Common calendar, Packet papers, November 19

Ongoing

 

 

 

 

Firefighters are needed for Hope Hose Humane No. Co. 1, Consolidated Fire Association, Mission Fire Company and Derby Fire company.

For more information, visit www.bordentowntownship.com/fire_prevention_month?utm_campaign=october_2021_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_source=bordentowntownship

 

Weekends, Nov. 18 to Dec. 5

Special event Nov. 19

Garden State Watercolor Society (GSWS) returns to Princeton after a 3-year hiatus for its Pop-Up Art Sale at 19 Hulfish St., Princeton. On display will be a large assortment of original artwork from more than 40 artists in various media.

The sale begins Nov. 18 and continues on a Thursday to Sunday schedule through Dec. 5. The Pop-Up Art Sale hours are Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving.

An opening reception will be held from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Nov. 19.

GSWS will donate 20% of the art sale proceeds to Mercer Street Friends and Send Hunger Packing. Mercer Street Friends is a local non-profit whose mission is to build alliances and provide integrated services for children, and their families. Their Send Hunger Packing program provides supplemental meals on the weekend for children in kindergarten to sixth grade so they are ready to learn.

For more information, visit www.gswcs.org/art-sale.html.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Friday, Nov. 19

The Princeton Folk Music Society presents an evening of traditional American folk music with a bit of an Irish accent at 8 p.m. Nov. 19 at Christ Congregation Church, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton.

Joe Jencks is a 20-year veteran of the international folk circuit, an award-winning songwriter, and celebrated vocalist based in Chicago.

Tickets at the door are $25 general, $20 members, $10 students, $5 children.

Ample free parking.

For more information, visit www.princetonfolk.org

 

 

Take a virtual Hardenbergh hike through history with Paul Soltis at 6 p.m. Nov. 19 through Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton.

Soltis, the New Jersey State Park Service’s historian for Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Sites in Somerville, will explore the Jersey Dutch origins of the Hardenbergh and Rutgers families, the academic tradition of New Jersey’s colonial colleges that encouraged Gerard Rutgers Hardenbergh’s ornithology, and the landscapes preserved in New Jersey State Parks & Forests today that inspired Hardenbergh’s art.

Cost is $10 general, or free for members.

Zoom link will be provided the day of the program. A recording link will be made available to attendees following program.

Register at www.eventbrite.com/e/take-a-virtual-hardenbergh-hike-through-history-with-paul-soltis-tickets-191982112667

 

 

 

Enjoy an evening of community-created entertainment in the form of storytelling and poetic open mic on Nov. 19 at the Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon St., Princeton.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Storytelling begins at 7:30 p.m.

Each month, the Arts Council of Princeton will invite inspiration from a well-known song title. Artists are invited to interpret the theme as broadly as they wish.

All are welcome to tell a well-prepared story or perform their poetry.

Performers should bring their own work, inspired by this month’s theme: Walk the Line.

The evening will include 45 minutes of stories and 45 minutes of poetry with a brief intermission.

Free and open to the public.

Free RSVP bit.ly/StoryVerse-111921

 

 

 

Through Friday, Nov. 19

Princeton’s Human Services Department seeks donors for its 23rd Annual Holiday Gift Drive.

For the past 22 years, Princeton Human Services, municipal employees, local businesses, and private donors have made hundreds of Princeton children’s holiday wishes come true by providing them with gifts for the holidays.

Last year, over 324 applications for gifts were received, and this year the expectation is there will be more.

Applications are received for children up to age 12, which includes one or two gifts they would like for the holidays, which are not to exceed $75.

In addition to sponsoring a child’s wish list, the department is asking donors to consider donating a gift card to help the parents or families of the children during these difficult times.

Visit www.princetonnj.gov/departments/human-services or fill out the form at https://princeton.seamlessdocs.com/f/hgddonor2021 by Nov. 19, or call 609-688-2055 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.

 

 

Each year, Safe+Sound Somerset gives additional support to clients and their families through its annual Holiday Drive.

Along with gift cards for each member of the family, as well as a gift for a household item or other family needs, Safe+Sound provides treats, gift wrapping and other details that make the holidays a special family time.

The Holiday Drive is open through Nov. 19. The only acceptable items are $25 Amazon, Walmart, ShopRite and Visa gift cards. Send electronic cards to [email protected]. Physical gift cards can be mailed to Safe+Sound Somerset, Attn: Kristin Cantwell, P.O. Box 835, Somerville 08876.

Monetary gifts are also appreciated; make a gift at www.safe-sound.org/donate. To designate a gift, enter “Holiday Drive” in the “This gift is made in Memory or Honor of” field.

If a business or community group is interested in hosting a Holiday Drive, reach out to Kristin Cantwell at [email protected] for promotional support or to make special arrangements for delivery of collected gift cards.

For help or to request information about Safe+Sound Somerset’s services, call or text the 24/7 confidential helpline at 866-685-1122.

 

 

The Rotary Club of Robbinsville Hamilton is providing the opportunity to honor heroes in the second annual Flags For Heroes campaign.

Hundreds of American flags will be flown on the grounds of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Hamilton along Whitehorse-Hamilton Square Road and Klockner Road through Nov. 19.

Each American flag honors someone’s local hero including veteran, active military, mother, father, grandparent, son, daughter, family, friend, neighbor, fire and rescue, police, teacher, medical and health care professional, business, and others who have made a difference in someone’s life.

The Rotary expects nearly 300 flags will be flown during the time before and after Veterans Day.

For more information about the Rotary and its charitable initiatives, email [email protected] or visit www.RHRotary.org.

 

 

Rise is sponsoring a Thanksgiving basket drive for families and individuals in the Hightstown and East Windsor area.

Rise is asking donors to drop off stuffing, instant mashed potatoes, yams, onions, squash and carrots, as well as gravy and cranberry sauce. Rice, corn muffin mix, Jell-o or pudding mix, pasta, cereal or oatmeal, pasta sauce, canned fish, and dry or canned beans are also needed. Canned soup, chicken or turkey broth, nuts and canned or dried fruit also can be dropped off.

Rise is asking donors for gift cards so staff can buy turkeys. Turkeys are hard to store in quantity, so it’s more practical to buy them as needed.

The donations can be dropped off at the Rise Thrift Store at 114 Rogers Ave. in Hightstown every Monday through Wednesday, from 9 a.m. and noon. They can also be dropped off Nov. 3 and Nov. 17, from 5-7 p.m.

Donations are due by Nov. 19.

Rise is planning to distribute Thanksgiving baskets on Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rise food pantry at 133 Broad St. in Hightstown.

A drive-thru Thanksgiving basket distribution is planned for Nov. 20, between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., at the Modway warehouse at 329 Wyckoff Mills Road in East Windsor in cooperation with the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen. The rain date for the drive-thru event is Nov. 21, same time, same place.

Gift cards or checks can be mailed to Rise, P.O. Box 88, Hightstown 08520.

Online donations can be made by visiting https://njrise.org/thanksgiving.

 

Adults who live or work in Somerset County still have time to submit their online applications for the Class of 2022. The deadline has been extended to Nov. 19.

Information about applying to Leadership Somerset can be found at www.co.somerset.nj.us/LS_Apply. Questions can be addressed to [email protected].

Leadership Somerset provides an opportunity to network with community leaders, learn more about Somerset County resources and make a positive impact in the community.

The program is held one day a month, beginning in January, and each session focuses on a different topic. Participants will interact with local leaders on topics like government, economy, justice and public safety, human services, community health and the environment.

Throughout the year, class members will discuss capacities of positive leadership and take class trips.

