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Acupuncture in Iselin, NJ
It's hard to deny that we live in a world where health issues seem to be increasingly common. From allergies that baffle doctors to chronic pain that never seems to go away, it's no secret that many individuals struggle to maintain good health. Respiratory issues, reproductive complications, and other conditions add to the mix, making it clear that we're all susceptible to some kind of malady.
Unfortunately, many modern doctors still believe that throwing pills at the problem or scheduling surgery is the best way to provide long-term relief. While certain serious conditions can warrant such extreme treatments, a large percentage of Americans are looking for something far less harmful and much more holistic. They're looking high and low for a reliable, well-studied solution that doesn't require time off work or sketchy pain medications.
At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, one of the most effective and exciting treatments we've seen work for such patients is acupuncture in Iselin, NJ - a modern take on an ancient treatment that has been used for thousands of years.
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If you're new to holistic healing, acupuncture may seem intimidating. You might be wondering how needles pressed into your skin could possibly make you feel better. Wouldn't someone pushing a needle into your back be painful? As it turns out, acupuncture is far from painful and is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after treatments for chronic pain and for regulating issues relating to:
- Digestion
- Hormones
- Breathing
- Muscles
- Nerves & Brain
- Sex & Libido
- Body Circulation
- Organs & Heart
In fact, acupuncture has been studied and practiced for over 2,500 years and, more recently, has been researched and supported by many scientific studies. While acupuncture may not be a "miracle" treatment for every type of pain or condition, it has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of issues, from depression and allergies to morning sickness and cramps.
Covering the Basics of Acupuncture in Iselin, NJ
Acupuncture is a therapy in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that aims to balance the body's energy, called qi, which flows through pathways called meridians. This balance is crucial for overall wellness, as disruptions to qi can lead to health concerns. According to TCM, inserting small stainless-steel needles into specific points called acupoints along the meridians can help rebalance the flow of qi and restore overall health.
These acupoints are believed to release certain chemicals when stimulated, which can trigger an immune response and promote physiological homeostasis. Recent research suggests that this therapy may help alleviate symptoms of various health ailments.
In fact, the National Institute of Health conducted a survey on complementary health approaches, revealing that acupuncture usage in the United States has increased by 50 percent between 2002 and 2012. As of 2012, 6.4 percent of American adults have reported using acupuncture as a form of treatment.
Is Acupuncture in Iselin, NJ Actually Legit?
One of the most common questions from new patients interested in acupuncture typically revolves around whether it really works or whether it's all "new age" malarky. We get it - for most folks, the thought of inserting stainless-steel needles into one's back, arms, or neck sounds loony. However, with the ever-increasing popularity of acupuncture in New Jersey and other locations, numerous studies centering on acupuncture's effectiveness have taken place.
Extensive research has been conducted on the effectiveness of acupuncture for various conditions. A February 2022 analysis published in the BMJ, which evaluated over 2,000 scientific reviews of acupuncture therapies, revealed that acupuncture's efficacy is strongest for:
- Neck Pain
- Back Pain
- Post-Stroke Aphasia
- Muscle Pain
- Lactation Issues
- Lower Back Pain
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Vascular Dementia
- More
Additionally, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), acupuncture is most effective for pain relief in cases of chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and tension headaches. Additionally, a review of 11 clinical trials found that acupuncture may also alleviate symptoms associated with cancer treatment, as noted by the NIH.
What Happens During an Acupuncture Session at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness?
When meeting with your acupuncturist for the first time, they will discuss your condition with you before conducting a physical examination to identify areas of your body that might respond to acupuncture. The needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin, sterile, and disposable, with your acupuncturist inserting them at different depths ranging from a fraction of an inch to several inches.
Acupuncture needles are less painful than medical needles used for vaccines or blood draws. This is because acupuncture needles are thinner and solid, not hollow. During the treatment, you may experience some muscle sensations like dull aches or tingling.
Your practitioner will ask you to report any deep heaviness or numbness, which are positive signs that the treatment is working. Depending on the condition you're treating and the supplemental treatments you're undergoing, like physical therapy, acupuncture needles will remain in place for several minutes or up to 30 minutes.
Once your first acupuncture treatment is finished, it's normal to feel extra relaxed and calm. For that reason, some patients like to arrange for a ride home after their first or second session. With that said, you shouldn't experience much pain at all, and it's quite possible for you to return to work after acupuncture.
