OLDBRIDGE ALL AROUND
VOL 9, NO 9
DET. PATRICK D’ONOFRIO RECIPIENT OF W. CARY EDWARDS VOLUNTEER AWARD
A Publication for the community of Old Bridge
LAST FEW WEEKS TO DONATE TO TOYS FOR TOTS Now, we are in our Holiday season again, All Around Old Bridge, Old Bridge Chamber of Commerce and Old Bridge Business Alliance wants to give back to our most prized community members, our children, this season with a goal of 2,500 toys to donate, we can reach that goal this year with your help. Just think the smiles we will bring to the children this year. Each year, the residents and businesses of Old Bridge support those in need around the holidays
by participating in our Annual Giving Event “Toys for Tots”, we will begin collecting donations through December 14h to help provide the much-needed joy the children deserve for the holidays. Over the last few years, we have collected 7,000 toys and watched as residents both from and outside Old Bridge lent a helping- hand. With a donation from each of our businesses and residents, we can help provide toys for many children this holiday season, together we can make a difference.
To make your donation, you can drop off a toy at any drop off locations, page 7, or you can scan the QR code to donate and a toy will be purchased.
LOCAL FARMER, MIDGER HAUSER HONORED The Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse has selected Old Bridge Police Detective Patrick D’Onofrio to be the recipient of the W. Cary Edwards State Volunteer of the Year Award for 2023. It was Cary Edwards’ vision to create a network of community-based efforts to address alcoholism and drug abuse, the Alliance to Prevent Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Program. His vision for New Jersey has been replicated throughout the United States and resulted in over 320 Municipal Alliances being currently active in the State, the largest network of anti-drug coalitions in the country. Detective D’Onofrio was honored by the Governor’s Continue on page 22
Midge and John Hauser
Midge with Chair of Womens committee Danielle Wainwright (R) and 1st vice Rachel Sickler(L)
Carolyn “Midge” Hauser of Hauser Hill Farm in Middlesex County is our 2023 New Jersey Farm Bureau Woman of the Year. Midge graduated from Susquehanna University in 1990 with a BA in Spanish and lived and studied in Segovia, Spain. After graduation, she worked for the Manhattan DA’s office in the Witness Aid Services Unit and the Special Projects Bureau, where she used her knowledge of Spanish to translate for victims of crimes. When she left the DA’s office, she decided to teach. She finished her degree in education and later earned a master’s degree from Marygrove College. She has been teaching for 26 years and presently teaches Spanish at Old Bridge High School to 9th grade students. “Teaching has afford-
ed me the opportunity to have summers off to focus on the farm and all the work that needs to b e d on e ,” M i d ge s ay s . Midge and her husband, John, met on a blind date in 2000 and married later that same year. She says, “everything moved very quickly because it didn’t take long for me to figure out that John was one of the absolute best human beings I’d ever met.” This union was her introduction to farm life, which she has taken with incredible stride. Midge has served as President and Secretary of the Middlesex County Board of Agriculture and was named the 2019 Middlesex County Farmer of the Year. Midge has been described as a woman who will do a lot of the behind the scenes work Continue on page 20
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MAYOR HENRY MESSAGE It’s hard to believe that we are now at the end of another bu s y, s u c c e s s f u l year and the holiday season is in full swing. To kick of f the holiday season at the Mayor Owen Township, we will be Henry hosting our annual celebration by lighting the township Christmas Tree and Menorah. I would like to extend an invitation to all our residents to join us in celebrating with Santa at the Municipal Complex on Tuesday, December 5th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. There will be pictures with Santa, cookies, face painting, inflatable snow globe, and arts & crafts. The Tree and Menorah will be lit at 6:30pm. On Thursday, December 7th at 11am, at Silver Linings in the George Bush Center, Old Bridge Township will commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor with our annual wreath laying ceremony. All are welcome to join us as we lay the wreath and read a proclamation to honor and remember all our brave veterans. I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the past year. Many residents enjoyed our Saltwater Day and Old Bridge Day. Our annual Memorial Day
