All Around Old Bridge Jan 1.4

OLDB

ALL AROUND

VOL 1, NO 4

CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL: EDUCATING THE MIND, DISCIPLING THE HEART

OB RIDGE _

Pastor Jim Dunne, principal of Calvary Christian School (CCS), reflects on what makes CCS a unique institution. “Older children helping the younger ones, teachers helping students, Continued on page 16

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Pursuing Progress

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Mayor's office of Economic Development

A Publication for the community of Old Bridge

GOT MILK? PROBABLY. BUT IN A GLASS BOTTLE? You do if you’re one of the several hundred local customers of Udderly Delicious, a home milk (and much more) deliver y ser vice operated by Old Bridge resident Jeff Milling.

The Brooklyn, NY, native who then spent time in Staten Island before moving to Old Bridge, calls himself “one of the last of a dying breed.

“People see me sometimes and say, ‘they still deliver milk?’ It’s something people are not accustomed to.”

Indeed. It’s been quite a while since consumers had milk delivered to their doorsteps. Back in the 1960’s about a third of the country could count

Photo of Jim Dunne “He was trying his best, but he was struggling. One of our fourth graders was pushing hard to finish the last leg of an intramural cross-country meet when something happened that I have never seen before in all of my years as an educator. A sophomore who had already finished his race doubled back and came jogging alongside the fourth grader, cheering him and his peers to finish their race. It was a moment I will never, ever forget. None of us will.”

OLD BRIDGE

on the deliveryman – usually dressed all in white – to drop off their dairy products. Latest figures indicate a scant 0.4 percent of residents are serviced.

Milling says the idea of bringing fresh milk and other products to locals began about 20 years ago. He had been

employed as an advertising circular distributor and had been working six days a week, missing time with his family.

It was time for a change.

“I was thinking about doing something different,” he recalls. “Something that people would not be accustomed to.

“Then one night about at about 10 o’clock my wife said we were out of milk.

That was the spark. And I also thought about the old days, the nostalgia of it – the glass bottles.”

A meeting with Byrne Dairy farm in Syracuse, NY, launched what would become Udderly Delicious.

“Their milk and other dairy products Continued on page 13

NEW YEAR IS A PERFECT TIME TO THINK HEALTHY

We are already in the month of December and it is the high time for us to think about New Year Resolutions. The New Year resolutions are more like babies. Even though it’s easy to make them, you will have to go through a lot of hassle in order to maintain. Here is a list

of New Year’s resolutions that you can consider about in order to uplift your health and fitness in 2017.

1. H i g h c a l o r i e group burning sessions If you are a person who is struggling to lost weight, you need to think about high calorie group burning sessions. However, you would not be able to keep motivation in order to engage with high calorie group burning sessions throughout the year. Therefore, it is important for you to take part in group burning sessions. When you have few people around, you would tend to keep up with them. The high calorie group burning sessions

would give you the opportunity to burn a lot of calories within a short period of time as well. It has been identified that a single workout session can assist you to burn about 1000-2000 calories within an hour.

As a result, you will be lose weight at an accelerated pace. Max Fitness of Old Bridge is such a place. Max promotes, a friendly, supportive atmosphere suitable for all fitness levels. “We make a personal connection with our members and provide un-matched support” said Alex Bates, Manager of the Program.

“Positive energy all around where we will help you believe Continued on page 21

VALENTINE’S DAY CONTEST see page 23

JANUARY 2017

@a GLANCE INSIDE

THE OLD BRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY SEE PAGE 6 TEN TIPS TO HEALTHY HAIR SEE PAGE 8 10 MISCONCEPTIONS OF MEDICAID SEE PAGE 11 WINTER SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR PET SEE PAGE 20

MORE!

Mayors Message pg3 Think Old Bridge pg4 Old Bridge Library pg6 Senior Scene pg10 Living Stones pg12 In Memoriam pg14 School Knights pg22 Coupons pg23

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ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION Erectile dysfunction is a condition

sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), ava-

that affects a person’s ability to have

nafil (Stendra), and vardenafil (Levitra).

or maintain an erection. If you ex-

Testosterone replacement is sometimes

perience erectile dysfunction, you

used when hormonal imbalance is

are not alone. It is estimated that

an underlying cause. There are also

50 percent of men between 40 and

medications that are injected into the

70 years old experience erectile dys-

penis, such as alprostadil (Caverject).

function at some point in their lives.

Many of these treatments are ex-

Erectile dysfunction can affect your

pensive and often are not covered by

relationship and may lead to stress,

insurance. Discuss any questions you

depression and issues with self-esteem.

have regarding insurance coverage

Problems getting or keeping an erection

with your pharmacist. Your pharmacist

can be a sign of an underlying condition.

can also discuss which options are

Male sexual arousal is a complicated

the best and most affordable for you.

process that has physical and psychological components. Often erectile dysfunction is caused by a combination of these components. For instance, heart disease and high blood pres-

Achilles Alon, PharmD Director of Specialty Pharmacy ACE-Rx Specialty Pharmacy, Old Bridge, NJ

sure may cause a patient to have some difficulty in maintaining an erection.

The patient may also become anxious about his inability to perform causing the erectile dysfunction to worsen.

There are many physical conditions that may contribute to erectile dysfunction such as injury, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, and prostate cancer. Psychological and emotional issues such as stress, depression, and anxiety can also contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Oral treatment option for ED include

Achilles Alon PharmD RPh Dr. Achilles Alon is the Director of Specialty Pharmacy and co-owner of ACE-Rx Specialty & Compounding.

As the Director of Specialty Pharmacy, he serves as the head pharmacist and operations lead for all specialty pharmacy programs.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

JANUARY 2017

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR HENRY

Photo of Mayor Henry I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays and I would like to extend my best wishes to all for a happy and healthy 2017. It is hard to believe that I am now beginning the second year of

my second term as your Mayor. I am grateful to all the residents for their continued support and encouragement.

As a New Year begins, it is always a good time to reflect on all that we accomplished over the past year and of course, to set new goals for the year ahead.

The Old Bridge Business Alliance program has proven to be a great success in 2016. It is a growing network of professionals whose goal is to retain and assist our local businesses in town, as well as to reach out and bring new businesses into the community. The Property Tax Reward Card, Uber/ Safe Ride Home and All Around Old Bridge, which focuses on positive and useful information and events in Old Bridge, all are only a few of their exciting accomplishments to date.

In 2016, I have also had the privilege of cutting ribbons on a number of new

businesses in town. It was my honor to re-dedicate and cut the ribbon on Raritan Bay Medical Center, which has made a major investment in expansion and growth in our community and, of course, the outstanding merger with Hackensack-Meriden Medical Center.

Old Bridge is certainly on the map with state of the art medical care facilities; including the Joslyn Center for Diabetes and a great, new imaging center.

As you have seen around town, JCP&L is working hard to improve electric services by installing and replacing new poles to continue to reduce the number of electrical outages. PSE&G is also working in our town with the replacement of several main gas lines.

Old Bridge is fortunate to have two utility companies improving services and investing in our community.

In 2017, my Administration is

JANUARY 2017 committed to continued investments in our community through several capital improvement projects the repaving of streets, replacement of curbing and sidewalks and drainage improvement programs. The Township is also moving forward with improvements to our commuter parking lots to make them more efficient and safe for our commuting residents.

As in previous years, I will continue to work side-side with the Board of Education to offer exciting programs for children and families. The Township is excited about the new and advanced synthetic ice surface recently installed at the Joe Piccolo Ice Arena, which will offer extended ice skating sessions to all our residents and hockey teams. We were proud to be ranked # 6 of “The 30 Safest Cities to Raise a Child in 2016”, which was attributed to the Township’s Before and After school program. The

COUNCIL UPDATE

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program offers an affordable childcare program, a safe environment for the children to play and learn and peace of mind for all hardworking parents.

On a more solemn note, we lost our good friend, Councilman Reginald Butler, in 2016. We are planning on remembering Reggie this year by renaming and dedicating our Public Works Building, in his honor. Councilman Butler was loved and respected by everyone who knew him and he was always a true gentleman. It will be my pleasure to remember and honor him this year.

In closing, I would like to thank the residents, dedicated volunteers, Councilmembers and staff members for their commitment to make Old Bridge Township a great place to live, work and raise a family.

Have a joyous and prosperous New Year!

Mayor Owen Henry

By Christopher Marion, Business Administrator Township of Old Bridge

Photo of Christopher R. Marion, Business Administrator JOHN PICCOLO WINTER CL ASSIC HIGH SCHOOL ICE HOCKEY TOURNAMENT. On December 27, 2017 and December 28, 2017, the Township will be holding the annual John Piccolo Winter Classic High School Ice Hockey Tournament at the John Piccolo Ice Arena. Four high school teams are scheduled to participate in the event this year including Old Bridge, Princeton, Red Bank Regional and Watchung Hills Regional.

