Old Bridge, NJ — Amboy Bank continues its commitment to supporting local seniors through its ongoing partnership with Senior Citizens Activities Network (SCAN), a nonprofit organization serving older adults throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
Through the Amboy Foundation, the bank has supported SCAN’s programs and initiatives aimed at helping seniors remain active, informed, and connected within their communities. Amboy Bank continues to volunteer and stay involved with SCAN’s many senior activities and outings, including SCAN’s Annual Golf Outing, participation in the organization’s grand opening celebration at its new Monmouth Beach location, and providing free educational programming on SCAN’s podcast discussions and in-person presentations designed to help seniors recognize and prevent financial scams and senior fraud awareness.
“Supporting organizations like SCAN reflects our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Jennifer Fletcher, Vice President & Sales Manager of Amboy Bank. “We are proud to partner with SCAN in helping provide resources, education, and engagement opportunities for local seniors in New Jersey.”
SCAN recently raised more than $23,000 during its 37th
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After serving for 26 years, Officer Steve Connolly is retiring from the Old Bridge Police Department. Throughout his career, Officer Connolly proudly served as a
patrol officer, traffic officer, and fatal accident investigator. He has also held the position of President of the Middlesex County Traffic Officers Association. His dedication, professionalism,
OFFICER CONNOLLY RETIRING AFTER 26 YEARS OF SERVICE.
and unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of others have left a profound impact on countless lives.
Beyond his professional achievements, Officer Connolly has been an exceptional husband and father to our three beautiful daughters. We are incredibly proud of everything he has accomplished and deeply grateful for the sacrifices he has made for both his community and our family.
As Officer Connolly embarks on retirement, we wish him a lifetime of new adventures and the well-deserved time he deserves to spend with the people who love him most. Congratulations, Officer Connolly!
THE “BEST SUMMER EVER” YMCA SUMMER PROMOTION
The Y brings wellness and people together! From May 15 – July 1, take advantage of our membership with no enrollment, access to unlimited group and aqua fitness classes, healthy activities for all ages and abilities, and full access to all 3 YMCA
branches in Red Bank, Old Bridge, Freehold and Freehold Outdoor Swim Club.
Join us at the YMCA of the Jersey Shore for a season of fun, adventure, and growth. With our exciting summer promo, there's never been a better time to discover all that the Y has to offer. Whether you're a child, teen, adult, or senior, there's something for everyone at the Y. So come on out and join us as we unleash the fun this summer!
Learn more at www.ymcanj. org/summer.
There are wellness activities for every member of your family— from quality swim lessons for all ages, to a variety of programs that help adults feel their best in spirit, mind and body. Membership includes YMCA360, a 24/7 virtual platform with over 1,000 on-demand and livestream classes.
Y membership is so much more than access to fitness facilities and pools. The Y makes our community stronger. In addition to wellness branches, the YMCA of the Jersey Shore serves over
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MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
Debbie Walker
Dear Old Bridge Residents, With Memorial Day just past us, we can look forward to summer and lots of enjoyment, relaxation, and time with our families. We are so fortunate to be able to enjoy the days in all our beautiful parks in Old Bridge with playground and picnic areas to utilize for our parties and barbeques.
June is graduation month and I wish to extend my sincere congratulations to all the middle and high school graduates, in all our schools here in Old Bridge. These children and young adults are our future and I wish them the best as they move on to high school and college and go out into the world to begin their life’s journey. I would also like to acknowledge all our recent college graduates and wish them the best as they begin their careers.
I am happy to report that Old Bridge Township was awarded over $146,000 in NJ Clean Communities funds, which is the 3rd highest amount in Middlesex County. The Clean Communities grant program funds a variety of activities including volunteer cleanups of public spaces, cleanups of stormwater systems, enforcement of local
anti-littering ordinances and purchases of trash receptacles and recycling bins.
Old Bridge Township will host the annual Middlesex County Hazardous Waste Day event on Sunday, June 28, 2026. This event runs from 8am to 2pm at the Municipal Complex and is held rain or shine. Residents can bring harmful chemicals, gasoline, fire extinguishers, antifreeze, pesticides, pool chemicals and more to the Township Municipal Complex. For more information, please visit OldBridge.com/ Recycling.
Most importantly this month, we celebrate Father’s Day, a day to honor all our fathers who so selflessly go to work every day to make a living for their families and who in their spare time volunteer in all the various activities available for their children in the township. There are no words that can express the love of a father and the love that we all have for them. Happy Father’s Day!
