Greetings! The signs of the changing seasons are all around. Autumn is in full swing, and I hope you’ve been enjoying the changing colors and the crisp air.

Congratulations! This past weekend, residents of all ages enjoyed the Grand Opening of the free-standing Cranbury Public Library at 30 Park Place West. It was quite an event. The bell in the Town Hall cupola rang as the ribbon cutting ceremony and day-long activities began. I encourage you to visit the new library. It is more than just a building -- it’s a space for people to go, learn, exchange ideas, and create community. Thank you to the many volunteers and library staff who made the vision of a new library a reality!

At the November 14 Township Committee meeting,  a volunteer fire company ordinance was introduced to formalize the relationship between the Cranbury Volunteer Fire Company and the Township. Please click on the Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about the proposed ordinance. The Township Committee is committed to continuing its support of the Volunteer Fire Company and thanks the Fire Company members for their service to the community.  The second reading and public hearing of this ordinance will be at our next Township Committee meeting, November 28.

 As we gather and prepare for Thanksgiving and the upcoming holidays, let’s keep in mind those that may not be as fortunate. Thanks to Cub Scout Pack 52 and Scouts BSA Troop 52 for organizing and collecting food and hygiene products through the Scouting for Food program. Cranbury residents pulled together and donated generously to those in need.  If you missed this opportunity, there are area food banks that will always appreciate your donations, especially during this time of year.

Upcoming events

-Tree lighting! On Friday, December 2, join The Woman’s Club and Scouts for this annual event with traditional and new activities beginning at 5:30 pm in Memorial Park. At 7 pm join the brass band for caroling and lighting of the town’s holiday tree.

-Holiday gifts! Visit the Cranbury Historical and Preservation Society’s Holiday Gift Shop at the Elizabeth M. Wagner History Center, 6 S. Main St, on Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 am – 2 pm, Sunday Dec. 4, 1 - 4 pm and Saturday Dec. 10, 10 am - 2 pm to choose special Cranbury gifts.

-Tea at the Cranbury Museum! You are invited to attend the Christmas Tea at the Cranbury Museum, 4 Park Place East, on Sunday, December 4, 1 - 4 pm.  Tour the decorated museum, join the caroling and sip delicious Christmas Tea while viewing their new exhibit, "Greetings from Cranbury, A Collection of Antique Postcards."

-Enjoy a winter concert! Cranbury School is excited to invite the township community to their upcoming Winter Concerts. Join the school community on Wednesday, Dec. 7 for a Choral and Percussion Concert (inclement weather date – Dec. 12) and again on Tuesday, Dec. 13 for the Band and Jazz Concert (inclement weather date – Dec. 19). Both performances begin at 7 pm and will take place in the school’s Auditorium. The school looks forward to sharing the talents of its wonderful student musicians with you!

-All you can eat pancakes! The Lions Club is preparing for its 76th Annual Pancake Breakfast! Join your neighbors December 11, 8 am until noon in the Cranbury School cafeteria -- all you can eat pancakes, Toys for Tots collection, and a visit from Santa. All are welcome to this annual community event. Visit their website for details.

I look forward to seeing you at some of the upcoming holiday events in town.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Barbara Rogers, Mayor