Branchburg News - May 2023

Planners Hear Evans Way Traffic Study Testimony

The Branchburg Township Planning Board heard testimony on noise and traffic likely to be generated by the proposed S/K Stoney Brook Associates of Jersey City warehouse development on Evans Way, as the hearing continued on April 11 in the Municipal Building.

Three warehouse buildings would be constructed on the 43-acre property in the Evans Way Redevelopment Area at Old York Road, between Route 202 and Stony Brook Road. The plan is compliant with the township’s redevelopment plan adopted as a result of a settlement of a lawsuit brought by S/K Stoney Brook Associates in 2021.

Branchburg planners and traffic experts for both the township and the developer agreed that “traffic movement is failing” and severely backing up at times at the intersection of Route 202 and Old York Road where tractor trailers would enter and exit to get to Evans Way. While all agreed an issue exists, all acknowledged that the developer legally cannot be held responsible or held back for a so-called “off site” issue. The expert for the developer said that the traffic that would come from the proposed warehouse site is “insignificant” as it relates to the intersection and that, in any case, the faulty intersection falls under the state’s jurisdiction, not Branchburg’s. Further, he said, the proposed development is a permitted use. Many residents spoke about noise and traffic concerns given that the site will operate 24/7.

The hearing will continue on May 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building.

Branchburg Teachers Make Magic

She is often seen in the hallways offering students individualized attention, from facilitating different sensory activities to working through big feelings with kindergarten students. Erica puts deep thought into her lesson planning, and she understands the importance of differentiating instruction for a wide range of learning styles. Her ultimate goal is to help students grow at their own pace and as a result, her kindergarten stu-

dents grow tremendously. Erica goes the extra mile and does many things, including tutoring, and she also attends special student events outside of school such as baseball games or family functions. She also works hard to build relationships with families, and has a well-known reputation to be in constant contact with parents and guardians, keeping the lines of communication between school and home completely open.

Bella Russo and Erica VielDeSimone have been named to the Magic 98.3 Teachers Who Make Magic Class of 2023.

Ms. Russo is a 4th grade teacher at Stony Brook School and was nominated by Principal Kristen Kries, who wrote the following:

“In 4 short years, Bella Russo has created a classroom environment where all students are given the support needed to meet success. Her kindness as an educator is unwavering and she brings positivity to all that she does.

Bella has created a model of instruction where all students get what they need. Her classroom is an environment where students are not afraid to take risks knowing that they will receive support and guidance.

She teaches students how to be great learners, school community members and friends. She celebrates their success and her pride in all of them is evident! Bella is an excellent com-

municator and partners with the families of her students to support individual needs, and as a result, students flourish in her classroom.

Mrs. Viel-DeSimone is a kindergarten/ special education teacher at Whiton Elementary School and was nominated by Principal Dee Shober, who wrote the following:

“Erica is one of those team players everyone wants to work with! She not only looks out for her grade level colleagues, but any staff member who needs support and mentorship. She’s always willing to help out with anything, including planning, technology issues, classroom management and organization.

She’s not only a reflective practitioner who cares deeply about her work, but also places herself in a leadership role. In this capacity, she works with administration to support her colleagues and provides a safe space for learning and growing. Erica prioritizes the whole child;

Bella Russo Erica Viel-DeSimone

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The Branchburg News is mailed monthly, free-of-charge to every mailing address in Branchburg Township. Free copies are also available for distribution in places of business, schools, and municipal offices.

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Job Seekers May 3

Jewish Family Service of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties is offering a Job Seekers Success Group from 7 to 9 p.m. via Zoom. The topic is “The Multigenerational Workplace” presented by Jan Goodman, Community Outreach Specialist Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Center Training Services. Registration is required to receive the Zoom invitation and to be admitted to the group. To register or for information about Career Counseling Services, contact Elise Prezant at eprezant@JewishFamilySvc.org or 908-725-7799 X108.

Free Concert May 5

The Friends of the Bridgewater Library, 1 Vogt Dr., Bridgewater, are sponsoring a free concert featuring Nick Arrechea, piano soloist, who will present an innovative program that fuses the music of pop culture with the techniques of jazz and classical music from 7 to 8:30 p.m. All are welcome.

Derby Day May 6

Mane Stream in Oldwick will host “Party in the Paddock,” a casual

Upcoming Events

event to raise funds for children and adults with special needs, from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy a jampacked Kentucky Derby-themed event including 50/50 raffle and derby hat contest. Call 908-4399636 or visit ManeStreamNJ.org for details and ticket info.

