Category: Programs & Events

These posts feature lifestyles, events, welfare programs, perks and assistance, governmental goals, etc.

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DEI Trailblazer Awards 2023 nominees announced

TRENTON, NJ – The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce are excited to announce the nominees for the 2023 DEI Trailblazer Awards.

This event, now in its second year, aims to recognize companies and organizations that are making substantial strides in the areas of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The awards reception, which celebrates these nominees and awardees, will take place on Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, at the Old Mill Inn in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, from 5-8 p.m.

The DEI Trailblazer Awards feature six distinct categories, each acknowledging a specific aspect of DEI commitment:

  • Supplier Diversity: Recognizing businesses that prioritize contracting with diverse enterprises for goods and services.
  • Access to Capital: Acknowledging businesses that actively work to enhance access to capital for historically marginalized businesses and entrepreneurs.
  • Corporate Board Diversity: Celebrating businesses with board compositions that reflect individuals from historically underrepresented communities.
  • Workforce Diversity: Commending businesses that demonstrate a commitment to diversity within their staff through comprehensive recruiting, hiring, and retention efforts.
  • Corporate Citizenship: Honoring businesses that engage in philanthropy and community engagement efforts, particularly benefiting historically marginalized communities.
  • Emerging DEI Influencer: Recognizing businesses in the early stages of implementing intentional efforts across the above categories.

 

The 2023 DEI Trailblazer Awards nominees are:

  1. AmeriHealth
  2. Bank of America
  3. Bridge Builders Newark, LLC
  4. CannPowerment
  5. The Ceceilyn Miller Institute for Leadership & Diversity
  6. Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC
  7. Cole Schotz
  8. Delta Dental of New Jersey
  9. Gibbons P.C.
  10. Hackensack Meridian Health
  11. Johnson & Johnson
  12. Lockerbie & Co.
  13. Modivcare
  14. New Jersey Institute of Technology
  15. Phillips 66-Bayway Refinery
  16. PSEG
  17. Santander US
  18. Somerset County Business Partnership
  19. Tené Nícole Creative Agency
  20. UnitedHealth Group
  21. We Are Jersey

 

The awardees for 2023 will be revealed during the awards reception on Monday, Nov. 20.

 

“As we unveil the remarkable nominees for the 2023 DEI Trailblazer Awards, we are inspired by the dedication of these organizations to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. They are setting a strong example for all of us,” remarked AACCNJ Founder, President, and CEO John E. Harmon Sr., IOM. “I invite everyone to join us at the awards reception, where we will celebrate the achievements of these nominees and unveil the awardees. Your presence at this event is not just a testament to your support for DEI but also a commitment to fostering a more inclusive business landscape. Together, we can make a significant impact in the pursuit of equity and diversity in our communities.”

 

“The success of our inaugural DEI Trailblazer Awards left a lasting impact, but this year’s event promises to build on that legacy in even more profound ways. It’s inspiring to see organizations across New Jersey making substantial strides in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion,” added New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas Bracken. “We encourage everyone to be a part of this remarkable journey by attending the awards reception. Your presence will not only celebrate the achievements of our nominees but also propel us toward a more inclusive and equitable business environment. Together, we can continue to shape a future that reflects the values of diversity and equality.”

 

Notably, last year’s event featured the following nominees:

  1. Abitronix, LLC
  2. American Water Works
  3. Back Thru the Future
  4. Bestwork Industries for the Blind, Inc.
  5. Curio Wellness/Far & Dotter
  6. HelloFresh
  7. Joseph Jingoli & Son, Inc.
  8. Lyft
  9. Mental Health Association in New Jersey
  10. Phillips 66-Bayway Refinery
  11. PMO Solution Pro, LLC
  12. Princeton Area Community Foundation
  13. Quality Dental School of Technology, Inc.
  14. Somerset County Business Partnership
  15. Target International Shipping Inc.
  16. Truist Bank
  17. Valley Bank

 

The 2022 awardees included Burns & McDonnell for Supplier Diversity, Union County Economic Development Council for Access to Capital, Columbia Bank for Corporate Board Diversity, Hackensack Meridian Health for Workforce Diversity, Gibbons P.C. for Corporate Citizenship, and Provident Bank for Emerging DEI Influencer.

 

To celebrate the 2023 nominees and learn more about this year’s awardees, kindly register for the awards reception at https://njchamber.com/events/dei-trailblazer-awards.

About the African American Chamber of Commerce of NJ

The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) performs an essential role in the economic viability of New Jersey. While providing a platform for New Jersey’s African American business leaders to speak with a collective voice, the AACCNJ advocates and promotes economic diversity fostering a climate of business growth through major initiatives centering on education and public policy. The AACCNJ is a proactive advocacy group with a 501(c)(3) tax exemption, as is the National Black Chamber of Commerce, with which the AACCNJ is affiliated.

About the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce

The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce is a business advocacy association based in Trenton that lobbies key stakeholders for legislation and policies designed to make New Jersey a desirable state to operate a business and establish good-paying jobs. Chamber member companies receive exclusive invitations to events that offer valuable networking and educational opportunities. Additionally, the Chamber regularly disseminates legislative updates, industry insights, and employer-related news critical to conducting business in New Jersey. The organization unites local and regional chambers of commerce across the state to address significant business issues. The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Foundation is committed to equipping New Jersey’s future workforce with the essential skills required for success in both college and employment.

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Mercer County to use new touch screen voting machines in upcoming general election and take other security measures

TRENTON, N.J. — With the vote by mail ballots now mailed to the voters in Mercer County, Mercer County’s Election Officials, Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello, Mercer County Superintendent of Elections, Walker M. Worthy, Jr., and Mercer Board of Elections Commissioners, are now preparing voters for Election Day and announcing new processes and features being offered on Election Day, Nov. 7, 2023.

