All Around Old Bridge February 2018 by All Around Old Bridge

OLDB

OB RIDGE ALL AROUND

VOL 2, NO 5

CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL HOSTS CAREER MINGLE By Jonah Conte AAOB Student Writer

This past January 12th of 2018, the high school students of Calvary Christian School received the opportunity to interact with various professionals of different occupations, ranging from an architect to even a special agent. These students ranged from 10th through 12th grade, and this event gave them a chance to spark interest in one if not many different career choices. Almost like a speed-dating session, a group of four students sat with a different professional’s table, where they were given a short amount of time to give an overview of what it’s like being in their position and field. During the discussion, the professional provided the highlights and benefits of what their job entails to each student, the young men and women are free to ask questions to gain further knowledge about their interests. Once this period of time is finished, each student moves to another professional’s table, allowing them to learn more about not only their interests but their curiosities that may turn into interests. This event was definitely successful in helping students decide Continued on page 6

OLD BRIDGE

Pursuing Progress

Mayor's office of Economic Development

See page 20 and Coupon on page 23

A Publication for the community of Old Bridge

RACEWAY PARK TRANSFORMS OPERATIONS By Tom Luicci

Raceway Park will continue to serve as a vibrant hub for a variety of year-long events in Old Bridge, with economic director Steve Mamakas saying he views the track’s recent decision to discontinue drag racing as something that will be a positive for the Township in the long run. Raceway Park announced on Jan. 16 that it would no longer contest NHRA races, including the 49th Summernationals originally scheduled for June, as part of what

was described on the company’s web site as “a reorganization of the company’s business practice.” Owned privately by the Napp family, Raceway Park opened in 1965. “From the perspective of economic development and from talking to a business owner in town, which they are as a small business, it’s a big decision they had to make,” said Mamakas. “The sport is slowly fading off and it’s been coming for a while. They need to transform the operation. “Basically, there’s really no big financial impact. What Raceway Park is going to be doing is a lot more smaller events, adding more events in there. The beginning portion of the track, from the tower to the bleachers, will

serve as an amphitheater, so they will have events for that. They’re still going to have some car shows, they’re still going to have their swap meet – only on a smaller scale. As for the local business in the area, they’re still going to benefit from the attractions that take place there.” Though there will no longer be drag racing, the other portions of the facility – three motocross tracks, a 1.35-mile road course, a go-kart track and an autocross track – will remain open, as will the stadium portion of the track, the VIP Tower and the grandstand. Adjacent Old Bridge Airport, which is operated by Raceway Park, will remain operational as well. The popular swap meets, car Continued on page 18

directly behind the team’s benches range from $6,185 to $9,369 on Vivid Seats. Again, that’s per ticket. Travel packages are another way to go, since you need somewhere to stay and since most packages include entry into some type of pre-game Super Bowl party. Prime Sport has a one-night hotel package in downtown Minneapolis, with an upper deck game ticket and party entry starting at $5,705. If you want to be part of the big game atmosphere a little longer, a three-night hotel stay near the Great Mall of America is available for $6,995 per person and includes an upper deck ticket, pregame party and ground transportation. The NFL allotted just 17.5 percent of the tickets to each of

the teams, which works out to approximately 5,800 per team. So neither the Patriots nor the Eagles have much to offer their loyal fans. Once you’ve made the decision about going, there’s air fare to consider as well. Non-stops from Newark to Minneapolis were ranging from $540 to $973 round trip as of last week. Connecting flights can be had for between $326 and $467 at that time. The game will be played in an indoor stadium, which eliminates at least one major issue on game day. The long-range forecast for Minneapolis calls for a high of 10 degrees and a low of 1 on Friday, a high of 13 and low of 3 on Saturday and a high of 13 and a low of minus-3 on Super Bowl Sunday.

SUPER BOWL 52 TRAVEL TIPS By Tom Luicci

Considering a last-minute trip to see the Super Bowl in Minnesota? Be prepared to dig deep into your pockets. Tickets for Super Bowl LII on Feb. 4 had a median price of $5,301 as of late last week, according to ticket broker StubHub. That’s for one ticket, and doesn’t include air fare, hotel accommodations or food. If you’re looking to be part of the experience to see the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles square off in person at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, the cheapest seats are in the upper deck and range from $3,900 to $4,400 on PrimeSport, another ticket broker. If you’re willing to splurge and need to be closer to the action, seats

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@a GLANCE INSIDE PARK & REC SPRING 2018 SCHEDULE SEE PAGE 2 2018 RECYCLE SCHEDULE SEE PAGE 16 OB MARCHING KNIGHTS WINE & DINE SEE PAGE 21 CALVARY CHRISTIAN GALA SEE PAGE 21 OB HIGH SCHOOL WALL OF FAME SEE PAGE 21

MORE!

Mayor’s Message pg3 OB Library pg6 Think Old Bridge pg10 Grey Matters pg17 Living Stones pg18 COUPONS pg23

AMBOY BANK HOLDS FREE EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS Amboy Bank is offering free seminars to educate the members of their communities. For professionals, Amboy offers continuing education courses, such as CLE for Attorneys and CPE for Accountants. These for-credit classes provide an extensive explanation of Reverse Mortgage loans, including Benefits and Features of Reverse Mortgages, Objectives of Reverse Mortgage Loans as Financial Planning Tools, Counseling Protocol, Impact on the Estate, Contract Provisions and Closing the Loan. Recent presentations included the Middlesex County Bar and the CPA Society of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. For community groups and schools, Amboy offers a variety of free seminars that range from general banking to teaching children. To help seniors, topics range from the NJ tax freeze to retirement and estate planning to senior fraud. Greg Scharpf, Executive Vice

President and CRO, stated, “Amboy Bank takes pride in educating the members of our community. We are happy to continue to offer free educational seminars and to promote both the professional and personal growth of our colleagues and neighbors.” To arrange for a seminar, contact Jackie D’Alessandro at 732.591.8700 or email Amboy B an k w it h y ou r re qu e s t at mailbox@Amboybank.com. Founded in 1888, Amboy Bank, a full-service commercial bank with 23 offices in Central New Jersey, prides itself on quality service and community involvement. Amboy Bank has been voted “Best Bank in Central Jersey” for the past 20 years in a row.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2018

Crafty Pairs for ages 2 - 4 Class Size: 10 teams Fee: Resident: $36.00 per pair, Non-Res: $46.00 per pair Parent & 2-4 year old Fridays, 3/16-05/18 10:00 am - 10:45 am This class provides an opportunity for parents and their children to explore the world of arts and crafts together. Each week, parents and their children will create exciting projects under the guidance of our arts and crafts Instructor: Kathy Stizel

No Class: 03/30, 04/03, 04/06

Food Fun Fee: Resident: $36.00 per pair, Non-Res: $46.00 per pair Class Size: 10 teams Parent and 2-4 year old Wednesday, 3/14 - 05/09 10:00 am -11:00 am During this eight week program you and your child will prepare fun and healthy snacks. Our kids tested treats are sure to provide fun and excitement inside the class and at home. Class is held at Camp ROBIN Instructor: Kathy Stizel

No Class: 04/04

Class Size: 10 teams

It’s Playtime Fee: Resident: $36.00 per pair, Non-Res: $46.00 per pair Parent & 2 year old Tuesday 03/13-05/00 10:00 am-10:45 am This class is designed to have you and your child up and moving together. A typical class may involve singing, dancing, children’s games and obstacle courses. Instructor: Kathy Stizel No Class: 04/03 Class Size: 10 teams

