DUI Lawyer Matawan, NJ
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DUI Lawyers in Matawan, NJ

New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.

If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years

The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.

Edward G. Appel, Esq.

Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.

His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com

 DUI Defense Matawan, NJ

The DUI Lawyers in Matawan, NJ, You Can Trust

Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.

Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.

This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case.

At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:

 DUI Attorney Matawan, NJ
 Criminal Defense Lawyer Matawan, NJ

DUI Defense in New Jersey

There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.

DUI Penalties in New Jersey

Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Matawan, NJ.

 Legal Representation Matawan, NJ
 DUI Case Help Matawan, NJ

DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey

Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.

DUI Penalties in New Jersey

A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.

 DUI Defense Lawyer South Jersey Matawan, NJ
 DUI Consultation Matawan, NJ

DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey

Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.

What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?

Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike Burrowes Mansion Museum near Matawan, NJ without the proper climbing gear. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.

That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.

DUI Lawyer Matawan, NJ

Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses

In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Matawan, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.

You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.

If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:

  • A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
  • Up to 30 days of incarceration
  • Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500

A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.

 DUI Defense Matawan, NJ

Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey

Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.

As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.

 DUI Attorney Matawan, NJ

Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey

It doesn't take a graduate from Matawan Montessori Academy in Matawan, NJ to know that getting a second DUI is bad. Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.

 Criminal Defense Lawyer Matawan, NJ

Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey

The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.

The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.

How Do DUI Lawyers in Matawan, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?

Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:

  • Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
  • Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
  • Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?

If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.

At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. For instance, if you're arrested for DUI near Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Matawan, NJ, our team can examine the scene, analyze the protocols police took, and interview witnesses. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.

 Legal Representation Matawan, NJ

Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest

The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.

 DUI Case Help Matawan, NJ
Failing

1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Matawan, NJ

When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.

 DUI Defense Lawyer South Jersey Matawan, NJ
Downplaying

2. Downplaying DUI Consequences

Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.

 DUI Consultation Matawan, NJ
Pleading Guilty

3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty

Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case

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DUI Lawyer Matawan, NJ
 DUI Defense Matawan, NJ

DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Matawan, NJ

Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.

Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.

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Latest News in Matawan, NJ

All The May Events In Monmouth County Parks

Now that April showers brought May flowers, it's the perfect time to head out to your county parks. Here's what's planned:Carly Baldwin, Patch StaffOLD BRIDGE, NJ — Now that April showers brought May flowers, it’s the perfect time to head out to your county parks. Here's everything planned this May in the Monmouth County Parks System:Seabrook-Wilson House OpenThursdays, May 1, 8, 15...

Now that April showers brought May flowers, it's the perfect time to head out to your county parks. Here's what's planned:

Carly Baldwin, Patch Staff

OLD BRIDGE, NJ — Now that April showers brought May flowers, it’s the perfect time to head out to your county parks. Here's everything planned this May in the Monmouth County Parks System:

Seabrook-Wilson House Open

Thursdays, May 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29; Sundays, May 4, 11, 18 & 25; and Mondays, May 5, 12 & 19 from 1-4 p.m.

Located at Bayshore Waterfront Park in the Port Monmouth section of Middletown

Visit this house which dates back to the early 1700s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and see displays on the ecology of the bay and local history. FREE!

Find out what's happening in Matawan-Aberdeenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Holmes-Hendrickson House Tours

Fridays-Sundays, May 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, and 30-June 1 at 12 p.m., 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.

Located in Holmdel Park, Holmdel

Tour this house, which dates back to 1754, and is furnished to reflect the status of a successful colonial farming family and is an example of how Dutch and English cultures melded to form Monmouth County’s unique heritage. Tours are limited to 10 persons. FREE!

Jigsaw Puzzle Swap

Saturday, May 3 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Held at the Thompson Park Theatre Barn in Lincroft

Bring used puzzles and swap them for "new to you" ones. For every puzzle you bring, you will get one token to take a "new" puzzle home. Complete puzzles in good condition, please. All categories welcome. FREE!

