All AROUND Old Bridge - September 2020

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OLDBRIDGE

OLD BRIDGE

ALL AROUND

VOL 5, NO 9

OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP SWEARS IN FOUR NEW POLICE OFFICERS

Pictured from left: Captain Joe Mandola, Business Administrator Himanshu Shah, Timothy Funk

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Mayor's office of Economic Development

A Publication for the community of Old Bridge

JAR OF HOPE AND ALL AMERICAN FORD ARE RAFFLING OFF A BRAND NEW MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE

JAR of Hope is a non-profit that raises money for research into a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). They have a close relationship with the All American

Auto Group, who will be donating a 2020 Ford Mustang Convertible to the cause. 100% of the proceeds will benefit JAR of Hope.

You can purchase raffle tickets by

Attention residents: Due to health and safety concerns, the Run for our Heroes 5K scheduled for March 28th has been changed to a Virtual event only.

The Mayor’s Health & Wellness Council in collaboration with All Around Old Bridge will be hosting a

VIRTUAL RUN FOR OUR HERO’S 5K RUN. Wednesday September 16 - Sunday September 20, 2020 All registrants will get a medal and shirt that will be picked up at a date and location TBD. All proceeds goes to the Old Bridge Hometown Hero’s as part of the Mayor’s

visiting www.jarofhopemustang. com. DMD is a rare disease that causes muscles to degenerate, affecting about 20,000 children in the United States. It is a terminal children’s disease with no cure. Jim Raffone is the founder and CEO of JAR of Hope. He founded the non-profit with his wife, Karen, after their son, Jamesy, was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Doctors said that there was nothing they could do for Jamesy, but the Raffones refused to give up.

“JAR of Hope is dedicated to directing funds to find a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Continued on page 3

SEPTEMBER 2020

RARITAN BAY MEDICAL CENTER OLD BRIDGE OPENS NEW ENDOSCOPY SUITE

OB VIRTUAL 5K RUN FOR OUR HERO’S, SEPTEMBER 16-20.

SPONSORED BY:

Pictured from left: Steven Hartmann, Michael Walsh, Nicholas Perrone. Mayor Owen Henry

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Pursuing Progress

Health and Wellness. please visit https://runsignup.com/ Race/NJ/OldBridge/VIRTUALRunforOurHeroes5K For more information. deadline to register is Monday, September 17th.

Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge unveils a new outpatient endoscopy suite. The new suite features larger and more private preparatory and recovery bays, and a waiting/discharge lounge.

The new, self-contained suite is part of the hospital’s outpatient Continued on page 8

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Mayor Owen Henry I hope you had a wonderful summer. Although 2020 has been a year of unparalleled uncertainty, fear and challenges, I believe that our nation and our Old Bridge community shall come out stronger after recovering from impacts of COVID19. The efforts to date by our Township employees, local business owners and residents has been inspiring, and I am eternally grateful.

On Friday, September 11, 2020 at

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

6:00 pm, Old Bridge Township will In anticipation of the upcoming honor and remember all our fami- school year, our Old Bridge Food lies, friends and neighbors who lost Bank partnered with Old Bridge their lives on September 11, 2001. High School Fights Hunger, led The Memorial Service will take place by Matea Mandic, to donate noteat the 9/11 Memorial Site located at books, folders, pens and pencils to the Old Bridge Township Municipal clients with school-aged children.

Complex. In case of inclement I would like to thank the many inwe at h e r, t h e dividuals and s er vice sha ll On Friday, September 11, 2020 partners for take place in at 6:00 pm, Old Bridge Township their contint h e G e o r g e will honor and remember all our ued support of B u s h S i l v e r families, friends and neighbors the Old Bridge Linings Center. who lost their lives on September Food Bank.

11, 2001.

