Community Bulletin Board: the Sentinel (for March 2)

 

 

Sons of the American Legion Detachment of New Jersey will present A Night of Comedy on March 5 at American Legion Post 253, 50 Devoe Ave., Spotswood.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m.

Donation is $30 per person. Ticket includes food and cash bar.

All proceeds benefit CW.

For more information, text Mark Natale at 908-433-8509 or Al at 908-227-0129.

Spotswood American Legion Post 253 will hold Fish Friday Nights from 5-8 p.m. Fridays, March 4 through April 15, at the post, 50 Devoe Ave., Spotswood.

Menu includes fried fish sandwich for $10, fried fish platter for $15, fried shrimp platter for $16, fried shrimp and scallop platter for $18, fried deluxe platter for $18, grilled cheese with fries for $7, and french fries for $5.

Platters are served with french fries and cole slaw.

Dinners are available as dine in, take out or curbside pickup.

Call or text orders to 432-991-9507.

 

 

 

 

The Imperial Music Center will present a concert at 2 p.m. March 6 at the center, 48 Appleby Ave., South River.

Richard Golazeski will conduct.   

A $5 donation is appreciated. 

For more information, call 732-238-0310 or visit www.imperialmusicenter.com

 

St. Mary of Ostrabrama Church will hold Lenten Fish Dinners from 5-7 p.m. March 11, 18 and 25, and April 1 and 8, in the parish center of the church, 30 Jackson St., South River.

Takeout dinners will be available at 4 p.m.

Fish and french fry dinners for adults are $15. Children’s dinners are $5.

Tickets will be on sale at the door, and in the parish office during business hours.

 

 

Registration is open for Milltown’s spring soccer clinics.

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

 

 

 

Beekman Road in East Brunswick will have intermittent road closures from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. for the annual salamander migration over the next few months.

Be aware of pedestrian traffic while traveling in the area during this timeframe.

 

 

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, is offering crisis counseling services for those affected by Tropical Storm Ida last September.

New Jersey Hope and Healing Crisis Counseling Program will offer confidential and anonymous services for free, including stress management, emotional support, linkage to resources, daily or drop-in Zoom calls, and motivational quotes.

For more information, call 732-646-4077 or email [email protected]

 

 

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, including Europe; or who have served in Korea from July 27, 1953, to the current date.

Other veterans may join as associate members.

The group meets at 10 a.m. the second Wednesday of every month, from May to December, at the Monroe Township Municipal Building, 1 Municipal Plaza, in the court room.

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

Korean War Veterans National LIFE membership is available for those 80 and older, and 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 campus of the VA New Jersey Health Care System, and the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home at Vineland.

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

 

 

The 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 a hobby and as therapy at VA medical centers nationwide.

The 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 Township 08831.

 

 

 

Registration is open for yoga, women’s volleyball and men’s basketball for Milltown residents.

To register, log on to Community Pass.

Visit https://register.capturepoint.com/BoroughofMilltown

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To help explain the process of funding college tuition, the East Brunswick Public Library will host the online workshop “Learn About College Funding” on March 3 at 7 p.m.

The program is led by Jodi Bloom, a college planning expert and founder of Cornerstone College Solutions. She will show families with children of any age figure out how to pay for college without jeopardizing retirement.

Topics covered include reducing out-of-pocket expenses, calculating the overall cost of college, explaining myths and errors that increase college costs, and determining how to find the best college for your children.

This program is free and open to the public. Registration is requested. To register, go online to www.tinyurl.com/ebcf2022.

 

The East Brunswick Public Library and the East Brunswick Arts Commission are teaming up to celebrate New Jersey Makers Day by holding a month-long Black and White mini art challenge. 

Community members are encouraged to submit works of 2D art no larger than 4 inches wide, 4 inches tall.

The art can only be in black and white. 

The library will hold an online event at 7 p.m. March 3 to kick off the challenge. Local adult artists can create their projects during this Zoom meeting. 

