WGOTW BLOGTORIALS

Swing into 2010 with FREE Golf!

2009-12-29T21:57:00.006-05:00

MERCER COUNTY CONTINUES HOLIDAY TRADITION WITH FREE GOLF JAN. 1

For the past decade, the Mercer County Park Commission has offered a free day of golf to all Mercer County golf card holders on New Year’s Day.

Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes and Park Commission Executive Director Kevin Bannon are pleased to announce that on Friday, Jan. 1, 2010, the tradition will continue.

“A round of golf is a terrific way to usher in a new decade for many of our local golfers who’ve adopted this fun tradition,” said Bannon.

Mercer Oaks East and West in West Windsor, Mountain View in Ewing, and Princeton Country Club in West Windsor will all be open New Year’s Day, weather permitting. (Snow on Jan. 1 would cancel play). Both Mercer Oaks and Mountain View courses will accept advanced tee times by phone or Internet reservation. Princeton Country Club will accept golfers on a first-come, first-served basis. The first tee time at all courses is 8 a.m., frost permitting.

For more information, please contact the individual golf shops:

Phone Reservation System: (609) 989-7398
Mercer Oaks East & West Golf Courses: (609) 936-1383
Mountain View Golf Course: (609) 882-4093
Princeton Country Club: (609) 452-9382

Check Out Web-site

Holiday Light Shows Fun for the Whole Family

2009-12-17T05:00:00.012-05:00

I love the Holiday's because of all the Lights. Something about it is just relaxing and joyous!

I stumbled onto Bob Martel's Home on 21 Phillips in Hamilton, NJ as I was driving to AllStars, can't miss his house! Bob has been entertaining families for a mere donation for 22 years and features 90,000 Lights on his property! His electric bill averages $1,600 for the month... that is true passion! This is a MUST See spectacular located right off of 195 and 206 in Hamilton, NJ.

Then we have the famous Shady Brook Farm who is known for their awesome Ice Cream and Halloween Production. This Holiday Light Show is from the comfort of your car or a moonlight Hayride!

Millions of lights illuminate as you drive through the spectacular from the Statue of Liberty to familiar characters. After your ride you can visit Santa's Village the North Pole Adventure for some Hot Chocolate and shopping.

Click Here for a Shady Brook Coupon to the Show!

Last but definitely not least Longwood Gardens the magical journey for wonderful garden designs and Holiday wonders! It's worth the trip and memories of a lifetime!

Give the Gift of Art This Holiday

2009-12-10T07:53:00.004-05:00

Hydrate Your Skin for the Holidays!

2009-12-10T07:41:00.005-05:00

Tis the Season for Dry Heat, Holiday Spirits and Dry Skin! As we all know this time of year your skin is susceptible to dehydration but never fear, Erika, Owner of “All New You Holistic Spa” in Windsor, NJ has a great product that keeps your skin fresh looking for the Holidays!

Oxygen, the key to keeping your skin revitalized and All New You Holistic Spa only provides the best organic treatments for your face. You can also purchase products like the Vita-o2 Hydra refining Mist to carry in your bag and spritz your face to keep your skin feeling fresh as needed and you can apply right over your makeup!.

Yes, I tried the Oxygen Mist and it truly works! All New You Holistic Spa in Windsor, NJ

Give the Gift of "Cute Tools"

2009-12-09T07:23:00.005-05:00

Karen, Owner of Perennial Home in Hightstown carries several “Gifts that keep on Giving” in her shop! This Holiday she has a line of “Home Tools” crafted by a program called “Art for a Cause”.

Each tool is lovingly sanded and primed by a person with special needs, including those with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple scleroses, or a variety of cognitive challenges. Then, the artists hand paint beautiful and custom patterns on each, and then carefully package them in sustainable packaging. An ordinary household tool becomes "cute" and a meaningful gift idea.

Perennial Home is located 119 West Ward Street in Hightstown, NJ http://www.perennialhome.com/

Gifts That Keep on Giving

2009-12-09T07:14:00.004-05:00

Tis the Season to Shop for Friends, Family and yourself! Here are some unique Holiday Gift Ideas that keep on giving!

A Bit of NYC In Hightstown carries a new item called Peeky toes. “Made in the USA" working with 20+ businesses including Goodwill Industries and the Autism Society. The packaging is 100% soy ink on 100% Forest Stewardship Council paper, with NO plastic sock hooks! Eco-Peekys keep feet clean after a pedicure or through airport security. Perfect for Pilates, dance or wearing to bed!
Lightweight and breathable, made from Bamboo (a renewable resource) and REPREVE® Recycled Nylon.

By recycling yarns, REPREVE® will conserve 10 million gallons of gasoline by 2010! The Bamboo is dyed with Global Organic Textile Standard approved dyes.

SKATE WITH SANTA!

2009-12-03T05:42:00.004-05:00

Santa Claus will make a rare pre-Christmas visit to Mercer County Park’s Public Ice Skating Center on Saturday, December 19, where children can have a chance to skate alongside Santa and then join him for candy canes and photographs in the lobby.

