Old Bridge NJ Community Profile

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OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP New Jersey

www.oldbridge.com

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We’re expecting!

The only birth center in New Jersey on a hospital campus Women experiencing a low-risk pregnancy who are looking for more natural options for their birthing experience can be cared for by our certified nurse midwives. The new Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center at Saint Peter’s University Hospital provides an alternative, home-like birthing option for women. With a separate street entrance and dedicated space, our birthing suites resemble bedrooms and feature a queen-size bed, large Jacuzzi tub, and shower, all in a relaxing décor. From pregnancy through birth, our midwives will support you in the way you want to experience the birth of your child. You may choose to move around freely, use birthing tools, immerse yourself in water for comfort, and get the support you need to birth without medication.

To learn more or to make an appointment with a midwife, call 732.339.7879 or visit saintpetershcs.com/midwifery

Sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen

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Stroll The Shoppes’ stylish boutiques, relax and pamper yourself at our salons, savor all the dining options, and enjoy community events–all in an open-air setting

Located in Old Bridge, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 9 & Texas Road Visit TheShoppesAtOldBridge.com for directions, events and offers |

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@TheShoppesAtOB

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TABLE of Contents 6 GREETINGS FROM THE MAYOR

21 OLD BRIDGE RECREATION

8 MARKING THE PAST

23 CAMP ROBIN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION

10 ECONOMIC TRENDS AND

24 MAYOR HENRY’S CLEAN TEAM

DESTINATION LOCATION

24 FREE SERVICES AND RECYCLING GUIDE

11 15TH SAFEST SMALL CITY

25 OLD BRIDGE MUNICIPAL ALLIANCE

12 IDEAL LIFESTYLE

26 OLD BRIDGE ANIMAL SHELTER

14 THINGS TO SEE AND DO

26 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

15 SHOPPING AND DINING 16 OLD BRIDGE ACCOMMODATIONS 18 OLD BRIDGE THE BIG PICTURE 20 TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND PROGRAMS

EMPLOYEE-OWNED

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. Old Bridge Township and Town Square assume no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact Old Bridge Township with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of Old Bridge Township and Town Square is prohibited.

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27 OLD BRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY 28 HEALTH CARE AND THE FUTURE 32 HOUSES OF WORSHIP 34 ADVERTISER INDEX

Copyright© 2020

This is a Town Square Publication created and produced for the OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP 1 Old Bridge Plz. | Old Bridge, NJ 08857 Phone: (732) 721‑5600 | Fax: (732) 607‑7900 www.oldbridge.com

TOWN SQUARE PUBLICATIONS 95 W. Algonquin Rd. | Ste. 300 Arlington Heights, IL 60005 www.townsquarepublications.com

Chairman, CEO and Publisher | Douglas K. Ray

Production Coordinator | Amber D. Burger

President and Chief Operating Officer | Scott Stone

Graphic Designer | Carrie Dockendorff

Vice President / Director | Scott Ray

Senior Advertising Coordinator | Tiffany Hogan

Production Manager | Joseph Nugara

Advertising Coordinator | Jan Bruns

Editor | Gail Gaboda

Directory Coordinator | Michael Sumrak

Senior Project Coordinator | Stefanie Nugara

Acquisition Manager | Patrick McGranaghan

| www.oldbridge.com

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JFK Medical Center JFK - Advanced Medical Imaging Advanced Imaging Technology – Close to Home.

STATE-OF-THE-ART-TECHNOLOGY 3D Mammography, High Field MRI, Breast MRI, CT/CTA, Nuclear medicine, Fluoroscopy, Diagnostic Radiology, Ultrasound, Bone Densitometry (Dexa), Laboratory Services On-Site. • Friendly Outpatient Setting • X-Ray Walk-ins Welcome • Transportation Available • Day, Evening and Weekend Appointments

3 Convenient Locations Results Available Within 24 Hours Most Insurance Plans Accepted Board Certified Radiologists On-Site

To schedule an appointment, please call:

JFK Medical Center

JFK Advanced Medical Imaging Of Edison

60/65 James street Edison, NJ 08820 Ph: 888.535.6762

JFK Medical Center

JFK Medical Center

JFK Advanced Medical Imaging

JFK Advanced Medical Imaging

1430 Hooper Ave. Suite 102 Toms River, NJ 08753 Ph: 732-349-2867

3548 Route 9 South Old Bridge, NJ 08857 Ph: 732-970-0420

Of Toms River

Of Old Bridge

www.hackensackmeridian.org www.oldbridge.com

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GREETINGS from the Mayor G

reetings from the Township of Old Bridge, recently named one of the safest small cities in America, and a great place to raise a family, work and own a business. Conveniently located in Central New Jersey between New York City and the shore, Old Bridge offers residents abundant opportunities for recreation, employment, dining and shopping. Old Bridge Township was founded upon rich family traditions and a commitment to community values. Our award-winning schools are a reflection of those founding pillars, with emphasis on character that permeates academics, athletics and the arts. Old Bridge Township Schools will always be a tremendous source of local pride and global impact. We also support two public library branches, which offer not only a comprehensive collection of books, research material and programming, but also a full array of online resources, outreach programs and passport application processing. I’m pleased to note that the Old Bridge Public Library is routinely voted as the “Best” or “One of the Best” libraries in Middlesex County by readers of the Home News Tribune. During my administration, we have added 900 acres of open space, and our beautiful parks and beachfronts allow residents to enjoy plenty of outdoor recreation year-round. Our Department of Parks, Recreation and Social Services runs not only youth Little League baseball, football, hockey, soccer, wrestling and lacrosse leagues, but also a full array of kids and adult dance, aerobics, tumbling, cooking, arts and crafts and ceramics, all available to residents for a nominal fee. We also have a well-maintained ice arena, where students enjoy skating sessions during class trips and can take private or group lessons from U.S. Figure Skating Association coaches. Our enormously successful Camp Robin program is designed to offer therapeutic recreation and socialization for kids and adults with special needs. Programs are available throughout the year, and there is a six-week summer program for kids. Child and teen programs feature sports – including a Special Olympics ice-skating competition – computers, and a Teen Friday Night program. Adult programs include basketball, a chorale, Zumba and Friday Night Fun and a theater program. Our senior center, Silver Linings at Old Bridge, is accredited by the National Institute of Senior Centers and is a vital community gathering site, providing our active seniors with exercise classes, health and wellness seminars, trips and arts and crafts sessions. It also sponsors our fantastic Dancing Dudes and Divas, a competitive dance team comprised of members in their 60s, 70s and 80s, who perform at various local events, as well as at the Ms. Senior America pageant in Atlantic City! Old Bridge is also an excellent place to do business, offering financial stability, an outstanding credit rating, controlled growth and steadily-rising property values. We have made it a

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• priority to make the township as business-friendly as possible. To that end, our Business Alliance is an organization for shops, restaurants and other businesses to network and share tips, resources and success stories. We have hundreds of local and chain establishments scattered throughout town, including the Shoppes at Old Bridge, a major shopping destination of over 25 retail, dining and wellness businesses, conveniently located at Route 9 and Texas Road. We are also anxiously awaiting the grand opening of our first hotel in town, a Hampton Inn which will be located on Route 18 and provide much-needed local lodging. It will be conveniently located near the Hackensack Meridian Heath Center which is currently undergoing a major expansion. In addition, we continue our partnership with Uber to provide a “Safe Ride” program, which offers free rides every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. from participating locations to residential homes in the township. It is my honor to serve as Mayor of this vibrant, fantastic city, and I encourage everyone to THINK OLD BRIDGE. BRIDGE Sincerely,

Owen Henry Mayor

| www.oldbridge.com

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Get Your SMILE On!

