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OB RIDGE ALL AROUND
VOL 2, NO 9
OLD BRIDGE
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Pursuing Progress
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Mayor's office of Economic Development
See page 20 and Coupon on page 23
A Publication for the community of Old Bridge
FAMILY OLD BRIDGE SPINE AND WELLNESS PARK PARTY GRAND OPENING SET FOR JUNE 23RD ANNOUNCED Mayor’s Health & Wellness Council is pleased to announce the First Annual Family Park Party on Friday, June 22, 2018 at Mannino Park from 2 p.m. till dusk. Residents are invited to celebrate the last day of school and kick off to summer by disconnecting from all our electronics and reconnecting with our neighbors and community. Please join Mayor Owen Henry for a fun filled day of various outdoor activities such as yoga class, meditation, Zumba, self-defense , obstacle courses, kids fun bubble run, hula hoops, nature walks, baseball games, tossing footballs, soccer, crafts for the kids, local merchants, food vendors, dance music, live entertainment and more. Hackensack Meridian Health will be conducting free wellness screenings for all who attend. Bring your chairs, kites, Frisbees and bubbles. For further info call 732-721-5600 ext 2060. The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development would like to announce its first Bridge to Business Expo on Thursday, June 28th at the Grand Marquis. Doors open at 6 p.m., free admission to the general public. Come see all the great businesses and organizations that Old Bridge and the surrounding areas have to offer all the residents. Bring the kids to check out the original Batmobile from The Batman Returns Movie, giveaways , raffles and more. Any business or organization that is interested in participating please request an application by emailing obedo@oldbridge.com
An appearance by former New York Yankees great Mariano Rivera will highlight a full day of activities on Saturday, June 23, when Old Bridge Spine and Wellness celebrates the grand opening of its new facility at 144 Route 34 in Old Bridge. The grand opening will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature a block party, vendors, food, a DJ and demonstrations of the state of the art equipment and technology, all in the parking lot. The parking lot will be closed to cars as a result, with Old Bridge Spine and Wellness running a continuous Continued on page 2
GRILLESTONE RESTAURANT AND BAR CATERS TO ALL TASTES IN OLD BRIDGE
By Michael Grandi
I spend a lot of time in Old Bridge and have encountered many restaurants but none quite as indistinguishable from the others as Grillestone. Situated in the heart of Old Bridge on Rt. 516, Grillestone operates as a restaur ant , b ar an d also hosts private e ve nt s . T he re was something about their signature Grillestone
Burger that made a lunch visit seem advisable. Decision well made. Grillestone is the work of two young entrepreneurs: the owner Anthony Peterpaul, and executive chef, Christian Masisado. By day you can try one of their lunch specials, or by night the food takes on a serious turn with their various steak and seafood options. During my stay, Chef Christian served up his modern dishes that veer toward pleasure as much as the beautiful presentation. They served Beausoleil Oysters from Miramichi Bay, Canada, and signature sushi rolls. Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos with pineapple salsa and spicy Asian slaw, followed by their Continued on page 6
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@a GLANCE INSIDE SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATIONS SEE PAGE 2
FREEDOM DAY @ OB DENTAL SEE PAGE 11 BUFFALO WILD WINGS HOSTS CCS SEE PAGE 11 OB NATIVE SELECTED IN NFL DRAFT SEE PAGE 17 FIVE LOAVES BAKERY OPENS SEE PAGE 17
MORE!
Mayor’s Message pg3 OB Library pg6 Think Old Bridge pg10 Living Stones pg18 COUPONS pg23
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OLD BRIDGE SPINE AND WELLNESS GRAND OPENING
Continued from page 1 bus loop to and from its facility at 300 Perrine Road in Old Bridge. Rivera, arguably the best relief pitcher of all time, will arrive in time for the official ribbon cutting ceremony at noon and will stay until 2 p.m. He will be available for pictures for first 750 people who sign up on line, said Old Bridge Spine and Wellness director of marketing Vincent Santorelli. “There will be tours of the facility throughout the day. You don’t need a ticket for that,” said Santorelli. “But we encourage people to sign up and register. There will be a separate link to sign up for pictures with Mariano Rivera.” Santorelli said Rivera “will not sign autographs that day, so don’t bring personal items to have him sign.” He s ai d 1 0 0 auto g r aphe d 8x10 pictures of Rivera will b e d i s t r i b u t e d r a n d o m l y.
Additional information can be found at njspineandwellness.com/grand opening. The new facility, which is 8,000 square feet, will feature “the latest and greatest equipment available,” said Santorelli. “Ever ything is state of the art,” he said. “We have topnotch equipment, which is really what people love about us.”
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OB Parks and Recreation 1/2 Day Summer Camp Registration STILL AVAILABLE!!! Our camp is based out of 10 locations throughout Old Bridge, and offers a variety of trips and activities to keep your child engaged during our 5 week program. This program is for Old Bridge residents only! Camp runs July 2,2018– August 3, 2018 9am-1pm for ages 6-14 Sites include: Cheesequake, Laurence Harbor recreation building, Madison Park, Grade Nine Center, Grissom, Shepard, Schirra, Miller and Veterans Park recreation building. Kiddie Camp for 5 year olds ONLY July 2,2018– August 3, 2018 9:30am -1:30pm Located in the Parks and Recreation building/Civic Center
New this Summer Mad Science Camps held at the Civic center Red Hot Robots 08/13/18-08/17/18 9am-12pm Brixology 08/20/18-08/24/18 9am-12pm For more information and to register go to oldbridge.com/recreation —> recreation registration
Old Bridge Parks and Recreation One Old Bridge Plaza Old Bridge NJ 08857 Phone: 732-721-5600 ext. 4999 Fax: 732-607- 4833 E-mail: recreation@oldbridge.com
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A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR HENRY: SUMMER FUN AWAITS
Mayor Owen Henry Now that Memorial Day has passed we are all looking forward to a splendid Summer and lots of enjoyment, relaxation and time with our families. We are so fortunate to be able to enjoy these lazy, hazy summer days in all of our beautiful parks in Old Bridge with playground and picnic areas to utilize for our parties and barbeques. June is Graduation Month and we wish to extend our sincere congratulations to all of the graduates, in all
of our schools here in Old Bridge. These children and young adults are our future and we wish them the best as they move on to high school and college and go out into the world to begin their life’s journey. Now that we are at the beginning of the summer break, please be mindful of the increased number of kids playing outside, particularly near the parks, out riding their bikes or walking in the streets and having fun. As Part of my Health & Wellness Initiative of 2018 I would like to invite you and your families to the First Annual Family Park Party on Friday, June 22, 2018 at Mannino Park from 2 p.m. till dusk. Come celebrate the last day of school and kick off to summer for a fun filled day of various outdoor activities that many of our local businesses and organizations will be sponsoring such as Zumba, yoga, baseball ball, soccer, fun run for the kids, family obstacle course, hula hoops, Frisbee ,fun crafts and lots more. Bring your four legged friends along as the Old Bridge Animal Shelter will be
hosting fun events throughout the afternoon at the dog park. Hackensack Meridian Health will be there providing free screening to the residents beginning at 2pm. Please
bring your lawn chairs. The Cultural Arts Committee will be kicking off the Summer Concert Series that evening at 7 with local band; READY , WILLING and ABLE. I am
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looking forward to kicking off the summer by seeing all of you there. So everyone, enjoy the summer and relax and take a break! Mayor Owen Henry
