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VOL 1, NO 8
SHOPPES AT OLD BRIDGE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS
OB RIDGE OLD BRIDGE
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Pursuing Progress
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Mayor's office of Economic Development
A Publication for the community of Old Bridge
BUGLER BRUCE WALKER HONORS VETERANS
Bruce Walker recently recalled attending the funeral of a fellow Old Bridge resident several years ago. The man being laid to rest was an Air Force veteran. As is custom at military funerals, the haunting melody of Taps was played. Unfortunately, according to
Walker, something wasn’t quite right. “It sounded so bad,” Walker remembered. “I looked at the guy (‘playing’ the bugle) and he wasn’t blowing. It was fake. It sounded like a kazoo.” The problem, Walker found out through doing some research, was
that the military could not provide a live bugler so the honor guard would use fake bugles with a recording device inside. In 2000 Congress passed legislation stating that at least two uniformed members of the military would attend the funeral of a veteran. The honor guard would fold and present the flag to family members, and one of them would sound Taps. The problem was, the military only had 500 buglers in its ranks that could play the song, which dates back to the Civil War. So recordings were used – sometimes with terrible results. “The battery on the device would die, or the recording would stop,” Walker says. “I saw a video online of a guy at a funeral and the device quits half way in. He couldn’t fix it and he couldn’t play and he had this look of horror on his face.” Inspired to do something, Walker Continued on page 10
FAMILY CONNECTION TO CANCER INSPIRES THOUGHTFUL GIFT The Shoppes at Old Bridge invites you to join our 10-year anniversary event on May 6, from 12-3pm where we will celebrate a decade of community, family, shopping, and dining! The Shoppes are thankful for support from the Old Bridge Township community, the retailers at The Shoppes and most importantly the amazing shoppers! The celebration will be filled with Continued on page 10
Michael D’Agnes, FACHE (right), president of Raritan Bay Medical Center, thanks incoming board chair, Time O’Brien (left) for his gift to support oncology at Raritan Bay-Old Bridge. Like many families, Tim O’Brien and his wife, Colleen, have been touched by cancer, and their desire to give back to Raritan Bay stems from their personal experience with the disease. So Tim, a long-time foundation board member and incoming board chair this year, Continued on page 21
LOCAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADES see page 16 MAY 2017
@a GLANCE INSIDE
AMBOY BANK OPENS IN CHEESEQUAKE AREA SEE PAGE 2 CULTURAL ARTS PAINT NIGHT SEE PAGE 16 SENIOR SUMMIT SEE PAGE 19 EVENING WITH CBS SPORTS ANCHOR SEE PAGE 19 RARITAN BAY DONORS RECOGINIZED SEE PAGE 21
MORE!
Mayors Message pg3 Think Old Bridge pg4 Old Bridge Library pg6 Living Stones pg12 In Memoriam pg14 Coupons pg23
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AMBOY BANK OPENS NEW BRANCH IN MATAWAN’S CHEESEQUAKE AREA
MAY 2017 Old Bridge Mayor, Owen Henry, assists Greg Scharpf, Senior Vice President of Amboy Bank, in cutting the ribbon, opening Amboy Bank’s new Cheesequake Branch located at 95 Matawan Road in Matawan. From left to right are Stephen Mamakas, Executive Officer of the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development, Greg Scharpf, Mayor Henry, Donna Ostrowski, Cheesequake Branch Manager, and Vincent Blasi, President of the Old Bridge Chamber of Commerce. “After 52 years in Laurence Harbor, we are pleased to be moving to a modern new branch and bring our innovative products and quality service to the people in the Matawan area,” said Scharpf. Founded in 1888, Amboy Bank, a full-service commercial bank with 23 offices in central New Jersey, prides itself on quality service and responsiveness. They have been voted “Best Bank in Central Jersey” for the past 19 years in a row.
A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR HENRY
Photo of Mayor Henry Memorial Day is the “unofficial” start of the summer and I am sure that all of our residents are looking forward to firing up the barbeques and marching in parades! We are also excited to celebrate and acknowledge all of our veterans and active military members in the Armed Forces. On Friday, May 27, 2017, we invite all our veterans, VFW Posts members and residents of Old Bridge to join us in the Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony. This annual event takes place at 10:30 a.m., in the George Bush Senior Center at the Old Bridge Municipal Complex, One Old Bridge Plaza. We begin the program by reflecting and remembering all veterans with a few words from our VFW Post Commanders. As Mayor, I will also read the Memorial Day Proclamation and the Old Bridge Seniors are happy to provide a medially of music which is sure to inspire. The ceremony concludes with the VFW members laying the Memorial Day Wreath by the memorial site.
The Memorial Day events continue on Monday, May 29, 2017, with our annual Memorial Day Parade which will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Memorial School, 11 Ely Avenue, Laurence Harbor. The parade will conclude with Memorial Day services at Memorial Park, which is located directly across the street from the Laurence Harbor Fire House. It is a wonderful community event for all our residents and families to enjoy. It is also a great opportunity to show your thanks and support for veterans and military personnel who have dedicated their lives for our country. If you or your organization or troop would like to march in the Memorial Day Parade, please contact Ms. Lisa Valsera at the Parks and Recreation Department at 732-721-5600 ext. 4010 or the Mayor’s Office at 732-721-5600 ext. 2040. Now that the warm weather is finally here, this is also a great time to enjoy all of the wonderful parks and programs the Township has to offer. The 2017 Summer Recreation Program Brochure is available and includes another exciting line up of classes, programs and events for residents of all ages. For complete details go to our website at oldbridge.com. I wish you all a safe and happy month of May Mayor Henry
COUNCIL UPDATE
By Christopher Marion, Business Administrator Township of Old Bridge on May 2, 2017. For additional information, residents should contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at (732) 721-5600 ext. 4999 or visit the Township Website at oldbridge.com. 3. 2014 HOMESTEAD REBATE PROGRAM. The 2014 Homestead Rebate will be applied to the second quarter tax payment due in May of Photo of Christopher R. Marion, 2017. Revised tax bills for qualified Business Administrator 1. INTERNATIONAL BUILDING homeowners were mailed out during SAFETY MONTH. May is Interna- the last week in March. For additional tional Building Safety Month and the information, residents should contact Township of Old Bridge understands the New Jersey Division of Taxation at and recognizes the need for safe and (888) 238-1233 or the Office of the Tax sustainable structures where we live, Collector at (732) 721-5600 ext. 2999. 4. SECOND QUARTER TAX PAYwork and play. The official International Code Council (ICC) Theme MENTS. The Township Division of for 2017 is: “Code Officials - Partners Tax Collection will be open Monday in Community Safety and Economic through Friday, between the hours Growth”. For additional information of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, during the on Building Safety Month, residents second quarter tax collection period. can visit the ICC Website at iccsafe.org. The tax office will also be open between 2. 2017 SUMMER RECREATION the hours of 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on PROGRAM BROCHURE. The 2017 May 6, 2017 and between the hours of Summer Recreation Program Bro- 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM on May 10, 2017. chure is now available and includes For additional information, residents another exciting line up of classes, should contact the Division of Tax programs and events for residents of Collection at (732) 721-5600 ext. 2999. all ages. Online registration begins
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THINK OLD BRIDGE by Economic Development Dept.
