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American whiskey drives US spirits exports to record high – Drinks International

The American Spirits Export Report found that in 2023, spirits exports totalled $2.2 billion, up 8% compared to 2022.

Exports of American whiskey, which account for almost two-thirds of total spirits exports, increased year-on-year by 9%, reaching a record $1.4 billion.

“This latest report shows that U.S. exports are continuing to rebuild after plummeting from the devastating retaliatory tariffs on American spirits imposed by the EU and UK,” said Rob Maron, DISCUS vice president of international trade.

“The tariffs imposed from 2018-2021 as part of two separate disputes between the U.S., EU and UK have since been suspended or removed, presenting U.S. spirits producers with an opportunity to recapture lost market share in some of the U.S.’ largest export markets. Over the span of two years, American Whiskey exports to the EU surged by more than 60%, climbing from $439 million in 2021 to $705 million in 2023.”

The report also revealed that over the past two decades, exports have increased 280%, from $587 million to $2.2 billion.

But the celebratory report also included a warning to American policy-makers.

In 2023, the EU announced that it would be continuing the suspension of tariffs for 15 months until 31 March 2025, if no agreement is reached by then the EU has threatened to reimpose the tariff on American-made whiskey at 50%, an increase on the previously imposed 25%

“We urge the Biden administration to continue working to secure the permanent removal of these tariffs,” said Maron.

“The EU’s 15-month tariff suspension is welcome news, but the uncertainty for the future continues to hold craft distillers back from exporting their spirits.”

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So how do you make whiskey?

Many people ask how whiskey is made and where can it be made. It can be made anywhere in the world, like distilleries in NJ and not just Scotland or Kentucky, contrary to popular belief.

Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The basic steps involved in making whiskey are:

Mashing: The first step is to prepare the grain by grinding it and mixing it with hot water to create a mash. The mash is typically made up of a combination of grains, such as barley, rye, corn, or wheat.

Fermentation: Yeast is added to the mash, which converts the sugars in the grains into alcohol. The mixture is left to ferment for several days in a warm environment.

Distillation: The fermented mash is then distilled in a copper pot still or a column still to separate the alcohol from the water and other impurities. The resulting clear liquid is called “new make” or “white dog” whiskey.

Aging: The new make whiskey is then aged in oak barrels for a period of time, which gives it its characteristic flavor and color. The length of time the whiskey is aged varies depending on the type of whiskey being made.

Bottling: Once the whiskey has been aged to the desired flavor and color, it is bottled and labeled for sale.It’s worth noting that there are many different types of whiskey, each with its own unique recipe and production process. Some of the most popular types of whiskey include bourbon, rye whiskey, Irish whiskey, Scotch whiskey, and Canadian whiskey.

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Does that NDP Whiskey Really Have a NDA?

Bound by a NDA, or lying?

A non-disclosure agreement (NDA) is a legal contract covering confidential information the parties wish to share with each other, but with restrictions on wider sharing. In the whiskey world, when you try to find out who made something, a non-distiller producer (NDP) may tell you that information is confidential because of a NDA? Is the NDP really prevented from revealing the whiskey’s source or sources because of a NDA?

Probably not.

By its nature, the use of NDAs in the world of NDPs is tough to research, but the distilleries that provide most of the whiskey bottled by NDPs say they don’t require them. In fact, distillers like MGP/Luxco, Tennessee Distilling Group, Bardstown Bourbon Company, and Green River Spirits encourage their NDP customers to tell their customers where the whiskey was made.

Producers who sell into the bulk market, often through brokers, are proud of their products, but also professionally discrete. As business-to-business producers, they consider that information as the customer’s, for the customer to reveal or conceal, at the customer’s discretion. They won’t tell you, except in general terms, who their customers are or what they make for them. In many if not most cases, they don’t know what happens to their liquid after it leaves their control so they have nothing to talk about. Their discretion is appropriate.

If most producers don’t require NDAs, why do so many NDPs claim to be bound by them?

They’re lying.

The only distillers who have much incentive to require NDAs are the majors. If Jim Beam, Jack Daniel’s, Wild Turkey, Maker’s Mark, or one of the other brand name producers sells some excess whiskey, as they all do, they don’t want the buyer to start advertising their ‘Jim Beam’ bottling. If there is a NDA in such a case, it may not require absolute secrecy. You can, for example, find bottlings of COSTCO’s Kirkland Bourbon that say ‘Clermont, Kentucky’ on them. That is obviously Jim Beam liquid, but they’re not using the Jim Beam name. No doubt, Beam-Suntory’s purchase agreement with the broker who ultimately sold the whiskey to COSTCO contained some non-disclosure wording.

Does that mean we should always interpret a NDP-NDA claim as indication of a major producer source? Dave Pickerell, when he was first promoting WhistlePig, claimed a NDA prevented him from revealing the name of the Canadian distillery that made it (Alberta) even as he told you who it was with a wink and a nudge. He was bound by a NDA and he honored it, but it was more about discretion than secrecy.

These days, although all of the majors occasionally offload surplus liquid, usually with some level of disclosure restriction, it’s a drop in the NDP bucket. You may safely assume 90 percent or more of the NDP whiskey in the market is not bound by any kind of NDA. The claim of a NDA is almost always for the NDP’s interest and convenience.

Why? Because we still have too many NDPs who try to pretend they’re makers, not fakers. When you point out they don’t have a distillery, they feed you some double-talk about “cooking in someone else’s kitchen.”   

So while some NDA claims are true, most are not, and the most adamant are the least likely to be true. Regard the claimants accordingly. If they are keeping their sources a deep, dark secret, there is a reason. The secret the NDP is protecting is the NDP’s, not the producer’s.

Regard also NDPs who always reveal their sources. Ever wonder how they are able to avoid those dreaded NDAs?

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Celebrate Halloween this Month with these New Jersey Events

Halloween is a magical time in New Jersey with annual events featuring pumpkins, ghouls, and dinosaurs(?). These events vary from family-friendly to super scary. Experience haunting drive-thru events, zombies, terrifying walk-throughs, and more.

For more events throughout the year, be sure to check out our Event Guide.

If you’d like to submit your event, click here.

For more New Jersey Events and Adventures, follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.

NORTH JERSEY:

Jack O’ Lantern Experience
Now – November 6
Experience Pure Halloween Madness, Skylands Stadium will be transformed with over 6,000+ Jack-O-Lanterns, for an Original 45-minute Walk-Thru Spectacular. Sussex County’s Family Entertainment Destination is set ablaze with spectacular visuals, and a thrilling Fall Festival. Perfect for families, date nights, and lovers of Halloween spirit.
Skylands Stadium, 94 Championship Place, Augusta, NJ
Cost: $24

Haunted Wild West Fest
Saturdays and Sundays from October 1 – 30
Take part in a fun and spooky interactive western experience. Watch tales of the Wild West come to life through historical characters, live action dramatizations and demonstrations by period craftsmen. When the sun sets, fear goes up at Wild West City. Enter the town at your own risk… there is only one way into the town, first you must endure the perilous journey aboard the Wild West City Train Line and then walk the old Frontiersman Trail where the ghost of John West the Frontiersman lingers. The nightime Fest is considered to be PG-13. For younger children and a less spooky event, the daytime festival from 10:30am- 4:00pm, features the ghost town, Western entertainment and a costume contest.
50 Lackawanna Drive, Stanhope, NJ
Cost: Daytime – Adults: $29.50/Children (Age 2-12): $24.50, Nighttime – $18 Online/$20 at the door

Halloween Light Show at Demarest Farms
Now – October 31
See the largest light show in NJ on a guided drive-through tour of brilliant Halloween light displays. Stop by the farm to enjoy goodies from the market and warm up by the fire pits with make-your-own s’mores and hot cocoa.
244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale, NJ
Cost: $35 per car

Dinosaur After Dark
Friday and Saturday nights October 1 – 29
“Dinosaurs After Dark,” is a spooky, funny adventure into a shadowy, prehistoric world. A spooky, funny and thrilling adventure for the whole family featuring a lantern lit tour of the park, the Mesozoic Midway where everyone is a winner and more! But watch out! The trails are dark and there’s a hungry T-Rex lurking in the shadows. A fearless Dinosaur Wrangler will lead a Tyrannosaurus Hunt along the Field Station’s darkened trails with a stop at every dinosaur and a few surprises along the way. At the end of the night, everyone will gather around the campfire for a dinosaur sing-a-long, roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate!
Field Station Dinosaurs, 40 Fort Lee Road, Leonia, NJ
Cost: Online $17.75, at the gate $18.76

