Branchburg News, July-August 2019 by Town Media

July-August 2019

www.branchburgnews.com

Replacement Discussed as Solution to Wooden Bridge Closure; No More Detours through Narrow Neighborhood Roadways

Branchburg Central Middle School, Class of 2019

Branchburg Central Middle School held its eighth grade graduation ceremony at the school on June 19. Thanks to Branchburg Central Middle School Secretary Debra Jacobsen for helping us put together this year’s BCMS grad list. The list contains 175 students. Students with roles listed in the graduation program include: Anjali Krishnamurti, Treasurer, Student Council (flag salute); Luke Bouziotis, Secretary, Student Council (welcome greeting); Jamie Chiang, Called the “wooden bridge” for its road deck, the span is estimated to be about President, Student Council (class address); Sarah Rescigno, Vice125 years old, pre-dating the motor-vehicle revolution. President, Student Council (closing Three public meetings in two ure out what the long-term solution remarks). weeks have brought some clarity to should be. During that time, the Graduates are: the puzzle of the closure of the di- Central Place/Miller Avenue detour Tyler Abramo, Natalie Acosta, Malapidated River Road bridge over the combination will be abandoned and rissa Aliseo, Andrew Altobelli, KatNJ Transit rail line near the North changed to a combination of River erina Altomonte, Kalyn Ammerlaan, Branch train stop. Road, Stony Brook Road, Harlan Anastazja Armstrong, Annabelle The wood-deck bridge was closed School Road and Readington Road. Ascolese, Ashley Azzinnari, Thomas on June 5 after an inspection by the Bertoni said getting the tempo- Bayles, Nadine Beydoun, Sebastian New Jersey Department of Trans- rary bridge up and running will Blomquist, Brody Bouziotis Luke portation (NJDOT) found it in take about six months “give or take.” Bouziotis, Nolan Bouziotis, Skylar “poor condition requiring the im- Once the temporary bridge is in Bray, Alyssa Breen, Allison Brenner, mediate closure,” as described in an place, there will no longer be a need Rider Bumgarner, Anthony Burke, NJDOT news release. Johnny Burke, Alexis Butler, Jacob for detours. The township was forced to imTo really understand the twists Cafferata, Daniel Carman, Joseph provise a temporary detour that and turns of the forthcoming pro- Cassella, Jamie Chiang, Ifeanyi mainly involved shunting traffic cess, it’s a good idea to attend town- Chigbo, Justin Christensen, Nichofrom River Road and Station Road ship meetings or watch them online. las Christopulos, Noah Cianfaro, along Miller Avenue and Central Videos are archived at www.branch- Mia Cirafesi, Jason Ciurleo, ElizaPlace, two narrow, winding, roughly burg.nj.us. Click on “Webcast Meet- beth Cleary, Kaitlyn Cole, Ella Cospaved streets which historically have ings.” scroll down to “Past Meet- man, Lindsy Cox, Gavin Craig, Jorbeen used mainly by residents of the ings,” move to the meeting date to dan Curau, Sophia Davis, Andrew neighborhood. The prospect that be viewed, and click on “video” at DeAngelis, Clark Debraski, Caroline traffic would be diverted through the right. Devero, Aishwarya Dodda, Andrew those streets for an indefinite period In an email to The Branchburg Doherty, Edward Duffy, Alex Erof time brought residents to town- News on June 18, Bonin wrote: ickson, Caitlin Eswein, Luca Ettore, ship meetings to speak their minds. “We are working towards finding Logan Fabriczi, Jeremiah Feliciano, The Township Committee meet- a resolution to the detour that will be Connor Flanagan, Elodie Flanagan, ing on June 10 and the Coffee with the safest for the community. There Hunter Flynn, Sabrina Fodor, Cathe Mayor event on June 15 were is no good answer to this problem. mila Franco, Sydney Fried, Emma mostly all about the situation. A spe- Only degrees of ‘bad’ solutions. The Gehring, Rachel Geller, Andy Ghosh, cial Township Committee meeting Miller/Central detour was put in Kyle Giacobello, Meghan Grace, on June 18 brought state involve- place as an emergency measure as we Liam Hall, Gregory Hernandez, Aliment, with the presence of Sen. had hours to put a detour in place yah Hoghooghi, Gwyneth Horvath, Kip Bateman and NJDOT Depury from the time NJDOT notified Matthew Hovey, John Iovino, ValCommissioner Joseph Bertoni. us of the closure to that evening’s entin Ivanov, Sydney Jackus, Leah Based on comments by Bertoni rush hour. We never saw this as a Johnson, Emily Jones, Andrew Karand Township Administrator Greg preferred detour and knew it would lis, Brayden Keller, Brendan Kelley, Bonin, it appears the solution, in a have to be amended. Noelle Kientzler, Jenna Kilpatrick, nutshell, will be replacement of the “We have always found that work- Isabelle Kornas, Kayla Kovacs, Anjali existing bridge by the state with a ing with the residents produces the Krishnamurti, Emilia Kronow, Ryan temporary bridge that meets mod- best possible outcome and will con- Lachow, James Larino, Jason Lauducern codes. This will give the state, tinue to do that whenever possible.” ci, Kadin Liddell, John Link, Vincent township and residents time to figLombardo, Daniel Londono, Isabella

Getting ready to graduate from BCMS are Mason Marchese, Lucas Marchese, Peter Zaninelli, Lorenzo Varona, and Alex Nawrath. - Photo by Jess Zaninelli

Londono, Allison Lopac, Grant Maccini, Lucas Marchese, Mason Marchese, Meagan Marshak, Madison Marulli, Timothy Marulli, Benjamin McClaine, Shawn McGowan, Antoine McLean, Megan McNeil, Juliana Memoli, Joseph Migliore, Ethan Miller, Phoebe Montemurro, Jack Morais, Alexander Nawrath, Evan Nebab, Daniel Novak, Evan Osworth, Avery Owens, Kira Pace, Olivia Pacheco, Dhruvi Pai, Rohana Pandey, Ellie Papavero, Nicholas Papavero, Michael Pareja, Madelyn Parry, Milan Patel, Tanvi Patro, Christopher Perlman, Alexandra Peterson, Alexander Phelps, Kailyn Placko, Michael Powell, Rishi Purohit, Andy Ramirez, Kevin Reilly, Chelsea Reinhardt, Jonas Reinhart, Tyler Repetto, Sarah Rescigno. Katelyn Richardson,

Nicole Rinaldi, Dylan Rolon, Toni Romani, Ella Romano, Joshua Rutka, Brooke Rynearson, Alexandra Sadowski, Rachel Salardino, Tyler Schiebler, Patrick Scholz, Samantha Schweid, Caitlyn Scott, Zachary Shapiro, Austin Sheats, Christian Sina, Ryan Smith, Sophia Sodbinow, Christopher Springsteel, Ryan Stangle, Kolbie Stellpflug, Jaci Rae Stephens, Erin Stinner, Lily Tews, Zachary Tistan, Carson Torchio, Dean Tracey, Samuel Tunkel, Madylin Van Dyke, Lorenzo Varona, Dante Victorella, Johnathan Walker, Aidan Walnoha, Jacob Weinblatt, Benhanan Weldegebriel, Karson Wengryn, Tayden White, Megan Wilkins, Quesean Williams, Collin Williamson, Matthew Wright, Cosner Yang, Madison Young, Peter Zaninelli

The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

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 Moore 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 Sept. 2019 Aug. 10 For Ad Materials Aug. 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

Coffee with the Mayor The informal monthly Saturday morning get-togethers are suspended for July and August and will resume in September. Job Seekers Success Group, Jul. 10 From 7 to 9 pm, Jewish Family Service will hold a gathering for active job seekers who are unemployed, underemployed or seeking a career change. The topic for this session is “Background Checks and References – What are employers learning about you?” presented by Paul Cecala, Cecala Career Consultants. The session is at JFS, 150A West High St., Somerville. This group is offered free of charge and is open to the entire community. To register for this session or for information about Career Counseling Services, contact Elise Prezant at 908-725-7799 X108 or eprezant@ JewishFamilySvc.org. National Night Out, Aug. 6 At White Oak Park, several activities including the Branchburg 5K footrace, a fun run, and a charity softball game. Fun run is at 7 pm,

Upcoming Events 5K at 7:15, and charity softball game will follow the race awards. Recreation website: http://www. branchburg.nj.us/departments/ recreation/index.php Blood Drive, Aug. 18 From 8 am to 2 pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church at 390 Route 523 in Whitehouse Station. There is a great need for blood and each pint can save up to three lives. Donors should be 17 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. For info, call the church office at 908-534-2319. Harvest Home/Family Style Roast Beef Dinner, Sept. 21 The Readington Reformed Church, 124 Readington Rd., will host its Annual Family Style Roast Beef Dinner from 4 to 6 pm (three seatings on the hour). Adult tickets are $17, children 6-12 are $6, and children 5 and under are free. Advance tickets are highly recommended for sit down or take-out meals. Call Pat at 908-

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526-8572 to order tickets no later than Sept. 19. Activities include a quilt show, crafters,and bake sale. Shops open at 2 pm. Look for details in future editions about the Readington Reformed Church’s 300th anniversary celebration, being planned for late October.

