Branchburg News - June 2023

Branchburg Township Appoints Police Chief

Richard Buck, who had been serving as a lieutenant, was appointed chief on May 8 by the Township Committee. He is the fourth police chief in the 43-year history of the Branchburg Police Department.

Branchburg has been without a police chief for nearly four years after the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office took control of the department following the sudden retirement of former chief David Young on July 1, 2019.

Buck grew up in Edison and received an Associate of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Middlesex County College in 2008 and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice/Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2010. He then attended the Somerset County Police Academy Basic Course for Police Officers and graduated in June 2011.

Buck was hired by the Branchburg Police Department in January 2012 and assigned to the Patrol Division. Six years later he was assigned to the department’s Detective Bureau, and in April 2020 he was promoted to sergeant and remained supervisor of the Detective Bureau. In April 2022 Buck was promoted to lieutenant where he supervised the Detective Bureau and oversaw Internal Affairs.

The chief was certified as a Police Executive Research Forum Integrated Communications Assessment and Tactics (ICAT) and Georgetown University Law Center Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) instructor for Somerset County law enforcement agencies.

The Township Committee started the selection process with six candidates, all members of the Branchburg P.D.

Tower Power – PSE&G has installed new Y-shaped transmission towers throughout the township to improve system reliability. In mid-March, helicopters were used to string lines between utility poles along Route 202. The stark giants replace the familiar steel lattice towers. Pictured is the tower path off of Cedar Grove Road.

Primary Election June 6

Two Republicans are seeking their party’s nomination for a Township Committee seat in the June 6 Primary Election. Newcomer Steven Price is challenging incumbent James Schworn, who is seeking his fifth term. No Democrats filed to run.

Voters will also elect their party’s candidates for State

Senate, General Assembly, and Board of County Commissioners. Both Republican and Democratic candidates for those positions are running unopposed. Sample ballots are available at https://www.co.somerset. nj.us/government/elected-officials/county-clerk/election-division. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Richard Buck, (center, left) surrounded by family members, is sworn in as Police Chief by Mayor David Owens (center, right.)

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Free Summer Concerts

The Whitehouse Wind Symphony will give four free outdoor concerts this summer: Saturday, June 3, at 12:30 p.m. at the Jacobus Vanderveer House in Bedminster; Saturday, June 10, at 1 p.m. at the Hunterdon County Fairgrounds in Ringoes; Tuesday, June 13, at 7 p.m. at White Oak Park in Branchburg; and Friday, July 7 at 7 p.m. at the Red Mill Museum Village in Clinton. The program will feature a range of selections that includes patriotic tunes, marches, Broadway tunes and medleys of rock n’ roll songs. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.

Friday Night Concert June 2

The Friends of the Bridgewater Library, 1 Vogt Dr., Bridgewater, are sponsoring a free concert from 7 to 8:30 p.m. featuring The Crosswinds Trio (trumpet, horn and piano.) Drawing on their diverse musical experiences from the orchestral stage, the jazz club and the recital hall, these musicians create a unique sound infused with humor. All are welcome.

Flea Market June 3 Bradley Gardens Community Church, 124 Old York Rd., Bridge-

Upcoming Events

water, will host from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date June 10.

Dueling Pianos June 9

The Rotary Club of Branchburg will host a Dueling Pianos fundraiser at Bradley Gardens Fire House, 24 Old York Rd., Bridgewater. The event will feature the Flying Ivories and will include a buffet and open bar from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. with beer and wine and $5 cocktails. The entertainment and cash bar will begin at 7:30. Tickets are $55 per individual or $400 for a table of 8. Send checks to Branchburg Rotary, PO Box 5135, Branchburg, NJ 08876, made payable to the Branchburg Rotary Foundation. For further info, call 908-581-5034.

Coffee with the Mayor June 10 Mayor David Owens will host an informal discussion in the courtroom at the Municipal Building from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Flag Retirement June 11

Scout BSA Girl Troop 01 will be hosting a flag retirement ceremony at White Oak Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. American flags will be retired in a respectful manner. Members of the public are welcome to bring flags and participate

in the ceremony. Hot dogs, snacks, and drinks will be available for purchase as a fundraiser.

Historic Open House June 17

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.

Touch a Truck June 24

Rotary Club of Branchburg will sponsor a Touch a Truck and Food Truck Festival at Raritan Valley Community College from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with live music, food truck fare, and a beer and wine garden. Families can explore more than 30 big trucks and unique vehicles. Entry fee $5. The event will benefit Veterans Suicide Prevention. Rain date June 25.

Apply for Youth Leadership Program

Youth Leadership Somerset, a community leadership program for Somerset County youth entering grades 10-12, is accepting applications for the 2023-2024 program year, which runs from September through May. Classes are held one Saturday per month from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Most sessions take place in Somerville. The application deadline is June 11. For information, contact Melania Tchir at 732-469-3363 or youthleadership@ co.somerset.nj.us.

$50off $25off $45off

Branchburg Educators of the Year Honored

Branchburg Township School District’s Educators and Educational Services Professionals of the Year were honored at a Board of Education meeting on April 20.