parade and 9-11 Memorial Ceremony honored those who have sacrificed for our country. We also celebrated the grand opening of the new Old Bridge Municipal Golf Course at the Rose Lambertson property, located on the north and south side of Lambertson Road. We had many other grand openings and ribbon cutting ceremonies throughout the year and are continuing to welcome many new businesses to town. My administration continues to work hard to keep our residents safe and to keep the economy growing. On a personal note, I would like to thank all of you for your support during the past 12 years. I am proud of all the town has accomplished and I am honored and blessed to have had the opportunity to serve as your Mayor. I appreciate each and every one of our residents that make Old Bridge a wonderful place to work, live, and raise a family. This is not goodbye, as I am excited to take on my new role as State Senator. No words can express my gratitude and appreciation. Thank you to all our residents, businesses, and township employees for making 2023 such a successful year. I wish you all a blessed and merry holiday season and a happy and healthy New Year. Mayor Owen Henry
DECEMBER 2023
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Steve Mamakas Executive Officer Mayor’s Office of Economic Development
Happy Holidays SHOP, DINE, AND BUY LOCAL
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UNDERSTANDING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF YOUR CHILD’S DIGITAL PSAT Students took the Digital PSAT on in October, ushering in a new era of standardized testing. How does the test break down? The PSAT 8/9, PSAT/ NMSQT, and SAT span 2 hours and 14 minutes—a little longer than most students are able to naturally focus. While the paper and pencil SAT had a different number of questions and different timing for these 3 tests, it is the same for this new digital test: PSAT 8/9, PSAT/NMSQT, SAT Breakdown: Module 1 reading and writing: 32 minutes, 27 questions Module 1 math: 22 minutes, 35 questions Module 2 reading and writing: 32 minutes, 27 questions Module 2 math: 22 minutes, 35 questions However, the total score for each test is different: PSAT 8/9 Total Score Scale: 240 to 1440 Section Score Scale: 120 to 720 Cross-Test Score Range: 6 to 36 PSAT/ NMSQT Total Score Scale: 320 to 1520 Section Score Scale: 160 to 760 CrossTest Score Range: 8 to 38 National Merit
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Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT): T h e N M S Q T p a r t o f P S AT / N M S Q T s t a n d s f o r “ Nat i o n a l Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.” Approximately 1,490,000 high school juniors took the PSAT/NMSQT in October. 50,000 of those who take the test qualify for a National Merit Scholarship, with only 15% of qualifiers receiving the scholarship. T h e s c h o l a r s h ip pro c e s s i n volves considering extracurriculars, GPA, and SAT improvement. Last year, NJ was tied for the highest qualifying score—a selection index of 223, roughly equivalent to a 1490. PSAT Results: Results were released on November 6th and 16th. For more information on the PSAT/NMSQT, contact Paul Pscolka at 833-728-7228. Have suggestions for a topic? Drop us a line at ivymasters.com/contact.
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ELLEN ROSENBAUM REAL ESTATE: 40 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE In the dynamic world of real estate, Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate stands out as the local beacon of success. With four decades of expertise, the company has become synonymous with achieving “Top Dollar” for sellers. A strength of Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate is its unparalleled understanding of property valuations. Because its agents know the market, sellers receive the best value for their properties. For homeowners ready to sell, there has never been a better time than now. Furthermore, the company boasts an advanced marketing plan, showcasing the distinct features of each home. Your home will be presented in the best possible light, assuring the highest price. What sets Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate apart is its extensive network of local professionals--from preferred lenders, attorneys, and title agencies, to home inspectors, engineers, surveyors, photographers, videographers, marketing professionals, social media professionals, graphic designers, contractors, handymen, landscapers, painters, all the way to
All Around Old Bridge, Old Bridge Business Alliance and The Chamber of Commerce.
OVER 7,500 TOYS DONATED Help support the children
home stagers and cleaning crews-- plus an unsurpassed network of potential buyers. That’s why Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate has been so successful, and why it has so many repeat clients. What distinguishes the company is its commitment to keeping sellers informed throughout the entire process. Selling your home can be a nerve-wracking experience, but Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate anticipates every potential issue and absorbs the anxiety for you. In today’s complex and challenging real estate market, experience and knowledge are invaluable. Sellers can trust Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate to navigate the intricacies of the current market conditions and provide expert advice that translates into successful sales. With a proven track record of achieving top dollar for sellers, Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate remains the go-to choice for those looking to make the most of their real estate investments.