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BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT By Himanshu R. Shah, Acting Business Administrator
Himanshu R. Shah, Acting Business Administrator 1. NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (NJDEP) BLUE ACRES PROGRAM. The NJDEP Super Storm Sandy Blue Acres Team began extending buyout offers to homeowners in Old Bridge in April of 2015. A total of twenty-nine buyout offers have been extended to date. Twenty-six out
of the 29 offers have been accepted. Hard copies of the May 7, 2018 NJDEP Old Bridge Buyout Status Summary Report have been forwarded to the Township Clerk’s Office for distribution to Council. 2. SECOND 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 second quarter tax collection period. The tax office will also be open between the hours of 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 10, 2018. The last day to pay taxes without interest or penalties is May 10. Payments received after May 10 will accrue interest back to the statutory due date of May 1. For additional information, residents should contact the Division of Tax Collection at (732) 721-5600 ext. 2999. 3. HALF DAY SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION. Registration is slated to begin online on Tuesday, May 8 at 6:00p.m. for residents of Old Bridge. The program will run
from July 2 through August 3. For additional information, residents should contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at (732) 721-5600 ext. 4999 or visit the Township website at oldbridge.com. 4. INTERGENERATIONAL PROGRAM. On May 22, 2018 at 10 a.m., the Old Bridge Senior Center, in conjunction with the Municipal Alliance and Old Bridge High School, will be hosting the closing ceremony of the Intergenerational Program. This annual program pairs up senior citizens and high school students from two distinct generations and provides opportunities for socialization, physical activities and the exchange of ideas and traditions. For additional information, residents should contact the Municipal Alliance Office at (732) 721-5600 ext. 4022. 5. LIBRARY CELEBRATES BUILDING’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY. In celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Building’s opening ceremony, on May 25, 2018, the
library hosted special children’s and adult events for the month of May between May 19 and May 25. A time capsule (with items from community residents) was buried in the Library’s garden on May 19 as well as live music being presented that day and twice more during the week leading up to May 25, 2018. Refreshments will be available as well as prizes given away from local businesses and the Library to Township residents. For additional information please contact the Library at (732) 607-5014. 6. 2018 MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY. On May 25, 2018, Mayor Henry will be holding a Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Senior Center. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10:30 AM. For additional information, residents should contact the Mayor’s Office at (732) 721-5600 ext. 2040. 7. 2018 MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY. On May 28, 2018, all municipal offices were closed in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday.
8. 2018 MEMORIAL DAY PARADE. On May 28, 2018, the Township held its annual Memorial Day Parade. The event will began at 9 a.m. For additional information about this event, residents should contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at (732) 721-5600 ext. 4999 or visit the Township Website at www.oldbridge.com. 9. OLD BRIDGE POLICE DEPARTMENT (OBPD) SPECIAL NEEDS EMERGENCY INFORMATION FORM. The Police department offers a Special Needs Emergency Information registration. The form for individuals or families with special needs is available upon request. Any information provided to OBPD will be kept strictly confidential. For additional information, residents should contact the OBPD Detective Bureau at (732) 721-5600 ext. 3280 or e-mail mjeffries@oldbridge.com.
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ESL STUDENTS GRADUATE; SUMMER READING BEGINS! By Nancy Cohen, Library Director
Nancy Cohen, Library Director The Library recently celebrated the graduation of our spring English as a Second Language (ESL) students. This session was our largest yet – approximately 70 adult students meet weekly with our dedicated volunteers to improve their conversational English skills. Since 2005, The Library has offered these classes free to Old Bridge residents. Our students often remark how useful the classes are, and our volunteers find it very rewarding. Tutor Marissa Weber from Aberdeen commented: “This semester was my first foray into teaching ESL. I knew I would be helping people, but I didn’t quite expect the depth of gratitude or profound enthusiasm the students would have, at all levels. It is beautifully inspiring to see not only that, but the bond that can be created among people despite having very little shared language.” Likewise, Peg Garvey-Mitchell from Old Bridge noted that while her professional life has its rewards, volunteering as a tutor is a highlight of her week. “The students demonstrate a love for their native countries while feeling much gratitude to the US and most especially to our Library. Their desire to learn English is evident and inspiring,” she said.
Janet Owens worked in the Old Bridge school system and started volunteering in 2006. She reflected that “The ESL students are enthusiastic and dedicated to learning English. But the greatest benefit of the program is the friendships that have been forged. The Library is a place where the world of diverse cultures can learn from one another in peace.” Retired educator Diane Allinder wants to make the sessions memorable for her students. “I try to make the lessons fun and tell them that we need to laugh at least once during a session. After reading Treasure Island, we had a ‘pirate party’ where I brought in pirate props to help communicate the idea of pirates.” In addition, she has hosted students at her home for a summer barbecue, attended a minor league baseball game with others, and shared a meal at a local diner to encourage students to try new American foods. We host a potluck meal on the last day of class, where all the students
(and tutors) are encouraged to bring a dish representative of their native country, and eligible students receive a Certificate of Achievement. Our next sessions will begin September 18 and 19, with classes on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday mornings. In-person registration will begin in August. A sincere thank you to all our wonderful tutors and congratulations to our students! Following graduation, comes summer! The Library’s annual summer reading program begins on Saturday, June 23rd and we’ll celebrate with crafts and activities for families from 11-2pm. With the theme of “Libraries Rock,” this year’s program will incorporate a music theme, will appeal to all ages, and will run through August 18th. Participants can sign up for the program during the kick-off event and will learn how to win prizes. By following action boxes on a game board, kids and adults can receive raffle tickets to be entered into weekly prize drawings for
TWP. OF OLD BRIDGE OPENS REGISTRATION FOR SUMMER PLAYGROUND CAMP 2018 Mayor Owen Henry, Township Council, and the Parks and Recreation Department are excited to announce the open registration for summer playground camp 2018. This year’s schedule is full of exciting trips designed to keep customers happy all summer long. This year included in the camp fee will be a visit to the zoo, a color fun run and an all exclusive day to Funplex Amusement Park in Mount Laurel, N.J. You must sign
up for the site closest to your home, please visit http://gis.oldbridge. com/ to see which summer camp site your child should be attending. Camp fee per child is $160.00; rate has risen for an increase of camp security. A $5.00 late fee will be assessed for all registration after June 8, 2018. Camp T-shirts are required to be worn on trips purchased for $5.00. “I encourage parents to register their children for this camp,”
said Mayor Owen Henry. “This camp will make their children’s summer a fun and memorable one.” Online Registration is open; please contact Parks and Recreation Department for additional information at (732) 721-5600 ext. 4999. See page 2 Ad.