Receiving the awards from Whiton Elementary School were Lauren Bockus - (3rd Grade Teacher) Educator of the Year and Heather Rogalski - (Preschool Instructional Assistant) Educational Services Professional of the Year.

Stony Brook School’s award winners were Carrie Santoro - (5th Grade Teacher) Educator of the Year and Robin DiBetta - (Instructional Aide) Educational Services Professional of the Year.

At Branchburg Central Middle School, Nicole Kepner - (Language Arts Teacher) was awarded Educator of the Year and Danielle Puglisi - (Instructional Coach) received the Educational Services Professional of the Year award.

Each year, the New Jersey Department of Education recognizes educators who have gone above and beyond in their service to students. Each of these Branchburg educators fully exemplifies the mission of the Branchburg Township School District to inspire students to learn, think, grow, and excel in life.

Pictured are Branchburg School District administrators and the Educators of the Year and Educational Services Professionals of the Year recipients, from left, BoE Vice President Terri Joyce, Whiton Elementary School Vice Principal Chris Derflinger, BCMS Principal Matt Barbosa, Whiton Principal Dee Shober, awardee Danielle Puglisi, BCMS Vice Principal Beth Stanton, awardee Nicole Kepner, Superintendent Dr. Karen Chase, awardee Lauren Bockus, awardee Heather Rogalski, Stony Brook Elementary School Principal Kristen Kries, awardee Carrie Santoro, and awardee Robin DiBetta.

Branchburg Country Fair Planning Underway

By Shavaun Gliksman

Save the date for the 26th annual Branchburg Country Fair on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 11 a.m. until fireworks at 8:30 p.m. at White Oak Park. Rain date Sept. 24.

New this year will be kiddie rides including a carousel. Favorite attractions are planned including a bounce house, pony rides, petting zoo, bubble party, the big tent with local businesses and organizations, craft vendors, food trucks, and live music. Somerset Patriot mascot Sparkee will also be dropping by for a photo and a high-five.

For information on volunteering or participating, email countryfairvendors@gmail, or visit branchburgcountryfair.org.

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 stagnate in creativity and production. We need new thinking in local government.

Citizens4Branchburg.com

Mayoral Meeting–Pack 94 Webelos met recently with Mayor David Owens. The scouts asked a lot of questions including what qualities make a good leader? The mayor talked about being respectful, being kind and having good listening skills, all great scouting qualities. Pictured with Mayor Owens are Scout Leader Jacquelyn D’ Albero, Christopher D’Albero, Micah Bowman, Scott Montanelli, Declan Amo, Teagan Amo, Andrew Warren, Tanner Mohn, and Jay Krishnamurti. Not pictured: Sullivan Lavery and Aiden Dimayuga.

–submitted by Anita Krishnamurti

Busy Spring for Scouts BSA

Troops

185G and 185B

Troop 185 conducts a flag retirement ceremony.

On March 13, Troops 185G and 185B held the annual Mother’s Day flower sale at Ten Eyck Park. The sale helps fund activities and trips. Thank you to everyone who stopped by and supported scouting.

The New Scout Campout at Sauerland Outdoor Center in Lebanon over the weekend of March 24-26 was a wet one, but a great way to welcome several scouts who recently joined. Scouts roasted marshmallows, cooked meals, and formed friendships along the

way. At a more recent campout at Worthington State Park in Columbia, the scouts hiked to Sunfish Pond, where they learned about different species of plants and animals.

On March 29, the troop held a dignified Flag Retirement Ceremony at White Oak Park, retiring more than 130 flags.

Interested in joining our boys or girls troop? Email Info.Troop185Branchburg@twh.email.

–Submitted by Ash Bolink, Troop 185G

Daniel Matyola, 81, died peacefully on May 2. Born in Somerville and raised in Manville and Bridgewater, he was a graduate of Somerville High School in 1959 with a perfect SAT score. He went on to graduate from Dartmouth College in 1963. Daniel bravely served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He was a trained Radar Intercept Officer

and Bombardier / Navigator and received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnamese Service Medal, Air Medal 17th Award, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1968 after four years of distinguished service and he went on to continue his

Daniel Matyola

education at the Rutgers School of Law in Newark where he graduated with his Judiciary Doctorate in 1971. He married the love of his life, Leonora (Lee) Rogers in 1965, and settled in Branchburg, where they raised their family.

After law school Daniel worked in Trenton as assistant counsel for Governor Cahill before finally creating a law firm in Somerville with a high school colleague, Jeff Stanley called Stanley and Matyola.

A Charter Member of the Branchburg Rotary Club, Daniel held the roles of President of the Rotary and Sergeant at Arms, and

was a Paul Harris fellow. His philanthropic work included Holiday Happiness and Pedals For Progress, and SHIP programs, as well as countless hours of volunteer time and ideas to better the organization and community at large. He contributed back to his Alma mater, Dartmouth College, and the Matyola family remained active in charity work for decades.

