OLD BRIDGE • SAYREVILLE
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021
njsuburban.com
County, towns join initiative to reduce flood risk
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PHOTO COURTESY OF MAKE-A-WISH NEW JERSEY
Dr. Alfred Gillio, director of Children’s Cancer Institute, Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health, left to right; Joyce P. Hendricks, president and chief development officer, Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation; former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning; Penelope’s parents Jack Lindsay and Cassandra Izquierdo; and Make-A-Wish New Jersey President/CEO Tom Weatherall honor Penny with her wish to give back to other children during an event at the Make-a-Wish New Jersey headquarters in Monroe on April 13. See story, page 4.
Sayreville taxpayers to see $67 average increase in municipal taxes By MATTHEW SOCKOL Staff Writer
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he Sayreville Borough Council has introduced a $63.6 million budget to fund the operation of the municipality during 2021. The budget was introduced by council members on April 12. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled remotely for May 10 at 7 p.m. The council may adopt the budget that evening. The $63.6 million budget, which can be amended prior to its final adoption, will be supported by the collection of $34.4 million in taxes from residential and com-
mercial property owners, according to the budget document. Other revenue includes $9.27 million in state aid and $3.6 million from surplus funds (savings). Sayreville’s 2020 budget totaled $63.9 million and was supported by the collection of $33.4 million in taxes from property owners, according to the budget document. Other revenue included $9.274 million in state aid and $3.6 million from surplus funds. The municipal tax rate in 2020 was about $1.449 per $100 of assessed valuation. The average home in Sayreville was assessed at $145,024 and the owner of that home paid about $2,101 in municipal
taxes. For 2021, the municipal tax rate is projected to be $1.485 per $100 of assessed valuation. The average home in the borough is now assessed at about $146,015 and the owner of that home will pay about $2,168 in municipal taxes. Municipal taxes are one component of a property owner’s tax bill, which also includes Middlesex County taxes and Sayreville School District taxes. Individuals pay more or less in taxes depending on the assessed value of their home and/or property, and the tax rate that is set by each taxing entity.
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coalition of local Middlesex County leaders and technical experts announced the launch of the Resilient NJ: Raritan River and Bay Communities initiative, which will identify and implement flood risk reduction strategies for the Raritan River and Raritan Bay region to improve long-term environmental and economic resiliency. This joint effort led by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, in partnership with Middlesex County and its municipalities of Carteret, Old Bridge, Perth Amboy, Sayreville, South Amboy, South River, and Woodbridge, is supported by Arcadis, according to information provided by the county. To ensure an equitable approach to resiliency, the project team is seeking input, information and recommendations from local residents regarding their own experiences with flooding and storm events. Specifically, the Resilient NJ: Raritan River and Bay Communities initiative will work to address flooding from coastal storms, high tides, heavy precipitation, and overflowing riverbanks. Community engagement is critical to ensure an impactful outcome, according to the statement. “We are excited to work with municipal and county leaders in the Resilient NJ regions to identify locally-driven regional solutions to current and future flooding” New Jersey Chief Resilience Officer Dave Rosenblatt said in the statement. “Strengthening New Jersey against today’s climate threats is an important part of our long-term approach to climate resilience and we applaud these leaders for their vision and initiative.” “While the county has strengthened its flood resilience since Hurricane Sandy, the partnering municipalities are still vulnerable to increased flood risk from increasingly intense storm events, sea-level rise, and climate change,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios said in the statement. “The announcement today is symbolic of the county’s (Continued on page 7)
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April 21, 2021A
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ENTERTAINMENT BEST BETS TV, Movies, Celebrities & More
The 93rd Oscars By Rick Gables
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oved from its original February airdate, The 93rd Oscars will now be held on Sunday, April 25, and air live on ABC from 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The event will also air live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide. It will be televised from the Union Station Los Angeles and the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Oscar nominees in 23 categories have been announced. Up for Actress in a Leading Role are Viola Davis, Andra Day, Vanessa Kirby, Frances McDormand and Carey Mulligan. Up for Actor in a Leading Role are Riz Ahmed, Chadwick Boseman, Anthony Hopkins, Gary Oldman and Steven Yeun. Best Picture nominees include The Father, Judas and the Black Messiah, Mank,
OSCAR KEY ART CREDIT: ABC/ARTWORK BY MAGNUS VOLL MATHIASSEN
THERE ARE SOLUTIONS FOR ADDICTION.
ASK ABOUT MEDICATION THAT CAN SUPPORT RECOVERY.
Minari, Nomadland, Promising Young Women, Sound of Metal and The Trial of the Chicago 7. For homeowners who need big help with a vision that can turn their home reno wish list into a breathtaking reality, popular Chicago-based interior designer Tiffany Brooks will triple their options in the new series $50K Three Ways, premiering Monday, April 26, at 8 p.m. ET/ PT on HGTV. Tiffany will guide each homeowner through three colorful, carefully curated design choices and work with them to select the one approach that perfectly reflects their personal story and current needs. In the premiere episode, a couple wants to renovate their dated home, but cannot decide what to improve with their budget. Tiffany presents a trio of enticing options that can turn their house into the home they have always wanted. Encountering roadblocks along the way, including structural surprises, permit delays and
indecisive clients, Tiffany must make the most of the budget to deliver a stylish new space that is worth every penny. ABC will air the two-hour special documentary Sesame Street: 50 Years of Sunny Days on Monday, April 26, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. For over 50 years, Sesame Street has addressed and explained diversity, equity, and inclusion around the globe by using the universal tools of music, empathy and celebrity. Through its iconic shows and targeted outreach, Sesame Workshop has found ways to make these daunting and seemingly impossible conversations accessible to people of all ages, usually delivered with the help of a furry friend. The documentary reflects upon the efforts that have earned Sesame Street unparalleled respect and qualification around the globe, including addressing their responsibility to social issues that have historically been seen as taboo such as racial injustice.
