OLDBRIDGE ALLAROUND
IN MEMORIAM, OFFICER PATEREK
It is with profound sadness that Chief Thomas Montagna and the Old Bridge Police Department announce the untimely passing of one of our officers.
Officer Andrew Paterek, a young and dedicated member of the Old Bridge Police Department, passed away suddenly last night at his home.
Officer Paterek served this department and our community with honor and dedication for the past 2.5 years. Though his time with us was brief, he made a lasting impact through his professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to public service.
We extend our deepest condolences to Officer Paterek’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of serving alongside him. Please keep Officer Paterek and his family in your thoughts as we mourn this tremendous loss.
Rest in peace, Officer Paterek. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
(Reprinted with permission from OB Police Dept).
OB NATIVE DRAFTED BY BOSTON RED SOX
By Lena Gilman
On Monday July 14th 2025, Jason Gilman, an Old Bridge native, was drafted by the Boston Red Sox, in the 16th round, as the 478th pick to Major League baseball. Career stats noted
include APP = 32, GS = 28, IP = 198.2, ERA = 2.58, whip = 1.09, SO = 261.
From 18 months old his acuity in throwing was noted by his parents. Jason began playing t-ball
OB SALTWATER DAY 2025
Saltwater Day is a fantastic festival on the beach, located at the Old Bridge Waterfront Park in Laurence Harbor on Saturday August 9, 2025, from 2pm -10pm.
Admission is free to this fun filled day!! Come over and join us; we have vendors of every type, from toys, face painting, henna, jewelry, homemade doggie treats, all kinds of beautiful handmade
crafts, clothes, hats, handbags, and sunglasses just to name a few.
The kids will love the rides and keep them busy for hours, we have mechanical rides, obstacle courses, bounces, and interactive adventures. Tickets are $2 each, 7 for $12 or a wristband for $25 ride cost is 1-2 tickets each.
Stay for Lunch or Dinner our handpicked food trucks are
from the age of 5 at Old Bridge Little League. A perpetual team member in the OB recreational league, he was selected to play on district teams and travel ball. There he had countless opportunities to demonstrate and develop his baseball skills, and competitive nature. As the age cutoff worked, having a late April birthday, Jason typically played with teammates almost a year older, learning how to compete on the mound when you're one of the smaller kids on a team was part of his pitching development. Jason believed that challenges made him better. Facing older more experienced batters didn't deter him, but rather inspired him to compete harder, he believed if he wanted “to be the best he needed to compete
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serving some delicious dishes!!
We have BBQ, Seafood, Greek delights, Latin Cuisine, all American Burgers and Hot Dogs to start off with!! Then on to dessert, our food court is loaded with all your festival favorites from Ice Cream, Ice’s, Zeppole’s, and fried everything!! The Laurence Harbor Fire Department will be back with the Beer Garden to wash down all that good food and rock the night away to the bands. $10.00 mugs and $2.00 tickets.
Live Music starts at 5pm!! Bands TBA.
We are hoping to wrap up the night with our annual spectacular Fireworks Show at 930!!!
Any businesses out there who wish to contribute toward the fireworks show? Your company will be credited with your generous donation on our website,
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Homeownership is Within Reach
Buying your first home is a big deal, and Amboy Bank takes pride in helping our first-time homeowners with special programs designed to make buying your first home more affordable.
Family Helping Hand Mortgage
With Amboy’s Family Helping Hand Mortgage, a family member can pledge an Amboy CD deposit to help you reach a 20% down payment towards your first home and avoid PMI payments.
Helping Hand Mortgage
Take advantage of down payment options as low as 5% if you’re purchasing your first home in Middlesex or Monmouth County and your household income falls below the required threshold.
1/2 Pay Mortgage® for First-Time Homebuyers
Amboy’s proprietary mortgage, now with a down payment option as low as 10%! With our 1/2 Pay Mortgage®, you’ll pay half of your mortgage payment every two weeks, totaling one extra payment per year and helping you build equity and pay off your mortgage faster.
MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER
I hope you are enjoying your summer!
Throughout thesummer months, there is much to see and do here in Old Bridge Township. For great family and friend outings, please visit our local parks and fields for some outdoor recreation. We have fantastic outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.
As a reminder the Old Bridge Public Library is a cooling center, charging station, and hydration station during its regular business hours. For more information on cooling centers in New Jersey, please call 211, text your zip code to 898211, or visit nj211.org.
The nationally accredited Silver Linings Center continues to develop new and exciting social, wellness and lifestyle programs to service the seniors of our community. A full calendar of activities is planned for August 2025. If interested in joining the fun, call 732-721-5600 x6600 to set up an appointment to register, or visit the Township website at oldbridge.com/silverlinings for more information. The Silver Linings Center also provides services including a senior lunch program, transportation,
guidance with healthcare and pharmaceutical plans, and so much more.
The Old Bridge Township Police Department will host its 3rd annual National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5th from 6pm to 9pm in the Municipal Complex parking lot. Come meet and interact with the officers of the police department, the fire department, EMS and OEM, learn about the many vehicles they will have on display, and participate in various activities such as face painting, bounce house, giveaways and demonstrations. There will also be food, ice cream, and music. We hope to see you there.
The Parks and Recreation department is pleased to announce our annual Saltwater Day which will take place on Saturday, August 9th from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This event will have arts, crafts, vendors, rides, entertainment, food, and conclude with fireworks. Live music will be played throughout the day. For our 21 and older guests, the Laurence Harbor Fire Department will be hosting a beer garden, proof of age required. The rain date for this event will be Sunday, August 10th.
As you enjoy the remainder of your summer, please continue to be safe and stay well.
Mayor Debbie Walker
Debbie Walker
YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
Trenton’s Broken Budget Process Is Failing New Jerseyans
When I took the oath of office just over a year ago, I came into the Senate with hope. I believed in open debate, honest discourse, and policies that prioritized taxpayers above all. What I’ve encountered instead is a budget process dominated by chaos, secrecy, and political self-interest.
This year’s $58.8 billion budget was rammed through committee in the dead of night—without explanation, without transparency, and without giving taxpayers a fighting chance. Some have brushed this off as business as usual in Trenton. Well, I’m here to say it shouldn’t be. Affordability, the number-one concern facing New Jersey families and businesses, was cast aside. The cost of living continues
to soar, energy prices are spiraling, and this budget offers no roadmap—just vague gimmicks and recycled failures. Rather than delivering relief, Trenton Democrats have saddled New Jerseyans with even higher taxes, digging deeper into the pockets of those already struggling.
The process wasn’t just flawed—it was a complete dereliction of duty. Massive spending with few checks, pork-barrel projects slipped in without debate, and a total disregard for planning or fiscal responsibility. We should be crafting budgets that make New Jersey more livable, more competitive, and more sustainable. Instead, we got a document that benefits insiders and leaves our future even more out of reach.
The taxpayers of this state deserve better—better leadership, better transparency, and better results. I won’t stop fighting for a budget process grounded in accountability and built for the people, not the political elite.
MESSAGE FROM AT LARGE COUNCILMAN ERIK DEPALMA
As we head into the final stretch of summer break, I want to take a moment to remind everyone of the great outdoor spaces and community programs we have right here in Old Bridge. There’s still plenty of time to enjoy the warm weather— and this township has no shortage of ways to do it.
For families with little ones, Cotrell Farm Park is a go-to spot, especially the spray park on a hot day. If you’re up for more of an outdoor adventure, Cheesequake State Park has you covered with scenic hiking and biking trails, fishing, camping, and even a swim at Hooks Creek Lake. And if you’re an early riser, Old Bridge Waterfront Park offers one of the best sunrise views around—plus a 1.3-mile boardwalk and playgrounds.