He was preceded in death by his dear sister Elizabeth and his cherished son Clayton. Surviving are his beloved wife Lee Matyola and loving son Greg Matyola.

Donations in Daniel’s memory can be made to the Branchburg

Rotary Scholarship Foundation

https://portal.clubrunner.ca/3078/ donate/scholarship-fund. For complete obituary, visit cusickfuneralhome.com.

NEW BRANCHBURG LISTING

Daniel Matyola

Branchburg Woman’s Club Installs Officers, Celebrates Awards, Sells Popcorn

By Kate Sarles

At the last meeting of the Branchburg Woman’s Club, Joan Jorgensen installed the 2023-2024 officers. They are President Linda Mish, Vice President Kathy Herdman, Third Vice President Sue Anczarki, Recording Secretary Roseann Podlaski, Treasurer Regina Lembrich, Financial Secretary Kathy Harris, and Trustees Ann Ribinsky Brown, Barbara Melitsky, Ann Marie Winters, and Sheila Cancella. Congratulations Ladies!

At the 2023 State Federation of Wom-

en’s Club’s Environmental Achievement Day contest, Linda Mish won the first place award in the Environment and Community Service category and Maresa Calloccia won first place in the Arts and Community Service category. They had previously earned gold designations at the College Districts Spring Achievement in order to qualify for the state competition. Congratulations again!

The BWC is selling popcorn. Not just any popcorn but Double Good Popcorn. Popcorn lovers can visit the BWC’s

Facebook page between June 1 and 5 for the link to order flavors such as Butter Believe It, In Queso Fire, Little Kettle that Could, and Sergeant Salt and Pepper, to name a few. The proceeds will support the club’s many programs including our scholarships for Somerville High and Branchburg Central Middle School students. Although a few programs including Lunch Bunch may continue during the summer, we now look forward to a great club year starting in September.

Branchburg’s Local Fence Dealer Voted “Best of the Best” for Over Twenty-Five Years

Budding Scientists–Nicholas D’Albero and Julian Muniz, fifth graders in Ms. Madison Hill’s homeroom, researched tornadoes for the Stony Brook School Science Fair held in April in the school gym. Fourth and fifth graders presented projects ranging from “What causes zits?” to “Music’s impact on plant growth.” Each participant was interviewed by a visiting scientist to discuss the details of their project. Teacher Paul Mehnert is the Science Fair Coordinator.

Aluminum Fence

Notes From The Dais: James

Schworn

Township Committee

While serving as Mayor, I had written letters to our residents explaining many of the complex challenges (development, warehouses, roads, traffic, etc.) facing Branchburg and the Township’s intended strategies and solutions. I would like to provide an update on the on-going issues and to notify the residents of some new matters. First, on behalf of the Township Committee, I want to thank our residents for their continued support and patience as we work through these challenges. I also want to share some of the “behind the scenes” activities that we perform. I am listing these issues in no particular order because we consider them all a high priority.

Development

As I am certain you have noticed, large swaths of Branchburg are presently being ravaged by our court-ordered residential development. I cannot stress enough that 100% of this residential development is the result of the New Jersey State Legislature’s decades old failure to address affordable housing. The death knell was the disbanding of COAH by Governor Christie, forcing the issue to be resolved by the illequipped and biased NJ courts. The Township had lost its authority over the right to develop residential housing, but we fought hard to limit its impact. Our willingness to fight resulted in settling our affordable housing obligation for less than 30% of the potential 5,000 additional homes proposed. We were successful because the Township Committee practiced a consistent, fair, and comprehensive development plan (Master Plan) that fully complied with State law. The developers were unhappy but agreed to settle because they knew from past practice that we were willing to litigate and more importantly, we strategically reserved the financial resources to fight the proposed highdensity housing that would double the size of our town and destroy our quality of life. Other surrounding towns were not as successful as Branchburg in fighting this development. The fight continues but we are prepared!

Open Space

Our recent and “soon to be” open space acquisitions have been an overarching success for the Township. We recently approved the purchase of close to 25 acres of pristine farmland on South Branch Road across from River Lea Farm. The acquisition of this property actually began over two years ago when we met with the owner to discuss potential development. Due to existing

NOTES FROM THE DAIS:

business agreements, the owner could not sell us the property, but we agreed to continue to discuss the purchase in the event circumstances change. In preparation, we engaged an appraiser to value the property, connected with the County Commissioners Office to request financial assistance, conducted an overhead drone video survey, directed our attorney to draft a purchase agreement and asked our CFO to allocate open space funds.

Roads. I remind residents that COVID effectively shut down all road work and we have only recently fully restored our road program. We adjust our road paving schedules and priorities based on an annual DPW inspection, but we encourage residents to email our administrator, Greg Bonin, should your road conditions worsen.

While serving as Mayor, I had written letters to our residents explaining many of the complex challenges (development, wareho uses, roads, traffic, etc.) facing Branchburg and the Township ’s intended strategies and solutions. I would like to take this opportunity to provide an update on the on-going issues and to notify the residents of some new matters.

