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or item of interest to the community which you would like posted here? Van Harlingen's May in Montgomery - A Taste of the Sourlands
FULL TEXT ARTICLES "A Taste of the Sourlands" June 1st Fundraiser at Unionville Winery - Food, Fun & Fiddle Music It's not too late to purchase tickets for May in Montgomery’s A Taste of the Sourlands, on Saturday, June 1st. The grand wine-tasting takes place at charming Unionville Vineyards at 9 Rocktown Rd., Ringoes from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Guests are invited to taste samplings of Unionville’s fine wines and the culinary treats of local chefs, while surrounded by some of New Jersey’s most beautiful, bucolic countryside. Adding to the fun will be the entertainment of the foot-stompin' fiddle, guitar, banjo, mandolin music of the Farmers’ Almanac trio. Tickets are $50 per person with $30 being a tax deductible donation. Visit www.vanharlingen.org for a reservation form or email:tasteofthesourlands@gmail.com. Taste of the Sourlands is a fundraiser to help offset the cost of the historic 1752 Gulick House cedar-shake roof, just recently installed. Van Harlingen Historical Society is a registered non-profit organization. Send checks to VHHS, PO Box 23, Belle Mead, NJ 08502, to be received by Thursday, May 30. Source: Van Harlingen Historical Society Lunch & Learn June 6th at Senior Center Montgomery – The Montgomery Senior Center, located in the Otto Kaufman Community Center at 356 Skillman Road, invites adults age 60 and above to a Lunch & Learn program, titled “Savvy Social Security,” which will be held Thursday June 6. A boxed lunch will be served at 12:30 p.m., followed by the presentation at 1 p.m. The program fee is $10 per person. The registration deadline is 10 a.m. on Wednesday June 5th Participants will learn how to maximize retirement income and apply for Social Security benefits. Questions pertaining to the future of Social Security benefits, including will it be there and will it be enough, also will be addressed. Lunch menu options will include a choice of a grilled chicken over bed of greens or mixed green salad with cheddar cheese Visitors are invited to learn more about the Montgomery Senior Center’s educational, recreational and entertaining activities, including wellness programs and health screenings. The center is operated by the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services and is accessible to individuals with disabilities. For more information or to register, contact Manager Denise Crowley, Montgomery Senior Center, at (609) 466-0846. Source: Montgomery Twp. Senior Center 47th Annual Strawberry Festival June 2nd Sunday June 2nd, 1-5pm Enjoy an afternoon of strawberries, cake, ice cream and music with your family, friends and neighbors. $5 in advance or $6 at the door (children under 6 free) Source: Montgomery Troop 46 Lenape Swim & Diving Club Offers Simple Pleasures in Summer Simple days, simple pleasures. They’re closer than you might imagine. Lenape Swim Club (Pine Brae Ct., off Rt. 518 in Skillman) is a place where summer is still what it used to be, what it ought to be. Relax at a poolside table in sun or shade. Play pickup games of volleyball or basketball, or join in a cannonball contest. You can bring a picnic, and if you need an afternoon treat, Joe the ice cream man will be by at 3:00. Enjoy potluck picnics and social events for families, teens, and adults. Want a little technology with your simplicity? Use our free wi-fi. Need a little structure to your day? Join the swim team or take swim lessons. But most importantly: Relax. Enjoy. Have the kind of summer you remember. We’re saving a table for you. http://lenapeswimclub.com Source: Lenape Swim Club Montgomery Rodeo & Bullmania is back June 8th & 9th! Tickets are now being sold at the following local Montgomery businesses: For additional information on The 20TH Annual Montgomery Rodeo, please visit the Montgomery Business Association website at www.shoplocalmontgomery.com or www.njrodeo.com. For more information on becoming a volunteer or sponsoring the rodeo, please contact Cory Wingerter of Tiger’s Tale at cgwingerter@gmail.com Source: Montgomery Business Association Montgomery Volunteer Corps Work Day June 2nd Source: Montgomery Open Space Committee & MFOS Princeton Elks Lodge annual Spring Flea Market will be held Sunday, June 2 from 9 AM to 1 PM. The Elks flea market is popular with the areas antique dealers who shop early looking for that special find. Regardless, professional, shopper, browser, or flea market flipper, with over 70 vendors in past years the market will provide a wide assortment of product to satisfy everyone's taste, need, or desire. The Princeton Elks lodge is located at 354 Route 518, Skillman, NJ. There is ample free parking for vendors and shoppers. Source: Princeton Elks Lodge Plenary Retail Consumption Liquor License Available Bids will be opened at 10 a.m. on June 17, 2013. Please see public notice by clicking on link below: CONSUMPTION LICENSE NOTICE TO BIDDERS For more information, contact the Montgomery Township Clerks Office at 908-359-8211. Source: Montgomery Township Clerks Office Wine & Cheese is Historic Society's Annual Fundraiser at Unionville Vineyard June 1 June 1st (one day beyond May) brings Van Harlingen Historical Society's May in Montgomery’s A Taste of the Sourlands: Over the Hill and Through the Vine, a grand wine-tasting at Unionville Vineyards at 9 Rocktown Rd., Ringoes from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. While surrounded by some of New Jersey’s most beautiful, bucolic countryside, guests will enjoy samplings of Unionville’s fine wines and plus the culinary treats of local chefs and restaurants. To add to the fun, the trio Farmers' Almanac will provide foot-stompin' fiddle, guitar, banjo, and mandolin musical entertainment. Tickets are $50 per person by advance reservation only. Visit www.vanharlingen.org for a reservation form or email:tasteofthesourlands@gmail.com. Taste of the Sourlands is a fundraiser to help offset the cost of the historic 1752 Gulick House cedar-shake roof, just recently installed. Van Harlingen Historical Society is a registered non-profit organization. Source: Van Harlingen Historic Society Energy Aggregation Interview with Jonathan Cloud of CALL - Watch the Video For a number of months Montgomery Township has been providing videotapes of its full Township Committee, Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment meetings via this website for public viewing. See 'videos' link here and in left sidebar menu of this page or Video Camera icon on our homepage. We are also able to post other government news-related videotapes under the "Specialty" tab of the video player, the farthest tab to right once you go to videos . Our first use of this server space is an 11 minute video that explains the Township's new initiative to benefit the community through electricity cost-savings, known as Community Energy Aggregation. We have a webpage dedicated to the program, which can be accessed here: You may also access the video from that page. Please watch the video, read the FAQs and let us know if you have any questions by emailing mcea@twp.montgomery.nj.us . Thank you! Source: Montgomery Twp. Administration Beyond Curbside: Tips on Recycling More Materials Have you ever gotten this nagging feeling about throwing something away and thought there must be someone somewhere who can use this material or item? Well, chances are, there is! The Montgomery Township Environmental Commission and Sustainable Montgomery have researched the matter and come up with a helpful list of items you might not know are recyclable and what company or organization will take them locally. Please find this info in both brochure and poster format at the Environmental Commission section of the Boards and Commissions webpage. Source: Montgomery Environmental Commission Farmers' Market Season to Open June 1st Saturday June 1 is Opening Day for the Montgomery Friends Farmers’ Market, run by the Montgomery Friends of Open Space and located at the Village Shopper parking lot on Rt. 206 across from ShopRite and Montgomery Cinema. The Market will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through mid-October. “Opening Day this year will be better than ever,” said market manager and Lorette Pruden. “We have two wonderful new vendors with fruits and vegetables, and more organic produce also. I think we’ll have our best year yet.” Mary Penney, president of Montgomery Friends of Open Space, agrees. “The Montgomery Friends Farmers’ Market has become a special part of Saturdays in Montgomery, and that’s really gratifying to our organization” she noted. “2013 is going to be great. The farm vendors have excellent products: a good selection of organic and Jersey Fresh produce, pies, organic eggs and naturally raised chickens, grass-fed beef.” “The Saturday market simplifies summer meals, which is great for busy families!” Penney noted. “We will continue to sell fabulous fresh bread and croissant from Terra Momo Bread Company. The atmosphere is relaxed. Parking is easy. It’s all good.” Vendors returning to the market this year include Tree-Licious Orchards, Orchard Farm Organics, Griggstown Quail Farm, Simply Grazin’ Organic Farm, Terra Momo Breads, the Coffee Man and Fulper Dairy Farms with fresh cheeses and yogurt. New farm vendors include Von Thun’s Family Farm and Chicadee Creek organic farm. Opening Day at the market will feature live modern country music from the group Gunpowder Falls. Market customers are encouraged to visit the Montgomery Friends website – www.montgomeryfriends.org, for a coupon to redeem at the Market. Montgomery Friends of Open Space is a nonprofit all-volunteer organization whose goals are to preserve remaining open land in Montgomery Township, to act as stewards for the properties already preserved, and to run a farmers' market to support local agriculture. For more information or to become a member, visit www.montgomeryfriends.org. Source: Montgomery Friends of Open Space 2013 Landmarks Preservation Grant Program Deadline is June 5th The Montgomery Landmarks Commission is pleased to announce the eighth year of its annual Preservation Grant