We’re also lucky to have several township and county parks that are perfect for getting
outside and staying active. Geick Park now features updated sports fields, along with volleyball and basketball courts and picnic areas. Veterans Park, Mannino Park, and Phillips Park each bring something special to the table—playgrounds, pickleball, athletic fields, and even a dog park for our four-legged residents.
And let’s not forget the Old Bridge Senior Center and Public Library—two great places to cool off and stay connected. The Senior Center offers everything from fitness classes to fun social programs that keep our older residents engaged and active, all in a comfortable, air-conditioned setting. Meanwhile, the Library is a gem for all ages, with kids’ reading programs, book clubs, tech help, and quiet spaces to unwind or learn something new.
As someone who’s deeply invested in this community—both professionally and personally—it’s a real honor to serve as your Councilman. I’m proud of what we’ve built and even more excited about what’s ahead. These parks, programs, and public spaces are here for you, and I encourage you to take full advantage of them as summer winds down.
Let’s keep enjoying everything Old Bridge has to offer—together.
EVERY LIFE IS A PRECIOUS STORY
At Reformed Church Home, we believe that every life is a precious story, deserving of love, remembrance, and celebration.
To honor the residents who left us, our community recently gathered for heartfelt memorial service, a touching tribute to the lives that have touched our hearts and enriched our community. The memorial service provided a comfort for residents, staff, and friends to come together in shared mourning and gratitude.
The service was filled with moments of prayers, music, and storytelling. During the service, we displayed photographs and memorabilia allowing attendees to recall joyful moments and milestones.
A candle lighting ceremony symbolized the enduring light of those we remember, offering solace and inspiration to all present. As we bid farewell to our dear residents, we remain committed to honoring their legacy through compassionate care and respectful remembrance.
Thank you to everyone who participated and supported a meaningful event. May we carry forward the memories to those we’ve lost, cherishing the lessons of kindness, resilience, and grace they have imparted.
Councilman
Erik DePalma
SILVER LININGS NEWS
By Kristin Agunbiade
August brings summer warmth and exciting activities to Silver Linings at Old Bridge, focusing on connection, wellness, and joy for residents 60+. Here are a few highlights:
Grandparent’s Week: (August 11th to August 15th)
During this special week, we will host exciting intergenerational programs, including Cupcake Decorating, Cursive Writing, Karaoke, Soap Making, American Sign Language and an epic ice cream dance party! Members and their grandchildren are invited to enjoy these activities together! Registration is required.
Quilting Presentation: Quilting enthusiasts, join us on Wednesday, August 20th, at 1:00 PM for a captivating presentation titled The History of Quilting, led by a respected local quilting enthusiast! Discover the fascinating journey of quilting from its origins to contemporary practices.
Breathwork and Meditation Class: If you're seeking relaxation, don’t miss our Breathwork and Meditation Class on Friday, August 22nd, at 1:00 PM. Members
will explore various techniques to help regulate breathing, enhance focus and awareness, and promote overall health and well-being.
EKKquinox Steel Band Performance: Mark your calendars for an electrifying performance by the EKKquinox Steel Band on Tuesday, August 26th, at 12:30 PM, sponsored by The Middlesex County Office of Arts & History! Established in 2001 as a non-profit community after-school music program in Rockland County, NY, this talented group of young musicians will showcase their steel drum skills. Silver Linings members are invited to witness this dynamic performance!
Ongoing Activities: Each month, we offer a variety of ongoing weekly fitness classes, art classes, bus trips, tech help, seminars, Mahjongg hour, Garden Club, and crafting sessions. Complimentary transportation is available for members without other means of transport. For more information, please visit 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. — Kristin Agunbiade, Manager, Silver Linings at Old Bridge.
ONE TOPIC, ONE LIBRARIAN
By Dawn Jenkin, Director
Librarians may have been the original search engines, but they find answers very differently from Google or Alexa. While computers rely on keywords and algorithms, librarians rely on training, experience, and something we call the “reference interview, “a thoughtful process of asking questions to truly understand what someone is looking for. (Think ChatGPT, but with a human who listens and responds with context and care.)