Balloon Fest is July 26, 27, 28

The 37th annual QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning in Association with PNC Bank will take over Solberg Airport and the skies over Branchburg on July 26, 27, and 28. About 100 hot air balloons are expected to participate. Mass ascensions are scheduled for 6:45 am and 6:45 pm (pm only on Friday). From Branchburg vantage points, the balloons usually come into view about 7 pm on Friday, and 7 am and 7 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Even when the weather seems fine here, it’s not unusual for launches to be cancelled. Reasons include wind speeds over 7 mph, or rain, fog or thunderstorms within 100 miles. For info: www.balloonfestival. com.

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4-H Fair is Aug. 7, 8, 9 The 2019 Somerset County 4-H Fair is Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, Aug. 7, 8, 9. The free event, which annually attracts thousands, is open from 10 am to 10 pm at North Branch Park, 355 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater. To make getting in and out of the fairgrounds as easy as possible, free shuttle buses run daily between RVCC and the fairgrounds. For info visit: http://www.somersetcounty4h.org/fair/ or call 908-526-6644. (Please note, as of mid-June, the 4-H Fair website had not been fully updated for 2019.)

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Branchburg Celebrates Memorial Day

Five percent fewer Branchburg voters went to the polls for this year’s Primary Election vs. last year’s. Turnout in both 2017 and 2018 was 14 percent. On June 4, 2019, turnout was nine percent – 1,055 of 11,557 registered voters. Top vote-getter in the township was incumbent Republican Township Committee member Bob Petrelli with 719 votes for Township Committee. Incumbent Republican Township Commttee member Tom Young received 703 votes. The Democrats did not field candidates for Township Committee, but 43 Democrat write-in votes went to Daniel Payne, and 42 Democrat write-ins went to Monica Lazer. Here are some top tallies for other races: New Jersey Assembly: Todd Caliguire (R) 505, Christine Madrid (R) 439; Andrew Zwicker (D) 274, Roy Freiman (D) 259. Somerset County Sheriff: Tim Pino (R) 445; Darrin Russo (D) 218. Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders: Patricia Walsh (R) 522; Melonie Marano (D) 357.

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“An Evening in Paris” Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation to Host 13th Annual Gala Sept. 28 The Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation will host its 13th Annual Gala against pediatric brain cancer on Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Birchwood Manor in Whippany. This year’s theme is “An Evening in Paris.” This is the organization’s premier fundraising event and will honor the memory of Meghan Bradley by raising funds to develop treatments that enable children to fight the disease while maintaining some semblance of their childhood. Meghan’s young life was cut short at age 16, just five short weeks from the time of her diagnosis. After her valiant struggle ended, her family and community quickly moved to help ensure that others would not suffer the same fate. Donations from events such as the Annual Gala have directly contributed to encouraging results.

• A clinical trial of a brain tumor vaccine is in progress. • A research team at The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine is working to isolate the molecular mechanisms that drive the development of brain tumors with the goal of developing new, more effective therapies for children with brain cancer. Join the Bradley Family and the Foundation on Sept. 28 to celebrate Meghan’s life and the lives of countless others who will benefit from additional research. New Jersey Senator Kip Bateman will once again serve as the opening speaker. For more information on the Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation and additional resources relating to pediatric brain cancer, visit: www.meghanrosebradleyfoundation.org or call 732-735-3291.

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

Voter Turnout in Primary was 9%

The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

Branchburg Woman’s Club Bestows Student Awards

by Tricia Ihde for the BWC The Branchburg Woman’s Club marked the end of the club year with its annual student achievement awards, plus a few announcements. • Crafters of handmade items are being sought for the BWC’s 32nd Annual Craft Sale, which benefits the BWC’s philanthropic fund. It will be held Saturday, Nov. 16, from 10 am to 3 pm at Branchburg Central Middle School. Sales spaces are 8 by 7 feet-deep with two chairs and rent for $40. A limited number of 6 ft. tables ($5) are also available. To be considered for a preferred space, the paid contract must be submitted before Aug. 15. Call 908-336-5160 or email BWCcrafts@gmail.com. • From July 8 - 31, the club will

be collecting new school supplies (no used items) to help clients of Safe+Sound Somerset. These individuals and families have been impacted by domestic abuse and need help. The wish list includes plain backpacks and notebooks, scientific calculators, flash drives, paper, and pens. The greatest need is school supplies for older students. Contributions may be put in the club’s labeled bin, located inside the Branchburg Municipal Building. For more information, see the club’s Facebook page or call 908866-1060. • This spring the BWC gave funds to Somerville High School’s Project Graduation. In June, the club honored students who were selected by their schools for academic achievement,

citizenship, and community service. Somerville High School students Shane Morris and Alexis Papavero each were awarded $1,000 scholarships by the club. Monetary awards were given to some eighthgrade graduates from Branchburg Central Middle School for their achievements: Chelsea Reinhardt, High Academic Average; Jamie Chang, High Academic Average; Chelsea Reinhardt, Instrumental Music; and Allison Lopac, Vocal Music. Also in early June, the club sponsored a junior high school student to be the BWC’s delegate to the New Jersey Girls’ Career Institute (GCI). An annual program offered by the state Federation of Women’s Clubs, the event is designed to empower young women and to inspire their educational future and careers. The club also sponsored a student in the New Jersey Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Program which motivates students and enhances leadership skills. The next full membership meeting will be the Aug. 15 Potluck Supper (6:30 pm) at the Branchburg Rescue Squad building. For advance information, leave a message at 908-866-1060.

Schools Retirement Celebration -- Branchburg School District

retirees were honored at an end-of-year celebration hosted by the Branchburg Township Education Association at the Rail in Whitehouse Station on June 4. Retirees, from left, are Gail Inkrote, Roki Barry, Eileen Rudowski, Nancy Vadimsky, Maggi Emmons, Nancy Padula, Elaine Mulrooney, Michelle McFadden and Lydia Colie. Foreground, right, is Randi Lee Venturini, BTEA President.

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, happy and safe summer! And don’t forget to email your summertime news and photos to The Branchburg News (branchburgnews@gmail.com) by August 15 for the September issue.

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Remembering Woodstock ple everywhere. As we looked down the hill from where we had set up camp, we could see the main stage set up for the musicians to play. I can remember Richie Havens opening the concert. There was an MC named Wavy Gravy who would talk to the crowds in between performers. At one point he told the crowd that the New York Thruway was closed due to all the traffic into the site. He also announced there was a baby born. Walking through the area, you could see these large milk trucks that were utilized to provide drinking water to the crowds. There were people swimming/bathing in the lake. The limited food stands available ran out of supplies early. Everyone was advised to share what they could. Some of the performers I remember hearing were Jefferson Airplane, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Santana, Jimi Hendrix, John Sebastian, Joan Baez, Joe Cocker, Janis Joplin, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and the Grateful Dead. We could hear the music from the time we went to sleep and again when we woke up in the morning. About eight years ago, my three It was definitely an experiadult children and I went to visit in which to record your memories Bethel Woods. There is now a the- of the event, which I was able to ence to remember! atre used for performances as well contribute to. as a visitor center. There was a large map of the area that allowed anyone who had attended the concert in 1969 to put a colored pushpin on the spot where they had set up camp. There was also a small room

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At left, Jeanne Magliaro seen at the Woodstock historic site in about 2011. .Above, Jeanne’s kids, Matthew, Jessica and Jennifer, joined Jeanne on the 2011 trip. Below, Jeanne is planning to fly a Woodstock flag from her home in August.

