Ongoing
Cranbury Volunteer Fire Company will offer visits from Santa.
For more information, call the firehouse at 609-395-0633 or email station48chiefs@yahoo.com
The Princeton Farmers Market will offer its Winter Market Series at its temporary outdoor location on Franklin Avenue, providing ample space for social distancing.
Markets will operate 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on select dates. Market dates are posted at www.princetonfarmersmarket.com/calendar
The market is authorized to accept SNAP/EBT cards and matches up to $10 on SNAP transactions, per eligible customer, per day. Those eligible for SNAP benefits can learn more by emailing princetonfarmersmarketnj@gmail.com
Shoppers must wear masks at all times and practice social distancing while waiting in lines.
Vendors offer pre-order options and contactless payment methods; for more information, visit www.princetonfarmersmarket.com
Mercer County Community College’s youth program, Camp College, is accepting students for Winter Session and Spring 2021.
Virtual classes for students ages 6-14 focus on science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) with staggered start dates from December through May. Each course is taught live through Zoom and provides a project-based learning experience that combines peer learning with creativity.
Offerings range from science and planetary science study, to writing and book publishing, to coding, animation techniques and virtual reality design. A new e-Sports games-play skill builder was added this session. Two new courses will be introduced this session, including Young Authors where students write and publish books, and YouTube FX Masters where students create Hollywood-style special effects and graphics.
Other courses include NASA – STEM Explorers, where kids explore the atmosphere and beyond, train like real astronauts and solve real-world engineering problems; Super Slimy Smokey Science, which delves into a variety of scientific fields using objects such as Silly Putty and Slime, and investigates the field of optical illusions; Code Your Own Adventure, which blends classic storytelling with animation techniques and coding; Minecraft Modders, which teaches scripting and logic statements to create mods; Roblox Makers, which focuses on how to build 3D models and animations; and Virtual Reality: The Future Is Now, which focuses on the foundations of VR design through the creation of virtual worlds, the exploration of simulated environments and the crafting of 3D experiences.
New classes will continue to be added throughout the winter and spring.
Classes start at $149.
For more information, email campcollege@mccc.edu, visit mccc.edu/campcollege or call Continuing Studies Registration at 609-570-3311.
Thursdays, through December 31
A support group for public health employees will be held at 4 p.m. Thursdays in December.
The open discussion will focus on the importance of nurturing emotional and mental health during COVID-19 and beyond.
The groups will share about how the pandemic has impacted emotional health for public health employees, and discuss wellness strategies to manage stress and promote healing.
Log into Zoom using Meeting ID 911 7223 6441 with passcode 934178.
This program is presented by New Jersey Hope and Healing.
For more information, visit www.mhanj.org
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
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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.
The Cranbury Cub Scouts will hold a flag ceremony and then light the Christmas tree at Memorial Park in Cranbury at 5 p.m. Dec. 5. The event should last 15 minutes.
The Cranbury Fire Company is in contact with Santa, who will drive past and wave at attendees.
Safety protocols will be in place. To limit exposure, there will be no carols, Santa’s workshop, meeting with Santa or speeches. Everyone in attendance must distance socially, wear masks, and wash hands prior and after.
An email alert will be sent out if the event is canceled due to COVID restrictions or the weather. Rain date is Dec. 6.
For more information, visit www.cranburytownship.org/home/news/christmas-tree-and-menorah-lighting
A Holiday Farmers Market will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 5 at Burlington County’s Agricultural Center, 500 Centerton Road, Moorestown.
The market will feature live music, fresh baked goods, local produce, fresh cut flowers and holiday themed crafts and artwork.
Saturdays, December 5 and 12
The History Center Gift Shop, located at 6 S. Main St. in Cranbury, will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 5 and 12.
For more information, visit www.cranburyhistory.org
Sun., December 6
The Dryden Ensemble will hold its autumn benefit concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 6 via Zoom.
The Give the Gift of Friendship Dog Walk will be held Dec. 6 at Ann Van Middlesworth Park, 17 Pleasant View Road, Hillsborough, in order to add resident Ethan McKeown to a waiting list to receive an autism service dog through 4 Paws For Ability.
The minimum amount needed is $17,000 for the training.
Register at runsignup.com
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.
