THE OB POLICE DEPARTMENT IS PROUD TO BE THE NEWEST RECIPIENT OF “STEPHANIE’S SANCTUARY.”
Chief Thomas Montagna and Mayor Debbie Walker joined in cutting the ribbon on Old Bridge’s new comfort room for victims of domestic violence. The space was created by the Stephanie Nicole Parze Foundation, a nonprofit founded by the parents of Stephanie Nicole Parze, a Freehold resident who tragically lost her life to domestic violence in 2019.
Within what can often be a busy and overwhelming police environment, this room was thoughtfully designed to be warm, calming, and welcoming—a place where victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse can find comfort and refuge.
Old Bridge Police Department are honored to provide this safe space to those who need it most. They would like to thank all involved in the creation of this space, especially Ed Parze, Maureen Spataro, and their own Domestic Violence Response Team members.
By Anahita Feltz, OB Business Administrator
The Township of Old Bridge offers a Home Improvement Program (HIP) designed to help low- and moderate-income residents address essential repairs and improve the safety and quality of their homes. The program provides financial assistance to correct health, safety, and code-related issues in residential properties, ensuring homes meet the standards established by the
New Jersey State Housing Code and Rehabilitation Subcode.
The program is administered by Community Grants, Planning & Housing, LLC (CGP&H), a consulting firm experienced in managing publicly funded housing rehabilitation programs. The initiative supports the Township’s commitment to maintaining safe and livable housing while advancing affordable housing
DOES YOUR HOME NEED REPAIRS?
goals established by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
Both owner-occupied and renter-occupied housing units may qualify for assistance if occupants meet income eligibility requirements and the home contains substandard conditions affecting major housing systems. Eligible improvements may include repairs or replacements to critical systems such as roofing, plumbing, electrical, structural components, heating systems, windows, or lead paint remediation.
The program provides up to $20,000 for eligible owner-occupied single-family homes and Continue on page 12
ELEVATE YOUR HEALTH AT THE OLD BRIDGE FAMILY YMCA
By Chris Nasta, Executive Director, Old Bridge Family YMCA
The Old Bridge Family YMCA, a branch of the YMCA of the Jersey Shore association, recently completed a significant upgrade to our fitness center, and the results are worth seeing for yourself. As part of the Y's commitment to providing members with the best possible experience, the branch refreshes its cardio
equipment every three years. This cycle like ones before brought all new treadmills, ellipticals, recumbent and Peloton bikes, arm bikes, and more. However, this upgrade went further than most. For the first time, the Y partnered with an outside organization, Track My Gym, to conduct a comprehensive study of our equipment
usage patterns and member preferences. Using real data, both quantitative metrics and member survey feedback, combined with industry trends, the study shaped not only what equipment was purchased, but how many pieces were needed and how the fitness center layout was redesigned. New strength equipment was also added based on the findings. The result is a smarter, more efficient space built around our members’ needs.
The fitness center is just one part of what makes the Old Bridge Y a true community resource. In
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NEW EQUIPMENT. SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT. COMMUNITY AT EVERY STEP
MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
Dear Old Bridge Residents, Spring is in the air here in Old Bridge Township. Hopefully, winter is behind us, and we can look forward to spending time outside and enjoying the warmer weather.
Mayor Walker’s Clean Team will kick off the litter program on Saturday, April 11th. Any nonprofit organizations who are interested in participating should contact the Clean Communities Coordinator at (732) 721-5600 x6107, or by emailing Recycling@OldBridge.com. Volunteers will be cleaning up local roadways on various weekends now through November. Please slow down in our town and drive with care. Let’s also make a difference by educating others about the negative impact that litter has on our environment and the appearance of the town.
The Parks and Recreation Department is in full spring mode getting our parks, fields, and courts in top condition for the upcoming season. The spring brochure is currently available and filled with programs for all age groups. The department is also
looking for summer camp employees for Camp Robin, Full Day Summer Camp, and Half Day Summer Camp. Please visit www.oldbridge.com/recreation to view the job vacancies, classes, activities, and recreational opportunities Old Bridge has to offer.