LD BRIDGE

RTHODONTICS DR. BRIAN LEUNG

ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR CHILDREN, TEENS AND ADULTS • High quality care, beautiful results •

Fun, caring environment

Accelerated orthodontics (speed up treatment by 33-50%)

Traditional metal, ceramic and “invisable” treatment options available

Late night and weekend appointments available

Most insurance plans accepted

Interest-free payment plans available

CONSULTATIONS ARE ALWAYS COMPLIMENTARY. CALL 732-607-2488 TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT.

Actual patients of Dr. Leung

2101 ROUTE 516, SUITE A | OLD BRIDGE, NJ 08857 | T 732.607.2488

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MARKING the Past Chronicling Bygone Days

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he year 2019 commemorates the 150th anniversary of our township. On March 2, 1869, the 22nd Governor of the State of New Jersey, Theodore Fitz Randolph, approved Chapter 72 of the Laws of 1869. This law was “An Act to create from the Township of South Amboy, in the Country of Middlesex, a new township, to be called the Township of Madison.” Thus, the history of our town begins and our separation from South Amboy Township is finalized. The Matawan Journal newspaper will begin publishing six months later, and record the local area history of not only Matawan, but also Madison Township. The first meeting of the new township council took place at the Cheesequake Inn on the site, now occupied by the Pine Tavern in what was then known as the Jacksonville area. Inn owner Robert L. Skillman was then reimbursed $6 for that day’s expenses $9 for dinners and suppers of judges and for the new clerk of Madison Township. In 1964, The Madison Township Historical Society was incorporated and the town’s historical society begins and continues to serve the Old Bridge Township community today. The local Madison-American newspaper issue of March 1, 1969, which was published out of Laurence Harbor, reported on the centennial celebration events. Madison Township Day was part of the centennial celebrations that were held in 1969. Events included a skit by the local councilmen reenacting the first

meeting of the township council on March 2, 1869. It was presented at a free square dance held at Saint Bernadette Church in Madison Park. The paper also reported that Madison Township Historical Society members Alva Martin and Marion Smith-Lambertson were the emblem design winners for their new municipal seal for the Centennial slogan of “Madison Township – A Glorious Future – A Historical Past.” Other events held during town’s centennial celebration were a parade, queen contest and Madison Township Day at Freehold Race Track. The deed to the town’s only U.S. National Historic Place, the Cedar Grove School, will be given to the Madison Historical Society from the Board of Education to mark this momentous event. The town later changed its name to Old Bridge Township due to a public referendum held in 1975. But at its core, it will always be Madison Township, the town that was originally named to honor President James Madison.

DEEP HISTORIC ROOTS Madison Township’s name changed to Old Bridge Township in 1976, but the history of the Township dates back some 300 years. Madison Township was once part of the extensive Township of South Amboy and, earlier, part of the South Ward of Perth Amboy Township. South Amboy Township was established in 1685 as one of the largest governing bodies of its kind as part of the British Colony of East Jersey. One hundred fifty years later, South Amboy Township began to break up into smaller townships – Monroe in 1838, Madison in 1869 and Sayreville in 1876. This area was settled by the English, Scotch, French Huguenot and a few Irish and Dutch settlers. Most early landowners were property speculators and bought the land for quick resale and profit. The many mill streams within the town’s boundaries were used to great advantage as soon as the first pioneers settled. The early discoveries of the fine stoneware clay along the banks of the Cheesequake Creek opened up the clay industry for both Middlesex County and the state. The beach front on the Raritan Bay, from Cheesequake Creek to Whale Creek, was patrolled by the 2nd Regiment Middlesex County during the American Revolution. Because our extensive frontier faced the British, a constant guard and communications system was set up for the duration of the war. Thus, the Old Bridge Township area had a vastly different development and population than the rest of Middlesex County. Its isolation by the great Raritan River, its poor soil conditions and its use and abuse by proprietors, give this area a unique history. The Thomas Warne Museum, home of the Madison-Old Bridge Township Historical Society, is open to the public free of charge, Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., and Monday through Friday by appointment only. School trips and group tours are welcome by reservation. The museum also maintains a library of local genealogical and historical records for those researching their family connections. For more information, call the museum at (732) 566‑2108 or visit www.thomas-warne-museum.com.

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Glenwood Country Club

The premier private golf course that’s affordably priced.

• Enjoy a 4 hour round of golf with no tee times • Designed by Hal Purdy and renovated by Stephen Kay • A 7000 yard, par 72 championship golf course • Full practice facilities and lessons available with a PGA Professional • Now offering an Associate Membership special starting at $500 • Wide range of membership categories • Amenities include the grill room, bar, locker room, and bag storage

To make an appointment to tour our facility, please contact Sal Silvestrone, General Manager 732-607-2582

ENWOOD L G C.C.

Highway 9 and Fairway Lane •Old Bridge, NJ •www.njgolfclub.com

GLENWOOD APARTMENTS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE... at Glenwood Apartments, we provide you a convenient location, quiet and gracious living, recreation, superior service and free heat, hot water and cooking gas! With access to all major highways, you’ll start your day with an easy commute to New York City, Staten Island, New Brunswick or Trenton. You’ll end your day relaxed in our spacious apartments with private patio or balcony in our treelined courtyards. Enjoy community living again and visit Glenwood Apartments.

It’s not just a home, it’s a resort. • Free heat, hot water & cooking gas • Olympic-size pool/(fees apply) and playground • Private entrances • Easy access to Rte. 9, 18 & 35, GSP and NJTP • Hardwood floors • Ample off-street parking

• Central A/C • Dog Park • Walk-in closets • Tennis/Basketball court • Laundry facilities • Patio/Balconies • 24-hr. emergency maintenance • Cable ready

DIRECTIONS: Garden State Parkway to Exit 123 Rte. 9 South. Right to Rte. 516 apartments are on the right. NJ Turnpike to Exit 9 Rte. 18 South past Brunswick Square Mall to Rte. 516 East (Matawan-Old Bridge Road). OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday 9-5 Saturday & Sunday 10-4

35 D Spruce Lane • Old Bridge, NJ 08857 732-727-0300 • www.glenwoodapartments.com www.oldbridge.com

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ECONOMIC TRENDS T

and Destination Location

he Mayor’s Office of Economic Developments’ slogan is “Pursuing Progress”. One of the goals is to provide a steady increase of business within Old Bridge. Over the last five years, Old Bridge has been a leader in proactive economic growth in the county. This magazine shows the impact growth has made throughout the business community, benefitting Old Bridge residents. It has fostered the growth and synergy through branding, marketing, innovative ideas, concepts and programs to assist businesses in the community. Also key is identifying trends and new business types on the horizon in this new age of specialty and nontraditional retail businesses and growing these sectors. Branding is a key component in helping attract, recruit and expand businesses. With these methods, the department has moved the town forward with a wave of smart business growth. Programs that have led to this growth are: A partnership with UBER for the Old Bridge UBER Safe Ride Program that offers free rides home on weekend evenings within Old Bridge, promoting safety for residents.

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The Old Bridge Property Tax Card Program encourages residents to shop locally by offering a credit toward property taxes. It provides a percentage of the sale off their property taxes when shopping at local participating businesses. Old Bridge residents owning a home will have a credit on their third quarter tax bill renters will receive a cash rebate. The township entered the race for Amazons H2Q Headquarters, meeting all the requirements in Amazon’s request, and showing that Old Bridge has a strong commitment to being a great place for business opportunity and investment – evident in its 150-year history. We want to thank all the businesses that have supported this magazine and look forward to working with all the new and existing local businesses for the best future of Old Bridge, New Jersey. It is now a town with a historic future for all.

