Sat., April 30
The Women’s Club of Cranbury will have its Mother’s Day Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to noon, rain or shine, in front of Studio 43 Hair Salon, 43, N. Main St., Cranbury. In addition to the sidewalk sale, the club is accepting pre-orders on the red and pink geraniums in 4.5-inch pots. Prices are $2.50 each or three for $7. Cash or check only. Proceeds will benefit various WCC charities. Mail orders along with payment to the Women’s Club of Cranbury, P.O. Box 94, Cranbury, N.J., 08512. For more information, email Phyllis Robinson at [email protected].
St. David’s Episcopal Church will have its annual Women’s Tea Party at 3 p.m. Join us for an Afternoon Tea Social with teas, scones, assorted pastries and tea sandwiches. A program featuring “TEA-for-ALL” certified tea specialists will be presented as well as musical entertainment. The outreach mission this year is Breast Cancer Resource Center at the Princeton YWCA. See the website for more information www.stdavidscranbury.com or call 609-655-4731 for tickets ($30). The church is at 90 South Main Street, Cranbury.
Sun., May 1
The Hightstown-East Windsor Historical Society is sponsoring an event at the historic Walnford Mill Park, near Allentown, N.J. at 4 p.m. Friends of the society and the community are invited to have a supper and enjoy a tour of Waln’s Mill. The mill is operated and powered by a turbine rather than an external water wheel, which represented the peak of stone grinding gristmill design when it was rebuilt in 1872 following a disastrous fire. Included in the event is a catered supper, a tour of the Waln House built in 1773, a tour of an 1879 carriage house, cow barn and corn crib. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for ages 12-18 years of age and $15 for those under 12 years. Reservations can be made by calling 609-448-8388. For more information, visit the society website at www.hewhs.com.
The Cranbury Museum, 4 Park Place East, will feature the exhibit, “Merchants of Main Street: A Stroll Through the Shoppes of Cranbury’s Past,” from 1 to 4 p.m. The exhibit celebrates the creativity, hard work and entrepreneurial skills of the Main Street Merchants of the 18th, 19th & 20th centuries. Come take a stroll down Main Street, visit our merchants and view their wares and services. This exhibit will be displayed through August 2016.
The Sisterhood of Temple B’nai Shalom will host a rummage sale on from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. A wide variety of items will be available at low prices including clothing, shoes, books, toys, household items and more for the entire family. Cash & check (with ID) only. Bring a bag or basket to help you shop. Temple B’nai Shalom is at 15 Fern Road in East Brunswick. Visit www.bnaishalom.com for more information.
Tues., May 3
Join the Plumsted Quilting Club at 1 p.m. at the Plumsted Branch of the Ocean County Library. Bring your new and old projects to work on. Beginners are welcome. The Plumsted Branch is at 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt. Stop in, call the branch at 609-758-7888, or check the website: www.theoceancountylibrary.org to register and find out about all the monthly programs.
Wed., May 4
Join the Plumsted Knitting and Crochet Club at 7 p.m. at the Plumsted Branch of the Ocean County Library. Do you enjoy knitting, crochet and needlepoint? Bring your old and new projects to work on. The Plumsted Branch is at 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt. Stop in, call the branch at 609-758-7888, or check the website: www.theoceancountylibrary.org to register and find out about all the monthly programs.
Windows 10 for Beginners will be taught at 1:30 p.m. at the Hickory Corner Branch, Mercer County Library System, 138 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor N.J. Learn the basics of the new Windows from a knowledgeable librarian. Call the library at 609-448-1330 to register.
Presidential Scandals of the 20th Century will be presented at 7 p.m. at the Hickory Corner Branch, Mercer County Library System, 138 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor N.J. Of the 18 presidents who have served in the past 100 years, eight have made history for their scandalous behaviors. Historian Walter Choroszewski presents an exciting overview of scandals linked to American presidents involving corruption, lies, abuse of power, and personal infidelities. Adult content: ages 18 +. Sponsored by Friends of the Hickory Corner Library. Call the library at 609-448-1330 to register.
Fri., May 6
Cranbury Historical and Preservation Society will have a potluck supper meeting at 6:30 p.m. in its Fellowship Hall, 22 S. Main St., Cranbury. The program is the showing of the film, “Called to Duty,” some of which was filmed in Cranbury in 2015. Civil War Heritage Association member Tom Burke, who wrote and produced the film, will introduce it. Bring your own place setting and a dish for eight to share. Beverages will be provided.
Sat., May 7
A Red Cross blood drive with Hightstown Knights of Columbus Post #6284 will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Aid squad in Hightstown, 168 Bank Street. You can sign up to donate online at www.redcrossblood.org enter sponsor code KofC6284. The Hightstown K of C #6284 has been hosting Red Cross blood drives for more than 10 years and has collected more than 1,000 blood donations. Please donate blood if you are able.
Mon., May 9
“Find Your Ancestor” will be held at 6 p.m. at the Plumsted Branch of the Ocean County Library. Genealogy expert Dawn Heyson will share insights on how to search for ancestors. The Plumsted Branch is at 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt. Stop in, call the branch at 609-758-7888, or check the website: www.theoceancountylibrary.org to register and find out about all the monthly programs.