Annual Pumpkin Patch Train
October 2, 9 & 16
Join in the Halloween fun at the Whippany Railway Museum onboard “The Pumpkin Patch Train” ! The 10-mile, 45-minute round trip from Whippany to Roseland and return is the perfect way to spend a Fall afternoon with the family. Your ticket entitles you to pick your own pumpkin after the ride at our Pumpkin Patch and enjoy the seasonal fun. Ticket also includes a pumpkin decorating kit. Children of all ages are encouraged to come dressed in their Halloween costumes, where they can mingle with our zombies and ghosts, helping to make the train a spooky sight!
Whippany Railway Museum, 1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ
Cost: $17 – $24

Wagner Farm Arboretum’s Brite Nites
Drive-Thru Dates: Thursdays only – October 13, 20 & 27, 2022, Walk-Thru Dates: Fridays & Saturdays only – October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 & 29. 2022
This spectacular Halloween-themed event “Brite Nites” showcases an elaborate display of intricately and creatively hand-carved and lighted pumpkins. These breathtaking pumpkin sculptures have been updated with new themes, LED bulbs, and new special effects. For drive thru, the anticipated amount of time to get through the path is about 20 minutes.
Wagner Farm Arboretum, 197 Mountain Ave., Warren Twp, NJ
Cost: Per Vehicle – $35 for passenger cars/SUVs with less than or equal to 7 attendees, $50 for any type of small bus or large SUV/van with more than 7 attendees

Gardens Aglow Presby Memorial Iris
October 21, 6PM
View the gardens at dusk as they come to life with artfully carved jack-o-lanterns supplied by local high school art departments. Enjoy a glass of cider at sunset while watching the gardens glow! Activities, entertainment, a mad science show and refreshments will be on-going throughout the event.
474 Upper Mountain Ave., Upper Montclair, NJ
Cost: Free

Turtle Back Zoo Howl-O-Ween
October 31, 4PM
Come trick-or-treating at the Zoo. With candy stations throughout the grounds, everyone is sure to have a “sweet” time. What to Expect: Candy Stations for Trick or Treating, Stilt walkers, and shows. Come in your Halloween costume and bring your own reusable candy bag
560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, NJ
Cost: $5

CENTRAL JERSEY/JERSEY SHORE:

AddamsFest
Select Events throughout October
Westfield will be transformed into all things Charles Addams with family-themed events, murals, window displays,  a masquerade, movie screenings, exhibits and much more. With something for everyone, AddamsFest promises to be a whimsy-filled festival honoring the man, his legacy, and the town where it all started.
Westfield, NJ

Field Of Terror
October 1 & 2, 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, & 27-31
Years ago Farmer Frank lived and farmed over 100 acres here in East Windsor NJ, but simply farming wasn’t good enough. He wanted to develop a bigger better form of human life so he experimented, attempting to cross the genetics of the local town people with some of his crazy vegetation. The results of these failed catastrophes now inhabit this sacred land. Beware of his wicked grandson, Ax Man, who still tends the crops today. Come experience the four unique terror-filled attractions where visitors will encounter zombies of all shapes and sizes as you try to survive the FIELD OF TERROR
831 Windsor Perrineville Rd, East Windsor, NJ
Cost: $20 -$90

Nightmare at Gravity Hill
October 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, & 29
There have been many explanations as to why cars are pulled uphill against the forces of gravity at our farm. Gravity Hill has been featured in Weird NJ, and you may have also seen one of the many YouTube videos displaying Gravity Hill’s strange phenomena at work. Come explore the abandoned Ghost Town of Gravity Hill, its Graveyard and its Haunted Fields. Experience for yourself all the otherworldly powers that make up the curse of Gravity Hill, featuring an extensive cast of terrifying ghouls, zombies, creepy clowns and other denizens of the night. Our amazing haunted walkthrough will change the way you sleep at night… or make sure you never sleep again!
Cicconi Farms, 1005 Farmingdale Rd, Jackson, NJ
Cost: $35 – $50

Scary Rotten Farms – Haunted Experience
October 1, 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, & 27-31
3 Terrifying Haunts: Twisted Tales, Sinister Sneed’s Chaotic Carbival of Chaos, and Blackened Plaque. Not for anybody under the age of 13, unless accompanied by an adult.
Berry Fresh Farms, 151 Brick Blvd, Brick Township, NJ
Cost: $18 – $50

Casola Farms – Haunted Attractions
October 1 & 2, 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, & 28-31, 7PM
Featuring 4 Terrifying Attractions: The Haunted Hayride of Terror, 3d Haunted Barn, Haunted Wooded Trail, and the Marlboro Zombie Breakout. Open every Friday – Sunday in October, plus Monday, October 31st, at 7:00 pm; ticket sales begin at 6:30 pm & end at 10:00 pm, but the haunted attraction stays open until the last soul has exited.
Casola Farms, 131 South Main Street, Marlboro, NJ
Cost: $12 – $60

Scare Farm
October 1, 2, 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, 28 – 30 2022
Embrace the madness and mayhem. And brings your friends to be terrorized, too. Experience Scare Farm—voted one of the best in the tri-state area. This year Scare Farm will again be hosting three horror-filled attractions. After the great response of last season, our Creepy Hollow, Paranoia Walking Trails, and The Slayride – Hayride will again be one continuous attraction for one price.
Norz Hill Farm, 120 South Branch Rd, Hillsborough, NJ
Cost: $40 – $60

Haunt O’Ween
October 1, 2, 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, 25 – 31.
Located at Bell Works, this family-friendly event features carnival rides, trick-or-treating, games, and nine worlds spanning 200,000 square feet. Twenty-five costumed characters will roam the grounds as immersive thematics flooded with interactivity, all built on the foundation of Halloween—trick or treating, pumpkins, costumes, candy for giveaways, and spooky fun.
Bell Works, 101 Crawford Corner Rd, Holmdel, NJ
Cost: $40/person

Northlandz Halloween Train Rides
October 1, 2, 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, 28 – 30, 2022
Northlandz Wonderland brings a Haunted theme from 10am to 6pm every weekend in October. As Halloween is near so we plan to surprise our little fans. Our steam train is specially designed in a Bizarre costume to celebrate Halloween with kids. You will be welcomed by a human skeleton who awake after several centuries. Instead of the flowers, scoopy pumpkins will send horror greetings to the passengers.
Northlandz, 495 Highway 202 South, Flemington, NJ
Cost: $29

Farm Of Horrors
October 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 19 – 23, & 28 – 30
Spend 45 minutes making your way through 200+ acres of Fright. It starts with our Hair Raising Hayride that “Scares the YELL out of You”, then we let you off in the middle of nowhere for a Treacherous Trek through the “Trail of Terror”, then just when you think you have had enough and begin see that you are almost home, you realize the only way back is through the MassAcre Maize, a Casual Run for your Life; once it is over you find that the path is blocked, and you must enter your final Nightmare, the Carnevil of Chaos! They’ll scare the yell out of you! Not recommended for children under 13.
Schaefer Farms, 1051 County Route 523, Flemington, NJ.
Cost: $38 – $52

Great Adventure’s Fright Fest
October 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, & 27-31
From 2 to 6 p.m, families and young thrill-seekers will experience HALLOWFEST Thrills by Day. Chills by Night begins at 6 p.m. and will feature four scare zones, three shows, and three haunted mazes available outdoors in the wide-open midways, plus one indoor haunted maze.
Six Flags Great Adventure, 1 Six Flags Boulevard Jackson, NJ
Cost: $40 – $70

Asbury Park Zombie Walk and Undead Festival
October 8, 1pm – 6pm
The New Jersey Zombie Walk is dedicated to all things horror and zombie. The undead outbreak was born in Asbury Park in 2008, and every year since the zombie horde has increased in size, rocketing the event further and further towards a total citywide takeover. Prior to 2014 when the Zombie Pub Crawl in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, with over 15,000 zombies was listed by the Guinness Book of World records for the “largest gathering of zombies”, the Asbury Park Zombie Walk with over 10,000 held that record.
This year the return of the living dead will be an 80’s and 90’s punk rock and heavy metal themed event. At 1pm, arrive in costume. Zombie Walk Info & Merchandise tables will be set up right along the Boardwalk. At 4pm the Zombie walk begins on the Boardwalk, heading from Convention Hall down the boards towards the Casino where it will turn onto Cookman Avenue and head towards the Downtown! The Zombie Walk route ends outside of Johnny Macs House of Spirits on Main Street. Judging for the Costume Contest will take place on the stage outside of JMacs immediately after the Zombie Walk!
Asbury Park Boardwalk, Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Free

