GRANT FROM OVERLOOK TO VACNJ FUNDS PROGRAM FOR TEENS TO CREATE

The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey (VACNJ) has received a grant from the Overlook Foundation for its free teen art therapy offering, Self-Expression Through Art.

The program features six sessions that launched in March and will continue in the fall. Art therapy addresses mental wellness and utilizes the visual arts as a tool for expression and coping with stress and anxiety. SelfExpression Through Art aims to offer teens a consistent, healthy way to manage their mental health, feelings and behavior. The program creates a safe space for teens to create art and have open and honest conversations.

“Creative self-expression led by an art therapist can be a powerful tool for teens,” said Sarah Walko, director of education and community engagement at the VACNJ.

“It helps teens process emotions, going beyond words, beyond the rational mind, tapping into our most authentic selves.”

This program is open to all teens 13 and older, and is led by art therapist Megan Tuttle. Sessions run from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Teens are invited to attend as many sessions as they would like, but must register separately for each date. For details, visit artcenternj.org.

The Visual Arts Center is at 68 Elm St., Summit. Gallery hours are Mondays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 to 5; and Sundays 11 to 4. Call 908-273-9121 to confirm holiday hours.

Jaylynn Morrison recently celebrated his 101st birthday surrounded by friends at SAGE Eldercare in Summit.

Mr. Morrison grew up listening to his parents' wise words and following their advice, and said he being a good person and taking care of yourself are the keys to a long and happy life. He spent his childhood listening to jazz music and watching monster movies, and noted he has always been fascinated by the world around him.

Mr. Morrison earned his B.S. from Johnson C. Smith University, where he played on the basketball and tennis teams and earned the nickname “Speedy” because of his calm, slowmoving demeanor.

After graduation, Mr. Morrison moved to Newark and married the love of his life, Louise. Both were public school teachers in Newark. Mr. Morrison taught math and science and became beloved among his students, known for making complex concepts easy to understand. When the Morrisons retired they traveled the world, went on several cruises and enjoyed going to sporting events, playing tennis and gardening. They shared a life together for more than 65 years.

Despite his busy schedule, Mr. Morrison noted he was always available for his favorite foods. He loves nothing more than a plate of sweet, juicy corn on the cob. Ice cream, his favorite dessert, usually concludes his meals.

For 69 years, SAGE’s mission has been to help older adults remain living in their own homes. Learn more at sageeldercare.org.

Galina Muller has been appointed executive director of SAGE Eldercare, a Summitbased nonprofit provider of programs and services to the elderly, their families and caregivers.

Since 1954, SAGE has provided information, support and services designed to help individuals lead the most independent and active lives possible. From helping with errands to offering exercise classes, community programs, care planning, meal delivery, adult medical daycare and home health care, SAGE helps support older adults live independently in their homes.

Ms. Muller joined SAGE in 2007 as finance director, and during the pandemic, she was promoted to director of finance and administration, focused on analyzing and enhancing organizational effectiveness. She restructured SAGE’s business model, consolidating its two clinical care programs (HomeCare and Spend-A-Day) to improve quality of care and reduce operating costs.

Ms. Muller earned a graduate degree in accounting at Fairleigh Dickinson University and her bachelor’s in economics, accounting and finance at New Bulgarian University. Prior to joining SAGE, she held various positions at Robert Saunders CPA in Westfield, Island Auto Rental Group and Glory School of Foreign Languages.

For information regarding SAGE, call 908-273-5550 or visit sageeldercare.org.

Registration for the Summer Reading Club at the Berkeley Heights Public Library opened on June 17, and the program – which has a theme this year of “Find Your Voice” – runs through Aug. 25.

In addition, the library is hosting upcoming programs designed for a range of ages and interests.

On June Wednesdays, from 9:30 to 10 a.m., Shake, Rattle & Read features stories and play for ages three to five. Throughout the month on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10, newborns up to age two can enjoy Fun With Friends, which also includes stories and play.

The Kid Spidey Show on Wednesday, June 21, at 2 p.m. boasts Muscle Man Mike and his sidekick puppet Kid Spidey, Spiderman’s son. Super hero magic and total interaction are designed to sweep children into a world of imagination.

Sing-Along with Patty of Sound Stage Music comes to town on Tuesday, June 27, at 2 p.m., when visitors of all ages will sing to traditional children’s songs performed on guitar and harp.

LEGO Play is the highlight on Wednesday, June 28, at 2 p.m. for ages four and older. Completed projects will be displayed in the Children’s Room.

The following day, Thursday, June 29, at 10 a.m., Brian Richards hosts The Magic of Reading, designed for all ages. It will include magic, comedy, juggling, storytelling, puppets and audience participation.

The Berkeley Heights Public Library is at 28 Park Ave. For details, visit bhplnj.org.