September is National Senior As our Old Center Month. Silver Linings at Bridge Township School District Old Bridge, an Activity Center for begins another year, under unprecAdults 60+, through the wide array edented circumstances, I wish the of services, programs, and activities, parents/guardians, students, staff acts as a catalyst for mobilizing the and faculty a safe, healthy and procreativity, energy, vitality, and com- ductive year. Thank you and be well. mitment of older residents of the ” Township of Old Bridge. I would Mayor Owen Henry like to recognize the contributions of the senior center participants and the special efforts of the staff and volunteers who work every day to enhance the well-being of the older citizens of our community.

SEPTEMBER 2020

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JAR OF HOPE AND ALL AMERICAN FORD Continued from page 1 No parent should have to hear from a doctor that nothing that can be done to help their child. Every raffle ticket that is purchased will help us get one step closer to a world with a cure,” said Jim Raffone, the founder and CEO of JAR of Hope.

“I’d like to thank All American Ford for donating this beautiful Mustang to the cause. When I first saw it in their amazing showroom sporting our JAR of Hope green coloring, I knew we had to do something special with it and the Savino family was all for it.”

The Mustang in this charity raffle is a 2020 Ford Mustang Premium trim with a special black accent package. It boasts a 2.3L EcoBoost engine, 10-speed selectshift automatic transmission and is a convertible. The exterior color is a beautiful Grabber Lime. You can come check out the exact Mustang in this contest by visiting All American Ford in Old

Bridge. Raffle tickets for a chance to win this brand new 2020 Ford Mustang Premium Convertible are just $100 and 100% of the proceeds will benefit JAR of Hope. Tickets can be found online at www.jarofhopemustang.com and are limited to 1,000 total tickets. The raffle will end on November 24th, 2020 and a winner will be announced.

The All American Auto Group is one of the largest auto groups on the East Coast, owned by two partnering families – the Savino’s and the Selman’s. Family members are in the highest positions throughout the group and run the day-to-day operations. The auto group features 7 huge locations across New Jersey in Old Bridge, Point Pleasant, Brick, Hackensack and Paramus. They offer the largest selection, best prices and an award-winning experience throughout sales, service and parts.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

RARITAN BAY MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION WELCOMES NEW TRUSTEE

Laura Bianchini

Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation is pleased to announce the addition of Laura Bianchini to the Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation Board of Trustees.

“We are thrilled to welcome Laura to the board of trustees,” says Joseph Stampe, president and chief development officer, Hackensack Meridian – Meridian Health Foundation, to which the Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation belongs. “Laura is a vital part of the construction team for the new Emergency Department at the medical center’s Old Bridge campus, which will be incredibly beneficial as we work to raise $5 million towards this historic renovation project for Raritan Bay Medical Center and the community.”

Bianchini is the vice president and director of projects for Almasi Companies, a mutigenerational construction company specializing in site work, utility installation, soil remediation and material delivery.

She manages all phases of Almasi’s construction projects, responsible for preparing and administering project budgets, negotiating contracts, quality and cost control and client relations. Additionally, she approves expenditures and payroll, develops and implements jobsite policies and procedures and organizes all project documentation.

Bianchini supervises and evaluates all jobsite employees and subcontractors, administers safety control and ensures compliance of government regulations. She also oversees various other aspects of Almasi, including customer service, communications, sales and marketing.

“I am truly excited to be part of this fantastic board of trustees and to have made a gift in support of the new Emergency Department,” says Bianchini. “Working with the

team literally building the future of health care for Old Bridge is inspiring. Many of the tradespeople working with Almasi on the project live locally and this Emergency Department will serve as the place they bring their own families to receive emergency care. It is personal to me and I look forward to serving the community with my fellow trustees.”

Bianchini will work with fellow trustees, as well as Michael Eagan, M.D., chair of emergency medicine at Raritan Bay Medical Center, and Timothy O’Brien, who are co-chairs in the efforts to raise funds in support of the new Emergency Department.