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15th SAFEST Small City Old Bridge Named 15th Safest Small City

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ld Bridge Township has been named the 15th-Safest Small City in America according to a study conducted by Front Point home security. The study researched property crime data from the 2017 FBI Uniform Crime Reporting to determine the top 50 safest small cities in the country. Urbanized areas with populations between 50,00075,000 were included in the analysis. Cities were ranked by total property crime counts per capita, including burglary, larceny-theft and motor vehicle theft. Old Bridge ranked 15th, with 8.65 incidents of property crime per 1,000 residents. Overall, New Jersey was deemed the safest state in the US, containing 10 of the top 50 cities. “This report is further evidence of why Old Bridge is such a wonderful place to live and do business,” noted Mayor Owen Henry. “Those of us who live here know it, but it’s always satisfying to have it validated by others.” Old Bridge Township and its police department work with several community groups to further their outreach, including the Auxiliary Police Officer program in which volunteers assist police when necessary. In addition, the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) consists of trained volunteers that provide services during emergencies. “The safety of our residents is of utmost importance and these community groups, along with our Code Red Alert System, enhance the tremendous work of our police force in keeping our residents safe and secure,” noted Business Administrator Himanshu Shah.

VISIT TODAY!

(732) 566-3304

Laurence Harbor, New Jersey 08879 Hours 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM www.oldbridge.com

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IDEAL Lifestyle Locals Enjoy Perks of Community

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ith our exceptional schools, growing recreational opportunities, access to top-notch health care and a positive business environment, Old Bridge Township has established itself as an ideal place for families, professionals and retirees. That is why so many families call Old Bridge home, and many others are sure to do the same with the area’s forthcoming residential and commercial development. No matter what the season, there is always something fun and exciting to do in Old Bridge Township. It is the proud home to many sporting associations. In total there are 16 divisions of baseball and softball from Little League to teams ranging in age of 70-plus. The youth basketball association and soccer leagues both offer recreational and travel programs. Old Bridge has three youth recreational football teams along with competitive and noncompetitive cheerleading. A youth ice hockey program is offered at the ice arena. For the names and contact information of these leagues, visit www.oldbridge.com. Parks and Recreation offer programs from Mommy and Me to offerings for adults. Cooking class, crafts, painting, yoga and a variety of fitness classes such as tennis with lessons and tournaments are held at the municipal tennis courts. Lacrosse is played on the newly renovated fields of Geick Park. The township offers a dance program for ages 3-12 that concludes with a dance recital in May. Online reregistration for classes are as follows: FALL/September, SPRING/February and SUMMER/May.

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Camp ROBIN offers a year-round community therapeutic recreation program for disabled children and adults from age 3 and up. The Old Bridge Department of Parks and Recreation and Social Service is committed to the development of skill, increased self-confidence and esteem through mastery in sport so in time these participants are included in mainstream general recreation programs with their peers. The Therapeutic Ice program is a wonderful example of the success of the program due to the growing number of competitors in the New Jersey Special Olympics. The adult program provides opportunities to participate in some of the township’s most popular recreation programs including fitness and yoga, cooking, crafts and computer classes. For more information about these programs, call (732) 721‑5600, ext. 4999 or visit the township’s website at www.oldbridge.com. Silver Lining at Old Bridge in the George Bush Center offers residents age 60 and up countless daily activities, field trips, seminars and parties throughout the year. In addition to all the fun, the center provides a variety of social services and enrollment assistance. Residents are eligible for transportation around the township, to and from the Senior Center, supermarkets and to medical facilities in Old Bridge. They are a congregate meal site for Middlesex County. For more information, call (732) 721‑5600, ext. 6660. Operation Beachhead provides recreational activities to disabled veterans, active duty military personnel and their respective families and children with special needs. Through their efforts, Operation Beachhead has grown from hosting two events to 10 events, providing recreational opportunities to over 200 veterans and their families this year. The Old Bridge Library hosts many events and activities. Authors,

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Comic Con, concerts and a variety of workshops fill their calendar of events. They offer live tutors online for all students from K-12th grade, available seven days a week. For more information, visit www. oldbridgelibrary.org. Many Old Bridge residents volunteer their time with organizations within the community, such as The Animal Shelter, Food Bank, Senior Center and CERT Citizens Emergency Response Team. The township’s recycling program sponsors the “Mayors Clean Team” offering schools and other nonprofit organizations an opportunity to receive grant money for picking up litter and keeping the community clean. Many wonderful events go on throughout the year. The annual Memorial Day Parade and Salt Water Day on the Lawrence Harbor Beachfront feature a variety of games, local vendors, live music and fireworks. The Old Bridge Cultural Arts Committee hosts free Concerts in the Park all summer long. The multi-Generational Choir “Voices of Old Bridge” have weekly rehearsals for those in the community who love to sing. This program has been sponsored in part by grant funding

provided by the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex County Cultural Arts Trust Fund. The committee also hosts a variety of pop-up art galleries featuring many local artist at the Shoppes at old Bridge. Several vintage and classic automobile shows are held throughout Old Bridge. Every September, Old Bridge Day is held at the Township Complex, gathering the community, businesses and organizations in celebration of our town. As the leaves begin to change color, more fun programs and activities await. The Parks and Recreation Department host a week-long Haunted House at the Richard Allan Cooper Civic Center. Halloween Spooktakular is a fun-filled outdoor event that features many great family activities such as pumpkin painting, games, craft and hayrides. Every December the mayor and council invite all the residences to the Annual Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting celebration. This is just a small glimpse of life in “Our Town.” For a calendar of events for the Township of Old Bridge, visit www.oldbridge.com. www.oldbridge.com

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THINGS TO See andDo Check these attractions off the list

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major attraction in Old Bridge Township is Cheesequake State Park. Uniquely located in the middle of the urban north and the suburban south, the park lies in a transitional zone between two different ecosystems. This 386-acre park is made up of open fields, saltwater and freshwater marshes, a white cedar swamp, pine barons and a northeastern hardwood forest. This state park is a terrific example of vegetation change from a costal salt marsh habitat to upland forests, which can be observed from the various trails running through the park. The natural area displays a diversity of plant species and community characteristics of both north and south New Jersey. Visitors can take advantage of the five designated trails for hiking and mountain biking, 50-plus campsites, several picnic areas, water activities on the six-acre Hooks Creek Lake, as well as the Interpretive Center. The center features wildlife historical exhibits, information on Native Americans and early colonization in the area and even programs that cover the three different habitats discovered in Cheesequake State Park. Old Bridge Township is home to the state’s premier and most famous motor sports park, the Old Bridge Township Raceway Park. Stretching over 500 acres, the raceway hosts a variety of both motor sports and non-motor sport events during the season from late

