The 6th Annual Chipping Party Nurtures Earth, Body, Mind at The Perfect Christmas Tree Farm in Phillipsburg, New Jersey. Read all about it on their website at www.perfectchristmastree.com.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Real vs Fake Christmas Trees
There has been much discussion in recent years about whether real or fake Christmas trees are more green. Here is our analysis.
highlandstourism.org/real_vs_fake.php
highlandstourism.org/real_vs_fake.php
Thursday, November 25, 2010
A Green Christmas in Warren County, New Jersey
Has the hectic holiday season got you hopping and shopping around town, again? Why not make a relaxing trip to the country part of your annual Christmas tradition? Spend an enjoyable day with your family in scenic Warren County to restore a sense of peace, while filling your senses with joyful pleasures and good tidings you can enjoy all season long.
Nestled between Routes 80 on the north and 78 on the south, are some of the state’s most nostalgic farmsteads just yearning to share some Christmas cheer with you. A winsome journey along County Route 519 will take you to some of the most refreshing holiday destinations in the state. Here’s but a sampling of what you can savor while traveling southward.
Tantalize your taste buds at Four Sisters Winery. There’s nothing like a holiday toast with one of the many fruit wines made from grapes and apples grown right here on this 250-acre farm. Enjoy a tour of the winery where some of the blends named after the daughters (Four Sisters) and now grandchildren are aging. You will have to wait until 2011 to sample Ethan’s Pumpkin or Strawberry Serena. So plan a trip back to sample these special wines and join us for one of our grape-stomping parties. Pick up a schedule of events while there and ask about the Christmas in the Country promotion. You could receive a gift during your travels!
Further south, you will have to stop at the blinking light. To your right is Hensler Farms, formerly known as Crossroads Farm. Enchanting, hand-made wreaths and greens are prepared inside. Known for their fragrance and beauty, displaying these treasures on your home or business will welcome visitors throughout the entire season. As you continue southward, your vehicle will come alive with the pleasant aroma, rejuvenating you as you continue on your way.
Just down the road a piece is Mackey’s; look for the big apple on the left. Have a bite to eat and restore your energy further. After some home-made soup, bread, and fresh-pressed cider, you won’t be able to choose just one dessert. You will be tempted by apple turnovers, dumplings, cake, and apple crisp. Undoubtedly, you will need to take one or more of the fresh-baked pies home. You’ll have to decide between apple, cherry, blueberry, peach praline, pineapple- upside-down, apple walnut, and very berry.
As you think about who to invite over for some pie later, pick up another gift for them and you as well. Across the street, a stones-throw away is the Gro-Rite Greenhouse & Garden Center. Their vibrant poinsettias are always a pleasant addition to anyone’s house this time of year. During the warmer months, Gro-Rite can also provide many of your gardening and landscaping needs.
Your new-found energy will come in handy as you make your way just a bit further to the Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm on the left. For over 45 years, this eight-generation farm has created life-long memories for many families as they make their annual trek to the hilltop to find and cut their family tree among the thousands of trees available on this 172-acre farm. The whole experience is conveniently streamlined for you as they will prepare the tree for easy transport, display, and care at home.
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| "The Hill" at Wyckoff's Christmas Tree Farm offers a spectacular 20 mile view. |
Farms like Wyckoff’s, with the National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA), are educating the public of the benefits of getting a real Christmas tree rather than an artificial one in your home. Aside from the obvious benefit of filling your home with the fragrance of winter, for every tree that is cut and sold, farmers plant two or three trees to replace it. These additional trees help to clean the air we breathe, and are also naturally biodegradable.
Artificial trees not only end up in landfills, but are manufactured with a variety of non-biodegradable materials such as petroleum-based plastics and other metal alloys. According to the NCTA, 85% of artificial trees sold in the U.S. are imported from China and may have had lead used in production. Real trees are 100% home-grown and support local economies.
To recycle your tree, return in January to Perfect Christmas Tree Farm on Route 22 in Phillipsburg. The farm holds an annual Tree Chip Day celebration. The day includes plenty of other activities. Make it a Green Christmas this year!
Continuing south on 519, you may find that perfect centerpiece, cemetery blanket or log box at Clucas Farms West. Better yet, you may want to custom order for an added personal touch. A pleasant change from the mass production look of the large stores, friendly and helpful faces create refreshing choices for your holiday needs.
Once your tree and other decorations are ready to go, you probably will be as well. Traveling the bucolic hills of Harmony Township will eventually lead you back toward the suburban sprawl near Route 22 (leading to Route 78).
If you’re not ready to end your Christmas in the country just yet, continue further south on 519, then to 627 south, to Villa Milagro Vineyards. Your journey began with one winery; it can end with one too. This vineyard is noted for having numerous green practices. If the weather outside is frightful, you may have the opportunity to learn how to take advantage of rainwater during a rain-barrel workshop at the winery, in addition to sampling some of their superb blends.
Consider making this an annual tradition for you and your family. As you head home, your senses will thank you all the way.
For more ideas on exploring northwest New Jersey visit www.highlandstourism.org.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Autumn Tea & Tour at The Frelinghuysen Arboretum, Sunday, October 3, Morristown
Autumn Tea & Tour at The Frelinghuysen Arboretum, Sunday, October 3 and Sunday, October 10, 2010. The time is 1pm – 3:30pm. The cost is $35 per person. To register call 973-326-7601.
Guests will enjoy an invigorating 45 minute guided tour of the gardens beautifully dressed in their fall colors and a peek in the Colonial Revival home of the Frelinghuysen family.
Then, a delicious catered tea will be served in Matilda’s Tea Room, complete with scones, assorted tea sandwiches and pastries.
Finally, a visit to a flower show completes your afternoon. October 3 is the Gesneriad Show and October 19 is the Chrysanthemum show. In the event of continuous rain, a talk in the Arboretum’s library will replace the walk.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
The Morris County Tourism Bureau Announces it’s Fall Walking Tour Series.
Back by popular demand – make your reservations now!
Morristown: October 9, Historic Hike
A 90 minute hike from the Morris County Courthouse uphill to Fort Nonsense. Historic sites included in the tour will be the Courthouse, the area’s first water system and the story of how a Revolutionary War-era redoubt, Fort Nonsense, got its name. The tour will be led by Al MacLennan, an experienced hiker and heritage tour guide. The tour will begin at 6 Court Street, Morristown at 10 a.m. Tour participants will encounter a steep hill ascending to Fort Nonsense.
Morristown: October 16, Remains to Be Seen
Morristown’s 300 years of death and dying are revealed by local historian/former museum director David Breslauer with an evening lantern tour of the National Historic District.
Starting with the graves at St. Peter’s churchyard we will recount the lives of the bones and stones that may be at rest. Buried at the church are Alfred Vail, inventor of the telegraph and George Macculloch and his wife Louisa. Macculloch created the Morris Canal connecting the Delaware and Hudson Rivers across New Jersey.
The lantern walk will then enter the historic neighborhood. The grand homes include the Thomas Nast house, a National Landmark, the Kedge, Edgewood, Goodrest, Evergreens, and the Potts mansion, ending at Macculloch Hall where visitors are never alone with five generations of family members still continue to enjoy their home after 140 years!
