more serious.

Dry eye is caused by decreased tear production. Brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs do not close their eyes completely and more commonly suffer from dry eye.

Decreased tear production is caused by the destruction of the tear gland, which may be an autoimmune problem or a nerve problem. The eye appears red and inflamed with a yellowish discharge. The treatment of the eye has two objectives: to stimulate tear production and to replace the tear film to keep the cornea moist and healthy. Cyclosporine drops are used to stimulate tear production and lubricants protect the eye.

Addressing your pets’ eyes is important for your pets’ quality of life.

Choice of

Choice of Half Tray Sides

Sausage Stuf ng sausage, celery onions, peppers, apples, bread & white wine

Roasted Sweet Potatoes, fresh sweet potatoes, brown sugar & butter in a light maple glaze

Mashed Potatoes, white mashed chef potatoes whipped with butter & cream

Choice of Pasta

Lasagna Layers of fresh pasta with mozzarella cheese, creamy ricotta and our fresh homemade tomato sauce

Baked Ziti Ziti pasta mixed with fresh ricotta cheese, mozzarella and our fresh tomato sauce baked golden brown. Topped with grated cheese

Stuffed Shells lled with ricotta cheese covered with our fresh sauce

Penne & Vodka Penne pasta with DeMarco’s famous vodka sauce

Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms, spinach, ricotta, cream, Romano cheese

Creamed Spinach, chopped spinach, sautéed onions, cream & grated cheese

Broccoli & Garlic, fresh steamed broccoli with sautéed garlic

Sweet Baby Carrots, sautéed baby carrots in a light brandy butter sauce

Mashed Sweet Potatoes, marshmallows baked golden brown Apple,

Choice

TRANSFORMING A LIFE

I recently sat down with a public-school teacher who expressed her dismay at the policy proposed by the Board of Education, which keeps parents from knowing about the gender identity and pronoun preferences of their children. The given answer as to why this policy is so important is that it may protect children from family abuse or even suicide. Yes, many American families are broken, and this brokenness has a devastating effect on children. But to exacerbate the problems by removing parents from the knowledge of their child’s struggle with gender confusion only allows activists full power to indoctrinate and groom them. We already hear of many children regretting their gender transition. One asked, “Where were the adults in the room when I made an irreparable decision to mutilate my body in my confusion?”Many school counselors, police officers, and others become jaded seeing the worst of society day after day. But to have a policy that supposes all parents would be abusive and thus withhold information

about their children is as bad as assuming all counselors want to brainwash them.

Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor

A few from our church shared their concern about this policy in a recent school board meeting and were trashed for it. These young people who spoke up may not have been as smooth in their delivery as more experienced speakers, but when did expressing a sincere religious view become open to attack? If religious beliefs are not welcome in public settings, we have ceased to be America. Recently, Texas passed a law allowing chaplains to become school counselors. While many may mock this, I’ve seen firsthand what the Bible can do in transforming lives. The decline of our society would cease if people returned to their Creator for life’s instructions!

Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley

HAPPY FALL Y’ALL FROM HAUSER HILL FARMS!

Fall has arrived and we are in harvest mode here on the farm! October is a big month for us because we are harvesting not only fruits and vegetables, but lots of items for fall decorating. We’re picking zucchini, peppers, eggplant, sweet corn, string beans, potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, lima beans, okra, broccoli, cauliflower, greens, winter squashes, radishes, beets, turnips, lettuce, watermelons, cantaloupes, and different varieties of apples each week. We will have all you’ll need for your fall decorations, including mums, pumpkins, and corn stalks. October also brings the one thing everyone looks forward to: our homemade apple cider. John doesn’t begin pressing cider until October because it takes a certain blend of apples to makes

the cider just right, and we must wait for those apple varieties to be ready. The cider freezes well, so make sure to stock up for the upcoming holidays!

Come visit us at our farm stand, 261 Ticetown Road, Old Bridge Tuesday – Sunday 9-5, or at any of the weekly farmers markets we attend: Thursdays – Keyport Firemen’s Memorial Park (across from the Fishery) 11am – 7pm, and Rahway Train Station, 12pm –7pm, Saturdays – Highlands, Huddy Park 9am – 2pm and Sundays – Red Bank in the Galleria parking lot 9am –2pm. Buy fresh, buy local! Thank you for your support of our family’s farm!

