The Conservatory

Open the doors of The Conservatory and the sounds of creativity resonate with endless possibilities from within the largest non-profit community school of the arts in Bucks County.

The Conservatory is a non profit 501(c)3 organization offering educational and performance opportunities in music, art and drama. All students, regardless of age, ability or income, are welcome.

The Conservatory has over 55 degreed, experienced faculty members known for their caring teaching skills and professional expertise. In addition to group classes and individual lessons, the calendar year is packed with recitals, concerts, workshops and summer camps.

This year The Conservatory will be holding its inaugural “Sounds of Excellence” concert at the Kimmel Center in March. The event will bring together the finest of The Conservatory students with the schools talented faculty for an exciting concert in the area’s most premier venue.

Each year The Conservatory holds several fundraisers including its Family Arts Fest in June to support the Conservatory’s charitable outreach projects such as the Prelude Project, arts therapy for special needs individuals, Arts for Seniors, Neighborhood Notes, free lessons for at-risk children and Tuition Assistance Grants.

Summer has its own exciting offerings with The Conservatory’s Star Struck Productions musical theater camps, which gives all the participants the opportunity to shine in a full-scale musical production.

Throughout the year you can meet some of the world’s greatest guitarists during Stretched Strings workshops and concerts. Learn to play like the best and enjoy an evening being entertained by the outstanding talent and great performers.

Other exceptional Conservatory programs include the fun-filled, creative Musikgarten pre-school music education classes for ages birth through five and Lights, Camera, Acting! theater classes for all ages.

If looking for volunteer opportunities, Neighborhood Notes provides free classes and peer mentoring for low-income, at-risk children.

For more information about The Conservatory, call 215-340-7979, email info@myconservatory.org or visit www.communityconservatory.org.

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Amateur Astronomers Association of Princeton, Inc.

The Amateur Astronomers Association of Princeton, Inc. (AAAP) is a non-profit organization, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2012.

AAAP members promote astronomy through monthly lectures, public star-watches at the club’s observatory, star parties at local schools, and a regional star party. AAAP meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month, September to June, at 8:00pm in Peyton Hall, 4 Ivy Lane on the Princeton University campus. Meetings are free and open to the public and there is ample free parking in the lot across from Peyton Hall.

Meetings start with brief announcements of general interest, followed by a lecture on astronomical research, observational astronomy, astrophotography or space exploration. After an intermission, members conduct a business meeting to organize club activities. Regular lecture attendees are encouraged to become paid members to support these popular presentations.

AAAP maintains two observatories.  Simpson Observatory in Washington Crossing State Park (NJ) houses two telescopes: a research-grade 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain catadioptric and a historic 6.25-inch Hastings-Byrne refractor.  A second observatory at Jenny Jump State Park in northwestern New Jersey houses a 12-inch custom-built Newtonian reflector.  The Simpson Observatory is open every Friday for public star watches from April to October, weather permitting.

AAAP members bring the wonders of the night sky to children by bringing their telescopes to local schools. They work with teachers to supplement classroom lessons by showing students planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies through the telescopes. Also, members periodically conduct seminars on observational astronomy at the Nature Center in Washington Crossing State Park.

AAAP works closely with the New Jersey State Planetarium in Trenton, NJ to promote astronomy at “Super Science Day.”

The club’s annual star party “Jersey Starquest” is held in the fall at a dark sky observing site in northern New Jersey. In addition to observing the night sky through a variety of telescopes, the weekend includes an equipment swap, a raffle and an observing challenge. Lodging, camping, and meals are provided for a modest fee.

The AAAP website, www.princetonastronomy.org, and the club newsletter, Sidereal Times (princetonastronomers.wordpress.com) provides more information about the club activities.

For more info or to arrange a star party at your school, e-mail info@princetonastronomy.org.

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Advocates for the Homeless and Those in Need (AHTN)

AHTN is an interfaith organization of committed community volunteers that serves Bucks County’s less fortunate, especially the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless. Its original program, “Code Blue,” is in its fourth year of providing overnight shelter in area churches when the temperature dips below 26 degrees.