Thousands of people with substance abuse disorder have been successfully treated with medication that can support recovery. Get the facts on how FDA-approved medication in combination with counseling and therapy can help you or a loved one get well again. There’s a wonderful life waiting.
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April 21, 2021A
A little girl lives on through one big wish April 13 ceremony was the first wish Make-A-Wish New Jersey headquarters hosted in more than a year By MADELEINE MACCAR Correspondent
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hen a few cloudy, dreary days finally gave way to the springtime sun, it shone on the first wish that Make-A-Wish New Jersey’s headquarters hosted in more than a year. The private ceremony, held April 13, honored the legacy of 2-and-a-half-yearold Penelope, a brave young girl who spent her short life battling neuroblastoma, a type of cancer that attacks nerve tissue and most commonly affects children. She passed away in February. But Penny’s legacy will endure with the posthumous granting of her big-hearted wish: a $10,000 donation to Tackle Kids Cancer, the Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health Children’s Cancer Institute’s philanthropic initiative that raises funds for both pediatric cancer research and programs for its children’s hospital, where Penny was treated. “Penny liked to help around the house, she liked to help the doctors, so we were thinking this could be her way of helping with the future of pediatric cancer research,” Penny’s mom, Cassandra Izquierdo, said after the ceremony held at Make-a-Wish headquarters, the Samuel & Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place, in Monroe Township. The day was packed with emotional reunions, an outpouring of gratitude and a surprise visit from former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning as Penny’s parents, members of her medical team and Make-A-Wish representatives gathered to celebrate a big wish from a little girl. “I was a little nervous at first: There were so many people and cameras, but everyone helped us feel comfortable really quickly,” said Penny’s father Jack Lindsay. Tom Weatherall has been Make-AWish New Jersey’s president and CEO for 16 of his 19 years with the organization. He’s seen nearly 10,000 wishes come true in that time and, while he says that each child, family and circumstance made every one of those wishes unique, one like Penny’s is downright uncommon. “Typically, we grant wishes from the four most popular categories: I wish to go, I wish to be, I wish to have, I wish to
PHOTO COURTESY OF GOFUNDME
Penny succumbed to neuroblastoma in February, but her legacy will live on thanks to Make-A-Wish New Jersey helping to make a donation to pediatric cancer research in her honor.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAKE-A-WISH NEW JERSEY
Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, left, visited the Make-a-Wish New Jersey headquarters in Monroe on April 13 to fulfill a wish of the late Penelope, a young girl whose memory is being honored with a donation to Tackle Kids Cancer.
meet,” he said. “And then there’s this fifth rare category: I wish to give. We only see a handful a year. Penny’s parents felt very strongly that anything that could be done to avoid another family from having to experience what their young, precious daughter did at the dawn of her life.” Izquierdo and Lindsay say it’s no surprise their daughter was thinking of others, which is why they so ardently followed through on doing something to support the facility that took care of their daughter. “Penelope was very independent and liked to do things for herself, which I think is why she wanted to help all the time—she wanted to learn how to do things and then do them her own way,” Izquierdo said. “She was also very nurturing. She had a lot of baby dolls, and she loved her babies. She was always taking care of them and feeding them and rocking them to sleep. I always told her she was such a good mommy to them.” For the Make-A-Wish family, nearly four decades and tens of thousands of wishes are daily reminders that all it takes is one gesture to make a huge impact. “The experiences that our staff and board and myself and our volunteers and our donors have witnessed for almost 40
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years of operation in New Jersey are what inspire us,” Weatherall said. “Penny’s wish was one of the most inspirational. These families draw a strength that is quite incredible, so you see, feel and observe something that is extraordinary. To be around people like that time and time and time again, I find, is the most fulfilling experience, and it makes you want to do them justice.” If Penny’s wish demonstrated the depth of her unusual empathy, having Manning there to help make it happen spoke of how often and generously the G-Men give back, too. “The Giants ownership has created a culture that, at every level of the organization, embraces, celebrates and welcomes our kids: To say that they’re one of the greatest wish-granting organizations, there’s truth behind that,” Weatherall said. “Every time a child wants to meet their favorite player, what’s really going to happen is they’ll meet the entire team, speak to them, get into the huddle and give a pregame speech. … They’ll be on the sidelines so the players can run over and give them high-fives, then be invited up to the suite to watch the game.” While Weatherall says it’s absolutely
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expected that the Giants will “go above and beyond” for Make-A-Wish children, Manning’s in-person support absolutely bowled over Penny’s parents. “I turned around and Eli Manning was there!” Izquierdo said with a laugh. “I had seen him before on a Zoom call I did with another foundation for Penelope, and I thought that was amazing—but then he showed up for this, and that was just beyond amazing. He was so genuine and really kind, and I think Penelope would have loved him.” And for the Make-A-Wish New Jersey family, Penny’s donation was not only a reminder of how much love a young heart has to give but also a glimmer of optimism for the future. “Every wish is different and unique because we’ve never done it for that child or that family before,” Weatherall said. “But what made this one so incredibly special was the story of Penny’s family wanting to honor her legacy as we’re—hopefully— coming out of this pandemic. The actual fulfilling of a wish as well as the symbolism of the light at the end of the tunnel was everything that castle was built to do.” Izquierdo and Lindsay agree that it was one very special day that Penny made possible. “It was amazing, it was perfect,” Izquierdo said. “Tackle Kids Cancer actually funded the clinical trial that Penelope was a part of. We need more clinical trials to find a cure, and the fact that Penelope was able to make a difference by giving back was really special.” Visit wish.org/nj for more information about Make-A-Wish New Jersey.
