About the HNA
OHA Twig #15 was a long-running, Highlands organization that brought together a hard-working group of neighbors who planned social events that raised money for Overlook Hospital. As times have changed, this group has evolved with a new mission: to foster and support an ongoing spirit of community within our neighborhood.
Today, we still plan events with the goal of bringing residents together to meet one another and socialize, and proceeds from events are still donated to a good cause. However, our causes now include a wider variety of organizations and opportunities.
Today, we still plan events with the goal of bringing residents together to meet one another and socialize, and proceeds from events are still donated to a good cause. However, our causes now include a wider variety of organizations and opportunities.
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PAST Adult Activities/EventsWinter Wine/Cocktail Party: Past events have included wine tastings with a theme, such as: An Evening in Italy, Made in the USA, Down Under, and Do You Like it Shaken or Stirred. This party is lightly catered with heavy appetizers/desserts.
Oktoberfest: Held annually in October, this outdoor party features either a DJ or live music, lots of German-themed hors d'oeuvres, and PLENTY of beer. We typically gather around multiple, toasty fire-pits in the backyard of willing host, and enjoy coming together for a final outdoor social event before winter locks us inside. Poker Night: Get ready to ante up! This evening brings the guys together for a night of beer, snacks, pizza and light gambling. Bring your best game face, cross your fingers, and hope luck is on your side. The HFFL: The Highlands Fantasy Football League comes together every football season to draft players for their fantasy teams. Each week throughout the season, the member with the lowest ranking team can proudly display "Finkle," the official Gnome of Shame mascot of the HFFL, in their front yard. If you would like to be included in the HFFL group, let us know! Holiday Gift Swap: This hilarious Ladies' Night Out event remains a favorite. Bring an unmarked gift within a pre-specified price range, and be prepared to eat, drink, and laugh in front of the fireplace while we take turns picking, opening, and swapping gifts that range from sensible, creative, to truly outrageous. Paddle Party: Generally sponsored by a neighbor member of Noe, Fairmount, or Minisink, we take to the elevated courts for a winter evening of drinks and platform tennis. Not familiar with the sport? This fast-paced doubles game is easy to learn and fun for all. Open to all abilities, this night is simply about having fun. Book Club: Our laid-back neighborhood book club rotates through host homes every month with a new read. Created to prioritize the fun and social aspect of a book group, the Club chooses books that are fast, enjoyable reads, designed to fit easily in your busy schedule. Additionally, we have enjoyed movie outings to see books we've read on the big-screen, as well as smaller events featuring local authors. |
PAST Family Activities/EventsHappy Friday: Held on Fridays in the summer months, these weekly, outdoor-only events are the epitome of casual neighborhood socializing, and a family favorite summer activity. To participate, you must be willing to host/co-host a Friday. Details about this program go out in the spring.
Block Party: Every September, we close off the cul-de-sac at the end of Van Houton for our annual block party. This popular family event features fun for the whole family with bounce houses, a fire truck visit, a DJ, and lots of food and drinks. This event is open to the entire neighborhood, regardless of membership in the Neighborhood Association. Summer Pool Party: Generally sponsored by a neighbor member of Minisink, this event brings us to a pool to socialize and cool off at the same time. Santacade: The big guy in red makes an official visit to the Highlands every December. Bring your little ones to meet him, receive an early Christmas gift, take photos, and enjoy the magic of the season. Luminaria: The lining of our entire neighborhood with thousands of candles glowing alongside the streets is a long-standing, beloved Christmas Eve tradition. Residents around Chatham drive through the Highlands to view this beautiful event. These paper lanterns give off a warm glow on Christmas Eve that, regardless of your faith, provide beautiful pathways of light on a dark night. This event is organized by the HNA in partnership with the Chatham Rotary Club, and open to the entire neighborhood. The more participants we have, the more magical the effect. Social Outings: Events vary. Past events have included outings to Bottle And Botega/Paint and Sip, Twin Elephant Brewing Company, and Trap Rock Brewery. |