Festivities begin at 5 p.m. when Santa arrives and the family skate session starts. Youngsters are invited to join Santa on the ice until 6:15 p.m. St. Nick will then retreat to the sitting area for an hour.

Parents are invited to bring along a camera to get photos of their children skating with Santa or on his lap afterward when Santa will be accepting Christmas wishes from children.

“This fun, family event offers a chance to slow down and enjoy each other’s company during a busy holiday season. I encourage skaters and non-skaters alike to stop by, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and visit with Santa,” County Executive Brian M. Hughes said.

The skating center, located at Mercer County Park in West Windsor, is open to the public seven days a week during the operating season, which runs November to March. Skate rentals will be free for this event, and entrance fees are charged only to those who choose to skate.

The skating center offers general public skating sessions, family night sessions, birthday parties and ice time for hockey. Group lessons are offered, as are private lessons given by County skating professionals. The Skating Center has group rates, skate rentals, private party rentals on Wednesday and Sunday evenings, a snack bar and a skate sharpening service.

Ticket prices are: Adults, $7; Junior (11 and under), $5; and Seniors (62 and older), $5. Skates can be rented for $2 per pair. Skate rentals are free for this event. Frequent skater passes also are available. For a complete skating schedule, a list of special events or directions, go to www.mercercounty.org and click on Parks Commission listing, or call the Skating Center information line at (609) 371-1669 or rink office at 371-1766.

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.., Friday nights, 8:30-10:30 p.m.; Saturday 1-3:30 p.m., 5-7 p.m. and 8-10 p.m.; Sunday, 1-3 p.m.

Visit Mercer County on the web at www.mercercounty.org

Everything Taste Better Dip't in Chocolate even Pumpkin

2009-11-23T07:50:00.010-05:00

Pumpkin Fudge

Without a doubt I am a chocolate lover and never in my life knew that so many types of chocolate existed until I met Miss Joanne, Owner of Dip’t in Chocolate in Hightstown, NJ!

Everyone knows that fudge is amazing, but you can only eat so much of it. Well, that myth has been proven to be untrue! Joanne’s Pumpkin Fudge, made just for Thanksgiving, is absolutely incredible and light... as light as fudge can be:)

So if you are looking to be the hero at Thanksgiving and are a "Professional Guest" like me, I highly recommend this as a good move to bring... However must order asap! http://www.diptinchocolate.com/

Here is a $5.00 off coupon to use!

Thanksgiving Dessert is a Work of Art!

2009-11-23T07:42:00.012-05:00

My daily routine is to visit Pasticcera La Prefrita in Allentown, NJ for coffee.

Last week, I noticed these adorable little pastries shaped into berries and vegetables ~ I was told they were “Marzipan” and being from Montana, had absolutely no clue what marzipan was. A million questions later, Cathy Prestano, Owner, was able to explain the process because she actually hand makes these beautiful pastries herself by hand and with some molds imported from Italy. Then she hand paints each one with food dye and creates such detail in the pastry that it really looks like a refrigerator magnet! If you want to experience true Italian Marzipan you can ONLY purchase during the Holiday's at Paticceria La Prefrita because the process to make these edible delights is extremely time consuming and Cathy only makes them for the Holiday's.

DID YOU KNOW Marzipan is also known as Pasta Reale, aka royal paste, because it was made in kitchens of the great nobles and confectioner-friars of Mantorana di Palermo. Marzipan is made from top quality almonds, ground, and an equal weight of sugar, together with a little cinnamon and water. After the marzipan is cooked the “Artisans” (as referred to in Sicily) begin to mold each piece with custom molds or by hand just like creating a sculpture… ONLY EDIBLE!

Cathy and Frank have been in the business their entire lives and really enjoy what they do. Owning other Bakeries in New York they decided to bring Brooklyn to the quaint Town of Allentown, NJ and I am GLAD they did! Paticceria La Prefrita is located on corner of Main Street and Church Street in Allentown, NJ. Click Here Directions & Web-site

Holiday Appetizers Made Simple!

2009-11-23T07:36:00.007-05:00

Appetizers need to be easy for me.. again can't cook. Debbie Hamm, Sales Director with The Pampered Chef, gave me this easy to make recipe to bring this year and they taste fabulous with little effort!!!
Pesto Cheese Pastries

Ingredients:
2 oz (60 g) cream cheese, softened
1 oz (30 g) Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp (30 mL) prepared basil pesto
½ pkg (17.3 oz/450 g) frozen puff pastry sheets (1 sheet), thawed
2 oz (60 g) thinly sliced deli ham (about 6 slices)

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line Large Sheet Pan with Parchment Paper; set aside. In Small Batter Bowl, whisk cream cheese until smooth using Stainless Whisk. Grate Parmesan cheese into Batter Bowl using Rotary Grater; add pesto and mix well.