2. NEW YEAR’S DAY HOLIDAY.

On January 2, 2017, all municipal offices will be closed for business in observance of the New Year’s Day Holiday.

3 . W I N T E R IC E SKAT I NG LESSONS. The second session of ice skating lessons is scheduled to begin during the week of January 9, 2017. For additional information on winter ice skating lessons or other recreational activities and programs, residents should contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at (732) 721-5600 ext. 4999 or visit the

Township Website at oldbridge.com.

4. TOWNSHIP CHRISTMAS TREE COLLECTION. The Township Department of Public Works will be picking up Christmas Trees in all wards on January 9, 2017, January 17, 2017, January 23, 2017 and January 30, 2017.

All trees should be placed at the curb.

5. OPERATION BEACHHEAD SKATING EVENT. On January 11, 2017, Operation Beachhead will be sponsoring another skating session at the ice arena for veterans and disabled veterans from the Greater Monmouth-Ocean Counties Area. Operation Beachhead is a not-for-profit organization that provides recreational activities for disabled veterans, active military personnel and their families.

6. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY HOLIDAY. On January 16, 2017, all municipal offices will be closed for business in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday.

7. FIRST QUARTER TAX PAYMENTS. The Township Division of Tax Collection will be open Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, during the first quarter tax collection period. The tax office will also be open between the hours of 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on February 4, 2017 and between the hours of 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM on February 10, 2017. For additional information, residents should contact the Division of Tax Collection at (732) 721-5600 ext. 2999.

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THINK OLD BRIDGE

by Economic Development Dept.

Photo of Steve Mamakas is the Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office As we look back on the goals and expectations of the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development 2016, we realize that we not only met, but actually surpassed our “to do list”. Our main objective was to develop different programs that fostered economic growth within the community. We have created innovated ways to help existing businesses in advertising and promoting their estab-

lishments by offering incentives to Old Bridge residents to shop local, as well as entice new businesses to open in town.

Working closely with several business leaders within the community, Mayor Henry and Steve Mamakas have successfully spearheaded the formation of the Old Bridge Business Alliance. This networking group provides a platform for businesses to freely share ideas, experiences and resources. The Business Alliance members offer support to strengthen each organization and better connect them with outside entities, gaining state-wide recognition. The Alliance has proven itself to be an invaluable tool for all businesses and organizations. At the April 14, 2016 Old Bridge Business Alliance Leadership Forum, the Alliance launched the “THINK OLD BRIDGE” Property Tax Reward Program, focused on saving taxpayer’s money and UBER “Safe Ride”, keeping our community safe. We were honored that night to have Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno as our keynote speaker, who is a strong advocate for economic development and growth in New Jersey.

In September, 2016, the Alliance celebrated its one year anniversary.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE Mayor Owen Henry and Steve Mamakas were honored that night by receiving the NJBIZ Public-Private Partnership 2016 award for the Old Bridge Business Alliance and for the business building programs that encourage economic growth in the Township.

The All Around Old Bridge newspaper is another great example of a local business leaders taking the initiative to create a positive publication for the purpose of promoting and highlighting all the wonderful people, businesses and events in town.

Another wonderful way to advertise and promote a business or concept is the use of the new digital billboard that the Alliance has organized and promoted for twenty-five local merchants. It is located by All American Ford, on Route 9 South, which can be viewed as residents and visitors driving through town.

For our local entrepreneurs who dream of having a store front of their own, but may be apprehensive due to the overwhelming startup costs, Mr. Mamakas has fostered the “Entrepreneur Kick Start Program”. This program can help make your dream a reality by putting together a business plan and making an appointment with our office.

JANUARY 2017 Mayor Henry will be delighted to cut the red ribbon for your grand opening celebration as he has done for over fifty new local businesses this past year.

Mayor Henry was pleased to be part of the re-dedication ceremony of the Raritan Bay Medical Center’s new Medical and Surgeries Pavilion.

The new medical facility is home to the Joslyn Diabetes Center, where the collaborated efforts of the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development and the Raritan Bay Medical Center have been filming a new TV show called “The Healthy Kitchen”. It features different Chefs from our local restaurants who will be cooking healthy meals and discussing healthy options alongside a registered dietitian. The show also incorporates segments featuring health care tips from doctors and medical professionals as well as fitness tips with modified exercise routines by personal trainers from local fitness centers. The show is scheduled to air in January.

The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development has also featured a variety of organizations on our local Old Bridge TV called “Spotlight on Business”.

Owners and managers from our area

are interviewed at their establishments sharing their story. In December, Mr. Mamakas débuted in the show; ‘Let’s Talk Business’, which highlighted the businesses and people in our town that are responsible for making our business community thrive. The show can also be viewed on You Tube as well.

Varieties of different organizations, from corporate America to “mom and pop” stores, have keyed into Old Bridge and have established their businesses in our community.

We have a lot to look forward to in 2017, including several major projects getting ready to break ground. Old Bridge is excited to welcome a 100 room hotel to be built on Spring Valley Road /Route 18 and we are delighted that light industry has been approved for construction of a distribution warehouse on Waterworks Road. Both ventures will provide great rateables for Old Bridge.

Mayor Owen Henry and Steve Mamakas would like to thank all the residents, local businesses and members of the Old Bridge Business Alliance for their continued support for a successful 2016. We wish you all a prosperous New Year!

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

JANUARY 2017

LEARN ABOUT YOUR HERITAGE IN THE NEW YEAR THE OLD BRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Photo of Nancy Cohen Library Director

LYNDA.COM ONLINE LEARNING PROGRAM IS HERE! Did spending time over the holidays with family make you realize that you’d like to learn more about your ancestors?

The Old Bridge Public Library is pleased to now offer patrons additional research tools with free access to Heritage Quest.

The online site contains genealogical and historical sources for more than 60 countries, with coverage dating back to the 1700s. It offers birth, baptism, marriage, death and Census records from more than one billion names from the U.S., Canada, Europe, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia. Cemetery and military records going back to the U.S. Revolutionary War are also available.

Users may access immigration and naturalization records from the U.S., Belgium, Brazil, Germany, Dominican Republic and Indonesia. One of Heritage Quest’s particularly interesting features is the Map and Photo Collection which contains over 7 million names and 600,000 images from the Library of Congress Photo Collection from 1840-2000. Heritage Quest will serve as a supplement to the Library’s Ancestry.com resource, which has

that, in partnership with the Little Free Library organization, we have constructed and erected two Little Free libraries in town. The small, self-contained structures were built under our supervision with assistance from the Old Bridge Boy and Girl Scouts. They are located at the Old Bridge Park and Ride commuter lots on Route 9 North and Westminster Boulevard and Route 9 North and Inverness Drive.

The Little Free Libraries will be maintained by the Library and will be stocked with books that are donated to us. Residents are encouraged to take, share and donate books to and from the libraries, and to leave notes for fellow users.

Books can be returned to any Little Free Library or passed on to a friend.

We share the organization’s mission of promoting literacy, a love of reading and building a sense of community. We hope these Little Free Libraries help connect

proven very popular and is utilized frequently at the Library since becoming available to patrons in June, 2015.

Our patrons can research their family history, create family trees and view and post photographs by visiting the Library’s central or Laurence Harbor branches and accessing these sites on the public computers. Users can also access Heritage Quest remotely, simply by logging onto the Library website, www.oldbridgelibrary.org, and clicking on the link. They will then be instructed to enter their library card number.

We think Heritage Quest will be a great addition to genealogical resources for the community. We hope you will love exploring these sites and gaining a better understanding of your ancestry.

Little Free Libraries Come to Old Bridge!

At the Library, we fully believe in bringing literacy to the grassroots level. Therefore, I’m happy to report

the community and bring joy to our residents. Look for more in the future!

Library Board member Barbara Cannon and Mayor Owen Henry visit the Little Free Library located in the Inverness Commuter lot.

Old Bridge Public Library 1 Old Bridge Plaza, Municipal Center Old Bridge, NJ 08857 732-721-5600 x5033 www.oldbridgelibrary.org

UPCOMING EVENTS: JANUARY

4TH: READ TO THE DOGS - 4PM 5TH: WEIGHT LOSS AFTER THE HOLIDAYS - 7PM

11TH: SENSORY TIME FOR ADULTS 10:30AM 14TH: SECOND SATURDAY CONCERT: THE BASEMENT MUSICIANS - 2:30PM

Old Bridge Arena

Department of Parks, Recreation & Social Services

(732) 607-7971

18TH: MEET THE ARTIST: VAN GOGH 10:30AM 26TH: GENERAL BOOK DISCUSSION: SCIENCE FICTION HALL OF GAME, VOL. 2B - 7PM

27TH: HOME SCHOOL BOOK CLUB - 11AM 31ST: TWEEN BUBBLEWRAP APPRECIATION DAY 7PM

SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC SESSIONS Sunday

1:30 pm - 4:15 pm

Public Session

Monday (OBHS Holidays Only) 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm 3:45 pm - 6:00 pm Tuesday 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Thursday 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Public Session Public Session Freestyle Public Session

Friday

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm 10:45 pm - 12:00 am

Public Session Public Session Adult Open Hockey

Saturday:

10:00 am - 1:00 pm 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm 10:45 pm - 11:45 pm

Public Session Public Session Teen Open Hockey

(Ages 13 - 17) Mondays

All Old Bridge School Holidays: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Public Session

THE DAYTIMERS OF CONGREGATION BETH OHR The Daytimers of Congregation Beth Ohr held their annual Chanukah Luncheon and Party at the temple on Thursday, December 22. Rabbi Joel Mishkin performed the symbolic lighting of the first candle. The festivities that followed the deli luncheon included Chanukah songs and a free raffle for gifts.

