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Union County High School Seniors Awarded Berkeley College Scholarships

atomtabloid — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 13:00:09 +0000

Seated (L to R): High school seniors Shannon Soto of Linden; Casleny Augustin of Rahway; Patrycja Potocka of Linden; and Marco Bautista of Elizabeth. Standing (L to R): Kimberly Alvarez of Elizabeth; Michael Rosa of Rahway; Malaica Beaubrun of Roselle; Maria Camila Cuevas of Elizabeth; and Debra Mallamace, Berkeley College Campus Operating Officer, Woodbridge. The students received scholarships to attend Berkeley College. (Photo courtesy of Berkeley College)

UNION COUNTY — Berkeley College President Dario A. Cortes, PhD has announced that high school seniors from Union County have received scholarships to attend Berkeley College.

“We are proud to recognize the academic accomplishments of these high school seniors by awarding them scholarships to attend Berkeley College,” said Dr. Cortes. “As a college that values diversity, fosters academic growth and recognizes the potential of each student, Berkeley College looks forward to welcoming these scholarship recipients to our campuses in the coming year.”

The following students from Union County have received scholarships to attend Berkeley College:

Kimberly Alvarez of Elizabeth, Admiral William F. Halsey Jr. Leadership Academy
Jossmarie Anaya of Elizabeth, Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy
Casleny Augustin of Rahway, Rahway High School
Marco Bautista of Elizabeth, Admiral William F. Halsey Jr. Leadership Academy
Malaica Beaubrun of Roselle, Abraham Clark High School
Lissett Benitez of Elizabeth, Thomas A. Edison Career & Technical Education High School
John Calva of Elizabeth, Admiral William F. Halsey Jr. Leadership Academy
Khadijah Cook of Elizabeth, John E. Dwyer Technology Academy
Maria Camila Cuevas of Elizabeth, Elizabeth High School Upper Academy
Karla Gallardo of Linden, Linden High School
Erick Munoz of Elizabeth, Admiral William F. Halsey Jr. Leadership Academy
Patrycja Potocka of Linden, Linden High School
Michael Rosa of Rahway, Rahway High School
Shannon Soto of Linden, Linden High School
Valeria Valencia of Union, Union High School
Minoska Zapata of Linden, Linden High School

Berkeley College scholarships are awarded annually to high school seniors who demonstrate a high level of achievement in high school. Scholarships are renewable based on the recipient’s cumulative grade point average at the end of each academic year and continued enrollment as a full-time student.

A leader in business education for 80 years, Berkeley College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and enrolls more than 8,700 students — including more than 800 international students — in its Baccalaureate and Associate degree programs. The College has four New Jersey locations — Woodland Park, Paramus, Woodbridge, and Newark. And in New York there are four locations — Midtown Manhattan, Lower Manhattan in the Wall Street area, Brooklyn, and White Plains. Berkeley College Online also offers full degree programs.

Middlesex County Clerk Announces Independent Foreclosure Review Program

atomtabloid — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:57:07 +0000

MIDDLESEX COUNTY — Middlesex County Clerk Elaine M. Flynn encouraged homeowners who were part of a home foreclosure between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2010 to take advantage of a new review program being offered by the federal government.

The Independent Foreclosure Review program is being offered through the Federal Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Homeowners who were part of a foreclosure during that time period are eligible to request an independent review of their foreclosure process.

If the review finds that financial injury occurred to the homeowner as a result of errors, misrepresentations or other deficiencies in the servicer’s foreclosure process, the homeowner may be eligible for compensation. Where a borrower suffered financial injury as a result of such practices, the consent orders require remediation to be provided.

“If you underwent a foreclosure in 2009 or 2010, I urge you to take advantage of this process,” Flynn said. “This review will help determine if you suffered undue financial injury due to errors or other problems during your home foreclosure process.”

Under enforcement actions taken by the OCC, the Federal Reserve and the Office of Thrift Supervision in April 2011, 14 large mortgage services were required to correct deficiencies in their servicing and foreclosure processes and to engage independent firms to conduct a multi-faceted independent review of foreclosure actions that occurred in 2009 and 2010.

“I would like to thank the County Clerk for bringing attention to this program and for looking out for the best interests of our residents,” said Middlesex County Freeholder Blanquita B. Valenti chair of the County’s Community Services Committee.

“This program will help determine instances where our residents may have been mislead or faced undue costs during an already difficult time,” said Middlesex County Freeholder Director Christopher D. Rafano. “Helping to spread the word about programs such as this, is another way we can serve our citizens.”

Nationally, more than 4 million letters were mailed to potentially eligible borrowers with request-for-review forms and instructions on how to complete and return them. If you did not receive a form in the mail, you can request a form by calling 1-888-952-9105, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The form needs to be returned by April 30, 2012.

Flynn added: “You can begin the process today by completing a form and making sure to submit it by the April 30, 2012 deadline.”

For additional information and answers to basic questions about the review process, visit www.IndependentForeclosureReview.com.

Community Calendar

atomtabloid — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:23:31 +0000

Theatre • Feb. 10-26 – Playhouse 22, located at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Rd., East Brunswick, will present a production of Tennessee Williams’ “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and students. Info: 1-732-254-3939.

Guitar Night • Feb. 10 from 5:30-8 p.m. – Raritan Bay Coffee Company, located inside the Perth Amboy train station, 233 Smith St., will host a guitar night with music by Alejandro Ataucusi and Paul Kosar. Info: 1-732-343-1717.

Live Music • Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. – The New Standard Jazz Quintet will play at the Salem Roadhouse Café, at Townley Presbyterian Church, 829 Salem Rd., Union. Admission is $15 ($10 students) and includes hot and cold snacks, beverages and desserts. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Info: 1-908-686-1028.

