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The TV show American Pickers on the History Channel is planning to return to New Jersey this August.
Producers are looking for different, unusual and unique items; something with an extraordinary story.
Collectors interested in being considered for the show should call 646-493-2184 or email [email protected]. Include full name, city/state, contact information, and a brief description of the collection.
Pickers only pick private collections, so no stores, malls, flea markets, museums, auctions, businesses, or anything open to the public.
American Pickers will follow all guidelines and protocols for safe filming outlined by the state in terms of COVID-19 guidelines.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/GotAPick/
The 84th annual Middlesex County Fair will be held Aug. 1-7 at the Middlesex County Fairgrounds, 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.
Fireworks are scheduled for opening night, Monday, Aug. 1, with a rain date of Aug. 2; and Sunday, Aug. 7, with no rain date.
Details about entertainment experiences will be announced.
Vendor booths are available for commercial offerings, clothing, contractors, small businesses, crafters and more.
For more information, email [email protected] or visit middlesexcountyfair.com
Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” will be presented outdoors by the School of the Arts of the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools at 6 p.m., through June 5, with 2 p.m. matinees June 4 and 5.
In a collaboration between the theater arts, arts technology and dance programs of the School of the Arts, the Bard’s classic romantic tragedy will be an adaptation in the setting of a 1960s Fellini movie.
The production will feature three seniors who recently starred in Two River Theatre’s production of another Shakespeare classic, “Much Ado About Nothing”: Darrion Brown of North Brunswick as Mercutio, Cheyenne Busch of North Brunswick as Juliet, and Joseph McKenzie of Highland Park as Romeo.
The production team is led by arts technology teacher Lea Anello as company manager, and Isabella Como, Caitieann Cody, Brianna Munoz as the stage management team.
Choreography is by School of the Arts dance instructor Cleo Mack; musical direction is by Isabella Sanchez; costume design by Jamie DelaCruz, Paige Brathwaite, Serenity Rogers, Theresa Albrecth, Izabella Connolly, and Emily Rosado; light design by Caleb Goldilla.
“Romeo and Juliet” will be presented in the outdoor courtyard of the MCVTS East Brunswick Campus, 112 Rues Lane.
Tickets are $10 for the public. There will be limited reserved seating with strict social distancing. Tickets can be purchased through Ludus at mcvtsarts.ludus.com.
More information is available at www.mcvts.net.
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
The YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge & South Amboy (MEWSA) will open its summer day camp for the season beginning June 20.
The Y offers a day camp experience with 10 locations to choose from, offering campers from five years old to pre-teens a range of age-appropriate activities, including recreational swimming, summer reading, enrichment and specialty camps, arts and crafts, themed activity weeks and more.
Campers and parents can expect continued compliance with all safety guidelines provided by state and local health departments.
For more information, including registration and scholarship information, visit www.ymcaofmewsa.org/camp.
The schedule for the Spring 2022 Eco-Tours of Edison are as follows:
- Celebrate National Trails Day along the Middlesex Greenway Extension from 9:30 a.m. to noon June 4, beginning at Memorial Park on Memorial Parkway, Metuchen. Hike the proposed Middlesex Greenway Extension.
- Experience the Battle of the Short Hills from 9:30-11:30 a.m. June 26. Meet at the end of Hayduk Drive. Hike 100 acres of forest that was the site of the 1777 Battle of the Short Hills. Dogs are allowed.
The Spring for Spring Dance Festival will explore local choreographers, and their performance works in a festival performance at 6 p.m. June 3 at the Metuchen Town Plaza, 33 Pearl St.; and 6 p.m. June 4 at Mignolo Arts Center, 272 Lake Ave.
Tickets are available at www.mignolo.art
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.
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]
Celebrate National Trails Day along the Middlesex Greenway Extension from 9:30 a.m. to noon June 4, beginning at Memorial Park on Memorial Parkway, Metuchen. Hike the proposed Middlesex Greenway Extension.
Breakdancing on the plaza is scheduled for June 4 in Metuchen at the intersection of New and Pearl streets.
The three-hour event beginning at 5 p.m. includes a performance from a group from The Bronx, New York, a class for younger families, an exhibition by step performers, a freestyle exhibition and a dance off.