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February through late November. The raceway hosts the NHRA Championship Drag Races, Family Fun Thrill Shows, AMA Motocross and many other action-packed events. For more information, call (732) 446‑7800 or visit www. etownraceway.com. Monmouth Battlefield State Park, in neighboring Manalapan, is just a quick trip down U.S. Route 9. This park is a preservation of a splendid rural 18th century landscape of fields, orchards, woods and wetlands encompassing miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, picnic areas, a restored Revolutionary War farmhouse and a Visitors Center. The center stands on top of Combos Hill, which was once commanded by the Continental Army Artillery. Inside is an interpretive display area, including artifacts recovered from the battlefield. The Gateway National Recreation Area, along the coast in Sandy Hook, straddles New York and New Jersey, and is composed of three units, including the popular Sandy Hook barrier peninsula in New Jersey. Just 40 miles from Old Bridge Township and accessible via NJ Route 36 South, this 1,665acre destination features a sevenmile stretch of beach, a pristine holly forest and attractions such as Fort Hancock, the Sandy Hook Proving Ground and the Sandy Hook Lighthouse – America’s oldest operating lighthouse. A little further south is the

Freehold Raceway. This great location is for those looking to place bets on live and simulcast standard-bred harness races. The raceway is recognized as the oldest and fastest daytime half-mile harness racing track in the U.S. Monmouth Raceway Park, located in nearby Oceanport, has been a shore tradition since 1870. Three buildings have carried the name Monmouth Park in the last 139 years. Due to the high caliber of its racing, Monmouth Park achieved distinction as the “Newmarket of America” – a reference to the famed racecourse in England. The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority purchased Monmouth Park in 1986 and many of the historic, centuryold stakes races were reinstated, with the Monmouth Cup, inaugurated in 1884, renamed the Philip H. Iselin Handicap. Between May and September, concert-goers can enjoy the sounds of various musicians and bands at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel. Only 10 miles south of Old Bridge Township, the modern outdoor amphitheater consists of 7,000 seats and an encompassing grassy area that accommodates more than 10,000 guests. Other major attractions reachable from Old Bridge Township include Six Flags Great Adventure and Wild Safari in Jackson, the largest Six Flags in the country; the Meadowlands Sports Complex in Rutherford, which features the Meadowlands Sports Complex in Rutherford, which features the brand new American Dream mega retail and entertainment complex; the Meadowlands Racetrack; MetLife Stadium; Newark’s Prudential Center, hosting big name performers year-round; and all the draws of downtown New York City, just 36 miles from Old Bridge.

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SHOPPING and Dining Shoppes at Old Bridge Come visit the Shoppes at Old Bridge – a family-friendly lifestyle destination! Conveniently located at 601 Texas Rd. at the intersection of U.S. Route 9 and Texas Road, this outdoor center is easily accessible and has something for everyone. Surrounded by many flourishing communities – Old Bridge, Marlboro, Freehold and Manalapan, the Shoppes is your one-stop location for shopping, dining and wellness centers. Explore a variety of retailers, indulge in delicious eateries, pamper yourself and enjoy special community events, all in the comfort of one delightful, tree-lined, open-air center with plenty of parking. Among the nearly 20 retailers are Jos. A. Bank, the Children’s Place, Justice and White House Black Market, and health and wellness establishments include Crunch Fitness and Eden Spa. Come enjoy a variety of restaurants such as Feast Italian Kitchen, Churrascaria Brazilian Steakhouse and KOI Asian Fusion. Special events are regularly scheduled throughout the year, highlighted by Cruise Nights held on the first Friday nights of the month

The Big Pizza Debate – A Slice of Old Bridge No one can deny that when it comes to making the “dough,” Old Bridge has the market cornered. It’s a “slice” of opinion as to who makes the best pizza in town (becasue variety is the spice of life), but fortunately, residents can choose from over 20 successful pizzerias around town. Whatever your preference, there’s a slice of Old Bridge for everyone: round or square; upside-down or right -side up; regular pie or personal pie; to cheese or not to cheese; cheesy filled crust, sesame crust, glutenfree, crunchy crust, doughy crust, thick or thin; red sauce or white; oregano or no oregano. There are many spices to choose from; not to mention the variety of toppings, including whether or not it should be topped off with basil. Will your pizza creations come from a traditional pizza oven, wood-fired or coal-fired? Will you dine in an old-school pizzeria or at one of the many restaurants where pizza is one of their specialties? If you’re exhausted by all those choices, wait – because there is one last question: Will you be dinning in or taking out? Perhaps the hardest part is getting your family to agree where to eat! Unfortunately, we do not have any suggestions on how to make that happen quickly and fairly. However, what we suggest is that you try them all and remember, ‘When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie,” you’re in Old Bridge! Buon Appetito!

from May through October. This is a great opportunity to see dozens of classic automobiles while shopping and dining. Center hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays; individual store and restaurant hours vary. More information is available at www.theshoppesatoldbridge.com. If you’re looking for a break from the mall crowds, look no further than your local community center, the Shoppes at Old Bridge!

Lunch specials Friday, Saturday, Sunday! Monday Night Madness $7.99 Burger Tuesday Nights $9.99 12” Pizza

2 Bars wall to wall TVs

CONGRATULATIONS! YOU HAVE RECEIVED A

FREE APPETIZER! With purchase of a menu item in the Pizza, Burgers, Sandwiches or Dinners category. Excludes alcoholic beverages, taxes and gratuity. May not be redeemed for cash. No change given. One certificate per table, per visit. Dine-in only. Expires 7/1/2020

1002 Hwy 9 Parlin, NJ 08859

Mon - Thursday: Friday - Saturday: Sunday:

4pm-12am 11am-12am 11am-11pm

732-721-0860 Fundraiser, Holiday parties, Draft parties, etc. www.oldbridge.com

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OLD BRIDGE Accommodations Hampton Inn by Hilton

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ld Bridge Township has a new addition to its landscape – the first hotel to open its doors in town. Whether you are driving on Route 9 or Route 18, at the intersection of Spring Valley Road you will see the newly constructed Hampton Inn by Hilton. Its great location is easily accessible for out-of-town guests to navigate to and from the Garden State Parkway and Turnpike. The spacious and beautifully decorated 100-room property offers single and double occupancy and suites that offer guests the comforts of home. Guest room amenities include free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property and live streaming capability on the 42-inch flat screen televisions that also offer free cable, HBO, Cinemax and ESPN. This smoke-free facility offers an easy check-in process, keyless entry to guest rooms and the option to track reservations and honor points through the Hilton Honors website. On-site amenities include a large indoor heated swimming pool, fullyequipped fitness room, vending machines on every floor and a free hot breakfast served every morning. An abundance of area eateries specialize in a variety of culinary culturally diverse dishes. Dine-in, pickup and delivery are available from almost all local restaurants. Shoppes at Old Bridge, Walmart, Dunkin Dounuts and Starbucks are nearby, in addition to other local merchants. Tinton Falls Outlets are not

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too far away right off the Garden State Parkway. Old Bridge offers an array of various businesses and activities to occupy guests. Special rates for large groups and senior citizens as well as a variety of other discounts are available, including a special discounted rate for Old Bridge residents.

| www.oldbridge.com

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A S UITE STAY Don't spend your next trip cramped in a small hotel room. With studios, one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, complimentary hot buffet breakfast and Wi-Fi, plus swimming pools and relaxing outdoor spaces, we're here to help you spread out and enjoy your time. Residence Inn Woodbridge Edison/Raritan Center

2 Regency Place | Woodbridge, NJ 07095 732-510-7100 NJ-OLD-CW-19 Design.indd 17

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OLD BRIDGE The Big Picture Township of Old Bridge O

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| www.oldbridge.com

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Middlesex County, New Jersey