The final art projects will be exhibited throughout the library in April.

All submissions must be received by March 28. Art can be dropped off at the Information Services Desk at the library, Civic Center Drive, East Brunswick. They can also be submitted electronically by emailing [email protected]. 

The library has limited art supplies available at the library for use.

For more information, visit www.ebpl.org/calendar or email [email protected].

This program is funded by the East Brunswick Friends of the Library and the East Brunswick Arts Commission.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Middlesex County has scheduled the following rabies clinics:

Monroe, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 5, Monroe Community Center, 120 Monmouth Road, for dogs and cats

Jamesburg, March 12, 1-2 p.m. cats, 2-3 p.m. dogs, 3-4 p.m. both, Jamesburg Fire Department, 82 W. Railroad Ave.

Helmetta, 6-8 p.m. March 22, Public Works Garage, 51 Main St., dogs and cats

South River, Noon to 3 p.m. March 26, South River Public Works, 9 Ivan Way, dogs cats

Spotswood, 1-4 p.m. May 21, Spotswood Municipal Building, 77 Summerhill Road, for dogs and cats

Milltown, 6-8 p.m. May 24, Public Works Garage, 50 Washington Ave., for dogs and cats

For more information, visit https://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/government/departments/department-of-public-safety-and-health/office-of-health-services/rabies-clinics

 

 

EB Grow will host a seed swap at 2 p.m. March 6 the East Brunswick Public Library, Civic Center Drive.

Local gardeners can exchange seeds, share knowledge about their gardens and learn new techniques.

Bring harvested or packaged seeds, tubers, bulbs or starts in addition to a photo of the plant or any other growing information if possible.

To volunteer, sign up at tinyurl.com/ebseeds2022.

EB Grow is the community seed library run by the library and the Friends of the East Brunswick Environmental Commission.

This program is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit www.ebpl.org/calendar.

 

 

The East Brunswick Woman’s Club will meet in person at 7:30 p.m. March 8 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 460 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick. Enter from the back of the building. 

Wear green in celebration of Irish traditions. 

A Zoom call will be available for those who would like to join virtually. For Zoom details, text or call Linda at 732-522-1314. 

The club welcomes new members from East Brunswick and neighboring towns interested in being involved in the community. The club engages in service to the community, education and social activities. Monthly meetings discuss club business and sponsored activities for the club and those of the NJ State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSWC) for the College District.

Upcoming events include Arts Performance Day, Bunco party, state convention, election of officers, and upcoming social gatherings.  

Call Laura at 732-254- 5742 for membership and information on the club’s activities. 

 

 

 

Newspaper Media Group will host an Employment Weekly job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 11, May 20, Sept. 9 and Nov. 4 at the Cherry Hill Mall, 2000 Route 38, Cherry Hill, in the Nordstrom corridor.

Job seekers can register at https://nmg.ticketleap.com/job9/?ct=t

Employers will receive 5% when booking two dates, or 15% off when booking three dates.

Email [email protected] for vendor opportunities.

For more information, email [email protected]

 

 

 

 

 

East Brunswick VFW 133 will hold a takeout sandwich sale on March 12. Pickup will be from noon and 4 p.m. at the VFW post, 485 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.

Menu includes corned beef sandwich, macaroni salad and pickle. Cost is $10 per person.

Must call in advance on March 9 from noon to 6 p.m.

Call Maureen at 732-254-9674.

 

 

 

Middle-schoolers are invited to partake in academic competitions at the Middlesex County Academy for Science, Mathematics and Engineering Technologies in Edison.

Quiz Bowl will be held March 12 at the Edison Academy, 100 Technology Dr., on the campus of Middlesex College, Edison. It is a “Jeopardy!”-like competition. Teams of up to six students, with four playing at any one time, will be quizzed on general knowledge, including history, science, literature, arts and more. Top teams will qualify for the Middle School National Championship Tournament to be held in Rosemont, Illinois, in May. More information is available at https://hsquizbowl.org/forums/viewtopic.php?t=25765.