The majority of the cost to attend the year-long adult leadership program is underwritten by the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners. Leadership Somerset participants are asked to contribute a program fee of $425 for the year, which covers participation in all sessions, materials and meals. Limited scholarships based on financial need are available.

For more information, visit at www.leadershipsomerset.org, or call 908-231-7040 or email [email protected].

 

Nov. 19 through Dec. 4

Pierrot Productions will present “33 Variations” Nov. 19 through Dec. 4 at Mercer County Community College’s Kelsey Theatre, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor.

“33 Variations,” written by Moisés Kaufman, is a story inspired by one of classical music’s most enduring riddles: Why did Beethoven, during his final years, write 33 different variations of a seemingly insignificant waltz by a minor composer?

Performance dates are Nov. 19 at 8 p.m., Nov. 20 at 8 p.m., Nov. 21 at 2 p.m., Nov. 27 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Nov. 28 at 2 p.m., Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Tickets are $18 for children, students and senior citizens, and $20 for adults.

To purchase tickets, visit kelseytheatre.org, call 609-570-3333 or order directly at https://ci.ovationtix.com/35232

Private performances and group rates are available to ALS support and music appreciation groups upon request.

Kelsey Theatre is wheelchair accessible and free parking is available next to the building. Assisted listening devices are available upon request.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID test within 48 hours is required at the door and a mask is required to be worn inside the theater.

 

 

 

Select dates, from Nov. 19 to March 2022

Randy Now’s Man Cave has a slate of performances scheduled through the end of the year:

Nov. 19 and 20, both at 7:30 p.m., The Successful Failures with guest Tod the Mod

Dec. 3, time to be announced, The Split Squad with Keith Streng, Hard Working Men

Dec. 11, time to be announced, The Fleshtones

Dec. 19, time to be announced, Ed Hamell’s Hamell for the Holidays

March 2022 will be Richie Ramone, details to be announced

Randy Now’s Man Cave is located at 134 Farnsworth Ave., Bordertown.

Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, and Sundays from noon to 4:30 p.m. The phone lines are open during business hours: 609-424-3766.

For ticket information, visit https://randy-nows-man-cave.ticketleap.com

 

 

Hopewell Valley Central High School (HVCHS) Performing Arts will once again have a live audience as they present “Much Ado About Nothing.”

The performance is set for Nov. 19-20 at 7 p.m. and will be located in the Performing Arts Center at Hopewell Valley Central High School, 259 Pennington-Titusville Road, Pennington.

Tickets will not be sold at the door and will be sold to fill only half the capacity of the theater.

CDC guidelines are being followed and those attending will all have to wear a mask.

The cost of the tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors.

The students have not had a live audience since March 2020.

Set after World War II, the adaptation of “Much Ado About Nothing” takes place in a jazz club in Little Italy, New York. Similar to the original William Shakespeare play from 1598, the comedy is a battle of wills and wits, particularly between Beatrice and Benedick, both of whom claim they will never love or marry; and the youthful, romantic innocence of Claudio and Hero, according to a press release.

The 1940s music lends a nostalgic backdrop to the four lovers as they stumble through their matchmaking follies.

 Tickets can be purchased at www.showtix4u.com.

 

Friday, Nov. 19 – Sunday, Nov. 21

The 2021 Princeton Dance Festival returns in person with performances featuring new and repertory works by choreographers Rebecca Lazier, Kyle Marshall, Justin Peck (staged by Michael Breeden), Larissa Velez-Jackson, Omari Wiles, Jawole Willa Jo Zollar and Germaine Acogny (staged by Samantha Speis), and new work staged by Tina Fehlandt inspired by Mark Morris’ choreography on the 40th anniversary of the founding of his famed dance company, performed by Princeton dance students.

The festival is planned for 8 p.m. Nov. 19; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Nov. 20; and 2 p.m. Nov. 21 at the Berlind Theatre at McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton.

All guests are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, to wear a mask when indoors, and to show proof of vaccination and a photo ID at the door. Princeton students, faculty and staff only need to show their PU ID card.

Dancers will be unmasked while performing on stage.

Tickets are $12 in advance or $17 purchased day of performances; and $10 for students. at McCarter Box Office at mccarter.org/dance-festival.

Each ticket for each person attending must be reserved through a separate online transaction; however, one person can submit multiple transactions on behalf of different attendees.

 

 

Saturday, Nov. 20

For the past 25 years, Café Improv has connected beginning and professional performers in the Arts Council of Princeton’s Solley Theater.

Attendees can expect an evening of local music, poetry, comedy and more from 7-10 p.m. Nov. 20 at the Arts Council, 102 Witherspoon St., Princeton.

Admission is $1 for ACP members or $2 general admission.

For more information, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org or cafeimprov.com.

 

 

The Foundation for Bordentown Traditions will host the Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk at 7 a.m. Nov. 20 at Joseph Lawrence Park, 316 Ward Ave., Bordentown.

In addition to the 5K race, the event will also include a Family Fun Walk.

For more information and online registration, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Bordentown/BordentownTurkeyTrot5K1Mile 

 

 

Trinity United Methodist Church will hold its 2021 Christmas Bazaar, celebrating 75 years, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 19; and from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Nov. 20 at the church, 339 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown.

There will be crafts, baked goods, homemade candy, gently used clothing, items made by horseshoes, and vegetable soup.

To place an order for the soup, call 609-298-3547 or 609-298-1914.

Lunch on Nov. 19 will be served from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Items include vegetable soup, egg salad or beef BBQ sandwiches, desserts and beverages.

A snack bar will be open from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 20, including hot dogs and other options.

Nov. 20, from 4:30-6:30 p.m., hoagies, sandwiches and desserts will be available for purchase.

Refreshments will be sold. Takeout orders will be available for all meals.

For more information, call 609-298-5465.

 

 

 

 

Through Saturday, Nov. 20

Hillsborough Township will transform the front lawn of the Municipal Complex into a Field of Honor in time for Veterans Day.

The Rotary Club of Hillsborough is offering township residents the opportunity to honor their favorite vets with flags as a way to commemorate their sacrifice and heroism, through the Flags for Heroes initiative.

Residents who wish to sponsor flags for the veterans in their lives can do so for $50 each.

The 3-foot by 5-foot flags hang on 10-foot poles and will be on display on the corner of South Branch Road and Beekman Lane through Nov. 20.

The initiative is a fundraiser, with a portion of the proceeds being donated to Hillsborough Township veterans. 

To purchase a flag, visit https://portal.clubrunner.ca/4875/Stories/flags-for-heroes

 

HomeFront’s National Hunger & Homelessness Week remaining events include:

· Nov. 19 from noon to 1:30 p.m. Virtual Lunch & Learn with HomeFront’s Chief Executive Officer Connie Mercer and Chief Operating Officer Sarah Steward. They will discuss the nonprofit’s work this past year to meet the increased need in the community among families impacted by the pandemic and HomeFront’s, ways community members can get involved, and HomeFront’s plans for the future.

· Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Drive Service Opportunity. Help pack Thanksgiving dinner baskets at HomeFront which will be distributed to the nonprofit’s client families.

To learn more and register, visit www.homefrontnj.org.

 

 

 

Saturday, Nov. 20

Wednesday, Nov. 24

Saturday, Dec. 4

The Off the Wall Holiday Market is open through Jan. 8, 2022, at West Windsor Arts in Princeton Junction, and its satellite gallery at Whole World Arts at the Princeton MarketFair Shopping Center, featuring 80 original artworks for sale.

In addition, more than 200 handmade items can be found at the MarketFair location.

