Community Bulletin Board: the North and South Brunswick Sentinel (for April 6)

 

Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County wants to help residents grow quality food, as well as pick the best plants for your landscape, with the return of their weekly webcast: RU Ready 2 Garden. 

This free online event is open to the public. 

Master Gardener educators and New Jersey Agricultural Experiment station experts will offer advice for gardeners of all levels with a different topic each week. Participants will learn from these online live presentations that will occasionally include how to videos and virtual visits to local farms.

The one-hour webcasts will take place each Tuesday in April at 6:30 p.m.

For a full season schedule and registration details, visit https://MiddlesexCountyNJ.gov and search “RU Ready to Garden”  

The RU Ready 2 Garden Webcast was developed by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County, with the goal of providing gardeners with  research-based methods to ensure success in their home and community gardens.

To view previous episodes of the webcast, visit tinyurl.com/rcevids   

 

 

Beginning April 11, the South Brunswick Water Division will be flushing water mains from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Flushing will begin in the vicinity of Broadway Road area working towards Dayton and then proceeding towards Davidson’s Mill Road. Flushing will then continue in Monmouth Junction and Route 1 areas. After crossing Route 1 the flushing will go from Kingston through Kendall Park to Brunswick Acres. The high service area consisting of Wood Gate, High Gate and Princeton Manor will be last.

No flushing is planned for the portion of Kingston that is served by New Jersey American Water Company.

The flushing program will be finished in approximately six weeks.

Water use should be kept to a minimum between the stated hours since the water may be discolored. Any discoloration caused by the flushing operation will be of short duration and will not affect the quality or safety of the water.

For more information, call the Water Division at 732-329-4000, ext. 7270 or 7226.

 

 

 

 

The Township of North Brunswick will hold its 6th Annual Community Wide Yard Sales during the first three Saturdays in May.

On May 7, yard sales will be held in Zone 1, which includes Berdine’s Corner and the neighborhoods bordered by Livingston Avenue, Patton Street, Ridgewood Avenue, Linwood Place, Hermann Road, Milltown Road, including the Milltown section, Chrome Street, Georges Road and Nassau Street.

On May 14, the sales move to Zone 2 including all neighborhoods on either side of Route 130 from the Route 1/130 overpass to Black Horse Lane, including Deer Brook Village.

On May 21, the Zone 3 yard sales will be held between Route 1 and Route 27 and from How Lane south to Finnegans Lane, including Driscoll Rd. and the Fingers section (Excelsior, Thalia, Cordelia, etc.).

The yard sales will be rain or shine.

Registration for North Brunswick homeowners will be conducted entirely online at www.northbrunswicknj.gov.

Registration deadlines are:

• May 5 at 4 p.m. for the May 7 sale.
• May 12 at 4 p.m. for the May 14 sale.
• May 19 at 4 p.m. for the May 21 sale.

Participant lists will be posted on the township website at noon on the Friday before the yard sale.

On the Monday following each yard sale, a collection of bulk material will be automatically scheduled for each registered household. The Department of Public Works will collect only bulk items that were not sold and placed at the curb, which may include indoor and non-metal outdoor furniture; large toys; bagged clothing, textiles, dishes, glasses; small appliances and home décor items. Metal items such as bicycles, air conditioners and bed frames will be collected on the Wednesday following each yard sale.

For further information regarding the post-sale collection regulations, call the Department of Public Works at 732-297-1134.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kindergarten registration is open in North Brunswick for the 2022-23 school year.

Students must be 5 years old by Oct. 1, 2022, to attend kindergarten. They must also reside in North Brunswick.

Eligible students who are already attending North Brunswick Public Schools’ preschool program will be automatically enrolled in kindergarten.

Call 732-289-3040 or visit www.nbtschools.org for detailed information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The North Brunswick Board of Education has scheduled meetings at 7 p.m. at the Board Office, 25 Linwood Place, unless otherwise noted:

Conference meeting April 13 at Judd Elementary School, 1601 Roosevelt Ave.

Regular public meeting April 27.