The Edison Academy Science League will host its second Science Bowl at the academy on March 26. The team competition will use a buzzer system to test competitors on the physical sciences. For information, visit https://mcasciencebowl.org/.

The third annual Edison Academy Middle School Math Competition will be held April 30. In addition to using critical thinking and logical reasoning skills, students will be required to collaborate with teammates and to show an ability to learn new ideas. More information is available at https://mcamc.tech/.

The Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School District, the first full-time county vocational school district in the nation, has campuses in East Brunswick, Edison, Perth Amboy, Piscataway, and Woodbridge, offering 36 career majors. More information is available at www.mcvts.net.

 

 

CentralJersey.com will present Ladies Night Spring Preview from 5:30-9 p.m. March 24 at MarketFair, 3535 Route 1, Princeton.

General admission to this vendor and fashion show event is free.

A limited number of VIP Experience tickets are available for $25. Includes cocktail and appetizers at MarketFair, entry into the grand prize drawing, and other exclusive offers.

Pre-registration is preferred by visiting nmg.ticketleap.com/spring22

For information on vendor opportunities, email [email protected]

CentralJersey.com/Newspaper Media Group/Packet Media LLC publish a series of weekly newspapers and bimonthly magazines, including this publication.

 

 

 

 

NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions. It is taught by NAMI-trained family members who have been there, and includes presentations, discussions and interactive exercises.

The group setting of NAMI Family-to-Family provides mutual support and shared positive impact – experience compassion and reinforcement from people who understand your situation.

Through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), learn

• How to solve problems and communicate effectively
• Taking care of yourself and managing your stress
• Supporting your loved one with compassion
• Finding and using local supports and services
• Up-to-date information on mental health conditions and how they affect the brain
• How to handle a crisis
• Current treatments and therapies
• The impact of mental health conditions on the entire family

Sessions through NAMI Middlesex County will be held virtually from 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays, March 9 to April 27, virtually. A Zoom tutorial will be held March 2; attendance is optional.

Register at www.naminj.org/programs/f2f/

 

East Brunswick Public Schools presents the 13th annual Night of Jazz featuring the One More Once Big Band, with performances by the Hammarskjold Middle School, Churchill Junior High School and East Brunswick High School jazz ensembles, plus special guest performers the East Brunswick High School Jazz Choir, at 6:30 p.m. March 21 at the Jo Ann Magistro Performing Arts Center at Hammarskjold Middle School, 200 Rues Lane, East Brunswick.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students or seniors older than 60, and free for East Brunswick students. Tickets will be available at the door.

For more information, call 732-613-6985.

Sponsored by the East Brunswick Education Foundation and the Mario A. DeCarolis Memorial Music Fund.

 

 

 

 

The East Brunswick Public School District offers General Education Inclusive Preschool classes. This preschool program is open to all three- and four-year-old children who reside in East Brunswick.

Children must be three years of age by Oct. 31 and not age eligible for kindergarten (5 years of age by Oct. 31) in order to participate in the program in September. If your child is selected for the program, remember that your child must be 3 years old to participate in the program.

The classes are taught by East Brunswick Public School certified teachers and supported with instructional assistants.

This program provides an inclusive educational environment for preschool children aligned with the New Jersey Preschool Teaching and Learning Expectations. This program includes both typically developing and preschool children with disabilities.

This tuition-based program is five days per week, two-and-one-half hours per day, and follows the 10-month school calendar. Both AM and PM sessions are available.

Tuition is not assessed for families eligible for free and reduced lunch. Information on eligibility for free and reduced lunch and the application is available on the district website at www.ebnet.org/preschool and at each elementary school.

Transportation for this program is the responsibility of the parent/guardian.