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ld Bridge Township is one of the larger towns in Middlesex County with a land area of over 40 square miles and a population of over 70,000 people. Due to the size and population of our town, Old Bridge is divided into six geographical voting areas known as wards and also into nine postal zones for mail delivery. The following information should help with the confusion some of our residents experience with where they live and vote and how their mail is delivered and by whom. The map on this page shows the different areas for both wards and postal zones. The Old Bridge Township Council has nine members elected by the people to represent them. Three of the council members are elected at-large, which means members of a governing body who are elected or appointed to represent the whole town rather than an individual ward, or section, of the town. Each of the other six council members is elected as a ward representative by the people living in that specific ward. Contact the Office of the Municipal Clerk for the name of your individual council representative and their contact information. They will also provide information on election polling places for each ward. Contact the township clerk’s office at (732) 721‑5600, ext. 2200, or email clerk@ oldbridge.com We have almost 21,000 individual properties in town, each with its own mailing address and ZIP code. Because of the large geographic area and layout of the town, our residents’ mail may be delivered by one of nine post offices in the area. Some of these post offices are not only in surrounding towns, but they may also be in an adjoining county as well. A large number of Old Bridge properties have mailing addresses with ZIP codes of Monmouth County post offices such as Cliffwood or Cliffwood Beach, Englishtown, Keyport, Matawan and Morganville. Properties may well also be situated in ZIP code areas of neighboring Middlesex County postal zones like Jamesburg, Sayreville, Parlin or South Amboy. The map above shows the different parts of town serviced by these different post offices. If you have any questions or concerns regarding mail delivery, contact the post office in the town indicated by your mailing address. If you believe there is a problem with your actual mailing address being listed incorrectly, call the Office of the Tax Assessor at (732) 721‑5600, ext. 2799, email at taxassessor@oldbridge.com.

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! S:\General Old Bridge Information Files\Magazine Centerfold (2017)\June 2017

www.oldbridge.com

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TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENT

Services and Programs

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offer residents and businesses a full array of public services, including code enforcement, community development (engineering, planning and zoning), economic development, health and senior services, parks and facilities, recreation programs, public safety (police protection and emergency management) and public works (roads, recycling and snow removal). In addition to the municipal departments, there are a number of volunteer boards, committees, and commissions that address a variety of issues, including cultural arts, planning and zoning, historic preservation, recreation, environmental and many others. For additional information on township services and volunteer opportunities, visit www.oldbridge.com.

he Township of Old Bridge operates under a strong mayor/ council form of government. The mayor is directly elected by the voters to serve a four-year term. The nine members of the township council are elected by the voters to serve staggered four-year terms. Of the nine members, six represent specific wards and three are designated “at-large” members. The township council generally meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Complex. The public is invited to participate in the council meetings, which are also broadcast live on the local cable station Channel 15 (Old Bridge Television). A number of municipal departments

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| www.oldbridge.com

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OLD BRIDGE Recreation Ample Ambiance and Activities

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he Old Bridge Township Department of Parks and Recreation is dedicated to providing open space recreation opportunities for township residents. The township has obtained more than 1,500 acres of recreation space over the past 30 years. With the assistance of more than $12 million dollars of New Jersey Green and Blue Acres acquisition and development grants, the parks department has developed over 300 acres of that land into playgrounds, sports fields and recreation space. Old Bridge currently has one of the largest inventories of municipal open space in the state of New Jersey. This open space throughout the township provides many opportunities for recreations. For all-around family fun, visit Mannino Park, home to the Old Bridge YMCA, a two-stage dog park set up for both large dogs and a separate area for smaller dogs, a large playground and a baseball and softball field. If running or biking is more your speed, visit the Laurence Harbor Beach front where the 3-mile running/biking path runs parallel to the Raritan Bay. Sports-driven residents will enjoy Veteran’s Park with two softball fields, one little league-sized baseball field, two basketball courts, two tennis courts, all equipped with lighting and a soccer field. Geick Park boasts a picnic pavilion where residents can enjoy their lunch while their children play, or rent it for family parties. Geick also has as a turf baseball field, two turf soccer fields, one softball field, one sand volleyball court and two sports court basketball courts, all

www.oldbridge.com

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equipped with lighting. In addition, it has a large ADA playground and a smaller playground at the lower entrance. The John Piccolo Ice Arena in the municipal complex hosts public ice skating sessions from October through April and is home to the Jr. Knights Youth Hockey League and many levels of ice skating classes. The municipal complex is also home to eight lighted regulation tennis courts. Pension Road is home to the Old Bridge Cricket Association. Pocket parks in neighborhoods throughout the township are equipped with a playgrounds or basketball courts. The parks department also offers many types of classes from Mommy and Me to art, dance and tennis throughout the year. It also provide three summer camps at 15 sites for children ages 5-21. The Camp ROBIN program held at Geick Park is specifically geared toward individuals with special needs. This camp assists approximately 100 participants from ages 7-21 during July and August. The camp includes daily trips, activities and a summer full of fun. The half-day playground camp is run out of eight camp sites throughout the town to accommodate residents and up to 1,000 campers. This camp runs for the month of July on a half-day schedule and features crafts, games, outdoor activities and optional trips. The full-day summer recess camp, run by the parks and recreation department’s Before/Aftercare program, lasts the full eight weeks of the summer for 10-and-a-half hours a day. Held at three central sites in town, the full-day camp accommodates 500 campers on any given day.

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With daily trips, in-house events and extended hours, it is the perfect spot for children to enjoy summer with their friends. Affordable child care is available through the Old Bridge Before/ Aftercare program, a nonprofit program sponsored by Old Bridge Township that has helped families for more than 20 years. The program is supported by parent tuition fees only. These programs are based out of the 12 elementary school and two middle schools in the township and are used monthly by over 500 families. Activities include homework time (45 minutes to do homework in a quiet environment), organized games, special arts and crafts projects and movies. For the active adult community, the George Bush Senior Center is the place to be. The center provides information, referrals and senior social services; creating a caring and nurturing environment, encouraging interests, creativity and artistic expression. The center offers a support system for seniors to lead active and independent lives, allowing them to make connections within the community and promotes the celebration of life through physical and mental well-being. The senior center provides programs on health and wellness, educational topics, socialization, passive and active recreation, music, dance and choral programs. Transportation for seniors age 60 and older is available through a routed service. There is always something to do for every member of the senior center. For additional information, call (732) 721‑5600, ext. 4999 or visit www.oldbridge.com.

| www.oldbridge.com

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CAMP ROBIN Therapeutic Recreation A Place for Those in Need

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or over 30 years, Camp ROBIN (Recreation in Old Bridge for those in Need) has provided a therapeutic recreational program for those with special needs in the community. The Therapeutic Center at Geick Park aims to improve the recreational skills, socialization and independence of those participating. Programs are available for kids, teens and adults. Sessions are scheduled throughout the year for 22 weeks for adults and 16 weeks for kids and teens. In addition, there is a six-week summer program for kids. The sessions are staffed with special education teachers and programs are offered both indoors and out; non-residents are also welcome to register for the programs. Child and teen programs include basketball for ages 12-21, computer enrichment for ages 10-16 and an ice program for ages 12 to adult that trains athletes for the Special Olympics ice-skating competition. A Teen Friday Night program for ages 13-20 includes movie, game and sports nights and dances. Additionally, a Saturday session for ages 7-21 features arts and crafts, cooking, computers, dance and ice skating activities.

Adult programs for those 17 and up include basketball, a chorale, Zumba and Friday Night Fun with live entertainment, trips, dances and movies. A special theater program helps participants to develop self-confidence and awareness through the performing arts. The summer programs are open to those ages 7-21, and run from Monday through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To qualify for the camp, children must be classified by the child study team. Reasonable fees are charged for each program, but scholarships are available and registration must be completed online at www.oldbridge.com/camprobin. For more information, contact the Camp ROBIN coordinator at (732) 765‑0968 or at ppero@oldbridge.com.