On a final note, now that we are at the beginning of the summer break, please be mindful of the increased number of kids playing outside, particularly near the parks, out riding their bikes, or walking in the streets and having fun. Stay alert when driving and riding your bike so we Continue on page 4
YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
As we welcome the sunshine and renewed energy that summer brings, I want to pause and shine a well-deserved spotlight on the outstanding accomplishments of our high school and college graduates. This moment represents years of dedication, perseverance, and personal growth, and you should be immensely proud of all you’ve achieved. Congratulations on reaching this milestone. Step forward with confidence, embrace the opportunities ahead, and continue shaping a future that reflects your talents, values, and dreams.
To all the fathers across our community, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a Happy
Father’s Day. Your love, guidance, and unwavering support shape the lives of your children and strengthen the foundation of our families. May you enjoy a day filled with appreciation and joy.
As summer unfolds, I encourage everyone to embrace the season safely, with good health and plenty of fun. Exercise caution when swimming and be mindful while participating in activities on the water. Be sure to use plenty of sunscreen. Whether you're traveling, spending time outdoors, or simply relaxing with loved ones, let’s make this summer one to remember.
Wishing you all a joyous, safe, and fulfilling summer.
Sincerely,
Senator Owen Henry
MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
Continued from page 3
can ensure that everybody has a great, safe, healthy summer. Please also remember to implement pool safety with children, make sure they are always supervised while in a pool area, and follow the important water safety guidelines.
OB LIBRARY: THANK YOU
By Dawn Jenkin, Former Director of the Old Bridge Public Library
By the time you read this newsletter I will heading to the UK, and starting my early retirement. I will miss our Old Bridge community and our library family. In our three years together, we have done so much. When I wonder how we were able to accomplish so much in just a few years I am grateful to our library Board of Trustees, amazing staff, municipal colleagues and community partners. Most importantly, the inspiration and enthusiasm of our library patrons have guided us in bringing lasting change to OBPL.
-returned staffing levels to pre-covid levels
-started a 5-phase library renovation
-completed IT infrastructure renovation
-added new collections of non-traditional items like the library of things and binge boxes
-added new electronic resources like the New York Times, NJ Historic Newspaper, increased Hoopla and Libby offerings.
-supported the Friends of the library in reorganizing
-moved the Laurence Harbor Branch to its new temporary home
-restarted book deliveries to senior and pre-k organizations
-re-opened Idea Farm
-re-introduced newsletter
-increased foot traffic by 25,000 visits per year
Best wishes for your continued success! Thank you everyone.
Please stay safe, be well, and enjoy the start of summer!
Mayor Debbie Walker
Dawn Jenkin, Former Director of the Old Bridge Public Library
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Anahita Feltz Business Administrator
As we reach the midpoint of 2026, Old Bridge Township continues to make meaningful progress on projects and initiatives that enhance quality of life for our residents and strengthen our community.
Across the Township, improvements are underway in our parks, infrastructure, public safety operations, and community programming.
At Veterans Park, major recreational upgrades are underway, including the construction of new baseball and softball fields and renovations to the existing tennis courts. Based on neighborhood feedback, the updated courts will include one tennis court and two pickleball courts. Additional improvements include restoration and painting of the handball wall, new fencing around the recreational areas, and the Township’s planned paving of the parking lot this fall. This project has been a collaborative effort involving both the Department of Public Works and Parks Department. The Township is also ac-
tively planning the next phase of updates and additions at Cottrell Farm Park as we continue investing in recreational amenities and open space improvements.
Roadway rehabilitation efforts on Ocean Boulevard are progressing well, with one side of the roadway already completed and the remaining paving anticipated within the next two weeks. The Township has secured grant funding for reconstruction of half of Ocean Boulevard and continues pursuing additional funding for the remaining portion.
The Township was also awarded approximately $146,000 through the New Jersey Clean Communities Grant Program — the third-highest award in Middlesex County — to support litter removal, beautification, environmental cleanup, and public education initiatives. The Police Department continues to focus on public safety enhancements and community engagement initiatives. The department is in the process of expanding and modernizing its vehicle fleet with the ordering of five new police vehicles. Officers and staff are also actively preparing for this year’s National Night Out event, to be held in August.