OB OLD BRIDGE
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Pursuing Progress
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Mayor's office of Economic Development
games, building sets and electronics. Tickets can be earned by reading, attending Library programs, listening to music and playing outside, among other activities. The importance of summer learning programs is well-documented, and preventing “summer slide” continues to be the program’s main objective. Studies demonstrate that students who participate in summer reading programs scored higher on reading achievement tests at the beginning of the next school year than those who did not. Children routinely experience learning losses when they don’t engage in educational activities during the long break. Our ongoing summer programs include Reading and Math Buddies, which help kids in grades 1-5 to improve their basic skills and boost their self-confidence. Children are paired up with a Teen Buddy for one-on-one mentoring and individual help. This year we will also offer Google’s Chrome Music Lab which allows kids to try fun hands-on experiments with music, including the Song Maker program to create their own songs that can be saved and shared. Fans of Battlebots can take their bots for a spin in our Hexbug arena, using a simple controller to move each bot as they try to knock off their rival’s magnetic parts. We will also have various materials to build different arenas and terrain to create our own battles between bots. There will be plenty of interesting events all summer, and I encourage you to check out our website --- www.oldbridgelibrary.org – for a complete, up-to-date schedule.
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Upcoming Events Fri. June 8th 2pm: Wellness & Nutrition as a Means to Healthy Longevity 7pm: Horror Writers Panel 7pm: Tweens Night Out: Trivia
Sat. June 9th 2:30pm Second Saturday Concert: Violin Story: From Renaissance to Modern Tues. June 12th 10am: Diabetes Management (6-week session) **
2pm: Jersey’s Most Famous Road: The Turnpike Thurs. June 21st 11:30am: Home School Players Sat. June 24th 2:30pm: InQuire Science: Lizard Guys Wed. June 27th 10am: Safe Sitter Program ** Sat. June 30th 11am: Introduction to Bharatanatyam Indian Dance ** registration required
7pm: How to Exercise Properly without Injury Sat. June 16th
GRILLESTONE RESTAURANT CATERS TO ALL TASTES
By Michael Grandi Continued from page 1 Skirt Stake topped with egg and cradled by potatoes and peppers, certainly not your straightforward dish and was perfectly executed. The chef plays around with the line between bold and savory, which is a game that usually involves cooking with newness and creativity. Chef Christian nailed it. It would be easy to suppose that the chef ’s talent was lunch and dinner. My server Maggie Drake
recommended the Tropical Breeze Cocktail and I was surprised with a Crème Brulee dessert that delivered clean and crunchy tones on the caramelized topping which contrasted well to the creamy custard beneath. Grillestone masters the art of delighting people with its modern yet elegant dining room and the exceptional service and friendly staff. The exceptional vibe at night will gain admirers when it comes to building a new style of dining in Old Bridge.
SATURDAY JUNE 23 10AM - 4PM
NJSW proudly presents the celebration of our new home at 144 Rt 34 in Matawan, New Jersey. Join us for an afternoon of music, fun, food, demonstrations, and a Yankee Legend! For tickets and more information call us at (732) 316-5895, visit: www.njspineandwellness.com/GrandOpening or scan the QR code with your smart phone. *Partnerships Available. Contact Us For More Information
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EAT YOUR WAY TO GOOD HEALTH
By: Nina K. Regevik, M.D., FACP, ABIHM What we eat and how it is prepared is perhaps the most important component to our health and well-being. As research accumulates showing that food is able to prevent and even treat disease, health care professionals agree the sugar, salt, processed foods, and fat we consume all greatly contribute to our nation’s high rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. These interlocking conditions are primarily caused by high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, low consumption of fruits and vegetables and too much animal proteins, as well as tobacco use. Changing our nutritional habits is necessary in order to help us achieve optimal health. With our “on the go” lifestyles, easy to prepare packaged foods are tempting but usually come with high salt and sugar content and fast food restaurants are fast but come loaded with salt, sugar, and fats. These should be avoided or limited. Nina K. Regevik, M.D., FACP, Instead make healthier food choices ABIHM to help your body get the nutrients it needs. Try the following tips:
• Eat two cups of fresh fruits and 2½ to 3 cups of vegetables every day. •Limit saturated and trans fats by using olive oil or other vegetable oils instead of butter or margarine. Consume less than 10 percent of calories per day from saturated fats. Also, remember to limit the total fat intake to less than 30 percent of your daily calories. • Eat more fish or chicken and less red meat. Avoid processed meats, they are loaded with preservatives, sodium, and sugars. • Eat 6 to 8 ounces of grains, of which at least half should be from whole-grain bread and cereal. •Consume less than 10 percent of calories per day from added sugars. For a 2000 calorie per day diet in active individuals, less than 10 percent of daily calorie intake is equal to 200 calories a day or 50 grams of sugar in one day. If you keep a food diary, you can see that this adds up fast as sugar is often substituted for fat to add flavor. • Limit your salt and sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day.
• Get the equivalent of 3 cups of low-fat milk or dairy products (or soy, rice, or almond milk for people who can’t tolerate lactose) every day. These are just the “tip” of the iceberg. There are a host of enormously nutritious vegetables and healthy herbs that could be grown in your own organic container garden at home. And it’s not as difficult as you may imagine. With the right seeds, watering, sunlight, and soil you can provide your family with a variety of healthy produce. This year, Raritan Bay’s Learning Garden, providing hands-on education for children and adults about gardening, healthy nutrition and food preparation, is entering its fourth season. Initial planting sessions will begin mid- to lateMay and education sessions will be held throughout the summer.
We are currently recruiting volunteers to help maintain the gardens at Raritan Bay-Perth Amboy and Raritan Bay-Old Bridge while learning about growing produce and nutrition. We welcome anyone who is interested in learning and improving their health! For more information, schedule of educational events, or to register as a volunteer, call 732-324-5257. Internist Nina Regevik, M.D., FACP, ABIHM, is co-director of Hackensack Meridian Health’s Integrative Health & Medicine at Raritan Bay Medical Center. Since 2004, Raritan Bay’s qualified and credentialed practitioners have provided integrative therapies to enhance patients’ health and well-being with complementary medicine supporting the mind-body-spirit connection. To register, call 1-800-560-9990.
