Fri., Sept. 7
Babytime: 10:30 a.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. This class is for children 6 months to 24 months accompanied by an adult. Online registration required at www.mcl.org by clicking on “programs/events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Sun., Sept. 9
7th Annual Judged Trail Ride: First ride 9 a.m., last ride 1 p.m., Horse Park of New Jersey, 626 Route 524, Upper Freehold. A judged trail ride is an untimed ride with 10 to 15 judged natural obstacles over a 2- to 5-mile course. A negative Coggins test is required to participate. Cost $55. For registration forms and rules, call 732-446-9566 or go online to www.horseparkofnewjersey.com.
Mon., Sept. 10
Life Tools: Path of Wellness – Stress Management: 7 p.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. Carol Rickard, LCSW at Capital Health System will show you how to use the healthy coping skills of the “Wellness Blueprint” to help restore hope, health, and happiness to your life. Register online at www.mcl.org by clicking on “programs/events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Robbinsville Women’s Club: 7:30 p.m., Robbinsville Senior Center recreation room; new members are being recruited to participate in community and charitable events. For information, contact Susan at 908-330-8011.
Tues., Sept. 11
Semiannual Human and Companion Animal Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., NorthStar VETS, 315 Robbinsville-Allentown Road, Robbinsville. Information on how to put your pet on the blood donor list can be found online at northstarvets.com/bloodbank. For further information call 609-259-8300 ext. 2009.
9/11 Memorial Service: 9:45 a.m., Town Center Lake, Robbinsville. Township firefighters will hold their annual memorial service honoring all victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks at the Bradford pear tree dedicated to the memory of township resident Pamela Gaff, who died in the World Trade Center. For further information, call 609-259-7814.
9/11 Remembrance Memorial and Candlelight Vigil Honoring People and Service Animals who died in service to their country during and after the 9/11 terrorist attacks: 8 p.m., NorthStar VETS, 315 Robbinsville-Allentown Road, Robbinsville. Township police, fire and EMS workers, as well as men and women from the Armed Forces will participate. Open to the public. For further information, contact Rose Pierson or Alexander Munoz at 259-8300 ext. 2009.
Wed., Sept. 12
Lego Club: 4 p.m., Plumsted branch of the Ocean County Library, 119 Evergreen Road, Plumsted. Come to the library for some Lego fun time! Feel free to bring your own Legos or Lego projects you may be working on. This program is free and open to the public. Register in-person, by phone (609)-758-7888 or online at www.theoceancountylibrary.org.
Special Rosh Hashana Storytime: 4:30 p.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. Join us for a fun-filled storytime about Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, and take an exciting ride with Engineer Ari on a train ride to Jerusalem! Come enjoy tasty snacks, too. Presented by Shalom Heritage Center, a center for Jewish outreach and education based in East Windsor. Online registration required at www.mcl.org by clicking on “Programs/Events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Thurs., Sept. 13
Pre-K & Kindergarten Kids’ Time: 2 p.m., Plumsted branch of the Ocean County Library, 119 Evergreen Road, Plumsted. Join us for this free storytime program for children ages 4 to 6. Enjoy stories, crafts, and fun. Register in-person, by phone (609)-758-7888 or online at www.theoceancountylibrary.org.
Allentown Garden Club: 7 p.m., Allentown Methodist Church, Church Street. Featured speaker John Stella is graduate of Delaware Valley College and worked for years as sales representative for many regional wholesale plant growers. He will focus on botanical nomenclature and plant physiology as well as best trees for this area. All are welcome. For details, go to www.AllentownGardenClub.org or call President Terry Brown at 259-0334.
Skin Care for Women: Looking Good from the Inside Out: 7 p.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. Brian R. Keegan, MD, PhD will discuss how a healthy diet and proper skin care can complement medical treatments for common skin problems, including acne, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and skin cancer. Registration is required online at www.mcl.org by clicking on “programs/events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Sat., Sept. 15
New Jersey Wild Outdoor Expo: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area, Jackson. Free family fun. Exhibits, seminars and hands-on opportunities to learn outdoor skills and activities, including fishing, hiking, shooting sports, kayaking, camping skills, rock climbing, wildlife watching and more. For more information, visit wildoutdoorexpo.com.