Program. The program provides grant money for maintenance/restoration of the exterior of structures that are designated local historic structures or are located in a local historic district in Montgomery Township. If a home meets these criteria, its owners are eligible to apply for a Preservation Grant. The Preservation Grant Program was initiated because structures of historic value have been lost due to lack of maintenance, particularly water leaks. Examples of eligible projects include roofing, flashing, gutters, windows, siding, and trim materials. In addition, the Landmarks Commission believes that it is reasonable to provide some assistance for homeowners who have agreed to have their homes designated as local historic sites. The preservation of historic homes is a benefit for the entire community. The budget for this program is modest. The grants are small and are limited to the costs of materials only (no labor costs.) Depending on the availability of funds, the grants may cover only a part of the material costs. The application deadline this year is June 5, 2013 and all work must be completed by December 1, 2013. Inquiries and requests for applications can be directed to landmarks@twp.montgomery.nj.us or contact the Montgomery Twp. Planning Department at 908-359-8211. The application may also be downloaded HERE .Source: Montgomery Landmarks Commission Great Princeton Youth Orchestra Upcoming Concert The upcoming concert season includes a Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University concert on June 8th at 8 pm.Please find specifics at www.gpyo.org. Source: GPYO Montgomery Senior Citizens' May Events Montgomery Senior Citizens' Club will next meet May 9th at 1:00 p.m. at the Otto Kaufman Community Center of SKillman Rd., Skillman. All residents 55 years and older are welcome to attend. The speaker will be Ms. Barbara Kelly, a local physical therapist who will discuss how to prevent falls around your home and yard. The Seniors will hold their birthday breakfast on Thurs., May 16th at 9:00 a.m. at the Blawenburg Reform Church on Rt. 518 in Blawenburg. All are welcome to attend. Atlantic City Bus trips will continue on May 27th, leaving from the Princeton Elks Parking lot at 8:30 a.m. You do not need to be a member of the club to attend. Please contact Mrs. Muriel Kellinger at 908-874-3626. Source: Montgomery Senior Citizens Healthy Families, Healthy Youth Day June 2 at Montgomery Park from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Activities and Registration begins at 11:30 AM followed by the Walk at 12:30. The event is Co-sponsored by The Montgomery High School Peer Leadership Team, Princeton Elks/Antlers Youth Service Program and the Montgomery Rocky Hill Municipal Alliance and Youth Services Commission. Funds for this important community event are provided through a grant from the Elks National Foundation- Princeton Elks Lodge #2129 plus other sponsors. The Activities are co-sponsored by The Montgomery High School Peer Leadership Team, Princeton Elks/Antlers youth Service Program and the Montgomery Rocky Hill Municipal Alliance and Youth Services Commission. Business Sponsor Invitation Letter Source: Montgomery-Rocky Hill Municipal Alliance/Princeton Elks Veterans Day Meeting and Lunch June 13 The Princeton Elks Lodge monthly Veterans Day meeting and lunch will be held June 13, 2013 at 12 noon. The luncheon will be open to all and free for veterans. All veterans in our community are invited to attend, and all Elks who are veterans are especially encouraged to attend. The event will be held at the Princeton Elk Lodge located at 345 Route 518, Skillman, NJ. For reservations for the luncheon or more information regarding the veterans program, contact Hugh Dyer at 908 359 7122. Source: Princeton Elks 2013 Montgomery Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks - June 27th Montgomery's Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks are on for Thursday, June 27th. Make plans now not to miss them! If interested in making a donation or to buy a parking space, go to www.montgomeryfireworks.org (please note our new .org address) Last year's event culminated in another brilliant pyrotechnic spectacle. Nearly 8,000 people enjoyed the balmy evening while checking out games and vendors, picnicking with family & friends, listening to great live music, and - the perfect ending - watching the sky light up in vivid colors. "Once again, the committee is busy preparing every detail for this to be a wonderful community event honoring our nation. Please support the fireworks and mark the date not to miss them," said Mayor Ed Trzaska. Just like last year, the event will be funded through private donations and sponsorships. The fundraising effort, led by Fireworks Committee and chairman George Jarvis is well underway. If you are interested in assisting the Fireworks Committee, please contact George Jarvis at 347-385-5578 or fireworksfundraising@twp.montgomery.nj.us . Let's get fired up for Summer 2013 ! Source: Montgomery Twp. Fireworks Committee Montgomery Community Energy Aggregation - What's It All About? Community Energy Aggregation is a program that allows a municipality to conduct a “bulk purchase” of energy supply on behalf of its residents and businesses, at prices lower than the average utility price, with the possibility of added benefits, such as higher renewable energy content and other programs. New Jersey regulations allow municipalities to take this approach to procure savings on their constituents' behalf. Montgomery municipal officials have decided to participate in this process. Unlike residential customers, businesses must actively opt-in to be included in the program. More information for Montgomery businesses interested in considering opting into this cost-saving program is included in the second red link from top above. This same info is being sent out to all businesses in Montgomery for which a correct mailing has been obtained. However, any business can opt-in by utilizing the form accessible via the above referenced link. There is much more information including a video and the business opt-in form on the Township's Energy Aggregation page at www.montgomery.nj.us/energyagg.asp Source: Montgomery Twp. Municipal Administration The Somerset County Board of Elections is seeking poll workers for the upcoming Primary Election on June 4th and for other future elections. Workers must report to their assigned district polling location 45 minutes in advance of the poll open at 6 a.m. and stay until the polls close at 8 p.m. The compensation is $200 for those who have attended the advance training which is provided. Training starts soon, so please apply at your earliest convenience. Application and further info may be found at http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/elections/ . Thank you. Source: Somerset County Board of Elections County Announced New Senior RideWise Having easy access to affordable transportation is critical to senior citizens and disabled individuals who don’t drive. More than half of all non-drivers age 65 and older and individuals with disabilities are isolated at home largely because travel options are limited, especially in rural and smaller communities. To address the increasing transportation needs of the 65+ senior population and the under-served disabled population, RideWise developed Senior RideWise. Thisprogram provides subsidized rides for residents living in Somerset County who are 65 and older, or those with a developmental or physical disability. “Access to transportation so individuals can go where they want, when they want, is invaluable to residents. The goal of this service is to provide a safe and comfortable ride for individuals who don't drive or who choose not to drive. Senior RideWise can help keep them connected to friends, family and the community," said Donna Allison, executive director for RideWise, the nonprofit agency that is funding the program. Senior RideWise is available, by appointment, for rides to the grocery store, hair salon, bank, post office, pharmacy, medical appointments, work, and social/recreational trips. For an annual membership and discounted cost per mile charge, members can schedule rides with screened, professional drivers who will provide door-to-door service and assistance with packages and mobility devices, if needed. Rides are paid for using coupons, in lieu of cash, which clients purchase from RideWise. Senior RideWise began in April 2012 as a pilot program serving residents in northern Somerset County. Earlier this month, it was expanded to serve residents countywide. The program is an innovative response to a problem facing many communities. The senior population in the United States has doubled in the last 12 years and is projected to peak in 2030 at 71.5 million, or one in every five Americans. New Jersey alone will see a 60% increase in senior citizens. Statistics show that seniors who don’t drive make 50% fewer shopping trips, 65% fewer social trips and 15% fewer medical trips. Persons with disabilities share these same challenges. A survey conducted by the Bureau of Transportation found that for over half a million people with disabilities, the reason they never leave home is because they cannot get the transportation they need. Several things distinguish Senior RideWise from other transportation programs:
