Message from Mayor Madden: Calling Our Borough Your Home

Making Middlesex Borough Our Home 

Great strides are being made toward residents and businesses to help them consider calling our town Home. I am pleased to report that our seasoned local realtors are indicating a strong trend that our town is the focus to either settle or relocate to 08846. We have struggled to maintain services, keep our discretionary expenses lean, and provide an extensive range of Covid-busting amenities. From recreation to sports, education, general public activities and leisure, we are slowly turning the tide to put our shingle out there that we want you here from cradle to grave. 

Yes, we are still tackling several large issues (flood mitigation, Borough park enhancements, and upgrading /expanding our much-needed Borough offices), but with continuing smart planning and prudent fiscal resource allocation and management, our goals have been set to attract those who wish to settle here to make our town a true destination community. 

In support of this, we are maintaining our municipal property taxes flat while reducing our certified tax rate. Again, many thanks go to the employees, professionals, and administration at 1200 Mountain Avenue. 

Our Robust Business Climate 

I am ecstatic to share with you that eleven new businesses (including one relocated company) have swelled the roll for their new home here. Nine of the eleven have gone through the full permit and inspection protocol with several still in the pipeline. 

1. Stoms Automotive @ 550 Bound Brook Rd. 

2. Orchid Grocery Wholesaler @ 400 South Avenue 

3. December Moon @ 207 Lincoln Blvd. 

4. The Don’s Barbershop and Shave @ 109 Harris Avenue 

5. RJP Hotsy @ 260-262 Lackland Dr. East 

6. State Farm Insurance @ 1316 Bound Brook Rd. 

7. L & H Motorsports @ 822-830 Lincoln Blvd. 

8. Al Simone @ 106 Egel Ave. 

9. Alimenta Mis Ovejas, Feed My Lambs @ 663 Bound Brook Rd. 

10. Pork Chop’s BBQ @ 708 Union Ave. 

11. Chief’s Steak Shop @ 109 Harris Ave. 

I am aware that there are several other companies that are in the application process. 

I urge any newcomers to please contact me to officially recognize you and welcome you into our vibrant business community. As a 40 year business owner in town I know we have the tools and resources you need to be successful while enjoying the quality of life that have been a wonderful part of Middlesex Borough. 

Thank You and be safe. 
Mayor John L. Madden 

July "Homes of the Month" Selected by Beautification Committee

Everywhere you look around town you see homes with beautiful shrubbery and flowers and it is so hard for the Beautification Committee to decide which to choose. This month the committee selected five homes for July.

Look for the ‘Homes of the Month’ sign on the front lawns of the homes pictured below!

227 Grant Ave., The Constantino Family

311 E Street, The Fofrich Family

836 Voorhees Ave., The Mattox Family

112 Stephenson Ave., The Gorski Family

103 Cedar Ave., The Erickson Family

The Middlesex Beautification Committee drives around town and nominates homes. For more information, visit the Beatification Committee page here.

Mayor's Message: Lincoln Park Flag Dedication

Mayor's Message: Flag Pole Dedication and Flag Raising Ceremony

This speech was given by Mayor Madden at the Lincoln Park flag raising ceremony on Sunday, June 11th.

"Good morning everyone. Thank you for the honor of your presence here today as we dedicate our new flagpole while we raise our national flag for the very first time at Lincoln Statue Park in Middlesex Borough, New Jersey.

"Honoring our flag is also honoring the men and women who have courageously fought and died for it and also upholding our American values. The flag flies freely today because of all the sacrifices that have made that enduring freedom possible. Our veterans today embody those very same noble causes for which our flag stands – a steadfast beacon which will always unite us.

"As our nation today suffers under the pangs of division and disunity, history has again shown us that our national flag is always with us, a symbol of a cultural icon forged in the fires of adversity, hardship and misfortune. Our flag will always represent a living symbol unifying our citizens through wars and conflict to preserve our unique national identity, freedoms and democracy.

"Our future is inextricably linked by what generations of true immutable history have recorded- let us be reminded that there is no place for revisionist history. Therefore, the cause of human freedom have been forever tied to our flag and it’s survival.