Introduction to Traditional Chinese Culture and Shen Yun Performing Arts: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. Explore China’s cultural heritage, the role of Chinese music and dance in storytelling, and the connection between ancient Chinese civilization and the modern world. Light refreshments will be served, including traditional Moon Cakes in honor of China’s annual Moon Festival. Register online at www.mcl.org by clicking on “Programs/Events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Sun., Sept. 16
New Jersey Wild Outdoor Expo: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area, Jackson. Free family fun. Exhibits, seminars, and hands-on opportunities to learn outdoor skills and activities, including fishing, hiking, shooting sports, kayaking, camping skills, rock climbing, wildlife watching and more. For more information, visit wildoutdoorexpo.com.
Send Hunger Packing Food Drive: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Acme Market, Rte. 33, Hamilton. The Robbinsville-Hamilton Rotary Club will be collecting food items for the Mercer Street Friends Food Bank’s school kids backpack program. For further information, call Scott at 609-439-3933.
Tues., Sept. 18
The Horsemen’s Association of Millstone Township (HAMT) monthly meeting: 7:00 p.m., Millstone Community Center, 463 Stagecoach Road, Millstone. HAMT is dedicated to horse-related recreation and education, and its members include western and english riders as well as carriage drivers. Open to all who enjoy horses – you do not need to own a horse or live in Millstone! Attend the meeting and learn about upcoming trail rides and activities. More info at www.hamt.org.
Wed., Sept. 19
Send Hunger Packing Food Drive: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Shop-Rite, Hamilton Marketplace, Hamilton. The Robbinsville-Hamilton Rotary Club will be collecting food items for the Mercer Street Friends Food Bank’s school kids backpack program. For further information, call Scott at 609-439-3933.
Senior Citizen Early Bird Dinner: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Elks Lodge, 105 Lakewood Road, New Egypt (Plumsted Township). Presented by the New Egypt Municipal Alliance and the New Egypt Elks. Free dinner and guest speaker, but must RSVP by Sept. 12 by calling 609-758-8050.
Thurs., Sept. 20
School-age Storytime and Craft: 4:30 p.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. This class is for children in kindergarten and up. Online registration required at www.mcl.org by clicking on “Programs/Events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Fri., Sept. 21
Sing Along with Miss Amy: 10:30 a.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road This music program is for children of all ages accompanied by an adult. Registration begins Sept. 7 online at www.mcl.org by clicking on “Programs/Events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Sat., Sept. 22
Craft Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Hope Fire Company, 82 Route 526, Allentown. A fun day of shopping featuring quality crafters. All proceeds benefit the Hope Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary. Free admission. For more information, contact Nancy Wikoff, event chairperson, at 609-259-3505.
Popsicle Stick Puzzles: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. Children of all ages accompanied by an adult are invited to drop in and create a special Popsicle stick puzzle. Registration not required. Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Murder Mystery Dinner: 6:45 p.m. New Egypt Fire Co. firehouse, 59 Main St., New Egypt (Plumsted Township). $45 ticket includes catered buffet dinner, beer wine and soda (must be 21 with ID to drink). For tickets, see any member of the New Egypt Fire Co. or call 609-758-2350 or 609-752-2411.
Sun., Sept. 23
Millstone Township Day: 12 noon to 5 p.m., Frogbridge Day Camp, 7 Yellow Meeting House Road, Millstone. Held rain or shine. Food, music and fun activities including volleyball, basketball, tennis, mini-golf, boating, fishing, swimming, bake sales and more. All recreational equipment provided except fishing poles. For more information, call the township recreation office at 732-917-2954.
Mon., Sept. 24
Readers’ Library Advisory Program: 3:30 p.m., Plumsted branch of the Ocean County Library, 119 Evergreen Road, Plumsted. Let us show you the resources the library has to help you choose books to enjoy. Light refreshments will be served. Registration accepted, but not required. Phone 609-758-7888 or go online at www.theoceancountylibrary.org.