First, on behalf of the Township Committee, I want to thank our residents for their continued support and patience as we navi gate and work through these challenges. I also want to share some of the “behind the scenes” activities that we perform on a daily basis to address these challenges. I am listing these issues in no particular order because we consider them all a high priority.

Warehouses

Development

Residents’ opposition to the development of this property was understandably fierce. (BTW, the discovery of a Native Indian burial ground on the site was very creative – good job!) Although we would have loved to alleviate concerns, unfortunately, due to legal, ethical and confidentiality requirements, the Township could not disclose our ongoing purchase discussions with the owner. A few alert residents did note my surprise attendance at a County Open Space meeting seeking support for a potential land purchase in town. Our preparation proved prescient for when the owner was able to unwind obligations with existing business partners, we had a very small window – literally days – to make a formal offer on the property but we were prepared. It should be noted that the purchase was a nonpartisan effort by everyone involved. (I offer a very special thanks to the Caruso Family, County Administrator Colleen Mahr, County Planner Tom Boccino and the County Commissioners.)

such time a “value added” project is identified that will be a proven amenity with no adverse impact on our residents and is consistent with our revisioning of Route 28 in support of RVCC’s expansion plans. We continue to work with other property owners along the Route 28 corridor to acquire those properties as well. For now, the good news is there will be one less warehouse in Branchburg.

Budget

consistent, maintain adequate financial reserves and don’t do anything stupid with our residents’ money! This plan has allowed Branchburg to historically maintain an AAA credit rating. As much as we hate to incur debt, our high credit rating allows us to borrow money at the lowest interest rates available. To put this in perspective, less than 10% of the 564 municipalities in New Jersey have a triple-A credit rating.

Police Department

Open Space

Our acquisition strategy and use of our open space portfolio of properties is presently being reviewed and will be continually revised based on everchanging needs.

Roadwork

The Township controls little more than half of the roads that traverse our town and most of these roads are within residential developments. We do not control or maintain any State or County roads and all our bridges fall under NJ DOT authority. (BTW, regardless of who controls the road, every traffic light, traffic sign, traffic pattern and speed limit in town is solely controlled by NJ DOT. We have completed paving Old Towne, Mountainview Farms, Stony Brook Road, and we have initiated the North Branch River Road improvement project. We have allocated $1 million for road work this year and plan to initiate paving projects on Crestwood, Fremont, Schaeffer, Woodfern and Lehigh

I sit on our Budget Subcommittee along with my colleague, Tom Young, and we are always amazed at the creativity and fiscal prudence of our CFO, Diane Schubach. Diane is uniquely qualified as our CFO because she hates spending money. Let’s hope she never retires. Our municipal budget increased $2.1 million this year but only $404,000 of the increase is funded through taxes. Somerset County’s proposed budget of $266,346,509 will result in an average increase of $77.71 per household. Conversely, Branchburg’s municipal budget will result in an average increase per household of approximately $6.00. Yes, you are reading that correctly – six dollars per household!

It is a great honor and privilege to report that we have appointed Richard Buck as only the fourth police Chief in our police department’s 43-year history. (See full story on front page.) We congratulate Chief Buck on this accomplishment and wish him a long and successful career.

Other News

As I am certain you have noticed, large swaths of Branchburg are presently being ravaged by our court -ordered residential development. I cannot stress enough that 100% of this residential development is the result of the New Jersey State Legislature ’s decades old failure to address affordable housing. The death knell was the disbanding of COAH by Governor Christie, forcing the issue to be resolved by the ill-equipped and biased NJ courts. The Township had lost its authority over the right to develop residential housing, but we fought hard to l imit its impact. Our willingness to fight resulted in settling our affordable housing obligation for less than 30% of the potential 5,000 addition al homes proposed. We were successful because the Township Committee maintained and practiced a consistent, fair and comprehensive development p lan (Master Plan) that fully complied with State law. The developers were unhappy but agreed to settle because they knew from pa st practice that we were willing to litigate and more importantly, we strategically reserved the financial resources to fight the proposed hig h-density housing that would double the size of our town and destroy our quality of life. Other surrounding towns were not as successful as Br anchburg in fighting this development. The fight continues but we are prepared!

Our recent and “soon to be” open space acquisitions have been an overarching success for the Township. We recently approved the purchase of close to twenty -five acres of pristine farmland on South Branch Road across from River Lea Farm. The acquisition of this pro perty actually began over two years ago when we met with the owner to discuss potential development. Unfortunately, due to existing busines s agreements, the owner could not sell us the property, but we all agreed to continue to discuss the purchase in the event circumsta nces change. In preparation, we engaged an appraiser to value the property, connected with the County Commissioners Office to request financi al assistance, conducted an overhead drone video survey, directed our attorney to draft a purchase agreement and asked our CFO to allocate o pen space funds.