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THINK OLD BRIDGE BUSINESS EXPO EVENT COMING IN OLD BRIDGE
By Steve Mamakas, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office
Steve Mamakas
We want to let all know about a great Township event we have planned for Old Bridge that is open to the Public at no cost. The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development will be hosting the first Bridge to Business EXPO. Located at the Grand Marquis on Thursday June 28th from 6-9 p.m. Come see and meet businesses from all cross Old Bridge and the surrounding areas. There will be giveaways, seminars and other exciting programs for all to enjoy. Hope to see all at the Grand Marquis on June 28th. 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 in Old Bridge @ facebook.com\obetownedo or Twitter @ twitter.com/obedonj
MAY 2018 IS OLDER AMERICANS MONTH “ENGAGE AT EVERY AGE”
June is the month dedicated to raising awareness for abuse of the elderly. Elder Abuse Awarene ss Mont h Diane Amabile is tackling a Senior Center Manager huge, important issue since many seniors are being abused. The abuse can be physical, financial or emotional. Elder abuse can take place in an older person’s home. Caretakers in an institution can be the perpetrators. Scam artists can get at them over the phone, via computer or at their front door. Sadly, many cases of abuse are at the hands of family. Abuse is not always actively done with force. It can also be neglect. The senior is not fed, not kept clean or warm, not kept safe, not given proper medical care. If you want to become more aware of elder abuse, please join us on Thursday, June 14th at 10:30 am as professionals from Roosevelt Care Center explain the variety of ways an elder can be abused and how you can report it. We ask that you
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FREE ADMISSION TO ALL – SEE THE REAL BAT-MOBILE FROM (BATMAN RETURNS)
JUNE 2018
FREE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES NOW OFFERED IN OLD BRIDGE Are you a person with Medicare living with diabetes or know someone who is? Take control of your health through a free and fun six-week workshop series. Meet others going through similar experiences and learn about diabetes and its risks, preventing complications, healthy eating, exercise, medication management, dealing with stress and depression, action planning, and much more. Graduates from this program have lost weight, improved eating habits, started walking, and got blood sugar levels under control. “I have learned more in this workshop than I have in 10 years of fighting this disease,” said Marian, a woman with Type 2 diabetes who graduated from a previous workshop.
The free diabetes self-management workshop series will be offered at the Old Bridge Public Library on 1 Old Bridge Plaza on Tuesdays, June 12 to July 24, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Healthy snacks, literature, and resources will be provided. To re g i s t e r, c a l l t h e O l d Bridge Public Librar y at (732) 721-5600 ext. 5010. Quality Insights is collaborating with Middlesex County Office of Health Services to offer this free diabetes workshop as part of Everyone with Diabetes Counts (EDC). The EDC program is a national initiative of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Learn more at www.qualityinsights-qin.org.
wear purple that day so we can unite as one group against elder abuse. Not everyone who abuses the elderly will seem like bad people. Often, they are just people who can’t handle the pressures and responsibilities of looking after someone who is frail and unable to take care of themselves. Don’t turn your back, we all need to become more aware of signs when vulnerable people are mistreated. If you would like more information about Silver Linings at Old Bridge and information on what’s coming up on our calendar of events, please visit us on the web at www.oldbridge.com/silverlinings or call us at 732-721-5600 ext. 6600.
Divas & Dudes Dance Team Silver Linings at Old Bridge
Correction: In last month’s article featuring the Old Bridge Elks, law firm Stark & Stark was one of many sponsors to participate in the event hosted by the Old Bridge Elks.
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PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR SUMMER CAMP FREEDOM DAY USA AT
By Kenneth Cardullo, Program/Camp Director, Old Bridge YMCA
feel more comfortable. You should always begin this process with a conversation with your child; assure them they will have an amazing experience at camp. Give your child a say in which camp you choose, after all, they will be the ones attending. Children will always reflect the attitude of an adult so be sure to be excited and happy for them heading into their new experience. Kenneth Cardullo Sending your child to summer camp for the first time can be an exciting, but also nerve-wracking experience. You and your child may be feeling similar emotions heading into the season: The combination of excitement mixed with the uncertainty of the program you chose, and concerns about whether your child will enjoy their day and make friends along the way. Below are a few things you can do to ensure a successful camp season. As summer approaches, if you fear your child may have a hard time adjusting to camp, or making friends within the program, there are several steps you can follow to
ible experience for your child and can assist in learning skills they may not experience in a classroom setting. While trying a new program may be daunting for you as a parent, there are many summer camps who have your child’s development and safety as their number one priority. Always be sure to research, visit prospective camps, and ask questions to find the program that works best for you and your child. The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Y has been a leader in providing summer camp for over 130 years. Locally, the Old Bridge Y offers both day camp and a new travel camp from June 24 through August 31. To learn more about the Old Bridge Y, visit www.ymcanj.org
Once camp begins, always feel free to speak directly to his or her camp counselor. Camp counselors have a very specific duty of ensuring that your child is safe and having fun. Do not ever hesitate to speak with your child’s camp counselor to see how your child is progressing socially. Summer camp can be an incred-
CCS HOSTS BUFFALO WILD WINGS EVENT FOR VOLUNTEERS OF RIVERA FOUNDATION
By Jonah A. Conte Recently, an event catered by Buffalo Wild Wings was held at Calvary Christian High School to thank the students who had volunteered to help bag groceries on the weekends for the Jacob Rivera Foundation. They bagged the groceries at local ShopRite locations to be able to raise money for this foundation. The Rivera family had started this fund in loving memory of Jacob Rivera, who was an alumnus of the school who had passed away in a tragic car accident November 18, 2017. Jacob loved Calvary Christian School and the people that it helped put around him, which especially showed at his wake when some of his close friends got the opportunity to share his story and their fond memories of him in and outside of the school. The Jacob Rivera Foundation is his legacy enacted today, giving opportuni-
ties to many people with a desire to go to the school that he loved. To be able to give scholarships to help financially assist families to be able to attend CCS and wouldn’t be able to afford it otherwise. This is an essential part of this foundation because of the desire to give to other people the experience that Jacob had in Calvary Christian School. Brenda Rivera, mother of Jacob Rivera, had called Buffalo Wild Wings and told them about their story and what the foundation was all about. She also stated that Jacob “loved Buffalo Wild Wings and was there on opening day.” That was enough for them, because they then gave the students who had volunteered a special treat; catering wings and other various foods from their restaurant. Both the students and teachers were very excited for this event, and it was all possible because
