OB OLDBRIDGE OLD BRIDGE
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Pursuing Progress
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Mayor's office of Economic Development
VOL 7, NO 1
SALT WATER DAY IS BACK! Old Bridge Township Department of Parks & Recreation, Middlesex County Parks & Recreation and Laurence Harbor First Aid Squad is excited to announce that Saltwater Day is back! This year’s event will take place on Saturday, August 14th from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The event will have vendors of all kinds, new exciting rides, carnival game trailers, entertainment, and food trucks!! The night will end with spectacular fireworks show!! Live music will be played throughout the day by the fantastic 80’s Revolution Band and Motor City Review band. We’re also excited to announce a brand-new attraction featuring tethered hot air balloon rides! For our 21 and older guests, the Laurence Harbor Fire Department will be hosting a Beer Garden for $10/person which includes a mug and two drink tickets. Additional tickets are $2 each, and proof of age is required. Some of our rides have been sponsored by Sayrewoods South Men’s Baseball League, Solterra Recycling Solutions and Central Jersey Softball Association so far. Bring the family and celebrate the first township public event since the start of the pandemic. This event will take place rain or shine. Transportation Shuttles Shutt les wi l l b e avai lable every 15 minutes from Continue on page 7
A Publication for the community of Old Bridge
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOLD FUNDRAISER FOR JAR OF HOPE On July 23rd the Old Bridge, Sayreville and South Amboy Chamber of Commerce held a fundraiser called, “Steak & Cigars” hosted at C1 Farms by Stacey and David Hernandez in Morganville. The event brought together members of the community and businesses in Old Bridge raising funds that go towards research for Duchennne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD affects about 300,000 boys worldwide, with approximately 20,000 cases in the United States. DMD has many variations,
which makes finding a cure extremely challenging. JAR of Hope’s mission is dedicated to bringing awareness and raising funds directed to finding a cure. Chamber President David Hernandez said, “Jim is an amazing man and father, going to great lengths to bring awareness to DMD. The Chamber Board and Trustees could not help but hold a fundraiser for JAR of Hope and having it hosted at C1 Farms meant so much to Stacey and I.” HernanContinue on page 14
three seasons for apples? There are Summer apples, Fall apples and Winter apples. Summer apple varieties are generally in season from July to September. We have some delicious summer apple varieties that are also “must haves” like the Zestar and Molly Delicious. We will have a stand set up at the Middlesex County Fair this year and hope that you will stop
by and see us if you’re on the fairgrounds. The Fair will run from August 2nd through August 9th at the Fairgrounds on Cranbury Road in East Brunswick. Stop by and say hello! Or, as always, come visit us at our farm stand, 261 Ticetown Road, Old Bridge Tuesday – Sunday 9-5, or at any of the weekly farmers markets we attend: Thursdays – Keyport Firemen’s Memorial Park (across from the Fishery) 11am – 7pm, and Rahway Train Station, 12pm – 7pm, Saturdays – Highlands, Huddy Park 9am – 2pm and Sundays – Red Bank in the Galleria parking lot 9am – 2pm. Buy fresh, buy local! Thank you for your support of our family’s farm!
HAPPY SUMMER FROM HAUSER HILL FARMS!
We are in full swing here on the farm and happy to report that the “BIG THREE” are in: sweet corn, tomatoes and peaches!!! We are also picking zucchini, onions, cabbage, greens, cucumbers, plums, string beans, summer apples, blackberries and more. A crowd favorite is almost ready, the donut peach. If you haven’t had one, you MUST try them! Did you know that there are
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MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Mayor Owen Henry I hope you are enjoying your summer! Throughout the summer 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. The nationally accredited Silver Lining Center continues to develop new and exciting social, wellness and lifestyle programs to service the seniors of our community. A full Calendar of activities are planned in August 2021. Come out and join the fun with the members of the Silver Lining Community. Furthermore, the Silver Linings Center provides services including transportation, healthcare guidance, pharmaceutical assistance and so much more. The Old Bridge Township Department of Parks and Recreation is excited to announce the revival of Saltwater Day. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, August 14th from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This event will have arts, crafts, vendors, new rides, carnival game trailers, entertainment, food and conclude with fireworks. Live music will be played throughout the day thanks to the fantastic 80’s Revolution Band and Motor City Review. We are also excited to announce a brand-new attraction featuring tethered hot air balloon rides. For our 21 and older guests, the Laurence Harbor Fire Department will be hosting a Beer Garden, proof of age required. Bring the family
and celebrate the first township public event since the start of the pandemic. This event will take place rain or shine. The Old Bridge Township Cultural Arts Committee will host OB Arts on Saturday, August 21st. Come bring the entire family for a fun filled day of live music, art exhibits, vendors, and food trucks. Live performances of multiple bands will begin at noon. Also, feel free to bring your dog to participate in the Doggie Costume Contest. For additional information, visit the townships website at oldbridge.com/cultural arts. The Old Bridge Township Before and After School Care Program will open registration for the program on August 4, 2021 at 6pm. Registration is only accepted online through an account created using the following link oldbridgerec.recdesk. com/Community/Home. As you enjoy the remainder of your summer, please continue to be safe and stay well! Mayor O wen Henr y