Wed., May 11
Beth El Synagogue of East Windsor Israel Affairs Committee presents “A Journey Through Time: Highlighting a local contribution to fulfilling the Zionist dream,” for two shows, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and from 7 to 8 p.m. The evening will commemorate Israel Memorial Day and celebrate Israel Independence Day. Take a journey back in time to pre-1948 and learn about the Hechalutz Farm in Hightstown, N.J. This farm trained young Zionists in the farming industry prior to them going to Israel and establishing several Kibbutzim. There will be a moment of remembrance for the fallen soldiers of Israel’s wars. This will be followed by the broadcast of the UN vote to establish Israel’s independence. A light falafel dinner and dessert will be served for $7 per person from 6:30 to 7 p.m. RSVP is required for the dinner. Beth El Synagogue is at 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor, N.J, 08520; 609-443-4454; www.bethel.net.
“Sexuality and Hygiene for Adolescents with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities – What Parents and Educators Need to Know,” will be presented at 6: 30 p.m. at the Plumsted Branch of the Ocean County Library.This presentation will provide an overview of the specific challenges present during puberty and adolescence, specifically issues of sexuality and hygiene. Strategies for increasing independence in grooming, hygiene, health, and dressing will be reviewed. In addition, issues and strategies surrounding sexuality, modesty, privacy, boundaries and personal safety will be discussed. Please be advised, this is a frank discussion of all aspects of sexuality and is meant for adults only. Children will not be admitted. Sign-in is at 6:15 p.m. Professional Development Certificates provided. Ocean County Library is a registered N.J. Department of Education Professional Development Provider. The library is at 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt. Stop in, call the branch at 609-758-7888, or check the website: www.theoceancountylibrary.org to register and find out about all the monthly programs.
Railroads of Hightstown & East Windsor will be presented at 7 p.m. at the Hickory Corner Branch, Mercer County Library System, 138 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor N.J. Railroad historian John Kilbride will present an illustrated lecture on the historical significance of the railroad in our area as well as the story of the John Bull locomotive. Ages 10 to adult. Call the library at 609-448-1330 to register.
Thurs., May 12
Join the Plumsted Knitting and Crochet Club at 2 p.m. at the Plumsted Branch of the Ocean County Library. Do you enjoy knitting, crochet and needlepoint? Bring your old and new projects to work on. The Plumsted Branch is at 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt. Stop in, call the branch at 609-758-7888, or check the website: www.theoceancountylibrary.org to register and find out about all the monthly programs.
Sun., May 15
Beth El Synagogue Genealogy Club will present a program to all interested in discovering a family’s Jewish roots and the journey one person took to get there at 7:30 p.m. at the synagogue. Wanting to know and understand more about his European relatives deported from their homes in Germany, and sent to their death in Poland’s concentration camps during the Holocaust, Ryan Lilienthal embarked on a mission to examine the past by traveling to his family’s town of origin in Germany. This program is dedicated to Holocaust Memorial Day – Yom Ha Shoah. Beth El Synagogue is at 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor, N.J., 08520; 609-443-4454; www.bethel.net.
The Cranbury Museum, 4 Park Place East, will feature the exhibit, “Merchants of Main Street: A Stroll Through the Shoppes of Cranbury’s Past,” from 1 to 4 p.m. The exhibit celebrates the creativity, hard work and entrepreneurial skills of the Main Street Merchants of the 18th, 19th & 20th centuries. Come take a stroll down Main Street, visit our merchants and view their wares and services. This exhibit will be displayed through August 2016.
Mon., May 16
Book Café with local guest author Lo Anne Mayer will be held at 3 p.m. at the Plumsted Branch of the Ocean County Library. Ms. Mayer will present her book “Celestial Conversation.” Books will be available for purchase and light refreshments will be served. The Plumsted Branch is at 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt. Stop in, call the branch at 609-758-7888, or check the website: www.theoceancountylibrary.org to register and find out about all the monthly programs.
Tues., May 17
The Beth El Synagogue of East Windsor Werner Lecture Fund presents “Art in the Afternoon – Marc Chagall in Paris” at noon. Join us for a light lunch followed by a guest lecturer, Barbara Tomlinson. The fee is $10. Reservations are required by May 9, 2016. Beth El Synagogue is at 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor, N.J., 08520; 609-443-4454; www.bethel.net.
Join the Plumsted Quilting Club at 1 p.m. at the Plumsted Branch of the Ocean County Library. Bring your new and old projects to work on. Beginners are welcome. The Plumsted Branch is at 119 Evergreen Road, New Egypt. Stop in, call the branch at 609-758-7888, or check the website: www.theoceancountylibrary.org to register and find out about all the monthly programs.
Thurs., May 19
The Beth El Synagogue of East Windsor Seniors’ Group will present an afternoon of prayers, folk songs and songs that are sung on joyous occasions at 1 p.m. Learn about the melodies’ origins as well as their translations, including sources and meanings. Enjoy some light refreshments while you sing along to the familiar melodies. Beth El Synagogue is at 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor, N.J., 08520; 609-443-4454; www.bethel.net.
