OB OLDBRIDGE OLD BRIDGE
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Pursuing Progress
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Mayor's office of Economic Development
VOL 6, NO 6
A Publication for the community of Old Bridge
CHAMBER OF OLD BRIDGE ATHLETES GET A HOME COMMERCE AFTER 57 YEARS OF STRUGGLE question. There’s no place like will be taking over the grounds WELCOMES home, but for the ladies of at 3011 Cheesquake Road Madison Park Softball (which which houses two fields, a NEW dates back to 1964), in Old concession stand and some Bridge New Jersey, it’s been field houses. The bad news? BUSINESS more like “there is NO place The property could use Home, it’s a word that has grown in meaning and purpose for us all in the past year. Home is where the road weary long to be, where we find the embrace of family, and where we turn to seek refuge when our safety comes into
TO call home.” Despite ex- a serious facelift, and some isting for nearly 60 years, this l i g ht s f or n i g ht g a m e s . youth sports organization has The organization, which has never had their own complex. been growing in number over Now, thanks to a long time the past several years under Old Bridge resident who had president Mike Keller, a former some property to spare, The Old Bridge athlete himself, Old Bridge Girls Softball has high hopes and big plans League will finally be getting a for the future. “The goal is to permanent residence in town. not only raise money to fix The good news? The girls Continue on page 7
David Lee Hernandez,JR -OBSSA Chamber President ( left) Anthony F. Cosentino- OBSSA Trustee- (center right) Bob Verney – OBSSA Trustee (right) Annette Kwiecinski – OBSSA Trustee (right) Paulo Quintela – Align Right Realty Broker/Co-Owner (center right) Louis Lopes - Align Right Realty Broker/Co-Owner OVER 250 CARES BOXES WILL BE DONATED TO SENIORS WHO HAVE BEEN ISOLATED DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC (center) And sales staff On Wednesday, March Old Bridge Township – The experience for Kyle, as he loved 24,2021, OBSSA Chamber of COVID-19 pandemic had a interacting with the seniors and Commerce took part in the celdeep impact on older adults, learning from them. He also ebration of the Grand Opening those most vulnerable to the realized that many have been for Home Key Align Right virus. Nursing homes and assist- quarantining for almost a year Realty located at 1405 Route 18 ing living facilities locked their now, so he wanted, as he said, “to South. As the newest member doors to visitors, senior centers do something to remind them of the Old Bridge Chamber closed their doors and many that they have not been forgotten of Commerce Business, we seniors have now been home- and people care about them.” welcome the next great small bound for almost a year. In the Kyle reached out to Silver business to our community. summer of 2020, Kyle Giuliano, Linings at Old Bridge Manager, If you would like more inforTownship resident and freshman Anahita Feltz, to see what kind of mation of joining the Chamber at Saint Joseph High School, service project he could do that of commerce you can email them L to R: Mayor Owen Henry participated in a virtual pen would involve the community at ccommerceobssa@gmail.com presenting Kyle Giuliano with a pal program with seniors from and give back to the seniors in or visit their website www. certificate of appreciation from Silver Linings at Old Bridge. The Old Bridge. He came up with the chamberofcommerceobssa.org the Township of Old Bridge. program proved to be a great Continue on page 10
OB RESIDENT USES SCHOOL SERVICE PROJECT TO REMIND OLD BRIDGE SENIORS THAT THEY ARE NOT FORGOTTEN
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MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Mayor Owen Henry Spring is in the air here in Old Bridge Township. Hopefully, the harsh winter is behind us and we can look forward to spending time outside and enjoying the warmer weather. We are pleased to announce that the 2021 township budget has been adopted and the mu-
nicipal portion of taxes will not increase. Like many municipalities, we were severely impacted by the pandemic and worked very hard to put forth a fiscally responsible budget without sacrificing services. I would like to thank my administration, staff and the Old Bridge Township Council for working together to make this happen. As we move further into spring, you may notice volunteers with Mayor Henry’s Clean Team clearing litter in our parks and along the roads. Groups of organizations and volunteers have already signed up to clean trash throughout Old Bridge. If you are interested in participating, please visit the township’s website at oldbridge.com/cleanteam. The Parks and Recreation Department is in full spring mode getting our parks, fields and courts in top condition for the upcoming season. The department’s spring brochure is currently available and filled with programs for all age groups.
Please visit oldbridge.com/ recreation to view to the classes, activities and recreational opportunities Old Bridge has to offer. We have recently expanded our recycling services to include fluorescent bulbs. While fluorescent bulbs are not accepted curbside, you can bring them to the recycling center during paint collection days on the second Saturday of each month
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throughout the year. The next dates are Saturday, April 10th and Saturday May 8th from 8am – 12pm. Visit oldbridge. com/recycling for more information on events and services. Round two of spring leaf collection will begin the week of April 26th in all wards. Round three will be the week of May 17th. As a reminder, all leaves must be contained in paper
leaf bags as plastic bags are no longer accepted. We will spend a few days in each ward and appreciate your patience while collection is underway. For the full schedule, please visit oldbridge.com/recycling. Finally, I would like to wish everyone a happy Ramadan and blessed Easter season. Continue to stay safe and be well.