Applications for the General Education Inclusive Preschool are available at www.ebnet.org/preschool and must be received by March 18. Send completed applications to: Assistant Superintendent of Student Activities/Services, East Brunswick Public Schools, 760 Route 18, East Brunswick.

A limited number of openings will be available. Requests for specific sessions will be considered based on the number of applicants. However, there are no guarantees for parental requested placements.

A lottery drawing will occur in April if the number of applicants exceeds the openings.

If there are any questions, call the office of the Assistant Superintendent of Student Activities and Services at 732-613-6750.

 

AmeriCorps Projects in Parks is seeking volunteers during March.

For more than 20 years, the AmeriCorps New Jersey Watershed Ambassadors Program has played an important role in raising awareness of how human activities can affect water quality, especially in the most densely populated state in the nation.

For AmeriCorps Week this year, ambassadors will partner with the New Jersey State Park Service to complete stewardship projects in various parks, forests and historic sites throughout New Jersey.

Projects include litter cleanups, trail maintenance, invasive species removal, native plantings and more.

For a list of opportunities, visit www.njparksandforests.org/americorpsweek/

 

 

To help keep shelves stocked, Replenish, in partnership with the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners and the Middlesex County Superintendent of Schools, is hosting the 2022 Middlesex County Spring School Food Drive.

Individuals can drop off donations at public schools throughout the county from March 21 through April 1.

Monetary donations are accepted in the form of a check payable to “Feeding Middlesex County.” Checks may be mailed to P.O. Box 781, Edison 08818.

Or, donations can be made online at www.feedingmiddlesexcounty.org.

 

 

Meet the mayors of Cranbury, Metuchen, Monroe, Jamesburg, Helmetta, South Brunswick and Plainsboro from 8-10 a.m. March 31 at the Crowne Plaza Princeton, 900 Scudders Mill Road, Plainsboro.

Learn about economic development opportunities, arts and culture, travel and tourism, and sustainability.

To register, visit www.mcrcc.org/event/meet-the-mayors-2021-part-1/

Sponsored by the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce.

 

 

 

The New Jersey Jazz Society has launched its new Juried Scholarship Competition 2022.

This competition will award a $1,000 prize in each of two categories: Classic Jazz and Original Composition.

The competition is open to all college students currently enrolled in a New Jersey college undergraduate music program.

Along with the cash award, winners will receive guidance, mentorship, and the opportunity to perform with an industry professional. The winners will also receive coverage in Jersey Jazz Magazine.

Submission deadline is 11:59 p.m. March 31. 

For details, visit https://njjs.org/scholarshipprogram/.

 

 

T-Mobile, the T-Mobile Foundation and Ashoka are kicking off the fourth Changemaker Challenge in search of the next generation of young disruptors, trailblazers and entrepreneurs with bold ideas for driving digital empowerment, putting equity into action and mobilizing for a thriving planet.

Through March 31, teens ages 13-18 located in the U.S. and Puerto Rico can submit their game-changing projects for the chance to win grants and mentorship to help grow their ventures.

Fifteen winners will be selected for the chance to win up to $15,000 in seed funding and an all-expenses paid trip to T-Mobile headquarters to participate in the three-day Changemaker Lab later this year.

To learn more, visit www.t-mobile.com/news/community/changemaker-challenge-2022

 

 

The East Brunswick Education Foundation (EBEF) will celebrate the 28th annual Partner in Excellence Dinner, to be held at the Pines Manor in Edison on April 5. 

Partner in Excellence Awards will be presented to educators Dr. Trudy Atkins, Dr. Anna Braun and Lisa Citron; and to attorney David P. Lonski, in recognition of their contributions to the foundation’s goal of supporting excellence in East Brunswick’s public schools.

In addition, East Brunswick High School graduates, former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb and Olympian Sam Mattis, will be inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame.

Support the EBEF by attending the dinner, placing an ad or including a message to the honorees in the dinner program, or participating in the Spectacular Raffle.

