This week, I am happy to recognize T. Carl Hemple, Sr. who we will be honoring as our volunteer of the year at our annual A Taste of Vineland & Volunteer Recognition Event on Wednesday, October 25 from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Greenview Inn at Eastlyn Golf Course in 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.

If you have lived in Cumberland County for any length of time, chances are you know Carl. When I think of the word “volunteerism,” Carl is at the top of the list. The many organizations to which he has dedicated his time, talents, and financial support are numerous. Main Street Vineland has been a grateful recipient of his endless support for over two decades.

Both in his professional life, as the long-standing general manager/CEO at WVLT/WMIZ FM Radio, and in his personal life, Carl has sponsored, supported, and promoted projects, non-profits, and community organizations such as saving and restoring of Landis Theater, many Latino organization’s fundraisers and events, SPCA, Vets Car Show, Vineland and Bridgeton Little Leagues, American Legion Vineland Team, mentoring and providing internships for many young people at the radio station—just to name a few. Carl also is a proud U.S. Army veteran.

Carl started working with the Vineland Christmas Parade in 1995 as a helper to various parade captains. He went on to serve as a judge, vice-chairman, and chairman of the Parade. This is no easy task—and in 2006 he ran what was considered the largest parade in Vineland’s history with more than 253 parade participants. Carl continues to chair this great city event each year—and is doing so again this year.

In addition, he has graciously sponsored the trophies for all of the various float-winning categories. He provides volunteers to assist during the parade. Of his 26 years working on the parade, he says, “I consider it a pleasure to provide joy and smiles to many people by bringing in the holiday season with the finest parade in New Jersey.”

In addition, Carl always provides extensive promotion, advertising, and live radio remotes for many of the Main Street Vineland events including the parade, the annual Cruise Down Memory Lane, and Olde Fashioned Christmas On the Ave.

We welcome you to come and help us honor Carl this year at our Taste of Vineland event. Tickets are now available for sale and additional sponsorship opportunities are available as well as ad space in the event program book.

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Our eighth annual Pumpkin Patch Party is planned for Saturday, October 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, at the mini-parks, Landis Avenue and the Boulevard. This event attracts 100 children and parents for holiday fun, games, and fellowship. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, theave.biz/events/pumpkin-patch-party

Registration is now open for the annual Christmas Parade on November 25 (rain date next day), with this year’s theme being “A Christmas Luau on The Ave.”