Branchburg News - July August 2021 by Town Media

July/August 2021

www.branchburgnews.com

SHS Sends Forth Class of 2021

Newly graduated are Trystan Chilcoat, Gabe Harris, Andrew Muller, and Chase Wizemann. - Photo by Karen Muller

Somerville High School held commencement exercises for the Class of 2021 on June 22 at 7 p.m. on Brooks Field, with a live stream for those unable to attend in person. Top honors went to Rachel Kaniuk of Branchburg, Somerville High School Valedictorian; Alexandra Schweid of Branchburg, Somerville High School Salutatorian; Katherine Clarkson of Somerville, Somerville Academy of Liberal Arts Valedictorian; and Anna Decker of Somerville,

Somerville Academy of Liberal Arts Salutatorian. Anika Chugh of Branchburg served as Student Council President. The SHS class was 294 members strong, with 161 students from Branchburg. Branchburg graduates are: William Adams, Nicolas Ahedo, Vansh Ahuja, Collin Albanese, Daniel Albanese, Sarah Anderson, Brian Anglim, Brynn Armstrong, Gabriella Baker, Mark Benaquista, Hanny Beydoun, Matthew Bliss, Alexander Blomquist, Lau-

ren Boyle, Agathe Brudi, Thomas Cantillon, Ari Carousso, Nicholas Chabrak, Joseph Cheeli, Henry Chirackal, Aubrey Christopher, Anika Chugh, Jacquelyn Ciufo, Andrew Ciurleo, Rocco Coppola, Luke Cosentino, Mia Dabrowski, Catherine Dalessio, Gianna DePinto, Joseph DePinto, Vincent DePinto, Grant Desiderio, Chloe Devero, Alexandra DiCostanzo, Corinne Dumont, Nicole Eljaiek, Hannah Feliciano, Ashleigh Frankel, Maya Gara, Noah Garcia, Joseph Girvan, Christina Gonzalez, Daniel Gorodisch, Jake Gorrie, Taylor Graff, Trent Greenfield, Matthew Gromko, Ava Gropper, Camron Hallingse, Erin Harnanto, Gabriel Harris, William Harvey, Nicole Hemmens, Benito Hergert, Bradley Hieber, Andrew Hunt, Kyle Insabella, Caleb Jackson, Grace Jensen, Adela Joyce, Rachel Kaniuk, Pranathi Karra, Kyle Kelly, Kate Kerrigan, Amy Kim, Victoria Kornecki, Juliana Kosik, Jenna Kotlar, Olivia Kutlow, Abby Lawson, Abigail Lemon, Elizabeth Leoniuk, Alana Madigan, James Maher, Sophia Mariani, Vincenzo Mariani, Joseph continued on page 2

8th Grade Graduation Awards Branchburg Central Middle School presented the following awards to deserving 8th graders: Life Service Award (Sponsored by Senator Christopher “Kip” and Susan Bateman) - Alexis Hogan and Ruth Mehreteab; MRB Foundation Humanitarian Award (Sponsored by The Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation/ Bob and Ileen Bradley) - Derek Richards, Anna Scholp, Kiera Vidal, and Madison Vespucci Paxson; Selwyn P. Smith Memorial Award for Academic Diligence (Sponsored by Ms. Debra Smith Jacobsen) - Youssef Akel and Luca Petroni; Rotarian

Award (Sponsored by the Branchburg Rotary) - Louis Kilpatrick and Ava Spears; Vocal Music & Instrumental Music (Sponsored by the Branchburg Woman’s Club) Alyssa Pallitto and Megha Vijayakumar; Language Arts (Sponsored by the Branchburg PTO) - Brooke Lopac and Lisette Szeman; Citizenship - William Emanuelo and Madeline Senate; Joseph Renzulli-Sally Reis Scholar Award - Maia Vidal; Kimberly Butler Drama Award Kiera Vidal; June H. Thomas Fine Arts Memorial Award - Varenna Weber; Social Studies - Joseph Anglim and Danek Cirafesi; Orchestra

- Sophia Tubridy; Strings - Isabelle Baumann; Chorus - Owen Confer; Band - Katharine Curtis; Science - Matthew Emanuelo and Joseph Oborne; Physical Education - Brianna Hannum and Romir Kaul; Art - Emily Palko and Natalie Perlman; French - Jacob Parry and Katherine Patrick; Spanish - Brady Scheier and Madeline Senate; Mathematics - Eva Szeman and Kelan Vitali; High Average – The Force Team (Sponsored by the Branchburg Woman’s Club) – Lisette Szeman; High Average – Innovator Team (Sponsored by the Branchburg Woman’s Club) – Maia Vidal.

Branchburg Central Middle School Commencement

Pictured are Katelyn Watkins, Anna Scholp, Jenna Colantuono, Kiera Vidal, and Maia Vidal. - Photo by Diane Scholp

Branchburg Central Middle School held an outdoor 8th grade graduation ceremony on the school grounds June 18. Student Council officers addressed their classmates with Maia Vidal - Treasurer - offering the flag salute; Emme Hoarle - Secretary - welcome greeting; Madeline Senate - President - the class address; and Kiera Vidal Vice President - closing remarks. BCMS choral and band members performed for an appreciative crowd.

