Community Bulletin Board: the Sentinel (for Sept. 22)

Newspaper Media Group/centraljersey.com will present a Health & Wellness Expo from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 26 at MarketFair, 3535 Route 1, Princeton.

For tickets, visit nmg.ticketleap.com/cjhw

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Michele Nesbihal at 609-874-2147 or [email protected]

 

Clearwater Village in Spotswood, off of Manalapan Road, will host a village-wide yard sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 25. Rain date is Sept. 26.

Looks for streets with balloons on the corners.

There will be a wide variety of items for sale.

 

A community yard sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 2 in the Monroe Township Public Library parking lot, 4 Municipal Plaza, Monroe, to benefit the Friends of the Library.

To sell, sign up at the library or visit www.monroetwplibrary.org/yardsale. Registration will close on Sept. 24, or sooner if spaces are filled.

Sellers will be provided two parking spaces and a table with a $30 donation to the Friends of the Library. One space will be used for the vehicle and the other will be for any tables to set up for the sale.

No vendors.

Participants keep all proceeds of their sales.

Should the event be cancelled due to weather, participants will be entitled to a refund of their donation.

 

 

Middlesex County has compiled a comprehensive resource hub on its website to assist residents and businesses impacted by Tropical Storm Ida.

The hub page, located at www.middlesexcountynj.gov/stormrelief, features information, resources and links from FEMA, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, U.S. Small Business Administration, REPLENISH Nourishing Neighbors, the Red Cross and more.

Some resources are also available for individuals affected by Tropical Storm Henri.

 

 

 

East Brunswick Public Library’s Geek League teen volunteers return to the library, 2 Jean Walling Civic Center Dr. Upcoming dates are Sept. 25 and 26; and Oct. 2, 3, 16, 17 and 30. All sessions are from noon to 4 p.m.

The Geek League assists library patrons of all ages with technology questions.

Patrons seeking assistance must sanitize their hands and device before sitting with the volunteer and keep their masks on at all times.

Since “geeks” are volunteers, there may be some occasions where they might not be available to help.

Volunteers have the right to refuse service to patrons if they are unsafe or make an inappropriate request.

Help is first-come, first-served.

Geek League meets in Group Study Room A by the Information Services Desk.

For more information, call the library at 732-390-6789.

 

 

Registration is open for fall yoga, volleyball and men’s basketball programs in Milltown.

To register, visit  https://register.capturepoint.com/BoroughofMilltown

Email or call Kim McGrath at 732-828-2100, ext. 141, or [email protected]  with any questions.

 

 

 

 

Poll workers are needed for the 2021 General Election.

Residents who are interested will be required to attend mandatory training for the new electronic poll books, machines and election procedures.

Election Day is Nov. 2. Workers are needed from 5:15 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Payment is $200 for the full day, plus a one-time training bonus of $30 paid after Election Day coverage.

For Monroe residents, the application is available at Monroetwp.com under Forms & Applications.

For Spotswood residents, visit Spotswoodboro.com

 

 

 

Middlesex County residents are invited to the second annual Community Baby Shower from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 25 at the Edison Senior Center, 2963 Woodbridge Ave., Edison.

Anyone who is currently pregnant or who is a first-time parent with a child under age 12 months can attend.

This is a free event including health education workshops, giveaways, refreshments and community resources.

Masks must be worn.

Register at https://communitybabyshower2021.eventbrite.com

 

 

 

 

The East Brunswick Public Library, 2 Jean Walling Civic Center Dr., added additional service hours.

 

The new hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

 

Several new services, including the library’s curbside pickup and online reference chat, remain available to library customers.

Passport services remain by appointment only; to schedule an appointment, call 732-390-6761.

 

For the latest information about upcoming East Brunswick Public Library programs and services, visit www.ebpl.org.

 

 

To assist unemployed and underemployed county residents with their job search, Middlesex County’s One-Stop Career Centers within the Office of Career Opportunity are offering virtual career-related services.

