12-22 HP

Victor’s Meat Market a family affair

By JOe EMANsKi

It wasn’t that long ago that American families counted on local butcher shops to provide them with quality, affordable meat.

But over the past half century, most of those shops have closed. Many families now rely on supermarkets and wholesale markets like Costco and BJ’s for their beef.

Victor Cruz has seen this transformation happen from the provider side. First as a worker in a meat processing plant, then for many years as a supermarket butcher.

Now he is a part of what he will hope is a renaissance for the neighborhood butcher shop. Recently retired from his job with Stop and Shop, Cruz has opened Victor’s Meat Market on Klockner Road in Hamilton with his son, Alex.

Cruz butchers and preps the meat right on premises. Cuts of Certified Angus ribeye, filet and strip steak look tasty in refrigerated cases out front. There’s also oxtail, short rib, skirt steak and even impressive slabs of tomahawk steak on display.

Beef is the main attraction, but

See VICTOR’S, Page 16

From trash to treasure

By SUe FerrArA

Trust me — Chuck Thomas, Hamilton Township’s Director of Public Works, and Jim Wyrough, Hamilton Township’s Clean Communities Coordinator and Municipal Recycling Coordinator aren’t green and furry; they don’t live in trash cans.

But, like Oscar the Grouch, they love to talk trash. Well, let’s say for this story, they love to talk

about recycling trash.

Thomas has been employed in the Department of Public Works since 1981, when he was hired for summer help. A graduate of Hamilton High West, Thomas became the Interim Director of Public Works in 2021, leading to his permanent appointment in January of 2022.

Residents reading the township’s website quickly discover Thomas has a lot to oversee for a

town of nearly 92,000 residents: “The DPW consists of the Division of Roads, which is responsible for the maintenance and improvement of approximately 625 lane-miles of roadway and the Division of Public Properties, which is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of all public buildings and parks.”

All of that work is done with a staff of about 140 people.

See RECYCLING, Page 12

Switlik expanding into Hamilton

By JOe EMANsKi

One of the area’s oldest manufacturing companies still in business is expanding — across the border from Trenton into Hamilton.

Switlik Survival Products — previously known as the Switlik Parachute Company — has broken ground on a 20,000-square-foot manufacturing facility at 1325 E. State St. The new building will span the Trenton-Hamilton border, which required cooperation between the two municipalities in the planning stages.

The company credited Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin, and Trenton City Councilman Joe Harrison with making the expansion possible in spite of the unusual location.

“I would like to express my gratitude to both municipalities for coming together and aiding us in this project which will ultimately provide the residents of Trenton and Hamilton with new job opportunities and help those employed continue succeeding. For 102 years, Switlik’s saving

See SWITLIK, Page 10

Township employees often make whimsical — and seasonal — decorations to the entrance of the Harry Bonacci Ecological Facility in Hamilton. (Photo by E.M. Hume.)

Hamilton Township McManimon Building

Hamilton Township McManimon Building 320 Scully Avenue, Hamilton, NJ

Township McManimon Building Scully Avenue, Hamilton, NJ

320 Scully Avenue, Hamilton, NJ Must schedule an appointment —call 609-890-3550

IMPORTANT NOTES

Hamilton Township McManimon Building

320 Scully Avenue, Hamilton, NJ

Must schedule an appointment —call 609-890-3550

Clinic is for Hamilton Twp. residents only.

Clinic is for Hamilton Twp. residents only.

The Hamilton Township Division of Health offers

IMPORTANT NOTES

1. All (human) attendees are required to WEAR A MASK.

appointment —call 609-890-3550

2. One human per animal.

1. All (human) attendees are required to WEAR A MASK.

2. One human per animal.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Hamilton Twp. residents only.

3. Cats and dogs must be at least 3 months of age to be vaccinated.

3. Cats and dogs must be at least 3 months of age to be vaccinated.

4. Dogs must be on a leash (no longer than 6’).

4. Dogs must be on a leash (no longer than 6’).

5. Cats must be in a carrier.

1. All (human) attendees are required to WEAR A MASK.

Health offers rabies immunizations for residents' dogs and cats as a

5. Cats must be in a carrier.

2. One human per animal.

6. Please bring proof of any prior rabies shot to receive a 3-year certificate; without proof a 1-year certificate will be issued.

6. Please bring proof of any prior rabies shot to receive a 3-year certificate; without proof a 1-year certificate will be issued.

for more information. Start Your Holiday Shopping & Support Local Businesses Visit Our Website and on Facebook for more details. ALLENTOWNNJ.COM Customer Appreciation Celebration!

WEAR A MASK.

3. Cats and dogs must be at least 3 months of age to be vaccinated.

7. NJ State Department of Health’s Policy states no dog license can be issued if their rabies immunization expires before November 2021. The state requests a one (1) year overlap in the three (3) year rabies immunization.

As a reminder, all dogs living in Hamilton must be licensed: $18 spayed/neutered or $21.00 non spayed/non neutered, Senior Citizen fee for spayed/ neutered $2.00, Senior Citizen fee for non spayed/non neutered $5.00. Your annual dog license supports Hamilton's free Rabies clinics.

4. Dogs must be on a leash (no longer than 6’).

5. Cats must be in a carrier.

7. NJ State Department of Health’s Policy states no dog license can be issued if their rabies immunization expires before November 2021. The state requests a one (1) year overlap in the three (3) year rabies immunization. As a reminder, all dogs living in Hamilton must be licensed: $18 spayed/neutered or $21.00 non spayed/non neutered, Senior Citizen fee for spayed/ neutered $2.00, Senior Citizen fee for non spayed/non neutered $5.00. Your annual dog license supports Hamilton's free Rabies clinics.

Important Notes

6. Please bring proof of any prior rabies shot to receive a 3-year certificate; without proof a 1-year certificate will be issued.

Hamilton Post

of age to be vaccinated. 6’). shot to receive a 3-year certificate; without proof a 1-year certificate will be states no dog license can be issued if their rabies immunization expires requests a one (1) year overlap in the three (3) year rabies immunization. must be licensed: $18 spayed/neutered or $21.00 non spayed/non neutered, Senior Citizen fee for non spayed/non neutered $5.00. Your annual dog license supports

1. One human per animal.

The clinics are held at the Hamilton Township McManimon Building, located at 320 Scully Avenue (just off of Olden Avenue, between Liberty Street and Cedar Lane, opposite the Olden Pharmacy).

