Art, photography in full bloom later this month

The Edison Arts Society is sponsoring the fifth annual "Gardens of the Garden State" juried exhibit, which will be held April 28-30 at the Menlo Park Mall on the lower level of the Nordstrom wing. The event, which is free and open to the public, will officially open at noon on April 28, with a ribbon cutting by Edison Mayor Jun Choi, and will run until 9 p.m. The showcase will continue on April 29 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and April 30 from noon to 5 p.m. Created by New Jersey residents, the display will feature some 80 pieces of art and photography inspired by specific pictures of local gardens. The show will also include musical performances and live floral arrangements.

Artwork will be judged for "Best in Show," and shoppers will be able to vote for their favorite entry. All are welcome to attend a reception in honor of the winning artists and gardeners at 4 p.m. April 30. Also being recognized that day will be this year's Poster Image Winner, Allison Doatch of Edison, who will be awarded for her creative design "Sunshine," which adorns all of this year's "Garden of the Garden State" posters. For more information, call the arts society at (908) 753-ARTS (2787) or visit www.edisonarts.org.

Free vessel safety checks by Coast Guard Auxiliary

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Flotilla 44, Sewaren section of Woodbridge, is offering free vessel safety checks from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 20 at the Woodbridge boat ramp. Vessels will be checked for compliance with federal and state requirements. The ramp is located at Cliff Road and Ferry Street in Sewaren. Contact Jim Crincoli at (732) 574-0731.

St. James to sponsor auction April 28

St. James Catholic Church, 341 Amboy Ave., Woodbridge, is hosting its annual spring auction on April 28 in McCorristin Hall. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the auction slated to begin at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be sold. Cost is $8 per person. To purchase tickets, call (732) 634-0500, ext. 54