AAOB February 2020

OB OLDBRIDGE ALL AROUND

OLD BRIDGE

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Pursuing Progress

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Mayor's office of Economic Development

VOL 5, NO 5

A Publication for the community of Old Bridge

OLD BRIDGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INDUCTS FIREFIGHTERS NEW PRESIDENT & 5 NEW MEMBERS plenty of networking prior to the DONATE commencement of the Candle Lighting Induction Ceremony.

GEAR AND Past President Russ Azzarello, of Denholtz Properties, said EQUIPMENT a few words about his time as president and passed the torch down to newly inducted Chamber TO 911 FUND President David Hernandez The Chamber of Commerce serving Old Bridge, Sayreville and South Amboy hosted its 2020 installation of Officers dinner on Jan. 14 at Cafe Luna in Old

Bridge, an event under written by All Around Old Bridge.

More than 50 local business owners and local officials enjoyed appetizers, drinks and

of Old Bridge Funeral Home.

New members of the Chamber include 1st Vice President Rich Bruno of The Max Challenge of Old Bridge, and Trustees Anthony Cosentino, Robert Baltidado of The Bridge FM, Mickey Gross of South Amboy Town Council and Nick Solazzo of Riverton Sayreville.

Continued on page 27

Old Bridge Mayor Owen Henry is proud to announce that registration is open for the 2nd Annual Health & Wellness 5K “Run for our Heroes” Race, which will be held on March 28, 2020, honoring our Hometown Heroes.

Last year’s inaugural run was a rousing success, with more than 500 participants. The 2019 event raised a substantial amount of money that stayed within the Old Bridge community to benefit veterans, active military, first responders and other programs in town for the good of the Township.

“I am looking forward to getting out there with the community again.

It was a great day seeing our residents cross the finish line awarding them ribbons,” said Mayor Henry.

“This 5K promotes healthy living and raises money for a good cause.

“I hope this year many more of our residents come out with their families to enjoy a fun time and support our community.”

This year all ages are able to participate with the Children’s Race from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. for kids from 5 to 10-years-old. The official 5K Race will kick off at 8:30 a.m., starting at the Township Municipal Building. During the event, there will be a Health & Continued on page 29

2ND ANNUAL HEALTH & WELLNESS 5K WILL BENEFIT HOMETOWN HEROES

On Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020, the Board of Fire Commissioners of District #3 in Old Bridge unanimously passed a resolution to have firefighting gear and equipment that was expired, unusable, or of no value to the District given to a non-profit organization that sends it overseas to fire departContinued on page 4

FEBRUARY 2020

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2020

HACKENSACK MERIDIAN RARITAN BAY MEDICAL CENTER RECEIVES DONATION FROM MIDDLESEX COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF CHIEFS OF POLICE

Photo Caption: Middlesex County Association Chiefs of Police gather with Thomas Shanahan, chief hospital executive, Raritan Bay Medical Center, William DiStanislao, VP operations, Raritan Bay Medical Center and Linda Hill, executive director, Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation.

Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center received $1,500 donation from the Middlesex County Association of Chiefs of Police.

Their annual donation will benefit patients and the community by enhancing patient care and services.

“On behalf of Raritan Bay Medical Center, we would like to thank the Middlesex County Association of Chiefs of Police for their generous donation,” said Thomas Shanahan, chief hospital executive, Raritan Bay Medical Center. “Their donation will go towards advancing care to our patients, families and guests.”

Middlesex County Association of Chiefs of Police president, Chief David Irizarry of Metuchen Borough added, “The Middlesex County Association of Chiefs of Police enthusiastically supports this important endeavor. The members of our Association can’t thank Raritan Bay Medical Center and its team

members enough for everything they do year in and year out.”

Gifts like this bring the Hackensack Meridian Health Meridian Health Foundation, to which the Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation belongs, one step closer to reaching its fundraising goal of $150 million as part of the organization’s Giving Heals campaign. The campaign supports four important initiatives: strengthening oncology services, improving clinical outcomes, enhancing the patient experience and broadening clinical research and academic programs.

Nearly $100 million has been raised

so far to benefit eight Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals, including Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel, Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital in Neptune, Ocean Medical Center in Brick, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge, Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank and Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin.

For more information from Raritan Bay Medical Center, ple as e v isit: w w w.rbmc.org

MAYOR’S MESSAGE To compete for the scholarship, the student must write an essay with the theme, “What My Municipal Government Does Best” and it must be approximately 500 words.

The deadline to submit the essay to the Mayor’s office is Monday, March 11, 2020. Once my office receives the essay, it will be judged by our committee and then forwarded to the League of Municipalities for their consideration. The 15 finalists will each be awarded finalist certificates. The three winners will each be awarded $1,000 by their mayor at a hometown ceremony.

For additional details, please call my office. Good luck to all participants!

Lastly, I am excited to announce that in March will be hosting the Township’s second annual 5K Race/Walk honoring our very own Hometown Heroes. Last year was a complete success; it being our inaugural run, we expected about Mayor Owen Henry a hundred people to participate, Dear Old Bridge Residents, though when all was said and done, It is already the second month we welcomed an amazing 500-plus of this brand new decade! Hoping participants. It was truly a testayou had a great start to the year. ment to how the Township always With each day, we stay a bit comes together for a great cause. brighter and before we know it Similar to last year, proceeds of we’ll be resetting our clocks for the race will benefit our hometown Daylight Savings time again. heroes, and we are hoping to exceed It’s always good to remember the our participant number from last things happening around town that year. This year’s race will be held are fun to do with the family even on Saturday, March 28, and will be when it’s cold outside. In addition followed by a Health & Wellness Fair to cheering on our local teams here at the Township Municipal Complex in town, check out Old Bridge’s John sponsored by many Old Bridge Piccolo Ice Arena. To plan parties businesses. This is a family outing and birthdays or simply to spend that everyone can participate in. I a fun afternoon hope you come with friends and “It’s always good to remember out to enjoy it. family, the rink the things happening around Registration is now open for town that are fun to do with the and informafamily even when it’s your enjoyment. tion for the 5K cold outside.”

For c omp l e t e Race/Walk is details and addion the website tional information, residents can a t w w w . o l d b r i d g e . c o m / visit www.oldbridge.com or contact events. I hope to see you there. the Department of Recreation at For more information on all 732-721-5600, extension 4010. of the items mentioned in this In addition, once again this month’s letter, please feel free to year I am excited to sponsor the contact my office at 732-721-5600, New Jersey League of Municipal- extension. 2040, with any quesities’ Future Municipal Leaders tions. Have a wonderful February!