of their generosity. “Bagging has been a source of healing for me. Seeing everyone come out and roll their sleeves up to help support the memory of Jacob has been a blessing for us as a family,” said Brenda. The money raised by this foundation goes towards a great cause. Whether it’s bagging groceries or a regular donation, it’s very much appreciated. When asked about the money raised by bagging, Brenda Rivera said, “I really want to focus on Jacob’s legacy, the school and the website. How we all come together to raise funds. Bagging is just one thing we do.” More information about this cause is available at https://www.youcaring. com/calvarychristianschool1037199
OLD BRIDGE DENTAL LOCAL NJ TOP DENTAL PRACTICE TO PROVIDE FREE DENTISTRY FOR VETERANS & ACTIVE MILITARY BY APPOINTMENT Attention all Veterans and Active Military: On Saturday, July 7, 2018 Old Bridge Dental will be hosting Freedom Day USA to provide 100% FREE dentistry to our Vets and active military members. To ensure quality experience for all, this day will be by appointment only and first-come firstserve during the allotted hours. If you’re experiencing a concern and need dental work, please arrive for 7 a.m. registration on 7/7/2018, you will then be given a same day appointment time. If you need a cleaning, please call to schedule your appointment ASAP as the schedule is the hygiene
schedule is already filling up! Please be prepared to bring a copy of your military ID or DD-214 form. Call 732-613-9898 See full page ad on page 19
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FRIEDMAN, WILLIAM “BILL”
Fr i e d man , Wi l l i am “Bi l l” It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Friedman on March 27, 2018, following a stroke, in St. Petersburg, Florida, at the age of 43 years. Bill was a graduated from what was then Cedar Ridge High School in Old Bridge, NJ, lettering in track. He earned his bachelor’s degree in actuarial science from Rider University where he was also a member of the Delta Sigma Pi fraternity, serving as chancellor and treasurer during his studies. An avid stock trader, he was active in
PATRICIA ANN ZUPPE
Patricia Ann Zuppe, 79, of Old Bridge, quietly passed away on April 30th in Old Bridge, NJ. Born in New York City to the late John and Bridget Garrahy, she and her husband Fred lived in West New York, NJ before relocating to Old Bridge, NJ where they have lived for over 47 years. Patricia spent her career as an executive assistant for William Taggart working at Taggarts Driving School, Herman’s Sporting Goods and most recently with York Management in East Brunswick. She was an avid sports fan that enjoyed watching the Dallas Cowboys, Yankees and Rangers. Most of all she was passionate about her family, spending time with her children and especially her grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, and brothers Ja ck and Wi l l i am G ar r a hy. She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Fred Zuppe, son Ed Zuppe and wife Michelle of MARLEY JAMES HOY
Marley James Hoy, infant son of Kyle James Hoy and Alison Hoy, was stillborn on March 27, 2018 at 1:56pm at Metropolitan Hospital in New York, NY. Although he was never able to spend time with his parents, he was held and loved in their arms after he was born. He was preceded in life by his parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Kyle and Alison would like to especially thank their doula, Bonnie
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IN MEMORIAM online trading communities, where he was known for both his significant analysis as well as sharp wit. He is survived by his wife Nickey, daughter Athena, step-daughters Nikole and April, his mother May and step-father Leo, his father Martin and his partner, Sandy, and his brothers Matthew and David and their families. A memorial service was held on May 12 at 9:00 AM at the Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Route 516, Old Bridge, NJ, followed by internment at Chestnut Hill Cemetery in East Brunswick, NJ. Freehold, daughter Ellen Connor and husband James of Old Bridge, sisters Mary O’Gorman and her husband Tom, Helen McAulliffe and her husband Gene, and her beloved grandchildren, Shane Connor and wife Alissa, Michael Zuppe, Kevin Connor, Danielle Zuppe, Julie Connor, Nick Zuppe and her great grandchild Colton Connor. Friends and family are invited to remember her during visitation hours on Wednesday, May 2nd from 4-8 PM at the Old Bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Route 516, Old Bridge. A funeral ceremony will be held on Thursday at 10 AM at the funeral home. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation by visiting www.JDRF.org <http:// www.jdrf.org/> or sending a donation to JDRF 1480 US Hwy 9 North Suite 306, Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Silva, the Midwives of Village Maternity and Metropolitan Hospital and the Nurses and staff of Metropolitan Hospital, who showed their constant love, compassion and support. In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree in Marley’s name with, The Trees Remember https://thetreesremember.com A private service was held by Kyle and Alison on Marley’s due date, Friday, May 4th, 2018, to honor him.
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DAVID ALAN ROSE
David Alan Rose, 65, of Old Bridge, passed away on Monday, April 30, 2018 at JFK Medical Center in Edison. He was born in Newark, New Jersey but has been a lifelong resident of Sayreville and Old Bridge. David was an outgoing and friendly individual that would always be there to help family and friends. You would never have to ask him for help with anything because if he knew you needed something he would already be there assisting. He was truly a kind hearted individual. David graduated from The Culinary Institute of America and had worked for many years as a chef and he was very proud of this accomplishment. More recently, although not working as a chef, he loved to cook for family and friends. It was truly his passion. He also loved fishing, crabbing, working on cars and going to Raceway Park in Englishtown to watch the races, attend a car show or to visit the flea market. He was an animal lover and loved his dogs. He enjoyed spending time with his family in the the Great Smoky Mountains where they
ALEX MARTYNOVYCH
Alex Martynovych, 79, of Jamesburg, passed away on May 2, 2018 Alex is survived by his loving s p o u s e o f Ju l i a , d a u g h t e r, Tamara Serrao; son, Alex Martynovych, Jr.; Two Brothers, Peter and Serge Martynovych; four sisters, Anna Babich, Helen Tel-
would vacation together. He truly loved life and all its wonders, and it was the simple things that made him happy. The memories that he left will continue to live on with those who knew him. He leaves behind his wife of 10 years, Carol Ann Rose; two daughters, Melissa Napolitano and her wife Tanya, and Heather Rose; a sister Adele S chayer ; two grandchildren, Breanna Rose, and Autumn Napolitano; sisters and brothers-in-law, Patricia and Joseph Altomonte and Linda and George Ciupinski; nieces and nephews, Danielle Schayer and her fiance Phil Astuto, Jennifer and her husband Brian, Jessica and her husband Andrew, Joey and Tai, Danielle, Anthony and Stephen; great niece and nephew Kaylynn and Sebastian. David is also survived by many other extended family members and cherished friends. He was preatycki, Olga Creighton, Aggie Kosciuk; grandson, Joshua Green; granddaughter, Chloe Green; . Visitation was held Thursday, May 10, 2018, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm & Thursday, May 10, 2018, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge, NJ.
deceased by his parents Billy and Yolanda Rose. Relatives and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Friday, May 4, 2018 from 5 PM to 9 PM at Old bridge Funeral Home, 2350 Route 516, Old Bridge, New Jersey. A funeral ceremony will take place at 7:30 PM during the viewing. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to be made in David’s name to The American Heart Association, https://donatenow.heart.org Funera l s er v ices were on Friday, May 11, 2018, 10:00 am at the Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge, NJ, with Pastor Lloyd Pulley officiating. Burial was in the Washington Monumental C emeter y.