A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR HENRY

Mayor Henry 2018 is in full swing and I reation at 732-721-5600 ext. 4010 am excited for all of the initiaI am pleased to announce that Old tives and new programs that are Bridge Township has ranked as the moving us forward this year! 14th safest city in the State of New We had our swearing in cere- Jersey and 50th in the country, acmony on January 1, 2018. I would cording to SafeHome, a professional like to congratulate and welcome review site dedicated to making the new council Dave Merwin, communities safer. Old Bridge Edina Brown, Mark Razzoli, Township has reached a safety score Tony Paskitti, and John Murphy. of 87.38 which ranks among the The winter season is underway top 25th percentile in the country. at the John Piccolo Ice Arena. The Vo l u n t e e r s n e e d e d Township continues to partner a t t h e A n i m a l S h e l t e r . with the Old Bridge Board of EdThe Office of Emergency Manucation on skating activities and agement works hard to provide events for our students. Please us with pertinent up-to-date inbe sure to visit the ice arena and formation surrounding inclement enjoy a day with your family and weather. Please look for Townfriends. For complete details and ship announcements when severe additional information, residents weather strikes and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to can visit www.oldbridge.com or check on your elderly neighbors. contact the Department of Rec-

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2018

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2018

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT By Himanshu R. Shah, Acting Business Administrator

Himanshu R. Shah, Acting Business Administrator 1. GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL ON ALCOHOLISM AND DRUG ABUSE MUNICIPAL ALLIANCE FOR THE PREVENTION OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE GRANT PROGRAM. The GCADA seeks to promote comprehensive and coordinated efforts at the local level against alcoholism and drug abuse through prevention, education and

public awareness activities. State funding derived from the Drug Enforcement and Demand Reduction (DEDR) Fund is provided on a per capita basis to Municipal Alliances to support county and municipal based alcohol, tobacco and other drug prevention programs. Each year, the Old Bridge Municipal Alliance applies for funding under this program. A resolution authorizing submittal of the 2018 grant application is included on tonight’s consent agenda for approval by council. 2. CHRISTMAS TREE COLLECTION. The Department of Public Works has concluded Christmas Tree pickup in all wards as of January 19th. Residents that still have trees can call the road department or email them at: publicworks@oldbridge.com. 3. 2018 WINTER STORM EVENTS AND RELATED COSTS. Since January 1, 2018, two winter storm events have impacted the Township of Old Bridge. The Township has spent approximately $283,664 on ice and snow removal

operations to date which includes costs for bulk salt, outside contractors and employee overtime. 4. JCP&L NOTICE OF PENDING DISTRIBUTION VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ACTIVITY. JCP&L has notified the Township that during the first and second quarter of 2018, JCP&L contractors will be performing distribution vegetation management activities in Old Bridge including: routine trimming of limbs to provide clearance for electric wires, selective removal of limbs overhanging electrical conductors and removal of hazard trees that pose a risk to electric facilities. All tree removals are performed in accordance with JCP&L’s easement rights or with the written consent of the property owner Additional notice to the Township will be provided by JCP&L approximately two weeks prior to the start of each distribution vegetation management activity. 5. MIDDLESEX COUNTY IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY (MCIA) CURBSIDE RE-

C YC L I N G C O L L E C T I O N PROGRAM. The 2018 curbside recycling schedule for Old Bridge is available on the Township Website at oldbridge.com and on the MCIA Website at mciauth.com. 6. HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM. A total of Sixty two (62) homeowners to date have shown interest in the Old Bridge Home Improvement Program. Twelve (12) homeowners have submitted their formal applications. 7. AFFORDABALE HOMES FOR SALE. The Township consultants, CGP&H, markets affordable homes for sale to applicants on the waiting list, verifies buyers income, coordinates with mortgage providers, prepares closing documents/ deed restrictions, and attends closings. Three homes have been sold in the last 12 months and one is under contract. There are 3,565 applicants on the waiting list to purchase an affordable home in Old Bridge. 8. FIRST QUARTER TAX PAYMENTS. The Township Division of Tax Collection will be open Monday

through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, during the first quarter tax collection period. The tax office will also be open between the hours of 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on February 3, 2018 (Saturday) and between the hours of 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM on February 13, 2018 (Tuesday). For additional information, residents should contact the Division of Tax Collection at (732) 721-5600 ext. 2999. 9. 2018 MUNICIPAL BUDGET. The State Division of Local Government Services has notified municipalities that the Local Finance Board has modified the statutory dates for introduction and adoption of municipal budgets for Calendar Year 2018. The statutory date for the introduction and approval of the budget has been changed from February 10, 2018 to March 16, 2018. The statutory date for budget adoption has been changed from March 20, 2018 to April 20, 2018. The Mayor’s proposed budget will be transmitted to Township Council in early February.

THE FLU VACCINE IS NOW AVAILABLE! Every year in New Jersey as we welcome the new school year, we also brace ourselves for the Flu Season. Luckily, Flu Vaccine supplies are now available and they are here to save the season. Did you know it is estimated that there are up to 49,000 flu-associated deaths annually? This is a pretty staggering statistic. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated. For people who have an increased risk for complications (young children, older adults, pregnant women), the flu vaccine is very highly recommended. Although ‘low risk’ people who get the flu usually recover with-out any complications, we still recom-

Achilles Alon PharmDRPh Dr. Achilles Alon is the Director of Specialty Pharmacy and co-owner of ACE-Rx Specialty & Compounding. As the Director of Specialty Pharmacy, he serves as the head pharmacist and operations lead for all specialty pharmacy programs. A registered pharmacist for 18 years, Achilles spent the initial

mend that everyone get vaccinated. The flu virus infection can cause up to 2 weeks of misery, including muscle and body aches, fever, runny nose, vomiting, and diarrhea. Getting vaccinated does not guarantee you complete protection against the flu, but if you do contract it, the vaccine will reduce the severity of your symptoms and help you recover quicker. And as we all know, sickness may also lead to loss of productivity, loss of wages, and unexpected medical expenses. Flu season starts in late fall and ends in early April. It is best to get vaccinated by the end of October to ensure enough time for the vaccine to take effect before exposure to the flu virus. The vaccine last for 6 to 8 months, so a dose in October would cover the entire flu season. part of his career working in retail pharmacy. For most of his career, Achilles lead clinical research at Merck, investigating experimental therapies and novel biomarkers across many disease areas, including Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), HIV, Psoriasis, Neuropathic Pain, Cardiovascular, and Respiratory diseases. For instance, Achilles lead clinical studies for Zepatier®, Merck’s recently approved combination therapy for HCV. Some of Achilles’ research is published in major journals such as Pain, Clinical Journal of Pain, Journal of American College of Cardiology, Journal of Urology, and Clinical Therapeutics.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2018

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

VISIT THE LIBRARY FOR PASSPORTS AND TAX PREPARATION

By: Nancy Cohen, Library Director

Nancy Cohen, Library Director

Tax season is upon us, and the AARP Foundation Tax-aides will offer free tax preparation at the Library for low and moderate-income taxpayers of any age, with special attention given to seniors 60 and over. Representatives will be at the Library on Mondays and Thursdays from February 1 - April 9th from 10:15am to 2:15pm. Appointments will be required; please call (732) 705-7463 or email: taxaideoblib@gmail.com. Please leave your name, phone number, and preferred date and time. Tax-Aides will return the call with a confirmation or alternative time slot. I’m also happy to report that our

Museum Pass program is now automated, allowing OBPL cardholders to reserve passes online through our website, www.oldbridgelibrary.org. This convenient feature means the passes no longer must be reserved by phone or by stopping in (although they can still be reserved these ways). The free passes for the 10 museums in the program can be selected by venue or date. Reservations can also be canceled online. In addition, passes for three of the museums -- The Grounds for Sculpture, The Academy of Natural Sciences at Drexel and WheatonArts (which opens for the season in midApril) -- can be printed remotely in

Upcoming Events: February

your home. I encourage you to take advantage of this great program, but be sure to reserve as far in advance as possible -- especially for weekends -- to ensure that the passes are available for your preferred day. I also wanted to remind patrons that the Library is a Passport Application Acceptance Facility. For those of you needing a passport for an upcoming spring break or summer trip, please stop by soon. We accept applications seven-days-a-week and appointments aren’t necessary. We also offer passport photo service. We generally advise applicants to expect a 4-6 week processing time, although sometimes they are com-

FEBRUARY 2018

pleted sooner. For more information about hours and necessary paperwork, please refer to our website. Lastly, great news, especially for patrons of our Laurence Harbor branch (located at 277 Shoreland Circle) -- we’ve expanded hours at that location. Effective February 1st, the branch will be open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1-5pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-8pm and Saturdays from 10-5pm. It will remain closed on Sundays. Hope to see you in the Library!