 

In addition to accessing the One-Stop Career Centers for assistance with job searches, resume reviewing, career counseling, and career services for low-income residents, job seekers and underemployed residents are encouraged to sign up for SkillUp, a free online training portal with more than 5,500 courses focusing on business, project management, accounting, human resources, information technology, and customer service. To sign up, visit http://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/Government/Departments/BDE/Pages/SkillUp.aspx

 

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development also recently launched Job Source, offering a variety of tools designed to help fuel a successful job search experience. Users can create a free account and get tips and templates for job search, resume writing, cover letters and many other free services.

 

State-run One-Stop Career Centers are currently only operating remotely, with career-related services available virtually and by telephone. A return date for appointment-only services at the state-run centers has not been determined.

 

For more information, contact the Office of Career Opportunity at 732-745-3970 or if interested in job training contact Middlesex County One-Stop Career Centers at 732-745-3955 (New Brunswick) and 732-293-0642 (Perth Amboy) to schedule an appointment.

More information can be found at www.middlesexcountynj.gov/Government/Departments/BDE/Pages/Office_Workforce.aspx

 

 

The Middlesex County Office of Health Services is offering free public health clinics to encourage residents to be proactive in all aspects of their health.

The Middlesex County Public Health Clinic, located at 596 Jersey Ave., New Brunswick, provides a variety of services including childhood and adult immunizations, cancer screenings, physicals and more to all Middlesex County residents free of charge.

Clinics are open year-round Monday through Friday. Clinics are closed on county holidays.

Appointments can be made by calling 732-565-3788.

For childhood vaccines and physicals, residents may need to submit proof of residence.

The Cancer Education and Early Detection (CEED) Program is a federal- and state grant-funded program offering free cancer screenings to residents who have no health insurance or are underinsured. The cancer screenings offered are breast, cervical, colorectal and prostate. Current dates are Sept. 20 and 27. Appointments can be made by calling 732-745-3127 or 732-745-3109.

 

For more information and a full list of services provided by the Middlesex County Public Health Clinic, visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov/Government/Departments/PSH/Pages/Middlesex-County-Public-Health-Clinic.aspx

 

 

 

 

The annual Helmetta Day family-friendly event will take place on Sept. 25 at the Helmetta Pavilion on Maple Street beginning at 4 p.m. 

More details will be announced.

 

 

East Brunswick’s Fall Freecycling Day, sponsored by the Friends of the East Brunswick Environmental Commission, returns from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 25 to the Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.

A semi-annual event, Freecycling Day offers an opportunity to discard usable, unwanted household items in an environmentally-friendly way instead of sending them to landfills. Attendees can browse for “finds” from small furniture and housewares to toys and tools. There is no charge to participate as a donor or browser in this free trade event.

All items must be offered for free, for personal use and not for resale.

Items for freecycling may be dropped off until 1 p.m. with browsing and pick up until 2 p.m.

To ensure everyone’s safety at the event, participants, browsers and volunteers must comply with all state guidelines pertaining to COVID.

Adult and teen volunteers are needed for all or part of the day. For more information and to sign up, click here.

Recommended freecycling items include clothing, books, shoes, bicycles, fish tanks, dishes, pots and pans, toys, office supplies, silverware, small appliances, tools, power tools, gardening tools, kitchenware, garage items, electronics and pet supplies.

It is recommended that boxed toys, games and anything with small parts be taped shut.

Prohibited items include large furniture pieces, mattresses, televisions, computer monitors, paints, VHS tapes, computer disks, pesticides, tires, toiletries, unframed mirrors, food or any hazardous materials. FriendsEBEC reserves the right to reject items.

Freecycling days are a project of FriendsEBEC and co-sponsored with the East Brunswick Recycling Center and East Brunswick Recreation, Parks & Community Services.

Rain will cancel the event. Check the Friends’ website for updates: friendsebec.com.

For more information, visit friendsebec.com, or email [email protected].

 

 

 

 

 

The seventh annual New Jersey ParaUnity Expo is scheduled for Sept. 24 and 25 at Woodbridge High School, 1 Samuel Lupo Pl., Woodbridge.

The VIP Party on Sept. 24 is from 7-10 p.m. Cost is $95 per person, adults only. Free appetizers, cash bar and deejay.