Photo of Steve Mamakas is the Executive Officer
The Mayor’s office of Economic Development reaches out to many, including our residents. We recently held a unique resume resource event at the Old Bridge Public Library to assist our residents find local job opportunities. Our office receives calls throughout the year from our local businesses, seeking local talent to fill positions for office workers, certified professionals, chefs and everything in-between. Our event was a great success as we had many residents, from Old Bridge and surrounding towns, attend the “resume drop-off ” inquiring about job opportunities, people looking to change careers and new retirees looking for work in Town. The event also offered the guidance and expert advice of representatives from the Middlesex County Department of Business Development and Education. The representatives met with each individual regarding their personal goals and shared with them the many free services the county provides to job seekers. Middlesex County Department of Business Development can be reached
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at 732 745-4588 or visit: www.co.middlesex.nj.us or text Workforce to 56512. We are constantly reaching out to all types of businesses. One of the most effective ways of doing this is to attend other Chamber of Commerce meetings and business meetings throughout the state and county, focusing on networking to attract others to Old Bridge. Working with other business groups and hosting our own Business Alliance events around town is a great opportunity to showcase our business community. The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development is dedicated to the success of Old Bridge; today, tomorrow and in the future. Please visit the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development to check out all the exciting happenings in Economic Development here in Old Bridge @ facebook.com\obetownedo or on Twitter @ twitter.com/obedonj
MAY 2017
THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTED BUSINESS IS EXCEL URGENT CARE LOCATED ON RT 516 IN BROWNTOWN.
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MAY 2017
WE’RE MORE THAN JUST BOOKS NEW MUSEUM PASSES AVAILABLE By: Nancy Cohen, Library Director
Photo of Nancy Cohen Library Director The Old Bridge Library’s Museum Pass program is very popular among our patrons and I’m pleased to announce that we have expanded the program to include two great instituTHURS. MAY 4TH 7PM: STAR WARS DAY SAT. MAY 6TH 11AM PODCASTING SUN. MAY 7TH 2:30PM INQUIRE SCIENCE: THE AMAZING HUMAN BODY
tions – the Newark Museum and the WheatonArts and Cultural Center. Patrons can reserve these free passes with their Old Bridge Library card. WheatonArts has earned regional, national and international recognition for its unique collections and programs. At the heart of the Center is the Museum of American Glass, housing the most comprehensive collection of glass produced in America. WheatonArts features special exhibitions, programs, workshops, performances and several weekend festivals, along with daily glass blowing and artist demonstrations. The center is open April-December, Tuesday-Sunday 10-5pm. It is located at 1501 Glasstown Road in Millville,
NJ, phone number: 856-825-6800. Additional information and schedules of events can be found at www.wheatonarts.org. The Library’s pass admits two adults and all children under 18. The Newark Museum is the state’s largest museum, featuring extensive collections of American art include works by Thomas Cole, John Singer Sargent, Frederick Church, Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Joseph and Frank Stella. The Museum is one of the most influential in the country, and its collections rank as the 12th largest in the nation, with nearly 300,000 objects representing American art, Decorative arts, the arts of Asia, Africa, Native America, ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, and the natural sciences. The museum is located at 49 Washing-
ton St., Newark, NJ; phone number: 973-596-6550. Hours are Wednesday-Sunday noon—5pm. Further information and details about exhibits and programs can be found at www. newarkmuseum.org. Two Library passes are available to patrons; each admits two adults and all children under 18. Our Museum Pass program also offers patrons free passes to the Intrepid in NYC, the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, Insectropolis in Toms River, the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, PA, the Morris Museum in Morristown, NJ and the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill, NJ. Discounts for Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, NJ, are also available by presenting your Library card on site. Since these passes are in high demand,
U P C O M I N G E V E N T S: M AY
SAT. MAY 13TH 2:30PM SECOND SATURDAY CONCERT: BLUE JERSEY BAND TUES. MAY 16TH 10:30AM SENSORY TIME FOR ADULTS
WED. MAY 17TH 7PM PARENTS GUIDE TO EARLY COLLEGE PLANNING FRI. MAY 19TH 11AM HOME SCHOOL BOOK CLUB TUES. MAY 23RD 7PM
I do recommend that you reserve them early; complete details about reserving and using the passes can be found on our web site: www.oldbridgelibrary.org. On another note, I’m happy to announce that the latest check-out technology is now available to our patrons. A self-check out station has been installed on the far right side of the circulation desk, where adults can quickly check out and renew books on their own. Books can also be checked out using a children’s library card, but an adult must be present. Right now DVDs, audiobooks and CDs must still be checked out by a staff member. So be sure to “check out” our self-check out next time you’re here!
CHILD BREAK DRUG PREVENTION WED. MAY 31ST 6:30PM MEDITATION WITH LEAH JUNE 1-8TH ALL DAY FRIENDS BOOK SALE
SPRAIN OR STRAIN? By: Vincent Santorelli
Photo of Vincent Santorelli Now that golf season is in “full swing”, it’s time to talk about how to stay healthy on the course. Jack Nicklaus once said “golf is 90% mental and 10% physical, yet that 10% is still enough to cause pain and dysfunction.” Okay maybe I added that last part, but the golf swing is so intricate that even the smallest biomechanical flaws can trigger injury. Tiger Woods has been the poster boy
for golf related injury most recently for his numerous lumbar spine surgeries. Additionally, how could we all forget when he won the US Open on a torn ACL and double stress fractures in his left knee and leg! While the torque from Wood’s incredibly powerful swing was enough to obliterate his lead leg, the average person’s swing probably wouldn’t do damage to that extent. It’s commonly assumed that someone would most frequently injure his or her shoulders while swinging a golf club. However, the majority of the golf swing comes from core rotation and the legs/ hips meaning that repeatedly subjecting your body to these movements with improper form can wreak havoc on your spine. A professional golfer’s swing can reach speeds of up to 130 mph, which puts an enormous amount of rotational stress on the lumbar spine. This causes lower back pain to be the number one golf related injury that we see. As a matter of fact, a recent study showed that 33% of PGA Tour golfers experienced play-related lower back pain to some degree within the last five years. If the core and smaller
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spinal stability muscles are not properly conditioned, the golf swing’s shearing forces can lead to considerable soft tissue damage. Bulging or herniated discs can leave you in considerable pain, and off of the golf course. The second most common golf related injury reported is elbow tendinitis (tennis/ golfer’s elbow). Forceful, repeated pronation and extension of the forearm and elbow are the culprit for elbow tendinitis. Weak musculature around the joint leads to improper biomechanics during the golf swing, which irritates the tendons and ligaments surrounding the elbow. We have also seen golfers complaining of rotator cuff/shoulder pain (mostly in the lead arm of the swing), as well as wrist and thumb pain. So how can this be prevented or dealt with? Keep up with your fitness and flexibility! It has been seen more and more recently on tour. The Pro’s are keying in on their physical fitness and wellness considerably and the results are paying off! Every top pro now pays heavy attention to their body in order to perform better and stay injury free. In no way am I suggesting to attempt
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to add twenty pounds of muscle, but hitting the gym or working with a physical therapist is a great example of how new school thinking on physical fitness can improve your game. Pro’s from the past would avoid the weight room like the plague, but the young guys prove it’s a necessity. Keep it simple. Try doing some body weight squats, planks, maybe even some light dead lifts, and stretch regularly. DON’T forget to warm up, it
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can literally be the difference between injury and enjoying your round. In our office, we use TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) exercises to help patients get back on the course as soon as possible (maybe even with an improved swing). Check out our “5 Best Game Saving Golf Exercises” on our website at www.njspineandwellness.com/blog
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MAY 2017
OPENING MINDS: OVERCOMING THE STIGMA OF MENTAL ILLNESS
By: Nanditha Krishnamsetty, M.D.
