This a column about food related to events that just happened and others coming up. First of all, I want to express my thanks and gratitude to those who came out to make our dedication ceremony for the new food-related mural a success. Wednesday of last week was hot and humid, but a different kind of warmth was generated by those present to dedicate this latest work of art on The Ave.
Muralist Erin DiPalma worked since last May to turn a blank wall on the side of the building at 636 E. Landis Avenue into a masterpiece that pays homage to Vineland’s food and agriculture heritage. Thanks to all who helped make this project a reality.
I want to thank the grantors and sponsor—the Cumberland County Cultural & Heritage Commission, Vineland Ace Hardware, property owner Anthony Peterson, and Shironda Bunton Harris, manager of Vegans Are Us—the restaurant in that building. I want to thank those who spoke at the ceremony—State Sen. Michael Testa, NJ Secretary of Agriculture Douglas Fisher, County Commissioner Joseph Derella, County Department of Planning, Tourism & Community Affairs Director Matthew Pisarski, and, of course, Erin. Thanks also to our Main Street Vineland staff, Board members, team chairpersons, and volunteers—without whom Main Street Vineland’s work would not be possible.
Secondly, I want to offer this last reminder to come out to our fourth Food Truck Festival on The Ave, this Sunday, August 22, rain or shine, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Landis Avenue and the Boulevard. DJ Zach Reed is the entertainment host and we have a lineup of great entertainers. We’ll also have plenty of food trucks to satisfy your appetite. Members 1st of NJ Federal Credit Union is the major sponsor of the event and Newfield National Bank is the Entertainment Sponsor. See the center pages of this newpaper issue for more on this fun event.
More reminders:
The official inauguration of our Walk The Ave initiative and dedication of our three walking trails will occur on Tuesday, September 14, at 12 noon. The signage is already up and maps are being printed to help you see The Ave and keep fit at the same time.
—The 29th Cruise Down Memory Lane will take place Saturday, October 16, from 5 to 9 p.m., with the rain date as the next day from 2 to 5 p.m. Over a thousand classic cars will line The Ave for the downtown Vineland tradition. Watch for more.
—Our A Taste of Vineland & Volunteer Recognition Event will be returning after a one-year hiatus on Wednesday, October 27 from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Greenview Inn at Eastlyn Golf Course. 4049 Italia Ave., Vineland. Many of Vineland’s finest restaurants will be offering samples of their signature dishes—main courses, appetizers, and desserts. We’ll also be recognizing those of our Main Street Vineland volunteers and partners who have contributed greatly to the work of our organization. We’ll have breaking news about that soon.
Additional sponsorship opportunities are available for all events. Note: COVID guidelines in effect at the time of each event will be enforced.
