Get ready for another exciting season of baseball! Registration for the SWSBL (Sayre Woods South Baseball League) is now open and will run until March 9th.Whether you’re looking for fun, skill development, or high-level competition, SWSBL has something for everyone. Players of all experience levels will have the opportunity to train with top coaches, improve their game, and enjoy the thrill of base ball in a competitive yet support ive environment. SWSBL is proud to be home to the 2024 12U State Champions, and we’re looking forward to another season of incredible talent and teamwork. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this winning tradition! Sign up today, and get ready for a season filled with big plays, great friendships, and unfor gettable memories on the field. Register at SWSBL.com now before the deadline on March 9th!
DMV MOBILE UNIT TO VISIT OLD BRIDGE
Questions? Please contact your local hosting group.
Host:
Senator Owen Henry, Assemblymembers Rob Clifton and Alex Sauickie
Location:
Date:
Notes: Make your appointment today!
Go to https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvcmobileunit to sign up for:
• REALID
• Registration Renewal
• Initial Permit **Tests are NOT given at Mobile Unit
I hope everyone had a great start to the new year and is looking forward to all that 2025 will bring. Our days are staying bright a little longer and soon we’ll be resetting our clocks for Daylight Savings time again. Spring is rightaroundthecorner!
There are many things happening around town that are fun to do with the family even during the cold weather. In addition to cheering on our local teams here in town, be sure to visit Old Bridge’s John Piccolo Ice Arena. To plan parties or simply to spend a fun afternoon with friends and family, the rink is open for your enjoyment. For complete details and additional information, residents can visit www. oldbridge.com or contact the Department of Recreation at 732-721-5600 ext. 4999. I am excited to sponsor the New Jersey League of Municipalities Future Municipal Leaders Scholarship Competition for high school juniors and seniors planning to continue their education after graduation. The purpose of this scholarship is to advance the virtues of elected and volunteer positions in municipal government,
while raising awareness of municipal government in general. To compete for the scholarship, the student must write an essay with the theme, “What I Like About My Hometown”. Once my office receives the essay, it will be judged by our committee and then forwarded to the League of Municipalities for their consideration. The three winners will each be awarded $1,000 by their mayor at a hometown ceremony. Good luck to all participants!
Every February, people in the United States celebrate the achievements and history of African Americans as part of Black History Month. It is a time to honor the contributions and legacy of African Americans across U.S. history and society. We also observe Presidents’ Day on February 19th, which is now popularly viewed as a day to celebrate all U.S. presidents, both past and present. In closing, I share the township’s goal to be a place where people want to live, work and raise a family, and it is my honor to serve as your Mayor. I wish you all a Happy Valentine’s Day with your loved ones, and a safe, healthy, and happy month of February.
Mayor Debbie Walker
Debbie Walker
MESSAGE FROM WARD 1 COUNCILMAN KEVIN GARCIA
Hello to Ward 1 and all Old Bridge residents. With the holidays behind us, I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. We have so much to look forward to. After 15 plus years, the beachfront will finally get the cleanup needed starting this spring of 2025. I’d like to thank Mayor Walker, the Town Council, our BA Ana Feltz, the town Attorneys and of course the numerous CAG members who never gave up on the Beachfront. While it will cost the Township millions of dollars, it will be beautiful when finally finished. Old Bridge and Laurence Harbor deserve a beautiful beach.
I want to thank our Police Chief, Tom Montagna, for his leadership of the Old Bridge Police Dept. We have one of the safest towns in the nation. So, thank you Chief for your leadership. I also want to thank our Firefighters, EMT’s and all our first responders for always going above and beyond. Also, congratulations to the Laurence Harbor Fire Dept. on their
100-year anniversary. Thank you for your continued service to our community. Thank you to The Economic Development Executive Officer Steve Mamakas for your continued support in making Old Bridge business friendly. We have numerous new businesses in town, so thanks for your continued support and good luck to all our new business owners in Ward 1 and all of Old Bridge. Also, the Township Ice Skating rink is open, this is a great family event, so be sure to attend. Please check the schedule @oldbridge.com/recreation. So yes, we as a Town, have so much to look forward to in 2025. I’d like to thank Anthony Cosentino and David Hernandez from All Around Old Bridge for allowing me this opportunity to notify the residents of Old Bridge of some of the issues in town.