Shortly after this mission began however, it quickly became evident that more comprehensive services were needed and the program expanded.

When “Code Blue” is called, volunteers mobilize, using the AHTN bus, to drive guests to the designated Code Blue shelter, set-up cots and prepare light dinner and breakfast. Others split overnight shifts onsite.

Volunteers also staff a call-in hotline, drive guests to area churches that offer meals and showers, provide liaison/advocacy work with medical and social services providers, for example.

Their bus travels over 7,000 miles each year serving the homeless and transporting them to shelters and services.

This all-volunteer nonprofit needs new volunteers in all aspects of its expanding program and training is provided.

In addition to Code Blue volunteers, they need volunteers skilled in navigating the social services system; interested in leading advocacy and fund-raising projects or in staffing the phones; or those with specific skills such as car mechanics and dentists.

They are also seeking committed, civic-minded community leaders to serve on their Board and offer their expertise.

Tangible donations of money, and gift cards for food and gas, are also welcome and can be made through their website, www.advocates4homeless.org or mailed to PO Box 184, Fairless Hills, PA 19030.

AHTN is a 100% volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit corporation that has been instrumental in raising awareness regarding the homeless in Bucks County.

For more information, visit the website or call 215-550-3868.

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MOEF seeking new partners

The Morrisville Opportunity Education Foundation (MOEF), a community based, non-profit organization, is looking for new community and private sector partners interested in enriching educational opportunities for Morrisville district students.

MOEF goals are met through its community and private sector relationships that help the organization support innovative and collaborative classroom programs, such as the Odyssey of the Mind, and other educational experiences. 

Funding for MOEF programs that are not paid for by local, state or federal dollars comes from individuals, corporations and foundations.  

MOEF is an approved program of the PA Department of Commerce and an Economic Development Education Improvement Tax Credit Program that grants tax credits to businesses donating to educational improvement organizations.

It is a 501c(3) organization. MOEF’s work continues throughout the summer months.

If you are a business or individual interested in learning more, contact School Superintendent William Ferrara at 215-736-2681 or email wferrara@mv.org.

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Third Annual Tail Waggers Strut June 3rd at Washington Xing State Park

The Crossings Animal Sanctuary, Inc., a nonprofit animal welfare organization, will host the Third Annual Tail Waggers Strut Dog Walk Festival at Washington Crossing State Park on Sunday, June 3rd, from 9:00am to 4:00pm (rain date June 10th). Proceeds will be used to acquire land, build, and operate Bucks County’s first no-kill animal sanctuary.

In the event’s first two years, nearly 1500 animal lovers in Bucks County and the surrounding area walked in the “Strut” and attended the festival. As a result of the community’s efforts, over $50,000 was placed in the Sanctuary Building Fund. This year, the goal is to have over 1,000 individuals, families and children walking their dogs, and to raise $100,000 in net proceeds. 

After two years at Shady Brook Farm in Newtown, the event moves to a much larger space at Washington Crossing State Park. Here, where the turning point of the American Revolutionary War took place, the goal is to create a new revolution: a Bucks County in which there are No More Homeless Pets, where 90% or more of the homeless companion animals are ensured a loving home and quality care for the rest of their lives.

The event’s festival field will feature over 100 vendors, offering pet products and services, crafts and food. Special events will occur throughout the day.

A “SuperAdoption” will feature adoptable companion animals from 20 or more area shelters and rescue organizations. In addition to dogs and cats, bunnies and pigs will be available for adoption.

The walk, which is for ages 13 and up, is four miles along the beautiful Delaware Canal. There is a also special two-mile walk for children ages 5-12, called “Kids Can, Too!” Prizes will be given to the walkers who raise the most pledge money. Pre-registration for walkers is strongly encouraged, and has already begun.

A downloadable form is available online at TheCrossingsAnimalSanctuary.org.

A month prior to Tail Waggers Strut, on Wednesday, May 2nd, Bucks County area restaurants will host “Appetite for Saving Animals,” a dinner hour fundraiser. Participating restaurants donate a portion of their evening’s revenue to CAS’ Sanctuary Building Fund and will be posted on the website.