Photos submitted by: Allen Appel, Communications Chairman Congregation Beth Ohr 70 Route 516, Old Bridge

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

JANUARY 2017

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

JANUARY 2017

TEN TIPS TO KEEP HAIR AND SKIN HEALTHY ALL WINTER LONG

By: Jennifer Turkish, M.D

Photo of Jennifer Turkish, M.D. Hello Winter. Warm, sunny summer affects you too. Here are 10 tips to keep days already seem like a fond memory hair and skin healthy all winter long.

1. Stay Hydrated. Hydration is essenas many of us struggle with our diet and exercise routine when it’s dark and tial for our bodies. Water not only helps cold. Hair and skin are silent sufferers us to digest food and flushes waste, it’s against winter’s harsh weather. And also vital to ensure our skin stays soft we’re not talking just women – men, this and plump. Central heating and hot

water in the winter months can really dehydrate skin, and while we all think about hydrating during the summer months, most of us drink less than we should when winter rolls around.

2. Get Your Vitamins. A varied diet packed with fruits and vegetables during the winter months is more important than ever to ensure that you are getting enough vitamin C and other essential vitamins. Vitamins help boost collagen production. Omega-3 fatty acids and monosaturated fats have their part to play in helping maintain healthy skin and hair. Get your daily dose by adding salmon, oily fish, avocado, olive oil and nuts to your diet to help ensure skin stays moisturized from within.

3. Keep It Lukewarm. Although piping hot water seems very tempting, stick to lukewarm showers and baths, and make sure to use a mild, non-drying moisturizing soap. Also use a mild shampoo and conditioner.

4. Style Wisely. Avoid curling irons, hot roller, blow dryers and the like. When you do, use the cool setting, which may take longer to dry but will retain moisture. Choose wooden hair brushes and

combs instead of plastic to fight static.

5. Treat Your Tresses Kindly.

We can all benefit from shampooing less during the winter months to avoid drying out hair and scalp.

6. Exfoliate And Moisturize. Keep skin soft and moisturized. Pay special attention to exposed areas such as hands, nails, feet and lips. Keep a tube of moisturizer in the car and apply often, and use lip balm to keep your lips soft and supple.

7. Sunscreen is Not Just For Summer.

Choose a moisturizer that contains sunscreen and wear it every day, even if the sun doesn’t seem to be out. This is the time of year when it may seem like you don’t need sunscreen, but you really do!

8. Try Natural Skin Care. Greek yogurt makes a great once-a-week facial wash; it contains lactic acid, which helps to exfoliate skin. Chow down on brown rice, quinoa, garlic and onions whenever skin feels dry – these are excellent sources of selenium, which boosts skin’s elasticity. And, relax with a moisturizing facial mask made from bananas, avocados or egg yolk.

9. Avoid excessive use of deodorants. Deodorants contain a

high alcohol level, which tends to strip away the skin’s moisture. Go for alcohol-free products instead.

10. Cover with care. While woolen caps and scarves may make a style statement, they can also be the cause of hair breakage, especially at the nape of the neck. Leave sufficient air space for circulation, or wrap your hair in a silk scarf under that woolen hat.

Plus, protect your peepers. Central heating and cold wind can lead to dry, red, irritated eyes. Make sure you’re getting plenty of vitamins in your winter diet – A, C and E help with healthy eyes.

Staying hydrated can also prevent dry eyes. Carry re-wetting solution with you on the go. Wear glasses or sunglasses to protect against snow glare and icy winds.

Dr. Jennifer Turkish is a board certified family medicine physician on staff at Bay Family Medicine, affiliated with Raritan Bay Medical Center, a member of the Hackensack Meridian Health family.

The Bay Family Medicine office is located in Suite 200, Medical Arts Building, 3 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ. To schedule an appointment, call 732-360-4085

circulation, and help regain health.

Tai Chi is often described as “meditation in motion,” but it might also be called “medication in motion.” There is growing evidence that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems, including stress, high blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, MS, Parkinson’s disease, and other chronic illnesses. And you can get started even if you aren’t in tip top shape or the best of health. Tai Chi can be easily adapted for anyone, from those most fit to people confined to wheelchairs or recovering from surgery.

In this low-impact, slow-motion exercise, practitioners move smoothly and without pause through a series of motions, some named for animal actions — for example, “white crane spreads its wings” — or martial arts moves, such as “box both ears.” With each move, practitioners breathe deeply and naturally, expanding awareness — as in some kinds of meditation — on correct posture and bodily sensations.

Tai Chi movements are usually circular and never forced, the muscles are relaxed rather than tensed, the joints

are not fully extended or bent, and connective tissues are not stretched.

Qi Gong is the study and practice of nurturing life energy. Practitioners learn how to increase their level of energy and how to circulate it smoothly and continuously throughout the body to improve health and help prevent illness. Qi is the vital force that fuels the universe, maintaining balance and harmony in nature. Qi is also the bio-electromagnetic energy that fuels the body, like gasoline to an engine. It circulates through the body’s tissues, organs, brain, and nervous system, helping both body and mind function. Gong is the skill that develops from consistent practice over time. Qi Gong literally means training or working with the body’s energy.

When first learning Tai Chi and Qi Gong you calm the mind by continuously adjusting posture until the body becomes relaxed and comfortable. This allows you to become more stable, balanced and coordinated, while putting minimal stress on joints and muscles. You can take a class to learn the basic movements so that you can do the exercises on your own, as well as with a group.

Tai Chi and Qi Gong are excellent fitness activities for beginners, as well as for athletes who can benefit from the slow movements, because everyone needs better balance and muscle control.

Studies have shown that Tai Chi and Qi Gong can help lower blood pressure and even cholesterol levels, thus lowering the risk of heart disease and can be practiced to gently get you back into moving around if you have diabetes, are obese, or have been inactive. Tai Chi and Qi Gong may be the perfect lifelong activity for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Rich Lund is part of Integrative Health Services at Raritan Bay Medical Center, a member of the Hackensack Meridian Health family. Since 2004, the program has provided integrative therapies to enhance patients’ health and well-being, at the hospital and on an outpatient basis, with complementary medicine supporting the mind-body-spirit connection. Raritan Bay is offering a Tai Chi Qi Gong / Meditation course beginning March 7, 2017 in Old Bridge and Perth Amboy. For more information or to register for the course, call 732-324-5257.

EXPLORE GENTLE EXERCISES TAI CHI QI GONG TO REDUCE STRESS By: Rich Lund, Integrative Health Provider

Photo of Rich Lund Distinguishing the differenc- single beautiful painting. More impores between Tai Chi (tie chee) and tantly, together these gentle exercises Qi Gong (chee gung) is like trying can help maintain strength, flexibility to separate all of the colors within a and balance, calm the mind, improve

This is where Innovation meets Inspiration.

Introducing Hackensack Meridian Health.

At Hackensack Meridian Health, providing exceptional care and experiences is only part of our story.

We’re defining the future of medicine — bringing together academics and scientific discovery in bold new ways. By partnering with Seton Hall University, we’re building the medical school of tomorrow…a place where an emphasis on team-based clinical care will underscore the roles of research and discovery. As part of our commitment to humanize health, we’ve launched an Office of Experience and are already heart wiring the new standards for linking safety, quality, empathy and respect. And to keep our communities healthy and vibrant, we’re partnering with innovative companies to change and simplify health care delivery — at the speed of life.

To learn more, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org.

HMH-Meets-10x10-AAOB-16.indd 1

9/15/16 10:40 AM

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THE SENIOR SCENE

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE will open at 6:00 pm and our senior artists will proudly share their talents.

Some of our seniors may even decide to sell their work. Our painting and sketch teacher Stacey Garcia will also be available to answer any questions and maybe hold a mini painting event.

We also welcome new members to

Diane Amabile, Senior Center Mgr. Happy New Year Old Bridge Seniors!