2. Unfold pastry dough onto flat side of Large Grooved Cutting Board; lightly roll seams using Baker’s Roller®. Arrange ham over dough, overlapping if necessary. Spread cream cheese mixture over ham using Small Spreader. Bring bottom edge of dough up to create a 1½-in.fold; bring edge up again to make another 1½-in. fold. Repeat on opposite side. Fold dough in half, bringing folded edges together. Press dough lightly to seal.

3. Cut dough crosswise into sixteen ¼-inch-thick (6-mm) slices using Bread Knife. Place slices cut-side up onto sheet pan. Bake 22-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Yield: 16 pastries

Tis the Season to Start Eating & Drinking!

2009-11-22T17:21:00.024-05:00

Thanksgiving is a day to acknowledge what you are grateful for and I am grateful that I know people who enjoy cooking Thanksgiving Dinner because....well let's just say, that's not my forte.

I am a certified professional "Holiday Guest," but it's not that simple! It is my duty as a Holiday Guest to bring wine, appetizer and desert to the place where I spend my holiday festivities so the Chef can stay focus on preparing the Holiday Feast. Besides, my mother always told me to NEVER arrive empty handed.

Wine can be complicated so I asked, Nitesh, Owner of Allentown Wine and Liquors, in Allentown, NJ, for some suggestions and here is what he suggested for Thanksgiving festivities.~ plus if you are in Allentown or close by Click here and save 10% off mixed case of holiday Wine!

Tradition in my circle of friends and family is you always start with Bubbly during the Holiday’s or it’s just not the Holidays. Champagne at brunch or with appetizers. This year I am trying something new Champagne & Pomegranate Juice here is the recipe it's delicious and light!

Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade Tips

2009-11-18T06:33:00.007-05:00

Philadelphia Parade Starts 9:00am

I did not know that Philadelphia is the Oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade starting in 1920 ~ the first New York Parade was in 1924 and it was called..... (anyone) yes..... Macy’s Day Parade. (there is a test later)

Last year I went to the Philadelphia Parade and thought that it was a lot of fun and quaint would be my description. New York is awesome, but it’s a lot of craziness ~ but isn’t that what we love about New York anyway!
We really enjoyed The Campbell’s Winter Wonderland Expo Tent which is an area where you can sample all products (warm soup and hot coco) and receive coupons for products and leave with a gift from IKEA.

Sasha had the cool photo moment opportunity to hold one of the Balloons!

Because my Thanksgiving will be spent in Marlton, NJ this year I am going back to Philadelphia's Parade to enjoy the festivities and kick off my 2009 Holiday Season!

Best Places to Watch
1) The #1 place to watch is at the parade's finish at the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
2) The south side of Eakins Oval (in front of the Art Museum) is also recommended. Campbell's Soup sponsors a tent there where there's hot food, warm drinks and entertainment for kids.
3) Other locations along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, like Logan Circle, are also good bets.
4) You can also watch the parade begin at 20th and Market and then take a shortcut on foot heading north on 20th Street five blocks to the Parkway and catch the parade again as it goes by.

Parade Route

Tips for going to Macy's Day Parade in NYC

2009-11-18T05:42:00.013-05:00

Tips for Best Viewing Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City
Parade Hotline: 212-494-4495

Wednesday, November 25th
If you are super ambitious you can go into New York and watch the Balloons inflate near the American Museum of Natural History at 77th Street and Central Park West

Parade route changed this year..

The parade starts at 77th Street and Central Park West
Heads South down Central Park West until it reaches Columbus Circle at 59th Street
Turns East at Columbus Circle along Central Park South
Turns South at 7th Avenue, continues along 7th Avenue through Times Square until 42nd Street At 42nd Street the route turns East on 42nd street for 1 block until 6th Ave.
Turns South onto 6th Avenue AND continues south on 6th Avenue to finish in front of Macy’s in Herald Square at 34th Street

I found a couple of sites that gave great tips and information and appreciate those who know what they are talking about going into unknown territory to have a nice day!

Everyone recommends to get there early. Parade Start time is 9:00 am and if you have small children and want to get up front it’s recommended to get there 2 hours earlier (really earlier but up to you), which with small children can be an issue. However, Traveling Mamas say that people are pretty festive and they don’t usually mind if your child scoots up to the front. The best part of the parade for a child visually are the balloons and they can't be missed.

Dress or bring layers, yes it's a nice day in the suburbs, but NY has huge sun blocks called skyskrapers and it can get cold if you are in the shade. Tip bring a sinch sack easy to fold, string straps that can fold up and fit in your pocket and it expands so if you need to remove a layer you have somewhere to carry it!

Favorite viewing area is along Central Park West, couple of sites recommend between 66th and 77th Streets because it’s by Central park and there is a playground right across the park entrance from Tavern on the Green.

No folding Chairs allowed

Parade Highlights & History

2009 Parade Highlight...marks the return of Marvel’s Spider Man, which flew over a decade and was one of the most memorable balloons in the Macy’s long Parade history, according to Robin Hall, executive producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! (wow what a cool job)Is th

Tips for Holiday Decorating

2009-11-10T22:32:00.003-05:00

Today technology has made our lives insane! Who has time to decorate like Martha Stewart for the Holidays! This year I bagged Halloween decorating and I was pondering fall, but thanks to Karen West, Owner of Perennial Home in Hightstown. NJ for taking time to whip up some Holiday tips to use whatcha got and make it work!

