Ongoing
The Metlar-Bodine House Museum has reopened after months of closure due to COVID-19.
Discover Piscataway’s exceptional 354-year-old back story told in a docent-led tour. Learn why and how America’s tradition of celebrating July 4 began in Piscataway in 1778. View a map display of the museum’s theme “From Indian Trail to Interstate,” a journey through time. Visit the museum’s Dutch Door gift shop.
Current hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 3, 10 and 17; noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 5, 12, and 19; and noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 13.
Schedule subject to change due to COVID-19. Call ahead or visit the website.
Admission is $5 per person; children under 5 free. Pay at the door, cash only.
Group tours of four must schedule in advance.
Official COVID-19 guidelines include limiting tours and gift shop visits to one group of four people at a time to maintain social distancing; masks required for children and adults before entering the museum and to be worn during the visit; and the availability of hand sanitizer at the admission desk and in the gift shop.
The museum is located at 1281 River Road, Piscataway.
For more information, call 732-463-8363, email metlarbodine@gmail.com or visit https://metlarbodinehousemuseum.org
Submissions are being accepted for the 2021 Princeton Environmental Film Festival (PEFF), a signature Princeton Public Library event featuring films and filmmaker presentations which explore sustainability and environmental issues.
The festival will be presented in two main sessions in 2021 with special screenings taking place throughout the year.
Entries received by Jan. 15 will be considered for both the all-virtual session in April, and the festival’s second session in October. The October session will also be presented in a virtual format but will feature some live events if restrictions on public gatherings are lifted. The submission deadline for the October session is July 15.
An entry form and additional information about PEFF is available at princetonlibrary.org/peff. There is no fee to submit a film for consideration.
The Princeton Environmental Film Festival is under the direction of Susan Conlon and Kim Dorman, whose focus is to present films with local, regional and international relevance. Screenings are free and made possible through funding from the Church & Dwight Employee Giving Fund, The Whole Earth Center of Princeton and others.
High school students are invited to enter their substance use prevention messages through their original music as part of the music and song writing competition, “Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey,” sponsored by New Jersey Broadcasters and 959.9-FM WRAT.
The competition is designed to challenge New Jersey high school students to create original music and lyrics with powerful peer-to-peer substance use, misuse and prevention messages. Entries are accepted through Feb. 1.
All music genres are welcomed from students interested in sharing their talent and inspiring messages about shouting down drugs and raising up their voices to inspire their peers.
The winner of the New Jersey Shout Down Drugs competition, as decided by judges and announced at the end of the Prevention Concert, will receive a $5,000 music contract. The second- and third-place performers will receive $3,000 and $2,000 music contracts, respectively, with the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
For rules and information on how to enter, contact Diane Higgins at 973-275-7985.
For more information, email quilt23lady@gmail.com.
Beginning Fri., November 20
The Greater Princeton Mental Health Coalition (GPMHC) is hosting a virtual art exhibit surrounding mental health.
In these times of isolation and stagnancy, open discussion surrounding mental health has grown exponentially more crucial.
The Breaking the Chains Within art exhibit features visual art and literature from 14 teenage artists impacted by the mental health climate of Princeton. Trigger and content warnings are integrated into the exhibit in a sensitive manner so that viewers can deliberately decide what work to view.
The artwork can be found on Instagram @greaterprinceton.mhc starting Nov. 20 and is also posted on https://greaterprinceton.weebly.com/breaking-the-chains-within-art-exhibit.html
Fri., November 20 – Sun., November 22
Morven Museum & Garden’s first Pop-Up Holiday Craft Sale will be held from 1-9 p.m. Nov. 20, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 21 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 22 inside the Stockton Education Center, 55 Stockton St., Princeton.
Admission is $10, which includes entrance to the Festival of Trees inside the museum.
All participants must wear a mask, and adhere to social distancing and capacity limits.
For more information, visit https://www.morven.org/
Saturdays, through November 21
The West Windsor Community Farmers Market will be held 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday through Nov. 21 in the Vaughn Lot of the Princeton Junction Train Station, West Windsor. Entrance is east of the intersection of Alexander Road/Vaughn Drive. Use 877 Alexander Road, West Windsor, for directions.