Night of Dance • Feb. 11 from 7-11 p.m. – Enjoy an evening of dining and dancing featuring New Jersey competitive ballroom dancers Terry & Leilani Viney at the Berkeley Plaza, 735 Springfield Ave., Berkeley Heights. Tickets are $75 per person and $150 per couple. Proceeds benefit the United Way of Greater Union County’s Summit Area Special Response Fund. Info: 1-908-353-7171 ext. 129

Art Exhibit • Feb. 12-March 15 – Arts Guild New Jersey, 1670 Irving St., Rahway, will present a new exhibit “Road Trip: My America.” Opening reception on Feb. 12 from 1-4 p.m. Free admission. For info & gallery hours, call 1-732-381-7511.

Sports Card Show • Feb. 12 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. – The Rahway Senior Citizens Center, 1306 Esterbrook Ave., will host a sports card and collectibles show. Suggested donation: $1. (Children under 10 accompanied by an adult are admitted free.) Info: 1-732-827-2094.

Valentine’s Tea • Feb. 12 from 11-3 p.m. – The Proprietary House, 149 Kearny Ave., Perth Amboy, will host a Valentine’s Tea. Suggested donation: $7. Includes tour of the former Royal Governor’s Mansion. Info 1-732-826-5527.

Preschool Open House • Feb. 12 from noon-2 p.m. – Bright Beginnings Preschool at the JCC of Middlesex County, 1775 Oak Tree Rd., Edison, will hold an open house for parents of prospective students, ages 2 ½ to 5. Info: Joan Green, 1-732-494-3232 x625

Thanksgiving in February • Feb. 12 from 2- 6 p.m. – Woodbridge Elks Lodge #2116, 665 Rahway Ave. will host a Thanksgiving in February “All You Can Eat” turkey buffet dinner. Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children 5-10.

Chicken Casserole Contest & Dinner • Feb. 12 at 5 p.m. – First Presbyterian Church of Iselin, 1295 Oak Tree Rd., Iselin, will host a Chicken Casserole Contest and Dinner. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and kids ages 5-12. Judging will be held at 4:45 p.m. Info: 1-732-283-1188.

ESL Classes • Feb. 13 – The JCC of Middlesex County, 1775 Oak Tree Rd., Edison, will offer English as a Second Language classes in February and March. Testing for new students will take place during the week of Feb. 13; classes begin on Feb. 28. The cost is $100 ($10 per class) Info: Sharon Katz, 1-732-494-3232 x. 619.

Cholesterol Screening • Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Overlook Medical Center professionals will conduct cholesterol screenings at Overlook Downtown, 357 Springfield Ave., Summit. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register. There is a $10 fee.

Blood Pressure Screening • Feb. 15 from 5-7 p.m. – Overlook Medical Center health care professionals will conduct blood pressure screenings at the Westfield YMCA, 220 Clark St. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register.

Blood Pressure Screening • Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. – noon – Overlook Medical Center health care professionals will conduct blood pressure screenings at Whole Foods Market, 2245 Springfield Ave., Vauxhall. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register.

Medicare/Medicaid Seminar • Feb. 16 from 1-3 p.m. – The state Bar Foundation will sponsor a free public seminar on navigating the “Medicare-Medicaid Maze” at the New Jersey Law Center, One Constitution Square off Ryders Lane in New Brunswick. To register, call 1-800-FREE-LAW.

Flower & Garden Show • Feb. 16 from 1-8 p.m., Feb 17 &18 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – The New Jersey Flower & Garden Show, offering garden displays, a flower show and a garden marketplace, will be held at New Jersey Convention Center, Edison. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $6 for kids 12-17. Info:1-732-449-4004

Book Discussion • Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. – The Carteret Public Library, 100 Cooke Ave., will host a meeting of its Reading Club. They will discuss “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. Info: 1-732-541-3830.

Estate & Income Tax Seminar • Feb. 16 from 7-9 p.m. – The state Bar Foundation will sponsor a free public seminar on Estate and Federal Income Tax at the New Jersey Law Center off Ryders Lane in New Brunswick. To register, call 1-800-FREE-LAW.

Open Mic Night • Feb. 16 from 7-9 p.m. – The Raritan Bay Coffee Company, located inside the Perth Amboy Train Station at 233 Smith St., will host an open mic night for music, song and spoken word. There will also be an art reception for local artist Juan Valdez. Info: 1-732-343-1717.

Fish & Chips • Feb. 17 from 5-8 p.m. – The Rahway High School Band Boosters will sponsor a fish and chips dinner by Argyle Restaurant at the American Legion Hall, 581 Maple Ave., Rahway. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children under 10 years old. Call 1-732-882-8745 or 1-732-208-4633. No tickets will be sold at the door.

Blood Drive • Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Lafayette Lodge #27, 1550 Irving St., Rahway, will host a blood drive. All donors will receive a complimentary cholesterol screening. Info: 1-732-388-0309

Great Backyard Bird Count • Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. –2 p.m. –Rutgers Master Gardners of Middlesex County invite you to take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count in Davidson’s Mill Pond Park. Bring your binoculars and field guides. RSVP to evans@AESOP.Rutgers.edu

Chug Ivrit • Feb. 19 at 11 a.m. – Raritan Valley Chapter’s Chug Ivrit (Hebrew Club) will meet at the home of Rachel Weintraub, 120 Highland Ave., Edison. Info: 1-732-819-9298.

Concert • Feb. 19 at 3 p.m. – The New Jersey Workshop for the Arts Concert Band will play selections ranging from Renaissance to Ragtime favorites at Temple Emanu-El, 756 East Broad St., Westfield. Admission is $10 per person. Info: 1-908-789-9696.

Missionary Sunday • Feb. 19 at 6:30 p.m. – Calvary Assembly of God, 953 West Chestnut St., Union, has invited David and Cheryl Greco to the church’s monthly “Missionary Sunday” service to discuss their work in Mexico. Info: 1-908-694-1133.

Dance • Feb. 19 from 7 – 11 p.m. – Woodbridge Widows Or Widowers will hold an open dance at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Morrisey Ave., Avenel. Refreshments, all welcome. Admission: $10 members, $12 guests. Info: 1-732-381-3255 or 1-908-757-0515.