"So on this special day of commemoration of July 11, 2021, we come together in that spirit united in these common beliefs of which we all share- the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

"Thank You,
Mayor John L. Madden"

---

Event Announcement

Join us on Sunday, July 11, 2021 at 9:00 am for a Flag Dedication ceremony at Lincoln Park, 687 Lincoln Blvd, Middlesex, NJ.

Refreshments available (coffee, bagels, and water, donated by the Mike Dessino Scholarship Fund). The event is coordinated by the Middlesex Borough Beautification Committee. Rain date July 18.

For more information, contact Bobby Dessino at bdessino61@gmail.com.

Variants Speed Transmission, Bringing New Risks to Going Unvaccinated

The New Coronavirus Threat 

Just when we thought we were out of the woods, a new concern has emerged on the horizon and it appears very disturbing for those who wish to bypass the life-sustaining vaccination regimen. The Delta Variant is the number one concern of the CDC (Center for Disease Control). We know that the variety of available vaccines have been remarkably effective in all the variants to date. We also know that there are very few adverse side effects to those who have been administered the vaccine even after just one dose. The single dose Johnson and Johnson vaccine has also shown to to be effective with little downside.

Enormous upside to vaccination 

Since there are no costs to us for the vaccine, it appears that the advantages FAR outweigh the risks here. Yes, no one knows yet what the long-term effect of vaccination will render. However, the big concern for those wishing to ignore being vaccinated (the benefits of which are proven and widely effective), is they may face this most lethal and deadliest form of all the variants – the Delta Variant. 

Originating in India, it is now firmly established in all the contiguous states in the U.S. as well as worldwide. Current data reveals that approximately 25% of new infections of all the coronavirus variants in the U.S. are now the Delta variant. 

Enormous risks of mutating variants 

What is known about this variant is that it causes more severe and acute disease than any of the other variants and is considered extremely more contagious (or in the words of the CDC, “hypertransmissible”). In fact this variant is of grave “concern” to them. 

In addition, these medical experts are observing that the Delta Variant is hitting young people very hard, which was not the case with any of the other variants. I hope parents who are reluctant to have their children immunized will take heed of this. Soon this variant, now number two regarding new infections, will overtake the number of new infections of the number one variant, the Alpha Variant, B117. 

Lastly, there is some evidence in the ongoing research of the coronavirus structure (the genome sequencing) that some variants may have the ability to bypass the body’s immune response. Viruses constantly change and become more diverse in their genetic variations (mutation). 

Health consequences for us all 

The bottom line here is that those individuals who absolutely refuse to even consider getting vaccinated may pose a more significant health consequence not only for themselves and their families but for many others who are either waiting to get vaccinated or have just their single (1 of 2) dose. Please reconsider your position in this matter.

Perhaps soon, all this will be in our rear view mirror. We must all monitor this situation. 

Summer is here 

Have a safe, enjoyable, and relaxing forth of July. 
Mayor John L. Madden 

Mayor's Weekly Message: Graduations and Honoring John J. Sweeney

Middlesex Borough High School Graduating Class of 2021

It is with great honor that I was invited to witness the graduation in this first post- Covid graduation assembly. As we are getting back to normal it was nice to see the many people gathered to celebrate this graduation exercise. I wish to thank Dr. Williams, the teachers, administration and all the support groups for organizing such a beautiful event. The graduation was well attended and well executed. It is worthy to note that one had the sense that the ceremony really capped off a sheltered time in the recent past to now gather, celebrate and feel vital once again. My wife Barbara also attended, and we both enjoyed sharing in the exuberance of the speakers. I wish all the graduates the best to fulfill and achieve their endeavors and dreams.

Middlesex Police Youth Academy Graduation

Friday, June 25, 2021, marked the graduation of the Youth Academy students. The program was designed to provide a positive interaction between the police and our youth.

Community Policing has been the centerpiece to foster the relationship between the residents and the police to provide public safety.

The students are taught integrity, trust, pride and discipline. The core values that are specifically emphasized are: pride, integrity, and respect. The students received a snapshot of the various aspects of police procedures and operations which represent real life situations utilizing the different types of gear necessary for the job at hand. The program also offered some physical training and classroom instruction. The students understand the enormous amount and degree of ongoing training that is required to face any and all situations that may be encountered.  I was privileged to speak to the Graduates and offer support.