How Many Treatments Until Acupuncture Works?
This is another common question that we get at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness. The simple answer is, "It depends." While we understand that that's not a satisfying answer for some, it's important to understand that every patient is different. Everyone has different bodies and, by proxy, different bodily conditions and issues that need to be addressed.
During your initial consultation at our office, your licensed acupuncturist will go over your needs and goals as it relates to acupuncture therapy. Once your therapist has a good sense of the scope of your needs, they can give you a loose idea of how many sessions you'll need.
Generally speaking, most patients have appointments once a week. Others may require more or less frequent sessions. It's important to note that the full benefits of acupuncture may not be immediately evident after the first or even the second session. It's common for normal patients to undergo up to five treatments to realize the full benefits of acupuncture.
What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture in Iselin, NJ?
There's no question that acupuncture is more popular than ever as a non-invasive, non-addictive way to reclaim balance and well-being. But what types of conditions can this traditional therapy help alleviate in the modern world? Advances in acupuncture techniques and applications have resulted in some very promising benefits.
Relief from Chronic Pain
Did you know that regular acupuncture treatments can help reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis? In May 2017, a meta-analysis was published, which studied approximately 18,000 patients with chronic pain, such as low back, neck, and shoulder pain, knee OA, and headache or migraine. The analysis found that the benefits of acupuncture therapy in reducing pain lasted for more than 12 months.
That's wonderful news for athletes and other people who push their bodies daily to accomplish goals or bring home money for rent and bills. In fact, many medical experts consider acupuncture as a viable option for managing chronic pain in conjunction with traditional methods like physical therapy and chiropractic care. The idea behind this approach is that acupuncture may trigger the body's natural healing response to alleviate pain.
When a licensed acupuncturist in New Jersey inserts an acupuncture needle, it penetrates your fascia, a connective tissue that wraps around your organs and muscles. Like a slight tickle on your arm, your body realizes that something is happening and responds by delivering lymph fluid, blood, and other important nutrients to speed up healing in affected areas like your knees, back, neck, joints, and more.
Migraine Headache Relief
If you're like other people who suffer from migraines, you know that once one of them hits, it can be next to impossible to function properly throughout the day. Fortunately, acupuncture in Iselin, NJ may be a viable solution if you have to endure migraines often.
A study conducted in 2009 by the Center for Complementary Medicine at the University of Munich analyzed 11 studies involving 2,137 patients who received acupuncture treatment for chronic tension-type headaches. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could be an effective non-pharmacological solution for frequent headaches.
The study compared the effects of acupuncture sessions with sham acupuncture and no treatment at all. Both groups that received acupuncture treatment, whether needles were placed randomly or strategically, reported a reduction in headache symptoms, while the control group reported no change. The group that received real acupuncture treatment also reported a decrease in the number of headache days and intensity of pain in a follow-up survey.
Improved Sleep
For individuals who struggle with insomnia and other sleep disturbances, acupuncture is a promising therapy. Although sedatives are commonly prescribed for insomnia, long-term use can lead to negative side effects such as dependence and excessive drowsiness.
A study conducted on 72 participants and published in Sleep Medicine in 2017 found that individuals who received acupuncture three times a week for four weeks experienced significant improvements in sleep quality and anxiety compared to those who received sham acupuncture.
Similarly, a review of 30 randomized, controlled trials found that acupuncture was more effective in improving sleep quality and daytime functioning than sham acupuncture.
Better Recovery from Surgery
While many patients choose acupuncture as a way to avoid surgery altogether, those who need surgery also use it for improved recovery. Because, at the end of the day, recovering from surgery is no easy feat. Patients may experience various symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, pain around the incision, restlessness, sleep troubles, constipation, and sore throat.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, healthcare providers may use acupuncture as a way to alleviate some of these symptoms and help with healing. A study published in Integrative Cancer Therapies in January 2017 involving 172 participants found that patients who received acupuncture after surgery reported significant improvements in sleep, anxiety, pain, fatigue, nausea, and drowsiness.
The Surprising Benefits of Supplementing Physical Therapy with Acupuncture
Did you know that supplementing physical therapy with acupuncture and vice versa can have profoundly beneficial effects for patients in New Jersey and across the country? If you're like most, chances are you didn't.