Conference meeting May 18 at Parsons Elementary School, 899 Hollywood Pl.

Regular public meeting May 25.

Conference meeting June 8 at North Brunswick Township High School, 98 Raider Road.

Republic public meeting June 22, July 27, Aug. 24, Sept. 28, Oct. 19 and Nov. 16.

Conference meeting Dec. 7 at Livingston Park Elementary, 1128 Livingston Ave.

Regular public meeting Dec. 21.

If any regular public meeting cannot be broadcast live, it will be taped.

For updated information, the meeting agendas and links to any recorded meetings, visit nbtschools.org

 

 

 

 

The South Brunswick Senior Center will offer the following programs during April:

April is National Poetry Month. On April 21 at 10:30 a.m., join author and artist Coleen Schlaffer for poetry readings, a photography exhibit and an open mic.

 

Diane Uniman, also known as Princess Von Brainisfried, will share tips on how to boost happiness and positivity at 11 a.m. April 12. She is a lawyer-turned-certified positive psychology life coach and author. She will apply breakthrough attitudes and simple happiness techniques.

Master Gardener Art Lee will hold a garden workshop at 10:30 a.m. April 13.

Jazz Fest with Joe Grillo will be held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 14 for the center’s first in-house party with meals since 2019. There will be dancing, lunch and a 50/50 raffle. Suggested donation is $2.25. Lunch options are chicken or vegetarian jambalaya.

For more information or to register for any program, call 732-329-4000, ext. 7670.

 

 

 

 

 

The Adams A.C. Ladies Club will hold a flea market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 7 at the A.C. building, 1210 Cozzens Lane, North Brunswick.
Table set up will begin at 7:30 a.m.
One space is $20, and two spaces are $30.
A limited number of tables will be available to rent at $5 per table.
Make checks payable to the Adams A.C. Ladies Club.
Or, visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfneZ1xHk0YRZf-9JIZLxsjzdwHZptZ2YjlcBzd5z3MsaR_rQ/viewform?usp=send_form to register.

No rain date; money will be refunded.

 

 

April is National Poetry Month. In celebration, the North Brunswick Public Library invites residents to share poetry, which will be displayed on the library building’s windows at 880 Hermann Road, as well as virtually on the library’s website and social media, during April.

Poets of all ages are encouraged to submit their words to enter a raffle to win a $50 gift card from Cristo’s Pizza & Grill.

Free verse, song lyrics, haiku, rhymes, sonnets, fragments, random thoughts, limericks, narratives and journal entries are welcome.

Send poems to https://tinyurl.com/NOBRPoetryMonth2022 or scan with a phone and submit.

Any questions, email librarian Ryan Miller at [email protected]

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

Starting May 4, all New Jersey retail stores, grocery stores and food service businesses may not provide or sell single-use plastic carryout bags and polystyrene foam service products.

What does this mean for your business? What can consumers and business owners expect when this new law, P.L. 2020 c.117, takes effect? How can businesses obtain reusable carryout bags and environmentally sound alternative products that meet the requirements of this new law? What exactly is a reusable carryout bag?

On April 19 at 11 a.m., in collaboration with New Jersey Business Action Center, the North Brunswick Public Library will hold a virtual roundtable discussion on “NJ’s Ban on Plastic Carryout Bags & Polystyrene Foam in Stores, Grocery Stores & Food Service Businesses.”

Join JoAnn Gemenden, executive director of the New Jersey Clean Communities, and Erin Jensen, environmental specialist at the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, as they help the community prepare for New Jersey’s Plastic Bag Ban Law with critical information and answers to questions.

Register at https://tinyurl.com/NJBagBan2022

Any questions, email librarian Ryan Miller at [email protected] or call the North Brunswick Public Library at 732-246-3545.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The North Brunswick Public Library announces a virtual Understanding Taxpayer Rights workshop with Legal Services of New Jersey.

Legal Services of New Jersey’s Tax Legal Assistance Project (TLAP) provides advice and representation to low-income New Jersey taxpayers.

