Common calendar, Packet papers, April 30

Ongoing

 

Mercer County Community College has opened registration for in-person summer Tomato Patch program, its dance, theater, vocal and visual arts programs at Kelsey Theatre.

 

McCarter Theatre Center’s Resident Producer Debbie Bisno presents “The Manic Monologues.”

This initiative brings to life true stories submitted by resilient people across the world living with mental health challenges, performed by a celebrated cast of actors and enhanced by interactive design and technology.

To watch, visit www.mccarter.org/manicmonologues

 

 

The Arts Council of Princeton is enrolling children ages 5-7 for its summer camps.

June 21-26: Studio art foundations, drawing, painting, sculpture

June 28 to July 2: masks, make believe

July 6-9: Magic of Monet

July 12-16: imagination drawing

For more information, visit http://artscouncilofprinceton.org/summer-art-2020/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Through Friday, April 30

 

 

The Woman’s Club of Cranbury is offering a $2,000 scholarship for a woman returning
to school and pursuing post-secondary education after experiencing some time away
from attending school.

The commitment to helping a woman who is pursuing post-secondary education fulfills the mission of The Woman’s Club of Cranbury by making a difference in the lives of women and helping them to increase their opportunities to grow and support themselves and their families.

This award is based on financial need, as well as the applicant being able to define her
goal in seeking further education.

The application is available at https://womansclubofcranbury.org/scholarships.

The completed application should be mailed by April 30 to The Woman’s
Club of Cranbury, Attn: Woman’s Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box. 94, Cranbury 08512.

For more information, call 609-395-0314.

 

 

The Woman’s Club of Cranbury is offering a Student Community Service Scholarship Award.

Candidates must reside in Cranbury Township; may be male or female; must be a high school senior who will be entering their first year of postsecondary education; and must have shown examples of exceptional community service which include volunteerism, leadership or other virtues of service.

A one-page essay detailing why the candidate should be considered is part of the
application.

Two personal references from people who are not related to the candidate are also
required. One should be from a teacher or other school staff, and one should be from a
source outside of school, such as clergy or youth leaders.

The application must be made by April 30 and sent to The Woman’s Club of Cranbury, Attn: Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 94, Cranbury 08512.

Recipients of the scholarships are chosen by the Scholarship Committee and will be presented to the Woman’s Club of Cranbury membership at the general meeting in May. The recipient and his or her parents or guardian will be invited to attend the May meeting
where the award will be announced.

For more information, visit https://womansclubofcranbury.org/scholarships

 

 

The three Democratic candidates running for New Jersey Assembly in Legislative District 16 will meet in a virtual forum at 7:30 p.m. May 6.

To view the webinar live, register at TheMontyNews.com.

Questions for the candidates may be emailed to the League of Women Voters at lwvprinceton@gmail.com by April 30.

 

The Work of Adrienne Kennedy: Inspiration & Influence has been extended through April 30, on-demand from McCarter Theatre in Princeton.

Each performance is $15, or purchase all four together as a bundle as have the handling fee waived.

Explore the festival at www.mccarter.org/adriennekennedy

 

 

JFCS of Greater Mercer County announces the Rose & Louis H. Linowitz Mensch Award.

This is a merit-based award for deserving Jewish eighth grade and high school senior students living in Greater Mercer County.

Candidates should exemplify what it means to be a mensch – a person of integrity and honor, a doer of good deeds, and an all-around good person.

Students must be nominated by a member of the community such as a rabbi, educator, youth group advisor, secular school guidance counselor, teacher, parent, etc.

Eighth grade Mensch-In-Training award is $300 and high school senior Mensch Award winners will receive $1,500.

This is not a need-based scholarship.

Applications are due by April 30.

For more information or to nominate a student, visit www.JFCSonline.org, or contact Joyce at 609-987-8100 or [email protected]

 

 

Hillsborough is joining towns across the country for the 10th anniversary of the National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation by asking residents to make a long-term commitment to manage water resources more wisely.

The annual challenge, through April 30, is a non-profit national community service campaign that encourages leaders to inspire their residents to make a series of simple pledges at mywaterpledge.com to use water more efficiently, reduce pollution and save energy, according to the statement.

To participate, residents go to mywaterpledge.com, and then make a series of online pledges to conserve water on behalf of Hillsborough. 

Cities with the highest percentage of residents who take the challenge in their population category have a chance to win $3,000 toward their home utility bills, and hundreds more eco-friendly prizes. In addition, residents can nominate a deserving charity from their city to receive a 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

The foundation has also created a new digital tool called MyVolunteer Water Project, in support of the program, that gives residents a unique way to do hands-on home, community, and workplace projects year-round in support of their city’s sustainability efforts.

For more information, visit www.wylandfoundation.org

 

Attitudes In Reverse (AIR) will hold its 13th annual T-Shirt Design Concept Contest based on students’ creative ideas for communicating the importance of seeking help for mental health disorders.

AIR is a Princeton-based nonprofit organization dedicated to educating youth and adults about mental health, related disorders and suicide prevention.

Entries are due April 30. The entry form is available online.

All contestants will be recognized during the 10th Annual Miki & Friends Open AIR event, which will be held on May 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at West Windsor Community Park. Prizes will be an iPad for first place and a $50 gift card for second place.

The designs inspired by the winning concepts will be printed on T-shirts that the contestants and all volunteers will receive and will also be available to event attendees who donate $50 or more.

The designs will also be featured on AIR’s website, www.air.ngo.

 

The Blue Bears Special Meals program will celebrate its second anniversary of enabling young adults facing intellectual and development disorders to work and learn in a meaningful environment.

The Blue Bears team is fully vaccinated and back at the restaurant on N. Harrison St. in Princeton.

To celebrate their reunion, in May they will display a gallery of blue bears created by members of the community. Sculpt, paint or knit a bear, write a story or author a play, or sew a blue bear costume, for example.

Submissions will be accepted through April 30.

Submit by emailing [email protected]

The young adult team will meet in early May and the grand prize winners will be announced at the celebration toward the end of May. Prizes will be awarded.

 

Karma Cat + Zen Dog Rescue Society and People for Animals will hold their quarterly Snip & Chip for Community Cats event on May 7, where locals can bring in feral cats to be spayed/neutered and microchipped free of charge.

The event will be held at the People for Animals Clinic located at 1 Sharon Road in Robbinsville.

All feral cats from Central New Jersey are welcome, with a limit of five cats per participant. All cats must be dropped off between 7 and 7:30 a.m. to receive treatment.

Do not bring any socialized cats, they will be turned away.

Snip & Chip will provide free spay/neuter surgeries (valued up to $55) which will include rabies and distemper vaccines, ear tip, injectable pain control, tattoo, and medical waste disposal for feral cats.

Microchip insertion/registration will be available free of charge as well.

Additional services will be available for an additional charge, including post-op boarding. All additional services must be pre-paid at the time of drop off. The pickup dates are May 7 or 10; $15 boarding fee per cat to be paid to the rescue.

Karma Cat + Zen Dog Rescue Society will accept cash or credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover). No American Express or checks accepted.

Registrations must be made by April 30.

To register, participants must fill out the form at https://karmacatzendog.org/snipchiprequest. If participants cannot fill out the form, email [email protected] with “Snip & Chip Reservations” in the subject line. Within the body of the email, participants must provide full name, email address, mailing address, phone number, number of cats, what town the cats reside in, and a description of the colony.

 

 

 

 

Friday, April 30

 

Spring Dance Festival – April, an evening of new original dance works by Princeton seniors, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Dance, will be held at 8 p.m. April 30 via Zoom.

Princeton Dance seniors Sophie Blue, Liam Lynch and Enver Ramadani present an evening of filmed new dance works.

The evening will be hosted by Hearst Choreographer-in-Residence and guest faculty member Miguel Gutierrez.

Free and open to the public; advance Zoom registration required.

For more information and the Zoom registration link, visit https://arts.princeton.edu/events/spring-dance-festival-sp-21/

 

East Windsor residents and groups can mark Arbor Day on April 30 by planting a tree through the township’s Memorial Tree Grove Program, which provides an opportunity to provide a living memorial to a deceased relative or friend or in remembrance or commemoration of a special person, group or event.  

The Township Memorial Tree Grove is located on the grounds of the East Windsor Municipal Building along Lanning Boulevard. 

A granite marker with the name of the deceased person or event to be remembered is provided with each tree.

Residents or groups can order a tree through the township Public Works Department. The cost includes the granite marker and tree planting. 

Memorial trees will be planted during a planting season, either spring or fall. 

Donors can indicate their preference for the type of tree they would like planted.

Brochures describing the program and costs, which include an order form, are available at east-windsor.nj.us, or call the Department of Public Works at 609-443-4000, ext. 215.

 

The three Democratic candidates running for New Jersey Assembly in Legislative District 16 will meet in a virtual forum at 7:30 p.m. May 6.

To view the webinar live, register at TheMontyNews.com.

Questions for the candidates may be emailed to the League of Women Voters at lwvprinceton@gmail.com by April 30.

 

Celebrate renewal and reconnection from 5-8 p.m. April 30 during Morven Museum & Garden’s Garden Party.

Morven is located at 55 Stockton St., Princeton.

For more information, visit www.morven.org

Princeton Folk Dance will hold a virtual dance party at 7:30 p.m. April 30.

For the Zoom link, email [email protected]

 

The Mercer County Library System’s Teen Advisory Board will hold its first virtual meeting at 3:30 p.m. April 30.

All teens are welcome to join.

Attendees will play games, get to know each other, discuss how to run library programs, earn community service hours, see new books before they are published, and grow leadership skills.

Sign up at www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/m/mcl/ek.cfm

 

 

 

Through May

 

2021 marks the 250th birthday of the Township of Hillsborough.

The History of Hillsborough Diorama Contest is open to all residents, businesses, organizations and community groups within the township. A diorama should depict a meaningful time in the history of Hillsborough for you, your school, business or organization.

Dioramas will be displayed at the township’s 4th of July/250th Birthday Celebration event taking place on June 26.

For details, visit www.hillsborough-nj.org/news-announcements/510-250th-anniversary-diorama-contest-announced

Contact Erica at [email protected] with any questions.

Email registrations before May 1 to participate.

 

 

Rowan College at Burlington County’s Dental Hygiene Clinic will offer free dental care to children ages 13 and under as a continuation of Give Kids a Smile.

Services include screenings, cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants to protect permanent teeth.

To schedule an appointment, call 856-291-4215.