Thanks Karen for sponsoring this series.

Enjoy,

This weekend Perennial Home is have a pre-holiday

Tis The Season ~ Santino Style

2009-11-10T12:02:00.015-05:00

Satino’s Bar One, located in Robbinsville, NJ off of Rte 33, always has a lot going on! "Tis The Season" Check it out!

Thursday 6pm - 9pm Santino's offers Shrimp Cocktail, Prime Rib and desert for only $24.95! Stick around as the evening turns into a Lounge and features Live Jazz!

Don't want the aggravation of cooking spend Thanksgiving Dinner at Santino's with fabulous menu selection buffet style!

Santino's Bar One

'Click the Share button to create links to this email on popular social networking and bookmarking size like Facebook, Twitter, and Digg.'

2009-10-15T13:20:00.001-04:00

'Click the Share button to create links to this email on popular social networking and bookmarking size like Facebook, Twitter, and Digg.'

Shared via AddThis

Thanks to The Times for a Great Article!

2009-10-15T10:13:00.002-04:00

Are You Up for a Lighthouse Challenge?

2009-10-15T07:08:00.010-04:00

Who in the world would have thought that New Jersey had so many Lighthouses! Yes, I guess living by the Atlantic Coast makes for a natural fit, but have you really ever thought about it.. or just took it for granted? I'm definitely guilty until I received information about this cool event called the "New Jersey Lighthouse Society/Challenge." This weekend, starts October 16 - 18th!

Nine years ago an all-volunteer committee from the New Jersey Lighthouse Society coordinated this annual challenge encouraging visitors to visit all 11 lighthouses and two 1st order Fresnel lenses housed in museums in 1 weekend, that is some serious traveling and sounds like a lot of fun!

Trinket INCENTIVE for visiting each lighthouse and if you visit all beacons you get an extra special souvenir! There is no charge to participate in the challenge - FYI some of the lighthouses charge to go up to the top, but it’s not required as part of the challenge and to receive your Souvenir!

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS: Challengers can visit from 8 am to 6 pm with those lighthouses sponsoring night climbs staying open until 8 pm. The purpose of the event is to raise awareness and educate the public about lighthouses. It also assists the local lighthouse organizations in their fundraising efforts. Donations are accepted and some lighthouses charge for the climb, which is not required to participate.

A bonus activity, not required to complete the challenge, includes a visit the future site of the Ludlam’s Beach Lighthouse in Sea Isle City where an original lighthouse, currently a nearby private residence, is in the process of being acquired and then will be moved.

The lighthouses border the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay and the Delaware River offering visitors spectacular views along the coast.

Lighthouse Day Climbs Only
Twin Lights in the Highlands
Sea Girt Lighthouse
Sea Girt; Barnegat Lighthouse
Barnegat Light
Hereford Inlet
North Wildwood;
East Point,
Heislerville
Finns Point
Pennsville.

Lighthouse Day and Night Climbs
Sandy Hook
Fort Hancock
Tucker's Island
Tuckerton
Absecon
Atlantic City
Cape May Lighthouse
Cape May
Tinicum
Paulsboro.

www.njlhs.org.

Mercer's 1st Ultimate Burger Contest Promises a Sizzlin' Good Time

2009-10-08T21:25:00.021-04:00

Love Burgers? Have a local favorite? Then don't miss the first battle for the bragging rights and title for "Mercer County's Ultimate Burger Award'' at the 1st Burger Mania Cook Off, featuring 2 FREE Concerts starting at 3pm with Jimmy & The Parrots and wrapping up at 6pm - 8pm with 2U "The World's 2nd Best U2 Show" This Saturday, Oct. 10th at Mercer County Park, outdoor events area by the ice skating rink and don’t forget to bring your chairs and blankets.

Area restaurants and caterers, watch their video's below, are ready to grill up their favorite recipes and sell "sliders'' to visitors, who can cast thier vote and hangout in the Hibernian Beer Garden.

West Windosr Goddard School Kid Zone has lots of exciting things to do for the kids, Howell Farm Hay bale Maze, Shooters Paintball Gallery, face painting and inflatable jumps to release their energy! Of course Holiday Crafters will be featured to do a little shopping.

2009 Holiday Season we NEED non-perishable items for the Holiday Food Drive, to be donated to Mount Carmel Guild, which has served Mercer County since 1920. Those who donate will receive raffle tickets to win tickets to Corner of Chaos Haunted Maze, Corner Copia Family Fun Maze and Active Acres Farm’s Haunted House.

