The official newsletter of Woodbridge, NJ

County Passport Office is Open for Business in Woodbridge Town Hall Feb. 2

Mayor John E. McCormac announced, today, that Woodbridge Town Hall will host a one-day Passport Satellite Office on Thursday, Feb. 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Middlesex County Clerk’s Office and the Woodbridge Township Municipal Clerk’s Office will be accepting applications for U.S. Passports in the Council Meeting Room of the Woodbridge Municipal Building, located at 1 Main Street.

The Passport Satellite Office is a joint project sponsored by the Middlesex County Clerk’s Office and the Woodbridge Township Mayor’s Office to bring county programs and services directly to Township residents. In addition to processing passport applications, the County Clerk’s Office is available to administer the Notary Public Oath of Office to persons who previously applied to the State of New Jersey to become a Notary Public and who have received approved applications from the State.

Middlesex County Clerk Elaine M. Flynn reports that the passport application fee for an adult passport (age 16 and over) is $135.00. Payment must be made via check or money order in the amount of $110.00 payable to the U.S. Department of State and a separate check or money order for $25.00 payable to the Middlesex County Clerk. The fee for a minor passport (under the age of 16) is $105.00 (check or money order in the amount of $80.00 payable to U.S. Department of State and a check or money order for $25.00 payable to the Middlesex County Clerk.) Expedited service is available for an additional $74.96 per application (plus overnight express mail at a cost of $18.30). The passport is valid for ten years. Read more...

Superintendent to Hold Press Conference Announcing Donation

The Woodbridge Township Board of Education and Administration will hold a press conference acknowledging a donation of $3,000.00 from the Colonial Pipeline Company, Avenel, NJ. The donation will be divided between six district schools that fall within one-half mile of the company's existing pipeline. Port Reading School #9, Ross Street School #11, Ford Avenue School #14, Lafayette Estates School #25, Matthew Jago School #28, and Fords Middle School will each receive $500.00.

Frank Sutphen, Chairman of the Woodbridge Community Advisory Panel (C.A.P.) stated "I'm very proud of Colonial's desire to give back to our community, and I'm proud to serve with people like Colonial's Management Representatives, Greg Stewart and Duncan Sinclair of the Blair Road facility, who work so hard to keep Woodbridge clean and safe."

Wawa and Aldi Start Construction at Route 9 Redevelopment Site

Woodbridge - Mayor John E. McCormac, along with corporate executives from Wawa, Aldi Foods, and Delco Development, today announced a ground breaking and start of construction of a new Wawa and Aldi Foods at the Route 9 and King Georges Post Road redevelopment site in Woodbridge Township.

“Today marks the start of construction of a major redevelopment project in Woodbridge that will spur the Township economy through the creation of more than 100 full-time retail jobs and dozens of temporary construction jobs,” said Mayor McCormac. “This project includes construction of the first of two new Wawa stores and an Aldi Foods store on the site of a long-empty auto dealership. The redevelopment project will add a substantial tax ratable to the Township, not to mention that the abandoned and under utilized buildings have been demolished to make way for the redevelopment project. I would like to thank Wawa, Aldi Foods, and Delco Development for their investment in Woodbridge.”

Mayor John E. McCormac to Present Annual “State of the Township” Address

On Tuesday January, 24, Woodbridge Township Mayor John E. McCormac will deliver the annual “State of the Township” address. In attendance will be the Woodbridge Chamber of Commerce, the township corporate and business community as well as the Middlesex County and regional business community and local residents.

Upcoming events in February at Raritan Bay Medical Center

February 2, 9, 16 & 23, 2012

PERTH AMBOY… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Division of Integrative Medicine is offering a Journey within Meditation workshop Thursdays, February 2 through February 23, 7 to 8 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Class facilitator Vivian Lynch, RN, Reiki practitioner and integrative imagery therapist, will discuss inner wisdom, spiritual guides and inner strength with participants teaching techniques on how to quiet the mind, relax the body and tap into the spirit. Cost is $50 for all four sessions. Individual classes are $15. For more information and to register, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

