July/August 2022
www.branchburgnews.com
Picture Perfect Graduation Season
Branchburg Central Middle School 8th grade graduates gather in front of the school. Pictured are Hayden Conner, Gabby Sina, Joshua Figueiredo, Tommy Zaninelli, John Jagiello, Ryan Hayden, Emma Pires, Kieran McKenna, Max Villaverde, PJ Baldoni, Luke Metrovsky, Trinity Blomquist, Dalton Carman, Samantha Ney, and Devin Conner. – Photo courtesy of Jessica Zaninelli
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 branchburgnews@ gmail.com by Aug. 15 for the September issue.
Branchburg Central Middle School held the 8th grade graduation ceremony at 4:30 p.m. on June 17 in the school gymnasium, a traditional event after two years of coronavirus pandemic restrictions. Student Council officers addressed their classmates with Emily Smith - Treasurer - offering the flag salute; Shreya Patro - Secretary - welcome greeting; Pari Malla - President - the class address; and Megha Shankri - Vice President - closing remarks. BCMS choral, orchestra and band members performed for an appreciative audience. Continued on Page 3
Pictured at the Somerville High School graduation ceremony on June 16 on the football field are graduates from Branchburg: Matt Lauber, Dan Manning, Emilio Gallo, Karina Parikh, Marissa Hoinowski, Julia Puluka, Tristan Garcia, and Liam Willard. Many students decorated their caps with the logos of the colleges they will be attending in the fall.
Somerville High School sent forth the Class of 2022 on Thursday, June 16, at 4 p.m. with a ceremony on Brooks Field for the 287 graduates. Hannah Shahinian was the SHS Valedictorian and Matthew Buttgereit, Salutatorian. The SALA Valedictorian was Bridget McLoughlin and SALA Salutatorian was Amanda Grace. SALA is the Somerville Academy for Liberal Arts, a partnership between the high school and RVCC. Meghan Pedrani was Student Council President and Tristan Garcia, Senior Class President. Continued on Page 5
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. DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE September 2022 August 15 For Ad and
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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 Festival of Ballooning July 29, 30, 31 The 39th annual New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning will take place at Solberg Airport in Readington July 29, 30 and 31. The headlining concert series on the Main Stage will feature Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Todd Rundgren, Kansas, Collective Soul, and children’s recording artist Laurie Berkner. Eight top-flight tribute bands will perform throughout the weekend on the Lottery Land Summer Stage, a second perfor-
This Month’s
Recycling:
July 11 & 25 August 8 & 22
mance venue providing attendees online at https://whitehouseumc. org/education/. Contact the church with even more music to enjoy. office at 908-534-2064. Vacation Bible School For info call Branchburg Community Night Aug. 8-12 732-469-3363 or visit Aug. 6 www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle Whitehouse United Methodist Join friends and families of Church will be hosting Vacation Bible School (VBS) from 9 a.m. Branchburg at Somerset Patriots to noon with help from Round Stadium in Bridgewater for the Valley UMC, and Cokesbury/ Somerset Patriots (Yankees) vs Fairmount UMC. VBS is open to the Binghamton Rumble Ponies children who will be three by July (Mets). Game time is 7:05 p.m. 25, 2022, through those entering and there will be fireworks afterfifth grade in September. Addi- wards. The discounted ticket price tional information is included on is $9.50. Call 908-252-0700 for the registration forms available ticket info.
8th Grade Graduation Awards Presented
Branchburg Central Middle School presented the following awards to deserving 8th graders on June 7 at the school: Academic Diligence (Selwyn P. Smith Jr. Memorial Award) Samuel Talish and Layla Diggs (Sponsored by Debra Jacobsen); Art (Force Team) Amelia Chlipalski; Art (Innovator Team) Paige Dickson; Band - Natalie Zgombic and Adam Gruber; Chorus (Male) Jake Perrine; Chorus (Female) Amelia Lordi; Citizenship - Female Pari Malla; Citizenship -Male Alexander Kronow; Drama (Female) Emma Beckwith; Drama (Male) Aaron Fodor; French (Innovators) Chris Dugan; French (The Force) Rhodellen Halliday; Health - Joshua Figueiredo; High Average - Force Team - Shreya Patro (Sponsored by Branchburg Woman’s Club); High Average - Innovator Team - Leah Vannozzi (Sponsored by Branchburg Woman’s Club); Instrumental Music - Paige Dickson (Sponsored by Branchburg Woman’s Club); Joseph Renzulli-Sally Reis Scholar Award (GATE) Tabby Debraski; June H. Thomas Fine Arts Memorial Award - Maggie Robinson; Lan-
2 The Branchburg News • July/August 2022
guage Arts (Innovators) - Cassara Nguyen (Sponsored by Branchburg PTO); Language Arts (The Force) - Shreya Patro (Sponsored by Branchburg PTO); Bateman Life Service Award (The Force) - Amelia Pieroni; Bateman Life Service Award (Innovators) Caroline Nash; Mathematics (Innovators) - Leah Vannozzi; Mathematics (The Force) - Matthew Senate; Meghan Rose Bradley (MRB) Foundation Humanitarian Awards - Emily Smith, Kelsey Tremel, Victoria Lombardo, John Jagiello, Sam Morais (Sponsored by MRB Foundation); Orchestra (Strings) - Jenna Cox and Leia Bloom; Outstanding Athlete (Female) - Kaylee Lauber; Outstanding Athlete (Male) - Tim LaCan-
na; Physical Education (Female) - Madilyn Boone; Physical Education (Male) - Max Villaverde; Rotarian Award (Force) - Sophia Pfitzner (Sponsored by Branchburg Rotary); Rotarian Award (Innovator) - Collin Bewalder (Sponsored by Branchburg Rotary); Science (Innovators) - Erin Eswein; Science (The Force) Tegan Dingwall; Social Studies (Innovators) - Joseph Spagnolo; Social Studies (The Force) - Olivia Nejmeh; Spanish (Innovators) - Kushal Shah; Spanish (The Force) - Shloka Moosthiala; Sportsmanship (Female) - Jenna Schworn; Sportsmanship (Male) - Peyton Keller; Vocal Music Emma March (Sponsored by Branchburg Woman’s Club) Specializing in local garlic and more. We sell garlic, spices, black garlic, tonics, butters, hummus, pestos and more.
