Community Bulletin Board: the Sentinel (for Aug. 11)

 

Community Programs has opened registration for the Adult School.

The school is offered under the auspices of the Middlesex County Adult Education Consortium.

Programs available include evening High School Equivalency (HSE) Prep, evening English as a Second Language (ESL), as well as daytime and evening citizenship classes.

The Adult Basic Skills Program is funded by state and federal grants through the State of New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development and is provided as a community service by the East Brunswick Board of Education.

Registration is now open. Visit www.ebnet.org/adultschool for more information and to enroll.

All registrations will be completed online. There will be no in-person registration.

The 2021/2022 ESL/HSE/Citizenship Programs will be in-person instruction with some virtual opportunities which will include both interactive instruction and some independent components.

Registration does not confirm placement in the program.

Testing will begin the week of Aug. 23. Space is limited.

Registration must be completed by Aug. 11. Potential students will be contacted via email after registration with your date and time for in-person testing. The testing email will include date, time and location.

Once testing has been completed, all tests will be graded and placements will be made.

All HSE/ESL classes will be held Mondays through Wednesdays from 6-8:30 p.m. All citizenship classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or from 12:30-3 p.m., or Monday evenings from 6-8:30 p.m., depending on the student’s test score and placement. Classes will begin Sept. 20.

All classes are free of charge and excellent attendance is required.

All students must have their own device to participate in the online portion of instruction. These devices can include a tablet, smartphone, or laptop.

Registration and more information can be found on the website, www.ebnet.org/adultschool. For questions regarding the testing and placement process, curriculum and program content information, email [email protected] or call 732-613-6989. For registration questions, email [email protected] or call 732-613-6674.

 

To kick off the 2021 Monroe Police Bicycle Safety Campaign, Monroe Township police officers will hand out tickets for a free slice of pizza or a free ice cream cone to children riding their bicycles while wearing helmets.

 

The Central Jersey Chapter 148 of the Korean War Veterans extend an invitation to any veterans, regardless of the branch of service, who served during the Korean War from June 25, 1950, to July 27, 1953, in any location; or who served in Korea from July 27, 1953, to the current date.

The group meets at 10 a.m. for a breakfast meeting the second Wednesday of every month from May to December at the Monroe Township Municipal Building, downstairs on the first floor.

Requirements for membership include paying dues of $25 to the Korean War Veterans Association and $10 to the chapter each year.

Korean War Veterans National Life membership if one is over age 80 is $75.

The chapter is involved in various functions during the year, including fundraising to help veterans at the New Jersey State Veterans Memorial Home in Menlo Park, the Lyons Veterans Hospital Lyons, and the Vineland Veterans Hospital in Vineland.

For more information, contact membership chair Charlie Koppelman at 609-655-3111 or [email protected]

 

 

 

 

American Legion Post 253 in Spotswood has planned the following events:

Aug. 13 is a steak dinner night. Ribeye cooked to order, baked potato and corn on the cob. Pre-orders are $25 per person, or cost is $30 at the door. Cash bar available.

Aug. 18 will be a bus trip to the Atlantic City Air Show. The bus will stop at Tropicana. The cost is $25 per person.

Sept. 11 will be the Legion Riders pig roast.

Sept. 19 will be Messages from Heaven from 4-7 p.m. The cost is $25 until Aug. 13, or $35 after. Cost is $40 at the door, if space is available.

More details on each event will be announced.

In addition, the American Legion hall and outdoor venue are open again to rent for events. Call or text 732-991-9507 for additional information.

 

 

 

Metz Culinary Management is looking for part-time and substitute food preparers, cashiers and servers for the Monroe Township Public School District’s cafeterias.

Apply in person at a job fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 17 at Monroe Township Middle School, in the cafeteria, 1629 Perrineville Road, Monroe.

 

New Jersey Citizen Action Fund and the East Brunswick Public Library will partner to host the online program “Avoiding Healthcare Scams” at noon on Aug. 18.

 

Gabrielle Escribano, ACA outreach coordinator and certified application counselor at New Jersey Citizen Action Fund, is the presenter for this program.