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MAYOR HENRY’S Clean Team T

he Old Bridge Clean Communities Program, Mayor Henry’s Clean Team, works closely with municipal government, schools, neighborhood committees and various local nonprofit groups to keep Old Bridge clean through public education and litter removal projects. Annual activities include park, beach front and local road cleanups. The team also hosts special events such as Earth Day, International Coastal Cleanup Day, Old Bridge Day and

education programs throughout local schools. Picking up litter is more than just a way of beautifying the roads. The initiative aims for residents to take responsibility for their actions and take pride in their community. Working for Mayor Henry’s Clean Team is a win-win for everyone involved. Local groups are raising money for their cause, the roadways are getting cleaned and most importantly, all are working together as a community.

Contact the Recycling Department today if you are interested in organizing a cleanup; it is a rewarding service project for any group, organization or school.

recycling@oldbridge.com (732) 721‑5600 Ext. 6107 Oldbridge.com/CleanTeam

FREE SERVICES and Recycling Guide Curbside Single-Stream Recycling

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ecyclables in plastic bags are unacceptable. No plastic bags can be used for curbside recycling or they will be rejected by the county. Contaminated recyclables can also be rejected so please make sure you are recycling RIGHT!

A few simple guidelines:  Recycle plastic bags at the supermarket or throw them in the trash.  Only #1 and #2 plastics are accepted in Middlesex County; NOT all plastics are recyclable!  Empty and rinse out cans, bottles and recyclable containers.  Flattened & clean cardboard ONLY, no oily pizza boxes!

Recyclables in plastic bags WILL NOT BE PICKED UP! NO PLASTIC BAGS OF ANY KIND OR ANY COLOR. No trash bags. No grocery bags. No SHOPPING bags. Download the new Recycle Coach App and start Recycling RIGHT! Get reminders about curbside recycling, important schedule changes, storm alerts and more. Use the “what goes where” feature to find out how to dispose of household items properly and Recycle Right!

Old Bridge Recycling Center Services Hours: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday

Accepted items:

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Middlesex County Recycling Programs The following Middlesex County services are offered to all Old Bridge Township residents:  Paint: The township accepts paint on the second Saturday of each month. Drop-off hours are 7 a.m. to noon. Acceptable paint types: latex, oils, stains, thinners and aerosols.  Paper shredding: Old Bridge hosts the first county paper shred event of the year every March. Check oldbridge.com/recycling for details.  Household Hazardous Waste Day: Hazardous Waste Day is every fall in Old Bridge. Check oldbridge.com/recycling for details.

Appointment-Only & Seasonal Services Please email/call the Recycling Department to make an appointment for the following services:  Brush: Branches and brush are picked up bi-weekly from April through October (weather permitting). Each bundle cannot exceed 40 lbs., be over 4 feet long or be more than 5 inches in diameter. The bundles must be tied up. Small twigs and sticks can be thrown in a bucket/pail and placed at the curb along with the bundles.  White goods/appliances: Appliances are picked up bi-weekly, all year long (refrigerator, stove, barbecue grill, air conditioner, dishwasher, washer, dryer, hot water heater etc.) free of charge.  Leaf pickup: Leaves are picked up in the spring and fall seasons only. Schedules are available at OldBridge.com/Recycling.  Christmas Tree recycling: Trees are picked up throughout the month of January. Visit the township website for the schedule.

 Motor oil

 Mattresses & box springs

 Concrete, brick & cinder block

 Mixed paper

 Bottles & cans

 Metal

Useful Information

 Plastics (#1 & #2 only)

 Propane tanks (empty)

 Cardboard (flattened)

 Newspaper

 The Recycling Center is located behind the Old Bridge Animal Shelter. Drop-off hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

 Cooking oil

 Carpeting

 Styrofoam

 TVs, computers & electronics

 The Recycling Office is in the Public Works building at the Municipal Complex. Standard office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

 Paint (once per month only*)

 Helium tanks (empty)

 Contact Info: Recycling@oldbridge.com (732) 721‑5600, ext. 6107

| www.oldbridge.com

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OLD BRIDGE Municipal Alliance For the Prevention of Substance Abuse

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he Old Bridge Township Municipal Alliance for the Prevention of Substance Abuse is a volunteer committee, grant-funded by the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, and supported by Old Bridge Township, to provide drug and alcohol prevention programming to students and residents. The programs are offered in the community to help eradicate drug abuse. Volunteers meet monthly, (and work behind the scenes throughout the year), to brainstorm ideas, plan events, evaluate and implement this programming, providing the best to the community. Mayor Henry has initialized a mayor’s town forum biannually, with the support of town council, Municipal Alliance, schools, police and PTA, focused on the epidemic of prescription drug abuse. Experts in the field and medical community educate township residents – parents, PTA representatives, dentists, doctors and school board and administrators. Drug resource directories are disseminated, that are supplied by Middlesex County’s Division of Addiction, so the community can band together and help their neighbors. The last forum, “Hidden in Plain Sight,” was presented by a retired drug enforcement officer to outline what may be hidden in a child’s bedroom, to help aid parents in prevention. The alliance’s new digital billboard outreach on Route 9 showcases its 24-hour medicine drop box in the town hall building. The billboard also references “The Good Samaritan Law” to inform resident to call 911 if they witness an overdose, with the caller retaining immunity. The Old Bridge Municipal Alliance’s main focus has always been on at-risk youth and primary prevention, and it sponsors and co-sponsors many programs in conjunction with local schools and the police department. The Two Good for Drugs Program, co-sponsored and taught by the police department, has always been a strong fifth-grade educational tool for students in drug and alcohol education. Another solid elementary drug prevention program is the “Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs” fourth-grade slogan/art contest in which student winners attend a free fishing day with a trained fisherman, on a Saturday in June at Molder’s Fishing Preserve or Cheesequake State Park. The program

is solely supported by the school, township, businesses and organizations, and receives yearly donations. It is in its sixth year, thanks to the tireless efforts of the volunteer fishermen who help students gain a valuable resiliency skill that will aid them throughout their lives. The Old Bridge Elks lodge has provided free fishing poles yearly to student winners. Old Bridge seniors, along with the staff at the township senior center, have helped hundreds of teens through the years with sound advice, through the alliance’s Intergenerational Program offered to high school psychology classes, focusing on healthy aging. Psychology students visit the Old Bridge Senior Center seven times a year to learn hands-on from older adults. A favorite is the Speed Meet and Greet, along with holiday caroling with the mayor and superintendent of schools. The alliance educates both groups on the dangers of prescription drug abuse and medication management with the help of Wellspring Center for Prevention. The collaboration and support from all entities of Old Bridge Township has made the Old Bridge Municipal Alliance volunteer committee grow yearly with people who care to help and want to be involved in this mission to end drug abuse and support recovery. www.oldbridge.com

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OLD BRIDGE Animal Shelter T

he Old Bridge Animal Shelter, housed in the Old Bridge Municipal Complex, One Old Bridge Plaza (off Route 516) has many cats and dogs in need of a loving home. Rather than buying from a pet store, residents are encouraged to adopt a shelter pet. The shelter is open from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. seven days a week. To view many of the animals up for adoption, visit the shelter page on the Old Bridge Township website (OldBridge.com) for links

to Petfinders, Facebook and the featured pets of the month. Residents should check back frequently, as the shelter is constantly getting in additional dogs and cats. Donations of cat, kitten and dog food; dog and cat treats;cat litter; cotton towels; and paper towels are always needed and welcomed. For a list of items needed by the shelter, visit the website. The shelter is always in need of volunteers and fosters to assist with the animals in its care. The shelter also welcomes school and scouts interested in visiting. For information on volunteering, the shelter’s wish list or to schedule a tour, contact Shelter Coordinator Karen Chen at (732) 721‑5600, ext. 6300 for information.

