Experience the timeless elegance of Tony Bennett’s music with Frankie Cirell’s “The Magic Of Tony Bennett” on June 1st at the Sieminski Theater with performances at 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm. This extraordinary show, backed by the grandeur of a full orchestra, brings to life the soulful melodies and classical charm of one of music’s most beloved icons. Frankie Cirelli's soul-stirring and accurate portrayal of the legendary artist takes audiences on a musical journey through Bennett's enduring legacy, from the heart-rending "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" to the soaring "Fly Me to the Moon."
Frankie Cirell is an extraordinary entertainer with over five decades of experience captivating audiences with his vocal prowess and versatility, which are unmatched and have earned him praise from audiences and critics. He began his career as part of the critically acclaimed comedy/music duo Andre & Cirell, where he developed his comedic genius. But Frankie’s magic is in his voice! Recently, turning his focus and talent to the last great jazz singer of a generation, Tony Bennett, he created a show that is not just a tribute, but a celebration of Tony's greatest hits. If you close your eyes, you'd be hard-pressed to believe it's not Tony Bennett's voice you hear. Accompanied by talented singer Kelsey Demsky, whose voice blends seamlessly with the orchestra, together with the energy and passion of the music, these two talented artists will have you singing along and swaying to the rhythm.
Don't miss this romantic and elegant tribute on June 1st at the Sieminski Theater with performances at 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Please book your tickets now and immerse yourself in the magic of Tony Bennett's music, celebrating his legacy like never before. Visit sieminskitheater.org or call 908-580-3892. The Sieminski Theater, located at Fellowship Village in Basking Ridge, provides an intimate and state-of-the-art experience, perfect for enjoying this unforgettable performance. The Sieminski Theater offers student and senior discounts, dinner and show packages, and onsite parking.
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Enjoy an exceptional preshow dining experience at Wilson’s Tapas Bar Lounge restaurant. Located steps away from the Sieminski Theater, culinary dishes prepared by Fellowship Village’s award-winning executive chef feature only the freshest ingredients and highest quality. Make a reservation by calling 908-580-3818 for 5:30 pm for the show date.
About the Sieminski Theater: Bringing a professional performing arts venue with a diverse lineup of entertainment to Basking Ridge and the surrounding communities makes the Sieminski Theater and Somerset County an artistic and cultural destination. We enjoy a newly expanded performance schedule from the American Theater Group, Light Opera of New Jersey, New Jersey Festival Orchestra, Trilogy Repertory, and countless national touring groups. Our intimate, award-winning non-profit venue features technical amenities that rival any Broadway theater. Visit us at www.sieminskitheater.org to view our upcoming entertainment schedule, where any seat is the best seat in the house.
]]>BERNARDS TWP., NJ _ The three women present at the most recent Bernards Township Committee unamiously approved resolutions 3-0 commending the accomplishments of local Girl Scouts, as well as recognizing Girl Scout Week nationwide.
Mayor Jennifer Asay, Deputy Mayor Janice Fields and Township Committeewoman Ana Duarte McCarthy all said they themselves had been Girl Scouts.
Projects undertaken by the Girl Scouts have a tremendous impact on the community, Duarte McCarthy noted. She encouraged the many dozens of local Girl Scouts at last week's meetings to put the awards they had received on their college and job applications in the future.
As a Girl Scout, Fields said she had learned many important lessons that she uses to this day _ including not being afraid of bugs, "thanks to scouting."
The committee members also praised the troop leaders and families who supported the scouts' projects.
March is Women's History Month
March is Women's History Month and March 10 to 16 marks the 112th anniversary of Girl Scout Week as designated by Girl Scouts of the USA; the organization was founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low in Savanah, Georgia.
The mission of the Girl Scouts of the USA is to “build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place” through honesty, fairness, compassion, and sisterhood, said the resolution approved by the Township Committee.
At the meeting, the Township Meeting also recognized the awards that girls in local troops have received in the past year.
2023 Bronze Awards: (Troop 61115 - Kristina Winterfeldt and Julianne Kane, Troop Leaders); Alexandria Winterfeldt, Elise Asay, Alexandra Marino, Lyla Wolsky, Annabelle Brooks, Maya Furst, Grace Novak, Antonina Kane, Isabella Lucariello
(Troop 63009 - Catherine Ellis and Karne McLaughlin, Troop Leaders): Rachel Ellis, Emily Grobe, NatalieTomaich, LenoraTalbot, Hope Sordillo, Chelsea Sordillo, Avery Bollaro
2023 Silver Award: (Troop 60608- Elizabeth White and Marisa Steel, Troop Leaders): Katie White
(Troop 62038 –Alka Solanki, Troop Leader): Jaina Solanki, Victoria Agostino, Winter Karl-Gruswitz, Aishani Mandalia
Some former Girl Scouts, Asay pointed out, included Taylor Swift, Mariah Carey, Queen Latifah, Venus Williams, Sally Ride, Sandra Day-O'Connor and Queen Elizabeth II.
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BASKING RIDGE, NJ- This past weekend, the Ridge Track and Field Team traveled up to Boston to compete at New Balance Indoor Nationals! From Thursday through Sunday, 15 different athletes from Ridge raced, with some personal bests, season best relay times, and an All-American relay!
On Thursday, freshmen Kenji Hou and Tristan Frank raced in the freshman 400. Both of them crushed the qualifying standard of 56 seconds to enter in this event. Kenji ran a 54.20, and Tristan ran a 55.07- both great times for freshmen.