Scholarship Competition for high school juniors and seniors planMayor Owen Henry ning to continue their education after graduation. The purpose of PLEASE NOTE: The Townthis scholarship is to advance the ship of Old Bridge will be closed virtues of elected and volunteer on Wednesday, February 12, in positions in municipal govern- observance of President Linment, while raising awareness of coln’s birthday and Monday, municipal government in general. February 17, for Presidents Day.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2020

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MESSAGE FROM NEW OBSSA CHAMBER PRESIDENT DAVID L. HERNANDEZ JR.

David L. Hernandez. Jr Welcome to a new year and a new chamber!

First, I want to take this moment to thank you, our members of the Old Bridge, Sayreville, and South Amboy Chamber of Commerce, for placing your trust in our officers, board, and organization.

We had a beautiful installation dinner donated by All Around Old Bridge and hosted at Café Luna on Jan. 14. I would like to thank all those that came out in support and participated in our evening.

We installed new officers, board members, as well as welcomed new

members. We are off to a great start!

We have many exciting events in works for 2020, including network opportunities and educational seminars coming throughout the year.

Some of the events will be network opportunities throughout our area such as Happy Hours, lunches and dinners, educational and workshop series related to topics to help you, your managers or employees run and grow your business, as well as our special events that help us raise funds for our annual scholarships to high school students in each town we support.

We will be hosting our first official gathering and educational series on Feb. 11, 2020 entitled, “Federal and State Tax Update,” designed to help you navigate some of the new laws with tips and Q&A from local experts. The event is at 6:30 p.m. at the Old Bridge YMCA, and will commence with networking, followed by a presentation given by local tax pro-

fessionals that could assist with both your personal and professional tax and accounting needs.

As you can see the chamber will have a number of opportunities for you to be engaged in your communities and meet local leaders, influential individuals, and potential customers. If it has been a while since you’ve attended one of our meetings, please reconsider joining us again and make us a part of your plans in 2020 and beyond. There are so many benefits to being part of the chamber, providing you with instant credibility in the community, showing you are socially responsible, and helping build connections with customers, colleagues and community.

Looking forward to serving you!

Sincerely, David L. Hernandez, Jr. President OBSSA Chamber of Commerce

FEBRUARY 2020

OLD BRIDGE FIREFIGHTERS DONATE GEAR AND EQUIPMENT TO 911 FUND Continued from page 1 ments that need it and can use it.

Less than one week later, on Jan. 20, the 911 Fund was in District #3 made the first of two pickups. The second pickup was made Jan. 21.

John “JB” Beslanovitz, a retired Chief and Chairman of the 911 Fund Donation Committee, was eager to get down to business. Boxes full of old turnout gear, helmets, hoods, flashlights, and even an old light bar, were loaded into the back of JB’s pickup truck and hauled off to the storage containers.

Rob Nunez, a Jersey City Firefighter and President of the 911 Fund, said that once the Fund has a large enough collection of equipment it will put it in shipping containers and send it off to Garin, Argentina. From there the much-needed equipment will be dispersed to fire departments throughout Argentina. “ This donation is phe-

n o m e n a l . It f e e l s l i k e w e hit the lotter y,” Nunez said.

To learn more about what the 911 Fund does or to make a donation please visit www.911fund.org.

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

LIBRARY TO OFFER SPECIAL MUSICAL PERFORMANCES IN FEBRUARY

By Michael Bobish Library Director

February may be the shortest month, but the Library’s calendar is jampacked with a w i d e v ar i e t y of special programming this month, including the following events: Library Director The fantastic Michael Bobish Ed G oldb erg and the Odessa Klezmer Band returns to the Library on Saturday, Feb, 8 at 2:30 p.m.

Pictured: Christine DeLeon

for our Second Saturday Concert Series. They’ll be performing the joyous dance music of Jewish folk musicians and I’m sure they’ll have you dancing in the aisles to an eclectic mix of Middle Eastern and Eastern European tunes. Please bring an unexpired, non-perishable donation for the Old Bridge Food Bank to this free concert.

On Saturday, Feb. 15 at 2 p.m. we’ll be hosting Song and Dance of the Roaring 20s. Step into our large meeting room where it’s the 1920s again and Ain’t We Got Fun! Singer Christine DeLeon will share the music of the “Jazz Age” when Vaudeville was the best show in town. Join us for interesting discussions about American culture and musical icons of the decade. DeLeon will entertain with treasured songs such as “Blue Skies,” “Button Up Your Overcoat,” “Five Foot Two Eyes of Blue” and the popular dance “The Charleston” and will make you smile as “the whole world smiles with you!”

We’re also pleased to offer two special programs in observance

of Black History Month. First, on Thursday, Feb. 13 at 7 p.m., we’ll present Jack Sherrod Lives! Historian Alvin Corbett shares the extraordinary life story and legacy of his ancestor Jack Sherrod as an enslaved person from North Carolina who was also a Civil War soldier and a free landowner. In 1865, at the age of 22, Sherrod fled his owner’s plantation and bravely volunteered in the United States Colored Troops (USCT). His courage to enlist and fight earned him the freedom he deser ved.

Then, on S u n d ay, Fe b.

23 at 2 p.m., we’ll sponsor a unique program entitled “African Americans and American Jews: Partners in Social Justice,

Spirituality & Song.” The Congregation Etz Chaim Cabaret Ensemble will use narrative and music to explore the enduring bond which exists between the African American and Jewish communities. The works of Marian Anderson, James Baldwin, Bob Dylan, Jesse Owens and Peter Yarrow will be featured in this inspirational musical program.

FEBRUARY 2020

Hope to see you in the Library!

Michael Bobish Library Director

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

SILVER LININGS PARTNERING WITH REFORMED CHURCH HOME TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT HEART DISEASE IN WOMEN

Anahita Feltz, Manager Silver Linings at Old Bridge

On the first Friday of every February, which is designated as American Heart Month, the nation comes together, igniting a wave of red from coast to coast. This annual groundswell unites millions of people for a common goal: the eradication of heart disease and stroke.

Go Red for Women is the American Heart Association’s national movement to end heart disease and stroke in women because it’s not just a man’s disease. In fact, more women than men die every year from heart disease and stroke.

The good news is that 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes.

This year, Silver Linings at Old Bridge is partnering with Reformed Church Home and Lares Home Care to help our members go RED for women’s heart health.