The Old Bridge Township Cultural Arts Committee will host an Earth Day Celebration at the municipal complex Civic Center on Saturday, April 25th, from 1PM to 5PM. The event will feature arts and crafts, vendors, face painting, food trucks, a magician and more! This event is free of charge and open to the public.
Round one of spring leaf collection will begin on Monday, April 13th in all wards. As a reminder, all leaves must be placed in paper leaf bags as plastic bags are not accepted. We will spend a few days in each ward and appreciate your patience while collection is underway. For the full schedule, visit oldbridge.com/recycling.
Please continue to stay safe and be well.
Mayor Debbie Walker
Debbie Walker
YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
As we finally leave behind a long and difficult winter, signs of spring are beginning to appear throughout the 12th District. This season of renewal brings a welcome sense of optimism as we look forward to Easter and a peaceful springtime.
Even as nature comes back to life, my attention remains firmly on the challenges many families are facing at their kitchen tables. Renewal shouldn’t apply only to the weather—it must also guide our state’s priorities.
For too long, hardworking families in the 12th District have been expected to stretch their resources while state government in Trenton moves in the opposite direction. My mission is straightforward: to make New Jersey a place where you can truly afford to live, work, and raise a family. To do that, we must confront the “triple threat” of excessive spending, rising utility costs, and a school funding formula that is failing our children.
Education funding should reflect the real needs of students—not political con
siderations. It is time to finally repair the broken formula so every child, no matter their zip code, receives a thorough and efficient education.
I continue to hear from residents shocked by soaring energy bills. No family should be forced to choose between heating their home and paying for other essentials. This energy affordability crisis stems from policies that simply are not working for New Jersey families.
Our affordability crisis stems from years of unchecked spending in Trenton. I voted against the FY25-26 budget because it was bloated with pork projects and costly tax incentives that added billions in burdens for taxpayers. I was deeply disappointed to see the FY26-27 budget grow even larger-rising by another $1.7 billion-further worsening the problem.
OLD BRIDGE’S WILD PAST
By Dawn Jenkin, Director Old Bridge Public Library
When I first became Director at OBPL, a patron asked me where he could find an historic map of Old Bridge that he remembered seeing as a kid. I quickly grabbed At the Headwaters of Cheesequake Creek, published by the Madison Township (one of our town’s former names) Historical Society and started looking. Few communities have such a rich historical account just waiting for them on the library’s shelf. From a 1656 map of New Jersey to a map of reported Indian/Native American sites, it’s a resource that can only be topped by our Madison Township Historical Society members who can often be found at the Thomas Warne Museum. Its collection of pictures is also super cool, from an 1890’s picture of a student parade at the Cedar Grove School to images of the snuff and licorice factories that used to operate here.
In this important year of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it’s important to remember that there was an “Old Bridge” (no matter what its many names were) long before we were officially united as a country.
Here at OBPL we work hard to make sure that our students, history buffs and residents have access to these records and stories. In our NJ Historical Newspapers database, you can find a 1929 article about the body of a rum runner found in Old Bridge during prohibition from the Asbury Park Press. You can read a New York Times article about how a 3.2 earthquake shook residents out of their beds one night in January of 1992. Whether you’re browsing for fun or have a specific question, our librarians are ready to assist.
OB ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
Join us on Monday, May 25, 2026, as Old Bridge Township proudly hosts our Annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony.
The parade will step off at 9:00 AM from Memorial Elementary School on Ely Avenue. The route will proceed down Laurence Parkway toward the waterfront, cross over Route 35, continue around Shoreland Circle, and conclude at Memorial Park in front of the Laurence Harbor Fire Company.
Following the parade, refreshments will be served, and we will begin our Memorial Day ceremony.
Why We Remember
While Memorial Day is often associated with time spent with family, friends, barbecues, and the beach, it is important to remember the true meaning of this day.
Memorial Day began on May 30, 1868, originally known as Decoration Day, to honor those who lost their lives during the Civil War. Today, it is a day to remember and honor all American service members who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation and protect our freedoms.
Join Us in Remembrance
We invite you to stand with us as we honor:
• Those who served and returned home
• The families who supported them
• And especially those who never made it back
Freedom is not free, and we take this day to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of our military heroes.