Participants in the program must reside in Somerset County. Travel destinations can be anywhere within Somerset County or within 5 miles of the county border. For additional information or an enrollment packet, contact RideWise at (908) 704-1011. RideWise was formed in 1992 to provide and promote sustainable travel solutions that improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion and decrease carbon emissions. Learn more by visiting the agency’s website at www.ridewise.org. Source: Somerset County Office of Information Arbor Day Celebration Highlights Montgomery Arboretum On Friday April 5th the Montgomery Shade Tree Committee celebrated Arbor Day in two ways. That morning a troop of volunteers guest- taught in every 3rd grade class at the Village Elementary School. They spoke about trees and what makes them so essential to life. Three local arborists shared about their work including how they climb, measure, prune and otherwise caring for trees. FLICKR 'ARBOR DAY' PHOTO SET Source: Montgomery Shade Tree Committee County Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Days Upcoming Household Hazardous Waste drop-off days will be held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 27, June 8, Sept. 14 and Oct. 26 at different locations. No registration is necessary, but proof of Somerset County residency is required. The program is free to county residents. Household hazardous waste includes banned or outdated pesticides, antifreeze, transmission fluids, brake fluids, wet-cell car batteries, motor oil (2-gallon maximum), fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent light bulbs, ammonia-based cleaners, gasoline, kerosene, mercury switches, oil-based paints, pool chemicals, propane tanks and rechargeable and button-cell batteries. For more information on types or quantities of materials accepted, contact the Somerset County Division of Solid Waste Management at (908) 231-7031 or email solidwaste@co.somerset.nj.us or visit the Somerset County website at www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle for recycling programs and information. Source: Somerset County Division of Solid Waste “Montgomery Animal Control’s Annual Pet Census is in Progress” Montgomery Animal Control will be travelling throughout the town this spring as part of our annual Pet Census. Montgomery Animal Control is collecting information for its annual Pet Census as required by law. We are collecting information on both dogs and cats to improve service for our canine and feline companions. For your convenience, we are providing a brief on-line survey which will help us reunite you and your pet in the event that he or she should ever become lost. Please follow this link to the survey: Source: Montgomery Health Dept. Operation Secure Shred Offers Free Document Shredding throughout Somerset County Over 160,000 pounds of material were collected from approximately 2,650 consumers at 11 shredding events during Operation Secure Shred 2012. These events are held at convenient locations and open to the residents of Somerset County. Please bring some form of identification while establishes your residency. All paper paper documents and cardstock folders are acceptable. It is not necessary to remove staples or paperclips. Shredding can be done in front of you while you wait and all containers can be returned. May 18th the Shredding Truck will be in Montgomery at the firehouse at Belle Mead-Griggstown Road, Belle Mead. To sign up for further notices of changes to the shredding calendar and future announcements, go to http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/ongoing/shredform.html Source: Somerset County Division of Consumer Affairs Apply for Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) by April 20th for Fall/Winter 2013-14 Follow this link for eligibility requirements, where to apply, deadlines, and other program info from the NJ Dept of Community Affairs
Source: Montgomery Health Dept. Link to Photos from recent EDC Business Forum
Choose NJ's Michael Winter Source: Montgomery Economic Development Commission Somerset County Outstanding Women includes Two Montgomery ResidentsThe Commission on the Status of Women presents these awards annually in celebration of Women's History Month in March. Honorees are women who live or work in Somerset County. Recipients by category are: Business/Management – Carol Ann Winder of Bernardsville; Education – Lorrie Baumann of Branchburg, Peggy Katzenberger of Lebanon and Viktoria Wargo of Hillsborough; Entrepreneur – Dawn Kettling of Bedminster and Dianne Leoni of Hillsborough; Environmental Initiatives – Kay Paragano of Bernardsville; Government/Public Service – Debra S. Joren of Watchung and Marguerite (Peg) Schaffer, Esq., of Bedminster; Health Services – Alyce Brophy, RN, BSN, MPH, of Milford and Dorothy J. DeMaio, RN, Ed.D., FAAN, of Far Hills; Hometown Hero – Morgan Dluhy of Branchburg and Donna Dourney of Hillsborough; Law – Annmarie Simeone, Esq., of Woodbridge; Medicine/Health Services – Vedrana Gjivoje, DVM, of Bernardsville and Alieta Eck, MD, of Franklin; Public Service – Judith A. Sullivan of Bedminster; Social Services – Nicole DeSario of Montgomery; and Volunteerism – Nancy Buck Pyne of Peapack-Gladstone, Jane R. Fidacaro of Raritan and Bev Glockler of Montgomery. Source: Somerset County Office of Information MBA's Breakfast with Mayor Hosts Dozens of Business Owners There was a great turnout for the 2nd annual “Breakfast with the Mayor” event where local business leaders and other residents spent quality time with Mayor Ed Trzaska. For almost two hours, attendees and the mayor discussed many important Montgomery topics. The Montgomery Business Association (MBA) organized the January 30th event which was held at the Princeton Elks Lodge. More details will follow in an article in the Montgomery Township spring newsletter in March, but here are some photos of the event: Source: Montgomery Township Clerks Dept./Information New Jersey HomeKeeper Program Offers Help with Mortgage Payments Source: Montgomery Twp. Planning Dept. 256 Acres of Carrier Clinic Property Added to Somerset County Sourland Preserve In the final week of 2012, Somerset County completed the acquisition of more than 250 acres from Carrier Clinic Inc. in the southern part of the county. The Carrier property acquired by the county consists of 256.5 acres of wooded and agricultural land located at the base of the Sourland Mountain in Hillsborough and Montgomery townships along East Mountain Road and County Route 601. “This acquisition is a great addition to the county’s growing Sourland Mountain Preserve,” said Freeholder Director Peter S. Palmer. “The county’s commitment to preserving the Sourland Mountain has made it the largest park area in the county’s park system.” “The preservation of the Carrier Clinic property continues the county’s goal of preserving the environmentally significant Sourland region,” said Freeholder Mark Caliguire, liaison to the county’s Open Space Advisory Committee. “In addition to helping to protect the region, the acquisition of this property will maintain the unobstructed views across the open fields to the Sourland Mountain.” “Through the sale of Carrier Clinic acreage to Somerset County for open space, Carrier has been able to continue the legacy of the surrounding grounds remaining a place of serenity and relaxation,” said Carrier Clinic Chief Financial Officer Randy Jacobson. “Additionally, the proceeds will enable Carrier Clinic to continue its 103-year mission in serving the behavioral health needs of thousands of residents within our Somerset community and beyond.” A 2,500-foot section of a Pike Run tributary traverses the northern boundary of the property, providing water to the Delaware & Raritan Canal. The acquisition represents a substantial expansion of the Sourland Mountain Preserve, which provides both critical habitat and watershed protection to the Sourland Mountain region. The acreage of the Carrier property will increase the total area of the Sourland Mountain Preserve to just over 5,450 acres. The property will be limited to passive recreational uses such as trails and bird watching. The Carrier property made up the bulk of the 302 acres added to the county’s open space holdings in 2012. Total parkland as of the end of the year was 13,302 acres. Source: Somerset County Office of Public Info Somerset County Reminds Businesses & Institutions That “Recycling Is the Law” Source: Somerset County Office of Public Info Recap of 2013 Montgomery Township Committee Reorganization Meeting Mayor, Deputy & New Members Take Oaths of Office The Montgomery Twp. Committee reorganized for the new year on January 3rd. Somerset County Freeholder Mark Caliguire and Somerset County Sheriff Frank Provenzano both administered oaths of office to elected officials. Also present was former Montgomery Mayor Don Matthews. View photos of Twp. Com. Reorganization Mtg. on Flickr The Committee chose Ed Trzaska to serve again this year as mayor and Patricia Graham to serve again as deputy mayor. Newly elected committee members Christine Madrid and Chris Sugden were sworn-in. Remarks of Deputy Mayor Patricia Graham Remarks of Committeeman Rich Smith Remarks of Committeewoman Christine Madrid Remarks of Committeeman Chris Sugden Montgomery high school student Nishant Gandhi came forward to speak at the meeting about a special fundraiser. Mayor Trzaska and Deputy Mayor Patricia Graham will be attending a dinner Jan. 19th which Nishant and his family are organizing to raise money for victims of Hurricane Sandy. More info: ngandhi11@gmail.com . All funds will go to the New Jersey Relief Fund All Township Committee Meetings, as well as Planning Board and Zoning Board Meetings, are streamed live and recorded on-line and can be viewed at http://www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/videoarchive.asp Source: Montgomery Twp. Office of the Clerk Gibraltar Rock Makes $500 Holiday Donation to the Montgomery Township Food Pantry
Photo Caption: Mayor Ed Trzaska (l) looks on as Gibraltar Rock’s Sean Earlen, Director of Real Estate & Acquisitions (l) and Uday Pantankar, VP of Env. and Public Affairs (r ) present Montgomery Com. Res. Manager Denise Crowley (center) with a $500 check for restocking the Montgomery Food Pantry at this holiday season. Gibraltar Rock of Belle Mead, a Silvi Group Company, continued its tradition of giving to the Montgomery Township Food Pantry by presenting a check for $500 to Food Pantry Manager Denise Crowley on Thursday, December 6, 2012. “In these extraordinarily difficult times, the food pantry is an important resource for a number of Montgomery families. We thank Gibraltar Rock for stepping up,” said Mayor Ed Trzaska. “We sincerely appreciate Food Pantry’s service to needy families,” noted Uday Patankar, Gibraltar Rock Vice President, during a visit to the Pantry. “As a member of the Belle Mead community, we want to add to their funds in time for the holiday season.” Montgomery Township Community Resource Manager Denise Crowley appreciates the timely donation. “It will help us re-stock the Pantry with needed items at this critical time,” she stated. Gibraltar Rock of Belle Mead operates the stone quarry on Route 601. Source: Montgomery Food Pantry Rotary Club Supports Montgomery Food Pantry & Senior Center Year Round