2. Cats and dogs must be at least 3 months of age to be vaccinated.

7. NJ State Department of Health’s Policy states no dog license can be issued if their rabies immunization expires before November 2021. The state requests a one (1) year overlap in the three (3) year rabies immunization. As a reminder, all dogs living in Hamilton must be licensed: $18 spayed/neutered or $21.00 non spayed/non neutered, Senior Citizen fee for spayed/ neutered $2.00, Senior Citizen fee for non spayed/non neutered $5.00. Your annual dog license supports Hamilton's free Rabies clinics.

3. Dogs must be on a leash (no longer than 6’).

4. Cats must be in a carrier.

we are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Hamilton Post is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Gazette does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staff sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.

EDITOR

Community News Service

5. Please bring proof of any prior rabies shot to receive a 3-year cer�ficate; without proof a 1-year cer�ficate will be issued.

Township McManimon Building, located at 320 Scully Avenue (just Street and Cedar Lane, opposite the Olden Pharmacy).

6. NJ State Department of Health’s Policy states no dog license can be issued if their rabies immuniza�on expires before November 2021. The state requests a one (1) year overlap in the three (3) year rabies immuniza�on.

As a reminder, all dogs living in Hamilton must be licensed: $18 spayed/ neutered or $21.00 non-spayed/non-neutered, Senior Ci�zen fee for spayed/ neutered $2.00, Senior Ci�zen fee for non-spayed/non-neutered $5.00. Your annual dog license supports Hamilton’s free Rabies clinics.

The clinics are held at the Hamilton Township McManimon Building, located at 320 Scully Avenue (just off of Olden Avenue, between Liberty Street and Cedar Lane, opposite the Olden Pharmacy).

***FUTURE Clinic Dates 2023

Joe Emanski (Ext. 120)

The clinics are held at the Hamilton Township McManimon Building, located at 320 Scully Avenue (just off of Olden Avenue, between Liberty Street and Cedar Lane, opposite the Olden Pharmacy).

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sue Ferrara, Rich Fisher

CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS Peter Dabbene, Thomas Kelly, Robert Sherman Jr.

AD LAYOUT & PRODUCTION Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jennifer Steffen (Ext. 113)

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An award-winning publication of Community News Service, LLC. © Copyright 2022. All rights reserved.

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January, 8th 2023 9am - 1pm 4  Hamilton Post | December 2022 ALLENTOWN'S ANNUAL HOLIDAY Open House Celebration SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3th AND 4th 10AM TO 5PM MUSIC • REFRESHMENTS LOTS OF SPECIALS DOOR PRIZES

The Hamilton Township Division of Health offers rabies immunizations for residents' dogs and cats as a courtesy and is free of charge.

LAWRENCEVILLE $ 279,000

HAMILTON $309,500

ROBBINSVILLE $315,000

Linda LeMay-Kelly, SA

Cell: 609-651-3583

basement, great for entertaining. Fresh paint throughout. Move right in!

HAMILTON $357,000

Justin Reed, CO-OWNER, SA Cell: 609-433-3623

Spacious 2 bed, 2 bath home located in the 55+ Evergreen community. Well maintained inside & out, eat-in-kitchen w/slider to spacious deck. Located in a quiet area of the development. Close to RWJ University Medical center & shopping, parks & all major roadways!

HAMILTON $239,900

Michael Giovanelli, SA Cell: 609-235-7068

2 bed, 2 bath end unit, single oor home with vaulted ceilings in living room and dining room. Washer and dryer are included. Small fenced back yard with plenty of shade and small patio.

MANCHESTER $239,900

Linda LeMay-Kelly, SA

Cell: 609-651-3583

Annie Parisi, SA Cell: 609-532-8693

Spacious 3 bed, 2.5 bath ranch with an open oor plan, hardwood ooring, large family room with wood burning stove, nished basement, deck, inground pool and attached garage.

Justin Reed, CO-OWNER, SA Cell: 609-433-3623

2 bed, 2 full bath condo located in the Woodlands at Hamilton, 55+ Adult Community. Eat in kitchen with access to private patio. Amenities include clubhouse, exercise room, kitchen, outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts & garden.

Terry Parliaros, SA Cell: 609-610-2252

2 bed, 2 bath bungalow in the 55+ community of Crestwood Village VI. Enclosed front sunroom with heat. Beautiful 3 season room overlooking wooded area. Home sits on a large corner lot. Move in condition.

Byrne, Thornton, McSheene elected to Board of Education

A self-described “retired home educa tor” received the most votes in Novem ber’s race for the Hamilton Township Board of Education. Three seats on the nine-seat board were up for election.

Stacy Byrne, who taught her own chil dren at home rather than send them to public schools, was voters’ top choice for a seat on the board, with 9,083 votes. Dina Thornton (7,893) and Jason McSheene (7,689), the two incumbents running this year, won the other two available spots.

Byrne ran on an anti-sex-education slate with Monica Quaste, who got the fourth most votes (7,411). A third member of the slate, Nicholas Ferrara, dropped out of the race after antisemitic posts apparently made by him were discovered on right-wing social media platform Gab by Politico reporter Matt Friedman.

For much of November, it appeared that Quaste had been elected alongside her running mate due to Mercer County’s

near total incompetence in administering this year’s election. Voting machines in every Mercer County district malfunc tioned, which caused widespread confu sion on Election Day and resulted in a vote count that took weeks to complete.

Only when the final vote tallies were posted did McSheene pull ahead of Quaste and win the third seat.

Other candidates receiving votes were Stephanie Williams (6,480), Chris Drudy (5,658), Rocco Riccio (5,384), Frank Sum mers (5,239), Alicia Ramos (3,788) and Dallas Barr (2,737).

Little Ninja opens at Sky Zone for ages 7 and under

Sky Zone, the popular trampoline park in Hamilton, has announced the opening of Little Ninja, a “warrior course” spe cifically designed for jumpers ages 7 and under.