For more information, visit rcbc.edu/dental.

Princeton University Concerts (PUC) is expanding its digital offerings for the remainder of the 2020-21 season to replace planned in-person concerts, many of which will be rescheduled to future seasons.

The university’s performing arts series has recast all of its virtual programming to directly address socially relevant topics. This includes: a new podcast series, Breathe in Music, bringing PUC’s popular Live Music Meditation series to a digital format; a new series of conversations with musicians and prominent arts thinkers about the impact of COVID-19 on the performing arts hosted by multidisciplinary artist and WNYC host Helga Davis; the release of new video episodes of mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato’s Sing for Today, in which the opera star responds to current events through the lens of song and conversations; and virtual performances and live Q&As with world-renowned musicians to continue PUC’s Watch Party series.

Most of this digital content will be available to the public at no charge.

For more information about Princeton University Concerts, contact Dasha Koltunyuk at [email protected] or 609-258-6024.

The Princeton Adult School is offering predominately online and a few in-person COVID-safe classes for the spring, presenting a selection of 152 courses, including:

• Lecture series on Africa, “Up Close and Personal: Africa;”

• History courses, such as “Nineteenth Century America Through the Prism of Five Extraordinary Elections” and closer to home “From Village to Town: The Transformation of Princeton between 1890 and 1910;”

• Writing skills for a variety of personal and professional reasons;

• Making objects with the hands – doodling, knitting, jewelry making, woodworking, photography;

• Making music by one’s voice, harmonica, ukulele, piano, mandolin;

• Playing games (bridge, MahJong, chess;

• Improving business and workplace skills;

• “Spring Wildflowers,” “Therapy Walks,” “Nature Walk” and “Name That Tree.”

To participate, visit www.princetonadultschool.org to register for classes. For assistance, call the office at 609-683-1101.

 

 

 

“Performing Healing: Rituals & Repetition,” an exhibition by Diana Chen, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Visual Arts, will be viewable online at 185nassau.art through May.

The Princeton University senior will exhibit new work exploring the therapeutic role of rituals and repetition during times of crisis and change. Using found objects, personal items and other memorabilia, the work depicts healing as an alchemical performance in which we re-live, re-tell and re-enact through simple repetitions of movement. Drawing inspiration from Buddhism, Jungian psychology and creation myths, the work seeks to re-trace the symbolic journey from distress and fragmentation to healing and wholeness.

Free and available to the public.

For more information, visit https://arts.princeton.edu/events/healing-narratives-senior-thesis-exhibition-diana-chen/

 

Princeton Dance Festival Reimagined, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Dance, will be viewable online through May.

The virtual edition of the annual Princeton Dance Festival recorded in December features diverse, professional choreographers bringing their aesthetics to the question of dance in the COVID era working with Princeton dance students.

In works led by Peter Chu, Francesca Harper, Rebecca Lazier, Dean Moss, Silas Riener and Olivier Tarpaga, students explored the intersections of dance and multimedia performance, digital animation, filmmaking, site-based work and music.

Each evening is a completely different and unique experience followed by a recorded question-and-answer session with the choreographers.

Free and available to the public.

Video content is closed captioned.

To view the recordings, visit https://arts.princeton.edu/academics/dance/past-events/2020-21/princeton-dance-festival-reimagined-2020/

 

 

 

“All Her Power: 50th Anniversary of Princeton Undergraduate Coeducation Theater Project,” presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Theater, will be held virtually online through May.

The first undergraduate co-ed class arrived at Princeton University in the fall of 1969. In celebration of this milestone in 2019, the Program in Theater facilitated journalistic research by three generations of Princeton women – current students, professional artist alumnae, and the first generation of graduating women – to culminate in a theatrical event exploring the experiences of women at the University. Students were paired with professional artist alumnae to research and create new, short performances about women who graduated from Princeton in the first few years of co-education at Princeton.

The process, led by Program in Theater Director Jane Cox and Lecturer in Theater and Princeton alumna Suzanne Agins ’97 working with student-alumnae pairs, culminates in this filmed archive of the work in collaboration with theater and visual arts alumna Milan Eldridge ’20.

Free and available to the public.

The film is closed captioned.

To view the film on demand and read more about the project, visit allherpower.princeton.edu

 

 

“These are Books, These are Posters,” will be presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Visual Arts at Princeton University.

The online virtual exhibition of poster designs and artists’ books by the seniors and juniors in the Program in Visual Arts, organized by faculty member Pam Lins, is viewable at 185nassau.art through May.

Free and open to the public.

For more information, visit https://arts.princeton.edu/events/vis-book-poster-show-sp-21/

 

“Natural and Conventional Signs,” an online exhibition tour by Ryan Gander, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts, will be available on-demand, online, at arts.princeton.edu/gander through May.

U.K. artist Ryan Gander presents a selection of new works directly guided by his research at Princeton University undertaken during his time as a Hodder Fellow (2019-20) and made during a period of reflection while the world paused amid a global pandemic.

Gander invites the audience into his studio/gallery, Solid Haus in rural Suffolk, east of London, for a recorded guided tour and conversation with Princeton faculty member David Reinfurt.

Free and open to the public.

The recorded tour is closed captioned.

To view the video tour, visit https://arts.princeton.edu/events/natural-and-conventional-signs-exhibition-tour-by-ryan-gander/

 

Residents can join the East Windsor Community Garden at the Disbrow Hill Road open space area, adjacent to the playing fields and across from Etra Lake Park.

Residents can plant fruits and vegetables in the spring and fall, beginning in April.

Plots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Detailed information and guidelines are available at www.east-windsor.nj.us or by calling 609-443-4000, ext. 238.

 

 

Stuart Country Day School’s Summer Camp registration is open.

Stuart is planning for an in-person and online camp experience for boys and girls ages 2-16 from June 7 to Aug. 6.

Campers will explore Stuart’s 55-acre wooded campus at 1200 Stuart Road, Princeton, develop new athletic skills, discover the artist within, hone their writing and leadership skills, and find their voices both on paper and on stage.

Summer programs are taught by Stuart faculty and coaches.

Sibling discount granted automatically beginning with the second child.

Lunch through the FLIK dining service.

Before and after care will not be offered out of an abundance of caution.

Register at www.stuartschool.org/summer.

 

 

Summer programs at Princeton Day School (PDS), 650 The Great Road, Princeton, will be offered from June 14 to Aug. 9, with co-ed full-day and half-day programs for campers pre-K to Grade 12.

This year PDS varsity coaches will lead camps in squash, basketball and baseball.

Or, take part in Crazy for Clay, tennis, chess, other sports, water play and more.

New offerings include Piñatas & Parties, Bridges & Towers, and Puppetry & Storytelling.

Campers do not have to be PDS students to attend.

Pre-camp and extended day options are available.

Visit www.pds.org/summer-programs/ or call 609-924-6700, ext. 1342 for more information, or to register.

 

The VIS Junior Show, presented by Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Visual Arts, will be held through May online at 185nassau.art

Juniors in the Program in Visual Arts exhibit recent work in an online environment designed by Megan Pai ’22 and built by Eric Li ‘18, with production coordination by Eric Li ’18, and Professor Jeff Whetstone.

Free and open to the public.

For more information, visit https://arts.princeton.edu/events/the-vis-junior-show-sp-21/2021-04-26/

 

 

 

Throughout May

The 2021 season of the Brook Arts Center in Bound Brook continues on May 1 with a performance of “Starman, The Bowie Experience.”

May 2 is a screening of 1926 Chicago’s silent film, accompanied by theater organist Bernie Anderson.

May 8 is the return of “Winslow, An Evening of the Eagles.”

May 9 will be an afternoon of music to celebrate mothers with American’s Tenor Dominic Mantuano.

On May 22, Amani will perform jazz, blues, ballads and bop.

The Closet Carpenters will perform the songs of the duo Richard and Karen Carpenter on May 30 at 7 p.m.

All seating is socially distanced with CDC safeguards followed.

Visit www.brookarts.org or call 732-469-7700 for more information on all shows and to order tickets.

 

May & June

 

 

 

Saturday, May 1

Bordentown Township will hold a shred day from 9 a.m. to noon May 1  at the Public Works Garage, 266 Crosswicks Road.

 

Grab Your Monet and Let’s Gogh! Virtual Art Auction will be held on May 1 by Villa Victoria Academy and Marlin Art.

The night of virtual fun begins at 7 p.m. with cocktails, followed by the live auction beginning at 7:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.villavictoria.org

 

 

The Princeton University Art Museum’s 2021 gala, A Global Gathering, will be held at 7 p.m. May 1.

Celebrate the transformative power of great art with a live online presentation.

The annual gala is the museum’s sole fundraising event of the year. Proceeds support the wide range of education, engagement and scholarly programs that the museum offers free of charge each year.

For tickets and more information, visit https://artmuseum.princeton.edu/support/gala-2021-0

 

The Arts Council of Princeton (ACP) will hold its Mayday Bowl Project from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 1 on the terrace, 102 Witherspoon St., Princeton.

Artists in the ACP Ceramic Studio have created hundreds of unique ceramic bowls, available for $30 each. All proceeds benefit the Arts Council, helping to close the financial gap created by COVID.

The first 100 buyers will receive a voucher for a free scoop of ice cream from the bent spoon.

Bowls are first-come, first-served as supplies last.

For more information, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org.

 

 

Meet New York Times best-selling author Lisa Wingate through a virtual program with the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ) on May 1 from 2-3 p.m.

Her most recent publication is “The Book of Lost Friends” from earlier this spring; she will also talk about her best-selling true-crime novel, 2017’s “Before We Were Yours.”

A former journalist, she has written 33 novels and counting.

To see which titles the library system carries, visit catalog.sclsnj.org.

To connect with Wingate for the virtual program, visit sclsnj.libnet.info/event/4598691.

 

 

East Windsor will hold a special document shredding event for township residents from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until the truck reaches capacity) May 1 at the East Windsor Township Senior Center, 40 Lanning Blvd.

This event has been added due to the overwhelming response to the April 17 event where residents were turned away when the shredding truck was loaded to capacity well before the posted 2 p.m. time.

No other dropoffs will be accepted.

There is a limit of 10 boxes per household, and the service is for East Windsor residents only. No commercial entities are permitted.

During the event, residents must remain in their vehicles at all times and have their driver’s license displayed through the vehicle window. Upon reaching the drop off point, unlock the trunk and/or doors for the staff to remove the items. When dropping off no one may get out of the vehicle or park to observe or assist. Residents should be wearing masks at the time of drop off.