The truth is that acupuncture and physical therapy have both been proven effective in reducing pain and inflammation. While many people view them as separate methods, combining the two modalities can produce a synergistic effect that enhances pain relief and delivers long-lasting benefits to patients.
Physical therapists work with patients of all ages and abilities, from children to elderly adults, to help them overcome physical limitations and improve their quality of life. At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, our physical therapists help treat a wide range of conditions, from neck pain and spinal cord injuries to back pain and arthritis.
To effectively reduce pain and treat tissue injury, a combination of acupuncture and physical therapy can be very helpful. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation and release muscle tightness and trigger points, allowing the patient to better receive manual therapy or exercise-based physical therapy techniques. In doing so, acupuncture can actually create a window of time that allows your body to respond better to other treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, such as physical therapy and chiropractic care.
There are many benefits of combining physical therapy with acupuncture in Iselin, NJ, including the following:
- Increased Range of Motion
- More Effective Long-Term Pain Relief
- Enhanced Tissue Repair & Healing
- Better Response to Physical Therapy Due to Pain Reduction
- Less of a Need for Pain Medications
- Boosted Mood & Energy
- Better Quality of Life Overall
You may be wondering, "Are there any studies showing these benefits?" As it turns out, there are many. One such study, published on the NIH's website, was conducted on patients suffering from frozen shoulder.
Patients who received acupuncture experienced a significant reduction in pain, while those who underwent physical therapy saw an improvement in range of motion. However, the best outcome was observed in patients who received a combination of both treatments, with reduced pain, increased their range of motion, and improved quality of life. This study highlights the potential benefits of using acupuncture and physical therapy as complementary treatments for frozen shoulder.
It makes sense, then, that people from all walks of life are combining acupuncture with chiropractic treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, including:
- Professional Athletes
- Football Players
- Soccer Players
- Baseball Players
- Construction Workers
- Landscapers
- Accountants and People Working Office Jobs
- Public Officials
- Police Officers
- More
Combining Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief and Wellness
At New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, our doctors, practitioners, occupational therapists, and physical therapist specialize in a range of therapies and treatments. Much like physical therapy and acupuncture, combining chiropractic care with acupuncture therapy gives patients a new way to reclaim their mobility, reduce chronic pain, and maintain a healthy quality of life.
Chiropractic care and acupuncture in Iselin, NJ are natural healing practices that don't rely on drugs to improve the body's health. They focus on correcting imbalances in the body's structural and supportive systems, promoting natural healing, and ultimately leading to better health. These practices have a proven track record of helping patients improve their quality of life and overcome physical difficulties.
What are the Benefits of Using Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care?
Integrating chiropractic and acupuncture as a dual-modality treatment offers the most efficient solution for removing blockages from the body, promoting balance, and accelerating healing. Rather than using these treatments sequentially, a combined approach allows for maximum benefits at one time.
Chiropractic targets subluxations in the nervous system through manual adjustments, facilitating the central nervous system to promote healing, while acupuncture removes blockages that may hinder the body's internal balance. Together, these treatments work synergistically to optimize energy flow and restore harmony in the body.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care?
When our physical well-being becomes imbalanced, and our innate healing mechanisms are compromised, illnesses can manifest. The integration of acupuncture and chiropractic practices can effectively address a wide range of health conditions that they individually target, such as:
- Sports Injuries
- Headaches
- Sciatica
- Lower Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Insomnia
- Chronic Conditions Like Diabetes
- More
Curious if combining chiropractic care or physical therapy with acupuncture is right for your body? The best way to find out is to make an appointment at our sports rehab clinic in New Jersey. Once our team of medical professionals has a chance to evaluate your conditions, we can explore the best options to provide the most relief in the shortest amount of time possible.
The Premier Choice for Professional Acupuncture in Iselin, NJ
New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness consists of a team of athletic trainers, chiropractors, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other professionals. We're very proud and passionate about caring for our patients, many of whom are suffering from debilitating conditions like back and neck pain, plantar fasciitis, sports-related injuries, and more. If you're trying to get on the road to pain relief and recovery, acupuncture may be the non-surgical solution you need to reclaim your life. Contact our office today to learn whether this exciting treatment is right for you.
732-526-2497
Latest News in Iselin, NJ
Iselin Kennedy Boys Basketball
Marcus Bullockhttps://highschoolsports.nj.com/player/marcus-bullock-1/boysbasketball/season/2022-2023
2022-2023 Game Log Date Opponent Result 2PT 3PT FTM FTA PTS REB AST BLK STL GP 12/16/2022 vs. Timothy Christian W 55-50 5 2 2 2 19 — — — —...