This 3-story soft play area is the first

ages” said Joshua Harry, General Man ager of Sky Zone Hamilton, “We are excited to see

renovations complete with this crown jewel of an attraction.” Web: skyzone.com/hamilton.

Sky Zone’s Little Ninja warrior course

Notary

Thursday,

Foreclosure Counseling

Monday, December 5th, 11:00AM 1:00 PM

Having trouble with your mortgage, you can meet with a HUD certified counselor to find out your options. Contact Affordable Housing Alliance to schedule an appointment 732 389 2958 or walk in the first Monday of the month

NJ Income Tax Information Session

Wednesday, December 7th, 10:30 11:30 AM “Between the Lines!”

Representative from NJ Division of Taxation, Training and Outreach Unit, will give a deeper dive into New Jersey Tax Returns! Join us to understand available programs and tax benefits specific to New Jersey residents.

Interfaith Caregivers

Wednesday, December 14th, 10:30 11:30 AM

Learn about free support services for homebound elderly and disabled, including transportation, shopping, friendly visiting, respite care and other non medical help. Find out how to become a volunteer!

Grice Middle School unveils gymnasium mural

Grice Middle School unveiled a mural representing six Grice students on Nov. 14.

The mural was designed and painted by Evan Lovett, founder of Visual Urban Renewal & Transformation, a nonprofit organization. VURT is supported by local artists in the Greater Philadelphia area, focusing on the power of public art.

Grice Middle School selected six stu dents both current and former, who repre sented kindness, respect, and inspiration as peer role models. VURT has created several murals on the walls at Grice.

“The new mural by Evan Lovett is stun ning and beautiful. The positive mes sage it sends about our students, Grice, and the character traits they represent is inspirational,” said Scott Rocco, district superintendent.

Greenwood principal receives Kidsbridge award

The Kidsbridge Center for Tolerance has recognized Greenwood Elemen tary School principal, Nicole Dickens-

Simon, for her leadership in the areas of social emotional learning, empathy, and character education.

Dickens-Simon has led leadership conferences at Hamilton High West and National School of Character designation at Greenwood Elementary School.

In her statement, she wrote: “Students first! Always! Children should be sur rounded by love as they observe, inquire, challenge, and resist. I am an educator with the purpose of using every single interaction as a teachable moment, know ing that a mere vocal tone will prompt a reaction. Words, actions, reactions, demeanor, and décor provoke a student response. Being purposeful and proactive in our engagement with children inspires a positive, respectful, and kind rapport.

As we tackle the challenges of improv ing student attendance, math skills and reading scores, the foundation of a posi tive school culture and climate must first be established. Utilizing resources such as restorative practices, Responsive Classroom, and response to interven tion provide a unified structure within a school. Encouraging student creativity, weaving the arts in and beyond the class room, and celebrating students with par ents and families continue the journey towards creating a safe, nurturing space for students to learn and grow.”

Keira Villatoro, Sarah Doodnath and Hana Abdelnabi (top) are three of the six students featured in Grice Middle School’s new gymnasium mural (above).

SWITLIK continued from Page 1

lives worldwide, providing jobs locally,” said Stanley Switlik II, the company’s chief executive officer, in a media release. Scozzari Builders Inc. has been contracted to do construction, with ACT Engineers performing site work and design. Clark Caton Hintz architecture firm designed the building

The company says the addition will give Switlik much needed space to expand their current product offerings while allowing the company to develop new products. Established in 1920, Switlik Survival Products has been owned and operated by the Switlik family since 1920.

Chief operating officer Sarah Switlik says the expansion has been in the company’s plans for several years. “We’d outgrown our current facility. We’ve had a secondary facility (on another site) in Trenton, but we needed to be able to do more on this property,” she says.

When the opportunity came up to purchase some property on the Hamilton side of the facility, the company took it. “Because our property lives on top of the Hamilton-Trenton town line, the uniqueness of the project had it going slowly,” Switlik says. “Then everything came to a halt over Covid.”

After some of the dust had settled from the pandemic, the project still made sense for Switlik. “We need more manufacturing space in the same space, instead of separated,” Switlik says. “I think the movement of labor and materials across the parking lot instead of across town allows us to be much more flexible with how we set up our floor space.”

Known perhaps best for its parachutes, Switlik makes a variety of sewn and heat-

sealed, inflatable safety and survival products. These products are used by the aviation, marine, and military markets.

Switlik also manufactures antiexposure suits, airline life vests and life rafts, among other equipment. Switlik products are used by the U.S. Coast Guard, Army, Navy and Air Force.

Sarah Switlik says that being able to expand the current location, rather than moving, was always the best option because some of the approvals and certifications they have for their government contracts are site specific. A move would have required across-theboard requalification.

“This is a project that is as much a long-term view for the company as it is solidifying that we are here and we don’t plan to go anywhere,” Switlik says. “And the only way to do that is to be in a stable or growth position, and in order for us to grow, we had to do this expansion.”

She says that while the expansion isn’t being done specifically to enable Switlik to expand its product line, the company is always looking to develop new equipment. She says that Switlik is pushing more into the police, fire and search-and-rescue space lately, and expects the company to roll out some new life vest designs and new antiexposure and dry-suit lines over the next year to two years.

“We’re hoping this is a sign of the times, that we plan on being here we’re investing in our future in the HamiltonTrenton area. Even though it was a unique process, we felt that Hamilton and Trenton worked well together and we’re appreciative that we were able to get this project across the line,” Switlik says.

Web: switlik.com.

Sarah Switlik, COO, and Stanley Switlik II, CEO, at the groundbreaking ceremony for Switlik Survival Products’ expansion held Sept. 29 at 1325 E. State St.

Thomas oversees a group of multitalented individuals. “We use the same manpower for brush and leaves as we do for snow,” Thomas said. “Our teams do it all. If there is snow in between brush col lections, then the staff is shifted to other responsibilities. We just change our pri orities as seasons change.”

Wyrough, another Hamilton High West graduate, has been with the department since 1985 when he worked as a student assistant. In 2010, he became the Clean Communities Coordinator and Municipal Recycling Coordinator for the Depart ment of Public Works.

In his role, he does grant writing, over sees the solid waste contracts and does community outreach.

Wyrough has landed another Clean Community Grant for Hamilton Township; this year, in the amount of nearly $195,000. The funds will pay for graffiti removal on public property, litter abatement like the river and creek cleanups, street sweeping, and stormwater management.