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BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT By Himanshu R. Shah, Business Administrator 1.OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP AND THE OLD BRIDGE B OARD OF EDUCATION will continue sponsoring Himanshu R. COVID-19 Shah testing through March. Testing will be held at the Old Bridge High School Parking Lot on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm. Results will be received the following day of testing via email. Residents who do not receive their results next day may contact Synergy Labs directly at 732.695.4700. 2.CDBG DRAFT 2021 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN The CDBG Draft 2021 Annual Action Plan is available during the period of April 1, 2021 through April 30, 2021 for review and comments. Citizens may submit their comments through
the mail or via email to engineering@oldbridge.com. Comments will be accepted until May 1, 2021. Comments submitted by mail should be addressed to: Business Administrator, Township of Old Bridge, One Old Bridge Plaza, Old Bridge, New Jersey 08857. Copies of the Plan are available for public inspection during regular Township hours at the office of the Township Engineer and online at www.oldbridge.com/projects. 3. THE SHORT-TERM RENTAL & MORTGAGE A S S I S TA N C E G R A N T PROGRAM The Township of Old Bridge has appropriated $100,000.00 of its Federal Community Development Block Grant CARES Funds for the Short Term Rental & Mortgage Assistance Program; approximately up to 15 eligible applicants will secure assistance. The program was established to provide temporary rental or
mortgage assistance, for up to six months, to low and moderate income households that have had a substantial reduction in income or became unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information and to apply for assistance, please visit www.oldbridge.com/rentalassistance. Applications are due by Wednesday March, 31, 2021. 4 . N E W J E R SE Y DE PARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS will also be launching the second phase of its Coronavirus Emergency Rental Assistance Program (CVERAP). This program will be accepting pre-applications for assistance for rental arrears and temporary assistance for future rent to low- and moderate-income households 5. CDBG SMALL BUSINESS GRANT – ROUND 2 The second round of the CDBG Small Business Grant Program has been extended through
Wednesday March 31, 2021. We are urging all Small Businesses within Old Bridge Township that have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to apply for assistance. For more information and to fill out an application, please visit oldbridge.com/smallbusinessgrant.
6. THE ANNUAL MIDDLESEX COUNTY PAPER SHRED will be held on Saturday, March 27th from 9am – 12pm at the Municipal Complex. Residents can bring their confidential documents to be shredded on site. This event is rain or shine.
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MATAWAN ATTORNEYS MERGE TO EXPAND MEDICAID OLD BRIDGE PLANNING, ELDER LAW SERVICES IN CENTRAL JERSEY ATHLETES For more information, contact: Joseph P. Costa, Esq., joe@cnelderlaw.com - David B. Nathan, Esq., david@cnelderlaw.com Joseph P. Costa, Esq. and tainty can be complicated and the Middlesex and Monmouth lems head on,” Nathan stated. GET A HOME David B. Nathan, Esq. have overwhelming for seniors and County Bar Associations and the Among the services the firm announced a merger of their their families. Our job is to sim- New York State Bar Association. provides, compiling and pros- AFTER 57 respective practices to expand plify the process by asking the When asked about their part- ecuting Medicaid Applications elder law services in Central New right questions and providing nership, Costa went on to say, in the State of New Jersey is YEARS OF Jersey, guided by their core prin- straightforward advice without “We share the same vision and a central focus. According to ciples of empathy, effective com- all the fluff or legal jargon. have dedicated our lives to Costa, “Medicaid is a heavily STRUGGLE munication and relentless advo- Effective communication and helping the elderly. We knew regulated process and requires Continue from page 1 cacy. The scope of their practice includes Medicaid Planning and Medicaid Applications, Wills and Trusts, Estate Planning and Estate Administration, Guardianships and Veterans Benefits. With their primary office located in Matawan, the partners bring a fresh, unique approach to the field of elder law, which they believe is more important than ever as the population ages and the cost of care continues to rise. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the number of New Jersey residents age 65 or older increased by 24% between 2008 and 2018, and that percentage will only grow as baby boomers continue to age. “Planning in times of uncer-
accurate information are the keys to understanding your options and rights.” Costa stated. Mr. Costa and Mr. Nathan both attended Rutgers School of Law and are accredited attorneys with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Their professional profiles can be found at www. cnelderlaw.com. They are also active members of the Geriatric Advisory Council, a professional organization designed to provide much-needed resources to seniors and their families. Additional organizations to which one or both of the partners belong include the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), the Elder & Disability Law Section of the New Jersey State Bar Association,
almost immediately that our shared values and purpose would make for a successful partnership.” Nathan added, “We are human beings who happen to be lawyers, and we care very deeply about the families who place their trust in us.” Costa’s prior experience in banking and finance coupled with Nathan’s real estate and hospitality management background provides additional expertise to help them solve real-life, everyday problems for their clients. “Ideally, we want to take a proactive approach to planning, helping our clients avoid issues before they occur or grow to become problems. When that is not an option, we must adapt and address our clients’ prob-
us to interact and coordinate with a number of entities, both private and public, healthcare and financial, all with their own competing interests and policies.” Nathan emphasized, “Navigating this landscape while caring for a family member or loved one is a daunting task. A lot of mistakes tend to happen early on in the process, so being proactive in locating the right person or firm to represent you can make all the difference.” For more information on these services or for additional details about the firm or partners, visit www.cnelderlaw. com, or call (609) 723-2300.