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FAITH IN ACTION
Many people think faith is just believing certain things about God, going to church occasionally, or trying to be a good person, but the Bible presents faith as something much deeper and more practical. In James 2:18, we read: “Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” In other words, real faith can be seen. It changes how we live!
We live in a word full of empty words and promises made and broken. People say they care, and yet they often fail to act—that is why genuine faith stands out! This kind of faith moves beyond talk and is visible in everyday life. Faith is shown in kindness when no one is watching. It is seen in honesty when it would be easier to lie. There is evidence of it in forgiveness when bitterness feels justified. Genuine faith reveals itself through compassion for the lost and hurting.
Christian faith is not about earning God’s approval by doing enough good deeds.
It begins with trusting in Jesus—that He came to rescue us, forgive us, and give us new life. When someone truly trusts Him, that person is born again, a new creation, and something which has changed inside naturally begins to show up outwardly in our actions.
You may not consider yourself religious, but you likely know there must be more to life than appearances and empty words. Jesus offers something real—a relationship with Him, the God Who transforms the heart!
Faith in action begins with just one step—turning to Him honestly. Come as you are! Ask Him to reveal Himself to you and when He does, your life will never be the same!
FATHERS, FAMILIES & THE GIFT OF SUMMER MOMENTS
By David Boles, Marketing Director
June is a meaningful time at Reformed Church Home as we celebrate Father’s Day and honor the many fathers, grandfathers, husbands, brothers, uncles, and lifelong friends who have helped shape our families and communities through love, guidance, humor, and support.
Summer also reminds us how important it is to enjoy time together. Whether it’s sitting outside sharing iced tea, talking with grandchildren by phone or video, or simply enjoying a warm afternoon visit, these moments matter deeply.
For many families, June can also be an ideal time to explore supportive services that help loved ones remain safe, active, and connected. Respite Care can provide families and caregivers with short-term support and peace of mind while their loved one enjoys compassionate care, activities, companionship, and social engagement. Rehabilitation services can also help individuals regain strength and confidence following surgery, illness, or hospitalization — helping them return to enjoying summer activities and everyday life as fully as possible.
At Reformed Church Home, we believe every season of life deserves connection, dignity, encouragement, and moments worth sharing together. Please visit our blogs by scanning the QR code and if you have any questions, please feel free to call me – or stop for a ‘coffee, lemonade, or iced tea’ chat.
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge
ENJOY AN INJURY-FREE SUMMER WITH THESE SAFETY TIPS
The warmer weather and freedom from coats and scarves beckon many of us to get outside, be active, and make memories with family and friends. Many people hit pickleball courts, go for a hike, try a jog or join a recreational game of softball or soccer.
But as we all know, with more activity comes a greater chance for injuries. At our emergency departments, we unfortunately see a spike in visits during the summer months.
As Dr. Kenneth Swan, our division chief for orthopedics, points out, when people get up off the couch after a less active winter, and dive into an activity for which they may not be conditioned, that can spell trouble.
“If you have a degenerative knee or shoulder that won’t tolerate a quick ramp-up of activities, and if you gain 10 pounds over the winter, that’s like putting 40 pounds of extra pressure on your knee,” says Dr. Swan. Make sure to have a proper warm-up, use correct form, and don’t set out to too much
too soon. If you haven't run in a while, be gradual; try a walk-run one or two days and listen to your body.
Cross-training is incredibly important. Strengthening the core helps the back, hips and knees as well.
In softball leagues, we see soft tissue injuries, aggravation of arthritic conditions, and bone fractures. With more people participating in activities like pickleball, we're seeing a rise in soft tissue issues like tendinitis, inflammation, and muscle pulls, which can be serious and sometimes require surgery.
Of course, summer isn't just about sports. It's also the season for backyard barbecues and holiday celebrations that come with their own set of risks. Grilling is a prime example. Gas and charcoal grills cause thousands of home fires each year. To stay safe, always supervise your grill when it’s in use, keep it away from your home and deck railings, and never use it indoors. And please, keep children and pets at a safe distance.
Fireworks are another summer staple, especially around the Fourth of July. While they are beautiful, they are also responsible for a significant number of emergency
room visits, with thousands of people treated for fireworks-related injuries each year. The most common injuries are burns to the hands, fingers, and legs. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display put on by professionals.