They announced on Friday that Mercer County will be using new voting machines with a verifiable paper trail in every voting district in Mercer County on Election Day.  These voting machines are similar to those already used by Mercer County during early voting, and were purchased by Mercer County from Dominion Voting Systems, a State-certified voting machine manufacturer. They allow voters to use a touch screen device to print out ballot selections which they will then scan into the voting machine.

The three Mercer County election offices, led by Worthy, Sollami Covello and Chairwoman Jill Moyer announced that the new voting machines were part of Mercer County’s plan to address and resolve and prevent problems in ballot processing and tabulation that arose during last year’s November General election.

Pictured left to right: Board of Election Commissioner Martin Jennings, Esq., Superintendent of Elections Walker M. Worthy, Jr., County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello, and Board of Elections Chairwoman Jill Moyer

Mercer County has taken four concrete steps to make voting easier and to make the voting procedures consistent whether a voter chooses to vote early or on Election Day.

The steps taken by Mercer County to avoid future election problems are as follows:

 1) The County has purchased new voting machines to avoid the transport of paper ballots to polling locations.  While paper ballots will still be transported back to the Board of Elections at the end of an election as a back-up, they will not to be pre-printed and transported to the polls by poll-workers. This will be less overwhelming to poll workers and more secure overall.

 2) The County learned that the ballots used in testing were pre-marked ballots created and generated by Dominion’s own program, instead of testing the actual ballots being used by voters on election day.  That will no longer happen. Testing is being done on the actual ballots voters will use on Election Day and they will make sure they scan properly into the voting machines.

3)  Dominion has assured the County that Mercer will have proper personnel and procedures in place to avoid any future problems. Dominion will also provide on-site assistance on Election Day.

4) The County Board of Elections is currently training poll-workers to ensure they are well-prepared to use the new voting machines and are familiar with how to secure ballots in their custody. The Board of Elections also added enhanced training classes, refresher classes, and online quizzes for poll workers to ensure that they are well prepared for any difficulty that might arise.

The Mercer County Commissioners, the County Executive and his staff, along with County election officials chose the Dominion ICX machine from among several N.J. State certified voting machines because they are easy to use, have a paper back-up, and do not read from a bar code.

They allow a voter to enlarge the voting screen font by touch, or to pull up the ballot in English or Spanish.  And, additional languages can be easily added with population changes. Voters who prefer to hand-mark their ballots can print a blank paper ballot and use a black pen or marker.

Additionally, the new machines offer privacy sides and privacy curtains to protect voter confidentiality. The new machines are also equipped with lockable steel doors on both sides of each unit, which offer additional security when not in use. On top of this, we have purchased new asset-tracking software and made other internal changes to prepare for the use of new voting machines and for the future.

County officials held several public hearings over the past year, and received feedback from voters following last year’s election stating that they did not like using markers to vote and they did not think that the paper ballots were well-secured at the polling locations among their complaints.

The elections official are pleased to be able to say Mercer County has delivered on what advocacy groups have sought in its voting machines for many years by providing a paper trail and implementing the aforementioned initiatives.

A video on how to use the new voting machines can be found here: 2023 Mercer County Has New Voting Machines

If a voter wishes to obtain further information on the upcoming election, please visit www.mercercounty.org which contains the websites for all three offices.

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Mobile Academy to launch AACCNJ Entrepreneur Academy

TRENTON, NJ – The African American Chamber of Commerce New Jersey’s (AACCNJ) Mobile Academy is pleased to announce the formation of the AACCNJ Entrepreneur Academy.

 

This eight-part program is tailored to empower new entrepreneurs and those considering business ownership by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their ventures. All classes will be free of charge, facilitated by seasoned entrepreneurs and consultants, and held in-person at Mill One located at 1 N. Johnston Ave., Hamilton, NJ.

 

“We are excited to offer this opportunity to aspiring entrepreneurs in New Jersey,” said John E. Harmon Sr., IOM, Founder, President and CEO of AACCNJ.

 

“The AACCNJ Entrepreneur Academy empowers individuals from all backgrounds to take the next step toward realizing their dreams of self-sufficiency and generational wealth creation. By providing this program at no cost, we aim to remove barriers and ensure that all interested individuals have the chance to participate.”

 

The AACCNJ Entrepreneur Academy will cover a wide range of topics crucial to entrepreneurial success, including:

 

  1. ABCs of Starting a Small Business
  2. Writing a Business Plan/QuickBooks
  3. Goal Setting
  4. Marketing Your Business
  5. 5 Cs of Credit/Access to Capital
  6. Accounting Do’s and Don’ts and Taxes
  7. Networking 101
  8. Excellent Customer Service
  9. How to Obtain MBE or WMBE Certifications

 

The academy is a testament to AACCNJ’s ongoing commitment to fostering economic growth and equity in disadvantaged communities. This initiative aligns with AACCNJ’s mission to provide resources, opportunities, and information to individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the business world.

About the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey

The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) performs an essential role in the economic viability of New Jersey. While providing a platform for New Jersey’s African American business leaders to speak with a collective voice, the AACCNJ advocates and promotes economic diversity fostering a climate of business growth through major initiatives centered on education and public policy. The AACCNJ serves as a proactive advocacy group and holds a 501(c)(3) tax exemption, as does the National Black Chamber of Commerce, with which the AACCNJ is affiliated.

 

Click here to be considered for the academy’s inaugural cohort. For any inquiries or assistance, please send an email to mobileacademy@aaccnj.com.