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BCMS Graduation Continued from Page 1
The 172 BCMS graduates are: Ava Albanese, Mikayla Almaguer, Adhiti Araja, Patrick Baldoni, Casey Barna, Emma Rose Beckwith, Ava Bercarich, Rushali Betala, Collin Bewalder, Evangeline Bisaha, Trinity Blomquist, Leia Bloom, Sara Boccieri, Madilyn Boone, Matthew Brong, Edward Callahan, Dalton Carman, Treasure Carmody, Malachi Casey, Juliet Cassidy, Briyanna Chapman, Amelia Chlipalski, Ava Cirafesi, Kayla Cockrill, Shane Cole, Liam Confer, Devin Conner, Hayden Conner, Maura Cosman, Jenna Cox, Alexia Cray, Tabitha Debraski, Lorenzo DeGirolamo, Lucas DeGirolamo, Cody Diamond, Paige Dickson, Layla Diggs, Tegan Dingwall, Christopher Dugan, Daleen Elkhawaga, Erin Eswein, Jhonen Eswein, Liam Faure, Joshua Figueiredo, Thomas Flood, Emilio Flores, Aaron Fodor, Brady Ford, Donald Freitas, Julianna Furino, Noah Gad, Alexa Garretson, Domingo Louis Gatti, Zachary Gelino, Sriabhiram Gidugu, Sarah Graber, Lauren Grace, Adam Gruber, Norman Halliday, Rhodellen Halliday, Lylia Hammadi, Ryan Hayden, Jake Hendershot, Deven Herron, Stephen Hojnoski, Adriana Holguin, Ana Sofia Horta, John Jagiello, Samantha Kalinak, Anna Kashuba, Benjamin Keller, Peyton Keller, Landon Keller, Katarina Kornas, Kelly Kossowicz, Alexander Kronow, Timothy LaCanna, Morgan Lachow, Katherine Larino, Jessica Lauber, Kaylee Lauber, Kelly Lemanski, Zak Lindia, Victoria Lombardo, Hannah Lopez, Adrian Lopez, Amelia Lordi, Kaitlyn MacGillivray, Pari Malla, Emma March, Michael Marino, Olivia Marino, Benedicto Martinez, Leni Mascaro, Jacob Masciulli, Nikolaus Maslowski, Noah Mathew, Kieran McKenna, Leanna McLean, Gabriel Mendez-Castilla, Jose Mendonca, Luke Metrovsky, Shloka Moosthiala, Samuel Morais, Joseph Murdock, Sean Murphy, Caroline Nash, Olivia Nejmeh, Samantha Ney, Brayden Nguyen, Cassara Nguyen, Isabella Olexson, Maeve O’Neill, Justin Oursler, Darren Owusu Sekyere, Thea Pappas, Dhyan Patel, Aria Patel, Manav Patel, Shreya Patro, Talan Pearl, Christina Perdue, Jake Perrine, Sophia Pfitzner, Amelia Pieroni, Emma Pires, Kylie Pizzelanti, Lindsey Pizzelanti, Delaney Ramsden, Katherine Rasch, Ryan Ricciardi, Gabriela Rizzi, Maggie Robinson, Jordyn Robinson, Riley Rohrbach, Ryan Rudolph, Liam Rusin, Austin Rynearson, Kareem Sanad, Haley Sasiak, Brian Savage, Hailey Savage, James Scholz, Ella Schueler, Jenna Schworn, Theodora Scoppa, Matthew Senate, Kushal Shah, Megha Shankri, Daniel Silberstein, Gabriella Sina, Andrew Smith, Emily Smith, Hannah Smits, Jordan Snow, Justin Snow, Joseph Spagnolo, Samuel Talish, Esteban Tamayo-Heras, Daniel Tillisch, Kelsey Tremel, Andrew Tsitron, Leah Vannozzi, Merrin Vespucci Paxson, Maxamiliano Villaverde, Jonathon Weinblatt, Kathryn Wengryn, Julia Wong, Olivia Zaczynski, Thomas Zaninelli, Natalie Zgombic, Ceanan Zlatkov.