The funds raised for this project all contribute toward a $150 million fundraising goal as part of Meridian Health Foundation’s Giving Heals campaign. Giving Heals supports four important initiatives: strengthening oncology services, improving clinical outcomes, enhancing the patient experience and broadening clinical research and academic programs at the following Hackensack Meridian Health medical centers in

Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean counties: Bayshore Medical Center, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, Ocean Medical Center, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy, Riverview Medical Center and Souther n O ce an Me dica l C enter.

To learn about how you can make a gift to Raritan Bay Medical Center or to the Giving Heals campaign, please call Linda Hill, executive director, Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation, at 732-3245376, or visit www.Hackensackmeridianhealth.org/givingheals.

ABOUT THE GIVING HEALS CAMPAIGN Giving Heals is a $150 million regional comprehensive campaign

to raise funds for strengthening oncology services, improving clinical outcomes, enhancing the patient experience and broadening clinical research and academic programs.

Publicly announced at the Meridian Health Foundation Gala on November 17, 2018, the campaign will run through 2020. Nearly $110 million has been raised to date to support the following Hackensack Meridian Health medical centers: Jersey Shore University Medical Center, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, Bayshore Medical Center, Ocean Medical Center, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy, Riverview Medical Center and Southern Ocean Medical Center.

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

By Himanshu R. Shah, Business Administrator 1. TROPI- has advanced to Preliminary Design CAL STORM status with construction forecasted ISAIAS: in 5-10 years. The Administration Public Works has contacted State DOT Officials responded to as well as our Senator and As1 0 7 r e p o r t s sembly members to expedite the of trees in the process to install this traffic signal. roadway or 3. THIRD QUARTER TAX down on town- PAYMENTS: The 3rd quarter tax ship property’s collection period concluded on Himanshu R. Shah o n Tu e s d a y August 10, 2020. Although TownA u g u s t 4 t h ship buildings are still closed to the and Wednesday August 5th. The public due to COVID-19 restricdepartment was able to clear 93 tions, the Tax Office was open and locations with township staff, 4 accepting payments online through required the township contrac- our website, at the dropbox located tor and the remaining 10 were near the front doors of the Thomas cleared by utility companies. The J. English Administration BuildDepartment is currently conducting ing, by mail and through signing a township-wide brush pickup. up for automatic withdrawal.

2. ROUTE 34 TRAFFIC 4. SALT WATER DAY: Salt SIGNAL: Old Bridge Township has Water Day has been cancelled been pursuing a traffic signal along due to COVID-19. This event is Route 34 at the Morristown Road/ not being rescheduled for 2020.

Amboy Road intersection since 5. SILVER LININGS AT OLD early 1980’s. In early 2000, the State BRIDGE: Mayor Owen Henry of New Jersey finally determined will kick off National Senior that a signal was warranted at this Center Month in September at intersection. As of now, the project the Township’s award-winning

George Bush Center Silver Linings at Old Bridge. More information about Senior Center Month will be available on our township website, oldbridge.com/silverlinings.

6. SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL SERVICE: The Township will be holding its annual September 11 Memorial Ceremony following CDC Guidelines at the memorial site at Old Bridge Plaza.

This Memorial Ceremony will be limited to family members of those residents we are honoring.

7. OLD BRIDGE DAY: Old Bridge Day has been cancelled due to COVID-19. This event has not been rescheduled for 2020.

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Pursuing Progress

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Mayor's office of Economic Development

SEPTEMBER 2020

OLD BRIDGE LIBRARY PROVIDES CURBSIDE PICKUP The Old Bridge Public Librar y continues to of fer curbside service to patrons. “ T h e O l d Br i d ge P u bl i c Library is routinely voted as the “Best” or “One of the Best” libraries in Middlesex County by readers of the Home News Tribune” stated Mayor Henry.

Patrons may place orders for curbside pickup in one of three ways; placing holds electronically through our online catalog, email OBPLcurbside@gmail.com or call 732.721.5600 x5010.To use curbside service, patrons must be a current Old Bridge Library cardholder, with no fines outstanding in excess of $5.00.

