Guide to ‘How To Probate A Will’Offered by Surrogate’s Office

 Mar 26, 2010

SOMERVILLE – “How to Probate a Will in the Somerset County Surrogate’s Court,” a revised and updated guide to the basics of estate planning and administration, is now available from the Somerset County Surrogate’s Office.

Surrogate Frank G. Bruno has made the 24-page booklet available at libraries, at his office in the county administration building at 20 Grove St. and on the county Web site at www.co.somerset.nj.us/surrogate.html

He also is available to speak to local organizations about the guide and about the importance of properly planning ahead to ensure that your wishes are carried out after death.
“This booklet is a guide to how to prevent mistakes before they happen,” he said. “It covers common errors and assumptions that many people make about the probate process, which in New Jersey actually is fairly easy and straightforward.”

The booklet covers topics such as how to prepare a will, the creation of trusts, powers of attorney, living wills and health-care directives, guardianships, the process of probating a will, what happens when someone dies without a will, estate and inheritance taxes and other related matters.
To receive a printed copy of the publication, or to arrange for Mr. Bruno to speak to your organization, contact the Surrogate’s Office at (908) 231-7003 or SurrogatesOffice@co.somerset.nj.us

MOONLIGHT TRAIL RIDE AT LORD STIRLING STABLE

 Jun 16, 2010

BASKING RIDGE, NJ – Lord Stirling Stable will host a guided Moonlight Ride for private horse owners on Saturday, June 26, 2010. The Stable is located at 256 South Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.

The evening ride will take place from 8:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. An experienced trail guide will accompany participants in groups of no more that eight riders.

In-person registration is open at the Stable office. Fee is $15 for 2010 trail card holders and $20 for horse owners who do not have a trail card. A current negative Coggins taken within the last twelve months must be presented for each horse at the time of registration.

Lord Stirling Stable is situated on 450 acres with 18 miles of trails (wooded and fields), one indoor ring, three outdoor rings, and an outdoor-jumping course.

For additional information, please call Lord Stirling Stable at 908- 766-5955. Individuals with a hearing or speech impairment can call NJ Relay Service at 711.

Information on this event and other Somerset County Park Commission activities may be found on the Internet at www.somersetcountyparks.org

 

Proposals to be Sought for Renewable-Energy Program

 Jul 16, 2010

Taxpayer-Neutral Project Benefits Towns, Schools
SOMERVILLE – The first phase of Somerset County’s renewable-energy program will get under way this summer with the issuance of bonds by the county Improvement Authority and the solicitation of proposals from one or more vendors to construct solar arrays on public-sector rooftops and properties around the county.
The Board of Freeholders initially authorized the sale of $55 million in Improvement Authority bonds at their July 13 meeting; a public hearing on the county-guarantee ordinance is set for July 27 at 7 p.m. Requests for proposals (RFPs) will be posted on the county website (www.co.somerset.nj.us) by the end of this month.

Thirty-two sites in 15 municipalities and school districts, including three county-owned facilities, have been selected. Rooftops less than 10 years old, as well as some ground-level areas such as parking lots, were chosen for the first phase of the project.

“We’ve identified a new and dynamic economic model whereby public-sector rooftop space will be, in essence, leased for the installation and operation of solar arrays. As a result, we’ll reduce our carbon footprint and decrease taxes by lowering our energy costs,” Freeholder Director Jack M. Ciattarelli said. “A third party, which will own the solar arrays and take advantage of federal tax credits and accelerated depreciation not available to local governments and school districts, will be responsible for paying back the principal and interest on the bonds.
“This exciting countywide program is central to our Long-Term Sustainability Initiative, which is dedicated to creating clean, renewable energy and keeping Somerset the greenest county in New Jersey,” he said. He also touted the program as an ideal expansion of the county’s ongoing shared-services initiative.
Participating municipalities and school districts will not incur debt service or out-of-pocket costs. Towns and school districts will be responsible for paying their electric bills, at a reduced rate as a result of the solar-energy production. Annual energy-cost savings are estimated at between 20 and 35 percent, depending on the roof size and other factors.