On Friday, the boys Distance Medley Relay had an awesome performance, placing 4th overall, and earning All-American status. With senior Dev Patel running 3:08.86 for the 1200, senior Owen Mays running 51.49 for the 400, senior Edward Condolon running 1:56.46 for the 800, and junior Brenden McMahon bringing it home with a 4:13.41 1600 leg, the squad had a total time of 10:10.20, improving on their season best. This relay team now has the 2nd and 3rd fastest DMR times in school history, only behind the high school national record of 9:53.40 set by Ridge in 2022.
On Saturday morning, Owen took on the 60m hurdles bright and early running a competitive time of 8.59 against stacked competition. Later that afternoon, Brenden McMahon dropped an incredible time in the 2 mile, running 9:04.07! Placing 2nd in his heat and 15th overall, this time converts down to a 9:00.91 3200 meter run, a 17 second indoor personal best. Brenden improves his standing as #2 on the Ridge all time list, over 25 seconds ahead of Ridge #3.
On Sunday, the boys Shuttle Hurdle Relay improved on their school record with a time of 32.14. The team of juniors Joseph Dachnowicz, Jared Rascio, and Marcus Reilly and senior Owen Mays holds the top 2 times in school history, with this 32.14 and their previous record of 32.39. Up next was the 4x800 relay. The boys ran an 8:01.34 , with Brenden McMahon and Edward Condolon both splitting 1:58s and junior Kaleb Huang setting a new relay split PR of 2:02.10. Right after the boys were the girls, who set a new season best of 9:31.29! With senior Elena Nicholson leading off in 2:26.25, senior Ryan Ireland running the second leg in 2:21.37, senior Elayna Douglas running 2:25.69, and senior Katharine Frank anchoring in 2:18.00, the girls had a really strong performance to close out their season. Finally, the boys 4x400 relay of juniors Joseph Dachnowicz and Chase Fritz, and seniors Edward Condolon and Owen Mays ran a 3:26.63 to finish out the weekend. This time is #3 in school history, and this same team holds the school record of 3:24.88, set last weekend at the New Jersey Meet of Champions.
Next up for Ridge is the Spring Track Season, kicking off later this month!
]]>BASKING RIDGE, NJ – Greater Somerset County YMCA STORM swim team spearheaded an impactful donation drive, collecting gently used swim gear for disadvantaged swimmers. Collection boxes were placed at the Welcome Centers of all Greater Somerset County YMCA locations, including Bridgewater, Franklin Twp, Hillsborough, Princeton, Somerset Hills, and Somerville YMCAs.
The team collected a variety of swim gear including goggles, hand paddles, kickboards, pull buoys, mesh bags, swim bags, snorkels, Crocs, and clothing. The collection totaled: 13 pairs of fins, 21 pairs of goggles, 4 replacement straps, 6 bags of goggle bridges, 3 pairs of paddles, 5 swim bags, 8 water bottles, 3 snorkels, 2 buoys, a mesh bag, kickboard, and timer. Additionally, 14 swim caps, 7 towel pants, 2 towels, 2 pairs of Crocs, a pair of slides, and 25 bathing suits (17 for boys, 8 for girls) were collected.
These items will be donated to The Pocono Family YMCA in Stroudsburg, PA, helping disadvantaged families in the aquatics program and the Piranhas Competitive Swim Team for middle and high school swimmers.
Organized by STORM swimmer Joe Cridge and his mother Jennifer, as part of Joe's Confirmation preparations this spring, he took up a service project challenge from his church. Inspired by his shared passion for swimming with his Confirmation Sponsor, Mrs. Lara Minakas, Joe recognized that swimming is an expensive sport, requiring new sized items each year and decided to make a difference.
Joe expressed his desire for the initiative to become an annual tradition at the Y, ensuring more children can experience the joys of competitive swimming.
For more information on Greater Somerset County YMCA’s STORM swimming and how to get involved, visit https://www.gscymca.org/programs/aquatics/swim-teams/.
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About Greater Somerset County YMCA
Greater Somerset County YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. The Y empowers everyone—no matter who they are or where they’re from—by ensuring access to resources, relationships and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. For information about Greater Somerset County YMCA and financial assistance, visit us at www.gscymca.org/.
]]>BERNARDS TWP., NJ _ The agenda for the Bernards Township Committee's first meeting for March, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, is posted on the Bernards Township website.
The agenda includes the appropriation of $1,035,000 for various municipal projects and equipment for township operations. That includes engineering projects including, but not limited to, sidewalk improvements, drainage improvements, and retaining walls.
The funds, already in the municipal budget, would also be earmarked for the purchase of motor vehicle fleet replacements including, but not limited to Department of Public Works equipment vehicles, passenger vehicles, and trailers.
Continuing the township's efforts to curb criminal activity, the committee is planning to pass a resolution in support of two state bills that propose to deter motor vehicle thefts by implementing stricter criminal penalties and to set up community-based interventions, as well as establishing deterrents such as pretrial detention for motor vehicle theft offenses.
The bills, state A-3806and S-2819, also propose creation of the grants for underage Auto-Theft Risk Deterrence (“GUARD”) Program, a $7-million initiative to support community-based organizations in deterring youth from criminal activities.
The resolution urges the passage of the bills, introduced by state Assemblywoman Michele Matsikoudis and Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz (A-3806) ,and Senator Jon Bramnick (S-2819).