 

 

 

 

East Brunswick residents can rent a plot in the community garden, located adjacent to the municipal complex on Civic Center Drive off Rues Lane.

A limited number of 10-foot by 10-foot plots are available for new gardeners on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost is $45 for first-year gardeners.

All gardeners are required to put in four hours of community garden service each year by working with a committee and participating in work days, or pay $40 in lieu of service. Gardeners can select from a list of committees found on the registration form.

For more information and to register for a plot, go online to the registration form.

The garden’s website offers timely articles, tips and tricks for gardeners, a calendar of events and information on donating surplus produce. Meetings and events during the year also offer an opportunity to share ideas outside the garden.

To keep gardeners safe, gardeners are asked to follow current guidance on COVID. Masks are suggested when others are present, but are not required in the garden.

Established in 2009, the garden offers 160 plots for new and returning gardeners who live or work in East Brunswick.

Fencing erected by the Friends of the East Brunswick Environmental Commission and the township protects the area from deer and other critters.

For more information, email to [email protected].

 

 

 

Girls on the Run of Central New Jersey is seeking coaches for its spring season.

Girls on the Run is a physical, activity-based, positive youth development program for girls in grades 3-8. The eight-week program incorporates running to teach critical life skills, encourage personal development and foster team building and community service.

Volunteer coaches use a curriculum to engage teams of girls in fun, interactive lessons.

Coaches do not need to be runners but are required to be at least 18 years old to serve as an assistant or 21 years old to serve as a head coach.

All volunteer coaches must complete a background check and attend a training session.

Teams meet twice a week for 75 minutes and the program culminates with all teams participating in a 5K event in June.

Girls on the Run of Central NJ currently serves girls at 117 sites in Camden, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean and Somerset counties.

For more information, visit www.gotrcnj.org/Coach or contact Executive Director Donna York at [email protected].

 

 

 

 

Recognizing the bravery and commitment of volunteer firefighters and first responders, New Jersey American Water announces its 2022 grant program for volunteer fire departments and emergency responders (ambulance and first aid squads) located within the company’s service areas.

Grants may be used to cover the costs of personal protective equipment, communications gear, first aid equipment, firefighting tools, vehicle maintenance and other materials that will be used to support volunteer firefighter and emergency responder operations.

Reimbursement for specific training courses, including the cost of training manuals, student workbooks, and instructors is also eligible.

To apply, organizations must complete the online application, located at www.newjerseyamwater.com, under News & Community, Community Involvement.

The maximum grant amount awarded to any organization is $2,000 and the deadline to apply is March 31. 

Interested applicants can find more information and apply online at www.newjerseyamwater.com/community.

Grant recipients will be notified by the end of April.

 

 

 

Middlesex County’s Plays-in-the-Park is returning to the stage this summer with performances of “Something Rotten!,” “The SpongeBob Musical” and “A Chorus Line” as part of Plays-in-the-Park’s 60th season.

Plays-in-the-Park will hold auditions for its three shows on April 1-3. Those auditioning should be prepared to sing approximately 16 bars of music. An accompanist will be provided. Actors should also bring their own sheet music in the proper key, marked with any cuts.

Auditions will be held at Plays-in-the-Park Theater in Roosevelt Park at 1 Pine Dr., Edison.

Audition dates are 7-10 p.m. April 1, noon to 3 p.m. April 2 and noon to 3 p.m. April 3.

Video submissions are welcome and are due by March 15. A vocal and dance clip should be sent to [email protected].

Plays-in-the-Park encourages actors of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, as well as those with disabilities, to audition.

For more information, call 732-548-2884, ext. 221 or 222, or email [email protected].

Plays-In-The-Park will be held at 8 p.m. performance nights at the Stephen J. Capestro Theater at Roosevelt Park, 1 Pine Dr., Edison.

“Something Rotten!” is set for June 22 to July 2. Welcome to the 1590s, where brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a show that will rival William Shakespeare. This show tells the story of the Bottom brothers as they attempt to write the world’s very first musical.