2022-2023 Game Log
| Date | Opponent | Result | 2PT | 3PT | FTM | FTA | PTS | REB | AST | BLK | STL | GP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12/16/2022 | vs. Timothy Christian | W 55-50 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 19 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 12/19/2022 | @ Wardlaw-Hartridge | W 82-23 | 7 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 22 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 12/21/2022 | vs. Middlesex | L 33-44 | 1 | — | 1 | 2 | 3 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 12/22/2022 | @ Metuchen | L 36-55 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 11 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 12/27/2022 | @ Hackettstown | L 43-60 | — | — | — | 2 | — | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 12/29/2022 | @ Dayton | W 56-48 | 2 | 2 | — | — | 10 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 01/05/2023 | vs. Woodbridge | L 38-70 | 4 | — | 4 | 6 | 8 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 01/06/2023 | vs. Carteret | W 38-36 | 3 | — | 4 | 5 | 10 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 01/09/2023 | @ South River | L 45-88 | 4 | 2 | — | 1 | 14 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 01/11/2023 | vs. Metuchen | L 49-57 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 20 | — | 1 | — | — | 1 |
| 01/13/2023 | @ Spotswood | L 43-64 | 2 | — | 2 | 2 | 6 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 01/16/2023 | vs. Steinert | L 37-46 | 6 | 1 | — | — | 15 | 3 | 1 | — | 2 | 1 |
| 01/18/2023 | @ Timothy Christian | L 72-73 | 3 | 4 | — | — | 18 | 5 | — | — | 2 | 1 |
| 01/20/2023 | vs. Wardlaw-Hartridge | W 62-49 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 19 | 3 | 3 | — | — | 1 |
| 01/23/2023 | @ Middlesex | L 49-64 | — | — | — | — | 6 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 01/25/2023 | vs. Spotswood | L 44-68 | — | 2 | 4 | 4 | 9 | — | — | — | 2 | 1 |
| 01/27/2023 | vs. Bridgewater-Raritan | L 45-58 | 1 | 3 | — | 1 | 11 | 1 | 2 | — | — | 1 |
| 01/28/2023 | @ Highland Park | L 50-55 | 4 | 1 | — | — | 11 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 01/30/2023 | @ Carteret | L 49-53 | 4 | 2 | 1 | — | 15 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 02/01/2023 | vs. South River | L 52-85 | 6 | 1 | — | — | 15 | 3 | — | — | 1 | 1 |
| 02/04/2023 | @ Highland Park | W 61-58 | 7 | — | — | 2 | 15 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 02/07/2023 | @ Perth Amboy | L 60-76 | 4 | — | — | — | 8 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| 02/10/2023 | vs. Sayreville | W 60-57 | 1 | — | 1 | 1 | 3 | — | — | — | — | 1 |
| Season Totals: | 75 | 28 | 30 | 42 | 268 | 15 | 7 | — | 7 | 23 | ||
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Murals Rekindle Memories of Iselin’s Bygone Days
Tony Gallottohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/woodbridge-slash-carteret/sections/arts-and-entertainment/articles/murals-rekindle-memories-of-iselin-s-bygone-days
Here’s resident Loretta Krason Catino’s vintage Iselin Fair poster that became the model for an integral part of the new Green Street murals.Artists Melissa LoCascio (left) and Kimberley Zadigian (right) in front of their rendering of a vintage Iselin Fair poster that resident Loretta Krason Catino posted on social media.Photo Credit: KIMBERLEY ZADIGIANPhoto Credit: KIMBERLEY ZADIGIANArtist Melissa LoCascio, a Woodbridge High School art teacher since 2022, uses her sp...
Here’s resident Loretta Krason Catino’s vintage Iselin Fair poster that became the model for an integral part of the new Green Street murals.