Items can also be purchased online at westwindsorarts.org.  

Artisan Demo Days at West Windsor Arts are set to take place on Nov. 20 and Dec. 4. They provide an opportunity to meet artisans and watch as they work on their craft. Each artisan will have a selection of their works available for sale.  

On Nov. 24, Whole World Arts will present a Fused Glass Ornament Workshop where participants will learn how to make their own keepsake glass

For more information about ongoing activities and classes at West Windsor Arts and Whole World Arts, visit westwindsorarts.org or call 609-716-1931.

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday, Nov. 21

The Rare Book Collection at the Museum of Printing will be presented via Zoom from 3-5 p.m. Nov. 21 by the Friends of Princeton University Library.

In the Museum of Printing in Haverhill, Massachusetts, more than 6,000 books and many thousands of ephemera samples are housed in a unique library. Frank Romano, president of the museum and a rare book collector for 60 years, will join the Princeton Bibliophiles & Collectors to introduce the Museum of Printing and discuss this rare book collection.

To join the program, visit https://libcal.princeton.edu/event/8281733

 

 

Girls on the Run of Central NJ (GOTRCNJ) will celebrate the end of its 20th season with a 5K run through the streets of downtown Somerville on Nov. 21 beginning at 11 a.m..

Open to the public, runners and spectators are expected from the five counties GOTRCNJ serves.

Net proceeds of the race provide financial assistance to over 500 girls annually to enable them to participate in the program.

Register at https://runsignup.com/gotrfall5k

 

 

 

Join the Beth El Synagogue Werner Lecture Fund Zoom presentation of “From Sinai to Seinfeld: Jews and their Humor” at 2:30 p.m. Nov. 21.

In 1978, “Time” magazine claimed that 80% of all stand-up comedians in the United States were Jewish. 

Join Larry Wolfert, an instructor for Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Rutgers University, for a sampling of humor of many well respected comedians.

 Zoom meeting information: https://zoom.us/j/9729253056?pwd=Q3hMZFNmRVZ2ZndvdEZyMWVkcWl3QT09

Meeting ID is 972 925 3056. Password is 1234.

Beth El Synagogue is located in East Windsor.

For more information, call 609-443-4454 or visit www.bethel.net.

 

Through Tuesday, Nov. 23

East Windsor Boy Scout Troop 5700 is selling holiday wreaths.

The 22-inch wreaths with pinecones and a blue or red bow cost $22 each.

Grave blankets, which are 42 inches long, are $25 each.

Order by Nov. 23.

Pick up will be after Nov. 30.

To order, message Jess Col, the troop leader and Hightstown Elks Lodge 1955 members, on Facebook.

 

 

Tuesday, Nov. 23

The offices of Assemblyman Roy Freiman and Assemblyman Andrew Zwicker of the 16th Legislative District welcome all residents to a special Constituent Services Day on Nov. 23 at the Manville Public Library, 100 S. 10th Ave., Manville.

The event will feature both a Motor Vehicles Commission (MVC) Mobile Unit from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as well as a Mobile Office Hours Table from noon to 2 p.m.

Both events are open to the public, and residency in the 16th District is not mandatory.

The Mobile Office Hours provides a way to help individuals access the wide range of state services and benefits that are available to them.

Registration is required to ensure that all customers can be served quickly and efficiently. Send name, phone number, email address and the specific transaction being requested to [email protected] or [email protected].

For further information, contact Zwicker at 732-823-1684 or Freiman at 908-829-4191.

 

Thursday, Nov. 25

A Thanksgiving Day walk in the Mapleton Preserve will be held at 10 a.m. Nov. 25 at the Mapleton Preserve/D&R Canal State Park, 145 Mapleton Road, Kingston.
Join Friends of Princeton Nursery Lands for a Thanksgiving Day morning exploration of the Mapleton Preserve. Walk off some holiday calories, search for turkeys and turkey tails, and enjoy the beauty of late fall.

The event is free and open to all, but preregistration is requested. Call 609-683-0483 to reserve a spot.

Visit https://fpnl.org/ for more information and directions.

 

 

Nov. 26 to Dec. 19

Discover artisan handicrafts and specialty items at Princeton’s Artist Chalet Winter Village.

The Artist Chalet Winter Village will take place from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, Nov. 26 through Dec. 19, on Hinds Plaza, Witherspoon Street, next to the Princeton Public Library.

Grab hot drinks and snacks from local restaurants and enjoy sidewalk sales at local retailers.

Artist chalets have been curated by the Arts Council of Princeton.

Visit artscouncilofprinceton.org for more information.

 

American Repertory Ballet announces the return of “The Nutcracker” this holiday season.

Performances are scheduled at:

McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton: 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 26, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 27, and 1 p.m. Nov. 28.

Union County Performing Arts Center, Rahway: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3, and sensory-friendly at 1 p.m. Dec. 5.

Patriots Theatre at the War Memorial, Trenton: 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Dec. 11.

State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 18; 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Dec. 19.

All patrons attending a performance must show proof of vaccination via a vaccine card, or through NJ’s Docket App, or a negative COVID-19 PCR. Check each venue’s website for more information.

All patrons are required to wear masks at all times while inside the venue regardless of  vaccination status. This includes children older than 2 who have not been vaccinated.

Visit arballet.org to purchase tickets.

Call 609-921-7758 for more information.

 

 

Saturday, Nov. 27

Jazz vocalist Dr. Trineice Robinson-Martin is releasing her debut recording “All Or Nothing.” The music is a blend of standards, jazz classics, R&B/soul favorites and original songs.

 

Robinson-Martin holds a faculty position at Princeton University as the jazz voice instructor, lecturer, and director of the Jazz Vocal Collective Ensemble. She serves on the National Faculty in the academic division of Gospel Music Workshop of America, serves as the executive director of the African American Jazz Caucus, Inc., serves as a Board of Director for the Jazz Education Network, serves on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Singing, and is a member of the American Academy of Teachers of Singing.

She created Soul Ingredients, a teaching methodology for developing a singer’s musical style/interpretation in African American folk based music styles. This methodology shows students how to take their personal experiences, musical influences and models, and execute the different components in a manner that is personal to the singer/performer’s own personal expression.

Robinson will perform as part of Jazz Trenton’s Jazz Masters Series on Nov. 27 at Candlelight Lounge, 24 Passaic St., Trenton. Joining her will be pianist Aaron Graves, bassist Lee Smith, and drummer Webb Thomas.

Cover charge is $20 with a $10 drink minimum, dinner included.

For information, visit www.jazztrenton.com/.

 

Santa Claus will visit Bordentown City during the tree lighting on Nov. 27, and will make his tour of the city starting at 5 p.m. Dec. 19.

 

 

Sunday, Nov. 28

Meet local photographer Eddie Dzik at his first photography exhibit opening from 1-3 p.m. Nov. 28 at Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton.
Dzik was raised in Lawrenceville. After graduating from Lawrence High School, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from The University of Tampa’s Sykes College of Business.

As a way to show his love for the outdoors and concern for environmental preservation, he began photographing both local and national parks to document their ever-changing landscapes. Currently, he has been assisting world-renowned National Geographic photographer Michael Yamashita, most recently working on the creation of NFTs (non-fungible tokens).
View Eddie’s portfolio at https://eddiedzik.myportfolio.com

For more information, call 609-924-2310.

 

Race around Mercer County to complete challenges on foot while learning about Hanukkah during the JCC Princeton Mercer Bucks & Abrams Camps Amazing Hanukkah Hunt, 10 a.m.t o noon Nov. 28 at Mercer County Park, West Windsor.