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1April 21, 2021
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SUBURBAN 5
CANCER WON’T WAIT SO NEITHER CAN SCREENINGS
Cancer won’t wait for the pandemic to be over, so neither can screenings. That’s why, at Hackensack Meridian Health, it’s safe to get necessary screenings like mammograms, prostate and lung cancer screenings, pap smears and colonoscopies. Because detecting cancer early provides you with more treatment options and better outcomes. Call 844-HMH-WELL to schedule a test today.
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April 21, 2021A
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COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD The Middlesex County Regional COVID-19 Vaccine Mega-site, operated by RWJBarnabas Health, is seeking volunteers to assist in the efficiency of the registration and vaccination process and help visitors feel comfortable. Volunteers of the mega-site, located at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison, will greet patients and visitors; perform temperature screenings; direct patients through various steps of the vaccination process; provide education materials; and assist with maintaining the registration area and supplying
vaccination stations. Volunteers do not administer vaccines. Those who apply to volunteer must be a minimum of 18 years old and will be subject to a background check and a drug screen, and will need to sign a confidentiality statement. College students requiring community service hours are also eligible to volunteer. RWJBarnabas Health will track hours and provide written verification for those who need it. Volunteers must commit through June to at least two shifts per week from 7:30
a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.; or one full day from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with an hour break for lunch. Shifts are available seven days a week. Send your name, phone number, email address, desired start date and your availability to Megasite_Volunteer@rwjbh.org. The Anshe Emeth Community Development Corp (AECDC) Central Jersey Diaper Bank is collecting baby clothing sizes newborn-2T, diapers and books. Donations can be picked up if within Middlesex County. Volunteers from the
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Rutgers School of Nursing will arrive between 10 a.m. and noon on the day indicated. Sign up at https://forms.gle/nxuZUi5AMJe1RcyJ8 At this time, no shoes, equipment, toys, etc. can be collected. Free tree seedlings will be offered to residents from 9 a.m. to noon on April 25 in the parking lot of the Sayreville Senior Center, 423 Main St. Seedlings limited to five per person. Stay in your car; volunteers will place the seedlings in your trunk. Wear a mask. The seedlings are donated by the New Jersey Tree Recovery Program and the New Jersey Community Forestry Program. The program is hosted by the Sayreville Shade Tree Commission. For more information, email Joyce Major at joyce.sayrevilleshadetree@gmail. com The Old Bridge Open will be held 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 19 at Glenwood Country Club, Route 9 south at Fairway Lane, Old Bridge, hosted by the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce. The cost is $150 per golfer, or $500 per foursome; includes golf, lunch and reception. Sponsorships available. To register or for more information, visit mcrcc.org The Old Bridge Police Department will be a collection site for Operation Take Back New Jersey from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 24 at the Old Bridge Township Richard Allen Cooper Recreation Center, 1 Old Bridge Plaza. Local residents are encouraged to properly dispose of their unused, unwanted and expired medication.
Puzzle answers
1April 21, 2021
Flood risk (Continued from page 1)
continued commitment towards futureforward projects that build a strong foundation for our communities to thrive for generations to come. We’re eager to hear from constituents who live and work in the region to participate in this long-term resiliency plan to ensure that it is reflective of their social, economic and physical priorities.” Community members interested in sharing their perspectives, recommendations and experiences can contact the team through a variety of channels including: • Downloading the project’s app, IRYS • Visiting the project’s website at www. resilient.nj.gov/rrbc • Engaging on social media at @ResilientRRBC • Leaving a voicemail at the multilingual project hotline, 732-661-3808 • Participating in future virtual public meetings and focus groups. Additional information is available on the project website. “The Old Bridge Township mayor and council offer full support to the HUDsponsored Resilient NJ – Raritan River and Bay Communities initiative administered by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. “We fully endorse Resilient NJ’s mission to create a multi-municipal watershed-based plan for flood risk prevention, resiliency, and restoration. “Although Old Bridge was fortunate to have minimal impacts during Superstorm Sandy, we recognize that Old Bridge has a responsibility and interest in identifying potential risks associated with flooding and acknowledges the importance of preparing an action plan to effectively address any such future events,” Mayor Owen Henry of Old Bridge said in the statement. “Sayreville is located along the Raritan River and has a history of regular flooding associated with storm surges. “Hurricane Sandy, for example, caused substantial damage to homes and forced the evacuation and rescue of dozens of residents. “As a community that has experienced much loss due to flooding, we are pleased to take part in the Resilient NJ: Raritan River and Bay Communities initiative which will help us ensure long-term environmental and economic resiliency for generations to come,” Mayor Victoria Kilpatrick of Sayreville said in the statement. “As a coastal community South Amboy is well familiar with the detrimental impact of flooding and coastal storms. This is a very important initiative and I encourage all of our residents to take an
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active part in support of this project. “Flood resiliency planning is a critical element of our waterfront development projects and will help us to preserve our existing bayfront for generations to come,” South Amboy Mayor Fred A. Henry said in the statement. The Resilient NJ: Raritan River and Bay Communities project is expected to be completed in May 2022. The project will be conducted in waves to account for public input at every point in its development, according to the statement.
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We are pleased to welcome Dr. Deepa Patel, MD as Director of our New Indian Program. Dr. Deepa Patel
Dr. Patel is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and graduated from the Baroda Medical College, Gujarat, India in 1993. Her office is located at 2 American Way #3, Spotswood, NJ 08884. (732)416-0065.