The 180 graduates are: Isabel Aguilera, Adriana Ahedo, Youssef Akel, Ali Alhiari, Joseph Anglim, Andrew Arellano, Ava Azzinnari, Isabelle Baumann, Lara Beba, Ava Berberian, Jack Bewalder, Madison Blanchard, Brandon Blaszka, Jack Bloomstein, Luke Bursack, Catherine Burt, Seleena Busi, Matthew Callahan, Spencer Carran, Thomas Cassella, Lily Chang, Aaryan Chaudhary, Marlo Christopher, Matthew Chubenko, continued on page 5

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

2 Editors & Publishers: Bill Haduch, Monita Casey Haduch Advertising Manager: Heather Sanchez Writer/Ad Sales: Karen C. Muller Design & Layout: Jacki Hasko Web Manager: Steve Skladany Mailing Services: Mike Sanchez Art:: Kevin Gora, Cathy Zehr, Megan Clewell 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. DEADLINES FOR NEXT ISSUE September 2021 August 15 For Ad Materials August 15 For News Materials The Branchburg News is not liable for failure to publish an ad, for typographical errors, or errors in publication, unless, in our judgment, the error materially affects the content and advertising value of the ad. Compensation will not exceed the cost of the space in which an error occurs. The Branchburg News has the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason, and is not responsible for claims made by advertisers. We ask our readers to keep us informed of any misleading advertisements. Phone/Fax: 1-800-530-3046 Email: branchburgnews@gmail.com Mailing address: P.O. Box 5351 Branchburg, NJ 08876 Web: www.branchburgnews.com

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Upcoming Events Outdoor Concert July 6 Whitehouse Wind Symphony, a community band under the direction of Branchburg resident James P. Sheeley Jr., in conjunction with the Branchburg Department of Recreation, will present a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at White Oak Park. The program will feature patriotic selections such as “America the Beautiful,” medleys of rock songs from the 1980s, big band jazz songs, and selections from Broadway musicals. Donations will be accepted to benefit the band. Audience members are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and chairs. In the event of inclement weather, the announcement to postpone or cancel this concert will be made on the band’s website (whitehousewindsymphony.org) and Facebook page (facebook.com/ whitehousewind). Friday Evening with the Mayor July 9 Join Mayor Brendon Beatrice for “Friday Evening with the Mayor” from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the courtroom of the Municipal Building for an informal conversation on any topic. Kids Week at Calvary July 12-16 Free, outdoor program from 9 a.m. - noon hosted by Calvary Bible Church, 144 Readington Rd. Children ages 3 to (entering) grade 5 are invited to make

friends, play games, sing songs, create special crafts, and actively engage with Bible stories. Online registration is open at www.calvarybiblechurchnj.org/activity-registration or contact 908-534-9445 or estryker@calvarybiblechurchnj.org. Mom’s Group July 12-15 From 9 - 11:30 a.m., the women of Calvary Bible Church invite mothers and grandmothers to put their feet up and be refreshed for a special event designed to support and care for moms in the community. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. Light breakfast and coffee will be served daily. Childcare is provided for infants - age 3. Online registration is open at www.calvarybiblechurchnj.org/activity-registration. Seafood Festival July 17 Garden State Underwater Recovery of Milford will host a Seafood Festival fundraiser at the Clinton Elks Pavilion, 211 Sidney Rd., Clinton, from 1 to 5 p.m. Tickets are $50 for adults, $25 for children 12-16, and free for children under 12. Attendees are welcome to bring small popup tents and lawn chairs and enjoy the beautiful grounds around the pavilion. Tickets are available through a link at gsuru.org, by calling Gerry Boylan at 908-246-0610, emailing gboylan@embarqmail.com, or Festival@gsuru.org.

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Summer Recycling:

July 12, 26 August 9, 23 For info call 732-469-3363 or visit www. co.somerset.nj.us/recycle

Person of the Year Do you know someone who lives in Branchburg who stands out, makes a difference, and contributes in a significant way? Branchburg Township is searching for Branchburg’s Person of the Year 2021. The Person of the Year must be awarded on the basis of the individual’s contributions or volunteer work, not their paid employment. Branchburg residents will submit their nominations, and nominees will be reviewed by the Township Committee. The Person of the Year will be selected by the Township Committee and will be announced in November 2021. The honoree will be presented with a plaque at a public meeting, will be featured on the township’s Facebook page as well as in The Branchburg News and receive dinner for two at a local restaurant in Branchburg. Send submissions to: BranchburgCommCommittee@gmail. com by Nov. 1, 2021.

McGroarty, Sebastien McLean, Catherine McMahon, Jonathan Memoli, Matthew Miceli, Gabriela Miller, Taha Mohamed, Kylee Monaghan, Joseph Monticello, Carly Moroney, Andrew Muller, Thomas Murdock, Brian Murphy, Thomas Navatta, Samuel Neske, Evan Nuzzi, Benjamin Ondis, Owen O’Neill, Lauren Opalewski, Samantha Opalewski, Katharine Parsons, Jayden Patel, Ajanee Pena, Kiara Perez, Julianna Perlman, Gabriella Perrone, Hannah Peterson, Alessia Petroni, Constantine Pham, Nicholas Pham, Joseph Picarillo, Ethan Pidgeon, Christina Pinho, Sarah Preston, Isabella Pugliese, Michaella Pugliese, Connor Reinhart, Zachary Repetto, Kevin Ricci, James Rinaldi, Jaelynn Robinson, Zachary Rodgers, Kyle Rolon, Cole Russo, Mohammed Salama, Regina Santana-Ferro, Thomas Sarles, Austin Sasiak, Alexandra Schweid, Shawn Scott, Jason Seeley, Bavly Shenouda, Eric Shiffman, Roy Sibaja, Alexander Silberstein, Collin Smith, Katelyn Smith, Rosemary Smolenski, Madeleine Spilletti, Brooke Stangle, Caroline Stierle, Sarah Strano, Spencer Talish, Hannah Tubridy, Logan Tyler, Katherine Updegrove, Jason Vanderbeek, Steven VanNatta, Logan VanSyckel, Nicholas Vidal, Aidan Vitali, Riley Sue Walker, Hallie Wall, Brendan Walsh, Kevin Walsh, Becca Wasserman, Alison Weigand, Daniel Williams, Chase Wizemann, Thomas Wong, Evan Wooby, David Wright, Timothy Wright, Brandon Yarusinsky, Gerard Zukowitz

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SHS Sends Forth Class of 2021

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Branchburg Township officials cut the ribbon on the Branchburg Silver Saddle Community Pool following the Memorial Day Parade on May 31. Pictured are Bill Caldarola (Recreation Department), Committeeman James Schworn, Committeeman Tom Young, Mayor Brendon Beatrice, Committeewoman Anna Columbus, Committeeman David Owens, Sen. Kip Bateman, John Voli (Recreation Department.) - Photo by Bernard Rosario, Branchburg Communications Committee

Branchburg Library to Reopen This Month The Branchburg Library located at 412 Olive St. in Neshanic Station will be reopening in early July. The actual date was not set at press time. Although tiny, the library offers several great book choices for kids, teens, and adults and holds a storytime and craft hour each Wednesday at 10 a.m.

