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THUMBNAIL ACCOUNTS OF CIVIC AFFAIRS
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND UPCOMING Events
MAY 2026
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
Hosted by the Harding Civic Association, the parade will be held on May 25th, 2026. It will start promptly at 9:30am at the Harding Township School. The ceremony will follow the parade at Memorial Park. We hope you can join us!
HARDING LAND TRUST
Annual Native Trees and Shrubs Giveaway
Saturday, May 9th, 9am to Noon at the New Vernon Fire Department.
Harding Land Trust and Harding Environmental Commission will team up once again to host the annual tree and shrub giveaway alongside the Morristown Garden Club plant sale at New Vernon Fire Department. A variety of native species have been selected based on their ability to thrive in Harding, NJ. Availability this year has been expanded and includes a variety of Oaks, Red Maple, White Pine, Hickory, Sycamore, American Holly, Sweetgum, Redbud, Black Gum, White Flowering Dogwood, Winterberry Holly, Cranberry Viburnum, Buttonbush, and even a few stunning perennials. First come, first served! For more information, please email [email protected]
Tree Planting at the Gatehouse
Saturday, May 16th, 9am-11am, 110 Harter Road (HLT HQ)
The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is May 16th! Show up. Dig in. All are welcome. No experience required. Free to attend. Please RSVP at [email protected]
Harding Land Trust Presents “A House and Garden Tour” on June 1st, 2026
Harding Land Trust’s biennial house tour returns on Monday, June 1st. Four stunning homes and gardens are on view, and twelve vendors are available and open to the public at the boutique located at Church of Christ the King (16 Blue Mill Rd) from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Please come and join the fun as you shop for graduation, teacher and hostess gifts and perhaps pick up something unique for yourself. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 973-267-2515, email [email protected] or visit qrco.de/housetour26
New in town?
For more information about HLT or to receive our mailings, invites, and/or eblasts, please call 973-267-2515 or email us at [email protected] and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
SHADE TREE ADVISORY COMMITTEE-TREE REMOVAL REGULATIONS
John Linson, Tree Officer
Caron Menger, Shade Tree Advisory Committee Chair
Please note that a tree removal permit is required for all trees that are 6 inches in diameter or greater, dead or alive in a property’s Tree Conservation Area. The application for tree removal can be found on the Township webpage under Shade Tree Advisory. The application is fillable online and can be submitted to [email protected]. There is no application fee for a developed lot. Removal of living trees may be subject to replacement planting.
Tree Conservation Areas for each Zone are as follows:
[1] In the R-1 and RR Zones, the tree conservation area shall comprise the area along all perimeter property lines within:
[a] Fifty feet of any road, whether public or private.
[b] Twenty-five feet of all other property lines.
[2] In the R-2, R-3 and R-4 Zones, the tree conservation area shall comprise the area along all perimeter property lines for a distance equal to 1/2 of the minimum required building setback (front, side and rear yards), but not less than four feet.
[3] The flag staff portion of a flag lot shall be subject to these restrictions.
Removal without a permit is subject to a $2,500.00 per tree fine.
To find out more, check out the Tree Conservation Code §225-111 here on the Township webpage.
NEW VERNON VOLUNTEER FIRST AID SQUAD
Join Us for a Hometown Hero Open House to Celebrate EMS Week
Friday, May 15, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM
In New Vernon, neighbors help neighbors. National EMS Week gives us a chance to celebrate that spirit, the care, service, and support that show up when people need help most.
On Friday, May 15, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, the New Vernon Volunteer First Aid Squad will host a Hometown Hero Open House at Firehouse One, 22 Village Road.
It will be a fun, family-friendly evening for residents of all ages. The event will celebrate EMS Week, recognize the members of our First Aid Squad and public safety partners, and most importantly thank our entire community for all their support. We know it will be a great Friday night out with your family and our community including a pizza dinner, hands-on activities, and the chance to meet neighbors and learn something new.