Artists Melissa LoCascio (left) and Kimberley Zadigian (right) in front of their rendering of a vintage Iselin Fair poster that resident Loretta Krason Catino posted on social media.Photo Credit: KIMBERLEY ZADIGIAN
Photo Credit: KIMBERLEY ZADIGIAN
Artist Melissa LoCascio, a Woodbridge High School art teacher since 2022, uses her special skills at recreating typography for lettering on the new Green Street murals. Photo Credit: KIMBERLEY ZADIGIAN
Artist Kimberley Zadigian, a Woodbridge High School art teacher since 2012, works up close to outline a new section of the mural under the Amtrak railroad bridge.Photo Credit: MELISSA LoCASCIO
Iselin resident Susana Monteiro snapped this photo from her car. It racked up over 325 “Likes,” and nearly 130 positive comments on the“I Love Iselin NJ” Facebook page.Photo Credit: SUSANA MONTEIRO/FACEBOOK
Melissa LoCascio works on more lettering for the new Green Street murals.Photo Credit: KIMBERLEY ZADIGIAN
Here’s resident Loretta Krason Catino’s vintage Iselin Fair poster that became the model for an integral part of the new Green Street murals.Photo Credit: LORETTA KRASON CATINO/FACEBOOK
Artists Melissa LoCascio (left) and Kimberley Zadigian (right) in front of their rendering of a vintage Iselin Fair poster that resident Loretta Krason Catino posted on social media.Photo Credit: KIMBERLEY ZADIGIAN
By TONY GALLOTTO
PublishedAugust 17, 2023 at 4:14 PM
WOODBRIDGE, NJ — Two artists are bringing ‘Iselin of yesteryear’ back to life.
The duo, Kimberley Zadigian and Melissa LoCascio, are working on huge, colorful murals under the Amtrak railroad bridge along busy Green Street.
The murals depict scenes from Iselin in 1960s and ‘70s, and the iconic Iselin Fair from those days.
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Still underway, the murals are rekindling a flood of fond memories for hundreds of passing motorists who have been watching the artists’ progress and have voiced appreciation on social media.
Zadigian and LoCascio are painting on sweltering days, and even on rainy days, with good reason. They are Woodbridge High School art teachers and hope to finish before school starts Sept. 5.
“It’s been challenging, but it is coming together,” Zadigian said. “People have been so kind. A few brought us water or sodas so we stay hydrated, some even offered us lunch.”
Woodbridge commissioned Zadigian and LoCascio for these sizable murals as part of its ongoing beautification effort, Mayor John E. McCormac said, noting these murals have been on the town’s drawing board since 2021.
“We went through many versions of drawings, and did extensive research for old pictures before settling on final designs for these murals,” McCormac said.
Woodbridge negotiated their appearance with Amtrak, the railroad bridge’s owners, before the town green-lighted the project in June. “We’ve started working June 30, and it’s going really well,” Zadigian said.
There are challenges, mostly due to rain. “Water comes down the walls from train tracks above, sometimes smearing the paint. So, we must redo it or it touch up,” LoCascio said. “Frustrating, but it’s just part of the job.”
FOND MEMORIES
Even unfinished, Zadigian and LoCascio’s work evokes heartfelt memories of Iselin’s bygone days and the iconic Iselin Fair.
Many passersby are posting remembrances on the “I Love Iselin NJ” Facebook site. And Mayor McCormac gave TAPinto Woodbridge some fond childhood memories of growing up in Menlo Park Terrace.
“We were directly tied to the Iselin community through St. Cecelia’s Church and school, and its downtown,” McCormac said. “Growing up, the Iselin Fair was iconic. For a week, every July, we would ride the Bullet, the Scrambler, the Octopus, the Ferris Wheel and Tilt-a-Whirl. We played (carnival) games for just a dime.
“Our moms prepared food during the days. Dads worked nights, grilling ribs, shucking clams and pouring beer. Kids could walk around by themselves and be safe because other parents were always on the lookout,” the mayor said.
“Downtown Iselin, in those days, had everything,” McCormac continued. “There was no reason to go anywhere else. We had the Iselin Theater, Eagle Hardware, Jimmy’s Meat Market, Harry Kline’s, the Esso gas station and, of course, Flip’s, Hank’s, Jack & Earl’s and The Pioneer.”
“It’s a thrill to recreate those memories with these murals smack in the middle of Iselin,” the mayor said.
Iselin resident Susana Monteiro has seen the murals’ progress on her way to work each morning. “They look amazing. Those (artists) are out there constantly,” Monteiro said.
Her daughter, Ashley, a JFK High School senior, hopes to study art in college. “I brought her by so Ashley could see what these women accomplished … it’s really great work.”