Many thanks go out to Chief Geist, Officer Joleen Aricchio, and the entire Middlesex Police Department for presenting such an important program. Please keep up the good work and consider continuing with the other related programs. Congratulations to all the Graduates and best of luck in the future.

The Passing of John J. Sweeney

I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of John J. Sweeney, on Saturday, June 5, 2021, at the age of 87. There are but few people we meet who have forged a personal lifelong commitment of volunteerism, unwavering dedication for giving to Middlesex Borough, and sharing his charitable time, energy and effort in the unselfish pursuit to help all who ask of him. He is the rare individual whom I can honestly and consistently define as a true mentor. I had the honor of knowing him over 35 years.

John was commissioned into the Air Force as a second lieutenant and after ten years of service was discharged after attaining the rank of Captain. John became a long-standing member of the Green Brook Flood Control Commission. As Commissioner, representing Middlesex Borough, John attended virtually every meeting going back so many years. The was true dedication which is rarely seen today. While he was on this Commission, our paths had crossed and from then I was appointed to the Commission which lasted many years.

I found the Commission particularly challenging since there is so much to learn and understand about flood management and remediation. Living in the flood zone gave me a better understanding and appreciation for flood control.

John was also responsible for the start of our recycling operations in the Borough due to his work as the Recycling Coordinator for the Middlesex County Improvement Authority. This man was the prime example of consistency of undiminished principle and integrity. We wish him Godspeed on his next journey. He will be sorely missed.

Mayor John L. Madden

Quarterly Newsletter - Summer 2021

Welcome residents and visitors! Please enjoy this Summer edition of the newsletter. Read our full publication at once by using the button below — or review the Departments of your choice by scrolling through this edition’s current topics.

Departments and Topics

Health: June Vaccine Clinics, ‘Healthier Middlesex’ Resources, and More

Vaccine Clinics, Week of June 14th

Vaccine Clinic: Wednesday, June 16, 2021

June 16, (Moderna) Middlesex County Office of Health Services
1 Ericsson Drive, Piscataway (Drive through)
1 pm – 3 pm
More info in this PDF document (link here) or visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov/vaccine.

Vaccine Clinic: Saturday, June 19, 2021

June 19 from 10am - 1pm
Middlesex County hosts a mobile vaccine clinic at Dunellen's Skinner Plaza {train station lot). No registration - just show up! FREE. More info in this PDF document (link here) or visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov/vaccine.

---

Behavioral Health Resources

Documents have been added to the Health Department web page to assist residents seeking help.

The 2019 Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP)

This report from the Healthier Middlesex Consortium is designed to serve as a strategic framework for building relationships with members of our diverse community to positively impact the health of our communities in a real and lasting manner. Read the PDF document at this link.

Behavioral Health Referral and Resource Guide

The Greater New Brunswick and Middlesex County 2019 Edition of this guide is designed to assist community-based and faith-based organizations as they help their clients and parishioners with behavioral health resources. This guide provides the community with basic information about behavioral health issues. In addition, it contains a comprehensive list of resources offering support and services for behavioral health and substance abuse issues. Step-by-step instructions are provided to assist access to the resources available on the Internet.

Read the English PDF document at this link
Lea el documento en español en este enlace pdf

Middlesex County Behavioral Health Resource Guide

A Message from the Middlesex County Office of Human Services: We are all experiencing an unprecedented public health crisis due to the COVID-19 virus. It is important to remember that even in these times, you are not alone. Support continues to be available even when it is not face-to-face. There is an entire community of call centers, text support and online support groups ready to help you and your loved ones whenever you need it. Read the PDF document at this link.

Mayor's Weekly Message: The Middlesex Blue Jays have done it again!

Middlesex Baseball

The Middlesex Blue Jays have done it again. A walk-off single in the seventh inning capped the win for its fourth straight victory in the ( C.J. ) Central Jersey Group 1 Championship Series over Point Pleasant Beach. The final score was 2-1 . The Blue Jays were well prepared for the game.

Middlesex (20-4 ) is the top seed in C.J. Group 1 . The Blue Jays will now advance to the Group 1 semifinals next Monday as they will host the South Champion. The South Jersey Group 1 title game will be between Woodstown and Schalick this Saturday. We wish Middlesex Head Coach Justin Nastasi and the team best of luck in the semifinals and continue the momentum. Middlesex has a current winning streak of six games.