Burger Mania Judges: Mercer County Community College Hotel, Restaurant Institutional Management Professor Douglas Fee and Professor Frank Benowitz. Special Guest Pat Tanner, food and travel writer, restaurant reviewer, and radio talk show host based in Princeton, New Jersey. Pat has written for newspapers and magazines throughout the state, including The New York Times NJ Section, The Star-Ledger, The Times (Trenton), U.S. 1, New Jersey Countryside, and New Jersey Monthly, in addition to writing a biweekly food column for The Princeton Packet

Meet Our Burger Mania Competitors/Chef’s

Make Up Artist Turns Zombie

2009-09-30T13:45:00.006-04:00

Miranda Leiggi of Wrightstown, PA graduated from Drew University with a degree in Theater Arts and Studio Art. She also studied costume design and scenic painting, which has come in handy during the last 8 years at Midnight Productions' Haunted House in the Hollow, located in Newtown, PA.

As make-up artist for the cast, Miranda can make molds of someone's face and make it look as haunted as any ghoul from Halloween Town. She was even able to scare me in broad daylight! She first heard of the Haunted House in the Hollow when her friend had been working there in 2001, and she's been there ever since. From crawling out of furnaces to designing the grooling faces of death, Miranda is a sight to be seen…or feared. Check Out Miranda's Video of her "artwork". Article contributed by Gina Guarino, Student at Rider University

Italian Fest Chowder Fest and Irish Fest and more

2009-09-24T14:33:00.001-04:00

'Click the Share button to create links to this email on popular social networking and bookmarking size like Facebook, Twitter, and Digg.'

Shared via AddThis

Mercer County presents Burger Mania

2009-09-23T18:17:00.017-04:00

BURGER MANIA the 1st Burger Cook Off to take place locally! Why? Because everyone loves Burgers!

Combine Burgers, Beer, Great Music and a Kid Zone with activities for 5 hours could be what some call... Heaven! Columbus Weekend SAVE THE DATE Saturday, October 10th 3pm - 8pm. Burger Mania will take place Rain or Shine and will be located at Mercer County Park by the Ice Skating Rink. (but that won't be necessary because it's going to be a B.E.autiful Day!)

Jimmy & The Parrots Kick off Burger Mania 3pm - 6pm

http://www.jimmyandtheparrots.com

2U the 2nd Best U2 Show wraps up the day performing 6pm - 8pm

http://www.notu2.com

We will keep you posted on our competing Chefs and fabulous Judge Panel. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the event.

Power of the Honeybee and that's no beeswax!

2009-08-15T09:57:00.021-04:00

We went to Howell Farms in Hopewell for the Up Close with Bee's

Have you ever really thought about how powerful a Honeybee is from an economic perspective? I HONESTLY can say NO to my own question.

Well, it’s true… not only is Honey used as a sweetener in syrups, candies, medicines, and pastries, but, Beeswax is used to make candles, floor waxes, lipsticks, polishes, and ointments... WAIT THAT'S NOT ALL...in addition to producing Goods, these busy little bees provide services to the Farm Industry, many farmers and fruit growers rent hives of honeybees during the flowering season to improve pollination. (Just think of me at the next Trivia game when you can answer that one!)

I know this is TMI on Honeybees, but I could not help myself, the Honeybee is this amazing, brilliant little creature with big bodies and little wings and they dance!
But thats not all...

www.trentonthunder.com

DID YOU KNOW…

Honeybees would make great sales people, they diligently visit as many as 1,000 flowers a day!

They share with their Bee friends before they give up their nectar to the colony.

Pollen, which is the Honeybees food, sticks to the hair on their legs and is used for dinner… after a 1,000 flowers they must feast!

They do the Waggle Dance! Scouts fly around and scope the area for good nectar or pollen, when they find the goods, the Scout comes back does the Waggle Dance by flying in a figure eight and wiggling it's stinger, how cute!

Sampling, get this, a Scout may be asked for samples from the other Bees before they decide to leave... I never really thought about a Bee having this kind of intelligence. This leaves me to say "Never understimate the power of something as small as a Honeybee!"

.

To prove my findings on Honeybee's just visit these resources :)
How Bees Work

American Bee Keeping Association

WGOTW went to the market Lawrenceville Market that is

2009-07-23T08:08:00.004-04:00

Lawrenceville Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 9am – 1pm right off Main Street DIRECTIONS Special Guest Doug Duda, A&E International Network’s The Well-Seasoned Traveler was sampling some of his amazing pulled pork served with mashed potatoes and baked beans…. TO DIE FOR!

Bob Mecklenburger, Folk Singer and Guitarist performed at the Market entertaining the crowd.

WGOTW found Wayne’s Roasted Virginia Peanuts ~ yup and Wayne is going to be at Music Fest by the beer garden! Check out our photo’s

Music Fest Takes Center Stage!

2009-07-21T21:50:00.004-04:00

700 Music Fest Spectators brought their chairs to Mercer County Park Marina to enjoy beautiful weather, good music and lots of give-aways! Coming Up is July 23rd Jimmy & the Parrots & July 25th British Invasion. visit www.whatsgoingonthisweekend.com more concert details. WGOTW E-News

Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-Fil-A

2009-07-12T10:05:00.007-04:00

Chick-Fil-A of Hamilton Marketplace definitely has it going on! Dress like a Cow and Get a FREE Meal caught my attention a few weeks ago! So WGOTW decided to stop by to see if there were any “Cow Wanna Be’s” and YES… all the way from Jackson NJ, Ewing, Pennington, Phoenix AZ (obviously on vacation.. ..regardless, they were there!) New Egypt and of course Hamilton.