The VIP Party on Sept. 25 is from 8-11 p.m. Cost is $95 per person, adults only. Free appetizers, cash bar and deejay.

Tickets for the general expo from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 25 are $20 for adults or $5 for children 12 and under.

Proceeds go directly to the Woodbridge Charity Fund.

For ticket information and a schedule of events, visit www.newjerseyparaunityexpo.com/

 

 

 

 

 

The Heart of Oneness Holistic Expo will be held Sept. 24-26 at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison.

There will be reiki and energy healing, wellness, spirituality, mediumship, workshops and speakers, enlightenment, yoga, jewelry, psychic readings, nutrition, crystals, essential oils, visionary artists and meditation.

For ticket information, visit heartofonenessholisticexpo.com

 

 

 

The Monroe Township Historic Preservation Commission will host vintage baseball between the Flemington Neshanock and the Liberty Base Ball Club of New Brunswick from noon to 3:30 p.m., Sept. 25 at Dey Farm, on Federal Road between Perrineville and Applegarth roads, Monroe. No rain date is announced.

Watch a 19th-century style baseball game during this double header.

Also, learn about the life of a Civil War surgeon and attend a workshop on how to build a rain barrel.

Bring a picnic lunch.

There is no cost to attend.

 

 

 

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.

 

 

The Saint Vincent de Paul Society, with the Evangelization Ministry of Corpus Christi Church in South River, will hold a yard sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 2 in the lower parking lot off of Kamm Avenue, South River. 

Many private vendors will be participating. 

Household items, dishes, Christmas items and more will be for sale.

Proceeds of the sale will help the needy of South River and the church ministries.

For more information, email [email protected]

 

 

The Cruisin’ for a Cause Car Show will be held from 5-9 p.m. Sept. 30 along Main Street in South River.

The event is free to the public, with food available for purchase.

All downtown businesses will be open during the car show.

To show your vehicle, of any make, model, year or style, there is a $10 registration fee which can be paid when arriving the night of the show. No need to pre-register. Trophies will be awarded.

Proceeds help fund drug, alcohol and violence awareness and prevent programs for the South River community though the South Brunswick Police Department.

 

 

 

 

 

A community yard sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 2 in the Monroe Township Public Library parking lot, 4 Municipal Plaza, Monroe, to benefit the Friends of the Library.

For more information, visit www.monroetwplibrary.org/yardsale.

 

 

 

The sixth annual Suicide Prevention Conference will be held virtually on Oct. 6.

Presented by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Health.

Trauma: The Hidden Face of Suicide will be presented from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., welcome to anyone interested in learning about trauma and suicide prevention.

The conference will feature presentations, breakout sessions and a panel discussion.

Nick LeDonne will share his mental health story using the art of animation.

Dr. Meagan Corrado, founder and owner of Storiez Trauma Narratives, has trained clinicians, community leaders and trauma survivors across 20 training programs.

Registration will soon be available.

 

 

 

Community theater Playhouse 22 will reopen on Oct. 8 with a performance of “Harvey” at 8 p.m.

Elwood P. Dowd insists on including his friend Harvey in all of his sister Veta’s social gatherings. The trouble is, Harvey is an imaginary rabbit.

Performances continue through Oct. 24, at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and at 3 p.m. Sundays.

Tickets are $22 for adults or $20 for students and seniors.

Next, Khy Garner, singer, actor, author, director and playwright, will join fellow musicians at 8 p.m. Nov. 19 and 20 for an evening of live music in the Studio Theater.

Tickets are $15.

“A Christmas Carol” will return Dec. 10-19 at 8 p.m. Fridays, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays, and 3 p.m. Sundays.

Playhouse 22 is located at 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.

For more information and tickets, visit www.playhouse22.org

 

 

The Borough of Spotswood will offer the following events and programs:

Oct. 8 will be Octoberfest Spotswood Day at the municipal building, 77 Summerhill Road.

Oct. 23 is the Pumpkin Patch Giveaway at Memorial Middle School, 115 Summerhill Road.