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BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT By Himanshu R. Shah, Business Administrator 1.2021 Boulevard South on Monday, FINAL/2022 July 12th, 2021. Working hours PRELIMIare between 7:00 AM to 5:00 NA RY TA X PM. Weekly notifications of the B I L L S T h e upcoming work scheduled will 2021 Final/2022 be posted on all Township social Preliminary Tax media feeds. If you have any Bills mailings questions or concerns regardwill be delayed ing this project, please contact Himanshu R. since the Town- the Engineering Department Shah ship has not re- at 732-721-5600 Ext. 2302. ceived the tax levy certifications 3. 2021 ANNUAL CURB from the State for some of the REPLACEMENT PROGRAM fire districts. Tax bills will be will be advertised for bids on mailed as soon as permitted and Thursday, July 15, 2021. Bids the due date will be extended, will be due and publicly opened accordingly, from the date of on Friday, July 30, 2021 for an mailing. The extended grace anticipated award at the Townperiod will be noted on the new ship’s August 10, 2021 Council tax bill. For additional informa- Meeting. Construction is anticition, residents should contact pated to begin in early Fall 2021. the Division of Tax Collection 4. PARKS AND RECREat (732) 721-5600 ext. 2999. ATION is now accepting ap2. 2021 ANNUAL ROAD plications for the Township’s RESURFACING PROGRAM Before and Aftercare Program. Old Bridge Township con- The following positions are availtractor Meco, Inc. began the able: Site Supervisors, Assistant 2021 Annual Road Resurfacing Site Supervisors, Aides, Nurses, Program with handicap ramp in- and Paras. Interviews will begin stallation on Boulevard East and immediately for program start of
September 2021. To apply, visit www.oldbridge.com and click on “Employment Opportunities”. 5. THE OLD BRID GE FOOD BANK is holding its annual “Christmas in July Food Drive & Fundraiser”. From July 1st through July 31st, non-perishable food donations can be dropped off at Friendly’s located on Ferry Road during their business hours. Our Christmas in July Fundraiser will take place on July 25th from 2pm to 8pm at Friendly’s. Come enjoy a meal and some ice cream, with 20% of all sales to benefit the Old Bridge Food Bank. Santa Claus, Mickey Mouse and more will be in attendance. We thank you in advance for your continued support of our Food Bank. 6. FOUR (4) NEW POLICE OFFICERS recently took their Oaths of Office on June 30, 2021. Robert Massa and Robert Janks came to the Old Bridge Police Department from the Middlesex County Sheriff ’s Office. Nicholas Fanelli was a Special
Law Enforcement Officer Class II with the Old Bridge Police Department, and Francis Landi completed his training through the Cape May Police Academy. 7. PHILLIPS DRIVE SANITARY SEWER IMPROVEMENTS The Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority (OBMUA) Contractor Underground Utilities Corp. will begin
sanitary sewer improvements along Phillips Drive on or about Thursday, July 22nd, 2021. The work will take approximately 150 days to complete. Detours will be implemented as the work progresses. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, please contact the Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority at 732-566-2534.
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JAR OF HOPE EXECS WALKING 300 MILES TO SAVE DYING CHILDREN
To save children dying from an extremely rare, always-fatal disease, two executives from JAR Of Hope foundation are undertaking a walk they call “300 Miles Of Love.” Starting on July 10, Jim Raffone, Founder/CEO, Treasurer Joe Ippolito and Martin Cintron will walk 300 miles across four states in seven and a half days. JAR Of Hope raises funds to research a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a disease so rare it occurs only once in every 3,500 live births. Duchenne is a muscle-wasting disease, with no cure. These children
are in wheelchairs by their early-teens. Breathing on ventilators by their mid-late-teens. And in graves by their early-twenties. After suffocating. “These days, it’s extremely tough for charitable foundations,” says Jim Raffone. “But these kids are still dying. So we have to be extremely creative in finding ways to research a cure.” Jim and Karen Raffone started JAR Of Hope in 2013, after their then-four-year-old son, James Anthony (“Jamesy”), was diagnosed with Duchenne MD. Jamesy recently turned twelve… the age when kids with Duchenne
Continue from page 1 • Divers Cove Lot t he following lo cations: Additional parking available at • Cheesequake Village St. Laurence Church after 6:00 pm • Metro Park South Website link : https://www.old• Memorial School bridge.com/page/saltwaterday • Cliffwood Beach 7-11
start losing the ability to walk. Raffone, Ippolito and Cintron will begin “300 Miles Of Love” at the University of Massachusetts – which monitors Jamesy’s Duchenne. They’ll average 40 miles a day, camping out at night. Their last night, July 17, they’ll camp at All American Subaru in Old Bridge, NJ, one of 13 sponsoring Subaru dealerships along the route. And their walk will come to a festive finish the next day – after the last 37 miles - at Frogbridge Day Camp in Millstone, NJ, with a Family BBQ with games and prizes. This is the second big “Walk” for JAR Of Hope. Last year Raffone and several team members did a 260-mile “Walk For Their Lives” to raise money for Duchenne research. And – like last year – JAR Of Hope is inviting local folks to participate for part of the route. “September 13 is the eighth anniversary of the day our son was diagnosed with this fatal disease we’d never even heard of,” Jim Raffone says. “And all the doctors could tell us was ‘take
him home and love him until he dies.’ Karen and I still hear those words ringing in our ears. So JAR Of Hope is making this walk in the hope that no parent, ever again, has to hear those words.” Please feel free to contact me for more information. STEVE WINSTON President, Winston Communications Inc. Phone: (561) 757-6444 Email: steve@winstoncommunications.com
