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. 4049 Italia Ave., Vineland. Many of Vineland’s finest restaurants will be offering samples of their delicious signature dishes—main courses, appetizers, and desserts—as well as a fabulous silent auction and much more. 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 that he has dedicated his time, talents, and financial support are seemingly endless. Of course, Main Street Vineland has been a very 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 the Landis Theater, many Latino organization’s fundraisers and events, SPCA, Vets Car Show, Vineland Little League. Bridgeton Little League, 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 over 253 parade participants. This is no easy task, and Carl continues to chair this great City event each year—and is doing so once 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. According to Hemple, “I have been volunteering for the Vineland Christmas Parade for 26 years so far and 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, Olde Fashioned Christmas On the Ave as well as many others.
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. Click For More Information
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. Click For More Information
Registration is now open for our annual Christmas Parade on November 25th (rain date November 26). The theme of this year’s parade is A Christmas Luau on The Ave. Click for registration, sponsorship and vendor information