The resolution states that Bernards Township has been proactive in addressing safety concerns by increasing police resources, adjusting law enforcement activities, enhancing coordination efforts, and advocating for legislative measures to tackle auto theft and related crimes. The rise in car thefts is not confined to Bernards Township, but is statewide, the resolution states.
The Bernards Township Committee believes that "with the collective efforts of the state legislature, law enforcement agencies, and the community, immediate action can be taken to collaboratively address these challenges."
The Township Committee is also planning on Tuesday to recognize Girl Scouts week on March 10 to 16. Another resolution is due to commend Girl Scouts who have attained bronze and silver awards.
The Township Committee meets in the main meeting room at 1 Collyer Lane, Basking Ridge. The meeting can also be viewed online, or is supposed to be broadcast on Optimum/Cablevision television, channel 15, and Verizon FiOS television, channel 35.
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BERNARDS TWP., NJ _ During a time period covering Jan. 29 through Feb. 29, the Bernards Township police responded to thefts, burglaries, 23 motor vehicle crashes, a number of cases of fraud and more.
There were eight injuries reported and nine motor vehicle summonses issued as a result of the vehicle crashes.
• On Jan. 29, township officers responded to a report of criminal mischief on Patriot Hill Drive, where a resident reported their 2022 Ford Explorer was damaged while parked in the visitor parking lot. The police detective bureau is investigating.
• On Jan. 30, a resident on Whittingham Road reported a window on their 2011 Ford Fusion was shattered while parked in their driveway overnight. No property was stolen and the resident told police they did not know who committed the damage. The police detective bureau is investigating.
• On Jan. 31, officers said they received a report from a resident on East Lewis Street of theft by deception. The victim told police they were contacted by someone claiming to represent PSE&G, and were told their payment was past due. The caller instructed the victim to make payment at a 7-11 convenience store via a barcode that the caller texted to the victim. The victim made payment via the barcode at a 7-11 and then realized it was a scam. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 6, a resident on Aspen Drive reported that several thousand dollars in jewelry was recently stolen from the residence. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 6, officers responded to a residence on Byron Drive for a report of an attempted burglary through a garage door. The victim told police they discovered damage to the door that appeared that forced entry had been tried. The victim did not report any property stolen, police said. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 8, at approximately 3:11 a.m., Officer Tyler Widitz reportedly observed a suspicious vehicle on S. Finley Ave. near Colonial Drive. The vehicle, a 2020 Kia Sportage, was stopped in the road, and appeared to be possibly canvassing the area to commit a residential burglary and/or steal a motor vehicle, according to police. When Widitz approached behind the vehicle, it took off at a high rate of speed and drove erratically toward Route 78, police said. Widitz attempted to stop the vehicle using emergency lights and siren but the vehicle eluded him, according to police said. Attempts to stop the vehicle were terminated for motorist and officer safety, police said. The case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 8, at approximately 1:19 p.m., officers and the Liberty Corner Fire Company responded to 3 West restaurant for a reported oven fire. The fire was extinguished by staff prior to patrol and fire company arrival. The fire scene was turned over to the fire company, township fire inspector, and township health department.
• On Feb. 10, at approximately 10:30 a.m., officers responded to the Walgreens located in the Highland Village Center for a motor vehicle crash into the building. Upon arrival, officers found a 2019 Lincoln Navigator had crashed head-on into the west side of the building causing damage to the exterior. Preliminary investigation revealed the driver, a resident of Bedminster, may have stepped onto the gas instead of the brake before striking the building. No injuries were reported, the vehicle was towed, and the Bernards Township Building Inspector responded to assess the damage.
• On Feb. 10, officers responded to a residence on Paisley Lane upon the report of an apparent package theft. The victim told police that two packages were stolen between February 5 to 9. The approximate value of the stolen packages was $200, police said. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 13, the Bernards Township department of public works reported two separate incidents of damage from vehicles driving on the fields at Southard Park and Pleasant Valley Park during the snowstorm. DPW workers discovered the tire tracks on fields while plowing the parking lots, according to police. The township is evaluating the extent of damage and the cases are under investigation by the detective bureau and police patrol division. Police remind residents that driving on park grounds is strictly prohibited.
• On Feb. 15, the Bernards Township public works department reported graffiti and criminal mischief to a light post at the Bernards Township Library. It is believed the damage occurred sometime the previous day. This incident is being investigated by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 16, officers and detectives responded to a residence on Grist Mill Drive for a reported residential burglary. Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into the residence and targeted bedrooms for valuables, police said. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 26, Kirolas Wadid, of Bayonne, was arrested by Ofc. Tim Polizzi during a motor vehicle stop, after Wadid was stopped for an alleged moving violation. During the stop, Polizzi reportedly discovered Wadid was operating a motor vehicle with a suspended NJ driver’s license and had an active Bernards Township Municipal Court traffic warrant for failure to appear, police said. Wadid was processed on the active warrant and released pending a new court date. Wadid was also issued a motor vehicle summons for driving while suspended, according to police.
• On Feb. 17, Cheryl Iannaccone of Bridgewater was arrested by Ofc. William Krajicek on a charge of allegedly driving while intoxicated. Krajicek reportedly observed Iannaccone operating a 2024 Alfa Romeo below the posted speed limit on Mt. Airy Road. Krajicek conducted a motor vehicle stop and administered field sobriety tests to Iannaccone. Iannaccone was arrested and transported back to Bernards Township police headquarters for processing. Iannaccone was later released to a responsible party and issued multiple motor vehicle summonses, according to police.