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Tea with Grandparents– Kangaroo Kids honored the knowl-
edge, support, and the strength of grandparents with a tea party for children and their grandparents. Everyone worked together to plant flowers, make crafts and enjoy snacks, and read stories. They planted seeds for a lifetime of love, respect, and togetherness. If you would like information about having tea with your grandparent or any other family events, contact Kangaroo Kids at staff@kangarookidschildcare.com. –Submitted by Kathy Feigley, Director
Sellers Wanted for Autumn Event
Sellers are wanted for the Branchburg Historical Society Outdoor Flea Market on the grounds of the Andrew TenEyck House on Old York Road during the Somerset County Journey Through the Past on Oct. 8 and 9. Members of the public are invited to sell at this event. Lots are $20 for the weekend. Contact Sue Winter 908-369-2027. Sellers must bring their own tables and remove any unsold items. This event attracts a big crowd. Also on that day are tours of the TenEyck House as well as the annual Historical Society Antique Sale. —Submitted by Suzanne Daniels, Branchburg Historical Society
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Stony Brook School Memorial Day Commemoration a Walk of Heroes, followed by speeches, a flag ceremony, and performances by the school’s band and chorus. Speakers were Colonel Robert K. Wajszczuk, a Vietnam veteran with two purple hearts and a bronze star, and Tom Malinowksi, U.S. representative from New Jersey’s 7th congressional district. This year the school community participated in a service-learning project called Hope for Veterans. Partnering with Community Hope, which provides a variety of services to veterans and their families, Stony Brook collected personal care items to benefit veterans who are currently homeless. Teacher Ms. Nina Manger coordinates the Memorial Day event at Stony Brook.
SHS Class of 2022 Branchburg Graduates Continued from Page 1
Branchburg graduates, 165 members strong, are: Miguel Aguirre, Natalie Aguilera, Kerry Allen, Catherine Bartushak, Mark Bigsby, Carter Boczon, John Boczon, Lorenzo Boffa, Paris Bozzuti, Ryan Brong, Kaitlyn Brooks, Matthew Buttgereit, Joseph Fifth grader Timothy Miessler escorts the keynote speaker Colonel Callahan, Matthew Campanaro, Robert K. Wajszczuk, a decorated Rebekah Cataldi, Danielle Vietnam veteran. Chiang, Owen Ciesla, Logan Stony Brook School held its Cockrill, Ryleigh Clarkson, traditional Memorial Day ComBrandon Cornwell-Blais, Colin memoration on May 26. The Cote, Ida Coxwell Rudy, Ethan school was decorated with handCraig, Fiona Crossman, Andrew made flags and patriotic posters Dailey, Amogh Daksh, Alexa crafted by the students honoring Daleo, Antonio DeGirolamo, soldiers in their lives. Veterans Christopher DeRogatis, Christen were escorted by students in Diamond, Colin Diodato, Jahaira Dominguez, Brianna Erickson, Alexander Fiorito, Nicolas Fiorito, Kristen Fitzgibbon, Dean Flanagan, Franki Flora, John Furino, Anna Fleisher, Corrine Fleisher, Marcello Fois, Emilio Gallo, Alexa Gibson, James Girgis, Sophia Gonzales, Tanner Gorky, Amanda Grace, Louis Gislao, Charlotte Goldstein, Girl Scouts holding inspirational posters line the path for the Walk of Heroes, Matthew Graber, Jordan Graff, Kaitlyn Haines, Lauren Hall, honoring veterans.
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Vincent R. Gagliardi Memorial Scholarship Awarded Childrens Corner BUMC Preschool and Kindergarten
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burg recently awarded the 1st Annual Vincent R. Gagliardi memorial scholarship to Julia McKenna, a Somerville High School senior from Branchburg. Julia participated in the Somerville Academy for Liberal Arts (SALA) program, earning her Associates Degree from Raritan Valley Community College. She is a member of the Raritan Valley Community College PHI Theta Kappa Honor Society, Somerville High School National Honor Society, Drama Club, Soccer, Track, The late Vincent Gagliardi Ski Club and Chess Club. The scholarship honors the The Gagliardi family of Branch- memory of Vincent who was
tragically killed in an automobile accident in Branchburg on Oct. 8, 2021. The Gagliardi family established the scholarship to celebrate a deserving Somerville High School student and to keep Vincent’s memory alive. Richard Gagliardi, Vincent’s father, wrote, “Vincent’s smile was infectious. We truly miss his laugh, his hugs, his gorgeous blue eyes, and his funny, easygoing personality. But most of all, we miss Vincent’s special gift of making everyone feel important and loved. Today, Vincent lives on in the many people who loved him.”
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TOWNSHIP OF BRANCHBURG
Municipal Building News | in print and online at www.branchburg.nj.us •
‘Our Work is Your Play’ *** Recreation News*** WELCOME SUMMER! HAPPY 4th of JULY
•
NO CAMP on Monday July 4th.