Photo Caption: Pictured with Denise Crowley, Montgomery Community Resource Manager are Robert Milhiser, Montgomery Rocky Hill Rotary Club President and Kacey Dyer, Montgomery Rocky Hill Rotary Club Director Community Service donating $1000 in ShopRite Gift Cards for the Montgomery Township Food Pantry's holiday program. The Montgomery Rocky Hill Rotary Club is a very generous supporter of the Montgomery Township Food Pantry and the Montgomery Township Senior Center. In the past 2 years the Rotary Club has donated over $8,000 plus grocery items and gifts. The Rotary Club provides financial support and gift cards throughout the year and many Rotarians volunteer and donate personally to the Pantry and at the Senior Center. Mayor Ed Trzaska attended the Rotary breakfast meeting on December 6th and expressed the Township’s deep appreciation. “Rotary Club is always there, stepping up to support our towns in tremendous ways. You are such an important community partner,” he commented. Rotary Club President Bob Milhiser stated, "Rotarians are pleased to support the good work the Food Pantry and Senior Center offer Montgomery Township residents. We are proud to sponsor holiday wish lists and provide ShopRite Gift cards for Montgomery Families in Need. This has been a project near and dear to our hearts since 1997." Each year the Rotary Club donates ShopRite Gift Cards for the holiday programs and when needed throughout the year. Rotarians donate food and volunteer their time to help with Food Pantry Programs and to make sure the pantry shelves are always filled. The Rotary Club also sponsors many health, wellness, and fun programs at the Montgomery Senior Center. The Rotary Club donated patio furniture for the seniors to enjoy the outside space at the center. Source: Montgomery Food Pantry Hurricane Sandy Delivers - Photos of Celebration of Baby Liam and MEMS's Good Work At the height of SuperStorm Sandy, expectant mother Christine Schleppy of the Washington Well area of Montgomery realized it was time to get to the hospital. Montgomery EMS came to her rescue, attempting to reach both the University Medical Center of Princeton at Plainsboro and Somerset Medical Center unsuccessfully due to downed wires and completely blocked paths. Fortunately, forethought and planning had led to a temporary field hospital already being set-up in Hillsborough. Liam Schleppy was born at approximately 11:00 p.m. on October 29th in the Hackensack University Medical Center field hospital in a church parking lot in Hillsborough - a healthy if 5 weeks premature baby boy! We are happy to report that mother and newborn are both doing fine. Ms. Schleppy came to visit the Squad to give her thanks on November 19th. Mayor Trzaska was also there to congratulate the Schleppy family on their new arrival and congratulate Montgomery EMS on a job well done. Here is a link to the photo set of this happy occasion on the Montgomery Twp. Flickr page: http://www.flickr.com/photos/inmontgomerynj/sets/72157632108858218/ For more info on volunteering with MEMS, call 908-359-4112, go to www.mems47.org or stop by 8 Harlingen Rd any weeknight at 7 PM. "We are Neighbors helping Neighbors" is their motto. Source: Montgomery Emergency Medical Services Photos of Veterans Day (Nov. 11) Observance at Montgomery Park Memorial The Montgomery Veterans Memorial Committee held an inspiring event on Sunday, November 11 at the Veterans Memorial in Montgomery Park with patriotic music and brief speeches. Here is link to a set of some wonderful photographs, courtesy of Frank Veronsky of Jersey Fresh Photos, of the event at the Memorial: Source: Montgomery Veterans Memorial Committee Sign-ups for NJ Emergency Notifications or Special Needs Registry To receive State emergency management notifications in the event of a disaster sign up for NJ-ALERT, the New Jersey Emergency Alert System. NJ-ALERT is a free, voluntary and confidential emergency-alerting system that allows state emergency management officials to send email or text messages to cell phones and other email-enabled devices during an emergency event. The public can sign up on the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management website at www.ready.nj.gov by clicking on the NJ-ALERT icon on the right-hand side of the page. Have your cell phone with you when you sign-up. If you or a loved one would need help in an evacuation due to physical, cognitive, or transportation challenges, this program will let Emergency Responders (police, fire, and EMS) know that confidentially, so they can be of special assistance. Go to Public Safety Page for further details. Source: Somerset County Public Information, Montgomery Twp. Police 11/28/12 Receive our Texts via Twitter Those wishing to receive our text notices as Tweets without opening an account with Twitter can simply text "Follow InMontgomery" to 40404. This is known as Fast Follow. To turn the text notices off again at any time, simply text "Off" to 40404 from the same mobile device. 11/28/12 Road & Bridge Closings/Openings & Weather Alerts Direct to Your Email or Cell Phone Here’s yet another e-alert system to subscribe to, but it’s a good one. Learn of road or bridge closures throughout Somerset County in time to avoid them! Get severe weather alerts. You can even get an email when the Griggstown Causeway Bridge is reopened after a storm. Get free Road Closings and/or Emergency Information bulletins directly as emails or text messages from Somerset County. 11/25/12 Montgomery Food Pantry - Donations Gratefully Accepted We gratefully accept all non-expired, non-perishable food and non-food grocery and toiletry items. Items on our donation wish list for November include: canned tuna and canned chicken, meat stews, hearty soups, canned pineapple, canned pears, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, boxed cereal, laundry detergent, shampoo, dish soap, tissues, napkins, and paper towels. We schedule appointments for donation deliveries and client visits to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of our clients. We do offer an "open donation time" on Mondays between 8:30 am and 9:30 am and Mondays between 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm and we schedule donation appointments on other days and times. On Mondays we have a shopping cart in the vestibule of the Senior Center where donors can deliver non-expired, non-perishable food or non-food grocery items and sign in on our donation log. This ensures that donors and clients are not here at the same time. The Montgomery community is incredibly generous and we appreciate the support. The Food Pantry and Montgomery families having difficulty making ends meet are very thankful to have such a caring community willing to help in so many ways. Thank you! Denise Crowley, Community Resource Manager Source: Montgomery Recreation Dept. Volunteer Group Offers Yard Assistance Vounteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are available to assist you and your neighbors to cut fallen trees, remove drywall, insulation, flooring, furniture, applicances, tarp roofs, etc. between November 10 and December 22, 2012. Priority will be given to senior citizens, first responders, and others with special needs. Our volunteers work free of charge and provide the tools and equipment necessary to complete the work. To request assistance call 347-709-0438. Source: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 11/07/12 Motorists Cautioned About Deer Activity The Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife is urging motorists to be alert for white-tailed deer on roads across the state, especially during morning and evening commutes when visibility may be poor and deer are more active. “White-tailed deer are on the move and unpredictable during this season,” said Division of Fish and Wildlife Director David Chanda. “Deer are much more likely to dart into roads without warning at this time of year. Drivers should be extra alert to avoid collisions that could result in injuries and damage to their vehicles.” Deer movements related to breeding are beginning now and will pick up in the coming weeks. Studies indicate the peak of the mating season in New Jersey occurs in late October and throughout November and December in all regions of the state. Don’t tailgate. Remember: the driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer. Source: NJDEP Skillman Park Trail Plans Progressing The committee tasked with developing a comprehensive public-access plan at Skillman Park is continuing the design development of the loop trail and is examining other low-intensity uses. A third meeting of the Skillman Park Planning Committee was held Sept. 25. The committee is comprised of Montgomery Township residents Lysa Wilson and Emad Abou-Sabé; Township Open Space Committee member Clem Fiori; Somerset County Freeholder Director and Committee Chair Patricia Walsh; Freeholder and Somerset County Park Commission liaison Patrick Scaglione; and Somerset County Administrator Michael Amorosa. Read Full Somerset County Release Source: Skillman Park Planning Committee Congressman & Assemblywoman Join Twp. Committee in Honoring Montgomery Emergency Services Please view the photo set titled, "Officials Honor Montgomery EMS" on our Flickr photostream page: http://www.flickr.com/inmontgomerynj/ Officials congratulated members of Montgomery Emergency Medical Services for their 40th year of volunteer service to the community. Statements of appreciation were given by Congressman Leonard Lance, who presented a special flag flown over the Capitol, Assemblywoman Donna M. Simon, who presented a resolution by the NJ State Legislature, Mayor Ed Trzaska, who presented a Montgomery Twp. Proclamation, Deputy Mayor Patricia Graham, Committeewoman Christine Madrid, as well as former Mayor Don Matthews and other appreciative members of the public. To learn more, visit MEMS's 40th anniversary web page at Http://www.mems47.org/public_website/Happy_Birthday_MEMS_40.shtml Contact:John Connacher president@mems47.org P.O. Box 105 Belle Mead New Jersey Ph: 908 359-4112 Source: Montgomery