SOBFD OPEN HOUSE OCTOBER,

14TH

Continued from page 1 for a community member to witness the amount of training and knowledge firefighters need on a daily basis to maintain their skills to help their neighbors. President Cahill added other than Santa Claus being escorted around in December on top of the fire truck, Open House is the biggest pubic relationship event we have. He feels both public relations events are needed to promote awareness that volunteer firefighters play an important role in

the community. It’s unlike the Santa Claus details because community members can speak with their volunteers directly. President Cahill explained if the fire company only recruits a single member during both open house events, it’s still a win because it’s one more member than yesterday. For more information, please follow us on Facebook at South Old Bridge Volunteer Fire Company or our website at SOBFD.com.

A COMMUNITY UNITED – A RECAP OF BRADY’S WALK & MENTAL HEALTH WELLNESS FAIR

Continued from page 5

has inspired us to broaden the scope of our programs. We are now more committed than ever to launch Hope Squads in schools across New Jersey and to continue our college scholarship program. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of all involved, we are optimistic that next year’s event will be even more impactful.

Together, let’s continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by mental health challenges. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Please visit www.BradysVoice. org to learn more about our mission to help kids cope with their mental health. Together, we can make a difference. Love to all, The Elbaums

Parties $500 for 2 hours includes 2 lg. plain pizza, water, juice, coffee, tea, plates & napkins

$400.00

BARK FOR LIFE OF CENTRAL NJ: UNITING DOGS AND OWNERS IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER

Continued from page 1

Costume Contest, and more. The first 100 participants who pre-register will receive a free “Bark Wag Bag” and doggie bandana. Registration fees are $15 per dog + human. Kids under 13 are free. Pre-registration is suggested but not necessary, registration can be completed upon arrival at the event.

All proceeds from Bark For Life will go directly to the American Cancer Society. Funds are allocated for cancer research, patient services, advocacy, and the ACS mission of raising awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention. By participating in this event, dog owners and cancer advocates can make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

Bark For Life of Central NJ will take place on Sunday, October 15, 2023 at Mannino Park, Old Bridge, New Jersey. Registration opens at 11 am, event starts at 12 pm and finishes at 3 pm. (Rain date: October 22, 2022). To register visit www.RelayForLife.org/BarkCentralNJ . For detailed information contact Vicky Allen – ACS Volunteer Event Chair at 732-497-2470,

email: Vicky.allen@volunteer.cancer.org .

For updates leading to the event date, visit and like Bark For Life of Central NJ social media pages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarkCentralNJ or Instagram: @barkcentralnj

IN MEMORIAM

JAMES EDWARD MELOY

October 20, 1960 - September 22, 2023. James Edward Meloy, “Jimmy” a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2023, in his home town of Staten Island. Born on October 20, 1960, also in Staten Island, Jimmy lived a life full of love, laughter, and an

JOSEPH AUGUST DOLAN

October 1, 1963 - September 22, 2023. Joseph August Dolan, aged 59, passed away on September 22, 2023. He was born on October 1, 1963, in Newark, NJ.

Joseph was the beloved husband of Lisa Ann Dolan, sharing a marriage of 24 years together. He considered his greatest accomplishment to be

JEANMARIE STOUT

August 31, 1955 - September 22, 2023. Jeanmarie Stout, 68, of Keyport, passed away on September 22, 2023 at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 31, 1955

LAUREN HARRINGTON

April 4, 1956 - September 16, 2023. Lauren Harrington, 67, of Colts Neck, passed away on Saturday, September 16, at her home surrounded by her loving family and closest friends, following a brief but aggressive illness. She was born on April 4, 1956, to Harold and Dorothy Zimms, and grew up in Iselin with her sister, Lynne, and brother, Kenneth. Lauren worked as a special education teacher at Immaculata High School in Somerville. Prior to that she taught at

unwavering devotion to his family. Jimmy is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Lisa, his cherished children, James and Briana Rose, his sister, Kathy, and mother Kathryn. His family was his pride and joy, and he was known to go to great lengths to ensure their happiness and well-being. He was a loving and kind man whose heart was as large as his sense of humor.

his children, twins Christopher and Jillian, and youngest daughter, Olivia. He was the beloved son of Geraldine Ciaston-Illis, and brother to Deborah Dolan, William E. Dolan and wife, Susan.

Joseph was an alumnus of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), where he honed the skills that led to his successful career. For over 30 years, he served

in South Amboy to Phillip and Ruth Horin, she resided in Bayville, NJ before moving to Keyport 6 years ago.

Jeanmarie was a lifelong member of the Community Covenant Church in Laurence Harbor. Her strong faith and

Coastal Learning Center in Morganville. She loved her job and cared deeply about her students. If you were close with Mrs. H, please know that she talked about you all the time. She was invested in your future and cheering you on.