Get Involved
If your group would like to participate in the parade, or if you would like to nominate a Grand Marshal, please apply.
Grand Marshal Criteria:
• Must be a past or present member of the military
• Must live or have lived in Old Bridge Township
Applications are available on the Recreation page of the township website: https:// www.oldbridge.com/page/recreation Questions?
Email: Ivalsera@oldbridge.com
Phone: 732-721-5600 ext. 4999
We look forward to honoring our heroes together as a community.
TAX EXPERTISE ALL YEAR LONG.
YOU CAN'T ALWAYS AVOID STRESS, BUT YOU CAN MANAGE IT
From work deadlines, family responsibilities and job insecurity to the rising cost of living and the constant ping of our smartphones–to scratch just the surface–the sources of stress are everywhere.
April, which is National Stress Awareness Month, gives us an opportunity to reflect on the fact that while the human body is designed to handle short bursts of stress, chronic stress can have a significant impact on our overall health.
The effect can be sudden, manifesting itself as, say, a tension headache. Or it can take a toll that is slow-moving, raising the risk for a number of future serious conditions.
While a brief stress event can give your immune system a temporary boost, prolonged exposure to stress hormones can weaken it over time. Research has shown this can leave you more vulnerable to infections.
The link between stress and cardiovascular disease is also well-established. Chronic
stress can contribute to high blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. A notable study published in The Lancet in 2017, for instance, revealed a connection between activity in the brain's stress center and a higher risk of cardiovascular events.
"Think of the amygdala as your brain’s internal fire alarm," explains Dr. Sheila Sahni, a Hackensack Meridian Health interventional cardiologist and Director of the Women's Heart Program at Sahni Heart Center. "When you experience chronic stress, that alarm gets stuck in the 'on' position. This sends a physical, biological signal to your bone marrow to flood your body with inflammatory white blood cells. These cells travel directly to your arteries, causing dangerous plaque buildup and inflammation.”
“It is absolutely critical the public understands this: chronic stress is not just 'in your head'—it is a physical driver of heart attacks and strokes."
Stress can disrupt the delicate balance of your digestive system, leading to discomfort like bloating and stomach pain, and can worsen conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
The mental and emotional strain is also profound. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that high levels of perceived stress are linked to a greater risk of anxiety and depression. This mental fatigue often goes hand-in-hand with physical symptoms. A racing mind can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep, creating a vicious cycle where a lack of rest makes you feel even more stressed. Furthermore, many people hold stress physically, leading to clenched jaws, tight shoulders, and frequent tension headaches that can evolve into more persistent pain.
But by adopting healthy coping strategies, we can mitigate stress’s harmful effects. Physical activity, even a moderate amount, can put you on the path to decompressing and clearing your mind. It doesn’t have to be an ambitious workout. Whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga class, or gardening, exercise releases endorphins that can significantly boost your mood and give you a mental break from whatever is tugging at you.
This should be paired with a commitment to fueling your body with a nutritious, balanced diet and prioritizing seven to eight hours of quality sleep per night. Sometimes
we’re faced with a problem or situation that makes it hard to wind down and doze off. And so, tending to your mental and emotional state is just as crucial.
Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can help calm your nervous system, and there are many free apps and online resources to guide you.
Also, mental health experts can provide you with valuable tools and strategies for managing stress effectively.
At Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center, we are committed to the health and well-being of our community.
For information about scheduling an appointment at Old Bridge Medical Center, please call 732-679-0100 or visit our website.
CAR SEAT SAFETY CHECKPOINT
SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2026 TIME:
Patricia Carroll, President, Chief Hospital Executive, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Centers.
ANCIENT PHILOSOPHY APPLIED TO A MODERN TEST
By Paul Pscolka
The past is more relevant than we think, as exemplified by the application of Stoicism to a modern test like the SAT. Stoicism is a school of thought founded by Zeno of Citium in Athens, Greece in the 3rd century BCE. It teaches people to focus on what they can control, accept what they cannot, and respond to all situations with reason, discipline, and calm. Since human nature has not fundamentally changed in the last 2300 years, I find its tenets to apply to today’s tests.
