Musical Theater • July 30 & 31 at 8 p.m. – Mystic Vision Players will present Aida at the Linden High School Theatre, 121 W. St. Georges Ave. Tickets are $15 for adults; $12 for students 17 and under. The July 29 show is a senior citizen (62+) benefit. Call 1-908-486-4144 for reservations.

Blood Drive • July 30 from 1-7 p.m. – The Minnie B. Veal Community Center, 1070 Grove Ave., Edison, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Teen Gaming • July 30 at 2 p.m. – Teens are invited to enjoy a fun afternoon of Nintendo Wii or board games at the Clark Public Library. For info, call 1-732-388-5999.

Musical • July 30 & 31 at 7 p.m., Aug. 1 at 2 p.m. — See a production of “Footloose” at the South Amboy Middle/High School Theatre, 200 Gov. Hoffman Plaza. For tickets, call 1-732-910-7006.

Singles • July 31 at 8:30 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale singles dance at the Woodbridge Hilton, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+, no jeans/sneakers. $15 admission. For info, call 1-732-656-1801.

Blood Drive • Aug. 1 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 267 East Smith St., Woodbridge, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566

Colombian Day Festival • Aug. 1 – DJ Mad, best known for the club anthem “Put Your Drinks Up,” will perform live at the Colombian Day Festival on Morris Ave., Elizabeth. The festival will run from noon-9 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Scott Michaels Quartet will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 1 at 7 p.m. – The Mahoney Brothers will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Vacation Bible School • Aug. 2-6 from 9 a.m. – noon – First Presbyterian Church of Iselin, 1295 Oak Tree Road, will host vacation Bible school. Donation: $5 per child, $10 per family. For info, call 1-732-283-1188.

Club Meeting • Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. – Middlesex East Widows Or Widowers will conduct a business meeting at the Carteret Community Center, Pershing and Cooke avenues. All widows & widowers welcome to attend. For info, call 1-732-969-2228 or 1-908-757-0515.

Blood Drive • Aug. 3 from 2 – 8 p.m. – What’s The Scoop, 410 Main St.,Metuchen, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566

National Night Out • Aug. 3 from 5-7 p.m. – The Linden Police Department will host a National Night Out Against Crime event at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 N. Wood Ave., Linden. Free food & t-shirts (while supplies last); win a boy’s & girl’s bicycle.

Concert • Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m. – Joboanno & The Godsons of Soul will perform as part of the National Night Out Against Crime event at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 4 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. Aztec Two-Stop will perform folk rock music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • Aug. 4 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Elefta Hungarian Folk Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 5 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The Tim Gillis Band will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the main event, there will be a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. – The One & Nines will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Musical • Aug. 6 & 7 at 7 p.m., Aug. 8 at 2 p.m. — See a production of “Once on this Island” at the South Amboy Middle/High School Theatre, 200 Gov. Hoffman Plaza. For tickets, call 1-732-910-7006.

Blood Drive • Aug. 7 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Masons Lafayette Lodge #27, 1550 Irving St., Rahway, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Blood Drive • Aug. 7 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – St. James Church, corner of Rt. 35 S. & Main St., Woodbridge, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566

Octoberfest • Aug. 7 from 6-10 p.m.; Aug. 8 from noon – 6 p.m. – The Deustcher Club of Clark, 787 Featherbed Lane, will hold an Octoberfest event. Admission is $5 per day; German & American food will be available for purchase. Sat. music provided by The Adlers; Sun. music provided by Schwarzenegger Connection. For info, call 1-732-574-8600.

Flea Market • Aug. 8 from noon-5 p.m. – The Ladies Division of the Deutscher Club of Clark, 787 Featherbed Lane, will host a flea market. For info, call 1-732-574-8600.

Concert • Aug. 8 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Great Rootin’ Tootin’ High Falutin’ Puttin’ on the Ritz Novelty Band will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 8 at 7 p.m. – 52nd Street will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 9 at 7:30 p.m. – Denny Laine, former lead singer for the Moody Blues, and Larry Chance & the Earls will perform a free concert on the front lawn of Jonathan Dayton High School.

Blood Drive • Aug. 10 from 1 – 7 p.m. – Linden Knights of Columbus Council #2859, 118 North Park Ave., will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566

Concert • Aug. 10 at 7:30 p.m. – David Cedeno & His Salsa American Orchestra will perform Latin-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 11 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. McPeake will perform Irish folk music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • Aug. 11 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Sandy Sasso’s Swinging Big Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Club Meeting • Aug. 11 at 7 p.m. – Woodbridge Widows Or Widowers will conduct a business meeting at the Children’s Room of the Main Library, George Frederick Plaza, Rte. 35, Woodbridge. All widows and widowers are welcome. For info, call 1-732-381-3255 or 1-908-757-0515

Movie • Aug. 12 at 7:59 p.m. – Watch “Hannah Montana- The Movie” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Concert • Aug. 12 at 8 p.m. – Readymade Backup will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Singles • Aug. 13 from 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. – Middlesex East Widows Or Widowers, Carteret Chapter, will hold an open dance at the American Legion Hall, 1155 Roosevelt Ave., Carteret. Live music & refreshments. Admission: $10 members, $12 guests. For info, call 1-732-969-2228 or 1-908-757-0515.

Live Music • Aug. 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Bradford Hayes will perform jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Dancing • Aug. 14 from 9:30 p.m. – midnight – Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County will host Dancing with the Singles for ages 45-60 at PJ’s Coffee, 315 Raritan Ave., Highland Park. Professional ballroom dancers will entertain and engage you in an interactive evening of dance. Until Aug. 10, cost is $15; afterwards, cost is $20. For info and registration, call Jennine at 1-732-494-3232 x 621.

Concert • Aug. 15 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Joe Monchek Quartet will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. – Emil Stucchio will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Blood Drive • Aug. 16 from 3-8:30 p.m. – Osceola Presbyterian Church, 1689 Raritan Rd., Clark, will host a blood drive. For more info or to schedule an appointment, call the church office at 1-908-276-5300 or NJ Blood Services at 1-732-220-7000.