She spent her summers at Point Pleasant Beach, soaking up the sun and waves with her closest friends and family and hoping to see some dolphins.

Those close to Lauren know that she was warm, kind, fun, and hilarious. She was probably the coolest person you knew. She was our rock in rough times, with

A man of intelligence and wit, Jimmy had a knack for making anyone he met feel comfortable and welcome. Jimmy was a friend to all and will be deeply missed by the many lives he touched.

Jimmy was a huge fan of the timeless music of Elvis Presley. James Edward Meloy was a beacon of love, intelligence, and kindness. His legacy will live on

as a Senior Project Manager for Interior Building Services in Manhattan, NY. He enjoyed the outdoors, and was a self-proclaimed foodie; a passion he shared with his daughter, Jillian. His love of classic cars he shared with his son, Chris, and his love of the arts he passed onto his daughter, Olivia. The Dolan family would like to thank the staff of St. Peter’s

belief in God guided her in life. She enjoyed creative arts; Jeanmarie made beautiful stitch work, loved to bake for her fellow residents at Bethany Manor and beautifully completely many adult coloring books. Jeanmarie was predeceased

unshakable strength and humor. She had a gift for making people feel accepted and comfortable. She was incredibly thoughtful, and always went out of her way to celebrate people in a way that felt right for them. She had amazing taste in music, books, movies, and TV. She was really easy to love.

Lauren leaves behind three children, Shane, Kayla, and Alanna. She loved being their mom and was extremely proud of them. They feel beyond lucky to be her kids. She was an incredible friend. Her best friends were more like

through the countless lives he touched with his compassion and warmth. He will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family and friends. His memory will forever be a source of joy and inspiration to all who knew him.

Visitation was held Thursday, September 28, 2023, 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Rt 516,

University Hospital in New Brunswick and DaVita Kidney Care of East Brunswick for their love, dedication, and compassion throughout his extended illness. Joseph August Dolan’s memory will forever be cherished by his loved ones and he will be deeply missed. Visitation was held on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, from

by her mother, Ruth, father, Phillip and brother, Phillip. Surviving are her beloved son, Thomas Tait and his wife, Lauren; her nieces, Elizabeth and Rebecca, and her beloved cats, Chucky and Chan. Funeral services were en -

family, and loved her for more than five decades. She had an excellent judge of character, an ability to put anyone at ease, and fierce loyalty to the many people she held close. She also loved animals, spoiling the many dogs she took in over the years and babysitting her children’s pets with enthusiasm.

Lauren was predeceased by her father, Harold Zimms, and her sister, Lynne Zimms.

Surviving are her husband, George; their three children, Shane, Kayla and Alanna; her mother, Dorothy Zimms; her

Old Bridge, NJ 08857 .

Funeral services was held on Thursday, September 28, 2023, 7:30 pm at the Old Bridge Funeral Home.

Cremation will take place in private Online condolences can be given at www.oldbridgefh.com

4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Route 516, Old Bridge, NJ, with a service to begin at 4:30 pm. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org.

trusted to Waitt Funeral Home, Morganville. To leave a message of condolence, please visit our “Tribute Wall”.

brother, Kenneth Zimms; and her nieces and nephews, Elizabeth, John, Scott, and Andrew. A memorial was held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at Waitt Funeral Home, 501 Route 79, Morganville. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made in Lauren’s honor to any charity that you think she would like. Some of her passions are special education, books for children, and animal welfare.

OCTOBER IS SUBARU

LOVES PETS MONTH!

Each year All American Subaru holds their annual Pet-A-Palooza adoption event. Their main charity partner for this is Sammy’s Hope Animal Welfare and Adoption Center from Sayreville who help several animals find their forever homes because of the event. Each year just gets bigger and better, and last year’s was the largest adoption event they have held to date. It was filled with tons of new activities for all ages to enjoy.

Pet-A-Palooza 2022 opened with a red carpet entrance of several adoptable dogs where their age, breed and other fun information was announced as they made their grand entrance. This was followed by the opening of activities such as an agility setup for dogs to run through, a kids craft table, music provided by NJ101.5 and the dunk tank which was

extremely popular and raised $750 for Sammy’s Hope. Friendly’s Ice Cream has always been a good friend of All American Subaru and they provided their mobile truck for the event as well which was a huge hit with all attendees. Over the past several years, All American Subaru has helped over 100 dogs and cats find their forever homes, and they will continue that tradition this coming October! So many great local adoption agencies and vendors always show up in support of saving lives and spreading the word of these great organizations. The event concludes with the always popular Cutest Pet Contest led by NJ101.5 with so many pet owners dressing their pet up in the cutest possible costumes. It is truly an amazing and successful event and they can’t wait to host the next one on October 21st, 2023!