All Donations Are Appreciate
Holiday Event 2023 Online Giving & Drop off begins 11/10/2023 – 12/14/2023 DROP OFF
- All American Ford – 3698 Route 9 - Café Luna – 3679 Rt 9 - Chick-fil-A – 770 Texas Rd. - Columbia Bank – 2988 Rt 516 - Doughlicious – 2591 Rt 516 - Giusseppe’s Pizza – 2581 Route 516 - Kearny Bank – 510 Rt 34, Matawan - La Rosa Chicken – 3885 RT 516 - Old Bridge Public Library – 1 Old Bridge Plaza
To Donate online scan QR CODE
20 LOCATIONS 23
- Parlin Dupont – 389 Washington Road, office 2 , Sayreville - Pet Center – 2833 Rt 9N - ProFysio Physical Therapy – 2665 Route 516, Old Bridge - ProFysio Physical Therapy –1077 NJ-34 Suite M, Aberdeen Township - ProFysio Physical Therapy –510 NJ-18 East Brunswick - Quality Chevy – 1292 RT 9N
- Retro fitness – 419 NJ-34 - Old Bridge School of Dance 419 Rt 34 - South Old Bridge Fire Station14 Throckmorton lane 6am-6pm Mon-Fri - The Max – 3879 Rt 516 - YMCA- 1 Mannino Park
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HAPPY HOLIDAY SAESON FROM HAUSER HILL FARMS! Happy Holiday Season from Hauser Hill Farms! We are grateful to all our customers for a successful season, and we appreciate your support of our family’s farm. The work isn’t always easy, but it is always rewarding, and we have you to thank for that. We still have some produce to sell and luckily, our chickens don’t stop laying in the winter, so once again our
farm stand will be open in the winter months for self-service. We’ll have winter squash, potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, eggs, and firewood for sale. If you are interested in having firewood delivered, by the cord or half cord, call our office at 732-591-1966 to set up delivery. Thank you again for all your support, we wish you all the best for 2024. See you in May!!
GRAND OPENING SPECIAL Parties $500 for 2 hours includes 2 lg. plain pizza, water, juice, coffee, tea, plates & napkins
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THE COMING KING
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley Against the backdrop of Roman tyranny, the birth of Christ in Bethlehem was a humble event that went largely unnoticed. However, those intimate with Scripture embraced an expectant hope for the Lloyd Pulley, Messiah, foretold by the Senior Pastor prophets. Amidst the anticipation, few could have predicted the Messiah’s origins in Nazareth or His destiny to suffer and die—a truth revealed in Scripture and embodied in Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus’ arrival was marked by humility and mystery, traits that often led to misunderstandings about His true nature. He was endowed with many titles: the Lamb of God, the Son of God, Rabbi, Son of Man, Messiah, King of Israel—each revealing a facet of His role in the divine plan. He was both a Teacher and the prophesied King, the human and divine bearer of divine salvation. The celebration of Christmas is not only a remembrance of Jesus’ birth but also a time of reflection on the profound implications of His life and death. It is a call to await His return with the same anticipation, ready
and watchful, unlike those who missed His first coming. The Bible cautions against self-absorption, which blinded many to His first arrival and warns of a similar peril as His second coming approaches. As we remember the wise men who received Him with open hearts, we’re invited to do the same—to welcome Him as Lord and Savior, allowing us to become children of God. This season is a call to live in the present, grateful for Christ’s first coming and expectant of His return, ready to receive Him with the wisdom and joy of those who first heralded His arrival.