THINK OLD BRIDGE

MAYOR’S OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSISTING BUSINESSES IN A VARIETY OF WAYS

By Steve Mamakas, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office Old Bridge is our Local Businesses” as they are bouncing back. working hard at being there for us T h e M a y o r, during these challenging times. As Council, Ad- the town continues to recover, we ministration, are excited to say this month. You Mayor’s Office will see two major franchise chains of Economic open in Old Bridge. CHIC-FIL-A Development located at Texas road just off Route 9 and township and TRACTOR SUPPLY located on department Route 527 near the racetrack. Great Steve Mamakas c o nt i nu e t o additions that prove Old Bridge is provide Old Bridge with assistants the place to invest for the future. and support programs dedicated to help in the recovery efforts. As the Shop, Dine and Buy Local town rolls into the September the businesses still need the full support of the community. As we visit busiOLD BRIDGE nesses throughout the Town, we see the drive, determination and optimism of the owners and staff eager to accommodate the customers. As _ _ _ _ _ you enter the establishments it’s nice Pursuing Progress to see many of the familiar faces Mayor's office of back working and ready to assist Economic Development the customers. We ask all our residents to “Please Keep Supporting

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEATURE BUSINESS

DOLCE VITA CUCINA ITALIAN RESTAURANT 41 NJ-34, OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP, NJ 08857

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.

SEPTEMBER 2020

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RARITAN BAY MEDICAL CENTER OLD BRIDGE OPENS NEW ENDOSCOPY SUITE

Continued from page 1 services located in its Medical Office Building at 2 Hospital Plaza.

“Patients will be able to receive endoscopy care in a new environment designed to provide a more comfortable experience—without having to travel far from home,” said Thomas Shanahan, chief hospital executive, Raritan Bay Medical Center. “ The new endoscopy suite at Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge provides the most advanced care for all gastroenterology needs, including both complex and routine procedures such as colonoscopies; upper GI endoscopies to diagnose and treat problems in the esophagus, stomach and small intestine; pulmonary bronchoscopies and procedures to diagnose diseases of the gallbladder, biliary system, pancreas and liver. It will also support diagnoses and provide therapies for digestive health dis-

orders such as acid reflux, Crohn’s disease, gastritis, peptic ulcers, gallstones, appendicitis, and more.

“The new endoscopy suite’s advanced equipment and efficient layout offer an ideal setting in which to provide the highest quality of patient-centered care,” said Sanjeev Nayyar, M.D., interim division director, Gastroenterology and president, medical staff, Raritan Bay Medical Center.

Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge is currently undergoing a major revitalization with a $39 million investment expanding its Emergency Department. The new endoscopy suite is part of that transformation.

P h o t o c ap t i o n : Ne w E n doscopy Suite at Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge.

9 which acknowledge LIVING STONES intheourgreatcapitals impact of the Bible. And THE PROBLEM OF THE HEART The Judeo-Christian inf luence in the founding documents of America did not make us a Christian nation, but they did pave the way for the kind

By Lloyd Pulley, of freedoms and Senior Pastor, prosperity that Calvary Chapel have caused this Old Bridge nation to thrive.

Principles such as the dignity and worth of all human life are found in the Bible. The Bible reveals the depraved nature of people through sin and shows the need for human government to punish crime and let healthy self-government flourish in a just system. The Bible was the main source for abolitionists of slavery to influence the public conscience in acknowledging basic God-given human value. The Bible was key in providing a clear biblical framework, influencing millions in early-American education. Monuments abound

today that history and that greatness are being systematically removed.

How did we drift so far as to permit a “cancel-culture” to rewrite our history and destroy the monuments of our past? “Tear it all down” is shouted by Marxist leaders of the BLM movement, which is clearly not about black lives mattering. Sadly, monuments are being torn down by those who have no clue as to why they were there in the first place.

Highlighting a few evils among billions recorded is not representative of the whole picture but is useful to incite mobs by political agitators.