•
• •
The repaving of the Old Towne Development is going very well and almost complete. A contract was awarded for the long-awaited construction of North Branch River Road. Coffee with the Mayor will be on a hiatus for the summer and will resume in September. The Township is seeking the employment of two DPW Laborer/ Operators Registration at Branchburg's Silver Saddle Community Pool is ongoing and a relief from the hot summer days.
~ Summer Programs ~ If you missed the registration there is still time. Give us a call as the registration period is over. There is always room for more! Enjoy Tennis, Yoga, Cardio and/or Pilates. The two upper Tennis courts at White Oak are now lined for Pickleball.
~ ITS BACK ~ National Night Out, August 2nd. 5K Fun Run Counselor vs Branchburg Police kickball game, BBQ & Movie-in-the-Park!
Branchburg Silver Saddle Community POOL JULY 3 Celebration at the pool featuring the KOOTZ Band. Pool hours: 7 days a week 11am - 7pm. rd
~ Summer Family Fun ~ On TUESDAY Evenings July 12 & 26 July 12 –Diary of a Whimpy Kid-Dog Days’ July 26 – ‘Luca’ Follow Branchburg Recreation on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/BranchburgRec 908-526-1300 x 187 or 188
July/August 2022 • The Branchburg News
7
Wanted: Your Photos and Memories of Past Branchburg Country Fairs By Shavaun Gliksman Branchburg Country Fair Committee 2022 marks the 25th Anniversary of the Branchburg Country Fair and we would love to see your photos and read your memories from past fairs. Please submit everything to CountryFairMemories@gmail.com to be included in the montage which will be available on our website as well as on display at the fair on Sept. 24. (rain date Sept. 25). There are so many exciting things Memorial Day Commemorated in Neshanic Station–The annual Neshanic Volunteer Fire Company Memorial Day Parade was to see and do at our Silver Anniversary held at 9:30 a.m. on May 30 in Neshanic Station. The event honors the heroic soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. Former State Senator Kip Bateman of Fair! A variety of food and refreshments Branchburg (pictured) served as guest speaker. The Invocation was given by Pastor Tim Wolfe, from the New Horizon Christian Fellowship, and the Benedic- will include Kona Ice, Moe’s, burgers, hot dogs, cheesesteaks, kettle corn, cottion was given by the Rev. Han Kil Kim of the Neshanic United Methodist Church. Raising of the flag was handled by veterans Joe Abate (Korea) and Phil ton candy and Ashley’s Floating Floss. Herb (WW2). Scout Troop 1776 (pictured) fired black powder muskets in salute of fallen soldiers. –Photos and info by Bernard Rosario Music will be featured throughout the day by local artists, including the return of Green Planet Band and performances by School of Rock. Also performing are Solar Candy, Recurve, Tom Klimchok and One Cell. Don’t miss the Little Lambs IntroductIon to Preschool Ages 2 1/2 - 3 1/2 yrs old • Adult stays with child Cowboy/Cowgirl Rodeo Rumble, cornclasses available thursdays from 9:00-10 :00am & 10:30-11:30am hole toss, the craft tent, scavenger hunt, pony rides, and knockerball. The Junior 2,3 & 5 Day Programs Pioneers will be running the dunk tank offered for children with local dignitaries in the hot seat. ages 2 1/2 to 6 yrs old Need some direction for your financial future? I can help. The spectacular Greg Gonzalez Memorial Fireworks will cap off a fun-filled Guidance you can trust starts with a conversation. community day. The fair runs from 11 a.m. to 8:30 Risk Management: Financial Strategies: Investments: p.m. with fireworks starting at 8 p.m. Visit our website www.branchburgcountryfair.org or #BBurgCountry908-725-2326 • www.nbrc.com • preschool@nbrc.com Fair25yrs on Instagram and Facebook 203 Route 28, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 for more information and photos.
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Math Champs at Stony Brook School
Pictured, from left, are 5th graders Thyce Pappas, Marshall Johnson, Aarav Shah, and Allyson Manger.
By Toni Lynn Burke, Stony Brook School Enrichment Teacher The 5th grade students in Stony Brook School math enrichment participated in the Math Olympiad Contest recently with more than 100,000 participants worldwide. Congratulations to Aarav Shah, who scored in the top 10% globally and who achieved the highest score of the 35 math enrichment students that participated; Allyson
Pictured, from left, are 4th graders Annie Gamarello, Nathan Yakubov, and Keshav Ponnam.