Blood Drive • Aug. 17 from 2-8 p.m. –The American Legion T. Nulty Post #471, 25 Brown Lane, Iselin will host a blood drive. To make an appointment, call 1-732-634-9119. Walk-ins welcome.

Concert • Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. – The Sensational Soul Cruisers will perform Motown-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 18 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Perry Brothers Irish Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 19 from 6:30-9 p.m. – Enjoy a concert and Broadway Idol competition as part of the Broadway Summer Series at the South Amboy Train Station Plaza in front of City Hall.

Concert • Aug. 19 at 8 p.m. – No Discipline will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

German Biergarten • Aug. 20 from 5:30-11 p.m. – The Deutscher Club of Clark, 787 Featherbed Lane, will host an authentic German biergarten. There will music by Richard Jordan, and 35 German theme cars will be on display. German & American food available to purchase. For info, call 1-732-574-8600.

Car Show • Aug. 21 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. – There will be a car show in front of City Hall, 50 Winfield Scott Plaza, Elizabeth. Rain date: Aug. 22.

Concert • Aug. 22 from 6-7:30 p.m. – Bernie Goydish’s Jersey Polka Stars will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. – Dominique & Julian will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 24 at 7:15 p.m. – The Bronx Wanderers will perform a Frankie Valli & Dion DiMucci tribute show at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 25 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Tim Gillis Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Movie • Aug. 26 at 7:39 p.m. – Watch “The Princess Bride” (Rated PG) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Concert • Aug. 26 at 8 p.m. – Roadside Graves will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Rodeo • Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. – There will be an African-American Heritage Rodeo at 790 Trumbull St., Elizabeth. Admission $5 in advance, $7 at the gate. For info, call 1-908-351-4850.

Concert • Aug. 29 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Billion Dollar Sound will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. – Larry Chance & the Earls will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 31 at 7:15 p.m. – Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra will perform polka-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 7 at 7:15 p.m. – Jersey Sound will perform golden oldies-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Movie • Aug. 12 at 7:59 p.m. – Watch “Hannah Montana- The Movie” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Movie • Sept. 9 at 7:16 p.m. – Watch “The Maltese Falcon” at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Movie • Sept. 23 at 6:53 p.m. – Watch “Invaders From Mars” at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Live Music • Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. – Red Reyne will perform original folk, rock and blues at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Concert • Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Verdict will perform music of the islands at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. – 52nd Street will perform a Billy Joel tribute show at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. – Dara & Frank will perform as part of Fire Prevention Night at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Live Music • Oct. 9 at 7:30 p.m. – Pam Purvis and the Blue Skies Band will perform smooth jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Live Music • Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m. – Trysette will perform original folk and rock at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

EDISON — A new program at Middlesex County College, the Center for Adults Returning to Education (CARE), will ease the way for those 21 years old and older as they return to school to complete their Associate’s Degree. They must have attended a college in New Jersey between 2000 and 2009 but not be currently enrolled; have at least 31 college credits with a 2.5 grade point average or better; and be in good academic standing.

A CARE counselor will assist them during the enrollment process, and several campus departments will offer special workshops and tutoring throughout the academic year. The application fee is waived for participants and they will also receive a $200 voucher at the College Bookstore each semester.

Middlesex is offering an information session about the program on Thursday, August 19 at 6 p.m. in College Center 319. To find out if you are eligible for the CARE Program, call 1-732-906-2509.

“Adults ‘Stop-Out’ of college for a variety of reasons – personal, financial or job-related,” said Marla Brinson, dean of enrollment and student support services. “Many are nervous about coming back to school and may hesitate and procrastinate. They know they need a college degree but are constantly putting it off. We understand that and want to make the transition back as easy as possible.”

Dorothea Spencer (Hillsborough) works as a medical record analyst, and says a degree is important to her future. She has enrolled in the CARE program.

“I was nervous about going back to school,” she said. “I’m 53 years old and thought I was too old. But I met with an admissions representative at Middlesex and she was very encouraging. I think having a counselor to help guide me through the process one-on-one is going to be a big help.”

Spencer, who is majoring in Liberal Arts/Psychology, has 41 credits from several colleges; she plans to graduate from Middlesex and transfer to a four-year college or university and earn a bachelor’s degree. “In my job, it is essential to have a degree,” she said.

Prospective students who are unemployed may be eligible for funding for tuition; they should contact their local Department of Labor One-Stop to check.

The CARE Center is funded by a grant from the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education.

Photo credit: Mykl Roventine

EDISON — Middlesex County College recently announced a new policy that prohibits smoking anywhere on campus. The policy, which took effect July 1, prohibits smoking tobacco in any campus building, college vehicle or while outdoors. The only exception is in personal vehicles.

In the fall of 2008, the college adopted a policy that restricted smoking to parking lots and to two gazebos on campus. The gazebos have been removed.

The new policy was passed by the College Assembly, which is an organization of faculty, administrators, staff and students that recommend policy changes to the college president, Joann La Perla-Morales. Dr. La Perla-Morales signed the new policy last spring and it was also approved by the College Board of Trustees.

Theresa Orosz, chair of the College Assembly, said that Middlesex is joining hundreds of colleges nationwide in prohibiting smoking on campus.

“It really is a benefit for all,” she said. “First, it protects non-smokers from the ills of second-hand smoke,” she said. “It promotes a cleaner campus. It also compliments our efforts to be a more environmentally friendly institution by recycling, energy efficiency and green building. We want to provide the healthiest environment possible for those who study, work and visit.”

To assist smokers in kicking the habit, the college continues to offer various cessation programs and information to services provided in the state of New Jersey at http://nj.quitnet.com/.