Job Fairs May 6 & 16

The Greater Workforce Development Board (GRWDB) will conduct two free job fairs. The May 6 job fair will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the first-floor conference room at the Somerset County Human Services Building, 27 Warren St., Somerville. To register, email info@thegrwdb. org or call 908-541-5790. The job fair May 16 will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Balaji Temple Auditorium at the Hindu Temple and Cultural Society, located at 1

Balaji Temple Dr. (off Route 202206) in Bridgewater. To register, email info@thegrwdb.org or call 908-541-5790.

Knights

Golf Event May 12

Our Lady of Lourdes Council 6930 Knights of Columbus

Whitehouse Station presents its 19th Annual Foursome Scramble

Charity Golf Event at 9 a.m. at the High Bridge Hills Golf Club, 203 Cregar Rd., High Bridge. For Information contact Bill Murphy 908-500-2999 or wkmurphy@att. net; Gerry Boylan 908-500-2999 or gboylan@embarqmail.com.

Coffee with the Mayor May 13

Branchburg Mayor David Owens will host a casual discussion in the courtroom at the Municipal Building from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Food Truck Fest May 13

The Branchburg Food Truck and Music Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at White Oak Park. Activities for the family will include live music, a variety of food, and vendors.

Historic Open House May 20

The Andrew Ten Eyck House on Old York Road will be open to visitors from 1 to 4 p.m. Take a tour and learn some Branchburg history.

Upcoming Events,

continued from page 2

Tricky Tray May 20

The Somerville High School Music Boosters Association will host the Annual Tricky Tray Fundraiser in-person at SHS. Go to www. shsmbanj.com for ticket information.

Legal Runaround 5K May 25

The Somerset County Bar Foundation will host its 18th Annual Legal Runaround 5K Run and 3K Walk on May 25 at 5 p.m. in Downtown Somerville. The event benefits Steps Together, an organization that supports Somerset County families facing a medical crisis.

Laps For Lex June 4

The 3rd Annual Iron Girl Project 5K Run & 1M Walk will be held at Duke Island Park in Bridgewater beginning at 8:30 a.m. For details and registration visit irongirlproject.org.

Ride for the River June 17 Raritan Headwaters Association will host the 20th annual motorcycle poker run that takes place across the Upper Raritan watershed region. Contact 908-2341852 Ext. 319 or raritanheadwaters.org for registration info.

At press time, the ballot for the June 6 Primary Election had two Republicans vying for one threeyear seat on the Branchburg Township Committee. Newcomer Steven Price will challenge incumbent James Schworn.

In a statement, Price said he is the first Republican Primary challenger in 11 years, since 2012. He said he is running “because of concern that the committee has not taken residents’ concerns seriously regarding overdevelopment, environmental destruction and our quality of life.”

Price is married and has one child. He and his family have lived in Branchburg since 2011.

Get Snapping. . .

Branchburg Photo Contest

Submit your local landscape photo (providing your name, address and age) to: bburgcontest@ gmail.com. Deadline for entries is Aug. 1, 2023. Winner will be chosen at the 2023 Branchburg Country Fair. First Prize receives a $100 gift card. The photo contest is sponsored by the Branchburg Township Communications Committee.

GOP Primary Election Challenge

He is retired from the biotech field where his specialty was blood cancers. He now runs a garlic farm in Branchburg. For details, visit Citizens4Branchburg.com.

Schworn, who co-authored the November referendum allowing the township to spend taxpayer money to buy properties in the North Branch section to avoid warehouse or additional afford-

able housing development, is seeking his fifth term. A 20-year Branchburg resident, he has four daughters, Sarah, Jenna, Emily and Caitlin.

Larken Associates Honored at Builders Convention

year marks the second time that Larken Associates has been recognized at the SAM Awards and exemplifies the firm’s continued growth as one of the region’s premier multifamily developers and managers.

Larken Associates of Branchburg received three Sales & Marketing (SAM) Awards for Hillsborough Village Center, a brand-new multifamily community, at the 35th annual Atlantic Builders Convention hosted recently by the New Jersey Builders Association in Atlantic City. Each year, the SAM Awards recognize excellence in design

and marketing by celebrating the industry’s most creative and successful sales and marketing professionals as well as groundbreaking projects and initiatives. This

Completed in 2022, Hillsborough Village Center was quickly leased through a combination of data-driven and tailored marketing strategies executed by Larken Associates’ Creative/Marketing Director Melissa Nascimento and her team. Harnessing their creativity, vision and unique understanding of how to market and build a sense of community at multifamily properties, Nascimento’s team was able to fully lease the community prior to its opening.

