After four decades of serving Old Bridge and the surrounding communities, the beloved owner of local gem Nicholas Jewelers is stepping into retirement. Known for his attention to detail and personalized service, Nick has built a solid reputation that turned first-time customers into lifelong clients.
“I’ve had the honor of helping people celebrate life’s most meaningful moments—from engagements to anniversaries and everything in between,” Nick said.
Now, he’s proudly handing over the keys to someone he trusts— the owners of the new Old Bridge Jewelers. With many years of experience in the world of gold and jewelry, as well as a graduate of GIA on-premises, the new owners will bring not only technical expertise but also a warm and friendly presence that has already made an impression on many loyal customers.
“New owner Ambesh has everything it takes. I’m confident he and his staff will carry the legacy forward—and make it even better.” Nick said. Old
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OLD BRIDGE MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
On Monday May 26, 2025, please join us for the Old Bridge Annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. Our Grand Marshal leading the parade this year, is Camello Vatale. Cami is an Old Bridge resident of 36 years, an Army Veteran and Quartermaster of VFW Post 7508. The parade will kick off at 9am from Memorial Elementary school on Ely Avenue. The parade will proceed down
and loop around
Circle before ending at Memorial Park in front of the Laurence Harbor Fire Company, where refreshments will be served, and we will commence with our ceremony.
This year is more special than most as it’s the 250-year anniversary of the birth of our armed forces. The battle of Lexington & Concord fought on 4/19/1775
made our founding fathers realized what it was going to take, to keep our independence and win our freedom. In June of 1775 they voted to create the Army, in October the Navy and in November the Marines.
Please join us in celebrating Memorial Day, to commemorate all our veterans who came home, and along with their families to honor and mourn all those who tragically did not. Today we know all too well that freedom is NOT free and never will be! God Bless all of those that paid a heavy price and those who paid the ultimate price to keep and preserve the freedoms that we enjoy today.
If you have a group who would like to participate in the parade, please call the Old Bridge Parks & Recreation office at 732-721-5600 ext. 4999 or email Ivalsera@oldbridge.com
OB REBELS CELEBRATES 65 YEARS
This Year the Old Bridge Rebels Football and Cheer Program will be celebrating their 65th year serving Old Bridge Township and the youth. Throughout this time the Rebels football program has won multiple championships. Most recently winning the New Jersey subur-
ban youth American division championship in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and in 2024. In 1960 the Rebels was formed in Old Bridge and in that time, there were 3 different Football programs that serve the Old Bridge community. Know the Rebels football and Cheer program stands alone in Old Bridge serving over 450 kids during their spring season and over 350 Kids during their fall season. The Programs has been thriving and growing tremendously with the leadership of The President Chino Muniz and his board members: Vice President Jay Kasoff , Athletic Director
Jesse Rios , concession manager/ fundraiser Becky Malloy , cheer director Brittany Muniz , treasurer Michelle Judd and equipment manager Mark Malloy. Through the continuous proper guidance and leadership of all the Rebels football and cheer program they will continue to assist the youth in developing the qualities of safe play, Discipline, Teamwork, Fun fundamentals and well-being. The Rebels Will continue to focus on these goals while maintaining a strong presence in the Old Bridge Community. Visit www.swsrebels.org for more information.
Laurence Parkway toward the waterfront, cross over route 35
Shoreland
MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
Dear Old Bridge Residents, Memorial Day is the “unofficial” start of the summer and I am sure that all our residents are looking forward to upcoming pool parties and barbeques! It is an important time to acknowledge all our veterans and active military members of our U.S. Armed Forces. It is our duty to honor, reflect, and remember all those who may have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
You may notice volunteers with the Mayor’s Clean Team clearing litter in our parks and along our roadways. I would like to thank everyone who has participated thus far and worked together to keep Old Bridge clean. If any non-profit groups are interested in volunteering, please visit the township’s website at OldBridge.com/CleanTeam.
Please note the Township Recycling Center accepts paint and florescent bulbs the 2nd Saturday of each month, as well as a long list of other items that are accepted weekly. Visit OldBridge.com/ Recycling for the full list. Additionally,
the Department of Public Works offers appliance pick-ups, as well as brush collection by appointment only. Please call 732-721-5600 x6140 to be placed on the list, or email recycling@oldbridge.com.
On Thursday, May 22nd, we invite all our veterans, VFW Posts members, and residents of Old Bridge to join us at the Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony. This annual event takes place at 10:00 a.m., in the Silver Linings Senior Center at the Old Bridge Municipal Complex, One Old Bridge Plaza. We begin the program by reflecting and remembering all veterans with a few words from our VFW Post Commanders. The ceremony concludes with the VFW members laying the Memorial Day Wreath by our memorial site.