The history of recycling in New Jersey, and subsequently, in Hamilton Township, actually began after a national story about a garbage barge named Mobro 4000. The brainchild of Lowell Harrelson; an Ala bama builder on the verge of bankruptcy; Harrelson thought he and investors could make money by sending trash-loaded barges from Islip, New York to North Car olina. The Mobro 4000 was the test case.

The Tar Heel State had no interest in the Islip trash after a reporter sighted a bedpan among the barge garbage. That discovery stirred fears that medical waste had been sent South. The barge floated hither and yon for five months, ultimately ending up in the New York City area where the trash was incinerated in Brooklyn by a judge’s order.

When the “Garbage Barge” set sail on March 22, 1987, conversations about shrinking landfills and the need to recy cle had already started here in New Jer sey. On April 21, 1987, then Gov. Thomas Kean signed into law the New Jersey Source Separation and Recycling Act (N.J.S.A. 13:1E-99.11). While Oregon and Rhode Island had passed recycling leg islation by then, New Jersey’s legislation was the first in the nation to require all residents to recycle.

One of the provisions, Wyrough said, forbids putting leaves collected during the months of November and December into landfills. “In 1987, every town in New Jersey had to figure out how to dispose of the leaves, which were biodegradable,’’ Wyrough added.

Enter Harry J. Bonacci, then Hamil ton’s director of public works, and the man whose name adorns the ecological facility. Bonacci started the Hamilton Township recycling program on Kuser Rd. by trans forming a 70-acre township landfill.

About 23 acres became the ecologi cal facility. The remaining acres have become the location for the Department of Public Works to store materials and equipment.

Bonacci died of a heart attack in 1996, at the age of 54. The news story which ran in The Trenton Times on Oct. 24, 1996, noted: “Bonacci was known for his most successful project, the Hamilton Ecological Facility. Bonacci conceived the idea, and designed, built and operated it off Kuser Road.”

When learning of Bonacci’s death, for mer Hamilton mayor Maurice Rossi told a reporter Hamilton’s facility was one of the largest in the state. The mayor said locals referred to the site as “Harry Land.” It was while talking to that reporter, in the aftermath of Bonacci’s death, that Rossi

Teams of workers will make their way around the township to collect trees.

“We ask residents to be patient,” Thomas said. “If we get hit with snow, everyone gets shifted to snow removal,” he noted.

That means other services get tempo rarily put on hold.

“We have been affected like every other business and company,” Thomas added. “We have lost people through attrition. But the people we do have, work hard to get everything done.” * * *

And here’s the footnote to this story. There’s a bit of an antique vibe at the ecological facility. Castoff decorations from residents have been turned into a fun display thanks to the artistic creativ ity of DPW employee John Stetzick with the help of his co-workers.

Stetzick makes the castoffs look like treasures in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The roadway leading to where resi dents check-in is lined with statues, old toys, outdoor furniture and other items. Rutgers fans can’t miss the knight! Stetzick has worked at the ecological facility for the last six years. Growing up, he loved to draw.

“My wife says I missed my calling,” Stetzick said. “She tells me I have ‘an eye’

for stuff like this.”

About a year ago, Stetzick said, the guys he works with kept finding cool items either while collecting leaves, or answering resident requests for pick-ups of heavier items. They gather the cast-offs little by little; the display evolves over time.

Foreman Dave Scott, who has worked at the facility for 17 years, said residents love to see their items repurposed as they drive into the facility.

“A lot of residents now bring us stuff,” Scott said, “including their old toys.”

One resident pulled a small knight out of someone else’s trash and dropped it off. Another resident stopped on his drive in and asked about a certain item on display.

“Where did you get that?” the resident asked. He was told DPW employees had picked the item up by Alexander school. “I put that out!” the resident said.

Scott and Stetzick invite everyone to come visit the ecological facility during the month of December to see the holi day display. In October, the facility gets decked out for the season too.

And when visiting, don’t forget to bring a shovel and barrel to get your free com post and mulch!

Harry J. Bonacci Ecological Facil ity, 1360 Kuser Road, Hamilton NJ. Open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Hamilton Township. Dog License can be obtained the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter located at 2100 Sylvan Avenue or online at www.hamiltonnj.com/doglicense. For more information, please call the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter at (609) 890 3555.

DOG LICENSE REMINDER

The Hamilton Township Division of Health requires that all dogs over 6 months of age must be licensed with Hamilton Township. Dog License can be obtained the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter located at 2100 Sylvan Avenue or online at www.hamiltonnj.com/doglicense. For more information, please call the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter at (609) 890 3555.

e Hamilton Township Division of Health requires that all dogs over 6 months of age must be licensed with Hamilton Township.

Dog License can be obtained the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter located at 2100 Sylvan Avenue or online at www.hamiltonnj.com/doglicense.

ALL HAMILTON RESIDENT DOG OWNERS MUST LICENSE

For more information, please call the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter at (609) 890-3555.

The Hamilton Township Division of Health requires that all dogs over 6 months of age must be licensed with Hamilton Township.

ALL HAMILTON RESIDENT DOG OWNERS MUST LICENSE

Fees: $ 18 - Spayed or Neutered $ 21- Non-Spayed or Neutered

THEIR DOG FOR 2022 BETWEEN JAN. 1 – FEB. 28 2022

Senior Citzen Fees (Age 65 and over - proof of age / ID required): $ 2 - Spayed or Neutered $ 5 - Non-Spayed or Neutered

THEIR DOG FOR 2022 BETWEEN JAN. 1 – FEB. 28 2022

When applying for a Dog License, you will need:

• Proof of current rabies vaccine which must be valid through November 1 2022

The Hamilton Township Division of Health requires that all dogs over 6 months of age must be licensed with Hamilton Township.

Fees:

• Proof if dog is neutered or spayed

The Hamilton Township Division of Health requires that all dogs over 6 months of age must be licensed with Hamilton Township.

• ID if requestng senior discount

Dog License can be obtained the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter located at 2100 Sylvan Avenue or online at www.hamiltonnj.com/doglicense. For more information, please call the Hamilton Township (609) 890 3555.