Teams will compete to win the Golden Dreidel.

Register at www.jccpmb.org/hanukkah

 

 

 

Monday, Nov. 29

Celebrate the second night of Hanukah at an outdoor menorah lighting at 7:45 p.m. Nov. 29 at Beth El Synagogue, 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor.

Open to the community.

In case of inclement weather, the event will be held inside. 

Visit www.bethel.net, call 609-443-4454 or email [email protected] for more information. 

This event is co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks. 

 

 

Through Monday, Nov. 29

During November, the Gourgaud Gallery, 23-A N. Main St. in Cranbury, will host an exhibit called “Friends of Color” featuring the work of 13 watercolor artists.

Watercolorists Unlimited, a group of New Jersey artists who meet monthly to critique work together, has been meeting for more than 27 years. Each month the group chooses a new subject to paint and they meet at the end of the month to have lunch and a formal critique.

There will be several paintings from each artist on exhibit, and most works will be for sale.

The show will be on exhibit through Nov. 29, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The gallery will be closed on Nov. 25 and 26.

The artwork is for sale with 20% of each sale going to support the Cranbury Arts Council and its programs. Cash or a check is accepted as payment.

For more information, visit www.cranburyartscouncil.org or call Lisa Walsh at 609-577-6789.

 

Tuesday, Nov. 30

Lauren Tarshis’ “I Survived” series is known for taking readers on an exploration of real historical disasters and epic adventures through the eyes of a fictional child who “survived” the life-changing event.

Students in grades 2 and up will have the opportunity to virtually meet the author at 4:30 p.m. Nov. 30 through a program hosted by the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ). During the program, Tarshis will connect with participants by sharing her experiences as a writer, and hosting a Q&A session.  

Register to meet the author at sclsnj.libnet.info/event/5041397. 

 

 

Select dates, through Jan. 4, 2022

Mercer County Technical Schools is accepting applications for the 2022-23 school year for academies beginning in ninth grade, shared-time for 11th and 12th grades, and Career Prep for 12th grade.

A district information session will be held from 6-7 p.m. Dec. 9 at Arthur R. Sypek, 129 Bull Run Road, Pennington. Masks and social distancing will be required.

There will also be virtual information sessions held from 6-7 p.m. Nov. 30 at https://meet.google.com/qca-vfmy-pox?pli=1; and from 6-7 p.m. Jan. 4, 2022, at https://meet.google.com/jij-konb-gvw.

For more information and the application, visit www.mcts.edu

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesdays, Nov. 30 and Jan. 11

Pennington School’s Middle School will hold virtual open houses at 7 p.m. Nov. 30 and Jan. 11.
Head of School Chrissie Knight and Middle School Dean of Students Lisa Houston will lead an informative session for parents of prospective students.

Register at https://pennington.schooladminonline.com/portal/public_calendars/middle_school_information_session

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

Older adults in Mercer County again will have the opportunity to receive fresh-produce checks that will enable them to purchase locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farm stands.

This year, each person will receive five $6 checks for a total $30 that are valid until Nov. 30.

Checks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Call 609-989-6661 and speak with a staff member or leave a message with your phone number so the Office on Aging can return the call.

When calling, be prepared to:

• Provide your name and address to verify you live in Mercer County
• State your date of birth to verify you are 60 years of age and older
• Verify that your income is within the eligibility qualifications listed below:

A single person’s income must not exceed $23,606 per year or $1,968 monthly; a couple’s income must not exceed $31,894 per year or $2,658 monthly.

The Office on Aging staff will then direct you as to how you can secure your checks.

 

Bordentown Township will hold a post-Halloween pumpkin drive through Nov. 30 at Bordentown Township Public Works, 266 Crosswicks Road.

Instead of throwing pumpkins in the garbage, where they became buried in the landfill and do not decompose, give them a second chance at a local farm.

Remove any decorations, candles or paint before dropping off the pumpkins for composting.

This service is fro Bordentown residents only, not businesses or commercial establishments.

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesdays in December

The Indoor Wednesday Film Festival will be held Wednesdays, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, from 2-4 p.m. at the West Windsor Branch of the library, 333 N. Post Road, Princeton Junction.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is the featured actor of the month.
Registration is required. Call 609-799-0462.

Sponsored by the Friends of the West Windsor Library.

 

 

Wednesday, Dec. 1

Jewish Family Services of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties is offering a Job Seekers Success Group for active job seekers who are unemployed, underemployed or seeking a career change. 

The next group will be held from 7-9 p.m. Dec. 1 via Zoom. The topic for this session is “Writing Killer Resumes and Cover Letters Hiring Managers Actually Want to Read,” presented by John Hadley, career search counselor.

This group is offered free of charge and is open to the entire community. 

Registration is required to receive the Zoom invitation and to be admitted to the group. To register or for information about Career Counseling Services, contact Elise Prezant at [email protected] or 908-725-7799, ext. 108.

 

 

Through Thursday, Dec. 2

The next photo exhibit at Mercer County Community College’s (MCCC’s) James Kerney Campus (JKC) Gallery titled “Analog Surrealism” showcases the works of Phillip McConnell through Dec. 2 at 137 N. Broad St., Trenton.

To learn more about the artist, visit https://www.phillipmcconnellart.com.

For more information about the attending shows live or online, including how to register, visit JKCGallery.online.

Gallery hours are Mondays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Email [email protected] to request appointments for in-person visits.

 

 

Thursday, Dec. 2

A Civil War Christmas will be presented virtually at 7 p.m. Dec. 2.

This presentation, accompanied by a slideshow, discusses the experiences of the Civil War soldier during the Christmas seasons of 1861-65. Away from home, soldiers celebrated the season in different ways together in camp on the march and on the battlefield.

The program will also discuss how Christmas was celebrated in the Civil War period on the homefront and the many differences in relation to how the holiday is celebrated today.

Join historical reenactor, lecturer and tour guide Michael Jesberger.

Co-sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Branch, Friends of the West Windsor Branch, Friends of the Hopewell Branch, Friends of the Hickory Corner Branch, and the Hightstown Library Association.

Email [email protected] to register to receive the link to the program.

 

 

Beginning Friday, Dec. 3

Hillsborough Township will kick off the holiday season on Dec. 3 with the annual lighting of the township Christmas Tree. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. Have hot cocoa and cookies and watch Santa light the tree. Santa will arrive shortly after 7 p.m.

Also on Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. is the 2021 Shabbat Chanukah Service and township Menorah Lighting at Temple Beth-El in the sanctuary or via Zoom. 

Santa’s Mailbox is back. Beginning on Nov. 22 and each night leading up to Christmas, Santa will send one of his elves to stop by his special mailbox to pick up each child’s letter so Santa can start working on all the presents. Hillsborough Recreation Department will have sample letters next to the mailbox as well as on its website to print. If the child wants a return letter from Santa, make sure the letter is in the mailbox by Dec. 10. No postage is necessary.

The Recreation Department is hosting a pajama drive to benefit the Pajama Program and local families in need Dec. 3-10. Donations can be brought to the tree lighting event on Dec. 3 or they can be placed in the donation box that will be located in the hallway leading to the library. All sizes are welcome from infants to adults.

The Recreation Department is also hosting a winter movie night featuring “Elf” at the Hillsborough Township Complex on Dec. 10. The admission fee is one set of new pajamas per child. Pre-registration online via the recreation website is required as space is limited.  

Finally, the Home for the Holidays House Decorating Contest is back. Submit a picture of the yard or home’s exterior, name and street address to [email protected].  Email submissions are due by Dec. 5. Voting will take place Dec. 6-19 and the winners will be announced on Dec. 20.