February 6 and 7, 2012

PERTH AMBOY… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Division of Integrative Medicine is offering a Massage for Couples classes Monday, February 6 and Tuesday, February 7, 7 to 9 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Participants will learn massage techniques to relax, decrease their stress level and improve their quality time together. Presented by Anna Biteye, CMT. Cost is $95 per couple for two-night class. For more information and to register, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

February 6, 13, 20, 27, 2012

PERTH AMBOY…Raritan Bay Medical Center is sponsoring an HIV support group meeting every Monday, 6 to 8 p.m. Anyone diagnosed with or caring for someone with HIV is welcome to attend. Meetings are held at the hospital’s Perth Amboy location, 530 New Brunswick Ave. Free and confidential rapid HIV testing is also provided by the medical center, with results known in 30 minutes. For more information, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

February 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2012

PERTH AMBOY… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Division of Integrative Medicine is offering The Chakras: Awaken the Hidden Energy Within educational sessions, Wednesdays, February 8 through February 29, 7 to 9:30 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Chakra work benefits body, mind and spirit and leads to a greater sense of harmony and inner balance. Energy Medicine Practioners Denise Reisert and Robin Matteo, will teach participants how to evaluate their own body energy and awaken hidden energy. Cost is $165 for all four sessions. Individual classes are $50. For more information and to register, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

February 8, 2012

PERTH AMBOY… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s monthly tour of its Dr. Sam. Gordon Berkow Maternity Pavilion and family health information open house will be held Wednesday, February 8, at 7 p.m. Newly expectant parents are invited to take the tour and learn about the maternity unit’s modern comforts designed to provide a calm and relaxing birthing experience. As part of the event, information is provided in an open house format about child car seat safety, guided imagery and body mechanics training for use during labor, nutritional information for mother and child, how to pick a pediatrician and an infant CPR demonstration. Participants are asked to meet in the main lobby of the hospital’s Perth Amboy location, 530 New Brunswick Ave. Registration suggested, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

February 11, 2012

PERTH AMBOY...Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Division of Integrative Medicine is holding a Reiki Level One class Saturday, February 11, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Reiki is a simple, safe, and effective healing practice that complements medical treatment. First Degree Reiki training includes history and principles of Reiki, how to practice self-treatment and share with family, friends and pets and a discussion on how Reiki can support wellness. The class will be taught by Reiki Master Sharon Yeskel. The fee for the course is $175. To register or more information, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

February 13, 2012

OLD BRIDGE… Raritan Bay Medical Center is sponsoring a “Is Weight Loss Surgery Right For Me?” seminar Monday, February 13, 7 to 8 p.m. at its Old Bridge location. The informative event will focus on weight loss surgery including discussion on Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass, Adjustable Gastric Banding, and Gastric Sleeve; Dr. Vishal Mehta will lead discussions on the concerns surrounding weight loss surgery as well as its successes. Family and friends are welcome. The meeting will be held in Auxiliary Hall B & C located on the lower level of the Medical Arts Building, adjacent to the hospital on Ferry Rd. between Routes 9 & 18. For more information, call 1.855.TIME.4.ME (1.855.846.3463).

February 18, 2012

PERTH AMBOY . . . Raritan Bay Medical Center is sponsoring a one day Childbirth Education / Lamaze Class Saturday, February 18, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The class is designed to help expectant parents better understand the childbearing process. A registered nurse with special training in labor, delivery and childcare techniques will facilitate the class. It will be held in Centennial Hall, 530 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. The fee for the course is $125 per couple. Registration required, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

February 20, 2012

PERTH AMBOY...Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Cardiac Club will meet Monday, February 20, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at the hospital’s Perth Amboy location, 530 New Brunswick Ave. Cardiac Club meetings are held in the hospital’s Centennial Hall and explore heart conditions and healthy living. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

February 20, 2012

OLD BRIDGE… Raritan Bay Medical Center is sponsoring a “Is Weight Loss Surgery Right For Me?” seminar Monday, February 20, 7 to 8 p.m. at its Old Bridge location. The informative event will focus on weight loss surgery including discussion on Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass, Adjustable Gastric Banding, and Gastric Sleeve; Dr. Oluseun Sowemimo will lead discussions on the concerns surrounding weight loss surgery as well as its successes. Family and friends are welcome. The meeting will be held in Auxiliary Hall B & C located on the lower level of the Medical Arts Building, adjacent to the hospital on Ferry Rd. between Routes 9 & 18. For more information, call 1.855.TIME.4.ME (1.855.846.3463).