Pine Brook Care Center is please to offer a program for Indian seniors that require short or long term care. This program will be under the supervision of Dr. Deepa Patel, a well respected and experienced geriatric physician. This program honors and respects the needs of the Indian seniors. We offer Indian residents a place where they can be amongst their peers for socialization, enjoy vegetarian meals cooked with traditional spices, religious services. They also can participate in recreational activities that reflect their culture and still receive the medical care and emotional support they need and deserve.
AT PINE BROOK CARE CENTER... WE CARE! CALL DIANA CANDELL FOR A TOUR 732-446-1469 or cell: 732-277-7365 www.pinebrookcare.com
104 Pension Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726 NM-00458786
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ENTERTAINMENT BEST BETS
April 21, 2021A
TV, Movies, Celebrities & More
Only A Shower From This Thunder By Paul Hall
A
ll superheroes, and for that matter supervillains, have an origin story. This is the tale of the creation of Thunder Force, now on Netflix. Emily Stanton (Octavia Spencer) was only 12 years old when she lost her parents to an attack by the villains known as Miscreants and since then the highly intelligent Emily has dreamt of bringing the evildoers to justice. As Emily was getting used to her new school after moving in with her grandmother, she displayed her smarts in her classes. This intelligence brought out the bullies, but Lydia Berman (Melissa McCarthy) would have none of it, sticking up for Emily from early on. The two girls become friends at a young age; though they couldn’t be more different, they make
an indelible connection with each other. As high school comes to an end, the two are obviously heading in different directions. Emily is driven to advance her knowledge while Lydia just wants to have fun. The wall grows between the two and they head their separate ways. Now, 25 years later, a high school reunion is in play and the women, who have been estranged for years and remain very different, reconnect, but the results are quite different than anticipated. Emily’s knowledge and Lydia’s brawn come together to form a crazy crime-fighting duo who ultimately take the name Thunder Force. Origin stories tend to drag in any superhero story, and Thunder Force is no exception. While moments of the crimefighting duo’s narrative feel forced and seem out of place, the film gets its legs as it progresses. A clunky introduction to
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD St. Bernadette’s Church, Social Concerns Ministry, will conduct its spring clothing drive from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 24 in the parking lot of the church, 20 Villanova Road, Parlin section of Sayreville. Donate clothing, small appliances, household items, toys, reading books, small furniture, linens, blankets, curtains, drapes, bedspreads, pillows, handbags and
shoes. Tax receipts will be available. St. Bernadette’s Church also has clothing bins on the church property year-round to accept donations; however, nothing large or breakable should be left outside of the bins or on the church property. For more information, call Karen at 732-425-0387.
SPRING FLUSHING – OBMUA The Old Bridge Municipal Utilities Authority hereby notifies all customers that the SPRING FLUSHING PROGRAM will commence, Monday, April 12, 2021, and will be in effect for approximately seven (7) weeks. FLUSHING will be done between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily. The water may show a slight discoloration, which is temporary. Guy Donatelli Executive Director
NM-00458421
both the Miscreants and Thunder Force leaves a bit to be desired and a number of details are left out of the film. Where the film works is in poking fun at pop culture and laughing at itself. Chuckles abound, and although we don’t get a number of extreme laughs, these moments of humor make the experience pleasant with Thunder Force. I love that Spencer brings her dramatic prowess to the screen in this lighter offering. McCarthy remains queen of pratfalls, and her self-deprecating humor is intact. But I’m probably most hopeful for the young Taylor Mosby, who takes on the role of Tracy Stanton and steals scenes at a moment’s notice. Pop culture references from Steve
Urkel to Van Halen, Bon Jovi and Slayer stirred up fond memories in my head, and that definitely gave me the warm fuzzies. Although this won’t win any awards, Thunder Force brings the thunder in fun and music that resonated with me. And yes, as there should be, there is a Thunder Force theme song before the film ends. Paul’s Grade: C+ Thunder Force Rated PG-13 Stars: Melissa McCarthy, Octavia Spencer, Bobby Cannavale, Pom Klementieff, Taylor Mosby, Melissa Leo, Jason Bateman Director: Ben Falcone
1April 21, 2021
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DOWN 1. Undesirable roommate 2. Medley 3. Grannies, in UK 4. Tattooed 5. Universe 6. Panache 7. *Most 2021 Oscar nominations for one film, #9 Across 8. Secret storage 9. Stole fur 10. One opposed 11. Indian restaurant staple 12. U.S. customary unit of force, pl. 15. Soaked 20. DNA and RNA 22. Argonaut’s propeller 24. Shared work surface at an office 25. *Sasha Baron Cohen’s “Subsequent Moviefilm” role 26. Be sorry for one’s wickedness 27. Pita, in UK 29. *Like Roberto Benigni’s fictional son 31. Husband to a widow, e.g. 32. Checked out
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Hindu 43. Eastern European 44. Plural of #10 Down 46. 500 sheets 47. Looking for aliens org. 48. Kitchen whistler 50. Wails 52. Bad-mouth 53. Medieval torture device 55. Pied Piper follower 57. Politburo hat fur 61. *Daniel of “Judas and the Black Messiah” 65. Raspberry drupelets 66. Fuss, to Shakespeare 68. Void, as in marriage 69. Defective car 70. Given name of Jack Kerouac’s Paradise 71. ____ of Honor 72. Adam and Eve’s first residence 73. Money in Myanmar 74. Shoemaker without shoes, e.g.