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CARL SANDBURG MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT FINISHES IN TOP EIGHT ON MASTERCHEF JUNIOR THANKS TO SIGNATURE DISH OF LINGUINE AND CLAMS
Anthony Martino Jr Ever yone now calls him by his new nickname, Tony Clams, and he likes it. Anthony Martino Jr., a sixth grader at Carl Sandburg Middle School, spent more than two months in California competing against the top 24 youngsters on Season 6 of MasterChef Junior. The 12-year-old finished in the top eight, cooking in front of
judges including chefs Joe Bastianich and Gordon Ramsey. The Old Bridge Board of Education recognized Anthony’s accomplishments at its April meeting. W h i l e o n t h e F o x s h o w, Anthony prepared his signature dish, homemade linguini with white clam sauce, and came in one of the top three that week. According to his mother, Danielle Martino, Bastianich “took a liking to my son.” She said he told the youngster a story how he got his nickname, Joey Clam, and said, “I think I will call him Tony Clams.” Anthony, who comes from a big Italian family, began cooking
and baking at his home “ever since he was little. We’d bake cupcakes, grill, and make homemade pasta,” his mother said. The youngster’s journey began
after he saw an open casting call in New York after watching an episode of MasterChef Junior. “I reluctantly filled out an application,” Danielle Martino said. “I dragged my daughter and, husband into the city, and Anthony tried out. On our way home on the train, we got a call to come in for a cooking demonstration and to see how he was on camera.” The first dish he
prepared before a camera crew was his shrimp scampi recipe. From there, the youngster continued auditioning for a spot on the popular reality show. The process ran from June 2016 to September 2016. Then the following month, 44 children were selected from around the country to compete in Los Angeles, where the number was paired to 12 boys and 12 girls, creating a top 24. From October 2016 until Dec. 20, 2016, the show was taped. With his mother at his side while in California, Anthony received home instruction for 15 hours per
week, attended cooking classes, conducted interviews, and competed. “In my head I knew I had to be good at this and cook everything correctly,” said Anthony. “We only had a certain amount of time to cook, and it was nerve wracking.” Since the show aired this season, his mother said there have been telephone calls and emails requesting Anthony to attend food festivals and cooking demonstrations. But, Anthony declined. His mother said he wants a break; he loves being a regular kid who happens to like to cook. This marking period Anthony said he will be taking a cooking class as an elective at Carl Sandburg Middle School, and he said he plans to give a few demonstrations to the class. As for the future, Anthony said he wants one day to open a restaurant with his dad, Anthony Martino Sr. and call it what else – Tony Clam. He quickly added, “I want to make it big someday.”
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Seven Years In A Row
ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE
JUNE 2018
OB NATIVE SELECTED IN NFL DRAFT
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By Matt Agosta (Matt is a senior at Old Bridge High School, where he is sports editor of Knight Life. He plans to attend St. John’s University in the fall) An Old Bridge Township native was selected 11th overall by the Miami Dolphins in the April 27 National Football League draft. Minkah Fitzpatrick, 21, played for three seasons at the University of Alabama as a defensive back. A graduate of Jonas Salk Middle School and later St. Peter’s Preparatory School in Jersey City, he played three seasons at the University of Alabama. Considered a five-star recruit by ESPN.com, Fitzpatrick was listed as the No. 4 cornerback in the nation while playing with the Crimson Tide in 2015. During his high school playing days, he also was a wide receiver. In 2014, during his senior year at St. Peter’s Preparatory School, he caught 45 passes for 1,111 yards and 12 touchdowns, while recording 70 tackles and three interceptions on defense. “He is a great player and I defi-
nitely model my game after him,” said Zach Thomas, a safety on the Old Bridge High School Varsity Football team. “I am sure that our entire town will be rooting for him to succeed at the next level.” During his tenure at Alabama, he recorded nine interceptions and 191 tackles. Joining a storied program, Fitzpatrick and his team won the 2015 Cotton Bowl, 2016 Peach Bowl, and 2018 Sugar Bowl. In addition to the bowl games, Fitzpatrick has appeared in three national championships and won two, with the most recent victory coming this past January against Georgia in overtime. “When the announcers on ESPN gave recognition to Minkah during the national championship game and shouted out Old Bridge, it was a pretty sweet moment,” said Eric Mensah, an offensive lineman for the Old Bridge High School Varsity Football team.
Fitzpatrick, a 6’1”, 201-pound defensive back, recorded a 4.40 in the 40-yard dash at this year’s Scouting Combine in Indianapolis; NFL.com listed him as “an instant starter.” “I’m an athlete so you can put me in a couple of different spots, and I can adjust with my different techniques,” Fitzpatrick told the Miami Herald in an interview after draft night. “My football IQ has allowed me to move around and be a chess piece.” While Fitzpatrick plays multiple positions, once Dolphins training camp hits, Fitzpatrick will compete against TJ McDonald for the No. 1 spot at safety. Replicating his success from 2017 will be a challenge for Fitzpatrick, as last year was his best year in college football. In addition to hoisting the Dr. Pepper National Championship Trophy, Fitzpatrick was awarded both the Jim Thorpe
Award, which is given to the top defensive back in college football, and the Chuck Bednarik award for Defensive Player of the Year. With the hometown New York Jets in the same division as the Dolphins, Fitzpatrick will be returning to New Jersey to play a game every year. Fitzp at r ick l ast pl aye d at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford during his senior year of high school; St. Peter’s won the NJSIAA State Championship at the game.
FIVE LOAVES BAKERY SERVING ARTISAN TREATS spired shop with three major lines of homemade production – artisan bread, viennoiseries and desserts/cakes/and pastries. Wu , a n a r t i s a n b a k e r ,
As Benedict Wu dabbled in baking for his family for years he never once imagined that his avocation would become his vocation. But that’s exactly what has happened to Wu, who spent 40 years as a telecommunications engineer and now finds himself as the owner of Five Loaves Bakery & Café on Route 516 in Old Bridge. It was a trip to his homeland
of Taiwan in 2012 that convinced him to finally pursue his love of baking full time. “Before that trip I just baked at home for my family. I always enjoyed it,” he said. “But after I came back I decided this was something I wanted to do.” That eventually led to the January 2018 opening of Five Loaves Bakery & Café, a French-in-
employs a pastry chef as well. “I’m doing what I love while also trying to serve the community and help young adults to gain experience,” Wu said.
This season, Fitzpatrick’s homecoming is scheduled on Sept. 16 during week two of NFL play.
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LIVING STONES pain and suffering? Theologians OUR FATHER
By Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge A young child battling cancer. A single mother struggling to make ends meet. A good kid, facing the torment of c y berbullying. All around we see evidence of evil in the world. Not to be too much of a downer, but facts are facts - the human condition is wrought with all forms of suffering. We experience inexplicable pain and we long for answers. We may even ask God, “Why?” If God is all-loving and all-powerful, how can He allow so much
have grappled with this conundrum for generations. Humanly speaking, either God is all-loving, but lacking the power to fix the world, or He is all-powerful, yet aloof and disinterested in humanity, thus allowing evil to prevail. Not satisfied with these options, I recently delved more deeply into a study of God’s character, especially as found in the first of phrase of what is commonly known as the Lord’s Prayer: Our Father who art in heaven Hallowed by thy name Yo u r k i n g d o m c o m e Yo u r w i l l b e d o n e … Even if we do not share a Christian background, many of us may recognize the opening words of this prayer. In the very first line – our Father in Heaven – we see characteristics of God that actually offer great comfort in times of unspeakable suffering. God is all-loving, indicated by the term “father,” and He is also all-powerful, indicated by His residence “in Heaven.” Significantly, God is our Father only if we have become His children.
ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE The Bible says, “he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also” (1John 2:23b). In other words, if you are a follower of Jesus, God is your Father. Only by making a conscious decision to believe in the substitutionary death of the very Son of God can we come to experience God as a loving Father. As a father and a grandfather who did NOT have a father figure in my home growing up, I am well aware of how critically important the role of a father is. The protection, guidance, and provision a father offers are invaluable. That’s why those two simple words – our Father – mean so very much, especially on this month of Father’s Day. The fact that God is our Father means that when we face even unspeakable difficulty, we can trust that God has our very best intentions in mind. Even when things seem to make NO sense, followers of Jesus can trust that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). But note too, the Lord’s Prayer
JUNE 2018 indicates that God is also our Father in HEAVEN. Remembering that our Father resides in heaven shows us that He is far outside of our time and far above our circumstances. When we pray, we can often be tempted to just throw up emergency pleas to God or to repeat our fears so much that our concerns spin out of control. God’s residence in heaven is a reminder that He is greater than what concerns us, far beyond what troubles us. When we think of heaven, we may be tempted to picture cartoons of angel-babies playing harps on clouds, but heaven is so much more than that. Heaven is the place where God’s will is perfectly obeyed. Imagine the kind of world we would live in if everyone perfectly followed God’s commands. Even if just one of the Ten Commandments was followed perfectly by everyone, the world would be a radically different place. In the end, the Lord’s Prayer is about aligning our hearts with the eternal. The only way we will ever see change - in our nation, in our communities, in our families - is
when change begins much closer to home, in the human heart. Many have come in the past claiming to have the power to bring lasting change, but they have all fallen short. Only Jesus can bring the heart change that people need. It is why Christians worldwide pray to our Father, who art in heaven. It’s w hy we pr ay, p e r i o d. The theme of “your kingdom come,” drawn from this passage in Matthew, is the theme of our entire Bridgefest Beach Festival in Ocean Grove this year. Hosted by Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, and our radio station, The Bridge, Bridgefest draws thousands of people to the Jersey shore in the largest beach festival of its kind in the Northeast. Activities include Bible teaching throughout the day, a surf clinic, Q&A panels with Bridge teachers, all kinds of kid’s activities, and an evening concert featuring The Afters, Jonny Diaz, Citizens and Saints, and Pastor Tony Clark. All are invited to come on June 23rd as we ask for God’s Kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Learn more at www.bridgefest.org.
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ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE
JUNE 2018
When are YOU getting injured?
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 That seems like a silly question to ask. Hopefully no one routinely walks around thinking about
getting hurt. Most of us still try to maintain the free spiritedness of our youth ~ a feeling that we are invincible. We think “I am in great health, nothing bad is going to happen to me!” Nothing bad, until that one day when you are riding your bike in the woods, hit a rough patch in your path, and are thrown from your bike. You hear the crack of your bones and pain in your hip. You immediately think of the pain. Do you then start to think about how you are going to pay bills in the coming weeks or months because you may not be able to work? A Disability Income policy will make sure the only thing crossing your mind at the time of an injury is stabilizing that hip and getting to the hospital. A Disability Income policy will protect your paycheck! If you cannot work due to illness or an injury, or when your road to recovery seems to become your “new normal,” this policy will help make
sure there is money to pay the mortgage, satisfy tuition dues, and keep the lights working in your home! There are two general ways to categorize Disability Income insurance: Short-Term and Long-Term coverage. Short-Term coverage can exist for as little as 3 months and as long as 24 months for most carriers. Long-Term coverage usually can stay in effect for longer periods of time - 2, 5, maybe 10 years, or even to specific ages such as 67 or 70. Each type of policy will pay a benefit, which is specified at the creation of the policy, for the chosen period of time. The benefit amount will be based on your current gross income, with the max benefit amount determined by company and governmental rules and regulations. As a rule, you are allowed a max up to 70% of your gross income insured with a Disability Income policy through any combination of carriers or group plans. A major factor in each policy is
the elimination period. The elimination period is the number of days the insured person must wait before a benefit will be paid. You will need to know your monthly expenses and how long you would be able to cover them before receiving support. These details will help you decide how long, or short, of an elimination period you will need to have the benefit payments start. After the elimination period, your carrier will start to pay out your specified benefit for the number of months or years as you chose in your policy. Additionally, there other variables
associated with a policy. The type of occupation you have and the duties you perform, types of riders with benefits which you could add to enhance or extend coverages, and different discounts for the policy some insurance carriers may offer. Your licensed insurance representative can help you analyze and understand your specific circumstances, weigh your various options, and tailor a policy to provide you with the most beneficial coverage for you and your family. Protect your paycheck! Reach out to your insurance agent today!
PREVENTATIVE PRODUCTS ARE THE BEST FLEA FIGHTERS
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 28 years. Dr. Greenberg has been a member of the Old Bridge Township Council since 2016. F l e a s a r e l a r g e tor m e n tors in a small package. Not only will they make your pets itch, they also cause significant health problems. Fleas are small flightless insects. Adults are three millimeters long and usually brown. They are external parasites of mammals and birds, and they live by consuming the blood of the host. Their body has a hard shell but is flattened sideways, which allows them to move easily through the fur or feathers of their hosts. Mouthparts are adapted for piercing skin and sucking blood. Hind legs are adapted for jumping. Fleas have three pairs of legs, which makes for excellent leaping capabilities. They are hearty and nimble, when searching for a host. They can jump 10,000 times in a row (the length of three football fields). There are more than 2,500 sp ecies of f leas worldwide.
When a female flea jumps on your pet, it bites the skin and begins having a blood meal, which is required for the flea to reproduce. Within 24 hours the flea begins laying about 50 eggs per day. As the pet moves about, it acts like a salt shaker, scattering flea eggs throughout the house. In a week the larvae hatch from the eggs and burrow in the carpet and cracks in the hardwood floors to avoid light. Within five to 12 days, the larvae develop into pupae, with baby fleas emerging within one to three weeks. These newly hatched fleas wait for a blood meal to pass by (your pet), hop on and the cycle begins again. It is a myth that if your pet lives entirely indoors they are safe from fleas. Fleas are opportunist hitch hikers. They jump on to our clothing, we bring them in the house and they hop on our pets to dine. Fleas cause skin irritation. When fleas bite they inject a small amount of saliva into the skin. Some pets are allergic and a single flea bite can cause a severe inflammatory response. Known as Flea Bite Dermatitis. Excessive scratching can further damage the skin and a secondary bacterial infection can develop. Flea infestations commonly cause hair loss, scabs and hot spots. Fleas also transmit tapeworms. When your pet grooms himself or bites at the flea infestation, he often ingests a flea. The flea is the carrier of the tapeworm. As a result, your pet becomes infected and debilitated by tapeworms,
ALL AROUND OLD BRIDGE
who rob your pet of nutrients. Fleas also transmit Bartonella, which is the organism responsible for cat scratch fever. This disease can be passed from one cat to another. Severe flea infestations can cause anemia in your pet due to blood loss. This can be fatal, especially in puppies and kittens. Signs of parasitic anemia include pale gums, cold body temperature and listlessness. The newer prescription flea products have revolutionized flea treatment. They are very effective in killing fleas rapidly, not only dispatching the adults but also preventing the eggs from hatching, thus breaking the
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lifecycle of the flea. Eventually the flea population dissipates. In multiple pet households, all of the pets should be treated with a specie-specific preventative. Prescription products are generally more effective and safer than over-the-counter products. Many of these products are applied on the pet’s skin once a month or taken orally once a month. These products may also treat intestinal parasites and other parasites. Use flea combs to check your pet regularly. You may find flea dirt, which looks like dark specks of pepper scattered on the skin surface. It is flea feces and
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is composed of digested blood. If unsure, put the material on white paper and wet it with water or hydrogen peroxide. If it turns red or brown, it is definitely flea dirt, and your pet has fleas. Bathing with a flea shampoo is recommended. Follow up with a preventative and thoroughly clean the house, including rugs, bedding and upholstery. Remember to discard the vacuum cleaner bag after clean up. And treat your yard as well. Most importantly, prevention is the key. It will save your pet from suffering flea infestation, and you from a major clean up.