For more information, call 609-443-4000, ext. 215.

 

The East Windsor Township Environmental Commission will promote Arbor Day with a free tree sapling giveaway event from 10 a.m. to noon May 1, or until supplies run out, at the East Windsor Police Athletic League fields on Airport Road. Rain date is May 8.

American holly saplings will be available to township residents on a first-come first-serve basis. American holly is a wildlife-friendly evergreen tree with dark green, spine-tipped leaves and light gray bark. It has tiny, greenish-white flowers that bloom in May and June and berry bearing fruit providing a food for birds during the winter, and provides a nectar source for honeybees and butterflies.

More information on this variety can be found at www.arborday.org.

 

 

 

On or about May 1

The Mercer County Park Commission has approved a prescribed burn plan to be implemented by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFFS) at Baldpate Mountain in Titusville.

The primary goal of this prescribed burn is to perform large-scale invasive species management in forest blocks that have high ash tree composition. The Park Commission is planning to restore the forest areas affected by the emerald ash borer, an invasive insect. The fire will be lit, monitored and managed by the Forest Fire Service officials who have undergone rigorous training in conducting safe and effective prescribed burns. The NJFFS estimates one to two days of prescribed burning at Baldpate Mountain.

The burn will take place either prior to May 1 or after Oct. 1. Once the Section Warden determines conditions fall within safe range, the Park Commission, township and emergency response officials will be notified 48 hours before the burn.

Baldpate will be closed to the public during and after the burn.

Closures will be posted at all entrances, crossings and trailheads, as well as on the Park Commission website and social media pages. The park will remain closed until the NJFFS determines the location safe to reopen.

Due to the high number of dead ash trees in the burn blocks, heavy smoldering and falling trees are anticipated for several days after the burn. It is normal for standing dead trees and downed logs to smolder and produce smoke after the prescribed burn. Upon reopening of the park to the public, park users are required to remain on marked trails while visiting the park.

For more information on the Baldpate Mountain prescribed burns, including frequently asked questions, maps and resources, visit www.mercercountyparks.org.

Saturday, May 1 & Sunday, May 2

Paint Out Princeton at Morven Museum & Garden will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 1 and 2.

Artists supply their own materials, canvas, easel, rags, stool, garbage bags, hats and sunscreen.

Registration for artists is required for either day.

All masking, social distancing and health protocols will be enforced.

A virtual gallery will be created in collaboration with the Arts Council of Princeton.

For more information, visit www.morven.org/paint-out-princeton-at-morven-in-may

 

Sunday, May 2

A family nature walk for all ages will be held at Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville, from 1:30-2:30 p.m. May 2.

Free.

Meet at the Nature Center.

 For more information, call 609-737-0609.

 

The College of New Jersey’s Pep Band will perform its first live outdoor campus-wide concert for Greenwood House seniors from 1:15-2 p.m. May 2 at Greenwood House Senior Healthcare Nursing Home & Assisted Living, 50 & 53 Walter St., Ewing.

The concert will celebrate the benefits of live entertainment with and for the elderly after 14 months of pandemic restrictions, social isolation, facility shutdowns to outside access and indoor, family in-person visitation.

For more information, visit www.GreenwoodHouse.org

 

Beginning Monday, May 3

 

Mercer County Community College’s (MCCC’s) Medical Cannabis Training course will include an offer from the New Jersey Cannabis Trade Association (NJCTA), which will provide six scholarships for cannabis classes at MCCC to qualified individuals who demonstrate financial need.

Developed by Valley Wellness CEO Sarah Trent, the course is designed to train individuals for entry-level positions in the industry.

Classes are open to the public and begin May 3.

MCCC’s Medical Cannabis Training is a 15-hour class that is taught live in five modules, presented over five consecutive Monday nights on Zoom. Module 1 – cannabis laws; Module 2 – cultivation, harvest, manufactured products; Module 3 – the endocannabinoid system; Module 4 – dosing administration, compliance and tracking; and Module 5 – industry speakers. Each module is taught by industry professionals or academics from that area of expertise.

The scholarship is open to those age 21 and over who reside in specified New Jersey zip codes who demonstrate financial need. Individuals who receive the scholarship will be matched with the corresponding cannabis operator for an interview after completing program requirements. Interested applicants can find details including participating zip codes and application information at www.mccc.edu/cannabis. Applications will be accepted through April 5.

Classes will be held Monday evenings, May 3, 10, 17, 24, and Tuesday June 1, from 6-9 p.m. via Zoom. Up to 80 seats will be available in May.

Students must be at least 18 to register for the class, but note that most employment in the industry requires employees to be at least 21 years of age and pass a background check.

 

The course fee is $500. Valley Wellness sponsors up to five veterans for tuition waivers in addition to the need-based scholarships that are available.

To receive an MCCC certificate, students must pass a short quiz at the end of the program.

Anyone may register for the class and qualified New Jersey residents can learn more about the scholarships at www.mccc.edu/cannabis.

For more information about the class, contact Andrea Bash at 609-570-3122.

 

 

 

Thursday, May 6

The Somerset County Library System of New Jersey will partner with the Somerset County Youth Services Commission for a virtual program geared towards students in grades 6-12 and their caregivers, on May 6 at 5 p.m.

During the virtual presentation, attendees will explore the eight keys areas of wellness in life: emotional, physical, social, financial, spiritual, occupational, environmental, and intellectual; their significance; and how to enhance the areas that need improvement.

For more information, or to register: sclsnj.libnet.info/event/4718547.

 

A Keating Lecture on the Academic Museum and the Journey Toward Equity will be presented by the Princeton University Art Museum at 5:30 p.m. May 6.

During this year’s Friends Annual Keating Lecture, Johnnetta Cole, the former president of Spelman College and Bennett College, the former director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, and the recipient of an honorary doctorate from Princeton University, will offer a call to action for the academic museum in America.

Hosted by Museum Director James Steward.

There is no cost to attend.

Register at https://artmuseum.princeton.edu/calendar/2021-05/keating-lecture-academic-museum-and-journey-toward-equity

 

Join a 2-3.5-mile aerobic hike at 1 p.m. May 6 at Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville.

Meet at the Nature Center. Route to be determined.

Open to pre-teens and adults.

Bring a water bottle and wear hiking shoes. The trails are quite wet in sections.

Free.

Registration is required. Call 609-737-0609.

 

Mental Health 2021: Telling Our Stories, Coping with COVID, and How to Reach Out, will be presented at 7 p.m. May 6 by McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton and the Princeton Public Library.

Resident Producer Debbie Bisno and special guests Calvin R. Chin, Ph.D., Kimme Carlos and Whitney B. Ross, Ph.D. will hold a virtual discussion to mark Mental Health Awareness Month.

To register, visit https://bit.ly/3spVmww

 

The three Democratic candidates running for New Jersey Assembly in Legislative District 16 will meet in a virtual forum at 7:30 p.m. May 6.

To view the webinar live, register at TheMontyNews.com.

Questions for the candidates may be emailed to the League of Women Voters at lwvprinceton@gmail.com by April 30.

A recording of the forum will be posted at VOTE411.org and at lwvprinceton.org and will be rebroadcast by Princeton Community TV. See lwvprinceton.org for up-to-date information and broadcast times.

The deadline to register for the June 8 Primary Election is May 18. Voters may apply for a Mail-In Ballot by mail up to 7 days prior to the election.Citizens who are on parole or probation may now vote, but they must register or re-register if they had registered before incarceration.

Board (poll) workers are needed for the Primary Election and for the General Election, when early voting will require many more board workers.

Students ages 16-17 may work half days if their parents and school give permission. Shifts are 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1-8:15 p.m., with a 30-minute break and compensation of $100.

Students age 18 and adults registered to vote may work half-days from 5:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1-8:15 p.m. at $100 with no break, or full days at $200 with an hour break.

Contact the county board of elections for an application. Students should ask whether a special student application is required.

 

Third Thursdays, through June 3

 

 

Friday, May 7

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is inviting seventh- to 10th-grade girls to step into the world of science, technology engineering, and mathematics (STEM) at PPPL’s annual Young Women’s Conference on May 7.

The free day of science from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. will be held on a virtual platform where young women can watch live and videotaped science demonstrations, talk to women working in STEM fields, and listen to an inspiring talk by a female scientist.

The event is free and open to both teachers “bringing” groups of girls from schools and to individual seventh- to tenth-graders. The link to register is available on the Young Women’s Conference website here.

The online conference, which is funded by the DOE Office of Science Fusion Energy Sciences program, will follow the format of live events, with girls making their way through booths, stopping to see a chemistry show by Kathryn Wagner, a lecturer, demonstrator and outreach director in chemistry at Princeton University, and talking to female scientists and engineers in breakout rooms, culminating with a keynote speech by a prominent female scientist.

More than a dozen exhibitors will have displays at virtual “booths.” PPPL’s science education staff will present plasma demonstrations. Forensics experts from the F.B.I. will be back with live forensics demonstrations. There will also be a live artificial intelligence presentation by TechGirls, and science demonstrations from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, WAGS Robotics, and coding and robotics teams from local high schools. The exhibitors will all be on hand to answer questions during or after the presentations.

The event will culminate with a keynote speech in the virtual Melvin B. Gottlieb Auditorium (patterned after PPPL’s real-life auditorium) by Stephanie Diem, a plasma physicist who has been active in science education and outreach activities. Diem is a professor in the Engineering Physics Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a former research scientist at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the Fusion Energy Division.

For more information, visit energy.gov/science

 

 

“Vestige,” presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Theater, will be held at 8 p.m. May 7 online.

Princeton senior Glenna Jane Galarion presents a livestream concert drawn from her concept album “Vestige“ following its release. The collection of songs on the album, written, composed and produced by Galarion, encapsulate absence: the absence of permanence, the absence of unconditionality, the absence of choice, the absence of wholeness, the absence of voice.

Through this debut full-length original musical project, she explores intimacy and attachment, sonically and lyrically tracing her conceptions of relationships and entanglements from a father’s absence to a reclamation of the body.

Free and open to the public.

For more information and the Zoom link, visit https://arts.princeton.edu/events/vestige-release-of-album-by-glenna-jane-galarion/

 

 

 

Through Saturday, May 8

The Arts Council of Princeton will present “A Voice to be Heard” on view in their Taplin Gallery through May 8, exploring the idea of the inner voice and the ongoing search for meaning.