Photo of Nanditha Krishnamsetty, M.D. As we observe National Mental Health Month, it’s important to recognize that the fear of stigmas associated with mental health issues often stops people from seeking help and taking advantage of the many effective treatments available today. One in four U.S. adults will have a mental illness this year. That’s
25 percent of our population, making mental illness more common than most other diseases we often talk about. Stigma is when someone judges you based on a personal character trait. Unfortunately, this is a common experience for people who have a mental health condition. Stigma may be obvious and direct, such as someone making a derogatory remark about your mental illness or your treatment. Or it may be subtle, such as someone assuming you could be unstable, violent or dangerous because you have a mental illness. You may even judge yourself. Harmful effects of stigma may include discrimination at work or school, difficulty finding housing, bullying, physical violence or harassment, or lack of understanding by family, friends, and colleagues. Fortunately, there are many ways to deal with stigma. Get treatment. Don’t let the fear of being “labeled” with a mental illness prevent you from seeking help. Treatment can provide relief by identifying what’s wrong in concrete terms and reducing symptoms that inter-
fere with your work and personal life. Don’t let stigma create self-doubt and shame. You may have the mistaken belief that your condition is a sign of personal weakness, or that you should be able to control it without help. Seeking psychological counseling, educating yourself about your condition and connecting with others with mental illness can help you gain self-esteem and overcome destructive self-judgment. Don’t isolate yourself. Have the courage to open up to your spouse, family members, friends, clergy or other members of your community. Reach out to people you trust for the compassion, support and understanding. Don’t equate yourself with your illness. You are not an illness, so first and foremost, you are a person, not just a label. Instead of saying “I’m bipolar,” say “I have bipolar disorder.” Instead of calling yourself “a schizophrenic,” call yourself “a person with schizophrenia.” Don’t say you “are depressed.” Say you “have clinical depression.” Join a support group. Local and national groups, such as the National
Alliance on Mental Illness offer local programs and Internet resources that help reduce stigma by educating people with mental illness, their family members and the general public. Get help at school. Discrimination against students because of a mental health condition is against the law, and educators at primary, secondary and college levels are required to accommodate students the best they can. Talk to your child’s teachers and if a teacher doesn’t know about the student’s disability, it can lead to discrimination, obstacles to getting good education, and poor grades. Speak out against stigma. Express your opinions at events, in letters to the editor or on the Internet. Your positive actions can help instill courage in others facing similar challenges and educate the public about mental illness. Make a difference by encouraging individuals whose lives are being affected by mental health issues to seek treatment. People who have emotional disorders don’t have to suffer without help. It’s possible to mend the mind
volving motion, strength, coordination, visual tacking and balance to assess overall physical ability, take a medical history and ask detailed questions. Balance problems make it difficult for people to maintain stable and upright positions when standing, walking, and even sitting. The fear of falling is real and scary. It can begin to limit an older person’s mobility and simple daily activities such as walking, bathing and socializing. As a result, they may lose muscle strength and become frail. A person who has balance problems may also start to feel frustration and become depressed. Balance problems can be caused by various medical conditions as well as muscle weakness, poor vision or eye disease, joint stiffness, lack of activity or a sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, certain medications including some prescribed for depression and high blood pressure, and simple aging. Some balance disorders can be specifically caused by inner ear deficits. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is an exercise-based program designed to improve balance problems through central nervous system adaptation. To h e l p m a i n t a i n b a l a n c e , I recommend that people: • Keep moving. Avoid a sedentary
lifestyle. Perform a challenging physical activity every day. If you work out or follow a fitness program, keep it up! • Have ye arly ch e ckups for vision and hearing. Make sure your vision prescription is up-to-date. • Carefully manage chronic diseases like diabetes, whose long-term side effects can include balance problems. • Monitor your medications. Make note of any medications that you think may be affecting your sense of balance and talk to your physician. • Practice Tai Chi. Tai Chi is a deep meditation and slow fluid movement practice that can be very helpful to seniors facing balance difficulties. • Report any falls to your physician immediately. They will evaluate and address the possible causes. For more information, join me Tuesday, May 9, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., for a free balance screening, information on balance disorders and light refreshments at Raritan Bay Medical Center Perth Amboy. Registration is required, call 1-800-DOCTORS. Dr. Vicente Zapanta is an otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose & Throat specialist) and director of the Center for Balance at Raritan Bay Medical Center, a member of the Hackensack Meridian
Health family. The Center for Balance is designed specifically for anyone with dizziness, vertigo, difficulty judging distance, people with an increased risk of falling and anyone who has fallen once in the past year. The Center uses the most advanced tests to diagnose and treat balance or dizziness disorders. To make an appointment, call 732-324-5030.
KEEPING BALANCED IN LATER YEARS
by: Vicente Zapanta, M.D
Photo of Vicente Zapanta, M.D. Older people are at a higher risk of having balance problems; 75 percent of people in the U.S. over the age of 70 are diagnosed as having “abnormal” balance which can lead to falling. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in people older than 65 and the most common cause of injury visits to an emergency room for older adults. Many of these falls and injuries are caused by balance disorders that can be prevented. If an older person has experienced balance disorder symptoms including lightheadedness, dizziness or difficulty getting up or out of a chair, it is recommended to get an evaluation. During the evaluation, specially-trained physical therapists conduct a series of tests in-
ABOUT HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH
Hackensack Meridian Health is a leading not-for-profit health care organization that is the most comprehensive and truly integrated health care network in New Jersey, offering a complete range of medical services, innovative research and life-enhancing care. Hackensack Meridian Health comprises 13 hospitals, including two academic medical centers, two children’s hospitals and nine community hospitals, physician practices, more than 120 ambulatory care centers, surgery centers, home health services, long-term care and assisted living communities, ambulance services, lifesaving air medical transportation, fitness and wellness centers, rehabilitation centers, and urgent care and af-
through therapies and support services. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness. Psychiatrist Nanditha Krishnamsetty, M.D., is part of Bay Behavioral Health at Raritan Bay Medical Center Old Bridge, a member of the Hackensack Meridian Health family. The practice provides comprehensive assessment, counseling and, when necessary, medication management for children (age 8) through adults to achieve mind/body wellness. To make an appointment, call 732-360-4077. ter-hours centers. Hackensack Meridian Health has 28,000 team members, more than 6,000 physicians and is a distinguished leader in health care philanthropy, committed to the health and well-being of the communities it serves. The Network’s notable distinctions include having one of only five major academic medical centers in the nation to receive Healthgrades America’s 50 Best Hospitals Award for five or more consecutive years, the number one hospital in New Jersey as ranked by U.S. News and World Report, consistently achieving Magnet® recognition for nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, recipient of the John M. Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety and Quality from The Joint Commission and the National Quality Forum, a six-time recipient of Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For,” one of the “20 Best Workplaces in Health Care” in the nation, and the number one “Best Place to Work for Women.” Hackensack Meridian Health is a member of AllSpire Health Partners, an interstate consortium of leading health systems, to focus on the sharing of best practices in clinical care and achieving efficiencies. The hospitals of Hackensack Meridian Health include: academic medical centers - HackensackUMC in Hackensack, Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune; children’s hospitals - Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital in Hackensack, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital in Neptune; community hospitals - Ocean Medical Center in Brick, Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, HackensackUMC Mountainside in Montclair, Palisades Medical Center in North Bergen, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy, Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, Bayshore Community Hospital in Holmdel, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge, and HackensackUMC at Pascack Valley in Westwood
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BRUCE WALKER
SHOPPES AT OLD BRIDGE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS
Continued from page 1 music, performances, food, fashion, and plenty of family fun — something for everyone to enjoy! Look for exclusive, special offers and over $1,000 in amazing prizes and fabulous giveaways including gift cards and prize packages from State Theatre NJ, Six Flags Great Adventure, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and iPlay America. Be one of the first 200 customers to enjoy a complimentary treat from Betty’s Ice Box. Enjoy savory bites compliments of Bensi Italiano Ristorante and Salsarita’s Cantina, or even a baked treat from Panera! Support Old Bridge Animal Shelter by donating to help animals in need or better yet, adopt one of the few precious pets in attendance who are looking for their
forever home. Joining the festivities is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as they register people for The St. Jude’s Walk/Run To End Childhood Cancer. Stroll by all our retailer tables, like Plow &Hearth, Sweet & Sassy, and White House Black Market where samples, demos, and giveaways can be found. For the car enthusiasts, The Shoppes will have Classic cars on display. Crunch Fitness will be kicking things into high gear with an outdoor class for all to observe. The kids will be excited to enjoy face painting, balloons and the Playtime Game Arena mobile truck. We hope to see you and your family there! Come celebrate with The Shoppes!