The Imperial Music Center, 48 Appleby Ave, South River, will present a concert on June 5 at 2 p.m. with Richard Golazeski conducting.
A $5 donation is appreciated.
For more information, call 732-238-0310 or visit www.imperialmusiccenter.com
Join Friends of Princeton Nursery Lands (FPNL) and Scout Troop 10 for the grand opening of the new “Green” trail in the Mapleton Preserve at 3 p.m. June 4 at the Mapleton Preserve/D&R Canal State Park Headquarters, 145 Mapleton Road, Kingston. Rain date is June 5.
The new trail was built under the direction of Mehul Khajuria of Troop 10 as his Eagle Scout Service project. FPNL Trustee BreeAnne Lemmerling, who provided guidance to Mehul during the trail-making process, describes the trail as meandering through woodlands and a bamboo grove with the highlight being the stretches along the Heathcote Brook. This trail offers visitors to the Mapleton Preserve a different footpathing experience than the paths of the interior of the property. The trail is augmented with boardwalks in the wet spots.
In celebration of National Trails Day, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony for the project, and then walking of the new trail. After that, interested participants can help install more posts and blazes for the “Blue” trail. Service hours are available.
The event is free and all are welcome.
Refreshments will be served.
For more information and directions, visit https://fpnl.org/ or https://www.facebook.com/FPNLnj or call 609-683-0483.
Spanish and Flamenco dance company Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre will present its famous Spanish fair, La Feria de Sevilla, based on the weeklong festival in Seville, Spain, to celebrate Spanish culture.
As part of the Woodbridge Family Cultural Event Series, this event will be held from 2:30-6 p.m. June 5 at Parker Press Park, 428 Rahway Ave., Woodbridge. Rain date is June 12.
Admission is free.
Enjoy an afternoon of colorful costumes; spontaneous dancing throughout the park of the traditional Sevillanas; and main stage Flamenco dance performances by Alborada’s professional company joined by guitarist Juan Pedro Jimenez from Cadiz, Spain.
Learn the art of twirling a Spanish fan, how to play castanets, how to play cajon, and create arts and crafts.
Paella, sangria and traditional Spanish items will be for sale.
Bring a lawn chair.
For more information, call 732-598-3979 or visit www.alboradadance.org. Visit www.alboradadance.org for more information. Alborada can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/alborada.dance.
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].
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 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
TA-DA! Productions (Theatre Adapted for Different Abilities) is putting on its ninth production at 7 p.m. June 8 at the Old Bridge High School Auditorium, 4209 Route 516, Old Bridge.
This year’s show, “Jukebox Time Machine,” takes the audience through favorite tunes from the 1950s to the present through a magical jukebox.
For more information, visit https://tadaproductions.wixsite.com/oldbridge
Spotswood American Legion Post 235 will hold a flag retirement ceremony at 7 p.m. June 10 at the post, 50 Devoe Ave., Spotswood.
St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church will hold its 36th annual Lebanese Festival from 5-10 p.m. June 10, noon to 11 p.m. June 11, and from noon to 10 p.m. June 12 at the church, at 526 Easton Ave., on the corner of Franklin Boulevard, in Somerset.
Better known as a Mahrajan, the festival is an outdoor gathering for authentic Middle Eastern food, music, dance and culture.
Traditional Lebanese foods such as falafel, shawarma (gyro), hummus, shish kabob, spinach pies, tabouleh, stuffed grape leaves and more will be featured. There will be many vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. In addition, a large assortment of Middle Eastern pastries such as baklawa, mamool, namoura, and ghraybeh will be available. Also, the bar features beer, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks.
For entertainment, there will be live music featuring a different singer each day. Performing on Friday evening will be Eddie Osama. On Saturday, singer Jad Rahme will perform, and on Sunday, Wassim Rabih will be singing both traditional and popular songs from Lebanon.
For everyone’s enjoyment, there will be dancing, as well as folkloric dance performances.
In addition, there will be souvenirs, 50/50, backgammon and hookah.
The festival is held as the largest fundraising project for the building of the new church complex.
Admission and parking are free.