TOP RANKED OB INDOOR PERCUSSION TEAM PLACES SECOND OVERALL
By Victoria Mione (Victoria is a senior at Old Bridge High School, where she is editor-in-chief of Knight Life, the high school newspaper. She plans to attend Fairleigh Dickinson University
Old Bridge High S cho ol’s Indoor Percussion team has been making some noise, but nobody is complaining. T h e r u c k u s h ap p e n e d i n Dayton, Ohio at the WGI World Championship on April 18-21. Prior to the competition, the team ranked first in the nation. Out of 15 teams who made it through to the Scholastic Marching Open, OBHS Indoor Percussion placed second, with a score of 95.475 -- a mere 1.063 points behind its successors. The percus-
sionists advanced to the semi-finals in third place with a score of 92.913. The preliminar y round boasted 19 percussion groups and only 12 advanced. “We are very focused on not being complacent and never settling for anything but our best,” said Regina Wester, s enior. Following the preliminary and semifinals in second place and a score of 94.113, the group of percussionists advanced to the final round. The Indoor Percussion also won the fan favorite award,
a prize awarded to the team with the most text-in votes. “They are a very prestigious group that has set many standards throughout the activity,” said Melissa Thatcher, band director. According to Wester, the group spends “upwards of 20 hours a week starting in mid-November in order to break down our technique.” Wester said she believes that participating in band is a physically and mentally demanding sport, but it is also very validating since all the hard work the group puts in pays off.
“My favorite part is being able to put out this great show with some of my best friends and be able to share this experience with them,” said Wester. The day before they left by bus, the percussionists held two send-off shows in the main gymnasium with two show times, 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Old Bridge Superintendent of Schools David Cittadino took to Twitter to call the alien-themed performance “out of this world”. “To say I am proud of the accomplishments of this team is truly an
understatement,” said Thatcher. “The group works more than 20 hours a week from November to April, perfecting a seven-minute show. I am truly honored to be their teacher.”
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ADVERTISE HERE! CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION 888-523-4331
This Annual Report includes the test results on the water quality of the Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority (Old Bridge MUA) for the 2017 calendar year. Of the eighty-eight (88) contaminants that are regulated, only six (6) contaminants were actually detected in very small quantities. In every case, the quantities found were less than the maximum levels allowed by regulations. Also included is information concerning the source of the water supply, a table showing information on the six (6) detected contaminants, the definition of terms used in the table and the maximum levels allowed by regulation.
OLD BRIDGE WATER EXCELS
Dear Customer: The Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority is pleased to share with you our Annual Consumer Confidence Report, in our ongoing effort to keep the public informed. I urge you to read this report carefully so you can be better informed about your drinking water. Our professionals are continually working to ensure a continuous supply of safe and reliable drinking water. In this mission, we concentrate our efforts to provide the highest quality drinking water in accordance with all State and Federal standards for safe drinking water. Because water flows so effortlessly from the tap, its easy to forget the enormous amount of science, technical experience and infrastructure at work insuring the 24/7 treatment and distribution of one of life’s most basic needs, WATER. Sincerely,
Guy Donatelli Executive Director
Photo of Arthur M. Haney Chairman OBMUA
THE SOURCE AND TREATMENT OF THE WATER SUPPLY
The Old Bridge MUA obtains water from a combination of its own groundwater sources, and also from surface water sources of the Middlesex Water Company. Middlesex Water Company obtains the surface water from the Delaware and Raritan Canals and also from the Spruce Run and Round Valley Reservoirs. The surface water source is withdrawn from the canal at an intake and pumping station in New Brunswick and transported to the Middlesex Plant in Edison for treatment. The finished water is then transported to Old Bridge via a network of distribution mains from Edison to Old Bridge Township. The groundwater source is obtained from the Old Bridge MUA's eight (8) wells. The wells extend underground one hundred feet (100') to four hundred feet (400') into two (2) separate groundwater aquifers. The shallower aquifer, located at one hundred feet (100') is called the Old Bridge Aquifer, and the deeper aquifer, located at four hundred feet (400') is called the Farrington Aquifer. The water is pumped out of the two (2) aquifers to a treatment plant for removal of contaminants utilizing the most advanced and reliable treatment practices for our source of water. These treatment methods eliminate or minimize the effects of contaminants, as well as improve aesthetic qualities, such as taste, odor, and color. After treatment, the water is sent into the Old Bridge MUA distribution system. The Old Bridge MUA provides its customers an average of 6.5 million gallons per day of safe drinking water. The Old Bridge MUA produces approximately 3.5 million gallons per day from our own treatment plants, and purchases approximately 3.0 million gallons per day of treated water from Middlesex Water Company. The water from Middlesex Water Company and the Old Bridge MUA wells are mixed within the water distribution system. The Old Bridge MUA sells approximately 600,000 gallons per day of water to Aberdeen Township. In addition to the interconnection with the Middlesex Water Company and Aberdeen Township, the Old Bridge MUA has interconnections with Perth Amboy and Marlboro Township. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection(NJDEP) has prepared Source Water Assessment Reports and Summaries for all public water systems in 2004. Further information on the Source Water Assessment Program can be obtained by logging onto NJDEP’s Source Water Assessment Web Site at www.state.nj.us/dep/swap or by contacting NJDEP’s Bureau of Safe Drinking Water at (609) 292-5550. You may also contact us at (732) 679-4187. In July 2010, the Old Bridge Muncipal Utilities Authority launched its official web-site which can be found at HYPERLINK “http://www.obmua.com”. The web-site contains information for customers, potential bidders and developers concerning our rates, news, meeting dates and minutes, contact information, bid documents, commercial and contractor documents and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s). Please visit our site and add it to your “Favorite” list for future reference. Also follow us on our Facebook page “Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority” for the latest information and postings concerning emergency work and other important information.