Joyce Kozloff in her series “girlhood” visually collaborated with her younger self through using childhood drawings in her current work that reflect on her education, and perception of the world.

Maria de Los Angeles exposes the internalized dialogue and external narratives surrounding migration through humor, story, facts and allegory.

Martha Tuttle turns her attention to the sublime, finding inspiration in the vast space of the west, its’ almost invisible processes and moments, and the relationship of her physicality to place reflected through process.

Buket Savci explains, “I explore abundance versus emotional craving. Observing both the loneliness and need for attention, accompanied with consumerism frenzy globally.”

Adam Moss takes a quieter look at human connection through portraiture of friends and family considering the psychology of the self and implication of the gaze.

That need to collect memories of experiences is visible in the work of Ryan Bonilla, who through photography captures the spontaneity of everyday life in his culture.

Shelter Serra looks at society for its voice, the role of technology, and of production.

Brooklyn-based artist, designer, filmmaker Frenel Morris creates lucid, intimate paintings capturing simulacrum in seemingly ordinary objects to deliver a vivid copy of reality.

Gallery hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Arts Council of Princeton is located at 102 Witherspoon St., Princeton.

For more information, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org.

 

 

 

Saturday, May 8

 

May 5 marks the 200th anniversary of the death of European ruler Napoleon Bonaparte.

On May 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., stop by the front lawn of the Bordentown Historical Society at 302 Farnsworth Ave. and view artifacts associated with the late emperor’s oldest brother and Bordentown resident, Joseph Bonaparte, as well as relics discovered on his estate.

In addition, representatives from the Delaware & Raritan Greenways will have material on their open space organization and will be available to answer questions regarding the recent acquisition of the former Bonaparte property.

Souvenirs from the historical society will be for sale.

 

A live outdoor concert featuring the music of Lionel Richie, performed by Amani, will be held at 3 p.m. May 8 at the duCret School of Art, 1030 Central Ave., Plainfield.

The concert will benefit Bridgeway Rehabilitation Services.

All tickets are $20 for the general public.

Anyone served by Bridgeway is invited to attend in person for free. RSVP to Erica by emailing [email protected]

The event can be accessed virtually on Zoom as well.

To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/bridgeway-benefit-conert-tickets-145922298523

To donate without attending, visit https://snwbl.it/uK2y4K

 

 

Knights of Columbus Council 6284 will hold a Red Cross blood drive from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 8 at the Hightstown First Aid Squad, 168 Bank St.

All donated blood is tested for COVID-19 antibodies, and you will be notified of the results of the test.

Sign up at www.redcrossblood.org/ using sponsor code kofc6284.

 

 

 

 

 

Through Sunday, May 9

HomeFront wants to collect 250,000 diapers and wipes by Mother’s Day on May 9 so it can land a spot in the Guinness World Records book while helping families who cannot afford to keep their babies in diapers.

HomeFront, which helps the homeless and the working poor, operates its own Diaper Resource Center in a blue warehouse building at its Family Preservation Campus in Ewing Township.

Diapers of all sizes are needed.

Diapers and wipes may be dropped off weekdays, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., at HomeFront’s headquarters at 1880 Princeton Ave. in Lawrence Township. They may also be dropped off on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

 

 

Lawrenceville Main Street’s Landscape Design Committee will hold a spring planter workshop at 2 p.m. May 16 via Zoom.

The 45-minute presentation will be followed by Q&A.

Horticulturist Kevin Bullard will teach attendees how to create an attractive outdoor container with a collection of plants for sun or shade.

The registration fee of $30 includes seven annual plants suitable for a round pot with an 18-inch diameter, or a rectangular pot with a top surface are of 144 square inches.

Register by May 9 by visiting www.eventbrite.com/e/lawrenceville-main-street-spring-planter-workshop-tickets-147349108149?aff=affiliate1

 

 

Sunday, May 9

Geocaching is a high-tech update on the old-fashioned scavenger hunt game, which uses GPS (global positioning system) technology to locate objects hidden in the park.

Participants age preteen and older at Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville from 1:30-3:30 p.m. May 9 will learn how to obtain information and hints from the Geocaching.com website, on the location of dozens of geocache sites in and around the state park. They will then use handheld GPS devices to go out and find as many caches as possible.

Once a cache is found, participants typically will sign in on the log contained within and then take an object from the cache box after leaving a trinket for subsequent geocachers.

Participants should bring a pocket full of trinkets to exchange when they locate caches. Trinkets can include small toys and balls, plastic jewelry, pens, pencils, scratch pads, patches, action figures, coins, etc.

A limited number of GPS navigation devices will be made available to participants on a first come, first served basis. Bring your own handheld GPS device or smart phone with Geocaching app installed if you have one.

Meet at the Nature Center.

Advanced registration and payment required. Fee is $2 per person, exact change.

For more information, call 609-737-0609.

 

 

May 9 and June 3

The Mercer County Park Commission announced the third year of “Eyes on Eagles” programming to celebrate the four pairs of bald eagles that nest in Mercer County, including two pairs that have chosen county parks for nest sites.

The Park Commission, Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey (CWF) and the Wildlife Center Friends are partnering to host both in-person and virtual eagle viewing programs throughout the spring nesting season.

In-person public nest viewing programs will be held at the West Picnic Area at Mercer County Park. Naturalists and guides will be on hand to help the public safely view bald eagles with spotting scopes for a closer look.

“Eyes on Eagles” in-person nest viewings will be held on the second Sunday and fourth Friday of the month, from 1-3 p.m., through May 9.

Masks and social distancing are required. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.

Two virtual “Eyes on Eagles” panel discussions will offer an even closer look at life in the nest on June 3 at 7 p.m. The Park Commission will air up-to-date video footage of the nest featuring two important stages in eaglet development.

During the Zoom-based program, expert panelists will supply commentary on eagle behavior, biology and conservation.

Registration is required for these free public programs by visiting http://mercercountyparks.org/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#!/activities/eyes-eagles

For the safety of the eagles, all viewing will be done from a distance. Bald eagles and many bird species are sensitive during their nesting season. Park patrons must remain on marked trails at all times; disturbance to wildlife will cause harm, where they may refuse to return in the future.

Public programs will provide important tips to park users on “eagle etiquette,” including information on federal regulations prohibiting the disturbance of bald eagle nests.

Local and regional wildlife photographers are encouraged to share their images of the breeding eagles through email or social media. Images can be emailed to [email protected] with the photographer’s name, or shared through social media by tagging or mentioning the Mercer County Park Commission on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. If posting pictures of eagles in Mercer County parks, tag the Park Commission and use the hashtag #capitalcountyeagles. Credit will be given to the photographers if outside photos are shared.

To learn more about bald eagle programming opportunities, visit www.mercercountyparks.org or www.conservewildlifenj.org.

 

 

 

 

Through Monday, May 10

Eligible adult students and graduates with the potential to succeed in college can apply for the 2021 NJALL Scholarships. NJALL will award two scholarships on June 18 to two adults who earned a high school diploma by attending a New Jersey adult education program to prepare for a High School Equivalency Test or Adult High School and have been accepted to/or are attending college. The Scholarship NOW provides up to $1,000 per semester for full-time enrollment, (pro-rated for part-time) to a maximum of $8,000 for higher education.   To qualify, an applicant must be a resident of New Jersey. Scholarship applications are open to anyone regardless of gender, race, color, religion, age, sexual orientation or disabling condition.   The 2021 application with eligibility information is available at https://files.constantcontact.com/2333e3fb001/c398a7eb-91b8-4dfa-9f55-18a3a701099f.pdf     All applications must be submitted, including all required documents, postmarked no later than May 10.

 

Tuesday, May 11

The Kitchen Twins, 17-year-old foodies Emily and Lyla, will discuss how to make an gnocchi dinner and dark chocolate pudding dessert in a workshop open to budding chefs of all ages from 7-8 p.m. May 11. All proceeds benefit the Arts Council of Princeton’s free community programs. Tickets include access to the webinar and recipe resource sheet. Register at www.artscouncilofprinceton.org

 

 

Through Wednesday, May 12

Entrepreneurial veterans and active-duty military are encouraged to apply to Rider University’s Veterans Entrepreneurship Training program.

Returning for its eighth year, the free, seven-week program helps veterans and active-duty military develop a business concept or grow an existing business.

Led by faculty in Rider’s Norm Brodsky College of Business, the program guides participants through a range of business development skills and concepts, including conducting a feasibility study and market research, developing a business and market plan, and understanding their business’ operational and financial needs.

The program is offered through Rider’s Center for Entrepreneurial Studies with support from the New Jersey Bankers Charitable Foundation and the Uncommon Individual Foundation.

Participants may also receive college credit for the course, with a separate registration and additional academic work, and a limited number of scholarships for the for-credit option are available.

Upon completion of the program, all participants can apply for one year of mentoring as they pursue their business venture.

In light of COVID-19, this year’s program will run virtually via Zoom on Wednesday evenings beginning May 19 and running through June 30.

Applications are due May 12 and are available at rider.edu/vetprogram.

For more information about Rider’s Veterans Entrepreneurship Training program, contact Assistant Professor Dr. Mayank Jaiswal at [email protected] or visit rider.edu/vetprogram.

 

 

Thursday, May 13

The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber will hold a virtual regional healthcare symposium, “Moving Forward: Life Beyond the Pandemic” from 9:30-11 a.m. May 13.

Keynote speaker will be Brian McDonough, MD, medical editor of KYW Newsradio 1060 and 1010 WINS.

To register, visit https://web.princetonmercerchamber.org/

 

Elise Boddie, professor of law at Rutgers, a director of Rutgers Institute for the Study of Global Racial Justice, and founder and director of The Inclusion Project at Rutgers Law School, will discuss the peculiar challenges of integration in the north and why school segregation is a threat to public education and to our democracy during a virtual presentation at 6 p.m. May 13.

Boddie will be joined by Lynda G. Dodd, a lecturer in Public Affairs at Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) for “Struggling for the Soul of Public Education.”

The event is free and open to the public.

To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/BoddieDodd

 

 

 

 

 

Select dates, through Thursday, May 13

The New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC), a no-cost, confidential “business-first” resource housed within the New Jersey Department of State, is hosting a special six-part, interactive virtual learning series designed to provide New Jersey businesses and nonprofits with the latest information to support recovery from disruptions caused by COVID-19.

The series runs from April 20 to May 13 and will cover several topics, including financial resources, technical assistance, tips for obtaining government contracts, COVID-19 safety protocols and resources for nonprofits.