February 22, 2012

OLD BRIDGE. . . Raritan Bay Medical Center is sponsoring a Bariatric Weight Loss Support Group meeting Wednesday, February 22, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at its Old Bridge location. For individuals who have had weight loss surgery, are contemplating weight loss surgery or are trying to maintain a healthy weight. Family and friends are welcome. The meeting will be held in the cafeteria in the Medical Arts Building, adjacent to the hospital on Ferry Rd. between Routes 9 & 18. For more information, call 1.855.TIME.4.ME (1.855.846.3463).

February 22, 2012

OLD BRIDGE… Raritan Bay Medical Center is sponsoring a “Is Weight Loss Surgery Right For Me?” seminar Wednesday, February 22, 7 to 8 p.m. at its Old Bridge location. The informative event will focus on weight loss surgery including discussion on Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass, Adjustable Gastric Banding, and Gastric Sleeve; Dr. Ayotunde Adeyeri will lead discussions on the concerns surrounding weight loss surgery as well as its successes. Family and friends are welcome. The meeting will be held in Auxiliary Hall B & C located on the lower level of the Medical Arts Building, adjacent to the hospital on Ferry Rd. between Routes 9 & 18. For more information, call 1.855.TIME.4.ME (1.855.846.3463).

Events in the Coming Months

March 3, 2012

PERTH AMBOY...Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Division of Integrative Medicine is holding a Wellness Retreat: Calling your Spirit Home Saturday, March 3, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Join Reiki Vivian Lynch, Reiki practitioner and Integrative Imagery Practitioner and providers form the Division of Integrative medicine for a day or renew, relax, breathe, and connect. Open your heart and lighten your spirit though mediation, music, movement and energy practices. Cost is $60 per person. To register or more information, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

March 13 and 14, 2012

PERTH AMBOY… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Division of Integrative Medicine is offering a Massage for Couples Tuesday, March 13 and Wednesday, March 14, 7 to 9 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Participants will learn massage techniques to relax, decrease their stress level and improve their quality time together. Presented by Anna Biteye, CMT. Cost is $95 per couple for two-night class. For more information and to register, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

March 14 & 28, 2012

PERTH AMBOY… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Division of Integrative Medicine is offering a Happy Hour Wednesdays, March 14 and 28, 7 to 8 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Join Denise Reisert, EMP/RCP and Robin Matteo, EMP for an hour of positivity, transformation, and connection with like-minded souls that will leave you feeling more open, uplifted and lighter of spirit. Each individual workshop will be filled with activities and thoughtful conversation. Cost is $10 per person. For more information and to register, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

March 24, 2012

PERTH AMBOY...Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Division of Integrative Medicine is holding a Reiki Level One class Saturday, March 24, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Reiki is a simple, safe, and effective healing practice that complements medical treatment. First Degree Reiki training includes history and principles of Reiki, how to practice self-treatment and share with family, friends and pets and a discussion on how Reiki can support wellness. The class will be taught by Reiki Master Sharon Yeskel. The fee for the course is $175. To register or more information, call 1.800.DOCTORS (1.800.362.8677).

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Township Hall

Mayor John E. McCormac Kicks-Off Valentine’s Day “Have a Heart” Food Drive

On Monday January, 9 Woodbridge Township Mayor John E. McCormac will kick-off the 2012 Valentines Day “Have-a-Heart” food drive by issuing a challenge to Township businesses, corporate offices, food service industry, and residents to donate 214 pounds of non-perishable food or contribute $214 to Township food pantries. The event will be held on the second floor of the Woodbridge Community Center, located at 600 Main Street.