But truth is not truth when it is not the whole truth! I am much more apt to trust the account of numerous local witnesses in these affairs than the cleverly manufactured and carefully edited mainstream media.

In a time of similar political intrigue, the prophet Isaiah wrote in Isaiah 59:14-15, “Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands afar off, for truth is fallen in the street… so truth fails, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.”

The only place I am absolutely confident to get the truth of human

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE nature and our world is from the Bible, from which we should test all ideas, theories and opinions.

Modern theories driving socialist movements assume the basic goodness of people. The Bible contradicts this fallacy, teaching of the sin nature in all of us. This is seen clearly in our inherent tendency to lie, steal and live for self. A child needs correction and training to behave rightly. Considering the vast number of fatherless homes, no wonder we are imploding. There are those who maintain if we change the environment people will be good, but behavior modification works only for animals and not so much for humans. It does make for useful propaganda, however, for those who want to convince you that their vision of utopia will bring about world peace. But until there are no longer sinners, we will need to continue to rely on a balance of laws and punishment to hold evildoers accountable. America has been a shining example to the rest of the world for centuries, but wherever Communism has gone, oppression, death and destruction have followed.

While a hostile takeover of America by socialists is one extreme

SEPTEMBER 2020 to bring about this utopia, on the other extreme is the new age or new spirituality teaching that if we can all just “think peaceful thoughts” we can bring about a great awakening and societal change. Some proponents go so far to say we are on the brink of a whole new age where we will evolve from humanity to godhood. And even further, some believe enlightened ones, even extra-terrestrials, are present to help guide us towards this great awakening. The Bible exposes this as the ultimate deception. Eve was tricked by Satan to believe that in rebelling against God, she could become like God herself.

Both socialist and new age alternatives attempt to distort the Bible’s teachings as repressive morality.

But the Bible describes a path of freedom. Only by believing in God’s provision through the gospel can one experience a true change of heart and receive rescue from impending judgment. The gospel is the good news that the sacrificial love and substitutionary death of Jesus on the cross can save from sin. Having encountered the gospel in my own life, I can testify to how trusting Jesus broke long-standing

chains of greed, hatred, racism and selfishness in me. The problem is not in the environment! It is in the heart! Jesus can change the heart.

When the heart is changed in vast numbers, society is greatly altered. This is evidenced in our history during times of religious revivals where many were returning to the pages of Bible. Lives touched by the love and forgiveness of God changed everything.

This love is worked out in commitment in families where fathers and mothers sacrifice, pouring into their children. And those in public service actually served the public for its good conscientiously. When people follow the heart of Jesus in love for others racism and injustice fade away. “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”

(John 15:13). Read your Bibles!

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PET ADOPTION

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.

Adding a pet to your home is a commitment for life – the life of the pet.

The commitment for care is 365 days a year. Consider the time and cost involved before falling in love with a kitten or puppy. Maybe your household can only take on fish or other less demanding option.

Pets have accidents and suffer illnesses. Will your lifestyle permit you to allot the time necessary to care for your pet? Do work obligations or travel demands impact your ability to care for a pet?

Consider personal factors when adopting a pet. Do you or anyone in your family have allergies to pets? Are you restricted in any way that would make it difficult to be responsible for a pet? If you are a renter, make sure you know what pets are permitted, if any, in your complex. If you live in a homeowners’ association-governed community, review the bylaws to see if there are restrictions on pets.

Make sure your residence is suitable for pet ownership. Both your home and your yard need to be safe for your new addition. Understand that wear and tear on your home is not unusual. Shedding is chronic. For some pets, there will be the added expense of grooming.

Yo u r h o m e n e e d s t o b e “pet proofed” with valuable items kept out of reach of a chewing dog or a playful cat.

Understand and recognize the unique characteristics of the pet of your choice. Do your research as you consider the size and breed of your pet. Know which

breeds suit your lifestyle. Do not expect a pup bred to hunt or herd to be content as a couch potato.