Dog License can be obtained the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter located at 2100 Sylvan Avenue or online at www.hamiltonnj.com/doglicense. For more information, please call the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter at (609) 890 3555. Spayed or Neutered Non Spayed or Neutered

**If your dog does not have a current rabies vaccinatin please visit: www. Hamiltonnj.com/rabiesclinics for FREE RABIES information

Dog License can be obtained the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter located at 2100 Sylvan Avenue or online at www.hamiltonnj.com/doglicense. For more information, please call the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter at (609) 890 3555.

Fees:

Payment - cash, check, money order, and major credit cards are accepted

16  Hamilton Post | December 2022

Victor and Alex Cruz in Victor’s Meat Market, the father-son butcher shop and deli that they own and operate on Klockner Road in Hamilton. (Photo by Joe Emanski.)

VICTOR continued from Page 1

Victor’s has more: pork chops and spare ribs, pork patties, sausage, turkey thighs, and marinated and unmarinated chicken wings.

There is more in the fridge in back, including prime cuts like porterhouse and brisket. And Victor’s takes custom orders as well.

Cruz recalls a customer who called to order $150 worth of calves liver. “I’m like, OK, I’ll get it for you. Whatever you want!” Cruz says.

Customers can order stuffed chicken breast, stuffed pork chops, French-cut pork chops and meatballs. Cruz has a

special recipe for pernil, a Puerto Rican pork shoulder, that he prepares on request.

Like any good butcher shop, Victor’s can provide not only the meat, but also the expertise in how to prepare it. Just ask them how to make the pernil, pork chops, a standing rib roast or anything else in the store.

“If you tell people how to cook it good, they do it, and then they come back and want to get more,” Cruz says. * * *

In 1980, Victor Cruz was living in Jersey City, fresh out of high school and in need of a job.

YOUR HOMETOWN AGENT

YOUR HOMETOWN AGENT

YOUR HOMETOWN AGENT

YOUR HOMETOWN AGENT

YOUR HOMETOWN AGENT

A local meat-processing plant was hiring a butcher’s apprentice at $9.50 an hour when minimum wage was closer to $4. “Nobody really wanted the job I guess,” he says. “It’s cold in there, nobody wanted to be in a refrigerated building all day. So I took it.”

Jennifer Woloszyn

Jennifer Woloszyn

Jennifer Woloszyn

Jennifer Woloszyn

Jennifer Woloszyn

Insurance Counselor

Insurance Counselor

Insurance Counselor

Insurance Counselor

Insurance

Counselor

Slaughtered cows came in from the Midwest each day smf were hung in the plant for butchering. “We’d take it, cut it in half, and butchers would butcher it up into ribeye and whatever, distribute the meat to ballparks, supermarkets, everywhere. This was a big meat plant.”

1260 Route 33 South Hamilton, NJ 08690

1260 Route 33 South Hamilton, NJ 08690

He turned out to be a natural. The apprenticeship program at the plant was for five years, but Cruz says he completed it in two. Soon after, he was made the plant supervisor.

1260 Route 33 South

1260 Route 33 South Hamilton, NJ 08690

1260 Route 33 South Hamilton, NJ 08690

1260

Ph: (609) 631-4286 Cell: (609) 337-2366

Ph: (609) 631-4286 Cell: (609) 337-2366

Cell: (609) 337-2366

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“I was bilingual, and all the workers were from Central and South America,” he says. “Thirty men working under me. It started from there and I loved it. They closed down 10 years later.”

http://midatlantic.aaa.com/ Agent/jenniferwoloszyn YOUR HOMETOWN AGENT Jennifer Woloszyn

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He worked as a butcher for A&P for seven years before moving on to Stop and Shop, where he spent 25 years. Though

Then there’s the deli case, with salads, cold cuts and cheese. You can buy by the pound or on a hoagie made to order.

his office was in Franklin Park, he spent much of the time roving from Stop and Shop to Stop and Shop, working at whichever store they needed him.

“I was a traveling butcher. I’d travel with my knives, my tools,” he says. “Do a job and get out.”

He made the decision to open his own shop years ago, after Stop and Shop corporate decided to buy fully prepackaged meat to sell. “I’m like, ‘What am I going to do when they buy me out?’” he says.

He got in touch with a real estate agent who showed him the building at 527 Klockner Road. “This place was empty, just four walls. I bought it, got the equipment, permits, permits, permits and we’re here,” Cruz says.

Among his equipment is a custom machine that makes ground meat patties. He keeps that one close to the cases because people like to watch it in action as it shoots out formed patties. “People say, ‘I never saw anything like that,’” he says.

He says business has been steady since opening in April. “People said, ‘Oh my God, a butcher, finally,’ so everybody’s happy,” he says.

Son Alex, a 2015 graduate of Hamilton High West, lives on the second floor. Though not formally trained as a butcher, he does help out on that end of the

business when needed, as when Victor was hospitalized earlier in the year. “I had to hold the fort down until he got back on his feet,” Alex says.

Day to day, Alex handles finances, accounting, inventory management and other back-end aspects of the busi ness. He works a couple of other jobs in addition to his job at Victor’s: at one job he works with patience who are in sub stance-abuse recovery, and in another he is a developer of a food-delivery app called Beach Grub.

Alex’s sister, Vanessa, is also involved in the business, helping on the social media side.

Victor says he is also committed to con tinuing the butchering tradition by hiring apprentices to work with him like Lou Aguilera, an employee who has been with the shop for a few months.

“There’s no butcher shops around. Other places, they don’t teach you every thing. I learned from the bottom up,” he says. “Whoever learns from me, I will teach them the best.”

Victor’s Meat Market, 527 Klockner Road, Hamilton. (609) 838-1469. Web: vic torsmeatmarket. Open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Order in person, by phone or via Facebook message, facebook.com/ VictorsMeatMarketLLC.

GK Iloka earns a chance to shine in Luxembourg

By Rich Fisher

Chidi Iloka has always been a grinder on the soccer field, and is even more of a grinder in life.

In the seven years since he graduated from Nottingham High School, Iloka has relentlessly pursued a professional soc cer career overseas. He finally achieved that dream earlier this fall after signing with the Jeunesse Esch Football Club, based in Esch-sur-Alzette in southwest ern Luxembourg.