Information on the winter markets will be released soon.
For more information, visit https://www.westwindsorfarmersmarket.org/
Through Sat., November 21
Local residents and businesses can sponsor an American flag, 3 feet by 5 feet, on the grounds of RWJUH-Hamilton along Whitehorse-Hamilton Square Road and Klockner Road.
Each American flag will honor someone’s local hero including military, mother, father, grandparent, son, daughter, family, friend, neighbor, COVID-19 hero, fire and rescue, police, teacher, nurse, doctor, medical professional, clergy, business, and others who have made a difference in someone’s life.
Each donor will receive a keepsake flag medallion with their name, message and sponsor’s name, and acknowledgement on the display banner at RWJUH-Hamilton and on the Rotary’s website, www.RHRotary.org.
Flag Sponsorships start at $50 for individuals and $250 for businesses and can be purchased at www.RHRotary.org. Supplies are limited and sponsorships are available on a first come, first service basis.
For more information about the Rotary and its charitable initiatives, email Info@RHRotary.org or visit www.RHRotary.org.
Sat., November 21
The Arts Council of Princeton will present a Watercolor Mono-Prints Workshop from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Nov. 21 in the studio, 102 Witherspoon St., Princeton.
Mono-printing is an off the press hand printing technique created by painting with watercolors on an alum infused acrylic plate.
This class will be taught using social distancing measures and students will be required to wear a mask.
Cost is $35 for members or $45 for non-members.
Register at https://public.artscouncilofprinceton.org/public/classdirect/1528
Sun., November 22
Through Sun., November 22
November 15-22 is Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week. HomeFront is offering the community various ways to learn, get involved and have an impact.
Buy holiday art online, or by appointment, at HomeFront ArtSpace’s Art For The Holidays event through Dec. 15. Kicking off during Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, this event showcases art from local and HomeFront artists to benefit homeless families. For more information, visit www.artjamnj.org
Stop by HomeFront’s “Pop Up” Information & Donation Drop Off Center from 4-7 p.m. Nov. 20 or from 12-5 p.m. Nov. 21 or 22 at 63 Palmer Square, Princeton. Learn about the local situation and how to help, and donate non-perishable food, coats, diapers, wipes and formula. More information is available at www.homefrontnj.org
Take a virtual tour of HomeFront’s headquarters at 3 p.m. Nov. 20 or 11 a.m. Nov. 21. Learn more about the local situation, how HomeFront helps, and how to get involved. Visit www.homefrontnj to sign up and for log in details. Free of charge.
Mon., November 23
Princeton Dance Festival Reimagined features new works created for a virtual environment led by professional choreographers Peter Chu, Francesca Harper, Rebecca Lazier, Dean Moss, Silas Riener and Olivier Tarpaga.
The choreographers have created innovative dances with Princeton dance students despite the restrictions of the COVID pandemic. Works explore the intersections of dance and multimedia performance, digital animation, filmmaking, site-based work and music.
Each evening is a completely different and unique experience followed by a question-and-answer session with the choreographers.
Presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Dance at Princeton University at 8:30 p.m. Nov. 23 and at 8 p.m. Dec. 3, 4 and 5 online via Zoom.
Admission is free and open to the public; registration for each evening is required.
For information and the Zoom registration links, visit
http://arts.princeton.edu/dance-reimagined
Tues., November 24
All ages and experience levels are welcome to join the fourth annual Sonnet Slam, part of McCarter Theatre’s Shakespeare Community Reading Group, at 7 p.m. Nov. 24.
This is a fun and informal way to personally experience Shakespeare’s words, characters and greatest speeches.
Register for free to participate as a reader or spectator by visiting https://www.mccarter.org/scrg
Thurs., November 26
Trinity Church in Princeton will hold its 13th annual Princeton Trinity Turkey Trot from 8:30-10 a.m. Nov. 26, but virtually.
Join HomeFront in participating. Sponsored by Trinity Turkey Trot Princeton and elite feats.
For more information, visit https://fb.me/e/cR7Szlbzj
For tickets, visit www.trinityturkeytrot.org
Thurs., November 26 – Mon., November 29
The Girls on the Run of Central NJ (GOTRCNJ) Fall 5K race will be virtual this year.