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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 Big things know brand in town. One key are happening item is the Hotel will create local in Old Bridge. jobs and bring more ratables August is here to the town in the way of taxes an d t h e bi g and additional room tax on 100 n e w s i s t h e room. Currently businesses are Hampton by regaining ground and others Hilton Hotel at new ones are opening across Spring Valley Road and Route town. A new Hatchet throwing 9 is very close to opening. business from Canada called Hampton by Hilton is a hotel (Bad Axe) has just opening as brand trademarked by Hilton well, located in the Park Plaza worldwide. Aside from being shopping center on route 34. the only one in the area that can Continuing in making Old accommodate visitors to Old Bridge a great destination locaBridge, the surrounding towns, tion. Here is a quick mention of shore points and NYC, because new businesses that have opened of the town’s great location. The recently in town during the last Hotel has 100 rooms, indoor year with no grand opening pool, gym for guests and con- ceremony, due to the shutdown. ference room for guest and or Grand Home Flooring and Cabrental. The Hotel is going to be a inetry, Vegan Spot, Art of Treadgreat asset to the town. Allowing ing, Align Yoga, Cheer Matrix, people from other locations to Condor Med Spa, Dr. Patel, experience Old Bridge during Dolce Vita Cucina Italiana, Vevo their stay. Also helping the local Hair Salon and Day Spa, Termibusiness economy and restau- nal 9 BBQ and the Pet Center. rants in town. That will share Shop, Dine and Buy Local in the exposure of having a well
FEATURED BUSINESS ALL OF OUR BUSINESSES
Visit the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development Old Bridge @ facebook. com\obetownedo or Twitter @ twitter. com/obedonj to check out all the exciting happenings from grand openings to groundbreaking events across the town.
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9 my Shepherd” (Psalm 23). The Psalmist shares the benefits of THE GOVERNMENT IS MY SHEPHERD?” following God as his Shepherd. T h e re i s God can lead us by still waters no question and in green pastures because s h e e p a r e He knows our needs. Middle vulnerable Eastern shepherds don’t drive animals and their flocks, but rather lead them not incred- as the sheep follow, trusting the ibly bright! shepherd’s call. Once a tourist in They wander Israel noticed this was not the off no matter case with one man using a stick Living Stones by how excellent to herd the sheep into a corral. Lloyd Pulley the pasture “Wait, I thought shepherds Senior Pastor, is, and if en- led their sheep!” the tourist reCalvary Chapel closed by a marked. The tour guide quickly Old Bridge fence, they responded, “That’s not the shepwill long for grass on the other herd. That’s the butcher.” A true side. Even the danger of a cliff shepherd leads and influences will not deter them! With full by example, but a hireling or fleece and muddied wool, a a butcher drives and seeks to sheep fallen on its back will die, control for their own benefit. unable to right itself. One rene- Under the care of a shepherd, gade sheep can lead a whole flock one is free to follow, but a hireinto grave danger, as they are very ling uses force. Jesus spoke of prone to follow. Neither do they rulers exercising authority over have any natural defenses against people, but He came to serve and predators. In short, they need a give His life as a payment for sin, shepherd who cares for them, or rescuing His wandering sheep. else they will be in great danger. We know no amount of force In that we have been made can change the heart. But the inby our Creator and yet have fluence of the Bible on America strayed in sin, unable to right led each to respond to their ourselves, a famous passage in own conscience. A society that the Bible declares, “The Lord is inspires people to the highest
LIVING STONES
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motivations and gives them the freedom to act is a society following Jesus’ example. Our very constitution was made for those able to be self-governed or, in other words, was made for a religious people. Being guided by biblical principles, America became one of the freest, most just, and prosperous nations on earth. But after decades of education, media, and government undermining religion, maligning our founding fathers, and revising our history, America is now in a vulnerable place. No more can we discuss differences freely and appeal to reason. Censoring, ostracizing, and canceling any “wrong view” is driving people to live as if “the government is our shepherd!” The Bible inspires without force or constraint and appeals to history and reason to influence people to believe in God. But other shepherds are competing for the allegiance of each individual. Some human organization or government first must dismantle God’s revealed truth and replace it with convenient “truths.” When the government overreaches, it will become an alternative shepherd. What does one make of the
cultural changes in this generation? Forced experimental vaccinations on children and adults of childbearing age could become a disturbing trend. If someone chooses to get vaccinated, that is fine as their choice—vaccinations have been a huge blessing in the past. But how different are forced ones, ignoring God-given parental authority or individual rights? Also, redefining gender and sexualizing children at a young age despite parents’ objections is of great concern. Ironically, officials tout “follow the science” in one instance while ignoring the science in another. I believe the day will come when those who speak the truth in love, following the Lord as Shepherd, may be sacrificed on the altar of those blindly driven by the governmental shepherds. Progressive Christians are quick to quote Romans 13 or 1 Peter 2 referencing submission to government, but many are ignorant of what a constitutional republic is. Faithful citizenship in our system allows for the resistance of unjust laws which restrict religious freedoms and censor free speech. A good citizen should not just lay down personal rights.