For more details, call the parish office at 732-828-2055, visit the Facebook or Instagram page, or www.saintsharbelnj.org.
Metuchen’s farmers market will begin on the plaza on June 11, held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through the Saturday before Thanksgiving, at the intersection of Pearl and New streets.
The North Brunswick Humane Association will hold its annual flea market from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 11 in the parking lot of Our Lady of Peace Church, 1740 Route 130 north, North Brunswick.
Rain date is June 18.
For more information, visit www.northbrunswickhumane.org/events/flea-market-rummage-sale-saturday-june-11-2022/
The Spotswood Education Foundation will host a casino night fundraiser from 6-11 p.m. June 11 at the Helmetta Community Center, 1 Brookside Pl., Helmetta, to support grants for the Spotswood education system.
Price is $50 per person and includes dinner, desserts and assorted beverages.
Each ticket receives $100 in “play” money.
Tickets can be purchased at the door for $60 per person but attendees should pre-purchase tickets by June 1.
Attendees must be 21 years old to attend.
For more information, email [email protected].
Middlesex County will hold a series of bike rodeos:
June 11, Sayreville
June 26, Edison
July 16, Piscataway
Aug. 13, East Brunswick
Sept. 17, New Brunswick
Oct. 12, North Brunswick
Dates subject to change based on weather.
For more information, call 732-387-1220.
To RSVP, visit https://bikerodeos2022.eventbrite.com
Celebrate Middlesex County is a free, family-friendly event focused on showcasing the unique programs, services, and people of Middlesex County’s government.
The annual celebration highlights county offices and partners with interactive booths and displays and illustrates all the county has offer, with fun offerings for the whole family to enjoy: local food vendors, live music, games and activities, touch-a-truck, roller skating, arts and crafts, historical re-enactors, and more.
This year’s event will be held beginning at 10 a.m. June 11 at Roosevelt Park, 151 Parsonage Road, Edison.
For more information, visit the Celebrate Middlesex County page.
The Jamesburg Fire Department will hold its first corn hole tournament starting at noon on June 11 at the firehouse, 82 W. Railroad Ave., Jamesburg.
The cost is $60 per team for the Social Division, or $80 per team for the Competitive Division.
Prizes will be awarded to the top team.
There will be a beer garden, food and raffles.
Register on the Scoreholio app, or call Michael at 732-439-8912.
Congregation Neve Shalom, 250 Grove Avenue, Metuchen welcomes the community to celebrate Pride Shabbat on June 11 at the morning service, from 9:30 a.m. to noon.
The service will include reflections from a few members of the congregation, and be followed by a festive Kiddush featuring light lunch.
RSVP by calling the synagogue office at 732-548-2238, ext. 12; indicate if you would like a Torah honor or to lead one of the English readings.
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s Mobile Unit will come to North Brunswick from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 11, stationed at the North Brunswick Senior Center at 15 Linwood Place, to assist residents with their driver’s license or registration renewal, REAL ID, license plate surrendering.
Reservation only. Visit https://forms.gle/CbwRB4s3LNx4Am7V7
For more information, contact Officer Adrian Ailey at [email protected]
The 10th annual Tour de South Brunswick will be held by the Education Foundation of South Brunswick on June 12.
There will be three routes: a 4-mile Family Fun Ride through a local neighborhood; a 10-mile casual Fun Ride through scenic and rural sections of the township; and 25-mile tour throughout all areas of the township, including a rest stop at Eagle’s Landing DayCamp.
The 25-mile ride starts at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 10mile at 9 a.m. and the 4-mile at 10 a.m. Check in begins one hour before each scheduled time.
In addition, the 2-mile Foundation Fun Walk begins at 11 a.m. Check in starts at 10:15 a.m.
Support the South Brunswick School District.
To register, visit edfoundationsb.org or efsb.org
Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation will hold a golf outing on June 13 to benefit Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation Golf Outing.
Registration begins at 11 a.m. at TPC Jasna Polana, Princeton, followed by shotgun start at noon. Reception to follow.
Individuals and foursomes can register for the golf outing of their choice by visiting Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation’s event page or by emailing [email protected].