HENRY CONTINUES FIGHT TO FULLY FUND OUR SCHOOLS
By Senator Owen Henry
Amid the ongoing conversation surrounding our severely flawed and unfair funding formula for our public schools, I attended the January 14th State Department of Education meeting in Trenton on S2, the states currently used funding formula. Despite the absence of the action Commissioner of Education, I joined several representatives from towns across my district to discuss the severe impact these districts continue to realize under Governor Murphy’s S2 funding s. Governor Murphy’s inaction and the current S2 funding formula have reduced state
aid for many districts, causing financial strain, school closures, staff cuts, program eliminations, and large local tax hikes.
Our students’ future depends and deserves a commitment to sustainable and fair funding solutions, Furthermore, the quality of education our children receive is directly linked to the resources and support provided to those who devote their lives to teaching and nurturing young minds. New Jersey has one of, if not the best, public education systems in the nation but it’s clear that we need to do more to protect the quality of our education system, and I will continue fighting for our students and educators to get the resources and tools they need for a sound education.
HONORING ALBERTA’S REMARKABLE JOURNEY
Reformed Church Home is preparing to bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most cherished members, Alberta Romaniello. Alberta, a loving wife and a mother of five children and grandmother to five grandchildren, joined Reformed Church Home in 2003 as an activities aide on the skilled side. In 2004, she transitioned to the assisted living side while attending school full-time to become a licensed director of activities. After two years of hard work and dedication, she graduated in 2006.
From the very beginning, Alberta brought creativity and compassion to her role. Under her guidance, the activities program blossomed, offering a wide range of programs that catered to the diverse interests and needs of the residents. These included art classes, fitness sessions, movie nights, and intergenerational events with local schools. Reflecting on her time at Reformed Church Home, Alberta fondly recalls her early days and her mission to create a home-like atmosphere. “When I first started, my goal was simple: to make every resident feel valued and included,” she said. “I wanted to ensure they had opportunities to engage and connect with
each other and the wider community.”
Over the years, Alberta’s initiatives have not only fostered personal growth among the residents but also cultivated a strong sense of community within Reformed Church Home. Her openness and genuine interest in each person’s story have created lasting bonds between staff and residents alike.
Next month, Leading Age and the community will gather to celebrate a statewide achievement of Alberta, The Excellence in Community Service Award. This award recognizes LeadingAge member achievements that contribute to their communities by providing outstanding services, programs, and opportunities for engagement. In a heartfelt message to her colleagues and residents, Alberta said, “I am truly grateful for the chance to be a part of this amazing community. Each of you holds a special place in my heart, and I will carry the memories we’ve created together into this next chapter of my life.”
By Paul Pscolka
DISCOVER GOLF REPUBLIC: THE ULTIMATE GOLF EXPERIENCE IN TOWN
Golf Republic is redefining the golf experience with its state-of-the-art ceiling-mounted Trackman iO technology, offering unparalleled precision and feedback for golfers of all skill levels. Each of the 7 spacious hitting bays, meticulously designed and installed by Trackman, is an impressive 18-foot wide, allowing players to swing freely and practice comfortably. Premium turf and a 16 x 9 clear-display screen create an immersive environment, complemented by Bose Sound Bars that deliver crisp audio for an engaging atmosphere. We’re a BYOB facility so bring some libations to help keep the vibes immaculate. Each bay even comes with its own fridge, ensuring refreshments are always cold and at hand.
Golf Republic isn’t just for serious golfers; it’s a great venue for special events. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday, hosting a bachelor or bachelorette party, or organizing a corporate outing, Golf Re public offers a unique, fun and entertaining alternative. With 17 televisions displaying all of the day’s sports matchups, including major events like the Super Bowl and the
Masters, members and guests can enjoy every moment of excitement together.
Golf Republic also hosts multiple public events throughout the year, providing thrilling experiences and opportunities to connect with fellow golf enthusiasts. Step into a world where golf meets fun, and make your next gathering unforgettable at Golf Republic! We’re open 7 days a week (9a-10p) for member and hourly play!
FEBRUARY IS HEART MONTH - LET’S PRIORITIZE WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH
Every February, we celebrate American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular health—the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Yet, despite its prominence, heart disease in women remains under-recognized, underdiagnosed, and undertreated.
At Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center, we’re committed to changing that. Women’s heart health deserves more attention, especially since cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more women annually than all forms of cancer combined.