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It is not selfish to fight for those rights! Those rights reflect the blood-bought freedom we have received, and we owe it to our children to pass on what we have received from our ancestors. France has taken to the streets against forced vaccinations. America embarrassingly believes the highly-funded, well-crafted, and distorted narrative that most people are okay with forced vaccinations. That is simply not true! While companies and local officials softly say it is acceptable to trade your freedom for empty promises of protection, I am not convinced the best interests of families, rather than money, is at the forefront. If you blindly trust the government, please realize the constitution anticipated the most significant threat in the future to our republic would be the government itself. That is why its writers gave us certain inalienable God-given rights. I must regard God’s Word above all, and like a good American citizen, I cannot roll over for what appears to be tyranny and injustice. As a follower of the Good Shepherd, I must speak the truth in love.
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THE HOW-TO GUIDE TO SAT AND ACT PREP Over the past two decades, I have been a student of my students, particularly those who have made the best improvements on these tests. What do they do that most students don’t? I have found it boils down to four habits students should have: (1) Do all of their practice, to the best of their ability, under timed conditions. When students do their best, they get the most out of their practice and will automatically be in “go” mode on test day. Practicing under timed conditions will ensure slower-working students know what pace they must work at to finish on time. Faster students will know how much time they have to go back to check their answers. (2) Go over explanations to questions they have wrong. Taking practice tests repeatedly is not enough. Students must learn all they can from a practice test before moving on to the next. In The Official Study Guide to the SAT, there is an explanation to each question. I also have almost 400 video explanations to the questions in that book
(which is the only book on the market that includes real SATs) at https://www.youtube.com/c/ IvyMastersLearningCenter Learning from mistakes by going over explanations is essential to the learning process. (3) Know how the strategy relates to the questions they have wrong. Should I have picked numbers for a math problem? How do I approach vocabulary-in-context on the reading? How does the writing and language section expose my misconceptions of colons? There are many books and services that address strategy on these tests. (4) Practice and study an hour per day. If a student never went to basketball practice—just showed up for the game—that student is going to play terribly. Test prep is no different. Putting the time in to improve is essential. So how is you prep going? Suggestion for a topic? Want to join a mock test? You can reach me at Paul.Pscolka@ ivymasters.com 732-4856480 www.ivymasters.com
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MAKE YOUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH A PRIORITY! JOIN OUR 28-DAY CHALLENGE FOR SOME SUMMER FUN! High-Energy Workouts That Never Repeat! Nutritional Support w/ Recipes & Cooking Demonstrations Virtual and In-Person Group Support & Motivation - We’re All In This Together! Modifications Available – ANYONE Can Participate!
THE TIME TO START FEELING GREAT IS NOW!!! VISIT https://www.themaxchallenge.com/locations/old-bridge-nj/
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Our 28-Day Challenge starts NOW! - reserve your spot today!
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JOIN US FOR INPERSON STORYTIME! St ar t ing in August we will have in-person storytime on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11am. Please check our website for details. The Library still offers many 24 / 7 digital resources that can be accessed by going to http://www. oldbridgelibrary.org/24-7-services/ and using your library card: • • • •
eLibrary NJ allows you to access over 25,000 eBooks and audiobooks. Hoopla allows patrons to stream movies, TV shows, music, and audiobooks to smart devices. Read popular newsstand magazines through RB Digital. Download and watch award-winning movies by using Kanopy.