Snyder’s Farm Fall Kickoff, Fall Festival, and Horror Movie Night
October 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, & 30
Step out this season to a corn maze, pumpkin picking, fire pits, comfort food, and even a horror movie at night (for older kids and adults).
586 South Middlebush Road, Somerset, NJ
Cost: $18

Night of Frights
October 14, 15, 20 & 21
Enjoy the village grounds and historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries…visit with our ghosts, ghouls, and monsters. Storytelling at the Chapel; a special night out at the Blacksmith Shop; the Manager’s House with fortune-telling for your entertainment; Mr. Allaire’s Macabre House; the Carriage House with legendary spirits; the towering four-story shadows of the General Store stocked with seasonal goods; and don’t forget treats at the Bakery plus our very own Haunted Food Truck! In the dark of the night, from woods to historic homes, the Historic Village at Allaire takes on a twist for the Halloween season. Costumed ghouls, Glow In The Dark Bubble Witch Show, & Fire Juggler. All with varied activities we welcome children, families, and adults of all ages
Historic Village at Allaire, 4263 Atlantic Avenue, Wall Township, NJ
Cost: Adult $15, Child $10

Brookdale Haunted Theater
October 14 – 16, 21 – 23, 28- 30, 2022; 7pm – 10:30pm
Brookdale’s annual Haunted Theater – designed, built and run by current and former students – is a delightfully scary, tormented trip through evil creatures, ghouls and ghosts, bloody body parts, and more. The popular Haunted Theater redefines “stage fright” for its many visitors during the walking tour of a maze of blood-chilling rooms.
Brookdale Community College Performing Arts Center, 765 Newman Springs Rd, Lincroft, NJ
Cost: $20

Boo at the Boardwalk
October 22, 23, 29 & 30, 12pm – 4pm
There will be crafts, face painting, beach maze, underwater pumpkin carving, limited kiddie rides & more! Featured events include The Perky’s Pumpkin Derby: 10/22 at 2pm (rain date 10/23), Howl-O-Ween Canines & Cocktails on October 22nd, and Underwater Pumpkin Carving daily at 3pm (included with aquarium general admission)
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant, NJ

Cranford’s Great Pumpkin Carve Out
October 22, Rain Date: Oct 29
Everyone is invited to come to Hanson Park from 5:30 pm-9 pm to stroll along the pumpkin-lit garden paths and see the carved pumpkins wonderfully displayed. Cash awards will be given for the funniest, scariest, and most original carved pumpkin grouped by ages; 4-8, 9-16 and 17 and up. This year will feature a family category so families can submit a group effort. Note this year’s event starts at 5:30 PM, a half hour earlier than in past years, to accommodate those who may prefer an earlier viewing of the displays. Additionally, a big-screen outdoor showing of a surprise favorite movie will start at dark. Bring your blankets! The movie, stroll, and contest are all free. Hot cider and cookies will be available for purchase.
Hanson Park, 38 Springfield Avenue in Cranford, NJ
Cost: Free

Haunts In The Park
October 27, 5pm & 6pm (Rain date: Friday, October 28th)
This is one stroll through the park you will not forget! Enter into our haunted trail through the twisted, gnarled old trees that are shelter for those that are waiting for unsuspecting visitors. Watch your backs, because you never know where the scares are going to come from! There will be a lot of new scares this year. The last tickets will be sold at 9PM! This is not intended for young children.
Community Park, 1001 River Avenue, Point Pleasant Boro, NJ
Cost: $2 for the G rated (for younger Children) walk @5pm. $5 for the 6pm more scary Haunted Trail guided walk (may not be appropriate for younger children)

iPlay America’s Trick or Treat Around the Park
October 28, 2022; 5pm – 8pm
Join for a night of Spooktacular – and FUN! Enjoy our Trick or Treat Trail, Costume Contest, Raffle and MORE!
iPlay America, 110 Schanck Rd, Freehold, NJ
Cost: Free. Registration (All guests must pre-register online by Thursday, October 27, at 4PM)

1830s All Hallow’s Eve Celebration
October 29, 11am – 4pm
Step back in time and celebrate Halloween with our villagers as they would have in the 19th century! Learn about Halloween’s long rich history and the origin of the traditions we know of today! Participate in the “Allaire Scare Pumpkin Dare” – a carved pumpkin contest! Contestants need to have a pre-purchased ticket for All Hallow’s Eve and bring a carved pumpkin to the Event (Day Of) where it will be entered into a “scare” category and judged! Winner gets a trophy and a gift bag
The Historic Village at Allaire, 4263 Atlantic Avenue, Wall Township, NJ
Cost: $10 Adults, $4 Children (age 4-12)

Somerville Spooktacular
October 29, 3pm – 6pm
This community event is presented by Somerville Recreation & Downtown Somerville Alliance. Enjoy music, activities, and entertainment on Division Street, Main Street, and Borough Hall! Participating merchants will be handing out candy to trick-or-treaters! Free parking in lots 1, 2, and 4 as a treat for parents.
Main Street, and Borough Hall, Somerville, NJ

Howl O Ween Dog Costume Contest
October 29, 3pm
There will be a free costume contest for dogs and their humans, with prizes for the scariest, most original, and funniest costumes. Discounted drinks for dog owners and Trivia Contests. Judging begins promptly at 4pm. Register the day of the event at 3pm, or online at highlandsnj.com
The Seafarer, 1 Atlantic St, Highlands, NJ
Cost: Free

Annual Toms River Halloween Parade
October 31, 7pm
Reported to be the 2nd largest Parade of its type in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records! It’s a parade with plenty of floats and decorative Halloween-themed attractions. Arrive early. It is recommended you arrive about 2 hours prior to the start of the parade. This allows time to get settled and comfortable so the parade can begin on time. In the past, people have put chairs out even earlier. The parade starts at 7:00 pm, from the Toms River Center located at Main Street and Route 37, proceeding South on Main Street, then east on Washington Street, and concludes at Hooper Avenue. Most trophies will be distributed at 101 Hooper Avenue, Ocean County Administration Building.
Toms River Center, Main Street and Route 37, Toms River, NJ

SOUTH JERSEY:

Lights on Olmstead Lane
Now – October 31, Daily 6:30PM – 9:30PM (10:30PM Fri and Sat)
Tune Your Radio to: 91.9FM to Listen In as your view the Halloween light show. This event is a charity fundraiser with donations benefiting the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and the Food Bank of South Jersey
5 Olmsted Lane, Cinnaminson, NJ

Halloween Trick-or-Treat Train at DiDonato’s
October 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 22 & 23
This little goblin-friendly Halloween outdoor train ride will leave the whole family laughing and gasping for more! Tricks, treats, and surprises are included for kids and grownups! Take a train ride through a kid-friendly Halloween Town, try the Halloween corn maze, or pick a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch. Don’t miss the giant slide, inflatable obstacle course, photo ops, and more.
1151 S White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ
Cost: $15.95

Terror In The Junkyard
October 1, 2, 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, 28 – 30
At this event, they’ll take you deep into the dark woods of Scullville to experience all the horrors they have to offer on the “Terror in the Junkyard Hayride”. Take your chances in the “Maze of Terror”
Flemings Junkyard, 353 Zion Rd, Egg Harbor Township NJ
Cost: $9 – $18

Blood Shed Farms Fear Fest – Drive Thru
October 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23, 28 – 30
BloodShed Farms “The Last Drive Haunted Drive Thru” is an Immersive, Terrifying, Halloween experience. From the safety of your own vehicle, you will have frightening encounters with twisted creatures and menacing characters as you journey through theatrical sets full of terrifying displays and special effects.
2919 Route 206, Columbus, NJ
Cost: $60

Night of Terror
October 7, 8, 13 – 15, 20 – 22, 27 – 29
A spook-filled event featuring very scary attractions including; The ride of Terror, the Home of the Demented and Dead, the dreaded Corn Maze, 3-D hall of terror, Zombie Mayhem, and more.
Creamy Acres Farm, 448 Lincoln Mill Rd, Mullica Hill, NJ
Cost: $40 – $70