Pictured are Sally Stansley, Senior Graphic Designer and Marketing Coordinator; Melissa Nascimento, Creative/Marketing Director; and Jillian Dorell, Director of Design.

TOWNSHIP OF BRANCHBURG

Municipal Building News | in print and online at www.branchburg.nj.us

‘Our Work is Your Play’ ***

Recreation News***

CAMP COUSELORS NEEDED for Teen Scene Camp, must be 18 or older. CALL US at 908-526-1300 x 187

Spring Programs have begun! Check the township website for the Spring & Summer Program booklet. Register online through Community Pass!

SUMMER CAMP Registration ends

May 19th. The Camp booklet is posted on the Township website!

Teen Scene trip packets due back 6/2.

BBSSCP

Starting Memorial Day weekend: 11-7pm and weekends only.

June 24th-Everyday!

~ Summer Fun ~

FREE Tuesdays: June 20, July 11 & 25

@ Dusk at White Oak Park Field # 3 outfield.

Whitehouse Wind Symphony Concert

June 20 at the White Oak Park Pavilion, 7 - 8pm its FREE!

National Night Out – August 1 st

Stay tuned for more info!

Follow Branchburg Recreation on Facebook at:

www.facebook.com/BranchburgRec 908-526-1300 x 187 or 188

The 2023 Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, June 6th. Polls will be open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The last day to register to vote for the Primary Election is May 17th (21 days prior to the election). The last day to change your party affiliation was April 13th (55 days prior to the election).

Voting Options for 2023 Primary Election include: Early Voting which will be available from June 3rd through June 5th. There will be six early voting locations in Bridgewater Township, Franklin Township, Hillsborough Township, Montgomery Township, North Plainfield Borough, and Bernards Township. Vote-by-Mail If you have elected to receive a Voteby-Mail ballot for all future elections a ballot will automatically be mailed to you. If you would like to utilize this option, applications must be received by mail in the County Clerk ’s office no later than 7 days prior to the election, or in person no later than 3:00 PM the day before the election. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by 8:00 PM on election day, or ballots can be placed in one of the 17 designated drop boxes located within the County, or delivered to the Somerset County Board of Election by 8:00 PM on Election Night. InPerson on Election Day, please see your sample ballot for your designated polling location. Vote-by-Mail applications, voter registration or party declaration forms are available in the municipal office or on the township website at www.branchburg.nj.us, please click on Document Center and look under Election Information. These forms are also available in the Somerset County offices or on the county website at https://www.co.somerset.nj.us/government/ affiliated-agencies/election-board/forms. For additional information, call the Township Clerk’s office at 908-526-1300 ext. 104.

2023 Pool Registration Now Open!

Branchburg Girls Basketball Team Wins Championship

The 5th grade girls Travel Basketball Team from Branchburg took home the Jersey Basketball League (JBL) Championship for the 2022-2023 season. The team was ranked seventh and fought hard to beat the fifth, third and second seeded teams to claim the Championship.

—Submitted by Tracey

Rabbitt

Vote in June 6th Elections

Steven Price for Township Committee

• 11 year Resident

• Cares about the community

• Open, honest, transparent

• Believes in Term Limits

When people are in positions too long, they stagnant in creativity and production. We need new thinking in local government.

Citizens4Branchburg.com

Pictured (from left) are Coach John DeAmorin, Piper Stellpflug, Emma Asimoglou, Kate DeAmorin, Lyric Peterson, Emma Toscano, Aurelia Midura, Fallon Tremel, Mackenzy Lovejoy, Shannon McLoughlin, and Coach Jamie Lovejoy. (Not pictured: Gia Dawson)

Branchburg Woman’s Club Installation Dinner Planned

By Kate Sarles

On Thursday, May 25, the Branchburg Woman’s Club will hold its annual installation dinner at the Stoney Brook Grille at 6 p.m. In addition to the installation of the club’s 2023-2024 officers, the members will have the opportunity to indicate their interest in the club’s various groups and other activities by signing up.