The 5K Turkey Trot will take place Nov. 26-29 and is open to the public. Registrants can complete the virtual 5K on their time and in their own place.
Registration is free and open to all. However, in an effort to sustain the GOTRCNJ Scholarship Fund, participants can donate $10 or an amount of their choice to GOTRCNJ during registration. One hundred percent of donations will go to scholarships to make the program accessible to girls who otherwise would not be able to participate.
Participants will receive a printable bib and finisher’s certificate.
Register at https://runsignup.com/gotrturkeytrot or visit www.gotrcnj.org.
For race questions, contact Donna York at donna.york@girlsontherun.org or 908-642-4321.
Thurs., November 26 through Fri., January 1, 2021
Roxey Ballet, Lambertville’s renowned professional dance company, will present its annual American holiday classic and new made for television “Nutcracker” 2020, available for streaming from any device Thanksgiving Day through New Year’s Day at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily.
This new production, directed by Mark Roxey, features more than 200 handmade costumes designed by Alicia Worden and Ana Vichnevetsky, including new personalized costume masks for each role, with production and lighting designs by Jeffrey Goldstein.
Complemented by an international cast of professional performers from around the world, Roxey Ballet also draws on the local talent pool from neighboring communities, including Lambertville, New Hope, Doylestown, Newtown, Stockton, Hopewell, Lawrenceville, Pennington, Ewing and Princeton.
Subscribers to the new Nutcracker Channel also receive live streamed rehearsals, cast and crew interviews, The Sugar Plum Fairy Adventure Series, a Senior Living Dance Class, and an additional production of The Year of the Women Choreography Lab featuring five New Jersey-based choreographers creating socially conscious works showcasing women’s issues: disability rights, women’s health initiatives, bullying and the cultural condition.
To purchase a Nutcracker Channel ticket, visit www.roxeyballet.org/virtual-performances
Sat., November 28
The Friends of Howell Farm will hold their annual Wreath & Sleighbell Sale, featuring straps of bells made by the farm’s harnessmaker, beginning at 10 a.m. Nov. 28 at the Howell Living History Farm, 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell Township.
Bring canned goods for donation to area food banks and soup kitchens.
Visitors are required to carry masks at all times, and wear them when social distancing is not possible.
For more information, call 609-737-3299 or visit howellfarm.org
Sun., November 29
Princeton University Concerts will present 21-year-old cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason and his older sister, pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason, for the duo’s Princeton debut, recorded live from their family home in Nottingham, England, at 3 p.m. EST Nov. 29.
Following a program of monumental works by Beethoven, Rachmaninoff and Saint-Saëns, the siblings will engage viewers in a live question-and-answer session.
This event will be the culmination of an almost month-long focus on the Kanneh-Mason family, including curated playlists by several of the seven musician siblings, and an afternoon conversation premiering at noon EST on Nov. 19 with parents Kadiatu and Stuart Kanneh-Mason about their musical family, the issue of race in classical music, and more, moderated by WNYC host Helga Davis.
The duo will also virtually visit with members of the Trenton High School Orchestra as part of Princeton University Concerts’ Neighborhood Project, connecting artists on the series with students in Trenton’s public schools.
Continuing the initiative of partnering with local food vendors for Watch Party events and gesturing towards the Kanneh-Mason’s British background, Princeton University Concerts is partnering with The Simple Stove to offer an afternoon tea service available for purchase and delivery to concert viewers. A portion of proceeds from the sale of the tea box will support Meals On Wheels of Mercer County.
The concert stream will remain available for on-demand viewing until 11:59 p.m. Dec. 8.
While this free virtual event is non-ticketed, attendees are highly encouraged to RSVP in advance at princetonuniversityconcerts.org.
More information is available at princetonuniversityconcerts.org.
Through Mon., November 30
The Somerset County Park Commission is accepting entries for the “Show Us Your Best Shot” 2020 Photo Contest.
Photos must be taken in a park managed by the Somerset County Park Commission and fall into one of the following categories: Scenic; Wildlife; Horticulture; or People.