According to cardiologist, Nirmal Kaur, M.D., FACP, FACC, FSCAI, “Heart disease in women often presents differently than it does in men. While men may experience the classic symptom of chest pain, women might encounter subtler signs like shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, or discomfort in the back, neck, or jaw. These symptoms can be mistaken for stress or
other conditions, delaying life-saving care.”
Moreover, societal norms and caregiving roles often lead women to prioritize others’ health over their own.
As a result, women may miss routine check-ups, dismiss warning signs, or fail to adopt preventive measures.
The majority of heart disease cases are preventable with education, early detection, and lifestyle changes. Small steps—like maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, managing stress, and knowing your numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and BMI)—can have a huge impact.
This Heart Month, I urge women in our community to take charge of their heart health:
• Schedule a visit with your healthcare provider to assess your cardiovascular risk. There are many non-invasive tests you can take to assess your risk of heart disease.
• Angioscreen is a comprehensive heart and vascular screening that is non-invasive and only takes 15 minutes.
• CT Calcium Scoring scan can
help detect calcium-containing plaque in your arteries, which can cause a heart attack.
• Learn the warning signs of heart disease specific to women.
• Commit to making at least one hearthealthy change in your daily routine. Our goal is to empower women with the knowledge and tools to protect their hearts. Let this February be a turning point. By shining a light on the unique risks women face and fostering a culture of prevention, we can save lives and ensure a healthier future for the women we cherish. And with the addition of a cardiac catheterization program coming
to Old Bridge Medical Center in 2026, we’ll have even more resources available to provide timely, life-saving care.
Scan the QR code to take a lung screening assessment today
HMH Raritan Bay Medical Center Perth Amboy: 530 New Brunswick Ave, Perth Amboy
HMH Old Bridge Medical Center Old Bridge: 1 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge
Patricia Carroll, President, Chief Hospital Executive, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Centers.
ONE LIFE FROM GOD’S PERSPECTIVE
America is in moral decline. Family breakdown mirrors ancient Israel during the Judges’ era. Fatherlessness is rampant, and the younger generation is increasingly pagan. Yet, history shows that a single life can change the course of a nation.
At Calvary Chapel, we recently began a series on 1 Samuel, which opens with a broken family. A good but misguided man takes a second wife when his beloved is unable to bear children. Hannah, the barren one tormented by the other, turns to God in desperate prayer. She vowed to dedicate her son to the Lord if He granted her one—and He answered. Samuel is born. At a time when Israel was plagued by corrupt leaders, weak defenses, and a compromising faith, a praying woman gave birth to a prophet who brought people back to God, defeated their enemies, and anointed Israel’s greatest king, David. From David’s line came the Messiah, Jesus. What people see as insignificant—a
baby in the womb or a shepherd boy in a field—God sees as purposeful. Tragically, the slogan “Every Child a Wanted Child,” coined by Margaret Sanger, shifted focus from God’s plan to human convenience, resulting in the loss of 70 million. Yet God’s mercy can intervene. Perhaps He will rise up as a leader, one of the 1,600 babies rescued from abortion through Bridge Women’s Center, to be the next Samuel.
One life can have a huge impact! Whether the unborn child spared from abortion, a teacher standing for truth, or many praying for revival to get back to God, let’s never underestimate the impact of one life yielded to God. Make the most of your life—because God can use it to change the world!