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Hep B Foundation adds new members to Board

The Hepatitis B Foundation (www.hepb.org), the only national nonprofit organization solely dedicated to finding a cure for hepatitis B and improving the quality of life for those affected worldwide through research, education and patient advocacy, recently announced the recent addition of three members to its Board of Directors.

The new members include Fox Rothschild LLP Partner, Loren Danzis, Esq.; President and CEO of Modern Group Ltd., David E. Griffith; and Professor of Life Sciences in Princeton University’s Department of Molecular Biology, Dr. Thomas Shenk.

Recent additions to the Foundation’s Board of Directors over the last 18 months have also included The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Assistant Vice President and Corporate Controller, Joseph Hediger; Johnson & Johnson Senior Director, Corporate Office of Science & Technology, Dr. Robert Zivin; and Safeguard Scientifics Inc. Executive Vice President and Managing Director, James A. Datin.

“We are pleased to begin 2012 with the addition of these outstanding corporate and scientific leaders to our distinguished Board of Directors,” stated Hepatitis B Foundation Executive Director and Co-founder, Joan Block. “We look forward to their contributions in our efforts to bring hope through our research and outreach programs to the 400 million people worldwide who suffer from hepatitis B.”

PHOTO CAPS: 1. David Griffith

2. Dr. Thomas Shenk

3. Loren Danzis

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Makefield Women’s Association distributes $10,000 to student scholars and local non-profits

mwa1

 

by Maryanna S. Phinn

The Makefield Women’s Association (MWA) distributed $10,000 at its April beneficiaries meeting to six local non-profit organizations and three scholarship recipients. MWA raises money throughout the year to support student scholars and local charities. The funds were raised in 2011 and distributed at the 2012 annual meeting.

The beneficiaries included: Bucks County Housing Group, Kisses for Kyle, A Woman’s Place, Family Service Association Bucks County Emergency Shelter, Yardley-Makefield Free Library, Yardley-Makefield Fire Company and three Pennsbury High School student scholars.

Marisa Millenson, Priyanka Solanki and Morgan Thomas, all residents of Yardley and Pennsbury seniors, received scholarships for academic achievement and community service.

MWA awards two scholarships every year. The third scholarship is awarded annually in memory of William A. Thomas. Marisa Millenson and Morgan Thomas received the MWA scholarships. Priyanka Solanki is the recipient of the William A. Thomas Memorial Scholarship.

MWA awards the scholarships based on the recommendations of Pennsbury High School guidance counselors. The scholarship winners excel in many areas of academics and extracurricular activities and community service:

[Read more...]

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Delaware River Theatre Collective announces fundraiser for April 29th

The Delaware River Theatre Collective (DRTC), a non-profit group created to bring professional theatre back to the towns of New Hope and Lambertville, has announced the date for a second fundraising event. Set for Sunday, April 29th, the 8:00pm concert will be held at the at the Stephen J. Buck Memorial Theater at the New Hope-Solebury High School, 180 W. Bridge Street in New Hope.

The DRTC is determined to bring live theatre of the highest quality back to Bucks and Hunterdon counties in a venue that the group will call “home.” Spring 2013 has been set as the target date for the beginning of the DRTC’s first full season of shows.

The current fundraising concert to be held on April 29th is titled “Broadway Jukebox.” The concept of the jukebox musical incorporates previously released popular songs into its musical score.

The concept for this new concert comes from DRTC Artistic Director, Richard Amelius. Amelius is an innovative and versatile director, choreographer, and writer with over 50 shows to his credit. He most recently directed the World Premier of Time Between Us at New York Musical Festival.

Along with well-known regional performers who have appeared in productions at the Bucks County Playhouse and Washington Crossing Open Air Theatre, Amelius is securing talent from New York City. Performers include Adam Halpin (Broadway’s Rent, Glory Days,) Dana Aversa, Jim Bray, Jordan Brennan, Erik Freddy Geils, Jill Palena, Louis Palena, Jenny Pilong, Jennifer Lameo, Adam Levinskas, Derricks Parks, Suzanne Slade, Justin Gamble and Jessica Wagner.

