Community Calendar: Sept. 13 edition

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.

Fri., Sept. 14

   Elks Fish Fry: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., New Egypt Elks, 105 Lakewood Road, Plumsted. Fish and chicken dinners of various sizes cost $8 to $10 and include salad, cole slaw, rolls, beverages and dessert. Children’s meals $5. Take-out meals available. For more information, call 609-758-8700.

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.
   Cub Scout Roundup: 5 p.m., Robbins House, 245 Windsor Road, Robbinsville. Cub Scout Pack 79 invites boys in Grades 1-5, and their families or caregivers, to attend and learn more about scouting. For more information, call 609-630-0514 or email [email protected].

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

   Grandparents and Kids Tea Party: 4 p.m., Allentown Library, 16 So. Main Street. Celebrate grandparents with snacks and activities. Open to all ages, registration required. Call the library at 609-259-7565.
   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

   Read to a Therapy Dog: 4 p.m., Allentown Public Library, 16 So. Main Street. Trained therapy dogs from Therapy Dogs International will listen to children practicing their reading skills. Open to youngsters in first grade and up. Registration required. Call the library at 609-259-7565.
   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].
   Monmouth County Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Day: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., county garage, Route 539, Upper Freehold. Accepted items include: pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, solvents, thinners, corrosives, cleaners, pool chemicals, oil paints, varnishes, aerosol cans, used motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline, batteries (rechargeable, button or automotive) and propane barbecue tanks. For further information call 732-431-7456 or 732-431-4788.

Thurs., Oct. 4

   Blessing of the Animals: 5 p.m., to 7p.m. NorthStar VETS, 315 Robbinsville-Allentown Road, Robbinsville. All are welcome with their pets for a special St. Francis of Assisi feast day blessing that will be given by the Rev. Stephen Heinzel-Nelson, pastor of the Allentown Presbyterian Church. RSVP to [email protected] or call NorthStar VETS at 609-259-8300 ext. 1153.

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].
   Oktoberfest at the Horse Park of NJ: 4:30 p.m., 626 Route 524, Upper Freehold. Quoits tournament, authentic Oktoberfest foods, best of “Jersey Fresh” products, wineries, breweries; live music; blacksmithing competition with auction; Dachshund dessert dash, and more. Tickets: $40 in advance and $45 at the door. For further information, go online to www.horseparkofnewjersey.com.

Sun., Oct. 7

   Rotary “Woof” Walk: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Town Center Gazebo, Lake Drive, Robbinsville. Festivities (rain or shine) include a 1.5-mile walk for humans and canine companions, music, contests, and refreshments sponsored by the Robbinsville-Hamilton Sunrise Rotary Club. Proceeds benefit Robbinsville Police K-9 unit and Megan’s Place of Hamilton. Pre-register for walk by Oct. 1 for $10 per animal; $15 on Woof Walk Day. Canine contests ($5 entrance fee per contest): Amazing Dog Tricks; Owner/Pet Look Alikes; Best Dressed; and Face Only a Mother Could Love. All dogs must be well mannered, on leash, and have proof of current rabies vaccination. For further information, call 609-658-6494.

Sat., Oct. 13

   Tomm May 19th Annual 5K Run: Tantum Park, 280 Meadowbrook Road, Robbinsville. Registration begins 8:30 a.m.; 5K begins at 10 a.m.; Nature Trail Fun Walk and Kids Run begins at 10:15 a.m. Free T-shirts to pre-registered entrants. Registration fees help maintain the Thomas J. May Nature Trail named for the late Tomm May, who was a Robbinsville resident and committed environmentalist. For further information and to register go online to www.raceforum.com/Tomm-May/.
   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

   Pampered Chef Fundraiser for After-School Homework Club: 10 a.m. to 12 noon, Millstone Township Community Center, 463 Stagecoach Road, Millstone. All proceeds help provide sessions for the After-School Homework Club sponsored by the Municipal Drug Alliance for over 20 years. For more information, call 732-462-4770 ext. 40.
   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 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

   Homefront Fall Donation Drive: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Robbinsville Fire House, 1149 Route 130 North, Robbinsville. HomeFront and the Rescue Mission of Trenton will be collecting clothing and accessories (ties, hats, gloves, socks, coats, scarves, shoes of any size and gender), canned and dried foods, books, handbags, briefcases, knapsacks, baby items, and diapers. The charitable organizations also need foam packing peanuts and bubble wrap, DVD players, CDs, VHS recorders, televisions and other appliances. For more information, go online to www.homefrontnj.org.
   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.

Recurring 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 at the library located at 16 S. Main St. 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 from 2:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. No registration is required for storytime programs. For further information, call 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.
   Senior Exercise Classes, sponsored by the Plumsted Senior Outreach Service, resume for fall at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the lower level of the Plumsted Municipal Building, 121 Evergreen Road. All new participants are required to submit a doctor’s permission form. To register, call 609-758-2241, ext. 111.
   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.
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