The Sayreville Historical Society gave the public a sneak peek of their most recent donation at the Sayreville Historical Society Museum on Sunday, March 3. 

The Society received about 300 letters written by Sayreville residents who served in World War II in response to letters sent by businessman Danny O’Brien, the owner of Danny’s Luncheonette. His granddaughter, Kristen O’Brien Neymarc, found the letters in an unmarked box while sorting through family belongings. 

“The letters span from November 1944 to June 1945 and were mostly in alphabetical order in the box. They come from soldiers who were stationed all over the world. Some are from Greenland, Okinawa, Northern Africa, Hawaii, London, France, and Luxembourg,” said Neymarc. “The box also contained holiday cards, a typed list of over 350 names, and a newspaper article written in 1944 discussing Danny's project and asking the wives of soldiers to please send Danny their new addresses because a lot of them had moved on.”

Neymarc said she thinks the letters are special as many are unopened. 

“I think it is important to share these letters with the public and to the families of these soldiers because they’re filled with untold stories. Each soldier writing to a friend may be sharing something different they might not have shared with their loved ones,” said Neymarc. 

Neymarc also spoke about the coincidence between the letters and the Sayreville Historical Society's recently published book “Give ‘Em Hell: Sayreville Goes To War” by Chris Nieratko, which compiles photographs of Sayreville residents serving in World War II that were originally displayed in the windows of Attorney Joseph T. Karcher's office on Main Street.

“It gives me chills to think how the Historical Society just published this book about World War II, and a month later, I found a box containing letters that were lost for 80 years from soldiers serving in World War II,” said Neymarc. “The picture on the book's front cover was even taken in front of Danny’s Luncheonette out of pure coincidence.” 

Some letters read aloud at the event discussed food rations, battles, and different countries' cultures. Neymarc read one letter written by John Engelhardt, whose military uniform is displayed in the Sayreville Historical Society Museum. 

Jane Terzino, recording secretary of the Sayreville Historical Society, said typing and photographing the letters for digital media will be time-consuming, so the Society is looking for volunteers to help. The Society is also looking for help in researching about the soldiers and helping to contact their families. 

The Sayreville Police Department and Sammy's Hope Adoption Center have announced the Officer and Pet of the Month for March 2024. This month features Azzuro and Officer Brian Cortez.

Officer Cortez is a dedicated law enforcement professional whose journey into policing was shaped by diverse experiences and personal inspiration. Officer Cortez initially pursued a career as a barber, honing his interpersonal skills and fostering connections within his community. However, it was his younger sister who sparked a newfound passion within him for serving and protecting others. Inspired by her unwavering dedication to making a positive impact, he made the bold decision to transition into law enforcement.

Azzuro is a senior canine who's as spry as a pup. Despite being 10 years old, his playful and friendly demeanor makes it easy to forget his age. This superstar is friendly with most dogs and would do great in a home with older kids. He charms everyone’s heart quicker than you can say “treat,” showing his true, affectionate self. His playful antics and curious nature promise a life filled with laughter and discovery. His friendly, loving nature makes him the perfect companion. He's ready to give unconditional love and friendship to those willing to open their hearts and homes to him. 

If you're interested in meeting Azzuro, please complete an interest form at www.sammyshope.org/adoptdogs. An adoption counselor will contact you to schedule an appointment.

The Sayreville Borough Council honored the D8, D10, and D12 cheer teams for their success at both the American Youth Cheer (AYC) Championships and the Youth Cheer and Dance Alliance (YCADA) Championships at the governing body’s Feb. 26 meeting.

The D8 team dominated the end of their season, winning both the American Youth Cheer National Championship and the Youth Cheer and Dance Alliance Global Championship. The D10 Cheer team also won 3rd place at the AYC National Championship, while the D12 team won 1st place at the AYC National Championship and had the highest score in the entire level three division, earning them the title of grand champions.

For the individual achievements, Lynn Bialoblocki was selected for the Jersey Shore Elite Cheer team where they placed 2nd at AYC Nationals and at YCADA Globals, Victoria Marottoli and Julie Sekerak were selected for the Jersey Shore Elite Cheer Team, which placed 3rd at the AYC Nationals.

"We truly cannot express how proud of you we are," said D12 head coach Nicole Leonard. "We love you all so much. I just think these girls deserve a little bit of bragging. They've had truly an incredible season."

Mayor Kennedy O'Brien took time after these athletes were recognized to thank the parents for the success of their children.

"Their success is based on your effort, so you're to be congratulated," said Mayor O'Brien. "And coaches, you are the unsung heroes. You're magnificent. Thank you for bringing this glory and honor to Sayreville."

Registration is now open for Sayreville Recreation the Spring 2024 session of the US SPORTS INSTITUTE Sayreville Tennis program.

Tennis instruction is open to participants ages 3 to 80 at all ability levels. Classes are held weekly in April and May at the Kennedy Park Tennis Courts.

This program offers professional coaches, skills and drills, fun games, age appropriate equipment, and a  Dri-Fit T-Shirt for every player.  Space is limited. Click on the the link below for parents to register on US Sport website for weather cancellation notifications and alerts.  

To register, click here.