FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 17, 2010

RUNNELLS SPECIALIZED HOSPITAL’S 13th ANNUAL COURTYARD CARNIVAL

Elaine Peterson, formerly of New Providence, a resident of RUNNELLS Specialized Hospital of Union County and an animal aficionado enjoyed some time spent with the petting zoo’s calf at the carnival.

The annual Courtyard Carnival drew residents, patients and visitors to the Long Term Care Courtyard at RUNNELLS SpecializedHospital of Union County in Berkeley Heights. The popular event was organized by the facility’s Activities Therapy Department.

There were activities galore to be enjoyed from the Quiver Farms Petting Zoo’s animals, and games like Plinko, Krazy Kans and Mini Golf to having your caricature done, listening to the music of DJ Brian Cox and watching the amazing magician “Alex Cadabra.”  Winner after winner at the games went to the “prize room” to pick their reward for games well played.

The carnival was made possible in part due to the generosity of the facility’s Volunteers Guild which donated some of the funding and a RUNNELLS employee who contributed the Italian Ices.

“RUNNELLS carnival, held in the handicapped accessible long term care courtyard is a great opportunity for residents and patients to get together with friends and family for summer fun,” Freeholder Mohamed S. Jalloh, RUNNELLS liaison noted.  “It’s just one of many activities residents and patients may participate in during the year. Others include the ‘senior’ prom, barbecues and Lion’s Club Ice Cream Party. Of course there are trips to places like baseball games and Atlantic City. My thanks to employees and volunteers who make all of RUNNELLS activities possible.”

To learn more about RUNNELLS programs and facilities call 908-771-5700.

Anyone interested in becoming a RUNNELLS volunteer should call The Office of Volunteer Services at 908-771-5847. Flexible hours and numerous opportunities exist.

RUNNELLS Hospital is located at 40 Watchung Way.