I asked Chelsea, Jaime & Sarah from New Egypt.. “why drive all the way to Hamilton?” their response because the food is good!

I can honestly say, I have NEVER been to a fast food establishment, that had a host walking around and asking if they can take your tray NOR have I ever seen little baskets by the bathroom with hand sanitizer packets …. OK were am I again, oh yes, Chic-fil-A of Hamilton Marketplace.

I spoke to John Velarde, Owner/Operator of the Hamilton Marketplace location and his Georgia accent gave it all away…. that so missed southern hospitality definitely is present at the Hamilton Marketplace Chick-fil-A!

John and his awesome team have lots of fun at there jobs and is very evident. Check out their Calendar Events for upcoming attractions!

http://www.cfarestaurant.com/hamiltonmarketplace/events

Check Out WGOTW's Dress like a cow show... see what you missed!

Jersey Fresh is Back!!!!

2009-07-07T22:10:00.006-04:00

WGOTW had a BLAST this 4th of July checking out Jersey Fresh Farmers Markets and what they have to offer!

WGOTW says.. Doesn’t matter were you live support your local Farmers and not to mention it tastes better!!!!

First Stop.. Corner Copia home of farm-fresh produce grown in New Jersey and the surrounding region. I had the pleasure of meeting John Specca who has great vision for this FALL so stay tuned on updates for some AWESOME Haunts this Halloween.

No he is not in located in Disney Land just on the corner of 571 & Old Trenton Road in East Windsor. http://www.corner-copia.com/

Then we went to West Windsor Farmers Market in West Windsor, while being entertained by The Isosceles Trio you could stroll, sample, check out great crafts and of course purchase Fresh produce while sipping yummy fresh blueberry lemonade!

Princeton Battlefield Reenactment

2009-07-07T06:29:00.003-04:00

East Coast Food & Wine Festival

2009-06-29T18:18:00.012-04:00

If you live in Mercer County or within a short driving distance.. there is a really BEAUTIFUL Vineyard called Hopewell Valley Vineyards that you must visit! Hello.. we are not in Tuscany or California, my favorite places, but NJ and wow what a beautiful vineyard and a really amazing day. Yes, the weather held out and these days that is a bonus.. but most important all of the people involved, Tre Piani serving their fabulous food as usual; Wegmans giving you a fresh loaf of bread and the visiting vineyards sharing with us their fabulous wines, hospitality and knowledge really made this a 5 star day! Here is our WGOTW Snaps!

Freedom Fest Ends with a Bang

2009-06-28T20:06:00.003-04:00

Amish Outlaws... Dawgs... NO RAIN! "Oh What A Night" Fireworks I thought were incredible hats off to Mercer County Park Commission for a nice FREE evening of fun and entertainment!

Art All Night ~ Oh What a Night!

2009-06-23T06:23:00.005-04:00

3 G Event!

Great Music, Great Art and Great Idea!

24 Hours of Art, Art and did I say Art? Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Arts & Crafts and 24 Hours of it! I went on Sunday and for Father's Day it was very busy with people roaming the this historic building that was formerly the Roebling Machine Shop that manufactured cables used to construct the Brooklyn Bridge. Perfect venue to display Art!

Sorry if you missed this year, but I did take some photo's and Don't MISS NEXT Year!

WELL DONE ARTWORKS!

http://www.artworkstrenton.org/artallnight/location.html

The Mojo Gypsie's Sotto Ristorante & Lounge

2009-06-23T06:14:00.002-04:00

3 G Rating: Great Music, Great Food and GREAT service! Mojo Gypsies I recommend to add to the list of Rhythm and blues band that play great music to dance too! Check out their schedule http://www.mojogypsies.com/gypsies/

Sotto's is the underground of Princeton it used to be the Annex Bar and Grill which still to this day serves many famous people that visit and live in Princeton. http://www.sotto128.com/

Princeton Battlefield Society ~ Tells the Story

2009-06-21T16:22:00.010-04:00

I experienced an education through demonstration about life in 18th century in New Jersey... I can honestly say that my history class was not as interesting and my 9 year old was actually interested.

The amazing part was that 20 soldiers + and a crew loading a cannon and when they fired it was so LOUD and smokey it really gave you a true perspective on what it was like on a battlefield!

The sad part about this experience is that it might STOP. Princeton Battlefield Society needs the Community to contact their local government OR these experiences are going to be History and I mean read only in history books or movies instead of the Mercer County's Backyard of Princeton Battlefield!

Help Save Princeton Battlefield!