Topics she will cover include COVID-19 vaccine scams, fraudulent discount programs, the dangers of sharing personal information, scam fees for free programs, fake government phone calls from Medicaid or Medicare, how to tell if you’ve been scammed, and how you can report scams to the authority.

 

Registration is requested for this free program. To register, visit www.ebpl.org/calendar or call 732-390-6767.

 

 

 

The Board of Trustees of the Monroe Township Library has announced the launch of a community-wide survey regarding library services.

Results of the survey will provide valuable input for the library’s strategic planning process, which began this past spring.

The library’s Strategic Planning Committee plans to publish a 3-year strategic plan in early 2022, which will guide the future direction of the library through the end of 2024.

The survey is available online at www.monroetwplibrary.org/survey.

Print copies are also available at every service desk at the library, located at 4 Municipal Plaza in Monroe Township.

All survey responses that include contact information will be entered into a raffle for an Amazon Kindle Fire HD 10 tablet eReader.

The deadline for residents to respond to the survey is Aug. 20.

 

Mindfulness is the art of being present in the here and now. To help senior citizens reach this state, East Brunswick Public Library hosts the weekly Wellness From Within in-person programs.

In these sessions, participants will learn how to warm up with breathing and laughing exercises to help relax the body and mind. The group will then go on a journey through guided meditation to help achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state.

Wellness from Within is held every Wednesday through Aug. 25. The half-hour sessions start at 10 a.m., and are held outside the library by the clock in the Municipal Complex, Civic Center Drive.

All participants must bring a towel or yoga mat to the program.

This program is offered through East Brunswick Public Library’s Just For The Health Of It consumer health and wellness information initiative.

To learn more about related programs and resources, visit www.justforthehealthofit.org.

 

 

An exhibit of traditional heirloom Ukrainian embroideries and an illustrative lecture are being presented at the Barron Arts Center by the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, Branch 98.

The exhibit will include a display of traditional embroideries: women’s and men’s clothing, costumes, pillows and other assorted embroidered articles. These embroideries represent the uniqueness of regional motifs, designs/stitches and colors.

The exhibit will run through Aug. 27 at Barrons Arts Center, 582 Rahway Ave., Woodbridge.

 

 

The online program “Brain Health” with expert Samantha Malinger will be presented by the East Brunswick Library at noon on Aug. 27 to discuss what to do to improve memory.

Several topics will be covered, including simple things that you can do to keep your brain healthy, including recommended activities and foods.

Malinger is a senior support specialist/crisis counselor with the RWJ Hope and Healing program.

Registration requested for this free program. To register, go online to www.ebpl.org/calendar.

This program is offered through the library’s Just For The Health of It consumer health and wellness information service. To learn about other programs and resources, visit www.justforthehealthofit.org.

 

 

 

 

 

The East Brunswick Police Department is encouraging residents to lock their doors.

The police department will hold a “Lock it to Stop it” contest as an incentive. The contest will run through Aug. 28. Each month, one lucky winner will receive a prize from the East Brunswick Police Department.

To enter, provide full name, home address, email address, and a brief description of how you are helping to prevent thefts/burglaries.

Email entries to [email protected] 

Limit entries to two 2 per month.

 

 

 

 

 

Assemblyman Joe Danielsen (D-17) is coordinating his annual backpack and school supply drive through Sept. 3.

Requested items include backpacks, colored pencils, crayons, glue sticks, hand sanitizer, highlighters, mechanical pencils, pencil cases, pens, pocket folders, notebooks, rulers, tissues or even gift cards.

Donations will be accepted at Danielsen’s office, 334 Elizabeth Ave., Somerset; the North Brunswick Library, 710 Hermann Road, North Brunswick; the Franklin Township Library, 485 DeMott Lane, Somerset; Franklin Township Library, 3391 Route 27, Franklin Park; the Piscataway Library, JFK branch, 500 Hoes Lane, Piscataway; or the Piscataway Library, Westergard branch, 30 Murray Ave., Piscataway.

For more information, call the office at 732-247-3999.

 

 

Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre and the Township of Woodbridge will present A Celebration of Spain, an art exhibition of drawings and paintings of Spain and Flamenco dance, dance demos, workshops and a Flamenco night at 7 p.m. Sept. 9 at The Woodbridge Artisans Guild, 101 Main St., Woodbridge.