The tour will start at St. Peter’s Church, Miller & South Street, Morristown 5pm-6:30pm
Morristown: October 23 Real Bones, Old Stones: the Presbyterian Graveyard
Local historian and educator Scott Shepherd will walk you through the graveyard behind the Presbyterian Church revealing the history of Morristown. Some of the graves reflect the rich and famous of the Morris area such as Estey, Condict, Lindsley, Ford and Doughty. Other graves are more tragic. During the Revolution, soldiers dying of smallpox at the church which doubled as a hospital were buried in unmarked graves. The bones are below, the aged stones are above, and Scott Shepherd will share their story with walking tour visitors. The tour will start at the Presbyterian Church, Park Place, North of the Green, Morristown at 4pm-5:30pm
Admission: $10.00 a person
Reservations are required: (973) 631-5151 www.morristourism.org
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Free Admission to Morristown National Historic Park This Weekend
On August 14 and 15, all national parks, including Morristown National Historic Park, are waiving normal admission fees and granting free entrance to all park visitors.
Programs this weekend include -
Neglected and Forgotten,
Saturday, August 14,
1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Even the first American veterans were ill-treated and unappreciated. Meet a ranger at the Visitor Center and learn about the hardships and neglect endured by the Continental Army soldiers both during and after the American Revolution
Outdoor Musick at the Wick House
Saturday, August 14
7 p.m.
Wick House in Jockey Hollow
Join balladeer Linda Russell as she performs music from the time of the American Revolution. Accompanying herself on hammered and mountain dulcimers, guitar, pennywhistle and limberjack, she illuminates the story of our nation’s birth with ballads, broadsides and dance tunes. The concert is FREE of charge. Inclement weather will move the concert indoors to the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center. Bring a flashlight and something to sit on.
Cross Estate Tour
Sunday, August 15
10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Meet at the New Jersey Brigade Area/ Cross Estate Parking Lot. Walk the grounds and gardens of the Cross Estate and learn about the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy people of the Mountain Colony during early 20th century, when Bernardsville was one of the richest towns in America. Learn about the people who lived on the estate including an engineer, a banker, a hunter, a conservationist, gardeners and even park rangers.
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Tours of Washington's Headquarters at the Ford Mansion
Tours are offered daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Additional tours and gallery talks are offered depending upon staff availability. Please call 973-539-2016 x 210 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for the most up-to-date information regarding tour times.
Washington's Headquarters Museum
The 1930s Washington's Headquarters Museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The museum features three exhibit galleries, an introductory video, a PowerPoint presentation of the furnished Ford Mansion and a free color- illustrated souvenir booklet of the Ford Mansion's interior. The museum also offers a gift shop/ sales area and serves as the visitor contact point to begin the Ford Mansion tours.
The Wick House at Jockey Hollow
Daily, approximately 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Programs this weekend include -
Neglected and Forgotten,
Saturday, August 14,
1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Even the first American veterans were ill-treated and unappreciated. Meet a ranger at the Visitor Center and learn about the hardships and neglect endured by the Continental Army soldiers both during and after the American Revolution
Outdoor Musick at the Wick House
Saturday, August 14
7 p.m.
Wick House in Jockey Hollow
Join balladeer Linda Russell as she performs music from the time of the American Revolution. Accompanying herself on hammered and mountain dulcimers, guitar, pennywhistle and limberjack, she illuminates the story of our nation’s birth with ballads, broadsides and dance tunes. The concert is FREE of charge. Inclement weather will move the concert indoors to the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center. Bring a flashlight and something to sit on.
Cross Estate Tour
Sunday, August 15
10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Meet at the New Jersey Brigade Area/ Cross Estate Parking Lot. Walk the grounds and gardens of the Cross Estate and learn about the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy people of the Mountain Colony during early 20th century, when Bernardsville was one of the richest towns in America. Learn about the people who lived on the estate including an engineer, a banker, a hunter, a conservationist, gardeners and even park rangers.
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Tours of Washington's Headquarters at the Ford Mansion
Tours are offered daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Additional tours and gallery talks are offered depending upon staff availability. Please call 973-539-2016 x 210 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for the most up-to-date information regarding tour times.
Washington's Headquarters Museum
The 1930s Washington's Headquarters Museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The museum features three exhibit galleries, an introductory video, a PowerPoint presentation of the furnished Ford Mansion and a free color- illustrated souvenir booklet of the Ford Mansion's interior. The museum also offers a gift shop/ sales area and serves as the visitor contact point to begin the Ford Mansion tours.
The Wick House at Jockey Hollow
Daily, approximately 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Morristown National Historical Park Summer Programs Feature Dog Walks, Two Evening Campfire Programs and Music Concert by Historical Balladeer Linda Russell
General Public Contact: 973-539-2016 x 210 or 973-543-4030
ONE-DATE ONLY PROGRAMS
Evening Campfire Program: 18th-Century Storytelling
Thursday, July 22, 7 p.m.
Wick House in Jockey Hollow
Without TV, TiVo or Twitter, the soldiers and civilians of the 18th century told stories to pass the time. Gather around the campfire and hear jokes, riddles and humorous stories that were popular in 18th century. Please bring a folding chair or blanket and a flashlight.
New Jersey Brigade Hike
Sunday, August 1, 10 a.m.
Meet at the New Jersey Brigade Area/ Cross Estate Parking Lot
Tour one of the lesser known areas of the park and learn about the New Jersey troops who camped there. Hear about the sufferings of the soldiers’ during the “Hard Winter” as you hike to the site of the New Jersey Brigade encampment. This is a strenuous 5 mile hike that goes up and down hills. Please wear appropriate clothing and bring along your own water. The hike starts and ends at the New Jersey Brigade Parking Area at the Cross Estate.
Evening Campfire Program: A Veteran Remembers
Thursday, August 5, 7 p.m.
Wick House in Jockey Hollow
Gather round the campfire and listen as an old veteran of the American Revolution recalls some of his adventures and sufferings during the war. Park Ranger/Historian, Eric Olsen will present an evening campfire program based on the memoirs of Revolutionary War soldier Joseph P. Martin at the Wick House in Jockey Hollow. Visitors should bring a blanket or chair to sit on as well as a flashlight.
Neglected and Forgotten
Saturday, August 14, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Even the first American veterans were ill-treated and unappreciated. Meet a ranger at the Visitor Center and learn about the hardships and neglect endured by the Continental Army soldiers both during and after the American Revolution.
Outdoor Musick at the Wick House
Saturday, August 14, 7 p.m.
Wick House in Jockey Hollow
Join balladeer Linda Russell as she performs music from the time of the American Revolution. Accompanying herself on hammered and mountain dulcimers, guitar, pennywhistle and limberjack, she illuminates the story of our nation’s birth with ballads, broadsides and dance tunes. The concert is FREE of charge. Inclement weather will move the concert indoors to the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center. Bring a flashlight and something to sit on.
Going Loomy
Saturday, August 21, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Visit the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center to learn the basics in weaving on table and tape looms. Learn how families worked together to prepare the fibers used to weave clothes for each other.
REPEATED PROGRAMS
Dog Walk
Wednesdays: July 21, August 4, August 18, 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
You and your dog are invited to join the park historian for a 3 mile walk around Jockey Hollow on the tour road. As you walk you’ll learn about the dogs and other pets that were part of the armies of the American Revolution. All dogs must be on a leash and owners are requested to clean-up after their pets. People without dogs are welcome too!
Cross Estate Tour
Sundays: July 25 and August 15, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Meet at the New Jersey Brigade Area/ Cross Estate Parking Lot
Walk the grounds and gardens of the Cross Estate and learn about the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy people of the Mountain Colony during early 20th century, when Bernardsville was one of the richest towns in America. Learn about the people who lived on the estate including an engineer, a banker, a hunter, a conservationist, gardeners and even park rangers.
Tour Road Ramble
Wednesdays: July 28 and August 11, 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Jockey Hollow; begin at the flagpole in the Visitor Center parking lot
People walk or drive on the tour road everyday and never realize how much history happened all around them. Join the park historian for a 3 mile walk around Jockey Hollow on the tour road and learn about the history of Jockey Hollow from 1750 to the present day. Topics covered on the walk include: mutiny, the C.C.C. camp, the super rich of the early 20th century and the man who was hanged twice.
Monthly Trail Work Days
Saturdays: August 14 and September 11, 9:00 a.m. to noon
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Become one of the park's volunteers and help maintain its over 20 miles of hiking trails. Wear work clothes including gloves and boots. Please bring your own drinking water. For more information, contact Tim Socha at 973-543-7958 or timothy_socha@nps.gov; or Pam Dobben at 973-539-2016 x 230 or pamela_dobben@nps.gov.
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Tours of Washington's Headquarters at the Ford Mansion
Tours are offered daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Additional tours and gallery talks are offered depending upon staff availability. Please call 973-539-2016 x 210 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for the most up-to-date information regarding tour times.
Washington's Headquarters Museum
The 1930s Washington's Headquarters Museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. The museum features three exhibit galleries, an introductory video, a PowerPoint presentation of the furnished Ford Mansion and a free color- illustrated souvenir booklet of the Ford Mansion's interior. The museum also offers a gift shop/ sales area and serves as the visitor contact point to begin the Ford Mansion tours.
The Wick House at Jockey Hollow
Daily, approximately 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Fees
The entrance fee to the Washington’s Headquarters Museum, which includes the Ford Mansion tours, is $4 per person, age 16 and older. Federal Recreation Passports honored. No admission fee at Jockey Hollow.
ONE-DATE ONLY PROGRAMS
Evening Campfire Program: 18th-Century Storytelling
Thursday, July 22, 7 p.m.
Wick House in Jockey Hollow
Without TV, TiVo or Twitter, the soldiers and civilians of the 18th century told stories to pass the time. Gather around the campfire and hear jokes, riddles and humorous stories that were popular in 18th century. Please bring a folding chair or blanket and a flashlight.
New Jersey Brigade Hike
Sunday, August 1, 10 a.m.
Meet at the New Jersey Brigade Area/ Cross Estate Parking Lot
Tour one of the lesser known areas of the park and learn about the New Jersey troops who camped there. Hear about the sufferings of the soldiers’ during the “Hard Winter” as you hike to the site of the New Jersey Brigade encampment. This is a strenuous 5 mile hike that goes up and down hills. Please wear appropriate clothing and bring along your own water. The hike starts and ends at the New Jersey Brigade Parking Area at the Cross Estate.
Evening Campfire Program: A Veteran Remembers
Thursday, August 5, 7 p.m.
Wick House in Jockey Hollow
Gather round the campfire and listen as an old veteran of the American Revolution recalls some of his adventures and sufferings during the war. Park Ranger/Historian, Eric Olsen will present an evening campfire program based on the memoirs of Revolutionary War soldier Joseph P. Martin at the Wick House in Jockey Hollow. Visitors should bring a blanket or chair to sit on as well as a flashlight.
Neglected and Forgotten
Saturday, August 14, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Even the first American veterans were ill-treated and unappreciated. Meet a ranger at the Visitor Center and learn about the hardships and neglect endured by the Continental Army soldiers both during and after the American Revolution.
Outdoor Musick at the Wick House
Saturday, August 14, 7 p.m.
Wick House in Jockey Hollow
Join balladeer Linda Russell as she performs music from the time of the American Revolution. Accompanying herself on hammered and mountain dulcimers, guitar, pennywhistle and limberjack, she illuminates the story of our nation’s birth with ballads, broadsides and dance tunes. The concert is FREE of charge. Inclement weather will move the concert indoors to the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center. Bring a flashlight and something to sit on.
Going Loomy
Saturday, August 21, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Visit the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center to learn the basics in weaving on table and tape looms. Learn how families worked together to prepare the fibers used to weave clothes for each other.
REPEATED PROGRAMS
Dog Walk
Wednesdays: July 21, August 4, August 18, 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
You and your dog are invited to join the park historian for a 3 mile walk around Jockey Hollow on the tour road. As you walk you’ll learn about the dogs and other pets that were part of the armies of the American Revolution. All dogs must be on a leash and owners are requested to clean-up after their pets. People without dogs are welcome too!
Cross Estate Tour
Sundays: July 25 and August 15, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Meet at the New Jersey Brigade Area/ Cross Estate Parking Lot
Walk the grounds and gardens of the Cross Estate and learn about the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy people of the Mountain Colony during early 20th century, when Bernardsville was one of the richest towns in America. Learn about the people who lived on the estate including an engineer, a banker, a hunter, a conservationist, gardeners and even park rangers.
Tour Road Ramble
Wednesdays: July 28 and August 11, 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Jockey Hollow; begin at the flagpole in the Visitor Center parking lot
People walk or drive on the tour road everyday and never realize how much history happened all around them. Join the park historian for a 3 mile walk around Jockey Hollow on the tour road and learn about the history of Jockey Hollow from 1750 to the present day. Topics covered on the walk include: mutiny, the C.C.C. camp, the super rich of the early 20th century and the man who was hanged twice.
Monthly Trail Work Days
Saturdays: August 14 and September 11, 9:00 a.m. to noon
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Become one of the park's volunteers and help maintain its over 20 miles of hiking trails. Wear work clothes including gloves and boots. Please bring your own drinking water. For more information, contact Tim Socha at 973-543-7958 or timothy_socha@nps.gov; or Pam Dobben at 973-539-2016 x 230 or pamela_dobben@nps.gov.
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Tours of Washington's Headquarters at the Ford Mansion
Tours are offered daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Additional tours and gallery talks are offered depending upon staff availability. Please call 973-539-2016 x 210 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for the most up-to-date information regarding tour times.
Washington's Headquarters Museum
The 1930s Washington's Headquarters Museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. The museum features three exhibit galleries, an introductory video, a PowerPoint presentation of the furnished Ford Mansion and a free color- illustrated souvenir booklet of the Ford Mansion's interior. The museum also offers a gift shop/ sales area and serves as the visitor contact point to begin the Ford Mansion tours.
The Wick House at Jockey Hollow
Daily, approximately 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Fees
The entrance fee to the Washington’s Headquarters Museum, which includes the Ford Mansion tours, is $4 per person, age 16 and older. Federal Recreation Passports honored. No admission fee at Jockey Hollow.
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| Washington's Headquarters Museum |
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Last Fling Pumpkin Sling Promises Great Fun This Fall
There is something new going on in Warren County this fall season. On October 30 and 31 in White Township pumpkins will be flying through the air at Hensler Farms, at the intersection of Rt. 519 and Rt. 623. Hensler Farms is hosting the 1st annual Last Fling Pumpkin Sling.