the property for the players within our organization, but so we can start to offer events for the community outside of softball as well,” explains Keller. During these tough times where so many standard social go-tos for children have been restricted, softball has been a lifesaver for many young kids itching to get some exercise and see their friends. The organization has launched their first ever crowd sourcing event in an attempt to raise funds to better their newly donated grounds. Business sponsorships and gifts for private donors are available through the following link: https:// www. gofundme.com/f/fixourfields
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THINK OLD BRIDGE
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSISTING BUSINESSES IN A VARIETY OF WAYS
By Steve Mamakas, Executive officer of the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development The Mayor’s One item that was quickly office of eco- identified last year at this time. nomic devel- Was the amount of essential opment keeps business to support our large its finger on town that is approximately 41 the pulse of square miles and now close the business to 70,000 residents. We have community started to work with some at all times to center marketing departments stay abreast of and owners about this identitrends and the local conditions. fied need. Some are working We can say Old Bridge business- at bringing this to fruitions. In es are holding up and recovering the near future the community at a steady pace. When asking the should start to see some superowners or managers how they markets and general merchanare doing. The same answers dise grocery and trending type rings clear these days from businesses coming online in most “We are doing ok for the town. Filling the need to serve situation” others answer “We are our communities in the future. surviving”. So, the feeling is that Shop, Dine and Buy Local things are getting better. Mainly Feature Business wishing it would be sooner, but All of our businesses as we make visits across town Visit the Mayor’s Office of regularly. We still see there is Economic Development Old great optimism across the board Bridge @ facebook.com\obewithin the community. It’s also townedo or Twitter @ twitter. nice to see that the entrepreneur com/obedonj to check out all sprit is still out there. Interesting the exciting happenings from enough we are gaining some grand openings to groundof new businesses, that are on breaking events across the town. the horizon to open or coming soon. As a community we must continue to support our existing businesses and the new ones. These times call for it and to stay local as much as we can.
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LIVING STONES SPIRITUAL SUICIDE
Suicide is a devastating cause of death and has significantly risen within this past year due to COVID and Living Stones by subsequent Lloyd Pulley isolation. Senior Pastor, The level of Calvary Chapel hopelessness, Old Bridge depression, and discouragement became overwhelming. All the potential that life brings is gone forever, and a world of regret, sadness, and guilt for loved ones to bear, is left behind. It is lifesaving to recognize the signs that someone may be suicidal. A simple search online yields numerous lists of what to look for to familiarize yourself with these signs. Offering understanding and hope to one so suffering could mean the difference between life and death. The Bible refers to spiritual death, and the resulting loss of potential also leads to great sorrow. As physical death is a separation of the soul from the body, spiritual death is a sepa-
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ration of our spirit from God. This separation came from the original sin of Adam and Eve. The Bible reveals God’s plan to restore that connection by sacrificing His only Son on the Cross. When one puts their trust in Jesus’ sacrifice, they are forgiven and restored to that spiritual life and enjoyment of a restored relationship with God. Just as physical suicide can result from neglecting to cultivate good relationships with people, a slow spiritual suicide can come to those who keep rejecting or ignoring God’s invitation to believe in Him. As in any healthy relationship, good communication is vital. The Bible is God’s communication to us, revealing His mind and heart. Prayer is our communication to Him, pouring out our hearts. Fellowship with like-minded believers means encouraging contact with other members of His body. If deprived of these essential things, one cannot expect to have a good relationship with God. We would become ignorant of His mind and frustrated, having no one to whom we could pour out our hearts, and
none to challenge us in love. People who live apart from God reason that they are not hurting anyone. But as physical suicide comes with a devastating loss of potential, spiritual suicide has an untold damaging effect on others. Consider all the lost possibility that exists in you when you are not at your best, overflowing with His love and power. What about all the resulting lack of encouragement on those you might encounter? This loss is something that statistics will never be able to measure—the absence of godly influence and help to those so deeply and desperately in need of it. It is impossible to quantify what good never happens and what greatness is never realized in and through a person when they are not free to be what God intended them to be. Spiritual malnourishment results from ignorance of God’s Word. Hosea 4:6 declares, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” The Word of God is our guide, leading us on the right paths and acting as the moral compass of our souls. Weakened spiritually, not knowing God’s mind, leads to
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many mistakes and much unnecessary pain. When difficulty arises, which would ordinarily strengthen faith, there is little ability to resist the invading thoughts overrunning your life. With His Word in our hearts, prayer on our lips, and being inspired by others in fellowship, we can have hope and offer hope to others who are too weak to make the connection themselves. In the 1950s, John Hopkins professor Curt Richter experimented on both domesticated and wild rats. He dropped the recently trapped and fiercely aggressive rats into containers half-filled with water and which sprayed water down, making it difficult for them to breathe. Though known for their swimming ability, they all died around the 18-minute mark. Richter then repeated the experiment on a new set of rats with one adjustment—this time he rescued the rats just before they drown and held them a bit before putting them back into the water. It was a shocking result as that group of rats survived for a surprising 36 hours. What made the second group of rats last over 100x longer when he only lifted
them out for a moment? Richter concluded it could only have been that he introduced “hope.” The rats that experienced a short rescue were holding on “hoping” to be rescued again. With no hope, that first group gave up! The Bible tells us we have a Living Hope—and His name is Jesus. He is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Absent such an abiding hope, a person may succumb to depression, frustration, and loneliness. Hope is the anchor for our souls! If you don’t know the true person of God or experience His help in prayer or from His people, how can you have hope? But when you believe God is who He says He is, and He loves you enough to send His only begotten Son to die for you, then raising Him from the dead—this gives us hope! He assures us, no matter how hard it gets, that He is coming back to rescue those who trust in Him! This encourages us to “keep swimming,” stay strong and be faithful.