Musical Theater • July 23, 24, 29, 30 & 31 at 8 p.m.; July 25 at 3 p.m. – Mystic Vision Players will present Aida at the Linden High School Theatre, 121 W. St. Georges Ave. Tickets are $15 for adults; $12 for students 17 and under. The July 29 show is a senior citizen (62+) benefit. Call 1-908-486-4144 for reservations.

Blood Drive • July 24 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. – The Knights of Columbus Council 857, 130 Main St., Woodbridge, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Free Class • July 24 at 9 a.m. – Woodbridge Veterinary Group will offer a free dog behavior workshop, “100% Housebreaking and Home Freedom.” The people-only class will last approx. 90 minutes and be taught by a professional dog trainer. To register, call 1-732-750-2698.

Club Meeting • July 25 at 10 a.m. – Chug Ivrit Hebrew Club will meet at a private Highland Park area home. Club members chat in Hebrew and read a short article or story. For info, call Rachel at 1-732-819-9298.

Benefit Concert • July 25 at 4 p.m. – The Music & Arts Ministry Benefit for Haiti Concert will take place at the Morning Star Community Christian Center, 1009 Chandler Ave., Linden.

Concert • July 25 from 6-7:30 p.m. – Mark Heter & his band will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • July 25 at 7 p.m. – Suzette Dorsey will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Blood Drive • July 26 from 2-8 p.m. – Ar-Ex Pharmacy, 370 New Brunswick Ave., Fords, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Teen Craft • July 26 at 2 p.m. – The Clark Public Library invites teens entering grades 6-12 to make a great-looking bracelet using simple knotting techniques. Registration required; call 1-732-388-5999.

Kids Book Club • July 26 at 4:30 p.m. – Kids entering grades 3 through 5 are invited to stop in the Clark Public Library to talk about their favorite read of the summer, preview some of the library’s newest books and enjoy a sweet treat. Registration required; call 1-732-388-5999.

Concert • July 27 at 7:30 p.m. – The Kootz will perform Jersey Shore-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Book Sale • July 28 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – The Friends of the Perth Amboy Free Public Library are sponsoring a book sale at the library, 196 Jefferson St. For directions, call 1-732-826-2600.

Concert • July 28 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. Marty & The Martians will perform classic & current cover rock music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • July 28 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Bernie Goydish’s Jersey Polka Stars will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Game Night • July 28 from 7-8:30 p.m. – First Presbyterian Church of Iselin, 1295 Oak Tree Road, will host a game night. For info, call 1-732-283-1188.

Kids Craft • July 29 at 4:30 p.m. – Children entering grades 2-6 are invited to explore the work of surrealist artist Salvador Dali and create their own collage at the Clark Public Library. Registration required; call 1-732-388-5999.

Concert • July 29 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The Uncle Floyd will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the main event, there will be a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Movie • July 29 at 8:26 p.m. – Watch “The Lion King” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Blood Drive • July 30 from 1-7 p.m. – The Minnie B. Veal Community Center, 1070 Grove Ave., Edison, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Teen Gaming • July 30 at 2 p.m. – Teens are invited to enjoy a fun afternoon of Nintendo Wii or board games at the Clark Public Library. For info, call 1-732-388-5999.

Musical • July 30 & 31 at 7 p.m., Aug. 1 at 2 p.m. — See a production of “Footloose” at the South Amboy Middle/High School Theatre, 200 Gov. Hoffman Plaza. For tickets, call 1-732-910-7006.

Singles • July 31 at 8:30 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale singles dance at the Woodbridge Hilton, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+, no jeans/sneakers. $15 admission. For info, call 1-732-656-1801.

Blood Drive • Aug. 1 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 267 East Smith St., Woodbridge, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566

Concert • Aug. 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Scott Michaels Quartet will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 1 at 7 p.m. – The Mahoney Brothers will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Vacation Bible School • Aug. 2-6 from 9 a.m. – noon – First Presbyterian Church of Iselin, 1295 Oak Tree Road, will host vacation Bible school. Donation: $5 per child, $10 per family. For info, call 1-732-283-1188.

Club Meeting • Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. – Middlesex East Widows Or Widowers will conduct a business meeting at the Carteret Community Center, Pershing and Cooke avenues. All widows & widowers welcome to attend. For info, call 1-732-969-2228 or 1-908-757-0515.

Blood Drive • Aug. 3 from 2 – 8 p.m. – What’s The Scoop, 410 Main St., Metuchen, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566

National Night Out • Aug. 3 from 5-7 p.m. – The Linden Police Department will host a National Night Out Against Crime event at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 N. Wood Ave., Linden. Free food & t-shirts (while supplies last); win a boy’s & girl’s bicycle.

Concert • Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m. – Joboanno & The Godsons of Soul will perform as part of the National Night Out Against Crime event at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 4 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. Aztec Two-Stop will perform folk rock music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • Aug. 4 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Elefta Hungarian Folk Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 5 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The Tim Gillis Band will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the main event, there will be a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. – The One & Nines will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Musical • Aug. 6 & 7 at 7 p.m., Aug. 8 at 2 p.m. -- See a production of “Once on this Island” at the South Amboy Middle/High School Theatre, 200 Gov. Hoffman Plaza. For tickets, call 1-732-910-7006.

Blood Drive • Aug. 7 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Masons Lafayette Lodge #27, 1550 Irving St., Rahway, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Blood Drive • Aug. 7 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – St. James Church, corner of Rt. 35 S. & Main St., Woodbridge, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566

Octoberfest • Aug. 7 from 6-10 p.m.; Aug. 8 from noon – 6 p.m. – The Deustcher Club of Clark, 787 Featherbed Lane, will hold an Octoberfest event. Admission is $5 per day; German & American food will be available for purchase. Sat. music provided by The Adlers; Sun. music provided by Schwarzenegger Connection. For info, call 1-732-574-8600.

Flea Market • Aug. 8 from noon-5 p.m. – The Ladies Division of the Deutscher Club of Clark, 787 Featherbed Lane, will host a flea market. For info, call 1-732-574-8600.