It is my fond hope that those of you who celebrated turning sixty years old or over will come out to the center and register for membership. We have fantastic programs and activities for the New Year starting with our “Dancing Divas & Dudes” open auditions. Don’t know what that is? Well, it is a group of seniors who like to dance together, have fun, and perform at local senior shows. This is a choreographed group who will also be performing at our local schools this year. So put on your best dancing shoes and participate in our open auditions in January. The

Painting a winter poinsettia for the holidays. first audition will be held January 3rd.

Please call for additional audition dates, 732-721-5600 ext. 6615, 6620 or 6625.

We are very excited to announce our first annual Art Exhibit and Gallery which will be held on the evening of January 20th. This event is open to the public. The sketching, paintings and crafts to be displayed is just a small portion of our fantastic arts and crafts programs at the center. Doors

Bertha Dragonuff, one of our Reading Buddies.

JANUARY 2017 join our very special “Reading Buddies Club”. Our “Reading Buddies” visit Shepard Elementary School once per month to read to the students.

This has been a very well-received program with our senior center and the school. We are so happy to partner with Shepard School for a wonderful and exciting intergenerational program.

In addition to our special activities, arts and crafts, exercise and dance classes, we continue to provide educational health and wellness seminars and screenings. Please view our calendar of events at www.oldbridge.com/seniorcenter for specific programs, dates and times. Don’t forget… keep an eye out for our “Spring Into Health” three month exercise and wellness program coming soon. Take the challenge!

“I am so happy that our senior center is a viable part of the community. We continue to grow every day and provide programming and activities for everyone in our senior community to enjoy. I wish you all good health and much happiness in 2017,” said Diane Amabile, Manager/Assistant Director

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, As longtime residents of Old Bridge we have read your newspaper with much pleasure. It is informative and often entertaining. Keep up the good work and congratulations. Arlene and Charles Robinson

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

JANUARY 2017

10 MISCONCEPTIONS OF MEDICAID

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COMPLIMENTS OF OUR LAW FIRM

Written By: Roger N. Levine, JD, LL.M, CPA

Photo of Partners Adam Rubin and Roger Levine 1.

Medicaid is only for poor people: Many people feel that Medicaid is only for ‘poor people’. This is absolutely wrong. Medicaid has changed over the years to be a comprehensive

long term care health insurance which covers a vast array of individuals. The majority of individuals on Medicaid are from normal working class families. Due to the extremely high costs of nursing homes, many families’ only option is to apply for Medicaid.

2.

Medicare will cover all my nursing home costs: Medicare only covers a limited amount of days in a nursing home. After a limited period of time, you will have to pay all nursing home expenses with your personal assets (“private pay”). Also, the majority of private insurances do not cover long term care costs in a nursing home. The average cost of a nursing home ranges from $10,000 to $13,000 a month in the state of New Jersey.

3.

If I am on Medicaid and in a nursing home I will receive a lower standard of care: A majority of the nursing homes in New Jersey accept Medicaid.

It is against state and federal law for any facility to have a lower standard of care for anyone on Medicaid. If you visit a nursing home facility, you will not be

able to determine who is on Medicaid or not. In fact, most staff members in the nursing home facility also do not know who is on Medicaid and who is not.

4.

If I enter into a nursing home I have to spend all my money on my nursing home costs: This is one of the biggest misconceptions that I hear from clients. There are numerous options available to protect a significant portion of their assets when someone enters into a nursing home.

The most critical thing is that you have to speak with an attorney who specializes in Medicaid and preserving assets.

5.

If I add my children to my home I will be able to protect it from nursing home expenses: Many families do more harm than good with this idea.

When a child has an interest in the home, this exposes the home to potential creditors, divorce proceedings or losing senior benefits associated with their home. You have to be extremely cautious and review the applicable laws to determine what option are available to protect the home. I never recommend adding

children to my client’s home because in a majority of the situations, adding the child to the home does not protect the home from nursing home expenses.

6.

If I am placed into a nursing home my children will not be responsible for my nursing home costs: There are many traps and pitfalls that children fall into when their parents enter into a nursing home. With the proper guidance and direction your children can avoid any liability from the nursing home.

7.

There are no ways to protect my assets if I enter into a nursing home: There are many planning options and techniques available that can ensure that your assets are protected from nursing home expenses. Each plan is structured specifically to your personal family and financial situation. The most important element in preserving assets is speaking with an attorney who specialize in this area of the law.

8.

My IRA and 401K are protected from nursing home expenses: In the state of New Jersey, all assets of both you and your spouse have to

be used for nursing home expenses. With proper planning and guidance there are ways to minimize or even eliminate the risk of assets being used for nursing home expenses.

9.

I am in a second marriage, my assets will not be used for my new spouse’s nursing home expenses: As indicated above, the state of New Jersey views a married couple as one unit.

All assets, both in your name or your new spouse’s name, are countable and therefore have to be used for the other spouses care. In the state of New Jersey, it does not matter if you have a prenuptial agreement or separate estate planning documents, all the assets are countable.

10.

I can do my own planning to preserve assets from nursing home expenses: This is the most dangerous idea! Medicaid planning is a very complex area of the law. There are only a handful of law firms that specialize in this type of planning. In order to make a complete and comprehensive plan you need an experienced law firm that focuses on this area of the law.

Levine, Furman & Rubin, LLC

Estate Planning & Administration • Wills • Trusts • Probate • Elder Law Phone: (732) 238-6000 • Fax: (732) 238-6055 • www.levinefurman.com F-3 Brier Hill Court, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 • 1072 Madison Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Happy New Year from the Levine, Furman & Rubin Family!

If you found our article interesting, you can visit our website or follow us on Facebook to learn more about Elder Law, Medicaid Planning, Estate Planning and Estate Administration.

12

LIVING STONES TWO ARE BETTER THAN ONE

By Lloyd Pulley Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge F o r n e a r l y a n h o u r, t h e y barely uttered a word.

A married couple was out for a lovely dinner. Although they sat across from one another, they never spoke or had eye contact. Instead, both were smiling down at their phones as they scrolled through their social media feeds.

The scene is not entirely uncommon.

We have all seen people, or perhaps we are the people, who walk, eat, and even drive with the blue glow of our smartphones incessantly reflected on our faces.

In many ways, social media has made us anti-social. We have created for

ourselves a virtual world based entirely on our individualized profiles.

We have “friends” based on our own likes and dislikes, and when any of those friends offend us, we simply unfriend or unfollow them. We are in full control of our online world, a place where we never have to interact with people unless we choose to do so.

This world of selfies and personal profiles is in many ways the opposite of true community. True community is not unfriending people with whom we disagree, but communicating face to face to resolve conflict as it arises. In other words, genuine community challenges the isolation we tend to create with “social” media.

Community is based on relationship, and as we all know, relationship can involve discomfort and even pain.

Creating a world around our own wants and desires, devoid of any responsibility to other people, is tempting. But taken to its logical conclusion, creating a world that revolves around us leaves us lonely and makes our lives less fulfilling.

Consider the lives of most criminals. Detectives investigating capital crimes usually search for three primary

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

criminal motivations: the accumulation of possessions or wealth, power, and sex. Writing over 2,000 years ago, the apostle John identified these same traps: the desires of the eyes, the desires of the body, and the pride of life.

What keeps any one of us from becoming a hardened criminal is the fundamental value that life is much more than the incessant, instant gratification of our lesser urges. Relationship, with all of its complications, trumps the pursuit of possessions, fame, and sex.

A quick peek at the most common gravestone inscriptions illustrates the point. Have you ever read an epitaph that touts one’s financial holdings or career achievements? Rather, you are more likely to read words like, “ Beloved father, grandfather, friend, brother, uncle, and leader.” That’s because in the end – the actual end – relationship matters more than anything else.

Late in 2016, we saw relationships deteriorate during the divisive presidential election. People unfriended one another and even stopped communicating with their friends all together because of politics. As a result, I often found myself praying over our congregation, asking

JANUARY 2017

that God would give us cool heads and warm hearts in a politically charged atmosphere. I prayed that our love for one another would outweigh our differences politically, socially, and economically.

As I prayed, I began to wonder how we could change our social-media driven isolation. What would happen if we were to commit just a fraction of our time on Facebook to investing in real life, face-to-face relationships? A few simple adjustments could go a long way in changing our relationships with one another as we embark on 2017.

For example, if you are married, why not take a long walk with your spouse, and leave the phones at home?

Spend time actually listening to one other. Besides, getting more physical activity is probably already on your list of New Year’s resolutions!

Put your phone away when you are out to dinner with friends or loved ones. Be present right there in the moment with the people around you.

Consider your neighbors – do you know them? Is there something that you can do to be truly helpful to them, especially those who are older or those who have young children? Again,

developing better friendships may also be one of your resolutions for 2017.

How about truly seeing people you come across every day - the gas station attendant, the server in the restaurant, the cashier at the store? I myself am learning to look up from my phone, to say something genuinely kind, and to offer an extra generous tip to those who provide excellent service. Kindness should be part of everyone’s list of New Year’s resolutions.