Costume Pet Parade
October 15, 1PM
Paw Dazzle will host the Annual Costume Pet Parade starting at 1:00 pm. This is, by far, Historic Smithville’s cutest event. Spectators can watch 100+ pets show off their unique Halloween costumes! To enter your pet, you must be pre-registered by calling Paw Dazzle at 609-748-7110. Historic Smithville offers 60 Shoppes, 7 eateries, a carousel ride, train ride, paddle boats and arcade, on site lodging at the Colonial Inn, and over 26 free weekend events!
615 East Moss Mill Road, Galloway, NJ

Monster Bash
October 21, 6PM – 8PM
With Dracula, Mummy, Frankenstein, and Witch, it’ll be nothing short of a graveyard smash. There’ll be singing and dancing, music and crafts. Goodies, balloon art, and a whole lot of laughs! Spooktacular costumes are encouraged to take part in a costume contest. Tickets are required for children.
Moorestown Mall, 400 New Jersey 38, Moorestown, NJ
Cost: $10

Fear In The Forest
October 21 & 22 (Open at dark, closes at 10pm)
This Family owned and operated Haunted Attraction is Hidden Deep in the woods of Pemberton Township, NJ. As you turn off of NJ State Route 70 and go through creepy dark cranberry bog roads, keep a look out for the Jersey Devil, and More! This DARK DARK ride through the bogs and into the woods will give you goosebumps, but keep an eye on the road one WRONG TURN will lead you into the middle of no where with no way out. Be sure to follow the bones to the CABIN IN THE WOODS where the Frights and Fears will begin. The Ghosts, and Ghouls of this Family Blueberry farm will come out of no where, so make sure you watch your back, you never know what’s about to attack. If you make it from your car to the ticket booth make sure you look out for RELLIK and CHAOS there is no holding them back. Once your group leaves with the tour guide there is NO TURNING BACK. As you walk even further in the woods watch you step and don’t leave your group or you may never see them again. If you survive the walk through be sure to gather at the Cabin for Music and Food.
182 City Line Road, Pemberton, NJ
Cost: General Admission $10, Fast Pass $20

Annual Ghoul Spring Village
October 21 & 22
This event is a a family-friendly haunted walk-thru for young and old alike. Proceeds benefit HCSV Foundation, a non-profit living history museum. Join in as they pierce the veil between the world of the living and the world of the dead.
Historic Cold Spring Village, 720 US 9, Cape May, NJ
Cost: $4 for children and adults. $2 for hayride

Historic Smithville’s Monster Bash
October 22, 10AM – 6:30PM (rain date Oct. 29th)
This Halloween event features the areas largest Zombie Walk. That’s not the undead walking the streets of Galloway Twp.. it’s Smithville’s annual Zombie Walk!, People from south Jersey and the surrounding areas find their way to Smithville either in full zombie gear or ready to be painted to look like a zombie (for a small fee)
Historic Smithville, 615 E. Moss Mill Rd, Smithville, NJ

Storybook Land Trick or Treat Weekends
October 22, 23, 29, & 30
Dress up in your Halloween best and get ready to collect treats throughout the park. Littles will love hopping on the fun rides in their costumes and gathering goodies with special Trick or Treat bags (included with admission).
6415 Black Horse Pike (Routes 40/322), Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Cost: Price of Admission

Witches Day Out
October 23, 2PM
Wear your witch’s hat and enter our hat contest; registration is from 12pm-2pm at the Smithville Inn. Parade and judging will take place between 3:30 and 4:30. Winners announced thereafter at the Smithville Inn. Food and drink specials will be offered. Please stop into our Shoppes with your hat and see what deals await you! Historic Smithville offers 60 Shoppes, 7 eateries, carousel ride, train ride, paddle boats and arcade, on site lodging at the Colonial Inn and over 26 free weekend events!
615 East Moss Mill Road, Galloway, NJ

Ocean City Halloween Parade
October 27, 7:15PM
This Ocean City nighttime tradition remains one of longest running Halloween parades in the tri-state area. The parade will march along Asbury Avenue from 6th to 11th Streets.
Asbury Ave. from 6th – 11th Street, Ocean City, NJ

North Wildwood Trunk-or-Treat Halloween Block Party
October 29, 5:30PM
The annual family fun event! features Music, Magic, Balloon Twisting and more! Families are encouraged to bring their vehicles decorated for Halloween. Children will come in costume and visit each car where families will provide treats from the trunks of their cars. There will be no judging of the children’s costumes, but prizes will be awarded to the best-decorated vehicles. Registration is free and forms are available at 900 Central Avenue in North Wildwood or at City Hall.
Olde NJ Avenue, North Wildwood, NJ

Boo at the Zoo!
October 30, 10AM – 2PM
The Cape May County Park and Zoo’s annual “Boo at the Zoo” event will take place on Sat., Oct. 29 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Cape May County Park, in Cape May Court House. Sponsored by the Cape May County Board of Commissioners, this event is free and open to the public. Visitors of all ages are invited to wear a costume to this fun family event, which includes activities for the kids, craft station, games, candy, entertainment, animals, inflatable obstacle course, pirate ship and more. A Costume Contest will start at 11 a.m., registration begins at 10 a.m. An awards presentation will follow the Halloween costume contest. The Cape May Dancers will perform at 12:00 p.m. with a live animal show following. Master DJ & Sound will be rocking the event with some special Halloween tunes Don’t miss the special Halloween Animal Enrichment throughout the Zoo!
Cape May County Park & Zoo, 707 U.S. , Middle Township, NJ

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The Death of James C. Crow and the Birth of Aged Bourbon Whiskey

Grave of James Christopher Crow; Versailles Cemetery; Versailles, Kentucky.

Although death is always the end of something, it can cause something else to begin. That is what happened when James Christopher Crow, 67, died in Woodford County, Kentucky, in 1856.

Crow was a professional distiller, itself something new. He didn’t have a farm, mill, or distillery of his own. His was an itinerant profession, plied at various distilleries in Central Kentucky from the 1820s until his death.

In those days, few whiskey-makers were known beyond their home communities, but Crow and whiskey he made at Oscar Pepper’s distillery at Versailles (Vur-SALES is the local pronunciation) had a national reputation. The fascination with Crow and his whiskey began the connection between whiskey and Kentucky in popular consciousness. It also was the beginning of a new style of whiskey, bourbon whiskey as we know it today.

The site of Oscar Pepper’s distillery is today’s Woodford Reserve.

James Crow is often cited as the  father of bourbon. Sometimes, that title is given to his banker, E. H. Taylor. The little-known William Mitchell is another likely candidate. (Elijah Craig is not a likely candidate. That story is bullshit.)

But it all starts with Crow.

You may think you know Crow’s story and perhaps you do, but you probably don’t know all of it, and most people don’t know what happened next nor how big Old Crow Bourbon ultimately became. But you will if you read the new issue of The Bourbon Country Reader (Volume 21, Number 2).

Also, a rye varietal revered by whiskey makers a century ago, known as Rosen, has returned to its roots in Michigan, literally.

Full article in link below…

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NJIB’s Top Ten New Jersey Events Labor Day Weekend 2022

Well, well, well… September is here! And it’s Labor Day weekend aka the unofficial end of Summer. September is my favorite month because it’s Summer AND Autumn and there’s plenty going on. Let’s leave the house to explore what NJ has to offer (or not, you do you). These are my top 10 New Jersey Events for September 2 – 5, 2022.

Due to the ongoing restrictions and safety regulations with Covid-19, please verify these events before attending in case of any last-minute cancellations. And always check the weather!

For more events throughout the year, be sure to check out our Event Guide.

If you’d like to submit your event, click here.

For more New Jersey Events and Adventures, follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.