Each year the club sponsors a female Somerville High

School junior to participate in the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs’

“Girls Career Institute’’ held at Douglass Residential College at Rutgers University. This three-day event was established in 1947 by the NJSFWC and offers young women entering their senior year of high school the opportunity to spend three days living on a college campus, sampling cafeteria food and attending lectures offered by profession-

als representing various career paths. This year, the girls will make “no sew” blankets as their joint volunteer project. They will also work together to present a 10-minute creative play at “Spirit Night.” In addition, the girls are encouraged to bring examples from home of their special talents. These they present during an Art Show which is designed to highlight their varied interests and is not a competition. These young women have a very busy three days during

which they are exposed to information that may help them make career decisions, meet new friends and just have fun. The college swimming pool is also open to them during their stay.

If you would like to attend a Branchburg Woman’s Club meeting and experience our dedication to volunteerism and each other, please call 908458-6832 or message branchburgwomansclub@gmail.com.

Touch A Truck & Dueling Pianos

The Rotary Club of Branchburg will hold its annual Touch A Truck event at RVCC on June 24 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be trucks of all shapes and sizes and heavy equipment for the children to climb on and explore as well as a truck simulator. The State Police helicopter will be arriving for a demo at 2 p.m. and the Police Canine Unit will be on hand throughout the day. Food and music will also be featured.

Dueling Pianos, featuring the Flying Ivories, is set for Friday, June 9, at the Bradley Gardens Fire House, 24 Old York Rd., Bridgewater. Buffet and open bar 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Entertainment/ cash bar to follow at 7:30. Tickets: $400 per table of 8; $55 per individual. Send checks payable to: Branchburg Rotary, P.O. Box 5135, Branchburg, NJ 08876. Questions? Call 908-581-5034

Share Your Talent at 4-H Fair

The annual 4-H Fair, attended by 60,000, is scheduled for Aug. 9-11 at the Somerset County Fairgrounds at North Branch Park in Bridgewater. Talented musicians are needed to fill the Showmobile stage and the two smaller stages in the Prep Tent and the Clover Theater Café from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The search is on for a great vari-

ety of family-friendly performers: bands, musicians, singers, dancers, and others. Send your demo CD to the Ted Blum 4-H Center at 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater, NJ 08807, some song sampling from your social media platform to Betty Sommerville at 4hanimeleader@gmail.com or call the 4-H Office at 908-526-6644 to arrange for an audition at one of your gigs.

An enthusiastic member of the Somerset County Association Fair Entertainment Committee will gladly go to your gig to see and hear you in action. Deadline is May 31 to increase your chances of performing this year on a stage at the 2023 Somerset County Fair celebrating “75 years and growing strong.”

33rd Stream Cleanup

–Hundreds of volunteers turned out for the Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA) massive Stream Cleanup event on Saturday, April 15, from 9 a.m. to noon. The Stream Cleanup, which is timed to coincide with Earth Week, draws individuals, families, scout troops, church members, business teams, civic groups, and environmental commissions. Pictured are the Rudko and Peterson families of Branchburg who picked up trash along the South Branch of the Raritan River near the old Lipton plant in Readington Township.

Branchburg Newsmakers

on March 27. Ronald, a graduate of Somerville High School (class of 2015), and Rutgers University (class of 2019) will be graduating from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine this month as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). Bethany, a graduate of the University of Delaware (class of 2019), will also be graduating from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine this May with her DVM degree.

for Parliamentary Procedure and Avantika Malla of Branchburg won fifth place for Client Service as the Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School (SCVTHS) students competed against other students from around the state as part of the 2023 New Jersey Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference last month. Of the fourteen SCVTHS competitors, nine received top 10 placements, and seven finished first in their respective competitions. The first-place state winners are now eligible to compete in Atlanta, GA,

Barkley’s May Events

at the National FBLA Leadership Conference in June.

Loretta Di Bianca Fois, Raritan Valley Community College Professor of Dance, is among 96 artists selected for a 2023 Individual Artist Fellowship from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Fois was chosen from 635 eligible applicants in seven artistic disciplines. It is the third time she is being recognized by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Professor Fois also received Choreography Fellowship Awards in 2017 and 2011.

May 1, 8, 15, 22 - Barkley’s Community Dog Walks, White Oak Park, 6:30 p.m. Meet at the fountain. Check Barkley’s Marketplace - Branchburg on Facebook for last minute weather info and updates or call 908-997-0506.