In each instance, you will find how seeing real people, instead of their online profiles, will quickly change your perspective on life itself and on what matters most.

Solomon, the wisest king who ever lived, described this phenomenon perfectly in the book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble… A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

GOT MILK? PROBABLY. BUT IN A GLASS BOTTLE? Continued from page 1 are all natural,” Milling says. “I wanted to bring the best to my customers.

Milling now makes good on that promise – at a ver y early hour. And all by himself.

He gets the fresh dairy products from Byrne Dairy twice a week.

Milling then makes his deliveries on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Milling begins his dropoffs before the bars offer last call.

“At about 2 a.m. I start loading up my truck,” Milling says. “Mondays and Wednesdays I head out to Staten Island. Tuesdays and Thursdays I’m delivering here around Old Bridge.”

Deliveries are finished by about 8:30, Milling notes, and he heads back to his office to handle paperwork, billing, phone calls, e-mails and orders.

“I do it all,” he says with pride. “I had someone working with me once but it didn’t work out. Now I enjoy doing everything and making everything easier for my customers. I make sure that deliveries are made on time and all the time. I’ve gone out in snowstorms and all kinds of nasty weather.

“But my whole business is to make

sure life is easier for my customers.”

And those customers appreciate Milling’s efforts. “My kids get so excited when the milk is delivered, they love to bring in the bottles,” says one.

“No more running to the s t ore ! My hu s b a n d h a s n e v e r been happier!,” exclaims another.

Udderly Delicious offers not only dairy products but an amazingly diverse line of quality food including beef, seafood, chicken, pasta and deserts.

“I was always looking to expand my (dairy) product line,” Milling says. “A few years ago a fine food distributor

DWIGHT D EISENHOWER TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

The Eisenhower Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is excited for our annual Tricky Tray to be held on Friday, February 24, 2017 Our main role is to build strong working relationships among parents, teachers and schools, in support of students.

The PTO offers our students additional resources to enhance their educational experience through specialized reading programs, assemblies, International Festival, Field Day events, and much more. A portion of our annual budget is directly allocated to provide for additional supplies that district and government funds do not cover. One of the ways we accomplish this is to provide financing through fundraising.

We, like you, are a unique part of the community, a part that supports, encourages and educates the single most important thing in any community: our children. Donors like you strengthen our community and deepen our commitment to high quality education. In order to make this event an overwhelming success, we are asking for your support in the form of a complete basket, a service, or a gift certificate that can be raffled at the Tricky Tray. A monetary

donation will be used to purchase a basket in your name. At this time we can only accept new, unused products. Your donation will be featured at the Tricky Tray and your participation acknowledged in our program for the event.

The Eisenhower PTO is recognized as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit volunteer organization. As such your donation is tax deductible under the amount permissible by law. Our federal tax identification number is 20 - 2200606.

Please mail your donation to the address above, marked ATTENTION: PTO TRICKY TRAY or we can arrange to have the items picked up. To better help us prepare, we request all donations be committed to us no later than Friday, February 3, 2017.

On behalf of the children, parents, teachers and staff of Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary School, we thank you in advance for your generous support. If you have any questions, please call Vanessa Pirillo at 347-3705724 or Jen Pesci at 732-637-0489.

Sincerely, Vanessa Pirillo and Jennifer Pesci E i s e n h owe r P TO, Tr i cky Tr ay Committee Representatives

knocked on my door and we had a nice conversation that led to my including some of his products in my service.

He eventually retired and I took on all of his customers. It was a natural fit – these products are top notch.” ( G o to Ud d e rlyd el i c i ous . com for a full list of products offered by Milling’s company.)

Over the years Milling says he has come to know quite a number of his customers.

“I’ve become friendly with a lot of them,” he notes. “Some are elderly, and they really appreciate that I’m able to make my deliveries

no matter the weather or whatever.

“Others have been a lot of fun, like this one guy who had his house all decorated for Halloween one year.

I walked up to the porch one day to make a delivery and he was dressed as a zombie and sitting in a chair. He jumped up out of the chair and scared the crap out of me,” Milling laughs.

That fellowship with customers is the key to Milling’s success. “It’s all about word of mouth,” he says. “It’s great to hear the accolades from my customers, and they pass it on to others.”

Milling has also joined the Facebook crowd – he’s got more than 1,500 “Likes” on his page and the number continues to grow. (Go to Milling’s Facebook page through his website.)

“We’ve gotten a lot of new business through Facebook,” he exclaims.

It’s been a lot of fun connecting with all kinds of groups on Facebook.”

Milling, who will turn 60 next summer, says he’ll continue with his delivery route for another five or six years. The married father of two – including a teenage boy – says he’ll probably pass along the business to someone other than his son.

CARING WEEKEND AT TEMPLE SHALOM OF ABERDEEN Temple Shalom, 5 Ayrmont Lane, in Aberdeen, presents a Caring Weekend on January 6th and 8th. The theme for the Caring Weekend is an exploration of how pets and service animals provide therapeutic and healing effects to those suffering from trauma or illness, as well as just dealing with the stress of everyday life. Weekend events are open to the community.

At Friday evening services, Rosemary Laubach of Freehold, a therapy dog specialist, will give a presentation explaining the Therapy Dog Program.

She will be accompanied by her dog, Hope. Services begin at 6:30 pm. Rosemary will be staying for the dinner that immediately follows services so that families can speak with her. For those interested in attending the dinner, the cost for dinner is $14 for an adult and $8 for a child. To RSVP for dinner, contact the Temple office at 732.566.2621 On Sunday morning at 9:30 am the Committee will present a program on Special People United to Ride (SPUR), a non-profit organization which is dedicated to providing therapeutic horsemanship programs to individuals with disabilities. A horse has a calming effect on riders and has a unique ability to sense what its rider or handler is

feeling. SPUR is located at Sunnyside Equestrian Center in Lincroft.

B arb ara D ug gan w i l l b e t he fe ature d sp e a ker. B arb ara is a member of the SPUR Board of Directors and past C o-President.

A light breakfast will be served.

There is a $5 charge to attend. Please bring an item to donate to our local animal shelter. A list of recommended items is at http://monmouthcountyspca.org/support/wish-list/.

For more information, contact Sam Shapanka at (908) 601-0484 or at sam.shapanka@gmail.com.

SHALOM ROCKS

FUND RAISING CONCERT Temple Shalom of Aberdeen presents a Shalom Rocks concert featuring Shira Kline and Jacob “Spike” Kraus on Saturday, January 28th. Temple Shalom is located at 5 Ayrmont Lane in Aberdeen.

Shira Kline is an award winning New York based performer and music educator. She travels across the country and internationally, delivering a dynamic,

JANUARY 2017

13

“When he was about 10,” Milling recalls with a big laugh, “my boy said he wanted to come out with me on my route. We got to a delivery and he was helping unload products but then he locked us out of the truck.

“I had to throw a rock through the window to get us back in the truck. That was the last time he came out with me.”

Milling says he’ll find somebody to take over. “It’s a young man’s game,” he notes. “There’s a lot of heavy lifting, climbing stairs, dealing with the weather.

“But I’ll find somebody to take it on. My customers deserve it.”

interactive program of story and song.

Jacob “Spike” Klein is an exciting new composer and performer of Jewish Rock. He is a member of Six13, an award-winning Jewish a cappella group.

A Havdalah service followed by the concert begins at 5:30 pm. The concert will be preceded by pizza at 5:00 pm. The evening’s program also includes an intermission with a light supper. Following the concert, there will be a dessert reception and an opportunity to meet the artists.

Concert tickets purchased before January 24th are $25 per adult and $10 per child ages 5 – 18. Ticket prices at the door will be $36 for an adult and $18 for a child. Prices include refreshments and the dessert reception following the concert. All proceeds will go to the Temple Shalom Israel Scholarship Fund; Mazon (the national Jewish organization dedicated to the issue of hunger); and The Shalom Center for Social Justice in Philadelphia.

Contact Margo margolwolfson@ gmail.com or the Temple office 732-5662621 for further information or tickets.

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

To submit Obituaries email Editor@AllaroundOB.com JOHN J. SMIDILI John J. Smidili, 101, of Old Bridge passed away peacefully on December 15, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. John was born in New York City, NY, and had also lived in Corona, Queens before eventually settling in Old Bridge for the past 51 years. John began shining shoes at the age of 12, before starting his career at Gallo Wine in Green Point, Brooklyn for many years up until his retirement. He was also a professional singer and owned his own radio program at one point in his life, he loved life and loved to entertain more than anything. Some MSGR. RICHARD A. BEHL Msgr. Richard A. Behl, 75, pastor of St. Thomas the Ap ostle RC Church in Old Bridge, and Diocese of Metuchen Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies, passed away Friday, November 25, 2016 at Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy.