The club plays in the Luxembourg National Division, the highest league in the country, and won the league title 28 times between 1921-2010, the most of any Luxem bourg team. It stood at 4-4-4 and in seventh place in a 16-team division on Nov. 14.

Those championship numbers were all news to Iloka when he signed.

“I was honestly not familiar at all with them,” he said. “I didn’t even know they were a big team. No disrespect, but I honestly didn’t know anything about them until I got back home, then I did my

research and saw that the team is very big and has the highest trophies in the league with 28, while other clubs have won the league maybe three, four times each. So it’s a pretty big deal.”

Iloka was playing keeper on Jeunesse Esch’s B team as of mid-November, with hopes of moving up to the A side at some point this year.

“I’m playing on the B team starting off to get adjusted to the league, also the lan guage,” Chidi said. “They are speaking French and German here and I’ve been taking French and German lessons on my phone since coming here. But I hope to have my chance to play offi cially for the A team because that’s my goal.”

And if one thing is certain, Iloka never stops pursuing his goal.

After a career as one of the Colonial Valley Conference’s top performers for

Nottingham, he attended Kean Univer sity for one year and won numerous awards his freshman season. Iloka hoped to parlay that success into moving up to a top Division II program, but when things didn’t work out, he played one year at Mercer County Community College.

From there he went to D-II Queens College in New York, but had to sit out the first half of the season due to NCAA rulings. After being cleared, Iloka helped Queens make a late-season run at the playoffs that fell one game short.

After that season he decided to take his chances on making it overseas. He tried out in Greece, Albania, Romania, Spain and Germany before try ing his luck in Luxembourg.

For one reason or another, it never worked out. But he says that in each coun try he went to, he met someone who moti

vated him to continue on his journey.

Iloka would eventually cross the line after several tryouts in Germany and Lux embourg. He had no preference in coun tries. His only interest was finding a team interested in him.

“I was just so focused that whichever team gave me a chance I was going to take it,” Iloka said. “So my agent would tell me I’m going to train with this team today and this team tomorrow. But my mindset was very focused and I didn’t pay any mind to the team.”

Things finally broke Chidi’s way when he arrived in Esch-sur-Alzette. He tried out for Jeunesse Esch in the preseason, and after two weeks, was told to start fill ing out paperwork to join the team.

“Afterwards, maybe like another two weeks after, that’s when I first got my uni form meaning, yes they’re going to sign me,” Iloka said. “During that time there were a lot of players coming to the pre season to train and try out and a lot would leave each day so for me to have been told to stay for that two weeks was something.

Iloka

On the Cover

Plate Expectations: Restaurants that Set the Stage for a Memorable Meal

BY GEORGE POINT

When dining out, as in most aspects of life, first impressions count big time by setting expectations of what’s to follow. If you stop to think about it, dining out is theater, and a restaurant is a stage set. Consciously or not, when you approach a dining venue for the first time and walk through the front door, you’ve already begun to anticipate what’s in store.

The website of Absolute Commercial Interiors, an English commercial interior design firm, notes in a blog post that “the ambience in a restaurant plays an undeniably significant role in shaping your customers’ overall dining experience. Ambience ties the cuisine, service, and environment together to define your diners’ perception of your restaurant.”

Some restaurants simply do a better job than others in managing diners’ expectations and making their décor an integral part of fostering an appreciation for their cuisine. Here are just four of the many examples of eateries in our area that have managed to achieve just that.

Note that before you visit, you’re encouraged to peruse the full menus for each that are posted on their websites, as well as to verify opening and closing times. Reservations are also highly recommended.

Kristine’s

In its décor and cuisine, Kristine’s in downtown Princeton clearly aspires to create the look and feel of a casual yet elegant French dining spot — and manages to do a highly satisfying job on both counts. Considerable effort has been spent on the details of the exterior and interior design, doing so in ways that appear both obvious and subtle to the eye.

Approaching Kristine’s from Hinds Plaza, one is drawn to the cafe curtains, the inviting blue and white striped awnings emblazoned with “Kristine’s” in distinctive script. The “Bienvenue (‘Welcome’) Kristine’s” on the window glass beckons as you pass by the outdoor dining area to the double entry doors on the south corner of the brick structure.

A more subtle design element, intentional or not, is the simple semi-circular awning over the entry, a sly visual reference to the Art Nouveau canopies covering access to the Paris Metro.

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Stop Your Pain. Start Your Life.

Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute

Taking the Fight Against Chronic Pain

27 different therapies available to patients, Dr. Patel offers a range of treatments, often combined to attack highly specific causes of pain. Among the most promising and innovative treatments:

to New Levels

Botox for migraines. Stem cell injections to regenerate tissue and organs. Gummy Bears infused with THC. Platelet-Rich Plasma to treat conditions from sports injuries and wounds to hair loss from chemotherapy. These are just a few of the cutting-edge therapies used by Dr. Ronak Patel, the founder and medical director of Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute in Plainsboro.

“Many of these treatments may come as a surprise to patients suffering from chronic pain, especially those who think that their pain — and poor quality of life — is something they have to endure,” Dr. Patel notes. A double board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management specialist, Dr. Patel focuses on treating pain in the back, neck, face, and joints as well as pain related to cancer and chemotherapy.

With so many different pain-causing illnesses, injuries, and conditions, treatments must be carefully customized to fit the needs of each individual patient. Dr. Patel partners with orthopedists, physical and occupational therapists, and chiropractors to provide a variety of approaches and treatments. With

Regenerative Medicine/ Stem Cell Therapy. Regenerative medicine is a fastgrowing, highly developed treatment that helps the body heal or rebuild itself. Dr. Patel uses stem cell therapy to treat ailments, particularly low back or neck pain, caused by degenerative vertebral discs or joint pain in the shoulders, hips, or knees caused by osteoarthritis. The patient’s stem cells are removed, purified, concentrated, and injected into the injured or weakened tissue. Stem cell therapy can also speed recovery and help avoid surgery.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). A favorite treatment for sports injuries, PRP uses the patient’s blood to produce a platelet-rich plasma that targets a host of chronic and acute pain conditions, including muscle strain, arthritis, tendinosis, cartilage injuries, joint inflammation, and wound care. The treatment is also used in orthopedic and plastic surgery. By synthesizing platelets and releasing proteins, PRP can aid in generating new tissue. And it has helped chemotherapy patients grow back hair faster and thicker.

