How large is the chapter? 

As of December '09, our mailing list includes about 90 members.  The attendance at our meetings varies widely, typically averaging about twenty.

Are members all couples? 

Our chapter is comprised mostly of couples at present, but we have had single members in the past. We welcome new members regardless of relationship status.

What are typical ages of members? 

Currently our members range in age from about 35 to 55, with the average being in the mid-forties.

How did this organization begin?

Our parent organization - Chapter One of No Kidding! - was founded in 1984 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. There are now many chapters throughout the world.

The CJ/SI chapter of No Kidding! was started in January 2000 by Shura Arnold and John Haigh of NJ, and Barbara Breuer of Staten Island.

Are there dues?

No. We have been able to operate dues-free to this point.  In order to contribute to the chapter, we encourage members to take turns hosting a dinner or special event.

What are your typical meetings like?

We get together on a monthly basis, predominantly for dinner in Central Jersey (and sometimes Staten Island) typically on the 2nd Saturday of each month. 

On average, dinners have been in the range $30 - $40 per person including tax and gratuity. We have individual bar tabs whenever possible. Members pay for each dinner or event when they attend; no money is collected in advance.

Our dinners are informal; they are a great way to meet people that have common interests, and to make new friends.

How are the dinners coordinated?

Members take turns hosting the dinners. Most active members host an event once a year.

Hosting a dinner is easy: Simply make arrangements with a restaurant of your choice - such as making reservations, setting up a menu (with a fixed price when possible), update them with any information they need as the date approaches, and collect money at the end of the dinner. 

The chapter's coordinators will gladly help with planning if necessary.  At least one of the coordinators will try to be at each event.

What activities are there besides the dinners?

We have held a number of special events in the past and are interested in doing so more often.

They are typically initiated by members who want to share a special interest or try something different with the group.  We encourage suggestions and volunteers!

Past special events have included trips to Monmouth Raceway, bike rides, a hot air balloon festival, a dinner cruise, and brunch-plus-shopping trips to New Hope.

Also, there is a Women's Group/Book Club that meets on the 1st Sunday of each month.  Visit our Contact Us page to request more information.

What is the best way find out about upcoming events?

Bookmark and review this year's calendar page frequently as upcoming events will be posted as soon as they are planned. 

Also, visit our Contact Us page and ask to join our mailing list.