19th Century Woodworking Demonstration

Saturday, May 3 from 12-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

See how a woodworker studies his materials, plies his tools, and crafts beautiful and functional items. FREE!

Hands-On History

Saturday, May 3 from 12-4:30 p.m.

Held at Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Explore some of our favorite “hands-on” items through operation and physical contact. FREE!

Traditional Quilting Demonstration

Saturday, May 3 from 1-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

See our quilter demonstrate how to hand sew a quilt. FREE!

Historic Portland Place Tours

Saturday & Sunday, May 3 & 4 at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.

Wednesdays-Sundays, May 7-11, 14-18, 21-25, and 28-June 1 at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.

Located in Hartshorne Woods Park, in the Locust section of Middletown

Tour this beautifully restored 18th century house with exhibits that help tell the story of the region's history and the Hartshorne family legacy in Monmouth County. Tours are limited to 10 persons and may be suspended during severe weather conditions. Register on site at the Portland Place Visitor Center day of tour. FREE!

Milling Demonstrations

Saturdays & Sundays, May 3 & 4, 10 & 11, 17 & 18, 24 & 25, 31 & June 1 at 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.

Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold

See the 19th century gristmill grind corn into meal. Each demonstration lasts approximately 15 minutes. FREE!

Vintage Base Ball - Monmouth Furnace Base Ball Club

Sunday, May 4 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Holmdel Park, Holmdel

Spend an afternoon watching one of America’s favorite pastimes played using rules from the 19th century. FREE!

Plant a Sunflower

Sunday, May 4 from 12-2:30 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Help the staff plant this year’s sunflower field. Then return in the fall and harvest one to bring home. Weather and field conditions permitting. FREE!

Casual Birder

Tuesday, May 6 at 9 a.m.

Hartshorne Woods Park - Meet in the Rocky Point parking lot in Highlands.

Tuesday, May 20 at 9 a.m.

Manasquan Reservoir, Howell - Meet in the Visitor Center parking lot.

Join a Park System Naturalist for a laid-back morning bird walk and meander through the park for about an hour and a half to see what birds we can find. Participants should expect to be walking a few miles (2-4) on sometimes uneven or muddy terrain. No need to be an expert at identifying birds to enjoy. A limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow if needed. FREE!

Creative Arts Festival

Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Thompson Park, Lincroft

See the works of artists and fine crafters from all mediums including pottery, jewelry and painting. Event includes art demonstrations, live music, and food vendors. Admission and parking are free.

Accordion Melodies of the 1890s

Saturday, May 10 from 1-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Hear melodies of the 1890s played on the accordion during your visit. FREE!

Cookstove Demonstrations

Saturdays, May 10 & 24 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

See what's cooking on the woodstove and discover how recipes, cooking techniques, and kitchens have changed since the 1890s. FREE!

Splendid Spring Strolls

Wednesday, May 14 from 10-11:30 a.m.

Big Brook Park, Marlboro - Meet in the Lower Pond parking lot.

Wednesday, May 21 from 10-11:30 a.m.

Manasquan Reservoir, Howell - Meet in the Environmental Center parking lot.

Join a Park System Naturalist on a peaceful trail walk and soak up the season. Sturdy footwear is recommended as trails used may have inclines or tree roots to step over. FREE!

Native Plant Exchange

Saturday, May 17 - Plant intake from 8:30-10 a.m.

Deep Cut Gardens, Middletown

Swap labeled plants native to the Mid-Atlantic region for same size and number. Event includes lecture from 9:15-10:15 a.m. FREE!

Open Shoot Archery

Saturday, May 17 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Thompson Park Activity Barn, Lincroft

All equipment is provided for this open shoot. No outside equipment permitted. This is not an instructional clinic and NOT designed for beginners. If you are new to archery, register for one of our instructional classes prior to attending. Open to ages 10 and up; under 18 with adult. The cost is $10 per person; cash or check only.