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OB RESIDENT USES SCHOOL SERVICE PROJECT TO REMIND OLD BRIDGE SENIORS THAT THEY ARE NOT FORGOTTEN Continue from page 1 idea of a care box, filled with toiletries and various activities such as puzzles, adult coloring books, crossword puzzles and more. During a three-week period, Kyle collected donations and put together over 250 boxes. “So many people helped, and it made me feel good to make a difference and bring people together to help others.” Through his hard work, all the residents and patients at Reformed Church Home received a box. Meals on Wheels seniors at Silver Linings will also receive a box as
well as senior clients of the Food Bank. Care boxes were delivered to Reformed Church Home on Thursday, March 4th, with the help of Kyle, Mayor Owen Henry, Councilman Dave Merwin, coaches from Kyle’s baseball team, OBTEMS, Matt Mercurio, Director of Parks and Recreation and Social Services, and Mrs. Feltz. Kate Shepard, Director of Reformed Church Home, and several residents were on hand to receive these donations. The joy on their faces when receiving the boxes said it all. “We have not forgotten about our seniors and this project that Kyle put together proved just that,” said Mayor Henry. Silver Linings at Old Bridge is an activity center for Old Bridge residents over the age of 60. To learn more about Silver Linings, please visit www. oldbridge.com/silverlinings.
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OLD BRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL PILOTS PROGRAM GIVING STUDENTS SKILLS TO TRANSITION INTO BUSINESS Old Bridge High School is opment, links to community opportunity to get real-world seven hours a week,” Tuohy said. currently piloting a cross curricular initiative in its Cooperative Education/Business Careers and Accounting classes. This joint initiative, which includes internships, career speakers, job shadows and employment opportunities, is providing students the skills and experiences to transition into the business world. The goal of the initiative is to promote deeper learning by helping students understand expectations and educational requirements of the workplace while simultaneously exploring careers. According to teacher Debra Hunter, Cooperative Education and Career Services coordinator, by bringing professionals (currently virtually) into the classrooms, this enhances instruction and exposes students to a variety of careers, giving students many competitive advantages as they enter college or the workforce. Hunter offers resume devel-
businesses, job shadows, and internship coordination while accounting teacher David Morrongiello, who is a CPA, instructs three levels of Accounting and offers seminars such as “Tax Tips for Teens”; he also assists with accounting internship placements. Morrongiello said he has seen first-hand a powerful connection between the academic skills the students are learning in the classroom and the practical application of these skills in the workforce. “Our students clearly have the aptitude to blossom into 21st Century leaders, regardless of the careers they pursue,” said Morrongiello. Internships offer students a chance to develop knowledge, financial acumen, and competencies needed to make informed decisions in business and their personal lives, Hunter said. “Teaming up with Old Bridge High School to give students the
experience in our accounting internship has been a great experience for both Boscia & Boscia PC and the OBHS students,” said Nick Boscia, a CPA from B&B Tax Accounting and Advisory Services of Old Bridge. “They learn a wide range of business tasks from administrative tasks to bookkeeping and even assisting in preparing tax returns. I have thoroughly enjoyed having the students in the office to add new faces to our office over the years and the great help they provide with our business processes. I think the internship program helps prepare them for their future careers and learn to be young professionals. We plan to continue this program into the future.” Boscia’s current twelfth grade intern, Olivia Tuohy, said she is enjoying the internship and really likes being in an office setting. “Everyone I work with is very nice, and I work about five to
“I’ve learned some new things so far, but in general I think the best part is getting a feel to what it’s like working in the real world.” Hunter said she is hopeful to expand the program, identifying local professional partners while collaborating to offer all involved a valuable experience. For more information to become a part of the OBHS Career Development Program, contact Hunter at dhunter@ obps. org or 732.290.3900, ext. 3907.
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THE GOOD, BAD AND BITING OF SPRING By Anita Greenberg, DVM
Dr. Anita Greenberg and her husband, Dr. Daniel Belli, are the owners and operators of the East Brunswick Animal Hospital for more than 30 years. Dr. Greenberg has been a member of the Old Bridge Township Council since 2016 Spring is f inally here! As we look for ward to warmer temperatures and longer days, consider our fourlegged friends. Spring can bring certain problems for our pets. Wa r m e r t e mp e r atu re s bring an influx of parasites. Fleas are quite pervasive as they are carried by other pets, they are in the grass and, when they make it into your home, they thrive. Fleas are irritating to your pet when they bite for a blood meal.