The gallery is open Sept. 9-30 from 3-6 p.m. Mondays, 5-8 p.m. Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m. Thursdays, 5-8 p.m. Fridays, and noon to 3 p.m. Saturdays.

For more information, call Eva Lucena Welch at 732-598-3979.

 

Middlesex County’s Quest Scavenger Hunt features new locations and activities for summer 2021.

Participants may play solo or create a team of up to five members.

The Quest Scavenger Hunt runs thru Sept. 9. Participants will upload photos to the Middlesex County Quest Facebook Group’s private page.

Individuals and teams who complete at least 10 activities on the Quest map will win a free T-shirt (one shirt per team member). At the end of the contest, each team will submit their favorite Quest photo.

Photos will be voted on using Facebook “likes” during a one-week voting period. The photo with the most “likes” will win the grand prize. This year’s grand prize winner will receive an exclusive VIP experience/workshop with the Middlesex County Arts Institute.

To learn more about the Quest Scavenger Hunt – including the official Quest rules –visit discovermiddlesex.com/quest/. To join the Quest or to upload photos, join the Middlesex County Quest Facebook Group.

 

 

Middlesex County mayors will meet with members of the business community to share economic development opportunities.

This year’s topics include arts and culture, travel and tourism, sustainability, and economic development.

Meet the mayors of Plainsboro, Cranbury, Monroe, Jamesburg, Helmetta and South Brunswick at 8 a.m. Sept. 9 at the Crowne Plaza Princeton, 900 Scudders Mill Road, Plainsboro.

Meet the mayors of Edison, Woodbridge, Carteret, Perth Amboy, Milltown, North Brunswick and Metuchen at 8 a.m. Dec. 2.

Meet the mayors of Old Bridge, South Amboy, Sayreville, South River, East Brunswick and Spotswood in February 2022.

Hosted by the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce.

For more information and to register, visit https://www.mcrcc.org/

 

 

 

 

Registration is underway for the fourth annual Om Memorial 5K Run and 1M Walk that will be taking place at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 12 at Thompson Park, off Perrineville Road, Monroe.

A student at Monroe Township Middle School, the 13-year-old lost his battle to brain cancer in February 2018.

This event is organized in memory of childhood cancer patient Om Parikh to help raise funds in support of the charitable services of the Om Foundation.

To register, visit www.smilesforom.org/runsignup.

To learn more about the Om Foundation, sponsorship opportunities, and to support its philanthropic efforts, visit www.smilesforom.org

The Om Memorial 5K Run and1M Walk is organized every year by Monroe Indians for Civic Action (MICA) with the support of local organizations, Monroe Township schools, the municipality and Middlesex County.

While the organization hopes to host an in-person event this year, the foundation is well-equipped to handle another virtual race should any restrictions change.

 

 

 

The “I Have MS, But MS Doesn’t Have Me” basket raffle fundraiser for awareness of multiple sclerosis will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 18 at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 62 S. Main St., Milltown.

Fore more information, contact Traci Ceras at 732-841-2883 or [email protected]

To make a donation, visit msfocus.org/events

 

 

 

 

 

North Brunswick PBA Local 160 announced the return of its annual Cops & Rodders Car Show for Sept. 19. Rain date will be Sept. 26.

More details will be announced.

For more information, email [email protected]

 

 

The 24th annual Taste of Middlesex is planned for 5:30-8 p.m. Sept. 27 at The Pines Manor, 2085 Route 27, Edison.

Each year, the Edison Chamber of Commerce invites restaurants from around Middlesex County to showcase their cuisines.

Attendees sample dishes from around the area, then choose the winner by voting for their favorite.

The Groove will perform during the evening.

Must be 21 or over to attend.

Tickets are $50 per person in advance or $60 at the door; seniors get a $5 discount. Or, purchase a 10-pack for $450.

The event serves as a fundraising opportunity for non-profits; for every $50 ticket an organization sells, $25 gets donated back to the organization. Unsold tickets must be returned to the chamber by Sept. 1.

For more information, email [email protected] or call 732-738-9482.