The Blackhawks Girls Lacrosse team will hold a summer lacrosse clinic for seven weeks on Tuesday evenings from June 14 through July 26.
The clinic is open to any girl entering grade 2 and up in East Brunswick and surrounding towns.
This clinic is appropriate for beginners through advanced players. Players will be grouped by skill level after first day evaluation.
Daily schedule includes a combination of skills and drills along with game strategy.
For more information, email [email protected].
Registration is due by June 13.
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.
East Brunswick AARP Chapter 4855 will hold a Welcome Back Spring Party on June 14 at noon at Ria Mar, 25 Whitehead Ave., South River.
Meal includes soup, salad, choice of six entrees, dessert and coffee, tea and soda.
Cost is $45 per person.
Entertainment by Richard Rella.
Cash bar available.
Contact Roz at 732-238-6326 for more information.
New Jersey League of Conservation Voters will hold its gala and silent auction on June 15 at The Park Chateau, 678 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.
The gala is New Jersey LCV’s biggest fundraising event of the year, with proceeds directly supporting year-round policy, advocacy and civic engagement work to fight for clean air, clean water, and healthy communities for all of New Jersey.
Tickets are available at https://action.njlcv.org/
North Brunswick’s 25th Anniversary Youth Sports Festival returns June 17 to July 4 at the field next to Chamberlain University, 630 Route 1 north, North Brunswick.
Entertainment includes pig racing, motorcycle show, magic show, petting zoo, laser light show, fireworks, food vendors and live music.
For event information, visit www.facebook.com/NBYSFofficial
For ticket information, visit www.northbrunswickyouthsportsfestival.com/p/tickets
Aldersgate United Methodist Church (AUMC) will hold an outdoor yard sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 18, light rain or shine, at the church, 568 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick.
Vendor spaces are available by emailing [email protected] or texting/calling Diane at 908-239-9098.
Tables available to rent for $5.
Vendors are asked to donate 10% of sales to AUMC general missions.
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
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.
A Juneteenth celebration will be held in Metuchen from 6-8 p.m. June 18 for the second year.
This year’s event plans to include step dancers, two drum lines, a majorette group and a discussion on the topic of Afro futurism and how it plays into art.
The downtown plaza is located at the intersection of New and Pearl streets.
Kids Takeover in Metuchen returns after a few-year hiatus.
Held on the last day of school for Metuchen students, June 21, from 1-5 p.m. kids can visit downtown businesses after school lets out for the summer around 12:30 p.m.
There will be business specials, a bounce house, a deejay, dancing.
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
A Father’s Day Bike Ride will be held from 5:30-6:30 p.m. June 23 on the Middlesex Greenway Trail, beginning at the end of Raymond Street, in the Fords section of Woodbridge.
Father figures and children can join the Greenway Family Success Center Team for a family bike ride.
Those in need of a bicycle can stop by the Woodbridge Bike Share on East William Street in Fords to borrow one for free.
The registration link is https://bit.ly/GFSCBikeRide22
For more information, call 732-734-1569.
Metuchen Downtown Alliance and Metuchen Human Relations Commission will hold Pride on the Plaza from 5-8 p.m. June 25.
The Edison Recreation Department has scheduled various programs for adults, teens and children throughout the spring and summer.
- Adult Yoga will be held through June 25. This free, virtual class meets Saturday mornings from 7:30-9 a.m. via Zoom. Students will learn simplified kundalini yoga, holistic health, as well as simple exercises, asanas and meditation. The cost to attend is $50 for both residents and non-residents, but is free for Edison residents over age 65. Proof of age and residency is required.
- Adult Recreation classes include badminton, ping pong, chess, line dancing, pickleball, tai chi and volleyball. Classes are held at the Minnie B. Veal Community Center, 1070 Grove Ave., and Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 450 Division St.. The cost is $30 for residents, $60 for non-residents, and are free for Edison residents 65 years and older.
- Teen Recreation classes include chess, basketball drills and skills, design class, open-play volleyball, and open-court basketball. Classes are held at the Minnie B. Veal Community Center and Thomas Jefferson Middle School. The cost is $10 for residents and $20 for non-residents.