Top 10 New Jersey Events for September 2 – 5, 2022:

Glassboro Car Show & Food Truck Festival
September 2, 5PM – 9PM
The Annual Car show drives into Glassboro on September 2. For the 17th year in a row, car enthusiasts will gather in Glassboro, New Jersey at the Glassboro Car Show & Food Truck Festival, the premier car show in South Jersey. The viewing area will be on Rowan Boulevard in Downtown Glassboro and an anticipated 5,000 attendees will have the opportunity to view over 300 vehicles while listening to live music, DJ Pepper Paul 92.1, and enjoying great food trucks and cold craft beer.
Downtown Glassboro, Glassboro, NJ

Sip Shop Eat!
September 2 & 3
Sip Shop Eat! has an exclusive pop-up in New Jersey from September 2nd -3rd, 2022 at the Garden State Plaza in Paramus. All the best in food, style, and drinks collide at the immersive and interactive Sip Shop Eat Pop-Up.
Westfield Plaza Mall, Paramus, NJ
Cost: $15 – $95

The Feast of St. Joseph of Lodi
September 2-5
St. Joseph Church in Lodi will hold their 107th Annual Saint Joseph Feast located at the church grounds on Spring St.Come out for a weekend of fun featuring nightly entertainment, plenty of delicious festival food (including the best zeppole around!), exciting carnival rides for all ages, hourly and Super 50/50 raffles,  carnival games & prizes, and much more! .The festival will also have traditional accordion music every night. On Labor Day, there will be a solemn Mass in English and Italian at 4pm followed by a procession with the statue of St Joseph through the streets of Lodi.
40 Spring Street, Lodi, NJ

St. Bartholomew Italian Festival
September 2 -5
The much anticipated Italian Festival of the Summer includes a feast that is truly a great family event with plenty for the whole family to enjoy. Music will be played nightly, along with various: rides, games, and great food. The mouth watering Italian cuisine includes crowd favorites like: pizza, pasta, zeppoles, clams, mussels, and calzones. In addition, there are nightly 50/50 drawings and a super 50/50 raffle on Monday, so make sure your family stops by to celebrate their inner Italian.
Saint Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church, 2032 Westfield Ave, Scotch Plains, NJ

Asbury Refresh Vintage and Oddities Market
Saturday, September 3, 10AM – 3PM
REFRESH is a monthly celebration of all things vintage, oddities & one of a kind collectibles. Join Asbury Fresh Markets on select Saturdays through the year where you can shop from a curated collection of over 50 vendors selling unique items & more.
Kennedy Park next to Cross+Orange, Asbury Park, NJ

Monmouth Park Racetrack BBQ & Craft Beer Festival
September 3 – 5, 11AM – 5PM
Dig in to the juiciest, most tender pulled pork, brisket and ribs the Jersey Shore has to offer and wash it down with an ice-cold beer! This Labor Day weekend from 11am to 5pm join us for three days of delicious BBQ and a great selection of brews in our Craft Beer Garden. The perfect companion to delicious BBQ is an ice-cold beer! Our NJ Craft Beer Garden will feature over 40 craft beers to choose from – and for the first time, all beers will be brewed right here in the Garden State. Enjoy 10 2-oz samples for just $13 if purchased in advance at www.seatgeek.com/monmouth or $15 day-of – Cash Only. General admission tickets are available in advance as well for $5 or day-of $6.
Monmouth Park Racetrack, Oceanport, NJ
Cost:$5, $6 at the door

Scan Fest
September 4, 10AM
There will be 6 stages with International, National, Regional and Local talent. It’s an all-day celebration of Scandinavia at its best – where you’ll discover the customs…the history…the ethnic variety of the six Nordic nations: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
The NJ Vasa Home Park, Budd Lake, NJ
Cost: $14, Kids 12 and under are free

Frenchtown Riverfest
September 4, 11AM – 7PM
Established in 2004… Riverfest is a street fair celebration of life along the river! Stroll Bridge Street and Sunbeam Park for a fun filled day of live music, art, food, family friendly activities, and paper boat races with the Frenchtown Vikings, all with an ecologically and sustainability-focused lens. Honor mighty Delaware and join in festivities truly unique to Frenchtown.
Sunbeam Lenape Park & Downtown Frenchtown, NJ

Annual Wildwood Block Party and Music Festival
September 4, 1PM – 10PM
It’s the 16th Anniversary Celebration in Wildwood. The end-of-summer celebration will take place from 1-10 p.m. at Fox Park, located on Ocean Avenue directly across from the Wildwoods Convention Center. The festivities will include hours of continuous entertainment, games, crafts, activities for kids, food, merchandise vendors, FREE live music, and much more!
Ocean Avenue, Wildwood, NJ

Riverdale’s Annual Labor Day Street Fair
September 5, 10AM- 5PM
Riverdale’s Annual Labor Day Street Fair hosted by the Borough of Riverdale will be held along the Newark Pompton Turnpike from Newbury Place to Cotluss Rd. from 10am-5pm. This annual event is held on Labor Day Monday. The street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event and will be transformed into a giant block party. If you like shopping outdoors then this is the place to be. Vendors, food, live music, and plenty of activities for kids and families.
120 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ

 

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What You Need to Know About Vodka in Light of Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

Russian Standard is the only major vodka brand made and owned by a Russian company.

NOTE: I revised this post 3/3/22 to include new information about Stoli. I apologize for putting out misleading information. Sorry, fog of war. I’m doing the best I can.

Most of the world’s citizens are outraged and disgusted by Russia’s cruel and irrational invasion of Ukraine, and frustrated by their inability to do anything about it. There is a satisfying symbolism in rejecting all things Russian, so what about vodka? That’s Russian, right?

The short answer is, no, in that virtually all vodka sold in the United States and most of the rest of the world has nothing to do with Russia. It isn’t made there, nor is it made and sold by Russian companies. The only brand of Russian-made vodka you are likely to see in the United States is Russian Standard.

Yes, the word ‘vodka’ is Russian, but that’s about it. It literally means ‘little water,’ or something close to that, in Polish, Ukrainian, and several other Slavic languages in addition to Russian. The word comes from the ancient description of distilled alcohol as “water of life.” The word ‘whiskey’ has a similar etymology, based on that same phrase in Gaelic. “Eau de vie” is literally “water of life” in French, and usually describes a clear, fruit-based spirit. Since the typical ‘vodka’ in Russia and the wider region is a clear, neutral or nearly-neutral spirit distilled from grain, ‘vodka’ seemed like a more appealing name for that type of product than ‘grain alcohol,’ which is how grain neutral spirits (GNS) were generally sold before Prohibition. ‘Vodka’ sounds exotic.

There is a fine line between what we now call ‘vodka’ and what used to be called ‘common whiskey’ in America, known later as ‘white whiskey,’ since neither is aged in wood. The difference is in the purity of the alcohol and that itself can be a fine line. Although an American straight whiskey such as bourbon cannot be distilled higher than 80% ABV (alcohol-by-volume), generic whiskey just has to be less than 95% ABV. After 95% it’s ethanol, i.e., vodka. So, 94.5% ABV = white whiskey, 95.1% ABV = vodka. Then, of course, it is diluted with water to 40-50% ABV for bottling.

Americans first heard the term ‘vodka’ when Smirnoff was introduced in the United States in the 1930s, after Prohibition. They didn’t do much business at first, until the brand launched its “Smirnoff Leaves You Breathless” advertising campaign in 1958. The idea was that if you drank vodka at lunch, instead of whiskey or beer, no one would be able to smell it on your breath! It was a huge success.

It was more than that, of course. Americans had long since begun to mix their whiskey with soft drinks and fruit juices, and for the first several decades after Prohibition’s repeal, the best-selling distilled spirits had been blended whiskey, either scotch or American. Some of them had very little whiskey flavor. When Americans became aware of vodka’s existence through Smirnoff’s advertising, millions simply switched from using Imperial Blended Whiskey to Smirnoff Vodka in their cocktails. Vodka sales exploded in the 1960s and, therefore, every company needed a vodka brand. Most of them got Russian-sounding names. Most were just that, Russian-sounding names, with no connection to Russia. All of them were made in the United States.

But because of Smirnoff, which had an actual history in Czarist Russia, and all of the made-up Russian names, the whole ‘Russia’ thing hung around, through all the ups and downs of the Cold War and beyond. Then came Stolichnaya (‘Stoli’), which proudly advertised itself as Russian vodka. It was introduced in the United States in 1972 and quickly became huge. Suddenly, premium, imported vodka was a thing. Stoli was followed by Absolut, made in Sweden; and Grey Goose, made in France. Followed by others too numerous to name.

The statement says, in part, “Stoli Group has had a long history of fighting oppression from the Russian regime. We unequivocally condemn the military action in Ukraine and stand in support of the Ukrainian people. While we do not have any operations in Russia, we do in Ukraine and across many of the bordering countries.”