Concert • Aug. 8 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Great Rootin’ Tootin’ High Falutin’ Puttin’ on the Ritz Novelty Band will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 8 at 7 p.m. – 52nd Street will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Blood Drive • Aug. 10 from 1 – 7 p.m. – Linden Knights of Columbus Council #2859, 118 North Park Ave., will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566

Concert • Aug. 10 at 7:30 p.m. – David Cedeno & His Salsa American Orchestra will perform Latin-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 11 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. McPeake will perform Irish folk music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • Aug. 11 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Sandy Sasso’s Swinging Big Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Movie • Aug. 12 at 7:59 p.m. – Watch “Hannah Montana- The Movie” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Concert • Aug. 12 at 8 p.m. – Readymade Backup will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Live Music • Aug. 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Bradford Hayes will perform jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Concert • Aug. 15 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Joe Monchek Quartet will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. – Emil Stucchio will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. – The Sensational Soul Cruisers will perform Motown-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 18 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Perry Brothers Irish Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 19 from 6:30-9 p.m. – Enjoy a concert and Broadway Idol competition as part of the Broadway Summer Series at the South Amboy Train Station Plaza in front of City Hall.

Concert • Aug. 19 at 8 p.m. – No Discipline will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

German Biergarten • Aug. 20 from 5:30-11 p.m. – The Deutscher Club of Clark, 787 Featherbed Lane, will host an authentic German biergarten. There will music by Richard Jordan, and 35 German theme cars will be on display. German & American food available to purchase. For info, call 1-732-574-8600.

Concert • Aug. 22 from 6-7:30 p.m. – Bernie Goydish’s Jersey Polka Stars will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. – Dominique & Julian will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 24 at 7:15 p.m. – The Bronx Wanderers will perform a Frankie Valli & Dion DiMucci tribute show at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 25 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Tim Gillis Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Movie • Aug. 26 at 7:39 p.m. – Watch “The Princess Bride” (Rated PG) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Concert • Aug. 26 at 8 p.m. – Roadside Graves will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Concert • Aug. 29 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Billion Dollar Sound will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. – Larry Chance & the Earls will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 31 at 7:15 p.m. – Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra will perform polka-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 7 at 7:15 p.m. – Jersey Sound will perform golden oldies-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Movie • Aug. 12 at 7:59 p.m. – Watch “Hannah Montana- The Movie” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Movie • Sept. 9 at 7:16 p.m. – Watch “The Maltese Falcon” at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Movie • Sept. 23 at 6:53 p.m. – Watch “Invaders From Mars” at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Live Music • Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. – Red Reyne will perform original folk, rock and blues at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Concert • Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Verdict will perform music of the islands at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. – 52nd Street will perform a Billy Joel tribute show at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. – Dara & Frank will perform as part of Fire Prevention Night at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Live Music • Oct. 9 at 7:30 p.m. – Pam Purvis and the Blue Skies Band will perform smooth jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Live Music • Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m. – Trysette will perform original folk and rock at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Photo credit: Richard Drdul

TRENTON – Police agencies throughout New Jersey will be participating this summer in a pedestrian safety enforcement and education program designed to increase awareness about safely sharing the road, Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS) Director Pam Fischer announced Thursday.

Known as “Cops in Crosswalks,” the federally-funded initiative places undercover police officers, posing as pedestrians, in marked crosswalks.  Motorists who fail to stop for the undercover officers are stopped and issued warnings or tickets by uniformed officers a short distance away.   The Division will be providing federal grants of $8,000 each to 13 police departments for the program, which will run from mid-July to mid-September.  In addition, towns receiving year-long pedestrian safety grants from the Division will also participate in this initiative, which has been run in towns throughout the state for the past two years.

Fischer noted that the initiative will also help to reinforce New Jersey’s pedestrian safety law, which was amended on April 1, to require motorists to stop and stay stopped for pedestrians in marked crosswalks.  Prior to the change, motorists were required to yield.

“By changing the language in the state’s 50-year old pedestrian statute from yield to stop, motorists now know that when they approach a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk, they must stop and remain stopped to allow that pedestrian to cross safely,” Fischer stated.  “The law also makes it unlawful for a vehicle to overtake or pass another vehicle that is stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross.  It also infers that a motorist is at fault when there is a conflict between a vehicle and a pedestrian in a crosswalk.”

Pedestrians must also do their part under the amended law.  “It’s a pedestrian’s responsibility to take due care when crossing the street,” she said.  “That means that a pedestrian should never suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the roadway, where it is impossible for a motorist to stop.  Pedestrians must also obey all traffic signs and signals, including ‘walk/don’t walk.’   If a pedestrian does enter the roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or at an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, he or she must yield the right of way to all motor vehicles.”

Motorists violating the law face a $200 fine, plus court costs, and 2 points on their license.  They can also be subject to 15 days of community service and insurance surcharges.  Pedestrians failing to comply with the law face a $54 fine, plus court costs.

According to a recent Fairleigh Dickinson University PublicMind poll on driver attitudes and behaviors, nearly 95 percent of New Jersey drivers know that state law requires them to stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk.

As part of the Division’s ongoing effort to educate the public about the amended law, an oversized palm card (similar in size to a traffic ticket) that outlines the changes, has been distributed to police departments. The card will be given to motorists and pedestrians as part of the effort.  This information has also been made available to high school driver education teachers and defensive driving program providers and will be detailed in the New Jersey Driver Manual to ensure that all novice and experienced drivers are educated about the law change.

In addition, the Division of Highway Traffic Safety is partnering with Downtown NJ, a statewide organization that works with elected officials, local businesses and community organizations to promote municipal downtown areas, to reinforce the pedestrian safety message in town centers.