- Adult Spring Yoga takes place through June 13 at Lincoln Elementary School, 53 Brookville Road, on Mondays from 7-8 p.m. Virtual classes are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 5-7 p.m. The cost is $50 for Edison residents, $100 for non-residents, and free for residents 65 years and older.
- Adult Spring Aerobics take place at Lincoln Elementary School on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-8 p.m., and at the Minnie B. Veal Community Center on Tuesdays and Fridays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The cost is $50 for Edison residents, $100 for non-residents, and free for residents 65 years and older.
- Adult Spring Watercolor classes are held through June 30 at Thomas Jefferson Middle School on Tuesdays from 7-9:30 p.m., and at the Minnie B. Veal Community Center on Thursdays from 7-9:30 p.m. The cost is $20 for Edison residents, $40 for non-residents, and free for residents 65 years and older.
- Adult Spring Ceramics/Arts & Crafts classes will be held through May 24 at the Minnie B. Veal Community Center on Tuesdays from 2-4 p.m. The cost is $20 for Edison residents, $40 for non-residents, and free for residents 65 years and older.
- Virtual yoga for kids will be held through June 14. Kids ages 6-13 need Zoom to participate from 6-7 p.m. on Tuesdays.
For additional information or A.D.A. concerns, call the Recreation Office at 732-248-7310.
For detailed information, visit www.edisonnj.org/departments/recreation_department/.
St. Stan’s Carnival is celebrating 25 years.
There will be entertainment, raffles, tricky tray, games of chance, 50/50 raffles, food vendors, beer garden, a Friday fish fry and more.
Hours are 6-10 p.m. June 23; 5-11 p.m. June 24 and 25 at the church, 221 MacArthur Ave., Sayreville.
The East Brunswick Public School District Community Programs Department is again offering summer in-person Kindergarten Readiness Academy and Summer Early Learning Academy programs to all East Brunswick residents, as well as surrounding communities.
The Kindergarten Readiness Academy is designed to provide students entering kindergarten with continued quality programming prior to kindergarten. Participation in this program will focus on essential kindergarten readiness skills, therefore providing a head start for all participants.
The Summer Early Learning Academy will offer a summer care program for 3- and 4-year-olds who will not be entering kindergarten in September 2022. Activities and themes are designed to promote children’s social and cognitive development.
Both programs will also concentrate on closing the learning gap that research shows traditionally occurs over summer months. They will provide your child a summer of fun with weekly themes and daily activities with on-site vendors. Special events and enrichment classes will include a carnival, dinosaur dig, field day, luau, Spanish classes and music.
Students will also have opportunities each week to participate in on-site water play activities.
Weekly themes for Summer 2022 are:
- To Infinity & Beyond: Focus on Science and the Solar System.
- Community Helpers: Learn About and Meet Local Community Helpers.
- Islands of Adventures: Explore Island Life, Music and Water Transportation.
- Wide World of Sports: Learn and Play Various Sports.
- Under the Big Top: Explore Circus and Carnival Life.
- Land & Sea Creatures: Focus on Dinosaurs, Sea Life and Farm Animals.
Both programs will offer full-day or half-day sessions, running from June 27 to Aug. 9, with the option to attend three weeks or all six weeks.
Visit www.ebnet.org/elasummer for registration instructions and program details.
The YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge & South Amboy is once again offering the Ryan Patterson Memorial Scholarship for teen youth within the communities that they serve, including Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge, South Amboy and Piscataway, who are pursuing higher education in the fall of 2022.
The Ryan Patterson Memorial Scholarship was established several years ago in honor of late Metuchen Branch YMCA swim coach and mentor, Ryan Marie Patterson. She was 27 years old. As a teen she began her work with children as a member and coach of the Metuchen Branch YMCA Manta Ray swim team. Her work with her teammates inspired her and helped guide her direction in college. Ryan attended Colgate University, graduating with honors with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She then received her Master of Social Work degree from Fordham University in the Bronx.
At the time of her death, Ryan worked at the Morris Heights Health Center counseling and supporting students at the Health Opportunities High School and Truman High School in the South Bronx.