Manger, who scored in the top 10% globally and who achieved the second highest math enrichment score; and Marshall Johnson and Thyce Pappas, who tied for 3rd highest math enrichment score and placed in the top 20% globally. In 4th grade math enrichment, the students took the Mathematics League challenge, an exercise in speed and accuracy. Congratulations to Nathan Yakubov, the high-
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Forever Summer ing fog burns ere the noon.” Either way, this quintessential day defines the comfortable retreat into the natural harbor of deep summer. Summer may be considered the offspring of the coordinated efforts of winter, spring and autumn. All preparation for a time, when new life and old, can strengthen and renew energy spent on elemental survival. Summer temperatures reduce the energy cost of life to maintain its existence. A savings that allows Fresh-picked dewberries cool in the imagination and creativity to be shade on a partially submerged rock, directed to places other than imin a shallow flowing stream. mediate survival and to accumulate warm memories to heat the cold days of winter. Stacking the wood shed with summer memories leaves no carbon footprint, is considered renewable and burns as an eternal An hour past dawn, the source flame. of daylight was still obscured, as Images of fresh-picked bright if the sun took a holiday and to red dewberries, packed in openhonor its daily commitment, left top containers, cooling in the its dimmest bulb to light the over- shade on a partially submerged cast mid-summer day. The refer- rock, in a shallow flowing ence points of shadow and light, stream, elbows its way to mind used to mark the progress of the when thoughts of summer arise. day, melted in compromise to Enough berries to make two obscure the passing of time. The batches of jam, used to spread temperature change from night summer throughout the year, to to day, that stirs the wind, was on share with family and friends. this day, unable to raise a breeze. The light show performed by The stillness and faded light were fireflies, in the meadow along the precursors to either rain or bright river, is a legacy act that reaches sun, goes,Font “a morn3.5”asx the 2.5”saying | Maximum Size: 30back pt in time to childhood and a
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world of wonder. The purpose of the display, critical to the lightning bugs, is lost to the magic of tiny incandescent dots of yellow light, floating in the air above the darkened meadow. Magic is the honey tasted by the mind that initiates a journey of exploration. Its direction and depth are as unpredictable as the choreography of this mid-summer light show. Cattails are another image stored in the summer album of memories and trademarks. They grew in profusion along with swarms of mosquitoes which would forage for fresh blood when the sun went down. The summer heat would force neighbors outside to sit on porch steps, their presence betrayed in the darkness by the red glow of their burning cigarettes. The smoke was a deterrent to the mosquitoes, though restricted to smokers and anyone immediately downstream. Through primitive oral history, the legacy of burning sun dried cattails to keep mosquitoes at bay and safely light fireworks was kept alive. Cattails would
be cut and brought home, muddy dungarees a dead giveaway that you roamed beyond the territory deemed safe by mom. The price of the harvest was a lecture from mom about being swallowed up by quicksand in the swamps. Cattails were picked while still slightly green as they could be stored over winter without losing their fluff. Courting danger, I would scramble up to the neighbor’s low, flat garage roof then take a running leap onto our peaked garage roof and set the cattails out to dry. After a week on the garage roofaged the cattails were ready to be lit and fend off the nightly aerial attack and defend the blood supply. Waving the burning cattail produced a cloud of smoke and unlike the anemic volume of cigarette smoke, could be directed upwind to wash over the legs or neck. Aside from the favorable aroma and copious smoke, you were sanctioned to play with fire and produce your own light show by waving the glowing brown magic wand, to create the illusion of circles, figure eights and
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Branchburg Woman’s Club Honors Decades of Service at Annual Dinner
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(What I Need) period many students chose to participate in a walking club led by Physical Education Teachers Michael Clark and Nicole Orzel. This gave students an opportunity to get outside and either walk, jog, or run for 20 minutes. Walking club started promptly at 8:20 a.m., which meant many students routinely began their walk in a quiet, lethargic manner. After being active for about 5 minutes and kicking off an endorphin boost, the tempo would pick up and student energy would soar! At the end of their 20 minutes of movement students were talkative, skipping around, and alert. Several teachers reported a positive impact on student behavior and focus on the days when their students had the walking program. This anecdotal evidence supports the research that exercise can positively impact work ethic, satisfaction, and awareness. Students tracked their mileage with tally counters and during the 2021-2022 school year the Huskies completed 1,802 miles! –Submitted by Stony Brook School Physical Education Teachers
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Pictured at the annual Branchburg Woman’s Club Dinner are Linda Mish, Phyllis Zeban and Joan Jorgensen.
By Kate Sarles June was the month for awarding residents for their achievements. At the Annual Dinner, the Branchburg Woman’s Club recognized Phyllis Zeban for 50 years of service and Joan Jorgensen and Linda Mish for 25 years of service to the club.
That’s a lot of bake sales and 50/50s! Each year the club recognizes some of our younger residents for their achievements. This year Branchburg Central Middle School student award recipients included Paige Dickson for Instrumental Music; Emma March for Vocal Music;
Shreya Patro for Highest Average Force Team and Leah Vannozzi for Highest Average - Innovator Team. Somerville High School graduates from Branchburg recognized were Colin Sheely and Kayla Siciliano. All awards were made upon recommendation by the middle school and high school staff. In addition, Kaitlyn Placko of Somerville High School was our delegate to the Girl’s Career Institute held at Rutgers University and sponsored by the NJ State Federation of Women’s Clubs. If you are interested in the Branchburg Woman’s Club call 908-458-6832 or email branchburgwomansclub@gmail.com and join us for a meeting.
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Branchburg Newsmakers Campbell won it in the Capital Athletic Conference (CAC, now C2C) during his recordsetting 2016 campaign. He gives Salisbury a year-round sweep of Men’s Athlete of the Year.
