OLDBRIDGE ALL AROUND
VOL 13 , NO 7
A Publication for the community of Old Bridge
2025 NICOLE’S HOMETOWN HERO BANNERS LAUNCHED Old Bridge Township is proud out the Municipal Complex HEART 5K to launch the Hometown Hero and surrounding areas. Banner
On Sunday, June 22, 2025, Nicole’s Heart Foundation will sponsor its 7th 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 has facilitated free cardiac screenings for over 2,300 high school students, awarded $37,000 through a scholarship program for graduating high school seniors, and donated 8 defibrillators (AED’s) to various organizations. The foundation’s most recent heart screening events were at Monroe Middle School on October 26, 2024 and St. John Vianney High School on May 3, 2025. The EKGs are performed and evaluated by pediatric cardiologists from Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health and bring peace of mind to both parents and students. 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 sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) brought on by an undiagnosed congenital heart defect known as Anomalous Left CorContinue on page 21
Military Banner Program! This program salutes the brave men and women currently serving or who have previously served our country in the US Armed Forces. This is a wonderful tribute for the family and community to honor past and present members of the Armed Forces and their families. The Hometown Hero banner program is an excellent way for the municipality to show their support for local veterans. Each unique banner includes the service member's picture, rank, years of service, and awards. The service branch is depicted with the military emblem. Banners will be displayed on light poles through-
placement will be determined by the Township. This program is a phenomenal way to respect those who have given so much to their fellow Americans and neighbors, serve the community and encourage civic engagement. Mayor Walker, Town Council and Administration are very excited to see the banners proudly displayed around the Municipal Complex! Full details can be found at: OldBridge.com/HometownHeroes. Continue on page 22
OFFICER JAMES ERIKSEN RETIREMENT
Celebrating a Legacy of Service After 25 years of dedicated service to the community, Officer James Eriksen will officially retire from
the Old Bridge Police Department on June 1st of this year. Officer Eriksen was sworn in on July 1, 1999, beginning his career in the Patrol Division where he quickly made a name for himself through his unwavering commitment to public safety. Over his years in Patrol, Officer Eriksen was recognized with the Lifesaving Award and the Red Cross American Heart Saver Award, both testaments to his quick thinking, skill, and courage in critical moments. Among the many highlights of his career, one stands out as especially memorable: delivering a baby in the field— an experience few officers encounter, and one that reflects the heart and humanity of his service. After 12 years on patrol, Officer Eriksen transitioned to the Traffic Division, where he continued
to serve with distinction. In this role, he enforced traffic laws with diligence and fairness and took on the important responsibility of training fellow officers as the department’s Radar Instructor. Whether protecting lives on the streets or mentoring others in the department, Officer Eriksen has left an indelible mark on the OBPD and the community of Old Bridge. His professionalism, compassion, and commitment will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to guide those who follow in his footsteps. We thank Officer Eriksen for his outstanding service and wish him a well-earned, fulfilling retirement. Here's to new adventures and well-deserved relaxation! (reprint from Old Bridge Police Dept Facebook post)
JUNE 2025