NORTH BRUNSWICK – The Celebrate North Brunswick Committee continued its tradition of honoring volunteer organizations each month with the recognition of the North Brunswick American Legion, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and the Travel Basketball Association during the Township Council meeting on Nov. 5.
The North Brunswick American Legion was established on Dec. 9, 1949, with its own building being constructed on Linwood Place by January 1965. The Legion was named after A. Lee Pardun, whose B26 bomber was shot down over North Africa on Aug. 5, 1944. With bingo events held at the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home in Menlo Park and American flags added yearly to Van Liew cemetery in North Brunswick each Memorial Day, the Legion’s purpose is to uphold the Constitution while promoting peace.
“They are true examples for our youth, as are the rest of the veterans we honor,” said John Albert, the chairman of the Celebrate North Brunswick Committee.
The Parks & Rec. Advisory Committee works in conjunction with the Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services. The eight volunteer members, secretary, township liaison and Council representative meet monthly to advocate and support all youth and adult programs in town. The proclamation read in honor of the group said that the committee fosters appreciation through the thrill of sports and the wonder of nature, provides educational opportunities through leisure experiences, and adheres to its motto, Come out and play.
“Although most of us don’t want the recognition, it’s nice to be appreciated,” member Doug Caruso said.
The Travel Basketball Association was created 11 years ago as an opportunity for a higher level of recreational play and to serve as a feeder program for the high school. What began as one team has grown to a team at every division level for girls and boys ages 9 to 16, who play during the summer and fall seasons. The volunteer board coordinates with the Board of Education and the Department of Parks & Recreation to develop programs for the students, who have the opportunity to compete in various local and state tournaments such as March Madness and the Mayor’s Cup. The players also have access to training and player development from the high school coaching staff.
Committee member Darren Snediker thanked the mayor, council and Parks & Recreation staff for their dedication, as well as Councilman Ralph Andrews, who was one of the co-founders of the organization.
Celebrate North Brunswick was created last year as part of Mayor Francis “Mac” Womack’s Quality of Life Initiative and serves to heighten the theme of volunteerism throughout the year. The committee will continue its mission until all volunteer groups in the township are recognized. To suggest an organization, contact Benson at (732) 247-0922, ext. 475.
The second annual volunteer appreciation dinner will be held Dec. 8 at Pierre’s of South Brunswick.