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ACROSS 1. Hedgehog of video games 6. And so forth, acronym 9. *Oscar-nominated black and white movie 13. Treeless plain 14. Grazing field 15. Moses’ mountain 16. Sty sounds 17. Nelson Mandela’s org. 18. Like beer at a kegger (2 words) 19. *Posthumous nominee 21. *Anthony of “The Father” 23. “What’s up, ____?” 24. Huge pile 25. Protestant denom. 28. Feed storage cylinder 30. Load again 35. Relating to ear 37. Flighty one 39. Proclaimed true without proof 40. Musician David Lee ____ 41. Ascetic holy
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April 21, 2021A
ON THE ROAD PETER PERROTTA
2021 Mercedes GLB250 4matic SUV
J
ust about 7 years ago, when I was selling Mercedes Benz automobiles, a representative from the German automakers North American headquarters gave a presentation to our sales crew on where the product lineup was heading. It was generally upbeat. But, decidedly pointed in one direction. “Smaller.” “We are going to get smaller.” That was the clear-cut message. What the Mercedes rep meant, more specifically, wasn’t that Mercedes, as a company, was going to shrink. No company looks to the future and says that. Rather, he was saying that the product lineup and offerings in the North American market were going to lean towards offering smaller cars and SUVs with smaller engines that are less expensive Peter Perrotta and get better gas mileage. Lo and behold, his message was right on target. In the coming years, Mercedes introduced the smaller CLA class sedans, the smaller GLA class crossover/SUVs, the even smaller A class sedans and in 2019 the smallest of its SUV/crossover line the GLB class. Basically, unchanged since its 2019 inception, I recently jumped behind the wheel of the 2021 Mercedes GLB250 4matic SUV for one week to get a first-hand look of this new product trend for Mercedes. First off, if you are a veteran Mercedes owner or observer, and you are looking for this relatively new GLB offering to be comparable to the larger GLC or GLE SUVs the German automaker has offered for years, you will be disappointed. The GLB doesn’t have the same luxury feel and solid quality build standards as its larger brethren GLC or GLE crossovers. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t a solid contender in the smaller, compact crossover space. With a base price $40,050 for the 4matic – or 4 wheel drive – version of the GLB,
Mercedes GLB250 4matic SUV
its starting price point makes it available to a wider range of buyers. However, with a small 2.0 liter inline four cylinder turbo charged engine that puts out 221 horsepower, you won’t be winning too many road races with this one. So, for judging the GLB for what it is, you can expect a comfortably designed compact crossover with enough amenities to make it feel luxurious. The ride quality is adequate, but not above average. For the week I drove the GLB, I took several longer trips with it in inclement weather and I must say it held up quite nicely handling in the rain. For that performance, I would give the GLB high marks. Where I feel the GLB falls a tad short is in the performance and handling category. I think the performance and handling quality of its larger brethren GLC or GLE crossovers is a notch above what you get with the GLB. It’s not that the GLB is all that bad in the ride and performance category, it’s just that it isn’t as athletic or agile in tight or high end driving situations as we have come to expect from a Mercedes. That being said, not everyone who is looking to own a compact crossover like
the GLB may even care about how athletically this vehicle performs. For some, it may be more important that the GLB is roomy and comfortable for a vehicle in this class and it can carry a couple of kids, a dog and your weekend camping supplies rather nicely. If that’s the case the GLB works just fine. While the base price of my tester came in at $40,050, the bottom line sticker price of my car was a heftier $54,035 with added options and $1,050 for destination and delivery. Some of the added options included: $1,450 for leather; $720 for Patagonia Red metallic paint; $325 for black wood trim; $1,500 for a panorama sunroof; $1,700 for a driver assist package; $1,750 for a premium package; $1,295 for the multi-media package. The EPA fuel consumption ratings for the GLB come in at 26 miles per gallon overall – 30 mpg in highway driving and 23 mpg in city driving. The EPA estimates that on average it will cost about $1,900 per year in fuel costs for the GLB as it uses about 3.8 gallons of gas per every 100 miles driven. This model GLB has not been crash safety test rated by the government’s 5-star
safety rating test yet. The editors at Car and Driver give the fairly new GLB high marks for having a “compelling base price”, “cool” infotainment setup and a “roomy” first and second row for passengers. Car and Driver have the GLB low marks for not offering much in the way of standard equipment for having a “sluggish” throttle response, and “tight” passenger space in the optional third row. I agree with the optional third row assessment. It is rather tight back there, really only suited for small children. However, I don’t agree with the infotainment system setup being “cool.” While I think the screen set up and graphics of the MBUX infotainment system is “cool” looking, I think it leaves a lot to be desired in its functionality and ease of operation. It’s far too convoluted and difficult to figure out. However, overall the GLB has a lot to offer for its price point and should be a serious contender on anyone’s short list of compact, luxury crossovers.
Peter Perrotta’s On The Road column appears regularly. He may be contacted at pperrotta@comcast.net
Letters to the editor and Your Turn guest columns about issues of local interest may be sent to news@njsuburban.com
1April 21, 2021
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SUBURBAN 11
Engineering firm hired to design North Brunswick train station By JENNIFER AMATO Managing Editor
T
REGIONAL INTEREST serves. Kevin Corbett, president and CEO of NJ Transit, said this rail line is the “lifeblood” between New York and Philadelphia. He noted other ongoing NJ Transit projects, such as the Raritan bridge replacement, improvements to the County Yard operated by Delco on the North Brunswick-New Brunswick border, upgrades to the Perth Amboy station, new elevators and a renovated waiting room at the New Brunswick station, and increased stops at the Avenel station. “I hope the people of Middlesex are really seeing improvements to service,” he said. In regard to the North Brunswick train station, Michael O’Neill, project manager from WSP, said there will be many environmentally sensitive features, such as LED lighting, environmentally friendly cleaning supplies and eco-friendly materials. On Oct. 28, 2016, officials announced the receipt of $50 million from the state Transportation Trust Fund for the project.