Monteiro also snapped a photo from her car window one morning to post on the “I Love Iselin NJ” Facebook page. It racked up over 325 “likes,” and nearly 130 appreciative comments from others who shared their memories of Iselin and the Iselin Fair from back in the day.
Here are a few excerpts from the many Facebook posts:
● “When I saw the Iselin fair panel under the bridge, for a moment, I thought the fair was back in town. Although it is just a memory now, it’s a wonderful memory. Bravo to those artistic ladies, who are bringing some history back to Iselin.” — Lorraine Davis
● “Ladies (you) should have had a tip jar or a bucket. All residents of Iselin, past and present, should leave (you) monetary thanks for your beautiful work.” — Patrick J. Moran
● “The young ladies who are painting the murals on the underpass at Route 27 and Oak Tree Road/Green Street are doing a beautiful job!” — Gail Rezmerski
● “Cool! Never in a million years would I think they'd memorialize the Iselin Fair.” — Deborah Paloti
● “This looks great and brings back memories!” — Glenn Nier
● “They are doing an awesome job!” — John Miele
NOT FIRST–TIMERS
The two hard-working artists are experienced mural-makers.
LoCascio has done a few murals elsewhere, including for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lodi/Hackensack/Teaneck.
“I have never done anything outdoors. Nothing as big as these in Iselin,” she said. “It’s been a good learning experience.”
Zadigian, on the other hand, is a veteran. A high school teacher here since 2012, she was first commissioned by Woodbridge in 2015 to work on murals under the Avenel Street train bridge. That turned into a three-year endeavor.
First, she and her friend Amanda Hatzikyriakou, a Cedar Grove art teacher, spruced up an existing ocean-themed mural there.
The following year, they spent six weeks painting and directing more than 50 youngsters, teens and adult volunteers to create a farm-themed mural, with a “Greetings From Avenel” logo.
And, in 2017, Zadigian and Hatzikyriakou painted and supervised more local volunteers for a large, zoo-themed Avenel Street mural. Those projects also got an outpouring of positive community attention.
“People would stop by with water, or with Dunkin' Donuts. Many came to support us. It was so nice to be a part of something that brought so many (people) together,” Zadigian said at that time.
In 2019, Zadigian and local art teacher Becky Schwartzstein created a Main Street veterans mural featuring the Statue of Liberty, a Bald Eagle, the American flag, five military flags and six historic American flags.
Contact Tony Gallotto at tgallotto@tapinto.net with news tips or interesting feature ideas.
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Recent Articles Nearby
Feds: Iselin Jewelers Evaded US Customs on Gold Imports
TONY GALLOTTOhttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/woodbridge-slash-carteret/sections/law-and-justice/articles/feds-iselin-jewelers-evaded-us-customs-on-gold-imports
Photo Credit: FREEPIKWOODBRIDGE, NJ — Owners of two Iselin jewelry store, and their parent company, reached a settlement deal with federal authorities, admitting their failure to pay $400,000 in customs duties on imported gold, according to U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.Iqbal Virani and his son, Aqib Virani, owners of Virani Jewelers and 21st Millennium Inc., agreed to pay $1 million in penalties and restitution to U.S. Customs for “un...
Photo Credit: FREEPIK
WOODBRIDGE, NJ — Owners of two Iselin jewelry store, and their parent company, reached a settlement deal with federal authorities, admitting their failure to pay $400,000 in customs duties on imported gold, according to U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.
Iqbal Virani and his son, Aqib Virani, owners of Virani Jewelers and 21st Millennium Inc., agreed to pay $1 million in penalties and restitution to U.S. Customs for “undervaluing” $401,852 worth of imported gold jewelry, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for New Jersey said in a prepared statement.
The Virianis, “who own or control the business(es) admitted they evaded United States customs duties on gold jewelry imported into the United States” between Jan. 1, 2017 and March 31, 2020. Their company, 21st Millennium, was the importer of more than 80 customs entries, consisting of jewelry manufactured in foreign countries, Sellinger’s statement said.
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“By undervaluing the merchandise, 21st Millennium evaded paying $401,852 in customs duties that should have been paid” to U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection, the statement said.
According to their website, lqbal Virani began Virani Jewelers in 1987, now with stores on Marconi Avenue and Oak Tree Road, both in Iselin. The website refers to the Viranis as “renowned pioneers,” who introduced 22K South Indian jewelry to the United States market, and as “connoisseurs of fine jewelry.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney David V. Simunovich, based in Newark, handled the federal government’s case. The Viranis were represented by Hackensack attorney James Plaisted and Manhattan attorney Robert Silverman.
