Patriots, NJ film commission team up to promote Somerset County

As part of an effort to encourage filming in Somerset County, the Somerset Patriots on Friday welcomed members of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission and the newly created Somerset County Film Commission to TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater.

The event also aimed to showcase the ballpark and surrounding area as potential sites for future production projects.

“We created the Somerset County Film Commission to grow the industry locally,” said Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Robinson. “We have incredible talent and resources for the film industry in Somerset County, including beautiful shooting locations like the ballpark of today’s great hosts, the Somerset Patriots.”

The two organizations were hosted by Patriots Co-Chairman Jonathan Kalafer, who serves on the Somerset County Film Commission.

Steve Gorelick, the executive director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, threw out the ceremonial first pitch before the game against the Akron RubberDucks.

“The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission spent a memorable evening with the Somerset County Film Commission at beautiful TD Bank Ballpark,” said Gorelick. “It was a wonderful night of watching baseball, and talking about bringing more film and television production to Somerset County, which offers an abundance of amazing locations. In fact, the ballpark is one of them.”

The commissioners were recognized on the field during the pre-game ceremony, where a clip was played from New Jersey native Danny Devito highlighting the Garden State’s connection to the film industry.

“Our state has such a rich connection in the creation of two of the most beloved entertainment and sports industries in the world- film and baseball,” said Kalafer. “Remarkable people from New Jersey had the passion, inventiveness and a true spirit of entrepreneurship to help foster the growth of these multi-billion-dollar a year businesses that bring joy to so many people around the world. It was a special night having everyone together to showcase our beautiful ballpark and community.”