Thurs. Feb.15th @7pm Intro to Makey Makey **

Sat. Feb. 24th @2pm Ulysses S. Grant: My Friendship with Lincoln

Tues. Feb. 6th @7pm Skinny Breakfast Smoothies **

Celebration with Trumpeter Gordon James

Sat. Feb. 17th @1pm Embroidery of Ukraine Art Lecture and Workshop

Sun. Feb. 25th @2pm Inspiration of Time with Charles Breitweiser

Wed. Feb. 7th @7pm Budgeting and Retirement Planning

Sun. Feb. 11th @2pm Afternoon Open Mic and Coffee House ** (performers must register)

Sun. Feb. 18th @3pm SAT/ACT Seminar **

registration required

Sat. Feb. 10th @2:30pm Second Saturday Concert: Mardi Gras

CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL HOSTS CAREER MINGLE

Continued from page 1 what they want to do in the future, including senior Kayla Lombardi. She said, “I was able to get in contact with a physical therapist from the army through it, and it gave me a clearer picture of what I want to do in the future.” This had an impact on not only the upperclassmen, but the sophomores invited as well. 10th grader, Kyle Respass, said “I enjoyed it because I got to talk to people about their jobs and I learned stuff I did not know about different professions.” It also made him think harder about what he wants to do in the future as well, while also it helps that the pens given from the real estate lady were nice. The students were also given a

networking lunch period, where they can find further information about each field by having group or one-on-one discussions with each professional. These valuable interviews each played a role in allowing each student to expand his/ her interests and passions that may affect what they choose to do in the future. Starting at a young age is a key to planning out a young person’s future, making one’s path clearer to see as they continue through the training of high school. The earlier people start to prepare for the future through events like these, the more equipped they’ll be when the time comes to see what they want to be when they grow up.

Wed. Feb. 21st @10:30am Depression Among the Elderly

WHAT IS CUPPING?

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

By: Vincent Santorelli

Vincent Santorelli

This month the Winter Olympics will draw eyes from all over the world, locking in on PyeongChang, South Korea. Just two short years ago at the Summer Olympics, swimming star Michael Phelps caught many of those eyes for more than just his gold medal performances. Spectators could not help but notice his right shoulder. Spanning from the bottom of his shoulder up the apex of his trapezius muscle, as well as down over his shoulder blade, were very distinct circular bruises. No he didn’t fend off a giant

squid, but the effects looked similar! The bruises were a result of a muscular therapy known as cupping. The therapy is typically offered by acupuncturists and is practiced under the principles of Chinese Medicine, although the technique has become more Westernized in recent years. Cupping requires the use of heated glass orbs that are vacuumed onto the skin near the injured area. The cups can then be left in place or moved around in a massage-like technique to promote blood circulation and remove toxins

FEBRUARY 2018

from injured tissues. Treatment typically lasts 15 minutes and can result in bruising (that’s how you know it’s working!). Our staff acupuncturists suggest cupping for patients who have persistent and nagging pain or muscular tightness. Cupping allows the provider to move “stagnant” blood that is otherwise not properly nourishing the injured tissues. It also treats things like hypertension, chest cold, pneumonia, bronchitis, poor circulation, mild paralysis and even certain types of headaches and migraines. It cannot be used on people who bleed easily or have skin ulcers. Cupping works most efficiently when used in conjunction with regular acupuncture treatments. The good news is that you don’t need to be an Olympic athlete to try cupping! Our skilled acupuncturists will help you get back to your normal daily activities, or even back on the slopes (if you plan on competing in PyeongChang)! Go Team USA!

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR WEIGHT LOSS RESOLUTIONS By: Ayotunde Adeyeri, M.D., FASMBS and minerals you need. Follow these steps to meet your goals! Create small, measurable, realistic goals S et a realistic weight loss g o a l f o r y o u r s e l f . He a l t hy weight loss is 1-2lbs per week. Write down 2-3 goals you can work on every week. For example, if I say I will eat more vegetables, how much is more? If I say I will eat at least 3 servings of vegetables daily-that is more specific and measurable. Drink more water It is recommended to consume at least 64 oz. of fluids per day, which is about 2 liters of water. Ayotunde Adeyeri, M.D., FASMBS Drinking 1 cup of water before meals may help curb your apA New Year means new res- petite to prevent overeating. olutions. If weight loss is one Plan meals ahead of time of your goals for this New Year Planning meals makes it less then use these steps to keep you likely you will turn to fast food. on track! The key to weight loss Take your time with meals is to create a calorie deficit while Meals should be completed consuming the essential vitamins in at least 20 minutes. It takes

20 minutes for the stomach t o t e l l t h e br ai n it i s f u l l . Eating slowly will help you listen to your bodies fullness cues and may prevent overeating Put utensil down in between bites and chew, chew, chew This helps slow down eating and actually gives you time to enjoy and savor the food. This will give your stomach time to assess fullness. Avoid distractions when eating When eating turn off the TV and any other distractions that may be around. Focusing on eating and listening to your body’s fullness cues will help prevent overeating. Only choose water or diet drinks as beverages Sugar sweetened beverages like (sodas, juices) are high in ‘empty’ calories. They provide calories with little nutrition and no filling effect. A fresh apple has fiber which will help fill you up, versus

apple juice is mostly sugar and little to no fiber. Instead of juices, choose a fresh fruits and vegetables. Choose more fruits and vegetables Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber. Fiber takes a while to break down which will keep you fuller for longer. Recommendation is to consume 2.5-3 cups of vegetables per day. Switch to whole grains whole grain bread, rice, pasta have more fiber than its white flour counterpart. You will more likely feel fuller when consuming a serving of whole grain rice, rather than white rice. Switch to low-fat/fat free dairy choosing a lower fat milk will help reduce calories in the diet. Whole milk has 150 calories, while fat- free milk has 80 calories. Choosing fat free milk helps reduce calories while still providing the same vitamins and minerals as whole milk. Say ‘No’ to condiments mayo, ketchup, barbecue, syrup, gravy.

CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR FEBRUARY 2018 February 2, 2018 PERTH AMBOY… The Human Motion Institute at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Perth Amboy, is sponsoring a free “We Keep You Moving” Total Joint Replacement Education session Friday, February 2, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., at Raritan BayPerth Amboy, 530 New Brunswick Ave. The session is intended for patients who have been scheduled for joint replacement surgery or for those who would like to learn more about joint replacement. Registration required, call 1-800DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677). February 2, 2018 OLD BRIDGE… Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Old Bridge, is sponsoring a free Taking a Deep Breath: COPD Facts education session Friday, February 2, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 2 Hospital Plaza, Suite 404, Old Bridge, NJ. Learn the causes, symptoms and treatment options of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Registration required, call 1-800-560-9990. February 6, 2018 OLD BRIDGE… The Human Motion Institute at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Old Bridge, is

sponsoring a free “We Keep You Moving” Total Joint Replacement Education session Tuesday, February 6, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., in the Patient Education Center, 1st Floor, Medical and Surgical Pavilion, 2 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ. The session is intended for patients who have been scheduled for joint replacement surgery or for those who would like to learn more about joint replacement. Registration required, call 1-800DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677). February 6, 2018 WOODBRIDGE… The Center for Bariatric Surgery at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center is holding a free seminar “Weight Loss Surgery: The Facts” Tuesday, February 6, 6:00 p.m., at the Medical Pavilion at Woodbridge, 740 US Highway 1N, Iselin, NJ. Center for Bariatric Surgery Medical Director Karl Strom, M.D., will discuss the benefits of weight loss surgery. Registration required, call 1-800DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677). February 7, 2018 PERTH AMBOY… Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Perth Amboy, is holding a free Are you Getting Enough Sleep education session

Tuesday, February 7, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Centennial Hall A, Raritan Bay-Perth Amboy, 530 New Brunswick Ave. Learn about sleep disorders and tips on how to get a better night’s sleep. Registration required, call 1-800-560-9990. February 7, 2018 PERTH AMBOY… Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Perth Amboy monthly tour of The Berkow Maternity Pavilion and family health information open house will be held Wednesday, February 7, at 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Newly expectant parents are invited to tour and learn about the maternity unit’s modern comforts, designed to provide a calm and relaxing birthing experience. Participants are asked to meet in the main lobby of Raritan Bay-Perth Amboy, 530 New Brunswick Ave. Registration required, call 1-800-DOCTORS (1-800-3628677) and reference zip code 08861. February 7, 2018 OLD BRIDGE… The Institute for Weight Loss at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center- Old Bridge, is sponsoring a free Healthy Eating Lecture and Cooking Demo Wednesday, February 7, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The event will be held in the

Joslin Diabetes Center, Affiliate at Raritan Bay’s demonstration kitchen, Suite 420, Medical and Surgical Pavilion, 2 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ. Registration is required, call 1-800-DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677) or visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events. February 12, 2018 OLD BRIDGE… The Institute of Weight Loss at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Old Bridge, is sponsoring an “Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for Me?” seminar Monday, February 12, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at its Old Bridge location. The informative event will focus on weight loss surgery including discussion on Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass, Adjustable Gastric Banding, and Gastric Sleeve and concerns surrounding weight loss surgery as well as its successes. Family and friends are welcome. The meeting will be held in Suite 404, Medical Arts Building, 3 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ. Registration required, call 1-855-TIME4-ME (1.855.846.3463). February 13, 2018 OLD BRIDGE… The Human Motion Institute at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Old Bridge, is sponsoring a free “We Keep You

FEBRUARY 2018

All these condiments add a huge calorie punch that can be easily avoided if you just say ‘No’. If there is no way around avoiding the condiment, then order it on the side and dip the food into it. This allows you to control how much is used. Document food intake for at least three days. Find deficiencies and excess calories in your diet and see where some calories can be removed. Jennifer Seleem is a registered dietitian/nutritionist with the Institute for Weight Loss at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Old Bridge. The Institute provides weight loss surgery and support for individuals seeking weight loss and have been unable to lose weight through conventional dieting, exercise or weight loss medication. To attend a free seminar, which occurs twice monthly, or to make an appointment with Jennifer for nutrition counseling, call 855-TIME-4-ME.

Moving” Total Joint Replacement Education session Tuesday, February 13, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., in the Patient Education Center, 1st Floor, Medical and Surgical Pavilion, 2 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ. The session is intended for patients who have been scheduled for joint replacement surgery or for those who would like to learn more about joint replacement. Registration required, call 1-800DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677). February 14, 2018 OLD BRIDGE… The Institute for Weight Loss at Hackensack Meridian Health Raritan Bay Medical Center-Old Bridge, is sponsoring an “Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for Me?” seminar Wednesday, February 14, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Medical Arts Building, Suite 404, 3 Hospital Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ. Board certified General and Bariatric Surgeon Bennet Togbe, M.D., will discuss weight loss surgery including Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass, Adjusting Gastric Banding, and Gastric Sleeve and the concerns surrounding weight loss surgery as well as its successes. Family and friends are welcome. Registration required, call 1-855-TIME4-ME (1.855.846.3463).

THINK OLD BRIDGE

2018 BUSINESS GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY IN OLD BRIDGE By Steve Mamakas, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office

Steve Mamakas is the Executive Officer of Mayor’s Office of Economic Development 2018 is here, we see the year ahead bringing more business growth and opportunity in Old Bridge. Last month we were honored with the above and beyond award of Excellence from the Township for our initiatives, commitment, innovativeness and dedication to Old Bridge. Our No.1 priority is seeing our town’s businesses prosper. We will be working steadily to keep expanding the attractiveness of our community to bring more business and investment. We like to say “We are here to do, not to be” and working to provide our residents the conveniences of having all the best shopping, business services and amenities. Right here in town

and even helping create jobs as you may have noticed with all the new businesses that have opened. Case in point to name a couple the new Grillestone restaurant alone has hired close to 50 staff members and majority of them are from right here in Old Bridge. Even smaller businesses employ a good amount of people. When we assisted the Domino’s Pizza to open in their new location on 516, they now employ 25 or more we have been told. These are the economic development examples we talk about and how it provides Old Bridge residents and our youth employment opportunities in the community, through solid growth which is our goal. Switching topics let’s look at how we are moving an area of town forward. What we see on the horizon is the redevelopment of the area around the Waterworks and Bordentown road, known as the Runyan area. We are starting to breathe new life into that section of town. The interest in Old Bridge and that area is actually overwhelming. With brokers, warehouse operators and light industry companies inquiring about any available piece of

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE land and looking to even purchase existing buildings with land. All focused on major top class companies to build what are called class A office/warehouses which the first is currently being built. The multi-million dollar 315,000 Sq. ft. building is being constructed by one of the best design build companies in country and will look something like the picture below when completed. With this project underway and our marketing efforts, Old Bridge has also now been identified as a great location for hotels. With the one being built and because there are no hotels within a large radius for business travelers and visitors, plus our proximity to the major roadways and the shore. The current hotel builder and other operators are also interested in locating more here, as we tour them through the town showing them possible locations along Route 9. and even the Lowes building. A key business for this is Raceway Park. They alone host national events that bring people here from all over the country. From high profile racers and teams, participant and spectators which will in turn provide a room tax for each room and revenue into the economy. Case in point: the annual Tri-State Tough Mudder Event & Participant analysis report shows 57.9% of participants staying in nearby hotels. Other numbers related to direct spending of about 23,860 visitors and 5,101 spectators. The overall effect is pretty impressive from just one of these events. The total Tough Mudder Labor income effect/increase in the local resident’s income report-

FEBRUARY 2018 ed numbers are $2,279,994 and create 62.8 new jobs and part time and temporary ones in the area. Our latest conversations with the current hotel owner being built told us it will be a Hampton Inn with 100 rooms. History shows the only hotel on record in Old Bridge was back in 1860’s and it was on the site where the Pine Tavern is today on RT 34. Known as the Cheesequake hotel also known as the farmers hotel, it was where the farmers stopped to drink after a hard day on the farm and transporting their goods to the shipping docks at steamboat landing. Given the history of Old Bridge we can say now Old Bridge is now a Town with an historic future ahead of it. So our focus for the year to come is to build on the successes of the past year. Bringing more businesses, retail, warehouses, light industry, offices and entre-

preneurial opportunity to keep us on an upward path of to success. Please visit the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development to check out all the exciting happenings from grand openings to ground breaking events in Economic Development here in Old Bridge @ facebook.com\obetownedo or on Twitter @ twitter.com/obedonj

This months highlighted business is Dogtopia located at 7 Jocama Blvd, Old Bridge Township • (732) 591-9663

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

HEART CONCERNS EXTEND TO CATS & DOGS

FEBRUARY 2018

By Anita Greenberg, DVM

D r. An i t a Greenberg and h e r hu s b an d , Dr. Daniel Belli, are the owners and operators of the East Br un sw ick Animal Hospital for 28 years. Dr. Greenberg has been a member of the Old Bridge Township Council since 2016. We give our hearts to our pets every month of the year but especially in February when thoughts run to Valentine’s Day. That makes this a good time to turn our attention to the hearts – and heart disease – in our pets. It is not something we like to think of but our pets can suffer from heart conditions much as people do. In cats, the most common form of heart issues is cardiomyopathy [abnormal heart muscle], which accounts for two-thirds of heart conditions among adult felines.