The sling is a family-oriented competition. Teams will build mechanical devices – catapults and trebuchets – designed to hurl a two-to-three pound pumpkin a maximum distance. Currently the organizers are looking for teams and vendors to participate. There are adult and junior divisions. All are welcomed to participate.
For the youth teams the competition is designed to develop teamwork and problem-solving skills in an adult-adolescent collaboration. Similar competitions throughout the country draw from school, scouting, church and 4-H clubs to compete in several categories.
For adults with a competitive streak, building a catapult or trebuchet as part of a team can be rewarding. Not to mention it will allow you to spend extra time in your garage.
Entrants are encouraged to sign up early as a page will be created on the website for each team, charting their progress. The fee will be waived for the first 5 registrants in each age group.
Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded in several age and device-type categories. A grand-prize will also be awarded to the overall winner. Competition rules and regulations can be found at www.pumpkinsling.com.
This event has been made possible, in part, by grants from the NJ Division of Travel and Tourism and the Highlands Coalition. Proceeds from the event will go towards promoting agri-tourism, eco-tourism and cultural heritage in the Highlands Region of NJ.
The sling is a family-oriented competition. Teams will build mechanical devices – catapults and trebuchets – designed to hurl a two-to-three pound pumpkin a maximum distance. Currently the organizers are looking for teams and vendors to participate. There are adult and junior divisions. All are welcomed to participate.
For the youth teams the competition is designed to develop teamwork and problem-solving skills in an adult-adolescent collaboration. Similar competitions throughout the country draw from school, scouting, church and 4-H clubs to compete in several categories.
For adults with a competitive streak, building a catapult or trebuchet as part of a team can be rewarding. Not to mention it will allow you to spend extra time in your garage.
Entrants are encouraged to sign up early as a page will be created on the website for each team, charting their progress. The fee will be waived for the first 5 registrants in each age group.
Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded in several age and device-type categories. A grand-prize will also be awarded to the overall winner. Competition rules and regulations can be found at www.pumpkinsling.com.
This event has been made possible, in part, by grants from the NJ Division of Travel and Tourism and the Highlands Coalition. Proceeds from the event will go towards promoting agri-tourism, eco-tourism and cultural heritage in the Highlands Region of NJ.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Morristown Historical Walking Tours Summer Tour Series Feature new tour: Green to The Green
The Morris County Tourism Bureau (MCTB) welcomes you to join them again in the perennial walking tour series. Walk with the guide and experience the rich history Morris County has to offer. Through June, July and August tours will be offered Saturday morning at 10:00 am and will last approximately 1 1/2 hours. Tickets are $10, children 6 and under are free. All tours except the Mendham tour will depart from the MCTB, 6 Court Street, Morristown, NJ. One new tour is featured this year
“Green to The Green” on August 7
The past, present and future of “green space” is the primary topic of conversation as we visit two sites important to downtown Morristown. At the Morristown Green, the most distinguishing feature of Morristown, you will hear highlights from its 300-year history, from its origin as common pasture land and site of the executioner’s gallows, to the temporary military quarters of General George Washington, to the recently re-landscaped urban oasis it is today.
Just a short block away, we will visit the “greenest” building in modern Morristown. Opened in 2008, 14 Maple Avenue is home to a number of non-profit organizations including the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, and features a solar array, rooftop garden, the largest interior bio-wall in North America and furnishings made from an astonishing array of natural and recycled materials. The tour concludes in the lobby where visitors will see how materials salvaged from the Epstein’s Department Store were incorporated into the new building’s design.
Green to the Green will be of interest to architects, builders, interior designers and those interested in leading-edge sustainable building practices and materials.
Reservations are required: 973 631-5151. Tour starts at 6 Court Street; Morristown, NJ, group size is limited to 30. Admission is $10. Tour starts at 10 am and lasts about 1 1/2 hours.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Special Shape "Monster" balloon invades Balloon Festival at Warren County Fair
Balloonatics & Aeronuts, the coordinators of the Hot Air Balloon Festival at the Warren County Farmers’ Fair recently acquired a large, green special shape balloon referred to as a “monster balloon.” Look for the “monster balloon” over the skies of Warren County in the next coming weeks. Also look for it each evening at the Warren County Farmers’ Fair and Hot Air Balloon Festival, August 1 – 7, 2010 at the Fairgrounds located in Harmony Township. The fairground is conveniently located off Routes 78 & 80, 3 miles north of Phillipsburg, New Jersey. The “monster balloon” will be the “hare balloon” in one of the evening competitions and will also be giving tethered rides for children for a fee other evenings of the fair. The balloon festival organizers invite children to give them suggestions for a name. Look for the entry form on the fair website, www.warrencountyfarmersfair.org or the balloon festival website, www.balloonfestnj.com. While there are two websites, the events are one and the same with one low admission price – what organizers refer to as “The Ultimate Twofer.” Photos and video may be viewed on our Facebook page.
This is the first look at the “monster balloon” in several years. The “monster balloon” which has been in storage, was recently acquired by Balloonatics & Aeronuts, the coordinators of the Balloon Festival at the Warren County Farmers’ Fair.
This is the first look at the “monster balloon” in several years. The “monster balloon” which has been in storage, was recently acquired by Balloonatics & Aeronuts, the coordinators of the Balloon Festival at the Warren County Farmers’ Fair.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Morristown Historical Walking Tours– 2010
Summer Tour Series – featuring new tour: Green to The Green
The Morris County Tourism Bureau (MCTB) welcomes you to join us again in our perennial walking tour series. Walk with us and experience the rich history Morris County has to offer. Through June, July and August tours will be offered Saturday morning at 10:00 am and will last approximately 1 1/2 hours. Tickets are $10, children 6 and under are free. All tours except the Mendham tour will depart from the MCTB, 6 Court Street, Morristown, NJ.
Reservations are required and may be made by calling (973) 631-5151.
Morristown in Three Centuries –
Led by Carol Barkin, Mark Texel, & Al MacLennan
June 5, July 10, August 14
This historic Morristown walking tour covers nearly a mile within Morristown’s historic district. Over three hundred years of Morristown history is covered from its earliest beginnings at the Presbyterian Church of Morristown through the Industrial Revolution and to the flamboyant Gilded Age. The Vail Mansion, Macculloch Hall, and the Thomas Nast House are among the sites that are discussed. Carol Barkin is a docent for the Morris County Tourism Bureau and a member of the Morris Township Historic Preservation Commission.
Mark Texel is the Director of the Morris County Park Commission’s Historic Sites Division in Morristown, NJ. He is a trustee of the Washington Valley Association and lives in a ca. 1920s farmhouse in Morris Township.
Al MacLennan is a hike leader for the Union County Hiking Club and the Interstate Hiking Club. He is a docent for the Morris County Tourism Bureau and has lived in Morris County for 35 years.
Tour starts at 6 Court Street, Morristown & group size is limited to 25.
Trial of the (19th) Century: Antoine LeBlanc –
Led by Judge Kenneth C. MacKenzie
June 12, July 24
Learn all about Morristown’s most famous murder trial as you sit in the actual courtroom where Antoine LeBlanc was tried in 1833 for the murder of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Sayre and their servant Phoebe. The triple murder trial shocked the entire state and resulted in LeBlanc’s execution by hanging on the Morristown Green. The tour is conducted by Honorable Kenneth C. MacKenzie, retired Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, historian, and member of the Board of Trustees of Historic Speedwell.