Your pet may be allergic to the flea and have a flea allergic dermatitis. When your pet ingests the fleas it may get tape worms. Ticks are in the grass, near fields and woody areas. Ticks can cause Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Anaplamosis, Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis, and Tularemia to name a few. Flea and tick medication have come a long way and are very effective and efficient. Pet owners use to have to give flea baths, flea dips and fog their homes. Now there are topical flea and tick prevention. Topical may not be easy to apply, as you have to get down to the skin, not on the coat. This can be challenging in long-haired pets. There are chewable oral tablets that are very effective in flea and tick prevention. Once a month treatment is the best protocol to eradicate these parasites. Use a flea comb to check your pets. Comb through the coat and look for fleas and their “dirt.” The dirt, the dark debris
that looks like pepper, is the excrement of the flea, and the white parts are the flea eggs. Ticks don’t move fast and you can see their head and legs. Usually when they are attached to your pet their body is engorged with blood. When removing a tick, use a fine tipped tweezer, grasp the tick close to the skin, and swiftly pull back with steady pressure. Thoroughly clean the area and wash your hands. Heartworm disease is caused when a mosquito bites your pet, infecting him with Dirofilariasis immitis. The mosquito bite deposits heartworm larvae. The heartworm matures, living in major vessels and in the heart. An adult heartworm can grow up to a foot in length. A pet with heartworm disease, exhibits coughing, exercise intolerance and labored breathing. If left untreated, pulmonary thromboembolism, pulmonary hypertension and, ultimately, congestive heart failure can lead to death.
Prevention is the most effective treatment for your pet with a once a month chewable tablet, which also protects against intestinal parasites. There is also an option of a yearly injectable form. Other spring precautions to consider for your pets: • Easter baskets can cause a problem for pets. The chocolate ingested, especially Baker’s Chocolate, or dark chocolate is most toxic. The Easter grass can cause intestinal obstruction in cats and dogs. • Lilies are very common at this time of year and are highly toxic, causing kidney damage. • The bulb portion of tulips contains toxins that can cause gastrointestinal upset, depression of the central nervous system and cardiac problems. • Azaleas and rhododendrons contain grayanotoxins that can produce vomiting, drooling, weakness and depression of the central nervous system, and could lead to coma and death. • Peace lilies contain calcium
oxalate crystals, causing oral irritation and vomiting. They may cause difficulty in swallowing, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue. • Herbicides and insecticides can also be harmful to your pet. Read labels completely and use caution. • W hile spring cleaning, keep pets away from products and chemicals containing ammonia, bleach or chlorine. • With the warmer weather, hawks, fox and other wildlife are coming out of their winter hiding spots and hunting for food. Small cats and dogs should not be left unmonitored, as they may become their prey. Enjoy the spring, the nice weather, the longer days and being outside after a winter of being shut in due to snow and Covid19. Life is beautiful! Take time to enjoy your surroundings.
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INCLUDES GOLF, LUNCH AND RECEPTION. GO TO MCRCC.ORG TO FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION AND HOW TO SIGN UP!
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OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME PARTICIPATING IN FEMA REIMBURSEMENT As the leading provider in the area, Old Bridge Funeral Home is prepared to assist families with reimbursement through FEMA for funerals directly linked to COIVD. FEMA has announced new details about how the agency will provide financial assistance to Americans who paid for funerals for COVID-19 deaths. The agency confirmed its policy was finalized on Wednesday and will be “moving rapidly” to implement its funeral assistance program nationwide. Families will be able to receive up to $9,000 per funeral and a maximum of $35,500 per application. “At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during, and after disasters,” said Acting FEMA Administrator Bob Fenton in a news release. “The COVID-19 pandemic has caused immense grief for so many people. Although we cannot change what has happened, we affirm our commitment to help with funeral and burial expenses that many families did not anticipate.” Below are details about who is eligible for COVID19 funeral assistance: The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after Jan. 20, 2020 for a death att r i b ut e d t o C OV I D - 1 9 . If multiple individuals contributed toward funeral expenses, they should apply under a single application as applicant and co-applicant. FEMA will also consider documentation from other individuals not listed as the applicant and co-applicant who may have incurred funeral expenses as part of the registration for the deceased individual. An applicant may apply for multiple deceased individuals. The COVID-19-related death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories and the District of Columbia. This assistance is limited
to a maximum financial amount of $9,000 per funeral and a maximum of $35,500 per application. Funeral assistance is intended to assist with expenses for funeral services and interment or cremation. Within the next few weeks, FEMA will have a dedicated phone line to assist individuals with their applications for financial assistance. Those who are considering applying for assistance are asked to begin gathering the following documents: An official death certificate that attributes the death to COVID-19 and shows that the death occurred in the United States. The death certificate must indicate the death “may have been caused by” or “was likely the result of” COVID-19 or COVID-19-like symptoms. Similar phrases that indicate a high likelihood of COVID-19 are considered sufficient attribution. Funeral expense documents (receipts, funeral home contract, etc.) that include the applicant’s name, the deceased individual’s name, the amount of funeral expenses, and dates the funeral expenses were incurred. Proof of funds received from other sources specifically for use toward funeral costs. Funeral assistance may not duplicate benefits received from burial or funeral insurance, financial assistance received from voluntary agencies, federal/ state/local/tribal/territorial government programs or agencies, or other sources. For f ur t her assist ance call Old Bridge Funeral Home 732-607-9500
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IN MEMOR I A M
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was the only daughter of William and Veronica Durney, youngest sister to surviving brothers Matthew and Dennis. She was an accomplished hair dresser for most of her young adult life before moving to New Jersey where she moved on to be a crossing guard for Old Bridge Township. Doreen then spent two decades in the logistics field coordinating moves for Mayflower before spending
the remaining 14 years of her professional career dispatching trucks for Brauns Express. Doreen was known for her infectious laugh, beaming smile, and thick Brooklyn accent that so many have endearingly imitated over the years. Her heart shown through all that she did and touched the lives of many. She was the neighborhood’s mom to all the kids on her block, taking care of each one
as if her own. Doreen was also a beloved “cheer mom” and coach for the Old Bridge Rams. She is survived by her loving husband Robert Herrera, 59, as well as three daughters Nicole Herrera, 37, Antoinette Herrera, 36, Crystina Herrera,33 and granddaughters Natalie Hays-Herrera, 18, and Aubrey Rose Debow, 4 - all of Old Bridge. A viewing was held on Monday March 29, 2021 at
Old Bridge Funeral Home on Route 516 in Old Bridge with two viewing sessions from 2PM - 4PM and 7PM - 9PM. A prayer service was held from 8:30PM - 9PM which was able to be viewed via live stream for those who cannot attend.