We recently enacted an ordinance banning all mega-warehouses and warehouse storage of packaged/ assembled material. Warehouses are only permissible as an accessory use for the direct support of a manufacturing activity and only for the raw material required for on-site manufacturing activities. We carved out an exemption for our pharmaceutical companies due to their minimal impact and to the many benefits these industries bring to our community. We have already been notified of a legal challenge to the ordinance, so we know the ordinance is properly worded and will protect Branchburg from warehouse “sprawl.” It should be noted that most of our warehouses are being developed in strictly industrial zones as an “allowable” use and once completed, will provide a large positive net tax benefit to our town. We intend to use a portion of the tax proceeds to address any traffic or other quality of life issues arising from the commercial development. For example, we are already discussing the creation of a Police Traffic Control Division. The division would be dedicated to traffic enforcement but would also be tasked with working with the public and our industrial partners to resolve any adverse impacts associated with commercial operations. The goal is to keep commercial traffic off of our residential streets through strict enforcement and costly fines.

Residential opposition to the development of this property was deservedly and understandably fierce. (BTW, the sudden discov ery of a Native Indian burial ground on the site was very creative – good job!) Although we would have loved to alleviate residential concerns, unfortunately, due to legal, ethical and confidentiality requirements, the Township could not disclose our ongoing preparation and purchase discussions with the owner. A few alert residents did note my surprise attendance at a County Open Space meeting seeking support for a poten tial land purchase in town. Our preparation proved prescient for when the owner was able to unwind their obligations with existing busin ess partners, we had a very small window – literally days – to make a formal offer on the property but we were prepared. It may have appeared that the purchase occurred overnight, but it was every bit of two years of hard work, preparation, and collaboration. It should be noted that the purchase was a non-partisan effort by everyone involved. (I offer a very special thanks to the Caruso Family, County Administrator Colle en Mahr, County Planner Tom Boccino and the County Commissioners.)

I am extremely pleased to announce that we have secured the purchase of the 10-acre property on Route 28 across from RVCC. The owner had submitted a site plan application for a 140,090 sq. ft. building containing 103,572 sq. ft. of warehouse space! This purchase is consistent with our recent referendum approving township funds to acquire properties along Route 28 specifically to prevent warehouse development.

(Special thanks to Ken Pizzo Jr. for patiently working with the Township on this acquisition.) We intend to hold the property as a balance sheet asset until

Why did our budget increase by $2.1 million? The answer is simple: inflation. Our costs for health care, insurance, deductibles, salaries, utilities and capital improvements and purchases have all increased. However, $600,000 of the increase is dedicated to our road improvement program and we have allocated $475,000 to pay for expenses as they are incurred rather than encumbering the township with debt through the issuance of bonds. These expenses include an increase in our emergency service funding and the purchase of two new ambulances and a fire rescue pumper in support of our volunteer emergency services. We are able to pay cash because we strategically perform a two-year, five-year, and ten-year capital asset review across all departments and operations in order to avoid any unforeseen and non budgeted expenses that may require costly bonding.

In 2009, the Township passed an ordinance requiring commercial developers to replace every mature tree cut down as a result of development. If the developer cannot replace the trees, then they are required to donate to the Township’s “Tree Replacement Fund.” Sadly, over the past few years, many of our beautiful deciduous trees have been destroyed by invasive bugs and other infections leaving our residential streets looking barren. In response, the Township initiated a residential streetscape tree replacement program using $300,000 collected from commercial developers. Through this program, residents are eligible to have deciduous trees purchased and planted along the roadway on their property. This is a purely voluntary program, and the Township is only paying for the purchase and installation of the trees, not tree maintenance or removal of any dead trees. Interested residents should complete the form found on our website at: htps://branchburgtownship.rja.revize. com/forms/4761.

Our acquisition strategy and use of our open space portfolio of properties is presently being reviewed and will be continuall y revised based on our ever -changing needs.

This is somewhat unheard of for any municipality, but we are currently holding one single bond and once paid off, we intend to cash flow our expenses until such time that borrowing costs decrease and become advantageous to the township. Our fiscal plan is pretty straightforward: pay cash whenever possible, keep debt levels stable and

In closing, I encourage all residents to contact the Township Committee on any issue whatsoever. Every member of the Township Committee is approachable and open to resident input. We believe effective and purposeful government requires communication between elected officials and residents. The more we know, the better we can continue to serve you.

Please enjoy the summer and stay safe, James Schworn Township Committee

Opening Day –Branchburg Baseball Club (BBC) held its Opening Day parade and festivities in White Oak Park on April 22 for its recreation baseball and softball players, mostly from Branchburg and Readington. Scout Troop 185 of Branchburg, with flag bearer Trevor Feldman, led the parade through the park and presented the flags. Cpl. Jon Elbert of the Branchburg Township Police Department threw the ceremonial first pitch of the season. Sixth grade softball player Keira Wilson sang the National Anthem.

Specializing in Braces & Invisalign for Children, Teens & Adults

–Photo by Jack Venticinque, Info by Jason Miessler, Branchburg Baseball Club Softball Director

Celebrating 15 Years at NBRC Preschool

then became the Preschool’s Director. Mrs. Landrieu is only the fifth director at the preschool, located at 203 Route 28 in Bridgewater, since its inception in 1956 and is celebrating her 15th anniversary in the role this year.