Tour starts at 6 Court St. Morristown
Green to The Green: (NEW)
Led by Carol Barkin and Cynthia Evans of the Dodge Foundation
June 19, August 7
The past, present and future of “green space” will be discussed as we visit two sites important to Morristown. The Green, the most distinguishing feature of Morristown, has been central to the town’s life since 1715. This will be an in-depth look at how it developed, from its beginning as common pasture ground to its 2007 million-dollar renovation. The tour will then move to 14 Maple Avenue, the greenest office building in Morristown according to LEED standards. Learn about Morristown’s future and sustainable building practices, an area of intense interest by the Dodge Foundation. This is a unique opportunity to tour the building which features solar panels, a rooftop vegetative garden, geothermal wells, recycled building materials and the largest “bio-wall” in North America.
Legends of Mendham’s Past –
Led by Charles Topping
July 17
We are pleased to offer an insightful tour of Mendham Borough, with Charles Topping, president of the Mendham Historical Society. Topics to be covered include the commercial and residential buildings of the downtown area, some of which date back to the 18th century, famous settlers and residents of Mendham including Abner Doubleday, and a recounting of a notorious bank robbery.
Tour starts at the Phoenix House, 2 West Main Street, Mendham Borough & group size is limited to 25.
Secrets & Lore of Historic Morristown –
Led by David Breslauer
June 26, July 31
Grand homes, wealthy builders, and some annoying neighbors are part of the Historic District of Morristown. As two farms became a prestigious residential area, mansions made Morristown’s landscape and social scene change Walk in a neighborhood of fabulous Victorian homes with David Breslauer, former director of Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, and hear the stories of wayward chickens and pigs, brick walls against car traffic, week-long parties, tycoons and backyard views. The tour will end in Morristown’s ‘secret garden.’
Tour begins at 6 Court Street, Morristown & group size is limited to 25.
For more information about the Morris County Tourism Bureau and more thing to see and do in Morris County visit www.morristourism.org.
The Morris County Tourism Bureau (MCTB) welcomes you to join us again in our perennial walking tour series. Walk with us and experience the rich history Morris County has to offer. Through June, July and August tours will be offered Saturday morning at 10:00 am and will last approximately 1 1/2 hours. Tickets are $10, children 6 and under are free. All tours except the Mendham tour will depart from the MCTB, 6 Court Street, Morristown, NJ.
Reservations are required and may be made by calling (973) 631-5151.
Morristown in Three Centuries –
Led by Carol Barkin, Mark Texel, & Al MacLennan
June 5, July 10, August 14
This historic Morristown walking tour covers nearly a mile within Morristown’s historic district. Over three hundred years of Morristown history is covered from its earliest beginnings at the Presbyterian Church of Morristown through the Industrial Revolution and to the flamboyant Gilded Age. The Vail Mansion, Macculloch Hall, and the Thomas Nast House are among the sites that are discussed. Carol Barkin is a docent for the Morris County Tourism Bureau and a member of the Morris Township Historic Preservation Commission.
Mark Texel is the Director of the Morris County Park Commission’s Historic Sites Division in Morristown, NJ. He is a trustee of the Washington Valley Association and lives in a ca. 1920s farmhouse in Morris Township.
Al MacLennan is a hike leader for the Union County Hiking Club and the Interstate Hiking Club. He is a docent for the Morris County Tourism Bureau and has lived in Morris County for 35 years.
Tour starts at 6 Court Street, Morristown & group size is limited to 25.
Trial of the (19th) Century: Antoine LeBlanc –
Led by Judge Kenneth C. MacKenzie
June 12, July 24
Learn all about Morristown’s most famous murder trial as you sit in the actual courtroom where Antoine LeBlanc was tried in 1833 for the murder of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Sayre and their servant Phoebe. The triple murder trial shocked the entire state and resulted in LeBlanc’s execution by hanging on the Morristown Green. The tour is conducted by Honorable Kenneth C. MacKenzie, retired Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, historian, and member of the Board of Trustees of Historic Speedwell.
Tour starts at 6 Court St. Morristown
Green to The Green: (NEW)
Led by Carol Barkin and Cynthia Evans of the Dodge Foundation
June 19, August 7
The past, present and future of “green space” will be discussed as we visit two sites important to Morristown. The Green, the most distinguishing feature of Morristown, has been central to the town’s life since 1715. This will be an in-depth look at how it developed, from its beginning as common pasture ground to its 2007 million-dollar renovation. The tour will then move to 14 Maple Avenue, the greenest office building in Morristown according to LEED standards. Learn about Morristown’s future and sustainable building practices, an area of intense interest by the Dodge Foundation. This is a unique opportunity to tour the building which features solar panels, a rooftop vegetative garden, geothermal wells, recycled building materials and the largest “bio-wall” in North America.
Legends of Mendham’s Past –
Led by Charles Topping
July 17
We are pleased to offer an insightful tour of Mendham Borough, with Charles Topping, president of the Mendham Historical Society. Topics to be covered include the commercial and residential buildings of the downtown area, some of which date back to the 18th century, famous settlers and residents of Mendham including Abner Doubleday, and a recounting of a notorious bank robbery.
Tour starts at the Phoenix House, 2 West Main Street, Mendham Borough & group size is limited to 25.
Secrets & Lore of Historic Morristown –
Led by David Breslauer
June 26, July 31
Grand homes, wealthy builders, and some annoying neighbors are part of the Historic District of Morristown. As two farms became a prestigious residential area, mansions made Morristown’s landscape and social scene change Walk in a neighborhood of fabulous Victorian homes with David Breslauer, former director of Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, and hear the stories of wayward chickens and pigs, brick walls against car traffic, week-long parties, tycoons and backyard views. The tour will end in Morristown’s ‘secret garden.’
Tour begins at 6 Court Street, Morristown & group size is limited to 25.
For more information about the Morris County Tourism Bureau and more thing to see and do in Morris County visit www.morristourism.org.
Monday, May 17, 2010
"Secret Treasures: A Bus & Walking Tour Of Historic Stillwater and Millbrook Villages" will be held 10 am Saturday, May 22
"Secret Treasures: A Bus & Walking Tour Of Historic Stillwater and Millbrook Villages" will be held 10 am Saturday, May 22
(Hardwick/Warren Co. & Stillwater/Sussex Co.) You are invited to a free tour of the historic buildings, farmsteads, farm lanes, historic districts and archaeological sites within sight of the PSE&G transmission line and the existing 80' towers. Will the proposed new 195' towers have significant impacts upon the Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area, the Appalachian Trail, the Middle Delaware Scenic River, and these charming historic hamlets? You be the judge. The tour is sponsored by the New Jersey Highlands Coalition in association with the Historical Society of Stillwater and the Millbrook Historical Society.
See the existing and remnants of the 18th century Dutch, Welsh, Quaker, German and Scotch-Irish settlements, the farming and mining operations they engaged in, and the early roads they traveled on. Learn how these settlements were formed, and how their home countries influenced their development patterns and architecture, as we travel by bus from Stillwater, into the Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area, and into Millbrook Village.
This corner of the state, incorporating the Kittatinny Ridge and the Middle Delaware River, offers expansive vistas of forests, farms and hamlets. On the bus, interpreters will discuss the area's geological and human history. At selected sites along the route, such as the Water Gate Tannery and Millbrook Village, we will be met by an interpreter who will guide us on a walking tour.