The library hosts a book sale each fall, and books are for sale year round. Many children’s books are available for 25 cents or 50 cents each. For further information, visit BranchburgLibraryinNeshanicStation on Facebook.

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Balloon Festival Returns July 23-25 The 38th annual New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning, the largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America, relaunches July 23-24-25 at Solberg Airport in Readington. The hot air balloon inflations and ascensions take place in the early morning and early evening. In between, the festival offers family entertainment including a live concert series; a fireworks display; a night time balloon glow where the balloons are inflated and lit up like giant lanterns; children’s amusement rides and ageappropriate entertainment; human cannonball David “The Bullet” Smith; the Running with the Balloons 5K race; and hundreds of crafters and food vendors. This year’s concert lineup features best-selling children’s recording artists Laurie Berkner on Friday, Barenaked Ladies on Saturday, and Styx on Sunday. Lawn seating for the concerts is included in general admission tickets. The festival also offers VIP reserved concert seating. New specialty balloons this year include a colorful unicorn and a giant sloth. Advance tickets offering great savings are available now at www.balloonfestival.com.

Another Housing Development Going Up

Vacant land at the corner of Route 202 and Old York Road across from the Branchburg Police Department and Municipal Building has been cleared, and work has begun on another high density housing project. Township Administrator Greg Bonin said the development is part of the court-mandated affordable housing obligation put upon the township. He provided the following details: Branchburg Senior Apartments LLC (Cornerstone at Branchburg) will be located on the corner of Route 202 and Old York Road across from

the Municipal Building. The approved site will consist of two three-story buildings with 75 affordable rental apartment units in each, for a total of 150 units. These units will be age restricted. There will be 132 single bedroom units and 18 two-bedroom units. Over the years residents have discussed ideas for establishing a town center at that site with a public square and shops. Bonin said the land along Route 202 is zoned for retail, but no application has been submitted.

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Branchburg’s Silver Saddle Community Pool Opens

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

Branchburg Newsmakers

Michael Burke & Jade Vargas

Aschlyn and Reid Moran

Aschlyn DiBetta and Reid Moran were married April 16 at The Terrace At Cedar Hill in Charlotte, NC. The bride is the daughter of Sal and Robin DiBetta of Branchburg. Aschlyn is a 2011 graduate of Somerville High School and a 2015 graduate of Towson University and is a Healthcare Associate with Booz Allan Hamilton. The groom is the son of Karen Moran and David Moran. He is a 2014 graduate of Virginia Tech and is a Category Manager with Kraft/Heinz. The couple vacationed in Cancun, Mexico, and will take their honeymoon to Thailand next summer. They reside in Charlotte, NC.

Kate Cardonne

Kate Cardonne of Branchburg recently graduated with honors from Lehigh University, receiving a B.S. degree in Materials Science & Engineering. She will be working for Johnson Matthey in their Precious Metals Management Group. Branchburg’s Access Medical Associates has announced that Leah Seungyeon Lee, MSN, FNPBC recently joined its medical team. Leah earned her Master’s Degree in Nursing from The College of New Jersey.

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Michael Burke Sr. and Robyn Burke of Branchburg announce the engagement of their son Michael Burke Jr. to Jade Vargas, daughter of Charlie and Lisa Vargas of Hillsborough. Michael and Jade both graduated from Somerville High School in 2010. Mike went on to graduate from JMU in 2014, and is now a Software Engineer at Cafe Media. Jade graduated from Fordham University in 2014 and is now back at Fordham pursuing her PhD in Cellular & Molecular Biology.

The following Branchburg residents graduated from Centenary University during the 146th commencement in June: Julia Anthony, Bachelor of Arts in Education: Liberal Arts, magna cum laude; and Kristen Fritz of Branchburg, Master of Business Administration: Leadership. Amy Lynn Cavagnaro of Branchburg received a Master of Science degree from the Keystone College’s Turock School of Arts and Sciences during the 150th commencement ceremony in Scranton, PA, on May 24.

Christian Gorrie, a 2018 graduate of Somerville High School, was named to the Dean’s List for the spring semester at Kutztown Sabrina Mohsin University of Pennsylvania’s Sabrina Mohsin, D.O., gradu- College of Visual & Performing ated from the West Virginia Arts, in recognition of academic School of Osteopathic Medicine excellence.

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The League of Women Voters of Somerset & Hunterdon Counties encourages citizens to register to vote. Has it been a while since you have voted? Perhaps your address or name has changed since you last voted? Are you unsure whether you are properly registered to vote at your current address? Go to www.vote411.org , select “Verify voter registration,” and enter the required information. You will see whether you are currently listed as a registered voter and the location (municipality) where you are registered. If you are unsure if the Board of Elections has your current address, contact the Somerset County Board of Elections at ElectionBd@co.somerset.nj.us. If you need to register to vote or change your information, you can do this through the NJ Division of Elections website at https//nj.gov/ state/elections/index.shtml. Go to the Voter Information Portal and select the Register to Vote option. You can complete your application online or print out a registration form to complete and return to the Somerset County Board of Elections. The voter registration deadline for this year’s General Election is Oct. 12, 2021. The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan political organization with the mission of empowering voters and making our democracy work. If you have questions about voting or elections, we have answers. Contact us at lwvnjsomersethunterdon@outlook.com. - Submitted by Carol Harvey, LWV of Somerset and Hunterdon Counties

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The Somerset County Board of Commissioners reopened county facilities to the public June 15. In most facilities, the public is not required to wear masks if they are fully vaccinated, but those who have not been fully vaccinated are strongly encouraged to wear masks. Those who decide to wear a mask where it is not required will not be penalized or restricted. Mask-wearing will be enforced for all visitors regardless of vaccination status at Richard Hall Community Health and Wellness Center and the Somerset County Jail as mandated by executive order 242. The public will be asked to check in at all county facilities in the main lobby. Those with appointments will be able to proceed. Those without appointments will be asked the purpose of their visit and then escorted to the appropriate office. Jury trials at the Somerset County Courthouse will resume soon. To view a video with instructions for jurors who are arriving for jury duty, visit http://bit.ly/ SCJuryDutyArrival.