A total of 8.92 million kilowatt hours of electricity will be produced annually by the solar panels to be installed at these 32 locations. This represents a reduction of 6,407 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) that is equal to eliminating CO2 emissions from 1,225 passenger vehicles per year, from 720,719 gallons of gasoline, or from 14,900 barrels of oil.

The county expects to recoup all costs, including those associated with hiring the legal and technical consultants who have developed the program, through the generation of electricity and sale of the corresponding solar renewable-energy credits, or SRECs, thereby making the entire project taxpayer-neutral.

Locations include the Somerset County Courthouse on North Bridge Street in Somerville; the county Emergency Services Training Academy in Hillsborough; the Somerset County/Bridgewater Library; Manville Library; Somerville Engine Company No. 1; Bound Brook Public Works Facility; Branchburg’s Central Middle School, Old York School and Whiton School; Bridgewater Senior Center; Bridgewater-Raritan High School Building 1000 as well as the Bridgewater Middle School, Hamilton School and Adamsville School; the Franklin Township Municipal Building and Berry Street Garage; Franklin High School as well as Franklin Park, Elizabeth Avenue and Pine Grove Manor schools in Franklin; Green Brook’s Middle School and Irene E. Feldkirchner School; Manville’s High School and Weston Elementary School; Montgomery’s High School, Upper Middle School and Orchard Hill Elementary School; the Arts Building parking lot at Raritan Valley Community College; Somerville’s High School, Middle School and Van Derveer Elementary School; and the Otto Kaufman Community Center in Montgomery.

Following the selection of a vendor or vendors this fall, construction is expected to commence by year-end and be completed by December 2011.

Somerset County Park Commission Calendar of Event Aug - October 2010

 Jul 16, 2010

Information on all Somerset County Park Commission activities may be found the Internet at www.somersetcountyparks.

Duke Island Walkers
A weekly walking group will meet every Wednesday at 9:30 A.M. at the Duke Island Visitor’s Center for a healthy walk through Duke Island Park off Old York Road in Bridgewater along a beautiful stretch of the Raritan River. Coffee, tea, and treats will be provided. For information call 908-722-1200, ext. 226. The walk is free of charge.

Sunday, August 1 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
TONY TRISCHKA at Duke Island Park, Old York Road, Bridgewater, NJ
Tony Trischka is perhaps the most influential banjo player in the bluegrass music world. For more than 35 years, he has inspired an entire generation of bluegrass and acoustic musicians. He was not only considered among the very best pickers, he was also one of the instrument's top teachers, creating instructional books and videos. Tony has won several awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association, as well as a Grammy Nomination. The New York Times has called him “the godfather of new acoustic music.”

Sunday, August 8 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
HUBERT SUMLIN at Duke Island Park, Old York Road, Bridgewater, NJ
When Hubert Sumlin plays guitar he takes you to his “World of Blues” Feeling -- from despair to ecstasy and from delicate grace to raw power. His style is original and personal. For more than 50 years, he has played with so many blues legends, from James Cotton, Howlin’ Wolf, and Muddy Waters to Keith Richards and Eric Clapton. Hubert Sumlin enjoys playing guitar and proves it with every blues note he burns.

Attracting Butterflies & Hummingbirds to Your Backyard
Wednesday, August 11 from 9:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
Cynthia Megill, former Horticultural Instructor at Suffolk Community College, and Buck Garden’s Interpretive Gardener Patricia Scibilia will visit Leonard J. Buck Garden at 11 Layton Road in far Hills, NJ to show how to plant a backyard habitat that will attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Learn the many recommended species of trees, shrubs, and wildflowers that welcome these dazzling beauties. A tour of these beneficial plants in Buck Garden will follow this power point presentation. Fee is $20. Pre-registration required 908-234-2677.

Sunday, August 15 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
THE B-STREET BAND – A SPRINGSTEEN TRIBUTE at Duke Island Park, Old York Road, Bridgeewater, NJ

The B-Street Band was formed in Asbury Park in 1980. Since then, this entertaining six-piece band has earned its great reputation by setting the standard for tribute/party bands, performing in a wide variety of musical venues. They include a wide selection from Bruce’s early albums through his latest releases. In its recent years, the band has played at one of President Obama’s inauguration parties, at Governor Christie’s inauguration party, and at a recent Superbowl pre-party. They are the longest running tribute band.

Sunday, August 22 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
JUNIOR WALKER’S ALL STARS at Duke Island Park, Old York Road, Bridgewater, NJ
Junior Walker and the All Stars were signed to Motown in the 1960s, and became one of the label's signature acts. Although Junior Walker has since passed on, the All Stars continue to tour and play all the R&B hits that made them a legend on the Billboard charts, including Shotgun, Come See About Me, and How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You. They have been inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Foundation and the Roll Legends Hall of Fame. Their songs have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Sunday, August 29 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
THE JUMPERS ORCHESTRA at Duke Island Park, Old York Road, Bridgewater, NJ
The Jumpers are a high-energy orchestra that plays the hits of yesterday and today. They match the swing sounds of Brian Setzer Orchestra and the Stray Cats, and add the smooth sounds of Bobby Darrin, Tony Bennett, and Louis Prima. The rock and pop hits of Van Morrison, the Rolling Stones, and No Doubt are also included. End your summer with the amazing sounds of this orchestra.

Art in the Garden - Watercolors in the Garden
Wednesday September 1, 2010 from 9:30 A.M to 3:00 P.M. (rain date 9/2)
Nature and wildlife artist Beatrice Bork will give a one-day class at Leonard J. Buck Garden at 11 Layton Road in far Hills, NJ to capture the garden’s beauty on paper. Students will be guided in choosing a location when painting outdoors, paint application, mixing colors, composition, and how to create a finished watercolor painting. Basic drawing skills are recommended. Call for art supply list and bring your lunch. Ms. Bork, internationally known nature and wildlife artist, has received many special achievements and awards during her career. Fee: $35 per person Pre-registration required 908-234-2677.

Introductory Horseback Ride at Lord Stirling Stable
The one-hour trail rides scheduled for Saturday, August 29, 2010, September 4, 2010, and Sunday, October 10, 2010. These rides are geared to people who have an interest in becoming more familiar with English-style riding. Riders will receive a mini group lesson with one of Lord Stirling Stable’s riding instructors, followed by a one hour trail ride. Registration for each ride is in person at the Stable office from 9:00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M. Riders may register for the ride on August 29 from August 16-26, the September 4 ride from August 23 – September 2, and the October 10 ride fromm September 27 – October 7. Participants must be at least 9 years old and under 240 pounds. Riders ages 9-11 years must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Check-in time for the event is 10:00AM. The fee is $32 Somerset County residents and $40 for non-residents.

Fall Horseback Riding Lessons
Beginning Monday, September 13, 2010, English style riding lessons will be offered at Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Avenue, Basking Ridge, NJ for beginner through advanced jumping levels for juniors and adults. Drill team, trail, specialty classes, and flat (non-jumping) classes are also offered. Lessons are one hour per week for ten consecutive weeks. Adult students who have passed the Beginner 1 level may ride once a week for ten weeks or twice a week for five weeks. Online and walk-in registrations are accepted on a first come, first served basis beginning at 8:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 28, 2010.

Junior riders must be a minimum age of 9 at time of registration. Riders must be under 240 pounds for non-jumping classes and under 225 pounds for classes over fences. Classification Cards must be shown by riders at registration (except basic beginners). Experienced English saddle riders who do not have a Lord Stirling Stable Classification Card should make an appointment to be tested prior to registration. Please call the stable office for more information.

Equine Mini-Workshop 101
The Lord Stirling Stable Mini-Workshops meet at 256 South Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge, NJ on consecutive Saturdays from September 18 to October 16, 2010 to offer students a chance to gain experience and confidence around horses. Participants learn the proper way to groom and tack-up a horse. The parts of the horse, saddle, and bridle are discussed. Participants learn the different colors and breeds of horses, as well as the important role the farrier and veterinarian play in a horse’s life. The cost is $55 for Somerset County residents and $92.50 for non-residents. Registrations will be accepted until the first day of class. This workshop does not include riding.