Stoli® Premium and Elit™ vodka are manufactured and bottled in Riga, Latvia. Latvia is a member of NATO and, therefore, a U.S. ally. Stoli and its owner, Yuri Shefler, separated themselves officially from Russia about 20 years ago. Stoli Group owns other beverage alcohol assets, including Kentucky Owl bourbon and rye.

Stoli is not, however, telling the whole truth. While they “do not have any operations in Russia,” they apparently purchase distillate from a Russian distillery in Tambov, about 400 miles southeast of Moscow and very much in Russia. They ship the distillate to Riga, Latvia, where it is diluted with water for bottling. Legally, it’s a product of Latvia. In reality, if this Difford’s Guide story is accurate and current (and I have no reason to doubt that it is), SPI is playing fast and loose with the facts, though it’s great that they condemn the Russian military action. 

A lot of imported vodka sold in the United States is made in Poland. Some of the better known brands are Sobieski, Chopin, and Belevedere. Poland is a member of NATO and, therefore, a U.S. ally. It shares a long border with Ukraine and is receiving many of the refugees.

Ukrainian vodka is not widely distributed in the United States but some of the brands available on Drizly are Khor, Shevkoff, and Nemiroff.

Most vodka sold in the U.S. is made here, by public companies. Again, they have nothing whatsoever to do with Russia, regardless of the brand name. Of the top ten brands of vodka sold in the U.S., six are U.S.-made, four are imported. The imports come from Sweden (Svedka, Absolut), The Netherlands (Ketel One), and France (Grey Goose). The U.S.-made brands are Tito’s, Smirnoff, New Amsterdam, Pinnacle, Burnett’s, and Skyy. All of the bottom-shelf vodka sold in the U.S., in 1.75L handles only, is U.S.-made.

Almost every distilled spirits company sells vodka, typically under multiple brand names. Very few of those companies distill the spirit themselves. Although producers typically process the spirit before bottling, such as charcoal filtering it, and some even redistill, most do not make the grain neutral spirit (GNS) from scratch. Instead, they buy it from a handful of specialist companies who produce ethanol from grain (usually corn) for beverages but also for pharmaceuticals, fuel, weapons, textiles, and other industrial uses. In the world of beverage alcohol, that same grain neutral spirit is used to make gin and liqueurs. Ethanol, and therefore vodka, can also be made from sugarcane and fruit.

Although the standards are slightly different for what goes into your body versus what goes into your car, it’s all essentially the same stuff, i.e., ‘pure’ (95%) ethanol, and it is considered a commodity. All of the major vodka producers buy their ethanol from the same group of manufacturers, usually on the basis of price and availability, although some have a better reputation for quality than others. Although some craft vodkas are scratch-made, most are not. They’re based on that same GNS. That’s fine if they do something else ‘crafty’ with the spirit, such as flavoring it. Since it really is a commodity, there isn’t much reason to make it yourself, but a few people do and they will make sure you know it. Again, none of this has anything to do with Russia, but now you know a little bit more about vodka.

The major U.S. ethanol distillers, the folks who make GNS from scratch, are:

Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM), an American multinational food processing and commodities trading corporation headquartered in Chicago.
GPC (Grain Processing Corporation), a subsidiary of Kent Corporation. It has distilleries in Muscatine, Iowa, where it is based, and Washington, Indiana.

Those are the major operators I know about in the beverage space. There are many others who distill vast amounts of ethanol for non-beverage uses.

And that’s about it. That’s where vodka comes from. Ukraine, by the way, is much like the American Midwest in being a huge grower and exporter of wheat and other cereals. Egypt, the ‘bread basket’ of the Mediterranean in Roman times, is now a major importer of wheat, most of which comes from Ukraine and Russia.

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O-I Glass to Build $240 Million New Production Facility for Premium Spirits Market

This will Certainly help Long Branch Distillery with the bottle glass shortages we’ve experienced over the past 2 years during COVID…

As the current bourbon boom goes there are more than 10 million barrels of distilled spirits aging in Kentucky alone not to mention the other 49 states. Once those spirits come of age and are ready for dumping all that whiskey must be bottled up. To accommodate that coming need for bottles, O-I Glass has announced a $240 million investment in Bowling Green, Kentucky to build a new state of the art bottle manufacturing facility.

New Facility to Serve the Premium Spirits Category

O-I Glass - Premium Distilled Spirits Bottles

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In line with strong consumer trends towards healthy, recyclable, and sustainable food and beverage packaging O-I Glass is adding capacity to support its customers with brand-building premium glass containers. The $240 million will happen in multiple expansion waves over time.

The new plant will be the first facility purposely built for O-I’s MAGMA (Modular Advanced Glass Manufacturing Asset) technology that is set to redefine the glass production process for the future. MAGMA is expected to further enhance O-I’s capabilities to support multiple product categories and expand in today’s highly differentiated product segments.

The production facility is also expected to set new standards in sustainable glass manufacturing. Using renewable electricity, gas-oxy fuel, and other innovative solutions, it will significantly advance O-I’s sustainability roadmap and make glass an even more compelling choice for consumers, customers, and the environment.

The proximity to key customers in Kentucky bourbon country will reduce logistics and further enhance O-I’s customer service, flexibility, and sustainability.

Owens-Illinois Glass - CEO Andres Lopez
Owens-Illinois Glass – CEO Andres Lopez.

“O-I is determined to be the most innovative, sustainable and chosen supplier of brand-building packaging solutions,” said Andres Lopez, CEO of O-I Glass. “The new plant is an important milestone as we continue the pursuit of our expansion plan in the US and globally, building a bright future for the company and its stakeholders. Glass is more relevant than ever, and we are proud to support our customers with innovative solutions.”

“We continue to target new employers for the commonwealth that are focused on longevity, sustainability and creating quality jobs for Kentuckians,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “O-I Glass is a company that meets all of that criteria and more. This new facility in Warren County will create great job opportunities for our residents and bring innovative new technology to Kentucky’s manufacturing sector. Thank you to the leaders at O-I Glass for selecting the commonwealth for this significant investment. I look forward to a long, successful partnership between the company and our state.”

“O-I has a reputation for excellence that has led to jobs for over 24,000 employees in 19 different countries. We are thrilled that they have chosen to grow and invest in Bowling Green,” said Bowling Green Mayor, Todd Alcott.

Production to Start Mid-2024



The new facility is expected to create approximately 140 new jobs in the region. Start of the first production line is expected mid-year 2024 followed by up to two more production lines to serve the growing market and continued development of MAGMA.

Warren County Judge/Executive Mike Buchanon noted the many advantages for a new company locating in Bowling Green.

“For a company with a national and international footprint, Warren County offers tremendous advantages. Our workforce is diverse, with over 85 languages spoken here,” Judge Buchanon said. “When combined with our central location and superior transportation accessibility, our community continues to succeed as a top choice for companies like O-I Glass.”

Bowling Green Mayor Todd Alcott said the company is a great addition for Southcentral Kentucky.

“O-I has a reputation for excellence that has led to jobs for over 24,000 employees in 19 different countries. We are thrilled that they have chosen to grow and invest in Bowling Green,” Mayor Alcott said.

Ron Bunch, president and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, spoke on the partnerships needed to make the project possible.

“O-I Glass is a world leader in its field and will bring transformational technology to the sector through their Bowling Green operation,” Bunch said. “We deeply value their selection of our community for this amazing project and share our great appreciation to our many partners who make winning projects like this possible: Atmos Energy, TVA, Warren County Water District, Warren RECC, as well as our Presidents Club investors.”

John Bradley, senior vice president of economic development with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), welcomed the company to Kentucky.

“TVA and Warren RECC congratulate O-I Glass on its decision to establish operations and create new job opportunities in Bowling Green,” Bradley said. “TVA is proud to partner with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development to support new job creation and investment in the region and look forward to O-I Glass’ business success in the commonwealth.”

Dewayne McDonald, president and CEO of Warren RECC, anticipates continued growth for O-I Glass as the company locates in Warren County.

“We are excited to welcome O-I Glass as a new Warren RECC member,” McDonald said. “We look forward to working with them as they grow their world-class business right here in Warren County.”

To encourage investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) today preliminarily approved a 10-year incentive agreement with the company under the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based agreement can provide up to $4 million in tax incentives based on the company’s investment of over $239.3 million and annual targets of:

  • Creation and maintenance of 140 Kentucky-resident, full-time jobs across 10 years; and
  • Paying an average hourly wage of $43 including benefits across those jobs.