STEVE KUTRICK
31,1941 to Frank and Anna Kutrick in Queens, NY. Growing up in Queens, Steve went on to spend his career working as a Machinist at Ozone Industries Inc. in Ozone Park until his retirement in 1995. Steve raised his family in Queens before moving to Parlin, NJ with his wife Rose 16 years ago. Steve loved to spend his time listening to the oldies and making his family laugh. He
was dubbed a chronic worrier about his family, and they will always remember him for his humor and deep love for them. Steve is survived by his loving spouse of 50 years, Rose Kutrick, his son Steven Kutrick, his son Daniel Kutrick and his wife Jennifer; his daughter, Darlene Rozario; his 2 sisters Margie and Maryann; his granddaughter Nicole; 3 grandsons Dominic,
Jackson, and Harrison; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by 7 sisters, 2 brothers and h i s b e s t f r i e n d To n y. A memorial visitation was held Saturday, March 27, 2021 from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Rt 516 in Old Bridge, NJ. A memorial service followed on Saturday, March 27,
2021 at 4:30 pm at the Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Rt 516 in Old Bridge, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American heart Association or the American Cancer Society. Online condolences can be given at www.oldbridgefh.com.
ZITA DECONIE
person that anyone could have had the pleasure of knowing. She had the gift to gab and thus never met a stranger. Her bright smile and jolly laugh would liven up any room. Her family meant everything to her and she was happiest when serving others. No one ever left her loving arms hungry. She was an advocate for others who didn’t have a voice and she will be dearly missed. Zita is predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Patrick DeConie Sr.; her parents Charles and Alice Buckley; her sister
Alice (Pattie) Findley; her nephew Ricky Wall; and her daughter in law Diane DeConie. Zita is survived by her children and their spouses: Pati and Skip Wert of Monmouth Junction, Chuck DeConie and Jussef Quispe of Jamesburg, John DeConie of East Brunswick, Diane and Michael DeCicco of Del Ray Beach, FL, Patrick “Chip” Jr. and Jennifer DeConie of Wall Township, and Kimberlee and John Bollbach of Emerson; her grandchildren, Sean and Jeanne Wert, Darryll and Kalia
Wert, John DeConie Jr., Angela and Antonio Moriello, Nicole and Natalie Quispe, Michael and Christina Quigley, Brian and Margo Quigley, Lindsay and Dan Lanzano, Steven Menadier, Megan, Matthew, and Nicholas DeConie, and Billy Bollbach; and her great-grandchildren, Kyle, Sean, Alexis, Nikko, Eythan, Wyatt, Giavonna,
Antonella, Francesca (arriving soon), Jaxon, and Gabriella; her sister Carol Wall; and her numerous nieces and nephews in both NJ and Texas. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Monday, March 22, 2021 at 9:30 AM at St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church on State Hwy. 18 in Old Bridge, NJ.
JOHN RYAN
He is survived by his wife, Janice; his two sons, James, and Michael; grandchildren, Lauren and Lisa Ryan, Colleen and Connor Ryan; Shannon and Sara Fleming; and his great-grand-daughter Olivia Jean; and his stepson Jeff Gillow; and stepdaughter Pamela Fleming. He is also survived by his first wife Doris. Joh n w as pre d e c e as e d by h is brot he r, D e n n i s . John had a passion for auto racing and was a member of ARDC Racing Club. He was owner of the #57 Racing Midget and won many races during the
70’s and 80’s. He was well respected and very talented and was mechanic of the year one year. He was known for his easy-going personality and quick wit and his sharp sense of humor. He was a man among men. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Online condolences can be given at www.waittfh.com.