A listing of parks may be found at www.somersetcountyparks.org.
The deadline for submissions is Nov. 30.
Photos must be 200 dpi or higher and should be sent as an attachment to an email to dhealey@scparks.org, indicating Photo Contest and category in the subject line.
Selected photographers will be awarded Park Commission prizes and photos will be featured on the Park Commission website and social media.
For more information, visit www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-722-1200.
Mon., November 30
In Trust in a Polarized Age, political philosopher Kevin Vallier will offer a counter-narrative to the prevailing sense of hopelessness that dogs the American political landscape. In this event, he will discuss his recently released book with Nolan McCarty.
Hosted by the Princeton Public Library, the event will take place at 7 p.m. Nov. 30.
For the link to the virtual presentation, visit www.crowdcast.io/e/valliermccarty/register
November 30; December 1 & 2
Princeton Day School will hold a virtual spotlight series on its Lower School pre-Kindergarten to grade 4 programs.
Learn about the overall program at 7 p.m. Nov. 30. Welcome remarks from Paul Stellato, head of school; overview of academic program highlights from Dr. Sandy Wang, head of Lower School; and question-and-answer session with Anthony McKinley, director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Learn about literacy and math at 7 p.m. Dec. 1.
Learn about signature programs at 9 a.m. Dec. 2.
Register at www.pds.org/admission/spotlight-sessions or call 609-924-6700, ext. 1200.
Tues., December 1
A Day With(out) Art, a virtual exhibition and reflection, will be presented by the Princeton University Art Museum on Dec. 1.
Dec. 1 marks the 31st anniversary of Day With(out) Art, a day when cultural organizations raise awareness of AIDS, remember people who have died, and inspire positive action. In honor of this event, the museum will feature a virtual exhibition, including works of art that reflect on the AIDS crisis, and will invite the community to share thoughts and memories on the museum’s social media accounts.
Dates and details are subject to change; visit artmuseum.princeton.edu for updates.
Rather than asking for donations, People & Stories/Gente y Cuentos will be giving back to the community on Dec. 1, this year’s Giving Tuesday.
With this in mind, the Lawrenceville-based non-profit is offering online story sessions throughout the day, in English and Spanish, at no charge.
Following the reading of a short story by a trained coordinator, participants will have an opportunity to discuss their reactions to it. There is strong evidence that the tradition of shared literary story-telling helps people gain new insights into themselves and others.
Last year P&S/GyC observed Giving Tuesday with an in-person event at The Blue Bears Restaurant in the Princeton Shopping Center. The Blue Bears Restaurant provides meaningful employment and a place of dignity to work for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by preparing fresh and balanced meals every day.
With the advent of COVID-19 and limitations on in-person gatherings; however, this year’s online solution promises to recreate the P&S/GyC experience via several small groups of participants. Online stories sessions have already met with great success at both the Princeton Public Library and the Princeton Senior Resource Center.
For more information about P&S/GyC, visit peopleandstories.org.
The Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders continues to seek residents interested in serving on county boards, commissions and advisory committees.
Information about the county’s various boards and committees, including their responsibilities and activities and their regular meeting dates, is available on the county’s website at www.co.burlington.nj.us/199/Boards-Commissions
Residents interested in being considered should send a resume and cover letter to appointments@co.burlington.nj.us.
All resumes and letters should be submitted by Dec. 1 to be considered for appointments to boards and commissions for 2021.
Wed., December 2
Morven Museum & Garden will present The House of Louis Kahn virtual program plus question-and-answer session with curator and author William Whitaker at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 2.
For more information, visit morven.org
Wednesdays, December 2-16
- Dec. 2 – Ramon Basie, business consultant, Insperity
- Dec. 9 – Monique Jones, director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Stuart Day School, Princeton
- Dec. 16 – Patrick and Pushawn Brown, brothers and high school football coaches
Princeton public school students can receive community service hours for participation.
The link to the Zoom webinar will be sent after registration is completed.
To register, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B77YKFF or contact Mike Roseborough at Mroseborough@PrincetonYMCA.org
Thurs., December 3
The Traumatic Loss Coalitions for Youth will hold the 17th annual Suicide Prevention Conference, focusing on “Reaching for Hope,” from 8:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 3, via WebEx.