The recipient of the scholarship must strive for excellence in academics, sports or the arts. In addition, they must demonstrate that they have made an impact in their community through volunteer work, a service project or other means, live by the golden rule, have influenced others in a positive way and advocated for others who are less fortunate.
There is no grade point average that is required to apply for this scholarship.
The scholarship can be used to fund the recipient’s higher education cost. The final scholarship award amount for 2022 is $2,000.
Applications are available at www.ymcaofmewsa.org/giving/ryan-patterson-memorial-scholarship. All submissions must be made electronically through the website.
All applications must be received by June 30. The committee will notify the scholarship recipient in July and they will receive their scholarship at a small presentation in August.
For more information, contact Veronica Vargas at [email protected].
Preschool applications for the 2022-23 school year, as well as pre-registration for Edison’s Summer Playground program, are now available.
The preschool program is available for 3-year-olds from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays; and 4-year-olds from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the Minnie B. Veal Community Center, 1070 Grove Ave., Edison.
The six-week summer playground program begins June 27 and is held 9 a.m. to. 1 p.m. weekdays at various neighborhood parks throughout the township, with trips, games and crafts for Edison children ages 5-12.
There is a $75 per child non-refundable fee.
For an updated class schedule, information and downloadable applications, visit www.edisonnj.org/departments/recreation_department/ and on the left side click “Entertaining Edison.”
To register for either of these programs, log into Community Pass at register.capturepoint.com/Edison, click the dropdown box for Edison Township, then click on “Browse Activities” under the “Edison Township Before and After School Programs” section.
For more information, call the Rec Department at 732-248-7310.
“Everything at Once,” an art exhibit by Lisa Gordon Cameron, will be on display through June 30 in the Gallery at the Metuchen Library, 480 Middlesex Ave., Metuchen.
Using digital photography, painting and collage, Cameron creates works that reflect on the human relationship with the earth.
Woodbridge Township has scheduled its annual Independence Day fireworks display on Friday, July 1, at Alvin P. Williams Park in the Sewaren section of Woodbridge.
South Brunswick will hold its Independence Day celebration on July 1. Rain date will be July 8.
The entertainment details will be announced.
Mayor Jackie Palmer of Spotswood and Mayor Christopher Slavicek of Helmetta will present the Mayors’ March and Spark in the Park on July 2.
This Independence Day celebration will begin with a parade at 1 p.m., starting at Holy Trinity Church in Helmetta and ending at Immaculate Conception Church in Spotswood. Staging for the parade will start at noon.
The celebration will resume at 6:30 p.m. at the Immaculate Conception Sports Field for family fun, a beer and sangria garden, food trucks, music and fireworks.
Those interested in participating may complete an application at https://forms.gle/Qi2pcvqtmfY344D97
New this year is the addition of a float contest for local non-profit organizations. Anyone can enter an Independence Day-themed float into the parade. First-prize winners will receive a check for $500, while second- and third-place winners will win $250 and $100, respectively.
NJ Audubon will hold Family Fun Week programs at Davidson Mill Pond Park in North Brunswick.
Children and adults can join Miss Anne of NJ Audubon to explore nature while searching for critters in the field, in the forest or in the pond. Test skills by building a bird nest or making a survival shelter.
Sessions are available July 5 and 6, or July 7 and 8, both from 9 a.m. to noon.
This program is appropriate for adult/child combinations, ages 3-13.
Pre-registration is required. Visit https://njaudubon.org/summer-camps/
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 second annual Daniel Anderl Love is Light 5K is scheduled for July 16 at North Brunswick Community Park, 2051 Route 130, North Brunswick.
The charity race will benefit the St. Augustine of Canterbury School in the Kendall Park section of South Brunswick, through the Daniel Anderl Class of 2014 Scholarship Fund. Anderl was killed in 2020 when a man targeting his mother, a federal judge, came to their North Brunswick home.
The purpose of the “Love is Light” 5K Run/Walk is three-fold, intended to:
- Honor Daniel’s legacy, who selflessly sacrificed his own life to protect his mother and father.
- Advocate to create national legislation that protects members of the judiciary, as evidenced by the signing of New Jersey Bill A1649, the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2020 (“Daniel’s Law”) that protects the privacy and security of members of the judiciary.