Walnford Day

Sunday, May 18 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold

Spend a day celebrating 200 years of Waln history with demonstrations, music and wagon rides. FREE!

Nature Lecture: Horseshoe Crabs in Monmouth County

Thursday, May 22 from 7-8 p.m.

Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center, Port Monmouth

Find out more about this extraordinary living fossil and what you can do to help restore the population of horseshoe crabs to the Jersey Shore during this talk by a Park System Naturalist. FREE!

Embroidery Demonstration

Saturday, May 24 from 1-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

See how various stitches and embellishments are used to create beautiful pieces of clothing or decoration for the home. FREE!

Historic Battery Lewis Tours

Saturdays & Sundays, May 24 & 25, 31 & June 1 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Hartshorne Woods Park, Highlands – Use Rocky Point parking lot.

Tour the restored Historic Battery Lewis and learn about the history of this important former coastal defense site. FREE!

Boat Tours at the Manasquan Reservoir

Saturday-Monday, May 24-26 at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. & 5 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday, May 31 & June 1 at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. & 5 p.m.

Manasquan Reservoir, Howell

These 45-minute tours are narrated by Park System Naturalists and include opportunities to view local wildlife. The cost is $6 per adult and $4 per child, age 12 and under. Children must be at least one-year or older to attend and be able to sit independently during the duration of the tour. Please call to confirm schedule as tours are both weather and water level dependent. All tours leave from the Visitor Center. Lifejackets required. Tickets can be purchased on day of tour only.

The Libby Prison Minstrels

Sunday, May 25 from 1-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Hear historical songs performed by the Libby Prison Minstrels about life on the battlefield and the home front during the Civil War era. FREE!

Decoration Day Celebration

Monday, May 26 from 12-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Enjoy the good company of family and friends as we honor this early American holiday. FREE!

Climb Time

Friday, May 30 from 3-6 p.m.

Thompson Park, Lincroft

Try the Park System's 25’ portable climbing wall. You must be 42” or taller to climb. Open to ages 8 and up; under 18 with adult. FREE!

To learn more about these Park System activities, please visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call the Park System at 732-842-4000.

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ICE Agents Seen In Keyport Tuesday Morning

KEYPORT, NJ — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were in Keyport early Tuesday morning, residents and the town mayor told Patch.ICE agents were seen at 7 a.m. on Church Street at Third Street, said residents. One Keyport resident provided a video that showed ICE agents taking a single man away in handcuffs. The federal agents were wearing bullet-proof vests that read "Police HSI" (Homeland Security Investigations) and "ERO," which stands for Enforcement and Removal Operations.Keyport...

KEYPORT, NJ — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were in Keyport early Tuesday morning, residents and the town mayor told Patch.

ICE agents were seen at 7 a.m. on Church Street at Third Street, said residents. One Keyport resident provided a video that showed ICE agents taking a single man away in handcuffs. The federal agents were wearing bullet-proof vests that read "Police HSI" (Homeland Security Investigations) and "ERO," which stands for Enforcement and Removal Operations.

Keyport Mayor Rose Araneo said she was made aware this happened, but she did not know any further information.

Another Keyport resident, a woman who lives on the block where the man was arrested, said she personally witnessed Homeland Security agents put the man into handcuffs and put him into a car. She asked not to be identified.

"I've been on this block a long time and they've been living here as long as I have," she said Tuesday. "They pay taxes. They are family people, they are not trouble makers, they are hard workers."

Find out what's happening in Matawan-Aberdeenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

She said ICE agents were also in Keyport a few months ago, when they arrested another man, a neighbor she knew personally. She said it was her understanding that he had been deported.

"Everybody's freaking out on this block," she said. "These people are not dirtbags. They have families and they are hard workers."

"And I'm a Trump supporter," she added.