On April 7 at 6:30 p.m., join TLAP’s Senior Paralegal Valerio Gonzalez to learn important information on taxpayer rights and obligations, as well as ways to avoid common tax issues.

Valerio will also review various tax issues which may arise, including but not limited to filing obligations, collection alternatives, amending tax returns, Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Economic Stimulus Funds information.

Register at https://tinyurl.com/April7TaxpayerRights2022

Any questions, email librarian Ryan Miller at [email protected]

For a complete listing of virtual and in-person events, visit https://northbrunswicklibrary.org/

 

 

 

 

 

The North Brunswick Woman’s Club will hold a clothing drive from 9 a.m. to noon April 9 at North Brunswick Township High School, 98 Raider Road, North Brunswick, out on the patio of the auditorium, rain or shine.

Donations of wearable and usable clothing, belts, handbags, hats, scarves, towels, curtains, pillows, comforters, hard toys smaller than 2 feet and stuffed animals will be accepted.

Shoes will be accepted in a separate bag.

No sports equipment, household items, appliances, books, puzzles, pots and pans, electronic devices, VCR tapes or furniture.

The donations will not be shredded. Instead, they will be given to a company that collects, sorts and grades the clothes, then partners with online thrift shops to sell used clothing; or charities and organizations that support the people and environment in places like South America, Europe, Africa, Haiti, the Caribbean and Central America.

 

 

Hop along the Bunny Trail beginning at 11 a.m. April 9 at Veterans Park, Roosevelt Avenue, North Brunswick.

There will be treats, crafts, games and visits with North Brunswick heroes.

Bring your own basket to collect eggs and a camera to take a picture with an Easter Bunny.

There will be social distancing. Masks required. No supplies will be shared.

The cost is $5 per child age 12 and younger. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, call the North Brunswick Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services at 732-247-0922, ext. 475 or email [email protected]

Space is limited. Register online at https://register.capturepoint.com/northbrunswicktownship

Bring donations for the North Brunswick Food Bank.

 

 

 

Kingston: On The Map opens April 9 in the History Room at the D&R Canal Locktender’s House, on old Lincoln Highway (off Route 27) in Kingston.

On view Saturdays and Sundays from April to November from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The village of Kingston has hosted colonial taverns, armies during the American Revolution, canal boats, railroad trains and travelers on the Lincoln Highway. One of the oldest settlements in central New Jersey, Kingston evolved with America over its 340-year history.  
The display uses journal entries and prints of a dozen historical maps to illustrate Kingston’s evolution, from settlement to commercial center to modern community. One map shows how Kingston moved between the colonies of east and west New Jersey. Another shows both Kingston and Princeton divided by county lines. Railroads appeared in the 19th century, disappearing by the 20th. The Delaware and Raritan Canal was built for commerce, but is now a recreation destination.

This display follows a talk by George Luck, Jr. and Charlie Dieterich, titled “Why is Kingston Here?” given this past February.

Air circulation is limited, so masks and distancing are requested.

For more information, visit www.khsnj.org/

The Kingston Historical Society is planning events, including a community walk on May 21 and a panel discussion later this spring. Details of future events and a video of the February talk are available on the organization’s website, www.khsnj.org/.  

 

 

 

 

The North Brunswick Public Library announces a virtual Cryptocurrency & Safe Investing seminar with the NJ Bureau of Securities.

Cryptocurrency is a relatively new asset class, defined by Merriam-Webster as “any form of currency that only exists digitally, that usually has no central issuing or regulating authority (such as a government or a bank) but instead uses a decentralized system to record transactions and manage the issuance of new units.”

But what exactly is cryptocurrency? Is cryptocurrency a real form of currency? Is cryptocurrency safe to use or smart to invest in?

 

Arlene Ferris-Waks, director of Investor Education, NJ Bureau of Securities, Office of NJ Attorney General, will present an informational talk at 6:30 p.m. April 11 providing basic information on how cryptocurrency works, and how to safely invest in it.

She will also focus on topics such as bitcoin mining, various cryptocurrencies, opening a cryptocurrency account and NFTs.