Middlesex County officials pledged $20 million to add a station stop at the former J&J site. Garden Homes Development, which has been developing the MainStreetNB project since 2006, began its vision for a transit village and associated train station in 2006. Currently, a Target, a Costco with a gas station, a drive-up Panera Bread, a Marriott and a Greene Turtle are on the property, along with condominium units. The second phase of the project was contingent upon the train station. When the project is completed, there will be 300,000 square feet of freestanding large retail establishments, 450,000 square feet of mixed use retail and commercial space, 50,000 square feet of freestanding commercial space, 195,000 square feet of office space, 1,875 residential units, and the hotel, for a total of 1.25 million square feet of development on the property. For more information about Main Street North Brunswick, visit www.ourtowncenter.info/ or www.mainstreetnb.com
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 5/6/2021 at which time the bid proposals submitted will be downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Route 26, Cox Road to Nassau Street, Contract No. 002153980, Resurfacing, Township of North Brunswick, City of New Brunswick, County of Middlesex Federal Project No: NHP-0026(303) UPC NO: 153980 DP No: 21117 Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Specifically, the contractor, sub recipient or subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this contract. The contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 26 in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy as the recipient deems appropriate. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid. The Department, in accordance with Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252 U.S.C., 49 C.F.R., Parts 21 and 23 issued pursuant to such Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will afford minority business enterprises full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not discriminate against any bidder on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap in the project award. Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our various Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Phone: 973-601-6690
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raveling from Middlesex County to MetLife Stadium and American Dream in East Rutherford, or to Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, or to Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station, or to Boston or Washington, D.C., will be possible in the future. The Middlesex County Improvement Authority (MCIA) voted to approve WSP USA Inc. as the consultant for the MCIA North Brunswick train station project on April 14, various transit and county officials announced during a virtual press conference on April 15. H. James Polos, the executive director of the MCIA, said WSP is “an invaluable world-class partner.” WSP is currently involved with New Jersey Transit and Amtrak on other projects, and worked on the first subway in New York City in 1870. State, county and local officials announced on Oct. 14, 2020, that NJ Transit had approved the release of a Request for Proposal for the design and engineering of a train station to be constructed on Main Street off Route 1 north in North Brunswick. Polos said the decision to hire for the $3.199 million Phase I and Phase II project was unanimous among MCIA members, as WSP was most consistent with the Request for Proposal in terms of project manageement plans, baseline schedule with monthaly reports, and cost. - The total project award is $3,199,272, dwhich includes $2,907,272 (Phase 1 for $724,765 and Phase 2 for $2,182,507), wplus $292,000 in allowances that are conytingent upon the approval of the MCIA, -according to information provided by -county officials. Overall, the project will consist of four -phases: conceptual engineering, prelimi-nary engineering, final engineering, and finally construction assistance services. - Middlesex County, through the MCIA, will serve as project manager through an dagreement with NJ Transit for the design -and construction of the train station, which twas announced on Oct. 30, 2019. This is fthe first time a county has been allowed to -manage the construction of a crucial infrastructure project. o WSP and five subconsultants were -selected this week as the design and fengineering partner, “a major leap forward for this project,” said Shanti Narra, Middlesex County commissioner, former nNorth Brunswick councilwoman and curtrent North Brunswick resident. “This is a critically needed transportation hub on the Northeast Corridor.” Polos said Phase I preliminary design and environmental review will take a
few months. Phase II would take about 12 months. Thus, it will be at least 18 months until the project is at 30% completion, he said. Polos said after the design phase, officials can better determine an expected completion date for the project. Then, NJ Transit and Amtrak will work on new train schedules. “We want this project built sooner than later, but we are not going to sacrifice safety and quality,” Narra said. “This is a regional project and the interest has been enormous.” “We are going to do the best job we can to meet your expectations and hopefully exceed your expectations,” said Andy Paluri, principal in charge at WSP, and a longtime Middlesex County resident. “We are looking forward to moving forward quickly.” The train station/transit village project began 15 years ago as a means to offer relief to one of the state’s busiest rail lines, provide quicker commutes, reduce traffic along Route 1, relieve congestion at the New Brunswick and Jersey Avenue train stations, bring revenue and ratables to the area, add construction and permanent jobs, and provide an environmentally safe alternative to driving. The former 212-acre Johnson & Johnson complex across from Commerce Boulevard on Route 1 in North Brunswick was converted to a transit-oriented development, which Narra said she had voted for, and is now part of Middlesex County’s Destination 2040 initiative as a future-forward growth strategy, she said. “Despite the challenges of the past year, the MCIA has continued to move this project forward,” Narra said. North Brunswick Mayor Francis “Mac” Womack had technical difficulties during the live press conference. Afterward, he said, “We thank Middlesex County, the MCIA, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) and NJ Transit for their continued partnership in this much-needed train station that will bring so many benefits to our municipality. North Brunswick looks forward to continuing to work with these partners, now joined by WSP USA, to move this project forward in a swift fashion.” Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, DOT commissioner, said New Jersey is “built on the fabric of its communities” and “we are a state of neighborhoods.” “We recognize who our customers are and we recognize the importance of serving them,” she said. She said the area surrounding the North Brunswick train station, which includes residential, retail, restaurants and a hotel, is a “new neighborhood” which makes for a safe place to live, work and play, and the train station will reflect the community it
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J&E Metal Fabricators, Inc. Metuchen, NJ.
