Next week, the Crossroads Association is holding a series of meetings throughout the state to discuss how the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area will develop over the next 5-10 years. At the meetings, our management consultants will explain the current draft alternatives and ask for your input on what should be emphasized.Considering your stake in the Crossroads endeavor, we would be honored if you would take part in one of these meetings and help chart the Crossroads course.

The federal statute that established our Heritage Area requires that a written management plan be approved by the U.S. Department of the Interior to guide Heritage Area priorities. The final plan will serve as a blueprint for future Heritage Area activities. This will have an impact on how the Heritage Area can serve the groups and organizations important to you.

The management plan consultant team has drawn up a draft set of alternative scenarios. Now is the time when we need to hear from you. There are currently five different management strategies on the drawing board. For each, the Crossroads of the American Revolution Association anticipates providing technical and other direct assistance. However, the focus of that assistance will be different under each scenario. Which strategy will best serve your needs?

One envisions Crossroads continuing as an umbrella organization focusing on heritage-area-wide and statewide marketing and programming.

One focuses on how the ideals and ideas of the American Revolution can serve New Jersey today.

A third concentrates on welcoming vistors by promoting heritage tourism.

One emphasizes physical preservation and conservation of historic structures and landscapes. (currently being drafted)

Still another highlights telling the story of New Jersey 's role in the American Revolution to raise consciousness among state residents. (currently being drafted)

The alternatives are currently in draft form and they may still be missing important concerns. The Crossroads Association will be submitting a recommended strategy to the National Park Service this summer. The plan, once approved in 2011, will guide Crossroads activities for the foreseeable future. Now is the time for you to have your say about what goes into that plan.

Sincerely yours,

Kevin Tremble, President

Cate Litvack, Executive Director

Workshop and Webinar Schedule

Thursday, Feb. 4 10:00 - Noon Church on the Green, Hackensack
Thursday, Feb. 4 7:00 - 9:00 pm County Administration Bldg., Somerville
Friday, Feb. 5 10:00 - Noon Mount Holly Library & Lyceum, Mount Holly
Saturday, Feb. 6 10:00 - Noon New Jersey State House Annex, Trenton

If you can't come to a meeting, please join our Online Webinar on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 7:00 - 8:30.

[Note: You must register for the webinar. Send an email that includes your name, affiliation, municipality, phone number and your wish to participate to: xroadsnj@yahoo.com]

You can find more detailed information about the Workshops and Webinar at: http://revolutionarynj.org/newsEvents/webinar-planning-sessions-2010-02.php

Please share this invitation with your constituents, members, friends and anyone else who has an interest in preserving and promoting New Jersey 's pivotal role in our nation's fight for independence.

Thank you for your support of the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area.