Township Committee Pet Adoptions: Your Animal Shelter is offering Cat Adoption Days every Saturday from 9AM to 11AM (except Sept. 29 due to health fair), or weekdays by appointment. The Shelter is located behind the Municipal Building at 2261 Route 206. The Adoption fee of $75 includes spay/neuter and a rabies vaccination. See currently available Adoptable Animals. Looking for a special dog or cat? Call 908-359-8211 x227 to join our Pets Wanted list, and we’ll call you when your preferred pet arrives. Donations: Help our shelter animals! We need donations of clean, worn towels/blankets, as well as toys, carriers, leashes, litter, and pet food. We are now accepting monetary donations for a New, Improved Dog Park, as well as for structural improvements to the Animal Shelter. When funding goals are reached, dog owners will be able to enjoy sturdy, escape-proof fencing, separate areas for small and large dogs, and improved shade and play areas. If you would like to support the new dog park, checks can be made to Montgomery Township Animal Shelter Trust, c/o Montgomery Township Animal Control 2261 Route 206 Belle Mead NJ 08502. All donations will be acknowledged by letter. Source: Montgomery Health Dept. Electronic Waste Recycled at Newtech, No Longer First Saturday Drop-off Starting September 8th, electronics waste will no longer be accepted for recycling at the First Saturday Drop-off in Bridgewater. NEWTECH RECYCLING at 600A APGAR DRIVE in SOMERSET, NJ 08873 Will be open to collect ELECTRONIC WASTE on Saturdays: Sept. 8, Oct. 6, Nov. 3 & Dec. 1, 2012 For more info, go to E-Waste section of our Public Works page. Source: Somerset County Division of Waste Management Montgomery’s Wind, Solar & Photovoltaic Energy Ordinance Roof mounted systems: Ground-mounted systems: The ordinance is published on the Planning Reports page of the Land Use section of the Montgomery Township website at: Source: Montgomery Twp. Plannnig Dept. LIHEAP Home Energy Assistance Program The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA)'s r Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally-funded program which assists low-income households with their heating and cooling bills, and provides emergency heating system services and emergency fuel assistance. “The LIHEAP program provides invaluable help to thousands of New Jersey’s most vulnerable low-income households,” said DCA Acting Commissioner Richard E. Constable, III. “Assistance is still available and we encourage people who are eligible to apply if they haven’t done so already.” Program funding is administered through the DCA’s Division of Housing and Community Resources. Residents are asked to file an application with any of the local agencies participating in the LIHEAP program. To be eligible for LIHEAP benefits, households must be responsible for home heating or cooling costs, either directly or included in the rent; and have a gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Persons who live in public housing and/or receive rental assistance are not eligible unless they pay for their own heating/cooling costs directly to the fuel supplier. The amount of the LIHEAP heating benefit is determined by income, household size, fuel type, and heating region. The LIHEAP application also serves as an application for the Universal Service Fund (USF) Program, which is state funded and administered by the Division of Housing and Community Resources. USF helps low-income households pay for their electric and natural gas costs. LIHEAP eligible households may also be eligible to receive USF assistance. USF applications are accepted throughout the year. For more information on LIHEAP and USF, or to find the nearest agency participating in the program, please log on to www.energyassistance.nj.gov or call 1-800-510-3102 (LIHEAP). Updated 4/17/12 La Leche League Meets each 2nd Wed. of Month La Leche League group Princeton North offers Breastfeeding information and support. We welcome pregnant women, moms, babies, children and grandmas too. Mary Jacobs Library, 2nd Wednesday of each month in the upstairs meeting room, 9:30-12:00. For more information please contact Rhonda Molesphini at 609-466-0036 or Karen Fridkis at 609-333-1119. 3/8/12 First Saturday Recycling Drop-off Day in Bridgewater & More Recycling Info The Somerset County Recycling Center, located at 40 Polhemus Lane, holds Saturday Recycling Drop-off from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the First Saturday of each month. As part of the program, residents can drop off tires, scrap metal, antifreeze and usual curbside materials, including chipboard items and plastic bottles and containers, marked #1 through #7. Chipboard includes gift, shoe, shirt and all retail boxes, as well as cereal, cookie, pasta, cake and cracker boxes, without the plastic liners. Also poster board and backing from writing pads are accepted. Residents also have the option of disposing of clean dry textiles throughout the year by bringing textiles to scheduled Saturday Drop-off events. Textiles include drapes, curtains, sheets, towels, belts, handbags, shoes (pairs), clean cloth and small stuffed animals. Textiles will only be accepted in a plastic bag. Additionally, residents can drop off consumer electronics (e-waste). E-waste includes computers (CPUs), servers, monitors, terminals/CRTs, televisions, printers, fax machines, copiers, computer/laptop peripherals, telecommunication equipment (telephones, cellular phones, telephone mainframes), keyboards, mice, cables, wiring, circuit boards, modems, power supplies, laptops, docking stations, audio visual equipment, typewriters, VCRs, mainframe equipment and controllers, camcorders, CDs, DVDs, computer disks, diskettes, videotapes, cassette tapes, and rechargeable and button-cell batteries. Residents should individually bag each battery or tape each terminal to avoid short-circuiting of batteries. In addition to First Saturday of the Month events, residents can drop off electronics at Newtech Recycling Inc., located at 600A Apgar Drive, Somerset 08873, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Both drop-off opportunities are free. For more information about Newtech Recycling Inc. contact them at (732) 564-3110 or www.newtechrecycling.com. Also, residents may bring up to eight tires, with or without rims, to scheduled Saturday Drop-off events. No household hazardous waste will be accepted at Saturday drop-off events (see next announcement). For a complete listing of recyclable items, recycling events and much more, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle.html or call the Somerset County Recycling Center at (732) 469-3363. For 2011 County Recycling Pick-up Schedule, go to Somerset County Recycling Schedule page. Canned goods and non-perishable food donations also can be brought to the First Saturday event. Items will be delivered to the Food Bank Network of Somerset County. Perishables and foods in glass containers are not accepted by food banks. The tire drop-off program is funded through a grant from the state Department of Environmental Protection. 1/04/11 Recycling Drop-off vs. Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off The Somerset County Recycling Center, located at 40 Polhemus Lane, Bridgewater 08807 holds a First Saturday of the Month event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (See Community Calendar for all dates) open to all Somerset County residents. However, No Household Hazardous Waste Items will be accepted (see below for HHW drop-off location.) For a complete listing of recyclable items, recycling events and much more, visit http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle.html or call the Somerset County Recycling Center at 732-469-3363.Some examples are any curbside recyclables, motor oil, anti-freeze, tires (up to 8), computers, computer peripherals, televisions, vcrs, cds, dvds, etc.
Canned goods and non-perishable food donations also can be brought to the First Saturday event. Items will be delivered to the Food Bank Network of Somerset County. Perishables and foods in glass containers are not accepted by food banks. Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Six times per year, Somerset County holds Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off events on certain Saturdays, from 9 a.m to 2 p.m. throughout the County. In 2012 the projected dates are March 24, April 28, June 9, August 4, Sept. 15, and Oct. 27. For date confirmation, locations, and link to list of acceptable materials for drop-off, go to : http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle/hazardouswaste.html No registration is necessary, but proof of residency is required. The program is free to county residents. Potentially hazardous materials such as propane tanks, used motor oil, CFL and fluorescent light bulbs, antifreeze, old containers of pesticides and herbicides, oil based paints, rechargeable and button batteries, and wet-cell batteries are collected for proper disposal. No tires or electronics will be accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off. For more information on types or quantities of materials accepted, contact the Somerset County Division of Solid Waste Management at (908) 231-7031 or solidwaste@co.somerset.nj.us or visit the Somerset County Web site at www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle.html for recycling programs and information.1/04/11 Montgomery Twp. maintains a container facility for the convenience of its residents. As a general rule, it is open the SECOND SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH, 8 a.m. to 12 noon, but please check our schedule first. Schedule and Rules for using the facility and what items can be brought there are available on the CONTAINER FACILITY PAGE. The Container Facility allows Montgomery Township residents to dispose of household items that are not recyclable, not hazardous waste and that cannot be collected by their trash hauler. A Montgomery Township Coupon is required of all Montgomery residents who wish to enter the facility. CONTAINER FACILITY COUPON Container
Facility coupons are available for sale Monday through Friday, 8:00
a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the front reception desk of the Montgomery Twp.