When you type keywords into a search engine, you’re forced to think like a machine. Librarians flip that, they think like people, helping you uncover what you need, whether it’s for school, work, curiosity, or creativity. They understand how information is organized, how it’s accessed, and even how it may be biased or commercialized.
One of my favorite exercises during library training was to take a single topic and imagine every possible user question about it. It taught me not to assume, but to listen deeply and explore all angles.
This summer, my favorite topic is: bees Comedians: “Samantha Bee,” People, 6/28/21
Slang: “The bee’s knees,” Cassell’s Dictionary of Slang
We look forward to realizing our vision for a healthy, unified community where all people reach their fullest potential, as the new YMCA of the Jersey Shore!
» Lap & family swim time
» Full-court basketball gymnasiums with open gym time & pickleball » Access to three branches in Freehold, Old Bridge & Red Bank, including Freehold Outdoor Swim Club
Let
Nonfiction: Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees by Thor Hanson
Fantasy Fiction: The Bees by Laline Paull
Picture Book: Bizzy Mizz Lizzie by David Shannon
Crafting: “Make Beeswax Celebration Candles,” Creativebug Database Movie: Bee Movie (DVD)
a librarian help you see your question from a whole new angle.
LUNG CANCER, THE MOST DEADLY TYPE OF CANCER, IS HIGHLY TREATABLE IF CAUGHT EARLY
The leading cause of cancer deaths in New Jersey and the rest of the country is lung cancer.
And yet, lung and bronchus cancer ranks third among the most common new cancer diagnoses each year.
Why does lung cancer lead to more deaths if other cancers are diagnosed in greater numbers?
Often, lung cancer is not detected until it is advanced. Fewer than 20 percent of people who are eligible for a lung cancer screening actually get it. By contrast, 70 to 80 percent of eligible people receive mammograms, colonoscopies and Pap smears, according to the National Cancer Institute.
“If there’s one message I want to impart to the public, it is that if you are a smoker, or if you are exposed to a significant amount of smoking, you should reach out to your primary care physician or your pulmonologist to make sure you get lung cancer screening,” says Dr. Faiz Bhora, who is the chairman of surgery and chief of thoracic
surgery for Hackensack Meridian Health's central region. “That is the most life-saving step you can take for yourself or for your loved one.”
At Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center, lung screening takes about five minutes and the technology can zero in on lesions that may be too small for a routine chest x-ray to detect. Screenings are available between 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and between 8 a.m. and noon on Saturday.
Know the signs to speak to your doctor about screening:
• If you are a current smoker;
• If you once smoked and quit within the last 15 years
• If you are between 50 and 80 years of age
• If you have a 20 pack-per-year smoking history, or you smoke one pack a day for 20 years, or two packs a day for 10 years
Know, however, that non-smokers also may develop lung cancer because of family history, or exposure to second-hand smoke, or other risk factors. Consult your doctor about whether you should get screened.
Our thoracic surgery physicians now have a presence on the Old Bridge campus
and in addition to our other surgical specialties and services, you can receive care close to home.
If cancer is suspected, our thoracic surgery physicians are equipped with the most advanced technology and world-class multi-disciplinary team. The team includes pulmonologists, oncologists, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, among others.
The bulk of what the thoracic team sees are lung nodules, which often are benign. But when they’re not, catching them early can make all the difference. Some 95 percent of surgeries are now performed robotically, which entails a smaller incision, less pain, faster recovery and better outcomes.
Our shared mission at Old Bridge Medical Center is to provide the team and resources to help you get one of the most important screenings in health care, and work with you if follow-up services and procedures are needed.
If you'd like more information about the lung screening offered at Old Bridge Medical Center or wish to schedule an appointment for a screening, call 732-324-5270.
Patricia Carroll, President, Chief Hospital Executive, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Centers.