Cardiomyopathy is brought about by a structural abnormality in the muscle involving one or both ventricles, with the affected chamber taking on a thickened, dilated or scarred appearance. The left ventricle is always affected. The abnormality upsets the organ’s blood clotting mechanism. This can progress to congestive heart failure, resulting in collection of fluid in and around the lungs, causing respiratory distress. Blood clots may form and cause sudden death. Most feline cardiomyopathies – and this will impact males more frequently than females - are primary diseases, whose origins are genetic. Some secondary diseases which may contribute to abnormal heart muscle are anemia, hyperthyroidism and high blood pressure. Abnormalities can be detected by your veterinarian during a physical exam, followed by X-rays. The definitive diagnosis is achieved through an ultrasound

of the heart, an echocardiogram. Treatment involves using beta blockers to slow the heart rate, and, if heart failure occurs, diuretics and ace inhibitors are prescribed. Signs to be aware of are poor appetite, weight loss, lethargy, increased respiratory rate and effort, sudden collapse, or sudden hind leg paralysis associated with pain. Ten percent of all dogs in the United States have heart disease and 70 to 75 percent of dogs with heart issues have valvular disease, the malfunctioning of the valves that regulate the flow of blood in the heart. It primarily impacts small breeds over five years of age. Heart worms cause 13 percent of heart disease, though this is entirely preventable. Myocardial disease such as dilated cardiomyopathy represents eight percent of heart disease and primarily affects large breed dogs of all ages. The clinical signs of heart disease depend on the type of the disease

and severity. As heart disease progresses to congestive heart failure, it becomes more obvious with signs of fatigue, exercise intolerance, a cough, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, weight loss, distended abdomen or trouble sleeping. Have your pet examined immediately if you see any of these signs. Abnormal valve development most often involves the mitral valve, located between the left atrium and left ventricle. A valve that cannot close properly allows blood flow to leak backwards into the atrium, reducing the heart’s efficiency. Degenerative valvular disease is a condition that reduces the ability of the heart valves to prevent back flow of blood during ventricular contraction. In dogs the valve found between the left atrium and left ventricle -- the mitral valve or left atrial-ventricular valve -is most commonly involved. To compensate for the leaky valve, the heart has to pump more blood

with each beat, causing the heart to enlarge over time. This extreme work load causes the heart to become ineffective and unable to keep up with the body’s demand for blood, resulting in heart failure. The goal is early diagnosis and treatment. Routine visits to the veterinarian can help catch heart disease while it is still a symptomatic. The veterinarian will listen to your dog’s heart for murmurs or irregular rhythms. X-rays, cardiac ultrasounds or Electrocardiograms may be necessary to establish the diagnosis and determine the treatment. Starting treatment early can improve the quality of life and extend the life expectancy. And while we are celebrating hearts, do not give in to those sad eyes and share your St. Valentine’s Day candy. Chocolate is toxic to pets!

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

Discount! 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 The holiday season has now come to an end. As we take down the lights, put away all the gifts, and make our returns, we start to realize the financial costs of the past season. Our budgets may have come and gone as we were shopping, cooking, and traveling. If only there was a way to cut a cost

or actually save some money. If you are a good driver, there may be a quick way to do just that! In the past few years many auto insurance carriers have begun to offer an insurance discount program for customers who have good driving habits. Oftentimes, those drivers are saving anywhere from 10% to 30% off their auto insurance costs.

Usage-Based Insurance (UBI) is an innovation by auto insurers that more closely aligns driving behaviors with premium rates for auto insurance. Insurers use Telematics, the process of monitoring a driver’s behavior while he or she is driving, to track mileage and other key driving behaviors. In order to accomplish this task, the insurers provide the drivers with devices that can be self-installed into a special port in the vehicle. (Vehicles are already equipped with this port, or sometimes even have a monitoring system, as part of their manufacturing). In real time, the device records and tracks a handful of key elements such as miles driven, times of usage, rapid acceleration, hard braking, air bag deployment, and others. A UBI discount then takes those Telematics and formulates a discount based on particular driving habits. Most major auto insurance carriers now offer this discount program in some way to “reward” good driving habits and records. They may require

FEBRUARY 2018 you to either download an application to your phone, or install a small device in your each of your vehicles, for three to six months (depending on the carrier) to track the Telematics. Each vehicle, and its driver, is tracked, so while there is definitely an industry average, it is possible to receive different percentage discounts for each driver in a household (a household with more than one vehicle). Some drivers are apprehensive to join a UBI discount program, as they are concerned that their rates might actually go up, due to poor driving, or a great amount of mileage/usage. Other drivers may be hesitant, due to concerns over their privacy. At this point in time, the companies I represent (as well as those researched for this article) do not raise a driver’s rate based on the UBI review period. A driver with poor driving habits will simply NOT receive a further discount after the review period. There have been a few such programs in the industry for about

ten years, but many companies just created their own programs recently, within the past two to three years. Therefore, if you have been with your current carrier for a few years, you may want to give them a quick call to inquire about any programs they may offer. Many customers are excited to save money based on their good driving, while others are encouraged to become a ‘better’ driver in order to obtain the discount. Either way, the programs are helping to create a safer driving environment, while simultaneously offering a great way for all of us to save money. If you are not currently enrolled in a UBI discount program you may want to give your auto insurance representative a call. Who knows... you may be able to receive a nice post-holiday reward for your good driving habits! Michael Vitale, Licensed Insurance Professional for Auto, Home, Life, Medicare Supplement, and Disability Income Insurances.

MARY ELIZABETH TOOMEY

Mary Elizabeth Toomey 91 , of Old Bridge, passed away at her residence surrounded by her loving family on Friday, January 19, 2018. Born in Yonkers, New York, Mary moved to Old Bridge and has been a resident since 1960. On May 7, 1949, she married her loving husband James Toomey. Mary worked for Amboy Bank in Old Bridge for 22 years, retiring in 1993 as an Assistant Vice President. She was a Communicant of St. Ambrose Roman Catholic Church in Old Bridge. Mary is survived by her two daughters and son in-laws, Mary Ellen and Gregory Sinon of Dayton, MD, and Colleen and Marc Pielli of Old Bridge, NJ; five grandsons, James Douglas, Gregory, Thomas, James, Sean; two granddaughters, Laura, Kate; four great-grandsons, MARIE E MARTIN

Marie E Martin, 92, of Old Bridge, died peacefully at Raritan Bay Medical Center, Old Bridge, on Tuesday, January 16th, 2018 with her daughters by her side. She was born in Somerset, PA, and lived in the Ridgewood Section of Queens before moving to Old Bridge, in 2000. Aside from raising her family she had a successful career as a shipping clerk before her retirement. She was very community minded and was involved with the Red Hat Society of Old Bridge, Old Bridge Seniors and St. Ambrose Church. Some of her hobbies include crocheting , dancing, baseball, watching golf and playing cards. Marie also loved spending time with friends and family, especially with her grandchildren. Marie was predeceased by her husband Clifford in 1972, her brothers Ernest Sebastian and Samuel Sebastian, and by her sisters Jo-