municipal offices at 2261 Rt. 206, Belle Mead (908-359-8211). A four
trip coupon for households costs $40. Unused, unpunched trips on a
coupon do not expire. There is no limit on the number of coupons resident
households may purchase per year. The application form and fee may be brought or mailed to the Montgomery Township Municipal Building. Coupons are not available for purchase at the Container Facility. For further information about the Container Facility rules and scheduled days, contact Montgomery Dept. of Public Works at (908) 874-3144 12/5/11 The Somerset County Recycling Division would like to remind residents that they can recycle waste, such as corrugated cardboard, chipboard (gift boxes), empty pizza boxes (free of food waste), nonmetallic wrapping paper, holiday cards and plastics – # 1 through # 7 (no Styrofoam # 6) - at their usual curbside collection and at First Saturday of the Month drop-off events. Also, residents can put canned food items in a plastic bag curbside on their regularly scheduled recycling days. Donations will be delivered to the Food Bank Network of Somerset County. THere are first Saturday of the month drop-off dasy at the Somerset County Recycling Center, located at 40 Polhemus Lane in Bridgewater from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. In addition to usual curbside recycling items, residents can drop off used consumer electronics (e-waste), which may have been upgraded and replaced over the holidays. E-waste includes computers (CPUs), servers, monitors, terminals/CRTs, televisions, printers, fax machines, copiers, computer/laptop peripherals, telecommunication equipment (telephones, cellular phones, telephone mainframes), keyboards, mice, cables, wiring, circuit boards, modems, power supplies, laptops, docking stations, audio visual equipment, typewriters, VCRs, mainframe equipment and controllers, camcorders, CDs, DVDs, computer disks, diskettes, videotapes, cassette tapes, and rechargeable and button-cell batteries. Residents should individually bag each battery or tape each terminal to avoid short-circuiting of batteries. Residents also can drop off electronics at Newtech Recycling Inc., located at 600A Apgar Drive, Somerset 08873, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Both drop-off opportunities are free. For more information about Newtech Recycling Inc. contact them at (732) 564-3110 or www.newtechrecycling.com. For a complete listing of recyclable items, recycling events and much more, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle or call the Somerset County Recycling Center at (732) 469-3363. 12/21/11 N.J. Refrigerator Recycling Program Pays $50 Incentive Requirements for Program Participation: 1. Customer must be a residential electric customer of one of the following NJ utilities: Atlantic City Electric, Jersey Central Power & Light, PSE&G, Rockland Electric Company. 2. Customers of municipal electric utilities do not qualify. 3. Appliance types include refrigerators and freezers. 4. Maximum 2 units per customer per year. 5. Valid through December 31, 2011. Unit must be picked up within this time frame. 6. Refrigerator/Freezer size limited to 10 - 30 cu. ft. 7. Refrigerator/Freezer must be operational at time of pick up. 8. Refrigerator/Freezer unit must be owned by customer. 9. No age restriction. 10. Refrigerator/Freezer must have clear access path for removal. Why participation is important 1. Old refrigerators and freezers are not bio-degradable. This is why states like New Jersey, California and Illinois have laws that prohibit dumping these appliances into land fills. 2. Other recycling companies have to charge a fee to pick up and recycle your old appliances, because it is a thorough process. However, when you enroll in this program, the program will pick up and recycle your old refrigerator or freezer for free. 3. Old refrigerators and freezers typically use two times more electricity than newer models. By everyone doing their part to conserve energy and recycle responsibly, New Jersey residents will reduce energy use and help protect the environment. 4. A cash incentive of $50 will be paid to you for your effort in recycling responsibly. Up to two refrigerators per year. If you have any questions about the recycling program, or if you would like to schedule your pickup date by phone; please feel free to contact our customer service center toll free at 877-270-3520. Interested parties should visit http://www.njcleanenergy.com/residential/programs/refrigerator-freezer-recycling-program Updated 10/11/11 Sprinkler System Use in "Winter" Impacts Sewer Billing The following is a reminder to Montgomery Township sewer utility customers who have New Jersey American water service and lawn irrigation systems: It is advisable to turn your irrigation system off in early to mid-October, before your next billing period will begin for NJ American Water. Township sewer fee charges are based upon water volume use as reflected in your New Jersey American Water bill. The Township’s sewer fee calculation system takes the winter months’ water use (mid-October to mid-April NJAW billing) and extrapolates that out to a full year, if this results in a lower figure than for the actual full year. This is for the purpose of eliminating, to the maximum extent practicable, billing for water volumes that are due to sprinkler use. To take full advantage of the winter calculation, customers are also advised to hold off until mid to late-April every spring to turn their sprinkler systems back on, for the same reason. Thank you. 10/3/11 Local governments, businesses, organizations and individuals interested in data from the 2010 Census can visit the Somerset County Planning Board website as a one-stop source of information. Links to the following data are located on the under the Data and Reports tab at www.co.somerset.nj.us/planweb/data.htm 2010 Census Data Release Schedule This link provides access to the schedule of 2010 Census Data releases that are posted on the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development, New Jersey State Data Center, Labor Market Information webpage. This page will be routinely updated with new links to the 2010 Census Data as they become available through the U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey 2010 National Summary File of Redistricting Data 2010 Demographic Profiles (DP1) 2010 Summary File 1 (SF1) Data Profiles SF 1 provides new levels of detail about the topics covered in the 2010 Census and the cross-tabulations provide a more nuanced picture. Many of the tables are repeated for nine race and Hispanic or Latino origin groups: white alone, black or African-American alone, American Indian and Alaska Native alone, Asian alone, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, some other race, two or more races, Hispanic or Latino, and white alone not Hispanic or Latino. Census 2010: A Demographic Snapshot For more information about county and municipal census data, contact the Somerset County Planning Board at 908-231-7021 or planningbd@co.somerset.nj.us Source: Somerset County Information 09/27/11 Health & Safety Tips for Hurricane Aftermath/Flooding Clean-up It is important for residents to consider potential safety concerns and things you can do to prevent injury and illness when addressing flood-affected homes/buildings. The CDC has issued the following guidances: Key Health & Safety Facts About Recovery from Hurricanes and Floods Cleaning Up Flood Water & Drying Out Your Home The following guidance was issued by the NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection: Tips on Disposing of Trash in Aftermath of Storm Here are some reminders, especially if you have been away:
(Source: Somerset County Dept. of Health) 09/8/11 Septic
Systems, Wells & Drinking Water in Event of Flooding Updated 08/26/11
PSE&G Electrical Infrastructure Upgrade Project PSE&G continues its efforts to improve the electrical infrastructure in the Montgomery Township area. An Electric Reliability Upgrade project will improve Montgomery and surrounding area’s electric reliability through the phased upgrade of the existing infrastructure and installing new high reliability equipment that will improve the reliability today and provide for the needs of the area well into the future. The initial phase included new supply circuits into the area that was completed in November 2010. The next phase of the project is to convert two customer owned substations in the area of the new supply lines by the end of 2011. The third phase of the project is scheduled to be completed by summer 2013, and will include the construction of a new substation which will replace the existing old, limited capacity, Rocky Hill station located in Montgomery Township. The work will take place in the following areas from September 2011 through June 2013. Route 601 and Route 518 traveling east to Route 206. Overall, this project will provide improved reliability of service to the customers in Montgomery and surrounding areas and will ultimately provide a new substation to accommodate the growing demands of present and future customers in the area. PSE&G Electric Reliability Upgrade Project Questions & Answers (07-12-11) After reading the Q&A, should you have additional questions or concernsabout this project, please contact PSE&G’s Electric Reliability Upgrade number at 856-778-6983. All calls will be returned within 24 hours during normal business days. 7/25/11 College Courses at Montgomery High School for All Community Members 6/21/11 Calling All Girls for Girl Scouts! For all girls ages 5-17 in Montgomery Township and the Borough of Rocky Hill.
Girl scouts discover the fun, friendship and power of girls together through field trips, community service projects, skill-building clinics, cultural exchanges, and environmental stewardship. To find out more, go to www.montgomerygirlscouts.org. To request troop placement, please email your daughter’s grade and contact information to registermontygirlscouts@gmail.com. In the subject, please include your child’s grade and Girl Scout level in upcoming Fall. 6/13/11 Montgomery Senior Center Monthly Happenings 356 Skillman Rd, Skillman, NJ The best bargain in town! Blood Pressure Screening – Third Monday of the month 9:45am Call or email for detailed calendar of events dcrowley@twp.montgomery.nj.us The Montgomery Senior Center is operated by the Somerset County Office on Aging in partnership with Montgomery Township. The senior center offers a variety of educational, recreational and entertaining activities for seniors, including wellness programs and health screenings. For more information, contact Denise Crowley at the Montgomery Senior
Center, 356 Skillman Rd, Skillman at (609) 466-0846. Calling All Boys for Cub Scouts! Offering Camping, Hiking, Sports, Games, Trips & More! Cub Scouts try new things. 4/15/11 Electronics Recycling Now Available M-F 9-4 in Somerset for All County Residents Somerset County residents now can recycle electronics Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Newtech Recycling Inc., located at 600A Apgar Dr., Somerset 08873. “Starting this October, we expanded the electronics-waste program to allow residents to dispose of e-waste on weekdays, at their convenience. This is in addition to our usual First Saturday of the Month drop-off days at the county Recycling Center in Bridgewater,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Robert Zaborowski, recycling division liaison. “We encourage residents to take advantage of this opportunity to dispose of unwanted equipment in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.” Somerset County has been working with Newtech Recycling Inc. to recycle computer and electronic waste since June 2009. Newtech is a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection permitted facility, which provides computer and electronic recycling and data destruction services. Newtech Recycling Inc. is located off Route 287 at Exit 12-Weston Canal Road. Take Weston Canal Road South to Apgar Drive to the loading dock around back. To learn more about Newtech Recycling Inc., visit www.newtechrecycling.com or call (732) 564-3110. For more information about this program, contact Recycling Coordinator Melissa Harvey at (908) 231-7109 or harvey@co.somerset.nj.us. 10/7/10 County Now Providing Recycling For Plastics #1 thru #7 As of Oct. 1, Somerset County will expand its curbside program to accept all plastic bottles and containers that are marked #1 through #7. Number designations are on the bottom of bottles and containers. Acceptable plastic bottles and containers within the #1 through #7 range include water, soda, milk, juice, soap, detergent, bleach, shampoo and cleaning-agent bottles. Also acceptable are peanut butter, yogurt, baby-wipes containers, margarine tubs and clear plastic clamshell containers from salad bars. According to the most recent data from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Somerset County is falling behind other counties in recycling tonnage and citizen-participation rate. Recycling alone cannot solve New Jersey’s garbage problem, but recycling programs have a significant effect on reducing the volume of waste going to landfills and preserving natural resources. Recycling materials equates to savings for the county. Every time residents recycle designated materials, they help raise the participation rate and help offset the costs of the recycling program. The more residents recycle, the higher the recycling rate, and the less the program costs the taxpayer. To increase the recycling rate, residents must cooperate by recycling all designated materials curbside. Curbside recycling provides the most convenient means for households to recycle a variety of materials. Always recycle valuable materials such as glass bottles, aluminum and metal cans, corrugated cardboard, chipboard, newspapers, junk mail and magazines, as well as acceptable plastic bottles and containers marked #1 through #7. Do not recycle beer balls, plastic bags, cat litter containers, plastic toys, five- gallon containers and buckets, flower pots and plastic furniture. For further information, call the Somerset County Recycling Center at 9/30/10 On-Line Credit Card or E-Check Payment Service
Now Available for Property Taxes or Sewer Fees Residents may choose from either of two electronic payment method options: MasterCard/Visa credit cards (debit cards are not accepted), which incurs a 2.99% convenience fee or by e-check (ACH debit) for which there is no convenience charge. This online service is one of the many steps that the Township of Montgomery is taking to make municipal services more readily available to its residents. We are committed to providing quality e-government service to our residents. To make a tax or sewer payment, go to “On-line Payment” page of this website in Finance Dept. subsection. Thank you. 4/05/10 Township Newsletter Goes Electronic The Spring Montgomery Township newsletter is posted on the township website at www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/about/newsletter.asp . It includes Community/Gov't News, Recreation Offerings and the SchoolZone newsletter. Please remember to bookmark this newsletter page for future reference, as an important change have occurred.