May 6 - Professional Pet Portraits, Barkley’s Marketplace, 3150 US-22 (near ShopRite), Branchburg, 6 p.m.8 p.m. Pets and humans are welcome, appointment is required. Info and registration: barkleysmarketplace.com.

May 6, 13, 20 - Adoption Events with Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue, Barkley’s Marketplace, Branchburg, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

3290 Route 22 West, Branchburg 908-526-5444

MARILYN RUTISHAUSER Broker/Sales Associate Sales Representative 908-930-6731

HTTPS://MARILYN-RUTISHAUSER.WEICHERT.COM

MarilynNJRealtor@aol.com

5 Star Zillow Agent

Opening Doors

Every Day!!

OPEN HOUSE MAY 6 & 7, 1-4 pm • 5 Heritage Court, Branchburg

COMING SOON

Welcome to this impressive stately. home, featuring a classic yet modern sophistication. The circular driveway and perennial plantings create a welcoming curb appeal. The grand foyer with an open staircase and palladian window sets the tone for the rest of the home. The formal living room, conservatory, dining room, and sunken family room, anchored by a magnificent stone fireplace, all offer their own unique spaces for entertaining guests or relaxing. The Chef's kitchen with stainless appliances, granite countertops, and breakfast bar for intimate dining is a dream for anyone who loves to cook. The first level also includes a den/bedroom with full bath, powder room, and laundry room. The rear yard is a beautiful oasis with a patio for outdoor dinners, a pool with waterfalls surrounded by specimen plantings and privacy fencing. The second level boasts four bedrooms with oversized closets. A luxurious master suite with a private master bath featuring a whirlpool tub and shower is the perfect escape for the stresses of everyday life. In addition, a secondary bonus/family room complete this level. The finished basement offers yet another space to entertain family and friends. This home truly has it all, including hardwood flooring, wainscoting, french doors, cathedral ceilings and a three-car garage for ample storage. LP $1,199,000

Ronald P. Rinaldi III of Branchburg and Bethany Joy Hughes of Warminster, PA, were married

Pari Malla of Branchburg was on the first-place winning team

Ronald and Bethany Rinaldi

The rebirth of the Raritan River is symbolized by a waxing moon hovering above a bald eagle, perched along the river, teeming with ancient fisheries, whose recovery is a result of recent dam removals. A birthstone to define the Raritan River as an entity removes its status as a documented enigma and affords it the respect and honor it deserves.

Where the Raritan Flows, No One Knows

North Branch of the Raritan River as the Raritan River.

The Raritan River is the longest river that flows within NJ, its rich, pre- and post-colonial history well documented in archives and books. Surprisingly, its location has confused state and federal authorities who have mislabeled the North and South Branch of the Raritan River as the Raritan River. Signs on interstate 78 in Clinton identify the South Branch as the Raritan River. Further east on Route 78 the North Branch is designated as the Raritan River. State road 202 at the border of Branchburg and Bridgewater claim the

w e a l t h

m a n a g e m e n t

N e e d s o m e d i r e c t i o n f o r y o u r f i n a n c i a l f u t u r e ? I c a n h e l p .

G u i d a n c e y o u c a n t r u s t s t a r t s w i t h a c o n v e r s a t i o n .

To further muddy the waters of the Raritan, an online search of the river’s length will show anywhere from 69.60 to 115 miles. It’s difficult to imagine the length of a major river which has existed since the latest glacial retreat and was once the outlet of the Hudson River cannot be determined! For the record, based on my two canoe trips down the entire Raritan River, I estimate its length at 33 miles. Given the margin of error, 33 miles referenced against the lowest published estimate of 69.60 miles, creates more of an enigma than a reality.

To bring the Raritan River in focus from an enigma, and accord the respect it deserves, it must be properly defined and labeled. Once the river’s identity is established, a gravitational pull of curiosity arises and compels a quest for more information. A better understanding of the river’s role in its watershed and the community it supports can provide critical perspective needed to make sound land and water management decisions.

The first step in establishing respect, whether a person or a river, is to know their name. It is innate in our nature to respond kindlier when a name is offered upon introduction. Consider a hiker walking across a field, free of obstruction, the path will be a straight line. Point out a single species of grass, and the hiker will alter their path to avoid stepping on the now identifiable plant.

Toward that end, an effort is underway to define the beginning of the Raritan River with a boulder placed at the confluence of its north and south branches. A bronze plaque will be attached and petroglyphs carved into the boulder to memorialize native animals and first people.