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Amerigroup’s New Jersey Health Plan to be renamed Wellpoint in January 2024

  • No impact or changes to members’ health plan benefits, services, and care provider network as a result of the new name
  • New name reflects the company’s continued evolution to deliver whole health
  • Wellpoint is focused on improving the health of individuals and communities at all points of life

 

 

ISELIN, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Amerigroup New Jersey, Inc., a subsidiary of Elevance Health serving NJ FamilyCare/ Medicaid and Medicare enrollees, will begin rebranding as Wellpoint in January 2024 to reflect the company’s evolution to support whole health.

 

There will be no impact or changes to Wellpoint members’ healthcare benefits or coverage. Members will continue to have access to their established primary care providers, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Also, healthcare providers who serve Wellpoint members will have continued access to tools and resources to help streamline day-to-day administrative tasks.

 

“This rebranding is a continuation of our bold and ambitious purpose to improve the health of humanity by serving people across their entire health journey; connecting them to care, support and resources; and simplifying healthcare to make health more equitable and accessible,” said Patrick Fox, MD, president of Amerigroup New Jersey. “Our local presence enables us to design our benefits and programs to fit the unique needs of New Jersey communities. Wellpoint is a name that illustrates our dedication to being a lifetime, trusted health partner with a mission to help people live well across all life points.”

 

Wellpoint’s suite of health benefits is designed for consumers at any stage of life offering access to simple, supportive health solutions to help foster whole health. In addition, Wellpoint plans are committed to helping individuals improve their health through Healthy Reward incentives for wellness visits and added benefits such as gift cards for completing health screenings, newborn supplies for new mothers, and resources to support emotional well-being.

 

Subject to state regulator approval, new ID cards with the Wellpoint brand will be mailed in early 2024. Members can continue using their current card to access all existing services until they receive their new card. New Jersey members who have questions can contact Member Services via the phone number on the back of their ID card.

 

For member and provider information and updates, please visit www.wellpoint.com.

 

About Wellpoint

Wellpoint, part of the Elevance Health family of brands, focuses on improving physical health as well as the behavioral and social drivers that impact it through a comprehensive suite of Medicare, Medicaid, and Commercial products. The Wellpoint companies offer healthcare services for consumers at any stage of life seeking to make the right care decisions and helps individuals and communities make real, positive progress with health plans that foster independence, confidence, and whole-person health. For more information, please visit www.wellpoint.com.

Contacts

Stephanie DuBois

(603) 722-3087

stephanie.dubois@anthem.com

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Darren Aronofsky’s Sphere movie credits all 2,000 crew members on screen at once

Darren Aronofsky’s Sphere film, “Postcard From Earth,” is responsible for establishing all kinds of historic cinematic firsts — like the fact that it is the only movie ever to be released in 18K resolution on a screen that spans 160,000 square feet.

A portion of the credits for Darren Aronofsky’s film ‘Postcard From Earth,’ now playing at Sphere in Las Vegas Variety

 

But movie buffs will particularly enjoy one first that doesn’t fully reveal itself until the very last 90 seconds or so of the 50-minute running time, in the massive Las Vegas dome where the film just premiered.

 

The end credits begin appearing in the middle of the screen, as one would expect — or at least in what counts as the middle, if your field of vision is trained forward and not skyward. And then the credits expand out from there, bit by bit, until a substantial portion of the LED screen is filled by the entire list of names of people who worked on “Postcard From Earth,” all at once.

 

And yes, in 18K resolution, all of those thousands of names are completely legible, as tiny as they might seem in the overall scheme — or Sphere — of things.

 

Aronofsky smiles slightly as he tells Variety about the unusual, not-soon-to-be-repeated gambit:

 

“They were like, ‘You want to do a roll or something?’ I was like, ‘You know, actually, it might be just kind of interesting to stick everyone’s name up there.’ And I think it’s 2,000 names.

 

“The nice thing about that,” he adds, “is we’re able to get the credits done in about 90 seconds, which is great, too.”

 

Mind-blowing shots of purple mountain majesties are one thing. But a single-screen testimonial to the thousands of villagers it takes to build a film, on a screen roughly 35 stories high? For film-biz workers, that may be the ultimate trip.

 

“Postcard From Earth” is currently playing at the newly opened Vegas venue as the anchor of The Sphere Experience, on days when U2 does not have a performance booked in the dome in the evening.

 

Read the rest of Variety‘s Q&A with Aronofsky about the making of the film here: “Darren Aronofsky on His Sphere Film, ‘Postcard From Earth’: ‘I Had No Idea What an 18K Image Would Look Like, Four Football Fields Large.’“

 

 

— Variety

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Celebrating Osprey Point’s grand opening: Little Ferry’s newest senior housing community

LITTLE FERRY – Local, state, and federal officials recently united in celebration at the grand opening of Osprey Point, a groundbreaking senior housing development featuring 85 affordable senior rental apartments with essential supportive housing services

Osprey Point serves as a prime example of the profound impact that creating affordable housing in close proximity to essential services and amenities can have on enhancing the quality of life for both seniors and individuals with special needs. Notably, 68 of these apartments are specifically designated for residents aged 55 or older, strategically positioned near a community center offering vital services to help seniors maintain an active and independent lifestyle. An additional 22 units are dedicated to residents with special needs, 14 of which are apartments tailored for individuals living with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, while the remaining 8 are supported apartments designed to cater to those in need of mental health services.

While Osprey Point’s three-story building extends a warm welcome to residents and guests and contains meticulously designed apartments, what truly sets it apart is its unwavering commitment to providing high-quality affordable housing opportunities with independent and supported living options to seniors and vulnerable populations at affordable rates.

“Osprey Point represents inclusivity and affordability, ensuring that Little Ferry seniors have an affordable and secure place to call home, as well as a state-of-the-art community space that brings all Little Ferry residents together,” stated NJHMFA Executive Director Melanie Walter. “Affordable housing for seniors helps long-time residents and workers remain in their hometowns, which is critical to preserving a community’s roots while helping it grow and thrive. NJHMFA is committed to providing support to older New Jersey residents with limited or fixed incomes, enabling them to age comfortably in place while preserving their independence and dignity.”