As a cost-savings measure, this is the last newsletter issue which will also be received by regular mailing. The newsletter will continue on a quarterly basis, but it will be distributed electronically.
Please help us to let other residents know of this change.
Anyone who signs-up for e-bulletins will always receive notice when the newsletter is posted on the website. Sign-up is short and simple, enter email address in box by green envelope at www.montgomery.nj.us & follow prompts.
The Recreation Section includes program offerings for spring as well as summer camp info. Recreation will begin taking registrations on Monday, March 1st at 8am. Recreation office hours are Mon - Fri, 8am - 9pm. Their staff may be reached at 609-466-3023.
If you have questions about the newsletter itself, the township website or other communications, please call Community Information Officer Tammy Garaffa at 908-359-8211 ext. 207 8am to 1 pm M-F or email tgaraffa@twp.montgomery.nj.us.
Please also remember the on-line Community Calendar to get word out about your community event or to find out about events around town. Email announcements to above address.
We are now also "InMontgomeryNJ" on Twitter. Follow us at http://twitter.com/InMontgomeryNJ to receive occasional brief time-critical notices of interest to Montgomery residents.
Thank you.
2/25/10 Road & Bridge Closings/Openings & Weather Alerts Direct to Your Email or Cell Phone Here’s yet another e-alert system to subscribe to, but it’s a good one. Learn of road or bridge closures throughout Somerset County in time to avoid them! Get severe weather alerts. You can even get an email when the Griggstown Causeway Bridge is reopened after a storm. Get free Road Closings and/or Emergency Information bulletins directly as emails or text messages from Somerset County. 1/26/10 PSE&G's Question & Answer Memo On Pole Line Relocation Project Please follow this Link to PDF file of memo regarding the above project. 1/20/10 Batteries No Longer Accepted Curbside The Somerset County Recycling Center has announced that starting Jan. 1, 2010 it no longer will accept batteries with curbside collection of recyclables. Due to regulatory changes and less hazardous battery compositions, alkaline batteries now fall below federal and state hazardous-waste standards and can be disposed of in the regular trash. Household battery manufacturers of alkaline batteries no longer add mercury and have reduced the amount of mercury added to other batteries as a result of the New Jersey Dry Cell Battery Management Act of 1991 and the federal Mercury- Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act of 1996. Batteries have a label on them that indicates whether they are rechargeable or alkaline. Alkaline batteries can be thrown out in the regular trash. Rechargeable batteries still need to be recycled. Rechargeable batteries are found in cordless power tools, cellular and cordless phones, laptop computers, digital cameras, two-way radios, camcorders and remote-control toys. Most button-cell batteries must be recycled because they still contain mercury. Somerset County will accept rechargeable and button-cell batteries at Household Hazardous Waste and First Saturday of the Month (with electronics) events. Rechargeable batteries also can be recycled at participating retail locations, including Radio Shack, Best Buy, Staples, Target, Office Max, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Sears, Walmart and Verizon Wireless. Batteries must be properly prepared before drop off due to new federal regulations that prevent short circuiting of batteries during transport. Residents must bag each battery individually or tape each of the terminal ends prior to recycling. To find a retail-collection site, use the collection site locator at www.call2recycle.org or call the consumer helpline at 1-877-2-RECYCLE. 12/10/09 There is a Directory of Businesses on the Montgomery Twp. website, courtesy of Montgomery Economic Development Commission. Contact Township Planning Director Lori Savron to have your Montgomery business added to the directory at lsavron@twp.montgomery.nj.us or (908) 359-8211 ext. 206. 12/9/09 Effective Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, small businesses in Somerset County will be allowed to drop off materials at the Somerset County Recycling Center, located at 40 Polhemus Lane, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. To qualify as a small business, you must have between one and 50 employees. The types of materials that will be accepted at the Recycling Center are newspapers; cardboard and chipboard; commingled containers, which include glass bottles, plastics bottles (marked with a #1 or #2), and steel, bi-metal and aluminum cans. Bring recyclable items in a cardboard box or bucket. The following items will not be accepted: electronic waste, scrap metal, tires, plastic bags, chemicals or hazardous materials. There will be no reimbursement for recyclable materials dropped off. For additional information, call the Recycling Center at 732-469-3363. 10/21/09
Verizon FiOS Availability & Cable TV Service Questions Verizon customers who have concerns regarding FiOS TV or who have ordered FiOS TV but were then told it couldn’t be installed should send an e-mail to Verizon at: anna.k.lustenberg@verizon.com who will attempt to expedient resolution of your issue. Please feel free to copy Montgomery Twp. at clerk@twp.montgomery.nj.us . If you
are in the 609 area and would like to know when FiOS TV will
be available, Verizon asks residents to go to www.verizon.com/fios
and submit a request. These requests are kept on file with
Verizon and Verizon states that when the service is available,
you will be notified by e-mail. Written
letters may be sent to: Foreclosure
Help Available 8/24/09 Somerset
County Rental Assistance The Program can provide six months of rental arrears, twelve months of rental assistance, security deposit, utility payments, case management, tenant education and legal services. In order to qualify, you must have or enter into a formal lease and be within the following income limits: 1 Person - $35,063;
2 People - $40,063; Prospective applicants
should call the Somerset County Community Development Office Get Notice of Time-Critical Montgomery Ebulletins as "Tweets"
Through Twitter
Girl
Scouts Girls Scouts is
the world's preeminent organization dedicated solely to girls - all
girls - where, in an accepting and nurturing environment, girls build
character and skills for success in the real world. In partnership
with committed adult volunteers, girls develop qualities that will
serve them all their lives. In Girl Scouting, experiences like high
adventure trips, sports, leadership opportunities, community service
projects, and team building activities give girls opportunities to
discover the fun, friendship, and power of girls together. Montgomery
Health Dept. offers Help for Residents in Tough Times
Visit the Health Department’s website for a complete listing of Helplines, Websites, and Prescription Medication Assistance Programs at www.twp.montgomery.nj.us/depts/health/index.asp. For more help
in tough times, Call 211—First Call for Help or visit http://www.nj211.org/hardtimes08.cfm
"The
Montgomery Guide" & New Resident Packets If you are a new resident we also have a welcome packet for you! The New Resident Packet includes the above-described Montgomery Guide and is also packed with helpful brochures and flyers on need-to-know topics for new residents. Recycling schedule, sewer or septic care, voter registration forms, dog license forms, maps of township parks – these are some items in the new resident packet. (Available for free at the reception desk of the municipal building, 2261 Rt. 206, where new households can also pick up their recycling bucket.) 03/20/09 Senior
Freeze Income Limits Raised The Division of Taxation is doing a special mailing of 2007 reimbursement applications to approximately 52,000 resident who may now be eligible because of the increase in the income limits. Applications can also be obtained in person at the Montgomery Township Tax Assessor's Office. If you did not receive a 2006 reimbursement, file a 2007 Form PTR-1. If you did receive a 2006 reimbursement, file a 2007 Form PTR-2. Form PTR-2 only is also available with instructions and further information on the State Department of Treasury website at http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/taxation/propfrez.shtml . Looking ahead, the income limits for 2008 are now raised to $70,000 for either a single person or married couple/civil union. 2008 applications will be available in the spring. The income limits for 2009 will be $80,000 for a single person or a married/civil union couple. updated
4/14/09
Register Loved Ones: Project Lifesaver There is a program called Project Lifesaver which can quickly help find lost persons with certain disabilities such as Alzheimer's disease or autism, BUT these residents must be registered ahead of time in the program. Local police assist with these searches. The program is run by the Somerset County Sheriff's Office and the County Office on Aging. Click here for more information. 12/18/08
Montgomery Community Calendar To find the community calendar on the Township website, go to www.twp.montgomery.nj.us. From this homepage, select “Community Calendar” in the left sidebar menu. A link from this Bulletins page is also found on left sidebar. The calendar can also be found as “Montgomery Community Calendar” in Google’s public calendar lists on google.com, where its listings can be added to your own calendar. Please
note: If you have a Montgomery based event you would like included,
email the name, date, time, location, brief description and a contact
phone or email to Tammy Garaffa at tgaraffa@twp.montgomery.nj.us.