Continued from page 1 did some more research and came across an organization called Bugles Across America. The non-profit was founded in 2000 by Chicago resident Tom Day, who played the bugle while serving in the Marines. “The mission of Bugles Across America is to have a live bugle player at ever y vetera n’s f u n e r a l ,” Day has said. Wa l k e r, t h e former chief of the Cheesequake Fire Dept., found BAA to be a perfect fit for him. “After leaving the fire department I needed something to do to keep me out of trouble,” Walker says with a laugh. “I played in my high school band, and I’ve been playing brass my whole life. “I thought it was a very worthy and needed cause. I thought I could do that, but I didn’t have a bugle so I went out and bought one.” That was in 2009 and in the years since Walker has played at 85 funerals and 155 other events. He’s sounded Taps at 9/11 memorial services, Veterans Day, Memorial Day and Pearl Harbor Day ceremonies. He’s even raised his bugle at Omaha Beach and in the cemeteries in Normandy, France, and Arlington, Virginia. “I’m also a member of four to five different fire department associations, and
I kind have a name now in the fire department as a bugler. So I’ll get requests to do their funerals or other services.” Walker, whose wife, Debbie, is a member of the Old Bridge Township Council, is quick to point out that being a member of BAA is strictly volunteer. “We’re totally free,” he says. “The family (of the veteran) pays
nothing, and we pay our own expenses. “The way we look at it, a veteran joined up to give his life for our country. This is the least we can do. We play from the heart. We might crack a note, but we finish what we start.” Taps consists of just 24 notes. “But it’s the hardest 24 notes I ever had to play,” says Walker. “When you’re with a funeral honor team you try to keep military decorum. That can be difficult depending on how emotional the family is. But you have to tough it out and remove yourself from the emotion of the day.” According to the Bugles Across America website, there are more
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than 7,500 buglers like Walker currently volunteering their services. Anyone can request a bugler through the site. Once a request is made it gets sent out via email to all the buglers within a 100-mile radius. Last month Walker received an award from the New Jersey Department of Military Affairs. He was one of four New Jersey buglers who were bestowed with the New Jersey Honor Guard Ribbon. The official recognition is nice, Walker points out, but it’s the personal connection he makes with the families that is far more gratifying. “I’ve met so many nice families,” he says. “People coming up afterward and thanking you. One woman said, ‘Oh, my father would have loved this.’ “One day I was at a cemetery waiting for the service to begin and I was talking to a son who was burying his dad. He was telling me his father was a World War II vet who served under Patton. His father met his wife when he liberated her from a concentration camp. That’s how they met!” Walker also says he knows of a couple of people who have it written in their wills that they want him to play Taps at their funeral. “That’s the real reward of doing this. I’ve always wanted to try and give something back – that’s why I became a firefighter. I never joined the service and I regret that. But at least now I’m doing this to honor our veterans.” Visit www.buglesacrossameri c a . o r g f o r m ore i n f or m at i o n
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HAPPILY EVER AFTER NEEDS FLEXIBILITY
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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
“You haven’t changed a bit!” “Neither have you.” Have you ever been in this conversation and feel that neither of you is telling the truth? Whether you have or not, perhaps you should look back at your high school yearbook. While looking through the yearbook you might find messages and wishes from your schoolmates suggesting that you will accomplish the things you want and live happily ever after. As life went on we faced problems and challenges that were totally unforeseen by us when we were eighteen years old, as well as heartbreaks and disappointment, not to say that we haven’t also achieved successes and overcome obstacles that were placed in our way or we created ourselves. The good and the bad experiences of life lead us to the decisions regarding our plans for the future years. Of course, we cannot predict the future now as we could not back then, but we
can provide for a plan that will allow us to achieve our goals. It may be that there will come a time when we cannot make decisions for ourselves. Part of our future plan must be who we trust to make those decisions for us. Once that person has been determined we should also decide how much discretion that person would have, especially where assets are involved and we would like to be kept in a lifestyle to which we are accustomed. Sometimes “the best laid plans” …just don’t work out. Today’s sophisticated estate planning can remedy a problem that was unanticipated when you made, what you thought were, final decisions. Many trusts include provisions for a “Trust Protector” (sometimes also referred to as a special co-trustee). A person serving in this capacity will be able to do things that your selected trustee cannot do. For example, the Trust Protector may
be able to amend your trust to take into account changes in tax law as well as unanticipated changes in beneficiary circumstances. In many previously executed revocable living trusts, the use of a Credit Shelter Trust or Family Trust was used to create estate tax savings on the passing of the surviving spouse. Sometimes the formula was based on the federal estate tax law and sometimes on the NJ (or other state) estate tax law which became very different over the last decades. In order to avoid restrictions, unnecessary complications, and perhaps unnecessary tax returns, a Trust Protector may eliminate the otherwise required use of this type of trust if it has outgrown its usefulness. Today even young parents should engage in early estate planning. This is important even when the future family needs may not be known. With the inclusion of a
Trust Protector, changes may be made in the future even if the parent who did this estate planning is unable to participate in the changes. None of us can predict our future but creating a strong estate plan can certainly ease the future for both themselves and their loved ones. Meeting with an experienced estate planning attorney can give you a push in the right direction. The information in this article is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney in person for legal advice regarding your individual situation
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
Our Free “Living Trusts and Wills” Seminar Schedule May COLTS NECK Colts Neck Inn Routes 34 and 537 Tuesday, May 9th 10am - 12noon
TOMS RIVER Ramada 2372 Route 9 Wednesday, May 10th 10am - 2noon
June MONROE Crowne Plaza Hotel 390 Forsgate Drive Thursday, May 11th 2pm - 4pm 7pm - 9pm
FREEHOLD Radisson Hotel 50 Gibson Place Wednesday, May 17th 10am - 12noon
EAST BRUNSWICK Days Hotel 195 Rte. 18 South Tuesday, June 13th 10am – 12 noon
To Register for a Seminar By phone: (732) 238-6000 • Online: www.levinefurman.com/seminars *Refreshments will be served at all seminars!