Tues., May 24
First Presbyterian Church will have a concert at 12:30 p.m. featuring vocalist Zack Alexander in its Fellowship Hall, 22 S. Main St., Cranbury. Mr. Alexander sings in the style of Frank Sinatra. The concert is free. For reservations, call 609-395-0897 by May 19 and leave your name and phone number.
Thurs., May 26
Oak Tree Elementary School is hosting a free “Healthy Living Night” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the school, 226 Applegarth Road, Monroe Township. Activities include kickboxing, family games, yoga and mindfulness, garden tours, ambulance tours, a Gnarly Gnome photo booth, scavenger hunt and more. Bring an unhealthy snack to trade for a healthy snack. For more information, call the school at 609-655-7642.
Sat., June 4
The annual Strawberry Festival, sponsored by the First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury Board of Deacons, will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Strawberries, cake, ice cream, hamburgers, hot dogs, music, games, face painting, a clown and more will be available. The church is at 22 S. Main St., Cranbury. The event will be held rain or shine and benefits the Deacons benevolence fund.
Mon., June 6
Concert by the First Presbyterian Church Brass Choir at 7 p.m. at the Parsonage Barn, 3 Cranbury Neck Road, Cranbury. Enjoy an evening of music at the barn. Arrive early or bring a blanket or chair.
Sat., June 11
“Remembering Downton Abbey” will be presented in the Fellowship Hall of the First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury, 22 S. Main St., Cranbury. This event will include team trivia questions about Downton Abbey and England, a silent auction of Downton Abbey memorabilia and other special items, door prizes, projected photos from the series, refreshments and a few surprises. Tickets at $12 each are available now by mailing a check by June 1, payable to The Woman’s Club of Cranbury to: WCC “Remembering Downton Abbey,” 4 Labaw Drive, Cranbury, N.J., 08512. Please include a self- addressed stamped envelope, for the return of your tickets, unless you would like them held at the door. Proceeds will benefit Woman’s Club of Cranbury charities, including their Scholarship Fund.
Continuing events
Spinning Yarns Craft Circle: This club meets the first and third Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Cranbury Public Library at 23 N. Main St. in Cranbury. Visit the Gambino Room for an hour of knitting, crocheting, crafts and conversation. All levels welcome.
The Monroe Township Police PBA #255 & SOA #203 is having its second annual toy drive between now and Dec. 9. Residents are asked to drop off an unwrapped toy or make a monetary donation for children of all ages at the police department, 3 Municipal Plaza. For more information, contact Lt. Lisa Robinson at 732-521-0222, ext. 149 or email [email protected]; or Officer Wesley Panckeri at 732-521-0222, ext. 210 or email [email protected].
Read It and Eat It! Cook Book Club: This club takes place the third Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. in the Cranbury Public Library at 23 N. Main St. in Cranbury. Call the library to reserve a copy of this month’s book or visit www.goodreads.com/topic/group_folder/264622.
Toddler Stay and Play: This event is held Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. in the at 23 N. Main St. in Cranbury. Early literacy story time helps prepare children with future reading skills. After singing, reading, and talking, children ages 12-24 months with a caregiver stay and play.
Movie Club: This club meets on the third Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. in the Cranbury Public Library at 23 N. Main St. in Cranbury Join the lively discussions about movies.
Central Jersey Chapter 148 of Korean War Veterans Association: Any veterans who served during the war from June 25, 1950 to July 27, 1953 or who have served in Korea from July 27, 1953 to the current date can join the group that meets at 10 a.m. the second Wednesday of every month (except January, February, March and April) at the Monroe Township Municipal Building. Requirements for membership include paying dues of $25 to the Korean War Veterans Association and a $10 chapter fee per year. The chapter is involved in various functions throughout the year including parades with color guard, flag raisings, Korean War memorial ceremonies, funerals and more. For more information, contact Charles Koppelman at 609-655-3111 or email him at [email protected].
Holy Cross Lutheran Preschool: Registration for the 2015-16 school year for both Pre-K-3 and Pre-K-4 programs continues to be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Call Preschool Director Kathy Schroeder at 609- 298-2880 ext. 101 for availability.
Community dinner: Rise and the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen offer free hot meals at the First Presbyterian Church, 320 N. Main St., Hightstown, on Mondays from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and the First United Methodist Church, 187 Stockton St., Hightstown, on Thursdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m. All meals are provided free on an unconditional, no-questions-asked basis. Volunteers are welcome.
Food Pantry: The Rise Food Pantry is open 52 weeks a year from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and from 5 to 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month. Baby care items, personal products and all nonperishable and perishable food items are needed for local families. The pantry welcomes locally grown fruits and vegetables. Food can be donated directly to the pantry at 225 Franklin St., Hightstown, during operating hours or to the Greater Goods Thrift Store, 114 Rogers Ave., Hightstown. Contact [email protected] for more information.
What’s going on
Community events, meeting notices, public announcements and other items of local interest appear regularly in this column at no charge. Send items well in advance to [email protected] or to Community Calendar, Windsor-Hights Herald, P.O. Box 350, Princeton, New Jersey, 08542.
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