Singles • Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale dance party at the Woodbridge Hilton Grand Ballroom, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+; no jeans/t-shirts/sneakers. Admission: $17. Info: 1-732-656-1801. Directions: 1-732-494-6200.

Open Auditions • Feb. 20 & 21 at 7 p.m. – Playhouse 22, East Brunswick’s Community Theater, will hold open auditions for its spring production of “Gypsy” at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Rd. Info: 1-732-254-3939 or www.Playhouse22.org.

Shrove Tuesday Potato Pancake Supper • Feb. 21 at 6 p.m. – The Reformed Church of Linden, 600 N. Wood Ave., will host a Shrove Tuesday Potato Pancake Supper. Tickets (advance only – Feb. 17 cutoff) are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Info: 1-908-486-3714.

Heart Health • Feb. 22 from 5:30-7 p.m. – A Trinitas Regional Medical Center cardiologist will speak at a “Joyful Heart” tea, which will include a light, heart-healthy dinner, at Echo Executive Plaza, Suite 1A, 899 Mountain Ave., Springfield. To register, call 1-908-994-8939.

Dining To Donate • Feb. 23 from 2-8 p.m. – Broadway Bistro, 26 North Broadway, South Amboy, will hold a Dining To Donate fundraiser for the Dowdelll Library Foundations. If patrons present a flier for the event, 10% of their check will be donated. Fliers are available from the bistro and the library. Info: 1-732-316-1078.

Book Signing • Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. – Author Cristina Guarneri will sign copies of her novel “See No Evil” at Rock N Joe, 339 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell. Info: 1-888-361-9473

History Lecture • Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. – Stephen Schoeman, Ph.D., will lecture on the history of the U.S. Presidency from colonial times to the present at the Union Public Library, 1980 Morris Ave. Info: 1-908-851-5450 ext. 5452.

Elizabeth AARP • Feb. 24 at 1 p.m. – Elizabeth AARP Chapter 5439 will hold their monthly meeting at the Stephen Sampson Senior Center, 800 Anna St., Elizabeth. New members welcome. Info: 1-908-342-6920.

Black History Month • Feb. 24 from 6:30-9 p.m. – United Way’s African-American Leadership Initiative’s “Making A Mark” event will celebrate A Journey of Black Dance, with a performance by the Plainfield High School Dance Ensemble with special guests, The New Jersey Orators Group. Tickets for the event, which will be held at Kean University’s University Center Little Theater, 1000 Morris Ave., Union, are $25. Info: 1-908-353-7171 ext. 136.

Art Workshop • Feb. 25 – Arts Guild NJ, 1670 Irving St., Rahway, will present an Encaustic Painting Workshop. Fee: $70 + $25 materials fee. Registration required; call 1-732-381-7511.

Spaghetti Dinner • Feb. 26 from 4-8 p.m. – Middlesex County 4-H will host a spaghetti dinner fundraiser at the County 4-H Center, 645 Cranbury Rd., East Brunswick. Tickets are $8 per person, and proceeds will help pay for needed repairs at the Middlesex County 4-H Center. The Hub Kings will play soul/jazz music during part of the evening. To reserve your seat, call 1-732-398-5261.

Green Living Group Meeting • Feb. 27 from 7-9 p.m. – Rutgers professor Dr. Joseph Heckman will present “Anonymous Commodity Producer or Artisan Farmer with a Face: Who is Your Farmer and Why? At the East Brunswick Public Library, 2 Jean Walling Civic Center, in meeting room 1. Info: www.friendsebec.com.

Women’s History Month Film Festival • March 1-3 – Women in Media-Newark will present “FootPrints in the City” with a kickoff event at the Newark Public Library and films at the Paul Robeson Student Center, Rutgers-Newark, on March 2 & 3. Info: www.wim-n.com

Gift Auction • March 2 at 7:30 p.m. – The Parents Guild of Mother Seton Regional High School. Valley Road, Clark (GSP Exit 135) will sponsor a “Bon Voyage” Gift Auction. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Admission: $15. No tickets sold at the door. For tickets and info, call 1-732-382-1952.

Craft & Vendor Fair • March 3 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Middlesex County 4-H will hold a craft fair fundraiser at the 4-H Center on Cranbury Rd., East Brunswick. Info: 1-732-723-9968.

Art Workshop • March 3 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Arts Guild NJ, 1670 Irving St., Rahway, will present an Alla Prima Painting Technique Workshop. Fee: $70. Registration required; call 1-732-381-7511.

Book Signing • March 4 from 1-4 p.m. – Author Dominick Mazzagetti will sign copies of his book, “True Jersey Blues” at the Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, 45 Macculloch Ave., Morristown. Museum admission required. Info: 1-973-538-2404.

Gift Auction • March 4 at 2 p.m. (snow date: March 11) – Divine Mercy Parish, 213 Pershing Ave., Carteret, will host its annual gift auction. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Admission: $8 (no one under 18 admitted.) For info or tickets, call Lori at 1-732-541-5616 or Debbie at 1-732-541-5736.

Widows Or Widowers • March 5 at 7 p.m. – Middlesex East Widows Or Widowers will hold a business meeting at the Carteret Community Center, Pershing & Cooke Aves. All widows or widowers are invited to attend. Info: 1-732-969-2228 or 1-908-757-0515.

Business Seminar • March 7 from 7-9 p.m. – The state Bar Foundation will hold a free public seminar, “Starting and Succeeding with a New Business” at the New Jersey Law Center, One Constitution Square, off Ryders Lane in New Brunswick. To register, call 1-800-FREE-LAW.

Singles • March 9 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. – The Professional and Business Singles Network will hold a casual singles social at Snuffy’s Famous Steak House, 250 Park Ave. at Rte. 22 in Scotch Plains. $18 admission, cash bar. Sharp casual business attire. 40+ age group. Info: 1-610-348-5544.

Gift Auction • March 9 at 8 p.m. – The St. John the Apostle Parent Faculty Guild is sponsoring a gift auction at the school’s auditorium. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and tickets are $12 at the door or $10 in advance. The school is located on Valley Road, Clark. Info: 1-908-276-0498.

Art Workshop • March 10 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Arts Guild NJ, 1670 Irving St., Rahway, will present a Dynamic Figure Drawing and Anatomy Workshop. Fee: $95. Registration required; call 1-732-381-7511.

Farmers Market • March 10 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – The first East Brunswick Winter Farmers Market will be held a the East Brunswick Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Rd.

ONE VOICE Coalition Breakfast • March 10 at 10 a.m. – The Italian-American ONE VOICE Coaltion will hold a special breakfast for new members at Brix Tapas Bar & Grill, 371 Franklin Ave., Belleville. Breakfast is $25; ONE VOICE membership is $60. Info: 1-973-759-9259.

CD & Record Show • March 11 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – The Greater NJ Record Show returns to Hotel 304 West on Route 22 West in Springfield. Dozens of music dealers will sell records, CDs, DVDs and memorabilia. Admission: $6 for adults, $3 for kids. Info: GNJRecordShows@yahoo.com

Purim Carnival • March 11 from noon-3 p.m. – The Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County, 1775 Oak Tree Rd., Edison, will hold a Purim Carnival Extravaganza. Free admission and games. Come in costume & receive two prize tickets. Info: 1-732-494-3232 ext. 621.

Blood Drive • March 13 from 12:30-6:30 p.m. – The Linden Public Library, 31 East Henry St., will host a blood drive in the Columbia Bank Room. Info: 1-908-298-3830 ext. 11 or 1-800-NJBLOOD.

St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon • March 14 – St. Genevieve’s Leisure Group will hold their St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon at the Kenilworth Inn, at a cost of $32. Reservations may be made by calling 1-908-352-6942.

Landlord/Tenant Issues Seminar • March 15 from 7-9 p.m. – The state Bar Foundation will sponsor a free public seminar on Landlord-Tenant Issues at the New Jersey Law Center off Ryders Lane in New Brunswick. To register, call 1-800-FREE-LAW.

St. Patrick Happy Hour • March 16 from 5-7 p.m. – Ken Vercammen is inviting Central Jersey business owners and professionals to a St. Patrick Happy Hour at Bar Anticipation, 703 16th Ave., Lake Como / Belmar. RSVP to VercammenLaw@Njlaws.com and bring a canned food donation.

Fishing Flea Market • March 17 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – The Rahway Fishing Flea Market, now in its 16th year, returns to St. Thomas Church Hall, 1400 St. Georges Ave. Saltwater & freshwater fishing items and boating items will be for sale. Admission: $4 (Children under 12 free) Info: 1-732-381-2165.

St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Dance • March 17 from 7:30-11:30 p.m. – Knights of Columbus #4815, 61 Pine St., Old Bridge, will hold a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Dance. Tickets are $25 (advance only) and include a traditional dinner, wine/beer/soda, and desserts. Cash bar. DJ music by Tony V. Info: 1-732-251-0970.

Cancer Presentation • March 21 at 7 p.m. – The Northern NJ Affiliate of the Young Survival Coalition will sponsor an event, “Reinventing Your Life After Cancer,” with guest speaker Gail Tyrrell, executive director of the Ruby Heals Foundation, at Morristown Memorial Hospital’s Carol G. Simon Cancer Center. To register, call 1-201-843-6695.

Nonviolent Communication Workshop • March 31 from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. – The Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, 21 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown, will host “Moving Beyond Enemy Images in Peace & Justice Work” presented by Eliane Geren, CNVC Trainer. Registration is $60 and participants should bring a bagged lunch. Info: 1-973-838-8576.

Disabilities Awareness Day • April 15 from noon-4 p.m. – The North Brunswick Abilities Council will host its 4th annual Disabilities Awareness Day at North Brunswick Township High School, 98 Raider Rd. Free admission; refreshments. Info: 1-732-247-0922 ext. 619.

CD & Record Show • June 10 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – The Greater NJ Record Show returns to Hotel 304 West on Route 22 West in Springfield. Dozens of music dealers will sell records, CDs, DVDs and memorabilia. Admission: $6 for adults, $3 for kids. Info: GNJRecordShows@yahoo.com

Newark Woman Sentenced in Drunk Driving Death

atomtabloid — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:05:38 +0000

ELIZABETH – On Friday, 21-year-old Priscilla Natal was sentenced to five years in prison for her role in the death of an 18-year-old friend following a drunken driving accident in 2010, Union County Prosecutor Theodore J. Romankow announced.

Natal, of Newark, was driving her vehicle on the Garden State Parkway in Kenilworth around 2 a.m. on May 8, 2010, when she lost control and struck another vehicle while traveling northbound. Her friend, Hernan Sanchez Jr. of Union, was a back seat passenger in the car and was ejected from the vehicle and died as a result of his injuries, said Assistant Prosecutor Caroline Lawlor who prosecuted the case. Another passenger was also ejected and suffered severe injuries, requiring treatment at a local hospital for several months. Natal, and two others in the vehicle were uninjured.

The vehicle that Natal struck was driven by Jason Montanez, 21, of East Orange. He fled the scene following the accident and was arrested several weeks later following an investigation by Sgt. Sal Ingui and Det. Harold Ramirez of the New Jersey State Police, said Lawlor.

Montanez was charged with leaving the scene of a fatal accident and pled guilty late last year and was sentenced on Feb. 3 to three years of probation and one year in the Union County Jail.

Natal pled guilty to vehicular homicide and driving while intoxicated. She must serve at least 85 percent of her sentence before being eligible for parole, said Lawlor.

At sentencing, Union County Superior Court Judge Stuart Peim said these types of crimes can be avoided, and said he hoped the sentence would serve as a deterrent to others.

Galloping Hill Will Become First Public Golf Course To Host New Jersey State Open

atomtabloid — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:23:16 +0000

KENILWORTH – Union County Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella, KemperSports, and the New Jersey State Golf Association announced that Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth will host the 2016 New Jersey State Open Golf Championship.

This will mark the first time in the tournament’s 91-year history that the New Jersey State Open will be played at a public facility. The New Jersey State Open, which was first played in 1921, is hosted by the New Jersey State Golf Association (NJSGA) and is open to both professional and amateur golfers.

“It is our pleasure and honor to be hosting this prestigious statewide event,” Mirabella said. “This is another example of the public-private partnership we have built that has transformed our golf operations into a state leader.”

Union County Manager Alfred Faella, who helped begin the transformation of Union County’s golf operations as Parks Director several years ago, agreed.

“The event brings great prominence and attention to our golf operations, and will raise awareness and generate business,” Faella said.

In preparation for the upcoming State Open, Union County has contracted world renowned golf course architect Rees Jones, nicknamed “The Open Doctor” for his work on U.S. Open courses such as Bethpage State Park’s Black Course, to update Galloping Hill Golf Course. Jones will make minor adjustments to the golf course design, including improvements to the greens, bunkers and tee boxes.

Designed by Willard Wilkinson, Galloping Hill Golf Course opened in 1928 and represents one of Wilkinson’s original designs. Early in his career, Wilkinson spent time working with legendary golf course architects A.W. Tillinghast and Donald Ross, best known for their work on major championship golf courses, before establishing his own golf course design firm in 1924. Galloping Hill Golf Course has been characterized by its natural terrain of rolling hills and valleys, often referred to as “The Hill”, and has a reputation as one of the most challenging courses in its area. Galloping Hill’s 18-hole par 71 golf course spans 6,717 yards from its championship tees.

In 2009, the County of Union signed a management contract with KemperSports, a leading golf course management company based in Northbrook, Ill., to manage the golf facilities in Union County, N.J. Through its partnership, Union County and KemperSports have established a dramatic multi-million dollar renovation project to Galloping Hill Golf Course which consists of a new 45,000 square-foot clubhouse, TaylorMade Performance Lab, a 50-stall driving range and a 40,000 square-foot practice facility which features chipping greens, putting greens, practice bunkers and a 9-hole practice course.

“We are honored that Galloping Hill Golf Course has been selected to host the New Jersey State Open,” said Steve Skinner, CEO of KemperSports. “Union County is very committed to promoting and improving public golf in New Jersey and the selection of Galloping Hill Golf Course for the 2016 New Jersey State Open is a true testimony to their dedication.”

The New Jersey State Golf Association was founded in 1900 and is the second oldest state golf association in the United States. “With the growth of public golf in recent years, and the popularity of national championships being held at public courses, we felt that we had a tremendous opportunity to work with Galloping Hill in 2016. With the anticipated improvements to the golf course by Rees Jones, and the vision from Union County and KemperSports, we will have a committed team of people to create a memorable and successful championship”, said Steve Foehl, Executive Director of the NJSGA. “The NJSGA is excited about the event.”

Community Calendar

atomtabloid — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:00:14 +0000

Atlantic City Boat Show • Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Feb. 4 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Feb. 5 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. – The Atlantic City Convention Center, One Miss America Way, will host the Progressive Insurance Atlantic City Boat Show. See all varieties of boats and accessories and enjoy a variety of demonstrations, clinics, and other activities. Admission: $14. Info: 1-718-707-0716 or www.ACBoatShow.com

Flight School Open House • Feb. 3 at noon – American Flyers Flight School, 50 Airport Rd., Suite 120, at Morristown Airport will host an open house and barbecue. Tour classrooms, see flight aircraft and hear a presentation by a certified flight instructor. Guests are encouraged to arrive 10-15 minutes early. Info: 1-973-267-3223.

Singles • Feb. 4 at 8 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale dance party at the Woodbridge Hilton Grand Ballroom, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+; no jeans/t-shirts/sneakers. Admission: $17. Info: 1-732-656-1801. Directions: 1-732-494-6200.

FairTax Presentation • Feb. 6 from 6:30-8:45 p.m. – Americans for Liberty and the Morris Patriots will co-host an event at the Morris County Library, 30 East Hanover Ave., Whippany, where former Congressional candidate Dave Corsi will conduct a FairTax presentation. Info: 1-973-285-6930.

Middlesex East Widows Or Widowers • Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. – Middlesex East Widows Or Widowers will conduct a business meeting at the Carteret Community Center, at Pershing and Cooke aves. All widows & widowers welcome. Info: 1-732-969-2228 or 1-908-757-0515.

Blood Pressure Screening • Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. – noon – Overlook Medical Center health care professionals will conduct blood pressure screenings at the Scotch Plains YMCA, 1340 Martine Ave. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register.

Diabetes Screening • Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. – noon – Overlook Medical Center professionals will conduct Type 2 diabetes screenings at the Jewish Community Center, 1391 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register.

Women’s Heart Health • Feb. 8 from 5:30-7 p.m. – A cardiologist from Trinitas Regional Medical Center will present “Recognizing Cardiac Signs and Symptoms: When Should You See Your Doctor?” at The Westwood, 483 North Ave., Garwood. To register, call 1-908-994-8939.

Woodbridge Widows Or Widowers • Feb. 8 at 6:30 p.m. – Woodbridge Widows Or Widowers will conduct a business meeting in the Children’s Room of the Main Library, George Frederick Plaza, Rte. 35, Woodbridge. All widows and widowers welcome. Info: 1-732-381-3255 or 1-908-757-0515.

Meditation Lecture • Feb. 9 – Raritan Bay Coffee Company, located inside the Perth Amboy train station at 233 Smith St., will host two interactive lecture sessions with Jim Rose, M Ed. On “Meditation, A Spiritual Solution To Stress, Anger and Conflict” from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Info: 1-848-203-3432.