Families will be able to tour the ambulances, see police, fire, and EMS equipment up close, learn hands-only CPR, and try simple skills like checking pulse and oxygen levels. There will be supervised activities for younger children, engaging stations for school-aged kids, and plenty for adults too.
For anyone curious about joining the First Aid Squad, the evening is also a chance to learn what volunteering really looks like including training, shifts, commitment, and camaraderie. Members and officers will be there to answer questions and help residents explore how they might serve, whether by becoming an EMT, a driver, or by supporting the Squad as a neighbor helping neighbors. We hope you will join us for a fun and engaging evening celebrating service and community.
NEW VERNON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
STEAK AND LOBSTER DINNER will be held SATURDAY, June 6, 2026, from 5pm to 9pm. Your favorite dinner selections will include Steak, Lobster, Chicken, Hamburgers (for children) and *NEW* Hot Dogs (for children). All dinners include Salad, Roll, French Fries, Dessert selections, Wine, Beer and Soda. Also available for purchase are Steamed Clams, & Corn on the Cob. Please go to NVVFD.COM to PRE ORDER YOUR DINNER(s) and FOR SEATING RESERVATIONS. Seating is limited, so order early! We recommend you pre-order and make seating reservations at the same time as your friends to be able to sit together. Please be prepared to show ID to get a wristband for beer and wine. Curbside Pick-up is also available. There will be limited seats available for walk-ins. Email [email protected] with any questions. All Proceeds benefit the New Vernon Volunteer Fire Company and First Aid Squad. Thank you for your continued support!
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF NEW VERNON
PLAYING ME, a cabaret-style concert, will be held June 7, 3 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of New Vernon. Rachael Gareau, Mezzo Soprano, and Steven Fox, pianist, will perform a medley of favorites from musical theater. Ms. Gareau, the vocal and general music teacher at the Harding Township School also directs the school’s annual musicals. Mr. Fox, among other responsibilities, is director of music at the First Presbyterian Church. Admission is $20, free for students. Reservations should be made at [email protected].
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH IN GREEN VILLAGE
500 Spring Valley Rd, Green Village
Large Rummage Sale!
Saturday, May 30, 8:30am-1pm (bring own shopping bags)
Bag Sale: Sunday, May 31, 11:30am-2pm
Visit event’s FB page for additional photos and updates: United Methodist Church in Green Village, go to Events, and look at Rummage Sale event page
Top floor: Clothes (men’s, women’s, children, and baby), shoes/boots, bags/handbags, wallets, dresses, scarves, coats, suits, decorative pillows, bedding/blankets, ties, scarves, hats, and more!
Lower floor: kitchenware, pots, pans, small appliances, china sets, silverware sets, glassware, vases, tools, kid’s toys, puzzles, DVDs, stuffed animals, craft supplies, board games, baskets, flowerpots/vases, art, picture frames, yarn, sports items, candles, home decor, seasonal items and more!!
HARDING ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
ROADSIDE CLEAN-UP
Saturday, May 2, 9am to 12 noon. Kirby Municipal Building
It is time to collect the detritus that accumulated along our streets this past Winter. The Environmental Commission is pleased to once again sponsor the Roadside Clean-up Day on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 9 am to 12 noon. All volunteers who are interested in assisting, please meet at the Kirby Municipal Building.
TREE AND SHRUB GIVEAWAY
Saturday, May 9th, 9am to Noon at the New Vernon Fire Department.
Harding Environmental Commission and Harding Land Trust will once again host the annual tree and shrub giveaway alongside the Morristown Garden Club plant sale at New Vernon Fire Department. A variety of native species have been selected based on their ability to thrive in Harding, NJ. Availability this year has been expanded and includes a variety of Oaks, Red Maple, White Pine, Hickory, Sycamore, American Holly, Sweetgum, Redbud, Black Gum, White Flowering Dogwood, Winterberry Holly, Cranberry Viburnum, Buttonbush, and even a few stunning perennials. We will also have a landscape expert available provide guidance on plant selection and planting.