EMERGENCY Management E

mergency management involves preparing for disasters or emergencies before they occur, the response actions taken during a disaster or emergency, and recovering from or rebuilding after a disaster or emergency has occurred. Simply stated, it is the continuous process which all emergency services and stake holders come together to reduce or eliminate the threat to the common good of the people. Stakeholders include numerous services and personnel, including police, fire, EMS, hospital employees and local, state and federal health, transportation and industrial employees. Also included are community groups and associations, infrastructure managers, utility managers, school administrators, waste removal and heavy equipment operators. Managers of high-occupancy facilities, such as apartment complexes and shopping centers, venue operators and event organizers are also stakeholders. The lead agency responsible for bringing all the parties together is the Office of Emergency Management. This office is responsible for planning, writing, reviewing and updating the Township’s emergency operation plans. During times of disasters or emergencies, they are responsible for securing the resources needed and requested by the first responders, and securing the shelter locations and their operations and supplies. OEM coordinates with various county, state, and federal agencies. OEM oversees the Old Bridge Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, a group of dedicated individuals who provide valuable resources and support to first responders. CERT members must attend

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a 10-week class on various topics related to emergency management. The CERT team also assists emergency services during times of nonemergencies, such as traffic control, parades and other large events. Anyone interested in a joining CERT should contact Ruth Mathieu at Ruth.Mathieu@gmail.com.

| www.oldbridge.com

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OLD BRIDGE Public Library T

he Old Bridge Public Library is a true asset to residents. Consistently recognized as the “Best” or “One of the Best” Public Libraries in Middlesex County by readers of the Home News Tribune, the library has evolved into a valuable community center, with over 300,000 visitors per year. In addition to providing traditional resources like books and research materials, the library is an innovative center for learning, recreation and information 24/7. Along with over 200,000 books, DVDs, CDs and pre-loaded learning tablets, the library also offers a wide array of digital resources, including access to educational sites such as Tutor.com, Ancestry.com and Lynda.com, as well as entertainment sites such as Qello.com (concerts), Kanopy (independent films and documentaries) and Hoopla (movies, TV, books). Cardholders also have access to download ebooks, audio books and magazines remotely to their digital devices. For those needing remote Wi-Fi service, for home or while traveling, the library also offers a limited number of mobile hot-spots that can be borrowed. Need a passport? The library is an official, U.S. State Departmentdesignated passport acceptance facility, and offers passport photo service. The department is open seven days a week, and appointments are not necessary; customers are taken on a first-come basis. Expedited service is also available for an additional fee. Makerspaces have become popular due to DIY culture, and the Old Bridge Library was the site of one of the first makerspaces created in a New Jersey library. The library’s “Idea Farm” includes a Makerbot 3D printer, a vinyl cutter/decal maker, soldering irons, Makey Makey kits, Arduino microcontrollers and Raspberry Pi computers. Users make, learn and share through these tools and formal classes. The Idea Farm also offers “lower tech” hands-on sewing and gardening classes, thereby providing valuable experience in the fields of science, technology, math and basic life skills. Thousands of residents enjoy the many free cultural events offered at the library, including the Second Saturday Concert Series featuring professional local musicians playing a wide variety of music. Unique theatrical performances, concerts and special events are hosted

throughout the year, and movie and concert screenings are offered weekly on a large state-of-the art system. In addition to regular book clubs, lectures, and cooking and technology classes, the Library hosts popular events including a Winter Carnival, Comic Con, NJ Makers Day and Teen Lock-in days. The Museum Pass program offers free or reduced admission to 10 museums in the tri-state area. Passes can be reserved and in some cases, printed out, on-line. Job seekers and small business owners can rely on the library for numerous resources and programs. The online Career Center offers excellent resources such as Job and Career Accelerator and Ferguson’s Career Guidance. It also provides links to job postings and tips on resume writing and interviewing skills. Along with special career lectures and programs, the Library also hosts volunteer organizations such as SCORE, which mentors small business owners and those looking to start a business. For those who cannot make it into the library, there are outreach services to the community, bringing resources outside of the building. An outreach van makes stops at area preschools and senior centers, dropping off a regular supply of new books to be enjoyed, as well as to local laundromats and barbershops. It also maintains several Little Free Libraries around town, stocking them with free books for residents to take and share. A special Books By Mail program allows homebound residents to enjoy the convenience of having books mailed directly to them free-of-charge. Along with online language learning sites such Rosetta Stone, Pronunciator and Muzzy, the library also offers two or three English as a Second Language sessions each year. These classes are taught by dedicated volunteers and provide students with a nurturing, supporting environment to practice their speaking and reading skills. In addition to the Central Branch within the Municipal Complex, the township also operates a satellite branch in Laurence Harbor at 277 Shoreland Circle. The Central Branch is open seven days a week, and the Harbor Branch is open Monday-Saturdays. For complete information about library programs and resources, visit www.oldbridgelibrary.org. Follow it on social media on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Tumblr.

THE OLD BRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY We’re more than just books!

www.oldbridge.com

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HEALTH CARE and The Future Delivering top-notch treatment

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aritan Bay Medical Center is an essential resource for the community of Old Bridge and a vital component of a network of health care resources that together offer the most complete continuum of care in the state. The medical center recently announced the expansion of the emergency department.

New Emergency Department in Old Bridge With 25,000 visits annually, the new state-of-the-art emergency department will provide safer, faster arrivals by adding additional

ambulance bays, newly designed pediatric rooms and new on-site technology with equipment that will provide more accurate diagnostics and treatment. Additionally, it will include greater privacy and comfort and immediate patient triage. The new emergency department will encompass 20,000 square feet, which will more than double the current footprint. In addition, the new emergency department will include 2,400 square feet imaging program, 2,800 square feet public spaces and a 4,800-square-foot new main lobby and concourse The expansion will serve more patients with cardiac issues, stroke, trauma and other core services and will provide unprecedented access to patient care. ď ľ

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| www.oldbridge.com

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Sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen

Stuart H. Meyer, D.D.S. S.P. #3439 John M. McElroy, D.M.D. S.P.#3894 Jared N. Gelband, D.M.D. S.P. #06400 Brian C. Paterson, D.M.D., M.D. S.P. #06399 Gaurav A. Shah, D.M.D., M.D. S.P. #06659 Laurence D. Sussman, D.D.S. Retired Marc I. Feldman, D.D.S. Retired

CENTRAL JERSEY ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY, P.A. Wisdom Teeth • Dental Implants Jaw Surgery Arpami Pavilion 2101 Route 516, Suite C Old Bridge, NJ 08857 732-679-0800 Matawan Professional Building 158 Main Street Matawan, NJ 07747 732-566-7648 1315 Allaire Ave. & Hwy. 35 Ocean, NJ 07712 732-531-4400 Wemrock Professional Mall 509 Stillwells Corner Road Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-4800

cjoms.com www.oldbridge.com

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Surgery Center at Old Bridge The Surgery Center at Old Bridge is a hospital-based surgery center and joint venture between Raritan Bay Medical Center and numerous Central New Jersey top specialists. With state-of-the art operating rooms, patients whose surgical needs do not require an overnight stay receive the highest quality care in a warm, personalized setting.