“Pedestrian safety is an utmost concern to our members in Downtown NJ. Shopping districts, large and small, suburban and urban, rely on people to shop, dine, live and work there,” said Kathleen Miller Prunty, President, Downtown NJ and Downtown Director, Cranford.  “We are pleased that an emphasis is on people and not just vehicles. Many of our member communities have been proactive in making downtowns more pedestrian friendly. Downtown NJ is committed to working with the Division of Highway Traffic Safety to spread the word that keeping pedestrians safe is good business.”

“Foot track is vital to our downtowns, so we want to ensure that pedestrians travel safely while they’re patronizing local businesses,” Fischer said.  “That not only means that motorists must slow down and observe the posted speed limit in our downtowns, but pedestrians should always use marked crosswalks.  To help reinforce the crosswalk message, we have developed a decal that local businesses and municipalities can prominently display in their windows and storefronts, as well as on sign posts, benches, garbage cans, and even stencil on sidewalks.”

Fischer noted that since 2004, approximately 150 pedestrians have been killed and 6,000 injured annually in traffic-related crashes on New Jersey roadways.  The percentage of pedestrians killed annually in New Jersey, between 20 and 25 percent, is double the national rate.  In 2009, after a three-year downward trend, the number of pedestrian deaths statewide increased to 157.  As of July 12 of this year, 70 pedestrians have been killed in motor vehicle-related crashes statewide, as compared to 84 for the same time period last year.  Additionally, since 2004, more than 30,000 pedestrians have been injured in motor-vehicle related crashes statewide.

“While the return to a downward trend is positive, our goal has been and will remain, zero fatalities,” Fischer said.  “Initiatives such as the one unveiled today can go a long way in helping us achieve our goal.  Until then, we will continue to educate both pedestrians and motorists about the importance of always taking personal responsibility for their actions. Everyone using our transportation system, regardless of their mode of travel, shares the responsibility for ensuring their own safety.”

Singles • July 17 at 8:30 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale singles dance at the Woodbridge Hilton Grand Ballroom, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+, no jeans/sneakers. Admission: $15. For info, call 1-732-656-1801.

Blood Drive • July 18 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. – St. Genevieve R.C. Church, 200 Monmouth Road, Elizabeth, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Concert • July 18 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The George Krauss Memorial Band, led by Barbara Santoro, will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • July 18 at 7 p.m. – Jersey Sound will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Singles • July 18 from 7-11 p.m. – Woodbridge Widows Or Widowers will hold an open dance at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Morrisey Ave., Avenel. Light refreshments; all welcome. Admission: $10 members, $12 guests. For info, call 732-381-3255 or 908-757-0515.

Teen Craft • July 19 at 2 p.m. – Teens entering grades 6-12 are invited to use old magazines and junk mail to create a beautiful beaded necklace or bracelet at the Clark Public Library. Registration required; call 1-732-388-5999.

Songs & Stories • July 20 at 3:30 p.m. – Children ages 5 and up are invited to enjoy songs and stories with professional storytellers at the Clark Public Library. Registration required; call 1-732-388-5999.

Concert • July 20 at 7:30 p.m. – Neil & The Diamonds, a Neil Diamond tribute band, will perform at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • July 21 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Zydeco-A-Go-Go will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • July 22 from 7:30-9 p.m. – Enjoy songs of the 60s and 70s as part of the Broadway Summer Series at the South Amboy Train Station Plaza in front of City Hall. Bring a lawn chair.

Concert • July 22 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The 1910 Fruitgum Company will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the show, Hocus Pocus Magic will present a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Blood Drive • July 22 from 1:30-7:30 p.m. – The Clark Volunteer Emergency Squad, 875 Raritan Road, Clark, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Bubble Trouble • July 22 at 7 p.m. – Children are invited to enjoy an amazing evening of bubbles at the Clark Library. As a finale, one kid will be placed inside a bubble. Registration required; call 1-732-388-5999.

Blood Drive • July 23 from 1-7 p.m. – The Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall, 651 Kapkowski Road, Elizabeth, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Teen Gaming • July 23 at 2 p.m. – Teens are invited to enjoy traditional board games or Nintendo Wii video games at the Clark Public Library. For info, call 1-732-388-5999.

Musical Theater • July 23, 24, 29, 30 & 31 at 8 p.m.; July 25 at 3 p.m. – Mystic Vision Players will present Aida at the Linden High School Theatre, 121 W. St. Georges Ave. Tickets are $15 for adults; $12 for students 17 and under. The July 29 show is a senior citizen (62+) benefit. Call 1-908-486-4144 for reservations.

Blood Drive • July 24 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. – The Knights of Columbus Council 857, 130 Main St., Woodbridge, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Club Meeting • July 25 at 10 a.m. – Chug Ivrit Hebrew Club will meet at a private Highland Park area home. Club members chat in Hebrew and read a short article or story. For info, call Rachel at 1-732-819-9298.

Benefit Concert • July 25 at 4 p.m. – The Music & Arts Ministry Benefit for Haiti Concert will take place at the Morning Star Community Christian Center, 1009 Chandler Ave., Linden.

Concert • July 25 from 6-7:30 p.m. – Mark Heter & his band will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • July 25 at 7 p.m. – Suzette Dorsey will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Blood Drive • July 26 from 2-8 p.m. – Ar-Ex Pharmacy, 370 New Brunswick Ave., Fords, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Concert • July 27 at 7:30 p.m. – The Kootz will perform Jersey Shore-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • July 28 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. Marty & The Martians will perform classic & current cover rock music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • July 28 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Bernie Goydish’s Jersey Polka Stars will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Game Night • July 28 from 7-8:30 p.m. – First Presbyterian Church of Iselin, 1295 Oak Tree Road, will host a game night. For info, call 1-732-283-1188.

Concert • July 29 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The Uncle Floyd will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the main event, there will be a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Movie • July 29 at 8:26 p.m. – Watch “The Lion King” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Blood Drive • July 30 from 1-7 p.m. – The Minnie B. Veal Community Center, 1070 Grove Ave., Edison, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Musical • July 30 & 31 at 7 p.m., Aug. 1 at 2 p.m. — See a production of “Footloose” at the South Amboy Middle/High School Theatre, 200 Gov. Hoffman Plaza. For tickets, call 1-732-910-7006.