• On Feb. 19, at approximately 3:40 a.m., officers responded to Warren Eye Care located in the Riverwalk Shopping Center upon a burglar alarm. Upon arrival, officers reportedly found a front store window shattered. Three officers checked the interior of the store and surrounding area for any suspects without success. The store owner reported no property stolen. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 21, officers responded to residence on Patriot Hill Drive upon the report of a contractor dispute. The resident told police a home contractor took payment for home improvements and did not complete any work, police said. The resident reported hiring the contractor through a social media ad. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 22, a resident of English Place reported an employment scam to township police. The victim believed they were hired by Haagen Dazs to display a company sticker on their vehicle. The victim was sent an initial check to cover their first week’s cost. The suspect then reportedly asked the victim to send $950 of that check to a specific handle on a cash app. The victim complied and then was later notified the initial check was fraudulent causing a loss to their bank account. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 23, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Ofc. Dustin Lopez was conducting a property check at the Martinsville Exxon, where he reportedly observed a vehicle with an equipment violation and the registered owner had an active NCIC (National Crime Information Center) warrant out of Warren. The driver, Clayton O’Brien of Warren, was arrested on the outstanding warrant, according to police. O’Brien was turned over to Warren Police Department.
• On Feb. 24, at approximately 03:23 a.m., a resident of Sun Road called 9-1-1 to report a person in their driveway that they told police was wearing dark clothes and a mask. The individual was scared away by a motion sensor light in the driveway and fled on foot toward King George Road, according to police. This case is under investigation by the patrol division and detective bureau.
• On Feb. 26, a resident of Canoe Brook Lane reporteded to police they had been a victim of theft by deception and identity theft. The victim reported they were contacted by someone posing as a Verizon Wireless employee and they gave access to their phone. Shortly after, it was determined this was a scam, police said. An Apple credit card was opened in the victim’s name and $8,500 in fraudulent charges were made, according to police. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 26 at approximately 5:38 p.m., Cpl. Anthony Severino, Ofc. Timothy Polizzi, Ofc. Joshua Filipovits, and Ofc. Tyler Widitz responded to a 9-1-1 call at the Courtyard Marriott upon the report of an allegedly disorderly person. Upon arrival, hotel employees reported William A. Cuffe, of Park Ridge, was reportedly harassing employees and patrons while at the bar. Cuffe was arrested by Filipovits and was transported to police headquarters for processing. Cuffe was released pending a municipal court appearance, according to police.
• On Feb. 28, a resident of Lake Road told police that a package had been stolen from their mailbox, police said. Additional investigation revealed two other residents had packages stolen from their mailboxes on or about Feb. 20. This case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
• On Feb. 28 at approximately 4 p.m., Ofc. Olivia Strama responded to Old Coach Road for a complaint about a solicitor without a permit. Police said Strama made contact with Brittany Crepeau, of Kenilworth, and Alfred Crawford, of Belleville, who were soliciting for Renewal by Anderson. Strama allegedly determined Crepeau and Crawford were soliciting without a permit and issued ordinances for the violation.
• On Feb. 28, at approximately 6:40 p.m., officers and detectives responded to a report of residential burglary on Wellington Drive. While investigating, officers determined unknown suspect(s) forced entry into the residence and targeted bedrooms. The victims reported various valuables were stolen and this case is under investigation by the detective bureau.
The Ridge underclassmen fencers were in action on Sunday, March 3rd at Voorhees High School for the last tournament of the season. Ridge sent 31 fencers to the event, with 16 of those entrants finishing in the top 6, and three 1st place finishes. Topping the podium included sophomore Ben Schuchman (sabre), sophomore Eva Chen (sabre), and freshman Chris Zheng (foil).
Second place finishers were sophomore Eunice Kim (foil), freshman Maya Zamlynny (foil), freshman Kaavya Padhi (sabre), and freshman Alex Yang (epee). Coming in third was freshman Jeremiah Murphy in the epee competition.
Fourth place finishers were all sophomores and included Charlotte Liu (epee), Alex Mendieta (sabre), and Owen Thorpe ( sabre), while fifth place finishers were sophomore Aria Chahal (foil), sophomore Tadas Vilemaitis ( sabre), and freshman Rishabh Chakraborty (sabre). Sophomores Heidi Stefandl (epee) and Xander Sloan (foil) both finished in sixth place.
]]>Ridge Swim team ended their most successful season ever on a high note at the weekend, with a record-breaking showing at the NJSIAA Meet of Champions meet at GCIT in Sewell.
Ridge claimed a total of five State Champion titles, four individual and one relay, in addition to breaking two meet records and seven team records, over the course of the two-day meet.
Making it to the Meet of Champions is a significant accomplishment, making it to finals even more so. At finals, Senior Emily Thompson won the 100 fly and 100 breast events, setting new meet records in both events. Senior Garrett Gould won the 50 free and 100 free events, setting new team records in both. The quartet of Thompson, Eszter Kiss, Giulia Beverini and Natalie Hillebrecht won the girls’ 400 free relay to close out the meet and record back to back State Champion titles in that event. Sophomore Gabe Beverini took seventh place in the 200 IM event, breaking a team record that had stood since 2015.
Ridge boys took second place in the 200 medley relay with the quartet of Jack Thompson, Beverini, Mitch Ferraioi and Gould, setting another new team record for Ridge and claimed third in the 400 free relay with the team of Gould, Gabe Beverini, Ferraioli and Youssef Elnawawi. Ridge girls took fourth in the 200 medley relay with Thompson, Eszter Kiss, Hillebrecht and Giulia Beverini.