 

 

 

Playhouse 22 will reopen to the public for live theater with the opening night of “Harvey” on Oct. 8 at the community theater, 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.

The annual production of “A Christmas Carol” will return in December.

More information about tickets, new safety guidelines and the 2022 season will be available at Playhouse22.org

 

 

 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness will hold its 2021 walk, NAMIWalks NJ Your Way: A United Day of Hope, virtually on Oct. 9

For more information, visit namiwalks.org/newjersey

 

 

 

The Princeton Environmental Film Festival returns Oct. 12-17.

 

To submit a film, visit https://princetonlibrary.org/peff/entry/

There is no fee to enter.

For more information, email [email protected]

 

 

The Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County is holding its very first pickleball tournament at the outdoor pickleball courts at Community Park on Dunhams Corner Road in East Brunswick on Oct. 13; rain date is Oct. 20.

This is a non-sanctioned, round robin, elimination tournament for intermediate players only.

Prizes, giveaways, raffles and healthy snacks will be provided.

The cost is $36 per person, or $67 for a married couple.

Game play details will be sent upon registration.

Space is limited so register early.

To receive a flier or registration form, contact Diane at [email protected] or 732-593-5967.

 

The North Brunswick Humane Association’s 17th annual Dog Walk-a-Thon and Adoption Day event is planned from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 10 at North Brunswick Community Park, 2053 Route 130, North Brunswick.

Rain date is Oct. 24.

There will be music, food, games and prizes.

Pre-register at www.northbrunswickhumane.org

Co-sponsored by the North Brunswick Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services.

 

Jewish Family Services of Middlesex County (JFS) has relocated its main office to 219C Blackhorse Lane, North Brunswick, from Milltown.

From 2-4 p.m. Oct. 28, the agency will host a grand opening event at the main office to formally welcome the community to the new facility.

The grand opening event will be held concurrently with the agency’s annual meeting and Volunteer Appreciation celebration.

Local legislators, community leaders, nonprofits, business owners, volunteers and neighbors are invited to enjoy light refreshments and learn about JFS programs.

The presentation will review the past year’s tests and triumphs as well as honor the hard work of the agency’s dedicated volunteers.

RSVP to [email protected] or 732-777-1940 by Oct. 14.

 

 

 

 

Ongoing

 

The Milltown Boro Pool will hold swim lessons this year.

To register, stop by the Milltown Boro Pool, 61 Violet Terrace off JFK Drive; or the Recreation Department, 39 Washington Ave.

 

 

 

 

The South River Police Department is reminding residents of its Unoccupied Residence Program.

As part of this free program, South River residents can complete and submit a form to let officers know when a residence will be unoccupied. A police officer will check on the home as time permits during his or her normal patrol duties.

The Unoccupied Residence Form can be downloaded by visiting www.southriverpd.org or picked up at Police Headquarters located at 61 Main St. Once completed, the form can be faxed to 732-613-6103 or dropped off at police headquarters.

This program is intended for residences which are unoccupied due to short-term travel or vacation plans. It is separate from South River’s long-term vacant property ordinance.

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Coastal & Northern New Jersey (BBBSCNNJ) is inviting Middlesex County residents to become a volunteer Big Brother or Big Sister to a local child.

BBBSCNNJ currently has 20 children on its Middlesex County waiting list, mostly boys.

BBBSCNNJ provides one-to-one mentoring for youth ages 6-18. Volunteer Big Brothers and Sisters spend quality time with their Littles each month, enjoying free or low-cost activities during which the child may learn new skills, explore new interests, or expand their experience beyond their family and neighborhood. 

There are no special skills required, and BBBSCNNJ’s experienced staff provides continual support.

To be matched with a Middlesex County child, apply at mentornj.org.

 

 

Middlesex County residents looking for local farmers, grocery stores or food pantries – as well as public transportation routes to get there – can download the interactive map-based Accessing Healthy Foods app.

Visit http://middlesexcountynj.gov/healthyfoodsmap

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dove Hospice Services of New Jersey is seeking compassionate volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families.

Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their home, which can also be nursing facilities or assisted living facilities, at least once a week. Visits can be virtual and are during the day or early evening. Volunteers may also assist with administrative work in the hospice office.

