This weekend promises a diverse array of activities for residents and visitors alike across North Jersey. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The weekend kicks off with artistic displays and musical performances that celebrate creativity in various forms. In Chester, the Atrium Art Gallery hosts Debbie Tintle's watercolor landscapes until Friday, capturing the essence of local scenery and distant travels. Meanwhile, Clifton Arts Center presents "Visions by 5 Artists," showcasing works ranging from realistic to abstract interpretations inspired by nature. For those who appreciate rhythm and melody, live music events such as Christian McBride & Bill Charlap Duo at William Paterson University and tribute bands honoring Motown legends await your attendance.
Beyond the arts, community engagement takes center stage through volunteer opportunities and fundraising efforts designed to strengthen social bonds. On Saturday morning, join Spectrum for Living in Ridgefield Park for their annual 5K run/walk event supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, or participate in the Rockaway River Clean Up organized by Boonton Township Recreation. Families can explore storytelling traditions during Express Yourself! at Montclair State University, while history enthusiasts may delve into public library advocacy via a documentary screening in Teaneck. Additionally, culinary delights await at gatherings like the Annual Soup Supper benefiting Closter Nature Center and a beefsteak fundraiser hosted by North Arlington Woman’s Club.
Gathering together fosters connections among people and promotes shared values of collaboration and appreciation for our surroundings. Whether engaging in physical activity outdoors, appreciating visual and performing arts, or contributing time towards meaningful causes, these events highlight how collective participation enriches communities. By embracing opportunities to learn from each other and celebrate diversity, we cultivate environments where innovation thrives alongside mutual respect.
An annual car show hosted by Turn5, a prominent e-commerce retailer in Chester County specializing in aftermarket automotive parts, is set to take place on April 26. This event supports the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding veterans and families of fallen soldiers. Located at Maple Grove Raceway in Berks County, this year's showcase marks the first collaboration with TMF, raising funds and fostering community spirit among automotive enthusiasts. The event has historically gathered over a thousand modified vehicles and thousands of spectators, raising more than $500,000 for various charities since its inception fifteen years ago.
This gathering not only highlights the beauty of customized cars but also underscores the importance of supporting military communities. Attendees can enjoy a range of activities including a monster truck car crush, racing events, raffles, and exclusive VIP experiences. Admission is free for military personnel and their families, while standard tickets are available for purchase. Additionally, the highlight of the day includes a Military Dream Build Giveaway, where a fully customized vehicle will be awarded to a deserving veteran.
Supporting Heroes Through Automotive Passion
The Driven to Serve event has evolved into a significant platform for uniting automotive aficionados who share a commitment to giving back to those who have served their country. By combining an extensive array of activities with charitable efforts, it creates a unique experience that resonates deeply with both participants and spectators alike. Each year, the event grows in scale and impact, attracting increasing numbers of enthusiasts eager to contribute to meaningful causes while enjoying a spectacular display of modified vehicles.
Turn5's CEO, Steve Voudouris, emphasizes the dual purpose of this gathering: celebrating automotive culture and honoring military communities. This year's partnership with the Travis Manion Foundation amplifies the event's mission to empower veterans and families of fallen heroes through various initiatives. The foundation focuses on developing leadership skills and fostering role models within these communities, ensuring that the values upheld by military personnel are passed on to future generations. As such, the car show serves as more than just an exhibition; it acts as a catalyst for positive change within society.
A Day Filled with Excitement and Generosity
Beyond its charitable goals, the event offers numerous attractions designed to captivate visitors of all ages. Highlights include thrilling demonstrations like the Monster Truck Car Crush, high-speed races, interactive raffles, and designated areas tailored specifically for children. These elements ensure there's something enjoyable for everyone attending, making it a family-friendly affair that promotes unity and shared joy. Furthermore, exclusive VIP experiences provide additional incentives for attendees seeking premium access.
One of the most anticipated moments involves revealing a completely personalized vehicle as part of the Military Dream Build Giveaway. Selected via a meticulous nomination process, this gesture honors a worthy veteran whose contributions deserve recognition. Such gestures underscore the event's dedication to acknowledging and appreciating those who have sacrificed so much for their nation. With activities spanning from morning till late afternoon, guests can immerse themselves fully in an environment rich with camaraderie and admiration for both automobiles and heroism. Free entry for service members and their loved ones further reinforces the event's inclusive nature, encouraging broad participation across diverse demographics. Registration options cater to varying levels of engagement, allowing participants flexibility in how they wish to participate or support this worthwhile cause.
The 2025 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition marked a significant milestone for Chery Group, as it unveiled an impressive array of vehicles across its five brands. This display not only highlights the company's robust growth domestically but also underscores its expanding influence on the global stage. Among the showcased models are offerings from Chery, Exeed, Jetour, iCAR, and Luxeed, each representing cutting-edge designs and advanced technologies.
Among the notable unveilings, Chery’s core brand introduced 16 new models that cater to diverse market needs. Featured prominently is the revamped QQ compact electric vehicle, alongside the Fengyun A9 sedan, which has garnered substantial pre-order interest since its announcement. Additionally, the Tiggo 9L concept SUV adds excitement to the lineup. These models span various powertrain options, including conventional engines, hybrid systems, and fully electric alternatives. Other brands within the group also contributed unique additions: Exeed launched the Exlantix ES electric sedan, Jetour presented the rugged Traveller ‘Interstellar Guardian’, and iCAR debuted innovative color schemes and versatile concept vehicles like pickups and convertibles.
Achieving remarkable sales figures in the first quarter, Chery demonstrated its commitment to electrification, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and globalization. With over 620,000 vehicles sold worldwide—nearly half exported—the company solidifies its position among China’s leading automotive exporters. Chairman Yin Tongyue emphasized strategic advancements such as next-generation battery and motor technologies, intelligent driving capabilities, and eco-friendly materials. Furthermore, Executive Vice President Li Xueyong highlighted safety and technical excellence as cornerstones of their competitive strategy.
Innovative concepts dominated the exhibition floor, including the Kunpeng hybrid system, the amphibious Jetour G900, and experimental flying vehicles. These developments reflect Chery's dedication to pushing boundaries in automotive technology. For over two decades, the company has consistently ranked among China's premier car exporters, having delivered more than 16 million vehicles globally, of which nearly three million have been sold abroad. Tailoring products specifically for international markets ensures continued success and relevance in evolving consumer landscapes.
Through visionary leadership and relentless innovation, Chery exemplifies how embracing forward-thinking strategies can drive sustainable growth and enhance global competitiveness. By focusing on key areas like electrification and AI integration, the company positions itself as a trailblazer in the rapidly transforming automotive industry, inspiring others to pursue similar paths toward progress and excellence.