Branchburg Central Middle School Commencement continued from page 1

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8th Graders Got Their Dinner Dance After All

By Korin Carey, PTO Branchburg’s PTO members started conversations in January with Branchburg Central Middle School Principal Matt Barbosa about whether or not an 8th grade dinner dance was going to be possible in the midst of Covid restrictions. He and the PTO event chairs continued to be in close communication regarding the public social distancing requirements. To help manage overall community expectations, Barbosa set May 7 as the decision day. When the day came, the dance was cancelled due to Covid restrictions. The disappointment was heavy, but then a change came from the state on the Friday before Memorial Day weekend, and Barbosa gave the green light for the dance. So with less than two weeks to work with, the PTO team pulled together a dance for the 180 eighth grade students outdoors at the school on Sunday, June 13, from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

When the dance was revived, Barbosa said, “We are so happy to provide an opportunity for our 8th graders to experience the dance. It is always a wonderful event that helps us celebrate and recognize our 8th graders before they exit the Branchburg Township Public Schools. The Branchburg PTO has done an amazing job mobilizing a committee to get everything ready for the dance in only two weeks. I am looking forward to having a fun night with our students.” The dance committee included: Burcu Beba - PTO Sponsor; Jennifer Blanchard - PTO Sponsor; Korin Carey - PTO Sponsor; Kelly D’Urso - PTO President; Melanie Colasurdo- PTO Treasurer; June Sima - 8th Grade Dance Co-Chair; Alaine Sheeley - 8th Grade Dance Co-Chair; Lynn Smola - 8th Grade Dance Co-Chair. A group of community volunteers helped with donations and decorations.

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

Somerset County Reopens

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

Memorial Day Commemoration Returns

Senator Kip Bateman and Township Committee members James Schworn, David Owens, Mayor Brendon Beatrice, Anna Columbus, and Tom Young ride the parade route on a classic fire engine driven by John Corbo. Also on board are Brody Beatrice and John Beck Jr. - Photo by Bernard Rosario, Branchburg Communications Committee

The annual Memorial Day Parade hosted by the Neshanic Volunteer Fire Company returned this year after the pandemic canceled it last May. The parade was held on Monday, May 31, stepping off from the firehouse at 9:30 a.m. and following the traditional route: Maple Avenue to Pearl Street to Olive Street to Pleasant Run Road and back to the firehouse. Senator Kip Bateman was the guest speaker at the cer-

emony immediately following the parade. Because of the success of last year’s “Wave Parade” through the township, once again the parade continued on from Neshanic Station around 10:45 following last year’s route: Pleasant Run Road to South Branch Road to Whiton Road, across Route 202, down Old York Road, to Baird Road and past the park. It ended at the Branchburg Silver Saddle Community Pool.

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RVCC Celebrates Graduates at Second Virtual Commencement Raritan Valley Community College celebrated the successes and achievements of over 1,300 graduates at the college’s second Virtual Commencement, held Saturday, May 15. Held as a YouTube watch party, the ceremony featured student and faculty speeches; video greetings from RVCC’s administration, Board of Trustees members and dignitaries; student videos; and slides and photos highlighting the graduates. In addition, RVCC graduate Jamie Mallinson performed an original piece, “Raritan Valley Fanfare,” on trumpet. She was accompanied on piano by Dr. Anna Keiserman, RVCC Assistant Professor of Music. Kevin Spencer, an award-winning performing artist and educator who is a champion of using the art of magic to impact change in the lives of children with developmental disabilities and other special populations, served as the Commencement Speaker. He also received an honorary degree during the ceremony. In his video message to the graduates, Spencer said: “Every day you have an opportunity to create something magical, perform in ways that impact the world around you, and reflect on where

you want to go and how you’re going to get there. Congratulations to all of you – go out and change the world.” The speaker shared how his own role dramatically changed after a serious car accident left him with brain and lower spinal cord injuries. As a result of his own experiences in rehabilitation, he partnered with therapists to develop a treatment program using magic tricks. This new professional role, said Spencer, is “one of the most challenging, most life-changing, and most fulfilling aspects of who I am and what I do.” He told the graduates, “the lesson I learned is simple: Make the most of every moment and every opportunity.” Catherine Linet Namuli of Upper Gwynedd, PA, served as the Student Commencement Speaker. A native of Uganda, Namuli said she came to the United States to challenge herself academically. “I chose to begin at a community college because it offered a chance to explore endless opportunities and career interests while providing a more affordable path to a bachelor’s degree.” Namuli is a member of RVCC’s Honors College and serves as a Mentor in its Mentorship Program. The Liberal Arts major is gradu-

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ating from RVCC Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 Grade Point Average. Active in College life, she serves as Vice President of the Rotaract Club, a Student Ambassador for the Women’s Center, and is part of the Changebuilder Program. She is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the National Society of Leadership and Success. She plans to study International Relations at a fouryear school and already has been accepted at several universities. Her future goals include working as a Political Affairs Officer for the United Nations and/or working with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to address and tackle human rights issues, especially in third-world countries, focusing on global health, gender equality, and international security. “We have graduated from the best community college in New Jersey that’s not only exceptional in academics, but has a solid sense of community. It has supported each one of us on our journey,” Namuli continued. “As we move forward in life, I hope that we, the Raritan Valley Community College class of 2021, continue to build strong communities and defy the odds.” Alexa Offenhauer of Clinton, RVCC Assistant Professor of English, delivered the faculty address. A New Jersey native, she received a Bachelor’s Degree from Rutgers University and a Master’s Degree from Western Carolina University. She is currently a doctoral candidate at Teachers College, Columbia University, and is writing her dissertation on reading theory and its place in the composition classroom.