We are also pleased to announce our Memorial Day Parade will take place on Monday, May 26th. The parade will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Memorial School, 11 Ely Avenue, Laurence Harbor, and will conclude with Memorial Day services at Memorial Park, which is located directly across the street from the Laurence Harbor Fire House. It is a wonderful community event for all our residents and families to enjoy. It is also a great opportunity to show your thanks and support for veterans and mil-
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Debbie Walker
MESSAGE FROM WARD 4 COUNCILWOMAN JILL DECARO
Ward 4 is more than just a neighborhood—it’s the heart of Old Bridge. As your councilwoman, I’m proud to represent a community known for its strong spirit, connection, and pride.
This ward is home to many of the township’s most important public spaces. The Municipal Complex includes the Thomas J. English Administrative Building, where you will find the administrative offices, the police department, and the courtroom/ council chambers. You will also find the Civic Center - where our recreation department is located, our award-winning Silver Linings Senior Center—a warm, welcoming space for some of our most treasured residents, the Building Department, Food Bank, Animal Shelter, Old Bridge Public Library, ice skating rink, and tennis and pickleball courts, These facilities make Ward 4 a central hub for services, recreation, and community life. Our residents are engaged and community-minded. From cheering at local sports
fields to volunteering in schools, there’s a genuine sense of togetherness here. And as we see new developments and infrastructure improvements, I’ve worked to ensure your voices remain central in the process.
One of the most frequent concerns I hear from residents is traffic safety—especially speeding through residential streets. It’s an issue I take seriously, and I’ve been working with township officials and law enforcement to identify problem areas, increase enforcement, and explore longterm solutions that keep our streets safe.
I’ve also focused on practical improvements—like safer intersections, better access to township services, and open communication—because it’s the everyday quality of life that matters most. Your feedback has directly shaped these efforts.
What makes Ward 4 special isn’t just what’s here—it’s who’s here. It’s a place where tradition meets progress. I’m honored to serve you.
Please feel free to email, call, or text if you have any concerns and I will do my best to help: jdecaro@ oldbridge.com | 732.261.2342
Jill DeCaro
YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
The recent decision by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to approve significant rate increases for utility services is unjust and burdensome—a direct affront to the hardworking families and small businesses that drive our state forward.
Governor Murphy, alongside legislators who championed the failed Energy Master Plan—better referred to as the “Energy Disaster Plan”—bear the responsibility for these rate hikes. Under previous administrations, New Jersey thrived as an energy-independent state, possessing abundant generation capacity and contributing surplus power to the grid. Today, New Jersey finds itself dependent on outof-state power generation at much higher costs. This is a glaring failure of leadership.
Prior to the Murphy administration, New Jersey ratepayers enjoyed historically low electric bills, benefiting further from Energy Aggregation Programs that provided additional savings to participating communities. However, the current administration saw fit to irresponsibly decom-
mission reliable power generation stations equipped with Clean Air Technology. No new generation facilities were permitted, other than the Offshore Wind project— an initiative doomed from the start.
New Jersey deserves better. It is imperative that we have leadership in Trenton dedicated to creating and implementing both short- and long-term plans to restore New Jersey’s status as a “Generation State.”
Our residents and businesses deserve reliable and affordable electricity—it was attainable before, and it can be again.
Senator Owen Henry
LOCAL JEWELER PASSES THE TORCH AFTER 40 YEARS
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Bridge Jewelers plans to continue offering the same high level of service and quality gold, platinum, and sterling silver jewelry, as well as doing repairs and gold buying.
“I’m honored to follow in Nick’s footsteps,” Ambesh said. “He’s built something really special, and I’m
excited to be part of its next chapter.”
The shop will remain in its current location, with many familiar faces still behind the counter. As Nick steps away, he does so with pride and peace of mind, knowing the future of the business— and its customers—are in good hands.
THE HOW-TO GUIDE TO SAT AND ACT PREP
By Paul Pscolka
When I receive a phone call, the first advice I give to parents is for them to send their child for a mock SAT and ACT. It is easier for me to focus on just the SAT since every high school junior All Around Old Bridge, Aberdeen, and Matawan seems to be taking that test… So why would I make that suggestion?…because having taught these tests since 1998, I have watched students over and over as they have struggled with the SAT when the ACT was likely a better fit for them. I have seen others who have done their due diligence shine on the test that was a better fit for them. As a result, these students were admitted to universities that may have never otherwise accepted them. For example, a former student who only took the ACT is now a graduate of Emory University, the #24 ranked university (out of over 2800 4-year institutions) on US News and World Report. To give you a mental toehold, Emory is among the top 99.1525%
of 4-year colleges. Another former student was admitted to an even higher-ranking school—an Ivy League—UPenn, after posting an ACT score that was comparably better than his SAT score. Granted, crushing both exams will only help students chances of getting into the nation’s most elite universities, but what about the rest of us? It is best to find out which test is a better fit immediately and prepare for it moving forward. This could save time and money. Universities do not favor one exam over the other. It is important to remember the purpose of these exams—to maximize the chance a student has to get into his or her top-choice university. Mindful of this fact, why not first figure out which test is better? Need a sense of direction? Book me for a free 15-minute consultation: https:// www.ivymasters.com/free-consultation/
VOTING LOCATION CHANGES ANNOUNCED FOR JUNE ELECTION
The Township has moved its early voting location to the Old Bridge Civic Center. Early voting starts Tuesday June 3 through Sunday June 8. Also, the polling
location for Ward 2 District 3 and Ward 2 District 5 have been moved from the Old Bridge High School to McDivott School.