To sign up for a virtual training class, contact Deborah Adams at 732-405-3035 or email [email protected]

 

 

 

The Center for Therapy & Counseling Services is offering a Teen Girls Support Group.

This free group offers girls ages 13-17 a safe place to connect, share stories and be encouraging. The goal is to enhance self esteem, self confidence and communication skills.

Each group is led by trained facilitators.

Girls meet weekly at 7 p.m. Thursdays, virtually.

Registration is required by calling 732-254-0600.

Or, email [email protected] for more information.

The Center for Therapy & Counseling Services is located at 15 W. Prospect St., East Brunswick.

 

 

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Monroe is holding a coat drive for Trenton Rescue Mission and NJ Rise.

Gently used coats, hats, scarves and gloves are requested.

Drop off containers are located at the Encore Clubhouse vestibule or on the side porch of 39 Westminster Dr. in Greenbriar Whittingham.

For more information, call Lin at 609-655-0023.

 

The EB Grow Seed Library at East Brunswick Public Library, 2 Jean Walling Civic Center Dr., has fingerling seed potatoes.

Each bag weighs roughly eight ounces.

The potato bag does not count to library user’s garden seed pack limit; however, users are limited to one bag per household.

To place a request, fill out the online form at www.ebpl.org/ebgrow.

The EB Grow seed library is an initiative of the East Brunswick Public Library and the Friends of the East Brunswick Environmental Commission.

 

 

Right at Home of Central New Jersey can organize a Senior Citizen Prom for local facilities.

They will provide music and entertainment.

A prom king and queen will be crowned.
For more information on how to schedule a prom, call 732-967-0900.

Serving northern Middlesex, Mercer and Monmouth counties.

 

 

 

South River municipal offices have reopened to the public during normal business hours.

Staff can also be reached by telephone and email.

Visit www.southrivernj.org for a directory.

The South River Police Department lobby has reopened to the public.

Copies of police reports can be obtained in person during normal business hours or can be requested via email. Visit www.southriverpd.org/records-%26-reports for more information regarding police reports.

Applications for firearms ID cards and firearms purchase permits are now processed online only. Visit www.southriverpd.org/firearms for more information regarding firearms.

The South River Municipal Court violations window has been reopened to the public for payments and court related business.

Certain summonses and fines are payable online. Visit www.southrivernj.org/municipal_court_main.html for more information.

All municipal court sessions remain virtual. Staff can be reached by telephone at 732-257-1233 for any assistance needed.

 

 

 

 

 

Middlesex County, Hackensack Meridian Health and Monroe Township have partnered to open a COVID-19 vaccine clinic specifically for those ages 55 and older in Monroe.
Vaccinations will be administered at the Monroe Senior Center, 12 Halsey Reed Road.

 

The vaccine clinic is open by appointment. Sign up for the Moderna vaccine at www.middlesexcountynj.gov/HMHMonroeVaccine.

 

 

New Jersey State Association of American Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) COVID Crisis Fund is supporting the rising demand for medical oxygen for hospitals in India.

Make a check payable to AAPI and mail to Dr. Binod Sinha, 4 Progress St., Suite A9, Edison 08820.

Or, visit https://njstateaapi.org/donation-for-medical-oxygen-to-india/ to donate online.

 

 

 

The Monroe Township Public Library will now be open on Sundays.

The library is open to the public Monday to Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Monroe Township Public Library building is open for Grab & Go Service. Library patrons may enter the building, look for an item and check it out, make a photocopy, reserve an item, etc.

All patrons and staff are required to wear masks and observe social distancing of at least six feet at all times while in the library building. Temperature checks take place at the entrance before entry into the Library. Capacity is monitored by library staff. Patrons are encouraged to use hand sanitizer prior to entering the building and after touching library materials and surfaces.

Seating remains unavailable at this time.

Self-checkout is encouraged.

Curbside pickup service is available by appointment at the drive-thru window. Place items on hold with a library card and pick them up when they’re ready. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday. Schedule an appointment at www.monroetwplibrary.org/curbside or by calling 732-521-5000.