He was born June 5, 1941 in New Brunswick. He attended St. Joseph School in Bound Brook and St. Peter’s High School in New Brunswick. Msgr.

Behl entered minor seminary immediately after high school, studying at St. Charles College in Catonsville, MD for two years. He spent the next two years at St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore, where he received his bachelor’s degree.

He then attended North American College in Rome, Italy to complete his studies for his for the priesthood at the Pontifical Gregorian University. He graduated from the Pontifical Gregorian University with his doctorate in sacred theology and was ordained on Dec. 17, 1966 at St. Peter’s Basilica. Msgr. Behl also earned a doctorate in ministry from Princeton University in 1975.

Msgr. Behl served as associate pastor of St. Mary Parish in South Amboy, St. James Parish in Red Bank and the Church of the Nativity in Fair Haven.

In 1977 he received his first pastorate, at Our Lady of the Mount Parish in DONNA C. KNOX Donna C. Knox, 84, of Aberdeen, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Hamilton, Ontario Canada, and then moved to Brooklyn, NY before settling in Matawan in 1966 to raise her family.

D onna was a memb er of St. C l e me nt s C hu rch i n Mat aw an and her fam i ly is g rate f u l for the many friends she had there.

She is predeceased by her husband John Knox. Donna is survived by her two children; Thomas Knox of Matawan and Sandra Bianco, Tewksbury, NJ; six grandchildren: John Knox, Kevin

of his other hobbies include yard work and gardening. He was a parishioner at St. Ambrose in Old Bridge.

John is predeceased by his wife, Santa, who passed away in 2006; 4 siblings: Joseph, Paul, Mildred, and Marie. He is survived by his son John Smidili and his wife Monica; and a granddaughter, Alison Smidili.

Arrangements were under the direction of Old Bridge Funeral Home.

To post an online condolence to the family, share a photo, or to visit our sympathy store please visit our website at www.oldbridgefh.com Warren. In 1985 he was made pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Bernardsville. In 1995 he was appointed rector of St. Francis Cathedral in Metuchen.

In 2007, he was named pastor of St. Thomas the Apostle in Old Bridge. He is also on the national board of Pontifical Mission Societies. In 2008 Msgr. Behl was knighted into the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem.

He was predeceased by his parents Ma e L i l l i an and Harol d B eh l.

He is survived by his cousins Jerilynn Wilson and Eileen Kohler.

A Mass of Commemoration was offered in the evening at St. Thomas the Apostle RC Church, with Bishop Paul G. Bootkoski, Bishop Emeritus Diocese of Metuchen as Principal Celebrant.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Thomas the Apostle RC Church, with Bishop James F. Checchio, Bishop of Metuchen, as Principal Celebrant, followed by interment at St. Joseph Cemetery in Bound Brook, for family and close friends.

In lieu of f lowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Thomas Extraordinary Fund 1 St. Thomas Plaza old Bridge, NJ 08857.

Arrangements are by Costello-Runyon Funeral Home, Metuchen.

Knox, Christian Knox, Danielle Knox, Charles Bianco, and Alexander Bianco.

She was a much loved aunt to many, and will be missed by all who knew her.

Friends and Family were invited to gather for a visitation on Thursday, December 8, 2016 at the Old Bridge Funeral Home from 2-4PM & 7-9PM. A Funeral Mass was held on Friday, December 9 at 10AM at St. Clement’s Church, Matawan. Entombment was in Holmdel Cemetery and Mausoleum following Mass. To post an online condolence to the family, share a photo, or to visit our sympathy store, pleas visit our website at www.waittfh.com

IN MEMORIAM

¬CHARLES LEONARD HOLMES ¬Charles Leonard Holmes, 98, of Morganville, NJ passed away peacefully on December 16, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Jamesburg and moved to Morganville at the age of four. Drafted into the US Army on July 30, 1942 and served for three and a half years before being discharged as a corporal on November 11, 1945. Charles went into the Army on August 13, 1942 and served in Patton’s 3rd Army 457th AAA. He fought D-Day Normandy Beach and was one of the first units to hit the beach for battle. Other includes Ardennes, Central Europe, Northern France, and Rhineland.The 457th unit that Charles was in was credited with being the first American unit to enter Germany and lead the forces first into Rhine.

Charles was active in his community as a volunteer: member of the Morganville First Aid, life member in the Morganville Independence Fire Company for over 60 years, former Chief of Freneau Fire Company in Matawan, Chief of the Fire Brigade at Hanson & Winkle in Matawan, charter member of Jamesburg Field & Stream in Whiting, NJ, member of NJ State Chiefs Association, member of Veterans of Foreign Wars of Freehold, NJ Post 4374, member of American Legion and was an active parishioner in the Methodist Church in Morganville. He worked for Hanson & Winkle for 40 years and following worked for Marlboro Township Board of Education for 11 years.Charles

was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend who will be greatly missed by so many.

Charles is predeceased by his loving wife Alberta Holmes who passed away August 21, 2009; his parents. Livingston Holmes and Margaret Ronan; a brother Warren Holmes; a great grandson, Robert Holmes III, and a daughter-in-law, Christine Holmes.

He is survived by his two children, Charlene Mendelsohn and her husband Harvey of Brick, NJ and Robert Holmes Sr. and his wife Michelle of Morganville, NJ; 9 grandchildren: Jeffrey Holmes and his wife Samantha of Brick, NJ, Robert Holmes Jr. of Manasquan, NJ, Dr. Christopher Holmes and his wife Victoria of Morganville, NJ, Regina Holmes of Morganville, NJ, Matthew Holmes of Morganville, NJ, David Litzas Sr. of Erial, NJ, Aaron Mendelsohn of California, Joseph Mendelsohn of Wayne, NJ, Kari Cooper and her husband Peter of Chatham, NJ; 20 Great-grandchildren; a brother, Donald Holmes and his wife Minnie of Matawan, NJ; 5 sisters: Alma

JANUARY 2017

Boyce of Morganville, NJ, Eleanor Birch of Freehold, NJ, Virginia Johnson of Freehold, NJ, Catherine Archer and her husband David of Morganville, NJ, and BErnice Holmes of Morganville NJ; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Family and friends were invited to gather for a visitation on Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at Waitt Funeral Home, 501 Highway 79, Morganville NJ 07751. A Funeral Ceremony was held on Wednesday, December 21, 2016 at the Waitt Funeral Home. Cremation was private. To post an online condolence to the family, share a photo, or to visit our sympathy store, please visit our website at www.waittfh.com

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

JANUARY 2017

CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL: EDUCATING THE MIND, DISCIPLING THE HEART

By Carol Eskaros Continued from page 1 staff helping teachers – all to finish their race well. It really comes down to this school operating a lot like a family.”

Calvary Christian School, an accredited Pre-K through 12th grade college preparatory school and ministry of Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, first opened its doors in September 2005. In the over 11 years since its inception, CCS has undergone a massive expansion, growing from a K-5th program in 2005 to a full preschool, kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school program comprising two buildings along White Oak Lane in Old Bridge.

The expansion has garnered the attention of Old Bridge officials, who collaborated with the school during the completion of the Calvary Christian High School facility at 109 White Oak Lane. In fact, Mayor Owen Henry of Old Bridge noted how pleased he was to have not one, but two high schools in Old Bridge, recognizing the significant impact Calvary’s high school has had on young people in the area.

The vision of Calvary Christian School is “educating the mind and discipling the heart.”

In the area of educating the mind, many CCS teachers possess over 30+ years of teaching experience, and offer students STEM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics) programs, as well as Cyber Patriot and Speech and Debate programs. CCS students have been accepted into Ivy League universities, and participate in NJSIAA varsity athletics. To help students prepare for college-level critical thinking, CCS offers Advanced Placement and honors courses in everything from the sciences to the humanities. As an advanced college preparatory program, CCS also offers students internship experiences in career fields like business, medicine, law, and ministry.

But what sets Calvary Christian apart even further is its emphasis on discipling the heart, or developing the character, of its students. “The sophomore running alongside that fourth grader is a perfect picture of the character we aim to build in our students, teaching them not to be about self but about others,” explains

Principal Dunne.

Character-building occurs not only on the cross-country field, but also in the classroom. Each CCS teacher posts classroom rules, reminding students to be diligent and respectful, and those values are instilled throughout every class and extracurricular activity.

Dunne continues, “We are teaching kids not only to think critically, but to think and act Biblically.” To that end, Dunne, who himself has experience both in the secular world and as a youth pastor, emphasizes the importance

of teaching leadership skills to young people. CCS aims to create men and women who will be leaders in their families, churches, communities, and beyond.

“As I sit in the back of a classroom listening to a teacher invest in her students, I am reminded again how passionate our educators are,” he explains. “This isn’t just a job to them. These teachers and staff are committed – personally and professionally – to the success of these students. It all comes down to teaching these young people to take initiative and to be men and women of influence.”