GREEN VILLAGE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Flag Display
Deadline May 1, 2026
hosted by the Green Village Fire Department
The Green Village Fire Department would like to honor those who have served their country or community. A 3′ x 5′ flag will be erected on the green in Green Village on both Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day. The honoree’s information will be placed at the base of the flag. Please visit www.greenvillagefire.com to download a form. Forms must be received no later than May 1st.
Memorial Day Service
Monday, May 25, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. on the green at Memorial Way, Green Village
hosted by the Green Village Fire Department and Auxiliary
The Green Village Volunteer Fire Department will be holding its annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony, honoring service members.
GREAT SWAMP WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
May 2026 Programming and Events
Registration required, register at greatswamp.org/events
The Chathams & Madison Town-Wide Yard Sale Spring 2026
Sat, May 2 (rain date May 3), 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
It’s time to rid your home of the items that no longer spark joy for you but may for someone else! Your registration means your address and list of sale items will appear on a digital, printable map. The map will be publicized far and wide. Your tax deductible $10 registration fee directly benefits GSWA! You must be a resident of Madison or the Chathams to participate in the sale. Everyone else, mark your calendar to get out and shop! Registration is required to appear on the map.
Passaic River Cleanup
Sat, May 9, Cleanup 10:00 am – 12:00 pm / Picnic 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Multiple locations along the Passaic River
Be a part of the first-ever, full Passaic River cleanup in honor of Jane Goodall! We’ve identified several local parks and dry land sites along the river that could use some attention, and we’re rounding up volunteers to help pick up the trash. When trash collects in these areas along the stream banks, it will eventually make its way into the water, polluting the river and impacting local wildlife. These types of cleanups make a big impact on the health of the river as a whole. Hosted by GSWA – a Passaic River Waterkeeper Alliance Affiliate, AmeriCorps New Jersey Watershed Ambassadors, and Roots & Shoots New Jersey, a chapter of Jane Goodall’s community-based youth organization. Jane was an inspiration to countless people. She led by example, helping people around the world to engage in their environment in meaningful ways. Join us in honoring Jane legacy at the cleanup, followed by a free community picnic (picnic location to be announced).
Breakfast Briefing: Secrets in the Stream: Fin-tastic Fish of the Passaic
Wed, May 13, 8:00 – 9:30 am
GSWA Headquarters, 568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown
In honor of World Fish Migration Day on May 23rd, come learn about the fish of the Great Swamp and Passaic River. We’ll discuss some of the species that call our watershed home, what their lives are like beneath the water, and what they tell us about the health of our rivers. GSWA members free, non- members (adults) $10, non-members (kids) $5.
Free to attend, but with a suggested $10 donation. Registration closes at 5:00 pm the day of each web.
Spring Birding Paddle
Thu, May 14, Session 1: 4:00 – 5:30 pm, Session 2: 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Somerset County Park Commission Fisherman’s Parking Lot, 170 Lord Stirling Rd, Basking Ridge
Come enjoy the sights along the beautiful banks of the Passaic River as we paddle the headwaters region of the Great Swamp and look out for spring migrants. This area is full of wildlife, native vegetation, and beautiful views. There are 7 spots available per session – only 2 spots per registration. Children 8+ are welcome, participants 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. All participants must be able to swim, GSWA members $30, non- members $40.
Great Swamp Great Music After Dark
Sun, May 17, 6:00 – 10:00pm
Homestead Bar & Kitchen, 10 Dehart St, Morristown
Here we go again! C’mon out for our 9th annual Great Swamp Great Music after dark! Fan-favorites, The Big Fuss return to take the stage with two other bands to be announced back at the fabulous Homestead Bar and Kitchen in Morristown. Your ticket buys you a night of live music, a buffet dinner, and fantastic drink specials. So, skip the Sunday meal prep and extend your weekend to help us celebrate GSWA’s 45th anniversary of protecting our local water and land. Snag your tickets today and let’s make some noise together for clean water! Tickets: Ages 21-plus: $50 (includes buffet dinner and drink specials) | Ages 7-20: $35 | Ages 6 and under: Free (For everyone 20 and under, buffet dinner is included; must be accompanied by a guardian.)