Situated in a peaceful residential neighborhood, Osprey Point offers its residents easy access to the surrounding parks, trails, gardens, and outdoor seating, while simultaneously being a short drive from numerous shops, grocery stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues to meet residents’ needs. For residents who enjoy birdwatching, Mehrhof Pond is conveniently located next door, while those seeking faster-paced entertainment options will find the Meadowlands Racing and Entertainment Complex and the MetLife Sports Complex just a five-minute drive away.

“For decades it’s been a dream. We wanted to give our senior population on a fixed income an affordable, safe, housing option. We were thrilled to realize that dream and officially open the complex this week,” said Little Ferry Mayor Mauro Raguseo. “This building is more than just a beautiful structure of bricks and mortar.  For so many it represents hope and financial stability for the future.  It means our seniors have an opportunity to stay in the community they love.  It is a shining example of what can be accomplished if we have a vision and work together in a public-private partnership to get things done.”

For residents with special needs, Vantage Health System will provide social services and intensive on-site support to promote personal independence, life skills, and integration into the community.

Partnerships with Regan Development, the Borough of Little Ferry, the Bergen County Office of Community Development, the New Jersey Housing Mortgage Finance Agency, and Berkadia have been indispensable in bringing this vital development to fruition.

“Regan Development is proud to have partnered with the Borough of Little Ferry, the State of New Jersey and its HMFA, DDD and DMHAS, DEP and NJSEA divisions as well as Bergen County, TD Bank and Berkadia to successfully provide 85 high-quality energy, efficient, senior and supportive housing units for Little Ferry residents,” said Larry Regan, President of Regan Development Corporation. “All public and private sector partners came together to overcome the challenges of Covid cost increases and spikes in interest rates to successfully bring the project to occupancy.”

“Bright, safe, affordable housing is essential for our senior communities who deserve to live in comfort,” said Congressman Bill Pascrell (D-NJ-09). “We are in dire need of more quality, affordable senior housing in northern New Jersey. The construction of these apartments supported by federal tax credits will create valuable housing options for seniors and those with special needs in Little Ferry. Every time we open buildings like Osprey Point, we can help improve the lives of more of our neighbors – that’s a good thing.”

“Osprey Point embodies our shared commitment to inclusivity and affordability, providing a secure and affordable home for Bergen County seniors, with direct access to essential amenities,” said Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco. “This development is a testament to the power of partnerships and the impact we can achieve when we work together to address the housing needs of our senior and vulnerable populations, ensuring they can maintain their independence and dignity while enjoying their golden years in the community they love.”

NJHMFA financing, including $2.8 million from the Special Needs Housing Trust Fund and $1.7 million from the Affordable Housing Production Fund Set Aside, played a pivotal role in making this project viable. Unforeseen disruptions during the pandemic required NJHMFA to grant hardship credits and provide additional assistance to ensure construction was able to commence in September 2021.

 

About Us: The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) advances the quality of life for residents of and communities throughout New Jersey by investing in, financing, and facilitating access to affordable rental housing and homeownership opportunities for low and moderate-income families, older adults, and individuals with specialized housing needs. To learn more about NJHMFA, visit:

https://NJHousing.gov/

 

About Us: The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) advances the quality of life for residents of and communities throughout New Jersey by investing in, financing, and facilitating access to affordable rental housing and homeownership opportunities for low and moderate-income families, older adults, and individuals with specialized housing needs. To learn more about NJHMFA, visit: https://NJHousing.gov/

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‘Priscilla’ red carpet canceled and Hollywood screening venue changed

The red carpet for Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla” premiere in L.A. on Oct. 9, has been canceled amid current world events, distributor A24 confirmed.

 

Furthermore, the venue for the screening has been changed because of a dispute between IATSE and the Hollywood Legion Theater, which is a part of the veterans’ organization American Legion.

 

A representative for the film released a statement about the red carpet saying, “Out of respect for the events going on in the world, we will be forgoing a red carpet for the ‘Priscilla’ Los Angeles Premiere.”

 

With escalating violence in Israel and Palestine, the “Priscilla” carpet is not the first to be canceled. The Academy Museum also decided to forgo the red carpet at the annual fundraising gala, which was scheduled for Saturday, before choosing to postpone the event altogether “out of respect for the devastating conflict and loss of life happening overseas.”

Regarding the location change for the “Priscilla” premiere, the projectionists’ union IATSE Local 11 started picketing the property Sept. 14. IATSE business representative Ronald R. Valentine told the Hollywood Reporter, which first reported the dispute, “American Legion Post 43 has committed multiple unfair labor practices, most significantly reneging on an agreement reached in April 2023 for a new collective bargaining agreement and misrepresenting the terms of that agreement to its membership.” Valentine continued, “As a result, IATSE Local 33 had no choice but to call a strike.”

 

With the changing of venues, Valentine said that Local 33 thanks distributor A24 and the team behind “Priscilla” “for their solidarity.”

 

Amid the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, “Priscilla” has been granted an interim agreement allowing its stars to walk the carpet, including Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi who play Priscilla and Elvis Presley. Coppola was also slated to appear on the carpet.

 

“Priscilla” first premiered at the Venice Film Festival in September to critical acclaim. The new venue for the screening has yet to be announced.

 

 

— Variety

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D&R Greenway Land Trust announces return to the ‘Speakeasy’ at the upcoming Masquerade Ball

D&R Greenway Land Trust’s Masquerade Ball, featuring musicians and visual artists, will be held at Hillside Farm on the evening of Oct. 28, from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.

 

The Masquerade Ball will celebrate the vision and legacy of the late Betty Wold Johnson, in whose honor her family donated the 800-acre Hillside Farm to D&R Greenway in 2021.