Jack Benny Trail Ride
A leisurely one-hour trail ride at Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge, NJ on Sunday, September 19, 2010, at 1:00 P.M. for riders willing to admit that they are 50 years of age and beyond. Fee is $28 for Somerset County residents and $36 for non-residents. Registration begins September 8 in the Stable office.

Moonlight Trail Rides
Private horse owners are invited to participate in an evening ride on the beautiful trails of Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge, NJ on Saturday, July 24, Saturday, August 21, and Saturday, September 25, 2010 from 8:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. An experienced trail guide will accompany participants in groups of no more than eight riders. Registration for each ride on June 26 is available in the Stable office between 9A.M. and 4:30 P.M. beginning approximately two weeks prior to the ride date. Riders may register for the ride on July 24 from July 12 -22, 2010. The fee is $15 for 2010 trail card holders and $20 for horse owners who do not have a trail card. A current (within 12 months) negative Coggins must be presented for each horse at the time of registration.

14th Annual Lord Stirling Dog Days Competition
The Friends of Lord Stirling Stable will host their 14th Annual “Dog Days” on Sunday, September 26, 2010, with registration beginning at 2:00 P.M. and events beginning at 3:00 P.M. Dog Days will take place at the Somerset County Park Commission Lord Stirling Stable, located at 256 South Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge.

Canines of all shapes and sizes are invited along with their human companions to take part in a fun-filled afternoon of contests and events. Classes include Biscuit Toss and Catch; Pet/Owner Look Alike; Biscuit Race; Most Luxurious Tail; Best Trick; Best Dressed (Costume); Smallest, Largest, Most Medium; Obstacle Course; Best Bark; and Most Obedient. Following the event, there will be a walk along the equestrian trails.

Proceeds from the event will help fund activities and programs at Lord Stirling Stable. Classes will be held in the large indoor ring and spectators are invited to watch from an air-conditioned viewing area or in the ring.

Birding at Buck III - Why Birds Migrate
Thursday September 30 from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. (rain or shine)
Join an Environmental Education Center Naturalist and Buck Garden staff to learn about bird migration and seasonal movement at Leonard J. Buck Garden, 11 Layton Road in Far Hills, NJ. Learn which birds use the stars at night to help them navigate, and which birds utilize rising columns of warm air thermals to assist them as they make their way south. This lecture and field study requires binoculars. Fee: $12 per person Pre-registration is required 908-234-2677.

Hypertufa for Beginners 

Friday, October 1 from 9:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.

Visit Leonard J. Buck Garden at 11 Layton Road in far Hills, NJ to learn about Hypertufa, a handmade material that resembles a rugged volcanic rock used to make troughs. These containers are especially suited for small rock garden plants. Participants will make a hypertufa mini-trough with instructions for curing and completing it at home. Participants will also receive a finished mini-trough and will plant it to create your own miniature rock garden. Workshop fee includes the cost of materials and plants. Fee: $45 Limited to 10 participants. Pre-registration is required 908-234-2677.
Pleasure Drive at Lord Stirling Stable
The Friends of Lord Stirling Stable invite drivers to guide their horses and carriages along the well-groomed trails of Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Avenue, Basking Ridge, New Jersey on Sunday, October 3, 2010. Teams will depart between 9:00 A.M. and 11:00 A.M. A cones course may be available. Visit www.flssnj.org for more information.
1770’s Festival
Sunday, October 3 from 10:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.
Step back in time to the colonial period at the annual Lord Stirling 1770s Festival. Lord Stirling’s estate at Lord Stirling Park in Basking Ridge, NJ comes back to life in the late 1700s. Colonial craftspeople ply their trades, a town crier delivers the daily news, and Revolutionary War military detachments camp and conduct maneuvers on the former estate lawn. The event promotes historical and environmental education highlighting the unsung Revolutionary War hero William Alexander, Lord Stirling, who lived on the site and served under General George Washington. Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge 
908 766-2489.