Additionally, KEDFA approved the company for up to $1 million in tax incentives through the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act (KEIA). KEIA allows approved companies to recoup Kentucky sales and use tax on construction costs, building fixtures, equipment used in research and development and electronic processing.

By meeting its annual targets over the agreement term, the company can be eligible to keep a portion of the new tax revenue it generates. The company may claim eligible incentives against its income tax liability and/or wage assessments.

In addition, O-I Glass can receive resources from Kentucky’s workforce service providers. Those include no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job-training incentives.

O-I Glass is a Fortune 500 company that has specialized in the manufacture of glass products for nearly 120 years. O-I Glass employs 24,000 people across 70 plants in 19 countries. Its headquarters is in Perrysburg, Ohio.

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Bourbon Groups Come Together to Raise Funds for Eastern Kentucky Flood Victims

Between July 25th and July 30th, 2022, several thunderstorms brought heavy rain, deadly flash flooding, and devastating river flooding to eastern Kentucky and central Appalachia. These thunderstorms, at times, caused rainfall rates in excess of 4″ per hour across complex terrain that led to widespread devastating impacts. Radar-based rainfall estimates suggest that upwards of 14-16″ of rain fell during this 5-day period in a narrow swath, with many more locations receiving 6-10″ of rain.

While it did not rain continuously during this 4-day stretch, the overwhelming amounts of rain and resultant flooding led to at least 37 deaths (as of August 2nd) and widespread catastrophic damage. Entire homes and parts of some communities were swept away by flood waters, leading to costly damage to infrastructure in the region.

Kentucky Air National Guard rescue those affected by the flooding in Appalachia.

Over 600 helicopter rescues and countless swift water rescues by boat were needed to evacuate people who were trapped by the quickly rising flood waters.

Kentucky Bourbon Groups Create Online Auction

Eastern Kentucky Flooding - Kentucky National Guard
Eastern Kentucky Flooding - Kentucky National Guard
Eastern Kentucky Flooding - Kentucky National Guard
Henderson, Kentucky Flooding 2022

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association, the Bourbon Crusaders charitable organization and Bourbon curator Fred Minnick are joining forces again to support recovery and rebuilding efforts from this catastrophic flooding in Eastern Kentucky.

The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit will feature an online auction of exclusive private barrel selection experiences, rare and vintage spirits, and unique tasting and tourism offerings from Kentucky’s signature distilling industry and hospitality and charitable partners.

“Kentucky’s Bourbon industry was there for our Western Kentucky families following the tornadoes, making the single largest donation to that relief fund – and now I am proud to see this industry stepping up once again to support our Eastern Kentucky families affected by the devastating flooding,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. 

“I know this will make a tremendous impact for our people and I am grateful for the continued support.” 

The partnership raised about $3.4 million in December during a similar auction to help ease suffering and restore hope for residents of Western Kentucky whose communities were ravaged by a tornado outbreak. 

“We prayed that we’d never have to get this group together again in the face of disaster, but our friends, families and neighbors in Eastern Kentucky are braving through unspeakable tragedy and devastation,” Kentucky Distillers’ Association President Eric Gregory said. “It’s our duty as a signature industry to help.

“We were so impressed and humbled by the outpouring of support for Western Kentucky, and we hope that Bourbon aficionados and bidders show the same unparalleled generosity for the thousands of Eastern Kentucky residents who desperately need our assistance.”

Online Bourbon Auction to Run August 11-21, 2022

Kentucky Mist Distillery - Whitesburg, Kentucky, The Flood of 2022
Kentucky Mist Distillery was left under water from the record flooding.
Kentucky Mist Distillery - Whitesburg, Kentucky, The Flood of 2022
Clean up at Kentucky Mist Distillery is well underway.
Kentucky Mist Distillery - Whitesburg, Kentucky, The Flood of 2022
Kentucky Mist Distillery, 128 East Main Street, Whitesburg, Kentucky, 41858

The online auction will begin Thursday, Aug. 11, at noon EST and run until Sunday, Aug. 21, at 11 p.m. EST.  Go to Kentucky Bourbon Benefit to view auction items and bid. Westport Whiskey & Wine in Louisville is coordinating collection and distribution of donated items. 

All proceeds will go directly to the state’s official Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund to assist those impacted by flooding. Those that prefer to make a cash donation can do so now at the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund website.

RJ Sargent, President of The Bourbon Crusaders, said, “The core purpose of the Bourbon Crusaders is to make a difference in the lives of others, and once again the state we love so much needs our help. 

“When the tornadoes hit Western Kentucky last year, we joined the KDA and Fred Minnick to help raise over $3 million from our generous supporters. Now with the recent flood disaster, many more Kentuckians have had their lives upended. We are joining forces again and hope our friends will step up, too. The Bourbon community sticks together.”

Minnick said, “I wish we didn’t have to do this. But the Bourbon community deeply feels for their neighbors in Eastern Kentucky, as we did for the Western Kentucky tornado victims, and we will do everything within our power to ease the situation for the flood survivors. 

“This is about our friends, family, and neighbors. We must be there for them.”

Chris Zaborowski, owner of Westport Whiskey & Wine, said, “We were heartbroken to see the devastation brought to Eastern Kentucky with the recent flooding. We knew we wanted to team up with the KDA again to help raise the much-needed funds for our fellow Kentuckians.”

Gregory said many Kentucky Distillers’ Association members are once again offering private barrel experiences where Bourbon enthusiasts can personally taste and select their own one-of-a-kind barrel. Each barrel usually yields 150-200 bottles depending on age and proof.

Whiskey aficionados with the Bourbon Crusaders are raiding their collections and donating dozens of limited edition and single barrel expressions of Bourbon, rye and Scotch whiskies. Distillers also are donating rare bottles that disappeared from retailer’s shelves long ago.

Minnick, a best-selling author, and expert on all things Bourbon, is using his renowned distilling and celebrity connections to reap a treasure trove of bottles, private experiences and memorabilia to fulfill any whiskey lover’s dream. 

Kentucky Distillers Are Sending Tankers Full of Water

Kentucky distillers also are sending tanker trucks and totes of fresh water to Eastern Kentucky, along with contributing thousands of dollars to organizations and relief funds involved in the cleanup and recovery.

“We deeply appreciate the support of all our member distilleries and friends with the Bourbon Crusaders, Fred Minnick and the team at Westport Whiskey & Wine for their partnership in helping our fellow Kentuckians,” Gregory said.

“Bourbon is America’s native spirit and Kentucky is its birthplace. It’s our honor and obligation to step up and help our fellow Kentuckians in times of need. Thank you to everyone who is helping in the recovery and rebuilding efforts, and please continue praying for our beloved Commonwealth and its people.” 

Learn more about Kentucky Mist Distillery.
View all Kentucky Distilleries.
View all U.S. Distilleries.

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NJIB’s Top Twenty New Jersey Events for June 10 – 12, 2022

It’s June and the weather is hot hot hot.  Let’s celebrate with street fairs, music and food truck festivals, carnivals, and more. Let’s leave the house to explore what NJ has to offer (or not, you do you). If you’re looking for something to do… I got you. These are my top 20 picks are for June 10 – 12, 2022.

Due to the ongoing restrictions and safety regulations with Covid-19, please verify these events before attending in case of any last-minute cancellations. And always check the weather!

For more events throughout the year, be sure to check out our Event Guide.

If you’d like to submit your event, click here.

For more New Jersey adventures, follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.

NJIB’s Top Twenty New Jersey Events for June 10 – 12, 2022:

Cape May Restaurant Week
Now – June 12
This eight-day event that takes place every June. Enjoy an appetizer, entree, and dessert at participating restaurants.