Make sure you are able to provide sufficient exercise and stimulation for your pets. Dogs need exercise to help avoid behavioral problems, and cats need playtime, too.

If you have other pets at home, how will those pets react to a new addition? Be prepared to supervise the introductions and time together until you know they can be trusted.

A young animal requires time and patience. You will need to work with them to successfully get through their adolescence.

Housebreaking, chewing, training and every level of your pet’s life brings changes and challenges that should be contemplated in advance.

When you go away on vacation or travel for work, you will need to have a backup plan.

Be sure to examine and prepare for the expense of caring for a pet.

Not only will there be a cost for food and supplies but also routine veterinary care such as de-worm-

ers, flea and tick prevention and vaccinations. If your pet gets sick or is diagnosed with a chronic disorder, such as diabetes, seizures, cardiac problems or thyroid issues, to name a few, you will need to be prepared for the cost and time needed to treat these issues. Pet health insurance is beneficial to assist with veterinary costs.

Make sure your entire family is on board and will accept the responsibility of pet care. If children are involved, make sure the pet is children-friendly. Teach the children how to interact with the pet in a safe and gentle manner.

SEPTEMBER 2020

Keep in mind that surrendering a pet is painful for both the pet and family members. Planning ahead will avoid that crisis.

There is much involved in pet ownership, but the enjoyment and companionship that pets provide outweigh all the efforts.

Please consider adopting. There are many pets in need of a loving home. Please visit the Old Bridge Animal Shelter off Route 516 in the Municipal Complex. Call for an appointment at 732-7215600, ext. 6300. Visit the website: http://www.oldbridge.com/ content/5146/5233/default.aspx

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SOUTH OLD BRIDGE FIRE DEPARTMENT TIPS OF THE MONTH As the weather outside starts to become cooler the South Old Bridge Fire Department wants to give the residents of Old Bridge a few reminders: • When using a fire pit or a BBQ grill be sure to always keep them covered with the intended lid, never leave them uncovered for a long period time as that allows embers to fly into the air a poses a risk of starting another fire.

• Always maintain a respectful behavior when around fire, never fool around near a fire and never mess around a fire as well.

• When enjoying a fire pit in the cooler weather, if a wooden fire pit, never put it on a wooden structure or near a structure like a house.

Make sure to either far enough from your home and to set it down on pavers/bricks or just the lawn.

• Never leave anything in your yard unattended whether that is a fire pit

or a BBQ, and never leave kids unattended around these objects as well.

• Lastly, when cleaning up for the day/night remember to turn everything off completely, make sure the fire pit is out completely before going inside and leaving it alone, never leave anything still smoldering up against a structure or object that could ignite and catch fire.

Overall the South Old Bridge Fire Department wants you to enjoy the cooler weather and the rest of the summer months, but remember to stay safe while doing it and that we are always are simple call away.

Are you or anyone you know interested in becoming a Volunteer Firefighter? South Old Bridge Fire Department is always in need of more help, if you are possibly interested in becoming a member visit our website at sobfd.com and apply or email our Vice President at vpresident@sobfd.com.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

OLD BRIDGE LIBRARY We’ve heard loud and clear that the public has missed the library during our pandemic-related closure. Therefore, the Old Bridge Public Library couldn’t be more excited to report that we’re resuming some appointment-based services beginning on Tuesday, August 25th!

Starting that day, patrons will be able to file passport applications, book Internet browsing sessions, notarize documents, and use our wireless printing service by making appointments with us ahead of time.

Limited passport services will be available on an appointment-only basis on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Customers can apply for new passports or take passport photos in our office. Due to governmental restrictions, we are unable to expedite passport applications at this time. To book a passport appointment at the Old Bridge Public Library, please email passports@oldbridgelibrary.org.

Patrons will also be able to book Internet computer appointments in a clean, socially-distanced setting, also on Tuesdays through

Saturdays. Computer appointments will last for a maximum of 45 minutes. To schedule a computer appointment, please email computer@oldbridgelibrary.org.