Don’t have a library card? No problem! Visit https://www. lmxac.org/info/temp-cards/,
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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOLD FUNDRAISER FOR JAR OF HOPE
click on “Old Bridge,” and fill out the form to get a temporary online library card that can be used for up to six months. Come Visit Us! We enjoy seeing the residents of Old Bridge back in the building. Library Hours: Monday 10:00am - 9:00pm Tuesday 10:00am - 9:00pm Wednesday 10:00am - 9:00pm Thursday 10:00am - 9:00pm Friday 10:00am - 9:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm Sunday 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Continue from page 1 dez continued, “I speak for all at the Chamber and the attendees, it was out honor to be there and support the cause and help these little boys in their time of need.” It was September 13, 2013 when Jim and Karen Raffone received the news that no parent should ever get– they were told that their child was sick. On that day, their now 7-year-old son,
Jamesy, was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD): a rare mutation of the dystrophin gene that results in severe muscle degeneration. The Raffone’s then sought a number of professional opinions, only to be given the same heartbreaking prognosis from each doctor: “go home and love your son – there is nothing we can do.” Unsatisfied with accepting
their child’s death sentence, Jim and Karen set out to reverse the seemingly insurmountable odds against them—this is when JAR of Hope was born. Spearheaded by Jim Raffone, JAR of Hope is an organization that gives Jamesy and thousands of boys just like him the chance to beat a disease that currently has no cure. Attendees received a Cigar smoking shirt modeled after the Cohiba cigar brand, dinner, choice of a fine cigar, and after dinner cordials. All together nearly 60 gathered to make the inaugural event a huge success. The Chamber of Commerce will present JAR of Hope a check during their next meeting after the summer recess. To learn more about the Chamber of Commerce please visit, http:// www.chamberofcommerceobssa.org/. To follow JAR of Hope or make a donation please visit their website via https://jarofhope.org/
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BE REALISTIC BEFORE ACQUIRING A PET 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 Pe t l ove rs c ou l d not imagine life without them, but not everyone is pet-worthy. Pets provide joy and companionship, but, acquiring a pet is a responsibility and requires a commitment for the life of the pet. A pet is a 24/7, 365-day a year concern. Animals stay babies no matter how old they are because they are continuously dependent on us for food, shelter and medical care.
Be realistic as to what pet to get. The life span of a dog is between 10 and 13 years. The life span of larger breeds is less than for smaller breeds. Cats usually live a little longer than dogs, and 10 to 15 years is considered the average for indoor cats. Horses usually live between 25 and 30 years. Some parrots live more than 50 years. Consider these facts before choosing a pet, and even provide for them in your will. Ask yourself if you can give the pet a good life. B efore choosing a pet, do research to understand the needs of the pet, the requirements of that particular animal to have a healthy life. Understand how to manage and care for your pet before getting that pet. Be realistic about the cost of having a pet. Consider if you can afford the food, grooming, toys and veterinary bills. Prepare for emergency expenses, too.
If you want a particular breed, do research to fully comprehend the requirements and behaviors of that particular breed. Pets require a lot of attention and can be time consuming. Ask yourself if you can make the time commitment. Do you have time to train a pet, care for a pet and exercise a pet? Does the pet fit into your lifestyle? Pets can alter your social life. You may find you can no longer be spontaneous to go meet friends after work as you have to get home to walk and feed the dog. Is your work schedule and work travel conducive to having a pet? Will a pet interfere with family commitments? Vacations require more planning. Will you be boarding your pet, or will you have a caretaker come to your home? If you travel with your pet, proper planning is necessary for pet friendly hotels. If your pet is flying, check with the airlines for requirements and restrictions.
Ask yourself if the pet f it s i nt o y o u r l i f e s t y l e . Before getting a pet, make sure no one in the family has allergies to the pet. One of the most common reasons animals are surrendered is due to allergies. Prior to getting a pet, interact with the animal to make sure allergies are not a problem. There are certain breeds of dogs that are more hypoallergenic than others but not even those dogs may be acceptable for your allergic family members. If you live in an apartment or an area where there is a homeowners association, find out if pets are permitted and what restrictions exist. Select a breed-appropriate pet based on size and activity level. Do you have the space for a large breed or active dog? Is the yard fenced in? Animals increase the wear and tear on your home. Be realistic about the chewing phase, soiling and shedding. Be prepared for the time needed for cleaning and
disinfecting. The extra maintenance in the yard is a factor, also. Some dogs are diggers. Daily poop control is a must. Besides feeding and exercising your pet, do you have time for grooming, brushing, combing, and bathing? Having a pet is life changing. If you have determined you have the time and the resources, the enjoyment, the love, the companionship, the loyalty and the positive health benefits that come from sharing your life with a pet make it all worth it!