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2018

IN MEMORIAM Jack, James, Luke ,and Giovanni; and four great-granddaughters, Olivia, Arya, Evelyn, and Aubrey. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband James, on April 2, 2011; her natural father William Walsh; and her loving parents Margaret & Melvin Olmstead; and a brother William Walsh in 1985. Visitation was held on January 22, 2018 at Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Route 516, Old Bridge, NJ. A Funeral Mass was offered St. Ambrose R.C. Church, Old Bridge, NJ. In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions are suggested to the St. Vincent De Paul Society, 1119 Englishtown Rd., Old Bridge, NJ 08857. Online condolences can be given at www.oldbridgefh.com.

sephine Tamburlin and Elizabeth Schmitt. She is survived by her children Brenda (Anthony) Egiziano and Phyllis (Paul) Cregan; grandchildren Alexander (Suzanne) and Christopher Egiziano and the extended Napoli, Cregan and Lampert families as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and friends. Relatives and friends attended a memorial gathering on January 20th from 8:30am-10am at Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Route 516, Old Bridge, NJ. A memorial mass followed at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Old Bridge. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association by visiting www.alz.org or the American Heart Association by visiting www. heart.org. To share stories, photos or to send an online condolence, please visit www.oldbridgefh.com

To submit Obituaries email Editor@AllaroundOB.com

BERNICE “SIS” HAYWARD

Bernice “Sis” Hayward, 86, of Old Bridge, NJ, formally of West Orange, NJ, passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday January 13, 2018. Bernice was born on July 14, 1931 to the late Douglas and Marie Dangler in West Orange, NJ. She was predeceased by her four brothers, Doug, Joseph Edward, Harold, and Armond. Bernice is survived by her five children sons, David and his wife Martha, daughter Cindy, son Scott, daughter Suzie and her husband Tom, and son Glen, four grandchildren Tom Jr., Sara, David and Kyle. She was loving mom, grandmother and second mom to all.

ROBERT M. LANGAN

Rober t M. L angan, 80, of Old Bridge, NJ, passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center, New Brunswick, NJ surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 15, 1937 in Scranton, PA to the late Joseph and Helen Langan. After serving in the United States Air Force, Robert moved to Brooklyn, NY before settling in Old Bridge, NJ 44 years ago. Robert worked as the Terminal Director for Greyhound Bus Lines in New York for many years before his retirement. After his retirement he went on to be a bartender for

He r h o b bi e s i n cluded reading, crocheting, crafts, and most of all teaching ceramics and kibitzing with friends. She will greatly be missed by family and friends. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of The Old Bridge Funeral Home 2350 Route 516, Old Bridge, NJ. Interment occurred on January 20, 2018 in the Washington Monumental Cemetery, South River, NJ. over 26 years at the Browntown Inn and most recently Antini’s Bar in Old Bridge. Robert was warmly known by most as Greyhound Bob. Most important to Robert was spending time with his family, especially being Poppy to his grandchildren and great-granddaughters. He leaves behind his loving wife of 53 years, Ann; 3 children, Kathleen Caputo and her husband, John of Old Bridge, Timothy and his wife, Karen of Old Bridge, and Eileen Hoag and her husband, Kevin of Old Bridge; 7 grandchildren, Meghan and her husband Mitchell, Robert, Brian, Patrick, Erin, Kaitlyn, and

James; 3 great-granddaughters, Emma, Sophia, and Olivia; his beloved dog, Duke, 2 sisters, Debra and Rose, a brother John and several nieces and nephews. Robert was predeceased by his beloved sister Helen Casey and 5 brothers, Jackie, Joseph, Paul, Thomas, and Gerald. Cremation was private. For more information or to leave an online condolence message to the family, visit www.oldbridgefh.com. In lieu of flowers donations can me made in Robert’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

YMCA OF WESTERN MONMOUTH COUNTY ANNOUNCES 2018 CHARITY BALL HONOREES

Radio personality, Lou Russo, of 94.3 The Point to serve as Master of Ceremonies at the event

The YMCA of Western Monmouth County has announced its “2018 Charity Ball—For A Better Us” will be held on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at the Battleground Country Club. This year, the Y will honor Encon Mechanical Corp., owned by Martin & David Indursky, as Business of the Year; Barry Gordon of OGP Architects, LLP as Volunteer of the Year; and Marlene Rogala, owner of Especially For You Florist & Gift Shop Inc., as Community Partner of the Year. Encon Mechanical was formed in 1968 by Martin Indursky, following his 1963 honorable discharge from the US Army Aviation Branch and five years of working as a mechanical e ng i ne e r for a Ne w York City engineering firm. As his wife, Micki, recalls, “it was pretty scar y since we had almost no savings and our daughter, Lauren, was just 2 years old.” Joined by his son and Encon President, David, in 1992 upon his graduation from SUNY

Albany, they’ve grown Encon Mechanical Corp. into a highly successful, multi-million dollar business serving corporate clients throughout the state of New Jersey and employing 80 full-time staff. For the past 20 years, Barry Gordon has served as a member of the Board of Directors of the YMCA of Western Monmouth County after previously serving two years on the Board of Directors for the Hightstown/East Windsor YMCA. His volunteer positions at the YMCA have included Second Vice Chairman, Chairman of the Property Committee, and Chairman of the Hightstown/East Windsor Branch. His firm, OGP Architects, LLP, has not only been an 11-time sponsor of the Y’s gala, but has also played a significant role in the development of the properties of the YMCA of Western Monmouth County, including the design of the renovations to the Freehold YMCA, the design of the Old Bridge YMCA, and various

projects at Camp Topanemus. January 22, 2018 Page 2 Especially For You Florist & Gift Shop, family-owned and located in downtown Freehold since 1976, has been run by Marlene Rogala since her mother’s retirement in 1988. Today, Especially For You employs nine full-time employees and delivers 20,000 floral arrangements each year. Marlene has always been very active in local and professional associations throughout her career, and she was most recently honored with an American Flag that was flown over Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, by Joint Task Force 1, presented by the Lt. Dennis Zielinski Memorial Fund in recognition for her support of the armed services during Operation Freedom’s Sentinel - 2017. Running a successful business enables Marlene to share her talent and resources with local community fundraising events, such as the Y’s Annual Gala, as well as CentraState Hospital’s “Evening in the Vineyards”, “A Toast to Dennis” - Lt.

FEBRUARY 2018 Dennis. Zielinski Memorial Fund, and Toys For Tots among others. Lou Russo, co-host of radio’s “Lou & Liz in the Morning” on 94.3 The Point, will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the evening, which will feature ticket and silent auctions, a reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner and dancing to the music of Total Soul band. Tickets are on sale now for $195 per person. Exciting sponsorship opportunities are also available. 50/50 cash raffle tickets for this year’s Ball are also on sale for $100 with three fantastic prizes - 1st Prize - 35% of winning share up to $17,500; 2nd Prize -10% of winning share up to $5,000; 3rd Prize - 5% of winning share up to $2,500. Only 500 Tickets will be sold, and winners need not be present. All proceeds of the Ball will benefit the YCares Financial Assistance Program, through which the Y provides programs and services to all members of the community regardless of their ability to pay. “With our doors open to all, we bring together people from all backgrounds, to support those in need,” says YMCA of Western Monmouth County Interim Pres./CEO,

Sharon Halpin. “Every day, the Y supports kids, adults, seniors and families with programs that protect, teach, connect, heal, nourish and encourage. Everything we do helps empower communities and the “us” who live in them to thrive.” For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and additional information, please call Michele Born at 732.462.0464, ext. 125, o r e - m a i l m b o r n @ y m c a nj . org, or visit www.ymcanj.org.