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

Editor’s note: In April, The Branchburg News printed a request for residents’ memories of the Woodstock music festival, which would have its 50th anniversary in mid-August, 2019. Now, in the July-August issue, the editors are happy to report that Jeanne Magliaro, a Branchburg resident for 36 years, has provided her memories of the historic event. Back in 1969, Jeanne was a student at BridgewaterRaritan High School. She and some classmates made the roughly 125-mile trek north to attend Woodstock. The rest is history. By Jeanne Magliaro Who would have thought a weekend of music with friends would turn into such a memorable event? In August 1969, I decided to attend the three-day Woodstock music and arts fair with friends from high school. We purchased our tickets for $18 for ALL THREE days! We decided to leave Thursday night so we could be set up and ready to hear the music when the concert began on Friday. I’m so glad we did as the unexpected traffic shut down roads on Friday and cars were stranded all over the roadways. More than 400,000 people decided to attend. As we approached the site in Bethel, New York, there were people directing the cars into a large open field. We pulled into an open area and set up our tent in the dark. In the morning, we looked out from our tent to a wide-open field with mountains surrounding us and peo-

The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

Pocketbook Bingo Raised $10K+ for BEF Grants By Bruce Tunkel, BEF Trustee The Branchburg Education Foundation (BEF) held its sixth annual Pocketbook Bingo fundraiser at Raritan Valley Community College on May 3. The event was a tremendous success, raising over $10,000 to fund grants submitted by the teachers and staff of the Branchburg school district and Somerville High School. Signature grants include Authors’ Day at Whiton Elementary School, Stony Brook School’s Memorial Day Commemoration, and the Penn Museum Distance Learning virtual field trip at BCMS. The BEF funded over a dozen grants this year including the Whiton School’s “Spider Web Team Challenge” to promote team- building, problem-solving, trust and creative thinking, Stony Brook School’s 20th Anniversary “Celebration of Riddle Poem Workshops and Contest,” and the BCMS 2018-2019 “Kickoff Team-Building Experience” with activities on inclusiveness, cooperation, vulnerability, and honesty. The BEF sends heartfelt thanks to the many businesses and individuals in the community that provided food, prizes, and assistance to make Pocketbook Bingo such a memorable evening. The list of thanks includes the pocketbook donors for providing the beautiful pocketbooks: the Rosenthal-Kornbrek family, Greg & Suzy Confer, Keerti Purohit & family, Suzanne Moeller & family, and Eve Wasserman & family. Thanks go to the food donors who made the evening delicious: Alfonso’s Trattoria, Chimney Rock Inn, Dominick’s II, Dunkin’, Francesco’s, Girl Scouts, Houlihan’s, Jenni’s Café, Jersey Mike’s Subs, La Strada Café, Mangia Buono

Saturday Farmers’ Market on Route 22 – The Shoppes Was the evening a smashing success? BINGO!

Caterers, Suzanne Moeller, Olive Garden Italian Restaurant, Panatieri’s Pizza & Pasta, Paris Baguette, Smashburger, Sol Mexican Cantina, Somerset County Vocational and Technical Schools (Chef Mark Mastrobattista), Stoney Brook Grille, Trattoria Uno, Vinnie’s Pizza & Pasta, Wegmans, and Dawn Weinblatt. Many thanks go to the following for generously donating prizes for the tricky tray and silent auction: 31 Gifts – Maria Sandborg, QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning, Barnes and Noble, Black Belt World TaeKwonDo, Body Revolution fitness studio, Branchburg Sports Complex, Carol’s Creatives Chocolates, Cheesecake Factory, Count Basie Theatre, Dragonfly Music & Coffee Café, Escape Room Center of Bridgewater, Flemington Fudge, Flemington Nails, Rebecca Gensel, Georgio Mikaelis Salon, Glenn Wasserman (photographer), Gold’s Gym Bridgewater, HealthQuest, Hershey Park, Hyatt House, MPAC

– Morristown, Nail Art, On the Court, Personally Yours, Pinot’s Palette, Rodan + Fields, The Ryland Inn, Saffire Salon, Serra Law Group (Roseto Amore) – www. rosetoamore.org, Somerset Learning Center, Somerset Patriots, State Theatre New Jersey, SuperPouch – superpouch.com, Tarheel Total Pet Care, Wildtree – Wendy Kotlar, YESTERcades of Somerville, Dr. Brandon M. Zuklie, and the teachers of the Branchburg Township school district. Thank you to the Jointure – Child Enrichment and Adult Education, and Pet Sitting by Ruthe for advertising in the program. Last, but not least, many thanks go to everyone who attended and made it so much fun. Congratulations to all the winners. The BEF Trustees: Sandy Carmody, Greg Confer, Richard Gagliardi, Joanna Miller, Keerti Purohit, Steve Quintavalla, Debbie Kornbrek-Rosenthal, Reham Shaheen, Tricia Sutton, Bruce Tunkel, and Eve Wasserman.

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at the Farm complex near the Branchburg/Readington border on Route 22 is becoming a weekend magnet for lovers of fresh food and fun. For now, the action is outdoors, Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm. Physical address is 665 US-22 East in Whitehouse Station. The market is planning fun events over the summer, including an “everything animals” day. Keep aware of this and other events by visiting and liking https://www.facebook.com/shoppesatthefarm/.

Neshanic Flea Market is Back – The long-running flea mar-

ket at the foot of the Elm Street Bridge in Neshanic Station came back to life on June 1. The Neshanic United Methodist Church sponsors the weekly market as a service to the community. The church also has a booth where volunteers collect food and donations for the Hillsborough Food Pantry. Hours are 6:30 am to 1 pm, Saturdays (weather permitting), and the plan is to continue through the fall. Parking and entry are free, and the selection of items is wide and varied – antiques, collectibles, furniture, jewelry, housewares, tools, electronics, games, videos, books, and magazines. Also, fresh fruits and vegetables are welome. Vendor spots are available for $10 for the day. To find the location via GPS, enter “111 Elm St., Branchburg, NJ.” Website is www.neshanic.org/events/ fleamarket. Email is fleamarket@neshanic.org.

Midland Thanks the Military

students showed their appreciation and shook the hands of the veterans. A list follows of the visiting veterans and their branches of service: Lt. Colonel Craig Casucci, US Army; Captain Bob Junge, US Army – Retired; Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matt Lenese, US Navy – Retired; Specialist Steven Medina, US Army – Retired; Specialist Bernie Gallagher, US Army – Retired. -- submitted by Maureen Finn

Pony Home Run Derby: A Huge Hit Once Again

The annual Pony Home Run Derby for Branchburg Baseball culminated on May 24 with five finalists as a part of this year’s All-Star festivities. Thirty participants entered the preliminary round that yielded finalists Danny Carman, Matt Levanda, Vincent Barone, Dominic Giampino and Matt Jackus (featured in the photo above). Dominic Giampino outslugged his fellow finalists on White Oak Park Field 2 to claim the prestigious trophy this year. Recent winners Jack Anglim and Matthew Murrison were on hand to cheer on this year’s finalists and congratulate the new champion. The Pony Home Run Derby is an annual tradition for the oldest players in Branchburg’s recreational baseball program. This year, by popular demand, coaches and sponsors participated in an adult competition after the kids took their swings. Look for this again in future competitions as it was quite well received and surprisingly resulted in no injuries. The Pony season ended with the crowning of Auburn as champions on June 7. A rainedout All-Star game at TD Bank Ballpark, home of the Somerset Patriots, was rescheduled for June 24. For more information, visit branchburgbaseball.com. -- submitted by Brian Lauducci, Pony Commissioner

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

On May 28, the Midland School’s Student Council provided all classes with the opportunity to learn about the five branches of military service at an assembly/community service activity. Midland students viewed a brief video, heard about the services from some veterans, and signed and decorated cards. The students considered it a an honor and privilege to meet and listen as visiting veterans shared their experience with them. At the end of the assembly the

Kangaroo Kids Teacher, Diana Flores, Receives National Honor

The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

Kangaroo Kids staff members who attended the ceremony included, from left: Ed Kross, facility coordinator; Lisa Mirra, director; Diana Flores, Discovery Preschool lead teacher and award winner; Kathy Feigley, executive director; Shaun Pidany, assistant director.