Ridge also had a strong showing on Saturday in the Preliminary rounds of the competition, after which only eight swimmers advanced to Finals on Sunday in each event. Sammie Oei finished 16th in the 200 free, with Natalie Hillebrecht finishing in 17th place. In the 200 IM, Eszter Kiss finished in 9th place, ahead of younger sister Kinga Kiss who finished in 16th place. Kevin Cao finished in 32nd place in the boys’ event.
Mitch Ferraioli took 15th spot in the 100 fly. Giulia Beverini placed 11th in the 100 free while Elnawawi finished in 43rd place in the boys’ event. In the 500 free, Hillebrecht took 11th place, and Orion Wang took 20th place in the boys’ event.
In the 200 free relay, Ridge girls Oei, Kinga Kiss, Victoria Doucette and Maggie Luo finished in 17th place, while Elnawawi, Anurag Bhat, Dean Capizzi and Cao finished in 26th spot.
This concludes a thrilling season for Ridge, with the girls team also winning the North Group A State Championship last weekend. The current team will get together one last time on March 20 for their Annual Banquet to celebrate their successes and bid farewell to their graduating Seniors. Head Coach Melanie Dupuis commented ‘We’ve had a fantastic season. I am so proud of everyone, how well we’ve performed and how we’ve pulled together to support each other as a team. This is a year none of us will forget.”
]]>RAHWAY, NJ – American Theater Group, central NJ’s professional theater company, will present a talk back session following the Thurs. March 14th 7pm performance of Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music at Hamilton Stage in Rahway. Members of the cast and creative team will participate in the Q & A session, and all are welcome to attend. The cast is led by Two-time Tony Award-Nominee Kate Baldwin as Desiree Armfeldt, Graham Rowat as Fredrik Egerman (B’way: Dear Evan Hansen, Guys & Dolls) and American Idol Finalist Alyssa Wray as Petra.
The production runs March 7-10th at the Sieminski Theater in Basking Ridge and March 14-24th at Hamilton Stage in Rahway. Rahway residents are invited to attend the Thursday, March 14th and March 21st performances for a special ticket price of $30. Those tickets can be reserved by calling the box office at 732-499-8226 or purchased at the door.
“We are thrilled to be back at the beautiful Hamilton Stage, where we first performed in 2012, and are pleased to offer this talk back session to help engage and enlighten the local community,” noted ATG’s Producing Artistic Director Jim Vagias.
A Little Night Music, with a score by Sondheim and a book by Hugh Wheeler, was awarded six 1973 Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Original Score. Based on Ingmar Bergman's comedy of manners, Smiles of a Summer Night, it explores the tangled web of hidden (and not-so-hidden) affairs, desires and deceits and features one of Sondheim’s most cherished songs, Send in The Clowns.
Kate Baldwin starred as Irene Molloy opposite Bette Midler in the hit Broadway revival of Hello, Dolly!, for which she was nominated for the Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critic's Circle awards. She originated the role of Sandra Bloom in Big Fish on Broadway and starred in Finian's Rainbow, which drew Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critic's Circle Award nominations.
The accomplished cast also includes Ruth Gottschall (B’way: Mary Poppins, The Music Man) as Madame Armfeldt; Benjamin H. Moore (B’way: Harmony) as Carl-Magnus; Jack Dossett (Parade/ATG) as Henrik; Abby Middleton (Parade/ATG) as Charlotte; RJ Christian (Parade/ATG) as Frid, Tara Rajan (The Sound of Music/Papermill Playhouse) as Fredrika and Lillie Langston as Anne.
Broadway veteran Hunter Foster who directed ATG’s highly successful 2023 production of Parade also directs A Little Night Music. Foster, an actor, writer and director, was named the 2018 “Director of the Year” by the Wall Street Journal for his productions of 42nd Street at the Bucks County Playhouse, and The Drowsy Chaperone at the Goodspeed Opera House. He directed The Other Josh Cohen Off-Broadway and has directed at regional theaters across the US. As an actor, his many Broadway credits include Little Shop of Horrors (Tony Nomination), Urinetown, The Producers, The Bridges of Madison County, Million Dollar Quartet, Les Miserables and Grease.
Performances at Hamilton Stage are at 7pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings and 2pm on Sundays. Tickets are available through the box office by calling 732-499-8226 or online at: https://ucpac.org/event/a-little-night-music/. Hamilton Stage is located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway and is independently operated under the governance of Union County Performing Arts Center. The 199-seat theater was recently re-opened following a complete renovation.
A Little Night Music is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com.
American Theater Group (ATG) produces new and classic works primarily by American playwrights with an emphasis on the development of new works and the rediscovery of undeservedly neglected older ones. It also provides quality arts-in-education initiatives, including its annual DramaFest for students and its PlayLab program for BIPOC and queer playwrights. ATG programming is made possible in part by an American Rescue Plan Act grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to support general operating expenses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Made possible by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. More information can be found at www.americantheatergroup.org.
Facebook www.facebook.com/AmericanTheaterGroup
Instagram: americantheatergroup X/Twitter: @group_theater
]]>BASKING RIDGE, NJ - Ernest Ehrhardt, the visionary founder behind Basking in Nutrition Vitamin Store, has a remarkable and little-known history that spans over three decades. Initially, he owned the renowned Body Mind Nutrition, a vitamin store with a presence in Somerville, NJ, and Union, NJ. Nearly two decades ago, he made a significant move to Basking Ridge, where he is now celebrating his impressive tenure.