Focus on what you can control . Students can control their study time, practice quality, sleep, and mindset. In the preparation phase, students should make a regular plan they can stick to. Some students can spare (or are willing to do) 15 minutes per day while others can (or will) put in an hour per day. Regardless of how much time, consistency is king. Cramming in careless. Student practice should be quality. They should not just
keep taking practice tests. Rather, they should review and analyze their mistakes (note patterns and weak areas) and learn from them on one practice test before taking another. Preparing with quality materials is important as well. Students who believe everything they hear on TikTok (unless it is from Jackie and Josh @testpreptips) will be at a great disadvantage. Rather, students should use official College Board tests (ideally proctored) and, if needed, quality instruction. Through instruction, students can sharpen their test taking strategy which includes their pacing, effective guessing, and, in some cases, “tips and tricks.” Sleep, nutrition, and exercise are also important.
On test day, students should arrive prepared and be early. They should be relaxed, focused, and confident (as taught by performance psychologist Dr Ben Bernstein). It is important for students to know the Bluebook App well so they can “mark for review” answers they are uncertain of. Due to their preparation, students should naturally have their timing down and should
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ELEVATE YOUR HEALTH AT THE OLD BRIDGE FAMILY YMCA
Continued from page 1
addition to the fitness equipment, membership also includes access to a competitive swimming pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub, locker rooms, gymnasium, and can enjoy land and aqua group exercise classes, giving everyone access to high-quality instruction regardless of fitness level or background. Families also have drop-in babysitting available when you’re getting a workout in or just want to take a break when your other child is in a youth program, like swim lessons. New members are welcomed with a complimentary facility orientation and a free personal training assessment to help you start strong. For those looking to go further, certified personal trainers are available through affordable training packages. Membership also includes access to the Freehold, Red Bank and Ocean County YMCA in Toms River as well as enrollment in the Y’s Nationwide Membership proving access to participating YMCA’s across the country.
The Old Bridge Y is also a leader in health equity programming. A variety of chronic disease programs are offered at no cost to participants, including Livestrong at the Y (supporting cancer survivors), the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program,
and Chronic Disease and Diabetes Education programs offered in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health. Most recently, the YMCA of the Jersey Shore locations launched the Veterans Wellness Initiative, a no-cost program designed specifically for military veterans and their spouses. These vital programs are made possible through corporate sponsorships and generous donations to the Y's Annual Campaign, which also funds the branch's financial assistance program, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to health.
Beyond health and wellness, the Y offers something for every stage of life. Adult sports such as futsal and pickleball keep the community active and connected, while youth programs like swim lessons, basketball, dance, and enrichment programs provide kids with structured activities in a safe environment. Summer Day Camp registration is now open, visit www.ymcanj. org/bestsummerever to secure your child's spot for a summer full of learning and memories!
There truly is no place like this place, where neighbors become friends, families grow stronger together and members find what they need to thrive and reach their full
potential. As a nonprofit rooted in the Old Bridge community, the Y is more than just a place to work out, we’re a cause driven by the belief that everyone deserves the chance to be healthy, connected and supported. Every membership, donation and visit helps fuel programs that strengthen the entire Old Bridge community. Visit our website at www.ymcanj.org for more information, or stop by the branch at 1 Mannino Park Drive, just off Route 516 and take a free, no-obligation tour to see for yourself.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Healthy Kids Day — Saturday, April 18 | 10 AM–1 PM Join us for this free, community-wide celebration of kids' health and wellness. Open to all — no membership required.
Community Bash Fundraiser — Thursday, April 23 | 6:30 PM | Palms Plaza Celebrate the Y's impact on Old Bridge at our annual fundraiser benefiting the Annual Campaign. This year we proudly recognize Dan Fishman, Hackensack Meridian Health Community Outreach, and the Old Bridge Y Membership Department. Tickets are $75 and include food, fun, and fellowship. Visit our website
for details and to purchase tickets. Ready to Make Your Move?