 

Friday, Dec. 3

The Fund for Irish Studies at Princeton University presents “The Coffin Ship: Life and Death at Sea during the Great Famine” via Zoom at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 3.

Cian T. McMahon, associate professor in the Department of History and Honors College at the University of Nevada, will lecture about his new book, “The Coffin Ship,” on the Irish migration experience, which places the sailing ship alongside the tenement and the factory floor as a central element of migration history.

Introduced by Paul Muldoon, Princeton’s Howard G.B. Clark ’21 University Professor in the Humanities and co-chair of the Fund for Irish Studies.

Free and open to the public.

Zoom registration required at https://princeton.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6J_5fCfyT-mzmRg2HoP7Pg

 

 

Fridays, Dec. 3 and 17

An Indoor Drum Circle will be held from 3-4 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 3 and 17, at the Lawrence library branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Township.

Join an in-person drum circle led by Ange.

Drummers of all levels of experience are invited to participate.

Bring drums or use sanitized ones provided by the library.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library.
Registration is required.

 

Saturday, Dec. 4

An outdoor visit with Santa will be held at 3 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Hightstown Memorial Branch of the library, 114 Franklin St., Hightstown.

Enjoy a physically distant visit with Santa and then play the Christmas-themed “I Spy” game.

Each child will get a craft kit to take home.

In case of inclement weather, this program will be moved inside and library guests ages 2 and older are required to wear masks.

Sponsored by the Hightstown Library Association.
Registration required at www.mcl.org.

 

The Bordentown Historical Society will hold a celebration to mark Clara Barton’s 200th anniversary from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Friends Meeting House, 302 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown.

There will be an outdoor exhibit, activities, Clara Barton information and items, refreshments and giveaways.

 

 

Saturday, Dec. 4 & Sunday, Dec. 5

Princeton Boychoir’s (PBC) fall concert Sing for Joy! video will stream at 7 p.m. Dec. 4 and at 3 p.m. Dec. 5.

The PBC will present a concert featuring all three choirs of the program: Apprentice Choir, Treble Choir and Young Men’s Ensemble. Celebrate with music from Handel to Broadway and a premiere of a new work by senior member of the PBC, Barron Brothers. Sing for Joy! will be led by Westrick Music Academy Education Director and PBC Music Director, Fred Meads.

Tickets, which are $15, and streaming information can be found on the Westrick Music Academy (WMA) website.

Find more information on Sing for Joy! at westrickmusic.org/upcoming

 

 

Dec. 4-18

The Gallery 14 Fine Art Photography Gallery in Hopewell continues its season of exhibits with a special “Members Holiday Exhibit and Boutique” from Dec. 4-18.

The opening on Dec. 4 will be at noon. There will also be an artist meet-and-greet from 1-3 p.m. Dec. 5.

 

The exhibit will include fine art photographs both on the walls and in the artist’s bins, along with smaller gift items including calendars, note cards, purses, scarves and jewelry accessories. There will also be items from the Water Color Women of Gallery 14.

 

The exhibit will feature works by all of the member artists: John Clarke, Pennington; Alice Grebanier, Branchburg; Larry Parsons, Princeton; Charles Miller, Ringoes; Philip “Dutch” Bagley, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania; Martin Schwartz, East Windsor; Joel Blum, East Windsor; John Strintzinger, Elkins Park; Mary Leck, Kendall Park; Barbara Warren, Yardley, Pennsylvania; David Ackerman, Hopewell; and Bennett Povlov, Elkins Park.

 

Gallery 14 is a Co-Op gallery of like-minded artists who want to promote photography as a fine art medium.

 

Gallery 14 will be offering an ongoing series of exhibits throughout the year featuring individual members as well as guest artists. For more information on  Gallery 14 and its exhibits, visit www.gallery14.org.

 

Gallery 14 is located at 14 Mercer St. in Hopewell, and is open on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Appointments can be made to view the show at other times.

 

 

Sunday, Dec. 5

The Princeton Jewish Center will present “Hungarian Jewry Before, During and After the Holocaust” at noon on Dec. 5, a conversation with two Hungarian Holocaust survivors, Agnes Kaposi and Maritza Shelley, facilitated by László Csősz. Register in advance for the Zoom presentation at https://thejewishcenter.org/learning/adult-ed/

 

Jingle All the Way 3K brings people with and without disabilities together to kick off the holiday season.

Hundreds of sprinters, joggers and strollers will support of thousands of athletes across the state on Dec. 5 at the Special Olympics New Jersey Sports Complex, 1 Eunice Kennedy Shriver Way, Lawrenceville.

This year’s theme is Jungle All the Way so dress in an interpretation of the jungle theme.

Register to participate in person or virtually at jatw3k.org.

All participants will receive a T-shirt and finisher medal. Fundraise to earn additional incentives.

 

 

Monday, Dec. 6

The Winter Garden Party with party hosts Colleen Goggins, Carolyn and John Healey, Rachel Herr, and Eileen and Robert O’Neil will be held at Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., Princeton.

Details will be announced.

For more information, visit www.morven.org

 

 

Penn Medicine/Princeton Health is offering memory screenings at the Hopewell Branch of the library from 10 a.m. to noon Dec. 6.

Get a memory screening, consisting of a series of questions and/or tasks designed to test memory, language skills, thinking ability, and other intellectual functions. The 15-minute screenings and review of the results are both confidential.

Registration is required. Call 609-737-2610 to make a 20-minute appointment.

The library is located at 245 Pennington-Titusville Road, Pennington.

 

East Windsor will participate in Womanspace’s Communities of Light initiative, encouraging residents and local groups to raise funds and awareness of domestic violence and services available to victims. 

Residents and businesses can purchase candles and gather at 5 p.m. Dec. 6 at the East Windsor Municipal Building, 16 Lanning Blvd., to light up the building, followed by light refreshments. 

The luminary kits contain six candles each for $10. Purchase at any time at the Police/Municipal Court Building, 80 One Mile Road. All proceeds will go 100% directly to Womanspace, the primary Mercer County organization providing a comprehensive array of services to individuals affected by domestic violence and dedicated to improving the quality of life of abuse victims and their families. 

For more information, call 609-448-5678, ext. 236.

 

 

 

Through Monday, Dec. 6

FEMA has closed some of its Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC), established last month to assist residents and businesses whose property was damaged by Tropical Storm Ida.

However, face-to-face assistance is still available. Residents can find their nearest DRC online at fema.gov/drc, or text DRC and their current ZIP Code to 43362. Standard message and data rates apply.

Disaster survivors can still access disaster information and assistance the following ways: online at DisasterAssistance.gov; by calling 800-621-3362; (TTY:800-462-7585); or download the FEMA app available for smart phones.

The deadline to apply for disaster assistance is Dec. 6.

For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

 

Friends of Princeton Open Space (FOPOS) is presenting a group show of photographs taken at Princeton’s Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve in the winter of 2020.

The works will be shown at Small World’s location on Witherspoon Street in downtown Princeton.

The show includes photos selected from submissions made to the FOPOS’s annual Give Thanks for Nature Photo Contest, as well as aerial photographs of the Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve taken by Princeton photographer Frank Sauer.

All photos will be offered for sale with a portion of the sales benefitting the Friends of Princeton Open Space.

The photos will be on display through Dec. 6.

 

 

Princeton officials are asking residents to buy luminary kits to place along their driveways and sidewalks Dec. 6 at dusk in support of Womanspace’s annual Communities of Light project.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Communities of Light project to bring awareness to domestic violence.