Before establishing the Ehrhardt Center for Integrative Medicine, Ernest embarked on a transformative journey, becoming both an Integrative Medical Doctor and a Naturopathic Medical Doctor. Recognized as a trailblazer in Integrative Medicine, he stands apart from traditional Medical Doctors (M.D). Ernest's educational journey included a program at Capital University in Georgetown, where he learned from a predominantly Medical Doctor faculty. His unwavering passion for nutrition and aiding others is evident to those acquainted with him, focusing on patients, research, and nutrition.
Despite not being a tech-savvy individual, Dr. Ehrhardt has quietly become a local gem due to his pioneering role in Functional Medicine and Integrative Medicine. He earned the prestigious Higher Achievement Award for two consecutive years from the American Naturopathic Medical Association.
Ernest's groundbreaking work includes the development of the OMA IMA Index®, a methodology that precisely identifies underlying issues in an individual's body, targeting the root causes of diseases like Type 2 Diabetes, Inflammation, GERD, Wound Healing, Cardio, and Sports Nutrition.
What many are unaware of is Ernest's personal triumph over a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in 1983, following a pedestrian accident involving a car. Enduring over two weeks in a coma and more than 30 days in the hospital, he underwent six years of inpatient and outpatient rehab at the Kessler Institute. Witnessing the limited effectiveness of medications for TBI patients fueled his passion for nutrition.
Despite facing immense challenges, Ernest attributes his recovery to his athletic background and nutritional knowledge. He graduated with honors from Kean College before pursuing further education at Rutgers University and the Integrative Medicine program in Georgetown, DC.
Ernest emphasizes the crucial role of supporting local businesses, such as Basking in Nutrition Vitamin Store, now open at 31 South Finley Avenue in Basking Ridge. He advises locals to steer clear of large online vitamin stores, where products may lose potency due to exposure to higher temperatures during transport. Ernest welcomes volunteers and those interested in nutrition, offering opportunities to learn and potentially host interns in Nutritional Medicine or Integrative Medicine.
To connect with Dr. Ehrhardt or schedule an appointment, reach out via email at ErnestEhrhardt@gmail.com or visit www.EhrhardtCenter.com.
Editor's Note: Contact bpeer@tapinto.net to learn more about how your business can be spotlighted on TAPinto and be part of the "We TAPinto Our Community" Decal Program. This advertorial content is being published by TAPinto.net as a service for its marketing partners. For more information about how to market your business on TAPinto, please email bpeer@tapinto.net.
]]>BASKING RIDGE, NJ - The award-winning mentalist Joshua Kane takes audiences on an unforgettable ride of magic, and mystery at the Sieminski Theater in Basking Ridge on April 13 at 2:30 pm.
Kane Borders of the Mind; is a highly interactive, family-friendly event where you'll witness mind-boggling feats of lie detection, simultaneous telepathy, and other psychic phenomena that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The audience plays an active role in the show, with up to 40 people joining Kane on stage to participate in games and experiments. Kane invites his audience to discover their inner superhero. “I think we all dream of getting that letter from Hogwarts,” Kane says, “or being told like Neo in The Matrix, ‘You are the One.’ We all want to be like the X-Men and discover that what is odd about us is extraordinary.”
In “Borders of the Mind,” Kane helps audiences tap into and use their amazing psychic
abilities, identifying audience members with latent psychic abilities and extraordinary powers.
This is an opportunity you won't want to miss!
With his signature charm and wit, Kane will transport you to a world beyond the borders
of your imagination, where anything is possible. Kane's path to success began in his childhood years when he developed an intense fascination with comic books, magic, fire-eating, and the theater. He knew from an early age that he was destined to follow a career in either the performing arts or as an international spy. In his teenage years, he was fortunate to meet Gary Lee Williams, a stage performer, and former bodyguard to the Dalai Lama, who helped Kane hone his powers of observation and intuition — essentially turning him into a young Sherlock Holmes. Combining these skills with his training as a classical actor, Kane has become one of the world's most sought-after theatrical mind readers. In 2022, Kane was honored with the Dunninger Memorial Award, the highest honor given by the Psychic Entertainers Association, for distinguished professionalism in the performance of mentalism. Notable recipients of this award include The Amazing Kreskin, Derren Brown, Uri Geller, and Max Maven.
The Sieminski Theater at Fellowship Village in Basking Ridge provides an intimate, state-of-the-art experience and offers student and senior discounts, dinner and show packages, and free ample parking, making it the perfect evening out for everyone. You can purchase your tickets at sieminskitheater.org or by calling the Box Office at 908-580-3892.
About the Sieminski Theater: Bringing a professional performing arts venue with a diverse lineup of entertainment to Basking Ridge and the surrounding communities makes the Sieminski Theater and Somerset County an artistic and cultural destination. We offer a newly expanded performance schedule from the American Theater Group, Light Opera of New Jersey, New Jersey Festival Orchestra, Trilogy Repertory, and countless national touring groups. Our intimate, award-winning non-profit venue features technical amenities that rival Broadway theaters.
“Borders of the Mind blew me away!”
Clemens Center, Elmira, NY
“You had everyone in the palm of your hand from beginning to end.”
Clemson University, SC
“Borders of the Mind exceeded even my high expectations, selling out all three performances on Super Bowl weekend …; garnering enthusiastic audience response...; and attracting great press.”