- Raise funds for academic student scholarships.
Create a team or virtual team, or contribute as a sponsor.
For registration and more information, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/NorthBrunswickCommunityParkNorthBrunswick/LoveisLight5K
The Edison Police Department will bring back its Junior Police Academy (JPA) in 2022.
The JPA will be held in two one-week sessions for local middle school students. The first session runs from Aug. 1-5 and the second from Aug. 8-12. Each daily session runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Woodrow Wilson Middle School, 50 Woodrow Wilson Dr., Edison.
Edison’s Junior Police Academy is open to all township students entering the sixth, seventh or eighth grades as of this upcoming September.
The registration deadline is July 18.
Activities include DWI and anti-drug education, personal safety instruction, sports activities, and a variety of demonstrations that may include police K-9s, emergency response, fire safety and suppression along with motor vehicle stops.
Academy graduates will receive a diploma during a graduation ceremony at 1 p.m. Aug. 5 and 1 p.m. Aug. 12 during their respective ceremony in Council Chambers at the Edison Municipal Complex, 100 Municipal Blvd., where family and friends are invited to attend.
Academy class sizes are limited, so students are selected on a first-come, first-served basis.
The program fee is $100 per session, payable by check or money order to the Edison Municipal Alliance and dropped off or mailed to 100 Municipal Blvd., Edison 08817. That fee covers the cost for supplies, equipment, T-shirts, water bottles, baseball caps and other giveaways.
To obtain an application, visit www.edisonpolice.org.
Direct all inquiries to Sgt. Donald Ship of the Community Oriented Policing Unit at 732 248-6462 or [email protected].
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.
The North Brunswick Police Department will hold a National Night Out Block Party, sponsored by North Brunswick Township, from 5-8 p.m. Aug. 2 outside police headquarters, 710 Hermann Road, North Brunswick.
This is an annual, nationwide community building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.
Rain or shine.
Free food and fun family activities.
The 84th annual Middlesex County Fair will be held Aug. 1-7 at the Middlesex County Fairgrounds, 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.
Fireworks are scheduled for opening night, Monday, Aug. 1, with a rain date of Aug. 2; and Sunday, Aug. 7, with no rain date.
Details about entertainment experiences will be announced.
For more information, visit middlesexcountyfair.com
The New Jersey Central Jazz Festival 2022 is planned for Sept. 9–11: Flemington Sept. 9, New Brunswick and Metuchen Sept. 10, and Somerville April 11.
The plans for Metuchen currently begin at 6 p.m. Sept. 10 in Downtown Metuchen at New and Pearl streets.
The Cornerstone Jazz Series at the Old Franklin Schoolhouse in Metuchen continues on Sunday afternoons in October and November; dates to be determined.
Kingston: On The Map will be on view through November from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in the History Room at the D&R Canal Locktender’s House, on old Lincoln Highway (off Route 27) in Kingston.
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/.
Ongoing
Both the Kendall Park First Aid and Rescue Squad and the Monmouth Junction First Aid Squad in South Brunswick are seeking new volunteer members.
Anyone age 18 or older who wants to save lives should apply.
Free training will be provided.
Anyone interested should call 888-842-6060.
St. Paul Community Church in Milltown is collecting food for members of the community in need.
Donations can be brought to the church at 62 S. Main St., Milltown.
Call Kim at 732-828-0020 with any questions.
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]
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
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
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.
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.
Sign up at https://forms.gle/nxuZUi5AMJe1RcyJ8
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]
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 womenscenter@j fsmiddlesex.org
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]
Dove Hospice Services of New Jersey seeks compassionate volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families.
Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes, which can also be nursing facilities or assisted living facilities, at least once a week. They read to the patient, reminisce about their lives, play cards, help with letter writing and provide respite for caregivers.
Visits can be virtual, and are either during the day or early evening.
Volunteers may also assist with administrative work within the hospice office.
Patient care volunteers complete an application and attend a virtual volunteer training program that covers the role of a hospice volunteer. Day and evening virtual training programs are offered.
To sign up for the next virtual training class, contact Volunteer Coordinator Deborah Adams at 732-405-3035 or email [email protected].