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Memorial Day at Stony Brook — Stony Brook School

traditionally goes big for Memorial Day, beginning the day with a flag raising ceremony (pictured, with Basel Gad at the helm), lining the halls with patriotic posters, conveying veterans’ life stories, and doing a service project for those who have served in the military. This year students collected personal and non-perishable items for “Hope for Veterans” homeless veterans facility. Students brought in personal care items (shampoo, conditioner, lotion, sunscreen, chapstick, toothbrush, toothpaste) and non-perishable food items (rice, mac-n-cheese, soup, cereal, peanut butter, jelly). Branchburg’s generosity was over the top as usual with a truckload of goods donated. Teacher Ms. Nina Manger coordinates the Memorial Day event at Stony Brook. - Photo courtesy of Heather Lilly

Stony Brook School fourth grader Vanessa Nguyen (pictured at piano) was one of many fourth and fifth graders who participated in Mrs. Toni Burke’s Enrichment Program’s 24th Annual Showcase of Stars Talent Show. For the second year in a row, the presentation was held virtually, with 34 students sending in videos of their various talents. The hour-long show premiered on Monday night, June 14 with a 7 p.m. watch party on YouTube Premiers. Talents ranged from singing, dancing and gymnastics routines to Taekwondo.

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The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

Stony Brook Showcase of Stars Talent Show

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

Art and Essay Contest Winner

NJ Wildlife Foundation’s Species on the Edge Art and Essay Contest. Art teacher Ms. Samantha Hoag and Enrichment Teacher Mrs. Toni Lynn Burke worked with Vanessa to create a piece of art work and essay about the Green Sea Turtle to promote conservation of this New Jersey endangered species. Vanessa’s artwork and an excerpt of her essay will appear in the foundation’s calendar as well as on the website. Vanessa Castro As Vanessa wrote in her essay, we Stony Brook School 5th grader all need to “come out of our shells” Vanessa Castro won First Place and make a difference for the Green honors for Somerset County in the Sea Turtle. - submitted by Toni

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Rotary Students of the Month

Pictured are (first row, seated) Jay Patel; Ashley Egan; Laura Beba; Grace Norgalis; (second row) Wendy Michels, BCMS Media Specialist; Jenn Nelson, Guidance Counselor; Cathy Callahan, Rotarian; James Meister; Madeline Senate; Ava Spear; Tiana Nguyen; Kathy Feigley, Rotarian and Student of the Month Coordinator; Beth Stanton, Vice Principal; (third row) Principal Matt Barbosa. (Absent from photo were William Emanuelo and Louis Kilpatrick.)

By Kathy Feigley, Rotarian Rotary Club of Branchburg supports the youth of our community through the Student of the Month program, which started in 1995 under the direction of Rotarian Dr. Julie Juliano. It started as an English essay assignment with a vocational twist. Over the years in partnership with Branchburg Central Middle School it has become “Focus on the Future,” as students research a career of their interest and create

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a presentation on how to achieve their goals. Typically, the students present their essay, website design or project to Rotarians at their monthly meeting. Due to pandemic restrictions, the event had a different look this year. Instead of individual monthly presentations, a group event took place on May 12, socially distanced and in masks at BCMS.

This year’s award winners are Jay Patel, future goal Business Intelligence Analyst; Ashley Egan, Occupational Therapist; Laura Beba, Surgeon; Grace Norgalis, Zoologist/ Wildlife Biologist; James Meister, Accountant; Madeline Senate, Corporate Lawyer; Ava Spear, Novelist; Tiana Nguyen, CEO; William Emanuelo, Hotel Manager; and Louis Kilpatrick, Computer Network Architect. Rotarians work very closely with Principal Matt Barbosa, Guidance Counselor Jenn Nelson, and Student of the Month Coordinator at BCMS Wendy Michels, Media Specialist. These are truly people who exemplify the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.” Students were awarded a Rotary Certificate and a special Rotary coin that reminds Rotarians to live their lives by the Rotary 4-Way test: “Of the things we think, say and do: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? For more information about Student of the Month, the Rotary’s many community service programs, or information on how to join the Rotary Club of Branchburg contact Dr. Julie Juliano at 908685-8080. Visit the Rotary Club of Branchburg Facebook page. Rotarians meet every Wednesday morning at 7:30 a.m. at Stoney Brook Grille in Branchburg.

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Municipal Building News | in print and online at www.branchburg.nj.us ‘Our Work is Your Play’ *** RECREATION NEWS*** HAPPY JULY! Summer is HERE!

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SUMMER PROGRAMS are off to a great start and if you missed the first week there is still time to register online through Community Pass! Check out the program offerings online or give us a call in Rec.

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Mature Aerobics will bee back in September, new instructor, new days and time! Tuesday & Thursdays, 10:30 – 11:30am at the Little Red School House.

at WHITE OAK PARK On Tuesday evenings @ dusk. July 13:“Aladdin” (2019-Live Action) July 27: Christmas in July: “Elf “ Follow Branchburg Recreation on Facebook @ BburgRecDept

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

TOWNSHIP OF BRANCHBURG

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

Branchburg Woman’s Club Memorializes Members By Linda Mish, BWC Co-President On May 16, the Branchburg Woman’s Club suffered a tremendous loss. Our Communications Chair, Tricia Ihde, passed away at age 62. A club member since 1990, Tricia served as our Publicity Chair for the past 23 years. She was our Facebook administrator, our website manager and author of our monthly article in this newspaper. Tricia also managed all of our fundraising publicity and monitored the club’s contact phone number. Tricia’s NJSFWC Report Writing won our club awards for “Best All Around Work” in Communications at district and state levels for many years. Tricia dedicated a majority of her time and creative talents to our club. To honor Tricia’s memory, the Branchburg Woman’s Club will facilitate a one-time student award in Communication Studies for the

2021-2022 academic year. Tricia’s family has requested that memorial donations be directed to the club. Memorial donations can be made payable to the Branchburg Woman’s Club c/o Regina Lembrich, 806 Devon Lane, Neshanic Station, NJ 08853, and earmarked for the Tricia Ihde Memorial Student Award. Three other club women passed away since April. Liz Quade, a club member for 11 years, died on April 21. She was an enthusiastic supporter of many club activities. In remembrance of Liz, the club made a charitable donation to her church, the Living Waters Lutheran Church in Ringoes. Also, sadly, 50-year member, Jean Quattro, passed away on May 26. Jean was our club’s Education Chairman for many years and coordinated with our local schools for award recipients. Jean also enjoyed our club’s monthly Lunch Bunch

and other social activities. On June 1, we lost Elaine Grimm who was a club member for 31 years. Elaine was a very active member in our Home Life group crocheting countless afghan squares and purple hats for infants for the Period of PURPLE Crying campaign. These wonderful club women will be honored by having their names added to the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of the GFWC Memorials Book. They all will truly be missed. Regarding the general membership meetings, the Branchburg Woman’s Club is planning on resuming monthly meetings starting on Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. at the township’s Little Red Schoolhouse, 2120 South Branch Rd. Our program has yet to be planned. Membership inquiries are welcome and can temporarily be emailed to: mishy01@ msn.co.