In order to prevent the Institute for Advanced Study from developing the historically significant 22 acres of land, the Princeton Battlefield Society needs your help in making the state and local governments realize that this is important to you.

http://www.saveprincetonbattlefield.org/takeAction/index.htm

Trenton Thunder Welcome Home Troops!

2009-06-13T18:35:00.001-04:00

Red Bank Blues Festival

2009-06-13T18:11:00.003-04:00

Paddle for Pink Mercer County

2009-06-07T21:35:00.006-04:00

If you love Pink this is THE event for you! I took a photo from the Boat House at the Marina and you could still see pink! This was a totally amazing event, between the entertainment with the Drums and watching professional and those who just want to have fun all join forces to bring awarness to breast cancer and raise money! The photo's speak for themselves!! This is a 5 Star Event and definitely on to put on your calendar for next year! www.paddleforpink.org

Walk for Hunger "Kinny's Walk"

2009-06-07T21:30:00.003-04:00

The weather turned out to be super great and the Kinny Walkers managed to be spared for rain. The event had pony rides, live entertainment, this cool cow and fun balloon hats! I missed out on that ~ anyway it was a good time to be had by all who attended. If you wish to contribute to the battle against hunger you still can. http://www.theprofessors.net/kinnys_walk.php.htm

Great Music, Great Food & Atmosphere!

2009-06-06T17:57:00.004-04:00

Hightstown, NJ has a hidden secret and that is Tavern on the Lake or Theo's not to be confused with Theo's restaurant in Princeton. Went to Karen Dippolito's Happy Birthday (again) Party and just had a blast! Music was awesome "Poor Pluto" www.myspace.com/poorplutonj - highly recommend checking them out! http://www.tavernonthelakenj.com/contactus.html ~ not a lot on their web-site for info so I guess if you like to wing it and sit outside and enjoy good food, I say go for it!

Army Day at Shooters Paintball

2009-06-04T15:22:00.003-04:00

Trenton Thunder Kids Have Fun Again!

2009-06-04T15:05:00.002-04:00

Rhythm & Brews Concert

2009-05-26T22:05:00.002-04:00

Fun For the whole family! If you missed this concert... you missed an AWESOME line-up of entertainment, food, great Brews and fun for the whole family!

US Rowing Championships.. West Windsor.. who knew.

2009-05-26T21:37:00.004-04:00

Anyone for a little Skulling.... here was something cool to watch last weekend!

US Rowing National Championships is June 26 - 29th at Mercer County Park, West Windsor, NJ

http://www.clra.com/calendar/calendar.htm

Memorial Weekend Parade Allentown, NJ

2009-05-26T21:22:00.003-04:00

Going Back In Medieval Time

2009-05-21T06:29:00.003-04:00

Lions Club of West Windsor hosts the Renaissance Fair ~ giving people the opportunity to go back into Medieval Time and get a feel for what it's like to watch a true battle or two knights on horses battling in a jousting tournament. Best part was the Turkey Legs from McCaffrey's truly yummy!

U9 Boys Travel Soccer ~ Kicked MS

2009-05-21T06:22:00.003-04:00

In the Quest to Help Ryan's Quest Kick MS 4 U-9 Soccer Teams United in a Soccer Tournament Fundraiser. Efforts orchestrated by Hamilton Soccer Club, Mercer United U-9 Team. The kids had a great time and look forward to next year!

Participating Teams - Hamilton Travel, GAK, Allentown and Highland

Google Geo Developers Blog: Upcoming Conferences: Global Geo Goodness

2009-04-30T18:45:00.000-04:00

Google Geo Developers Blog: Upcoming Conferences: Global Geo Goodness

Cinco De Mayo ~ May 5th Parties

2009-04-30T09:33:00.002-04:00

All Starz

http://www.alstarzsportspub.com/cinco.html

Katman Du

http://www.katmandutrenton.com/events.htm

On The Border ~ Annual Outdoor Concert & Cinco Party!

Puppy Play Date

2009-04-26T09:40:00.001-04:00

Animal Alliance is an amazing organization, they provide Foster care for animals that need a home temporarily and then find permanent homes for them. Visit their web-site for more information. They orchestrated Puppy Play Date to help bring awareness.

http://www.animalalliancenj.org/

Dodge Ball Tournament.. Mercer County Park New Photo's

2009-04-26T08:57:00.006-04:00

Dodge Ball was very cool. Personally, I can’t imagine getting pinged with the stinger ball, which is a small ball and when whaled across the room gains speed and POP! Well I am a wimp… check out the photo’s.

: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/thumbpage.aspx?e=4690624

Princeton Communiversity ~ April 25, 2009

2009-04-24T11:28:00.003-04:00

Sponsored by students at the University and the Arts Council of Princeton, the event each year brings the town and University together for a day of performances, food, games and more.

Merchants, nonprofit organizations, musicians, performing and visual artists, food vendors and 60 University student organizations and performing groups offer activities for students and families alike. Fun Day for Family

http://www.princeton.edu/community/

Shad Fest This Weekend

2009-04-24T09:36:00.003-04:00

Saturday, April 25, 2009

shadfest.com

Always in the mood for a celebration, Lambertville residents hosted the first Shad Fest in 1981 to highlight the local art scene. The Shad Fest tradition was born as spring blossomed, the shad made their way upriver, and the locals strolled through town enjoying the arts and crafts of their friends and neighbors.