To learn more about health and wellness programs, contact Health & Wellness Director Val Cottone at (732) 727-0704 ext. 310 or vcottone@ymcanj.org. Ready to join or just want to look around? Stop in for a tour or visit us online at www.ymcanj.org. The Old Bridge Family YMCA — building a healthier, stronger community, together. About YMCA of the Jersey Shore
The YMCA of the Jersey Shore is a cause-driven nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Based in Shrewsbury, NJ, we serve 42,000 people annually in Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties. From lifesaving swim lessons and child care to mental health support and chronic disease prevention, we offer programs that uplift people of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. With a legacy of more than 150 years of service, we’re proud to be named a USA Today Top Workplace for 2025 and Top Workplace in New Jersey 2022-2025 by NJ Advance Media. Learn more at www. ymcanj.org.
DOES YOUR HOME NEED REPAIRS?
Continued from page 1
up to $16,000 per unit for owner-occupied multi-family homes and investor-owned rental units. Funding is offered in the form of a zero-percent deferred loan, meaning there are no monthly payments or interest charges. Repayment is only required if the property is sold or the title is transferred. Applications are accepted on a firstcome, first-served basis for qualified households. Once eligibility is confirmed, homes will undergo an inspection to identify code-related repairs. The program
then coordinates contractor bidding and oversees construction to ensure work is completed safely and in compliance with regulations.
Through the Home Improvement Program, Old Bridge Township continues to invest in housing stability and help residents maintain safe, healthy homes while preserving the quality of the community’s housing stock. For more information, visit www.hip.cgph.net.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR JUST4KIXS
Right now, we are in urgent need of more buddies, especially local teens, to volunteer. We currently have a waiting list of children eager to participate, but without enough buddies, we cannot accommodate them.
3rd Annual EARTH DAY CELEBRATION
HOSTED BY OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP CULTURAL ARTS
SAT. APRIL 25, 2026 1-5PM
OLD BRIDGE CIVIC CENTER NATURE
CONTACT: CULTURALARTS@OLDBRIDGE.COM
WORKSHOPS, ARTS & CRAFTS, VENDORS, MAGICIAN, FACE PAINTING, FOOD TRUCKS & MORE!
The Old Bridge Soccer Club has an amazing program called Just4kixs which is currently the largest soccer program in the state for children with special needs, and we are reaching to the local community to spread the word about an urgent need for volunteers.
At Just4kixs, we teach basic soccer skills in a fun, supportive, and non-judgmental environment. Each child is paired one-on-one with a “buddy,” who helps guide, encourage, and support them throughout the session.
Our upcoming season runs from April 11 through June 6, every Saturday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Volunteers receive 90 minutes of community service for each week they attend, which is valuable for college applications and resumes. More importantly, this program offers an incredible experience for teenagers. It teaches compassion, builds character, and shows firsthand that children with special needs are capable of so much more than many realize.
Apply online at www.just4kixs.org
Buddy training class is April 9th at 6pm at the Old Bridge Elks Lodge 2229! Come out to our training class
Choice Home Equity Line you can update your kitchen, add a deck, and so much more. We’ll fix the rate on your line of credit for an entire year and you can access the funds again as you pay it back.
SILVER LININGS NEWS
By Kristin Agunbiade,
As the April season of renewal continues, we’re excited to welcome both familiar faces and new participants! We have a vibrant month of programming designed to inspire and engage our members.
This month, we’re proud to present a demonstration of Daoyin & Qigong exercises—an enriching experience that combines gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness, led by a Nationally Certified practitioner in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (NCCAOM). We’re also collaborating with an Old Bridge High School English class, launching a new Intergenerational Book Club, creating meaningful connections between generations through the joy of reading and conversation. Get ready to dance the afternoon away at our Ice Cream Social Dance Party, or join us for fun-filled outings like our Freehold Raceway Mall bus trip and, a scenic walk at Cottrell Farm Park. For those who enjoy giving back, join our “Clean Communities” park cleanup on Earth Day – a wonderful way to support and beautify our shared
spaces.
Entertainment is in full swing with a special performance by Country & Bluegrass Singer Mark Miklos, along with an energetic 80's Karaoke session and a vibrant Bollywood Karaoke experience. Try your luck on our Atlantic City Charter bus trip, or test your knowledge at Trivia Night, sponsored by Candied Ham Softball Team!
We’ll also offer enriching programs such as a “Lunch & Learn” with a local Chiropractor, meditation sessions with The Art of Living Foundation, and an American Sign Language class where participants will learn to sign “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
To top it off, we look forward to a heartwarming visit from Jonas Salk Middle School students. April is genuinely a month filled with connection, enjoyment, and community here at Silver Linings at Old Bridge!