First Annual Mike Dessino Golf Outing 2021

On Wednesday, August 25, 2021 the Middlesex Wrestling Booster Club will present the First Annual Mike Dessino Golf Outing 2021. Registration is at 8: am. Shotgun Start is at 9: am-Scramble Play. The cost is $150 per person. The Bunker Hill Golf Course is located at 220 Bunker Hill Rd., Princeton. There will be lunch, prizes and beer will be sold on the course. For more information, please contact Mr. Ryan Boyd at 908-229-1545.

Sponsors are wanted for the event. The cost of sponsorship is $250. For that you will receive a company sign with a logo on a hole, a polo shirt and the money will go to the support The Mike Dessino Scholarship Fund. Please consider sponsoring this worthy event.

The Middlesex Community Pool

As the pandemic is finally winding down and summer is just around the corner, please consider joining this beautiful facility. Get the kids off the computer and cell phones and enjoy this healthy activity. This is a great way to bring friends and families together. Also for single members joining will be a wonderful way to meet new people to socialize and perhaps engender new relationships.

For more information >> Pool web page here
Phone : 908-202-3651
Email: middlesexpoolnj@gmail.com
Facebook : Middlesex Community Pool

Thank You,
Mayor John L Madden

Beautification Committee Chooses June "Homes of the Month"

The Middlesex Borough Beautification Committee is enjoying the “arduous” task of choosing Homes of the Month. Our residents take such pride in their homes!

Shown here are the four homes for the month of June. Look for the ‘HOMES of the MONTH’ sign in the front yard of each of the houses selected.

Conte Family, 22 Dogwood

Tagliaferro Family, 317 Ambrose Ave

Appleby Family, 240 Beechwood Ave.

Correia Family, 69 Greenbrook Road

The Middlesex Beautification Committee drives around town and nominates homes. For more information, visit the Beatification Committee page here.

Notice of Sale: Bond Anticipation Notes

$7,832,673 BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES, SERIES 2021A

(Non-Callable) (Bank Qualified)

Bids are being solicited through a fair and open process in accordance with N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.5 for the purchase of $7,832,673 Bond Anticipation Notes, Series 2021A (the “Notes”) of the Borough of Middlesex, in the County of Middlesex, New Jersey (the “Borough” or the “Issuer”). All bids will be publicly opened and announced at the office of the Borough Chief Financial Officer on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., prevailing local time (“Sale Date”).

Full details are available in the Notice document available at the link below.

Message from the Mayor: Memorial Day

This federal holiday is observed on the last Monday in May to honor those men and women who have died in combat while serving in the U.S. Military. The month of May was selected because flowers are in bloom to decorate the graves of soldiers. The official Federal Holiday was set aside in 1971. This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 31, 2021.

Decoration Day, the original name was selected to set a national uniform activity of commemoration by decorating the graves of our fallen soldiers. Started soon after the Civil War the need was created for proper burial because of so many fallen soldiers. For instance, Arlington National Cemetery contains over 400,000 grave sites (most of which are our fallen combat veterans) sitting on 639 acres owned by the U.S. Army.

Honoring those who served include family gatherings, planned visits to memorials and cemeteries where the heros are interred. Each year, parades were organized and given to also honor the living soldiers. These were all part of the popular traditions for Memorial Day.

Growing up, I had the privilege to be a member of our marching band- a timeless tradition of participation in school.  The parades were very long, typically from 9 am until 1 pm (or later) depending on the number of groups who participated. As we marched to the reviewing stand, we paused and faced the stand to acknowledge those veterans gathered there. We would then play a patriotic number for all the dignitaries, thereafter stop for a moment of silence then continue marching. In addition, there were decorated veterans either walking in the parade or in a vehicle. It was really a thrill and an honor to be part of the tradition. In fact it brought communities and residents together each year. We all learned and cherished mutual respect and adoration which never left me. This represents a true time-honored American Identity.

Let us never lose sight of the importance of this Holiday and may it never be combined with others. Unfortunately, many will engage in parties, barbecues, and vacations since this is the unofficial start of the summer season without a thought of such an important day.