Quick Center for the Arts, Fairfield, CT
“Savvy, witty, and spellbinding… [Joshua Kane] brings life, intelligence, sensitivity and humor to everything he touches.”— Peter Straub, best-selling author of Ghost Story
]]>BERNARDS TWP., NJ _ The Bernards Township Committee recognized all levels of local Boy Scouts at its most recent meeting to note both the contributions to the township by local Troops and Packs, as well as to mark the founding of the Boy Scouting organization in 1910.
Both boy scouts and cub scouts were at the meeting to receive the resolution adopted by the Township Committee, noted Mayor Jennifer Asay.
Other members of the Township Committee pointed out the benefits and the legacy of the Boy Scouting organization, which is now worldwide.
Deputy Mayor Janice Fields said the township's Boy Scouts always "step up" and volunteer to assist at local events, as when providing flag ceremonies, or when working on projects around town.
Denis Scheper, Scoutmaster for Troop 54, said there are easily 200 boys involved with Boy Scout Troops or Packs in Bernards Township.
Bernards Township local troops and packs include Troop 54 and Pack 54, chartered by Liberty Corner Presbyterian Church; Troop 555 and Pack 55, chartered by Somerset Hills Lutheran Church; Troop 351 chartered by Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church; and Pack 451 chartered by Thermal Dynamics Inc.
All of those scouts belong to the Patriots Path Council and, "as units and individuals, perform countless hours of community service throughout the Township," said the resolution that the mayor presented to the scouts and some of their leaders.
"Throughout its long and distinguished history, Boy Scouting has inspired millions and aims to train youth in responsible citizenship, character development, survival and leadership skills, and self-reliance in hopes to instill individualism and patriotism in the younger generation," the resolution stated.
The resolution recognized Feb. 4 to 10 as Boy Scout Anniversary Week.
]]>BASKING RIDGE, NJ – Fellowship Village, a premier FellowshipLIFE Life Plan community in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, was recently designated the Best Senior Living Community as part of the 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards by Somerset Hills City Lifestyle. The community celebrated the accolade at the Reader’s Choice Celebration on February 28, at Somerset Hills Hotel in Warren, New Jersey.
This past fall, Somerset Hills City Lifestyle invited readers to nominate local businesses in the Somerset Hills and Bridgewater area for its 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards. Awardees include organizations that have earned the community’s trust, maintain great communication and provide high-quality results in their respective fields.
Nestled on 72 acres of picturesque campus, Fellowship Village offers a vibrant residential experience to active older adults, delivering five-star amenities and programs as well as healthcare services across a continuum of care including Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing and Sub-Acute Rehabilitation.
“It brings me immense pride to see Fellowship Village honored by our local community,” said Mark Aguilar, Executive Director of Fellowship Village. “We consider this achievement to be more than just proof of our dedication to providing top-tier aging services. It also reflects the deep connections we have built with our local community. Being nominated by those whom we serve is the most significant honor we can receive and is a testament to the success of our hospitality-based model of creating environments where residents thrive and feel at home.”
To learn more about Fellowship Village, visit www.fellowshiplifeinc.org/fellowship-village/.
About Fellowship Village
Fellowship Village is a premier Life Plan Community serving active older adults for over 25 years. A part of FellowshipLIFE, a not-for-profit organization with a vision to transform the aging experience and empower all those we serve to live their best life, Fellowship Village offers 5-star quality amenities and services. Across 72 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds with access to walking trails, outdoor dining and amenities, Fellowship Village offers residents Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing and Sub-Acute Rehabilitation. Fellowship Village also offers a wide array of at-home services to help you maintain your independence and remain in your home throughout New Jersey.
BASKING RIDGE, NJ - The Ridge Forensics Speech & Debate Team showcased remarkable success in February, clinching victories at the Montville Speech & Debate Tournament, excelling in multiple events at UPenn, and securing a place in the finals at Harvard University.
At Montville, the team secured first place, with several students achieving individual triumphs in their respective events. Senior Ginny Kim emerged as a standout in Congress, also qualifying for nationals. Other notable victories include Aarya Raval in Improvisational Acting, Milie Gupta in Declamation, Anya Hira and Anvi Sharma in Varsity Public Forum Debate, Himnish Koul in Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate, and Tulasi Bonda with Ishani Butala in Novice Public Forum Debate. Sophomore Aanvi Khade and junior Aditya Rai were recognized as Congress alternates.
Beyond the winners, many students delivered outstanding performances at Montville, showcasing the team's depth of talent across various categories. Additional outstanding performances were given at Montville by: senior Natalie Ramirez - Impromptu Speaking - 4th, Amy Cao - Congress - qualified for nationals; juniors Aarya Raval - Oral Interpretation - 6th, Mannan Pandey - Impromptu Speaking - 2nd & Original Oratory - 4th, James Mathai - Original Oratory - 3rd, Srija Karsarla - Oral Interpretation - 2nd, and Sky Rose-Jaaman - Impromptu Speaking - 3rd; sophomores Aanvi Khade - Congress - 1st Alternate, Milie Gupta - Informative Speaking - 6th, MJ Chu - Extemporaneous Speaking - 5th, Adhirai Karthik - Oral Interpretation - 5th & Dramatic Interpretation - 6th, Neel Tripathi - Humorous Interpretation - 5th & Improvisational Acting - 6th, Raina Prasad - Programmed Oral Interpretation - 4th, Ella Tadros - Declamation - 2nd, Zoey Qin - Improvisational Acting - 3rd, Bredy Gu - Oral Interpretation - 3rd, Amulya Kollipara - Declamation - 3rd & Impromptu Speaking - Semifinalist, Shrey Sharma with freshman Matthew Li - Open Public Forum Debate - Runoffs, and Poojitha Sakshi - Declamation - Semifinalist; freshmen Ravi Kamdar with Naitik Narang - Novice Public Forum Debate - 2nd, Anoushka Jasrai - Extemporaneous Speaking - 3rd, Rishav Potrevu with Charan Pyloore - Novice Public Forum Debate - 3rd, Adalia Karda-Marok - Extemporaneous Speaking - 4th & Declamation - Semifinalist, Anya Animesh - Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate - 5th, Siona Belwat - Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate - 6th, Arjun Kumar - Impromptu Speaking - Semifinalist, and Sathvik Kasarla - Declamation - Semifinalist.