For more about Silver Linings of Old Bridge, including how to become a member, visit http://www.oldbridge.com/ silverlinings , call (732) 721-5600, extension 6600, or stop by for a visit! We are located at 1 Old Bridge Plaza in Old Bridge.
IN MEMORIAM
Michael Mendoza Endozo
September 29, 1949- March 28, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Caleb Bartorillo
September 29, 1998- March 25, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Alfred R. Genkinger
December 5, 1935- March 22, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
Mary Panepinto
July 29, 1935 - March 22, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
Louis Joseph Palmaccio
January 22, 1949- March 21, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Nicoleta Vintilescu
September 29, 1949- March 10, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Margaret M. Gallagher
February 29, 1948- March 8, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Barry J. Benevento
June 25, 1945 - March 8, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Lloyd Wrenceford Cort April 16, 1936 - March 8, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
James Volpe
July 10, 1969 - March 6, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Dolores Hickey
December 25, 1937- March 1, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
Manager, Silver Linings at Old Bridge
A REMARKABLE COMEBACK: ADRIANA’S INSPIRING JOURNEY
There are moments in a community that remind us of what resilience, hope, and determination truly look like, and Adriana’s story is one of those moments.
After undergoing several surgeries and weeks of intense physical therapy, Adriana is making an incredible recovery. What once felt uncertain has transformed into something truly inspiring. Today, she has regained feeling in all parts of her body, progress that can only be described as remarkable.
In a powerful and uplifting milestone, Adriana recently returned to Old Bridge High School alongside her therapist to begin discussing a plan for her transition back to school. Seeing her back in the halls, smiling and focused on the future, was a moment that left a lasting impact on everyone who had the opportunity to connect with her.
Her journey has not been easy, but Adriana has faced every challenge with
strength, courage, and an unwavering spirit. She is, without question, a true miracle story and a shining example of perseverance for our entire Old Bridge community.
We are so proud of Adriana and grateful to the medical professionals, therapists, family members, and staff who have supported her every step of the way. Her progress is a reminder of what is possible when determination meets compassion and care.
Adriana, your Old Bridge family is behind you every step of the way. We cannot wait to welcome you back.
Old Bridge Strong. Go Knights.
Sincerely,
Vincent Sasso Ed.D.
THE CHRISTIAN STORY
Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday are central to Christianity! The Scriptures record that Jesus was “wounded for our transgressions” and “raised for our justification.” Justice, satisfied on the cross, made possible a resurrection and a transforming hope for those who believe.
Good Friday’s cross is not merely a religious symbol; it is a mirror exposing the moral failure and hypocrisy that exist not just “out there,” but within us. Christianity reveals that people are not basically good, but broken to the core. Jesus’ suffering was not a random tragedy, but a voluntary act of bearing the weight of all human evil—wounded for our transgressions (Isaiah 53:5).
But the resurrection changes everything! Jesus was raised for our justification (Rom 4:25), proving that evil and death do not get the final say. In legal terms, justification means one is declared right— acquitted. Though we are all guilty, we have been declared forgiven and righteous by
the death and resurrection.
For a world full of blame, shame, and endless cycles of sin, this message still speaks. Christianity does not deny human failure; it takes it seriously! Yet it also insists that restoration is possible—not through denial or self-improvement, but through grace.
Though Good Friday tells us we are more flawed than we care to admit, the resurrection we celebrate on Easter tells us we can be forgiven and accepted when we believe and trust in Him!
Round 1: Wards 1 - 6 April 13 through April 17 th th
Round 2: Wards 1 - 6 April 27 through May 1 th st
No appointment necessary. Leaf bags should be placed at the curb BY 6AM on April 13/April 27 and kept outside, rain or shine. Please be patient, we spend a few days in each Ward. *Storm emergencies take priority over the collection of leaves*
Paper leaf bags ONLY. Plastic bags will not be picked up. No yard waste, no twigs, no sticks.
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge
CHANGE DOESN’T ONLY BRING ENDINGS — THEY OFTEN BRING NEW BEGINNINGS.