American flags should be at half-staff until noon then full staff until sundown. Please acknowledge the service of those active, retired military and those who have fallen this Memorial Day. 

“FREEDOM IS NOT FREE”

IT WAS THE VETERAN, not the reporter who gave us freedom of the press
IT WAS THE VETERAN, not the poet who gave us freedom of speech
IT WAS THE VETERAN, not the campus organizer who gave us freedom to demonstrate
IT WAS THE VETERAN, who salutes the flag who served beneath the flag and whose coffin is draped by the flag.
If you love your freedom
THANK A VET ! “

 Thank you,
Mayor John L. Madden

Community Pool: Photo IDs 2021

Middlesex Community Pool Photo Id's will be used for pool admittance. Every member of the family must have his/her own photo taken. 

• MIDDLESEX BOROUGH RESIDENTS MUST SHOW PROOF OF RESIDENCY IN MIDDLESEX BOROUGH.**

• Families with children must show birth certificates or passports.

• New photo Id's will be taken this year for all members of the pool.

• Age Groups:

• 9 & under

• 10 -13

• 14 and older

• There will be a $5.00 replacement fee for all lost cards.

Location: Pool Office – No Appointment Necessary
DATES:

• May 29 10:00 am to 1:00m pm

• May 30 10:00 am to 1:00pm

• June 6 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

• June 13 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

• June 20 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

• June 27 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Photo ID's MUST be taken to gain access to the pool.  
Any questions regarding photo dates and times should be addressed to the pool secretary. 
Katie Young | 908-202-3651 | Middlesexpoolnj@gmail.com
Will respond with in 24 hours by email.

Mayor Madden's Weekly Message: Swim Pool, Fire Department Carnival

Swim Pool Open House

Saturday, May 22, 2021, the Middlesex Swim Pool Commission hosted their open house from nine am until noon. The Commissioners, staff and volunteers logged in much coordinated time and effort preparing for the event which was a resounding success. In addition, the weather was perfect and inviting. I would say that the morning went “swimmingly” well (pardon the pun). Over 90 people visited, 12 registered on the spot, and others are planning to register online very soon. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend due to a prior family obligation. However, if you are looking to plan a post-Covid activity, please consider a single or family membership. I wish the Middlesex Swim Pool Commission great success as they are off to a nice start.

The Fire Department Carnival

Since many communities elected to skip their carnival this year due to Covid, the Middlesex Fire Department took a bold and calculated risk with every precaution in mind for protection from the lingering pandemic, the event was a great success. Due to social distancing requirements and scaled down participation for each day, the overall numbers were very good. Although the final numbers are not yet in, I understand that the financial expectations were nevertheless met. I know that an extraordinary amount of effort and planning went into this operation. Congratulations to the entire Fire Department personnel volunteers and DPW for their effort.

Normality?

Finally, as we open more and more following the Governor’s Executive Orders, it looks like we should soon be back to our normal lifestyles with a great sigh of relief. Please plan accordingly with safety in mind for ourselves and others.

Thank you and stay safe.
Mayor John L. Madden

Middlesex Community Pool Swim Lessons

We are pleased to announce that we will be holding swim lessons again this summer. In order to keep our classes as safe as possible, we are reducing our class sizes.  Since your child will then receive more instruction, we will also be changing classes to 30-minute lessons. Your child will receive the same personalized instruction in a safer environment. Lessons are given for a two-week period Monday – Friday.

Registration Fees 

Middlesex Pool Members - $35.00 per child per session. 
Non-Middlesex Pool Members - $70.00 per child per session. 

Registration times 

Member registration: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. 
Non-member registration: 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. 

All Registrations are held at the pool the Saturday before the lessons starts. If you cannot make it, please find someone who can sign up your child for you on the registration day. Registrations will not be taken on Sunday or Monday. If you do not know your child’s lesson level, a water test will be given the day of registration. (Levels: Toddlers through Level 6) Please bring your child in a swimsuit, with a towel.