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The Branchburg Communications Committee is creating promotional videos of local business owners to help boost business at a time when Covid has had such a negative impact on the economy. If you own a local business and are interested in participating, contact the committee: branchburgcommcommittee@gmail.com. This video will be shared on Township Facebook pages, on the local television station, and in other outlets. Send an email with your name, business name, and contact information to: branchburgcommcommittee@gmail.com byAug. 1.

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The 24th Branchburg Country Fair at White Oak Park is set for Saturday, Sept. 25 (rain date Sunday, Sept. 26.) The event begins at 11 a.m. and ends with the Gregory Gonzalez Memorial Fireworks at 8 p.m. This family event features community groups, vendors and businesses, food, entertainment and more, in a safe environment. This is a way to meet old friends, make new friends and learn about Branchburg. For questions, email BranchburgCountryFair@gmail.com or call Bob or Rita Bouwman at 908-526 3094.

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Branchburg Primary Results

In Branchburg Township Primary Election voting on June 8, Jack Ciattarelli topped the Republican nomination list for governor, earning 608 votes while his closest rival, Philip Rizzo, earned 293 Branchburg votes. Ciattarelli won statewide and will run against incumbent Democrat Phil Murphy in the November General Election. Murphy received 285 Branchburg votes. Uncontested Republican candidates for two seats on the Township Committee were Mayor Brendon Beatrice, who received 1,112 votes, and incumbent Anna Columbus, 1,135. Uncontested Democrats for Township Committee were Sivakumar Mathusoodana, 487 votes, and Kangaroo Kids teachers hanThomas R. Weimer, 494. The four candidates will compete for two dled a particularly challenging seats in November. year with so many new regulations, safety concerns and anxiety surrounding Covid but came through with flying colors and have been back and working hard since July 2020. During the recent Teacher Appreciation Week, the staff was treated to a “Sense”sational Week, receiving a token of appreciation every day. Monday was a sense of smell, and they all received a special fragrant lotion. Tuesday was a sense of

BCMS Graduates Outdoors— The June 18 outdoor

ceremony for the 8th grade graduates was welcome after a year of ups and downs due to pandemic restrictions. Pictured are BCMS Principal Matt Barbosa, Board of Education President Terry Joyce and Superintendent Rebecca Gensel congratulating each student on the stage set up in front of the school. - Photo courtesy of Diane Scholp

Pictured are teachers Michelle Clark, Jackie Russano Weiss and Fatima Pidany with their earth stress balls during Teacher Appreciation Week. - Submitted by Kathy Feigley

touch where they were awarded an earth stress ball. Wednesday was a sense of sight, where all these really cool teachers received some snazzy sunglasses. Thursday was a sense of sound where every room had special video messages in their inbox from their students and the ad-

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The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

Kangaroo Kids Teachers Honored during Teacher Appreciation Week

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

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Branchburg Troop 60259 Earns Bronze Award

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Pictured are Branchburg Girl Scout Troop 60259 members (from left) Ashlyn Simko, Mikah Bick, Paige Ziegler and Carly Giuliano. - Submitted by Karen Bick, co-leader of Branchburg Girl Scout Troop #60259 (SU73)

Several members of Branchburg Girl Scout Troop 60259 (SU73) worked together to earn their Bronze Award and made an impact on the environment in the process. The fifth graders wanted to help the environment by combating invasive bug species. They noticed that the spotted lantern flies, and other non-native bugs, were eating local plants and impacting the ecosystem. They decided to build bird houses and hang them around the community in places where invasive bugs live. It helps reduce invasive bugs

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by attracting more birds and bats to eat those bugs. The girls researched the issue, solicited donations to get supplies, built and painted 18 bird houses, got support from leaders in the community to hang the houses, and hung the bird houses. Special thanks to Principal Danielle Shober from Whiton Elementary School and the Branchburg Township Recreation Department and Public Works Park Foreman at White Oak Park for their support.

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Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation

With pandemic restrictions easing, we are happy to announce that the Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation will once again be holding its Annual Gala on Friday evening, Oct. 1. The theme of this year’s event is Masquerade Party and the venue is the Somerville Elks Lodge #1068, 375 Union Ave., Bridgewater. This is the premier fundraising event and will honor the memory of Meghan Bradley by raising funds to develop treatments that enable children to fight brain cancer while maintaining some semblance of their childhood. Despite

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The Branchburg Central Middle School Student Council held a Teachers vs. Students Kickball Game at BCMS on May 19. The event raised $1,615 for Covid relief efforts in India through the organization Direct Relief, a nonprofit that provides medical resources to places in need. Several students took the initiative to organize the fundraiser to help hospitals in Bangalore, where many students’ families have been impacted. BCMS staff volunteered to participate, and tickets were sold. Funds were also raised at the Student Council “Buck Truck,” a rolling snack shack, at the game.

national pandemic restrictions, the research funded by donations continued throughout the lockdown with encouraging progress in the development of non-invasive treatments. It has been 17 years since Meghan succumbed to a brain tumor at age 16. Please join the Bradley family and the foundation at the gala to celebrate Meghan’s life and the lives of countless others afflicted by pediatric brain cancer. For more information on the foundation and additional resources relating to pediatric brain cancer, visit www.meghanrosebradleyfoundation.org or call 732-735-3291.