On Friday, Feb. 7, 2020, we are asking everyone to wear RED for women. We will be hosting events at the center throughout that day to promote this important day for our members. We will have a presentation on heart health and a special Zumba® class, along with informational materials and giveaways. We will also have a DJ and an Ice Cream Social to top off the day.

For more information on how to become a member of Silver Linings at Old Bridge (so that you can attend our Go RED for Women event and much more), please visit www.oldbridge.com/silverlinings.

FEBRUARY 2020

MADISON-OLD BRIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OFFERS UNIQUE LOOK INTO TOWNSHIP’S PAST For 50 years, the Madison-Old Bridge Township Historical Society has been preserving local history so people can journey back to when native Americans gathered along the shore for their summer festivals, or to when pirates sailed along the coast and buried their treasures on our beaches, or when our few roads swelled with militia on their way to reinforce Washington’s army in New York while signers of the Declaration of Independence lodged in local inns.

So how might one begin this fascinating journey? You can start by going on the Society’s website and reading the wonderful past articles in the Society’s newsletter Timepiece. If your interest is more recent history, you can listen and read the oral histories by residents who tell what life in Old Bridge was like a

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half-century or more ago. You can visit the Thomas Warne Museum on Route 516 across from Old Bridge High School for a treasure trove of artifacts from the twentieth century all the way back to before the first Europeans settled here.

Whether it is the annual Apple Festival, tea with Mrs. Lincoln, author talks, or other programs, there is always something going on. The Society is all about sharing information of our town’s past. We encourage you to come see what the Society has to offer, become a member, get involved. Whether you’re researching for school or just looking for a way to stem the winter boredom a trip to the Thomas Warne Museum could be beneficial.

For more information go to:www. thomas-warne-museum.com or info@thomas-warne-museum.com.

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2020

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

By Himanshu R. Shah, Business Administrator 1. CHRISTMAS TREE COLLECTION. The Department of Public Works began picking up Christmas trees in Wards 4, 5 & 6 during the week of January 6. Wards 1, 2 & 3 were picked up during the week of January 13. They picked up trees in all wards the week of January 27.

If your house is skipped, please email: publicworks@oldbridge.

2. FIRST QUARTER TAX PAYMENTS. The Township Division of Tax Collection will be open Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the first quarter tax collection period. The tax office will also be open between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, Himanshu R. Shah, Feb. 8, 2020 and between the hours Business Administrator of 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 10, 2020. For additional information, residents should contact the Division of Tax Collection at (732) 721-5600, extension 2999.

3. 2020 MUNICIPAL BUDGET. The State Division of Local Government Services has notified mu-

nicipalities that the Local Finance Board has modified the statutory dates for introduction and adoption of municipal budgets for Calendar Year 2020. The statutory date for the introduction and approval of the budget has been changed from Feb. 10, 2020 to March 30, 2020. The statutory date for budget adoption has been changed from March 20, 2020 to April 30, 2020. The Mayor’s proposed budget will be transmitted to Township Council in early February.

4. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS. Employees from the Department of Public Works competed in the New Jersey Intergovernmental Insurance Fund Annual Snowplow Rodeo (Snowplow Safety Training). Michael Martz took second place in the CDL division. This follows his first place win last year. Congratulations Mike!

5. AFFORDABALE HOMES FOR SALE. The Township consultants, CGP&H, markets affordable homes for sale to applicants on the waiting list, verifies buyer’s income, coor-

dinates with mortgage providers, prepares closing documents/deed restrictions, and attends closings.

One home has been sold in the last 12 months and they are working on selling another home. There are 5,069 applicants on the waiting list to purchase an affordable home in Old Bridge. CGP&H also administers the down payment assistance program, which provides the buyers of deed restricted units assistance with down payment and closing costs in the amount of up to $20,000 for very low-income applicants or $10,000 for low- and moderate-income applicants. CGP&H also monitors sales of affordable homes that are in foreclosure or bank owned.

6. HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM. The Township consultants, CGP&H, market the program, handles homeowner intake, and the case management from verification of income eligibilities through construction completion. As of Dec. 31, 2019, One hundred and seventy six (176)

homeowners have shown interest in the Old Bridge Home Improvement Program. Thirty seven (37) homeowners in total have submitted their formal applications, including 14 submitted in 2019. In 2019, three more cases completed construction, four more are under construction and three more are in the preconstruction phase. This brings a total of nine homes rehabbed to date with seven more in the process.

7. 2020 RECYCLING SCHEDULE. Residents can download or print the 2020 curbside pickup schedule directly from oldbridge. com/recycling. If you would like a schedule mailed to you, please email www.recycling@oldbridge.com or call (732) 721-5600, extension 6107.

OB OLD BRIDGE

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Pursuing Progress

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Mayor's office of Economic Development

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

THINK OLD BRIDGE

By Steve Mamakas, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office Some history about Old Bridge past before focusing on the p r e s e nt : O l d Bridge now consists of 41 s qu are m i l e s with a populaSteve tion of close to Mamakas 70,000 residents.

Economics and trade in Old Bridge goes far back, with the town once having several industries producing and supplying many different items to the market in the past. Among those products were apples, ciders and liquor products, fresh produce, fulling, scented tobaccos, fishing and a clay industry that made bricks and pottery.

Those products were supplied and shipped to many destinations from the docks located off of Steamboat Landing Road located

by Route 34 and Cottrell Road.

The location where the Pine Tavern is today operated in the

late 1800s as the Farmer’s Hotel and Restaurant, where merchants would stop in as they traveled to bring their merchandise to the Steamboat Landing docks to be loaded on ships headed to New York City and other destinations.

The Cottrell Farm and Homestead is a landmark in Old Bridge.

The Cottrell family once owned a 150-acre of apple orchard known as Apple Growers Inc. Distillery.

Apples were pressed into cider and distilled to brandy in large vats. The brandy would age in barrels in a government warehouse that was located on the Cottrell’s property. Many other farms across town still produce products for market.

Years ago, the fishing industry supplied blue and weak fish to the markets as well. The waterfront area of Laurence Harbor was one of the most popular vacation and tourist locations in the 1920s, featuring attractions such as Burlew’s Restaurant and Seidler’s Beach and Bath Houses. For many years, visitors

from northern New Jersey and New York City, including stars such as Clark Gable, Eddie Fisher and Guy Lombardo, would come to stay and visit the country club and the area.

The Old Bridge area once had many streams that were used to generate waterpower for mills as well, with the Warne family owning fulling mills. Fulling was used as a finishing process used on woolen cloth that would remove the dirt and grease and to compact the wool fibers. The mill is said to have been run behind the current location of Old Bridge High School and would flow east into the Matawan Creek. The mill also produced scented tobacco products that were used by men and women during that time period.