Topics for the series include:

• Technical Assistance Opportunities – April 27 at noon
• Financial Resources – April 29 at noon
• COVID Safety in the Workplace – May 11 at noon
• Let These Government Services Help You” – May 13 at noon

The webinars will be streamed live via Zoom, and the slides and the recordings will be circulated to all registrants after the webcasts.

Guests will be invited to ask questions and participate in the discussion.

Registration is free to the public and participants can join the webinars or sign up for individual sessions, based on topics that are of interest.

Strategically timed around National Small Business Week (May 3-9), the NJBAC is partnering with various organizations and associations on the series, including the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), the Small Business Administration (SBA), the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), among others.

To learn more about NJBAC’s Resources for Recovery and Growth Virtual Series, visit https://nj.gov/state/bac/bac-webinars.shtml

 

Thursday, May 13 & Friday, May 14

Spring Dance Festival – May, an evening of new dance works performed by Princeton seniors, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Dance, will be held via Zoom at 8 p.m. May 13 and 14.

Princeton Dance seniors will perform a filmed program of newly created solos, duets and ensemble works by professional guest choreographers Adam Barruch, Rena Butler, Christine He, Loni Landon, Martha Nichols, Christopher Ralph, and Jermaine Spivey, and an original dance film by Elisa Clark based on the movement language of Robert Battle.

Free and open to the public.

Advance Zoom registration required .

For more information and the registration link, visit https://arts.princeton.edu/events/spring-dance-festival-sp-21-may/2021-05-13/

 

Select dates, through Sunday, June 13

 

Friday, May 14

“Building blocks of better brain health” is the topic for the next Brown Bag Lunch Program presented by the Older Adult Ministry Committee of the Pennington Presbyterian Church.

On May 14, attendees will gather on Zoom at 12:45 p.m., with the program beginning promptly at 1 p.m.

Kevin Jameson, founder of the Dementia Society of America, will discuss the top 10 peer-reviewed interventions for improving the health of the brain. Citing international science-based studies, Jameson will discuss the positive steps a person can easily take to increase the likelihood of mitigating the effects of aging, disease, and decades-old lifestyle choices.

All are welcome.

To register and receive the Zoom link, call the church at 609-737-1221, ext. 10.

 

Hope for Tomorrow, a mental health fair, will be held from 5-7 p.m. May 14 at the Hillsborough Municipal Building, 379 S. Branch Road, Hillsborough.

The event will feature community resources, music, games, crafts, a poster contest and prizes.

The event is free.

Sponsored by BoroSAFE.

For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.hillsborough-nj.org/stigma-free

 

Through Friday, May 14

The Bordentown Regional High School Class of 2023 Booster Club is holding a raffle fundraiser.

Tickets are $10 each.

Prizes include custom-made cornhole boards made by Daniel Comeau, Class of 2018 and bean bags; and a gift card for a personalized vinyl decal from DD Graphics.

The drawing will be at 7 p.m. May 14 at the high school.

Fill out the Google form at http://bit.ly/23CornHole and the tickets will be texted once payment is received.

The West Windsor Arts Council Member Show: Floral Persuasion will take place through May 14.

The exhibition is on view at westwindsorarts.org and the gallery by appointment.

Jurors Thomas Kelly and Megan Uhaze are commissioners from Hamilton Township Cultural and Performing Arts Advisory Commission.

The exhibition was an open call to WWAC members and featured prize winners, chosen by the jurors.

Exhibiting artists include Zakia Ahmed, Sherri L Andrews, Clara S Beym, Tom Chiola, Connie Cruser, Jayme Fahrer, Janet Felton, Michael F. Graham, Jeanette Gaston Hooban, Joy Kreves, Lori Langsner, Sonya Legg, Eleni Litt, Concetta A. Maglione, Hetal Mistry, Abelardo Montano, Tatiana Oles, William Plank, Maia Reim, Martin Schwartz DDS, Christine Seo, Deirdre Sheean, Margaret Simpson, Sally Stang, Zina Umyn and Janet Waronker.

 

Saturday, May 15

Adults can try tomahawk throwing from 1-3:30 p.m. May 15 at Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville. Meet at the Nature Center.

Throw a small hatchet into a wooden target.

Advanced registration required. Call 609-737-0609.

There is no cost to attend.

 

Lawrenceville Main Street will hold a secure shed fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 15 at the Lawrenceville Swimming Association, 74 Craven Lane, Lawrence Township.

Open to the public. Six box limit per car.

Reservations are required. Visit bit.ly/Shred5152021

The $10 donation will benefit Lawrenceville Main Street.

 

 

 

Saturday, May 15 – Monday, May 23

The Nassau Film Festival (NFF) screens short films and music videos (30 seconds to 20 minutes) in the categories of fiction, documentary, animation, student fiction, horror, music videos, trailers, and episodic. 

It will be held virtually this year from May 15-23, instead of at the Princeton Garden Theater.

Best of Festival Awards are given in each of the categories and attendees have a chance to network with actors, actresses, directors, writers, producers and directors of photography at a special festival event. Audience members will also have the opportunity to participate virtually in question and answer panel discussions with filmmakers whose films are selected to screen at the festival.  

Over the years, NFF has earmarked funds donated from patrons and sponsors each year to assist various non-profit organizations. Buy a festival pass or make a donation to Feeding America’s Community Food Bank of New Jersey, which has a COVID-19 Response Fund that is helping to ensure local food banks can feed those in need right now, including children who rely on school meals to eat.

For more information, visit nassaufilmfestival.org

 

May 15 to June 15

The Historical Society of Princeton will present its first-ever virtual house tour from May 15 to June 15. This signature event will feature on-demand, multimedia content for participants to navigate at their leisure throughout the entire month.

The tour will feature four unique homes, each a distinct example of its own time and style. Every house will offer an in-depth portal where participants can dive into videos and descriptive details room by room, including spotlights on the house’s history, distinctive furnishings and artwork, impressive remodels and restorations, and extraordinary architectural features.

Interviews with designers, architects, and artisans will shed light on the decision-making and painstaking work involved in preserving and updating a historic home.

A new house will be released each week during the month when the tour is live, starting on May 15. Once released, houses will remain available through June 15.

This year’s virtual house tour will feature 2 Boudinot St., 20 Boudinot St., 8 Evelyn Place and 600 Pretty Brook Road.

Tickets start at $20 per screen. Login credentials will be shared with ticket buyers on May 15. For tickets purchased after May 15, purchasers receive their login within two business days.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.princetonhistory.org or call 609-921-6748, ext. 100.

Proceeds help fund the Historical Society’s core history education activities throughout the year, including collections stewardship, exhibitions, public programs, and co-curricular support for schools.

 

Sunday, May 16

The French Ambassador to the United States, Phillipe Etienne, will join D&R Greenway’s annual celebration of land preservation during its virtual gala from 4:30–5:30 p.m. May 16.

The event will feature Point Breeze, the former estate of Joseph Napoleon Bonaparte, the exiled King of Spain. Located in Bordentown, Point Breeze once drew famous dignitaries from Spain and France, as well as founders and notables of the newly independent United States of America. The recent preservation of the site has drawn media attention from around the world.

Surprise speakers will share the importance of this property from the perspective of 13,000 years of history. Guests will learn of archeological finds and future plans, and historical artifacts that will be displayed in the soon-to-open museum.

The celebration will recognize the presence of Native Americans who lived along this promontory on the Delaware River.

Acknowledging the 60th anniversary of the New Jersey Green Acres Program, a major partner in the land’s preservation, will be the director of the statewide program, Martha Sapp, who has been involved in state land preservation for 34 years.

The gala’s highlight will be the presentation of D&R Greenway’s premiere 2021 Donald B. Jones Conservation Award to Bordentown City Mayor James L. Lynch, Jr., who will share his thoughts about saving this property from warehouse and housing development.

Sponsors of the event will be invited to small, special interest gatherings on the property to meet the mayor and view features first-hand when it is safe to gather in the summer and fall of this year.

To join in virtual and actual Greenway Gala festivities with a sponsorship, contact Nancy Faherty at 609-462-4057, or email Deb Kilmer at [email protected].

In addition to sponsorships that include on-site experiences, tickets to the virtual celebration may be purchased at www.drgreenway.org. Specially-priced First Time Gala Goer tickets encourage new participants with an interest in land preservation, history, gardens, birds and archeology to attend. All sponsorships and tickets support the work of D&R Greenway to preserve land and the renovation and opening of this property to the public.

 

Monday, May 17

 

Chef Chris Voigtsberger offers cooking classes through Lawrenceville Main Street and Acacia. He will make homemade gnocchi with smoked ham, spring peas and pesto from 6-6:45 p.m. May 17.

If purchasing the meal kit option, the ingredients to make the meal for a family of four will be included.

The class-only option will provide a shopping list a day or two in advance of class.

Tickets range from $25 to $55. Five dollars from each sale benefits Lawrenceville Main Street.

Tickets are available at www.eventbrite.com/e/copy-of-cooking-class-with-acacia-chef-chris-voigtsberger-tickets-150778128441

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, May 18

For the upcoming Primary Election on June 8, New Jersey will return to a traditional election where voters can choose to vote at the polls or by mail.

This means that voters will not receive a vote-by-mail ballot in the mail unless they apply for one, or if they have requested to always receive a vote by mail ballot “for all future elections.”

In New Jersey, any registered voter can vote by mail for any reason. Voters do not have to be sick, working, or out of town to request a ballot, so this remains a viable option for those who prefer to vote from home.

The voter registration deadline is May 18.

A registered voter may apply for a ballot by completing and mailing a Vote-By-Mail application by June 1. Extended walk-in hours will be 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 5. The deadline for walk-ins is June 7 at 3 p.m.

This year, the Mercer County Clerk’s Office is offering vote by mail instructions in many languages including English, Spanish, Hindi, Gujarati, Chinese, Polish, Urdu and Haitian Creole. Call the Office at 609-989-6494 or email your address to [email protected] and be sent a ballot.

To request a Vote-by-Mail application, voters can call 609-989-6494 or the email above.

Vote-by-Mail applications also are available on the web at www.mercercounty.org/countyclerk in both English and Spanish.

The State Division of Elections website also offers vote-by-mail ballots in Indian, Korean and Chinese languages. That website is www.njelections.org/voting-information-vote-by-mail.html.

The ballots will be mailed once they are printed.

 

 

Wednesday, May 19

Digitally connect with literary award-winning and best-selling author, poet and longtime library admirer Kwame Alexander from 1-1:45 p.m. on May 19.