The tour duration will be approximately 2.5 hours. Following the tour, all are invited for conversation and pay-your-way lunch at the Boat House Restaurant on nearby Swartzwood Lake. The tour is free of charge.
Meet at:
The Historical Society of Stillwater Township
900 Main Street
Stillwater, New Jersey 07875
10:00AM
For more information and to RSVP:
Elliott Ruga
New Jersey Highlands Coalition
(973) 588-7190, or elliott@njhighlandscoalition.org
Seating is limited, please reserve earlyFriday, May 14, 2010
Gear Up For Summer with NJ Audubon
The New Jersey Audubon Society is a statewide, not-for-profit membership organization committed to fostering environmental awareness and promoting preservation of New Jersey's valuable natural habitats. You can support the organization and pick up some really cool gear at our “Gear Up For Summer” sale at the NJ Audubon Nature Stores from June 3rd through June 6th.
On Saturday, June 5th, Pete Dunne, internationally acclaimed author on birds, birders and natural history, will be signing his new book “Bayshore Summer: Finding Eden in a Most Unlikely Place”. Pete Dunne will be at the Lorrimer Sanctuary from 10 am – 12 noon and at the Plainsboro Preserve from 3 - 5 pm. June 5 is also National Trails Day®, celebrated across the United States the first Saturday of June. Come with your family and celebrate National Trails Day on June 5th - a perfect day to walk the trails at our nature sanctuaries.
Shop our “Gear Up For Summer” sale and receive a discount of $ 5 off of $25, $10 off of $50 and $25 off of $100 (excludes optics, tripods, and plants.) at our nature stores. This is in addition to member discount. If you are considering becoming a NJ Audubon member, please visit us online at www.njaudubon for introductory membership offer. Memberships are reasonably priced at $30 per individual and $35 per family. Memberships can also be purchased at any NJ Audubon Nature Stores.
Proceeds from Nature Store sales help support the centers which offer year round conservation education, nature classes and general community enrichment. There are numerous centers located throughout New Jersey. These centers offer summer camps, educational classes and workshops for adults and children, bird watching and wildlife viewing field trips and more. Locate a Center near you:
Weis Ecology Center in Ringwood, Passaic County
Plainsboro Preserve in Cranbury, Middlesex County
Lorrimer Sanctuary in Franklin Lakes, Bergen County
Rancocas Nature Center in Mount Holly, Burlington County
Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary in Bernardsville, Somerset County
CMBO, Center for Research and Education, in Cape May Court House, Cape May County
CMBO, The Northwood Center in Cape May Point, Cape May County
Nature Center of Cape May, in Cape May, Cape May County
Sandy Hook Bird Observatory in Highlands, Monmouth County
For more information on each of the centers visit us online at www.njaudubon.org.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
What’s So Special About Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary?
By Rick Radis, New Jersey Audubon Magazine
From high ground nearby, George Washington’s troops watched the not-too-distant British in Manhattan. Nowadays, the skylines of Jersey City and Manhattan can be seen to the east, while Interstate 287 and the suburban towns of Bernardsville and Basking Ridge hum in the background.
From high ground nearby, George Washington’s troops watched the not-too-distant British in Manhattan. Nowadays, the skylines of Jersey City and Manhattan can be seen to the east, while Interstate 287 and the suburban towns of Bernardsville and Basking Ridge hum in the background.
Today, just as many natural wonders can be found at Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary as were found in Washington’s time -- at any time of year. Wild Turkeys.Red-tailed and Cooper’s Hawks. Great Horned and Screech Owls. The breathtaking (there’s no other word for it) Pileated Woodpecker. Eastern Bluebirds start nesting in late March. Baltimore Orioles and Scarlet Tanagers and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds return in early May. Hard-to-find breeding birds like Louisiana Waterthrush and Worm-eating Warbler can be found here, too. Waves of migrant birds pass through in April and May, and again in September and October, and a variety of sparrows, finches, wrens, kinglets, and Hermit Thrushes spend the colder months here, and can often be seen at the wellstocked feeders. Less common winter finches such as Pine Siskins and Common Redpolls return some years. Sixty species of birds breed at the sanctuary, and over 175 species have been seen here over the years.
In early spring Scherman Hoffman’s critical vernal pools are home to breeding Wood Frogs, Spring Peepers (tiny treefrogs) and big, logy Spotted Salamanders. The headwaters of the Passaic River here provide important habitat for the rare Wood Turtle, which is on New Jersey’s Threatened Species List. Box Turtles, whose population is also in decline, roam the grounds, along with several types of snakes, frogs, toads and salamanders. Almost thirty species of mammals have been seen at Scherman Hoffman, including Red Fox, Flying Squirrel, Coyote, shrews and moles and voles, Long-tailed Weasel and Mink.
Come watch the continuing experiment in the Deer Exclosure, where wildflowers, tree seedlings and shrubs are returning — on their own — after decades of overbrowsing
by deer. In summer and fall, the fields of little bluestem, switchgrass, thistles and snakeroots, milkweed, goldenrods and asters are some of the best places in north
Jersey to see poetically named butterflies like Great Spangled Fritillary, Northern Pearly Eye, and Wood Nymph. In good weather in late summer, Monarchs are seen here daily. The rare Harvester butterfly is often found in beech woods in midsummer. Birds; including the biggest woodpecker you’ll ever see. Mammals. Frogs and snakes and toads, turtles and salamanders. Red Foxes. And a river runs through it. Begin your child’s natural history education here, or begin or expand your own, year-round, at this natural jewel.
May Days on May 1 & 2, 2010 celebrates the Grand Opening of the Hoffman Center for Conservation and Environmental Education. But there is always something happening at the Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary. Check the website throughout the seasons for an updated schedule of events. http://bit.ly/cSchMM
Nature Store Hours are 9 am – 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday and 12 to 5 pm on Sunday. Trails ranging in length from 0.3 miles to 1.3 miles are open from dawn ‘till dusk. Admission is free for all.
PUBLIC INVITED TO “BE OUR GUEST” AT MORRIS AREA MUSEUMS MAY 16
MORRISTOWN, NJ, APRIL 21, 2010 – Eight historic sites and museums throughout Morris County are inviting the public to “Be Our Guest” on Sunday, May 16, from noon to 4 p.m. in celebration of National Tourism Week. Participating institutions will open their doors and waive their usual admission fees during those hours, although guests are encouraged to contribute a non-perishable food item for the Interfaith Food Pantry in lieu of the normal admission fee. The event is sponsored by the Morris County Alliance for Tourism. For more information, see www.morristourism.org/be_our_guest.php or call 973-631-5151.
Sites participating in the event:
Acorn Hall, 68 Morris Avenue, Morristown, www.acornhall.org. Headquarters of the Morris County Historical Society and a Victorian Italianate mansion decorated largely with furnishings from the two families who lived there between 1853 and 1971; it also has changing exhibits and a garden with period features.
Community Children's Museum, 77 East Blackwell Street, Dover, www.communitychildrensmuseum.org. A hands-on children's museum for children 10 and younger focusing on art, science, and world cultures.
Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, 73 Kahdena Road, Morristown, www.morrisparks.net. A restored working dairy cattle farm portraying life in the early 20th century through costumed living history, farming, and domestic skills demonstrations, and tours of the Foster family’s circa 1852 Gothic Revival house.
Historic Speedwell, 333 Speedwell Avenue, Morristown, www.morrisparks.net. The “Birthplace of the Telegraph,” telling the story of the Vail family and their role in the early days of the Industrial Revolution and in the development of the telegraph, through hands-on exhibits, guided tours and special event weekends.
Macculloch Hall Historical Museum and Gardens, 45 Macculloch Avenue, Morristown, www.maccullochhall.org. An elegant historic house and decorative arts museum comprising ten period rooms and four exhibit galleries, two of which are devoted to the largest collection of cartoonist Thomas Nast’s works in the country.
Morristown National Historical Park/Washington’s Headquarters, 30 Washington Place, Morristown, www.nps.gov/morr. A national park preserving sites of the Continental Army's encampment and the headquarters of General George Washington during the winters of 1777 and 1779–80.
Museum of Early Trades & Crafts, 9 Main Street, Madison, www.metc.org. A museum exploring 18th- and 19th-century American history, with a focus on New Jersey, drawing on its collection of over 8,000 hand tools and their products to interpret the lives and technologies of men and women who lived and worked before the rise of large-scale industrialization in this country.
The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, 2352 Route 10-West, Morris Plains, www.stickleymuseum.org. A National Historic Landmark, this 1911 log house is the former home of noted turn-of-the-century designer Gustav Stickley, a major proponent of the American Arts and Crafts movement in home building and furnishing.
Three free shuttle buses will be provided by the Morris County Park Commission throughout the afternoon. Two of the shuttles will run from Fosterfields to the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts and to Craftsman Farms. The third will run a “Morristown” loop between participating in-town attractions.
The Morris County Alliance for Tourism supports the Morris County Tourism Bureau in positioning the region as a premier tourism destination through a collaboration of interested stakeholders.
The Interfaith Food Pantry, located in Morristown, serves Morris County by distributing supplemental and/or emergency food to eligible Morris County residents in need, providing hands-on opportunities for neighbors to help neighbors, and educating the public about the issues of hunger in our area. More information is available at www.mcifp.org.
Members of the Morris County Alliance for Tourism recently got a head start
on the food collection for the Interfaith Food Pantry in conjunction with the
Be Our Guest open house day set for May 16.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Balloon Festival NJ
Balloon Festival NJ
Visit the website for the 10th annual Hot Air Balloon Festival at the Warren County Farmers' Fair, August 1 to August 7, 2010.
Visit the website for the 10th annual Hot Air Balloon Festival at the Warren County Farmers' Fair, August 1 to August 7, 2010.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
May Days At NJ Audubon’s Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Saturday And Sunday, May 1 and 2
There Is So Much Happening, We Must Ask Guests To Park Off-Site!
Also, FREE Basket Raffles, and Fantastic Silent Auction Items!
BERNARDSVILLE, April 21, 2010 - Question: Where else in New Jersey can you enjoy a one-of-a-kind outdoor art exhibit based on New Jersey’s endangered species? And watch as your kids track wildlife using actual radio telemetry? And see live animals of all kinds, once wild, and now carefully handled for your education and enjoyment? And enjoy entertaining and educational talks by internationally-known nature authors, while your children are right around the corner learning about the same natural phenomenon, at their level? And learn how to identify birds first-hand, with expert naturalists in the field? And take a break and grab a snack, and sit under a tent to enjoy live outdoor music, and so much more, all in one place? All with free admission!
Answer: Only at the Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary in Bernardsville at our May Days Celebration on May 1st and 2nd, from 10 am to 4 pm. We’ll even take you there from our off-site parking area(s) nearby. It’s that easy.
Visit http://www.njaudubon.org/SectionCenters/SectionScherman/MayDays.aspx or www.njaudbon.org for the schedule and all the most recent information.
As you enter May Days, you will be greeted by NJ Audubon staff at our Welcome Center. Please then visit our Friends and Neighbors for information on all kinds of local nature activities. They are listed here:
http://www.njaudubon.org/SectionCenters/SectionScherman/MayDays/Exhibitors.aspx
Bring the little ones, so they can experience nature first-hand on the grounds while they explore the Nature Treasure Hunt, and see live animals, and visit the Children’s Tent, where there will be face-painting, craft-making and story-telling.
Older children will also enjoy the Nature Treasure Hunt and especially the Radio Telemetry Wildlife Tracking Demonstrations, which will take place about every hour and a half. Please note, there is a limit of 12 children for each of these sessions.
Inside the new Hoffman Center for Conservation and Environmental Education, visit the new Nature Store and “grown-up” presentations, while your children have an educational experience with NJ Audubon’s environmental educators in the Wayrick Gallery around the corner. Meet the artist, Marcia Poling, whose superb, delicate hand-painted ornaments are best-sellers in many NJ Audubon stores. And don’t forget a visit to the observation deck where you will be greeted by experts participating in our May Days Big Stay, where they will tally all the bird species they can see or hear from the deck.
Saturday’s presentations include:
- Don Freiday, Director of Birding Programs, New Jersey Audubon Cape May Bird Observatory, along with Pat Brentano, creator of the outdoor exhibit.
- Gordon Thomas Ward, author of Ghosts of Central Jersey: Historic Haunts of the Somerset Hills, which is his most recent book of many about NJ nature and natural history
- Allen Barlow, co-author of the new Field Guide to Dragonflies and Damselflies of New Jersey
- And, Rick Radis, one of the state’s renowned experts on “ephemeral” plants, and all things natural history in New Jersey.
Sunday’s presentations include:
- Pete Dunne, internationally acclaimed author on birds, birders and natural history will share some of his insights and experiences over nearly 30 years with NJ Audubon.
- And Gordon Thomas Ward (see Saturday)
Early birders can arrive at the off-site parking as early as 7:00 am to participate in guided walks at the sanctuary that include a visit to a bird-banding station. This opportunity ends at 10 am.
The May Days Basket Raffles offer over 30 items for you to win, just by coming! Three baskets will be raffled each day, with no purchase necessary. And special thanks to Dolce Basking Ridge, our Silent Auction contributor, for their generous donation of a Romance Weekend Package, valued at $300.
See all our Donors here:
http://www.njaudubon.org/SectionCenters/SectionScherman/MayDays/SponsorsandDonors.aspx
Music graciously provided by NJ Folk Project.
OFF-SITE PARKING DIRECTIONS:
May Days participants are asked to utilize off-site parking nearby. Only handicapped parking will be available at the Sanctuary.
Please park at the Bedwell Middle and Elementary Schools, 141 Seney Drive, Bernardsville, NJ 07924, 1.4 miles from the Sanctuary. Free shuttle buses will make the rounds to and from the Sanctuary approximately every 10 minutes. Any questions, call the Sanctuary at 908-766-5787.
FROM 287 NORTH or SOUTH: Take exit 30B toward route 202 – Bernardsville
Turn Left at the light and proceed for 1.8 miles to the second traffic light.
Turn Right onto Anderson Hill Road and proceed approximately 5 tenths of a mile.
Turn Right onto Seney Drive and proceed about 3 tenths of a mile.
Look for the MAY DAYS sign and turn right into the school parking lot.