Putting Your Garden to Bed Field Study
Learn how to prepare your perennial garden for winter by joining the Somerset County Park Commission Horticulture staff as they demonstrate techniques used to winterize your garden on Saturday, October 16, 2010 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon (rain date October 23). Bring pruners, loppers, and gloves and participate as the Horticulture staff demonstrates techniques used to winterize your garden. This program will be conducted in the Perennial Garden in Colonial Park, Parking Lot F, East Millstone (Franklin Township), NJ. Fee is $12.00 per person. Pre-registration is required by calling 732 873-2459 ext. 21.

Hunt the Wumpus at Lord Stirling Stable
This event, scheduled for Sunday, October 17, 2010 at Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Avenue, Basking Ridge, New Jersey beginning at 8:00 A.M. combines a guided trail ride with a little challenge for the thinking rider based on an old game from the 1970s. Three groups, divided by riding levels, will go out and enjoy a trail ride in the fields and woods. After a warm-up we will “Hunt the Wumpus”. After the hunt, it’s back to the barn for the awards and a cup. Additional ribbons will be given to riders in each group for Best Turnout, Youngest Rider, Half Century (horse age + rider age >50), and Leader’s Choice. Advance registration is required for this ride, Please visit www.flssnj.org for more information.

Halloween Happenings at EEC
Nature of Halloween
Saturday, October 23 & Sunday, October 24, 2010
5:45 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
The Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center at 190 Lord Stirling Road in Basking Ridge is celebrating Halloween with “The Nature of Halloween”, an entertaining and educational night walk for children ages 3 to 6 with an adult (not appropriate for children younger or older). The walks are scheduled for departure every 15 minutes between 5:45 P.M. and 7:00 P.M. Indoor activities include a maze, live critters, refreshments, and more. Cost is $4.00 per person Tickets must be purchased in advance online at www.somersetcountyparks.org (under Naturalist Programs), in-person by visiting
the Environmental Education Center between 9:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M., or over the phone by calling 908-766-2489 or NJ Relay Service at 711 for individuals with a hearing or speech impairment.
Halloween Happenings at EEC
By the Light of the Moon
Friday, October 22, 2010
6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
The Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center at 190 Lord Stirling Road in Basking Ridge is celebrating Halloween with “By the Light of the Moon, an entertaining and educational night walk for children ages 7 to 10 with an adult. Led by a Naturalist, ghosts and ghouls will listen for animal sounds along the swampy trails. The walks are scheduled for departure every 15 minutes between 6:30 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. Indoor activities include a maze, live critters, refreshments, and more. Cost is $4.00 per person Tickets must be purchased in advance online at www.somersetcountyparks.org (under Naturalist Programs), in-person by visiting the Environmental Education Center between 9:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M., or over the phone by calling 908-766-2489 or NJ Relay Service at 711 for individuals with a hearing or speech impairment.
Equine Mini-Workshop 102
Completion of Mini Workshop 101 is a prerequisite for this class at Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Avenue, Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Students will explore more advanced topics such as nutrition, clipping, bandaging, and basic conformation. The workshops are offered on five consecutive Saturdays from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. beginning Sunday, October 24, 2010. The cost is $55 for Somerset County residents and $92.50 for non-residents. Registrations will be accepted until the first day of class. This workshop does not include riding.

Mischief Night Madness - Colonial Park Putting Course
Friday, October 29, 2010 (rain date Saturday, October 30, 2010)
4:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Play miniature with the ghouls golf at the Colonial Park Putting Course in East Millstone, NJ! Wear your Halloween costume and get a free Halloween goodie bag. Admission includes: Spooky Tales from the Witches Cauldron and Moonlight Hayrides (non-scary variety). Bring along your family Jack-O-Lantern and enter it in the Best Carved Pumpkin Contest. (Judging will take place at 6:30pm) Free apple cider and donuts. Fee: $8.00 for family of two; $10.00 for family of three or more.