Calvary offers students countless opportunities to take initiative and to be future leaders who influence their community. Students jumped into action in the months following Superstorm Sandy, helping communities clean up and rebuild. Students regularly participate in community service through Broken Loaves, the

food pantry of Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, which serves the greater Old Bridge area. CCS students have also personally delivered care packages to Old Bridge police officers, firefighters, and other first responders to thank them for their service to the community. CCS students, working closely with parents, teachers, and staff, also bring Christmas cheer each year to The Old Bridge Rotary Home, a nursing home in town. “Seeing those residents light up as we sing Christmas carols, and just spend time with them – we come to understand that so much of our students’ education happens beyond the classroom,” explains Dunne.

The cooperation of parents, teachers, and staff is another distinctive quality of CCS. Teachers communicate regularly with parents, and parents gather

weekly in prayer for the students and the school. This critical partnership also includes the pastoral staff of Calvary Chapel Old Bridge. As a ministry of Calvary, CCS and its students enjoy a close bond with Calvary pastors, who are committed to modeling Christian

values and to teaching the CCS student body the Word of God. Pastors also share practical life lessons with students, spending time with them in and outside the classroom and even on the mission field in the Dominican Republic.

“One of the greatest joys in life for me is spending time with the students at CCS,” says Lloyd Pulley, senior pastor of Calvary Chapel Old Bridge. “I have seen them start in Pre-K, and watched them grow in wisdom, knowledge, and character until they graduate as seniors ready to take on the world.”

One high school student, Senior Class President Matt Saldutti, concurs.

Saldutti’s first introduction to Calvary Christian came inadvertently, when his sister was planning on attending the school and he struck up a conversation with Dunne. “While I had no plans to come to CCS at first, in less than a year I have gotten to know the teachers and the students and to genuinely love them,” he says. “I went from being the new kid to the class president, because that’s just the type of place CCS is.

I know I am being prepared for the ‘real world,’ and thanks to this school, I just can’t wait for what lies ahead.”

18

INSURANCE CHECK UP

Michael Vitale 104 Interchange Plaza Suite 102 Monroe Township, NJ 08831 Cell: 201.306.5988 Office: 609.655.3066 x255 Fax: 609 .655.4959 Email: michaelvitale.insurance@gmail.com When was the last time you laid eyes on your auto or homeowners insurance policies? How recently have you reviewed your life insurance policy?

Most likely your answer is ‘when my current insurer initially mailed or emailed the policy to me’. Those policies are either buried in a virtual inbox or stuffed in a cabinet in your home office, never to be reviewed again.

If you have not had any motor vehicle incidents or homeowners claims in the past few years, any cost increases you incur are usually chalked up to normal yearly inflation. If you have received a ticket or been involved in an accident, the subsequent cost increase may become lost in the yearly renewals. Since auto and homeowners insurance is associated with a fee, the whole issue is oftentimes met with a contemptible feeling...consumers become upset with the rate they must pay for the ability to legally drive a car or own a home in this state.

Many consumers are either underinsured or grossly overpaying, possibly both, for their current insurance policies. Their policies are sometimes forgotten in the shuffle of routine bills... they become part of the household ‘status quo.’ This sentiment, although common and understandable, does not usually account for life changes.

Many people are unaware that they may qualify for discounts and reductions based on various life events. Have you recently graduated college? Were you recently married? Are you a new homeowner or a new parent? Did you

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

replace the roof on your home or do a major renovation that may require additional coverage this year? These are just some questions your current agent should be asking in a review of your policies. As consumers, we all have a responsibility to ourselves and to our families to be diligent in reviewing our insurance policies on a regular basis. Maybe a quick conversation with your agent can result in a rate reduction, or more appropriate coverage, for you and your family.

As with auto and homeowners insurance, life insurance can be a slightly confusing topic - many consumers do not fully understand the true value of the coverage that a policy may provide.

Different life insurance products offer predictable ways for families to protect their unpredictable future. There are various products that may even be used in some form at any age, and not only as result of a tragic event. However, unlike auto and homeowners insurance, there are no set parameters for when, or if, you must obtain life insurance. At some point, each consumer needs to analyze their current life situation, assess current priorities and future needs, and discuss

JANUARY 2017

future goals. Then comes the question... how do you protect that future to the best of your ability? Speaking with a licensed agent can provide you with critical information to help you and your loved ones now, and in the future.

Insurance is a fact of life, but having insurance is a far cry from understanding it. Many people do not understand the meaning or impact of the numbers and coverage rates in their policies.

They do know and understand one number for sure - the final price! The lowest price may not always provide the proper coverage. A licensed insurance agent is your best tool when you need help understanding the value of certain coverage for you and your family.

In the upcoming editions of this paper, I hope to assist in shedding light on some different aspects of your insurance policies. As an insurance agent, a husband, and father, my goal is to provide you with information to help you understand your policies, and to inform you how to seek out a fair rate for appropriate coverage for you and your loved ones.

Does this make you want to search through that old cabinet, or review those old emails, to find out more about YOUR policies?

Michael Vitale Licensed insurance agent appointed to SELL personal lines products through Liberty Mutual

MAKE RESOLUTIONS STICK IN 2017

OLD BRIDGE, NJ, November 30, 2016 – Along with singing “Auld Lang Syne” at the start of the New Year, making resolutions is a tradition for millions of Americans. However, while choosing a resolution is easy, sticking to it can be impossible. A 2014 YMCA survey found that less than a quarter of respondents kept their resolutions. Many stated that they fell short of their goals, while 40 percent confessed that gave up within the first few months, even weeks, of the New Year!

This year, the Old Bridge YMCA is encouraging community members to give their New Year’s resolutions a boost by creating smaller, more manageable goals that can lead to success of a larger one. “’Getting healthy’ is not a goal—it’s too broad,” explains Cynthia Joy, President & CEO. “You can reframe that broad resolution into multiple, more manageable and measurable goals. If you aren’t active at all right now, try to incorporate activity into your routine three days a week, before telling yourself that you’ll work out every single day.”

The Old Bridge YMCA also explains that it’s important to not let yourself get discouraged by setbacks.

Even though you may experience some missteps throughout the day— or even the week—that doesn’t mean you have to give up. “Nobody got their bad habits over the course of a week, so you’re not going to change them in a week either!” explains Ms. Joy. Change is a process and bad days are part of that process.

Below are four tips the Old Bridge YMCA recommends to help 2017 New Year’s resolutions stick.

1. Start small. Break those big resolutions into small, achievable goals. Instead of cutting chocolate out of your diet for good, vow to only have it a few times a week.

Or trade your two sodas a day for one soda and a glass of water.

2. Take it one step at a time.

Trying to change too many habits at once can easily lead to frustration.

Instead of a New Year’s resolution, make a new month resolution. Focus on that one change for the month, and add another (small) change when the new month rolls around.

3. Choose a facility that focuses on a holistic approach to health.

When it comes to adding healthy behaviors, like increasing physical activity, it’s important to find a facility that keeps you motivated.

Your facility should not be just a gym, but a community organization that offers more health, more hope and more opportunity.

4. Talk it out. It’s easier to stick to your resolutions if you have a partner or friend working toward similar goals. Team up with someone to set your 2017 goals and help each other establish a game plan dedicated to achieving them.

Set specific check-ins to help each other out of slumps and to cheer each other during the high points.

For additional tips or to learn how to get involved with the Old Bridge YMCA, community members are invited to visit the Y at 1 Mannino Park Drive in Old Bridge on Saturday, January 7th for an Open House, 9am-12pm.

All who visit on January 7th will be entered into a raffle to win a free, 3-month membership. In addition, representatives from membership, fitness, aquatics and summer camp will be on hand to answer questions and give tours. More information can also be found at www.ymcanj. org, or by calling 732-727-0704.

About the Y The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. We are a diverse association of men, women and children of all ages and from all walks of life, joined by a shared commitment to nurture the potential of all people.

For over 120 years, the YMCA of Western Monmouth County has the long standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. For more information, go to www.ymcanj.org.

Contact: Lorna Rifkin Old Bridge YMCA 732-727-0704 ext. 303 lrifkin@ymcanj.org

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

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WINTER SAFETY TIP FOR YOUR PET BY OLD BRIDGE ANIMAL SHELTER Winter is quickly approaching along with freezing temperatures, now is the time to protect your furry family from the elements and colder weather, hope those tips can help keep your pets and you a safe and healthy all throughout the year.

1. Keep your cat inside. Outdoors cats can freeze, become lost or stolen, or be injured or killed. Cats who are allowed to stray are exposed to fatal infectious diseases, including rabies from other cats, dogs and wildlife 2. Check your car before staring it. During the winter, with owned pets, small wildlife or community cats (feral, lost cat or abandoned) sometimes choose to sleep under the hoods of cars, where it is warmer. They could be injured or killed by fan belt when you start the car, to prevent it happen, please bang loudly on the hood of your car and wait for a few seconds before starting the engine, to give them a chance to escape.

