HOWELL – A carnival, set to raise funds for the Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence (LEAD) program, is coming to town. After two meetings, the local zoning board gave its approval, and the governing body officially greenlit the event.
The event will be hosted at 5361 Route 9 North, right in front of the former Xscape Theater in the Greenleaf Shopping Center. It will transform the parking lot into a vibrant festival ground from June 28, 2024, through July 7, 2024.
Ensuring the safety and comfort of all attendees is a top priority, the organizers said. The carnival grounds will be supervised 24/7, and stringent security measures will be in place. All attendees will pass through metal detectors upon entry, and minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult after dark, with a maximum of three youths per adult.
Additionally, the site offers ample parking, including designated handicapped spaces near the entrance, and overflow parking within the Greenleaf Shopping Center.
Notably, there will be no liquor sales or beer tents at the carnival, maintaining a family-friendly environment throughout the event. Operating hours are set from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday and 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Carnival goers will have the opportunity to indulge in various types of food from concession stands and test their skills at exciting game booths. Highlight attractions include the NASCAR Speedway and the ever-popular Sizzler ride, along with up to a dozen other rides.
LEAD Fests, as the events are called, have made the rounds throughout New Jersey. During the Memorial Day weekend, the non-profit ran an event at the Westfield Garden State Plaza in Bergen County. They have another currently running at the Voorhees Town Center.
A temporary use permit has been granted for two years, allowing for potential adjustments after the first year based on feedback and experiences.
LEAD is an organization committed to educating young people about the dangers of drugs, violence, and bullying. Although the non-profit began in New Jersey, the group conducts classes throughout the nation.
John Finkle, Regional Director of LEAD and a retired police chief from Kinnelon, NJ, expressed his enthusiasm for the event. “We are excited to bring this festival to the community. Our K through 12 drug and violence curriculum trains police officers and educators to teach our 10-week course in schools.”
Earlier this year, Linden Public Schools partnered with its police department to bring the LEAD program to fifth grade students. The curriculum has also been taught in Bedminster school.
The funds raised from the carnival will contribute to expanding their evidence-based model from 44 states to all 50, providing resources to an additional 1,000 schools, and educating 1.5 million students about the dangers of drugs, violence, and bullying. LEAD also aims to develop community awareness programs that foster collaboration between law enforcement and local citizens.
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