MONROE Crowne Plaza Monroe 390 Forsgate Drive Wednesday, June 14th 10am – 12noon
PRINCETON Westin Princeton 201 Village Boulevard Tuesday, June 15th 2pm – 4pm 7pm – 9pm
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LIVING STONES
THE MAKER OF ME: HONORING MOTHERS
By Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge Thomas Edison, one of the greatest inventors who ever lived, was a surprisingly poor student in school. At the age of seven, Edison had only spent a few months in a cramped one-room schoolhouse when his teachers felt that educating him in a school setting was of little use. Edison’s mother decided to homeschool the young inventor, who attributed much of his success to her
sacrifice and training. In fact, he later said, “My mother was the making of me. She was so true, so sure of me, and I felt I had someone to live for, someone I must not disappoint.” Edison went on to innovate the phonograph, the incandescent light bulb, the world’s first industrial research laboratory, and some of the world’s earliest motion picture cameras. Imagine the impact that this one mother had not only on her son, but also on all future generations, all over the globe. Oh that we would once again celebrate mothers, those unsung heroes, those incredible “makers of me.” Research proves the immeasurable value of mothering. Mothers are critical to the emotional, behavioral, intellectual, and social development of their children. For example, studies have found that young children spending more time away from their mothers tend to have greater levels of defiance, disobedience, and aggression, that leads to future criminal misconduct. Not surprisingly, these findings are consistent throughout all socioeconomic strata.
ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE Family expert Steve Biddulph sums it up this way, “It now appears that mother-baby interaction, in the first year especially, is the very foundation of human emotions and intelligence. In the most essential terms, love grows the brain. The capacities for what make us most human – empathy, co-operation, intimacy, the fine timing and sensitivity that makes a human being charismatic, loving, and self-assured – are passed from mother to baby, especially if that mother is herself possessed of these qualities, and supported and cared for, so that she can bring herself to enjoy and focus on the task.” History underscores the point. Mothers have for generations sacrificially given of themselves for the sake of their families. As early as the third century AD, early church f at h e r Joh n C h r y s o s tom s ai d, “Higher than a painter, sculptor, than all artists is he who is skilled in art of forming the soul of a child.” Perhaps the most famous mother of all time, Mary the mother of Jesus, epitomized this picture of sacrifice, laying aside her own youth, comforts, plans, and ultimately experiencing the greatest pain any mother can face – watching her own son die. Theodore
MAY 2017 Roosevelt described the picture of such sacrificial mothering perfectly, saying, “Mothers, and not churches or theological seminaries, make the faith of people.” In short, mothering matters. It always has. While it seems I am stating the obvious, the fact is, mothering has been marginalized in past decades. To some, having and raising children, and especially choosing to do so as a stay-at-home mom, is seen as a detriment to the progress of women in society. Perhaps no writer states this position more clearly than Amy Glass, in her article, “I Look Down On Young Women With Husbands And Kids And I’m Not Sorry.” She writes, “Do people really think that a stay at home mom is really on equal footing with a woman who works and takes care of herself? You will never have the time, energy, freedom, or mobility to be exceptional if you have a husband and kids.” While her position is extreme, the underlying sentiment seems to have traction in our culture. Many believe that the only true fulfillment for women lies in career and personal pursuits, and that mothering is the ultimate foil to such fulfillment. And yet, I return to the examples of Mary the mother of Jesus, Nancy Edison,
and countless others. Through their sacrifice, mothers change the very world as we know it. To quote the Arabic proverb, “The mother is a school; if she is well reared, you are sure to build a nation.” We celebrate Mother’s Day this month, and it bears remembering, motherhood is perhaps the single most influential, even revolutionary role in our culture. Women can be anything, but only women can be mothers. Having grown up without a mother but witnessing the tremendous sacrifices of my grandmother, who raised me and my three sisters after raising five daughters of her own, I can personally attest to the indescribable importance of motherhood in shaping the next generation. What great responsibility, what great influence, what great hope for our nation, when ALL mothers – single mothers, married mothers, grandmothers, step-mothers, adoptive mothers, foster mothers, mothers of children living or gone, and all other mothers – are once again celebrated and supported. Perhaps the best gift we can give mothers this Mother’s Day is in celebrating their lives, in encouraging fathers to practice true fatherhood, and in teaching children to once again duly honor mom, this very “maker of me.”
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MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY
Water Meter Reading is accomplished by the Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority through an Automated Meter Reading System. Each water meter is equipped with a transmitter that sends both account information and water meter reading through radio frequency waves, similar to EZPass technology, to a vehicle based receiver. The water meter reading can then be sent to our administrative office to generate your billing. The way it works is that your water meter consists of two devices. The one device is the actual water meter that measures your water usage as the water passes through it, the other device is
The benefits of this technology include: 1. Increased productivity of our workforce. 2. Reduced water meter reading costs. 3. Minimizes the need to access your property to read water meters. 4. Provides efficiencies in the billing which allows for improved customer service.
the transmitter which sends the water meter usage by means of radio frequency to an antenna on a vehicle that drives by your home. Inside the vehicle is a laptop computer that is attached to the antenna and receives the account and water meter reading for each home. This water meter reading is then downloaded and sent to the Administration Building for billing. This technology allows a water meter reading to be obtained without even entering your home. One third of the water meters within the Township are read each month. This monthly water meter reading is accomplished within three days. The
water meter reading continues in three cycles, with one third of the total water meters in the Township read on a rotating basis. At the end of three months, the water meters in the entire Township are read and billed to the customers. This bill also includes a flat fee charge per home for wastewater collection during the three months in each quarterly bill. Please check out our Facebook Page “Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority� to see a video describing this water meter reading technology as well as other topics that you might find helpful.
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FRANK C. FAGO
Frank C. Fago, 65, of Monroe Township passed away on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Newark, NJ, grew up in Edison and had graduated from Edison High School. Frank worked for Ford Motor Company in Edison for 13 years, JEFFREY A. MOLOMOLO
Jeffrey A. Molomolo, 47, of Old Bridge, NJ, passed away on Thursday April 13, 2017 at the St. Peters Hospit a l, Ne w Br unsw ick, NJ. B orn S eptemb er 11, 1969 in Manila Philippines before moving to the US by way of Irvington before CARL GILARDI
Carl Gilardi, 40, of Bradley Beach, passed away on April 15, 2017. Born in Queens, New York, he grew up in Marlboro, New Jersey on Ridge Road, and continued to maintain lifelong friendships with his neighborhood friends. He was a graduate of Marlboro High School in 1994 and went on to earn his Bachelors Degree in Accounting from Hodges University in Florida. He had recently developed a hobby in astronomy and had purchased a large
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IN MEMORIAM then started his own home improvement business which he did for over 30 years. Frank is survived by his wife, Lisa; two daughters Leslie Fago and her husband Chris Orlando, Ava Fago; a grandson, Luca; his mother, Annette Fago; three sisters MaryAnn Phillips and her husband Mike, LouAnn Fago, Lisa Bland and her husband Stephen; a brother, Michael Fago, and many nieces, nephews and friends. Family and friends gathered for a visitation to be on Monday, April 17, 2017 from 5PM-9PM at the Old Bridge Funeral Home 2350 Route 516, Old Bridge, NJ 08857. A Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, April 18, 2017 at 10 AM at Old Bridge Funeral Home.