FROM THE DESK OF THE LIBRARY DIRECTOR- DAWN JENKIN
IMLS (Institute of Museum and Library Services) Funding: Critical to NJ Public Library Services
“On Friday March 14, 2025, an Executive Order was issued that severely reduces the functioning of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). On March 31, 2025 all IMLS staff were placed on a 90 day administrative leave.” Since then more than 20 states have joined group legal action to stop the unnecessary destruction of the IMLS. Created in 1996, the mission of the IMLS is to "advance, support, and empower America's museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development." While public libraries are primarily funded by local taxes, the IMLS eases the financial burden of libraries by group purchasing
expensive databases and coordinating the sharing of resources to serve the visually impaired. It also ensures a continuity of internet access amongst communities and provided secure website and email hosting protected from commercial interests and cybercrime.
MAY IS NATIONAL SPEECH AND HEARING MONTH A HEARING AID CAN OPEN THE DOOR TO A WHOLE NEW WORLD
Almost a quarter of the U.S. population has some degree of hearing loss. When untreated, hearing loss can adversely impact your quality of life, leading to social isolation, risk of falling, difficulty performing at work and even an increased risk of progression of dementia.
Yet, many people with hearing loss–whether it's mild or severe–do not use a hearing aid. In fact, a recent study found that many people with hearing loss wait 10 years or more before they are fitted with amplification.
May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, presenting an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of having your hearing evaluated and encourage those with hearing loss to get hearing aids.
This year, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center launched a hearing aid program within our Audiology Department. It is the latest service
we are proud to offer in our Center for Balance and Hearing, where we provide comprehensive services ranging from newborn hearing assessment to hearing evaluations and cochlear implant mapping.
Our top-notch team of audiologists, working with a vast variety of hearing aid styles and technologies, ensures that our patients receive the devices most fitting for them.
Audiologist Dr. Sara Esther Kader, AuD, CCC-A, the program coordinator for the center, notes that hearing aids and technology have come a long way.
“Over the past decade, hearing aids and amplification devices have undergone an astounding technological transformation,” she explains. “Hearing aids are no longer mere amplifiers intended to make everything louder, including unwanted sounds.”
“Today's hearing aids are very sophisticated. They work as tiny technologically advanced systems, capable of analyzing sound and manipulating it in ways to make it loud enough to hear, but not so loud that it is uncomfortable. This evolution has allowed people with hearing loss to appreciate better communication than ever before.”
In fact, our hearing program offers custom ear molds for cell phones, swimming and sleeping.
At Hackensack Meridian Health, we value patient-centered treatment. To that end, our services include an in-depth hearing aid assessment and counseling session with an audiologist. We go over such factors as your lifestyle, design preferences, comfort and budget. All hearing aids pur-
chased through us come with a trial period. If you have hearing loss, we invite you to take the important step of coming to the center for an evaluation and, if needed, a comprehensive patient centered approach to meeting your hearing needs. With the technology that is available today to help people with hearing loss, it’s never been easier to improve your quality of life.
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.
THE FIRST BOOK A CHILD EVER READS
Jordan Peterson once said, “The mother is the first book the child reads and the last one he forgets.”
Few statements better capture the lasting imprint a mother leaves on her child.
From a child’s first lessons in love and discipline to faith and resilience, mothers are shaping hearts before any classroom ever does.
That’s why it’s alarming when government or education policies downplay or sideline the role of mothers. Education departments that act as experts in a child’s life (enforcing policies like 5756 in New Jersey) or government programs that incentivize broken homes (welfare structures) tear at the moral and emotional fabric of society.
Cultural commentator Matt Walsh once wrote, “If your mother quit her role as mother, entire lives would be turned upside down; society would suffer greatly.” He’s right. The mother-child bond is sacred. Undermining it in the name of progress is not compassion—it’s confusion!
And Scripture agrees. Proverbs honors the teachings of a mother (Proverbs 1:8), and Paul credits Timothy’s faith to his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5). Even Solomon was profoundly shaped by the words of his mother (Proverbs 31).
Motherhood is more than biology. It’s a calling. A society that forgets this is one that forgets how to flourish. My prayer is that men rise up to support, protect, and cherish this first and vital bond. If we want strong families and strong communities, it begins with honoring the gift of mothers— and God’s good design for the home.