Blue Moon Hike
Sun, May 31, 7:30 – 9:00pm
G S National Wildlife Refuge – Bluebird Parking Lot, Basking Ridge
Experience the Great Swamp like never before under the rare glow of a Blue Moon. While the moon won’t actually change color, this celestial event occurs when a single calendar month—in this case, May 2026—features two full moons instead of one. We’ll explore the vibrant nocturnal world of the swamp—listening for the chorus of cicadas and spring peepers, watching for the silhouettes of owls, and soaking in the serene atmosphere of the marsh after dark. Free with the following suggested donations: GSWA members $15, non- members $20.
NEW VERNON GARDEN CLUB
Poison!
Sally Quinn for the New Vernon Garden Club
I am one of the lucky 10-15% of the population who can sleep in a bed of poison ivy and arise unscathed. It is sort of a horticultural public enemy #1. The culprit is urushiol, the oily sap in poison ivy, sumac and oak. Urushiol is not my enemy so imagine my surprise when I got a poison ivy-type rash and ridiculously itchy blisters after trimming my ENGLISH ivy four or five years ago, in, maybe, April. I have trimmed English ivy for most of my gardening life with no issues, but probably not in April, so I posited that it may be only the spring sap that was the enemy. I couldn’t find any supportive information but have stayed away from spring ivy since. During one of our horrible spring storms this year, an old tree at my son’s house snapped off and fell into a large bed of English Ivy. He raked up and collected the bits that broke off and ended up at urgent care, where they put him on steroids, his reaction was so potent. This time, I was able to get information! English ivy sap contains falcarinol, which can cause very severe reactions “especially during the spring, when there is active growth, and can be particularly irritating when exposed to sunlight” (before shading leaves come out). There can be a slight delay in the response so many people have probably been affected and misattributed the cause. Three other common-ish plants that can cause adverse skin reactions are Black Eyed Susans, via “plant juice”(!) and the stiff, irritating hairs on the stems and leaves; euphorbia (spurge), through its milky sap that can even result in scarring in severe cases and temporary blindness if it comes in contact with the eyes; and lastly, fig and mulberry leaves, which can cause skin irritation and must have been fun in Eden! So forewarned is forearmed. Buy gloves and clean your tools! And if exposed, wash as soon as possible with warm water and plenty of grease-cutter dish soap and/or rub with vinegar, if available.
If you are interested in joining the NVGC, please contact Shelly Lasky at [email protected].
KEMMERER LIBRARY HARDING TOWNSHIP
Register at hardinglibrary.org.
Registration is required for all children’s programs.
Stay & Play – Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m.
This informal play session provides a relaxed environment where children can engage in “free play” utilizing various toys, puzzles, and sensory activities around the children’s room. Please clean up the toys when finished.
Storytime – Tuesdays at 11:00 a.m.
Join us for a themed story time every Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. during Stay & Play.
Move with Me Dance – Thursdays at 10:15 a.m.
These classes are a special partnership with the Madison Area YMCA School of Performing Arts. Professional dancer Jennifer Gregory will lead this parent or caregiver/child class. The dance class allows the toddler and partner to experience the joy of creative movement together! Registration is required!
May the 4th – Star Wars Day – Please dress like a Star Wars’ character and join us all day as we Celebrate May the 4th Be With You!
Read to a Dog – Monday, May 4th appointments begin at 4:00 p.m.
Children may enhance their reading skills by reading to a dog.
Mother’s Day Craft – Wednesday, May 6th 3:00 p.m. until 4:45 p.m. Please join us to make a special gift.
Poke’mon Club – Monday, May 11th at 4:00 p.m.
Professor Poke’mon will be on hand to teach the game and children will have the opportunity to trade cards!
Grow a Sunflower with the New Vernon Garden Club – Wednesday, May 13th at 4:00 p.m.
The New Vernon Garden Club will be hosting this program to teach children about sunflowers.