Pictured, back from left: Sharon Halpin, Interim Pres/CEO, YMCA of Western Monmouth County; Board Members, Shari Scaramuzzo, Craig McGraw; Board Chair, Stacey DeAlmeida. Front, from left: Barry Gordon, Marlene Rogala, Martin and David Indursky .

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

SILVER LININGS AT OLD BRIDGE AN ACTIVITY CENTER FOR ADULTS 60+ I am extreme- tractive to those of you who are ly pleased to an- already a member and to attract nounce the name those who are now just retiring of our new center and looking for a place to go. “Silver Linings at Since years of stereotyping are Old Bridge” (for- deeply imbedded in all of us, we merly known as have been programmed to view the Old Bridge “aging” as an unproductive time Senior Center). of life. That could not be further Our goal today from the truth here in Old Bridge. and in the future By replacing terms such as senior, Diane Amabile is to remain at- elder, frail, etc., we hope to capture a

much greater audience of members simply by taking advantage of the power of words and leveraging the creativity of the mature mind. On Friday, January 12, 2018, we Pictured Left to Right: Matt Merofficially cut the ribbon to Silver curio Director of Parks, Recreation & Linings at Old Bridge. The term Social Services, Councilwoman Anita “silver lining” emphasizes the Greenberg, Assistant Manager Anahita hopeful side of a situation that might Feltz, Mayor Owen Henry, Councilseem gloomy on the surface. The woman Debbie Walker, Assistant. Dicommon expression “every cloud rector Diane Amabile, Acting Business Administrator Himanshu Shah has a silver lining” means a comfort-

FEBRUARY 2018 ing or hopeful aspect of an otherwise unhappy situation. So our hope and goal is to be that silver lining for our members each and every day. If you would like more information about Silver Linings at Old Bridge, please call us at 732-7215600 ext. 6600 or visit us on the web www.oldbridge.com/silverlinings

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2018

GREY MATTERS Written By: Judith Kristen Happy Valentine’s Day! Weren’t we all just enjoying our Thanksgiving turkey? It sure seems that way to me. Photo of Before we Judith Kristen know it we’ ll see the snow shovels disappear at Home Depot, replaced by Spring flowers and 50 pound bags of manure, then, a few months after that Christmas ornaments will fill the Hallmark Store once again. Sure, why not? What else is July for? It can’t be just me, can it? I mean… seriously, doesn’t time seem to be moving by faster for you too? Well, that said, I think I should get to the business at hand here and talk about your Valentine’s Day before someone decides to speed that up too and next year they’ll call it, “Happy 45 minutes left of what used to be an actual Valentine’s ‘Day’.” Although I’ve been behaving myself and not overindulging in the food department, as much

as I used to, this does not mean that there isn’t a box of yummy Valentine truffles with my name written all over it somewhere. I mean, since we’re the only planet with chocolate, we might as well take advantage of it, right? I love the whole LOVE thing. Let me count the ways: the decorative hearts gracing our front windows, magnificent roses, candlelight dinners, visions of cupid with his bow and arrow, beautiful prose, lovely cards or hand-written letters from our loved ones,

and... a yummy box of Valentine truffles waiting for me somewhere. (I hope my husband is reading this and gets the hint by now). So whatever it is that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, all lovey-dovey, and chocolatey-chocolatey (I really have to stop this) … I wish it for you on this Valentine’s Day and may the joy of it last you far longer than my two pound box of truffles. …(There I go again) H a p p y Va l e n t i n e’s D a y, Sweethearts!!!Peace and LOVE and all good things….~Judy

OBMUA MISSION STATEMENT The Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority provides two critically vital services to our township residents. The first is a continuous supply of safe drinking water for both domestic use and fire protection, and secondly, the efficient collection of all household and commercial sanitary wastewater for treatment. Arthur M. Haney Chairman, Old Bridge MUA

In this mission, we continue our efforts to provide the township of Old Bridge with safe drinking water of a quality that exceeds state and federal standards for safety, while at the same time upgrading and expanding our system to ensure more than adequate supply, even in times of low supply throughout the region and neighboring communities. It is also within our mission to receive, transport and monitor the wastewater generated by Old Bridge township residents and business in order to protect the environment, with efficiency of service and cost of savings at the forefront of our efforts.

WHAT’S THE AVERAGE 2017 RESIDENTIAL MONTHLY WATER/WASTEWATER COST FOR OBMUA CUSTOMERS? BASED ON 24,000 GALLON USE AND CALCULATED MONTHLY • Old Bridge • Red Bank • Aberdeen • Milltown • Woodbridge • Howell (2013) • Marlboro

Monthly Water $43.18 $71.87 $74.83 $63.96 $59.70 $58.12 $38.59

Monthly sewer $47.59 $71.84 $56.00 $40.17 $56.00 $66.00 $39.67

All rates are based on 2017 public records found on municipal web sites

Quarterly Combined $272.31 $431.13 $392.49 $333.39 $347.10 $372.36 $234.78

CURRENT RATE COMPARISON OBMUA WATER RATE

Quarterly 129.54

Monthly 43.18

Daily 1.44

OBMUA SEWER RATE

142.77

47.59

1.59

OBMUA SENIOR DISCOUNT WATER

56.16

18.72

0.62

OBMUA SENIOR DISCOUNT SEWERAGE

114.22

30.07

1.27

CIGARETTES (HALF PACK A DAY) ELECTRICITY & GAS UTILITIES CABLE WITH INTERNET AND PHONE HAIR WASH (ONCE PER WEEK) BINGO (ONCE PER WEEK) CELL PHONE RESTAURANT (ONCE PER WEEK) MEDIUM DUNKIN DONUTS COFFEE NEWSPAPER (DAILY)

378.00 375.00 315.00 240.00 240.00 195.00 180.00 172.47 72.00

126.00 125.00 105.00 80.00 80.00 65.00 60.00 57.49 24.00

4.20 4.17 3.50 2.63 2.63 2.17 1.97 1.92 0.79

LIVING STONES of the single most distressing emoDISAPPOINTMENT

Ah, February. The heart of winter, and for some, the winter doldrums. Holiday bills are in, and we may still be paying for all of those Christmas excesses. February – the month of Valentine’s Day and seemingly endless commercials for chocolates, flowers, and jewelr y. Not surprisingly, many Americans suffer from the blues this month, especially around Valentine’s Day. One study of over 2,000 adults found that most singles experienced sorrow on or around February 14th. In another study, over 70 percent of singles reported that they stay home from work and school because they are depressed on Valentine’s Day. W h a t ’s h a p p e n i n g h e r e ? Why so much sorrow during a month committed to love? Whether married or single, young or old, many of us experience one

tions this month: a deep sense of disappointment. We expected that the Christmas gifts we gave would make others ridiculously happy, but instead, Christmas is largely forgotten and we are still paying the bills! We also may have resolved to make personal changes in 2018. We planned to eat less and exercise more, but sadly, many of us have already failed to keep these resolutions, only one month into the new year. Disappointment is defined as “the feeling of sadness or displeasure caused by the nonfulfillment of one’s hopes or expectations.” Disappointment is ubiquitous. In fact, even some of the world’s greatest inventors, statesmen, athletes, and performers have experienced intense disappointment. Thomas Edison failed to create the first light bulb over 1,000 times. Incredibly successful individuals, including P.T. Barnum, Henry Ford, Abraham Lincoln, and the great Walt Disney himself experienced bankruptcy at some point in their illustrious careers. In fact, Michael Jordan himself once said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” Reality will never match up fully to our expectations, whether those expectations are placed upon people, things, or circumstances. Author, teacher, and theologian Ravi Zacharias describes such deep disappointment this way, “The loneliest moment in life is when you