After surgery, illness, or injury, many individuals need short-term rehabilitation before returning home. In these moments, choosing the right rehabilitation setting can make a meaningful difference in both recovery and peace of mind.
“When individuals and families begin exploring rehabilitation options, they are often stepping into unfamiliar territory,” says David Boles, Marketing Director at Reformed Church Home. “It can come with a mix of concern, hope, and urgency. At Reformed Church Home, we understand that this moment matters deeply.”
Located in Old Bridge, Reformed Church Home provides a supportive environment where healing is guided by both clinical expertise and genuine compassion. The rehabilitation team focuses on helping individuals regain strength, mobility, and confidence through a personalized approach.
Services include physical, occupational, and speech therapy, along with individualized recovery plans developed in collaboration with physicians and families. Each
person’s journey is unique, and the care team takes time to listen, answer questions, and guide families through the process.
“Our role is to help people feel supported, encouraged, and understood as they begin the work of healing,” Boles adds.
Residents often share that what stands out most is not only the quality of therapy, but the encouragement they receive each day.
Recovery takes effort — but it also takes hope and support. When unexpected health challenges arise, Reformed Church Home is ready to help individuals move forward.
For more information or to schedule a visit, contact David Boles at 732-607-9230 ext. 161.
ANCIENT PHILOSOPHY APPLIED TO A MODERN TEST
By Paul Pscolka
Continued from page 8
be able to focus on each subsequent question. The prepared student will also know the directions so they do not waste time reading them, should stay composed when faced with difficult question-types because they have seen them before, and should use the strategies they practiced. Following these steps will maximize
performance.
Questions about how to best prepare your child? Book me for a free consultation: https://www.ivymasters.com/free-consultation/
$300,000 IN CAPITAL FUNDS FOR RENOVATIONS AT SEVERAL TOWNSHIP BALLFIELDS.
OLD BRIDGE – The Township Council approved four resolutions, allocating nearly $300,000 in capital funds for renovations at several township ballfields.
During its March 17 meeting, the council unanimously approved over $1 million in improvements to the bocce ball courts, basketball courts, and playground at Mannino Park.
At Geick Park, SportCare, a Bridgewater-based company, will receive $24,030 to renovate the lower softball field. The work involves squaring the field, resetting the bases, laser grading to establish proper elevations, removing debris, raking infield clay to meet new height requirements, installing approximately 2,800 square feet of sod, and rebuilding the pitching lane and batter’s box.
SportCare will also undertake a $204,700 renovation of the upper baseball field at Geick Park. This project includes removing and disposing of the turf infield, approximately 900 linear feet of concrete curbing, and 4 to 6 inches of stone base beneath the turf system. Crews will set proper field heights using laser grading, install filter fabric to separate stone and clay,
rebuild the pitching mound and batter’s and catcher’s boxes, square the field, and install new bases.
At Veterans Park, $48,438 has been allocated for renovations to softball fields 1 and 2. Planned work includes squaring the fields, resetting bases, laser grading, cutting sod from the mound, raising home plate if necessary, rebuilding the pitching lane and batter’s boxes, and related improvements.
An additional $14,898 will be used for baseball field 3 at Veterans Park. SportCare will verify base locations prior to excavation, restore regulation circles around the pitching mound and home plate, install sod in disturbed areas, rebuild the pitching mound and batter’s boxes, and complete other related work.
Precise Construction Inc. of Freehold has been awarded the contract for improvements at the 165-acre Mannino Park, located off Old Bridge-Matawan Road, also known as County Route 516.
The $1,069,585 project encompasses demolition, site preparation, and earthwork, fencing, rubberized playground surfaces, sports-themed playgrounds for children aged 2 to 4 and 5 to 12, under-
ground stormwater detention, lighting, and landscaping. Additionally, plans include the construction of new bocce courts, scoreboards, curbing, drainage improvements, and ADA-compliant parking.
The project involves demolishing the existing playground and constructing a baseball-themed playground equipped with lighting and stormwater management features. A new bocce court will be built in the park’s southwestern corner, accompanied by a sidewalk and ADA-compliant parking. Furthermore, a basketball court is planned near five existing pickleball courts.