Sellinger credited special agents with the U.S Department of Homeland Security and New York’s Homeland Security Investigation unit, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ivan J. Arvelo, for heading the probe leading to the settlement.
Virani Jewelers made news in June 2022 when eight armed robbers burst into their Oak Tree Road store just before closing, terrorized employees, smashed display cases, and made off with thousands of dollars in valuable jewelry, watches and other merchandise.
In September 2023, federal authorities indicted 16 suspects, from a Washington DC-based robbery ring for allegedly pulling off that heist and several others, targeting Indian-owned businesses on the East Coast.
10 most expensive homes sold in Woodbridge area, March 27 - April 3
njhttps://www.nj.com/realestate-news/2023/04/10-most-expensive-homes-sold-in-woodbridge-area-march-27-april-3.html
A house in Colonia that sold for $574,000 tops the list of the most expensive real estate sales in Woodbridge area between March 27 and April 3.In total, 14 real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $408,000. The average price per square foot was $347.The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of March 27 even if the property may have been sold earlier.10. $350,000, single-family residence at 409 Hudson Boulevard...
A house in Colonia that sold for $574,000 tops the list of the most expensive real estate sales in Woodbridge area between March 27 and April 3.
In total, 14 real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $408,000. The average price per square foot was $347.
The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of March 27 even if the property may have been sold earlier.
10. $350,000, single-family residence at 409 Hudson Boulevard
The property at 409 Hudson Boulevard in Avenel has new owners. The price was $350,000. The house was built in 1945 and has a living area of 878 square feet. The price per square foot is $399. The deal was finalized on Mar. 15.
9. $350,000, detached house at 632 West Avenue
A sale has been finalized for the single-family home at 632 West Avenue in Sewaren. The price was $350,000 and the new owners took over the house in March. The house was built in 1946 and the living area totals 1,108 square feet. The price per square foot ended up at $316. The deal was finalized on Mar. 14.
8. $390,000, single-family home at 19 Hillside Avenue
The sale of the single family residence at 19 Hillside Avenue in Woodbridge has been finalized. The price was $390,000, and the new owners took over the house in March. The house was built in 1926 and has a living area of 1,198 square feet. The price per square foot was $326. The deal was finalized on Mar. 13.
7. $405,000, single-family house at 42 Henry Place
The 1,130 square-foot single-family house at 42 Henry Place, Iselin, has now been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $405,000, $358 per square foot. The house was built in 1948. The deal was finalized on Mar. 10.
6. $469,000, single-family home at 248 Winding Road
The sale of the single-family residence at 248 Winding Road, Iselin, has been finalized. The price was $469,000, and the house changed hands in March. The house was built in 1958 and has a living area of 1,680 square feet. The price per square foot was $279. The deal was finalized on Mar. 15.
5. $475,000, single-family house at 245 McFarlane Road
The 1,274 square-foot single-family home at 245 McFarlane Road in Colonia has now been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $475,000, $373 per square foot. The house was built in 1949. The deal was finalized on Mar. 15.
4. $485,000, detached house at 145 Jeffery Road
The property at 145 Jeffery Road in Colonia has new owners. The price was $485,000. The house was built in 1950 and has a living area of 1,278 square feet. The price per square foot is $379. The deal was finalized on Mar. 10.
3. $485,000, single-family residence at 45 West Iselin Parkway
The property at 45 West Iselin Parkway in Iselin has new owners. The price was $485,000. The house was built in 1948 and has a living area of 1,502 square feet. The price per square foot is $323. The deal was finalized on Mar. 14.
2. $486,000, single-family house at 23 Harding Avenue
The 1,724 square-foot single-family residence at 23 Harding Avenue in Iselin has now been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $486,000, $282 per square foot. The house was built in 1993. The deal was finalized on Mar. 10.
1. $574,000, detached house at 175 Kline Boulevard
The property at 175 Kline Boulevard in Colonia has new owners. The price was $574,000. The house was built in 1960 and has a living area of 1,120 square feet. The price per square foot is $513. The deal was finalized on Mar. 10.
Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data.
