Outdoor movie Saturday, health fair next week
UPPER TOWNSHIP — Cape Assist and the Upper Township Department of Sports and Recreation have teamed up for Reels on Wheels, a free family-friendly outdoor movie night set for Oct. 18 at Amanda’s Field.
“Pack some snacks and enjoy a fun evening under the stars with your loved ones as we feature ‘Superman’ (2025) on the big screen,” said Joe Faldetta, director of prevention services for Cape Assist.
Gates open at 6 p.m. and the movie is set to begin at 7 p.m. Amanda’s Field is located at 1091 Route 50 in the Petersburg section of the township.
Admission is free for all ages but registration is required for each vehicle at capeassist.org. Space is limited.
“Our partnership with Cape Assist has been nothing but wonderful,” Upper Township Recreation Director Larry Cole said.
Cole, who also serves as coordinator of the Upper Township-Ocean City Municipal Alliance, said the event is a great alternative to youth making destructive decisions such as underage drinking, vaping and drugs.
“We’ve been pushing for more community events that are free and family fun,” Cole said, noting the event annually attracts 200 to 300 people.
Participants can bring their own snacks and drinks. Alcohol, tobacco, vaping and drugs are prohibited. Each family is provided with a bucket of Johnson’s Popcorn and bottled water.
In case of inclement weather, updates will be posted on Cape Assist’s website and social media.
Cape Assist offers programs and services designed to share its knowledge and skills needed for individuals to make healthy choices and prevent substance misuse.
Cape Assist’s Recovery Services provide support and resources to people and their families navigating the challenges of substance use recovery. Its counseling program is designed to foster resilience, promote healing and empower participants to build healthier lives.
Services include one-on-one counseling, group sessions, case management and access to community resources tailored to meet individual needs.
There are specialized programs for youth, adults and families.
“At Cape Assist, recovery is more than overcoming substance use — it’s about rediscovering hope, rebuilding relationships and creating a brighter future,” Faldetta said.
Faldetta said Cape Assist has been holding Reels on Wheels for about five years. The program shows two movies each year in Upper Township, one in October and another in early December. This year it is set for Dec. 6.
Faldetta said the October movie serves two purposes.
“First, it’s an opportunity for the community to be together, families together doing something fun and free,” he said. “Family togetherness is a really big protective factor, makes children more resilient — anything to foster a strong family dynamic is really valuable,” he said.
The other reason is that the movie is paid for through the Cape May County Quit Center, which helps people with nicotine dependence. The ads promoting the Reels on Wheels program raise awareness of the free resources available just a couple of weeks before the Great American Smokeout, a day intended to help people kick the habit of smoking. This year it is Nov. 20.
Faldetta said Cole has been really helpful and supportive.
The following week, the Upper Township Health and Wellness Fair is scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Community Center, 1790 Route 50 in Tuckahoe.
The Cape May County Department of Health will provide free flu shots and blood pressure checks, while health and wellness vendors will share information and gifts.
Call (609) 628-2011, ext. 210, for information.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff