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.

CLARK — Timothy Connell, a Clark native who will be entering his senior year at Union Catholic High School, attended the American Legion’s “Jersey” Boys State event in June with 870 other delegates. On the final day, he was elected “U.S. Senator” to the American Legion’s Boys Nation in Washington, D.C.

Connell received a plaque from Sen. Robert Menendez and a $2,000 scholarship from the American Legion. Connell was one of 98 delegates to attend the Washington event, where he toured the White House, the Capitol and the National Mall and was scheduled to meet with President Barack Obama.

Pictured above are Maureen and Dennis Connell, Timothy Connell, and Bill Maines and Jack Ford of American Legion Martin Walberg Post #3 in Westfield, which sponsored Connell’s participation in Boys State. Maines is the post commander and Ford is the post’s chair of Boys State. (Photo courtesy of American Legion Martin Walberg Post #3)

CHICAGO, Ill. – DePaul University student Laryssa Borkowsky of Westfield has been named to the Dean’s List for the 2010 spring quarter. To receive Dean’s List commendation, full-time students must earn a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or above on a four-point scale.

Serving over 25,000 students, DePaul University is the largest Catholic university in the country and offers programs in the liberal arts and sciences, education, commerce, law, computer technology, music and theater.

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.

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Sam Blum, son of Deborah Blum of Westfield, received a B.A. in psychology from Williams College at the College’s 221st Commencement exercises on Sunday, June 6. The Commencement address was delivered by author Jay McInerney ‘76.

Blum, during college, participated in the following activities: men’s swimming and diving team, and president of Williams College Run for a Cure.

WORCESTER, Mass. — Two local residents have been named to second honors on the Clark University Dean’s List:

• James Kobialka of Metuchen
• Stephanie Korunow of Westfield

This selection marks outstanding academic achievement during the spring 2010 semester. To be eligible for second honors, students must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, of a maximum of 4.3 (all A+s).

SCOTCH PLAINS – Union County residents will be able recycle unwanted electronic equipment, such as computers and televisions, on Saturday, July 24, in Scotch Plains.

The recycling event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the campus of the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools, located at 1776 Raritan Road, near the John H. Stamler Police Academy.

All residents of Union County are eligible to participate at no cost. There is a limit of six electronic items per car.

Electronic equipment that will be accepted on July 24 includes computer monitors, hard drives, modems, keyboards, CPUs, mice, printers, scanners, speakers, televisions, VCRs, fax machines, telephones, and circuit boards.

All that residents need to do is drive to the site with their unwanted electronic equipment. Workers at the site will unload the vehicles.

Pre-registration is not necessary for this Saturday collection, but proof of Union County residency is required.

Refrigerators, washers and dryers, microwaves, and air conditioners will not be accepted.

A complete list of the materials that will be accepted on July 24 is available at the Union County Bureau of Planning and Environmental Conservation website: www.ucnj.org/recycle.

There are other local opportunities for residents to recycle electronic equipment. Visit www.ucnj.org/recycle for more computer and electronics recycling options.

Goodwill and Dell have teamed up to recycle computers. Goodwill in Union County is located at 126 Route 22 West, Springfield 07081, next to Macy’s Furniture. Call Goodwill at 973-912-0156 for more details or visit their web site: www.reconnectpartnership.com.

Best Buy stores now offer electronics recycling, including TVs, computer monitors, DVD players and other consumer electronics. Visit their website (www.bestbuy.com/) for store locations, or call toll-free for information about electronics recycling: 1-888-237-8289.

Staples also offers a computer recycling program seven days a week. For more information, visit the Staples web site for store locations: www.staples.com.

An alternative drop-off program for recycling electronics equipment is available every Monday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. at Newtech Recycling, located at 600-A Apgar Drive, Somerset; call 1-732-469-9774.

For more information about recycling events, call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 1-908- 654-9889.

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: John Marino

WESTFIELD — CONTACT We Care, Inc., a 24-hour caring and crisis hotline, will begin a comprehensive 36-hour volunteer training class on Wednesday, Sept. 15, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 170 Elm Street in Westfield. The class will meet weekly until early December. Pre-registration is required.

Experts in active listening, grief recovery, mental health issues, spirituality, and suicide prevention will join with CONTACT’s professional staff to conduct the training.

“Our Governor’s Award recognizes CONTACT’s commitment to providing an enriched, rewarding volunteer opportunity,” said David Owens, executive director. “We also offer volunteers the opportunity to work directly with individuals in need. To be able to have this one-on-one direct connection is a unique and rewarding volunteer opportunity.”

CONTACT’s training is designed to prepare prospective volunteers for the wide variety of needs and situations they will encounter on the phone line,” said Sue Fasano, CONTACT’s training director. “The highly interactive training includes numerous practice sessions to prepare the volunteers,” she said.

“We have been told time and again how valuable CONTACT’s volunteer training is,” said Owens. “The active listening skills people learn help them in all areas of their lives – not just on the hotline.”

There is a $50 fee to cover the cost of training materials.

For more information on becoming a CONTACT We Care volunteer and making a difference in people’s lives by listening actively, call 1-908-301-1899 or visit the organization’s website at www.contactwecare.org.