Communities of Light is the signature fundraiser for Womanspace, which is based in Lawrence Township. The luminary kit, which contains six candles, six paper bags and sand, costs $10. A virtual luminary kit also is available for $10.

A complete list of stores where luminary kits may be purchased is available at www.womanspace.org.

 

Dec. 6-28

The Gourgaud Gallery’s 12th Annual Open Call exhibit will be held Dec. 6-28 at the gallery, Cranbury Town Hall, 23-A N. Main St., Cranbury.

The show will feature several different mediums (paintings, drawings, photography) in a variety of styles and sizes, created by many different artists.

The gallery is free and open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays.

Due to COVID safety precautions, there will not be a reception. 

The Gourgaud Gallery donates 20% of art sales to the Cranbury Arts Council.

Cash or a check made out to the artist is accepted as payment.

For more information, contact Linda Gilbert at [email protected] .

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, Dec. 7 to Saturday, Dec. 18

The Mercer County Clerk’s Office provides a multitude of ID card services, specifically Veteran ID (Vet ID), Goldstar ID, and Resident ID cards.

From Dec. 7 to 18, Veterans ID cards will be free of charge in honor of Pearl Harbor Day. Or, the regular cost for a Vet ID is $10, and the card is valid for 10 years.

The Veteran ID is a form of photo ID you can use to demonstrate that you served in the U.S. Military. Some of the benefits of having this card may be certain discounts offered to veterans at local stores, businesses and restaurants. This card allows a veteran the ability to avoid carrying around military discharge papers or sharing sensitive personal information to prove veteran status.

For anyone interested in getting a Vet ID, or any other IDs, make an appointment with the County Clerk’s Office ID Department by calling 609-278-7108 or visiting www.mercercounty.org/government/county-clerk.

To acquire a Vet ID card, bring the following: DD214: Certificate of Release and one of the following four forms of identification: A non-expired driver license; proof of voter registration status; residential proof that shows you own or rent a home in Mercer County/copy of deed, or copy of your lease with your address, name and current date; or a family member who you live with that has a current New Jersey driver’s license who is willing to sign as a witness.

 

 

Tuesday, Dec. 7

Daily stressors can become cumulative and reduce quality of life. For many people, the holidays can be a time of additional stress compounded by relationships, monetary concerns and social obligations.

Join Carolyn Schindewolf, health educator with Penn Medicine Princeton Health Community Wellness, for a discussion and practice on using mindfulness to stop brain chatter and habitual reactions, improve mood and energy, increase focus and mental clarity, and deepen your enjoyment and appreciation of life, at 3 p.m. Dec. 7.

Email [email protected] to register to receive the link to the program.

 

 

 

Through Thursday, Dec. 9

Mercer County’s Holiday Toy Drive for Toys for Tots will collect items through Dec. 9.

Drop-off boxes are located at McDade Administrative Building, County Connection, One-Stop Career Center, Department of Transportation, Mercer County Improvement Authority, Historic Hunt House, Mercer County Park Ice Skating Center/Tennis Center/Ranger headquarters, Mercer County Stables, Mercer County Wildlife Center, all Mercer County golf courses;

Tulpehaking Nature Center, Howell Living History Farm, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Mercer County Clerk’s Office and the Mercer County Office Park.

 

Wednesday, Dec. 15

Thursdays, Dec. 9 and 16

Make an indoor paper bag gingerbread house at the Hightstown Memorial branch of the library, 114 Franklin St., Hightstown.

Time slots are n10:30 a.m. Dec. 9 or 16 for children age 5 and younger; or 4:15 p.m. Dec. 15 for children ages 5-8.

Sponsored by the Hightstown Library Association.
Registration required at www.mcl.org.

 

 

 

Through Friday, Dec. 10

The Hopewell Township Police Department is holding its Holiday Toy Drive 2021 fundraiser through Dec. 10.

Support Hopewell-Pennington PBA Local 342, whose members will purchase new toys and deliver them to Capital Health and Womanspace.

Gifts purchased will be suitable for boys and girls aged 3 months to 16 years.

Financial donations can be made via the Venmo app @hopewellpba342.

Gift donations will be accepted at the Hopewell Township Police Department, 201 Washington Crossing Pennington Road, Titusville section of Hopewell Township.

For more information, contact Officer Maria Gavdanovich.

 

Sunday, Dec. 12

The annual Cranbury tradition of a pancake breakfast is returning Dec. 12 to kick off the holiday season.

The breakfast, which is organized by the Cranbury Lions Club, will once again take place in the Cranbury School cafeteria, a tradition for more than 70 years.

The proceeds go toward annual student scholarships which include the Stan Thomas Scholarships, Dr. David C. Tudor Science Scholarship, Todd M. Beamer Memorial Scholarship, and a memorial scholarship named in honor of a recently passed Lion member.

The money that is raised from the pancake breakfast also provides funds for other areas such as capital projects. 

In previous years, Lions Club members have served the public coffee, eggs and sausage in addition to making pancakes during the breakfast.

 

 

 

Through Sunday, Dec. 12

The 8th Annual Operation Bark Drop Dog/Cat Toy & Food Drive was announced by Police Chief Robert Garofalo and members of the West Windsor Police Department/PBA Local 271 – including K9s Mackey, Hodge and Phoenix, and retired K9 Cherno.

 

Items needed include cat beds, dog beds, cat hidey beds, cat tents, scratching posts, dog and cat toys, Heartgard, Nexgard, Frontline, dog and cat shampoo, dog collars, halters/harnesses, leashes, Premier-Easy Walk (front leading) harnesses for dogs, canned dog and cat food and treats, dog Bully sticks, kitten milk replacer, pill pockets for dogs and cats, and paper towels.

An Amazon wish list is available at https://a.co/1xuyyLg

Those wishing to mail a donation or use online shopping can mail their contributions to:
West Windsor Police Department, Attn: BarkDrop, 20 Municipal Drive, West Windsor 08550.

Or, bring items to West Windsor police headquarters, 20 Municipal Dr., and place in the blue bin in the lobby, by Dec. 12.

 

Items will be distributed to several local shelters based on items received and quantity.

Contact Garofalo at [email protected] with any concerns.

 

Tuesday, Dec. 14

 

 

Select dates, beginning Wednesday, Dec. 15

Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County (LVSC) is recruiting volunteer tutors to teach literacy skills to adult learners in Somerset County.

Training is provided to all LVSC volunteer tutors through a required 4-week virtual workshop.

The first step in becoming a volunteer tutor is to attend a Tutor Information Session, which will be conducted virtually via Zoom at 7 p.m. Dec. 15, at 3 p.m. Jan. 7, at 7 p.m. Jan. 11, and at 3 p.m. Jan. 14.

To register for an info session, visit www.literacysomerset.org/get-involved/tutor/information-sessions/register

After attending an information session, the next step is to attend LVSC’s 4-week Tutor Training Workshop which is held virtually on Zoom. Dates are 3-5 p.m. Jan. 21 and 28, and Feb. 4 and 11.

Participants must also complete online training modules prior to each Zoom session.

Upon completion of the 4-week training, tutors are matched with an adult learner. Depending on public health guidance, the two can choose to either meet weekly at the library or will work together virtually using Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, etc.

For more information, visit www.literacysomerset.org or call 908-725-5430.

 

 

Wednesday, Dec. 15

Join Rabbi Matt and the crew of Beth El Synagogue as they explore Space the Final Frontier and other modern Halakhic issues.

A class at 8:30 p.m. Dec. 15 will focus on gender dysphoria.  

Zoom meeting ID is 897 003 3588. Password is 1234. 