A resident of Branchburg for the past 21 years, Jennifer and her husband, Chris, have two sons, Will and Ryan.

Vincent’s Run

–Friends and family of the late Vincent Gagliardi gather at the inaugural Vincent’s Run Event on March 26 at White Oak Park. The 5K Run, 1 Mile Fun Walk and Kid’s Fun Run honored Vincent, who tragically passed away as a result of an auto accident on Oct. 8, 2021. Funds were raised for the Vincent R. Gagliardi Foundation, which provides annual scholarships to deserving Somerville High School students. A video of this event is available for public viewing on the Township of Branchburg Facebook page as well as the public cable channels Fios channel 46 and Comcast Channel 27.

Vote for Steven Price June 6

My name is Steven Price. The reason I’m running for Township Committee is to help bring what I have learned in the many places where I’ve lived and worked. One thing that I know is when things progress without change, especially in government, they stagnate and can actually regress. Change should always happen in government for several reasons. Firstly, local governments can become inefficient and outdated, often burdened by bureaucratic red tape resulting in a lack of new ideas, a lack of transparency and the idea of this is the way it’s always been done. Things like this can lead to frustration and disillusionment among residents who feel their concerns are not being heard or addressed. Secondly, local government must adapt to changing circumstances and challenges such as national government requirements, increasing migration from cities to the suburbs and yes, the exit of residents due to state and local taxes. Failure to do so risks leaving communities vulnerable and ill-prepared for the future. Finally, there is a growing demand for greater citizen participation and engagement in the decision-making process. There needs to be a shift towards a more collaborative and inclusive form of governance that actively involves residents in shaping the community. Overall, change in local government is essential to ensure that it is responsive, accountable and able to meet the needs of its citizens in our rapidly evolving world.

Taxes can have a significant impact on its citizens as they directly affect the amount of money individuals and businesses must pay to their local government. While taxes are necessary to fund important services and infrastructure projects, excessive or poorly designed taxes can place an undue burden on residents and discourage economic growth. High property taxes can make it more difficult for homeowners to afford their homes and can deter businesses from investing in the community. High taxes discourage consumer spending and hurt our local businesses. It is important for local governments to strike a balance between the need for revenue and the impact of the taxes on their constituents. Citizens have a right to expect their taxes are being used efficiently and effectively and that their local government is doing everything it can to keep taxes within reasonable limits while provide essential services.

A spirit of camaraderie within the community is also essential for creating a sense of belonging and social cohesion. When people feel connected to their community, they are more likely to work together towards a common goal and help support one another. It also leads to a safer and more supportive environment where individuals and families can thrive. I have lived in communities where no one knew each other and others where everyone knew each other and helped each other. In Branchburg we do things like the Country Fair and the Food Truck event. These bring people together, and we need more of these things that are fun and inclusive.

I have been in Branchburg with my family for over 12 years and we are proud to live here. I spent many years in the corporate rat race and now farm the land and sell healthy products I grow and make. I want to contribute more to the community and make Branchburg an even better place to live, raise a family and enjoy life. Thomas Young last year said, “Change is coming”… so I’m hoping for your support June 6th.

Regards, Steve

Arrive at the North Branch Reformed Church Preschool and the first thing you are welcomed with is the warm smile of Director Jennifer Landrieu. A church member for the last 20 years, she started volunteering as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible School Teacher, was asked to serve on the Preschool Board, and

Mrs. Landrieu values continuing education for herself and staff and as a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children and New Jersey chapter, she’s led workshops for other teachers and directors. She and the staff have been repeatedly awarded for having the “Best Preschool” in Bridgewater, and NBRC Preschool is in the Business Hall of Fame. Whether being recognized as a Transformative Leader in Early Childhood Education in a research study at Montclair State University, working cooperatively with the Rutgers University Cognitive Develop-

ment Lab to further research on child development, being on a committee for the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER), or having served as the Secretary on the Board for the Somerset County Early Childhood Director’s Association, she is always seeking new ways to bring attention and respect to the field of Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Landrieu’s love of the children, their families, and the staff is evident in all that she does. The NBRC Preschool Board thanks Mrs. Landrieu for her dedication and service and invites the community to join in congratulating her on this, her 15th anniversary with the Preschool. Families looking for a Christian Preschool for their 2-5-year-olds that welcomes children of all faiths can contact preschool@nbrc.com or 908725-2326 to schedule a personal tour (or visit the www.nbrcpreschool. com for more information).

–Submitted by the NBRC Preschool Board

–Photo by Bernard Rosario

Jennifer Landrieu

Branchburg CORN

There was a guy at Dunkin’ last Father’s Day, and he told the cashier he wanted coffee without cream.

“I’m sorry, we’re out of cream,” the cashier said. “Would you like it without milk instead?”

Why do bees hum?

Because they can’t remember the words.

Did you hear about the guy from Bridgewater who stayed up all night to see where the sun went? It finally dawned on him.

What has six legs, is green and brown, and can kill you?