Speakers include Susan Klebold, author and activist; and Vanessa L. McGann, clinical psychologist
To register, visit https://rutgers.cloud-cme.com/course/courseoverview?P=5&EID=7116
Cost is $49 per person.
The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber will hold its 2020 Business Leadership Awards Gala virtually from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Dec. 3.
Outgoing president Peter Crowley will end his 12-year tenure by recognizing Joyce Campbell, executive director of the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, as the Community Leader of the Year; Chaya Pamula, president and CEO of PamTen, Inc., as the Entrepreneur Leader of the Year; Janssen Pharmaceutical as the Innovator of the Year; and Matthew Furner, CEO and North American president of Firmenich, Inc. as Business Leader of the Year.
For the first and last time in the chamber’s history, two Lifetime Leadership Achievement Awards will be presented to Len Smith, co-founder of WithumSmith+Brown; and Chris Tarr, partner at Stevens & Lee.
TO register, visit https://web.princetonmercerchamber.org/events/2020-Virtual-Business-Leadership-Awards-Gala-923/details
The MOSAIC Cultural Series of Adath Israel Congregation will present a live virtual performance by Jodi Valentin at 7 p.m. Dec. 3.
As a music teacher in the Trenton School District, Valentin shares her talents with young children.
Watch and listen via Facebook Live at www.facebook.com/aicnj.
RSVP to Amanda@adathisraelnj.org
The program is open to the community.
Fri., December 4
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Hamilton will host its traditional Tree of Lights winter celebration online at 7 p.m. Dec. 4.
To join in, visit rwjbh.org/hamiltontreeoflights
Sat., December 5
Collecting Art 101 will be held virtually from 1-5 p.m. Dec. 5, courtesy of the Princeton University Art Museum.
Join three fine arts specialists as they share tips on how to begin and maintain an art collection. This program will explore collecting photography, prints and 20th century American painting.
Featuring Sarah Morthland, certified member, Appraisers Association of America, speaking about collecting photography from 1-2 p.m.; Cora Michael, owner/principal, Cora Michael Fine Art LLC, speaking about collecting prints from 2:30-3:30 p.m.; and Jonathan Spies, former gallery director, Menconi + Schoelkopf, speaking about 20th century American paintings, from 4-5 p.m.
Register for one session, or join all three. Each session has its own registration link. Register for each session individually.
Dates and details are subject to change; visit artmuseum.princeton.edu for updates.
Sun., December 6
The Dryden Ensemble will hold its autumn benefit concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 6 via Zoom.
Through Mon., December 7
A Christmas Carol @HOME is an experience being offered by the McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton.
Receive individually wrapped envelopes with scenes that can be performed together in person or virtually; character-= sketch postcards to color, frame or send; conversation cards to spark dialogue and conversation, ideal for all ages, connecting the timeless themes in Dickens’ classic story with today; and more ways to enhance the experience online, including access to a full script and stage adaptation, photo and video submissions of your own “A Christmas Carol” performances, and local promotions from the community.
Limited availability. While supplies last.
Order by Dec. 7 to ensure delivery by Dec. 24. While supplies last.
Orders will begin to ship the week of Nov. 23.
For more information, visit https://www.mccarter.org/tickets-events/ACCatHOME/?vgo_ee=rnbuQ5FiiTsvWx%2FFq0R4xaIfYyzJc77mf9vNIlXPl%2Fc%3D
Tues., December 8
Expressing the Passions of the Soul: The Study of Human Emotions in Art and Science will be presented at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 8.
Join Veronica White, curator of academic programs, and Alex Todorov, professor, University of Chicago Booth School of Business, as they reflect on his teaching experience at the Art Museum and his publication “Face Value: The Irresistible Influence of First Impressions” (Princeton University Press, 2017).
Membership and registration are required to attend this virtual event.
Membership is free. Join at https://artmuseum.princeton.edu/support/membership/free-membership
Register for the program at https://princeton.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_64UQr84iTee2EBFo9cbOiQ
Sat., December 12
Through Sat., December 12
Kennedy is one of the most prolific and widely studied living playwrights. Despite her outsized influence, Kennedy is not a household name. This digital festival is a celebration of why she should be.