“The SpongeBob Musical” will be performed July 13-23. Since its launch on July 17, 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has reigned as the No. 1 kids’ animated series on TV’s Nickelodeon.

“A Chorus Line” is scheduled for Aug. 3-13. Exploring the inner lives and ambitions of professional Broadway gypsies, the show captures the spirit and tension of a Broadway chorus audition.

 For more information, visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov/find-programs-and-resources/parks-and-recreation/plays-in-the-park/box-office-policies

 

 

 

 

The NAMI New Jersey Dara Axelrod Expressive Arts Network hosts a Poetry Contest every year in honor of National Poetry Month in April and Mental Health Awareness Month in May.

This year, the prompt is about aspects of mental health stigma and how we think and feel about them. How we respond to them. How do they shape us if at all? 

However, relate this in a poem without using the word “stigma.”

Host Jacquese Armstrong offered a sample at https://files.constantcontact.com/9325d276001/61aed662-634b-466d-97c8-6a18f21d1d8d.pdf

This prompt will be subjective and personal; however, it is important to articulate the feelings stigma brings to mind in different aspects. When we have examined how stigma resides on the inside, then we can truly address it outside ourselves.

Guidelines:

• Poem should be in keeping with the theme.
• Poem must be typewritten. If sent electronically, do not send PDF files.
• Poem should be no longer than 40 lines.
• Fill out a media release form to accompany your entry.
• Provide a cover letter that includes your name, email, mailing address and phone number.
• Contest submission deadline is April 4.
• Contest open only to domestic applicants with a U.S. mailing address.

Email the entry to [email protected]. Or, mail typed entries to: NAMI NJ Poetry Contest, 1562 Route 130, North Brunswick 08902.

Poems will be open to public voting for the Top 10. The Top 3 will win a cash prize and the top poems will also be published on the NAMI NJ website for others to read.

NAMI New Jersey is a division of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

 

 

Children who live in East Brunswick who will be 5 years of age on or before Oct. 31, 2022, are eligible for the East Brunswick Public School full-day kindergarten program for the 2022-23 school year.

Visit www.ebnet.org/register to schedule a virtual appointment.

Register by April 30.

 

 

 

 

Discover Greatness: An Illustrated History of Negro Leagues Baseball will be presented through May 1 at East Jersey Old Town Village, 1050 River Road, Piscataway.

The traveling exhibit from The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum features close to 90 framed photographs showcasing the history of African American baseball from the late 1800s to the 1960s.

Also, visit Treasures of Middlesex County: 300 Years of Raritan Valley History at The Cornelius Low House, 1225 River Road, Piscataway.

For hours, information and directions, visit middlesexcountynj.gov or text “CULTURE” to 56512.

 

The Bernie Cohn Memorial Golf Classic and 76th Annual Outing will be held May 3 at Forsgate Country Club, 375 Forsgate Dr., Monroe.

The annual golf classic serves as an opportunity for the business and community leaders of Middlesex County to connect while supporting the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to improve Middlesex County.

Shotgun start is 9 a.m.

Bernie Cohn was very active with the chamber, serving as past chair of the Board of Directors, past chair of the golf outing and recipient of the first Leaders of Distinction Award.

For registration information, visit www.mcrcc.org/event/76th-annual-bernie-cohn-golf-classic/

 

 

Middlesex County’s Plays-in-the-Park is returning to the stage this summer with performances of “Something Rotten!,” “The SpongeBob Musical” and “A Chorus Line” as part of Plays-in-the-Park’s 60th season.

Plays-In-The-Park will be held at 8 p.m. performance nights at the Stephen J. Capestro Theater at Roosevelt Park, 1 Pine Dr., Edison.

“Something Rotten!” is set for June 22 to July 2. Welcome to the 1590s, where brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a show that will rival William Shakespeare. This show tells the story of the Bottom brothers as they attempt to write the world’s very first musical.