Continued from page 1 shows, concerts, motorcross racing, monster truck shows, drifting and road course events will continue uninterrupted. Copart, a Dallas, Texas-based company that is a leader in online vehicle auctions, resale and remarketing, is expected offset any financial impact from the absence of drag racing by taking over nearly 100 acres of the property to store cars, according to Mamakas. “The good thing is, from an economic development standpoint, we just gained another business in town in Copart that is taking almost half of the track,” Mamakas said. “They bring in cars and they’re going to

be housing the entire right side of the facility, almost like an L-shape, from the big dirt track on the right all the way up to the beginning of the bleachers and then all the way to the back of the property.” Mamakas said Raceway Park has more flexibility now to emphasize other car and motocross events. “I also see good coming out of this because you have the drifting sport, which is up and coming,” he said. “Raceway Park has positioned itself to hold more of those national events, more of the motocross events, where the drag racing sport is seeing a lot of tracks close.” While the announcement of the

By Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE have just experienced that which you thought would deliver the ultimate, and it has let you down.” But where does all of this disappointment come from? Our disappointments began soon after the world itself did. In the book of beginnings, Genesis, we learn that humanity was created to live forever in the idyllic setting of Eden. When the first humans chose to heed the voice of the creature over the voice of the Creator, tragedy struck. Because we sought to fulfill our desires with things in paradise, we lost paradise and everything in it as a result. Since Darwin published The Origin of the Species, millions have come to eschew this Biblical account, and instead believe that humanity is a product of chance and mutation. Darwinism in turn gave rise to naturalism, the idea that what is seen and experienced is all that actually exists. William Provine, an evolutionary biologist at Cornell, puts the basic tenants of naturalism this way, “There are no gods, no purposes, no goal-directed forces of any kind. There is no life after death. When I die, I am absolutely certain that I am going to be dead. That’s the end for me. There is no ultimate foundation for ethics, no ultimate meaning to life, and no free will for humans, either.” Our tendency to emphasize and even worship the natural world is clearly nothing new. Writing to the Romans centuries ago, the Apostle Paul described those who hold a naturalist view as ones “who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever” (Romans 1:25).

RACEWAY PARK TRANSFORMS OPERATIONS

end of drag racing stirred up fans on social media, with one petition on Care2.com garnering nearly 10,000 signatures in support of the sport, Mamakas said he sees the decision by Raceway Park as a permanent one. Times are changing, he said, and the track is changing with those times. “The hobbyists are losing a place to go,” said Mamakas, who considers himself one of those hobbyists, having once raced his Dodge Challenger at the strip. “But it’s a family-run business that the family had to make a business decision with.”

FEBRUARY 2018 If the natural is all that exists and all that matters, we often put too much weight upon the natural – upon what people do and say, upon our bank accounts, or upon our careers. When we emphasize the natural, and natural things fail us, the result is deep har row ing dis app oint ment. But wait! Doesn’t the fact that we experience such disappointment prove that we are more than what we experience with our five senses? The very existence of conscience, emotions, and even reason should cause us to pause and wonder, were we not made for something far more than what we see? The reality is mankind was made of and for something greater than the natural world. Our own disappointment with stuff proves it. As a pastor for over 35 years, I know this

is true. Run as we might, resist as we might, nothing in life – no amount of wealth, position, or relationships – will ever fulfill us because we were made for so much more. For this reason, hundreds of us at Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, as well as hundreds more online, have become part of a community dedicated to learning more about the supernatural, about the God of the Bible by simply reading our Bibles (ccob.org/biblechallenge2018)! Together we have come to believe that no matter how much this world disappoints us, we were not made, ultimately, for this world. Perhaps The Chronicles of Narnia author C.S. Lewis said it best, “If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.”

OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP MAKES THE TOP OF THE 2017 SAFEST CITIES LIST IN THE U.S.

Old Bridge Township ranks as the 14th safest city in the State of New Jersey and 50th in the country, according to SafeHome, a professional review site dedicated to making communities safer. Old Bridge Township’s safety score of 87.38 also ranks among the top 25th percentile in the country. The safety scores are based on a variety of factors, the FBI crime report on number and types of crimes committed over a single year, the township’s crime trends, number of law enforcement officers compared to the population, and demographics such as population density, unemployment rate, median income, education level, etc. “On behalf of Mayor and Council we thank you for the great news,” said Acting Business Administrator Himanshu Shah. “We are de-

lighted with your selection and wholeheartedly agree with it.” “As a Township, we rely on members of the community to help us maintain a safe environment,” said Mayor Owen Henry. “Old Bridge Township continues to be an extremely safe Township thanks to the dedication and hard work of our Police Department, Fire Department, First Aid and Rescue Squads, and our residents.” We are formally inviting everyone to visit the SafeHome website. Please share the great news! For more information regarding SafeHome, visit: Safest cities in NJ: https://www. safehome.org/safest-cities/NJ/ Safest cities in US: https:// www.safehome.org/safest-cities/.

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2018

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

OLD BRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY LOOKING FOR WALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS The Old Bridge High School community wishes to recognize and honor outstanding graduates of all high schools of Old Bridge. It is the hope that those honored will serve as an inspiration and source of pride for the students of Old Bridge High School, in addition to providing added incentives and goals to succeed in their adult lives. To be eligible for nomination and consideration for the “Wall of Fame,” candidates must have: • Graduated from one of Old Bridge’s high schools: Madison Township, Madison Central, Cedar Ridge, Old Bridge Adult High

School, or Old Bridge High School.

• Achieved notable employment/career achievements w it h i n t he i r cho s e n f i el ds . • Exhibited civic and/or community accomplishments through service, volunteer work, philanthropic endeavors, or have received notable local, state, or national honors. • Graduated a minimum of five years prior to nomination. Nomination forms may be filled out online at http:// goo.gl/forms/dTCrO4BmWF

Found on the Old Bridge High School website: https://www. oldbridgeadmin.org/Page/8464 • Our School • Wall of Fame • Click link to fill out form Please complete online nomination forms by March 31, 2018. Email any questions to: Sally Fazio, OBHS vice principal, at sfazio@obps.org

OLD BRIDGE MARCHING KNIGHTS ANNUAL WINE AND DINE EVENT This ye ar t he Old Br idge Marching Knights will again be holding their Annual Wine and Dine Event to support the Marching Band. Please see our advertisement in this month’s AAOB. The event will be held on Friday February 9, 2018 from 7-11 PM at the Old Bridge Civic C enter 1 Old Bridge Plaza. Tickets are $55 per person and include buffet dinner, glass and tasting of various wines, spirits, and micro brews. Must be 21 years and older to attend. Tickets purchased prior to January 19th will be entered in a special raffle for a mystery prize. The event will also hold a 50/50 and small tricky tray. Tickets may be purchased by contacting me at 908-510-1866 or by going to our website at www.tkob.org For more information please contact Chris Duffett, Traveling Knight Publicity, 908-510-1866

FEBRUARY 2018

MEMORIAL SCHOOL HOSTS HOPE’S HEROES TO BENEFIT OLD BRIDGE ANIMAL SHELTER Third, fourth, and fifth graders at Memorial Elementary School held a food and supply drive to benefit the Old Bridge Animal Shelter. The project, Hope’s Heroes, was held in memor y of the school’s therapy dog, Hope, w h o p a s s e d aw ay t h i s f a l l. Students wanted to honor her memor y by sponsoring a fund drive in her name. Memorial School Principal Raymond Payton; Kim Sautner, a guidance counselor; and Jennifer Hagan, a special education teacher, dropped off dona-

tions, which included bedding, f o o d , t oy s , a n d g i f t c a rd s .

ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE

FEBRUARY 2018