Tues, Sept. 25
Storybooks in Action: 2 p.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. Watch the animated version of “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus” and make a craft. For children ages 2 and up. (Adults must accompany children under 4). Online registration begins Sept. 11 at www.mcl.org by clicking on “Programs/Events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Thurs., Sept. 27
College Funding: 7 p.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. Learn about the often complex process of college funding, proper financial planning, incorporating your child’s needs and desires, and the significance of the Expected Family Contribution. Presented by Innovative College Funding Solutions, LLC. Registration required. To register, call the library at 609-259-2150.
Fri., Sept. 28
Toddler Tunes: 10:30 a.m., Robbinsville Branch, Mercer County Library System, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road. This music program is for children of all ages accompanied by an adult. Online registration begins Sept. 14 at www.mcl.org by clicking on “Programs/Events.” Questions? Call 609-259-2150.
Sat., Sept. 29
U.S. Coast Guard Boater Safety Course hosted by the Hope Fire Company: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 82 Route 526, Allentown. This beginner boating class will give you the knowledge needed to obtain a boat license or boater safety certification. Cost: $50 (includes lunch). Deadline for registration is Sept. 24. For questions, or to register, contact Ted Buehler at 609-847-6343 or email [email protected].
Fri., Oct. 5
Send Hunger Packing Food Drive: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Shop-Rite Route 33, Hamilton. The Robbinsville-Hamilton Rotary Club will be collecting food items for the Mercer Street Friends Food Bank’s school kids backpack program. For further information, call Scott at 609-439-3933.
Sat., Oct. 6
Books wanted: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Plumsted Township Library, 119 Evergreen Road, Plumsted. The Friends of the Plumsted Township Library is collecting gently used books for its November book sale. Donate fiction, nonfiction, large print, children’s books, CDs, DVDs, audio books and puzzles. (No videotapes, Readers Digest condensed books, magazines, or encyclopedias.) Do not leave items if no one is present. For more information, call 609-758-0009 or 732-580-5600 or email [email protected].
Sat., Oct. 13
Allentown Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., downtown Allentown. A two-day event sponsored by the Allentown Business Community Association featuring live music, food, children’s activities, Civil War re-enactments and scores of crafters, artisans and vendors. Admission and parking (at the high school) is free. For further information, or to request a vendor application, go the ABCA website AllentownNJ.com, or email [email protected].
Bus trip to Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, New York City: 9 a.m., sponsored by the Plumsted Township Republican Club. Price includes round-trip bus fare, admission to the newly opened space shuttle pavilion and driver gratuity. (Lunch is not included). Bus leaves 9 a.m. from New Egypt High School, Evergreen Road, and returns at 5 p.m. Cost is $50 for adults; $47 for seniors 62 and older, college students and 7 to 17-year-olds; $40 for 3- to 6-year-olds and $30 for active members of the military. Email [email protected].
Sun., Oct. 14
Allentown Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., downtown Allentown. A two-day event sponsored by the Allentown Business Community Association featuring live music, food, children’s activities, Civil War re-enactments and scores of crafters, artisans and vendors. Admission and parking (at the high school) is free. For further information, or to request a vendor application, go the ABCA website AllentownNJ.com, or email [email protected].
Sat., Oct. 27
Plumsted Fall Festival: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., North Main Street & Main Street, Plumsted. Children’s face painting, pony rides, inflatables and wagon rides as well as great food, music and lots of vendors. A family event sponsored by Main Street New Egypt and Plumsted Township. Admission is free, but a $6 per child wristband is required for unlimited children’s activities. For vendor or general information, contact Peter Ylvisaker at Main Street New Egypt at 609-758-7539, ext. 132 or email him at [email protected].
Sun., Oct. 28
Expo Friendship: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Robbinsville High School, 155 Robbinsville-Edinburg Road, Robbinsville. Sponsored by the Friendship Circle of Greater Mercer County, which provides support, assistance and resources to individuals and families with special needs. Day includes speakers on long-term planning for special needs kids, advocacy for special needs schoolchildren, concert performance by an autistic adult and his father, a simulation on dyslexia, and more. A family fun center will entertain children so parents can attend programs. For further information, or to volunteer, go to [email protected] or call 609-683-7240.