Register at https://tinyurl.com/April11Crypto2022

Any questions, email librarian Ryan Miller at [email protected]

For a complete listing of virtual and in-person events, visit https://northbrunswicklibrary.org/

 

 

 

 

 

Applications for the North Brunswick Township Public Schools Pre-K 4 Lottery are available.

Children must be 4 years old by Oct. 1, 2022, and reside in North Brunswick.

There are limited spots for 3-year-olds.

Pre-K will be a full-day, free program.

There are before and after care options.

Applications will be open through April 13.

Notification of acceptance will be May 13. Registration for accepted students will begin immediately after notification of acceptance.

For more information, visit www.nbtschools.org and click on Preschool Lottery.

 

 

Income tax preparation for North Brunswick senior citizens will be offered for free at the North Brunswick Senior Center, 15 Linwood Place.

Must schedule an appointment. Call the senior center at 732-418-2222.

Protocols will be discussed at the time of making the appointment.

Masks required.

 

 

 

Westfield Senior High School Class of 1976 will hold its reunion weekend June 3-5.

The reunion will kick off on June 3 at 6:30 p.m. with a casual get-together at Crossroads in Garwood.

On June 4, join classmates at the Shady Rest at Scotch Hills Country Club for an event featuring a buffet, beer and wine and music.

Early bird discount applies before April 15.

Registration can be found at www.westfieldhigh76.com.

A website is available with more detailed information, including hotel and travel information.

For more information, contact either Ruth Liebesman at [email protected] or Jim Bivona at [email protected].

 

 

The Education Foundation of South Brunswick (EFSB) Tour of South Brunswick Photo Scavenger Hunt takes place through April 18.

To enter, a team of two to five members must register by completing the registration form on the EFSB website. Each team requires a “team manager” who must be an adult of over 18 years of age.

A donation of $10 is required as an entry fee and must be paid via credit card before photos can be submitted.

Each photo entered must be recognizable as taken at or of one of the 28 items specified on the EFSB – Photo Scavenger Hunt Checklist. Photos must be taken with at least one team member visible. Photo does not have to be a selfie.

Teams will be responsible to submit a single PDF format file with the collection of all their photos to [email protected] by 11:59 p.m. April 18.

To be eligible for prizes a minimum of 20 photos of items and/or locations must be submitted.

For more information, visit edfoundationsb.org or email [email protected]

 

 

 

 

The North Brunswick Public Library invites jobseekers to join Kawana Jacocks, senior writer at WriteOne Resumes, for an in-person resume and cover letter writing workshop at 6 p.m. April 21 at the library, 880 Hermann Road, North Brunswick.

Learn:

• The purpose of a resume.
• The varieties of resume formats.
• How to build a strong resume that attracts potential employers.
• Resume rules to break and follow.
• The power of a well-written cover letter.
• How to access free job resources with your North Brunswick Public Library card.

Prior computer experience is preferred. Bring a laptop or use the library’s computers and Microsoft Word to work on your resume.

Space is limited and registration is required. To register, email librarian Ryan Miller at [email protected]

For a complete listing of virtual and in-person events, visit https://northbrunswicklibrary.org/

 

 

Celebrate Earth Day with members of the Kingston Greenways Association by tidying up shared roadsides, neighborhoods and public lands on April 23.

Morning session is from 9-11 a.m. Clean up Laurel Avenue and the vicinity of the Rockingham Historic Site, from just above the village of Kingston to Route 518. Meet at the Rockingham parking lot, 84 Laurel Ave.

Afternoon session is from 2-4 p.m. Trash collection in the Mapleton Preserve, Cook Natural Area, and in areas adjacent to Mapleton Road, Division Street, Heathcote Road, Ridge Road, Greenwood Avenue and Railroad Avenue. Parking for the event is along Railroad Avenue off Ridge Road.

Grabbers, gloves, orange vests and garbage bags will be provided.

Wear sturdy boots and clothing.

To join, visit www.kingstongreenways.org/

 

 

 

The third annual D.A.R.E. Jr. Academy will be held this summer by the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office.

The program is for children entering fifth and sixth grade in Middlesex County for the 2022-23 school year.