A pool table falling out of a tree.

What did one elevator at the medical office building say to the other elevator?

“I think I’m coming down with something.”

This Month

In Branchburg History

One Year Ago, June 2022 – Branchburg Troop 90 was making a 12day trek to the legendary Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, NM. Philmont was often written up in Boys’ Life, the Boy Scouts’ Magazine, and seemed like about the coolest place a kid could go.

Five Years Ago, June 2018 – A team of seven bold and creative students from Branchburg Central Middle School won the Odyssey of the Mind State Championship at Ewing High School. Team members included Matthew Buttgereit, David Frankel, Jamie Chiang, Avni Maheshwari, Ella Romano, Mina Batra, and Katherine Shi.

Ten Years Ago, June 2013 – With recent rainy weather, an outdoor commencement seemed doubtful, but the evening of June 21 was

clear, and 313 seniors assembled on the Somerville High School football field, including 201 of them from Branchburg, and the Class of 2013 commencement turned out as pleasant as a picnic in a park.

25 Years Ago, June 1998 – A storm system that churned west of New Jersey and spawned about 60 tornadoes from New York State to South Carolina in the first few days of June fortunately fizzled before it got to New Jersey and spared the Somerset County area and Branchburg a lot of damage.

50 Years Ago, June 1973 – Community portions of quarterly federal revenue sharing were announced by the US Treasury Dept. and Branchburg was on the list for a $23,351 share of Somerset County’s total of $559,739.

Day Camp

JUNE

Interested counselors

Winnewald@gmail.com

(908) 735-8336

MASTER PLUMBERS LIC. 13548

Branchburg Recreation Event Lineup

By Audrey Henry Branchburg Recreation

June and summer are finally

here! Recreation has a few fun events lined up:

The Whitehouse Wind Symphony will be at the White Oak Park pavilion on Tuesday, June 13, for a free concert at 7 p.m. A blanket or lawn chair are all you need, and maybe some snacks to enjoy during this wonderful family fun musical event.

Free Movie-in-the-Park on Tuesday, June 20, at dusk at White

Barkley’s Lists June Activities

Barkley’s Marketplace will host Community Dog Walks June 5, 12, 19, and 26 at White Oak Park at 6:30 p.m. Meet at the pond fountain. For info call 908-997-0506.

Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue will visit Barkley’s Marketplace, 3150 US-22, near ShopRite, June 3, 10, and 17 from noon to 3 p.m. for cat and kitten adoptions.

Oak Park, in the outfield of Field #3. Bring snacks, blanket, and lawn chair.

Summer Camp begins on Monday, June 26, at 9 a.m. for all those who have registered. Check your email for details and information.

The Summer Camp Booklet is posted on the township website.

Summer programs including Youth & Adult Tennis, Run4Fun, Exercise programs and Station House Theater all begin soon. Branchburg Silver Saddle Community Pool opens full time on Monday, June 26, at 11 a.m. To register, call Recreation or use Community Pass online.

A waxing moon and an exploding eagle population perfectly symbolize unimaginable events becoming a reality. Both inspirational icons fuel the imagination and open possibilities never before considered.

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When the Eagle Lunar Lander set down on the moon in 1969, astronaut Neil Armstrong spoke these immortal words, “the eagle has landed.”

Those simple words announced to the world that the Man in the Moon finally had company. The proximity of the moon to the earth made it a central part of myth and legend and directed human behavior as if it were a nurturing celestial caretaker. That humanity now stood on the moon was unbelievable, the impossible had now been achieved!

NJ eagle report and saw an image of an eagle nest and the word, “Keasbey,” as its location. I was stunned as a range of emotions swept over me. Keasbey? Eagles? Eagles associated with Keasbey? The same Keasbey I intimately knew from my youthful wandering among the swamps, streams, and tidal creeks in the 1960s and 70s?

ralist Henry David Thoreau linked Eagleswood to Keasbey when he described in his journal on Nov. 2, 1856, a walk two miles upriver from Eagleswood in Perth Amboy to what is now the Keasbey shoreline.

A wooly mammoth might sooner be unearthed in a Keasbey clay bank than the shadow of a bald eagle pass over the land. Eagles existed only in far-away pristine wilderness destinations.

For that matter Canada geese were unknown to the area, mallards were found only in parks and on occasion a deer track might be seen.

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That headline, “the eagle has landed,” perfectly described my emotion when I scanned the latest

Previously, the only reference to eagles in Keasbey were the Keasbey Eagles, a weight lifting club on the Keasbey Heights overlooking Raritan Bay. Another reference was Eagleswood, a utopian society situated along the shore of Raritan Bay, which ended at what is now the Keasbey border. Visiting natu-

Crows Mill Creek, whose source was a clear spring, now tinted acid yellow, after passing through the HR Grace property, flowed over the sandy bottom to the tidal creek at Jennings boat yard. HR Grace, Hayden Chemical Company and Hatco dominated the spring-fed area. Some nights, downwind of the factories, the wind might burn your eyes, and in the morning, white flakes would cover your car.