 

During the virtual program from the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey, students in grades 4-12 will have the opportunity to discover Alexander’s life experiences and works, as he shares stories and poetry, and hosts a Q&A.

 

For more information, visit sclsnj.libnet.info/event/4718788.

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday, May 20

United Way of Greater Mercer County Board of Directors will host the “United in Impact Awards” to celebrate community champions.

The event will be held virtually from 5-6:15 p.m. May 20.

Honorees include Michael Van Wagner, vice president of Public Affairs at NJM Insurance Group & NJM Insurance Group – Live United Award; Frank J. Lucchesi, senior regional Public Affairs manager at PSE&G – Community Quarterback Award; and Diane Grillo, vice president of Health Promotions at Robert Wood Johnson Hamilton – Advocate Award.

The Eugene Marsh Community Impact Award will be given posthumously to former board member Eugene Marsh, and will be accepted by his wife, Elaine Walker Marsh.

“The United in Impact Awards celebrates those in our community that give their all to better Mercer County and beyond,” noted Michael Mancini, COO, Thomas Edison State University and UWGMC Board Finance Chair “The United Way of Greater Mercer County’s role in uniting people and organizations for a greater impact is a corner stone of our mission and is reflected in our partnerships and these awardees,” he continued.

Proceeds from the event will directly provide food, rental assistance, health insurance access, tax preparation services, financial coaching, and other resources to help individuals and families get ahead. There are over 55,000 families in Mercer County struggling to make ends meet.

Sponsors to date include NJM Insurance Group, PSE&G, Robert Wood Johnson Hamilton, Thomas Edison State University and Imbue Creative.

To register or for more information, visit www.uwgmc.org/unitedimpactawards.

 

 

 

Thursdays, May 20 & June 17

YWCA Princeton Area Newcomers & Friends holds Social Coffee as a way to learn about the organization, meet members and find opportunities to explore interests and community.

The sessions are held from 9:30-11 a.m. every third Thursday of each month unless there is a holiday conflict. The next scheduled dates are May 20 and June 17.

This will be a virtual gathering via Zoom.

For more information, email [email protected]  or visit www.ywcaprinceton.org/newcomers

 

Through Friday, May 21

Lawrenceville Main Street is calling all community artists to participate in the online and on site “inside out” art exhibit to connect artists with Main Street businesses.

Artwork will be shown in windows, but will be visible from sidewalks and porches.

Art can be sold through the event’s Flickr page.

All submissions will be featured online.

Windows of Hope is partnering with HomeFront’s ArtSpace program for this project.

Registration ends at 5 p.m. May 21.

For more information and the registration form, visit https://forms.gle/VK9KdjjQJJn1XUxg6

 

Saturday, May 22

NAMI Mercer is holding a virtual walk, NAMIWalks Your Way, to support its mission of destigmatizing mental illness and providing support, education and advocacy for families and individuals affected by mental illness.

NAMI Mercer is a Hamilton-based local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

The NAMIWalks Your Way event will take place on May 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This year’s walk theme is Mental Health for All – and Always, which is a cause being championed by the national NAMI organization as well as hundreds of affiliate chapters across the country in both the spring and fall during walk events like this one.

To participate in NAMIWalks Your Way and learn more about NAMI Mercer, visit www.namiwalks.org/mercercounty.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Julia Dare at [email protected] or 609-799-8994, ext. 13.

 

The 10th Annual Miki & Friends Open AIR event will be held on May 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at West Windsor Community Park, 271 Clarksville Road, West Windsor.

Attitudes In Reverse (AIR) is a Princeton-based nonprofit organization dedicated to educating youth and adults about mental health, related disorders and suicide prevention.

For more information, visit www.air.ngo.

 

The Art of Wine Tasting will be presented by Kevin Zraly from 5-6 p.m. May 22, courtesy of the Arts Council of Princeton.

The virtual event is a fundraiser to support the community in need, including at-risk youth and low-income seniors. Proceeds also benefit the arts council’s scholarship fund.

To RSVP, visit http://artscouncilofprinceton.org/the-art-of-wine-tasting/

 

 

The Hightstown/East Windsor Lions Club will hold a clothing drive fundraiser from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 22 in the American Legion parking lot, 895 Route 130, East Windsor.

Drop off new or gently used clothing, shoes, purses, belts, bed and bath linens and stuffed animals.

 

Hillsborough Township, in partnership with Raritan Headwaters, will hold a well water testing event from 2-5 p.m. May 22 at the municipal complex, 379 S. Branch Road, Hillsborough.

Any resident who would like to have their well water tested may purchase a test kit at a discounted rate during the event.

Representatives will be on site to answer any questions about well water.

 

 

 

Through Saturday, May 22

Mercer County Community College’s James Kerney Campus Gallery will showcase the works of Brass Rabbit in “The Greyscale Economics Project” through May 22.

The gallery is open for visits on Mondays by appointment.

An artist talk and reception will be held in person and live on Zoom from 4-6 p.m., and from 6-8 p.m. April 27.

 

Brass Rabbit is a fine artist and documentary photographer living and working in Trenton. “The Greyscale Economics Project” highlights her stories of the individuals who work in non-traditional economies, with a focus on simple barter systems, under-the-table-payments, e-commerce and illicit industries.

 

More about Brass Rabbit can be found at www.brass-rabbit.com.

 

Gallery hours are Mondays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 137 N. Broad St. in Trenton by appointment.

To learn more about the show, the reception and registration requirements, including Zoom links, visit JKCGallery.online. Email [email protected] to request appointments for in-person visits.

 

The Borough of Hightstown is accepting registrations for its 20th “Almost” Annual (aside from 2020) Spring Borough-wide Yard Sale, scheduled for May 22 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Participants will be required to follow and enforce CDC guidelines by wearing masks, requiring social distancing and providing hand sanitizer for public use on their property.

There is no charge to participate in the event, and those wishing to do so may register their address by using the online registration form at www.hightstownborough.com, or by calling the Borough Clerk’s office at 732-490-5100.

A list of registered addresses will be available on the website and updated daily.

Borough businesses are encouraged to participate and register.

Official headquarters for the event will be located at the Hightstown-Apollo Lodge 41, 535 N. Main St. Public restrooms, information lists, maps, food and beverages will be available there throughout the day.

In addition, space will be available there for individuals and/or community groups needing a central location from which to sell.

Contact the lodge via email at [email protected] or call 609-448-0042 for details; or contact Tony at 609-712-1488 to rent a space for $15.

 

 

Sunday, May 23

Take a hike through Baldpate Mountain from 1:30-4:30 p.m. May 23.

Hikers age pre-teen and older will take the Summit Trail from its trailhead on Fiddlers Creek Road.

Meet at the parking lot by Niederer’s Pond on Church Road in Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville.

Hikers will then drive to the trail.

Advanced registration is required for this free hike.

 For more information, call 609-737-0609.

 

 

Wednesday, May 26

Take a full moon bike ride up the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath toward the Lambertville wing dam, approximately 13 miles round trip, beginning at 8:45 p.m. May 26, under the light of the Flower Moon.

Meet at the Nelson House parking lot of Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville.

Bring your own bike, bike light and helmet.

Advanced registration required. Call the Nature Center at 609-737-0609 for directions. Free.

 

Saturday, May 29

View magnetic sun storms safely through a telescope equipped with special filters from 1-3 p.m. May 29 at Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville.

Observe sunspots, solar flares, prominences and other solar phenomena. Learn how these storms can affect the earth as well as other interesting facts about Earth’s closest star.

Jennifer and Dave Skitt and other members of the Amateur Astronomer’s Association of Princeton will lead this activity.

Clear skies required. Rain date is May 31.

Park vehicle entrance fee is $5.00 per car.

 For more information, call 609-737-0609.

 

 

Sunday, May 30

Take part in a stream stomp from 1:30-3 p.m. May 30 at Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville. Meet at the Nature Center.

Open to anyone age 6 and older.

Come out for a wet hike the path follows a park stream in search of crayfish, salamanders, caddisflies, stoneflies, mayflies, frogs, minnows and other stream inhabitants.

Wear water shoes or old sneakers and be prepared to get wet at least up to the knees.

Park vehicle entrance fee is $5 per car.

 For more information, call 609-737-0609.

 

Through June 1

The Hillsborough Dukes has opened registration for the 54th consecutive year for the 2021 Fall Football and Cheer Season.

Lady Dukes flag cheer is a free learn-to-love-cheer program for ages 5-7.

The Dukes tackle and flag football programs officially begin Aug. 2. Registration is free for both programs.

Cheerleaders who register early will receive a free Dukes fleece blanket while supplies last. There will also be a free football accessory for all players registered by June 1.

Free summer workouts will be offered to all.

For more information, visit www.hillsboroughdukes.com

 

The Dr. Esther Wollin Memorial Scholarship Fund offers a scholarship opportunity available to Jewish female students who reside in the Princeton Mercer Bucks community.

Monies from Dr. Wollin’s estate were designated to grant a college scholarship to eligible Jewish female full-time students who will be, or are already attending Rutgers University and raised by their Jewish mother in a single-parent household in the Princeton Mercer Bucks Community.

Eligibility is based on financial need.

Submission deadline is June 1.

For more information or to apply, visit www.JFCSonline.org, or contact Joyce at 609-987-8100 or [email protected].

 

 

 

June 2-20

Tickets for the Princeton Festival’s 17th season, running June 2-20, are available for purchase at www.princetonfestival.org or by calling 609-759-1979.

There will be four live-streamed events from the Morven Museum and Garden in Princeton. A decision on whether to admit limited, socially distanced in-person audiences to these events is pending at this time.

Performance events start at 7 p.m.; the piano competition streams at 3 p.m.

The schedule is as follows:

• June 4: Concordia Chamber Players. The renowned ensemble plays intriguing music primarily by 20th and 21st century composers in a program exclusively for the Festival
• June 6: International piano competition final round, with winners announced at the end of the program
• June 8 and 10: Baroque chamber orchestra, playing music by such composers as Bach, Handel, Biber, and Vivaldi on period instruments, live-streamed from Morven
• June 13 and 20: Opera by Twilight. Eight leading singers in arias and ensembles from famous operas, live-streamed from Morven. Performers for June 13 are soprano Meroë Adeeb, mezzo Janara Kellerman, tenor John Viscardi, and baritone Brian Major. The June 20 performance features Alexandra Batsios, Krysty Swann, Michael Kuhn, and Stephen Gaertner.
• June 17: Dreaming and Undreaming, an immersive multi-genre, interdisciplinary video based on stories by Jorge Luis Borges, commissioned by and created especially for the festival by Chicago performance collective Kosmologia,

Buyers may purchase admission to individual events or opt for a season pass at significant savings. Virtual tickets for the live-streamed events may be upgraded to in-person seats depending on availability.