Almost 30 years later, Shad Fest has grown from a local event to an award-winning tourist attraction. People new to Shad Fest ask a lot of questions. Here are the answers to a few.

What is a shad... do you know?

Trenton Kennel Club 80th Annual Dog Show

2009-04-20T16:28:00.001-04:00

http://trentonkennelclub.org/

H.E.L.P. KICK Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

2009-04-19T11:28:00.002-04:00

Kids FREE Health Day

2009-04-16T14:29:00.002-04:00

Visit www.princetonymca.org for more information!

Tips for Beginners who want to Race

2009-04-11T16:47:00.005-04:00

Anyone have tips for preparing for a Triathlon, Bike Race or Running Race?

Please, send it to whatsgoingonthisweekend@gmail.com and we will post it to our web-site for all those brave souls who would give it a try!

Tri-State Triathalons, Bike Races, Runs and Walks

2009-04-11T16:23:00.009-04:00

Participating in a triathalon, Run, Bike Race is a lot of dedication and hat's off to those who participate! Check out all of the races that are on the horizon. If I am missing any, let me know and we will post on May's Calendar

Saturday May 09, 2009

Clinton, New Jersey: JerseyMan Half Iron & Sprint
http://www.njmultisports.com/

Lebanon, New Jersey: King of the Hill
Trail Run 2 miles, Mountain Bike 12 miles, Trail Run 2 miles: Off Road. http://www.greenbrookracing.com/

Cedarville, New Jersey: New Jersey Devilman Triathlon
Swim 0.45 mile, Bike 20.5 miles, Run 4 miles
http://www.piranha-sports.com/

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Mercer County Park, NJ 6th annual -RUN FOR MOM ~Mother's Day 5K Run/Walk & 1.5 mile walk. http://www.runformom.org/

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Shamong, New Jersey: Pine Barrens Sprint Distance Triathlon
Swim ½ mile, Bike 24 miles, Run 4 miles

MS Bike Rides ~ http://www.bikenjm.nationalmssociety.org/

Saturday and Sunday May 16th - 17th
170 Miles of Open Road Ahead ~ Ride Starts at Monmouth University SaturdayChallenge yourself...Enjoy the miles of seaside communities along with the exhilarating satisfaction of completing 170 miles. Perfect tour for the avid cyclist.

MS Bike Rides ~ http://www.bikenjm.nationalmssociety.org/

Saturday May 16th - 50 Miles - One day ride Starts at Monmouth UniversitySit back and enjoy the scenery. This tour will take you through beautiful beach front towns such as Belmar, Spring Lake and Brielle. Complete the tour at Monmouth University where you will enjoy a relaxing lunch!

25 Miles - Casual cycling at its best

Saturday May 16th - Starts at Monmouth UniversityPerfect ride for the casual cyclist. Enjoy a charming ride through the Jersey Shore and return to Monmouth University for a festive lunch!

Sunday, May 17, 2009

MS Bike Rides ~ http://www.bikenjm.nationalmssociety.org/

Sunday May 17th - 85 Miles - One day ride Starts at Pinelands Regional SchoolEnjoy the camaraderie of your friends, teammates, or family for a day of cycling or challenge yourself to a century! PLEASE NOTE THAT THE ONE DAY 85 MILE TOUR WILL HAVE TWO SCHEDULED SHUTTLE BUSES LEAVING CAPE MAY AT APPROXIMATELY 4:00 PM AND 6:00 PM ONLY

Triathlon -Lebanon, New Jersey: DiamondGirl™ New Jersey Race Name DiamondGirl Triathlon Sprint triathlon Swim 400 meters, Bike 14 miles, Run 2.15 miles: Women Only

Triathlon -Ocean City, New Jersey: Ocean City Triathlon & Duathlon ~ Sprint triathlon Swim ¼ mile, Run 2 miles, Bike 16 miles, Run 2 miles: www.lmsports.com/ocdu09.pdf

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Triathlon - Sea Isle City, New Jersey: Tri for Our Veterans: Sea Isle Citys Tri & Du Race ~ Sprint triathlon Swim ¼ mile, Bike 12.3 miles, Run 3.1 miles: www.piranha-sports.com/Race54.aspx

Triathlon - Hammonton, New Jersey: Hammonton Rec. Dept Sprint Triathlon ~ Sprint triathlon Swim ¼ mile, Bike 12 miles, Run 3 miles: Location: Hammonton lake ~ ttp://www.dqtridu.com/

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Triathlon - Jersey City, New Jersey: Liberty to Liberty Americas Memorial Triathlon Race - 101 Distance triathlon Swim 1.2 miles, Bike 91 miles, Run 6.2 miles:
Location New York to Philadelphia ~ www.envirosports.com/events/event.php?eventid=2423