The Monroe Township Library is not yet holding programs indoors, but will begin to offer some in-person programs outside on the library grounds. All CDC recommendations will be observed, including masks and social distancing. Registration is required for in-person programs. In the event of inclement weather, some programs will be held virtually only and others will be rescheduled.

Read the descriptions for each event at www.monroetwplibrary.org/calendar

 

 

Keep Middlesex Moving has developed a transportation finder to help seniors find a ride to their COVID-19 vaccination appointments.

The tool allows users to see what transportation options are available at almost all of the 40-plus vaccination sites in Middlesex County.

For more information, visit https://kmm.org/

 

 

 

The Middlesex County Regional COVID-19 Vaccine Mega-site, operated by RWJBarnabas Health, is seeking volunteers to assist in the efficiency of the registration and vaccination process and help visitors feel comfortable.  

Volunteers of the mega-site, located at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison, will greet patients and visitors; perform temperature screenings; direct patients through various steps of the vaccination process; provide education materials; and assist with maintaining the registration area and supplying vaccination stations.

Volunteers do not administer vaccines.

Those who apply to volunteer must be a minimum of 18 years old and will be subject to a background check and a drug screen, and will need to sign a confidentiality statement. 

College students requiring community service hours are also eligible to volunteer. RWJBarnabas Health will track hours and provide written verification for those who need it.

Volunteers must commit through June to at least two shifts per week from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.; or one full day from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with an hour break for lunch. Shifts are available seven days a week.

Send your name, phone number, email address, desired start date and your availability to [email protected].

The Anshe Emeth Community Development Corp (AECDC) Central Jersey Diaper Bank is collecting baby clothing sizes newborn-2T, diapers and books.
Donations can be picked up if within Middlesex County. Volunteers from the Rutgers School of Nursing will arrive between 10 a.m. and noon on the day indicated.

 

Sign up at https://forms.gle/nxuZUi5AMJe1RcyJ8

At this time, no shoes, equipment, toys, etc. can be collected.

 

 

Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick has launched the Substance Abuse and Addiction Loss Support Group for families who are coping with loss due to addiction.

The free and confidential support group meets virtually on the second Thursday of every month from 7-8:30 p.m.

Inspired by Saint Peter’s Opioid Task Force, the Substance Abuse and Addiction Loss Support Group is for families and close loved ones of people who have passed away from addiction.

The support group is open to everyone in New Jersey and serves as a safe space for families to discuss their grief.

To join the Substance Abuse and Addiction Loss Support Group, call Jeanne Delacruz, a social worker at Saint Peter’s who facilitates the support group, at 732-745-8522 or email [email protected]

 

 

The Lost Souls Memorial Project (LSP) is releasing the official Request for Design Proposals (RFP), seeking design teams to submit their ideas about what the future Lost Souls memorial will be in East Brunswick.

The LSP seeks to create a permanent memorial to 137 African Americans who, in 1818, were stolen from New Jersey and transported to the Deep South to be sold into permanent slavery. Jacob Van Wickle, a corrupt Middlesex County judge, organized an extensive ring that included members of his family as well as highly placed members of the New Jersey elite. The state was phasing out slavery at the time, and under the state’s gradual emancipation laws no slave could be sent out of state without having given formal legal consent. The judge and his ring used deception, fakery and outright kidnapping of both free and enslaved people, who were held under guard in his home in what is now East Brunswick, New Jersey. They were sent on ships from Perth Amboy to Louisiana and Mississippi, many ending on the plantation owned by Van Wickle’s brother-in-law. Had they remained in New Jersey, they would in time have become free according to the state’s laws.

Outrage when the ring was discovered led to a few indictments, but Van Wickle was never brought to account, and the affair was forgotten.

The purpose of the Lost Souls Public Memorial is to ensure that these children, women and men are never again forgotten, and this horrific event be brought to light.

The New Brunswick NAACP, the New Jersey Chapter ​of the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society, and The Unitarian Society, as well as other community groups and individuals, are working to bring this project to life.

For more information about the project, and to access the RFP, visit lostsoulsmemorialnj.org.