 

 

Friday, June 4

Concordia Chamber Players is for back for its 17th season with a festival at 7 p.m. June 4 with works by composers such as Giacomo Puccini, Hugo Wolf and Jean Françaix.

The ensemble features Concordia’s artistic director and cellist Michelle Djokic; Alexi Kenney, violinist; Jonathan Moerschel, violist; and Tien-Hsin Cindy Wu, violinist.

For ticket information, visit https://princetonfestival.org/performance/2021-concordia/

 

Saturday, June 5

The Mercer County Improvement Authority will hold a household hazardous waste collection and electronics recycling event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 5, rain or shine, at the John T. Dempster Fire School, 350 Lawrence Station Road, Lawrence Township.

Accepted materials include aerosol cans, used motor oil, propane gas tanks, pesticides and herbicides, car batteries, paint thinner, oil-based paint, stains and varnishes, gasoline, anti-freeze, driveway sealant, insect repellents, mercury, and fluorescent and CFL bulbs.

Accepted electronics include computers, printers, copies, fax machines, stereos, televisions and microwaves.

Prohibited items include latex paint, heating oil, infectious waste, radioactive materials, explosives or munitions, railroad ties, asbestos, tires, wood, fencing, air conditioners, helium or oxygen tanks, humidifiers or dehumidifiers, batteries and any unknowns.

No registration is required, just proof of Mercer County residency.

For more information, visit www.mcianj.org or call 609-278-8086.

 

 

The 30th annual Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton Golf Classic, presented by Sean’s Landscaping, will take place on June 14 at Cobblestone Creek Country Club, 2170 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrenceville.

Each golfer will experience a full day of activities: greens fees with individual cart, scheduled tee time, use of the driving range, individual pre-packaged lunches with insulated lunch tote, refreshments and snacks throughout the course, complimentary gift, and a gift certificate to The Clubhouse at Cobblestone Creek Country Club (in lieu of dinner).

Tee times will be scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon.

There will be individual carts for each golfer.

For more information and to register, visit www.rwjbh.org/hamiltongolf

 

Sunday, June 6

Monday, June 7

Bridgeway Rehabilitative Services will hold its 2021 golf classic on June 7 at Echo Lake Country Club, 515 Springfield Ave., Westfield.
On course games. Putting contest. Tournament prizes.
Registration and breakfast start at 7:30 a.m. Shotgun start at 9 a.m. in a shamble format.
BBQ lunch will be served at 1:30 p.m.
The cost is $400 for individual golfers; foursome and corporate sponsorships start at $2,500.
Bridgeway serves those with mental illness across 10 counties in New Jersey. Proceeds benefit Bridgeway programs and recipients of services.
Contact Lisa Giannascoli at 908-635-7647 or [email protected] for early registration and information.
For more information, visit bridgewayrehab.org

 

Through Saturday, June 12

The Arts Council of Princeton is accepting proposals through June 12 for gallery exhibitions for the 2022 season.

The Arts Council’s Paul Robeson Center serves as a resource for contemporary art in central New Jersey. Through thought-provoking exhibitions and related public programs, the Arts Council presents artwork with a broad range of aesthetic, social, cultural and political themes.

To celebrate art’s power to lift out of darkness, the ACP’s gallery committee will place an emphasis on exhibition proposals that reflect a sense of optimism. Artists are encouraged to embrace the theme in any medium, literally or figuratively, through a realistic or abstract lens.

Interested artists should submit their proposal to artscouncilofprinceton.org/artists. 

 

 

Saturday, June 12

 

The Bordentown City Green Team will hold its 2021 Green Fair on June 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine, at the Carslake Community Center, 207 Crosswicks St., Bordentown City.

 

There will be live music, children’s activities, eco-friendly goods, native plants and local food vendors.

 

 

 

 

Sunday, June 13

“Images from the Human Journey” will be performed by the Stretto Youth Chamber Orchestra outdoors from 3-4 p.m. June 13 in the lot of 300 Witherspoon St., Princeton (Homestead and Capital Health).
Stretto will present three short works by members of the ensemble and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. 

This concert is free and open to the public. 

 

 

 

Through Friday, June 18

The Hopewell Township Police Department will hold its Youth Police Academy this summer for any Hopewell Valley resident presently completing the seventh or eighth grade.

Class times are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 16-20. Graduation will be held at 6 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Hopewell Township Municipal Building, 201 Washington Crossing Pennington Road, Titusville.

The classroom curriculum will include such topics as criminal law, arrest search and seizure, criminal investigation, traffic stops/motor vehicle law, physical fitness training, the court system, juvenile law, crime prevention, evidence collection and patrol practices. There will be demonstrations on the use of police equipment, radar and drug identification.

Application are available for pickup at the Timberlane Middle School Main Office, 51 S. Timberlane Dr., Pennington; the Hopewell Township Police Department in the same complex as the municipal building; or at www.hopewelltwp.org.

All applications must be completed and returned to the Hopewell Township Police Department no later than 4 p.m. June 18.

The class will be limited to 20 students.

COVID-19 protocols will be in place (mask usage, social distancing, sanitizing, etc.). If it becomes necessary to cancel the academy as a result of COVID-19, enrollees will be notified immediately.

Questions should be directed to Sgt. Louis Vastola at 609-737-3100, ext. 5320.

 

 

 

Saturday, June 19

 

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton Foundation’s We Vs. C Committee will hold this year’s fundraising event, The Tree of Life, benefitting the Holistic Program at the Cancer Center, from 6-9:30 p.m. June 19.

The evening will be a celebration with entertainment, cultural rituals, seasonal cuisine and unique beverages.

A limited number of in-person tickets may be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis, dependent on the current Executive Order. The location is Brick Farm Tavern, 130 Hopewell Rocky Hill Road, Hopewell.

There will also be a virtual experience for those who choose not to attend in person.

Additional information, along with sponsorship, special message and ticket details, can be found by visiting www.rwjbh.org/wevsctreeoflife.

 

 

Sundays, through June 20

McCarter Theatre will hold concerts in Palmer Square, Princeton, from 4-6 p.m. Sundays, through June 20.

R&B, rock, pop, jazz, swing, Reggae, Latin and country music will be performed by local musicians who are making their McCarter debuts.

No tickets or advance registration required. 

Bring your own food and drink from vendors around Palmer Square.

Concerts are free and open to the public.

Parking will be available in the downtown garage, or there is metered parking on the street.

For up-to-date information, visit www.palmersquare.com

 

 

 

 

Through Monday, June 21

The Hightstown Cultural Arts Commission invites local artists to help residents celebrate Hightstown’s 300th anniversary through the creation of a 2022 wall calendar that will feature photos of historic sites in the borough alongside the chosen artistic interpretations of how the sites appear now.

Visual artists are invited to view historic photographs of Hightstown, choose one or more to render in paint, pastel, pencil, or another medium, and depict how the site appears today.

The rendering may be done in any size, but ultimately featured interpretations will be reproduced the size of the historic photograph that inspired the artwork.

Calendars will be available for purchase in October.

Completed art is due on June 21.

To review the historic photographs, visit https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/13lL64l-LCPJgzu8HMdLGd-XGIJvG5JsA and complete the simple form indicating interest.

For more information, email [email protected]

 

Saturday, June 26

The Bordentown Historical Society will present its annual History in Bloom Garden Tour from noon to 5 p.m. June 26; rain date is June 27.

Plein Air artists will be painting views of the gardens.

A landscape architect with expertise in native New Jersey trees and plants will answer gardening questions.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.BordentownHistory.org

Or, tickets may be purchased the day of the event at the Friends Meeting House, 302 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown, which is the start of the tour.

The cost for members is $18, or for mon-members $20. Children ages 8-16 are $10; children under 8 are admitted free.

For more information, contact Patti Reaney at 609-410-6057 or [email protected]. Or, visit https://bordentownhistory.org/events/annual-garden-tour/

All participants must wear a mask and socially distance in all gardens.

 

Through August

Westrick Music Academy will launch its third year of Camp Westrick for rising fourth through ninth grade boys and girls, which features voice training and performance with children’s choir directors, musical theater class, daily choir rehearsals, development of musicianship, games, and more, Aug. 2-6 from 9 a.m. to noon.

There are no audition requirements.

The camp location will be announced at a later date, with possibilities for fully virtual, fully in-person or a hybrid of both being considered.

For more information about camp, the organization, or to schedule an audition, visit www.westrickmusic.org/camp/, or call 609-688-1888.

 

 

Saturday, Sept. 11

The Mercer County Improvement Authority will hold a household hazardous waste collection and electronics recycling event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 11, rain or shine, at the John T. Dempster Fire School, 350 Lawrence Station Road, Lawrence Township.

Accepted materials include aerosol cans, used motor oil, propane gas tanks, pesticides and herbicides, car batteries, paint thinner, oil-based paint, stains and varnishes, gasoline, anti-freeze, driveway sealant, insect repellents, mercury, and fluorescent and CFL bulbs.

Accepted electronics include computers, printers, copies, fax machines, stereos, televisions and microwaves.

Prohibited items include latex paint, heating oil, infectious waste, radioactive materials, explosives or munitions, railroad ties, asbestos, tires, wood, fencing, air conditioners, helium or oxygen tanks, humidifiers or dehumidifiers, batteries and any unknowns.

No registration is required, just proof of Mercer County residency.

For more information, visit www.mcianj.org or call 609-278-8086.

 

Oct. 9

The National Alliance on Mental Illness will hold its 2021 walk, NAMIWalks NJ Your Way: A United Day of Hope, virtually on Oct. 9

For more information, visit namiwalks.org/newjersey

 

Through Sunday, Oct. 31

 

The Mercer County Park Commission is accepting reservations for the five county-owned picnic areas for the 2021 season.

The West and East Picnic Areas in Mercer County Park, Rosedale Picnic Area in Mercer Meadows, Princeton Country Club Picnic Area in West Windsor and Valley Road Picnic Area in Hopewell Township are open to in-county and out-of-county residents.

Users will only be able to make their reservations online; the Park Commission will not permit walk-ups or any in-person reservations.

Available dates for the picnic season run through Sunday, Oct. 31.