Adult Programs – register at hardinglibrary.org
Yoga – Mondays only at 10:15a.m. Suggested donation $10.
Book Club – Open to all, meets in the Adult Reading Room (in person)
May 5th at 1:30p.m. – Pick One!
The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz
The Celebrants by Steven Rowley
It Girl by Allison Pataki
The NYC Crystal Palace – Tuesday, May 5th at 7:00p.m. (on zoom)
Inspired by exhibitions in London, New York, in 1853, built its own Crystal Palace and with its display of the latest discoveries and creations in the fields of arts and sciences, not only impressed the world, but also put the US on the map as a true competitor.
America – Songs of Patriotism, Praise & Protest – Sat., May 9th at 3:30p.m. (in person)
Join us for a cello concert celebrating our country! Alex Prizgintas, an author, musician, historian, and preservationist will share music that has shaped American democracy
Mother’s Day Tea – Monday, May 11th at 7:00p.m. (in person)
Join us for a special tea and music event celebrating Mother’s Day. We will learn about Chinese gongfu tea, its cultural significance and mythical origins, taste two single-origin teas thoughtfully paired with snacks, and conclude with a guzheng (zither) performance
The Peale Family – America’s Old Masters – Tuesday, May 12th at 7:00p.m. (on zoom)
The Peale family was one of America’s most influential artistic and intellectual family dynasties in early American History. Presented by Mallory Mortillaro, this lecture examines the characters of this eccentric, invaluable, and innovative family and highlights their many contributions to American culture.
Adult Craft Night: Bath Scrubs & Salts– Wednesday, May 13th at 7:00p.m. (in person)
Join us to create your own bath scrub or bath salts, as a gift or for a self-care day!
The Polar Adventures of Fridtjof Nansen – Thursday, May 14th at 7:00p.m. (on zoom)
Timothy Boyce, editor of the World War II concentration camp diary written by Fridtjof’s son Odd Nansen, will describe who Nansen was, how and why he organized his polar explorations, focusing on the incredible challenges his voyages faced.
The Dog Days of Summer – Wednesday, May 20th at 7:00pm (on zoom)
Have you ever wondered about the origin of the crazy words and phrases we use like “breaking the ice” and “a wild goose chase”. This program explores the strange and varied origins of a range of English language idioms and sayings.
Raphael: Artist & Visionary – Friday, May 22nd at 7:00pm (on zoom)
Join Janet Mandel to learn about the Italian painter and architect Raphael. He became one of the defining figures of the High Renaissance — revered for his grace, harmony, and masterful balance of beauty and structure.
Virtual Author Visits – archived recordings are available on the library website
On Courage, Turmoil, and the Transformative Power of Love w/ Marjan Kamali
Thursday, May 7, 7:00p.m.
How to Robot-Proof Your Kids (and Yourself) with Dr. Vivienne Ming
Tuesday, May 12, 2:00p.m.
Reshape Your Beliefs and Unlock Your True Potential with Nir Eyal
Tuesday, May 19, 2:00p.m.
THE FRIENDS OF KEMMERER LIBRARY
SAVE THE DATE for ART IN BLOOM Saturday, June 13. 6:00 pm-10:00 pm Art Show and Sale at The New Vernon Volunteer Fire Department, 22 Village Road, New Vernon, complete with a Silent Auction, Wine, and Hors d’oeuvres: $50 per person. Sunday June 14th Art Show and Sale are free admission 10:00am-2:00pm.
NEIGHBORS FOR TOMORROW IN HARDING (NFTH)
Neighbors for Tomorrow in Harding (NFTH)— It is important for residents to stay informed about Housing Development projects underway in Harding Township and the implications for our community way of life. The goal of NFTH is to communicate with residents and to advocate for transparency from our Township Committee as options are evaluated for development in our town.
Only one development-related item appeared on Tuesday’s Agenda: Ordinance #08-2026, addressing street names for the 240-unit Hurstmont project on Route 202 next to Glen Alpin.
No updates were provided on Glen Alpin. Going forward, if Affordable Housing or Glen Alpin items appear on a TC Agenda, we will send a pre-meeting update.