DOREEN M. HERRERA
May 12, 1957 - March 25, 2021 The world lost a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, Doreen M. Herrera, when she passed on March 25, 2021. She was 63 years old. Born May 12, 1957 in Brooklyn, New York, Doreen May 31, 1941 - March 20, 2021 Steve Kutrick, 79, of Parlin, NJ passed away on March 20, 2021 at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. He was born on May June 7, 1933 March 16, 2021 Zita DeConie, 87 of Old Bridge, NJ, departed this life on March 16th, 2021 at RWJ University Hospital inNew Brunswick, NJ. A longtime resident at Preferred Care Nursing Home in Old Bridge, NJ, Zita was known as the “mayor” and enjoyed selling candy to visitors. She was the most giving January 2, 1942 - March 12, 2021 On Friday, March 12, 2021 John Ryan, loving husb and, and father of two children passed away at age 79. He had been battling Parkinson’s Disease for many years. John was born January 2, 1942 in Teaneck, NJ. He was a Printer by trade, working at Ranno Bros. and Printing Craftsmen for most of his career.
FOR A DDI T IONA L OBI T UA R I E S V I SI T W W W. OLDBR I DGE F H .COM
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BRIDGE WOMEN’S CENTER TO HOST 2ND ANNUAL GALA THE PRO LIFE EVENT WILL RAISE RESOURCES FOR PREGNANCY CENTER
Bridge Women’s Center will host its Second Annual Gala on May 13th, 2021 at The Meadow Wood in Randolph, New Jersey. The evening will feature a message from keynote speaker Governor Mike Huckabee, American politician and Christian minister who served as Governor of Arkansas and was a candidate twice for the Republican Party presidential nomination. Debbie Biskey, Executive Director of Bridge Women’s Center stated “Our mobile pregnancy unit went on the road starting in May 2020. To date over 90 babies have been saved and we have assisted families with insurance programs and support. Our original date for the gala had to be rescheduled but despite COVID we will be able to come together to celebrate life. This event is vital to raising the resources we need to save lives and I’m excited
that the restrictions have eased and we will be able to gather to support this crucial mission.” The fundraiser will raise resources for Bridge Women’s Center to provide free services to women facing unplanned pregnancies. Among the services offered by Bridge Women’s Center are no-cost ultrasounds, pregnancy testing, abortion pill reversal services, counseling, parenting and budgeting programs, abortion healing and recovery, childbirth preparation classes and continuous, compassionate support during pregnancy and after the baby is born. Bridge Women’s Center is also in the process of starting a housing program next quarter and launching a second mobile pregnancy center. When speaking about the work of Bridge Women’s Center, Pastor Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor of Calvary Old Bridge
whose church had the vision for the pregnancy center stated, “I just want to sow seed, and I think the biggest field that has been unsown in the guilt of a nation, men and women, who are complicit in abortion. Our mission is not to shame women and bury them in guilt, but to be there as a loving resource, to rescue them from decisions that they’ll regret the rest of their lives.” To attend the Bridge Women’s Center gala or for sponsorship opportunities visit www.bridgewomenscenter.com. To find out more about Bridge Women’s Center visit https://www.bridgewomenscenter.com/or email info@bridgewomenscenter.com.
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OLD BRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY
I am happy to announce that on March 16, the Library reopened for browsing and computer use appointments. Please consult the Library’s website, www. oldbridgelibrary.org for instructions to apply for an appointment. Our study rooms are not in service for use at this time and most of our programming is still virtual. We hope we will be more open in the next few months as conditions and governmental restrictions permit. We have been taking appointments for notary work and passport applications all along as well as taking print requests. Requests are taken via email and instructions are also on our website. We thank our patrons profusely for your patience in this time of COVID. One of our more popular programming efforts has been the weekly kids story time which we stream live on our Facebook page. In addition, we have activity kits for kids which change monthly and can be picked up free of charge at Curbside Pickup. They contain coloring sheets, craft ideas and supplies and other items of interest to kids. We hope to work up book kits for kids as well. We are also offering other programming, usually taking place via Zoom, and posted on our Facebook page. If you have suggestions for programs which could
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take place virtually, please send them to ncohen@oldbridgelibrary.org, 732-7215600 x5014 or post on our Facebook page. For those of you looking to add a skill during the pandemic, the Library has some virtual resources at your disposal, accessible through your Library card. One of those is LinkedIn Learning, formerly called Lynda.com. A side variety of business software can be learned through their classes. Learning Express Library and Universal Class are also full of useful classes on a wide variety of subjects. All are available through our website using your Library card for access. Please call a reference librarian if you are having difficulty signing on or finding the resources at 732-721-5600 x5033. For those Old Bridge Library residents who are temporarily or permanently homebound or facility-bound, you may qualify for our Books By Mail program. You must have an Old Bridge Library card. Books will be mailed to you with a three-week loan time and must be mailed back in the postage-paid reusable bag or returned to the Library book drop. Only OBPL books are eligible for this program. It excludes DVDs, CDs as well as inter-library load items. Interested? Call 732721-5600 x5033 to reserve your books.
WHY JOIN THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE?