Dean Flanagan
Elijah Hoarle
Dean Flanagan, a Somerville High School senior from Branchburg, received a scholarship from the Rotary Club of Somerville and Bridgewater recently. He will attend the University of Notre Dame to study Economics and Political Science.
neering at Rutgers University in the fall. His coach, counselor and teachers identify his resourcefulness, understated confidence and authenticity. Elijah is a guitarist, a fan of slapstick comedy, a peer leader and a wrestler who stepped in during the season to fill the weight class for an injured teamSomerville High School wrestler mate. Elijah Hoarle of Branchburg received the James Kear Hanley Salisbury University men’s Scholarship at Somerville High track and field javelin thrower School’s Senior Athletic Awards Cameron Hasko of Branchburg on June 8. He will study engi- has been named Coast-to-Coast
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Athletic Conference (C2C) Men’s Outdoor Athlete of the Year. Hasko, a sophomore, was one of two male student-athletes from the C2C to qualify for the NCAA Outdoor Championships in his event. While competing in the javelin at nationals, he broke the school and conference records with a distance of 61.08 meters (200-5), becoming the first C2C athlete to break 200 feet. Hasko earned a 13th-place finish in the national javelin throw, one slot above his 14th-place seeding.
The strong showing at nationals was the cherry on top of a season that saw Hasko successfully defend his conference title in the javelin throw and win the event in four meets. Hasko repeated as C2C gold medalist in May with a championship meet-record 59.59 meters (195-6). He was also named C2C Athlete of the Week on April 25 after a strong performance at the Eastern Shore Challenge. He becomes the first Sea Gull to be named conference Athlete of the Year since Luke
Madison Bayles, a student in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of New Haven, has been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2022 semester. Madison is working on a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Design. Additionally, for the upcoming school year, Maddie has been named as the university’s student representative to the Connecticut chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers. Branchburg students Cody Booker, Sophia Davis, Emily Jones, Jenna Kilpatrick, and Madison Zarzecki were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society at Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School on May 19.
This Month In Branchburg History
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One Year Ago, July 2021 After a year off because of the coronavirus pandemic, the annual New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning, the largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America, relaunched July 23-25 at Solberg Airport in Readington, sending many colorful balloons into Branchburg airspace and landing in Branchburg streets, yards and fields.
take to the skies. Normally there was a 10-mile no-fly zone around Trump National Golf Course in Bedminster during the President’s visits. Ten Years Ago, July 2012 A new superintendent started in the Branchburg School district. Dr. Carol L. Kelley of Montgomery officially began her duties. She was formerly the director of curriculum and instruction at Hunterdon Central Regional High School.
Five Years Ago, July 2017 Some early planning by the Fed25 Years Ago, July 1997 eral Aviation Administration and event organizers ensured that An idea contest during the spring hot-air craft of the annual Fes- by the Branchburg Recycling tival of Ballooning were free to Committee resulted in the win-
ning suggestion to be construction of a nature trail in White Oak Park as envisioned by Michael Maggio, age 11, who became one of 55 contest entrants. Michael’s idea was chosen with the help of the Township Committee, the Public Works Department and Somerset County Park Commission. Two naturalists from the park commission agreed to supervise the layout and construction of the trail without any cost to the township. The trail would be about three quarters of a mile long, run through the more remote parts of the park and preserve the natural setting as much as possible.
Branchburg Students Learn About Lanternfly Eradication
BCMS seventh graders learn about the destructive lanternfly.
By Stephen Whitty “We’re really about supporting educators and giving them ways to implement Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in their classes in highly engaging ways,” explains assistant director Eddie Cohen, Rutgers’ Center for Mathematics, Science and Computer Education (CMSCE). “We want to get kids excited about what they can do.” Cohen visited students and teachers at Branchburg Central Middle School in June to get seventh-graders excited about helping rid New Jersey of a nasty and persistent pest. “Spotted lanternflies arrived in Pennsylvania in 2014, probably in a shipping container from Asia,” Cohen explains. “From there, they hitched a ride to Jersey. They hopped on cars, buses, trains, everything.” The gaily colored commuter isn’t just an invasive species, though. It’s also enormously destructive. “They feed on about 200 different kinds of trees,” Cohen says, noting that they seem to have a particular fondness for orchards and vineyards. “And they don’t have any natural predators here. We’ve noticed praying mantises
will sometimes bite off the lanternfly’s legs, but that’s about it.” In Branchburg, Cohen was joined by two of the school’s educators, Danielle Puglisi, an instructional coach, and Suzanne Updegrove, a schoolwide enrichment teacher. Both teachers went through the Rutgers Maker Space Certification Program which shows teachers, Updegrove says, “how to get students to create and design things that meet needs that exist in the world, and solve problems that they encounter in their everyday lives. It’s about getting away from just studying subjects in a book.” About 16 Branchburg students participated in a program which, Cohen admits, first had to get them past one hurdle. Children have grown accustomed to proenvironment, public service announcements urging them not to fear or harm helpful wildlife like bats, bees or possums, he explains. It’s all about respecting the ecosystem. But the spotted lanternfly is a special case. It’s destructive and growing so ubiquitous those considerations don’t apply. Instead, the rule is: Kill on sight. “Kids are often a little surprised by that,” Cohen admits.