 

 

The South River Police Department responds to emergency and non-emergency calls at businesses 24 hours a day. Occasionally, it becomes necessary to contact someone from the business outside of business hours. To assist police with having this information available when needed, the department maintains a database containing after hours contact phone numbers for business owners and representatives.

Anytime a new business is opened, business ownership is transferred, there are changes in employment status of listed contacts, or there are changes in positions or job titles of listed contacts, a business should be registered – but registration is 100% voluntary.

Information will be stored in a secure database. In the event it is deemed necessary by first responders on scene, the Communications Center can access the information and quickly reach a business owner or representative.

To register a business, visit southriverpd.org/business-registration and download the business registration form. The completed form can be submitted by emailing it to [email protected], faxing it to 732-613-6103, or dropping it off at headquarters, 61 Main St., South River.

For more information on registering an alarm, call 732-257-1999.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Central Jersey SCORE, a non-profit resource partner of the Small Business Administration, is looking for volunteers to assist people looking to start a business or grow an existing small business.

The organization is recruiting business owners and executives, both current and retired, who want to share their experience and knowledge with today’s up-and-coming entrepreneurs.

The Central Jersey Chapter of SCORE serves Middlesex, Somerset and Hunterdon counties.

Central Jersey SCORE provides in-person mentoring and webinars, both offered virtually in line with current pandemic restrictions. In addition, the SCORE website offers tools and templates on a wide variety of topics and numerous online courses and webinars to assist small business owners through every aspect of business development and management. Services are offered free of charge.

Anyone interested in volunteering with SCORE or seeking additional information should email [email protected]

 

 

 

 

Trinity Presbyterian Church of East Brunswick invites all to join virtual worship services every Sunday at 10:15 a.m.
Visit http://Trinity-PC.org and click on the “Sunday Services” tab for a link to the service on YouTube.
In addition, Trinity offers a safe and socially distanced outside worship service every Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m.
For more information, call the church office at 732-257-6636 or visit the website.

 

 

 

The Jewish Family Services Food Pantry needs volunteers to organize its food pantry and supply closet, located at 1600 Perrineville Road, Monroe.

The schedule is flexible.
If interested, contact  JFS Volunteer Coordinator Michelle B. at 732-777-1940 or [email protected].

 

 

Monroe Township residents can apply for current and future openings on township boards, commissions and advisory councils.

Monroe is accepting volunteer applications for appointments to the Americans with Disabilities Act Committee, Affordable Housing Board, Commission on Aging, Cultural Arts Commission, Environmental Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Human Relations Commission, Library Board of Trustees, Open Space & Farmland Preservation Commission, Planning Board, Recreation Advisory Board, Shade Tree Commission, Sustainable Jersey – Green Team Advisory Committee, Zoning Board of Adjustment.

Residents should visit https://monroetwp.com/index.php/boards-commissions and select from a list of boards and commissions to review full descriptions of each group.

They then can send the downloadable form located at the bottom of the boards and commissions page of the website for their area of interest.

Submissions may be sent to the Municipal Clerk by mail at the Administrative Offices, by email at [email protected], or by fax to 732-521-3190.

All submissions will be retained for a maximum period of one year from the date of filing.

 

 

 

The East Brunswick Police Department has established a “Safe Exchange Zone.”
Two parking stalls in the lot of the municipal court next to police headquarters, 1 Civic Center Dr., are available to the public for conducting in-person transactions that have been facilitated through online marketplaces. The parking stalls are indicated by signage.
The designated zone is available to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day.
Access to the police headquarters lobby may also be granted for “safe exchanges” during non-court hours and may be arranged in advance by calling the police department.
For additional information, visit www.eastbrunswick.org/278/Safe-Exchange-Zone

 

 

 

 

Gain stability from an in-demand occupation; apply for a Women’s Center career training grant from Jewish Family Services of Middlesex County.

Qualified persons who are active members of the JFS Women’s Center must submit an application and attend an interview. Grants are available for short-term training programs for in-demand jobs.

Eligible candidates must qualify as a “displaced homemaker,” a woman who is a single mother, divorced, separated, widowed, or living with a disabled spouse/partner.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, email [email protected]

 

 

 

 

French American School Princeton (FASP) is accepting enrollment.