settling in Old Bridge, NJ in 1985. Jeffrey enjoyed doing survival events, he enjoyed watching a good movie and the Syfy channel but most important to him was spending time with his family. He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. He w a s p r e d e c e a s e d by h i s fat her C hr istopher Molomolo. Surviving is his loving wife of 15 years Lisa, three sons Jared, Lucas and Tyler, and his mother Dominga Molomolo. Relatives and friends are gathered at Old Bridge Funeral Home on Tuesday April 18, 2017 from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jeffrey’s name to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, Ma 02241-7005. telescope to view the night sky. In his spare time he enjoyed surfing and the beach, playing golf and spending time at the dog park with his beloved dog, Doug. Carl was known for his sense of humor and made friends wherever he went. He was predeceased by his parents Carlos “Buddy” and Elizabeth Gilardi. He leaves behind a brother and sister-in-law Russell Gilardi and Andrea Barilli, and two nieces, Ava (8) and Tessa (4), of Hoboken, a sister Andrea Gilardi of Bayonne, and his beloved dog, Doug. Relatives and friends are invited to gathered for visitation on Friday, April 21, 2017 from 5 PM to 9 PM at Waitt Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 501 Highway 79, Morganville, New Jersey. A Funeral mass will took place on Saturday, April 22, 2017 at St. Gabriel Main Church To share stories photos or to post an online condolence please visit www.waittfh.com.
GARY ROBERT NEMSHICK Gary Robert Nemshick, 59, of Old Bridge, NJ, passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at the JFK Medical Center, Edison, NJ. Born November 10, 1957 to the late Raymond G. and Dorothy J. Nemshick in Passaic, NJ. Gary was a lifelong resident of Old Bridge, NJ. Gary attended Madison Twp. High School in Old Bridge NJ and went to Middlesex County College and received his Associates degree. From 1985-1995 he was a Sanitary inspector for Aberdeen Township. From 1995 to the present, Gary worked for the Mommouth County Regional Health Commission as a Registered Environmental Health Specialists. Gary was a member of the Old Bridge Democratic Organization for 31 years. He gave his heart and soul to the community to be a Democratic County Committee man. He was a lifetime member of the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh. He marched for years with them on St. Patrick’s Day at Belmar. He also was a member of the Polish Union of Wilkes Barre. Gary loved to travel with friends and family to Europe, Iceland, Australia and New Zealand where he first tried bungee jumping. He followed his niece and nephew to their school basketball and baseball games. Their college games took him to places all over Pa., N.Y., Florida and California. Gar y and his Mother enjoyed
sp e nd i ng t he i r spare time making ceramics. They loved traveling to many craft shows in N.J. to display and sell their wares. Gary was most proud of his ceramic angels and Christmas trees. C o oking and baking were his favorite passions. His appetizers like pork dumplings and artichoke dips were favorites. He was a master gardener who used 20% of his large backyard to grow vegetables and herbs which he used to make his unique bruschetta and many other veggie dishes. Gar y will always b e remembered for making ample amounts of Christmas cookies and distributing them to everyone he knew. He also loved making Polish dishes and baking poppy-seed and nut breads. Gary will truly be missed by all who knew him. He was a wonderful and loving son, brother, uncle, great uncle, friend and partner. We were all blessed to be in his life. Gary is survived by his brother Ron and wife Jan, a nephew Ryan and wife
Jessica Nemshick, children Ella and Evan; niece Erin and Greg Bishop, children, Cameron and Calisi. He also leaves behind his beloved dog Quincy. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the American Cancer Society.
To submit Obituaries email Editor@ AllaroundOB.com
PROTECTION
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: michael@vitaleinsurance.com Website: www.vitaleinsurance.com It is the word that drives the insurance industry. Life, Health, Auto, Home and other insurance markets protect people and their assets from unknown risks that life may throw at them. But when you receive your policy renewal notice, do you just stare at the amount due thinking “why do I keep paying for this?!”. Your logical side knows you need protection from certain risks,
ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE
but there are misconceptions in all insurance markets that create confusion among consumers...what is the real value of my insurance protection? Misconception #1 - “I cannot afford life insurance”. Did you know that 86% of consumers have not purchased life insurance protection because they think it is too expensive? Most people over-estimate the cost of life insurance so much so that they sometimes exclude it from their financial plan. No matter your budget, there is a life insurance policy that can provide sufficient protection for you and your loved ones. Although an individual’s age, health and budget are important factors, a licensed professional can assist in creating the right protection plan for you. Misconception #2 - “Life insurance is all the same, so it doesn’t matter where I purchase it”. Many people have been led to believe that the least expensive policy is best for their family, because all life insurance coverages are the same. Many life insurance policies can seem identical on the surface - they have the same term years, same face value, etc - but the actual benefits are usually very different. It may be as simple as
looking at the company offering the policy - have they been doing business since the 1800’s or since early 1990? Two 20-year term policies from different companies may appear to be the same with regards to years and death benefit amount, but to they both have the same types of beneficial riders or options included? Do both policies offer the flexibility to convert to a permanent life insurance policy at a later date? Chances are, the cheaper of the two doesn’t have those same features which can provide flexibility, access, and protection at times when you may need it most. When comparing policies, it is important to make sure that the policies - the ENTIRE policies - are exactly the same. Misconception #3 - “As long as I have the state-minimum for auto insurance coverage, I am protected from personal liability”. This can be a very costly misconception. In New Jersey, the state minimums for auto insurance are $15,000 bodily injury per person limit/$30,000 bodily injury limit per accident/$5,000 property damage limit. If claims are made in excess of these coverage amounts, the consumer will be on the hook for any excess. Any judgment or settlement obtained against him/her may loom over their heads
MAY 2017 for many years. It is best to consider what you stand to lose, should you be involved in a bad accident, and protect yourself for an amount that would protect the loss of those assets. Misconception #4 - “My auto policy has full coverage, so I am totally covered”. The phrase “full coverage” may be misleading when related to auto insurance. Many people use or hear this phrase and believe they are covered for any type of circumstance involving their vehicle. You may have “full coverage” limits for collision, comprehensive, and liability, but may be lacking in Personal Injury Protection or roadside assistance, so while a collision claim may be “fully” covered, you might be out of luck if stuck on the side of the road with a dead battery. Confirm the details of your policy and review exactly what is covered/protected. This will ensure that you get the help and satisfactory outcome when it is most important. Misconception #5 - “ The current real estate market value of my home should determine the coverage I need”. Basing your coverage decision on market value, may oftentimes lead to either under- or over-insuring your home. For instance, the market value of your home may be lower than the actual cost of replacing
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your home. The age of a house, or current market trends, may result in a lower “value”. If you insure your house based on that lower value, you may be saving money in your policy in the short term. However, if you find yourself in a situation where your home is to be replaced, the replacement cost may be higher, and cause you financial stress. Similarly, if your house has a higher market value than its replacement cost, you may find yourself overinsured...and overPAYING for your policy. Through collaborative discovery with a consumer, a licensed insurance professional can tailor your home owners replacement cost to meet your specific need and protect your biggest asset from a possible catastrophic loss. PROTECTION. Yes, it is the word that drives the insurance industry. As you and your licensed insurance professional create the most appropriate and beneficial coverage policies, and regularly review and adjust those policies based on changing needs, this word should also provide you comfort in knowing that you and your loved ones are...protected. Michael Vitale, Licensed Insurance Professional appointed to sell personal lines through Liberty Mutual Insurance.