We also can’t talk about summer safety without mentioning the heat. Dr.Patrick Rogers, our Chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine, notes that heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, are a serious concern. It’s crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, as they dehydrate the body. Apply sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) 30 minutes before going outside and reapply frequently, especially if swimming or sweating. Wear hats and sunglasses.
Learn to identify symptoms of heat exhaustion (dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid pulse) and heat stroke (104°F+ body temp, confusion, vomiting). Move to a cool area immediately if symptoms occur. Try to schedule your outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day, like the early morning or evening. And never, ever leave a child or pet in a hot car.
For babies, it’s especially important to
keep them cool and out of direct sunlight. A good rule of thumb is to keep their room at a temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Supervise children closely near water, including small, shallow pools.
Here at Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center, we wish you a fun–and most of all safe–summer.
For information about scheduling an appointment at Old Bridge Medical Center, please call 732-679-0100 or visit our website.
Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center
Perth Amboy: 530 New Brunswick Ave, Perth Amboy
Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center Old Bridge: 1 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge
Patricia Carroll, President, Chief Hospital Executive, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center and Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center
THE SAT BRINGS HAPPINESS
By Paul Pscolka
Contrary to popular belief, the happiest teens are not those who are most popular on social media. While this may lead to temporary dopamine spikes, seeking validation ultimately leads to anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, and emotional volatility. Neither are they those who are the most comfortable or “always having fun;” in the long run, they will lack appreciation and become bored. Those with endless free time feel aimless and unsatisfied. Even a great SAT score will only bring a temporary emotional high. So, what in the world will bring your teen true long-term happiness?
Regarding SAT prep, how prep is done is most important. Students should not seek perfection. Instead, they should normalize their own mistakes by keeping an error log. Celebrate questions and pacing mastered through consistent practice. Steady progress will keep students motivated and happy.
Inevitably, through this process, students will be challenged. Students will perform better and be less stressed when they believe that improvement comes through effort and strategy rather than
sheer intelligence. Instead of thinking “I’m bad at math,” a student should see specifically what error they made on that particular question and fix it. Know the fix well enough not to make the mistake again. Missteps are data, telling a student what to work on. They are not the student’s identity.
Students who prepare with purpose are happier. Connecting prep to future independence—going to their top choice 4-year university and setting themselves up for their future career goals is motivation. Students can also prep keeping in mind merit aid which is usually tied to SAT scores. Their increased score can help the entire family. Connecting scores to something meaningful reduces burnout.
Students who focus on progress, maintain a growth mindset, and tie their score to a higher purpose will prepare more happily…and happiness is good for the student, the parents, the teacher, and the world.
Interested in finding out more about how we build happier, more confident students? Book a free consultation with me here: https://www.ivymasters.com/ free-consultation/
OB SUPERINTENDENTDR. VINCENT SASSO, ED.D.
Across every school, classroom, office, and hallway in Old Bridge Township Public Schools, there are extraordinary individuals who make a lasting impact on the lives of our students.
This month, I wanted to take an opportunity to celebrate and recognize our Teacher of the Year and Educational Support Professional of the Year recipients across the district.
These outstanding educators represent the very best of Old Bridge. They are innovators, mentors, leaders, listeners, problem-solvers, and role models who consistently go above and beyond in service to children. While the titles “Teacher of the Year” and “Educational Support Professional of the Year” recognize individual excellence, they also reflect the incredible culture that exists throughout our entire district.
One thing that is abundantly clear across Old Bridge Township Public Schools is that the strength of our district will
always be found in our people. Our staff members care deeply about students and about one another. They work tirelessly to create safe, supportive, engaging, and inclusive learning environments where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
As we continue building “The Bridge to 2028,” our commitment to Excellence in Education remains stronger than ever, and the individuals we celebrate this month represent that commitment in the very best way possible.
On behalf of the Old Bridge Township Board of Education and our entire school community, congratulations once again to all of this year’s honorees. We are incredibly proud of you, grateful for your service, and thankful for the positive difference you make in the lives of our students and families every single day.
Old Bridge U-Knighted
Sincerely,
Vincent Sasso Ed.D.
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
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The Township is also working on the installation of our veteran banners throughout the community to honor and recognize those who have served our country. Banners will be displayed at the Municipal Complex, including along Pearl Harbor Way where we honor those killed in action, as well as at Mannino Park, Veterans Park, and the Laurence Harbor Boardwalk.