Sat., Nov. 10
Bus trip to Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City: Bus leaves 9 a.m. from New Egypt High School, Evergreen Road, and returns at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Plumsted Township Republican Club. Cost is $25 and includes bus fare and driver gratuity; casino incentive to be announced in October, but anticipated to be between $20 and $25. Register by Oct. 1 at [email protected] or mail a check by that date to the club at P.O. Box 326, New Egypt, 08533.
Sun., Nov. 18
Holiday Bazaar: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Pond Road Middle School, 150 Pond Road, Robbinsville. No admittance fee. Event features an adult craft fair, student performances, children’s make-and-take crafts, children’s holiday gift shop, and refreshments. New and returning crafters can download application forms at the Robbinsville Education Foundation’s website, www.refkids.org.
Continuing events
Allentown-Upper Freehold Postcard Contest: Open to students, professionals, amateurs, painters and all artists; one entry per person. Contestants must be from Allentown, Upper Freehold or Millstone, and photograph must be of the Allentown-Upper Freehold area. By submitting a photograph, permission is given to the Allentown Business Community Association to use the image. If photographing private property, check with property owner and provide their contact information with entry. Photos must be submitted by Sept. 20 as 4-inch by 6-inch image. Voting will take place online until Sept. 30. Check www.AllentownNJ.com after Sept. 20 for voting information.
Storytime at the Allentown Library: Stories, songs and fun activities every Thursday, 16 S. Main St., Allentown. New fall schedule includes: Library Babies for ages 2 and under with parent/caregiver from 10:00 a.m. to 10:20 a.m.; Terrific Twos and Threes for age 2 to 3 with parent/caregiver (siblings welcome!) 10:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m.; Preschool Story and Art Program for ages 3 to 5 from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.; Family Storytime for all ages 2:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. No registration is required for storytime programs. For further information, call the library at 609-259-7565.
The Robbinsville Municipal Alliance against Alcoholism and Drug Abuse works to combat substance abuse through education and by creating a forum for shared ideas among the many hands of government that touch lives affected by drugs or alcohol. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at 1 Washington Blvd., Robbinsville. For information, email Shaina Ciaccio at [email protected].
Weekly senior games: Plumsted Senior Outreach Services, Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m., Plumsted Municipal Building lower level via elevator, 121 Evergreen Road. Play a different game every week, including Scrabble, bingo, board and card games and dominoes. For further information, call 609-758-2241, ext. 111, and leave message.
Mid-day Toastmasters Club: 11:30 a.m., second and fourth Tuesdays each month at Robbinsville Branch of the Mercer County Library System, 42 Allentown-Robbinsville Road. For information, contact Jim Samuel at [email protected].
Good Neighbor Fund: assists area residents with emergency needs such as utility, rent and medical bills. To make donation, mail check payable to the Good Neighbor Fund in care of Allentown Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 122, Allentown, 08501.
Plumsted TNR Committee: 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., Plumsted Trap, Neuter and Return Committee every Sunday at the New Egypt Flea Market, 933 Route 536, New Egypt.
MOMS Club of Upper Freehold/Allentown: First Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Allentown Presbyterian Church, 20 High St.; for information, contact Barbara Nissinger or Jen Domen at [email protected].
Millstone MOMS: 10 a.m., MOMS Club of Millstone Township, second Thursday of each month; for information, contact Melanie Sullivan at 732-851-5559 or [email protected] or www.millstone.nj.us/Moms_Club.html.
Discussing books: 6:30 p.m., Plumsted branch of the Ocean County Library, first Wednesday of the month; registration can be done in person, by phone at 609-758-7888 or online at www.theoceancountylibrary.org.
Community events, meeting notices, public announcements and other items of local interest appear regularly in this column at no charge. Send to [email protected] or Community Calendar, in care of The Messenger-Press, P.O. Box 350, Princeton, New Jersey, 08542, or fax to 609-921-2714.
Short email submissions are preferred. Releases must include time, date, location, full street addresses and admission fee, if applicable. Submission of an item does not guarantee publication.