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DECEMBER 2023
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YMCA PROVIDES SUPPORT DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON Each year, the YMCA Greater Monmouth County provides support during the costly holiday season to families participating in our Counseling & Social Services programs. YMCA GMC is one of 10 YMCAs in the US that provide counseling & social services. This distinct offering makes the YMCA GMC an important asset to our community. The CSS outpatient division provides counseling to children ages 3-18 and their families, substance use services, and mental health programs for adults in our outpatient offices. In addition, the Y has contracted with over 100 schools in Monmouth County to provide counseling for children in their familiar school environment, thereby reducing stigma, and the barrier to transportation. Our Outreach services include behavioral assistance, mentoring, parent coaching, in-community support, and Division of Child Protection and Permanency programs. The “Holiday Support Drive” is an effort to provide parents/caregivers with a gift card with which to buy a present from their child’s wish list. Additionally, they are given a family game for children ages 0-12 years or
an insulated water bottle for teens ages 13+. “Our staff identify 500-600 youth who participate in our CSS programs whose families would greatly benefit from a little extra support. All gifts are hand delivered to our families. The ask is minimal, but the impact is extraordinarily helpful and appreciated,” says LeeAnn Wagner, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Vice President Counseling & Social Services. The Holiday Support initiative ends 12/8 To participate with a tax-deductible donation, scan the QR code below with your smartphone and click when prompted to visit Y registries to purchase gift cards in denominations of $25 or $50. Games and water bottles can be dropped off at our Old Bridge, Freehold, and Red Bank Family YMCA’s. For more infor mat ion, v isit https://ymcanj.org/GiftDrive
DECEMBER 2023
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oc foFINDING sraey 05 yHOPE lraeN AND LOVE IN TIMES OF af gnGRIEF ivres ecn eirepxLOSS e AND DURING THE HOLIDAYS
The holiday the holiday season. Hope is the season is often light that guides us through filled with joy, the darkest of times. As Maya ruO laughter, and Angelou beautifully put it, “Hope rae hcaE the warmth of and fear cannot occupy the nrae family gather- same space. Invite one to stay.” eht eweF ings. However, While grief may cast a shadow DFN for those who over the festivities, it is essen02 nI David L. have experi- tial to find ways to honor and uoY ecxe Hernandez, Jr enced grief remember our loved ones. rawa and loss, this Create new traditions, light ofeb retfa time of year can be particu- a candle in their memory, or larly challenging. It is during share stories that celebrate their these moments that we must lives. As Thomas Campbell denibmocthe fo sraeyimportance 05 ylraen evah leahciM &of divaD once said, “To live in the hearts remember xeselddiM fo seitinummoc eht gnivres ecneirepxe . s e i t n u o C h t u o m n o M hope, love, and the power ofdna we leave behind is not to die.” fo maet a depoleved evah yeht sraey eht revO comingybtogether Love is a powerful force that can detsurt era ohw slaas noissea forfamily. p etanoissapmoc esreJ weN tuohguorht seilimaf Grief can be an.yoverwhelming heal and bring families together. and isolating experience, but Show compassion towards one it is crucial to remember that another and be patient with you are not alone. Reach out the healing process. As Mother to your loved ones, friends, or Teresa famously said, “It’s not support groups who can offer a how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” moc.lairlistening omeMyesreJear and a comforting presence. As Helen Keller once In the midst of grief, it is also said, “Alone, we can do so little; essential to take care of oneself. together, we can do so much.” Practice self-care, engage in activEmbracing the theme of hope ities that bring you joy, and allow can help families navigate through yourself to feel all the emotions ,renwO ,.rJ zednanreH .L divaD 6264 .oN .ciL JN
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that arise. As the ancient saying wisely said, “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” Remember, grief is a journey, and healing takes time. Have faith that brighter days will come, and the holiday season will once again be filled with joy. As Emily Dickinson beautifully expressed, “Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul, and sings the tune without the words, and never stops at all.” As we navigate through grief and loss during the holidays, let us hold onto hope, love, and the strength that comes from coming together as a family. The holiday season may be challenging, but it is also an opportunity to find solace, cherish memories, and create new traditions that honor the ones we have lost. In the words of Albert Schweitzer, “At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who
DECEMBER 2023
have lighted the flame within us.” May the flame of hope and love burn brightly in your hearts this holiday season and always.
By: David L. Hernandez, Jr. Owner & Funeral Director Old Bridge Funeral Home Reach David via david@jerseymemorial.com
We invite you to honor and remember your loved one.
HOLIDAY SERVICE OF
December 12
7:00pm Service
At Waitt Funeral Home 501 Highway 79 Morganville, NJ
Light Refreshments will be served at 6:00pm
F U N E R A L &
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(732) 566-5300 Michael V. Grandi, Manager NJ Lic. No. 4427
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H O M E SERVICE
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All are welcome, even if we did not serve your family.