At FASP, students in preschool (3 years old) through grade 8 benefit from a rigorous bilingual curriculum accredited by the Middle State Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools and the French Ministry of Education; personalized attention thanks to small class sizes; and a multicultural community with more than 30 nationalities represented.

FAPS is located at 75 Mapleton Road, Princeton.

Visit ecoleprinceton.org, call 609-430-3001 or email [email protected].

 

 

NAMI In Our Own Voice (NAMI En Nuestra Propia Voz) is a program by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) New Jersey chapter geared toward community education and reducing the stigma of mental health, as trained volunteers share their lived experience of mental health recovery.

To schedule a presentation at a school, PTA meeting, congregation, town hall, support group or professional training, email [email protected]

Presentations are available in English and Spanish.

 

 

 

The Community Pet Food Bank by New Beginnings Animal Rescue is open from 1-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays, with varying hours on Saturdays, on the grounds of Nativity Lutheran Church, 552 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick.

For more information, visit nbarnj.org

 

The Jamesburg Public Library will hold its board meetings on the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

These meetings are open to the public, and will take place on Zoom for the remainder of the year.

Visit jamesburglibrary.org or www.facebook.com/JamesburgLibrary/ for further information.

Each meeting will have a different Zoom link and passcode

 

The East Brunswick Recreation, Parks & Community Services Department is collecting non-perishable food, cash and gift cards for distribution to Aldersgate Community Outreach Center.

Drop off food in the back of the box truck parked in the parking lot, 334 Dunhams Corner Road; the door is kept down so lift it to put donations inside.

Or, drop cash/check/gift cards in an envelope and put in the drop box next to the front door to the Recreation Department.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The United Way of Central Jersey’s COVID-19 Recovery Fund will assist individuals and families affected by the novel coronavirus with crucial basic expenses including rent, utilities, prescription medication/medical supplies, child care and food.
United Way will work with trusted community partners to identify individuals and families most in need of this temporary support.
Donations to the UWCJ COVID-19 Support Fund may be made online at www.uwcj.org. Checks made payable to United Way may be mailed to United Way of Central Jersey, 32 Ford Ave., Milltown 08850.

 

 

Monroe Township Jewish War Veterans Post 609 is collecting United States and foreign stamps, both on and off envelopes.

Stamps are used by veterans as hobbies and as therapy to support medical staff at VA Medical Centers nationwide.

Stamps are not traded or sold; they are forwarded to veteran patients at no charge.

Also requested are DVDs suitable for veterans at those locations.

Send all items to JWV Post 609, c/o Charles Koppelman, 6 Yarmouth Dr., Monroe 08831-4742.

 

 

 

The East Brunswick Domestic Response Team is seeking volunteers.

Citizens are trained to respond to local police departments on an on-call basis to provide support and information to victims of domestic abuse.

For more information, email [email protected].

 

 

 

The Korean War/Defense Veterans Association Central Jersey Chapter No. 148 extends an invitation to any veterans, regardless of branch of service, who served during the war from June 25, 1950, to July 27, 1953, in any location, including Europe, or who have served in Korea from July 27, 1953, through the present.

The group meets at 10 a.m. the second Wednesday of every month —except January through April — at the Monroe Township Municipal Building, 1 Municipal Plaza.

Membership dues are $25 to the Korean War Veterans Association and $10 chapter fee per year.

The chapter is involved in various functions during the year, including parades, flag raisings, visiting the Korean War Memorial in Atlantic City, etc.

For more information, contact Charles Koppelman at 609-655-3111 or [email protected].

 

 

Dove Hospice Services of New Jersey seeks compassionate volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families.

Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes, which can also be nursing facilities or assisted living facilities, at least once a week. They read to the patient, reminisce about their lives, play cards, help with letter writing and provide respite for caregivers.

Visits can be virtual, and are either during the day or early evening.

Volunteers may also assist with administrative work within the hospice office.

Patient care volunteers complete an application and attend a virtual volunteer training program that covers the role of a hospice volunteer. Day and evening virtual training programs are offered.

To sign up for the next virtual training class, contact Volunteer Coordinator Deborah Adams at 732-405-3035 or email [email protected].