The team also achieved notable success at Harvard, with senior Natalie Ramirez placing sixth in Program Oral Interpretation and junior Ginny Kim ranking 17th in Congressional Debate. The team received accolades in various categories, including Varsity Public Forum Debate, Dramatic Interpretation, Duo Interpretation, and more.
Other students who gave fantastic performances include: seniors Rebecca Davidov - Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate - Triple-Octofinalist, Alyssa Kim - Dramatic Interpretation - Octofinalist, Anjali Dadlani with junior Alice Yeo Duo Interpretation - Quarterfinalists, Pranav Mahesh with Vivian Zhu - Varsity Public Forum Debate - Double-Octofinalists, Vivian Zhu - Varsity Public Forum Debate - 6th Speaker, and Pranav Mahesh - Varsity Public Forum Debate - 1st Speaker; juniors Aditya Rai - Prelim and Quarters Leadership Award, Mannan Pandey - Original Oratory - Double-Octofinalist, Aditya Rai - Congressional Debate - Semifinalist, Andrew Cui - Congressional Debate - Quarterfinalist, Navya Raju - Extemporaneous Speaking - Octofinalist, Matt Sherman with Lucy Brodkin - Varsity Public Forum Debate - Octofinalists, and Kuber Sarwal with sophomore Advik Sateeja - Varsity Public Forum Debate - Triple-Octofinalists; sophomores Siona Belwat - JV Lincoln Douglas Debate - Triple-Octofinalist, Meera Shah - Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate - Triple-Octofinalist, Eden Chacko - Programmed Oral Interpretation - Quaterfinalist, Aanvi Khade - Congressional Debate - Quarterfinalist, Eden Chacko with Faye Fletcher - Duo Interpretation - Octofinalists, Faye Fletcher - Programmed Oral Interpretation - Octofinalist, Eva Chen - JV Lincoln Douglas Debate - Double-Octofinalist & 10th Speaker, and Shrey Sharma with freshman Matthew Li - JV Public Forum Debate - Double-Octofinalists; and freshman Rosa Qin - JV Lincoln Douglas Debate - Octofinalist & 1st Speaker.
Prior to shipping up to Boston, members of the team traveled to the City of Brotherly Love to compete at UPenn, where seven students were named champions of their respective events: seniors Pranav Mahesh with Vivian Zhu - Varsity Public Forum Debate; junior Ami Singh - Informative Speaking; freshmen Anya Hira (2nd speaker) with Anvi Sharma (1st speaker) - Novice Public Forum Debate, and Rishav Potrevu and Charan Pyloore - Novice Public Forum Debate.
More students gave phenomenal performances as well, including: seniors Pranav Mahesh - Varsity Public Forum Debate - 3rd Speaker and Abigail Lee - Original Oratory - Quarterfinalist; juniors James Mathai - Original Oratory - Semifinalist, Celine Huang - Original Oratory - Semifinalist, Aayush Bhakey with Ami Singh - Duo Interpretation - Semifinalist, Aayush Bhakey - Informative Speaking - 2nd, Shaurya Ganjoo - Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate - Octofinalist, Alice Yeo - Humorous Interpretation - 6th, and Navya Raju - Extemporaneous Speaking - 5th; sophomores Sameer Kandra - Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate - Runoffs, Ella Tadros - Declamation - Quarterfinalist, Aparna Iyer - Extemporaneous Speaking - 2nd, Hasini Namburi - Declamation - 3rd & Informative Speaking - Semifinalist, Eden Chacko with Faye Fletcher - Duo Interpretation - 4th, Faye Fletcher - Dramatic Interpretation - Semifinalist, Milie Gupta - Informative Speaking - 5th & Declamation - Semifinalist, Saketha Kedarsetty - Informative Speaking - 6th, Sherry Antil - Extemporaneous Speaking - Quarterfinalist, and Meera Shah - Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate - 2nd Speaker; freshmen Vivian Liu with Aditi Terli - Novice Public Forum Debate - Semifinalists, Aditi Terli - Novice Public Forum Debate - 5th Speaker, Caroline Zhao - Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate - Semifinalist & 8th Speaker, Himnish Koul - Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate - Semifinalist, Aryav Gaddam - Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate - Octofinalist, Ravi Kamdar with Naitik Narang - Novice Public Forum Debate - Double-Octofinalists, and Tulasi Bonda with Ishani Butala - Novice Public Forum Debate - Double-Octofinalists.
As the team gears up for upcoming competitions before the NJSDL State Championships on March 15th and 16th, Director David Yastremski expressed pride in the team's growth and looks forward to their performance at the state tournament. The team has exhibited exceptional dedication and talent throughout the season, showcasing their prowess on prestigious platforms such as Harvard and UPenn.
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