Cannabis Therapy. The legalization of medical marijuana has brought new treatment options. “We are very excited by the potential of cannabis-based treatments and we comply fully with New Jersey’s evolving regulations,” says Dr. Patel. He uses a local dispensary to provide treatments, which include edibles such as gummy bears and cannabis-based rubbing and vaping oils.

Minimally Invasive Therapy. Dr. Patel offers a wide variety of minimally invasive therapies. These include epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation for patients suffering from chronic neck and back pain stemming from herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis. His goal is to help his patients avoid surgery and at the same time regain functionality.

Thanks to these and other game-changing treatments, pain levels can be greatly reduced or eliminated and quality of life enhanced. Says Dr. Patel, “Stop your pain. Start your life.”

666 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100D Plainsboro. 609-269-4451 www.njpaindoc.com

Dr. Ronak Patel

continued from Page 2

The restrained design choices in the din ing room evoke Paris without crossing over into kitsch. The petite floor tiles are set in a pattern that makes them seem to swirl across the room. Fluted glass shades adorn the overhead lighting. The horseshoeshaped bar, replete with bentwood stools, conveys the look of the zinc-topped bars in many establishments found throughout La Belle France. The artwork adds to the feel ing that you’ve been transported back to Paris in the 1930s.

In short, Kristine’s manages to be invit ingly French in appearance, an especially remarkable feat considering that the space housed a boutique in its previous incarna tion. But it’s the ambient sound of Kristine’s that seals the deal.

The sound system may be playing the strains of Bal-musette, a style of French instrumental music usually featuring an accordion that became popular in Paris in the 1880s. Or you may hear the little spar row Édith Piaf proclaiming “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien,” Charles Trenet crooning “La Mer” (long before Bobby Darin made the English version a hit in the U.S.) or per haps the iconoclastic folk singer Georges Brassens singing a tune you’re probably better off not understanding the words to.

And the conversations of the patrons din ing at adjoining tables can be part of the charm of Kristine’s as well, as likely to be in French as English.

The menu at Kristine’s reads like a hit parade of well-curated French favorites that regulars have come to expect: onion soup, foie gras torchons, moules et frites, duck confit, steak frites, as well as vegan and glu ten-free options. General manager Branden English notes that cool weather additions may include burgundy beef, cassoulet, boudin noir, and lamb shank.

Underscoring Kristine’s French pedi gree is the restaurant’s selection of French wines and spirits, with knowledgeable staff

eager to make recommendations; for exam ple, Branden is certified by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, a global provider of wine and spirit education for professionals and enthusiasts.

Bon appetit!

Kristine’s, 51 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., then 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. 609-924-3339 and kristine sprinceton.com.

Local Greek

Do an online search for “typical Greek taverna” and you’ll see that Local Greek, at 44 Leigh Avenue in Princeton, has fulfilled the promise that owner Tony Kanterakis made upon opening its doors in Novem ber 2017 — an assurance that, when visit ing, customers can “escape Princeton” and enter Greece.

Despite the un-Greek presence of Tor tuga’s Mexican Village, another neighbor hood mainstay, across the street, that state ment still rings true. Nearly five years later, Local Greek continues to be a neighbor hood gathering place to enjoy Greek cui sine in a setting with the authentic spirit of a cozy local hangout on a Greek isle.

As reported in U.S. 1 soon after the res taurant opened, the look of Local Greek is a big part of its appeal, from the sun-washed white and blue exterior and inviting out door seating to the rustic wooden tables and floors, white subway tile, and white washed walls within — not to mention the welcoming attitude and efficient service of the staff. You may hear the strains of Greek music in the background, but at a volume that permits quiet conversation.

At the time, Kanterakis reflected on the spirit of Greek culture that he had worked to bring to Local Greek. “I think a lot of the Greek words on the walls explain what’s

important about Greek culture,” he noted, “the warmth and hospitality of the Greek people, the attitude that strangers are friends you haven’t met yet.”

To cite one example, a sign over the entrance to the side dining room proclaims that ‘the secret ingredient is always love,’ and three Greek words and their defini tions hand-painted on the wall expand on the sentiment; ‘Filoksenia – An act of hos pitality, a warm welcome,’ ‘Kefi – The spirit of joy and enthusiasm in which good times and passion for life are experienced by an abundance of excitement, happiness and fun,’ and ‘Meraki – The soul; creativity or love put into something: the essence of yourself put into your work.’

It would be impossible to quote the extensive menu here, a well-curated selec tion of soups, salads, appetizers, meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes that range from old favorites (avgolemono, dolmades [stuffed grape leaves], gyro platter, souvlaki, bak lava) to more upmarket entrees like shrimp flambé, whole grilled branzino and top ping out at a substantial mixed grill platter ($74.95). Local Greek is BYO, or patrons may choose from the offerings of Old York Cellars in Ringoes.

Perhaps the best example of “plate expectations” is the string of Greek letters diners pass under that proclaims, “We are all family.”

“When strangers to a Greek town wan der by, it’s not unusual for locals to invite them in and share their hospitality,” Kanter akis explains. “That’s the feeling I’m trying to create here — to capture the spirit of the Greek people.”

Local Greek, 44 Leigh Avenue, Princ eton. Monday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Tuesday to Friday, noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.to 8 p.m. 609285-2969 and localgreeknj.com

Note: Tony Kanterakis has four other

Greek-themed restaurants, including Greek Bites and Loco Cheese in Princeton, Local Greek Lambertville, and Local Greek Seafood in Hopewell. Visit eatlocalgreek. com for details.

AJA Asian Cuisine and Lounge

Diners in the area with very long memo ries may recall that 1736 Route 206 in Mont gomery was once the address of the County Line restaurant, back in the day when a slab of prime rib served with a wedge of iceberg lettuce topped with blue cheese dressing was considered the height of haute cuisine. Come to think of it, that combo still sounds mighty tasty. The County Line is long gone, replaced by a succession of eateries in what turned into a hard-luck location.