IN MEMORIAM
LORETTA F. RUESC
MAY 5, 1928- JANUARY 21,2025
Services held at Waitt Funeral & Cremation Service, Morganville
JEANETTE RUSIN
MAY 24,1925 – JANUARY 19, 2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
GIUSEPPINA DECARLO
APRIL 1ST, 1954 – JANUARY 19,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
THOMAS DUNCAN CONOVER, III
DECEMBER 27TH, 1950 – JANUARY 18,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
ANNA HELEN BORN BURNESS
FEBRUARY 15, 1934 – JANUARY 18TH,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
PATRICIA KOHLER
JULY 23, 1934 – JANUARY 16,2025
Services held at Waitt Funeral & Cremation Service, Morganville
KRISTI K. MORLEY
OCTOBER 30,1956 – JANUARY 14,2025
Services by Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
MARIE POMEROY
FEBRUARY 18TH, 1935 – JANUARY 11,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
ERNIE PENNY
JUNE 17, 1959 – JANUARY 11, 2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
LUCIANA KANOBEL
JANUARY 7,1927 – JANUARY 11,2025
Services held at Waitt Funeral & Cremation Service, Morganville
LESIA CHANLEY
AUGUST 30, 1934 – JANUARY 7,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
MARIE SLATER
JANUARY 31, 1932 – JANUARY 6, 2025
Services held at Waitt Funeral & Cremation Service, Morganville
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor
WELCOMING CHANGE IN THE NEW YEAR
Every January, the Library Board of Trustees gathers to welcome new members if there have been changes in membership. Library Trustees are appointed with careful consideration by Old Bridge’s Mayor. When our dedicated Board President, Kevin Borsilli, announced that he would be leaving in December, our staff and Board caught their collective breath. Kevin had served as a devoted Library Trustee for 9 years and had been its President since 2022. Each of our Trustees devote a lot of time, careful thought and commitment to being library advocates on behalf of our Old Bridge residents. When there is a change to the Board’s membership we honor those who have served and reach a friendly hand to guide new members in taking on the tremendous responsibility of guiding community investment in this important resource. Those who have served as President make an even greater commitment in shepherding our 9 members to consensus and action. We applaud our newest Board President, Sara Marino, as she leads us into 2025. We welcome our new Trustee, Gina Talamo who brings her experience in serving Old Bridge to the library. We
extend sincere gratitude to our returning Trustees Rocco Celentano (Vice-President and Superintendent Cittadino’s Alternate), Maria Nowak (Treasurer), Rosemarie Rivoli (Secretary), Matty Tropeano (Mayor Walker’s Alternate), Dr. Joan George, Frank Weber and Zainab Syed.
Lastly, we would like to extend our sincere condolences for a most unfortunate change in this new year. Steven Goldman, devoted trustee for 23 of years and dedicated library advocate. His service to the community, our staff and his fellow Trustees was exceptional. We send our sympathies to his family and to all those who will feel the impact of his loss.
JOSEPH FRIZALONE, III NAMED THE FIRE CHIEF FOR 2025
Joseph Frizalone III has been a dedicated member of the Old Bridge Fire Department since 2004, and this year marks his 21st year of service. Throughout his service, Joseph has shown great commitment to the
community. He has actively participated in various events, including teaching fire safety to local schools, organizing memorial services and parades, and his favorite spreading holiday cheer with Santa Runs. His daily duties as an active member of the fire company further demonstrate his dedication to serving others.
Joseph credits his success from the support of his family. His wife, Candice, and their three children, Aubrey, Mia, and Joseph IV, have been his greatest supporters throughout his journey. When not serving the community, Joseph loves spending time with his family, enjoys cooking family recipes, and spending time with friends. Serving a second term as Fire Chief in 2025 is an honor. He is both humbled and grateful for the opportunity to lead the department once again. Joseph looks forward to embracing the challenges ahead and continuing to serve the community with passion and dedication. Congratulations to Joseph Frizalone III on his reappointment as Fire Chief for 2025. We are confident in his ability to lead the department with dedication and enthusiasm.
HOW WE CAN HELP FERAL CATS
By Anita Greenberg,DVM. member of Old Bridge Township Council since 2016
A feral cat is an unowned domestic cat that lives outdoors and avoids human contact. A feral cat does not allow itself to be handled and is not adoptable. In contrast, stray cats were once owned and have wandered away from their homes. Generations of free roaming cats become feral colonies.
Animal rights groups advocate for Trap Neuter and Release (TNR) programs to prevent feral cats from continuing to breed. TNR has many advantages and is the most humane and effective approach for managing stray and feral cats. It immediately stabilizes the population by eliminating new kittens from being born.
The nuisance behavior associated with feral cats is dramatically reduced, minimizing yowling, fighting and the odor of unneutered males spraying to mark their territory.
If you are feeding feral cats, it is a important to trap them and have them spayed and neutered. There are many low cost spay and neuter facilities. The cat will be altered, vaccinated and the left ear tipped to indicate it has been neutered.
Rabies vaccination is paramount before releasing the cat for its well-being and the other animals with which it comes into contact. It is beneficial for the safety of the community in preventing the transmission of rabies.
Kittens from a feral colony, if trapped early enough, will be adoptable and make loving pets.
Gestation in cats is about 63-65 days. Cats can breed as young as four months of age and can breed year-round. Feral cat populations can grow explosively. TNR is an investment in cats’ lives and their health. TNR is an efficient approach to serving not only the animals but also the public. Consider being a volunteer to help reduce the feral cat population in your community.
Saving one cat won’t change the world, but for that one cat its world will be forever changed.