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor
MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
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itary personnel who have dedicated their lives to our country. If you or your organization or troop would like to march in the Memorial Day Parade, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at x4999.
Now that the warm weather will finally be arriving, this is also a great time to enjoy all the wonderful parks and programs the Township has to offer. The 2025 Summer Recreation Program Brochure is available and includes another exciting
line up of classes, programs, and events for residents of all ages. Registration for Half Day Camp, Camp R.O.B.I.N. and all our summer programming starts on May 6th at 6pm. For complete details, please visit our website at oldbridge.com.
I would like to wish all our wonderful Moms a Happy Mother’s Day, and for everyone to have a very healthy and enjoyable start to summer. Continue to stay safe and be well.
Mayor Debbie Walker
ELLEN ROSENBAUM REAL ESTATE: A FAMILY LEGACY IN OLD BRIDGE
major milestone—a reflection of decades of dedication and strong client relationships. Much of their business comes from referrals, showcasing the trust they’ve built.
For over 30 years, Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate, Inc. has guided thousands of clients through some of life’s biggest decisions. Founded in April 1994, this family-owned brokerage has become known for trust, dedication, and success in residential real estate. Ellen Rosenbaum launched the company from her garage, working solo for five years to build her reputation. As demand grew, her husband and sons joined, transforming it into a true family business. By 2007, the firm moved into a corporate plaza, and in 2020, relocated again to 3 Grace Drive in the center of Old Bridge— conveniently located near Route 9 and Route 18, allowing broader service across Middlesex and Monmouth Counties. Today, Ellen and her son David lead the firm as top-producing agents in New Jersey. They manage daily operations and oversee a handpicked team of licensed Realtors®, each upholding the company’s standards of integrity, professionalism, and client-first service. $1 Billion in Sales: A Testament to Trust Crossing $1 billion in sales marks a
The brokerage also works with a network of preferred lenders, attorneys, inspectors, engineers, and marketing pros, ensuring seamless service from start to finish. From high-quality photography to social media, print ads, and lawn sign installs, every detail is handled with care.
A Personal, Client-Focused Approach
At its core, the firm remains people-centered. Ellen and David maintain a hands-on approach, working closely with their agents to ensure a smooth, stressfree process for every buyer and seller.
Looking Ahead
As they celebrate 31 years, Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate remains committed to helping clients reach their goals—with family values, deep community roots, and a future just as bright as its past.
CELEBRATING VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION MONTH
April was a special time of the year as we celebrated volunteer appreciation month, a time to recognize and honor selfless individuals who dedicate their time and energy to enhancing the lives of others. At Reformed Church Home, we are fortunate to have an incredible group of volunteers whose contributions have a significant impact on our residents. Their commitment to service not only enriches the lives of those they help but also foster a
strong sense of community and belonging.
One of our cherished volunteers is Bob, who generously shares his musical talents by playing Piano for our residents every month. His performance brings joy and nostalgia, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that many look forward to.
We also want to shine light on Terry, who selflessly helps in the hair salon service to our residents twice a week. Terry’s work is in making our residents feel cared for and valued.
Maggie, alongside her friends from Colts Neck Reformed Church, their visits bring companionship and support to our residents. Also, we are grateful for the presence of Ray, Linda and Boomer from Lares Home Care and all the students who volunteer to make our residents happy. Finally, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to various pastors and priests who graciously visit Reformed Church Home regularly.
As we celebrate volunteer appreciation month, let us take a moment to acknowledge the profound impact that these individuals have on our community at Reformed Church Home. Thank You to all the remarkable volunteers who make Reformed Church Home a better place.
BridgeLife Thrift is a wholly owned, single member LLC of Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, NJ with all proceeds supporting Bridge Women’s Center, and Calvary Christian School.
CLIFFORD DONADIO OF OLD BRIDGE TOURING WITH KIDZBOP
Clifford has been touring the country for the third consecutive year with the renowned KidzBop, captivating audiences nationwide with his singing and dancing talents. His dedication and passion have even taken him overseas, where he performed in London and is now preparing for an exciting UK tour this coming October. A lifelong resident of Old Bridge, Clifford has not only made his mark on the stage but also in the classroom—earning High Honors for the years attending McDevitt elementary school, Carl Sanburg middle school and one year at
Old Bridge High School. His achievements are a testament to his strong work ethic, talent, and the loving support of his family: his proud parents, Cliff and Melissa, and his younger brother, Jayden.
Kidzbop will be touring throughout the country from June till October performing over 60 shows. Clifford along with Kidzbop will be performing at PNC Bank on Saturday, July 12th at 6pm this summer.
Clifford Donadio is a true inspiration to young performers everywhere, and a shining example of the amazing potential that exists right here in our community.