Diana Flores, Discovery Preschool Lead Teacher at Kangaroo Kids, was awarded the 2019 National Teacher Award by the Terri Lynne Lokoff Child Care Foundation (TLLCCF) in Philadelphia. The TLLCCF describes the award as honoring “outstanding child care teachers for excellence, dedication and the incredibly important contributions they make to creating a strong future.” Diana has taught at Kangaroo Kids for 17 years. Diana stimulates learning in children as young as 2½ years old, using experiences like gardening and employing the outdoor environment to teach science, math and literacy. Executive Director Kathy Feigley said, “She is an amazing teacher, children in her class enjoy the process of learning and enthusiastically come to school every day excited about the environment she creates in her classroom. Parents form outstanding partnerships with her and recognize the quality of her teaching, and her staff members are loyal and appreciative of her kind and supportive leadership style.” The ceremony was heartfelt with a musical entrance, speeches by Pat Loeb of KYW News radio, Jamie Lokoff, TLLCCG Executive Director, as well as a keynote by Distinguished professor Dr. Rebecca Isbell. The finale was the presentation of awards. Diana was awarded $1,000, some of which will be used to create a butterfly sanctuary at Kangaroo Kids.

Garden Club of New Jersey Installs Neshanic Garden Club Member as President

Members of the Neshanic Garden Club had a photo opportunity at the June 6 meeting of The Garden Club of New Jersey at the Bridgewater Marriott. Standing from left: Luann Dewolfe, Barbara Majewski, Marion Nation, Susan Cusumano, Janet Gibson, Barbara Zielsdorff, Teri Halvorson, Alice Van Cleef, Carmella Shepley, Linda Peterson, Barbara Devitt, Diana Reinhardt. Seated from left: Marylin Hulme, Ruth Robinson, Kathy Herrington (co-president of the Neshanic Garden Club), Jeannie Geremia (new president of the Garden Club of New Jersey and also a member of Neshanic Garden Club), Cathy Heuschkel (co-president of Neshanic Garden Club), Lorlyn (Sam) Covert, Jean Stives.

By Susan Cusumano The Garden Club of New Jersey held its 94th annual meeting on June 6 at the Bridgewater Marriott. A member of the Neshanic Garden Cub, Jeannie Geremia, was installed as president of the state organization. Jeannie has received many honors and awards in the past years. In her role as GCNJ president, she

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will continue to promote many worthwhile programs and develop educational opportunities for New Jersey’s nurserymen, farmers and garden centers. Jeannie led the campaign to designate the Black Swallowtail Butterfly as New Jersey’s official state butterfly. She is also extremely concerned about the creation and maintenance of existing habitat for the benefit of New Jersey’s pollinators. The Neshanic Garden Club will present a “90 Years of Gardening” Flower Show to help celebrate its 90th anniversary. This free show will be held at the Hillsborough Municipal Building on Sept. 13 and 14, and the public is invited to attend. Planning meetings will continue throughout the summer to get ready for this NGC Standard Flower Show. For further information about club membership, activities and meetings, contact co-presidents Kathy Herrington at 908-3596835 or Cathy Heuschkel at 908359-6881.

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Municipal Building News | in print and online at www.branchburg.nj.us RECREATION NEWS Each month we’ll bring you highlights from our Recreation brochure. We are excited to offer residents new recreational opportunities and bring back everyone’s favorites. For details & information go to: www.branchburg.nj.us click on “Township Recreation”, to sign up for programs or Summer Camp click on the “Register Now” button.

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Registration for Summer Exercise Programs Still going on, don’t miss out on a great opportunity to stay in shape this summer with: Cardio, Total Conditioning (AM & PM sessions), Yoga in the Park & Mature Aerobics

**Girls Field Hockey** This is a fall sport, register NOW according to grade as of May 1, 2019. Price went up 6/30 to $100*

SUMMER EVENTS

& Family Camp-out @ White Oak Park: Sat., July 13th - the movie is FREE – Join us for “SmallFoot”. This delightful animated family movie is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Imagine BigFoot being excited about finding a human! For the Campout ~ Please register all family members who will be attending. Fishing Trips on the Mi-Jo: Fri., July 12th & Fri., August 16th

National Night Out 5K, Fun Run & Charity Softball Game: Tuesday, August 6th ~ All details can be found on the Township website ~ SUMMER DISCOUNT TICKETS AVAILABLE Adventure Aquarium, Six Flags Great Adventure, Dorney Park, Hershey Park, Morey’s Pier, Splash Zone, Philadelphia Zoo, Diggerland, iPlay America, Crayola, Blue Mountain Adventures & Mountain Creek **CALL RECREATION for availability and prices 908-526-1300 x 188**

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Information from Fire Safety: While non-aerial fireworks AKA sparkling novelties are legal in New Jersey, it is important to remember that sparkling novelties are inherently dangerous because they burn at such an extreme temperature. Branchburg Township Fire Safety recommends that you leave fireworks to the professionals, but if you don't please remember that:

         

Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. Sparkling novelties can be an invitation to personal injury and should not be treated as toys for children. In fact, sparkling novelties can burn at or above 2000°F, which can cause serious injuries to anyone handling. Only buy sparkling novelties from reputable businesses. Don’t buy if packaging is damaged or appears tampered with. Don’t try and “fix” broken or “dud” fireworks. Never use indoors. Don’t use in very windy or dry conditions. Never aim a firework at yourself, another person, animals, or buildings. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire and to douse used fireworks before discarding in trash. Never relight a “dud” firework, leave it alone and only approach after 20 minute.

In the State of New Jersey firework that shoot or have a report are still strictly prohibited and should only be handled by a pyrotechnics professional. If you wish to safely celebrate the holidays this July 4 there are several professional pyrotechnics displays being provided locally. Health Department Information:

Is your home serviced by a septic system? If so, it’s your responsibility to maintain it. Maintaining your septic system protects your investment in your home. The Health Department recommends that you have the contents of the septic tank pumped every 2 to 3 years. An effluent filter installed in the septic tank will also require routine cleaning that is performed during tank pumping. More frequent cleaning cycles may be required depending on daily habits and household use. You should avoid placing non-biodegradable materials such as feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, cigarettes butts, etc. into the system. These items do not breakdown and increase the rate of solids buildup within the tank. This results in the need to pump the septic tank more frequently to prevent solids carryover into the disposal field. Most systems are not designed for the use of a garbage disposal unit and water softeners. Leaking plumbing fixtures can add a significant unnecessary hydraulic load on the septic system. We recommend that leaking plumbing fixtures be repaired immediately to avoid overloading the system. With proper care your septic system can last for many years. Feel free to contact the Health Department at 908-526-1300 ext. 183 if you have any questions.

The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

TOWNSHIP OF BRANCHBURG

The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

Mormon. He is currently featured in an advertising campaign for Reading Cinemas.

Branchburg Newsmakers Sonia was the starting guard on the varsity basketball team and finished top-ten in the state for stealsper-game. She is also the president of the National Honor Society at SCVTHS. This fall, Sonia plans on majoring in Computer Science and running track at MIT. Sal & Nicole Dorothy and Sal Garfi of Branchburg announce the engagement of their son Sal Garfi, to Nicole Inglesby, daughter of Brian and Joanne Inglesby of Hasbrouck Heights. Sal received his undergraduate degree in Law and Criminal Justice from Rowan University and is currently employed at Bausch Health in Bridgewater. Nicole received her undergraduate degree in education from Rowan University, and is currently pursuing a masters degree in Literacy. She is an elementary school teacher in the Hasbrouck Heights School District. An April 2021 wedding is planned at Nanina’s In The Park in Belleville.

Kellie Huff Kellie Huff, daughter of Richard and Kim Huff of Branchburg, earned her Masters Degree in Occupational Therapy from Quinnipiac in the spring. A 2013 graduate of Somerville High School, Kellie received her bachelor of science degree from Quinnipiac in 2017. She is currently living and working in Austin, TX. Sonia Purohit of Branchburg was a two-sport varsity athlete at Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School, earning scholar athlete honors, and a four-year track and field letter-winner at Somerville High School. She earned senioryear captain status for both track and soccer. Sonia recorded over 100 career goals and finished her junior soccer season as the second-leading goal scorer in the state. Senior year,

Erik Dluhy Erik Dluhy of Branchburg has received the Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Management at the University at Albany’s School of Business. The award recognizes undergraduate student excellence during the 2018-2019 academic year.