3. Keep them Warm. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter.

As a longer coat will provide more warmth, just simply trim it to minimize the clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry their skin. Don’t forget the hair between their toes too. If your dog is short-haired, consider getting them a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly.

4. Thoroughly wipe off your dog and cat’s legs and stomach when they come in out of the sleet, snow or ice.

They can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking their paws and their paw pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted ice. Massaging petroleum jelly or other paw protectants into paw pads before going outside can help protect from sale and chemical agents. Booties provide even more coverage Use pet friendly ice melts whenever possible.

5. Keep your pet clear of chemicals. Automobile engine coolant/ antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Especially antifreeze

tastes sweet. Please consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol.

Make sure your pets do not eat snow.

Especially near roads or driveways can be absorbing chemicals like oil and anti-freeze. Please visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for more information.

6. Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather.

A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.

7. Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Dogs frequently lose their scent in snow and ice and easily become lost. They may panic in a snowstorm and run a way. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season. Please keep your pet’s ID/Microchip up to Date 8. Be prepared power outage.

Cold weather also brings the risks of severe winter weather, blizzards and power outages. Prepare a disaster/ emergency kit, and include your

pet in your plans. Have enough food, water and medicine on hand to get through at least 5 days.

9. Feed well. Keep your pet at a healthy weight throughout the winter. Some pet owners feel that a little extra weight gives their pet some extra protection from cold, but the health risks associated with that extra weight don’t make it worth doing. Watch your pet’s body condition and keep them in the healthy

range. Outdoor pets will require more calories in the winter to generate enough body heat and energy to keep them warm – talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s nutritional needs during cold weather.

10. Make sure your companion animal has a warm place to sleep far away from all drafts and off the floor, such as in a dog or cat bed or basket with a warm blanket or pillow in it

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NEW YEAR IS A PERFECT TIME TO THINK HEALTHY

Continued from page 1

atmosphere suitable for all fitness levels. “We make a personal connection with our members and provide un-matched support” said Alex Bates, Manager of the Program.

“Positive energy all around where we will help you believe in you, Just take that first step and we’ll take over from there”.

Their next Challenge begins January 9th, Max is located at 3879 Route 516, Old Bridge NJ 08857 (732) 617-6162 2. Kickboxing The popularity of kickboxing has increased significantly throughout the past few years. It was popular as a practice for self-defense, but people in today’s world tend to engage with kickboxing in order to ensure their general fitness. Moreover, some people practice kickboxing as a contact sport. In fact, almost all the gyms in North America have introduced cardio kickboxing for the members. The cardio elements that can be found in kickboxing

give life to a full body, high energy workout. On the other hand, different kickboxing can be divided into several categories and practitioners are provided with plenty of options to select from. This can be used in order to lose weight, maintain fitness and improve the overall

health. Old Bridge has a new and exciting place for those interested in the Kickboxing fitness alternative, iLoveKickboxing, located at 3689 Rt 9 North in Renaissance Plaza. iLoveKickboxing started with one simple question “What’s wrong with most workouts… and how can someone get an awesome work out that goes beyond monotonous routines?. The founder Michael Parrella created a workout that can never be boring, a fun, engaging, challenging, and exciting formula.

The result was a bag-hitting, adrenaline-flowing workout that anyone can do - no matter the age or fitness level. Members strap on real gloves and learn pro moves that make them feel like a rock stars, they get lean and toned like a fighter (without ever having to fight!).

When asked what their clients can look forward to for the New Year, Siham B. Elanmati, Manager said, ““Our 2017 iLoveKickboxing.com of Old Bridge resolution is to inspire

and help more community members achieve their health and fitness goals, self-confidence and ultimately change their lives for better while providing an awesome fun filled high energy family environment.

Our passionate instructors are engaging, funny, and encouraging, they are motivating and really care about our members’ goals and will do whatever it takes to help them achieve them.

Our classes are such a great workout and stress relief. “ 3. M a r t i a l A r t s If you want to implement a routine in order to enhance your overall wellbeing throughout new yea, martial arts would be the best option available out there for you to consider. In fact, martial art is something more exciting than a traditional workout session at the gym. It will give you the opportunity to enhance your fitness levels in a convenient manner. In the meantime, you will be able to lose weight

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and achieve your weight loss goals as well. Martial arts have the ability to deliver long term benefits. In other words, it can assist you to stay in shape and fit for the rest of your life.

Therefore, spending your time on martial arts can be considered as an excellent investment done towards the future. There are many local instructional classes in Old Bridge, a simple search on Google will populate a number Martial Arts schools.

These are few of the best forms of workouts that you can include to your New Year’s resolution. The benefits you get from them are totally worth the time and investment when compared to the effort you spend.

We want to hear from you, what is your New Year’s FITNESS resolution? Have you been to an gym or class in the area that has helped you meet your goals? Email us at editor@ allaroundob.com to share your story.

By: David Lee Hernandez Jr. Publisher

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OLD BRIDGE GIVES BACK

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

By Jared Aisenberg

The holiday season can be a time for many to be thankful for what they have and to cherish the gifts that they give and receive.

At Old Bridge High School, students who participate in clubs and activities contribute to this holiday feeling

by giving back not just to the community, but to places around the world.

One example of this is Operation Christmas Child, which was brought to the school by a Christian organization called Samaritan’s Purse.

The operation is run by the senior Peer Leaders, and those who volunteer their time and are active members in the school’s Red Cross Club.

Each participant is given a specially designed shoebox and is asked to fill the box up with non-perishable items such as little toys, toothpaste, and other every day amenities.

These boxes then get shipped to third world countries and are given to children who need these items.

“O p e r at i on C h r ist mas Child is probably one of my favorite things to do in the Red Cross,”

said Sophia Ruiz, president of Red Cross Club. “It warms my heart to give back to people who need things, and that is a big part of Red Cross.”

“It’s really amazing how we can all join together to help people in need,” said Carolyn Cogland, a peer leader.

“It feels great knowing that you are making a difference in someone’s life.”

The Chinese National Honor Society is planning on volunteering to do a road cleanup around the town.

Society members will clean up local streets where there may be garbage left behind from people who have littered.

“I think it is truly a smart thing to do,” said Kayla Tom, junior and member of the Chinese National Honor Society. “With the holidays fast approaching, doing a road cleanup is a perfect way to give back to Old Bridge.

NATURE TRAIL AND CLASSROOM

By Savannah Warner

The popularity of nature trails has increased, with many parks and even schools adding them to their facilities.

Old Bridge High School is now one of those many schools having its own nature trail and outdoor classroom.

The nature trail and classroom were originally created almost three years ago by the Environmental Club, but it is rapidly gaining popularity since renovations were made this past year.

“We just grabbed some clippers and started blazing a trail,” said Joel Goodman, teacher and adviser of the Environmental Club.

The outdoor classroom has been used by many educators, who want to teach outside the traditional classroom, including biology and cosmetology.

Robin Leccese, cosmetology teacher, recently chose to teach a class on color by utilizing the outdoor classroom when the leaves on the trees were changing.

“We are going to identify hair color by picking leaves and

looking at their color,” said Leccese.

Without the nature trail, this class would have had to look online for photos of leaves or just not do this lesson at all. Having the outdoor classroom allowed them to have the opportunity to compare the true colors of the leaves and outside to their lesson, dealing with hair color.

The main focus and original intent of the classroom and trail, though, was to help biology classes witness and observe what they are reading about, said Goodman.

“We plan on adding signs to make kids think about the environment and biology questions,” said Goodman.

Utilizing the trail gives students an excuse to have a change in their normal classroom environment and also allows for them to gain experience and knowledge

about something they normally just learn from looking at a textbook.

While textbooks may include the general knowledge the students need to know about in biology and nature, learning outside allows for students and teachers alike to apply that knowledge to real life.

On top of catering to these classes, Goodman said he also hopes that in the future, the nature trail and outdoor classroom can be accessible to those in wheelchairs. By doing this, Goodman said he would enhance what he has already created.

“We even have a couple of fundraisers in the works for a special outdoor wheelchair,” said Goodman.

Goodman said he was very surprised by the reaction of students when they first went out there. Many teens don’t go in the woods, so they were excited.

SPIRIT NIGHT

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Domino, the new HS Athletics Director stopped in to show his support and say a few words. The younger siblings were entertained by a face painter & DJ music. We provided 45 Pizza pies

Spirit Night from December 2nd. It was a great success. The children had a blast in the various challenges and the families had fun watching from the bleachers. Cheer Dream Xplosion’s founder talked about her organization and we took up a collection for them which we plan to match to thank them for swinging by & showing support. Mr.

COUPONS ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

ADVERTISE HERE! CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION 888-523-4331

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