Traffic Plan seeks FT Flaggers to set up & control traffic around construction sites. A valid driver license is a must, good pay & benefits. If interested please fill out an application on Tuesdays from 2-4 PM at 5300 Asbury Road, Farmingdale, NJ 07727 or go to trafficplan.com
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Help Wanted Part Time Milltown Public Schools Lunch / Playground Aides Website: www.milltownps.org
Healthcare LICENSED HOME HEALTH AIDE/HOMEMAKER/ DOCTOR IN CHINA- Over 30 years combined experience. Will care for your loved one. $15./hour. Refs. avail. Call 732-429-6964 MARISOL'S HOME Caregivers Services. We provide caring & affordable in-home care for seniors & disabled with illness & injury. Daily/live-in. Family own/ operated. NJ lic. Ins./Bonded. 732-912-9312 We care for you!
Apartments for Rent
Bethany Manor, a Senior Citizen building located at 500 Broad Street in Keyport, NJ will be accepting applications to add to an existing waiting list for Subsidized Apartments (tenant pays 30% of their gross monthly income for rent). If you are 62 years of age or older, you may request an application to be mailed to you. Applications will be available for distribution Tuesday, April 27, 2021 through Friday, April 30, 2021 by calling 732-264-9550 from 9AM until 12 Noon and 1PM until 4PM that Tuesday through Friday. Persons with disabilities who need assistance in filling out the application within the prescribed time frame may contact the business office. No more than two applications will be given out per request. Applications would have to be returned by mail, postmarked no later than Monday, May 10, 2021 to: Bethany Manor Housing Applications, 500 Broad Street OFC, Keyport, NJ 07735. When the application is returned, with all information completed, eligible applicants will be placed on the waiting list in the order of their submission. Eligibility income limits including income from assets are: One Person $54,950 2 People $62,800 Bethany Manor manages the complex in conjunction with the US Department of HUD and New Jersey Housing Mortgage Finance Agency. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY NM-00458973
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LAWN & LANDSCAPING, LLC
LANDSCAPING • TREE SERVICES • STUMP REMOVAL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE BULK MATERIAL DELIVERY FULLY INSURED
24 HR. ANSWERING SERVICE
732-713-1528 TOM 732-713-2008 BRIAN
Lawn Care
• Spring CLEAN-UPS • Landscaping Design & Maintenance • Tree & Shrub Pruning • Retaining Walls • Top Soil • Mulch • Stone • Pavers • Vinyl & Wood Fencing Installation
(Patios, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Sidewalks) Free Estimates Fully Insured Over 20 Years Experience 24 Hour Emergency Service Senior Citizen Discount
CALL NICK
(732) 238-2050
732-207-3933 732-617-TREE
Lawn Care
/
INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE
LANDSCAPING INC.
Paver Walkways Patio • Driveways Snow Plowing
COMPLETE LANDSCAPE DESIGN 732-549-6387
www.dslandscapinginc.com
NM-00456572
Lawn Care
/
Commercial & Residential
Free Estimates • Fully Insured
Landscaping
D&S
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200 Lawn Care
CLEAN-UPS
FREE ESTIMATES
24 HOUR PROMPT/EMERGENCY SERVICE
$100 OFF
C.H.E.A.P.
Any Service of $1,000 or more
TREE SERVICE
732-548-1653
NM-00456571
Free Estimates • Fully Insured
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200
Landscaping
Will Serve The Monmouth Areas For Tree Work & Landscaping Only
Landscaping
• Tree Removal • Trimming • Pruning • Stump Grinding • FIREWOOD • Lots Cleared Serving: Edison, FIREWOOD Metuchen, Colonia, Woodbridge, N.Brunswick, Highland Park and “We Are TheMilltown, Most Recommended surrounding. Tree Service In The Area”
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Certified brick paver and retaining wall installer NJ State Pesticide Lic.#97065A
Landscaping
Lawn Service LLC.
NM-00458223
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M.R.S.
Tree Service, Inc.
Landscape Restoration Experts ALL WORK GUARANTEED Residential & Commercial Lic. #13vH08853200
Landscaping
Residential/Commercial/Municipal
G.S. LAWN SVC & LANDSCAPING LLC
www.buildwithasjr.com
Home Improvements
NM-00456569
732-900-0051 or 917-624-7581 732-900-00
NM-00459030
NM-00458221
NM-00458448
A&S JR. LLC Lic# 13VH03221500
All Types of Roofing Flat or Shingle • Repair or New Decks Stained and Repaired Fencing • Masonry • Painting Fencin ting Powerwashing Free Est. Friendly vice. Friendly, Professional Service.
Lawn Care
Must present coupon at time of estimate. Exp. 4/30/21
Storm damage/storm related issues excluded.
NM-00456570
Home Improvements
$250 OFF
Any Service of $2,500 or more
Must present coupon at time of estimate. Exp. 4/30/21
Storm damage/storm related issues excluded.
** DISCOUNTED FIREWOOD ** 1 Cord $185.00 • 1/2 Cord $100
732-257-1170
www.budgetpropertymaintenance.com
FULLY INSURED, FREE ESTIMATES
OWNER OPERATED
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
SUBURBAN 15
Painting/Wallpapering
BUSINESS & SERVICE CALL OUR CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT TO ADVERTISE HERE 732-358-5200
Plumbing
PRECISION PAINT AND POWERWASHING 5 Star Rated on Google
• Interior/Exterior Painting • Deck and Fence Stain and Paint • Powerwashing • Wallpaper & Plaster Removal • Sheetrock Repair
Nothing is better than a woman’s touch! /
Landscaping
Masonry/Paving
NM-00457724
Lawn Care
Same day free estimate • Licensed & Insured
908-416-5219
Painting/Wallpapering
NM-00454624
Lawn Care
/
Landscaping
New Beginnings Landscaping Spring & Fall Clean Ups Lawn Mowing - Fertilization Top Soil, Mulch, Shrub Trimming, New Plantings, Seeding, Powerwashing We deliver materials!