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DID YOU KNOW…
Our group of District #3 Per Diem firefighters work together, side by side with the South Old Bridge volunteer firefighters, and the Bureau of Fire Prevention for 12 hours or more at a time? Throughout the day all of our firefighters #1 priority is to be ready to respond. For this reason you may see a fire engine or a fire truck at the grocery store, a local restaurant, hardware store, or other retail shop. Since eating at restaurants every day could be cost prohibitive for the firefighters they may choose
to pool their money each morning to buy groceries and cook their meals at the firehouse. If you are ever at the grocery store when an alarm comes in you will witness them stash their cart behind the deli counter, in the dairy cooler, or put it in the possession of the butcher asking “will you please keep this to the side? We’ll be back as soon as we can.” There are several benefits to the firefighters shopping around town. Children may get an impromptu tour of the truck, the firefighters can
interact with the public, and they are supporting local businesses. Since the entire crew shops together they are ready to respond immediately with all of the life and property saving tools and equipment the public deserves. We hope that you have time to stop and say hi to your firefighters the next time you see them, whether it be at a grocery store, coffee shop, or ice cream shop. All too often our interaction with the public is at emergencies. As much as the firefighters enjoy being there to help it sure is nice meeting people under positive circumstances. Never hesitate to drop by the firehouse and say Hi. We love visitors! If you are interested in volunteering please go to www.sobfd.com or email join@sobfd. com for more informati
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RETURNING TO ACTIVITY AFTER A PANDEMIC During the COVID-19 pandemic, activity levels dropped for a lot of people. Between stay at home orders, gym closures and working from home, people became more sedentary. On top of that, there were shortages of equipment like dumbbells and bicycles, making staying active at home difficult even if you wanted to. But this summer, things look different; vaccines are widely available, restrictions are loosening and people are looking to get active and enjoy the warm weather. That’s all good news, but if you had a long break from activity, your body might not be ready to jump right back in. Here are a few tips to help you get more active without getting hurt: Start slow • If you’re a runner, think about a walk to run program • If you’re a weight lifter, start with lighter weights and less reps. • W hatever your activity of choice is, start with short periods of activity and grad-
ually work your way back up. Warm up and cool down Warming up gets your heart and lungs ramped up and prepares your muscles and tendons for the increase in activity about to come. Include some light cardio like jogging, calisthenics, or cycling, followed by active stretching like butt kicks, high knees, or yoga. Cooling down transitions your body back to a lower state of stress - it brings your heart rate and breathing down, decreases blood flow to your muscles and back to places like your digestive system, and helps you relax. It’s also a great place for static stretches if you need some work on your flexibility. Take a day off Rest days let your body recover and keep you from getting burned out. Not enough exercise isn’t good for you, but too much of a good thing can cause problems too. Watch for e arly signs of injury Some soreness for a few days
after activity is normal, especially if you’ve had a long break. But there are a few common issues to watch out for as you return to activity: • Swelling or br uising • J o i nt p a i n , e s p e c i a l ly in the knees or shoulders • Foot pain, which could be a sign of plantar fasciitis • Muscle strains - particularly
common in the hamstrings • S p r a i n s - m o s t common in the ankle Any of these issues justifies a call to ProFysio Physical Therapy. Getting checked out early can prevent an injury that derails your attempt to return to activity. The Doctors of Physical Therapy at ProFysio see all of the issues just mentioned on a regular basis
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and can help safely guide you back into a more active lifestyle.
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WORKING TOGETHER IS HOW WE SUCCEED
Disclaimer: I am writing this letter in my personal capacity as a candidate for Old Bridge Town Council in Ward 4. I am currently a member of the Old Bridge Board of Education, but the thoughts in this letter are my own and do not reflect the opinions of the board as a whole, nor are they being submitted on behalf of the board. I moved to Old Bridge in 1998 with my husband and three small children. We wanted a community to plant our roots and set our boys up for success. We found that here. My oldest started kindergarten two months after moving in, and I immediately became an active volunteer in his
school. I began by serving as a class mom, then moved on to the PTA, where I held various board positions over the next 20 years. My goal was to make sure that all children, not just my own, had the best possible school experience. I love this town; that is why, now that my children are grown, I am running for a seat on our Town Council to represent Ward 4.
As my children grew, I had a desire to be more involved in the success of our school district and ran for the Board of Education. I am currently serving my second term. The Board and the community have faced many challenges during these last few years between state budget cuts and a global pandemic. These challenges offered no perfect solutions, but I am
proud to serve on a board whose membership came together to forge a path forward, even when we sometimes disagreed.
Beyond education, I have always been very interested in our township government and its local politics. I have found that good, effective government can serve as the backbone of society where everyone works together toward a common goal. Yes, there are bumps in the road, and people don't always agree, but these disagreements should result in compromise rather than inaction. Recently, I've witnessed less teamwork and more polarization in our local government. Our local leaders should exemplify unity and inclusion
regardless of national political views and stay focused on the needs of our residents. Unfortunately, our current Council has time and time again injected divisive national politics into our local government, where it has no place. Division does not move us forward. When we ensure every voice is heard and everyone feels welcomed at the table, we can accomplish so much more.