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Pictured are Branchburg Central Middle School 7th graders Megha Shankri, Shreya Patro, and Pari Malla, who took the initiative to organize a kickball fundraiser for Covid relief in India. - Photo courtesy of BCMS Media Specialist Wendy Michels, Student Council Advisor

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The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

Theme for Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation Gala is Masquerade Party

Summer Rain’s Familiar Scent

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

The mid-summer sunlight dimmed, as amorphous white clouds, heavy with moisture, washed over the blue sky. Deep shadows settled in among the layers of leaves that blended the crowns of oaks and maples into a coarse, solid green curtain. The leaves of the Norway maples on the outer edge of the woodlot appeared pale matte green in the dim light and hung motionless at a 65-degree angle as the atmosphere held its breath in anticipation of the impending rain. As the rain began, the earliest errant drops chose random dance partners among the leafy branches. Though not a breeze was evident, individual leaves began to dance while others remained perfectly still. Partners were exchanged and switched until the full burst of rain fell from the clouds to engage all the leaves to move to the rhythm of the falling rain. A gentle summer rain is a perfect complement to a warm summer day. Clear blue skies and unfiltered sunshine heat the earth and plants to further warm the air from below. Pollen and dust, at the mercy of the breeze, settle everywhere. The heat rising from the earth mixes with the already warmed at-

The gentle summer rain falling on the reflective water, lined with muted shades of gray and green foliage, combine to create a scene so peaceful, you must remember to take a next breath. Pictured are Whit McAvoy and Julian Orr of Maine.

mosphere to create a layer of suffocating air. The promise of relief comes, when in late afternoon, billowy white clouds appear on the horizon in dramatic contrast against the unobstructed azure blue sky. The transient clouds, directed by upper atmosphere winds, obscure the sun as they drift across the sky, trailing rain in their wake. Immediately the stifling temperature falls as cool raindrops hit the dry earth. Each drop a micro explosion, as dust and pollen are washed away and reconstituted into the soil. In the aftermath, on the field where the clash of violent heat transfer and exploding dust particles flew, a

veil of white mist hangs low over the battleground as the sunshine returns. While the rainfall was sudden, it was expected. In fact, the coming rain was preceded by a distinct odor. Researchers claim the familiar scent that sometimes fills the air prior to a coming rain is ozone being pulled to earth from high in the atmosphere and most often occurs after a dry spell. In the temporary shelter under a full leafed tree, another odor, distinct from the ozone, fills your nostrils. It is best described as organic and to me, smells like what I think

rich moist soil smells like. Even without rain, upon entering mature woods there is that same odor, enhanced by the heavy foliage which contains the moisture in the air as it mixes with the natural composting of decaying plant matter. The odor, initially after a rain begins to fall, is from the composting bacteria in the soil mixed with ozone, the combination named petrichor. Sun showers are a summer event where magic seems to partner with nature to produce a contradictory reality. The sun shines while the rain falls, no clouds obscure the sun. A meteorological phenomenon that is best left unexplained to be thoroughly enjoyed. Consider it a momentary truce among the elements who constantly clash for dominance in the atmospheric heavens. Whether a sun shower, cloud burst or late afternoon thunderstorm, refreshing, best describes a summer rain, it is an invitation to step out and feel the cool gentle rain on your face, and try to catch a few drops on your tongue. It is life, composed mostly of water, who recognizes itself in the heaven sent drops of rain, especially during a warm and gentle summer rain. Contact jjmish57@msn.com. See more articles and photos at winterbearrising.wordpress.com.

Odyssey of the Mind Accomplishments Branchburg students who competed at the Virtual WORLD Finals for Odyssey of the Mind achieved high rankings. Results were announced May 29 in a virtual awards ceremony. The Branchburg Central Middle School Team tied for 4th in Spontaneous and finished 26th Overall out of 85 teams representing over 40 states and 8 countries. The team includes Maia Vidal, Sophia Tubridy, Tiana Nguyen, Olivia Nejmeh, Tegan Dingwall, and Roma Batra. Branchburg alumni also won second place in the virtual WORLD Finals at the Division 3 level. These high school students from Branchburg represent New Jersey with the Somerset County YMCA: Hannah Tubridy, Becca Wasserman, David Frankel, Matthew Buttgereit, Ella Burkhart, Ella Romano, and Jamie Chiang. BCMS GATE & Enrichment teacher Suzanne Updegrove is the Odyssey of the Mind Coach at the middle school.

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In Memory Program Honors Local Vietnam Veteran its 2020 In Memory ceremony on the East Knoll of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, where the names of each of the 591 honorees for 2020 will be read aloud. The ceremony was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic. The plaque that honors these veterans was dedicated as a part of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial site in 2004. VVMF has created a personal

remembrance page for each honoree online at www.vvmf.org/ honor-roll. Their photos are also displayed around the country when VVMF’s mobile exhibit, The Wall That Heals, is on display in an honoree’s home state. The In Memory ceremony will be shown live on VVMF’s Facebook page (www. facebook.com/VietnamVeteransMemorialFund) beginning at 10 a.m. ET on Oct. 15, 2021.

Pictured are Christopher Frost, Zachary Tistan, Wyatt Fleming, Ethan Miller, Ivan Radzimski, Brandon Stitt, Alexander Curtis, Evan Berry and Nico Downie.

By Brandon Stitt Troop 185 Scribe On a blazing hot weekend, June 4-6, Troop 185 in Branchburg went on a canoeing/ fishing/ camping trip at Round Valley Reservoir. The weekend had high temperatures during the day that didn’t really cool down at night. On Friday night we took a 40-minute canoe trip over to the Wilderness Campsites. Once there, the unpacking stage had to be quick, as the sun was setting fast. To set up your tent, backpack, gather smellables (items that are smelled by animals) and place them in a bear bag that would need to be hung in a tree overnight, and do everything else, takes a while. And for setting up, it is a good idea to have it done by dark.