Call 908-309-1430 ask for Mike Give your property a New Beginning
s Year
PT MASONRY
MASON
All Phases of Brick, Stone & Concrete Work Free Designing Available www.poloniaconstruction.com
732-525-8118
FREE ESTIMATE Brick Pavers - Natural Stone Concrete - Driveways - Patios Sidewalks - Steps - Retaining Walls
1-800-757-7747 BrickPaverExpert.com
NM-00456670
DISCOUNTS 732-605-0362 AVAILABLE Over 30 yrs. • Free Est./Ins.
H
ALL WORK DONE BY OWNER
PAINTING
• All Phases Of Painting • Interior/Exterior • Moulding Installation •No Job Too Small
(732) 534-0548
Owned & operated by Joshua Ludlow Free Estimates • References • Fully Insured Lic#13VH06178600
FREEHOLD NM-00458839
732.619.6829
Please visit our website or call for more info.
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200
NM-00458246
FREE ESTIMATES
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200 Roofing/Siding
ROOFING CONTRACTORS
Serving all of New Jersey since 1998
CELL # 732-810-9511
• Houses • Decks • Fences • Concrete • Brick Pavers • Pool Areas • Deck Staining Also• Polymetric Sanding
H
Plumbing
SPECIALIZING IN
3rd Generation
NM-00452771
&
#13VH04604300
Power Washing
When quality, Reliability & Experience Matter
Masonry/Paving
Specializing in all types of paving for Driveways & Parking Lots
No Job Too Small NJ Lic#8843
Satisfaction Guaranteed
NJ lic #13VH06010100
Fully Insured
P Boilers Installed/Repaired P Water Heaters Installed P Drains & Sewer lines cleaned P Sewer & Water Mains installed P Kitchen & Bath Remodeling P Framing & Sheet Rock
Quality Work • Affordable Wallpaper Removal • Sheetrock Repair Taping/Spackling • Interior/Exterior Reliable Prompt Service
Colonia, NJ
Masonry/Paving
Plumbing • Heating Home Improvements
Custom Painting
PHIL SCALI 732-609-0786 Insured
732-257-6254
Glenn Kaune’s
Over 40 years experience
Serving the area for over 31 years! Best from Europe!
POLISH
732-906-0385
Expert Repairs for
NJ Lic. 13VH3323100
Masonry/Paving
Free Estimates - Fully Insured
NM-00458224
NM-00456824
David J. McConnell
NM-00454669
1April 21, 2021
(732) 257-6640 • Free Estimates
plumbing & heating “Honest, Neat and Professional Service”
www.mattcoplumbing.com
732-418-0011 Metuchen, NJ 08840 | info@mattcoplumbing.com
Complete ROOF Replacement Special
Senior Citizen Discount
$500 OFF
Any Complete ROOF Replacement Fully Insured • NJ Licensed
www.bsgroofing.com
16 SUBURBAN
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
April 21, 2021
Budget (Continued from page 1)
T WO C H A M P I O N S H I P CO U R S E S Our legendary Banks Course is renowned for its signature bunkers and our scenic Palmer Course for its picturesque bodies of water.
Top 15 “Best Courses in NJ”
Top 15 “Best in State for NJ”
Banks Course, 2020-2021
Banks Course, 2020
—GOLF Magazine
—The Top 100 Golf Courses
Golf Membership at Forsgate means more for you and your family. Golf Academy & Indoor Practice Facility │ Fitness & Aquatics Center │ Hard Court Tennis with Lighting Award-Winning Casual & Fine Dining │ Year-Round Family Events & Social Activities
Before voting in favor of the budget’s introduction, Councilwoman Donna Roberts thanked Business Administrator Dan Frankel and Chief Financial Officer Denise Biancamano for their work on it. “Some of the challenges overcome were interest on income, park and ride income, construction, recreation income and other revenue streams that really were cut during the [coronavirus] pandemic,” Roberts said. “It really was a mountain to overcome and [Frankel and Biancamano] did a great job in the face of these obstacles. The operating budget is something we can’t change, it’s either mandated by statutes or by contracts. The only leeway we have is in capital, which is all of our services and they were able to really maintain the service level.” Following the introduction, Mayor Victoria Kilpatrick said, “The last two budgets have not been easy as a result of the pandemic and I think everyone did a tremendous job in the face of some really challenging times. As Councilman Roberts mentioned, it was really our revenues that were down, as is happening throughout the other municipalities as well. “I think that everyone did a very good job at trying to bring that number down as low as possible, so once again, the homeowners do not have to bear that big of a burden because we are all desperately trying to get out of this COVID-19 pandemic and the ramifications of that,” the mayor said.
BULLETIN BOARD
Call Membership for more information about a 2021 Golf Membership! 732-656-8921 375 Forsgate Dr., Monroe Township, NJ 08831 forsgatecc.com
The Arts Institute of Middlesex County is presenting a multitude of arts and culture events throughout April, primarily centered around National Poetry Month. Highlights include: • April 21 at 4 p.m. – Explore the reallife story of the Puerto Rican-American pediatrician and New Jersey-based poet William Carlos Williams as told through multimedia illustrations. Let the images and words inspire you to create your own poems and collages from a variety of your own found papers and other materials. • April 28 at 4 p.m. – Explore everyday family and community life in the Bahamas through paintings and poetry in a reading of “Under the Sunday Tree,” then create your own everyday scene or portrait in paint. All programs will be held virtually. Visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov/ Artsculture for full details on all the events. For National Poetry Month, the Arts Institute will also present content on www. middlesexcountynj.gov/PoetryMonth