Eatontown L.E.A.D. Carnival
Now – June 12
Mark your calendar to attend the L.E.A.D. FEST Carnival to enjoy food, rides, and more at the Monmouth Mall. In addition to fairway rides, there will be entertainment and attractions included in the general admission price of $5. Purchase discounted ride tickets and mega passes in advance online.
Monmouth Mall, 180 NJ-35, Eatontown, NJ
Cost: $5

Paramus L.E.A.D Carnival
Now –June 12
Mark your calendar to attend the L.E.A.D. FEST carnival to enjoy food, rides and more at the Westfield Garden State Plaza, One Garden State Plaza in Paramus, New Jersey. In addition to fairway rides, Scott’s World of Magic will be performing magic tricks at the carnival. Other entertainment and attractions are included in the general admission price of $5. To purchase discounted ride tickets and mega passes in advance visit theleadfest.com.The carnival will benefit the Paramus L.E.A.D. program and other L.E.A.D. initiatives. L.E.A.D. is committed to protecting our youth and communities from the proliferation of drugs, drug-related crimes, cyberbullying, and violence.
Westfield Garden State Plaza, One Garden State Plaza, Paramus, NJ
Cost: $5+

Voorhees Township L.E.A.D. Fest Carnival
Now – June 11
Enjoy food, rides and entertainment at the L.E.A.D. Fest Carnival, an event hosted by Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence (L.E.A.D.), in Voorhees Township, New Jersey at the Voorhees Town Center.
2140 Voorhees Town Center Voorhees, NJ
Cost: $5 admission

Annual Feast of St. Anthony
June 9 – 12
This annual festival will feature delicious food, non-stop entertainment, great crowds, music, amusements, games, fun for the whole family. It is also a faith oriented celebration focusing on devotion to St. Anthony. A variety of local dance and karate studios are scheduled to put on performances,
Roman Catholic Church of the Assumption, 113 Chiego Place, Roselle Park, NJ

36th Annual Lebanese Festival
June 10 – 12
This Festival is a great outdoor gathering of families, friends and neighbors for authentic Middle Eastern food, music, dance and culture. Traditional Lebanese foods such as falafel, shawarma (gyro), hummus, shish kabob, spinach pies, tabouhli, stuffed grape leaves and much more will be featured. In addition, there will be a large assortment of Middle Eastern pastries to indulge in. For entertainment, there will be live music featuring a different singer each day. There will also be dancing and folkloric performances along with raffles, prizes, souvenirs and games of chance. Because of the abundance of Middle Eastern cuisine, live music, dancing, and games, the Lebanese Festival is recognized as one of the most outstanding annual events in the community. People from throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the Tri-State region regularly attend.
St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church, 526 Easton Ave. Somerset, NJ
Cost: Free

Bloomfield Food Truck & Music Festival
June 10, 4PM – 10PM
Bloomfield Food Truck & Music Fest will feature 15 quality Food Trucks, Live Music, Beer, Sangria & Margarita Garden, Face Painting, hatchet throwing, petting zoo, Sand Art, Kids Activities, Vendors, a 50/50 and so much more!
St Thomas the Apostle Parking Lot, 50 Byrd Ave, Bloomfield, NJ
Cost: $5, kids under are 5 are free

Colonia Food Truck & Music Fest
June 11, 11AM – 7PM
15 gourmet food trucks, Live Music from County Comfort, Rock Bottom, vendors, beer, margarita & sangria garden, kid activities including pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, sand art, & so much more!
Food! Beer! Music! Fun! It’s a fun-filled family day! AND it’s a Benefit for St John Vianney Parish & School.
Bring your appetite, lawn chairs & Dine on excellent food. Dogs permitted!
St John Vianney Parking Lot in Colonia, NJ
Cost: $5, kids under are 5 are free

Mercer County Cultural Festival & Food Truck Rall
June 11, 11AM – 7PM
The Mercer County Cultural Festival & Food Truck Rally is a one-day festival celebrating the rich cultural diversity that makes up our beautiful county. Promoting diversity appreciation through live artist demonstrations, food trucks, craft vendors, beer garden and live traditional dance groups and bands. We have free inflatables to keep your youngsters busy and much more! The festival is FREE entrance and parking.
Mercer County Park Festival Grounds, 1665-1667 Mercerville-Edinburg Rd. West Windsor, NJ
Cost: Free

Asbury Refresh – Vintage, Oddities & One of a Kind Collectibles
June 11, 10AM – 3PM
REFRESH is a monthly celebration of all things vintage, oddities & one of a kind collectibles. Held on select Saturdays through the year where you can shop from our curated collection of over 50 vendors selling unique items & more.
Kennedy Park, 104 Grand Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ

Westfield Street Fair & Craft Show
June 11, 11AM – 5PM
Artists, Crafters, Vendors, Food, Rides, Live Music & more. Come on down for a day of family fun with original & interesting Arts & Crafts, shopping, kid’s rides and great FOOD!
Downtown Westfield, Westfield, NJ

SoHa Pride Fest
June 11, 12PM – 4PM
SoHa PRIDE Fest hosted by the SoHa Arts Building & Haddon Township in support of HTEI! Come out to the SoHa Arts Building and enjoy a day of art, music, crafts and so much more – all in the name of LOVE! Come out and show your spirit at the SoHa Arts Building. Enjoy a day of art, music, drags queens, local brews, rose all day and so much more – all in the name of LOVE!
1001 White Horse Pike Haddon Twp, NJ

Pet Palooza
June 11, 11AM – 7PM
Time for all of us to Bark in the Park! The Festival, together with Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter will be working to find forever homes for some amazing dogs and cats! Join between 15+ food vendors, live music, games in addition to the famous doggie agility course, pet fashion show, and more! activities for all ages.
161 Hanover Ave, Morristown, NJ
Cost: $4-$6, kids under 3 are free

Robbinsville Community Festival
June 11, 2PM- 9:30PM (rain date on June 12)
This family event features live music played from the main stage, a beer tent, food court, games, contests, bounce castles, rock-climbing wall, food trucks, a children’s train, and pony rides. The “Best of the Eagles” tribute band will take to the state at 7:00 p.m.
The grand finale wiill be the fireworks display at dusk.
Community Park, West Manor Way and Gordon Road, Robbinsville, NJ

Cherry Hill Mall Food Festival
June 11, 12PM – 6PM
100% proceeds from this event benefit children with autism. Come show your support! Free Food truck festival at the Cherry Hill Mall, Route 38 side of the mall across from the Apple store. Drive in with your family and friends, park your car, purchase your food, enjoy the music, Face painting, carnival games, and photo booth, and hang out. Bring your chairs and tailgate by your vehicle while listening to music and enjoying a wonderful selection of foods from around the globe.
Cherry Hill Mall Dr, Cherry Hill, NJ
Cost: Free

Sip into Summer Wine Festival
June 11 & 12, 12PM – 5PM
Summer sippin’ never tasted so good! Come kick off the start of summer at the Sip into Summer Wine Festival happening in Mullica Hill. Spend the day sipping and purchasing some of NJ’s best wines made right here in the Garden State. Wineries will be pouring everything from their seasonal best like light, refreshing white wines to bold, fruity sangria along with all of the traditional favorites.
Gloucester County 4H Fairgrounds, Mullica Hill, NJ
Cost: $20 Advance, $25 at the Gate (cash only). $5 non-drinker. 21 and under free

Paramus Food Truck Festival
June 12, 11AM – 7PM
Food! Beer! Music! Fun! It’s a fun filled family day! 20 Gourmet Food Trucks, pony rides, petting zoo, inflatables, knockerball, hatchet throwing, face painting, sand art, vendors & a beer, sangria & margarita garden music & more!. Bring your appetite, lawn chairs, pups, friends, family, and blankets.
Paramus Park Mall, Paramus, NJ
Cost: $5, kids under are 5 are free

Jewish Culture Festival
June 12, 10AM – 4PM
Celebrate Jewish culture with live music, dancing, food, games, vendors and more. This is an event for the entire family.
• Enjoy Jewish Music and Dance
• Play Children’s Games
• Create in the Kids Craft Station
• Shop for Crafts and Arts at our many Vendors
• Feast on Jewish Foods
• Drink in the Kosher Beer and Wine Garden
• Explore the culture of Judaism
2101 New Albany Road, Cinnaminson, NJ

Montvale Street Fair
June 12, 10AM – 5PM
The Montvale Chamber of Commerce is holding its 11th Annual Street Fair, one of the season’s most popular events. Over 150 quality exhibitors, a special arts & crafts section, a kid’s area, community section, 2 food courts and continuous live entertainment all day.
1 Paragon Drive, Montvale, NJ

Wildwoods Restaurant Week
June 12 – 16
Wildwoods Restaurant Week is back! Enjoy a 4 course dinner for $40 per person plus tax & gratuity at participating restaurants. A second Restaurant Week will take place in September
Downtown Wildwood Wildwood, NJ



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