This program will include the D.A.R.E. program, as well as a junior police academy.  

The program will run for two weeks, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 15-26, at the Middlesex County Fire Academy, 1001 Fire Academy Way, Sayreville.

The $150 fee per child will include a T-shirt, ball cap, water bottle, supplies and a graduation party at commencement. 

Junior Recruits will be responsible for their own lunches and snacks, as well as their own gym-style shorts (fingertip length at least), sneakers and mask.

The daily routine will include roll call, platoon formation, D.A.R.E. lessons, lunch, drill, demonstrations, police lessons, and daily physical training. 

The class is limited to 45 seats.

Registration will only be confirmed once the completed forms with payment are received.

Contact Sgt. Frank Sautner at 732-745-5909 or [email protected] from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays to schedule a pickup time for the full packet.

 

 

 

 

 

Lerner & Loewe’s “Camelot” will be performed at Playhouse 22, East Brunswick, June 10-26. Tech week will begin on or about May 31 and all cast members are expected to attend these rehearsals.

There will be open auditions at 7:30 p.m. April 4 and 5, with callbacks at 10 a.m. April 9.

The musical tells the story of Guinevere, King Arthur’s wife, who encourages him to establish the Knights of the Round Table. As the Knights grow in fame, Lancelot becomes the most celebrated, but rumors begin to circulate.

Those auditioning should be prepared to sing 16-32 bars of a song in the style of the show.

Sides will be provided at auditions.

Review the story of Camelot before auditioning.

Experience in dance/movement, stage combat and fight choreography is welcomed.

For the full audition notice, visit www.playhouse22.org/auditions

 

 

 

 

 

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

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.

 

The League of Women Voters of the Greater New Brunswick Area (GNBA) is sponsoring an essay and video contest entitled “Y Vote” for high school students who will share their thoughts on the importance of voting.

All students in the participating Somerset and Middlesex county high schools are eligible to enter, regardless of whether they are of voting age.

The writer of the winning essay and the producer of the winning video will each receive a prize of $50 and will be recognized at an awards ceremony on May 19. Honorable mentions will be awarded to runners-up in the competition.

Essay submissions should be no longer than 500 words, and video entries cannot exceed three minutes. Creative, effective and inspirational entries should act as a call to action. They should describe the importance of voting and using votes to influence the direction of democracy.

Entries may not include endorsements or criticism of individual candidates or political parties.

Students in participating schools should send their entries to [email protected] by May 1.

 

 

 

 

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/

 

 

The elementary school counselors of the North Brunswick Township Schools will host an in-person Wellness Fair on May 11 from 6-8 p.m. at North Brunswick Township High School, in the Commons, 98 Raider Road, North Brunswick.

Two years ago, more than 400 families from the four elementary schools attended the Wellness Fair.

For more information, call 732-289-3413.

 

 

 

Middlesex County’s photography contest, Picture Middlesex County, runs through May 17, and is open to all New Jersey residents.

From photos of landscapes to closeups of plants, insects, birds and other wildlife, there are many photograph opportunities in Middlesex County.

The photo contest is open to all amateur and professional photographers, youth to adult. Ages 17 and under require parent/guardian consent on the entry form.

Photos must be taken within Middlesex County within the timeframe of the contest.

Individuals may submit up to two photos per category.

Contest Categories:

• Arts and History: Historic sites, landmarks, public art, festivals, etc.
• Cityscapes: Buildings, architecture, skylines, etc.
• Landscapes: Parks, gardens, waterfront, farms, sunrise, sunset, etc.
• Lifestyle: People, community, photos that showcase life in Middlesex County
• Nature/Wildlife: Foliage, animals, etc.
• Transportation: Planes, railroad/trains, vehicles, boats, roadways, interstates, bicycles, etc.

After the contest, all submissions will be displayed on Middlesex County’s Facebook page, where people will vote for their favorite photo by “liking” the picture. The 10-day voting period will be from May 20–30. This will determine the “People’s Choice Award” winners.