This is a ONE NIGHT ONLY event and advance reservations are highly suggested. Seating for the event will be general admission and donations begin at $25 per person.

Reservations can be made by emailing: tickets@delawarerivertheatrecollective.org.

Visit the new DRTC website at www.delawarerivertheatrecollective.org.

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Friday Night Fireworks continues its third year in New Hope and Lambertville

by June Portnoy

Friday Night Fireworks will kick off its third season on Friday, May 25th at 9:30pm, continuing every Friday night through Labor Day, Friday, August 31st. The fireworks will be ignited on the Delaware River immediately south of the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge, allowing spectators on both sides of the river to enjoy the dazzling display of lights.

“This is a 10-minute, non-stop display of multi-colored fireworks orchestrated by Garden State Fireworks,” says Bill Scandone, co-chair of the New Hope-Lambertville Fireworks. “This year’s show will be even more spectacular than ever.

“Watching these fireworks displayed over the river is like watching the fireworks from the boardwalk down the shore without paying the high gas prices to drive there.”

Every week, a special guest will lead the countdown of the fireworks while engaging the crowd of spectators as they all count down together to one.

“Everyone in town looks forward to Friday Night Fireworks and have come to expect it as part of their summer tradition,” adds Bill.

However, it’s not just local residents who come out to see the fireworks. In fact, in 2011, Friday Night Fireworks attracted over 6,500 additional visitors each weekend, and it’s anticipated that this number will increase this year.

These tourists have significantly influenced the financial success of the town’s restaurants and businesses. Once exposed to New Hope and Lambertville’s unique and charming character, many visitors remembered to visit this area during the fall and winter months, returning to stroll and enjoy all this community has to offer, which was precisely the purpose of these fireworks when they began three years ago.

This major event was developed to revitalize and reinforce New Hope and Lambertville’s reputations as premier towns offering diverse dining, eclectic entertainment and shopping and lodging.

“We recognize that with the restoration of the Bucks County Playhouse, refurbishing the Canal and our intrepid supporters, we are well positioned for economic growth,” says Bill.

The Bucks County Playhouse has agreed to hold their intermissions during the firework displays on Friday evenings, so their spectators will also take pleasure in the fabulous display from outside its building.

This year, there will be a special fireworks show on Friday, May 18th at 9:30pm to embrace New Hope Celebrates.

Friday Night Fireworks is sponsored by the Greater New Hope and Lambertville Chambers of Commerce. Bill chairs Friday Night Fireworks with co-chairs, Nick Gialias, Marc Currie and Wilson Weed. These four volunteers give up every Friday during the summer to make this fireworks show a success.

Friday Night Fireworks is a not for profit 501 (c)(3) Corporation. Donations are charitable contributions. Funding for these fireworks come directly from private donors, including local businesses and residents and the food and beverage vendors.

If you would like to contribute to Friday Night Fireworks, send a check to The Bank of Princeton, 10 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ 08530 or through PayPal at www.newhopelambervillefireworks.com; click on “Contribute to the Fund.”

For credit card payments, contact Wilson Weed at 609-397-0333, ext. 1817 (wweed@thebankofprinceton.com).

Donations should be made payable to New Hope on the Delaware-Fireworks.

See a video of Friday Night Fireworks below.

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First Annual Nor’wester Readers Family Dog Walk

Start getting your pups ready to walk three miles!

Nor’wester Readers Canine Assisted Learning Program, a 501 (c)(3) not for profit organization, will host its first annual “Family Dog Walk” at Tyler Park’s Art Center entrance, Richboro, on Sunday, May 6th – rain or shine.

The proceeds will be used to grow the organization so more therapy dog teams can be placed in public and private school classrooms. Nor’wester Readers provides certified therapy dog teams who work cooperatively with teachers to support and build student motivation. The presence of the therapy dog teams also offers a stress-free learning environment to improve student self esteem and confidence.

[Read more...]

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