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Alex Scoloveno Alex Scoloveno received his bachelor of fine arts in Jan. 2019, graduating Cum Laude from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. During his time at Mason Gross he received immersive instruction in theater and spent a year in London training and performing at Shakespeare’s Globe where he was featured as Falstaff in Henry IV part one. He is represented by Sinclair management and KMR agency in New York City and is currently on the audition trail having auditioned for roles in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Book of

Kamal Shahrabi Dr. Kamal Shahrabi of Branchburg has retired from the Automotive Technology Department at Farmingdale State College, where he worked since 2007. Dr. Shahrabi was the Dean of the School of Engineering Technology, a professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology, and the executive director of the Renewable Energy and Sustainability Center, which he helped create. During his time at the college he received grants totaling more than $10 million.

Logan Mote, Christian Mote Christian Mote and Logan Mote, Branchburg residents and current freshmen (class of 2022) at Gill St. Bernard’s High School were named All Conference Honorable Mention (Haas Division) for the Gill St. Bernard’s Varsity Hockey Team. The Mote twins helped lead the team to its first winning season, first conference playoff appearance, first playoff win in school history, and first ever state playoff appearance. Christian, #10, a center and right wing, was tied for the team lead in scoring. Logan #21, a center, was 3rd on the team in scoring while also leading the team in penalty minutes.

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Shaun T. Howe Shaun T. Howe, son of Diana and Kevin Howe of Branchburg, earned his Masters Degree of Professional Studies, in Atmospheric and Oceanic Science from Maryland University on May 23. Prior to the commencement exercises, Shaun was presented with the Ferdinand Baer Graduate Scholarship Award for Leadership & Teaching Excellence. He attended Branchburg schools and Somerville High School, was in the NJ STARS scholarship program student at Raritan Valley Community College. He graduated Cum Laude from the Honors College at RVCC. He went on to earn his Bachelors of Science degree from Cornell University in 2016, graduating Cum Laude with Distinction

Brian Opdyke On Apr. 13, Branchburg resident Brian Opdyke, freshman student at Somerville High School with shared time at Somerset County Vo-Tech’s Electrical Construction Program, competed in the annual NJ SkillsUSA competition. While his interests lie in residential electrical construction, Brian’s teacher and coach Mike McClain nominated him to compete in the even more challenging event, Industrial Motor Controls. Fifteen top competitors from every county in the state (all upperclassmen aside from Brian) were allotted four hours to build a circuit that automatically reverses the direction of a motor. With all the heat and pressure, Brian pulled it off in a tie for first place. The tie-breaker was the time to finish, awarding Brian the Silver. Gold went to a senior student from Bridgewater and Somerset Vo-Tech.

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Andrew & Caitlin Andrew Skocypec, son of Gary and Karen Skocypec, was married to Caitlin Tennar, daughter of Jack and Kathy Tennar of Tabernacle, on Nov. 17, 2018. The ceremony took place at the Church of the Holy Eucharist in Tabernacle. Kevin Skocypec, brother of the groom, was the best man. Christina Tennar, sister of the bride, was the maid of honor. The reception was at the Collingswood Ballroom, followed by a honeymoon in Ireland. Both Andrew and Caitlin are graduates of the University of Delaware. Andrew is employed at IPS as a Mechanical Engineer. Caitlin is a Civil Engineer with the Burlington County DPW. The couple lives in Hamilton.

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High Functioning, GLSEN, Humane Society, National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Dmetri Phelps Memorial Fund, Susan G. Komen Organization, Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), United for a Cure, Doctors Without Borders, The National Domestic Violence Hotline Organization, and Autism Speaks. –submitted by BCMS 8th Grade Language Arts Teachers

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Andrew Karlis Student of the Month, Andrew Karlis, a student at Branchburg Central Middle School, won the Rotary Club of Branchburg Essay Contest for May. The essay reflects the students’ goals for the future and the steps necessary to achieve their goals. Andrew is planning on studying to become an MLB statistician. He was awarded a Rotary certificate, a gift certificate and a special Rotary coin that reminds Rotarians to live their lives by the Rotary 4-Way test.

BCMS Social Change Rally Raises Awareness and $$$

The 8th grade students of Branchburg Central Middle School hosted their 3rd Social Change Rally at the school on June 12, sharing their research and passion for charitable causes with their 6th and 7th grade peers as well as community members. Thanks to the generous donations of the Branchburg Community, the 8th graders raised a record $5,000 for charities including: ASPCA, Mallory’s Army, Hoops for

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Alexis Butler Student of the Month, Alexis Butler, a student at Branchburg Central Middle School, won the Rotary Club of Branchburg Essay Contest for April. The presentation reflects the students’ goals for the future and the steps necessary to achieve their goals. Alexis is planning on studying to become a police officer. She was awarded a Rotary certificate, a gift 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?”

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

in Atmospheric Science Research. Shaun now embarks on his career, working for Arete Associates in Arlington, VA, in the position of Scientist 2.

The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

American Heart Association Recognizes Hunterdon Medical Center

Branchburg Country Fair is Sept. 28

The 22nd annual Branchburg Country Fair is on Sept. 28, with a rain date of Sept. 29. This free event includes entertainment, contests, food, activities, pony rides, fireworks and much more. There will also be vintage baseball games hosted by the New Brunswick Base Ball Club. This is a great event for those who are new to the area and for those who aren’t, to meet up with old friends. There will be community groups, businesses and vendors in the tents. There will also be a scavenger hunt for youngsters and some new entertainment this year. The PTO will return with a dunk tank. The State Police plan to bring a helicopter, and the Sheriff’s office will be having demonstrations. The third annual Talent Show is open to Branchburg residents and students from Somerville High School. The committee would like to introduce two separate competition divisions: one for youth and one for grownups. Email Branchburgtalent@gmail.com if interested in participating. This free event brings thousands of families each year to White Oak Park for a day of community fun The fair runs from 11 am, ending with fireworks at dusk. For more info or to download vendor/community/business registration forms, check out www.branchburgcountryfair.org, visit the Facebook site, email branchburgcountryfair@ gmail.com or call Bob or Rita at 908-526-3094. See you at the fair, neighbor! -- submitted by Rita Bouwman

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County Vocational & Technical High School (SCVTHS) Agricultural Science students helped plan, organize and run a science fair using leadership skills learned through their FFA chapter. Also, as part of the fair, the students completed science fair projects in the agricultural areas of animal science, plant science, food / nutritional science, environmental science, and power, structure and technical systems. Attendees of the fair included parents, SCVTHS administration, faculty, board members, Agricultural Science program advisory committee members and Somerset County Freeholder Brian G. Gallagher. Seen at the fair are, top row from left: Joseph Mild of Bound Brook, Tiffany Kelly of Manville, Jonathan Reynolds-Alvarenga of Bound Brook, Jayden Johnson of Hillsborough, Grace Coulbourne of Branchburg, Jenna Shallop of South Bound Brook, Irene Wieners (William Patterson Professor in Residence). Front row from left: Erik Fargo (Agricultural Science Instructor), Maria Scarpantonio of Manville, Abigail Podejko of Raritan and Harini Manjula Duraipandiyan of Basking Ridge.