Living With Alzheimer’s (For Caregivers) • Feb. 9 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. – The Alzheimer’s Association, Greater New Jersey Chapter, will present the first of a two-part program, “Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers – Moderate Stage” a the NJIT Campus Center, 150 Bleeker St., Ballroom B, 2nd Flooer, University Heights, Newark. Part two will be held at the same time and place on Feb. 16. To register, call 1-973-586-4300.

Art Show Opening Reception • Feb. 9 from 7-9 p.m. – The Barron Arts Center, 582 Rahway Ave., Woodbridge, will host an opening reception for “CompleXity: Art Outside the Limits of Imagination.” The exhibition, which runs until Feb. 26, features work by Gary Bulwicz, Dawn Arena, Paul Borkowski and Andrew Edwards. The gallery is open weekdays from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and weekends from 2-4 p.m.

Theatre • Feb. 10-26 – Playhouse 22, located at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center, 721 Cranbury Rd., East Brunswick, will present a production of Tennessee Williams’ “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and students. Info: 1-732-254-3939.

ELC Breakfast • Feb. 10 at 8 a.m. – The Middlesex County Employer Legislative Committee will host a breakfast with Assemblyman Patrick Diegnan (D-18) at the Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel, 515 US Highway 1, Iselin. Cost is $20 per person. Register with jsteiner@organizationresources.org.

Cholesterol Screening • Feb. 10 from 10 a.m. – noon – Overlook Medical Center professionals will conduct cholesterol screenings at the Home Depot, Springfield Ave., Vauxhall. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register. There is a $10 fee.

Guitar Night • Feb. 10 from 5:30-8 p.m. – Raritan Bay Coffee Company, located inside the Perth Amboy train station, 233 Smith St., will host a guitar night with music by Alejandro Ataucusi and Paul Kosar. Info: 1-732-343-1717.

Thanksgiving in February • Feb. 12 from 2- 6 p.m. – Woodbridge Elks Lodge #2116, 665 Rahway Ave. will host a Thanksgiving in February “All You Can Eat” turkey buffet dinner. Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children 5-10.

ESL Classes • Feb. 13 – The JCC of Middlesex County, 1775 Oak Tree Rd., Edison, will offer English as a Second Language classes in February and March. Testing for new students will take place during the week of Feb. 13; classes begin on Feb. 28. The cost is $100 ($10 per class) Info: Sharon Katz, 1-732-494-3232 x. 619.

Cholesterol Screening • Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Overlook Medical Center professionals will conduct cholesterol screenings at Overlook Downtown, 357 Springfield Ave., Summit. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register. There is a $10 fee.

Blood Pressure Screening • Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. – noon – Overlook Medical Center health care professionals will conduct blood pressure screenings at Whole Foods Market, 2245 Springfield Ave., Vauxhall. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register.

Medicare/Medicaid Seminar • Feb. 16 from 1-3 p.m. – The state Bar Foundation will sponsor a free public seminar on navigating the “Medicare-Medicaid Maze” at the New Jersey Law Center, One Constitution Square off Ryders Lane in New Brunswick. To register, call 1-800-FREE-LAW.

Flower & Garden Show • Feb. 16 from 1-8 p.m., Feb 17 &18 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – The New Jersey Flower & Garden Show, offering garden displays, a flower show and a garden marketplace, will be held at New Jersey Convention Center, Edison. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $6 for kids 12-17. Info:1-732-449-4004

Book Discussion • Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. – The Carteret Public Library, 100 Cooke Ave., will host a meeting of its Reading Club. They will discuss “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. Info: 1-732-541-3830.

Open Mic Night • Feb. 16 from 7-9 p.m. – The Raritan Bay Coffee Company, located inside the Perth Amboy Train Station at 233 Smith St., will host an open mic night for music, song and spoken word. There will also be an art reception for local artist Juan Valdez. Info: 1-732-343-1717.

Singles • Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. – Steppin’ Out Singles will hold an upscale dance party at the Woodbridge Hilton Grand Ballroom, 20 Wood Ave. South, Iselin. Ages 40+; no jeans/t-shirts/sneakers. Admission: $17. Info: 1-732-656-1801. Directions: 1-732-494-6200.

Art Workshop • Feb. 25 – Arts Guild NJ, 1670 Irving St., Rahway, will present an Encaustic Painting Workshop. Fee: $70 + $25 materials fee. Registration required; call 1-732-381-7511.

Blood Drive • March 13 from 12:30-6:30 p.m. – The Linden Public Library, 31 East Henry St., will host a blood drive in the Columbia Bank Room. Info: 1-908-298-3830 ext. 11 or 1-800-NJBLOOD.

Landlord/Tenant Issues Seminar • March 15 from 7-9 p.m. – The state Bar Foundation will sponsor a free public seminar on Landlord-Tenant Issues at the New Jersey Law Center off Ryders Lane in New Brunswick. To register, call 1-800-FREE-LAW.

Cancer Presentation • March 21 at 7 p.m. – The Northern NJ Affiliate of the Young Survival Coalition will sponsor an event, “Reinventing Your Life After Cancer,” with guest speaker Gail Tyrrell, executive director of the Ruby Heals Foundation, at Morristown Memorial Hospital’s Carol G. Simon Cancer Center. To register, call 1-201-843-6695.

Major Makeover For Watchung Reservation’s Loop Playground

atomtabloid — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:08:43 +0000

PLAYGROUND MAKEOVER UNDERWAY…Union County work crews clear the old Loop playground in the heart of Union County’s Watchung Reservation. The new playground is expected to be completed in the Spring, depending on the weather.

UNION COUNTY — It may not look like much now, but when it’s done it may just become the destination playground for kids across Union County.

Nestled in the heart of the 2,000-acre Watchung Reservation, sitting in the center of the Loop, is one of the most popular playgrounds in the tri-county area—and it’s about to get a makeover.

The Reservation is Union County’s largest park and home to two of its most popular facilities, the Watchung Stable, and Trailside Nature and Science Center. The Loop, which is in between the two facilities, has always been a gathering place for picnics and recreation since the Reservation opened to the public in the 1920s.