Oct. 29 is a hayride and bonfire at Helmetta Pavilion, Maple Street, Helmetta.

Oct. 30 is Trunk-or-Treat at Spotswood High School.

Oct. 31 will be a Halloween Pizza/Dance Party at Spotswood High School.

For detailed information and registration, visit www.spotswoodboro.com/recreation

 

 

 

 

 

Join NAMI New Jersey for NAMIWalks Your Way: A United Day of Hope on Oct. 9.

Before the pandemic, in any given year, 1 in 5 people in the United States reported having a mental health condition. Mental health experts suggest the figure is now 2 in 5, or even higher, according to information provided by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

This year. due to the ongoing effects of COVID-19, NAMI is offering a virtual version of its annual NAMIWalks event.

Anyone can participate by registering at namiwalks.org/newjersey and deciding how they want to participate. They can choose to join the virtual walk event on Oct. 9 or pick an activity of their choice, such as jumping rope, baking a cake, practicing yoga or walking with friends and family in the neighborhood—all while taking precautions to stay safe.

There is no registration fee, but fundraising is encouraged. One hundred percent of funds raised support NAMI New Jersey’s free local mental health programs, resources and services.

NAMI New Jersey is part of the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. It is headquartered in North Brunswick.

For more information, visit nami.org

 

 

 

NJ Transit will conduct virtual hearings on Oct. 28 regarding the Senior Citizen & Disabled Residents Transportation Assistance Program: at 5 p.m. for the southern region, at 6 p.m. for the central region, and at 7 p.m. for the northern region.

The program funds capital, operating, and/or administrative expenses for locally coordinated paratransit services for senior citizens and people with disabilities. It also funds accessibility improvements to NJ Transit’s fixed route bus and rail system, the provision of technical assistance to the counties, and the administration of the statewide program.

To join the meeting by phone, dial 862-294-4371 and use phone conference ID 625 900 084#.

To speak at one of the virtual hearings, email [email protected] or leave your contact information via voicemail at 973-491-7772 by Oct. 11.

Written comments for the record may be sent to Public Hearing Comments 2021, NJ Transit, Local Programs 8 Community Transportation, 1 Penn Plaza E., 4th Floor, Newark 07l05-2246; or via email to [email protected] by Oct. 28.

For further information on the hearing, including login information, visit https://northbrunswicknj.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/October-28-2021-Public-Hearing.pdf

 

 

 

 

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 for 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.

Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated, and must be leashed at all times.

The opening ceremony will be held at 11 a.m.

Pre-registration is $15 for the first dog, and $5 for every dog thereafter. Send checks payable to the North Brunswick Humane Association to NBHA, P.O. Box 7522, North Brunswick 08902. Or, pre-register at www.northbrunswickhumane.org

On the day of the event, registration fee is $25, plus $5 for each additional dog. On-site registration begins at 10 a.m.

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

For more information, email [email protected] or call Michele at 732-713-3532.

 

 

 

 

Women Aware is the state-designated lead domestic violence service agency, headquartered in Middlesex County.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a virtual candlelight vigil at 7 p.m. Oct. 13 will feature music, survivor testimony, an advocate address and a candlelit moment of silence in remembrance of victims whose lives were stolen by domestic violence and in honor of survivors moving beyond abuse.

There is no charge to attend, but donations are encouraged. All proceeds will support comprehensive services for survivors of domestic violence and their children.

For more information, to register and to donate, visit https://givebutter.com/WomenAware2021Vigil

 

 

 

“Sir Rod,” a Rod Stewart impersonator, will perform from 6-10 p.m. Oct. 22 at East Brunswick Elks Lodge 23, 21 Oakmont Ave., East Brunswick.

The event will fundraise for people with special needs.

Cost is $20 per ticket, which includes an appetizer.

For tickets, contact Lorretta Medina at 732-900-8124.

 

 

 

The 20th annual Women’s Leadership Summit, Rebound with Resilience: Ready to Go!, will be held at 9 a.m. Oct. 22 at the Doubletree by Hilton Princeton, 4355 Route 1.

Presented by the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee.