Sessions

SESSION 1: June 21- July 2
TIMES: 10:00 am - 10:30 am, 10:35 to 11:05 am, 11:10 am to 11:40 am  
REGISTRATION: Saturday, June 19 10:00am - 12:00 pm 

SESSION 2: July 5 – July 16 
TIMES:  10:00 am - 10:30 am, 10:35 to 11:05 am, 11:10 am to 11:40 am
REGISTRATION: Saturday, July 3 10:00am –12:00 pm 

SESSION 3 July 19– July 30 
TIMES:  10:00 am - 10:30 am, 10:35 to 11:05 am, 11:10 am to 11:40 am  
REGISTRATION: Saturday, July 17 10:00am –12:00 pm  

SESSION 4: August 2 - August 13
TIMES: 10:00 am - 10:30 am, 10:35 to 11:05 am, 11:10 am to 11:40 am
REGISTRATION: Saturday, July 31 10:00am –12:00 pm  

Thank you,
Middlesex Community Pool

Weekly Message from the Mayor: Making Pleasant-Weather Plans

Middlesex Community Pool and Recreation

Now that the pleasant weather is here, many of you are probably considering making plans for perhaps a much overdue vacation, a trip out of state to visit family, a short get-a-way weekend just to, well-get away. It is clear that we are all embodying a sense of the need for covid separation however we package it.

The Pool

Please include in your plans to attend the upcoming Open House at the Community Pool. Mark your calendar for May 22, 2021 from nine in the morning to noon. So much has gone into the preparation for a great season with all the amenities that the Community Pool offer. I recently took a stroll down to the pool and I must admit I have never seen all three pools look any better. For those on a tight budget, you will get an unbelievable value that can be enjoyed all season.

Speaking about value, if you research membership prices at other area pools, you will see that the Middlesex Community Pool is the most affordable. We’ll see you there.

Recreation

The fine weather is again kicking the Recreation Department into high gear. There is so much more to offer this year thanks to the hard work of the entire staff and volunteers. In fact there are programs for virtually every age group so there is no excuse for not participating in the many offerings.

For instance, May 23, 2021 there is a free photography/art media program which is a new feature in recreation programming here in Middlesex Borough. Also, on July 6, there will be a youth arts and crafts toddler program and summer day playground. Registration starts now.  Soccer registration will be out soon. Also look for consignment tickets for Maury’s Pier, six flags and Adventure Aquarium. Please check the recreation web site for complete information. As the pandemic is quickly winding down the exciting news is that many avenues of sports, entertainment and a whole host of outdoor activities await us. I see very little reason to leave our beautiful town to look elsewhere for the plethora of fun and activities of which we have right here.

Don’t let your guard down

Please remain vigilant for covid protection until we have turned the corner 100 % .  Take advantage of all that is being offered and let us all enjoy our families and friends- we are deserving of it.  

Mayor John L. Madden

Beautification Committe Restarts "Homes of the Month" Program

Middlesex Borough Beautification Committee is starting the ‘Homes of the Month’ program once again from May to October and December.  A few homes with beautiful flowers and/or shrubbery or holiday decorations in the front yard will be selected each month. Start looking for the ‘Homes of the Month’ signs on the lawns of your neighbors.

 Everyone has gone through a difficult year isolating because of Covid-19.  It is nice to begin to come out into the sunshine and share life with our fellow neighbors.  We on the Beautification Committee look forward to driving around town nominating homes and seeing smiling faces.

Look for the ‘HOMES of the MONTH’ sign on the front yards of each of the houses selected.

 You can find a picture of each of the homes selected monthly here on the Middlesex website and on the Beautification Committee page here.

And watch the Middlesex Facebook page, too!

Residents: Please Take Our Rec Department Survey

Middlesex Community

The Middlesex Recreation Department wants to know how we can be better. Your voice counts, so please use it! The link here leads to a COMPLETELY ANONYMOUS survey (8 questions). We look forward to reviewing your feedback.

(link opens in new window)

Middlesex County Expands Covid-19 Vaccine Accessibility

MAY 10, 2021

The Johnson and Johnson Covid-19 Single Shot Vaccine is being offered on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center 721 Cranbury Rd East Brunswick between 5 – 7 PM. You can register here at this link >> https://curogram.com/registrations/6093176fd58730d868a9eccd (link opens in new window). Coordinated by East Brunswick Township working with Catholic Charities of Metuchen and the Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey.