“When my kids were younger, they loved playing at the Loop playground,” said Union County Freeholder Chairman Al Mirabella. “But the old playground, for as popular as it was, was showing signs of age. And when wood starts to splinter, you know it’s time.”

The new playground, which will include features that are wheelchair accessible, is expected to be completed in the Spring, according to Union County Manager Al Faella, who oversaw parks operations before assuming the county’s top post late last year.

“Parks projects are always weather dependent,” Faella said. “The new playground includes a rubberized surface to protect the children if and when they fall. But installing that surface requires warmer weather.”

Faella said that it was possible that if the playground equipment was in early, the ground may be filled with wood chips so that youngsters can play until it is finally warm enough to install the permanent rubber matting.

The makeover includes all new climbing equipment and slides, along with the addition of flower-like misting devices. There will also be a hollowed-out “tree” to explore.

Over the years, the playground has become one of the most popular recreation areas, not just because of the playground, but its close proximity to the Trailside Nature and Science Center, on the western side of the Loop, the Watchung Stable, a short hike to the east, and Lake Surprise, just north of the open area, which also includes picnic tables and permanent barbeque grills.

The freeholders approved the purchase and installation of the new playground. The $685,235 price tag is coming largely from the Union County Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund, which will provide $425,235. The remaining $260,000 was drawn from the County’s capital budget.

The Trust Fund was established in 2000 by popular referendum to preserve open space and improve public recreation in Union County. So far, the fund has saved more than 300 acres of open space from development, including the Clark reservoir and some of the last remaining farmsteads in the area.

Trust Fund monies have also gone to improve playgrounds and other facilities in both County and municipal parks, and to fund recreation scholarships for income-eligible children.

Union County Clerk Offers Veterans Honorable Discharge Cards

atomtabloid — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:07:43 +0000

WESTFIELD – Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi reminds any veteran living in Union County that they can receive their free military honorable discharge card at the County Clerk’s offices in Westfield and Elizabeth. The wallet-size card is honored as proof of service in the United States Armed Forces.

“Beginning Wednesday, Feb. 1, veterans will be able to bring their Certificate of Honorable Discharge and DD 214 forms to either one of my offices in Westfield or Elizabeth to have their information recorded in the Union County Veterans Index so they can receive their discharge card,” Rajoppi said. “This honorable discharge card service is just one way to say thank you and make veterans’ lives a little easier.”

The honorable discharge cards are available to veterans whose Certificate of Honorable Discharge and DD 214 forms are recorded at the Union County Clerk’s office. It can assist veterans in receiving educational benefits, death benefits, licenses, local property tax rebates and discounts at big retailer box stores when presented with other identification.

“The distinctive red, white and blue cards have a raised seal certifying proof of recording from the Clerk’s office,” Rajoppi added.

If a veteran’s discharge papers have never been recorded, the original documents must be presented at either one the Union County Clerk’s offices. Documents will be recorded in the Union County Veterans’ Index and the original documents will be returned to the veteran. Photocopies of Honorable Discharge or DD 214 documents cannot be accepted for recording.

If the original discharge documents are lost, veterans can write to the National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records, 1 Archives Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63138. Those who have already recorded their documents with the Union County Clerk can call her office at 1-908-659-7403 for additional information.

“All veterans can be assured that access to their discharge papers is available only to the veteran, his/her mother, father, wife/husband, brother, sister, child, heir or personal representative,” Rajoppi said. “Veterans’ documents are archived in a secure area and they are not accessible to the public.”

The County Clerk’s Office in Westfield, located at 300 North Avenue East, is open from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday; and 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday. The County Clerk’s Office in Elizabeth, located in the Union County Courthouse at 2 Broad Street, is open from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. If additional information is needed, call 1-908-659-7403.

Rahway River Flood Control Council Reports Progress

atomtabloid — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:48:44 +0000

RAHWAY — Progress continued at the Mayor’s Council on Rahway River Watershed Flood Control meeting Thursday night in Rahway.

Rahway Mayor Rick Proctor hosted the regional meeting and said, “The continued regional engagement of the mayors in this effort to identify and implement flood control efforts on a regional basis will yield dividends.”

The DEP-US Army Corps study of the various Rahway River flood control alternatives remains in progress and on track, according to the council. The Mayors Council provided numerous storage and control structure projects to the study team and the results of that review are expected in next few months. Key priorities remain: Better utilization of the Orange Reservoir for flood storage as well as other South Mountain ponds; changes to channels and control structures at Lenape Park; improvements to Nomehegan and Echo Lake Park and improvements to county and state bridges.

On Thursday night the Mayors Council decided:

To urge the Union County Freeholder Board to implement provisions of state legislation A-4267 that will permit county open space funds to be used for acquisition of flood prone properties. Both Cranford and Rahway have numerous properties that could be eligible.
Union Mayor Joseph Florio urged that the East Branch of the Rahway River be looked at for storage areas and be incorporated into the US Army Corps study. The Mayors Council agreed.
Springfield Deputy Mayor Jerry Fernandez proposed and the Council agreed to review state legislation that would make it easier for town engineers to implement river maintenance projects.
A meeting of the engineers from the Rahway River communities will be scheduled in next month to review a plan for better river maintenance with the county; the proposed state legislation; and the Army Corps-DEP assessment of alternatives
The Mayors Council agreed to a master plan for the bridges along the Rahway River to ensure current and replacement bridges take into consideration impacts on flooding. As part of the DEP-Army Corps scope of services study it was agreed that the Morris Avenue bridge; Milltown Road bridge; Rt 22 bridge and Hazelwood Avenue bridge be included.
On Feb.15 at the Cranford Community Center Millburn Mayor Sandra Haimoff and Cranford Mayor David Robinson will host a meeting of Rahway River communities to discuss best practices for stormwater management and development of a model ordinance that goes beyond state requirements.

The meeting concluded with an agreement that each community provide more details on the damage that Irene caused so that state and federal legislators will better understand the need to implement or fund as many of the Mayors Council requests as possible.