The Oswald Brick Works was a company that is said to have produced 84,000 bricks per day in the early 1900s. The clay soil in the area surrounding Old Bridge was used back then for pottery and bricks way before the first European settlers because fine clay surrounded Cheesequake Creek.

By the 1800s clay was a major industry. The clay deposits found

FEBRUARY 2020 along Cheesequake Creek are reported to be some of the finest stoneware clays in the United States. The clay supplied local potters as well as those in Hudson Valley, Norwalk, Conn., other New England states, and parts of Canada.

The other major economic driver back then was the Runyon Coal Yards, which was said to be located in the deep run area of town. That is the area where the new warehouse is located on Waterworks Road.

Railroad cars were used to transport the coal to the docks at Steamboat Landing to be loaded onto barges.

This bring us full circle to the economic grow of today. Just as in years past the new warehouse handles the same function of products delivered into Old Bridge and distributed to the retail market, and the town is now being identified by many companies as a new industry commerce hub area in the center of the state, one located in close proximity to the ports.

All of this is a clear example why the Amazon H2Q proposal was drafted and submitted, providing a demographic snapshot and a view of the current value, economic growth

and vitality Old Bridge is now experiencing. The proposal highlighted the positive attributes the area has to offer for many industries.

Even today across the town there are light industry companies as there were years ago producing a wide range of products and items such as surgical grade components that service the hospitality, aerospace and medical industries. As we continue to showcase and grow the business base in Old Bridge, we now refer to Old Bridge as a town with a Historic Future and as the Mayor’s Office of Economic Developments logo states we are always “Pursuing Progress.”

This month’s featured business

The Old Bridge Diner 1146 Englishtown Rd Old Bridge, N.J. 08857

DR. ANTHONY DELUCA INVITED TO SUPPORT MEDICAL NEEDS OF OLYMPIC HOPEFULS FOR THIRD TIME Old Bridge, NJ Chiropractor to Attend Olympic & Paralympic Training Center in Lake Placid, N.Y. from March 24th to the 31st Dr. Anthony J. DeLuca, director of DeLuca Family Chiropractic in Old Bridge, New Jersey, has been invited for the third time to treat the medical needs of Olympic hopefuls attending an official United States Olympic Committee (USOC) training facility. From March 24th to the 31st, Dr, DeLuca will work with hundreds of aspiring athletes participating in activities ranging from figure skating, hockey and speedskating to archery, boxing and gymnastics at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center (OTPC) in Lake Placid, N.Y. Since its founding in 1982, the OTPC has dedicated its facility and services to helping thousands from around the world to reach their Olympic and Paralympic dreams.

“It’s an honor to once again support the medical needs of athletes training at an USOC facility,” says DeLuca. “These are the best of athletes with the highest of dreams. Their dedication is unbounded and backed by years of training. But even seemingly minor injuries can make all the difference between a devastating defeat and the glory that comes with winning a medal on an international stage.

“That’s why it’s such an honor to gain their trust. In an office setting, you often have the time to pre-screen patients, while getting to know their histories. But here, you have to be on your toes at every moment. You never know the help they’ll need on the spot or in the field. Diagnoses have to be right the first time. There’s no time

for second guessing. This is both the challenge and reward of working at such a frenetic venue. And an experience that translates into even greater care for all my local patients.”

A Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician and personal fitness trainer, DeLuca has attended to the chiropractic needs of individuals ranging from weekend warriors to future Olympians since he founded DeLuca Family Chiropractic in 1989. His upcoming efforts at the OTCP marks his third invitation to an USOC training facility, which in recent years included treating the on-and off-field injuries of Olympic hopefuls participating in activities at the U.S. Olympic Training Centers in Chula Vista, California and Colorado Springs, Colorado.

In addition to these activities, Dr. DeLuca was one of 24 elite chiropractors chosen by the International Federation of Sports Chiropractic (FICS) to attend to the medical needs of 3,000 international athletes participating in the 2019 CSIT World Sports Games held in Tortosa, Spain. He was also on the medical staffs supporting athletes participating in the 4th International Workers and Amateurs in Sports Confederation (CSIT) World Sports Games in Lignano, Italy; Great Britain team competing in the 2012 World Figure Skating Championships held in Nice, France; and 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico. Other activities include serving as the team doctor for the Great Britain and Republic of Georgia ice

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dancing teams competing in the 2010 and 2009 World Figure Skating Championships; the Israeli team competing at the 2007 World Skating Championships; and the Great Britain team entered in Skate America 2006.

“The opportunity to continually grow and learn in such a trying setting is a truly worthy challenge,” adds DeLuca. “Each day is an adventure that pays dividends. It provides the ability to not only learn from other medical professionals and extend my own chiropractic skills, but also to better aid the individuals who come to our offices everyday with their own injuries and physical problems.”

A certified Chiropractic Sports Physician, DeLuca holds a Doctorate Degree in Chiropractic from Sherman College in Spartanburg, South Carolina and is a graduate of the Eastern School of Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine in Montclair, NJ. He is also an active member of the American College of Sports Medicine, International Federation of Sports Chiropractic, American Chiropractic Association, American Chiropractic Association Sports Council, Association of New Jersey Chiropractors, National Strength and Conditioning Association, and American Fitness and Athletic Association.

For more information on DeLuca Family Chiropractic or to arrange a consultation please call 732-679-2414 or visit www.dfccares.com.

10 VIII and Anne Boleyn (a LIVING STONES Henry love that ended with a beheading) A REAL LIFE LOVE STORY

By Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge Heart shaped boxes of candy line the shelves of local drugstores. Commercials promise that a “diamond is forever.” Magazines proclaim the mantra of a “me” generation in, “Love Yourself.” Valentine’s Day is this month and you probably expect me to write about love and I will, but it may not be what you are expecting.

When you google “great love stories” you get: Romeo & Juliet, Helen of Troy and her lover Paris,

and other tales of love and loss. I won’t bore you with a story of lovers reconnecting and living happily ever after. These offerings from Hollywood tug at the the heart strings but can’t capture the depth of real love that this pastor feels compelled to address from the pages of the Bible.

The greatest love story ever told is found in the Bible. Man and woman created in perfection and placed in a garden of exquisite beauty to enjoy their creator God; but enticed by a clever lie they broke the connection to the creator of life and were expelled from His presence unto millenniums of pain and sorrow.