Hunterdon Medical Center has received the 2019 American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Silver Plus & Target: Stroke Elite Plus Honor Roll Award. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence. Hunterdon Medical Center, located at 2100 Wescott Dr. in Flemington, earned the award by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients for 12 consecutive months. These measures include evaluation of the proper use of medications and other stroke treatments aligned with the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and reducing death and disability for stroke patients. Before discharge, patients should also receive education on managing their health, get a follow-up visit scheduled, as well as other care transition interventions. “Hunterdon Medical Center is dedicated to improving the quality of care for our stroke patients by implementing the American Heart Association’s Get with the Guidelines-Stroke initiative,”

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bubbles appearing over each bird’s head to reveal thoughts and words when two magically became three. The adults had to work overtime to feed an extra hungry mouth and the established pair had to share the food provided. Consider that the eagles at six weeks of age weighed almost seven pounds each. Doing the math, our eagle pair can live 30 years or more. Subtract their immature years and in theory they could produce, plus or minus, 50 offspring. Consider their first nestlings from the 2015 season are approaching maturity and the number of eagles of South Branch origin, keep growing. More impressive, today’s eagles may be seen by our grandchildren along the South Branch or several states away. A four-year-old immature eagle captured in Quantico, Virginia, on March 15, 2018, as part of a study, was observed in South Jersey earlier this spring. A square solar panel on its back powers a transmitter and records a plot of its

Eagle E82 is examined before his green band (seen below) is affixed by Dr. Erica Miller, DVM, from the NJ Endangered and Non Game Species Program. Each state uses a different color band along with travels. Truly, the skies are the a silver fedlimit, to the world of an eagle and a lesson we might take to eral band on heart, literally and figuratively. the opposite By year, the offspring of the leg. Holding South Branch pair of eagles the eagle is have been banded with numoutdoorsman bers prefaced by an E. In 2015,

E14, E15; in 2016, E43, E44; in 2017, E57, E58; in 2018, E66, E67, E68; in 2019, E82, E83.

and columnist JJ Mish. Also assisting is Kathy Clark, head of the NJ Endangered and Non Game Species Program. -- photo by Daniel Kroon. Other images by JJ Mish.

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

I love math, as it reveals patterns of periodicity which lead to predictability and useful projection of the future and explanation of the past. Even chaos in nature follows mathematical formulas, as explained by the Fibonacci Sequence. When a simple mathematical formula is applied to the pair of eagles that make their home on the South Branch of the Raritan River, an amazing picture is revealed. 2x5+1. Do the math and the answer is 11. It is this simple formula, with a single constant and two variables that summarizes the efforts of one pair of eagles over a five-year period. It also theoretically predicts their future contribution to the greater eagle population. The constant, two, is the single pair of eagles that have built and rebuilt their nest at a single riverside location along the South Branch. If any deserve to be called a constant, it is this dedicated pair of eagles. Though, over the years, arguments between them have been loud and expressive. The larger female revealing her feelings in a series of threatening calls, directed at the male, beg for anthropomorphic interpretation. Dad proudly arrives with a large branch to improve the nest and mom decides its arrangement as if she was changing the furniture around. It is mom that spends the night on the nest. Food deliveries stop at dusk and

by morning mom is hungry, needs to take a shower and stretch her wings. If dad is not there at first light, she becomes quite vocal, calling for him to take her place on the nest. Every once in a while, dad would wander back a little late and get a real tongue lashing. Through the travails of their relationship, they persist as a dedicated pair. Their partnership is undeniable as they attend the needs of their offspring and each other. Both will bring food to the nest and share it with the partner (though sometimes the fish provided has a few bites taken out). The next variable, two, is the number of eggs this pair has laid and the number of chicks they have fledged every year for over five years. To achieve one-hundred percent success on the number of eggs laid to eaglets fledged is quite an accomplishment. Not all eggs remain viable and not all hatched chicks survive. Some may fall out and be fatally injured or attacked by a predator. Of those that do successfully fledge, their fate is tenuous. This is one reason banding eagles can provide some data on survivability. If enough data is collected a statistical projection can be attempted by age group. Any deviation from “two” in our eagle formula is added or subtracted in the second variable. In this case it is plus one, which represents the fostering of an eaglet from a downstream nest that fell or was forced out by an attacker. Last year a female eaglet, assigned band number E68, was placed in the South Branch nest during the scheduled banding session. The adult eagles and their two six-week-old offspring, accepted the stranger. One can only imagine the endless thought

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

Atlantic Medical Group Brings Primary Care to Branchburg

Branchburg Mayor Anna Columbus, fifth from the right, joined in the ribboncutting festivities for the new home of Primary Care at Branchburg, Holding the big scissors are Dr. Catherine Zeh (L) and Dr. Prashanthi Gujjula (R), both of Primary Care at Branchburg. Also in the photo are Michael Kerwin, President of Somerset County Business Partnership; Will Neate, Vice President Physician Enterprise Strategy; Chris Herzog, Atlantic Medical Group Chief Operations Officer; Dr. Scott Lauter, Atlantic Medical Group Chief Medical Officer; Kate Ferrara, Director of Practice Operations, Atlantic Medical Group; Samantha Sorrentino, Practice Administrator; Jenna Steitz, Director of Primary Care; Claudia Alifano, Practice Manager. Primary Care at Branchburg, part of Atlantic Medical Group, held an open house on Tuesday, May 14, giving the community a chance to tour the newly opened practice and meet its doctors and patient care team. Led by board-certified family medicine physicians Prashanthi Gujjula, MD, and Catherine Zeh, MD, Primary Care at Branchburg cares for patients at all stages of life, from newborns to seniors. The practice, located near the

border of Bridgewater, offers some in-office procedures such as biopsies; ingrown toenail removal; joint injections; and laceration repair. The practice also offers some evening and Saturday hours, same day visits, and has on-site laboratory services for added convenience. For more information about the practice call 908-378-7227 or email claudia.alifano@atlantichealth. org. Location is 3322 Route 22 West, Suite 1204, Branchburg, NJ 08876.

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RVCC Information Sessions, Campus Tours Planned in July The public can discover what Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) has to offer by attending information sessions in July at RVCC’s Branchburg campus. The college is offering general information sessions and an adult information session, as well as special sessions for those interested in its automotive technology, cosmetology and esthetics (skin care) career programs. General information sessions and campus tours are scheduled for Tuesday, July 2, 10-11 am (RVCC Event/Conference Center, Room 101), Thursday, July 11, 4-5 pm (Event/Conference Center, Room 101), Tuesday, July 23, 10-11 am (Event/Conference Center, Room 102) and Tuesday, July 30, 10-11 am (Event/Conference Center, Room 101). During the sessions, RVCC admissions specialists till provide information about • Enrolling in classes for the fall semester • Programs designed to help students transfer to top colleges and universities in New Jersey, across the country, and even in Europe • Career training programs, designed in partnership with local industry, that can be completed in a year or less • The admissions process • Financial aid options and scholarship opportunities. An information session for adults who are considering returning to college or have never attended col-

lege will be held Saturday, July 13, from 10-11 am (Event/Conference Center, Room 101). The session will introduce adults to RVCC’s new Fast Track program that makes it possible to earn an Associate Degree in two years by taking classes evenings and online. The sessions also will focus on transferring college credits, earning credits for life experience, and making a successful transition back to school after being away from the classroom for years. An information session for RVCC’s Automotive Technology program will be held Thursday, July 11, from 3-4:30 pm (Workforce Training Center). During the event, prospective students will have an opportunity to learn about the innovative and successful program, meet with staff and faculty, and explore the exciting career potential in the field of automotive technology. The Auto Tech program offers Subaru and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) manufacturer training. Program graduates attain additional industry credentials from Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS), Snap-On, and other industry partners to allow students to stand out to potential employers. For additional information about the College’s Automotive Technology program, visit www. raritanval.edu/autotech or contact

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Elizabeth Coccia at 908-5261200, 8529 or elizabeth.coccia@ raritanval.edu. RVCC will offer an information session for its Beauty Professions programs Tuesday, July 23, from 5-6:30 pm (Workforce Training Center). During the Beauty Professions Information Session, participants will learn about RVCC’s programs in cosmetology and esthetics (skin care) as they view and participate in hands-on hair demonstrations, meet the programs’ director, take part in a questionand-answer segment, and apply for either program. RVCC’s cosmetology and esthetics programs feature an accomplished teaching staff, innovative teaching methods, and opportunities for job shadowing and salon practicum. The programs offer proactive job placement for graduates. The next daytime cosmetology program will be held Aug. 28, 2019 to June 9, 2020. The next daytime esthetics program will be held Aug.15, 2019 to Feb. 7, 2020. For information about the cosmetology or esthetic programs, contact Marcia Bird at 908-526-1200, ext. 8618 or marcia.bird@raritanval.edu. For additional information about the programs, visit www.raritanval. edu/cosmetology or www.raritanval.edu/esthetics. To register for an information session, visit www.raritanval. edu/visit. For additional information, contact the Admissions Department at 908-526-1200, ext. 7009 or admissions@raritanval.edu.

The Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) Planetarium will celebrate the Apollo moon landing during July. The month of programs features “Moon Day: 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing” on Saturday, July 20, from 1-5 pm. The Moon Day celebration will feature a variety of hands-on lunar activities; an exhibit, “Many Inspired Steps,” describing the centuries of discoveries and accomplishments that led to rockets and trips to the moon; and star shows exploring the moon and space travel. Moon Day activities are free of charge, but regular admission applies for the following Planetarium shows planned on July 20: Earth, Moon, Sun, and Coyote at 2 pm: Coyote has a razor-sharp wit, but he’s a little confused about what he sees in the sky. Join this amusing character (adapted from Native American oral traditions) in a fast-paced and fun show that tells Native American stories; explores lunar phases, eclipses, and other puzzles; and examines how humans learn through space exploration. (Recommended ages 8-12). Astronaut at 3 pm: What does it take to become an astronaut? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of “Chad,” a test astronaut. Then explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, from floating around the International Space Station to maneuvering through microscopic regions of the human body. The presentation is made possible with

Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin stands next to a flag on the moon in July 1969 -- photo courtesy of NASA, provided by RVCC

a grant from FirstEnergy Foundation. (Recommended for ages 10 and older). First and Farthest at 4 pm: From the first rockets to the first man on the moon, First and Farthest celebrates humanity’s great accomplishments in the Space Race. The show will bring back memories for those who remember the Space Race and inspire new generations to keep exploring our universe. With its discussion of science, technology, engineering and mathematical concepts, First and Farthest supports a STEM-focused curriculum. The presentation is made possible with a grant from NASA’s New Jersey Space Grant Consortium. (Recommended for ages 10-adult). Planetarium tickets cost $10 for one show, $16 for two shows on the same day. For reservations and information, call 908-231-8805. For additional information, visit www.raritanval.edu/planetarium.

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

50th Anniversary of Moon Landing Events to be Featured at RVCC Planetarium

Winning Season for Ville LAX

-- The Somerville High School Pioneers boys lacrosse team (pictured) went all the way to the finals this season losing the final game to Summit, but earning the title of 2019 South Jersey, Group 2 Sectional Champs. The team raised its second sectional title in the past five years, knocking off top-seeded Rumson-Fair Haven by a score of 8-3 on May 25. The season ended on May 31 when the Pioneers faced Summit at Shore High School in West Long Branch on a rain date which happened to be the Ville’s prom night. Summit dominated Somerville 10-0 to claim the NJSIAA Group 2 Title and a spot in the Tournament of Champions. Ville LAX is coached by Jamie Lovejoy of Branchburg. 3.5” x 2.5” | Maximum Font Size: 30 pt

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

8th Graders Pitch Ideas Shark Tank Style– STEAM Tank finalists from Katherine

Bernet’s 8th Grade Science Class at Branchburg Central Middle School presented their innovative ideas on May 30 to a panel of entrepreneurs from the local community in a “Shark Tank” setting in the school’s Media Center. As part of the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) project, students researched and designed prototypes and then developed a pitch for a panel of judges. The winning idea was Anjali Krishnamurti’s “Diatreaties,” a state-of-the-art meal plan for diabetics. Pictured (from left) are panelist Nimika Patel, health and fitness expert; student Jason Ciurleo, student Brayden Keller, panelist Chakra Saranathan, Co-Founder at uDown Inc. (https://udownapp.com/), an app that enables more reallife interactions and hangouts; student Patrick Scholz, student Evan Osworth, panelist Kevin Trimarchi, head chef and restaurateur; student Phoebe Montemurro, student Anjali Krishnamurti (winner), BCMS Media Specialist Wendy Michels, student Sophia Sodbinow, student Leah Johnson, student Belle Kornas, student Katelyn Richardson, student Ally Brenner, panelist Kelly Strack, a Branchburg native who is a Social Media Influencer and YouTuber in the beauty and fashion space with more than 775,000 followers across her social networks; Science Teacher Katherine Bernet, and panelist Katarina Tonks, multi-award winning “Wattpad” author.

Troop 185 Rafts Down the Lehigh Scouts and adults from Troop 185 prepare to set out on the Lehigh River during a whitewater rafting trip the first weekend in June in eastern Pennsylvania. Front row: Andy Ghosh, Christy Bouziotis, Brody Bouziotis, Stephanie Tistan, Zachary Tistan, Sammy Neske, Freddie Neske, Evan Berry. Back row: Luke Bouziotis, Ernie Tistan, Jen Neske, Brian Lauducci, Jason Lauducci, Fred Neske, Matt Miller, Aaron Berry, Ethan Miller. – submitted by Jason Lauducci

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Wonders of Water – Members of Branchburg Brownie Troop 62209

completed their “Wonders of Water” Journey (4-badge series) during a GS overnight at the Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown, PA, this spring. They learned about the importance of watersheds and how to protect them from pollution, the crazy physics behind water and surface tension, how water creates rainbows, and other impacts of water in our environment. For their Take Action Project, the troop members will introduce a water saving campaign at their school. Pictured: Gabriella Charne, Monica Gabanyi, Calliegh Nejmeh, Emily Pedersen, Sophia Rocks, Ashley Bolink, Chloe Matos, Olamide Demuren, Taylor Matthew, Sophia Wnek. New girls are always welcome at all levels, for info, visit https://www.branchburggirlscouts.org. -- provided by Troop Leaders Peggy Dry and Maggie Gabanyi

Floating Fun at Raingutter Regatta

July 4 Fireworks Planned at North Branch Park

The winners with their boats and trophies: From left: Seth Goldstein (first place), Matthew Burt (second place), Gabe Gad (third place).

Learning About Horses Members of Branchburg Junior Girl Scout Troop #60354 completed their Horseback Riding Badge at Lord Stirling Stable this May. The girls learned grooming, maintenance, feeding, how to ride and what it takes to have a horse. Participating were Paige Powers, Ashley Bolink, Amy Bolink, Zaylee Lindia, Harlee Stracuzzi, Grace Bianchini, Madison Loonan, Eva Sabella, Lauren Clarke. --submitted by Troop Leader Dina Stracuzzi-Farlow

Racing action: On the left is Seth Goldstein; on the right is Mason Pentz.

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

On Sunday, June 2, members of Cub Scout Pack 94 enjoyed their end-of-year picnic in the parking lot of South Branch Reformed Church. Members received their advancement awards and participated in the pack’s annual Raingutter Regatta. Named for the makeshift house gutters that originally served as water-filled raceways, the regatta is an opportunity for cubs to get creative, design small sailboats and race against other members of the pack. The only propulsion method is lung power – no touching.. Trophies were awarded to first, second and third place finishers. The day was filled with good sportsmanship and fun for all. –submitted by Danielle Burt

Somerset County Park Commission invites all to attend the Annual July 4th Fireworks Display to be held on Thursday, July 4 at 9:30 pm at North Branch Park on Milltown Road in Bridgewater. Admission is free to the July 4th celebration and food is available for purchase. North Branch Park gates will open at 6:00 P.M. to allow vehicles to enter the park and families to picnic on park grounds. The fireworks display will begin at 9:30 P.M. Visitors should plan to arrive early. Milltown Road will be closed at approximately 9:00 P.M. Heavy car and foot traffic is expected. Stone Flower Santana Tribute and the Tyrone Stackhouse Project will perform live throughout the evening. Picnic baskets are allowed but alcohol is prohibited. Personal fireworks are not allowed. Milltown Road will remain closed at the conclusion of the fireworks for 30 minutes to one hour while local neighborhood pedestrians walk from the park. Bridgewater Police will assist park staff with traffic flow. Updates will be available on the Activity Hotline at 908-722-1200, ext. 5351. For information on this and all Park Commission programs and activities log onto www.somersetcountyparks.org.