Homefront’s ArtJam for the Holidays is a reimagined art event that will be held through Dec. 12.
HomeFront’s ArtJam for the Holidays will feature the work of more than 50 local and regional artists, ArtSpace and SewingSpace artists.
Offering one-of-a-kind art for sale online, or in-person by appointment only at the HomeFront Family campus in the Blue Garage, HomeFront Family Campus, 101 Celia Way, Ewing.
Paintings, pottery, glasswork, and hand-sewn items comprise a diversity of visual art, fine crafts as well as home and holiday décor.
Proceeds will help support the artists and ArtSpace programs.
Appointment-only gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays.
Sign up online at www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d48acaf2aabf8c16-2020
Through December 14
The Burlington County Sheriff’s Department is collecting toys for children in need this holiday season.
The 25th Annual Toy Drive will benefit local agencies including: the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency, Oaks Integrated Care in Mount Holly, Christian Caring Center in Pemberton Township, Providence House, Sisterhood in Burlington City, Servicios Latinos de Burlington County, Foster and Adoptive Family Services of Princeton, and House of God in Delran. Organizations will distribute the toys to local children.
The collection will run now through Dec. 14.
Dropoff locations include the Bordentown City Municipal Building, 324 Farnsworth Ave.; and the Bordentown Township Municipal Building, 1 Municipal Dr.
Questions may be directed to the Sheriff’s Department’s Community Services Unit at 609-265-3788.
Mondays, through December 14
Voices Chorale NJ (VCNJ) invites singers who would like to hone musical and singing skills to join an online meeting application on Monday nights from 7:30-9 p.m., Sept. 28-Dec. 14.
The series of classes will be curated by Dr. David A. McConnell, artistic director of VCNJ. Topics will include vocal development, ear training, sight singing, study of choral literature, and more.
Participants can look forward to valuable training for skilled amateur choral singers.
All members of the singing community are welcome to participate. The cost for the program is $115. Interested singers should email info@voiceschoralenj.org to receive additional instructions.
Mon., December 14
Children of all ages are invited to write their letters to Santa and drop them off in Santa’s special mailbox outside the front doors of the Hightstown Elks Lodge, 110 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor. No postage is needed.
Santa and his elves will read every letter and send a response to each child in time for Christmas. Make sure name and return address are legible.
Santa can also respond in Spanish. Mark the letter accordingly.
Deadline to drop off the letters is Dec. 14.
Donations to the Hightstown Elks Lodge Pajama Drive for Lala & Mimi’s Pajama Project are also being accepted at the lodge. Peddie School sophomores Lauren and Mackenzie Multari are collecting any new pair of pajamas, specifically kids size 5 through adult large.
A contactless community drop off bin is located outside the Elks Lodge front doors, next to Santa’s mailbox.
Online pajama donations can be shipped to the Elks lodge, 110 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor 08520.
Proceeds benefit Mercer County area children in need this holiday season.
Visit www.elks1955.org or www.lalamimispjproject.com or call 609-577-2536 for more information.
Wed., December 17
Heroes of Hope and Healing will be the theme of NAMI Mercer’s 19th annual benefit gala at 7 p.m. Dec. 17. Formerly called “Night OUT with NAMI,” the event will be virtual this year and thus has been renamed “Night IN with NAMI”.
NAMI Mercer’s special guest and Visionary Award honoree will be Maurice Benard, two-time daytime Emmy winner who has played Sonny on the ABC daytime drama “General Hospital” for the past 27 years. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 22, Benard has been a long-time advocate for persons affected by mental illness.
As part of the Night IN with NAMI program, local playwright and performer David Lee White will interview Benard about his 2020 memoir “Nothing General About It: How Love (and Lithium) Saved Me On and Off General Hospital”.
Dr. Karen Marquis will become NAMI Mercer’s 10th Pillar awardee at the gala. This honor recognizes individuals who have made an extraordinary, long-term contribution to the organization’s mission and to the people it serves.
For the first time, NAMI Mercer will recognize a young adult with the WOW Award for reducing stigma and promoting youth mental health. The recipient will be Gianna Santoro.