“They ask, ‘Can’t we eat them, or something? Or feed them to another animal?’ But lanternflies really are a destructive species. You need to eliminate them right away, before they become adults and lay eggs. The trick is, how do you do that? You can spray a chemical, but that isn’t very discerning. It blows all over the place, it’s not good for birds, it
kills honeybees. And while lanternflies may have some natural predators in Asia – there’s a wasp in China that eats them – trying to control them by importing another non-native species probably isn’t a really good idea.” So Cohen, Puglisi and Updegrove taught the students how to make non-toxic, lanternflyspecific traps. “It was a whole workshop,” Cohen said. “We bring some dead lanternflies, so the students can see them, and measure them. Then we do some research on them. And then, using recycled materials, plastic bottles and things, we start building traps. The trick is to construct something that’s going to really work on lanternflies while leaving other things alone. So there’s a certain amount of scientific inquiry going on.” “It was so much better than just making something from a kit,” Updegrove says of the students’ work. “They were able to build something unique.”
“And afterward, when we went outside, to put the traps up in the park across the street, the students could see the flies everywhere,” Puglisi adds. “They could see the need for what they just engineered.” Although the project came on the second-to-last day of school, Cohen hopes its lessons – and the spirit of scientific inquiry it engendered – lasts well into the summer, and beyond. “The project’s not just about the lanternflies,” he says. “It’s a way to have an appreciation for the environmental system, to feel empowered about doing something for the community, to just engage your curiosity. I mean, here I am in my house in New Jersey. How did this thing get here all the way from China? Suddenly you realize you’re part of a much larger world.” For more information about CMSCE programs for students and teachers, call 1-848-9324769 or visit cmsce.rutgers.edu.
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July/August 2022 • The Branchburg News
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Scouts Hike, Bike and Fish
Fishermen for a day are, from left, Danny Dang, Ethan Miller, Jason Lauducci, Zachary Tistan, and Evan Berry.
By Ethan Miller, Troop 185 Troop 185 scouts capped their scouting year with a series of adventurous trips. In May, the scouts embarked on a 7-mile hike along the Delaware River. In June, the Troop headed down to Allaire State Park for a campout that included two day-trip options: biking throughout Allaire State Park or deep-sea fishing aboard The Dauntless, an 85-foot deep-sea fishing boat out of Point Pleasant Beach. The biking crew ended up bik-
ing 10 miles that day all around Allaire State Park’s beautiful roads and trails. As for the fishing crew, the scouts and leaders traveled about an hour out to sea, or a few miles offshore. The Troop fished for sea bass, ling, flounder, and cod. The Scouts also took naps, fed the fish, and ate lunch while out on the boat. By the end of the day, the Troop had caught 17 keepers to take home and cook up for dinner. One scout even caught his first-ever fish, and another caught a small shark.
SCVTHS Dance Students Compete at Teen Arts Festival
In April, three Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School (SCVTHS) Dance program juniors, Athena Bernaz of Basking Ridge, Mia Cirafesi of Branchburg, and Caitlin Eswein of Branchburg presented their dance work titled “Breaking Thru” during the Somerset County Teen Arts Festival, coordinated by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission. “Breaking Thru” exemplifies “how women are breaking through the glass ceiling and insisting on equality in the workforce,” explained SCVTHS Dance Department Coordinator Sheila Sullivan. The three junior students were chosen by SCVTHS faculty to choreograph for the annual dance concert in April. They collaborated on the movement, choice of music, and production aspects like costumes and lighting, all while dancing and choreographing their work. They would film the rehearsal and each individually imrpove the work by watching the video at home. This year, the students’ work was submitted virtually to the festival, where a dance educator adjudicated, gave critiques on the work, and ultimately made the de-
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SCVTHS Dance students Athena Bernaz of Basking Ridge, Mia Cirafesi of Branchburg, and Caitlin Eswein of Branchburg pose for a photo on the stage at Somerset County Vocational & Technical Schools.
cision if the work could progress to the state level. “Breaking Thru” was one of four dances in Somerset County chosen to be presented at the State Teen Arts Festival in
Middlesex. “This recognition for these three young choreographers is a wonderful attribute to their hard work, commitment, and love of the art form,” said Sullivan.
Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation Plans Gala The Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation Annual Gala will be held on Friday evening, Sept. 30 at the Somerville Elks Lodge #1068, 375 Union Ave., Bridgewater. The theme of this year’s event is Oktoberfest and will feature a dinner buffet, entertainment, and a silent auction. But don’t worry, you won’t need to find your lederhosen shorts and dirndl dresses – the dress code is evening attire. The Ladies Night Out fundraiser held in May was a huge success, raising $12,000 for pediatric brain cancer research and local scholarships. Once again, special thanks go to Clark Travel Agency in Branchburg, the magnanimous wine sponsor for the evening. Guests also received an update on
the progress of the research teams working to eliminate pediatric brain cancer. The foundation honors the life and memory of Meghan Rose Bradley who was diagnosed with brain cancer on Oct. 1, 2004 and passed away just 38 days later Nov. 7, 2004. The Gala is the premier fundraising event and raises funds to develop treatments that enable children to fight the disease while maintaining some semblance of their childhood. For more information on the foundation and additional resources relating to pediatric brain cancer, visit www.meghanrosebradleyfoundation.org or call 732735-3291.