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Let Us Cater www.giusseppespizzaoldbridge.com Your Holiday Party! 732-607-2066
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AFC URGENT CARE OPENS IN OB AFC Urgent Care of Old Bridge has emerged as a beacon of healthcare excellence, addressing the longstanding concerns of the community. Residents have endured prolonged waits for primary care, navigating through other urgent care options with limited success. Our commitment is evident not only in the compassionate care extended to each patient but also in our premier services. Distinguished by our comprehensive offerings, AFC Urgent Care provides X-ray services seven days a week, ensuring timely diagnostics. Our on-site Rapid PCR testing sets a new standard, delivering results for flu-A, flu-B, RSV, or COVID within a remarkable 36 minutes. This efficiency not only expedites the diagnostic process but also minimizes the anxiety associated with awaiting crucial results. Recognizing the importance of safeguarding the future generation, AFC Urgent Care takes pride in offering pediatric care. Owners Divyesh and Ketul Patel have made a commitment to meet the evolving needs of the community. Their philosophy is clear – if it’s a necessity for the community, they will find a way to provide it. Our diverse and empathetic staff, hailing from various backgrounds,
resonates with the residents of Old Bridge. Under the guidance of Medical Director Dr. Krishna Konakondla and Center Administrator Phillip Harper, our team ensures that every individual receives the highest standard of care. Operating from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Sunday, AFC Urgent Care is positioned as a healthcare cornerstone in Old Bridge. The door is open not only for immediate medical needs but also for a warm greeting. We invite the community to experience the world-class care they deserve. AFC Urgent Care of Old Bridge is not just a healthcare provider; it is a partner in the well-being of the community, committed to addressing healthcare gaps and delivering unparalleled service.
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AUTUMN LAKE HEALTHCARE AT OLD BRIDGE CELEBRATES ITS REBRANDING WITH A RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY
Formerly Known as Summer Hill Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Autumn Lake Healthcare at Old Bridge Marks a New Chapter in Middlesex County. sionals, and community members exceptional healthcare services. expressed his appreciation for gathered to witness the symbolic The facility, designed to all that the facility and the staff ribbon cutting, signifying a new enhance residents’ comfort and have done in the community chapter for the beloved nursing well-being, features state-of-the- of Old Bridge for over 50 years. facility. Administrator David art amenities and modernized As the facility embarks on this Neger expressed his commitment living spaces. With a focus on new chapter, it remains devoted to to Middlesex County stating, personalized care, Autumn Lake upholding its excellent standard “Autumn Lake Healthcare at Healthcare at Old Bridge offers a of care. With a rich history and In a momentous celebration, its rich history of warm and Old Bridge is not just a place range of services, including skilled a deep-rooted commitment to Autumn Lake Healthcare at compassionate care, has been a for care; it’s a home where we nursing care, rehabilitation ther- the community, Autumn Lake Old Bridge, formerly known as pillar of healthcare in Middlesex bring hospitality to healing. We apies, and specialized programs Healthcare at Old Bridge stands Summer Hill Nursing and Re- County for over five decades. are honored to maintain our tailored to individual needs. poised to continue to serve habilitation Center, celebrated its Amidst a backdrop of excite- commitment to the community Mayor Owen Henry com- Middlesex County, ensuring rebranding with a grand ribbon ment and anticipation, local under our new name, with un- mended the facility’s com- the well-being and happiness of cutting event. The facility, with dignitaries, healthcare profes- wavering dedication to providing mitment to excellence and its residents for years to come.