Patrons can also use our wireless printing service to print their documents without needing a computer. To learn more about this service, please visit http://www. oldbridgelibrary.org/adults/computer-center/wireless-printing/.

Wireless-printed documents can be picked up via our Curbside Service on Tuesdays through Saturdays.

We will also resume notarizing documents for Old Bridge Public Library customers. Old Bridge residents can notarize up to three documents daily with no charge. Appointments can be scheduled by emailing notary@oldbridgelibrary.org.

Curbside Service for library materials will continue during this time. We’re changing the days and hours we offer curbside service in response to customer demand.

Starting Tuesday, August 25th, Curbside Service will run from 2pm to 7pm on Tuesdays through

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Fridays, and from 12pm to 5pm on Saturdays. The other appointment-based services listed above will also be offered on these days. For more information ab out Cu r b s i d e Ser vice, please visit our website at http://www.oldbridgelibrary.org/.

Thank you for all of the patience you showed during our closure. Please check www.oldbridgelibrary.org for updates, and you can reach us at (732) 721-5600 x. 5010.

We look forward to seeing you at the library soon!

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732-723-0023 1314 Englishtown Road Old Bridge, NJ 08857

The Essentials for Keeping Young Athletes Fit & Healthy Dr. Ira Shapiro, Director of the Plaza Chiropractic Center in Old Bridge, New Jersey

The play of any sport can end badly without the proper preparation.

Mainly due to the competitive nature and rigorous training schedules of the activities, more than one million American children and teens experience sports-related injuries each year. Sports like football, basketball, wrestling and rugby are the leading culprits due to the high-contact and impact demands of the event themselves. But then again, approximately 30,000 cheerleaders wind up in the hospital annually for everything from ankle, wrist and knee injuries to concussions.

While young athletes often think they’re invincible, the truth is they can be highly susceptible to wide ranging injuries due to a combination of improper stretching, training, warmup and weight-lifting practices.

Doing all with the proper form and supervision are essential for keeping every child safe and injury-free.

Also don’t forget the importance of nutrition and hydration. While an ordinary person may need to drink eight to ten 8-ounce glasses of water each day, athletes need even more. If you start to feel thirsty, then

you’ve already started to dehydrate and set the stage for cramps, pulls, strains, sprains and other injuries.

Breakfast is another essential element. It’s not just a cliché. Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. A simple morning meal consisting of cereal, toast and peanut butter will likely not only provide the energy needed for a healthy workout, but also reduce the late afternoon or evening craving for cookies, candy or chips.

In addition, here are several other tips for helping to ensure your child’s safe participation in just about any sport: • Follow a warm-up routine. Be sure your child or his/her coach includes a warm-up and stretching session before every practice, game or meet. A slow jog, jumping rope and/ or lifting small weights reduces the risk of torn or ripped muscles.

Flexibility is key when pushing to score that extra goal or make that critical play • Take vitamins daily. A multi-vitamin and Vitamin C are good choices for the young athlete. Vitamin B and

amino acids may help reduce the pain from contact sports. Thiamine can help promote healing.

Also consider Vitamin A to strengthen scar tissue • Avoid trendy supplements.

Kids under the age of 18 should avoid the use of performance-enhancing supplements, such as creatine. Instead, they should ask their coach or trainer to include weekly weight training and body-conditioning sessions in their workout • Get plenty of rest. Eight hours of sleep is ideal for the young athlete. Lack of sleep and rest can decrease performance.

Sluggishness, irritability and loss of interest could indicate that your child is fatigued For more information on creating better, fitter and healthier lives for the entire family please contact the Plaza Chiropractic Center at 732-723-0023 or visit www. plazachiro.com. Our trained staff will be happy to work with you, no matter your age or condition, to develop a safe and effective wellness program that complements your life style and offers long-lasting fitness rewards

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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