A judging committee will anonymously judge all the photos to determine the contest’s overall winner. Winning photos may be publicly displayed at a future county event.

For full contest rules and more information, visit https://discovermiddlesex.com/picture-middlesex-county/

 

 

 

 

 

North Brunswick’s 43rd annual Memorial Day 5K Run/Walk will be held May 30 at North Brunswick Community Park, 2053 Route 130 south.

Check in is at 7:30 a.m. The 5K begins at 8:30 a.m.

Dress in a patriotic outfit for the contest. The top three most patriotic runners and walkers will win a prize.

Also, a Children’s Dash for kids ages 1-5 will promote healthy kids. All participants will get a ribbon.

Packet pickup will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 24 or from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 26 at the Parks Maintenance Facility inside Community Park, 2051 Route 130.

For registration information, visit https://runsignup.com/race/NJ/NorthBrunswick/NB5K

North Brunswick will hold its annual Memorial Day commemoration ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. May 30 at Veterans Park on Roosevelt Avenue.

Social distancing and masks required.

For more information on the ceremony, call the Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services at 732-247-0922, ext. 475.

 

 

On June 2 and 3, support the Hugs for Brady Foundation of South Brunswick by joining the “Over the Edge” event and rappel 256 feet off the Hilton Meadowlands, 2 Meadowlands Plaza, East Rutherford.

Support treatments and the quest for cures for pediatric cancer.

For more information or to register, visit https://hugsforbrady.org/over-the-edge/?mc_cid=1a433893ad&mc_eid=a205aeedc6

 

 

 

Join CentralJersey.com at Monroe 33 Tennis, Basketball and Sports Center for their Kids Expo on June 5 from noon to 4 p.m.

Expect fun, games and more from vendors for kids and parents. 

More information on vendors and activities coming soon.

This event is free, but pre-registration is requested for all attendees. Pre-register at nmg.ticketleap.com/kids22/

For vendor opportunities, email [email protected].

 

 

 

 

 

American Legion Post 401 will hold a blood drive from 1-7 p.m. June 14 at the post, 148 Major Road, Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick.

Sign up at nybc.org/njdrive.

Remember to eat, drink and bring a donor ID card, or ID with name and photo.

 

 

 

 

North Brunswick will hold its annual Father’s Day Fishing Derby beginning at 8 a.m. June 19 at Boyd Pond, Independence Boulevard, off Route 130 south.

This free event is for children from pre-K to eighth grade with their favorite adults.

Bring your own poles, bait and chairs.

For more information, call the North Brunswick Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services at 732-247-0922, ext. 475.

 

 

The Redhawks Native American Arts Council will hold its Native American Heritage Celebration June 18 and 19 at the Middlesex County Fairgrounds, 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.

Redhawk Council produces the largest heritage celebrations in the Northeast which include over 1,000 Native American artists, performers, and educators.

Buy tickets at raritanpw2022.eventbrite.com

 

 

 

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

 

 

South Brunswick will hold its Independence Day celebration on July 1. Rain date will be July 8.

The entertainment details will be announced.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

The South Brunswick Commission on Women is looking for female student volunteers who will help other young women set goals and become leaders.

Join monthly meetings and be part of the leadership team. Assist with building a new website. Assist with the annual domestic violence walk. Write articles about commission events. Help with managing the scholarship program. Be part of planning the annual Women Leadership Conference.

For more information, email [email protected] or visit https://sbcommissiononwomen.org/

 

 

The South Brunswick Township Domestic Violence Response Team, in collaboration with Women Aware, is seeking new applicants to join their team of volunteer domestic violence advocates.

The team, which assists the South Brunswick Police Department, serves in an on-call basis, and is generally only called out a few times each month. Team members help individuals affected by domestic violence by providing emotional support, information on options, resources, and services available, and can help develop a safety plan.  

The team, currently comprised of three members, is looking to increase its numbers to provide greater assistance to the community.

Applicants will be subject to a background check, fingerprinting and an interview process.

Those applicants who are chosen to join the team must complete a 40-hour training session provided by Women Aware.

Apply at https://womenaware.net/volunteer/.