The Township also proudly recognizes Building Department employee
James Mazur for being named the 2026 Electrical Inspector of the Year by the
Municipal Electrical Inspectors Association and the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, a prestigious statewide honor recognizing his professionalism and dedication to public safety. Finally, Old Bridge is proud to partner with the Old Bridge Township Public Schools for the upcoming America 250 Community Celebration on July 18 at Cottrell Farm Park, featuring patriotic student artwork, colonial activities, music, food, and family-friendly events commemorating America’s 250th Birthday.
SENIOR FRAUD EDUCATION
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Annual Leaders of Distinction Luncheon, supporting programs and services for older adults throughout the region. Amboy Bank has proudly served Middlesex and Monmouth Counties for more than 135 years. Voted Best Bank 28 years in a row by readers of the Home News Tribune, we remain committed to
offering personal, local service. You can always speak with a home loan expert — in person or over the phone — at any of our 20+ convenient locations.
For more information about Amboy Bank, visit www.amboybank.com.
For more information about SCAN, visit www.scannj.org.
Use Home Branch
LOCAL RESIDENT WINS ON THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE
By Rich Bruno
My experience as a winning contestant on the Wheel of Fortune brought so much excitement and joy! It was 15 months in the making from application to taping the show.
The “full circle” moment for me was that I watched this show regularly with my grandfather 30 years ago, and it reminded me of the fun we had watching it together. I just knew I needed to be on this game show! So many people I know, from all aspects of my personal and professional life, were sharing in my excitement and were all rooting for me. This was evident before the taping, all the way up to and after the air date. All the messages and reactions that I received after the show aired filled my heart.
What were the most amazing parts of this experience?
Sharing it firsthand with my wife from start to finish. During the application process, I remember I didn’t want to do the video portion, and she convinced me it was essential! She supported me all through the audition process and played a major role in helping me to prepare for the show.
Sharing it with so many people at a watch party – no one knew the outcome, not even my kids! It was wonderful to share in the excitement with everyone when we all watched me win! We kept this secret for six weeks!!!
Having a full circle moment of sharing it with my grandfather, who passed over 25 years ago.
Why do you believe you were successful?
My mindset – I was confident that my preparation would pay off – I practiced 2 hours per day, every day, for 3 weeks. The preparation kept me focused and calm. I was able to overcome FOUR BANKRUPTS and still win the bonus round!
I set goals and wrote them in my journal the day before taping:
- My goals are:
o Do my best
o Have fun!
o Win lots of money
o Make it to the bonus round
- My “Stretch goal”: Win the bonus round and exceed $50K in winnings!
I included three key phrases in my journal that I said to myself repeatedly while playing:
“I’m prepared” …” I have the tools” …” I expect to win”
It’s SO ironic that the final solved phrase, “GO FOR BROKE”, is all me. I believe in seizing every moment, living your best life, and pursuing opportunities with confidence and conviction.
Want to catch the episode? It’s Wheel of Fortune Season 43 Episode 177.
Remember, never doubt yourself and always “GO FOR BROKE”!
SILVER LININGS NEWS
By Kristin Agunbiade, Manager, Silver Linings at Old Bridge
As summer arrives, Silver Linings at Old Bridge is heating up with a June calendar packed full of fun, music, wellness, and community spirit! We’re kicking off the season with Outdoor Pickleball, giving members a chance to enjoy the fresh air, friendly competition, and exercise all at once. Music lovers can grab the mic at both our Bollywood Karaoke and Beach Vibes Karaoke sessions, guaranteed to bring laughter and great energy to the center.
Health and wellness continue to be a priority this month with free wellness screenings provided by Hackensack Meridian Health, along with informative presentations from Synergy Home Care and Reformed Church Home. One of these special presentations will conclude with a DJ-led dance party sure to get our members moving! Members will also travel to Atlantic City for the annual NJ Healthy Aging Summit as well as another trip, later in the month, to Resorts Casino for a day of excitement and entertainment.
We’re especially excited to welcome a
talented local student pianist for a beautiful classical piano performance, and to celebrate Father’s Day with an Ice Cream Social featuring NJ Jazz Vocalist and Sinatra Tribute Artist, Zack Alexander.
June also includes a meaningful Freedom Day celebration, a patriotic craft, mini golf at the Old Bridge Golf Club, and a shopping trip to Jackson Premium Outlets. From wellness to entertainment and everything in between, Silver Linings continues to offer something for all our members, while bringing our community together all month long.