Community Calendar

atomtabloid — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:01:52 +0000

Elizabeth AARP Meeting • Jan. 27 at 1 p.m. – Elizabeth AARP Chapter 5439 will hold their monthly meeting at the Stephen Sampson Senior Center, 800 Anna St., Elizabeth. New members welcome. Info: 1-908-342-6920.

Blood Drive • Jan. 27 from 2:30–7:30 p.m. – Valley Road School, 150 Valley Rd., Clark, will host a blood drive. Info: 1-800-933-2566.

Blood Drive • Jan. 28 from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. – Edison YMCA, 1775 Oak Tree Rd., Edison, will host a blood drive. Info: 1-800-933-2566.

Casino Night • Jan. 28 from 6-11 p.m. – The Eric LeGrand Patriot Saint Foundation, in conjunction with Woodbridge Little League, will be sponsoring a “bELieve” Casino Night at the Gran Centurions, 440 Madison Hill Rd., Clark. $40 per person admission includes 50 chips plus food and soda, beer and wine. For tickets & info, call Donna Bruno at 1-732-887-2362

Singles • Jan. 29 from 11:45 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – HAT Tavern, 570 Springfield Ave, Summit, will host a speed dating brunch buffet. $75 admission, 45 plus age group. Rotate among 8 or more guests. Reservations required; call 1-610-348-5544.

Closing Reception • Jan. 29 from 1 – 4 p.m. – Arts Guild New Jersey, 1670 Irving St., Rahway, will hold a closing reception for the Nexus NJ exhibit. Info: 1-732-381-7511

Dance • Jan. 29 from 7-11 p.m. – Woodbridge Widows Or Widowers will hold an open dance at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Morrisey Ave., Avenel. Refreshments; all welcome. Admission: $10 members, $12 guests. Info: 1-732-381-3255 or 1-908-757-0515

Cholesterol Screening • Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. – noon – Overlook Medical Center professionals will conduct cholesterol screenings at the Westfield YMCA, 220 Clark St. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register. There is a $10 fee.

Atlantic City Boat Show • Feb. 1-3 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Feb. 4 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Feb. 5 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. – The Atlantic City Convention Center, One Miss America Way, will host the Progressive Insurance Atlantic City Boat Show. See all varieties of boats and accessories and enjoy a variety of demonstrations, clinics, and other activities. Admission: $14. Info: 1-718-707-0716 or www.ACBoatShow.com

Health Presentation • Feb. 1 at 7 p.m. – Learn about “Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Know What Your Numbers Mean For Your Heart,” at the Westfield Memorial Library, 550 East Broad St. in a presentation by Saint Barnabas Medical Center. Advance registration is required for this free program; call 1-888-724-7123.

Ceremony To Honor Servicemembers • Feb. 2 at 6:30 p.m. – The City of Rahway and the Rahway Black History Committee will honor servicemen and women at the Union County Performing Arts Center, 1601 Irving St., during the opening reception of Black History month. The keynote speaker will be Master Sgt. Shade Lee, USAF (Retired) H.M. “Killer Cox” Chapter, TAI-DOTA, and Pioneer Tuskegee Military Aviation. Uniforms encouraged but not necessary. Info: 1-732-669-3600 or 1-732-827-2014.

Middlesex East Widows Or Widowers • Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. – Middlesex East Widows Or Widowers will conduct a business meeting at the Carteret Community Center, at Pershing and Cooke aves. All widows & widowers welcome. Info: 1-732-969-2228 or 1-908-757-0515.

Blood Pressure Screening • Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. – noon – Overlook Medical Center health care professionals will conduct blood pressure screenings at the Scotch Plains YMCA, 1340 Martine Ave. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register.

Cholesterol Screening • Feb. 10 from 10 a.m. – noon – Overlook Medical Center professionals will conduct cholesterol screenings at the Home Depot, Springfield Ave., Vauxhall. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register. There is a $10 fee.

Blood Pressure Screening • Feb. 15 from 5-7 p.m. – Overlook Medical Center health care professionals will conduct blood pressure screenings at the Westfield YMCA, 220 Clark St. Call 1-800-247-9580 to register.

Fish & Chips • Feb. 17 from 5-8 p.m. – The Rahway High School Band Boosters will sponsor a fish and chips dinner by Argyle Restaurant at the American Legion Hall, 581 Maple Ave., Rahway. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children under 10 years old. Call 1-732-882-8745 or 1-732-208-4633. No tickets will be sold at the door.

Art Workshop • Feb. 25 – Arts Guild NJ, 1670 Irving St., Rahway, will present an Encaustic Painting Workshop. Fee: $70 + $25 materials fee. Registration required; call 1-732-381-7511.

Art Workshop • March 10 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Arts Guild NJ, 1670 Irving St., Rahway, will present a Dynamic Figure Drawing and Anatomy Workshop. Fee: $95. Registration required; call 1-732-381-7511.

Blood Drive • March 13 from 12:30-6:30 p.m. – The Linden Public Library, 31 East Henry St., will host a blood drive in the Columbia Bank Room. Info: 1-908-298-3830 ext. 11 or 1-800-NJBLOOD.

CD & Record Show • June 10 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – The Greater NJ Record Show returns to Hotel 304 West on Route 22 West in Springfield. Dozens of music dealers will sell records, CDs, DVDs and memorabilia. Admission: $6 for adults, $3 for kids. Info: GNJRecordShows@yahoo.com

CD & Record Show • Sept. 9 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – The Greater NJ Record Show returns to Hotel 304 West on Route 22 West in Springfield. Dozens of music dealers will sell records, CDs, DVDs and memorabilia. Admission: $6 for adults, $3 for kids. Info: GNJRecordShows@yahoo.com

CD & Record Show • Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – The Greater NJ Record Show returns to Hotel 304 West on Route 22 West in Springfield. Dozens of music dealers will sell records, CDs, DVDs and memorabilia. Admission: $6 for adults, $3 for kids. Info: GNJRecordShows@yahoo.com