Singles • July 31 at 8:30 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale singles dance at the Woodbridge Hilton, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+, no jeans/sneakers. $15 admission. For info, call 1-732-656-1801.

Concert • Aug. 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Scott Michaels Quartet will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 1 at 7 p.m. – The Mahoney Brothers will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Vacation Bible School • Aug. 2-6 from 9 a.m. – noon – First Presbyterian Church of Iselin, 1295 Oak Tree Road, will host vacation Bible school. Donation: $5 per child, $10 per family. For info, call 1-732-283-1188.

National Night Out • Aug. 3 from 5-7 p.m. – The Linden Police Department will host a National Night Out Against Crime event at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 N. Wood Ave., Linden. Free food & t-shirts (while supplies last); win a boy’s & girl’s bicycle.

Concert • Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m. – Joboanno & The Godsons of Soul will perform as part of the National Night Out Against Crime event at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 4 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. Aztec Two-Stop will perform folk rock music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • Aug. 4 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Elefta Hungarian Folk Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 5 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The Tim Gillis Band will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the main event, there will be a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. – The One & Nines will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Musical • Aug. 6 & 7 at 7 p.m., Aug. 8 at 2 p.m. -- See a production of “Once on this Island” at the South Amboy Middle/High School Theatre, 200 Gov. Hoffman Plaza. For tickets, call 1-732-910-7006.

Concert • Aug. 8 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Great Rootin’ Tootin’ High Falutin’ Puttin’ on the Ritz Novelty Band will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 8 at 7 p.m. – 52nd Street will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 10 at 7:30 p.m. – David Cedeno & His Salsa American Orchestra will perform Latin-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 11 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. McPeake will perform Irish folk music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • Aug. 11 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Sandy Sasso’s Swinging Big Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Movie • Aug. 12 at 7:59 p.m. – Watch “Hannah Montana- The Movie” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Concert • Aug. 12 at 8 p.m. – Readymade Backup will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Live Music • Aug. 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Bradford Hayes will perform jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Concert • Aug. 15 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Joe Monchek Quartet will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. – Emil Stucchio will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. – The Sensational Soul Cruisers will perform Motown-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 18 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Perry Brothers Irish Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 19 from 6:30-9 p.m. – Enjoy a concert and Broadway Idol competition as part of the Broadway Summer Series at the South Amboy Train Station Plaza in front of City Hall.

Concert • Aug. 19 at 8 p.m. – No Discipline will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Concert • Aug. 22 from 6-7:30 p.m. – Bernie Goydish’s Jersey Polka Stars will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. – Dominique & Julian will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 24 at 7:15 p.m. – The Bronx Wanderers will perform a Frankie Valli & Dion DiMucci tribute show at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 25 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Tim Gillis Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Movie • Aug. 26 at 7:39 p.m. – Watch “The Princess Bride” (Rated PG) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.
Concert • Aug. 26 at 8 p.m. – Roadside Graves will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Concert • Aug. 29 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Billion Dollar Sound will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. – Larry Chance & the Earls will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 31 at 7:15 p.m. – Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra will perform polka-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 7 at 7:15 p.m. – Jersey Sound will perform golden oldies-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Movie • Aug. 12 at 7:59 p.m. – Watch “Hannah Montana- The Movie” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Movie • Sept. 9 at 7:16 p.m. – Watch “The Maltese Falcon” at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Movie • Sept. 23 at 6:53 p.m. – Watch “Invaders From Mars” at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Live Music • Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. – Red Reyne will perform original folk, rock and blues at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Concert • Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Verdict will perform music of the islands at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. – 52nd Street will perform a Billy Joel tribute show at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. – Dara & Frank will perform as part of Fire Prevention Night at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Live Music • Oct. 9 at 7:30 p.m. – Pam Purvis and the Blue Skies Band will perform smooth jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Live Music • Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m. – Trysette will perform original folk and rock at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Photo credit: Kat

NEW BRUNSWICK — Middlesex County Clerk Elaine Flynn has announced that the County’s Passport Office will be open late Monday, July 12 to accommodate travelers who need to apply for Passports before new price increases go into effect.

The office will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. on Monday, July 12 only.

Currently, Passports for residents age 16 and over are $75 plus a $25 processing fee. Passports for minors under age 16 are $60 plus the $25 processing fee.

As of Tuesday, July 13, the U.S. Department of State is raising the price of adult Passports to $110 and the price of the Passports for minors to $80. The $25 processing fee remains the same.

An adult passport is good for 10 years, while a child’s passport lasts for five. The cost of renewing expired documentation will also increase to $110.

The Middlesex County Clerk’s Office is located inside the County Administration Building, 75 Bayard Street in New Brunswick. Please call the Passport Office at 732-745-3404 for more information. Normal business hours will resume July 13.

TRENTON— The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT)  announced an upcoming traffic shift on Route 1 over the Millstone River in West Windsor and Plainsboro  in connection with an ongoing bridge replacement project.

NJDOT will establish a new construction zone on the center portion of the Route 1 bridge by shifting northbound traffic to the right and keeping southbound traffic shifted to the right.

On Friday, July 9 NJDOT will require temporary overnight double-lane closures on Route 1 northbound from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning to implement the new traffic pattern. In the case of inclement weather, the traffic shifts will take place Saturday night, July 10.

One lane of Route 1 northbound will remain open during these overnight traffic shifts. No lane closures will be required on Route 1 southbound at this time. Once the new traffic pattern is implemented, Route 1 will maintain three full lanes of traffic in each direction over the Millstone River. All work is weather dependent.