Surgical specialties include:  Bariatric surgery

 Cardiology

 ENT

Diagnostic Imaging

 General surgery

 Gynecology

 Ophthalmology

 Orthopedic

 Pain management

 Podiatry

The Raritan Bay Medical Center Diagnostic Imaging Department ensures patients have access to the latest advances for diagnosing illness and injury. Equipped with the most sophisticated tools and imaging technologies available, their team of experienced, board-certified radiologists and licensed technologists perform more than 135,000 studies each year. The medical center offers a full complement of outpatient services aimed at detecting, staging, and sometimes treating a broad range of diseases, including:

 Urology

 Vascular

 Computed tomography/ positron emission tomography (CT/PET) scanning  Computed tomography (CT) scanning  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)  Angiography/vertebroplasty

For additional information, please call (732) 967‑6740.

 DEXA Scanner (bone density screening)  Traditional and leading-edge 3-D mammography and Stereotactic core needle biopsy  Nuclear medicine  X-ray  Ultrasound

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 324‑5270.

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| www.oldbridge.com

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HOUSES of Worship A n active and strong spiritual community resides within Old Bridge Township. Parishioners choose among a selection of houses of worship, represented by a variety of faiths. The following is a list of local religious institutions serving the Old Bridge area:  Ahmadiyya Movement 27 South St., Old Bridge (732) 360‑2001  Bris Avrohom 770 Madison Gardens, Old Bridge (732) 316‑7600 www.brisavrohom.org  Calvary Chapel 123 White Oak Ln., Old Bridge (732) 679‑9222 www.ccob.org  Congregation Beth Ohr 70 Rte. 516, Old Bridge (732) 257‑1523 www.congregationbethohr.org  Evangelical Covenant Church 22 Laurence Pkwy., Laurence Harbor (732) 566‑1680 www.covchurch.org

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 Garden State Baptist Fifth St. & Park Ave., Old Bridge (732) 251‑4232 www.gardenstatebaptistchurch.org  Grace Church of Old Bridge 422 Cottrell Rd., Old Bridge (732) 588‑5906 www.gracechurchob.org  Harbor Bible Fellowship 1 Matawan Rd., Laurence Harbor (732) 583‑9286 www.harborbible.com  Islamic Center of Old Bridge 205 Rte. 35 N., Cliffwood Beach (732) 583‑2030 www.icobnj.org

 St. Ambrose Parish 96 Throckmorton Ln., Old Bridge (732) 679‑5666 www.saintambroseparish.com  St. Bernadette 20 Villanova Rd., Parlin (732) 721‑2772 www.saintbernadettechurch.com  St. Lawrence Roman Catholic 109 Laurence Pkwy., Laurence Harbor (732) 566‑1093 www.saintlawrencechurch.com  St. Thomas the Apostle 333 State Rte. 18, Old Bridge (732) 251‑4812

 Jehovah’s Witness 54 Oak St., Old Bridge (732) 251‑5150 www.watchtower.org

 Sayre Woods Bible Church 2290 Hwy. 9, Old Bridge (732) 679‑5989 www.sayrewoods.com

 Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd 3139 County Rd. 516, Old Bridge (732) 679‑8883 www.lc-goodshepherd.org

 Simpson United Methodist Church 2095 Rte. 516, Old Bridge (732) 679‑7499 www.simpsonumc-oldbridge.com

 Most Holy Redeemer Church 133 Amboy Rd., Matawan (732) 566‑9334 www.mostholyredeemerchurch.org

 Union Bible Church 608 Marlboro Rd., Old Bridge (732) 360‑1069

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At Reformed Church Home, we are proud to welcome residents to our family — at a time when their families need us most. We offer a continuum of services that empowers residents to graciously age in place, or to rehabilitate in a caring setting after major illness or surgery. Our community consistently receives recognition for outstanding care, including:

5-Star Quality Rating by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services For more information, please call 732-607-9230 ext. 161, or email awalls@rchnj.org

Assisted Living | Rehabilitation | Skilled Nursing 1990 Route 18 North, Old Bridge, NJ 08857 www.ReformedChurchHome.com 732-607-9230

Town Square Publications is grateful for the opportunity to partner with Old Bridge Township to produce this high-quality print and digitally integrated product.

EMPLOYEE-OWNED

We hope you enjoy the publication and ask you to consider supporting the advertisers who made this possible.

OVER 100 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN PRINT PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT www.townsquarepublications.com

3377 US Highway 9

• Old Bridge NJ 08857

Tel: (732) 679-4422 • email: HegartyFH@Scaliahome.com

HegartyScaliaFuneralHome.com

Cecilia Scalia-Moran, Manager NJ Lic. No.4749 Jeremiah J. Bullen, Director NJ Lic No. 5103 www.oldbridge.com

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ADVERTISER Index

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All American Old Bridge Auto Mall .................................................................................................. 10

Hoffman Pharmacy ......................................................................................................................... 11

All Around Old Bridge ...................................................................................................................... 35

Hometown Pool Supply Co. .............................................................................................................. 20

Amboy Bank ................................................................................................................................... 23

Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center at Saint Peter’s University Hospital .......................................................... 2

Bridge Women’s Center ................................................................................................................... 29

Michael Hegarty & John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals and Cremation Services ............................ 33

Bubba’s 33 ..................................................................................................................................... 15

NJ’s Finest Party Rentals ................................................................................................................. 31

Calvary Old Bridge .......................................................................................................................... 33

Old Bridge Orthodontics ..................................................................................................................... 7

Central Jersey Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, P.A. ............................................................................ 29

Old Bridge YMCA ............................................................................................................................ 20

Chakra Tattoos ................................................................................................................................ 20

Reformed Church Home ................................................................................................................... 33

Glenwood Apartments ....................................................................................................................... 9

Residence Inn by Marriott Woodbridge Edison/Raritan Center ............................................................ 17

Glenwood Country Club ..................................................................................................................... 9

Saint Peter’s University Hospital ...................................................................................................... 29

Hackensack Meridian Health / JFK Medical Center ............................................................................. 5

Texas Road Pharmacy ..................................................................................................................... 31

Hackensack Meridian Health / Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge .......................................... 30, 36

The Shoppes at Old Bridge ................................................................................................................ 3

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A Apublication publicationfor for the thecommunity communityof of Old OldBridge Bridge All AllAround AroundOld OldBridge Bridgeisis aa local localnewsletter newsletter covering coveringthe the Township TownshipofofOld OldBridge. Bridge. Each Eachmonth monthwill willfeature featurearticles articleswritten writtenby by our ourMayor, Mayor,Economic EconomicDevelopment, Development,Old OldBridge Bridge Township TownshipLibrary, Library,Senior SeniorCenter, Center,Parks Parks&&rec, rec,and and much muchmore. more.We Wealso alsohave havelocal localexperts expertsproviding providing advice adviceto toresidents residentson onevery everyday daymatters. matters. To Toadvertise advertiseor orsubmit submitcontent contentcall: call:

888-523-4331 888-523-4331 or oremail: email:

editor@allaroundob.com editor@allaroundob.com

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EVOLVING the Surgery EXPERIENCE The daVinci XiÂŽ at Raritan Bay Medical Center Less invasive than routine minimally invasive surgery, the daVinci Xi robotic surgery experience means smaller incisions that lead to less scarring and faster recovery. In many cases only a single incision is needed, which means shorter hospital stays and less pain. For more information about the Center for Robotic Surgery at Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge and participating surgeons visit RBMC.org.

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