 

 

 

 

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.

 

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]

 

 

South Brunswick High School’s Viking Closet is running low on inventory.

Donations of gently used adult-sized winter coats are needed, as well as sweatshirts and sweatpants.

The high school is located at 750 Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick.

 

 

 

The North Brunswick Township Municipal Alliance Committee is holding a glove and mitten drive for youth and adult sizes to assist the North Brunswick Domestic Violence Team during January.

Bring items to the North Brunswick Senior Center, 15 Linwood Place, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays.

Mark all items North Brunswick Municipal Alliance Committee, Attn: Lou Ann Benson.

For more information, call 732-247-0922, ext. 475.

 

 

The South Brunswick Public Library will offer Homework Buddies tutoring from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, through May, at the library, 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick.

Open to students in grades K-12.

No appointment necessary.

Tutoring is not available on school holidays or early closing days.

For more information, visit www.sbpl.org

 

The South Brunswick Education Foundation is participating in a Printer Cartridge and Electronics Recycling Fundraiser to help benefit the South Brunswick School District.

Drop off used Canon and HP Inkjet cartridges; new unused Canon, Dell, HP and Lexmark printer cartridges; and laptops.

Look for a collection box at each of the district schools; the South Brunswick Library, 110 Kingston Lane; and Better Homes and Gardens Maturo Realty, 1 New Road.

For more information, email [email protected]

 

 

 

 

 

 

The North Brunswick Ice Rink across from the Municipal Complex on Hermann Road is open for free skating from 2-8 p.m. Saturdays and from 5-8 p.m. Thursdays.

For more information, call the North Brunswick Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services at 732-247-0922, ext. 475.

 

 

The North Brunswick Municipal Alliance Committee will hold the Warm the Sole Sock Drive to benefit the North Brunswick Domestic Violence Team.

Men’s, women’s and children’s socks are needed.

Donations can be dropped off at the North Brunswick Senior Center, 15 Linwood Pl., from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.

Call 732-902-1590 for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The South Brunswick Public Library Foundation is more than halfway to its $500,000 financial goal to cover the cost of repairs and an addition at the public library. 

There are a variety of naming opportunities and sponsorship levels available to give support.

View a display of the planned addition and improvements now in the lobby of the library, 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick.

Changes and improvements include interior renovations, such as HVAC repairs and ADA upgrades, plus a 10,400-square-foot wing and enlarged parking area to be built using the municipally-owned lots next door. The wing will include a large meeting room and a 128-seat auditorium with stage.

The authorized cost of the plan is $7,198,704. Funding will come from several sources, including a state grant of $3,586,852, a township bond of $3,011,852, a SBPL Trustee contribution of $250,000 with the balance to be fundraised by the foundation.

Township residents will only pay 42 cents on the dollar. 

For details on how to help the campaign, visit www.sbplfoundation.org or contact Library Director Chris Carbone at 732-329-4000, ext. 7287, or [email protected].  

Construction is expected to begin in 2022 and completed by late 2023.

 

 

 

The South Brunswick Public Library is seeking volunteers to help share their skills, enthusiasm and professional experience with adult English language learners.

 

The library offers ESL/ELL and English Conversation Group classes on an ongoing basis and needs volunteers to help the program grow.

 

All volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.

The library will provide resources, curriculum guides and training opportunities.

To apply, visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf1mJCRHm4TW63onm3UvDhWA4UkLijWymbl07qNqxycwoHZMQ/viewform?usp=send_form

 

For more information, contact Jill D’Amico, head of Information Services, at 732-329-4000, ext. 7638, or [email protected]

 

 

The Kosher Meals on Wheels program through Jewish Family Services of Middlesex County is in need of substitute drivers to deliver meals, sometimes with limited notice.

Currently, there are openings on Mondays along the Highland Park route and along the Edison/Metuchen route. Areas include Woodbridge, Edison, Metuchen, Highland Park, East Brunswick and Old Bridge.

Call 732-777-1940 for information on how to apply.

 

 

 

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]

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

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]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

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]