The $18.8 million project will replace the structurally deficient Route 1 Bridge over the Millstone River. The new concrete bridge will feature shoulders and two sidewalks. The use of pre-cast concrete bridge components will enable NJDOT to complete the project without major impacts to traffic. Construction work requiring lane closures is being done overnight in order to minimize impacts on Route 1 traffic. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2010.

Variable message signs have been installed on Route 1 to inform motorists of changes in traffic operations during construction. Construction information and real-time traffic updates are available at www.511nj.org or by calling 511.

Blood Drive • July 10 from 12:30-6:30 p.m. and July 11 from 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. – Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall, 651 Kapkowski Road, Elizabeth, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Country Western Night • July 10 from 3-10 p.m. – The Deutscher Club of Clark, 787 Featherbed Lane, will host a country western night with live music by the Thunderhill Band. A $5 per person donation is requested. For info, call 1-732-574-8600.

Live Music • July 10 at 7:30 p.m. – Eldad Tarmu will perform original jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Blood Drive • July 11 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. – The Turkish Community Center, 1 Ethel Road, Edison, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Concert • July 11 from 6-7:30 p.m. – Francene Kane & Her Gentleman Friends will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • July 11 at 7 p.m. – The Cameos will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • July 13 at 7:30 p.m. – Zydecco A-Go-Go will perform Mardi Gras Linden-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • July 14 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. Meta & The Cornerstones will perform reggae and African music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • July 14 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Robert Murdock Tribute Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Club Meeting • July 14 at 7 p.m. – Woodbridge Widows Or Widowers will hold a business meeting in the children’s room of the Main Library, located at George Frederick Plaza, Rte. 35, Woodbridge. All widows and widowers are welcome. For info, call 732-381-3255 or 908-757-0515.

Blood Drive • July 15 from 2-8 p.m. – The Theodore Roosevelt Masonic Lodge, 82 Elm St., Carteret, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Concert • July 15 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The Cindy Marro Band will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the show, Kurt Gallagher Sings will present a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Concert • July 15 at 8 p.m. – Andy Rothstein and Friends will perform a jazz / rock fusion concert at the Barron Arts Center, 582 Rahway Ave., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-634-0413

Movie • July 15 at 8:26 p.m. – Watch “UP” (Rated PG) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

German Biergarten • July 16 from 5:30-11 p.m. – The Deutscher Club of Clark, 787 Featherbed Lane, will host an authentic German Biergarten with German and American food available for purchase. No outside food permitted. Live music and 35 German theme cars will be on display. For info, call 1-732-574-8600.

Singles • July 17 at 8:30 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale singles dance at the Woodbridge Hilton Grand Ballroom, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+, no jeans/sneakers. Admission: $15. For info, call 1-732-656-1801.

Blood Drive • July 18 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. – St. Genevieve R.C. Church, 200 Monmouth Road, Elizabeth, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Concert • July 18 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The George Krauss Memorial Band, led by Barbara Santoro, will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • July 18 at 7 p.m. – Jersey Sound will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Singles • July 18 from 7-11 p.m. – Woodbridge Widows Or Widowers will hold an open dance at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Morrisey Ave., Avenel. Light refreshments; all welcome. Admission: $10 members, $12 guests. For info, call 732-381-3255 or 908-757-0515.

Concert • July 20 at 7:30 p.m. – Neil & The Diamonds, a Neil Diamond tribute band, will perform at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • July 21 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Zydeco-A-Go-Go will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • July 22 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The 1910 Fruitgum Company will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the show, Hocus Pocus Magic will present a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Blood Drive • July 22 from 1:30-7:30 p.m. – The Clark Volunteer Emergency Squad, 875 Raritan Road, Clark, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Blood Drive • July 23 from 1-7 p.m. – The Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall, 651 Kapkowski Road, Elizabeth, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Musical Theater • July 23, 24, 29, 30 & 31 at 8 p.m.; July 25 at 3 p.m. – Mystic Vision Players will present Aida at the Linden High School Theatre, 121 W. St. Georges Ave. Tickets are $15 for adults; $12 for students 17 and under. The July 29 show is a senior citizen (62+) benefit. Call 1-908-486-4144 for reservations.

Blood Drive • July 24 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. – The Knights of Columbus Council 857, 130 Main St., Woodbridge, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Club Meeting • July 25 at 10 a.m. – Chug Ivrit Hebrew Club will meet at a private Highland Park area home. Club members chat in Hebrew and read a short article or story. For info, call Rachel at 1-732-819-9298.

Benefit Concert • July 25 at 4 p.m. – The Music & Arts Ministry Benefit for Haiti Concert will take place at the Morning Star Community Christian Center, 1009 Chandler Ave., Linden.

Concert • July 25 from 6-7:30 p.m. – Mark Heter & his band will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • July 25 at 7 p.m. – Suzette Dorsey will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Blood Drive • July 26 from 2-8 p.m. – Ar-Ex Pharmacy, 370 New Brunswick Ave., Fords, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Concert • July 27 at 7:30 p.m. – The Kootz will perform Jersey Shore-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • July 28 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. Marty & The Martians will perform classic & current cover rock music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • July 28 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Bernie Goydish’s Jersey Polka Stars will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Game Night • July 28 from 7-8:30 p.m. – First Presbyterian Church of Iselin, 1295 Oak Tree Road, will host a game night. For info, call 1-732-283-1188.

Concert • July 29 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The Uncle Floyd will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the main event, there will be a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Movie • July 29 at 8:26 p.m. – Watch “The Lion King” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Blood Drive • July 30 from 1-7 p.m. – The Minnie B. Veal Community Center, 1070 Grove Ave., Edison, will host a blood drive. For info, call 1-800-933-2566.

Singles • July 31 at 8:30 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale singles dance at the Woodbridge Hilton, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+, no jeans/sneakers. $15 admission. For info, call 1-732-656-1801.

Concert • Aug. 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Scott Michaels Quartet will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 1 at 7 p.m. – The Mahoney Brothers will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Vacation Bible School • Aug. 2-6 from 9 a.m. – noon – First Presbyterian Church of Iselin, 1295 Oak Tree Road, will host vacation Bible school. Donation: $5 per child, $10 per family. For info, call 1-732-283-1188.