The Eagle Has Landed

During the summer when mosquitoes were nigh, an olive drab military vehicle would ride up and down the streets spraying thick clouds of DTT, through which all the kids rode their bicycles. Keasbey itself had rerouted Crows Mill Road around a large abandoned clay pit and used it to dump garbage. Upstream of Keasbey, in Edison, the Raritan Arsenal buried weapons and explosives in the wetlands along the river. Within the arsenal property, toxic phosgene was buried in small isolated fenced-in areas. National Lead was situated across the river, lead slag was used to support the shoreline in many locations along the bay. Lead, among other chemicals, entered the food chain to accumulate in top feeders. The lower Raritan and Keasbey were in no way suitable for eagle habitat, even though the Raritan is a major migratory extension of the

Atlantic flyway. The lower Raritan region is one of, if not, the most naturally diverse regions in the state, it is where the soils of South Jersey meet the soils of the North. From the soil springs a diversity of plants and a cascade of wildlife to make this region a veritable United Nations where all members are represented in one location. This cannot be emphasized enough, the potential for diversity is critical to build upon the success of the eagles. In fact, it is stunted to look at a single species and not the community in which it exists.

While remediation of the chemical factories is underway and DDT use curtailed, we are still plagued with legacy pollution and a spectrum of novel emerging pollutants. Microplastics combine with pharmaceuticals and other chemicals to attack the immune system of humans and other top food chain

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 .

feeders such as eagles. Blood samples taken from eagles remain in frozen storage for lack of funding. Even if processed, there is no plan to look at the impact of specific pollutants on the immune system. The preoccupation with lead poisoning diverts attention from the impact pollutants have on the immune system. We hope the exploding eagle population is not a flash in the pan and only time and further research will tell.

So, the table had been set for an explosion of natural diversity denied by decades of abuse. When one lives to see the dramatic contrast take place over a lifetime, the impact approaches the status of a miracle. The nesting bald eagle in Keasbey is on the level of man landing on the moon, a cause for celebration in and of itself.

To delve a bit deeper into pollutants, see the NJ fish consumption

warnings https://dep.nj.gov/dsr/ fish-advisories-studies/. To learn more about Thoreau and Eagleswood, see winterbearrising article, “If Shadows and Footprints Were Indelible” at https://winterbear-

rising.wordpress.com/ and search keyword “Thoreau.”

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

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 a n n n g A n n u i t i e s

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Branchburg Rotary Awards 10 Scholarships

By Diane Bonanno, Chair, Scholarship Committee

For the past 35 years the Rotary Club of Branchburg has recognized young people who exemplify the Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self.” This year eight students from Branchburg and two Raritan Valley Community College students were awarded scholarships at a breakfast in May.

Recipients were: Sydney Jackus and Sarah Nichols from Immaculata High School; Aishwarya Dodda and Emily Jones from Somerset County

Vocational Technical School; and Meghan Grace and Anjali Krishnamurti from Somerville High School. This was an outstanding group of students with excellent grade point averages and deep involvement in service projects.

Several winners completed college credits while attending high school and created their own nonprofit groups. Included in this group were Samantha Schweid, who won the John Pastre Scholarship given to a student who intends to become an educator, and Marissa Aliseo, who

won the Raymond Bateman Scholarship named after the senator who helped write the legislation that created the community college system in New Jersey.

The Rotaract Club scholarship recipient was Shea Cinquemani, President of the RVCC Rotaract Club, who will attend Rutgers University and major in Marine Biology. The Veterans Scholarship went to Shelton Hightower, an 8-year U.S. Army veteran, who will attend Montclair State University in the fall and major in Theater Arts.

Branchburg Seniors

Got Fancy in May

Branchburg Seniors celebrate Derby Day.

The Branchburg Seniors celebrated the Kentucky Derby during May with a fancy hat contest and horse races. Other recent activities included a talk in April on climate change by member Joseph Chiarell, a chemical engineer. He is currently a member of the Nature Conservancy, which preserves green areas and wildlife habitats.

The seniors will meet on June

1 and historian Dana Bala will discuss how life in the kitchen has evolved over the past 100 years. On June 15, the group will have a barbecue with the Branchburg Police at White Oak Park. The Seniors will then take a break for the summer.

Check out the Seniors Calendar on the township website for fall details.

—Submitted by Audrey Henry

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TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD: Type your ad exactly as you want it to appear. Ads are limited to 30 words (phone numbers count as one word). Mail your ad along with a check for $20 made payable to “The Branchburg News” to The Branchburg News, PO Box 5351, Branchburg, NJ 08876

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Summer Reading Challenge Starts June 21

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The Branchburg Library’s Summer Reading Challenge is just around the corner. This year’s theme, “All Together Now” will focus on friendship, teamwork, and the world around us. Evening activities are being planned. Registration and program kick off is Wednesday, June 21. The reading challenge is open to children ages two and up, but all ages are invited for story time and craft each Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

For more information, contact branchburglibrary@gmail.com or 908-369-5355.

Check out the Branchburg Library on Facebook and Instagram.