A spokeswoman for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement did not confirm they were in Keyport Tuesday. But ICE was likely carrying out what they call Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), which is the detention and removal of people in the U.S. who are subject to removal or are unlawfully present in the United States.

Since Donald Trump became president in January, ICE has done these ERO raids and arrests across New Jersey, including in Asbury Park, Neptune Township, West New York, Union City and Paterson. In January, ICE agents raided a seafood processing plant in Newark, taking eight people into custody.

Old Bridge 4th Grader Wins Statewide Contest From Partnership for A Drug-Free NJ

A fourth grader at McDivitt Elementary School​ just won the 2025 "Fun Things to Do Instead of Doing Drugs" contest.Carly Baldwin, Patch StaffOLD BRIDGE, NJ — A fourth grader at McDivitt Elementary School in Old Bridge just won the 2025 "Fun Things to Do Instead of Doing Drugs" contest, held by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.The fourth grader is Madison Gunsch, of Old Bridge. Mad...

A fourth grader at McDivitt Elementary School​ just won the 2025 "Fun Things to Do Instead of Doing Drugs" contest.

Carly Baldwin, Patch Staff

OLD BRIDGE, NJ — A fourth grader at McDivitt Elementary School in Old Bridge just won the 2025 "Fun Things to Do Instead of Doing Drugs" contest, held by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.

The fourth grader is Madison Gunsch, of Old Bridge. Madison designed a winning bookmark that reminds children not to do drugs.

She actually shares the winning title with Adrian Camilo, a student at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in Jamesburg.

Open to fourth-grade students across New Jersey, the annual contest encourages children to express healthy, drug-free lifestyle choices through art. Thousands of entries were submitted this year. Their winning designs will be featured on bookmarks distributed throughout the state.

"Adrian and Madison’s artwork stood out for its originality and powerful message, earning them top honors," said Angelo Valente, executive director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. "This contest is a great way to engage students early about the value of making positive choices. Adrian and Madison’s artwork shows they understand the importance of living a drug-free life. They are talented artists, role models and leaders."

Find out what's happening in Matawan-Aberdeenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

For more information about the 2025 Fun Things to Do Instead of Doing Drugs Contest, visit drugfreenj.org/4thgradefinalists/

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Old Bridge Native Ravi Sangani Selected As Elite Goldwater Scholar

OLD BRIDGE, NJ — Old Bridge native Ravi Sangani, currently a junior studying public health at The College of New Jersey, was recently named a 2025 Goldwater Scholar at the college.It is one of the most prestigious national honors for undergraduate students in mathematics, science and engineering.Sangani — who is majoring in public health and minoring in biology and chemistry; he will graduate next year — was chosen from among 1,350 faculty-nominated students. He was among just 441 young people selected for the...

OLD BRIDGE, NJ — Old Bridge native Ravi Sangani, currently a junior studying public health at The College of New Jersey, was recently named a 2025 Goldwater Scholar at the college.

It is one of the most prestigious national honors for undergraduate students in mathematics, science and engineering.

Sangani — who is majoring in public health and minoring in biology and chemistry; he will graduate next year — was chosen from among 1,350 faculty-nominated students. He was among just 441 young people selected for the scholarship, which provides up to $7,500 to support academic expenses.

He graduated high school from the Middlesex County Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences.

This recognition comes as Sangani continues to advance his own ophthalmology research at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University. There, he is studying how glucose transport in the retina affects visual function at the cellular level and how disruptions in cellular transport may contribute to degenerative eye diseases like macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. At the same time, he’s completing a College of New Jersey capstone research project at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, with plans to submit his first publication with first authorship soon.

Find out what's happening in Matawan-Aberdeenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

This summer, Sangani will participate in a program at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Vision Institute, where he’ll focus on retinal regeneration and stem cell therapies. Long term, he plans to pursue graduate studies in neurobiology and regenerative medicine, aiming to develop therapies that can help in underserved communities worldwide.

“If we can find ways to restore vision, especially in communities without resources, that’s where I want to be,” he said.

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