Due to the popularity of the picnic grounds, the Park Commission highly recommends creating a Community Pass account before the opening date if a user does not have one already. For returning users, the Park Commission suggests revisiting your account and ensuring credentials are accurate.

Reservations will be made automatically on a first-come, first-served basis. Weekend dates are among the most popular; no date is guaranteed.

For a link to the online Community Pass reservation system, visit http://mercercountyparks.org/#!/facilities/picnic-areas/. Interested parties should have either a MasterCard or Visa card ready to make a reservation.

For more information, call the Recreation and Events Center at 609-443-8560 or visit www.mercercountyparks.org.

 

Through November 30

East Windsor encourages community groups to participate in the 2021 Township Adopt-A-Spot Program.

Under this program, participating groups “adopt” a public property and keep it clean during the year. A placard is erected on the site indicating that it has been “adopted by” with the name of the group.

The groups are expected to perform cleanup three times per month through Nov. 30.

To participate, interested groups should send a letter to East Windsor Clean Communities Committee, ATTN: Mayor Janice S. Mironov, 16 Lanning Blvd., East Windsor 08520.

 

Continuing events

 

Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick has launched the Substance Abuse and Addiction Loss Support Group for families who are coping with loss due to addiction.

The free and confidential support group meets virtually on the second Thursday of every month from 7-8:30 p.m.

Inspired by Saint Peter’s Opioid Task Force, the Substance Abuse and Addiction Loss Support Group is for families and close loved ones of people who have passed away from addiction.

The support group is open to everyone in New Jersey and serves as a safe space for families to discuss their grief.

To join the Substance Abuse and Addiction Loss Support Group, call Jeanne Delacruz, a social worker at Saint Peter’s who facilitates the support group, at 732-745-8522 or email [email protected]

 

 

 

 

 

Hopewell Theater’s reopening plans will focus on ensuring the comfort of patrons.

 

 

 

The Princeton Public Library is increasing the number of mobile hotspots available to borrow starting March 19, and will also begin lending Chromebooks that day. Kits containing both devices may also be borrowed.

The additional devices are part of an ongoing effort to expand internet access to cardholders who do not have connectivity at home, a service that became vital to the community when the library building closed at the start of the pandemic last March.

There will be five hotspots, 10 Chromebooks and 10 kits available to borrow.

The library began circulating six mobile hotspots last summer and also extended the reach of its free high-speed WiFi to cover all of Hinds Plaza.

Library cardholders may borrow a mobile hotspot or Chromebook for two weeks. The hotspots can support up to 15 simultaneous connections with unlimited 4G LTE service. Cardholders will be able to request a mobile hotspot, Chromebook or kit through the online catalog, by phone or in person.

Cardholders will be required to sign a lending and internet-use policy agreement prior to checking out a device. A parent or guardian must sign the agreements for cardholders under the age of 18.

Additional details about borrowing devices at Princeton Public Library can be found at princetonlibrary.org 

 

NAMI In Our Own Voice (NAMI En Nuestra Propia Voz) is a program by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) New Jersey chapter geared toward community education and reducing the stigma of mental health, as trained volunteers share their lived experience of mental health recovery.

To schedule a presentation at a school, PTA meeting, congregation, town hall, support group or professional training, email [email protected]

Presentations are available in English and Spanish.

 

 

 

Westrick Music Academy (WMA), home of Princeton Girlchoir and Princeton Boychoir, is currently enrolling students of all ages in a variety of music education classes, exploring new and engaging ways to build and strengthen musicianship skills.

For musicians in grades 3-12, there are a variety of classes for all levels. Learn how to relax and strengthen muscles while focusing on the slow, deep breathing used in singing with Yoga for Singers. In Musical Theater Fun, young artists will engage in activities focused on singing techniques, character development, acting skills and dance/choreography in preparation for a final showcase performance. In the Ukulele group class, students will build their musicianship while learning to play traditional songs on one the most delightful instruments.

Adults will also find opportunities for musical growth with WMA. In Group Ukelele for Adults, learn basic chords and strumming techniques.

WMA also looks forward to hosting a Comedy Improv Workshop this term. This highly interactive, one-day class is open to anyone of any experience level.

Find more information on WMA’s music education programs, register for a class, or learn more about WMA’s flagship choir programs at WestrickMusic.org/education.

 

 

 

Central Jersey SCORE, a non-profit resource partner of the Small Business Administration, is looking for volunteers to assist people looking to start a business or grow an existing small business.

The organization is recruiting business owners and executives, both current and retired, who want to share their experience and knowledge with today’s up-and-coming entrepreneurs.

The Central Jersey Chapter of SCORE serves Middlesex, Somerset and Hunterdon counties.

Central Jersey SCORE provides in-person mentoring and webinars, both offered virtually in line with current pandemic restrictions. In addition, the SCORE website offers tools and templates on a wide variety of topics and numerous online courses and webinars to assist small business owners through every aspect of business development and management. Services are offered free of charge.

Anyone interested in volunteering with SCORE or seeking additional information should email [email protected]

 

 

French American School Princeton (FASP) is accepting enrollment.

At FASP, students in preschool (3 years old) through grade 8 benefit from a rigorous bilingual curriculum accredited by the Middle State Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools and the French Ministry of Education; personalized attention thanks to small class sizes; and a multicultural community with more than 30 nationalities represented.

FAPS is located at 75 Mapleton Road, Princeton.

Visit ecoleprinceton.org, call 609-430-3001 or email [email protected].

 

McCarter Theatre Center presents Fireside Chats to “spark” conversation in the community.

Filmed on the front lawn of the Princeton theater, student activities, Pulitzer Prize-winners, local business owners and others are interviewed by Artistic Director Sarah Rasmussen.

To catch up on past episodes or to subscribe to the free YouTube channel, and to be notified when new episodes become available, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=GI3dS2j-mQA&list=PLqL4nAGyr4JT6UYYM99VHLHlmB2wXqSrF

 

 

 

Cranbury residents age 55 and older can exercise via Zoom.

Classes meet on both Mondays and Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. with instructors Helen and Robin. Zoom opens at about 9:45 a.m. so that members can talk with the instructor and other participants before class.

On the Township of Cranbury website there is a tutorial on how to use Zoom, prepared by the Cranbury Library.

To join, contact Connie Bauder, who will forward three registration forms to complete and return before being sent the invitation to join class.

There is no charge to participate.

Request and send completed registration forms to Bauder at [email protected]

The Township of Hillsborough is working with Town Planner to produce a 250th anniversary edition of the color printed 2021 calendar, which will be mailed out to every residence in Hillsborough.

 

 

 

The Mercer County Solidarity Network (MCSN) is a new mutual aid group designed to connect people in need throughout Mercer County with people who can help meet those needs.

The group is looking for individuals, families and businesses who would like to donate their time, resources or goods/services with people who have been affected by the pandemic and who request support. There is no minimum obligation – donors can specify whatever they feel they can provide and the group will match donors with individuals who have expressed a related need.

To sign up as a donor, visit www.mercersolidarity.org/ or email [email protected].

 

 

 

Co-Dependents Anonymous Step Study Meeting. CoDA is a fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. Meetings are held every Friday evenings. The 24 Club, The 1860 House, 2nd floor, 124 Montgomery Road, Skillman. For more information, email [email protected].

VFW Meetings: Monthly meetings of the Hillsborough Memorial VFW Post 8371 are held the fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Somerset County Hillsborough Senior Center, 339 S. Branch Road. The post’s mission is Veterans and Military Support, Youth Scholarship Activities and Community Service. All veterans with foreign service are welcome as members to assist the post in achieving its mission. For information regarding membership, post activities or the youth scholarship programs, contact Commander Tom Cellilli via phone or text at 908-255-3669.

Alzheimer’s caregiver support group: Following the guidelines of the Alzheimer’s Association, the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group is “a safe place for caregivers, family and friends of persons with dementia to meet and develop a mutual support system.” The group meets the first Monday and second Wednesday of each month at the Bridgewater United Methodist Church, 651 Country Club Road, Bridgewater. All are welcome.

Free weekly support groups: Carrier Clinic hosts free weekly support groups on the campus throughout the year. These support programs include:

Weekend Codependency Program, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Bright Futures for Kids, Sundays, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Parents Support Group, Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m.

Mood Disorder Support Group, Thursdays, 7:30-9:15 p.m.

For more information about these or other services and programs available at Carrier Clinic, visit CarrierClinic.org or call 908-281-1513. For more information, visit CarrierClinic.org/WhatToDo.

Midweek meals: The Wednesday midweek meals held in Asbury Hall, at the United Methodist Church of Bound Brook, have started back up. All seniors are invited for a full course meal for $4. Bring friends and family to enjoy a meal and fellowship.

Pop Warner: Calling all 5-7 year olds. Hillsborough Dukes Pop Warner is offering free Flag Football registration to first time players, including instructional and safe environment with fun training activities to teach core skills. Every child plays every game and the Dukes are the only organization that requires coaches to be USA Football Heads Up Certified. There are no tryouts or team drafting. Visit register.hillsboroughdukes.com to register. For more information, contact [email protected].

Coping with addiction: Parents of Addicted Children helps parents understand and cope with drug problems they are facing, and will face, with their children. Meets first and third Monday of month, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Neshanic Reformed Church, 715 Amwell Road.

Alzheimer’s support group: The Alzheimer’s Association has a support group in Hillsborough. Family members and caregivers come together to share information and support in a safe, confidential atmosphere. Meetings are the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Brookdale Hillsborough, 600 Auten Road. Call 908-431-1300.

Mothers of Preschoolers: MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meets from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Fridays at the Fellowship Bible Church building, 109 New Amwell Road. The group says it meets to “laugh, cry and embrace the journey of motherhood.” Sponsored by Crossroads Community Church, it hears speakers, has a craft or project and lots of conversation and refreshment. Child care is provided. For information, see www.crossroadsnj.org/MOPS. Registration fee is required.

Divorce support group: A nondenominational support group to help separated and divorced people to a new beginning. The group meets the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 7-8:30 p.m. at Hillsborough Presbyterian Church, Route 206 at Homestead Road. Call 908-295-6740.

Swim lessons at HRC: The Swim Academy at HRC, located at 30 Brower Lane, Hillsborough, is offering swim lessons for all ages and levels. Call HRC Fitness at 908-359-3600 to register or visit www.hrcfitness.com for class schedules.

Send items to [email protected]. The deadline for submissions each week is 5 p.m. on Tuesday. For details, call 732-358-5200.