Concert • Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m. – Joboanno & The Godsons of Soul will perform as part of the National Night Out Against Crime event at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 4 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. Aztec Two-Stop will perform folk rock music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • Aug. 4 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Elefta Hungarian Folk Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 5 from 7:30-9 p.m. – The Tim Gillis Band will perform a free concert at Centennial Park, Springfield Ave. in New Providence. Before the main event, there will be a kids’ show beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. – The One & Nines will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Concert • Aug. 8 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Great Rootin’ Tootin’ High Falutin’ Puttin’ on the Ritz Novelty Band will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 8 at 7 p.m. – 52nd Street will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 10 at 7:30 p.m. – David Cedeno & His Salsa American Orchestra will perform Latin-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 11 at 6 p.m. – The Woodbridge Summer Concert Series continues at Main Street and School Street. McPeake will perform Irish folk music. In case of rain, the show will be moved to Woodbridge Middle School, 525 Barron Ave. Call 1-732-602-6045 after 3 p.m. for change of venue information.

Concert • Aug. 11 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Sandy Sasso’s Swinging Big Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Movie • Aug. 12 at 7:59 p.m. – Watch “Hannah Montana- The Movie” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Concert • Aug. 12 at 8 p.m. – Readymade Backup will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Live Music • Aug. 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Bradford Hayes will perform jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Concert • Aug. 15 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Joe Monchek Quartet will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. – Emil Stucchio will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. – The Sensational Soul Cruisers will perform Motown-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 18 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Perry Brothers Irish Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 19 at 8 p.m. – No Discipline will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Concert • Aug. 22 from 6-7:30 p.m. – Bernie Goydish’s Jersey Polka Stars will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. – Dominique & Julian will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 24 at 7:15 p.m. – The Bronx Wanderers will perform a Frankie Valli & Dion DiMucci tribute show at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Aug. 25 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Tim Gillis Band will perform a free concert at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, O’Leary Blvd. South Amboy. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Movie • Aug. 26 at 7:39 p.m. – Watch “The Princess Bride” (Rated PG) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Concert • Aug. 26 at 8 p.m. – Roadside Graves will perform at the Senior Center, 15 Center St., Metuchen.

Concert • Aug. 29 from 6-7:30 p.m. – The Billion Dollar Sound will perform a free concert at Warren Park Mini Theater, Florida Grove Rd., Woodbridge. For info, call 1-732-745-3936.

Concert • Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. – Larry Chance & the Earls will perform as part of Carteret’s “Concerts by the Bay” series in Waterfront Park. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Deverin Community Center, 100 Cooke Ave., Carteret.

Concert • Aug. 31 at 7:15 p.m. – Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra will perform polka-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 7 at 7:15 p.m. – Jersey Sound will perform golden oldies-style music at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Movie • Aug. 12 at 7:59 p.m. – Watch “Hannah Montana- The Movie” (Rated G) at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Movie • Sept. 9 at 7:16 p.m. – Watch “The Maltese Falcon” at the RaymondWood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Movie • Sept. 23 at 6:53 p.m. – Watch “Invaders From Mars” at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden.

Live Music • Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. – Red Reyne will perform original folk, rock and blues at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Concert • Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m. – Verdict will perform music of the islands at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. – 52nd Street will perform a Billy Joel tribute show at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Concert • Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. – Dara & Frank will perform as part of Fire Prevention Night at the Raymond Wood Bauer Promenade, 400 North Wood Ave., Linden. In the event of rain, call 908-474-8604 after 4 p.m.

Live Music • Oct. 9 at 7:30 p.m. – Pam Purvis and the Blue Skies Band will perform smooth jazz at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

Live Music • Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m. – Trysette will perform original folk and rock at the Salem Roadhouse Café, 829 Salem Road, Union. Admission: $15. Includes gourmet coffees, teas, snacks & dessert. A portion benefits local charities. For info, call 1-908-686-1028.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY – This week, Kohl’s Department Stores awarded more than 200 volunteers with $1,000 scholarships toward post-secondary education. Through the 2010 Kohl’s Kids Who Care Scholarship Program, three Middlesex County students stood out among more than 27,000 nominees nationwide for helping to make their communities a better place.

“These kids are doing remarkable work to benefit their local communities,” said Julie Gardner, Kohl’s executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “As we celebrate the 10th annual Kohl’s Kids Who Care Scholarship Program, now more than ever, we feel privileged to be in a position to help support the continued education of deserving kids across the country who are making a real difference in the lives of others.”

Middlesex County recipients of $1,000 scholarships are:

• Ronak Gandhi, 17, Plainsboro – Gandhi organized a fundraiser for the March of Dimes that helped to raise more than $50,000 for the organization to help reduce premature birth, infant mortality and birth defects.
• Stephen O’Leary, 12, Spotswood – O’Leary collected shoes, school supplies and postage money to mail more than 40 cases of supplies to a U.S. marine requesting provisions for Afghani children.
• Rachael Siegel, 17, Edison – Siegel developed “Rachael’s Bears for Broadway Cares” to design, create and auction off Broadway theater-inspired teddy bears to raise more than $13,000 to benefit the charity Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

One Union County resident also received a scholarship:

• Steven Smolyn, 16, Summit – Smolyn assembled and sold thousands of holiday decorations to raise more than $30,000 to benefit Gilda’s Club of New York City, a cancer support organization.

Winners were chosen based on initiative, creativity, leadership and generosity. Each regional-level winner also qualifies for one of Kohl’s 10 national scholarships, which will be announced at the end of July. This year, Kohl’s is increasing the total scholarship amounts to $10,000 for 10 national winners, and will donate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization on each winner’s behalf. In total, Kohl’s will recognize more than 2,100 awardees with more than $410,000 in scholarships and prizes.