We elect officials based on what we think their values and ideals are, but once they get in office, do we know what they're doing and saying? We all need to pay more attention as our leaders shape the community and our families' experiences. If elected to serve as your Council representative, I pledge that my focus will
remain squarely on local issues, and you will always know my stance. I will form decisions based on input from the residents of Ward 4. Old Bridge is an amazing town, and I have seen firsthand how we always come together when someone is in need; we have done it over and over throughout the years. That is Old Bridge. Communication and respect for each other is critical. Let's focus on Old Bridge and see what we can accomplish when we all work together. Thank you, Jill DeCaro Ward 4 Town Council Candidate decaro4ob.com
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AUGUST 2021
HACKENSACK MERIDIAN RARITAN CALVARY RELIEF DISASTER BAY MEDICAL CENTER OLD BRIDGE RESPONSE MINISTRY TO MEET deploy whenever possible UNVEILED ITS NEW 19 TOTAL to share the hope and love of Christ and to be able PRIVATE EMERGENCY ROOMS send financial support
Jane O’Rourke, chief nursing officer, Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge; Todd Way, president, central market, Hackensack Meridian Health; Robert C. Garrett, chief executive officer, Hackensack Meridian Health; William DiStanislao, interim president, chief hospital executive, vice president, Operations, executive site director, Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge; Dr. Louis Brusco, chief medical officer, Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge, cut the ribbon on the opening of 20 new total private Emergency Room beds. Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge unveiled its new 19 total private Emergency Room patient beds to the public, which is specially designed to meet the emergency needs of the sick and injured while maximizing comfort, increasing efficiency, and reducing wait times. “The new private beds in the emergency room at Raritan Bay Old Bridge will improve patient care and the patient experience and help us live our mission to transform health care,’’ said Robert C. Garrett, chief executive officer, Hackensack Meridian Health. “This is another example of innovating treatment on behalf of the communities we are privileged to serve.’’ In addition to the 19 total private emergency room patient beds, the new Emergency Depart-
ment has received all new medical equipment including an advanced nurse call system that will integrate with multiple hospital systems. This will improve workflow and result in a better patient experience. In the next few months, these rooms will receive digital patient information boards that will provide real time patient information, including the patient’s care team, patient schedule, medical information and much more. “In an emergency, families want access to specialized care close to home,” said William DiStanislao, interim president, chief hospital executive;
vice president, Operations; executive site director, Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge. “We are advancing the quality of care to each one of our patients, by providing the community complete and coordinated care when they need it the most.” The entire new stateof-the-art Emergency Department is projected to open to the public in February 2022, part of a $39 million investment. The project team for the expansion includes Stantec Consulting (Project Management), Francis Cauffman Architects and Turner Construction
Calvary Relief is the Disaster Response Ministry of Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, formed in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Sandy struck this area destroying nearly 650,000 homes and leaving millions without power. Teams from all around the country came to assist as Calvary Chapel Old Bridge organized the effort, responding to the thousands of hurting and desperate people. Many in this area have experienced first-hand what it feels like to be in the midst of disaster and many stepped out to help those in need seeing how powerfully God works in times like this. Since 2012, members of Calvary Relief have
responded to several other disaster needs: Baton Rouge in 2016, Houston and Puerto Rico in 2017, North Carolina in 2018, and Bahamas in 2019. In 2020, Calvary Relief was reorganized and teamed up with Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. Calvary Relief teams have responded five times in 2020 and 2021 to hard-hit areas in Louisiana and Alabama following Hurricanes Laura, Sally and Delta that hit in late summer/ early autumn 2020. Disasters are happening more frequently and violently, and hurricane season is quickly approaching. The vision for Calvary Relief is to
to areas impacted that we are unable to get to. One way you can help is by your financial support. Your support and prayers are vital and very much appreciated in reaching the lost and hurting. Another way to help is to join the effort and go. An informational meeting is scheduled for August 29, 2021 at 12:45PM at Calvar y Chap el Old Bridge, located at 123 White Oak Lane, Old Bridge, New Jersey. No special training or skills are required, just a like-minded faith and heart to help those devastated by disaster. Registration requested, but not required. For more information, to donate, or to register, visit calvaryrelief.org
ROW FOR HUNGER (PAR) HELPS FEED AMERICA’S HUNGRY
Food insecurity in America has become a critical issue for thousands of families throughout the country. Old Bridge residents have a way in which they can support the needs of township families in curbing hungry by donating fresh home-grown food from their garden. A national program called Plant a Row for Hunger (PAR) helps feed America’s hungry. PAR started in the mid 1990’s in Alaska when a garden columnist encouraged readers to plant extra to donate to an Anchorage soup kitchen. Since then, the program has been modeled successfully nationwide - including here in New Jersey.