If needed, overflow parking will be available at Harding Plaza, 1200 Mt. Kemble Ave. Harding Township, NJ 07960, which is 1.7 miles from the sanctuary. Shuttles will arrive every 10 minutes at this location, as well.
Why off-site parking?
There are two great reasons for our off-site parking. First, our main parking area is going to be busy with information and activities from a variety of organizations. Second, we are keeping the habitat around the sanctuary safe and healthy for wildlife, and you. Please think of this minor inconvenience as part of the fun. And, thanks for coming!! Enjoy!
For more information: Mike Anderson, Director of Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Lillian Armstrong, New Jersey Audubon Communications Liaison (609) 861-1608, ext. 22. For more on outdoor art display by Pat Brentano, visit www.patbrentano.com.
Also, FREE Basket Raffles, and Fantastic Silent Auction Items!
BERNARDSVILLE, April 21, 2010 - Question: Where else in New Jersey can you enjoy a one-of-a-kind outdoor art exhibit based on New Jersey’s endangered species? And watch as your kids track wildlife using actual radio telemetry? And see live animals of all kinds, once wild, and now carefully handled for your education and enjoyment? And enjoy entertaining and educational talks by internationally-known nature authors, while your children are right around the corner learning about the same natural phenomenon, at their level? And learn how to identify birds first-hand, with expert naturalists in the field? And take a break and grab a snack, and sit under a tent to enjoy live outdoor music, and so much more, all in one place? All with free admission!
Answer: Only at the Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary in Bernardsville at our May Days Celebration on May 1st and 2nd, from 10 am to 4 pm. We’ll even take you there from our off-site parking area(s) nearby. It’s that easy.
Visit http://www.njaudubon.org/SectionCenters/SectionScherman/MayDays.aspx or www.njaudbon.org for the schedule and all the most recent information.
As you enter May Days, you will be greeted by NJ Audubon staff at our Welcome Center. Please then visit our Friends and Neighbors for information on all kinds of local nature activities. They are listed here:
http://www.njaudubon.org/SectionCenters/SectionScherman/MayDays/Exhibitors.aspx
Bring the little ones, so they can experience nature first-hand on the grounds while they explore the Nature Treasure Hunt, and see live animals, and visit the Children’s Tent, where there will be face-painting, craft-making and story-telling.
Older children will also enjoy the Nature Treasure Hunt and especially the Radio Telemetry Wildlife Tracking Demonstrations, which will take place about every hour and a half. Please note, there is a limit of 12 children for each of these sessions.
Inside the new Hoffman Center for Conservation and Environmental Education, visit the new Nature Store and “grown-up” presentations, while your children have an educational experience with NJ Audubon’s environmental educators in the Wayrick Gallery around the corner. Meet the artist, Marcia Poling, whose superb, delicate hand-painted ornaments are best-sellers in many NJ Audubon stores. And don’t forget a visit to the observation deck where you will be greeted by experts participating in our May Days Big Stay, where they will tally all the bird species they can see or hear from the deck.
Saturday’s presentations include:
- Don Freiday, Director of Birding Programs, New Jersey Audubon Cape May Bird Observatory, along with Pat Brentano, creator of the outdoor exhibit.
- Gordon Thomas Ward, author of Ghosts of Central Jersey: Historic Haunts of the Somerset Hills, which is his most recent book of many about NJ nature and natural history
- Allen Barlow, co-author of the new Field Guide to Dragonflies and Damselflies of New Jersey
- And, Rick Radis, one of the state’s renowned experts on “ephemeral” plants, and all things natural history in New Jersey.
Sunday’s presentations include:
- Pete Dunne, internationally acclaimed author on birds, birders and natural history will share some of his insights and experiences over nearly 30 years with NJ Audubon.
- And Gordon Thomas Ward (see Saturday)
Early birders can arrive at the off-site parking as early as 7:00 am to participate in guided walks at the sanctuary that include a visit to a bird-banding station. This opportunity ends at 10 am.
The May Days Basket Raffles offer over 30 items for you to win, just by coming! Three baskets will be raffled each day, with no purchase necessary. And special thanks to Dolce Basking Ridge, our Silent Auction contributor, for their generous donation of a Romance Weekend Package, valued at $300.
See all our Donors here:
http://www.njaudubon.org/SectionCenters/SectionScherman/MayDays/SponsorsandDonors.aspx
Music graciously provided by NJ Folk Project.
OFF-SITE PARKING DIRECTIONS:
May Days participants are asked to utilize off-site parking nearby. Only handicapped parking will be available at the Sanctuary.
Please park at the Bedwell Middle and Elementary Schools, 141 Seney Drive, Bernardsville, NJ 07924, 1.4 miles from the Sanctuary. Free shuttle buses will make the rounds to and from the Sanctuary approximately every 10 minutes. Any questions, call the Sanctuary at 908-766-5787.
FROM 287 NORTH or SOUTH: Take exit 30B toward route 202 – Bernardsville
Turn Left at the light and proceed for 1.8 miles to the second traffic light.
Turn Right onto Anderson Hill Road and proceed approximately 5 tenths of a mile.
Turn Right onto Seney Drive and proceed about 3 tenths of a mile.
Look for the MAY DAYS sign and turn right into the school parking lot.
If needed, overflow parking will be available at Harding Plaza, 1200 Mt. Kemble Ave. Harding Township, NJ 07960, which is 1.7 miles from the sanctuary. Shuttles will arrive every 10 minutes at this location, as well.
Why off-site parking?
There are two great reasons for our off-site parking. First, our main parking area is going to be busy with information and activities from a variety of organizations. Second, we are keeping the habitat around the sanctuary safe and healthy for wildlife, and you. Please think of this minor inconvenience as part of the fun. And, thanks for coming!! Enjoy!
For more information: Mike Anderson, Director of Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Lillian Armstrong, New Jersey Audubon Communications Liaison (609) 861-1608, ext. 22. For more on outdoor art display by Pat Brentano, visit www.patbrentano.com.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Grand Opening at NJ Audubon’s Hoffman Center for Conservation and Education
Celebrate May Day with New Jersey Audubon at the new Hoffman Center for Conservation and Education on May 1 and 2 from 10 am to 4 pm. Guided walks, nature games and activities for children and families, indoor programs and exhibits, story-telling, live music, face painting, and much more. Programs on New Jersey’s natural history. Special discounts at Nature Store. Special exhibition of indoor and outdoor contemporary sculpture by award-winning New Jersey artist, Pat Brentano, and more.
For further information visit www.highlandstourism.org/NJ_Audubon_May_Day.php or call (908) 766-5787
Scherman-Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary,
Nature Store Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday and 12 to 5 pm on Sunday.
Ryan Pelton as Elvis returns to the 2010 Warren County Farmers’ Fair
The Fair is happy to announce that Ryan Pelton, Elvis impersonator, will perform again for the 2010 Warren County Farmers’ Fair. If you missed him the past few year you don’t want to miss out this year. Ryan Pelton’s performance is unique in that he alone performs all the eras of Elvis Presley’s music. From the raw-edge fifties, the light-hearted movie years, the electrifying sixty-eight comeback special, and the powerful Las Vegas years of the seventies - Ryan Pelton performs it all. Ryan also reflects the eras through his costumes as he goes all out and does 4 costume changes during the performance. Some great photos from 2009 can be viewed on the website, www.warrencountyfarmersfair.org.
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