Keynote speaker is Sarah Chaplin, president and CEO of the State Theatre New Jersey.

For registration information, visit mcrcc.org

 

 

 

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.

 

NJ Transit will conduct virtual hearings on Oct. 28 regarding the Senior Citizen & Disabled Residents Transportation Assistance Program: at 5 p.m. for the southern region, at 6 p.m. for the central region, and at 7 p.m. for the northern region.

The program funds capital, operating, and/or administrative expenses for locally coordinated paratransit services for senior citizens and people with disabilities. It also funds accessibility improvements to NJ Transit’s fixed route bus and rail system, the provision of technical assistance to the counties, and the administration of the statewide program.

To join the meeting by phone, dial 862-294-4371 and use phone conference ID 625 900 084#.

Written comments for the record may be sent to Public Hearing Comments 2021, NJ Transit, Local Programs 8 Community Transportation, 1 Penn Plaza E., 4th Floor, Newark 07l05-2246; or via email to [email protected] by Oct. 28.

For further information on the hearing, including login information, visit https://northbrunswicknj.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/October-28-2021-Public-Hearing.pdf

 

The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, Veteran’s Diversion Program, is hosting a Veteran’s Response Training Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 15 and 16 at the Middlesex County Fire Academy, 1001 Fire Academy Dr., Sayreville.

There will be discussions and presentations from various veterans organizations and individuals who work to ensure that the mental health and well-being of veterans in the community do not go unnoticed.

To register, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/2021/VRTConf

 

 

 

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 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/

 

 

 

 

The Pinelands Preservation Alliance’s Annual Juried Photo Exhibition has a scheduled opening for March 26, 2022.

All photographs must be made within the New Jersey Pinelands National Reserve. The reserve is found in portions of Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Ocean counties. All wildlife, flora and fauna must be photographed in their natural environment.

Submission date is Jan. 30, 2022.

More than $2,000 in cash prizes will be awarded: $1,000 for First Place Best in Show; $350 each for First Place Landscape, Flora & Fauna, and Other (People, Towns, Architecture, Culture, History, Recreation, etc).

Photographs submitted for exhibition will be selected by a credentialed jury with final selections chosen by Michael Yamashita, an acclaimed National Geographic photographer.

Acceptance notification is planned from Feb. 14-18. Awards, including cash prizes, will be announced at the reception on March 26.

All selected photographs will be exhibited at the historic Bishop Farmstead in Southampton from March 28 through April 30, and all submitted photos will be on display in the online gallery opening by April 15.

Open submissions are $30 for up to three images and $5 per image for each additional image. A total of six images can be submitted per photographer.

All participants must use the Smarter Entry system to register. Photos must be JPEG format, and files cannot exceed 8MB in size.

Learn more at www.PinelandsPhotoExhibit.org or email [email protected].

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ongoing

 

 

The South River Police Department is reminding residents about the Operation Blue Angel program, which allows officers quick access to senior citizens and other eligible residents in the event of an emergency.

Operation Blue Angel is a program to assist residents who, due to advanced age, immobility, or medical concerns, may be unable to answer their door in an emergency situation.

The program is administered free of charge to any eligible resident.

Through Operation Blue Angel, a police department-owned lock box similar to a real estate agent’s lock box is placed outside the residence. A key, supplied by the resident, is locked inside the box. In the event of an emergency, responding police officers are able to retrieve the key by using a code accessed by our Communications Center, allowing first responders to quickly enter the home without causing damage. The code is stored securely at all times in the Communications Center and reset to a new code in the event it is used to access the lock box.

Applicants to Operation Blue Angel must meet certain criteria and agree to the following:

• Must be 55 years of age or older, or have a medical condition that is potentially incapacitating

• Must either live alone, or be home alone on a frequent basis

• Must provide a key for an entry door to the home

• Must grant the South River Police Department permission to access and use the key during an emergency

• Must complete and notarize a waiver form

To apply for the program, print, complete and return the application and liability waiver to police headquarters, available at southriverpd.org/operation-blue-angel

 

 

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]

 

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

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 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]

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 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].