Backyard gardeners can help the food bank this summer by joining its Plant a Row for the Hungry initiative. A gardener can grow, harvest and donate their bounty without putting them self or someone else at risk. By donating any extra food you’ve grown, you can improve the health of our community. Consider planting an extra row or even a few additional plants to donate to our food pantry. The produce will be given to families in need throughout the growing season. When the produce is ready, pick and drop ready vegetables to specific collection sites. Nanette Gallagher and
Harry Brennan, residents and Master Gardeners with Rutgers Cooperative Extension Program of Middlesex County, will be providing the following information in the next few weeks: When, where and how vegetables may be contributed. Suggestions and tips to help local backyard gardeners for creating a successful garden season. Any local gardener seeking support for growing fruits, vegetables and flowers throughout the growing season can email: hb52152@ optimum.net or gardener1418@gmail.com
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IN MEMOR I A M FRANCIS DOYLE
Januar y 29, 1934 - Ju ly 20, 2021
Francis Michael Doyle passed peacefully into the loving arms of his Lord, surrounded by his beloved family on July 20, 2021. Born to Michael and Rose (Flynn) Doyle on January 29, 1934 in Jersey City, NJ, he was raised in Harrison, NJ, along with his sister Geraldine, who preceded him in death in 2010. Following his education, he attempted to join the army, but because of a hearing problem, he was rejected three times. JEFFREY MAXEIN
September 10, 1961 July 14, 2021 Jeffrey Maxein, 59, of Old Bridge, NJ passed away on July 14, 2021 at the Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge, NJ. Jeffrey was born on Sep-
AUGUST 2021
Finally, after four tries, he was accepted and served during the Korean Crisis of which he was very proud. Everyone thought Frank was a confirmed bachelor until he met the love of his life, Christine (O’Dwyer) Doyle at a friend’s wedding in October, 1967. They were married January 18, 1969 and have been together for 52 years. Two wonderful sons, Thomas and Christopher, blessed their union. Moving to Old Bridge in 1973, Frank joined St. Thomas the Apostle Parish and transferred to St. Thomas Council 4815 Knights of Columbus, where he and his wife enjoyed a wonderful social life. His two sons brought much joy to his life, watching them grow and thrive through the
years and participating in many of their activities. He always said he was so proud to have two sons to pass on the Doyle name. Celebrating his Irish heritage, Frank joined the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh and had been a member for over 25 years. The FSOS was near and dear to his heart. He loved this group and all of the friends he made there through the years. The years passed, and his sons married and gave him two beautiful daughters-in-law who he loved dearly. Frank was a quiet, gentle man, always thinking of everyone else before himself and helping his family out in every way possible. He was a rock to his wife during her battle with cancer, accompanying her to every chemo and
radiation treatment and through all her surgeries. He was the best. Frank read the Star-Ledger every day, and the first section he read was the comics. He always said, “Start the day off with a good laugh.” What a wonderful outlook he had on life. He is survived by his wife Christine: his son Thomas and his wife Candace; his son Christopher and his wife Lori; six grandchildren, Robert Bermingham and his fiancé Toni Mac, Benjamin Bermingham, Arielle Garrido and her husband Marlon, Brian Doyle, Liam Doyle, and Sarah Doyle; one great grandson, Silas Garrido, who is the love of his life, and a wonderful niece, Linda Barbosa and her husband Jorge.
Visitation was held Monday, July 26, 2021, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM at Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 CR 516 Old Bridge, NJ 08857.Funeral services was held on Tuesday, July 27, 2021, 9:30 AM at the St. Thomas the Apostle, 333 NJ-18, Old Bridge, NJ 08857. Private cremation will take place at Jersey Memorial Crematory. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting www.tmcfunding.com/funds/ francis-michael-doyle/5761/
tember 10, 1961 to Frank and Mildred Maxein in Sayreville, NJ. He resided in Sayreville for many years before settling in Old Bridge 14 years ago with his wife Laura. Jeffrey proudly served his country in the United States Navy until his honorable discharge. He then went on to work as a plumber by trade as well as a factory worker. Jeffrey was a loving husband
and father who would do anything for his family. He was a gentle and friendly man with a sincere kindness for others. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. Jeffrey is survived by his loving wife Laura Maxein; his five children, Hope Maxein, Carrie-Ann Maxein, Lexi Maxein, Jodi Packan, and James Packan; his brother Wayne Maxein and his
wife Ann; his sister Patricia Pakela and her husband Gary; and his sister-in-law Susan Maxein. He was preceded in death by his father Frank Maxein; his mother Mildred Maxein; and his brother Thomas Maxein. A memorial service was held on Thursday, July 22, 2021, 4:00pm-5:00pm at Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Rt 516, Old Bridge, NJ 08857.
A Funeral service was held on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at 5:00pm at Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Rt 516, Old Bridge, NJ 08857.
Online condolences can be given at www.oldbridgefh.com.
Online condolences can be given at www.oldbridgefh.com.
FOR ADDI T IONAL OBI T UA R I ES V ISI T W W W.OLDBR I DGE F H .COM
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