With love so profound and sacrificial, the very Son of God offered himself to death for the hateful, murderous and selfish descendants of this couple. This true love story of Jesus and what He did for us two thousand years ago doesn’t end there. That’s a new beginning and I want to tell you how this story ends.

Almost one- third of the Bible is prophecy and this unique signature verifies the message has come from the creator, who dwells outside of

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE time and space. He can describe future events as easily as He can record the past. And He has shown us a picture of what it will be like as we get close to the end of the story.

In fact, many wonder how close we may be to this love story’s climax.

Have you noticed that just a few weeks into 2020 there have been earthquakes in Puerto Rico, Mexico and Indonesia, historic fires decimating Australia, volcanic eruptions in Peru, Mexico, Ecuador, Guatemala and the Philippines? There is intense political angst in the Middle East and the political climate of the world has deteriorated into near revolution, even in our nation. You may think it’s not unusual or that we’ve always experienced these things. But why is everything happening so frequently and intensely?

The Bible predicts the story will end with a cleansing of this old earth, before a glorious and joyous new world comes. In the book of Matthew, Jesus tells his disciples what’s to come: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the

FEBRUARY 2020 beginning of sorrows.” The word for sorrows is labor pangs, as a pregnant woman experiences as the birth of her child nears. Many who read the Bible wonder if we’re seeing these “birth pangs” as we observe global intensity of geopolitical tensions, chaos and catastrophes.

Some feel it’s too vague to tell for certain, but one clear geopolitical item many have observed is the return of the Jewish people to a reestablished nation of Israel; and the transformation of a once deserted, swamp-filled wasteland into a productive and beautiful land. This biblical prophecy was ignored and mocked for centuries until actualized in our generation, even as predicted among the hatred of nations.

Many betting the Bible is just a collection of stories should know that it’s predicted that in the latter days, Jerusalem would rise to be a huge concern for the whole world and as unbelievable as this 2400-yearold prophecy was, here we are.

No one knows how long it will take, but we know there is new birth coming. If you think talk of our nation or the world ending is exaggeration consider former world

empires such as Babylon, Egypt, Greece, Rome? Where are they now?

They are ruins we visit on vacation.

As frightening as it seems, this love story ends with ultimate joy. Jesus first came sacrificially and will return with authority to judge this world and create what was meant to be.

And God has shown incredible patience, sending out ambassadors with terms of peace offering the gospel to this rebellious world for two thousand years.

But time will come when He’ll call his ambassadors home and those who’ve rejected the gospel (his gracious offer of life through his Son’s sacrifice) will be punished and removed. Then the wonderful love story will continue forever.

If you wish you could foresee the future, pick up the Bible and read what it says. There’s not some esoteric coded language to figure out. God says it happened and it happened. Bible prophecy is being fulfilled in our generation.

And the way to be on the right side of history is to trust in Him. John 14:16 –“I am the way the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

Editor’s Note: Matthew Mangam is a sophomore at Old Bridge High School. He is a regular contributor to Knight Life, the school newspaper.

OBH S B OYS’ T R AC K T E A M LO OKS TO BUILD MOMENTUM WITH SIGHTS SET ON CONF E R E N C E A N D S TAT E R E L AYS

B Y

M AT T H EW

M A N G A M

The Old Bridge Boys’ Varsity Indoor Track team competed at the State Relays in Toms River, finishing in sixth place with 16 points. Dom Rosiak, a senior, finished in first place in the sprint medley and third in the distance medley.

“I think I did pretty well. I put in a great effort and fought hard,” said Rosiak. “I believe I can yield even better results next time if I am more explosive and aggressive off the line. I think everyone put in a great effort. I want to win GMCs (Greater Middlesex Conference) and go to indoor and outdoor Nationals.”

Old Bridge is also the Group IV State Relays Sprint Medley Champions and finished third in the Group IV State Relays Distance Medley.

Brian Huang, a senior, took third in the distance medley and seventh in the 4x8 race.

“I’m happy that we placed and got points from the DMR (distance medley race) but in the 4x8 we were one second off of placing,” said Huang. “We’ll take the wins

OLD BRIDGE SPORTS PAGE

as they come and prepare and work hard for the next meet to beat the other teams ahead of us. We can improve by running faster, harder, and smarter because we are capable of going faster and having a breakout. We just have to work hard at it.”

Charles Harvey, a senior who took third in the distance medley, feels the team is far from done. He said he thinks the team has a lot more to prove in the future.

“We can all improve our aggressiveness off the starting line,” said Harvey. “We work hard, work smart, and work together. Next time I want to be smoother during the final lap because smooth is fast, as coach (Jack Campbell) says. We want to get a Distance Medley runner to nationals.”

According to Rosiak, Campbell’s goals are to win GMCs, become Group IV champions and keep improving the team’s speed and strength, including the younger athletes because of their high potential.

“I will become better by pushing myself even when I don’t want to and keep working hard in the weight room,” said Rosiak. “I want to become more explosive with my start and achieve my personal goals, which are becoming faster in general, but manly hitting :49 (seconds) outdoors and :50 indoors for the 400 and around :22 for the 200.”

Editor’s Note: Casee Sansevere is a junior at Old Bridge High School, where she is a feature editor and contributor to Knight Life, the school newspaper.

OBHS GIRLS’ SWIMMING T E A M F I N I SH E S U N DE F E AT E D W H I L E E A R N I NG F I R ST R E D DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

BY CASEE SANSEVERE The Old Bridge High School Girls’ Varsity Swim team has made Old Bridge history as a first-time Red Division champion.

The team defeated East Brunswick 96-74.

The Knights completed an undefeated regular season with a win against Sayreville, taking the girls to the Red Division championships with the victory. They are the first OBHS girls’ team to go undefeated.

At the Greater Middlesex Conference (GMC) competition, sophomores Niyati Saravanakumar and Lia Vendel competed in the 200-meter swim, along with freshmen Hannah Kretkoski and Ashley Chui.

Sophomore Lili Shay earned first place in the 200-meter individual medley swim while Chui captured first place in the 100meter butterfly, with Vendel winning the 500-meter freestyle and Saravanakumar taking first place in the 100-meter backstroke.

“The strong suit of our season has definitely been our desire to win. I think we

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deserve this more than anything. We all swam our hearts out and left everything in the pool,” said junior Cassidy Mulligan, who swims on the varsity squad for the school and trains competitively on her own time.

“The strength of the wolf is in the pack. None of us could have won without each other and our team is really a family,” said junior Jessica Guarrera. “It’s a very humbling feeling to have won this title, and we’re super grateful to have had this awesome experience. We were truly in it to win it.”