We are often asked by businesses “Why is it important to join the Chamber of Commerce?” The answer is, the Chamber of Commerce serving Old Bridge Sayreville and South Amboy is here to enhance your business in many ways on a local level. It is the communities that we serve and are located in that are vital to our economy. As a member of the OBSSA Chamber of Commerce, you will have instant credibility within the Old Bridge, Sayreville & South Amboy communities, access to educational seminars, and an invaluable opportunity to network with other businesses and potential clients. These networking opportunities will allow you to meet with other business leaders, recruit new customers, and establish your desire to help create a prosperous business community. The OBSSA Chamber organizes seminars and educational events to enhance your business, such as
monthly meetings and tools to give your business the opportunities needed to ensure that you receive relevant information to elevate your business to the next level. These “meet and greets” also provide an opportunity to learn about what is happening in the community and a way to give back. Our Scholarship programs are the to many businesses, their local philanthropic agenda. Chamber+Connect, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce is a Business Spotlight video series of short, informative, and fun interviews that profile local businesses, some are well-known; others are hidden gems. All are the backbone of our community. Chamber+Connect features local companies doing extraordinary things. Segments air monthly on the Chamber of Commerce social media accounts, website, and our YouTube channel @ OBSSA Chamber Connect youtube channel
The OBSSA Chamber will help promote your business through our website, http:// chamberofcommerceobssa. org/, our Face Book page and the opportunities to advertise in All Around Old Bridge newspaper. We want to see your business soar and prosper in our community- and by working together we can help assist in results that matter. We are here for you! But, we can only do this with your membership. We believe it’s important for your voice to be heard. So join today. If you have any questions, please contact us at ccommerobssa@gmail.com also sign up for our NEW! Text Messages, where we will send you updated information, events, meeting dates and so much more. To join today visit our website for more information. We look forward to serving you!
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INSURERS MOVE FROM “SICK CARE” TOWARDS “WELL CARE” By Dr. Nichole Chaviano, DPT
TRICARE, the health care program for uniformed service members, has decided to waive the cost-sharing requirement of up to three visits to a physical therapist for low back pain. They’ve said that the goal is to encourage more use of “high-value” treatments for low back pain. TRICARE tells us in their summary of this demonstration what they mean by high vs low-value care: “Increasing the value of health care refers to improving patients’ quality of care and outcomes, improving patients’ access to care, and reducing overall costs of care. In contrast, low-value care refers to interventions that: are not proven to benefit patients; may harm patients; result in unnecessary costs; or waste health care resources.” Well Care High-value care leads to better outcomes, is easy to access and is cheaper for both patients and insurers. Physical therapy fits into this category, but looking at other high-value treatments helps us start to see a theme. In 2017 the American College
of Physicians released widely endorsed guidelines for treating low back pain. Initial treatment recommendations include exercise, stretching, tai chi, yoga, progressive relaxation, heat or ice, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motor control exercise. These are all active treatments, where the practitioner and the patient are working together to improve, and Physical Therapy can delivery many of the physiologic benefits of those treatment recommendations. This is “well care”. Sick Care In contrast, low-value care tends to be “sick care” where the patient is a passive participant. TRICARE puts imaging before six weeks in the absence of red flag symptoms, surgery for non-specific low back pain, opioids as the first or second-line treatment, and bedrest in the low-value category. Spinal injections also fall in this category for most people. This isn’t to say that imaging, surgery, or injections are always bad. For a small percentage of people with back pain, they’re
the right treatment. But, most people should start with treatments that have the best outcomes for the lowest cost. If those treatments tend to focus on putting the person in pain in power to actively participate in their care rather than making them dependent on someone to “heal” them, that’s even better. Physical therapists know this and have been providing care that fits this model for years. TRICARE’s demonstration that waives cost-sharing clearly shows that insurers are recognizing the value of this type of care and that they are actively moving in this direction. It also further substantiates that highly skilled Doctors of Physical Therapy, like the team of Doctors of Physical Therapy at ProFysio, are the provider of choice for move-
ment disorders and should be the first line defense for low back pain and other conditions like it. It’s worth noting that you do not need a medical Doctor’s prescription to begin Physical Therapy. As a direct access provider in the State of New Jersey, if you are having pain
or limited movement you can call ProFysio or schedule online without a prescription today. We even offer complimentary in person or telehealth consultations. Call ProFysio today to get rid of pain and get back to what matters most to you.
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Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge’s Alexa Wassinger, RN recently received the hospital’s DAISY Award. The DAISY Award is an internationally renowned recognition program that honors and celebrates exemplary, skillful and compassionate care that nurses provide. Pictured left to right, Jane O’Rourke, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, CENP, chief nursing officer; Alexa Wassiner, RN; Rosalie Grantoza, director, nursing; and Jenny Lyn Liwag BSN, RN, FNP, nurse manager.
APRIL 2021
THERAPY SERVICE FOR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY MONTH • Joint and Soft Tissue Injuries
Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge continues to provide the highest quality of care for patients, their families, and the Old Bridge community. April marks Occupational Therapy Service month with a reminder not to delay care. Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge Occupational therapy services are designed to help individuals develop or regain skills necessary to perform everyday activities so they can lead productive and fulfilling lives. Some of the health conditions that benefit from occupational therapy includes:
of Hand and Upper Extremityarthritis, sprains, strains, hand injuries, fractures, dislocations, pre and post-surgical conditions. • M ental health and behavioral problems - Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress, problems that stem from substance abuse. • C ognitive problems associated with developmental delays or disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, stroke. • P hysical limitations following stroke, heart attack and traumatic brain injuries and other neurologic conditions. • Work related injuries. For example, low back and neck problems, repetitive stress injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome. For more information about Raritan Bay Old Bridge’s Occupational Therapy, please visit: www.rbmc.org
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Awarded Top Provider 8 years in a row!
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FPO