More broadly, TC members held a lengthy discussion on potential changes to Harding’s Tree Ordinance. Key issues included: requiring tree companies to register with the township, associated fees and penalties, concerns about added bureaucracy, alignment with Harding’s tradition of limited government, and impacts on neighboring properties. Draft amendments are in progress and may appear on next month’s Agenda.
The next TC Meeting is Monday, May 11 at 7 PM at Town Hall.
Interested Harding Township residents are invited to join Neighbors for Tomorrow in Harding to stay abreast of development in our town. Contact: [email protected]
HARDING TOWNSHIP CIVIC ASSOCIATION
Thumbnail & Website News and Announcements
If you have a submission for the June 2026 Thumbnail, please send it via email to the editor: [email protected] by Friday, May 22nd, 2026. Reminder that we do not publish the Thumbnail in July and August. The next deadline is August 14th, 2026, for the September Thumbnail. Microsoft Word is the required format, Times New Roman size 13, thank you. Current and past issues of the Thumbnail, as well as the Directory are available on our website: www.HardingCivic.org
For decades, the HTCA has been dedicated to preserving the quality of life in Harding. We work to protect our town’s pastoral beauty, provide non-partisan information on local issues, and bring neighbors together.
Your $35 annual dues make it possible for the Civic Association continue to keep Harding informed, engaged, and connected. With your support, we can continue to offer the events, resources and communications that bring our community together, including this Thumbnail of Civic Affairs, the Memorial Day Parade, and Meet the Mayor / Township Committee / Candidates Nights.
Thank you sincerely for your continued civic-minded support. Additional donations are greatly appreciated. Read the THUMBNAIL to stay engaged!
Ways to give: Use the venmo codes below or Click donate at hardingcivic.org
Mail a check to PO Box 72, New Vernon, NJ 07976
HARDING TOWNSHIP RECYCLING
2026 Recycling Schedule:
MAY 2nd, 16th, and 30th
JUN 13th & 27th
JUL 11th & 25th
Hours of Operation:
Wednesday: 7am-Noon, Saturdays: 9am-Noon
Every Wednesday, seniors (residents 60+) will have full assistance available to them from 7am-9am. All residents are welcome for all hours that Recycling is open. Social distancing must be always observed. Tracy Toribio is no longer with HT. No replacement yet. Recycling Questions: Please contact Harding Department of Public Works at 973-267-2448, Mon-Fri 8am-3pm.
Commingled Recyclables: Consists of all aluminum and tin cans, glass bottles, all plastic bottles, and containers with the recycling symbol, and #1,2,4,5 & 7. Try to crush plastic bottles to conserve space. Please remember no plastic or paper bags.
Commingled Mixed Fiber: Consists of all paper, cardboard, newspaper, office paper, magazines, and books. Please put loose or shredded paper in paper bag. Please flatten all boxes or fill with other paper products.
Other Accepted Items: Batteries; automotive (car) and household (rechargeable accepted); Automotive and light truck tires, (on or off rim), Propane tanks (BBQ size only) and fluorescent bulbs (tube and compact).
E-Waste Items: Computers, monitors, laptops, and televisions cannot be put in household trash. However, all E-waste items including printers, copiers, fax machines and all computer peripherals can be brought to the Harding DPW recycling center at the regular hours of operation.
DATES TO REMEMBER Meetings as noted Time
Environmental Commission 1st Wednesday 7:30 PM
Seniors: Christ the King Church 2nd & 4th Thursday 11:00AM
Planning Board 4th Monday 7:00 PM
Historical Preservation Committee 1st Thursday 7:30 PM
Board of Health 2nd Thursday 7:30 PM
Board of Education 1st & 3rd Monday 7:00 PM
Board of Adjustment 3rd Thursday 7:30 PM
Township Committee 2nd Monday 7:00 PM
Harding Open Space 2nd Wednesday 7:30 PM
Harding TWP Civic Association 2nd Tuesday 7:00 PM