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Law & Order

13 New Police Officers Appointed to Ranks of Woodbridge Police Department

Mayor John E. McCormac announced today the appointment of 13 new police officers to the ranks of the Woodbridge Township Police Department – eight officers have completed the state-mandated police training program at the Union and Somerset County Police Training Academies and will immediately take-up patrol assignments; five new police recruits will begin the six-month police academy training program for assignment in mid-2012. The appointments were approved after each recruit successfully completed an extensive testing and eligibility process overseen by the New Jersey Department of Personnel, Department of Community Affairs, and the Woodbridge Police Department interview team.

Woodbridge Police Department appoints eight new police officers. From left to right: Marco G. Bruno, Thomas J. Ratajczak, Robert F. Montalvo Jr., Rafael Soares Marinho, John X. Janowski, Nicole H. Hubner, David M. Hughes and Bryan F. Dorward.

"I am pleased to announce the appointment of 13 new police officers and recruits to the ranks of the Woodbridge Township Police Department,” Mayor McCormac said. “I have consistently indicated that the public safety mission is our most important priority. As a result of our commitment to public safety, combined with the increased assignment of uniformed officers to street patrol, the Woodbridge Police Department continues to report a decline in overall crime in 2011. It is our goal to continue to maintain our police ranks at maximum staffing levels to effectively protect public safety.”

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Business

A Letter From Mayor McCormac

Dear Woodbridge Township Businesses,

The Woodbridge Township food pantries need your help! The economy has hurt many more Woodbridge Township families than ever before,which has substantially increased the demand for food supplies and donations at all of our food pantries.

This year, we’re again asking Woodbridge Township businesses to lend an even bigger, and more generous, hand. We are inviting you to participate in the 2012 Valentines Day “Have-a-Heart” Food Drive Challenge. We know that many Township businesses, retail outlets, food stores, food service and hospitality representatives, and corporate offices are already involved in assisting the community by providing non-perishable foods and donations on a regular basis. However, circumstances this year demand that we do just a little more. That is why we’re again issuing the “Have-a-Heart” Food Drive Challenge. We’re asking Township businesses, retail food service outlets, and corporate offices to donate 214 pounds of food or contribute $214 to assist our food pantries continue their work providing food and meals to less fortunate residents and the homeless. The 2012 challenge ends on Valentine’s Day - Feb. 14 (hence the 2/14 challenge.)

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Education

Mayor’s Advocacy Committee for Education and Woodbridge Business Leaders Participate in “Principal for a Day” Program at Township Schools on Thursday, Oct. 20

The Woodbridge Township Mayor’s Advocacy Committee for Education (MAC-E), the Woodbridge Township School District and area business leaders will participate in the “Principal for a Day” program as part of American Education Week. “Principal for a Day” is a unique opportunity for Township business leaders to interact with Township students, principals and education officials throughout the Woodbridge School system, and to obtain a behind-the-scenes look at the quality of schools and caliber of education in Woodbridge Township. The “Principal for a Day” program also allows educators and school administrators to better understand the types of skills being sought by area employers, latest industry trends, and how to better prepare Township students for future success in area businesses.

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Community

Woodbridge to Host Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The Township of Woodbridge will honor the work and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Monday January 16, at the Woodbridge Community Center. Members of the Interfaith Clergy Council will offer remembrances of Dr. King and the First Baptist Church of Woodbridge Choir and combined High School choir will present musical selections in his memory. The tribute will be attended by Mayor John E. McCormac, Council President Gregg Ficarra and the Municipal Council, Reverend James Thomas of the First Presbyterian Church of Woodbridge and members of the community. Woodbridge Community Center is located at The Arenas at Woodbridge, 600 Main Street. Read more...

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Accomplishments

AICPA Names Mayor McCormac as recipient of 2011 "Outstanding CPA in Local Government" Award

Washington, D.C. -- The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) today announced that Woodbridge Township Mayor John E. McCormac, CPA, was named as recipient of the 2011 “Outstanding CPA in Local Government” Award. Read more...

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Multi Media

Video hails Woodbridge as model town

Woodbridge's 10 towns, one community aspect is hailed as a model for New Jersey in a new video by a non-profit organization that seeks to encourage small communities in New Jersey to begin thinking about combining.