Already eager for the 2021 season, the girls have made plans to improve.

“I think, as a team, we can do even more bonding since it went really well this year,” said Mulligan, with her teammates agreeing better attendance can only make them stronger.

The boys’ varsity swim team ended its season with a 1-6 overall re c ord , b e at i n g S ay re v i l l e 9 4 - 7 6 .

At the East Brunswick meet on Jan. 16, senior John Neilson took first in the 200meter freestyle with a 2:01.10 time, and first in the 500-meter freestyle with a 5:25.07 time. Karim Elithy, senior, also took first in the 50-meter freestyle with a 23.790 time. a 9.6; fourth in beam with a 9.325; and sixth all around with a 37.075.

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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

SOUTH OLD BRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER OF THE MONTH

FEBRUARY 2020

SOUTH OLD BRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY TIP OF THE MONTH:

The South Old Bridge Volunteer Fire Department wants to remind you and all your loved ones to stay safe this winter, be keeping anything that can burn at least three-feet from beating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater. And remember, to always unplug space heaters when leaving the room or going to sleep. Stay warm, and safe this season.

Pictured is South Old Bridge Volunteer firefighter Corey Stockert. Corey responds out of Engine One, which is one of the two firehouses located on Englishtown Road.

He has been a member with the department for a little over three years and makes time for his community while also balancing a full-time job working for Old Bridge Township. However, Corey and everyone at the South Old Bridge Fire Department can always use more help and are always looking for more volunteers to join. If interested, you can visit our website at sobfd.com or email vpresident@sobfd.com.

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OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP WELCOMES NEW POLICE OFFICERS

Mayor Owen Henry, Business Administrator, Himanshu Shah, Police Chief, William Volkert, and Township Clerk, Stella Ward proudly swore in three new police officers to the Township of Old Bridge Police Department last week. Jeffrey Karabin, Thomas Pena and Andrew Annuzzi joined the Department in a ceremony in front of friends and family.

Mr. Jeffrey Karabin, of Port Reading, has a military background and served as a Combat Engineer in the United States Army, where he was honorably discharged.

Mr. Thomas Pena, of Colonia,

completed his Masters Degree in Criminal Justice from Rutgers University, and Mr. Annuzzi, of Matawan, graduated from Ramapo College and New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science Degree. All three gentlemen are very excited to be here in Old Bridge to begin their careers in law enforcement.

“These men are great additions to our Township and I am delighted to have them on board,” said Mayor Owen Henry. “I’m sure they will work hard for the benefit of our community.”

All three officers will complete their training at the Cape May Police

Academy over the next few months now that they have been sworn in.

For more information on this press release, please contact 732-721-5600 x2040

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OLD BRIDGE SCHOOL DISTRICT KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION SET FOR FEBRUARY Old Bridge Township Public School’s kindergarten registration for the 2020-2021 school year will be held during the month of February.

Please contact your neighborhood school for an appointment date and time. You must pre-register on the district website, www.oldbridgeadmin.org, prior to your scheduled appointment.

To be eligible for kindergarten registration, your child must be five (5) years old on or before Oct. 1, 2020. Evening registration will be by appointment only on Wednesday, Feb. 12, from 6 p.m.

to 9 p.m. for two-working, parent families and single parent families.

You may access all the necessary information and documents for registration on the district website www.oldbridgeadmin. org by clicking on 2020/2021 K i n d e r g a r t e n R e g i s t r at i o n Beginning March 1, all appointments for registrations will take place at Central Administration, located in the Patrick Torre Administration Building, 4207 Route 516, Matawan.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Central Administration at 732-290-3967.

EARLY DETECTION NEEDED TO OVERCOME FELINE SADDLE THROMBOSIS

By Anita Greenberg, DVM

Dr. Anita Greenberg and her husband, Dr. Daniel Belli, are the owners and operators of the East Brunswick Animal Hospital for 30 years. Dr. Greenberg has been a member of the Old Bridge Township Council since 2016

Every cat owner’s worse nightmare is a diagnosis of Feline Aortic Thromboembolism (FATE), commonly known as saddle thrombosis.

Saddle thrombosis is a life-threatening condition which occurs when a blood clot originates in the cat’s left ventricle of the heart, travels down the abdominal aorta, and becomes lodged at the junction of the iliac arteries of the hind legs, which in turn blocks blood flow to the hind limbs.

Saddle thrombosis is devastating, and there is no warning.

The majority of cases are caused by an underlying heart condition (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy), and many times it goes undetected. Hyperthyroidism and cancer can also cause blood clots.

Saddle thrombosis can develop in cats of any age or breed.

Once the clot is lodged, blood can no longer pass and the tissue in the legs are no longer receiving adequate

oxygen. Affected cats are in extreme pain; they are distressed and will scream and howl. Most cats present with paralysis of their hind legs and are dragging their hind limbs.

There is only a faint pulse present in the hind legs, and the hind limbs are cold to the touch and are pale.

The cats are in extreme pain and need emergency medical treatment.

Pain medicine should be administered immediately. The cat should be stabilized and put in an oxygen cage and treated for the under-lying heart condition. Anticoagulant therapy, heparin or aspirin, is administered to thin the blood and stop additional clots from forming.

Sometimes the only way underlying heart disease can be detected is by performing a cardiac ultrasound.

Saddle thrombosis is one of the most devastating conditions that can strike a pet lover’s cat.

It is extremely unexpected, very

distressing and rarely ends well.

At this time of year, before the spring breeding season begins, we should be thinking about having the stray outdoor cats spayed and neutered to prevent an explosion in the kitten population.

If you are feeding stray cats please be advised the most humane thing to do is to trap them and have them spayed, neutered and vaccinated. It is easier to manage a few cats instead of hundreds of cats.

Please contact Karen Chen at the Old Bridge Animal Shelter to learn more about the Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate Release Program. Volunteer and get involved to solve the overpopulation problem.

Please consider donating to SAVE ALL STRAY CATS, INC., P.O. B ox 5303, Old Bridge, New Jersey, 08857. Thank You! Wishing you a he ar tfelt Happy Valentine’s Day!

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VITAMIN D CRUCIAL FOR MAINTAINING BONE HEALTH THIS WINTER ACCORDING TO DR. MERMITCHELL STROH Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Mitchell Stroh, D.O., orthopedic surgeon at Raritan Bay Medical Center, discusses reasons children need vitamin D supplements in the winter.

During the winter months, it may be difficult for kids to get the proper exposure necessary to maintain healthy levels.

Vitamin D is crucial for maintaining bone health, as it is needed to help the body absorb calcium.