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
The Latin American Legal Defense and Education Fund (LALDEF) will present a virtual reading of Donna Barbara Higuera’s new novel, “Lupe Wong Won’t Dance,” followed by a question-and-answer session at 4 p.m. Dec. 8.
The character of Wong is a combination of Higuera and her children and some of their experiences. The book is the story of a determined middle school girl who needs an A in all her classes in order to meet her favorite pitcher, Fu Li Hernandez, who is Chinacan/Mexinese, just like she is. So, when the horror that is square dancing rears its head in the gym, Lupe is not going to let that slide.
To register, visit tfaforms.com/4862645.
Established in 2004, LALDEF promotes the rights of all immigrants (with a focus on the Latin American community in Mercer County); facilitates access to health care, education and legal representation; advocates for the integration of immigrants; and fosters intercultural communication to strengthen our communities. Visit laldef.org
Thurs., December 10
The Mercer County Library will offer drive-up visits with Santa from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Dec. 10 at the Lawrence headquarters branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. Rain date is Dec. 15.
Children of all ages are welcome to come to the Hickory Corner branch for a safe way to tell Santa Christmas wishes from the car.
Children will receive a candy cane and take home craft after their visit.
Adults and children over age 2 must wear masks and must remain in the vehicle.
The library will not be open to the public, so there will be no access to bathrooms.
Registration is required. Email acozzito@mcl.org There are 38 spaces available.
Louise Glyck will be the focus of a virtual poetry circle at 7 p.m. Dec. 10.
Sharon, a librarian for the Lawrence branch of the Mercer County Library System, will lead the discussion on the American poet.
Registration with an email is required in order to connect through GoToMeeting.
For more information, email hopeprogs@mcl.org
The Cranbury Cub Scouts will hold a flag ceremony and then light the menorah at Memorial Park in Cranbury at 5 p.m. Dec. 10. The event should last 15 minutes.
Safety protocols will be in place. Everyone in attendance must distance socially, wear masks, and wash hands prior and after.
An email alert will be sent out if the event is canceled due to COVID restrictions or the weather. Rain date is Dec. 12.
For more information, visit www.cranburytownship.org/home/news/christmas-tree-and-menorah-lighting
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.
Chabad of Florence will light a public Hanukkah menorah placed in front of Silver Dental, 1816 Mount Holly Road, Suite 101, across from ShopRite, Burlington, at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 14.
The event will include live musical entertainment and is open to the entire community.
Following the menorah lighting ceremony, pre-packaged menorah kits and holiday treats-to-go will be distributed.
Chabad of Florence will distribute menorahs, candles and Hanukkah DIY kits to those celebrating at home.
The event will also be broadcast live via Zoom.
To RSVP, visit http://florencechabad.org/RSVP
To find a list of menorah lightings, visit the international event directory at Florencechabad.org/ChanukahEvents.
For more information about Hanukkah and a local schedule of events, visit florencechabad.org/Chanukah.
Wed., December 16
Dove Hospice Services of New Jersey will hold an interactive program on Zoom, “Getting Through the Holidays Without Someone You Love,” at 1 p.m. Dec. 16.
Presented by Doug Skerbetz, chaplain.
To register, email Doug@dovehs.com
A link will be emailed prior to the call with instructions on how to access the presentation.
Wednesdays, through December 16
- 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 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.
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.
WID Mercer will discuss how to adapt signature fundraising and educational events to a digital setting during an online webinar at noon on Dec. 17.
How do non-profits continue to connect with donors and sponsors in a digital world? What do virtual events look like and how can you develop a successful campaign?
In this roundtable, panelists will dive into a case study of what has worked – and what hasn’t – for virtual events in 2020 and how to put these findings into practice for a non-profit.
WID Board Member Erin Postlethwait, senior director of Communications for the American Heart Association, will lead this month’s discussion.
Roundtables are a member-only benefit; renew for the 2020–21 season by paying the $50 dues before signing up.
Register online at http://widmercer.org/site/event/december-roundtable/
Fri., December 18
The First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury will hold Journey to Bethlehem: A Live Drive-Through Nativity from 7-8 p.m. Dec. 18. Rain dates Dec. 20-22.
For more information, visit http://cranburypres.org/journey-to-bethlehem-drive-through-nativity-december-18/
A Holiday Tour with Annis virtual program will be presented by Morven Museum & Garden of Princeton at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 18.