MAY 4, 2021

Booking a vaccine appointment is easy and convenient; walk-in appointments beginning May 13. The County is now utilizing its own scheduling system... READ more details on the County website here: www.middlesexcountynj.gov/vaccine. Read the County’s press release with more details here (PDF).

Mayor's Weekly Message: the New Journey Back to Normalcy

Covid- the New Journey Back to Normalcy

Finally, the Governor has announced recently, that many of the rules and restrictions that we have all come to embrace for such a long period of time are being relaxed. Since state-wide testing and the availability of vaccine doses have become much more prevalent has been his justification for the announcement. The allowable limit for outdoor gatherings has increased from 200 to 500 people. Large outdoor venues (sport and entertainment) with more than 1,000 seats are allowed to operate at 50 percent capacity. Indoor catering events are also allowed to increase their capacity to 50 percent.

In addition, hospitalization and infection rates are continuing their steady decline. Middlesex Borough registered three days in the last two weeks at zero new positive cases. Generally, immunization operations are getting significantly smaller as vaccine supplies are holding steady. The interesting question is why are so many people resistant to either getting the vaccine altogether or opting not to receive the second dose? I understand that some people have been turned off by the brief J & J issue that was quickly resolved.

Even the number of New Jersey school districts offering only all-remote instruction has precipitously dropped. In fact the handful of of holdouts, now at fifteen districts are urged to return to in-person learning very soon. I believe that the influence of so many parents demanding to get their children back in the classroom after much “politics” had a profound effect on that decision whether supported by science or not. I also can’t help to think that this is indeed an election year for Governor Murphy.

Personal experience

My own experience with Covid has really given me a more guided opinion of the need for protection. As we have seen, sometime people who diligently mask up and stay socially distanced may “slip up” as I had a momentary lapse and next thing I knew the virus had become my uninvited guest. The consequence proved to be inevitable and required an immediate response since I had been waiting for my vaccine for several months at that point. Again as mentioned in an earlier message, the Monoclonal infusion that I received gave me significant relief within half a day even though my symptoms were moderate with no fever. Realizing that there are those who do not have ready access to alleviate the virus and more importantly become super spreaders unknowingly, has made an impact on me due to my own personal experience. I have become more circumspect for these reasons. For those who have never had such an experience it may be difficult to recognize the urgency of this caliber for prompt viral protection .

A cautionary tale

Just understanding what the Republic of India is currently experiencing is unimaginable to most of us. In fact a recent report from the CDC dated May 7, 2021 indicates to date more than 18 million cases have been reported (there may be many more) and rapidly increasing! In addition there are four new variants deemed as “variants of interest” and have “characteristics of concern.”

Be part of the solution

Please be aware of these considerations, obtain your information from legitimate medical authorities and keep in mind that we are moving in the right direction regarding proper protection and safeguarding our families, friends, and neighbors. We are almost there. The warmer spring and summer days are soon upon us. We look forward to rejuvenation of our well-being and spirit.

Please stay safe and enjoy the season.
Mayor John L. Madden

Recycle It, Middlesex! May Events and Tips

In addition to the regular recycling opportunities, the County is holding several May events.

Paper Shredding * Paint * Household Hazardous Waste * Tires * Used Cooking Oil * Electronics

See the full May schedule on the County website >> middlesexcountynj.gov/recycle. FOR ALL PROGRAMS you must follow social distancing guidelines to participate. Face covering required.

Bring confidential documents like bank statements, tax returns, bills, and pay stubs to our paper shredding events. You must wear a face covering. Keep your windows closed and stay in your vehicle at all times. Arrive with material for recycling in your trunk, cargo area, or truck bed, easily accessible to our staff, who will remove it from your vehicle.

"HOW DO I KNOW IF IT'S RECYCLABLE?"

DOWNLOAD RECYCLE COACH!

Please download app to stay up to date on recycle pickup news and schedule changes. Recycle hotline for missed pick up or complaints should be directed to MCUA. Many complaints can be reported on the app as well. Or call the Recycle Hotline, 1-800-488-6242.

Borough DPW - RECYCLE CENTER Hours

Visit our Recycle Center Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday located directly behind 1200 Mountain Ave. Do not forget to bring a photo ID for proof of residency and a bulk coupon to dispose bulky items. Our employees are there to asist you in any way.