Boys Tennis: Montgomery regains focus in N2G3 1st round win over Iselin Kennedy
cnalwaskyhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2023/05/boys-tennis-montgomery-regains-focus-in-n2g3-1st-round-win-over-iselin-kennedy.html
With just three wins and 11 losses entering play on Thursday, you normally wouldn’t expect a team with that record to make any noise in the state tournament. Upsets happen and things could click at the right time, but it is unlikely.But, that team is Montgomery, which, not too long ago won three consecutive Tournament of Champions titles from 2017-19 with just two losses in that span. Even last year, the Cougars reached the sectional semifinals. Montgomery has also has had several state singles and doubles finalists and w...
With just three wins and 11 losses entering play on Thursday, you normally wouldn’t expect a team with that record to make any noise in the state tournament. Upsets happen and things could click at the right time, but it is unlikely.
But, that team is Montgomery, which, not too long ago won three consecutive Tournament of Champions titles from 2017-19 with just two losses in that span. Even last year, the Cougars reached the sectional semifinals. Montgomery has also has had several state singles and doubles finalists and winners over the years.
The losses this spring have piled up and it took a toll on the players, but the 10th-seeded Cougars got back in the win column and knocked-off seventh-seeded Iselin Kennedy, 5-0, in the first round of the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 state tournament.
“It’s huge. It’s been tough mentally all year long. “Montgomery senior first singles Shreyas Nerurkar said. “To start off states with a win, it brings the team morale up. It’s big. A lot of us were kind of not motivated at times and didn’t feel like playing. But when you can get a win, it changes things. Of course we’re trying to win a lot harder now too.”
Nerurkar topped Eshan Nagpal, 6-0, 6-3. At second singles, Daksh Bahl defeated Abdullah Khokhar, 6-2, 6-0, and third singles Zarek Chen, who was the first off the court, beat Arjun Jagadeesh, 6-0, 6-0.
Last off the courts was second doubles Arjun Sachdeva and Kenneth Wang, who scored a 6-2, 6-2 win over Jeet Kachhiapatel and Matysh Garg. Abbas Nathani and Himneesh Sharma won against Ronak Gowda and Sriram Guddimela, 6-2, 6-0, as well at second doubles.
Montgomery (4-11) entered the playoffs with just 65 power points. Kennedy (10-10) at 132. Montgomery’s low numbers was because of the sheer amount of losses, though they all came amongst the best of the best in the state. Every one of the 11 defeats have come to teams either who are ranked or were ranked earlier in the season.
All but three teams are in the Cougars division, meaning they had to play the likes of Pingry, Ridge, Hillsborough, and Bridgewater-Raritan twice. The Cougars also played East Brunswick, Delbarton, and Rutgers prep.
And while Montgomery suffered a lot of losses which hasn’t been the morn in Skillman, it got them better.
“For sure. We’re battle tested. I learned I have to have a energy level,” Nerurkar said. “I used to be kind of negative, but as you play tougher players, you have to keep positive and keep your head in the match. I think that applies to all of us. We’ve all have focus issues got down on ourselves. We can’t do that anymore, and that’s what we’ve done lately.”
Boys TennisN2G3 first round10-Montgomery over 7-Iselin Kennedy, 5-0.Cougars advance to play 2-Summit on Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/UvW0JG009h
— Chris Nalwasky (@ChrisNalwasky) May 25, 2023
Filling in for head coach Raheel Saleem, who didn’t attend the match due an illness, assistant Jeffrey Naviello mentioned he and Saleem did their best to keep the player’s spirits up.
“We worked on really keeping them focused every match and encouraged them to keep fighting no matter what even if they are down” said Naviello. “It’s hard. It was hard on them when you’re playing up all season. We encouraged them to use that and to learn from their experiences which I think they did. We’re feeling good right now. We played hard matches all year and I think the guys are hungry. On match at a time.”
Montgomery is one of the most dangerous No. 10 seeds in the postseason this year with a team UTR of 32.28.
“We had a tough schedule,” Nerurkar said. “I do think our record isn’t totally reflective of how good we are. It’s different being the underdog. It’s not what we’re used to, but we accept the challenge.”
In the quarterfinals, Montgomery travels up to Union County to face second-seeded Summit, the currently-ranked No. 14 team in the state. It doesn’t get any easier.
Nobody knows if Cougars will beat Summit next week. But one thing is for sure, they will give the Hilltoppers a match.
“They’re a good team, and it’ll be another challenging match for us,” Naviello said. “We’ll prepare and be ready.”
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