 

A fierce champion of conservation and decades-long partner with D&R Greenway for land preservation, Betty Wold Johnson spent forty years assembling the estate, which encompasses extraordinary expanses of farm fields, meadows and forests, as well as historic structures and a Revolutionary War encampment site. She lived at Hillside Farm, where she built a distinctive home that uniquely interprets the past using modern materials and amenities.

 

“The addition of Hillside Farm to the long list of properties preserved by

D&R Greenway is just one more example of why I am proud to support their work.  This incredible property will be a tremendous asset for everyone in our community and I am thrilled it will be there, preserved and cared for, for future generations to enjoy.” 

                                                                             Daniel Motto, Trustee, D&R Greenway Land Trust

 

The theme of the Masquerade Ball is a return to the “speakeasy” culture of the 20s, 30s and 40s. A “secret” password will open the door to the private estate residence for registered guests. Libations and hors d’oeuvres will be served in the house and can be enjoyed in hidden nooks and crannies guests may discover. Scrumptious cheesecake desserts from Maddalena’s will top off the evening.

 

Live music from the era will keep the mood swinging and toes tapping throughout the evening. Bassist Justin Lee will lead a talented jazz trio with guitarist Raúl Abbad and singer Monika Ryan, a New York style classic jazz singer who recently released her fourteenth album, “Playfully.”  The local trio is a D&R Greenway community favorite; most recently they wowed the crowd at September’s Harvest Moon Ball at Point Breeze.

 

Adding to the beauty of the evening, four artist members of the Garden State Watercolor Society will collaborate throughout the evening to paint watercolor landscapes depicting Hillside Farm. Guests may bid on a painting to take home, a memorable piece of artwork created before their eyes during an unforgettable evening.

 

As the sun sets over the Hopewell hills, specially designed Art Deco-style lanterns will add a soft glow to the ambience of the evening, “lighting the way to preservation.” The lanterns will also be available as keepsakes to the highest bidders.

 

Guests are welcome to attend attired in fashions of the era, or to come as they are, all in the spirit of fun and romance. This is a perfect opportunity to gather friends to experience another era with a cool vibe, all the while supporting land preservation.

 

“This event will be as exciting and vibrant as the significant property where it is being hosted. Layered with history and preserved in perpetuity, Hillside Farm is the perfect place to relive the best parts of the past as we celebrate its important future.”                  

                                                                             Diana Moore, Trustee, D&R Greenway Land Trust  

 

 

Tickets to the event are available starting from $250 and can be purchased at www.drgreenway.org or by calling D&R Greenway at 609-924-4646. Proceeds support D&R Greenway’s work to preserve and care for land and provide public trails where people can benefit from being outdoors in nature. Guests at the Masquerade Ball will enjoy first time access to the private estate home, formerly owned by philanthropist Betty Wold Johnson and donated to D&R Greenway by her sons, owners of the Jets football team.

 

Proceeds from sponsorships and auction items will support D&R Greenway’s work to open Hillside Farm as a public preserve in the future. The property, most of which lies in Hopewell Township, is larger than Hopewell Borough. It is contiguous with two other D&R Greenway preserves (Cedar Ridge and Sourlands Ecosystem) and has sweeping views of D&R Greenway’s St. Michaels Farm Preserve across town.  It provides critical habitat for birds and other wildlife.  Altogether, D&R Greenway has protected over 3,000 acres of land in the immediate area. The Masquerade Ball is a sneak peek at the beginning of a preserve and an opportunity to support its creation, while celebrating the legacy of Betty Wold Johnson to preserve land and forge community.

 

Admission to the Masquerade Ball on October 28 is by advance ticket purchase by October 23 at www.drgreenway.org or by calling (609) 924-4646.

####

 

About D&R Greenway Land Trust: D&R Greenway Land Trust is an accredited nonprofit that has reached a new milestone of over 22,000 acres of land preserved throughout central New Jersey since 1989. By protecting land in perpetuity and creating public trails, it gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. The land trust’s preserved farms and community gardens provide local organic food for residents of the region—including those most in need. Through strategic land conservation and stewardship, D&R Greenway combats climate change, protects birds and wildlife, and ensures clean drinking water for future generations.

 

D&R Greenway’s mission is centered on connecting land with people from all walks of life.

 

 www.drgreenway.org; info@drgreenway.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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Mercer County partners with SBDC for first International Trade Week to start Monday

The Mercer County Office of Economic Development in collaboration with the N.J. Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at The College of New Jersey is excited to announce the first International Trade Week in Mercer County.

The event, scheduled for next week, Oct. 16 to 19, is open to anyone interested in launching a global business or who is currently involved in international trade.

The program will include several webinars on a variety of topics with experts from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the SBDC, the New Jersey State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) and the Mercer County Office of Economic Development.

Discover Federal and State resources for supporting your business in international markets, including grants and other financial incentives, and learn about Mercer County’s Foreign Trade Zone and its business advantages.

Please find below a program outline with registration information including a Spanish language option. There is no cost for all events.

  • Day 1, Monday, October 16, 2023
  • Time: 12-1 p.m. (English); 2-3 p.m. (Spanish)
  • Location: Online

Do you have what it takes to go global?

In this webinar, we discuss the principal considerations before you set out to explore new markets. Don’t invest time and money until you are ready. Topics include commitment to succeed, market considerations, building a team, and evaluating product readiness. Registration link: https://clients.njsbdc.com/workshop.aspx?ekey=21430080

¿Tiene lo necesario para globalizarse?

En este seminario web, analizamos las principales consideraciones antes de emprender la exploración de nuevos mercados internacionales. No inviertas tiempo y dinero hasta que estés listo. Los temas incluyen Compromiso para tener éxito, consideraciones de mercado, formación de un equipo y evaluación de la preparación del producto. Registration link:  https://clients.njsbdc.com/workshop.aspx?ekey=21430081

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Follow County-wide celebrations and activities throughout fall 2023 into winter and spring 2024

Art

Oct. 5, 5:30 p.m.  

Art of Collecting 

Arts Council of Princeton | 102 Witherspoon St, Princeton | Paul Robeson Center for the Arts  

(609) 924-8777 | lpeck@artscouncilofprinceton.org | artscouncilofprinceton.org/art-of-series/  

A panel of local art collectors and sellers will help to demystify art viewing and collecting. A discussion ranging from learning to trust your taste to resources for finding art you love to live with will give you valuable tools for making art collecting part of your day-to-day life. Refreshments will be served. 

Exhibits

Sept. 23 – March 24, 2024

New Jersey Artists Series | “Caroline Burton: Way Finding”

The New Jersey State Museum, Riverside Gallery on the Museum’s second floor, 205 W. State St, Trenton

(609) 292-6464 | www.statemuseum.nj.gov 

The New Jersey State Museum is pleased to present a new exhibition in the New Jersey Artists Series, “Caroline Burton: Way Finding.”

In her process-driven canvases, Jersey City-based artist Caroline Burton draws on architectural and agricultural forms, nature, and elements of chance for inspiration. Her often experimental painting practice includes the rejoining of torn canvas with thread, as well as the use of discarded afghan blankets and scarfs as matrices for printing directly on canvas. According to Sarah Vogelman, Assistant Curator of Fine Art at the State Museum, “The unique and enigmatic patterns left behind by these handwoven knits capture the gestural traces of the original maker, whom Burton considers a silent collaborator. Each work is a delightful and unanticipated chance encounter between canvas, paint, and textile, between Burton and an unknown artistic partner.”

“Wayfinding” is a term used for informational systems, like maps or signage, that help people navigate through the physical environment of public spaces like this museum. It has also been used to describe the ways in which humans and animals orient themselves and find their way from place to place in nature. Caroline Burton learned of this term only after completing many of the works in this exhibition, but found it useful when describing the process of both creating and reflecting upon her oeuvre. Separated into two words, way finding conveys an active approach to navigation that more accurately describes Burton’s practice.

This exhibition features some of Burton’s most recent work, from 2020 to the present, including a series based on the mid-century architecture of the State Museum building. An exhibition catalog will be available for purchase in the Museum Shop.

*Free Admission

Fairs & Festivals

Oct. 7, 10 a.m.  

Hightstown Fair  

Borough of Hightstown, Memorial Park, N. Main St., Hightstown

harvestfairhightstown@gmail.com |hightstownborough.com 

Revived in 2002, the Hightstown Fair brings residents, neighborhood organizations, and local businesses together in a fun-filled celebration of our heritage and community. The festival is designed to bring awareness to the community, commerce to local business and sponsors, and to provide family fun. 

If you would like to participate in the 2023 Hightstown Harvest Fair, please fill out the form below: 

Artisans Crafters: 

https://forms.gle/mTUHWKXkQHtCyxFB9 

Food Trucks: 

https://forms.gle/EhLiQ5dLHYefqeWD7

Fall Festivities

Oct. 11 to 15 

The Amazing Pumpkin Carve 2023 

Hopewell Valley Arts Center | Woolsey Park – 221 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville

info@hvartscouncil.org | hvartscouncil.org 

The Hopewell Valley Arts Council is proud to announce the return of the Amazing Pumpkin Carve, back bigger and better than ever. In its ninth year, this year the Carve will be like an old-time festival with expanded activities and, of course, outrageously carved giant pumpkins. Visitors can wander through a captivating illuminated walk of creative Halloween fun.

Grinning skeletons, giant crows, and other Halloween inspired creations come to life through the skillful carving of local celebrated artists. Marvel at the intricate handiwork that transforms more than 30 massive 150+ pound pumpkins into whimsical masterpieces artistically illuminated.

The Amazing Pumpkin Carve is more than a pumpkin display. The event offers an array of activities for kids of all ages. Live music performances, a hay bale playground, face painting, cornhole and games, photo-ops, and delightful surprises are around every corner.

“This year’s event is back as an all-walk-around event. Although the drive-thru was a fun solution to social distancing, these amazing works of art really shine when you can see them up close,” said Carol Lipson, HV Arts Council executive director. “Plus, you can take as much time as you’d like!”

This event is also the primary fundraiser for the Hopewell Valley Arts Council, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Ticket proceeds benefit artist-carvers’ honoraria and fund other Hopewell Valley arts-related programs.

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate fall fun in Hopewell Valley while supporting the many talented artists who call this region home.

*Ticket Cost: Adults $20 / Seniors $15 / Kids 18 and Under $5 / Strollers Free.

*Hours: Wed, Oct 11 7-9 p.m. / Th, Oct 12 5-9 p.m. / Fri, Oct 13 5-9 p.m. / Sat, Oct 14 3-9 p.m. / Sun 3-7 p.m.

 

Oct. 14 & 15

Fall Come Out & Play Camp Out

Mercer County Park Commission | Rosedale Park, 424 Federal City Road, Pennington

register.communitypass.net/mercer | facebook.com/mercercountyparkcommission

Join us for our annual community campout! Bring your tent, family and friends for some fun under the stars. Enjoy s’mores, hot dogs, campfires, night hikes, nature crafts and a complimentary breakfast! 

*Registration closes October 11. $15 person in-county; $25 person out-of-county. Space limited to 20 tent sites (approx. 80 guests). 

October 20 at 8 p.m. | October 21 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. |

October 22, 3 p.m.

Halloween Playfest

Mercer County Library System, West Windsor Branch, 333 N. Post Road, Princeton Junction

(609) 799-0462 | westprogs@mcl.org | mcl.org 

This year’s Halloween Playfest at the West Windsor Branch of the Mercer County Library System will feature five new short plays written by librarian Michael Kerr: “Bookworm;” “The Cube of Infinite Transformation;” “Hauntings, Inc.;” “The Strange Misadventures of Miss Anna Logg;” and “Until the End of the World.”  All the plays are performed by teens from the local area.

*Free Admission. Recommended for ages 10 and above. No registration required. Doors open 20 minutes before showtime.  

October 24, 6 p.m.

Build a Bouquet Workshop with Autumn Blooms

Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton

(609) 924-8144 | info@morven.org | morven.org 

Help bring the fall season into your home with an autumn-themed flower arrangement! Inspired by Morven’s signature gardens and led by the skilled florists at Vaseful Flowers & Gifts, this evening workshop will teach you how to choose flowers and craft your own unique arrangement. Flowers, vases, and light refreshments provided.

*This workshop is limited to 20 people. Pre-registration is required.

October 27, 5 p.m.

All Barracks Eve

Old Barracks Museum, 101 Barrack Street, Trenton

(609) 396-1776 | info@barracks.org | www.barracks.org

Join Old Barracks Museum for an evening of spooky seasonal fun at All Barracks Eve! On Friday, October 27, enjoy cider and donuts around a bonfire while listening to chilling tales told by historically outfitted storytellers. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. and will include living history demonstrations and kids’ activities. Spooky stories will begin at 6 p.m.

*Admission is $5 per person. Children 5 and under are free. Tickets will be available for purchase on-site the evening of the event. All proceeds from this event go to help support our mission of preservation and education.

October 28, 12 – 3 p.m.

Harvest Festival at Morven

Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton

(609) 924.8144 | info@morven.org | morven.org 

Fall back in time and celebrate the harvest with music and activities for the whole family at Morven. This free, festive program will feature ensembles and musicians performing music of Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and Early American eras. Experience historic music celebrating the autumn harvest with performances scheduled throughout the day.

Attendees can visit Morven’s gardens to help harvest vegetables and take part in hands-on activities including “spooky season” crafts, and an instrument “Petting Zoo” with the Guild for Early Music. Dress in your Halloween costume to enter to win special prizes!

*Free Admission

October 29, 9 a.m. & 10 a.m.  
Halloween Run/Walk for HomeFront 2023 Preschooler Pumpkin Dash

HomeFront Inc., 1880 Princeton Ave, Lawrence

ShaziaB@HomeFrontNJ.org |homefrontnj.org 

In Person Races include: 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, Preschooler 100 Yard Pumpkin Dash and 5K Marathon Finisher. 

Virtual Race Options include: Virtual Marathon Finisher, Halloween-Themed Race Course, and a Marathon Finisher Event – Flat, Fast, USATF-Certified Course

Live Music and Costume Contest!

*Pumpkin Dash starts 9 a.m. Other races start at 10 a.m. All proceeds support HomeFront’s year-round programs for children who are experiencing homelessness and poverty.  

Historical Happenings

Oct. 7, 14, 21, & 28, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Tai Chi by the Delaware

Washington Crossing Park Association | Washington Crossing State Park, 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville

(609) 738-0765 | wcpa-nj.com

Come to Tai Chi with our steadfast volunteers and beloved teachers Lisa and Robert, who lead classes for all levels. Wear comfy clothes, no mat required. Find us on River Drive in the lower park, in front of the main parking lot near the Nelson House. Classes are free, however your $5 donation is deeply appreciated! Note: classes will not be held in wet weather. 

Oct. 7, 14, 21, & 28

Musket Firing at Washington Crossing State Park Visitors Center

Washington Crossing Park Association | Washington Crossing State Park, 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville

(609) 738-0765 | wcpa-nj.com  

Join State Park Historians for their weekly musket firings at the Visitors Center Museum! $1 per person fee. Every Saturday through October, weather and staffing permitting. 

Oct. 19, 5:30 – 8 p.m. 

The Happy Years: The Story Behind the Lawrenceville Stories on Film

Mercer County Library System: Lawrence Headquarters Branch | 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville

(609) 883-8292 | lawprogs@mcl.org | mcl.org

In celebration of Lawrence Township History Month, the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System will host a screening of the film “The Happy Years” (1950) on Thursday, Oct. 19, from 5:30 – 8 p.m. “The Happy Years” is a comedy based on Owen Johnson’s iconic series of Lawrenceville stories set at the end of the 19th century, and filmed on location at The Lawrenceville School campus in 1949. School Archivist Jacqi Haun will briefly introduce the film and will be available for a short Q&A session after the screening.

*Advanced registration is appreciated

Historical Tours

Oct. 8, 2 p.m.  

“Walking Tour of the Delaware-Raritan Canal” North 

The Ewing Township Historic Preservation Society | the Benjamin Temple House, Drake Farm Park, 27 Federal City Road, Ewing NJ 08638  

(609) 883-2455 | ethps.org/calendar 

Guided Tour by Pamela V’Combe from Lower Ferry Road to Washington Crossing Park. 

Oct. 15 & 22, 1 p.m.  

Battlefield Tour  

Princeton Battlefield Society | 500 Mercer Street, Princeton, NJ 08540 

(609) 232-8540 | info@pbs1777.org | Pbs1777.org 

Spend a Sunday afternoon at the Princeton Battlefield State Park and learn more about the Battle of Princeton, a battle that ended the “10 crucial days” of 1776-1777. Walk in the footprints of Washington’s troops and listen to exciting narratives of soldier and civilian experiences. Your tour is led by an approved Historical Interpreter. 

Following the approximate one-hour tour, visit the historic Thomas Clarke House, the home of a Quaker farming family and the only remaining structure from the January 3, 1777 Battle of Princeton. 

*Registration is required 

Lectures

Oct. 12, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Fall Lecture Series: Robert W. Sands Jr. and Patricia E. Millen “Washington Crossing”

Old Barracks Museum, 101 Barrack Street, Trenton

(609) 396-1776 | info@barracks.org | www.barracks.org 

The Old Barracks invites you to spend an evening with highly respected local historians and authors at our Fall Lecture Series to learn about the exciting history that helped shape our state and nation. On Thursday, October 12, Robert Sands and Patricia Millen return to discuss their book which focuses on the historical site where General George Washington crossed the Delaware River with his Continental Army in 1776 to the Battle of Trenton.

*Free Admission. Lectures will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a Q&A and book signing. Light refreshments will be available.

Oct. 12, 6:30 p.m.

The Price of Silence: Screening & Discussion

Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St, Princeton

(609) 924.8144 | info@morven.org | morven.org 

Join Morven for a screening & discussion of The Price of Silence, part one of an Emmy-nominated documentary from Truehart Productions sharing the history of New Jersey’s enslaved people. Hear from descendants and historians telling their own stories and exploring why New Jersey was the last northern state to end the institution of slavery; a past Morven and its inhabitants were inextricably tied to. The screening of the 25-minute documentary will be followed by a panel discussion with the filmmaker and historians featured in the film.

This event is hybrid – held both in-person at Morven’s Stockton Education Center and online.

*In-person tickets are $5 General Admission, Free for Students and Morven Members. Virtual tickets are Free for all registrants. A Zoom webinar link will be shared with virtual ticket holders upon registration, and a recording will be provided after the program.

Music Happenings

Oct. 5, 7 – 8 p.m.

“Jersey Transit” Concert

Mercer County Library System: Lawrence Headquarters Branch | 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville

(609) 883-8292 | lawprogs@mcl.org | mcl.org

Performing without instruments, acapella ensemble “Jersey Transit” will sing a repertoire of songs taken from jazz standards to reggae to R&B to today’s pop at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System, on Thursday, October 5. The Jersey Transit ensemble has been around for more than 25 years, with some of the original members still in the group.

*Advanced registration is appreciated

Oct. 15, 4 p.m.

Altamura Legacy Concert: Ana “Rokafella” Garcia discusses Hip-Hop

Legacy Arts International | The Sanford Davis Room of Princeton United Methodist Church, 7 Vandeventer Ave, Princeton

(201) 362-9814 | www.legacyartsinternational.org    

Legacy Arts International presents Altamura Legacy Concerts, a new concert series developed by pianist Cristina Altamura, featuring herself and a roster of guest artists performing on a newly restored 1924 Steinway B grand at Princeton United Methodist Church home of the majestic Tiffany stained-glass window depicting St. George that graces its façade.

Concerts are on selected Sundays at 4 pm in the Sanford Davis Room of Princeton United Methodist Church (PrincetonUMC), adjacent to the church’s sanctuary. Guest artists range from some of Italy’s most illustrious piano masters, to New York’s current avant-garde, to Princeton’s own community of distinguished pianists. Altamura will be joined by her husband, Sō Percussion’s Adam Sliwinski, for an informal talk at the beginning of each program.

On Oct. 15, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip hop, Cristina invites her childhood friend, b-girl pioneer and choreographer Ana “Rokafella” Garcia, for a discussion about her career in New York and the proliferation of breakdancing all over the world. Then, the avant-garde pianist Adam Tendler performs works from the cutting edge of the contemporary piano repertoire

*Prices range between $25 – $40 for different concerts. Additionally, partial view seating in the church’s sanctuary next to the Sanford Davis Room will be available with suggested offerings of $10 at the door. 

Theater

Oct. 6 & 13, 8 p.m. | Oct. 7 & 14, 8 p.m. | Oct. 8 & 15, 2 p.m.

Roald Dahl’s MATILDA – the Musical

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor Township | Kelsey Theatre  

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu 

Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, The Tony Award-winning musical Matilda is a captivating story about a young girl who uses the power of her imagination, friendship, and storytelling to make a better life for both her and her fellow classmates. This inspiring story boasts a powerful message to the youth of our own community about standing up to bullies and being true to yourself.

*Ticket Cost: $26/$24 

Oct. 20 & 27, 8 p.m. | Oct. 21 & 28, 8 p.m. | Oct. 22 & 29, 2 p.m.

ROEBLING – The Story of The Brooklyn Bridge

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor Township | Kelsey Theatre  

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu 

Starting off Theater To Go’s New Jersey Playwright Series with a fascinating drama based on the true story. In 1869, John Roebling wins the contract to design and build the Brooklyn Bridge, the longest and tallest bridge in the world at the time. The construction spanned 14 years, involving 600 workers and at least two dozen people died in the process, including John Roebling. Roebling’s daughter-in-law, Emily, takes a stand ensuring that the Roebling name will forever be attached to this beloved historic landmark.

*Ticket Cost: $22/$20  

Workshops

Oct. 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2 – 3 p.m.

NJ STEM Astronomy Workshop

Mercer County Library System: West Windsor Branch,  333 N. Post Road, Princeton Junction

(609) 799-0462 | westprogs@mcl.org | mcl.org 

Over the course of four Sunday afternoon sessions, children enrolled in this program will learn about how all aspects of STEM contribute to the field of astronomy. With each lesson children will be presented with a final project idea that they can complete, as well as guidance on the process. At the final session on October 29, students will have a chance to present their final project to their parents and their peers, and will receive a course completion certificate. This NJ STEM program is provided by four outstanding local teen volunteers with a passion for STEM. They want to give all kids the opportunity to complete STEM related projects that they would be unable to do in public schools.

*This program is for children in grades 5-8 and is free.