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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE
THE OLD BRIDGE CULTURAL ARTS COMMITTEE Written By: Rosemarie Rivoli
The Old Bridge Cultural Arts Committee, in partnership with the Shoppes of Old Bridge, will be hosting a Mother’s Day painting event. Under the artistic direction of Heather MacFarlane and her team from Around the Corner Art Center. will be offering a special Mother/Child painting event on Sunday, May 21st at 12:00 noon. Children are encouraged to bring someone special in their life; whether it is their mother, grandmother, or special adult for some quality time together. They will be guided in creating a beautiful landscape of birds in tree branches. Once completed, the paintings may be hung side by
side or displayed separately in your own special place. Anyone admiring the finished product will assume the artist has had years of experience. No experience is necessary. Artists from ages 6 and up will have a great time learning how to simply start from a white canvas and end with a work of art! In order to avoid having any “starving artists”, the Cultural Arts Committee will be donating ice cream from Friendly’s in celebration of the day. The Shoppes of Old Bridge, located on Route 9, is an upscale center for shopping. They have opened their doors welcoming the Old Bridge Cultural Arts Committee and the residents of
Old Bridge for this special one-day event. Their generous donation of space is a wonderful example of how businesses play an important role in the enrichment of the community. To register visit: https:aroundthecornerartcenter.regfox.com/oldbridge-cultural-center-may-21. The event will be held in the store next to Bensi. The cost is $38 for the painting duo which Includes a canvas for both painters, supplies and the instructors. Seats are limited. If you have any questions, please contact us at culturalarts@oldbridge.com or 732-721-5600 x 2060. The Old Bridge Cultural Arts Committee, The Shoppes of Old Bridge and the staff of Around the Corner Art Center would like to wish all the ladies a Happy Mother’s Day .
LOCAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADES Old Bridge May 29th 9:00 AM starting at Laurence Parkway and Ely Ave Grand Marshall Capt. Angus Baptiste Matawan Memorial Day Parade May 28th 2:00 PM starting at St. Clements Church Ending : Memorial Park
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DID YOU KNOW?
ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE
New Horizons in Autism, Inc. was founded in 1980 by a group of concerned parents as a nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization to meet the critical need of providing community based support services for children and adults with autism and their families. New Horizons in Autism has grown to support over 400 individuals living
with autism through our residential programs, day habilitation programs, community integration programs, respite services and behavior therapy programs. Proceeds from our 1st Annual Rock N’Ride for Autism will assist in being able to continue to provide high quality programs for individuals with autism within their communities and
help t hes e indiv idu a ls maximize t heir indep endence and reach their fullest potential. The Old Bridge Elks will celebrate their 56th year of serving the Township of Old Bridge and continue a strong partnership with Township Administration, Board of Education, Camp Robin and Veteran organizations Elks
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invest in their communities through programs that help our children to grow-up healthy and drug-free, by sponsoring projects that address the communities’ needs and by sponsoring special children activities. Elks also honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans. Our future success as a fraternal organization depends
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on the community’s involvement and participation with the work of Elkdom. We welcome you to find out more about the Old Bridge Elks and consider becoming a member. After all Elks are the “BEST KEPT SECRET IN TOWN”.
ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE
OLD BRIDGE GIRLS SOCCER LEAGUE KICKS OFF
Photo of Sarah Rundbaken age 14 with her player Natalia Rosenstock age 7
O p e n i ng D ay was on April 1, all team members wore Blue for the S t a r t o f Wo r l d Autism Awareness Weekend, “Light it Up Blue” Day.
Photo of Hannah Jeremiah, age 12 with her new player Tommy Bligh, age 11
AN EVENING WITH CBS SPORTS ANCHOR STEVE OVERMYER
Temple Shalom hosts a fun, interactive night of New York sports talk with WCBS TV Emmy award winning sports anchor Steve Overmyer on May 16th starting at 7:30 pm. The evening will include the auctioning of sports and WCBS related items. Proceeds will go to charity. Tickets are $10 each for adults and $5 each for children. Temple Shalom is located at 5 Ayrmont Lane in Aberdeen. Contact Charles Wolfson at chaswolfson@gmail. com for additional information.
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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE REPRINTED FROM THE 2017 MERIDIAN HEALTH FOUNDATION DONOR REPORT. PHOTOS BY RICHARD TITUS.
FAMILY CONNECTION TO CANCER INSPIRES THOUGHTFUL GIFT
Continued from page 1 and Colleen recently made a generous commitment to oncology at Raritan Bay-Old Bridge. The O’Briens’ gift will help create a multi-disciplinary cancer suite in Old Bridge and bolster the hospital’s recruitment efforts for oncology surgeons who specialize in breast, colorectal and thoracic surgery.
“Cancer has personally affected my family, and this hospital has always been very near and dear to my heart. Colleen and I are proud to support Raritan Bay’s. effort to give cancer patients an opportunity to receive their treatment closer to home in Old Bridge.
We hope this will help to redue some of their stress during their cancer journey.” TIM O’BIEN, BOARD TRUSTEE
Of course, it goes without saying that Time and Colleen are incredibly generous. Tim is also selfless, volunteering his time not only to serve the hospital but also as an active volunteer in his community. He was instrumental in shaping the future of Raritan Bay, having chaired the strategic planning committee of the hospital board when we merged with Meridian Health, now Hackensack Meridian Heath. It is an honor and a privilege to work with him as we elevate Raritan Bay Medical Center to the next level of excellence.” -,MICHAEL
D’AGNES, FACHE, PRESIDENT OF RARITAN BAY MEDICAL CENTER L E AV I N G A L E G A C Y In addition to an outright gift to Raritan Bay, board member Tim O’Brien recently committed to a planned gift via a life insurance policy. In doing so, Tim will leave an additional financial legacy to the hospital that will continue to impact patients long after he is gone. To learn more about making a planned gift, contact Linda Hill at Linda.Hill@hackensackmeridian.org or (732) 324-5376.
PHYSICIANS JOIN TOGETHER TO SUPPORT RARITAN BAY
Andrew Citron, M.D., and Surender Grover, M.D., along with George Smith, M.D. (not pictured) are leading physician engagement at Raritan Bay.
WELCOME TO THE FAMILY
Drs. Surender Grover, Andy Citron and George Smith serve on Raritan Bay Foundation’s physician development committee and are working to engage their fellow physicians with the work of the foundation. To demonstrate their commitment in supporting philanthropy at Raritan Bay, each also recently pledged personal gifts. Fellow board trustees, Dr. Grover and Dr.Citron, chose to benefit surgical services at Raritan Bay. Dr.Smith, along with his wife and board trustee, Jessica Smith, made the first gift to support the new Emergency Department in Old Bridge. The trio are deeply invested in the success of Raritan Bay, and through their leadership example, we anticipate many more physicians to join them in making new gifts to the hospital.