The next morning we woke up to the beautiful sun shining on our tents. Unfortunately, our kidcooks did not do the best job, so we had to eat some of the adults’ meals. No shame on them, because when I cooked, I did not do the best either. It is a very hard job to do. Later that morning, we went fishing and canoeing a bit more. Dinner tasted amazing! The final morning we cleaned up, packed up, and headed back with the canoes. Once back, we did thorns and roses, which is one bad thing about the trip (thorn) and one good thing about the trip (rose) and went home, with the exception of a couple of us who stayed and skipped rocks for a bit. Overall, the Round Valley Campout was very exciting, and scouts got to bond with their peers, go fishing, get some exercise and have an overall great time. I can say that I enjoyed it very much, along with my dad and my friends. I would suggest going to Round Valley as a camping spot.

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511 Stratford Ln., Branchburg

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The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

The late George Jerome Murphy III, U.S. Army, Neshanic Station, (August 20, 1948 – August 22, 2015) was among the nearly 600 Vietnam veterans inducted into the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund’s (VVMF) In Memory Program for 2020. The program honors Vietnam veterans whose lives were cut short as a result of their service after they returned home from Vietnam. On Oct. 15, 2021, VVMF will host

The Branchburg News • July/August 2021

This Month In Branchburg History

Branchburg

CORN

What’s the most adorable vegetable at the farm stand? The cute-cumber. Why did the pickle get kicked out of the chorus? He kept hitting sour notes. What drink makes you go “OUCH!?” Punch! How did the police officer stop the runaway refrigerator? She yelled “FREEZE!” How do you keep a computer’s breath fresh? Give it a docu-mint...

One Year Ago - July 2020: Summer events large and small were cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. No Festival of Ballooning in July and no 4-H Fair in August seemed incredible.

Twenty-Five Years Ago - July 1996: On July 15 the Branchburg Board of Education unanimously approved an extended childcare program for children who attended half day kindergarten in the district. The program to begin Five Years Ago - July 2016: The in 1997 would be run by the JoinTownship Committee planned ture, a Bound Brook-based nonto survey residents’ interest in profit educational organization. building a community center that would serve as Branchburg’s de- Fifty Years Ago - July 1971: facto downtown where people Jersey Central Railroad Service could congregate. would continue passenger service in Somerset and Hunterdon counTen Years Ago - July 2011: Old ties though commuters were not York School was closed after 61 plentiful and freight uses were years of excellence due to declin- small in number. The railroad ing enrollment. needed to continue the services or lose a $4.8 M state subsidy.

Happy Summer!

The Branchburg News follows the community newspaper tradition of publishing a combined July/August issue. We will resume our regular monthly delivery schedule the first week of September. In the meantime, have a healthy and happy summer! And don’t forget to email your summertime news and photos to The Branchburg News (branchburgnews@gmail.com) by Aug. 15 for the September issue.

Hind & Fore Inc. CelebratingOur our 59th Celebrating 50thAnniversary! Anniversary

Quality Meats & Seafood hindandfore.com

Let us Pack Your Vacation Cooler ORDER NOW!! July 4th! Vacation!

Residential Customer

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

New Brunswick, NJ Permit No. 1757

ECRWSS

CLASSIFIED ADS 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 FOR SALE: 14’ aluminum Starcraft Boat, 6 HP motor and carrier. Also furniture. Call Helene at 908-722-4576. Window Screen Repairs - Good quality Fiberglass screens for your windows and patio doors. Pick-up and delivery available. George & Son’s 908-392-2677. ENTRY LEVEL Career Calibration Technician - will train motivated individual, must use own car for daily travel and pass background and drug test, benefits. Email: kbugglin@pyrometerequipment.com. MUSIC LESSONS: Learn Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Harmonica and/or Keyboard at my Branchburg home studio. SPECIAL! First trial lesson only $10. Degreed with over 25 years teaching/performing experience. Call Sig: 908-231-0492

RITTER BROTHERS PAINTING, Readington, NJ. Interior & Exterior. Lic#13VH10329300. Business: 908-233-8904, Home: 908-534-9390. CARPENTER - Branchburg Carpenter with 35 years experience available for all jobs around the home. Quality work at a reasonable rate. Call Ron 908-256-9128. FD MASON CONTRACTOR - Over 30 years of experience. Brick, block, stone, concrete. No job too large or small. Fully insured & licensed. Free estimates. 908-385-5701. Lic# 13VH05475900. HELP WANTED: Server, busperson needed at La Strada Café. Call 908-369-1370 or come in 419 Olive St., Neshanic Station.

Hind & ORDER Fore Vacation JulyJuly 18 –4th! Aug. 2. STOCK UP NOW! NOW!! Vacation! Gift Certificates American Lamb Penn. Dutch U.S.D.A. PrimePork Dry Aged Beef Penn. Dutch Poultry Homemade Artisan SausagesSausage and Ravioli Penn. Dutch Pork, Homemade & Ravioli Fresh Turkey Our Hams OurOwn OwnHoney Fresh Baked Ground Beef Blends (no fillers) Shrimp, Seafood Homemade Franks (no fillers) & Pork Roll Franks (no fillers) Our Ground (no fillers) Homemade Pies & Cheesecakes OurOwn OwnFresh Honey BakedBeef Hams Brisket (one of our customers won the national BB-Q contest with our brisket!)

U.S.D.A PrimeAll Dry Aged Beef We Feature Natural:

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Call 908-722-6393

Our Telephone Get On st! i L l i a ls Em Specia y l k e We

Orders Welcome

452 Hwy. 28 West, Bridgewater

(1.5 miles west of the Somerville Circle)

Open: Tuesday - Saturday

Tues. & Wed. 9-6, Thurs. 9-7, Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-5

CARE FAMILIES COUNT ON • INFANT CARE TO PRE-K • FULL-DAY KINDERGARTEN • SCHOOL AGE CHILD CARE Greater Somerset County YMCA is proud to support the needs of working families through our child care programs at Bridgewater YMCA, Franklin Twp YMCA, Hillsborough YMCA, Plainfield YMCA, Somerset Hills YMCA & Somerville YMCA. Learn more and visit us today! gscymca.org/care BRIDGEWATER YMCA SOMERVILLE YMCA 908 526 0688 908 722 4567 A branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA