Civil penalties for trespassing on or vandalizing agricultural or horticultural lands would be increased under legislation approved on Oct. 29 by the full New Jersey Assembly, 72-0.
The minimum civil penalty under the bill (A-4233) would be raised from $1,000 to $2,500 if a court determines the damages sustained exceed $10,000. This increased penalty would be in addition to any other applicable fines, penalties or restitution, according to a press release from the New Jersey Assembly Democrats.
The measure’s sponsors, Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling (D-Monmouth) and Assemblyman Adam Taliaferro (D-Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland) said, “There is no reason for anyone to trespass on or damage property on farmland.
“People who knowingly or recklessly harm crops, buildings or fences, live trees or domestic animals on farms should be held accountable for their inexcusable actions.
“Farmers and growers give us our food, preserve our open space and take care of our environment. Their workplaces are agricultural and horticultural lands, and they must be treated with respect,” the assemblymen said.
The legislation now goes to the state Senate for further review.
Guests can enjoy a weekend of coasters, cuisine and crafters during Holiday Wine Fest at Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson, on Nov. 14-15. The special event will kick off the sixth season of the theme park’s “Holiday in the Park” festival.
Guests can sample locally produced wines from eight New Jersey vineyards, enjoy wine fest fare from food trucks, and get a head start on their holiday shopping with homemade gifts from local artisans, according to a press release.
Festival tickets will provide access to “Holiday in the Park” with more than one million glittering lights, festive foods, world class rides, and holiday entertainment. Holiday Wine Fest will begin at 12:30 p.m. each day. Tickets are $44.99 plus tax and include access to the theme park and wine event. Season pass and membership holders will pay $24.99 plus tax.
To purchase tickets, visit https://www.sixflags.com/greatadventure/events/wine-fest
Congregation B’nai Israel, Rumson, will host its fourth annual Holiday Boutique (virtually) from Nov. 15-30. Categories include accessories, women’s, men’s, children’s, home, toys and more. Visit www.cbiholidayboutique.com starting Nov. 15 for a list of participating vendors and instructions on how to place an order.
Mention the referral code CBI2020 when shopping and 20% of sales will come back to support the synagogue’s preschool and religious school programs, according to a press release. Details: Email Marissa Kay at holidayshoprumsonfairhaven@gmail.com
The Art Society of Monmouth County is presenting an online exhibition of members’ works viewable at https://www.artsocietyofmonmouthcounty.org/ now through Dec. 31.
The 50 pieces of art were judged by Deborah Redden, a multi-award winning watercolor artist, currently residing in Savannah, Ga., after spending most of her adult life around the New Jersey shore.
A virtual reception will be held via Zoom on Nov. 15 at 4 p.m. during which a slide show of the art will be followed by the awards being announced. To “attend” the reception, go to the above website and under “Subscribe to our email list,” provide email information to be invited to the Zoom session.