For dates and times of our programs or more information about Silver Linings of Old Bridge, including how to become a member, visit http://www.oldbridge.com/ silverlinings , call (732) 721-5600, ext. 6600, or stop by for a visit! We are located at 1 Old Bridge Plaza in Old Bridge.
Private Pre School Stands at the TO ASS in Ea cation
HOME AWAY FROM HOME ACADEMY continues to remain parents’ number one choice, serving the community for over 30 years. Children are benefiting more and more from their curriculum every day, every month and every year. Parents are realizing the difference between daycare vs. private school. Children are not just ‘playing’ all day anymore; they are playing with a purpose. Parents are finding that their young children, by incorporating fun and play into their academic curriculum, are retaining what they learn and have a significant competitive edge. Within every area of early education which includes reading, writing, math, social studies, foreign language, science, music and art, children are also developing socially, emotionally, physically, cognitively and academically. Marketing studies have shown that an astonishing 70% of students who left Home Away From Home Academy after Kindergarten remained in the top ten percent of their classes, while the other 30% continued in Gifted and Talented programs. Lisa McCoy of Aberdeen, a mother of three children in the school says, “I am certain that the superior education my children are receiving at Home Away From Home Academy will provide them with a solid foundation for their future. Every day I know that my children’s best interests are a primary concern with academically qualified and loving teachers.” She couldn’t have said it better since the school firmly believes that a child’s first school experience will be carried with them for a lifetime.
As leaders in early childhood education, Home Away From Home Academy is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools as a private school paving the way in excellence for over 30 years. Carmine and Phyllis Visone, owners, say “given the right tools, balanced with the right kind of play and guidance, delivered during the right stages of development – children would grow into adults who were not only ‘smart’ academically, but smart in a life sense who would lead productive, abundant lives.” The school prides itself on the feedback of so many families who have went through this program, and are now successful in their professional careers after college.
The school exists in the centrally located
Aberdeen/Holmdel area, and under the capable guidance of the owners, the Academy has grown and developed over the years, currently shaping more than 200 young minds from infancy through Kindergarten with 30 praiseworthy teachers on staff, three fourths of whom are certified in addition to a registered nurse on premise. At the top of its class, Home Away From Home Academy is dedicated to ensuring the success of well-rounded children in an environment that is safe, loving and happy. A child’s brain is said to be a sponge and the Visone’s are taking every opportunity to soak it up with the aforementioned academic subjects all while emphasizing the importance of the individual child at each stage of development and keeping the essence of ‘play’ in the core of this curriculum.
The educational values of Phyllis and Carmine Visone have served as a model to other early childhood educators, and their inspiring book entitled: “The Visone Method: A New Philosophy in Early Childhood Education” has been awarded “Publisher’s
Choice”, STAR status within the publishing company and nominated for “Book of the Year” by Foreword Magazine. The Visone Method is a common sense approach to early childhood education that happens to be extraordinary; it considers the whole child at every turn. There is an array of small components to this entire philosophy that developmentally prepares children younger for higher learning. The main purpose of the book is to give parents and teachers a complete and new understanding of how a child’s learning develops in the early years, how a child accumulates 50% of lifelong knowledge ages 0-7.
Both Carmine and Phyllis have enthusiasm, integrity and love for what they teach and practice. They take great pride in their professional, yet nurturing environment as a family owned business. Community involvement is no small feat for this couple as they strive to teach the children lifelong lessons through charitable giving. Phyllis Visone, owner and director, states “that giving is just as important as receiving and this is a lesson for children of all ages to embrace”. Over the last several years, Home Away From Home Academy has received many accolades including Township Proclamations, a NJ State Senate Resolution, and an award for their collection of over 800 pounds of food for Fulfill: Students Change Hunger. Additionally, owners Carmine and Phyllis Visone were the recipients of the Humanitarian of the Year award in recognition of the school’s annual generous donation of toys to Hope for Children Foundation. In the most recent years, the school has also participated in a Hop-a-Thon fundraiser to benefit the ALS Clinic at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
The school invites you to take the time to schedule a private tour and see for yourself as hundreds of other parents have – what you read is what you see and what you see is what you get; allow your child to be a part of this growing success story.
For tour scheduling, please call 732-290-0033 or visit www.hafha.com.