Dom Cama is senior vice president and chief operating officer for Investors Bank, where he has worked since 2003. He is also a member of the board of directors
TIMOTHY O’BRIEN ASSUMES LEADERSHIP ROLE AT RARITAN BAY FOUNDATION Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation has appointed Timothy P. O’BRIEN CFP®, a s c h a i r. O’Brien is a Certified Financial
GIFT HELPS LAUNCH NEW PALLIATIVE CARE PROGRAM As a funeral director, David Hernandez often consoles grieving families mourning the loss of their loved ones. As a result, ensuring that all patients are offered comfort, compassion and dignity in their final days is very personally meaningful to him. Last year the new board trustee and his wife, Staceym committed a gift that launched Raritan Bay’s first formal palliative care program. Thanks to the Hernandez family, the new program has already begun treating patients and offering emotional support and guidance to help families through these difficult moments.
Stacey and David Hernandez, shown here with their children, made a gift to establish a palliative care program at Raritan Bay
for the Madison YMCA. He resides in Chatham with his wife, Wendy, who is a managing partner at Crowe Horwath and was named one of the fifty top businesswomen in New Jersey by NJBIZ in 2016.
Surender Grover, M . D. i s a board cert i f i e d o rthopedic surgeon affiliated with Raritan Bay Medical Center and JFK Medical Center. Surender is an
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“ Stacey works as a radiologic technologist as Jersey Shore University Medical Center, and I am thrilled to be joining Raritan Bay Foundation’s board this year. We really feel like we are a part of the Hackensack Meridian Health family, and making this gift was a very easy decision.” -DAVID LEE HERNANDEZ JR.
active member of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). He lives in Colonia with his wife, Sudha, who is founder and artistic director of an Indian dance school, Sudhamini Dance Academy, in Edison.
Planner™ with over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. Over the years, he has become actively involved in the community, with focus on health care and education, having served on the board of directors at Raritan Bay Medical Center and on the board of Raritan Bay Medical Venter Foundation. Timothy resides in Howell with his wife, colleen.
FUTURE FOCUS Raritan Bay-Old Bridge will soon offer robotic surgery to patients in need. In February 2017, the hospital acquired a da Vinci Ci Robotic Surgical System, which allows surgeons to operate using robotic arms that can make smaller incisions and achieve more range of motion than human hands. This new addition is the first step in creating a strong robotic surgery program at Raritan Bay. And that’s not all! The Old Bridge campus also recently received approval to build a new Emergency Department. This is a very exciting capital project, and we will continue to keep the community informed of the progress and how donations to the Giving Heals campaign can help.
David L ee Hernandez Jr. is the principal of Jersey Memorial Group, which operates three funeral homes in the area. He is the charter past president of the Kiwanis Club of Manalapan and a member
of the Old Bridge-SayrevilleSouth Amboy Chamber of Commerce, the Old Bride Business Al liance, t he Matawan Aberdeen Chamber and the Greater Spring Lake Chamber. David and his wife, Stacey, have two children, Sophia and David Lee III.
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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE
EGGSTRAVAGANZA PHOTOS LYME DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH 2017 Supported by the Lyme Disease Foundation, Lyme Disease Awareness Month is a campaign which promotes preventative measures which can be taken against Lyme disease. Lyme disease is an acute inflammatory disease caused by the bite of a tick infected with the bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi; Lyme disease is spread through the bite of ticks which carry Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium. In the United States there are two main species of tick which carry and spread Lyme disease. The deer tick or black legged tick(Ixodes scapularis) spreads the disease in the north central and eastern parts of the United States. The western black legged tick (Ixodes pacifus) spreads Lyme disease on the west (Pacific) coast. Both species of ticks are found in wooded areas. The life cycle of the Ixodes tick is complex. Symptoms There are two types of symptoms of Lyme Disease: first and late symptoms. First symptoms are usually flu-like and include fatigue, tiredness, joint
and muscle pain, and also a characteristic rash. Late symptoms can take much longer to develop: weeks, months or even years. Late symptoms may include fatigue, mental health issues, the condition arthritis and chronic encephalomyeltits. Chronic encephalomyeltits is a progressive condition (symptoms become worse or more widespread), and include back pain, bladder problems, vertigo and weakness in the legs. Late Lyme disease can also cause brain, joint, and heart infection. The Need For This Awareness Month In the United States over the last few years, there has been a steady increase in the number of reported cases of Lyme disease. Lyme Disease Awareness Month educates both the young and old about Lyme Disease and how they can take steps to prevent it. As both types of ticks which carry the Lyme disease virus live in wooded areas, people who visit these areas are encouraged to wear protective clothing around the ankles. White or light clothing is recommended as it is easier to spot any
MAY 2017 ticks. Shirts and T-shirts should be tucked into your pants (trousers), and socks pulled up over the bottom of the pants. Using an insect repellent can also help prevent the ticks from getting on to you. Pets should also be checked. Before returning inside it is recommended to do a tick check first. Tick Removal Lowers T h e R i s k O f Ly m e D i s e a s e Carrying a tick removal kit is advised as they can be used to effectively remove ticks from body reducing the risk of disease transmission. Often the disease is transmitted when a tick is not removed properly. The body breaks away with the head still buried in the skin; this causes the tick to regurgitate its contents into the persons body. ‘Do It Yourself ’ tick kits should include an insect repellant, a pair of fine tweezers, an antiseptic and small vial. Using the tweezers, remove the tick with the tips of the tweezers as close as possible to the skin around the ticks mouth parts. A gentle upward action is recommend by the Lyme Disease Foundation. By placing the tick in a vial with a blade of grass, the tick can be kept alive for testing.
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ADVERTISE HERE! CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION 888-523-4331
YMCA - MAY IS NATIONAL WATER SAFETY MONTH
Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children ages 5 to 14. With National Water Safety Month in May and summer around the corner, it’s a great time for parents to remember the importance of ensuring their children are equipped with essential water safety skills. The Old Bridge YMCA offers youth swim lessons year round towards reducing the risk of childhood drowning, instilling a lifelong love of swimming and educating children on safety around different water environments. Before letting your children hit the water this summer, the Y is offering these few tips to ensure it’s an enjoyable and safe experience. 1. Never swim alone. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty. 2. Supervise your children whenever they’re in water. Whether it’s bath
time or taking a dip in a pool or lake, make sure your children are within arm’s reach of you at all time. 3. Don’t engage in breath holding activities. Children shouldn’t hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can cause drowning and has several other severe physical side-effects. 4. Wear a Life Jacket: Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. 5. Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water. If a child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try to save them. Even if a child is a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling them underwater with them. The Y’s Safety Around Water program teaches the “reach, throw, don’t go”
concept of using a long object to reach for them and pull them to safety. By using these technique children can help their friend without compromising their own safety. 6. Enroll your children in water safety or swim lessons. Just like teaching your children to look both ways before they cross the street, having them participate in formal water safety lessons teaches them an important life skill. Learning how to swim also has multiple benefits beyond the ability to enjoy water safely. It helps children strive for physical achievement, promotes healthy living and builds their confidence. To find out how to enroll your child in the Old Bridge Y’s swim program, visit www.ymncanj.org.