There is no charge for tickets to Night IN with NAMI.
Throughout the festivities, Master of Ceremonies and former Board President Dan Schuberth will invite participants to “fund-a-need” by donating live by text, online or by check.
The link to Night IN with NAMI will be available on namimercer.org. To inquire about sponsorship opportunities and for more information about the event, contact Dawn Dannenbrink, director of development, at 609-799-8994, ext. 13 or ddannenbrink@namimercer.org.
Thurs., December 18
Donations to the Hightstown Elks Lodge Pajama Drive for Lala & Mimi’s Pajama Project are being accepted at the lodge. Peddie School sophomores Lauren and Mackenzie Multari are the driving force of Lala & Mimi’s, respectively, which asks for new pajamas, specifically kids size 5 through adult large.
A contactless community drop off bin is located outside the Elks Lodge front doors.
Online pajama donations can be shipped to the Elks lodge, 110 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor 08520.
Proceeds benefit Mercer County area children in need this holiday season.
Visit www.elks1955.org or www.lalamimispjproject.com or call 6090-577-2536 for more information.
Thursdays, through January
Burlington County Health Department will offer seasonal flu vaccines to county residents every Thursday through January at clinics throughout the county.
Adult drive-thru clinics will be held for adults and teenagers 13 years or older. Children’s clinics will be for children age 6 months to 12 years old.
Signed consent forms will be required and residents are encouraged to print out and bring the completed form with them to the clinics. The form is available online at www.co.burlington.nj.us/355/Flu-Information.
The Health Department accepts Medicare Part “B” to cover the cost for the seasonal flu vaccines. A donation of $15 for seasonal flu vaccine is recommended by those not covered by Medicare if residents can afford it.
For more information on the flu, contact the Burlington County Health Department at 609-265-5533 or at www.co.burlington.nj.us/health.
Additional information can be accessed online at www.cdc.gov/flu or www.flu.gov.
The Burlington County Health Department’s Raphael Meadow Health Center is located at 15 Pioneer Blvd. in Westampton within the county complex.
Through January 10, 2021
Morven Museum & Garden’s Festival of Trees is a juried collection of trees and mantles decorated by area garden clubs and non-profit partners displayed in the museum’s galleries throughout the mansion-turned-museum.
The trees will be on display through Jan. 10, 2021.
A Winter Wonderland outdoor fundraiser is planned for Dec. 3. During the fundraising party, the museum will be open to enjoy the decorated trees and mantels at timed intervals; however, the party is based outdoors.
The basic party tickets are $175 per person.
Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton St., Princeton, is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Festival of Trees is included with museum admission of $10; $8.00 for seniors; free for Friends of Morven and children 6 years old and under.
For more information and associated Festival of Trees programming, both virtual and in-person, visit morven.org/
Continuing events
Cranbury residents age 55 and older can exercise via Zoom.
Classes meet on both Mondays and Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. with instructors Helen and Robin. Zoom opens at about 9:45 a.m. so that members can talk with the instructor and other participants before class.
On the Township of Cranbury website there is a tutorial on how to use Zoom, prepared by the Cranbury Library.
To join, contact Connie Bauder, who will forward three registration forms to complete and return before being sent the invitation to join class.
There is no charge to participate.
Request and send completed registration forms to Bauder at fiddleheadfarms@comcast.net
The Township of Hillsborough is working with Town Planner to produce a 250th anniversary edition of the color printed 2021 calendar, which will be mailed out to every residence in Hillsborough.
This year, the twist is historic pictures to commemorate Hillsborough’s 250-year history. Individuals interested in submitting photographs for consideration can email their high resolution image to pborek@hillsborough-nj.org. There is no guarantee any photo will be used.
A photo release will need to accompany the picture. The photo release form is found at www.hillsborough-nj.org
The printing of the calendar is funded through the various advertisements contained within the calendar. Contact Jim O’Dowd at 973-650-2736 or jimodowd@townplanner.com for more information regarding advertising.
Dove Hospice Services of New Jersey seeks compassionate volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families.
Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes, which can also be nursing facilities or assisted living facilities, at least once a week. They read to the patient, reminisce about their lives, play cards, help with letter writing and provide respite for caregivers.
Visits can be virtual, and are either during the day or early evening.
Volunteers may also assist with administrative work within the hospice office.
Patient care volunteers complete an application and attend a virtual volunteer training program that covers the role of a hospice volunteer. Day and evening virtual training programs are offered.
To sign up for the next virtual training class, contact Volunteer Coordinator Deborah Adams at 732-405-3035 or email deborah@dovehs.com.
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 MercerCountyPOL@gmail.com.
Co-Dependents Anonymous Step Study Meeting. CoDA is a fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. Meetings are held every Friday evenings. The 24 Club, The 1860 House, 2nd floor, 124 Montgomery Road, Skillman. For more information, email fridayeveningcoda@gmail.com.
VFW Meetings: Monthly meetings of the Hillsborough Memorial VFW Post 8371 are held the fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Somerset County Hillsborough Senior Center, 339 S. Branch Road. The post’s mission is Veterans and Military Support, Youth Scholarship Activities and Community Service. All veterans with foreign service are welcome as members to assist the post in achieving its mission. For information regarding membership, post activities or the youth scholarship programs, contact Commander Tom Cellilli via phone or text at 908-255-3669.
Alzheimer’s caregiver support group: Following the guidelines of the Alzheimer’s Association, the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group is “a safe place for caregivers, family and friends of persons with dementia to meet and develop a mutual support system.” The group meets the first Monday and second Wednesday of each month at the Bridgewater United Methodist Church, 651 Country Club Road, Bridgewater. All are welcome.
Free weekly support groups: Carrier Clinic hosts free weekly support groups on the campus throughout the year. These support programs include:
Weekend Codependency Program, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Bright Futures for Kids, Sundays, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Parents Support Group, Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m.
Mood Disorder Support Group, Thursdays, 7:30-9:15 p.m.
For more information about these or other services and programs available at Carrier Clinic, visit CarrierClinic.org or call 908-281-1513. For more information, visit CarrierClinic.org/WhatToDo.
Midweek meals: The Wednesday midweek meals held in Asbury Hall, at the United Methodist Church of Bound Brook, have started back up. All seniors are invited for a full course meal for $4. Bring friends and family to enjoy a meal and fellowship.
Pop Warner: Calling all 5-7 year olds. Hillsborough Dukes Pop Warner is offering free Flag Football registration to first time players, including instructional and safe environment with fun training activities to teach core skills. Every child plays every game and the Dukes are the only organization that requires coaches to be USA Football Heads Up Certified. There are no tryouts or team drafting. Visit register.hillsboroughdukes.com to register. For more information, contact football@hillsboroughdukes.com.
Coping with addiction: Parents of Addicted Children helps parents understand and cope with drug problems they are facing, and will face, with their children. Meets first and third Monday of month, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Neshanic Reformed Church, 715 Amwell Road.
Alzheimer’s support group: The Alzheimer’s Association has a support group in Hillsborough. Family members and caregivers come together to share information and support in a safe, confidential atmosphere. Meetings are the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Brookdale Hillsborough, 600 Auten Road. Call 908-431-1300.
Mothers of Preschoolers: MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meets from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Fridays at the Fellowship Bible Church building, 109 New Amwell Road. The group says it meets to “laugh, cry and embrace the journey of motherhood.” Sponsored by Crossroads Community Church, it hears speakers, has a craft or project and lots of conversation and refreshment. Child care is provided. For information, see www.crossroadsnj.org/MOPS. Registration fee is required.
Divorce support group: A nondenominational support group to help separated and divorced people to a new beginning. The group meets the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 7-8:30 p.m. at Hillsborough Presbyterian Church, Route 206 at Homestead Road. Call 908-295-6740.
Swim lessons at HRC: The Swim Academy at HRC, located at 30 Brower Lane, Hillsborough, is offering swim lessons for all ages and levels. Call HRC Fitness at 908-359-3600 to register or visit www.hrcfitness.com for class schedules.
Send items to calendar@centraljersey.com. The deadline for submissions each week is 5 p.m. on Tuesday. For details, call 732-358-5200.