 

“The SpongeBob Musical” will be performed July 13-23. Since its launch on July 17, 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has reigned as the No. 1 kids’ animated series on TV’s Nickelodeon.

 

“A Chorus Line” is scheduled for Aug. 3-13. Exploring the inner lives and ambitions of professional Broadway gypsies, the show captures the spirit and tension of a Broadway chorus audition.

 

The Box Office opens at 5:30 p.m. each night and patrons are admitted to the seating area immediately after purchasing tickets. All shows start at 8 p.m. The box office closes at 8:30 p.m. each show night.

Bring a lawn chair.

 

Ticket price is $7 per adult, $5 per senior citizen 60 and over, and children 12 and younger enter for free.

In the case of inclement weather, save the ticket stub for use at another performance this season.

In partnership with Replenish, Middlesex County’s food distribution organization, Plays-in-the-Park will be collecting nutritious food for residents in need throughout the season. Bring a non-perishable food item when attending performances.

For more information, visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov/find-programs-and-resources/parks-and-recreation/plays-in-the-park/box-office-policies

 

 

 

 

The South River School District is seeking nominations for the South River High School Wall of Fame.

A Wall of Fame is erected in the main corridor of the high school with the names of the recipients on plaques of recognition. The purpose is to identify individuals with stellar achievement and performance who serve as a role model for current and future South River High School students. This award is not limited to athletic achievement.

Nominees will be considered based on the following criteria:

1. Attended and graduated from South River High School.

2. Exhibits a high level of achievement in his/her field.

3. Possesses the qualities of a positive role model for South River youth.

The committee will consider all nominees based on the strengths of the candidates in the above areas.

A maximum of two individuals may be inducted this year.

The nomination form is available at www.srivernj.org.

The deadline for submission is July 15.

 

 

 

 

The Freehold High School Class of ’72 will celebrate its 50th class reunion on July 23 at the American Hotel in Freehold.

Tickets are $85 per person, and must be purchased in advance; no tickets will be sold at the door.

The deadline for ticket purchases is July 13. Contact Sue Shrott at [email protected] or 732-995-7754.

 

 

 

Ongoing

 

 

More than $325 million of federal funding will be used to provide financial assistance and counseling for homeowners financially impacted by COVID-19. The Emergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance Program (ERMA) will assist eligible homeowners with up to $35,000 in aid. The funds for the program have been allocated by Congress from the Homeowner Assistance Program within the federal stimulus American Rescue Plan.

To be eligible for financial assistance, families must have suffered a COVID-19 related financial hardship occurring after Jan. 20, 2020, such as increased expenses due to child care or funeral expenses, or lost income such as having lost a job. To be eligible, a family must earn less than 150% of their respective county’s median income.

To check qualifications, visit FY 2021 Homeowner Assistance Fund Income Limits. ERMA will also provide free housing counseling services to help homeowners apply for this program. Counselors will guide them through all available options, and even work with their loan servicers to achieve the best outcome possible for their family. These counselors will also ensure that the process is accessible to those without access to the internet or those having difficulties navigating the process.

For assistance applying for the program, call 855-647-7700 or email [email protected]. 

For a list of free housing counselors who can help with the application, visit tinyurl.com/HAFcounselor. 

Applications for assistance can be submitted at njerma.com

 

 

 

 

 

Women Aware, in collaboration with the Spotswood Police Department, is seeking volunteers to serve on the Spotswood Police Domestic Violence Response Team.

The team is composed of trained community members who respond to the police department on an on call basis in order to provide emotional support, domestic violence information, legal options, community resources and a safety plan to individuals affected by domestic violence.

Volunteers are needed for after hours and weekends.

Volunteers must undergo a background check and fingerprinting, interview process, and complete a 40-hour training.

To apply, visit www.womenaware.net/volunteer

Women Aware’s 24-hour hotline for assistance is 732-249-4504.

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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]

 

 

 

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 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].