“It’s important to remember the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, which could include general body aches and fatigue,” said Stroh, D.O., an orthopedic surgeon fellowship-trained in sports medicine.

In order to counteract this, Dr. Stroh recommends supplements for people of all ages, but especially for children. Vitamin D de-

ficiency in children is a serious problem and can lead to a variety of health concerns. Kids under the age of two can develop bone-softening diseases, such as rickets.

For older children and teens, lack of vitamin D can lead to an increased frequency in bone fractures.

Infants under the age of one should receive a daily dose of 400 international units (IU) of vitamin D. If the child is being breastfed, he or she will need supplement drops. If the child is formula-fed, 32 ounces of formula per day is needed to ensure proper vitamin D levels.

Adolescents, teens and adults should take a daily supplement of 600 IU. However, some children may be different so consult with your doctor before giving supplements.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2020 TOWNSHIP OF OLD BRIDGE 2020 CURBSIDE RECYCLING SCHEDULE (732) 721-5600 Ext. 6107 recycling@oldbridge.com

~The Middlesex County Improvement Authority (MCIA) picks up curbside recycling bi-weekly throughout the Township of Old Bridge For scheduling questions or missed pickups please call: (800) 488-6242 or (609) 655-5141 ~No plastic bags can be used AT ALL! Recyclables that are contaminated or in plastic bags will be rejected by the County.

WARD 1 Monday

WARD 2 Tuesday

WARDS 3 & 4 Wednesday 4*, 15, 29

WARD 5 Thursday January

WARD 6 Friday

January

13, 27

January

14, 28

January

2, 16, 30

January

3, 17, 31

February

10, 24

February

11, 25

February

12, 26

February

13, 27

February

14, 28

10, 24

March

11, 25

March

12, 26

March

13, 27

March

9, 23

March

April

6, 20

April

7, 21

April

8, 22

April

9, 23

April

10, 24

May

4, 18

May

5, 19

May

6, 20

May

7, 21

May

8, 22

June

1, 15, 29

June

2, 16, 30

June

3, 17

June

4, 18

June

5, 19

July

13, 27

July

14, 28

July

August

10, 24

August

11, 25

August

September October

12*, 21 5, 19

12, 26

July

2, 16, 30

July

3, 17, 31

August

13, 27

August

14, 28

10, 24

September

11, 25

September

8, 22

September

9, 23

September

October

6, 20

October

7, 21

October

8, 22

October

9, 23

November

4, 18

November

5, 19

November

6, 20

December

2, 16, 30

December

3, 17, 31

December

4, 18

November

2, 16, 30

November

3, 17

December

14, 28

December

1, 15, 29

*Sept. 7 changed to Sat, Sept. 12

1, 15, 29

**Important Notes:

*Jan. 1 changed to Sat, Jan. 4

**The Central Park Development is picked up on Mondays (although fall in Ward 3) **The Arbors section, Sonoma Court & Lakeridge West are picked up on Tuesdays (although fall in Ward 4) **If you are not sure of your pickup day, please call the MCIA to clarify: (800) 488-6242 or (609) 655-5141

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NEW SCAR TISSUE TREATMENT In those suffering from painful muscles, joints, and ligaments, scar tissue and adhesions have been found to be a major culprit. With acute and chronic injuries, scar tissue is formed by the body to help the healing process. Unfortunately, that scar tissue can disrupt the function of an injured body part and can be a leading cause for continued stiffness, weakness, and pain. Conventional methods of treatment like using heat, ice, and stretching, can provide some short term relief but are ultimately ineffective in addressing the scar tissue.

Graston Technique (GT) is a clinically researched and supported form of Instrument Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization that can help in the detection and treatment of scar tissue and adhesions. The technique involves the use of specifically designed stainless steel instruments with unique edges to deliver an effective means of soft tissue treatment. The combination of GT and traditional Physical Therapy treatment can lead to a more complete and long-term recovery from most orthopedic injuries and conditions.

Currently, research has demonstrated that Graston Technique is effective in treating a variety of

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FEBRUARY 2020

stubborn conditions including Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, IT-band pain, and Tennis Elbow.

New research is constantly emerging on the effectiveness of Graston Technique, and many patients find greater relief in less time when incorporating GT treatment for painful conditions, especially those that involve muscles and tendons.

Patients will normally experience a positive response within two to three treatments and usually receive two treatments per week for four to five weeks. Patients do not commonly report much soreness following treatment and continue to perform their regular functions at home and work. Graston Technique decreases overall time of treatment, fosters faster rehabilitation/recovery, reduces the need for anti-inflammatory medication, and resolves chronic conditions thought to be permanent. Most orthopedic conditions are complicated by soft tissue adhesions and scar tissue, making Graston Technique an ideal addition to normal Physical Therapy treatment.

ProFysio Physical Therapy offers unmatched customer service and clinical care and is conveniently located in Old Bridge, Aber-

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INDUCTS NEW PRESIDENT & 5 NEW MEMBERS Continued from page 1 They joined 2nd Vice President Midge Hauser of Hauser Hill Farms, Treasurer Nora Schmitz of Litz Tax Consulting, Secretary Lynette Davis of Hackensack Meridian, and Trustees John Hauser of

Browntown Bus Co., and Annette Maxwell of Columbia Bank in filling out the Chamber board.

The Chamber has many exciting events planned for the upcoming year. Please visit www. chamberofcommerceobssa.org/

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732-723-0023 1314 Englishtown Road Old Bridge, NJ 08857

Start the New Year with a Fresh Start: Every Journey Begins with a First Step Dr. Ira Shapiro, Director of the Plaza Chiropractic Center Millions of people start each year determined to change their lives. This involves everything from losing weight, working less and spending more time with friends and family to just living a healthier, more productive and rewarding life.

Unfortunately, studies have shown that few get farther than a couple of weeks before giving up on most if not all of these expectations. In fact, Strava, the social network for athletes, recently found that most people actually backslide on their resolutions by January 12. Another study conducted by the University of Scranton, reported that just 8 percent of people achieve their New Year’s goals. The findings of U.S. News & World Report were even more severe. They uncovered that 80 percent of all resolutions fail by the second week of February.

The reasons are many.

According to therapists, most people fail to set objectives that are realistic, positive, well-defined and yes, even a bit selfish. This includes New Year’s resolutions, which are often health-related and range from exercising more to eating healthier, according to The Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin.

First, most goals are doomed if based on other people’s expectations. You’ll never succeed if you take up yoga, running or golf simply to please others. The trick is to find what you enjoy. Take a Zumba or aerobics class. Try lifting weights. Experiment with different workouts until you find

what’s right for you.