This indelible marker will, in a way, serve as a birth certificate in the form of a “birthstone” to legitimize the Raritan River proper.

The plaque inscription will read as follows:

Raritan River Birthstone

This stone marks the beginning of the Raritan River and defines this natural treasure as an entity. The Raritan River’s

I n v e s t m e n t s : A s s e t A l l o c a t i o n R e t i r e m e n t P l a n n i n g A n n u i t i e s

T r a d t o n a B r o k e r a g e E q u i t y I n v e s t m e n t s E d u c a t i o n P a n n i n g F x e d - n c o m e I n v e s t m e n t s

legacy of beauty, inspiration and use, has nurtured all life since its post glacial formation. Arising from the confluence of its north and south branches, the Raritan River begins its thirty-three mile journey to the sea. The petroglyphs carved into this stone represent wildlife and symbols of the Unami, a branch of the Lenape tribe, which would have been seen in glyphs carved by the earliest people.

Dedicated by the Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership 2023 In 2023’s Raritan River, dolphins and seals ply the waters up to New Brunswick, while young Hudson Bay striped bass and alewives make their way upriver to Bound Brook. As dams are removed and historic fisheries revitalized, the Raritan River is, in a way, reborn and deserving of a birthstone to finally mark its place of birth.

Contact jjmish57@msn.com. See more articles and photos at winterbearrising.wordpress.com.

R i s k M a n a g e m e n t :

F i n a n c i a l S t r a t e g i e s : L i f e I n s u r a n c e D i s a b i l i t y I n c o m e I n s u r a n c e L o n g - T e r m C a r e I n s u r a n c e

J A R R E T T D E W E L D E , C F P ®

C E R T I F I E D F I N A N C I A L P L A N N E R ™ p r o f e s s i o n a l j a r r e t t @ r i c h p l a n n i n g g r o u p . c o m T e l : ( 7 3 2 ) 3 8 4 - 9 1 9 2

R I C H P l a n n i n g G r o u p , L L C 5 0 D i v i s i o n S t r e e t S u i t e 5 0 1 S o m e r v i l l e , N J 0 8 8 7 6

R ™ a e c e r i i c a t o n m a k s o w n e d b y t h e C e r t f e d F n a n c a P l a n n e B o a r d o f S t a n d a r d s n c T h e s e m a r k s a e a w a r d e d t o n d i v d u a s w h o s u c c e s s f u y c o m p l e t e h e C F P B o a d i n a a n d o n g o n g c e t f c a t o n r e q u r e m e n t s S e c u r t e s o f f e e d t h r o u g h E q u t a b e A d v s o s L L C m e m b e F N R A S P C n v e s t m e n t a d v s o y p o d u c t s a n d e r v c e s o f e r e d h o u g h E q u t a b e A d v s o r s L L C a n S E C - r e g s t e e d n v e s m e n a d v s o A n n u t y a n d i n s u r a n c e p o d u c t s t h o u g h E q u t a b e N e t w o r k L L C R C H P a n n n g G r o u p s n o o w n e d o o p e a t e d b y E q u t a b e A d v o r s o r i s a f i a t e s

By Patti Zielinski

On April 2, the Somerville High School Music Boosters Association hosted its 17th annual Indoor Color Guard show at Branchburg Central Middle School. Eighteen competing winter guard teams from around the region attended, with a concluding performance by the two-time world champion Somerville High School Scholastic Open Winter Guard. Their 2023 program “The Show” is directed

SHS Winter Guard Show Held at BCMS

by Rick Delancy with coaches Kerri Newlander, Breanna Ferenzi and Shari Kuzel.

The 20-member Scholastic Open team includes captains Nate Cohen, Diego Gonzalez and Kiarra Dalida and members Hannah Varley, Selina Verbanas, Lizzy Malanga, Charlize De La Cruz, Kirsten Nguyen, Kaylie

Fabriczi, Karis Kechula, Katie Curtis, Ella Mercier, Emma Beckwith, Carol Gurney, Mallory Miessler, Gianna Giampino, Vivian Cote, Sylvia Davis,

Preschool Programs

Kaitlyn Parker and Grayden Leitstein.