(L-R) Dr. Mohammed Latif, Dr. Faiz Bhora, Dr. Kostantinos Poulikidis
THE SAT & THE ACT ARE CHEATING
By Paul Pscolka
We teach our children kindness and honesty. Part of being honest is not to cheat others and not to cheat on tests, especially a high-stakes test like the SAT and ACT. What would happen if a student is caught cheating on one of these tests? Consequences can be severe, including a cancellation of scores, a ban from future tests, and potential notification to the student’s parents, high school, and colleges they applied to. In some cases, cheating can lead to more serious consequences, particularly if it involves fraud or forgery. Besides this, being caught cheating is stressful and emotionally challenging. These consequences are justifiable. Cheating is wrong.
So why are the test prep companies cheating? You may be wondering how they are cheating. This is best explained with an anecdote.
The SAT and ACT have always been very competitive. They have changed their tests and their test dates in the past to win more market share. This is especially high-stakes
when these companies try to win a state like Arizona which, according to College Raptor, has about 50% of test-takers taking the SAT and about 50% taking the ACT.
When the digital SAT was first administered domestically, students complained that the practice released by the College Board was easier and that they scored higher on those practice tests than they did on test day. Now that the ACT is also changing, we are finding the same thing— students are scoring about 3 points higher (which is equal to about 105 SAT points) in their practice than they are on test day.
I can’t ignore this correlation. It seems both the SAT and ACT are giving the appearance of ease in the practice before each new test is administered to win more market share. While my advice is usually to take a mock test of each, my advice (until the first real new ACT results are released) is to stick with the SAT.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with me here: www.ivymasters.com/free-consultation
Check out our parent and student testimonials: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVMZIzipINg www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGkCPwp1iv0 And our about video www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlE6Kmk9TFI
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OB NATIVE DRAFTED BY BOSTON RED SOX
against the best”. Jason’s tenacity brought him opportunities to learn, correct and develop his finesse as a young lefty pitcher In Old Bridge High School Jason played on the Junior Varsity team freshman year, and Varsity thereafter. Although as a sophomore, the Varsity team was heavy with upperclassmen, due to a pitcher’s injury, Jason earned opportunities to contribute to the team throughout the season including a relief role in the GMC championship game in April, 2019, helping to secure the championship that year for OBHS. At Kean university Jason had an impressive freshman debut, earning his first collegiate win. Senior year earned Jason repeated
recognition as he led NCAA Division III in wins and strikeouts, broke Kean’s single-season record for wins and strikeouts, threw a 14-Strikeout Complete Game win over #1 John Hopkins in the NCAA D3 College World Series.
Jason has truly turned out to be a player of commitment, focus and determination, he did not rely on his natural born talents, but worked through adversity, and that hard work has led him to this opportunity. Starting his professional career with the Boston Red Sox and continuing to play the game he has loved and worked for throughout his life, is a boyhood dream come true.
DR. BRAGEN, JR. APPOINTED AS OB INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT.
Dear
Old Bridge Township Public Schools Community, I am deeply honored and humbled to have been appointed as the Interim Superintendent of Schools for Old Bridge Township Public Schools. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the Board of Education, district leadership, staff, families, and community members for placing your trust in me during this important transition. Old Bridge holds a special place in my heart, and I am both excited and committed to working collaboratively to ensure the continued academic and personal success of every student in our care. I recognize the outstanding reputation of this district and the dedication of the professionals who
serve our students each day. It is a privilege to join this team in advancing the district’s mission and values.
As we move forward together, my priorities will remain clear: to foster a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment; to support our educators and staff; and to strengthen the partnership between schools, families, and the broader community. I believe that through open communication, mutual respect, and shared vision, we can achieve great things for our students.
Thank you again for the opportunity to serve the Old Bridge community. I look forward to meeting many of you in the days and weeks ahead and working together to support the success of our schools.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bernard F. Bragen Jr.