Branchburg Senior Citizens Mark Member’s 100th Birthday
Margaret “Megs” Kuzio
By Audrey E. Henry Branchburg Recreation June was a great month for the Branchburg Seniors with a huge birthday celebration for Margaret “Megs” Kuzio, celebrating her 100th birthday! When asked what her secret was to a long, healthy life, she responded, “Staying active and involved.” Her love of gardening helps too. She shares this passion with her daughter Barbara, who added that she still gets out there to weed, water and plant. Megs received a beautifully framed certificate from Mayor James Schworn, congratulating her on this amazing milestone. Megs
was quite grateful for the lovely celebration which included sandwiches, a delicious birthday cake, plus a wonderful performance by classic pop singer/guitarist Ed Jankiewicz. Entertainment was supplied by Hunterdon Care Center, and we thank Joni Lauyer for her assistance. Several other June birthdays were celebrated as well: Ruth Hentz-91, Rita Jordan-94, June Leubner, Barbara Patullo, Karen Pekala, Bonnie Whalen, and Mary Jane Wronski. Happy Birthday to all. The June 16 meeting included a pizza lunch and Bingo, and we concluded the month with the annual summer picnic at White Oak Park on June 23. Meetings will be on hold for July and August, and we will reconvene on Sept. 1 with guest speaker Kathy Granatelli, “Navigating the Healthcare Highway.” There is still an opportunity to get together at the Community Room for socializing or cards or pool, during the summer months. Simply call Branchburg Recreation 908-5261300 ext. 188.
CARE FAMILIES COUNT ON • INFANT CARE TO PRE-K • FULL-DAY KINDERGARTEN • SCHOOL AGE CHILD CARE • SUMMER CAMP Greater Somerset County YMCA is proud to support the needs of working families through our programs at Bridgewater YMCA, Franklin Twp YMCA, Hillsborough YMCA, Plainfield YMCA, Princeton YMCA, Somerset Hills YMCA & Somerville YMCA. Learn more and visit us today!
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Division Champs–Bernards/ Do Your Best –Over the last several months, Cub Scout Pack 94 has part-
nered with Trex, the maker of composite decking materials. The company recently held a program in which participants were challenged to collect 500 lbs. worth of plastic bags. The scouts worked hard to meet the challenge by collecting bags from our community and were rewarded after meeting their goal. A new park bench was graciously given to the scouts by Trex, which then led the scouts to donate the bench to the township. The new bench will be installed at Challenger Field near the Municipal Building in hopes that it will be enjoyed by all. The plaque on the bench reads “Do Your Best” which is not only the Cub Scout motto, but also serves as a reminder to us all. The scouts thank Branchburg Recreation, the Branchburg Police Department, and members of the community who have supported the pack throughout the collection. –Submitted by Danielle Burt
Somerville/ Middlesex Ice Hockey Tri-Op won the Charette Cup division championship for the second year in a row recently. Somerville High School players from Branchburg and Somerville on the team are: Abbey Gallagher (freshman), Aidan Gallagher (senior), Dylan Leonard (sophomore), Will Rogus (junior), Ryan Leonard (sophomore), Jimmy Hathaway (sophomore), Andrew Doherty (junior), and Chris DeRogatis (senior). The team advanced to the State playoffs. –Submitted by Lisa Leonard
Branchburg Library Lists Summer Activities
The Branchburg Library, Olive Street in Neshanic Station, offers the following summer activities: • Summer Reading Challenge – “Oceans of Possibilities” continues to run until Aug. 24. Summer reading is open to all ages. It’s not too late to register. • Additional Story Time/Craft – Beginning July 6, an additional story time/craft will take place on Wednesdays at 2:30 p.m. The library will continue
to hold the 10:30 story time/ craft. Themes and craft will be the same for both times. Story Time is open to all children ages 2-10. • New summer hours will begin July 11, as follows: Monday 6:30-8 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Story Time at 10:30 and 2:30), Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. • Pirate Palooza! – Be on the lookout for registration infor-
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mation for Pirate Palooza on Thursday, July 28, from 6-7 p.m. Open to rising first to fourth graders. • Book Sale – The annual Book Sale will be held Sept. 17 and 18 at The Station House in Neshanic Station. Additional information will be published in the September issue of The Branchburg News. —Submitted by LuAnn Wright
What They Went For Recent property sales reported in Branchburg Township: 30 Apache Way $585K 136 Arbor Way #B2 $285K 1015 Breckenridge Drive #13 $315K 12 Cedar Grove Road $432K 601 Chester Avenue $486,789 141 Choctaw Ridge Road $485K 17 Farrington Lane $1,156,000 1 Fox Chase Run $589K 109 Hill Top Lane $600K 1408 Magnolia Lane #E1 $332K 28 Thoroughbred Drive $824,725
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(pet baths here)
79 Main Street, Flemington 3150 Route 22, Branchburg 908-751-5452 908-997-0506
photo by Carol H. Waechter
WE FETCH!
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