Troop 90 Visits Gettysburg On May 17-19, Troop 90 visited Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania with 28 scouts and 13 adults/leaders. The Battle of Gettysburg of July 1863 was one of the largest battles during the American Civil War and was fought across the fields and heights south of the town. The scouts camped at the McMillan Woods Youth Campground which is located in the park. The scouts started their tour at the Visitors Center and spent some time exploring the museum which provides 22,000 square feet of exhibit space, featuring interative and multimedia exhibits, short films, artifacts and information about the Civil War and the Battle at Gettysburg as well as a film “A New Birth of Freedom” and Cyclorama which depicts the final fury of “Pickett’s Charge.” The troop hiked the Johnny Reb Trails through the battlegrounds observing General Meade’s Headquarters, Pennsylvania Memorial, the Soldiers National Cemetery and the High Water Mark where “Pickett’s Charge” took place. The

Ville’s Coach Nevolo to Run Summer Basketball Camps

What They Went For

Recent property sales reported in Branchburg Township: 1009 Breckenridge Drive $225K 13 Champions Circle $620K 37 Country Squire Way $533K 21 Eckles Drive $999,364 Pictured, back row from left: Eric Rasch, Bill Lawson, Rob Linz, Tom 407 Kacey Court $510K D’Aprile, Mark McArthur Walt Nyakanga, Kyle Noto, Miguel Aguirre, Mark 700 Magnolia Lane $225K McArthur Hayden Brown, Chris McArthur, Evan D’Aprile, Nate Ahearn, 8 Mohawk Trail $398K Dom Noto, Dan McDonald, Brett D’Aprile. Rob Bukowski, Brain Armstrong, 123 North Branch River Road Brad Moore, Rich Moore, Dave Dugan, Ron Ott, Larry Ahearn. Middle row: $339K Dylan Nyakanga, Kristofer Litwinko, Josh McDonald, Will Lawson, Lukas 6 Ramapo Trail $660K Litwinko, Andrew D’Alessio, Mateo Aguirre, Brad Hieber Michael Rossman, 308 Red Crest Lane $229K Alex Bukowski. Front row: Ryan Linz, Chris Dugan, Liam Ott, Josh Rutka, 10 Spokane Lane $310K Robert Wolfe, Joseph Keck, Brian Linck, Chris Rasch 1065 State Route 28 $385K 3 Ten Eyck Road N. $1,234,436 troop continued the 6 mile hike High Adventure Trips in July and 555 Wren Way $520K through Devils Den and ended the August. Weekly meetings are held hike at the top of Little Round Top. at The Midland School, 94 ReadTroop 90 enjoys campouts and ington Rd. in Branchburg, on outing from September through Thursday nights 7:30 – 9 pm. June, with Summer Camp and -- submitted by Larry Ahearn

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Chris Nevolo, boys varsity basketball coach at Somerville High School, will run basketball camps for boys and girls in grades 1-9 this summer. Basketball for Beginners Camp for grades 1-4 will take place July 1-3 at Van Derveer Elementary School, 51 Union Ave. in Somerville. Summer Skills Camp for grades 6-9 will take place July 8-12 at Somerville High School, 222 Davenport St. in Somerville. Junior Pioneer Camp for grades 3-9 will take place July 29 – Aug. 2 at Somerville High School, 222 Davenport St. in Somerville. For more information and a registration form, visit www.tinyurl. com/coachnevolocamps Have questions? Email Coach Nevolo: cnevolo@somervilleschools.org .

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The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

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Somerville High School, Class of 2019 (List of Branchburg Residents)

Graduates with Branchburg or Neshanic Station addresses: Thomas Adelman, Brendan Allen, Furkan Amin, Matthew Anczarki, John Anglim, Amanda Applebaum, Richard Baginski, John Barker, Bella Benaquista, Kyle Berry, Jacob Bloomstein, Lara Bonatesta, Meredith Boyle, Dante Bozzuti, Caitlin Breidenbruch, Joseph Brong, Casey Bumgarner, Ana Cabriada, Kayla Campbell, Michael Campbell, Megan Cantillon, Gerardo Carcamo, Anna Castles, Peter Cataldi, Diego Chinchilla, Stephen Ciarletta, Joseph Ciempola, Lauren Ciufo, Emily Ciurleo, Emily Cleary, Tyler Cole, Samuel Colombo, Joanna Coppola, John Corridon, Brian Costello, Jack Dailey, Rishab Das, Shannon Dempsey, Senal Dharia, Andrew Diodato, Gianna Duddy, Jacob Dumont, Chaimae El Hourani, Sara ElDewak, Elisabeth England, Wesley Erd, Madison Eurick, Jacob Figueredo, Kyle Flynn, Patrick Flynn, Adelina Gallo, Abby Gara, Kylee Garcia, Rebecca Geary, Joshua Geller, Hannah Gessner, Elisa Gislao, Alonna Gliksman, Jenny Gomez, William Gonzalez, Dylan Gooding, Emily Greb, Harrison Gropper, Austin Hackerd, Alexandra Haenny, Erin Haggerty, Kevin Hall, Jonathan Harnanto, Luke Harney, Elizabeth Hepworth, Michael Herrera III, Alexander Hiering, Hunter Horton, Sarah Huppert, Kaitlin Insabella, Zoe Iovino, Alex Iskowitz, Marcus Johnson, Tamara Jones, Nikhil Kamdar, Cade Kelton, Jon Kilduff, Nina Klimko, Caroline Kornbrek, Jessica Krachun, Gillian Kramlick, Justin Krishnamurti, Erin Kyle, Karolyn LaCanna, Allison LaMont, Markus Lauber, Trevor Leeds, Ethan Livermore, Peyton Livermore, Matthew Luzi, Quinn Maccini, Michael Malatesta, Sean Mallis, Matthew Manning, Olivia Marchese, Emily Markowski, Samantha Marshak,

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Working Together -- Branchburg Girl Scouts of all levels gathered to-

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Somerville High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commencement took place on June 21, after this newspaper went to press. Thanks to Somerville High School Secretary Geraldine Barrows for helping us put together this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SHS grad list ahead of time. Of a total 320 students receiving diplomas, 181 are identified as residents of Branchburg or Neshanic Station. Processional leaders at commencement were Alexander Scotte, Valedictorian; Caroline Kornbrek; Salutatorian; Kaitlin Insabella, Senior Class President; Alexandra Haenny, Student Council President; Emily Cleary, Somerville Academy of Liberal Arts Valedictorian; Olivia Marchese, Somerville Academy of Liberal Arts Salutatorian.

This Month In Branchburg History

The Branchburg News • July-August 2019

Why does the Statue of Liberty stand in New York Harbor? Because she can’t sit down. Bullets and fireworks are the only things that do their jobs after they’re fired. Bridgewater history teacher: “Where was the Declaration of Independence signed?” Bridgewater student: “At the bottom.”

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One Year Ago, Jul. 2018: On July 11, a gathering took place at Raritan Valley Community College to celebrate the creation of the Herb Vollers Walkway through RVCC’s Enabling Garden. The porouspave path, built in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Branchburg, is named for Herbert D. Vollers (1928-2016) of Branchburg, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Five Years Ago, Jul. 2014: The Ice Bucket Challenge was all the rage during the summer heat. At RVCC, for example, the athletics department brought together top administrators and sports coaches to have buckets of ice water dumped on their heads to raise money for the Kay Yow Cancer Fund. Another big financial beneficiary of the craze was the ALS association

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ECRWSS 25 Years Ago, Jul. 1994: False alarms from home and car security systems were creating an issue in town. The Township Committee proposed an ordinance to penalize owners of alarms that sounded false alarms for more than 15 minutes.

191 of the 259 runners listed Branchburg or Neshanic Station as their home addresses.

10 Years Ago, Aug. 2009: Dan Stiles, a Harvard University distance runner and former SHS track star, won his third straight 50 Years Ago, Jul. 1969: Alicia Branchburg 5K, as the top male Mallory, age 17 of Branchburg, finisher. won a blue ribbon for excellence at a 4-H demonstration at Rutgers. 25 Years Ago, Aug. 1994: On Her subject was “Your House Pet, Aug. 8, Cary Israel, age 45, began his new job as president of Rarithe Termite.” tan Valley Community College. August He had previously been execuOne Year Ago, Aug. 2018: In the tive director of the Illinois ComBranchburg 5K at White Oak Park munity College Board. on Aug.7, top overall female finisher from Branchburg was Emily 50 Years Ago, Aug. 1969: The Hernandez (19:49:63). She was also Neshanic Fire Company held its the fastest female finisher regard- 20th annual clambake on Fireless of hometown. Top overall male man’s Meadow near the Elm finisher from Branchburg was Luke Street Bridge. Andrew Deak was Pacini (18:00:21). chairman and Charles Boesch was in charge of entertainment. Five Years Ago, Aug. 2014: The Branchburg 5K at White Oak Park on Aug. 5, lived up to its name as