The next topics will be: Death and life support, Jan. 19; electricity, Feb. 16; time travel, March 23; divorce, May 18; and genetic manipulation, June 15.

Beth El Synagogue is located in East Windsor.

The virtual workshops are open to the community.

For more information, call 609-443-4454 or visit www.bethel.net. 

 

Through Wednesday, Dec. 15

Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello and employees in the Mercer County Clerk’s Office are asking for help with their two holiday food and supply drives to benefit children and animals.

The clerk’s office is partnering with the Children’s Home Society of Trenton to sponsor a drive for children in need by collecting toys and clothing. The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1894 that helps at-risk infants, children, youth, and families achieve their potential.

They are also collecting food and supplies for the animals at both the Trenton Animal Shelter and EASEL, the Ewing animal shelter.

Drop items at the Mercer County Clerk’s Office through Dec. 15 at the Courthouse Annex, located at 209 S. Broad St., Trenton.

 

 

 

Thursday, Dec. 16

Easy Home Ideas, DIY, and More for 2022 will be presented at 7 p.m. Dec. 16 at Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville.

Olga St. Pierre will share tips on home renovation projects, quick decluttering and organization tactics, as well as Do-It-Yourself ideas for the coming year.

Email [email protected] to register to receive the link to the virtual program.

 

 

Through Friday, Dec. 17

The Anne Reid ’72 Gallery at Princeton Day School will resume exhibits after an 18-month hiatus.

Anne Gilman: At the still point of the turning world will be on display through Dec. 17. Gilman is a Brooklyn-based artist who works in varying formats that include large-scale drawings and multi-panel projects.

The gallery has typically been open to the public during school hours throughout the academic year on days when school is in session. Currently, the gallery is scheduled to begin public hours as of Oct. 4.

Because COVID protocols at Princeton Day School may continue to change, exhibition reception/events will be updated at www.pds.org/the-arts/anne-reid-gallery.

To schedule a private viewing, email [email protected].

Princeton Day School is located at 650 Great Road, Princeton.

 

 

 

The Burlington County Sheriff’s Department’s 26th Annual Toy Drive places donation boxes at 57 locations across Burlington County.

Collections will occur regularly through Dec. 17.

Donation sites include multiple Burlington County government offices, libraries, schools, municipal buildings, courthouses, community centers and businesses. A complete list with addresses is available at www.facebook.com/100066357081089/posts/219902923564942/?d=n and on the Sheriff’s Department’s free mobile phone and tablet app, which can be downloaded at https://apps.myocv.com/share/a53408060 .

Businesses or offices interested in hosting a donation box can contact the Sheriff’s Community Services Unit at 609-265-3788 or [email protected] by Nov. 30.

Donated toys and gifts will be distributed to local children by community partners and providers. Last year, those included the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency, Oaks Integrated Care in Mount Holly, the Christian Caring Center in Pemberton Township, Providence House Domestic Violence Services, Sisterhood in Burlington City, Servicios Latinos de Burlington County, Foster and Adoptive Family Services of Princeton and House of God in Delran.

 

 

 

 

Through Saturday, Dec. 18

 

New Jersey Youth Soccer (NJYS) announced the Frank Bollaci Memorial Scholarship.

A long-time president of the South Brunswick Soccer Club, Bollaci was also a coach and seasoned referee with the NJ State Referee Committee.

Beginning this fall, the Frank Bollaci Memorial Scholarship will award $1,000 to a deserving college-bound senior.

All applications, along with a short essay and high school transcript, must be received by Dec. 18. The essay should give an explanation of what soccer means to the applicant and how soccer has impacted his/her life. Also describe community service.

Applications are being accepted at www.surveymonkey.com/r/GQSLK9L

 

 

Sunday, Dec. 19

Santa Claus will make his tour of Bordentown City starting at 5 p.m. Dec. 19.

 

2022

 

 

The Hightstown Cultural Arts Commission is offering an 18-month wall calendar that combines historical images of the borough with artistic renderings and interpretations.

The calendar features archived photos of historic sites in the borough and the work of 11 local artists who interpret or re-imagine those sites. The work of artists are in a variety of artistic media including digital collage, painting, watercolor, pastel, pen and ink, embroidery, and quilting.

Calendars are available with a suggested donation of $20 and each month has two dates featuring the current date, the day of the week in the year 1721, and features federal holidays, national holidays, and text that represents historical events occurring on that date in the borough.

Calendars are available at Perennial Home and Handmade Art Studio, 119 W. Ward St., Hightstown, and by emailing the Hightstown Cultural Arts Commission at [email protected]

 

From air samplers that record the microclimate to scale replicas of the rooms at Bainbridge House that spin on the quarter hour, Jesse Stecklow’s work investigates the ways in which both atmospheric and built surroundings affect perceptions. 

In his first solo museum exhibition, the Los Angeles-based artist explores the processes of perception and creativity through site-responsive installations at the Princeton University Art Museum’s Art@Bainbridge gallery, located in a restored 18th-century home at 158 Nassau St., Princeton. 

Components in the Air/Jesse Stecklow brings together works from five of the artist’s series that interweave imagery, motion and sound to heighten visitors’ attention to the ways in which personal associations, memories and perspectives shape experiences of space.

The installation will be on view through Jan. 2, 2022.

Festival of Trees 2021 will be presented by Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, through Jan. 10, 2022.

Morven’s annual holiday tradition continues for its 16th year with a juried collection of themed trees and mantels displayed throughout the museum’s galleries decorated by talented members of Garden Clubs and Organizations.

Decorators include American Spaniel Club, Contemporary Garden Club, Mount Laurel Garden Club, Neshanic Garden Club, New Jersey Audubon Society, Nottingham Garden Club, Princeton Public Library, Stony Brook Garden Club, The Garden Club of Princeton, The Present Day Club and West Trenton Garden Club.

Reserve a timed admission. Limited walkups will be available.

Cost is $10 general admission, $8 seniors and students, free for Friends of Morven, free for children under 6, and free for active military.

The Winter Garden Party will be held Dec. 2 with party hosts Colleen Goggins, Carolyn and John Healey, Rachel Herr, and Eileen and Robert O’Neil. Details will be announced.

The museum is located at 55 Stockton St., Princeton.

To register, visit www.morven.org/festivaloftrees21

 

 

 

 

The Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey, in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Health, announced the launch of the 10th annual Protect Me With 3+ poster and video contest.

 

The contest challenges New Jersey youth in middle and high school to raise awareness about the importance of adolescent immunizations including tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap), human papillomavirus (HPV), meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) and flu vaccines. Additionally, the contest has expanded to include entries for COVID-19 vaccination awareness.

Middle school and high school students can participate in the contest by submitting a hand-drawn poster or an original computer-generated poster that integrates key facts about one of the adolescent vaccines listed above. High school students also have the option to submit a video up to 30 seconds long instead of a poster.

In addition to accepting posters via mail, the contest is also accepting poster and video submissions electronically at www.protectmewith3.com/submit.

If a student is selected as a finalist, the agency will provide them with a pre-stamped envelope to mail their original poster.

Judges will then select the top three winners in each category.

The submission deadline is Jan. 23, 2022. Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries in the video and poster categories, and the winning entries will be showcased during various statewide immunization awareness activities.

Additionally, students who submit entries by Jan. 1, 2022, will be entered into random drawings to win prizes courtesy of Protect Me With 3+ event sponsors.

For more information about Protect Me With 3+ sponsorship opportunities, visit www.protectmewith3.com/sponsors.

The top five finalists in each of the three categories will be posted on www.protectmewith3.com for public voting in March. The winners will then be announced and honored at an awards ceremony in May.

New Jersey teachers are encouraged to make the Protect Me With 3+ contest a class project. As an added incentive, prizes will be awarded to the classrooms with the most eligible submissions in each of the three categories. For more information on lesson plans and interactive materials for schools, visit http://www.protectmewith3.com/schools.

Information regarding eligibility, video and poster submission guidelines, and contest rules can be found at www.protectmewith3.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Pinelands Preservation Alliance’s Annual Juried Photo Exhibition has a scheduled opening for March 26, 2022.

All photographs must be made within the New Jersey Pinelands National Reserve. The reserve is found in portions of Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Ocean counties. All wildlife, flora and fauna must be photographed in their natural environment.

Submission date is Jan. 30.

More than $2,000 in cash prizes will be awarded: $1,000 for First Place Best in Show; $350 each for First Place Landscape, Flora & Fauna, and Other (People, Towns, Architecture, Culture, History, Recreation, etc).

Photographs submitted for exhibition will be selected by a credentialed jury with final selections chosen by Michael Yamashita, an acclaimed National Geographic photographer.

Acceptance notification is planned from Feb. 14-18. Awards, including cash prizes, will be announced at the reception on March 26.

All selected photographs will be exhibited at the historic Bishop Farmstead in Southampton from March 28 through April 30, and all submitted photos will be on display in the online gallery opening by April 15.

Open submissions are $30 for up to three images and $5 per image for each additional image. A total of six images can be submitted per photographer.

All participants must use the Smarter Entry system to register. Photos must be JPEG format, and files cannot exceed 8MB in size.

Learn more at www.PinelandsPhotoExhibit.org or email [email protected].

 

 

 

 

Princeton University Concerts (PUC) shares initial plans for transitioning the series’ concert offerings to a live, in-person format.

Although the kinds of gatherings possible on-campus in the coming year is not yet known, PUC is actively working with Princeton University officials to lay the groundwork for a Spring 2022 season.

The current schedule is as follows:

Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m.: Takács String Quartet & Julien Labro, Bandoneón

March 10, 7:30 p.m.: Mark Padmore, tenor, and Mitsuko Uchida, piano

March 24, 7:30 p.m.: Mahler Chamber Orchestra and Mitsuko Uchida, piano

March 31, 7:30 p.m.: Ébène String Quartet

April 7 at 7:30 p.m.: Dover String Quartet

April 21 at 7:30 p.m.: Tetzlaff String Quartet

April 27 at 7:30 p.m.: Sheku Kanneh-Mason, cello, and Isata Kanneh-Mason, piano

All planned events will be realized in accordance with concurrent scientific, state, and university guidance, with the safety and health of the community in mind.

In the meantime, patrons are urged to mark their calendars and explore the planned offerings on PUC’s new website, puc.princeton.edu

 

 

 

Mercer County’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), offered in coordination with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, allows individuals meeting various income qualifications to apply for bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance and energy-related home repairs.

LIHEAP is designed to help low-income families and individuals meet home heating and medically necessary cooling costs.

This year, the application period is Oct. 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022.

To be eligible for LIHEAP benefits, the applicant household must be responsible for home heating or cooling costs, either directly or included in the rent; and have gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

Applications, forms and information can be found on the Office of Housing and Community Development’s programs page on the county website. Mail to County of Mercer LIHEAP/USF Programs, 640 S. Broad St., Room 106, P.O. Box 8068, Trenton 08650; fax to 609-278-2758; email [email protected]; or drop off at Mercer County Administration Building, 640 S. Broad St., Trenton.

If an in-person appointment is necessary, clients can call 609-337-0933 or email [email protected] to schedule an appointment at the County Administration Building, 640 S. Broad St., Trenton; or Mercer County Connection, Hamilton Square Shopping Center, 957 Route 33 at Paxson Avenue, Hamilton.

For more information, contact Home Energy Assistance at 609-989-6959 (Spanish: 609-989-6736).

 

 

 

Continuing events

 

 

 

 

The Burlington County Lyceum of History and Natural Sciences is turning into a wedding venue.

Burlington County Clerk Joanne Schwartz will begin performing weddings every Wednesday afternoon from 1-4 p.m. by appointment only, in the historic and picturesque Lyceum building on High Street in Mount Holly.

Burlington County couples interested in being married can make appointments online at http://co.burlington.nj.us/611/Marriage-Services.

There is no fee for the service, but couples must obtain a marriage license from the municipality where either the bride or groom resides or from Mount Holly, where the Lyceum is located. Obtaining a license typically takes 72 hours.

For more information, call the Clerk’s Office at 609-265-5142.

 

 

 

The Mercer County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) unit invites any licensed health care professional, practicing or retired, who lives or works in Mercer County and any community volunteer who lives or works in Mercer County who has an interest in health and emergency preparedness issues to join.

MRC volunteers supplement existing emergency and public health resources to prepare for and respond to emergencies at a local level. All volunteers receive free training.

Sign up at https://njlmn.njlincs.net/jsp/mrc-index.jsp or call 609-989-6887 for more information.

 

 

 

Dove Hospice Services of New Jersey is seeking compassionate volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families.

Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their home, which can also be nursing facilities or assisted living facilities, at least once a week. Visits can be virtual and are during the day or early evening. Volunteers may also assist with administrative work in the hospice office.

To sign up for a virtual training class, contact Deborah Adams at 732-405-3035 or email [email protected]

 

 

 

Bentley Community Services, a designated 501 (c) 3 charitable organization, has been helping working families in financial crisis regain self-sufficiency by providing a full range of grocery provisions and more each week, offsetting grocery bills.

Bentley also offers educational and informational workshops throughout the year facilitated by professionals.

Bentley Community Services is located at 4064 Route 1 north, Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick, but helps families in communities from the entire central New Jersey region, including Mercer, Middlesex, Hunterdon, Somerset and Monmouth counties.

For more information, call 908-227-0684 or visit www.bentleycommunityservices.org

Donations of perishable, non-perishable foods and toiletries are accepted throughout the year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketfair Princeton launched a Mall Rewards App that’s one of only two shopping centers in the state to offer such as technology service.

Marketfair Rewards is an app-based loyalty program where members can accumulate points in a variety of ways and use those points to redeem gifts such as discounts, gift cards to retailers, restaurant and wellness services and more in a shopping cart environment.

Download the app to a mobile device where the customer will receive 200 points for signing up. After every purchase, the customer has up to seven days to submit their receipt through the app which will immediately store the receipt for future use while also providing the guest with 1 point for every $1 spent.

Current participating retailers include Anthropologie, William Sonoma, Orange Twist, West Elm, Pottery Barn, Francesca’s, Athleta, Club Pilates, GAP, Eastern Mountain Sports, White House Black Market, Barnes & Noble and AMC.

Restaurants include Corners Bakery Café, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze and TGI Friday’s.

 

 

 

Right at Home of Central New Jersey can organize a Senior Citizen Prom for local facilities.

They will provide music and entertainment.

A prom king and queen will be crowned.
For more information on how to schedule a prom, call 732-967-0900.

Serving northern Middlesex, Mercer and Monmouth counties.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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]

 

 

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].

 

Hermés Paris, a family-run, independent, luxury retailer has entered into a lease agreement for 17 Palmer Square in Princeton.

The 6,155-square-foot retail store is expected to open in Fall of 2023.

For more information on Hermés, visit www.hermes.com/us/en/.

For more information on Palmer Square, visit www.PalmerSquare.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Send items to [email protected]. The deadline for submissions each week is 5 p.m. on Tuesday. For details, call 732-358-5200, ext. 8233.