Submittal guidelines are the same as found at top of this page. Montgomery
Singles Dining Club Notice
Regarding Stream Sediment or Dust Problems Two
Volunteer Networks Offer House & Yard Help to Seniors & Disabled
Residents New volunteers, male and female, also are being recruited for the program. Boy and girl scouts of all ages are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by adult. No experience is required. Free training is provided. A "Thank You" luncheon will be held for volunteers. Scheduling of home repairs is flexible. For information about receiving services through the Handyman Program or about volunteering as a handyman or handywoman, call (908) 541-5715. Boy
Scout Leader Lou Vaccaro is organizing the "Scouts Help
Seniors" or SHS Program. Montgomery seniors, 65 and
older, needing help with simple yard and household chores, such as
leaf raking, clearing walks and computer fixes may enlist the assistance
of volunteer scouts. The program involves both boy and girl scout
volunteers. Seniors seeking to make arrangements may contact Montgomery
resident Lou Vaccaro at 908-359-5652. Participants/Volunteers
Wanted for Senior Center Activities The
Somerset County Office on Aging operates the Montgomery Senior Center
in partnership with Montgomery Township. Admission to center programs
and activities is free. The senior center offers a variety of educational,
recreational and entertaining activities for seniors, including wellness
programs and health screenings.
Updated
Color Montgomery Township Street Map Available Interactive
Maps of Montgomery Now Available On-line These maps are being hosted by Vertices LLC, a private consulting firm working on a voluntary basis with the Montgomery Township GIS Department. In addition to being a public resource, the interactive mapping system is geared toward student education and is being used in the Montgomery Township School System. The project founders, Montgomery Township GIS Director Robert Marmion and Vertices' President Dr. Wansoo Im, are looking for feedback from users for their research in order to obtain a Dodge Foundation Grant to take this pilot project to the next level. Email your feedback and suggestions to Dr. Im at wim@vertices.com. They would like to know what features were helpful to users and where improvements would be beneficial. For more on these and other related educational mapping programs by Vertices, LLC go to www.gis4kids.com. A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a system with computer software, hardware, data, and personnel in order to manipulate analyze and present information tied to spatial location. The data is tied to a spatial location via points, lines, or areas. The data can be point locations of planning priorities in the region. The lines can be linear priorities such as greenways or new transit lines. Areas can be parks, land uses, and zoning districts. GIS does not just have to be points, lines and polygons, images can be used as well. RPA for example, incorporates historic photos, remote sensing data, ortho-photography, aerial photos, and CADD drawings into its Geographic Database. The GIS software displays the information as layers of data. The layers are stacked on top of one another to create a map. The selection of layers needed for a project is determined by the analyst's planning needs. Most often maps and graphics are outputs of the GIS. Tabular data is a common result from conducting geographic analyses. Deer
Resistant & Invasive Plant Species Lists If you would like to find a rating of how vulnerable to deer appetites a certain plant species is, go to http://www.rce.rutgers.edu/deerresistance/. If you would like to know about invasive plant species to avoid in your landscaping plans, go to http://nps.gov/plants/alien/factmain.htm#pllists/ . An
"invasive species" is defined as a species that is: One study estimates that the total costs of invasive species in the United States amount to more than $100 billion each year. (Pimentel et al., 1999). Invasive species impact nearly half of the species currently listed as Threatened or Endangered under the U.S. Federal Endangered Species Act. New Jersey recently banned the planting of non-native species on state lands to help reduce the spread of invasive species that choke out New Jersey’s native flora and threaten wetlands and waterways. For more information on this problem in New Jersey, see report, “An Overview of Nonindigenous Plant Species in New Jersey” at the NJDEP’s website: http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/InvasiveReport.pdf . Traffic
Circulation Element Amendment Document To view an Adobe Acrobat file of the Traffic Circulation Element report, click HERE . This will require Adobe Acrobat version 6.0 or higher. This file is 6 MB in size and may take several minutes to download by phone modem. A
copy of the Traffic Circulation Element can be viewed at the Montgomery
Township Planning Department at 2261 Rt. 206, Belle Mead between 8:00
am and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Montgomery
Township Committee Adopts Zoning Changes Press
Release, 3/19/04, "Public Forums on Proposed Ordinance Changes"
(55.7 kb) 5/30/04
Affordable
Housing in Montgomery Township Community Grants & Planning, Inc. National
Emergency Information Link Traffic
Town Meetings, Hot Spots and Ideas This
document provides: Background
and topics of discussion (May 2003 Newsletter feature article).
Table
identifying intersections and bridges where improvements are needed
or planned.
Map
of Montgomery showing locations of intersections
and bridges being discussed (file size is 464k).
Send us an e-mail. Give us your ideas, comments, suggestions: traffic comments Top Concerns
About Low-Flying Aircraft Note:
The Township Committee has passed a resolution objecting to the new
flight pattern and calling on the FAA to test an ocean route that
would mitigate noise pollution suffered by so many New Jersey communities. Community
Survey Results The survey was intended to gather public opinion about assumptions that the Master Plan Committee was making in its approach to planning for the future of the area surrounding the intersection of Route 518 and State Highway 206. For example: 1.
That growth should be allowed in this area and reduced in the more rural
and environmentally sensitive parts of the township;
2.
That the township must deal with traffic problems before, or in conjunction
with, additional development;
3.
That pedestrian orientation (low signs, small parking lots, pedestrian
pathways and sidewalks, etc.) is desirable.
Here are some highlights: -Ninety
percent of respondents felt it is very important or somewhat important
to provide a cohesive and compact “town center” area that
contains a compatible mix of existing and proposed land uses.
-Ninety-nine
percent agreed that any new development should be comprehensively designed,
with assurance that the road network can support the development.
-Eighty
percent or more agreed that features that make it easier to get around
without a car should be incorporated into the study area: sidewalks,
bike paths, signage on a pedestrian scale, etc.
-Ninety-one
percent said it is important to include attractive civic spaces, greens
and park areas, creating a special sense of community identity.
About half of the 1022 respondents wrote answers to the survey’s open-ended question about what people would like to see in the study area. The most common answer was small retail stores such as a drug store, bakery or additional bookstore. Many people also suggested restaurants and outdoor recreation / leisure areas, and some suggested additional professional and office space. About seven percent of respondents suggested there should be no additional development permitted in this area. Here again, the primary concern related to creating and managing additional traffic. Not surprisingly, another concern was taxes, and the strong desire to make sure that additional development would help relieve – not contribute to – the tax burden on homeowners. To view complete survey results, click HERE.The file is an Adobe Acrobat file about 150 kilobytes in size. The Master Plan Committee thanks those of you who filled out surveys. Based on input and feedback from residents in six public planning sessions and via the 2002 Community Survey, and following a year of Master Plan Committee discussions, the Committee has at this stage concluded that the Bloomberg properties, including the Don Drake (Country Gentleman) farm on Route 518 that is being sold to Bloomberg, should be zoned for offices; the John Drake properties -- approximately 65 acres of farmland just east of the Don Drake farm -- should be preserved as farmland in accordance with the wishes of the farm’s owners, the John Drake family, and 47 acres of property north of the airport that is currently vacant should be developed with compact, mixed uses (mostly retail) and including the possibility of a small number of residential units or a small hotel. Other small tracts may also be rezoned. The Sharbell property, 138 acres that lie north of Rt. 518 and just west of the Village Shopper, was rezoned in December 2001; plans for an age-restricted community are making their way through the Planning Board process. The next step, before adopting changes to current zoning, is to evaluate different zoning scenarios to make sure that the Planning Board, Master Plan Committee and Township Committee understand as well as possible the long term impact of these zoning decisions on people, our economy and tax base, our natural resources, traffic, roads and other infrastructure. These evaluations will be done by our traffic consultant John Rea and by the Regional Planning Partnership (a non-profit organization that advocates sound planning and helps communities assess the regional impact of their decisions), in collaboration with the township's planning office. The results of these evaluations will be provided to the public via the township newsletter and web site, and to the Planning Board, Master Plan Committee and Township Committee to further inform them as they finalize the proposed zoning changes and developers' agreements.
Montgomery Township Municipal Offices
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