The SHS Winter Guard thanks show sponsors Café Picasso, Il Forno, Alfonso’s Trattoria, Randazzo Pastry Shop, Wendy’s Bridgewater, McDonald’s Branchburg and Somerville, Wegmans, Norz Hill Farm, Scare Farm, the Gurney Family, Blue Pig Media, Josh Fink – Psychologist, Tex’s Liquor Store, Dominick’s Pizzeria, Trattoria Uno, Vinnie’s Pizza & Pasta, All Pets Vet Hospital, Raritan Valley Lodge 46, YourWordExpert.com, Lioni Heating & Cooling, A New Way Counseling, Raritan Valley Pharmacy, Bagel Garden, Floor Coverings International – Somerset, Tuckerton Vacation Rentals, Danceology Studios, Tropiano & Son Jewelers, Mercier Mentoring, Branchburg Republican Municipal Committee, Cook Advisory Partners, Atlantic Health, Yoga Central, Cortese Disposal, BCK Speech & Language Resources and Twin Boro Physical Therapy.

Winter Guard — known as “the sport of the arts” — is a competitive indoor color guard activity in which performers use flags, rifles, sabers and other equipment combined with dance to produce a choreographed show. Teams are judged in various

Somerville High School Winter Guard Captains Kiarra Dalida, Nate Cohen and Diego Gonzalez present a first-place trophy to Hackettstown High School.

categories, including movement, technique, design analysis, equipment and general effect.

The Somerville High School Winter Guard is the 2012 Scholastic A and 2015 Scholastic Open Class Winter Guard International (WGI) World Champions, a competition that takes place annually at the University of Dayton in Ohio. Their award-winning performance attracted the attention of musician David Byrne, who selected the team to be one of ten to collaborate with indie musicians to create a live music and winter guard show at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., and Toronto’s Air Canada Center, which was featured in the 2017 documentary Contemporary Color.

The Somerville High School Winter Guard also participated in the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) documentary Marching to the Coolest Beat, which focused on how this dance sport tradition binds communities together and brings creativity and joy to performers and audiences, especially at the high school level. Somerville High School students and Somerville Middle School and Branchburg Middle School students who love to perform and are interested in auditioning for the 2023–24 Color Guard and Winter Guard team or finding out more information can email shsmbawinterguard@gmail.com. No experience is required; all you need is a love of performance.

Does Your Bra Drive You Crazy?

What is the Somerset

women of the Somerset County 200 Club are dedicated to the primary mission of providing immediate support to the spouse and family of a fallen first responder.

in the nation invited 100 of his business associates to dinner at the Ritz Carlton encouraging them to donate to a fund for the fallen officer. This action would directly lead to William Packer forming the One Hundred Club of Detroit. Since then, close to 100 chapters of the “200 Club” have been formed throughout the country.

By

James Schworn, Trustee, 200 Club of Somerset Co.

The Somerset County 200 Club is one of the worthiest and most crucial charitable organizations in the county. The special men and

The 200 Club members believe that there is no greater sacrifice an individual can make then to give their life in the service of others. The members believe in return, we all have a deep moral and collective obligation to support and protect the families of the fallen heroes of our Police Forces, Fire Departments, Rescue Squads, and the State Police.

The concept of the “Hundred Clubs” was born in Detroit in 1952.

Following the fatal shooting of a young Detroit officer, William Packer, the largest Pontiac Dealer

Following in this tradition, the Somerset County 200 Club was founded in 1972 and is one of the oldest in the state. The Somerset County 200 Club presently has membership of 677 public-spirited citizens who share this deep concern for the welfare of public safety officers.

There are over 5,000 members of the Somerset County Police Departments, Fire Departments, Rescue Squads, and the New Jersey State Police who risk their safety and lives protecting our families and homes 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year after year.

Unfortunately, when tragedy befalls one of our first responders in the line of duty, their spouses and children are often left with little or no immediate financial assistance. The 200 Club provides this assistance and ensures the surviving family members are fully supported through this most difficult time. Families can focus solely on healing and recovery without the added burden of financial hardship.

In addition to providing financial assistance to the families of these fallen heroes, the Somerset County

County 200 Club?

200 Club also provides scholarships to high school graduating seniors of parents engaged in police, fire, rescue squad and N.J. State Police. To date, the Somerset County 200 Club has awarded close to $1,000,000.00 in scholarship monies to over 400 students.

Although the Somerset County 200 Club maintains a robust membership, the club depends entirely on caring, civic minded citizens to make the programs financially possible and sustainable.

The Somerset County 200 Club welcomes and encourages residents who share in the Club’s commitment to Somerset County public servants to join and assist in the continued support of these men and women who have fallen in their service to others in the line of duty.