THE IMPACT OF SMALL THINGS
“Whoever is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much…” — Luke 16:10
We live in a world that celebrates big moments—viral videos, instant fame, trending stories. But more often, it’s the small, unnoticed things that leave the deepest impact.
A quiet act of kindness. A promise kept. A moment of honesty when no one’s looking. These may not make headlines, but they shape lives—ours and others.
According to Jesus in Luke 16:10, being faithful in the little things says a lot about who we truly are.
Nearly 30 years ago, two remarkable women died just days apart: Princess Diana and Mother Teresa. Diana captured the world’s attention with her beauty and charm. Her passing was met with global mourning. Mother Teresa’s death, by contrast, was quieter—largely overshadowed by Diana. Yet her decades of humble service to the poor left a legacy that continues to inspire.
This isn’t about comparing their worth. Rather, it reminds us that visibility and value aren’t the same. A celebrity may shine like a shooting star—bright for a moment—while a faithful life leaves light that endures for generations.
In a culture chasing influence, maybe the better question is: Are we influential and faithful in the small things? In our work, our families, our friendships, caring for others—do we choose patience, honesty, and love even when no one’s watching?
The good news? Small things matter. Every moment holds meaning. And Jesus’ words are still worth a fresh look—they just might surprise you!
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor
OB SALTWATER DAY 2025
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Facebook pages & the TV commercials. There is no onsite parking available, please visit www.oldbridge.com or our Facebook page ‘Saltwater Day” https:// www.facebook.com/obswd for the most up to date information, Shuttle schedule and pick up information will be posted by August 1st.
General Shuttle & Parking InformationShuttles will be available from… Cheesequake Village, Metro Park South, Memorial School, & Divers Cove Lot.
Additional Parking will be available at Saint Laurence Church AFTER 6pm
There’s something here for absolutely everyone, spanning every generation Did you know the tradition of Saltwater Day started in the 1600’s with the Lenape Indians? Saltwater Day is a long tradition in Old Bridge Township, and is sponsored by Old Bridge Township
For additional information, vendor applications or if your company would like to be a sponsor, please contact Lisa Valsera, Deputy Director of Old Bridge Parks & Recreation. Lvalsera@oldbridge.com
SAYRE WOODS SOUTH 13U BASEBALL CAPTURES BACKTO-BACK STATE TITLES
The Sayre Woods South 13U baseball team has done it again—claiming the 2025 New Jersey State Championship and making history with back-to-back state titles after winning the 12U crown in 2024. In a remarkable display of talent, determination, and team chemistry, this group of young athletes battled their way through the tournament at Mannino Park, securing their legacy as one of the premier youth baseball programs in the state.The championship run was marked by dominant pitching, timely hitting, and airtight defense—hallmarks of a team that’s been together through countless innings and
high-pressure moments. Building on last year’s title, the 13U squad showed maturity beyond their years, overcoming tough competition and rising to the occasion when it mattered most.What sets this team apart is not only their skill on the field, but the culture they’ve built off of it. Many of these players have grown up playing together in the Sayre Woods South program, and their bond is evident in every game they play. Guided by a dedicated coaching staff of volunteers who emphasize fundamentals, teamwork, and respect for the game, the team’s growth over the last two years has been nothing short of extraordinary. This latest championship is a testament to the consistency, hard work, and heart that defines Sayre Woods South Baseball. As the 13U players now set their sights on the regional tournament and future milestones, their back-to-back state titles stand as a proud achievement for the program and community. With a bright future ahead, Sayre Woods South has once again proven that championship baseball lives right here in Old Bridge.
4:30pm-5:30pm
6:00pm-7:30pm Monday Evening – Confirmation: meets twice a month, 6:45pm-8:30pm
HEALTHY HAPPENS
with more personalized surgical options.
Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center is proud to announce our expanded surgical expertise, bringing advanced care to your backyard. Our facility features leading specialists in Bariatric, General, Oncology, Thoracic, Vascular, Colorectal, and Endocrine surgeries.