OLD BRIDGE GOLF CLUB AT ROSE-LAMBERTSON

Continued from page 1 6, 2004, the Planning Board recommended to the Township Council that the area be designated as an area in need of redevelopment. Subsequently, on March 27, 2006, the Township Council adopted a Redevelopment Plan for the Rose Lambertson Study Area to permit the development of a municipal golf course with a state-of-the-art practice facility.

For the last 17 years, the Township Mayor, Council and Administration have made numerous efforts to redevelop the Rose and Lambertson Tract Area with a municipal golf course. To achieve this goal, the Township’s Redevelopment Agency named SEGME LLC, also known as 20/20 Acquisitions, as Redeveloper for the Rose Lambertson Tract as part of their off-tract improvements associated with the Route 9 Redevelopment Area.

As a result, the 20/20 Acquisitions Central 9 Logistics Park project, contained within the Route 9 Redevelopment Area, will fund over $32M in offsite im-

provements as part of the Route 9 Redevelopment Area. The crown jewel of this public/private partnership between 20/20 Acquisitions and Old Bridge Township is the construction of the Old Bridge Golf Club at Rose – Lambertson, commonly referred to as “The Rose.” The construction cost of the golf club, which is being funded by 20/20 Acquisitions, is anticipated to exceed $15M.

Once construction commenced in Spring, 2022, Old Bridge Golf Club at Rose-Lambertson rapidly transformed from a long-held vision into reality and secured its spot as the first public golf course to be built in over 25 years in the state of New Jersey. Designed by Stephen Kay of Stephen Kay Golf Course Design Architects based in Egg Harbor City, The Rose offers terrific views and challenging play for golfers at every skill level and age group with the following features:

• Par-71,18-Hole championship-designed golf course with a unique layout, driven by the existence and conservation of

freshwater wetlands with numerous wet ponds built to support irrigation and water conservation

• Illuminated driving range with 30 bays and miniature golf course to provide nighttime activities (the club will be open until 10 p.m.)

• A high-end illuminated 18-hole miniature golf course, including water features and varying terrain

• A 6,000SF clubhouse containing a Pro Shop, concession areas, cart barn and restrooms with 110 parking spaces for players and guests

• Electric golf carts with GPS screens

• 5,000SF maintenance building with 10 parking spaces at the southwest corner of the golf course

• There will be discounts for Old Bridge residents, active Military and SeniorsTo commemorate The Rose’s latest milestones, Old Bridge Township officials and 2020 Acquisitions are excited to announce the Soft Public Grand Opening of the Old Bridge Golf Club at Rose-Lambertson, which was held on Thursday,

September 28, 2023. As part of the Soft Grand Opening, access to the following course amenities were highlighted: a driving range, practice putting green and miniature golf course. When opened in mid-October 2023, the golf course itself will have limited tee-time availabilities

with access to the clubhouse and concession stands at that time. For rates, hours of operation, employment opportunities, tee-time reservations and the latest information, visit www. OBNJGolf.com. Full golf course tee times will begin April 1, 2024.

The Old Bridge High School Color Guard and Marching Band light up the crowd at Lombardi Field during the varsity football game on Friday

night, September 8th. The Old Bridge High School Coed Varsity Football Knights took on the South Brunswick Vikings. Photo credit :Diane Michael

LLUU: COMPASSION THROUGH FAITHFUL GIVING

Love Lifts Us Up (LLUU) is a faithbased, interdenominational, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that assists underprivileged families with seriously ill children in the pediatric and/or neonatal units of Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

LLUU was founded in 2017 when Pastor George Kagan of Old Brick Reformed Church in Marlboro, NJ and Ms. Dana Silvey, a pediatric social worker at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, combined their efforts to collect and distribute items to assist families in need. To date, LLUU has helped over 525 families through donations totaling up to $80,000.

LLUU is currently seeking monetary donations including newborn and size 1 diapers, infant clothing, Pack ‘n Plays, car seats, formula, wipes, and play pens. Physical donations can be sent

to Jersey Shore Medical Center, 1945 Rt. 33, Neptune, NJ, 07753, Attn. Care Management/Dana. Monetary donations can be sent to Love Lifts Us Up, P.O. Box 382, Ocean Grove, NJ, 07756 For more information on what we do or how you can help, check out our website at www.lluu.org, or find all our social media via www.linktr.ee/loveliftsusup.

FPO