Membership in the Somerset County 200 also strengthens the club’s efforts to cooperate with state, county, and municipal bodies in their quest to prevent further casualties and expand the organization to better aid these deserving public servants.

Further information on joining the Somerset County 200 Club can be found at www.somersetcounty200club.org.

The Somerset County 200 Club will be presenting scholarships to eligible graduating seniors at the annual 200 Club Valor & Scholarship luncheon to be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, May 17, at The Palace at Somerset Park, Somerset. The luncheon is open to nonmembers at a nominal cost of $50 per person. If interested in attending, RSVP to member_info@somersetcounty200club.org no later than May 10.

The Somerset County 200 Club asks that all residents please take a moment to think what it would be like without our local police officers… without our firefighters… without our rescue squad members… and without our state troopers. Take a moment to imagine the families of these often-unsung heroes and the devastating impact to these families of losing a husband, wife, father, mother, sister, or brother. The Somerset County 200 Club remains steadfast in its dedication and commitment to supporting and protecting these men and women and their families as they protect and support our families each and every day. The Somerset County 200 Club asks residents to help support this extremely worthy and needed mission.

Fitness Badge –The scouts from Troop 90 from Branchburg and Troop 01 from Pluckemin recently joined with the staff at BODHI in Somerville to learn about fitness and nutrition in pursuit of their Personal Fitness Merit Badges. The scouts learned from the experts on the importance of healthy eating habits, exercise, and community as they built their personal fitness plans. Troop 90 is a Scout BSA Troop serving boys in Branchburg and surrounding areas. For information on Troop 90, visit https://branchburg90. mytroop.us. Troop 01 is a Scout BSA Troop serving girls in Pluckemin and surrounding areas, www.troop01.org.

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Elena Figueroa

Elena Figueroa, 92, of Bridgewater, NJ, passed away on Saturday, April 1, 2023, at RWJ Somerset. Born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Elena came to the New York area at age 17 before moving to Bridgewater 35 years ago.

Elena worked for many years as a sewing machine operator, then for Macy’s, as a store opener, in Bridgewater, for 22 years before retiring at the age of 80, in 2010.

Elena was a devoted Catholic, and a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She loved going to bingo, casinos, and also doing gardening, raising house plants, and cooking. Elena was a huge Elvis fan, singing and dancing around to his music. Most importantly, Elena enjoyed spending quality time with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Margarita Maldonado and Alberto Gonzalez, her husband Angel Figueroa (1994), two grandsons, Thomas Daniel Matias (2009) and Jonathan Angel Schmidt (2011), a great grandson, Brendan Christopher Goebig (2008), and two brothers, Luis Robles and Angel Robles.

Surviving are her two dear sons, Luis and wife Michele Matias of Lindenhurst, NY; Angel and wife Kathy Figueroa of Winterville, GA; two daughters, Nilsa and husband Jim Fleming of Hellertown, PA; Delia and husband Gary Schmidt of Branchburg, NJ; seven cherished grandchildren, Christine, Mary, Robert, Lynn, Nicole, Jimmy, and Alicia and nine cherished great grandchildren.

A viewing was held on Wednesday, April 5, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. A funeral Mass took place at Holy Trinity Church at 1:30 p.m. Burial followed at St. Bernard Cemetery in Bridgewater, NJ.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the Somerset Healthcare Foundation, 110 Rehill Avenue, Somerville, NJ 08876.

This Month In Branchburg History

One Year Ago, May 2022 – The Somerville High School Robotics Team FIRST Team 102 the Gearheads travelled to the Lehigh Regional Competition at Lehigh University where the Gearheads ranked #30 out of 128 teams.

Five Years Ago, May 2018 –On May 12 on the campus soccer field, RVCC awarded associate degrees and certificates to more than 1,300 graduates.

Ten Years Ago, May 2013 –State Senator Kip Bateman visited the Readington Volunteer Fire Co. to announce a $43,650 homeland security grant to be used for communications equipment. Said Bateman, “Volunteer firefighters are among the purest public servants, and we will continue to do everything possible to help them obtain more resources to save lives.”

25 Years Ago, May 1998 – The Big Apple Circus, featuring

the world-famous clown Bello Nock, pitched its tent in some spare space at the Gibson Tube Industrial Park on Aspen Hill Road, near Station Road, for a few days of performances.

50 Years Ago, May 1973 – The federal Department of Environmental Protection announced that Branchburg was among towns eligible for funding to upgrade sewerage facilities.

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