Next, always think positively as you develop a specific timetable and strategy for achieving realistic and attainable goals. For instance, you can lose a pound a week by burning an extra 500 calories a day. As an example, walking for an hour at a moderate pace burns more than 300 calories. Likewise, an hour of low-impact aerobics will burn about 350 calories, while hiking will take off nearly 450. Again, the key is finding what you like and then making the commitment to doing it on a regular basis.

In addition, most people think every workout must accompany sweat, grunting, and pain in order to be effective. This just isn’t true. It’s important to push yourself. But, not to the point of injury.

Pain works like an alarm.

If you feel it, stop what you’re doing immediately.

And if it persists, get it checked by trained medical professionals. The last thing you need is a nagging, painful injury that just doesn’t seem to go away.

And finally, don’t give up. Most individuals are susceptible to the occasional bad day, week or even month. Motivate yourself with constant motivational reminders.

“I’m working out to look

and feel better.” “ I want to fit more comfortably in clothes.” “I want to breathe easier after a brief run to the bus or a game of chase with the grandkids.”

The right frame of mind is everything. Be smart. Form a realistic plan filled with healthy activities and foods.

Seek expert advice. Adapt when necessary. And the rest will follow if you just stick with it.

For more information on creating better, fitter and healthier lives for the entire family please contact the Plaza Chiropractic Center at 732-723-0023 or visit www. plazachiro.com. Our trained staff will be happy to work with you, no matter your age or condition, to develop a safe and effective wellness program that complements your life style and offers long-lasting fitness rewards.

Dr. Ira A. Shapiro is the director of the Plaza Chiropractic Center, which he founded in Old Bridge, New Jersey in 1984. Recently selected to the American Chiropractic Association Sports Council (ACASC) Hall of Fame and a two-time member of the U.S. Olympic team medical staff, Dr. Shapiro has spent the past 36 years providing safe, gentle and effective chiropractic care to tens of thousands of patients ranging from community members to professional athletes competing at the world’s highest levels.

STATE LEGISLATURE HONORS OBHS SOPHOMORE SILVESTRI FOR HIS EFFORTS ON BEHALF OF MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION

New Jersey State Senator Samuel D. Thompson of New Jersey’s 12th Legislative District presented a resolution by the Senate and General Assembly to Old Bridge High School sophomore AJ Silvestri in recognition of his outstanding efforts for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The presentation was made at the Old Bridge Board of Education’s Jan. 21 regular meeting.

Silvestri collected 211,729 holiday letters last December for Make-A-Wish through Macy’s BELIEVE campaign to help the organization that made his dream become a reality.

Each year, he, along with family and friends, drops off boxes spilling over with letters on National Believe Day at Macy’s in the Brunswick Square Mall, East Brunswick. Since 2016, Silvestri has collected more than 500,000 Make-A-Wish letters.

From the beginning of November through Dec. 24, 2019, “believers” of all ages mailed letters to Santa at the big red letterbox at any local Macy’s store or online at macys.com/ believe. For every letter received in store or online, Macy’s donated $1 to Make-AWish, up to $1 million, to help grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses.

Letters delivered on National Believe Day to any Macy’s nationwide -- the day Silvestri made his delivery -- counted for a $2 contribution from Macy’s per letter,

up to an additional $1 million, bringing the total campaign to a possible $2 million.

Silvestri, who has Cystic Fibrosis, was granted a wish seven years ago by Make-AWish New Jersey, which creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Cystic Fibrosis is a chronic, progressive and life limiting genetic disease that affects specifically Silvestri’s lungs and gastrointestinal system, according to his mother Kerryann S. Silvestri.

The joint legislative resolution, which was introduced by Thompson and Assemblymen Rob Clifton and Ronald Dancer, salutes Silvestri and acknowledges him as “an individual of strong character and uncommon determination.”

It commends Silvestri and “pays tribute to his meritorious record of service, leadership and commitment.”

T h e pro cl am at i on i s s i g n e d by State Senate President Stephen M. Sweeney and New Jersey Speaker of the General Assembly Craig J. Couglin

2ND ANNUAL HEALTH & WELLNESS 5K WILL BENEFIT HOMETOWN HEROES Continued from page 1 from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. for kids from 5 to 10-years-old. The official 5K Race will kick off at 8:30 a.m., starting at the Township Municipal Building. During the event, there will be a Health & Wellness Fair with various giveaways, demonstrations, and helpful healthy tips from our local sponsors.

In addition to the race, the day’s activities will include the debut of a “Pickleball Program,” a new feature of the Health

& Wellness Initiative which the whole family can join in throughout the day.

To register for the 5k event and for more information, please visit www.oldbridge. com/events. For questions regarding the 5K Race or for businesses that who would like information on how to become a sponsor, please call 732-721-5600 extension 2060.

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PROMINENT CPA MENDLOWITZ TO SPEAK AT BETH OHR Edward Mendlowitz, one of Accounting Today’s 100 Most Influential People in Accounting, will present his 40th annual financial program at Congregation Beth Ohr of Old Bridge on Sunday, Feb. 2, at 10 a.m. The subject will be “What I’ve Learned in the Last 40 Years That You Should Know As Well.”

Mr. Mendlowitz, a partner with WithumSmith + Brown in East Brunswick, is the author of 27 books and is an MBA professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University

CAMP ROBIN OFFERS VARIETY OF PROGRAM FOR AGES THREE TO 21

Camp Robin stands for Recreation in Old Bridge for those In Need. It is a therapeutic recreation program serving people with disabilities. It is a not for profit organization and began in the late 1970’s.

The ages of those attending Camp Robin range from three to

21. Camp Robin has many types of programs. They include therapeutic ice, Saturday morning, adult, teen, and summer camp.

Their goal is to provide introduction into recreational activities and life-skills development.

For those attending Camp Robin, this year there are new books for you to read. Alyssa Blahota (pictured), from Old Bridge Girl Scouts Troop 81901, donated a bookcase filled with books for everyone to enjoy.

She is completing her requirement for the Silver Award project by building, painting, and delivering this bookcase. Now everyone can pick up a book whenever they want to learn or go on an adventure.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2020

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MEDICAL OFFICE CLOSURE NOTICE

The office of Andrew M. Gollup,MD, located at 200 Perrine Road, Suite 203 OLd Bridge,NJ 08857 was closed on 11/27/2019. For medical records, mail written request to that address. 732-525-0400

FEBRUARY 2020

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