Imagine what it may have been like for Morven’s first resident, Annis Boudinot Stockton, to plan for and celebrate Christmas at Morven. Find out in a live question-and-answer session following a private tour of Morven’s 2020 Festival of Trees throughout the museum’s galleries.
Annis, portrayed by historical reenactor Alisa Dupuy, will share holiday poems and tales – including downloadable copies of authentic Stockton family recipes – during this special virtual program.
The holiday decor contest winner will be announced during the event.
The cost is $10; of free for Friends of Morven.
To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-tour-with-annis-boudinot-stockton-virtual-event-with-live-qa-tickets-130443470933
Sat., December 19
Hopewell United Methodist Church (HUMC) presents “Songs of the Season,” a virtual concert and fundraiser to benefit the church, at 7 p.m. Dec. 19.
The concert will feature HUMC Music Director Mary McIntyre; along with Harris Goodman, Robert Ey, Fiona Tyndall, Lou Steele, Bob Belloff; Scott and Sharon Kelly of The Wizards of Winter; Paul Bejgrowicz of The Shenanigans; and the HUMC Praise Band.
Tickets are a suggested donation of $25 each and all funds go directly to support Hopewell UMC’s missions and programs.
To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/songs-of-the-season-virtual-christmas-concert-tickets-128663478929
The link will be sent on Dec. 18. With a ticket, the concert will be viewable anytime after the premiere as well.
For any questions, email connect@hopewellmethodist.org or call 609-466-0471.
For more information on HUMC, visit www.hopewellmethodist.org.
Through Sun., December 20
The Princeton Symphony Orchestra will present “Holiday POPS!” virtually at varying times through Dec. 20.
Includes selections from The Nutcracker Suite, Anderson’s Sleigh Ride and a carol sing-along.
To register for tickets, visit princetonsymphonyorchestra.secure.force.com/ticket/#/instances/a0F4P00000OWQ1LUAX
Mon., December 21
Temple B’nai Abraham in Bordentown City will host an American Red Cross blood drive from 2:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Lodge, 103 Dunns Mill Road, Fieldsboro.
To make an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code Temple BNai Abraham.
Through December 31
For more information, email quilt23lady@gmail.com.
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 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
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.
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/
Through January 15
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.
Wendy Hollender will offer a virtual Botanical Illustration Workshop featuring Morven’s paperwhites on Kraft paper from 1-4 p.m. Jan. 8 and 2-4 p.m. Jan. 10.
Inspired by flowers from Morven Museum & Garden’s bulb sale, or other white flowers, students will participate in this live two-day Zoom workshop and draw with Hollender on brown Kraft paper.
Curbside pickup of paperwhite bulbs to work with from home will be scheduled for pick up in December to allow time to bloom indoors before the workshop (bulbs, soil and full instruction provided upon pickup.
Complete art supply list provided upon registration.
The cost with paperwhites is $120; or $100 for Friends of Morven. Without, the cost is $100; or $80 for Friends of Morven.
Full details, links for pre-class videos, and bulb pick up instructions follow registration.
To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/wendy-hollender-virtual-workshop-with-morvens-paperwhites-on-kraft-paper-tickets-130446580233
For questions, email dlampertrudman@morven.org
Through January 31
Raritan Valley Road Runners, one of the largest running clubs in New Jersey, is accepting applications for a new scholarship program designed to help student runners in cross country or track and field who attend high school or community college in Middlesex and Somerset counties.
A one-time award of $1,000 will be made to each of two outstanding athletes enrolling in post-secondary education.
The scholarships are not based entirely on speed or competitions won, but rather on strong academics, sportsmanship, citizenship and financial need.
The scholarships are funded by individual donations, funds from club-sponsored races and business contributions.
Eligible applicants will be graduating from high school in Middlesex or Somerset counties in 2021 or currently attending community college in these counties. They will need to prove acceptance to a full-time (12 credits or more) associate or bachelor’s degree program. They will have a weighted GPA of 2.75 or higher as demonstrated by an unofficial transcript. And they will need to demonstrate passionate participation as a runner in a cross country or track and field in their junior and senior years of high school or while at community college. Participation in extracurricular activities and community involvement will also be considered.
For more information, application materials, or to donate to the scholarship fund, email scholarship@rvrr.org.
The deadline to apply is January 31. Scholarships will be awarded in April.
Through February 1
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.
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.