SEASONS OF HONOR
The warmth of the sun rays
Blooming flowers of vibrant hues
Lush green vegetation
New life and new beginnings
By Emily Hutchinson
I come to the porch again
Reflecting and sobbing at midnight I want to thank you for your sacrifice thank You spend your days at the edge of danger at For the freedom of people like me people
Hometown Heroes
Sitting on the back porch
Sitting on the back porch
Inhaling the spring air
Thinking to myself
About how this peace wouldn’t exist without you
Yard of lively emerald and lime
Fireflies and mosquitos soar in the summer sky
Frost forms on the grass
The sidewalk freezes into a skating rink free es into Snowfall crashes down on every corner of the yard
Here I am again on the same porch Here
Still praying for your life
I give you my honor
You are a hero
Old Bridge Veterans pictured below at the Township Municipal Complex to see their Hometown Hero Banners proudly displayed. We thank you for your service!
Firework displays that shine like starlight
Firework displays that shine like starlight
Firework displays that shine like starlight
Still sitting in the porchlight
With a lightbulb that requires replacing a
I wish you luck through the gory warfare you
I hope with all my heart that you’ll survive
You’re nothing like a lightbulb a
You’re rainbow-colored party lights rainbow colored
Leaf colors begin to change
Harvest season is celebrated Harvest season is celebrated
Wind grows harsher Nights become longer
Wind grows harsher Nights become longer
Who fights with all their heart every day Who fights with all their heart every day
Spring blooms once again
A brand new chapter begins But this time a lot emptier
You were lost in battle And drifted off to eternal sleep
After watching the world change so rapidly After watching the world change so rapidly Your service holds much more value to me
Your legacy will last forever In the hearts of the whole community In the hearts of the whole community For the freedom of people like me
Applications & details can be found at: OldBridge.com/Hometownheros
Joseph Yankoski/US Army/1956-1958 Vincent Polimeni/US Army/1965-1967
2026 NICOLE’S HEART 5K
On Sunday, June 14, 2026, Nicole’s Heart Foundation will sponsor its 8th annual 5K Walk/Run at Thompson Park (Preston Grove area), 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ. This fundraising event supports the foundation’s mission to emphasize the importance of cardiac screening for high school students and student-athletes.
Established more than a decade ago, Nicole’s Heart, a 501(c)(3) organization, facilitates free cardiac screenings for high school students, administers a scholarship program for graduating high school seniors, donates defibrillators to various organizations, and periodically holds free CPR Training courses.
The foundation honors the memory of Nicole Trott of Old Bridge, who passed away shortly after graduating from St. John Vianney High School in 2011, following a cardiac arrest brought on by a rare, undiagnosed congenital heart defect known as Anomalous Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA).
Nicole’s athletic background included varsity track, gymnastics, and cheerleading. In addition to her academic and extracurricular activities, the 18-year-old also volunteered at the Old Bridge Animal Shelter and expected to start a pre-vet-
erinarian college program the following Fall at Rutgers University. Nicole’s Heart frequently donates to the Animal Shelter in memory of Nicole.
Nicole’s Heart has awarded over $42,000 in scholarships to high school seniors who most resemble Nicole’s characteristics. The Foundation has also donated 9 AEDs and facilitated free cardiac screenings for over 2,500 students. The most recent heart screening event took place at Holmdel High School performed by our doctors at Hackensack Meridian Pediatric Cardiology Group.
Nicole’s Heart Foundation is fortunate to have many local businesses that support the 5K including Provident Bank and Ponte Vecchio Italian Seafood Grille. Alliance Orthopedics will once again set up a recovery zone which provides stretching services before and after the event for the runners and walkers.
Anyone interested in participating in this year’s 5K Walk/Run on June 14 may register at the Race Forum website (https:// my.raceresult.com/382477/). Registration fee is $35.00.
For more information or to donate to Nicole’s Heart Foundation, please visit www.nicolesheart.com.
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THE “BEST SUMMER EVER” YMCA SUMMER PROMOTION
60,000 residents through programs such as preschool, childcare, before and after school care, teen leadership and mentoring, personal and family counseling, mental and behavioral health care, community outreach, and summer day camp.
A non-profit charity, the YMCA of the Jersey Shore has served the community
for 150 years with programs that support healthy living and well-being for people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds. All are welcome and no one is turned away for their inability to pay.
Follow the Y on www.ymcanj.org/yjerseyshore to connect with the Y community. Let’s have the BEST SUMMER EVER!