LOCAL FARMER, MIDGER HAUSER HONORED
Continued from page 1 to get things done. Her ability to balance both her career off of the farm and the inner workings of their busy farm prove her dedication and passion for agriculture. Midge’s advice to the future generations of women in agriculture is to get involved. We play a crucial role in agriculture. Not
only supporting our partners, but important roles in the businesses we help run, the families we raise and support, and many agricultures related boards we volunteer with. It is important that we lend our voices to keep agriculture viable in New Jersey. Legislators need to know that this industry is one of the most vital in the world,
not just our country and our state. When asked: What brings you the most joy about being a woman in agriculture? Midge responded: “One of the things that brings me much joy about being a woman involved in agriculture is being a part of something bigger than myself. Farming is a legacy,
something that is passed down through generations. I’m proud of my husband and the work he does. I’m equally proud to be by his side and help keep the legacy. going by supporting him and being a voice for agriculture. It isn’t always easy, but it’s always rewarding.” What an excellent example
you have set for New Jersey women in agriculture. We congratulate you on this achievement, and appreciate your passion for agriculture, and what you represent as a member of New Jersey Farm Bureau. (Reprinted with permission and photo credit from NJ Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee)
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DET. PATRICK D’ONOFRIO RECIPIENT OF W. CARY EDWARDS VOLUNTEER AWARD
Continued from page 1 Council for his exemplary service and commitment that exemplifies Cary Edwards’ dedication and service to the Old Bridge Municipal Alliance Program. Detective D’Onofrio has been serving the Old Bridge Police Department for the past 26 years as an officer and is currently assigned to Community Policing. Since 2002 he has been teaching drug education in the Old Bridge Township Schools. Currently he instructs The Too Good For Drugs Curriculum which is taught to all Fifth grade students. He also just received his Advanced Instructor Certification from Law Enforcement Against Drugs. For the last seven years, Detective D’Onofrio has overseen the Drug Education Program in Old Bridge. Currently he and other OBPD officers have been teaching all fifth graders in the eleven Public schools and two Catholic Schools. Detective D’Onofrio is the main instructor, teaching in seven of the schools; in total, approximately 650 kids go through the program every year. He and the officers also host programs in grades K-4 on various topics which broadens their interaction with approximately 3900 kids just in the elementary schools alone. In addition , Detective D’Onofrio and the Municipal Alliance have collaborated with the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey with various programs and incentives that they offer. Other projects have included speakers, workshops and various programs in the Middle Schools and High School that cover topics such as Internet Safety, Vaping, and Marijuana. An important component that is also offered to the community are parent presentations
which keeps the adults well informed about the topics that are trending with the kids. Detective D’Onofrio is also involved in rehabilitation. He works closely with Recovery Coaches following up on every overdose in Old Bridge and attempts to get the person to work with a Recovery Coach. His involvement in Blue Cares (Recovery Coach Program) involves meeting with people who have substance abuse issues and offering them and their family’s various resources in and around the community. Each April and October, Detective D’Onofrio takes part in the “DEA National Medicine Take Back Program “ at the Township Municipal Complex. This initiative takes unused medication out of the medicine cabinets of the homes to prevent medication misuse and accidental overdose. These events help make a difference in addition to always having the drop box in the Police lobby in the Administration Building at the Township, Detective Donofrio also goes to various senior communities to do onsite medicine take back events. Detective D’Onofrio also shares drug updates with all the patrol officers, so they are aware of new substances that are affecting the Old Bridge Community. He speaks to numerous groups in the community, at numerous school events, National Night Out, Old Bridge Day, Fire House Open Houses and Health Fairs. While at these events, he provides educational resources to community members. In addition to being a member of the Old Bridge Municipal Alliance, Detective D’Onofrio also sits on the YMCA Advisor y B oard.
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GIRLS VOLLEYBALL REPEATS AS GMC CHAMPS! By Abigail Persaud The girls volleyball team defeated Monroe in straight sets to take the GMC TournamentChampionshiponOctober24. “It was amazing, winning for the second year in a row,” said Ava Accettuli. “It was great to continue the legacy from last year.” The girls also defeated Monroe in the GMC finals last season. The victory coming against Monroe made it even sweeter. “It felt amazing to [win the GMC Tournament] senior year, and Monroe is a rival, so it was nice to beat them in our gym,” said Julia Mikucki, who had 30 assists in the big game. The Knights lost to Monroe on October 9, one of just four losses this season. “We were nervous but very excited to play,” said Julia Morgan, who contributed nine kills. Freshman Ashley Markle had one of her best matches with 14 kills. “Honestly, there’s no better feeling,” said Markle, who led the team with 296 kills this season. “This team has worked so hard, and to see it all fall in place is amazing.” The team secured its spot in the finals by beating Woodbridge in the semis. “Winning felt great, and we were able to cement our spot as the
better team,” said Emily Lennon. The championship win comes in a season full of notable achievements, including winning the GMC Red Division and reaching the rank of number six in the State. “It feels amazing to have accomplished so much with this team,” said Julia Gervase, who contributed two aces against Monroe and led the team with 171 digs. The girls went on to dominate the first three rounds of the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group IV Tournament before falling to Monroe in the Finals. Originally published at KnightLifeOB.com.
Julia Mikucki steps into her serve in the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group IV Finals.
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