Perhaps that’s why koi are a recurring presence in the current establishment at that address, Aja Cuisine and Lounge. In Japan, koi, a colorful relative of the com mon carp, serve as a symbol of good luck and determination in the face of hard times.

Koi have been reported to live as long as two centuries; perhaps they are the good luck charms that will ensure Aja’s longev ity, given that there are koi abound at Aja, most notably in the large pottery vessel next to reception that contains live fish lan guidly lazing about.

Koi also appear on assorted fine china serving pieces, and three koi, writ large, circle gracefully on the wall behind the sushi bar. Uniformed itamae (sushi chefs), donned in their caps and tunics, silently and methodically go about their work.

Koi aside, it’s hard to know where to begin to describe Aja’s lavish décor. The quality and quantity of detail one dis

Toast to a French meal at Kristine’s, left and middle, or settle in for some traditional hospitality at Local Greek, right, to get a sense of community with your atmosphere.

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covers while meandering through the multi-roomed, multi-themed interior is astonishing.

Push the beautifully carved hardwood push plates affixed to the entry doors and note the display of dozens of abaci on the wall to your right. Asian artwork and statuary of all sizes are strategically placed throughout, well-positioned to encourage appreciation by their patrons — almost like wandering through an art gallery.

Many of the interior walls of Aja are finished in small, smooth river stones, with thousands of them set in plaster. Apart from the strips of neon that define the various dining areas, the soft indirect lighting succeeds in giving what would otherwise be cavernous spaces a hushed ambiance and an intimate feel.

The lighting, combined with the use of Asian hardwood accents, river stone, and slate floor tiles, work together to convey the impression that Aja is a place for serious dining. With a mix of spacious booths and tables, it’s no wonder that in the cooler months, seats near the working fireplace are sought-after spots.

The décor continues down to the stairs leading to the lower-level lobby, additional party rooms, and even the restrooms; all are tastefully designed and realized.

There is no shortage of dining options for parties of every size. In addition to the main dining room, Aja sports a sushi bar and cocktail bar, as well as the (lavenderbedecked) Lavender room and the (very red) Mandarin rooms, which may be booked singly or in combination for private events.

And then there are Aja’s menu offerings, too numerous to enumerate in this limited space and best perused at your leisure online.

There you’ll find enough soups, salads, sushi, sashimi, rolls, wok and grilled selections, noodle and rice dishes, bento boxes, and dessert choices to keep you occupied for a while.

Looking for a low-risk introduction to

Aja? Stop in for lunch and choose from a selection of reasonably priced dishes that include salad, soup, and a main course.

My friend and longtime Princeton resident Marty, one of my go-to experts on all things Japanese, especially enjoys the sushi/sashimi luncheon special; 4 pieces of sushi, 8 pieces of sashimi, and a spicy tuna roll for a very reasonable $23.

AJA, 1736 US 206, Montgomery. Hours: Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. then 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. then 4:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.; Saturday, 12:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.; and Sunday,

12:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Full bar service available. 908-262-2512 and ajamontgomery. com.

El Tule

If you’ve only experienced Lambertville as a Delaware River town characterized by the charming 19th century structures along Bridge Street, take the first right after turning in off Route 29.

On your left, you’ll happen upon the bright orange, black, and green sign on a

AJA Asian Cuisine and Lounge in Montgomery, left , and El Tule Mexican & Peruvian Restaurant in Lambertville, right, sport both inviting interiors and extravagant exteriors.

The Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey (YOCJ) provides many opportunities for students to take their skills, passion and talent to new musical levels, including master classes with professional musicians, concert performances, chamber music opportunities and more! YOCJ features three orchestras, as well as small ensembles for brass, percussion, woodwinds, saxophone and flute.

Upcoming events:

• Saturday December 10, 7:30pm Winter Small Ensemble Concert at Community Middle School, Plainsboro NJ

• Sunday January 15, 3pm & the 8pm Winter Large Ensemble Concerts at Kendall Hall, TCNJ. The 8pm concert features Billy Hunter, Principal Trumpet of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra

New Student Auditions:

•Tuesday January 31 and June 6, 2023 For more information, visit https://yocj.org/

one-story building boldly proclaiming it to be the home of El Tule Mexican and Peru vian Cuisine.

Walk past the row of picnic tables and catch a glimpse of the patio dining area at the rear, festooned with twinkly lights crisscrossed overhead and on the fence that encloses the space.

As you step inside, witness the bright colors abound; orange predominates on the walls and on the red-bordered menus and includes other bright colors as well, reflecting the natural dyes from native plants and the earth that color the tradi tional clothing of both countries.

One wall is covered with concert post ers in dayglo colors announcing appear ances by Peruvian musicians, singers, and composers of contemporary and tradi tional Andean music, like Peruvian singer-

composer Dina Paucar and the dazzling Andean orchestra Super Briliantes del Ande.

The background music reflects the décor as well, played at a festive yet com fortable volume. Rustic floor tile, dark brown tables, and comfortable chairs com plete the picture, giving El Tule the look and feel of a neighborhood establishment you might find in Oaxaca or Cuzco.

And then there’s “El Tule” itself, the tree logo that appears throughout the restau rant and on the t-shirts worn by Jack, the owner, and his staff.

It’s a graphic reference to El Árbol del Tule, Spanish for ‘The Tree of Tule,’ a massive Montezuma cypress located in the center of Santa María del Tule in the Mexican state of Oaxaca said to have been planted 1,400 years ago by Pechocha, a priest of the Aztec wind god Ehecatl.

As with the décor, El Tule comes by the

authenticity of its cuisine honestly. Relo cating from Peru in 1992, the Egoavil and Anguino families present a Mexican Latin fusion menu, guided by chefs from the Egoavil and Anguino families. Peruvian chef Carmen Egoavil has built on the culi nary skills she learned from her mother, while chef Said Anguino crafts the Mexi can side of the menu with interpretations of traditional recipes.

The menu includes a selection of veg etarian, seafood, and meat dishes. Cevi che includes ceviche limeno (corvina fish, sweet potatoes, Peruvian corn) and cevi che mixto (corvina fish, shrimp, octopus, and calamari), “Flavors of Peru” includes coliflor saltada tacu (vegan wok stir-fried cauliflower and fresh vegetables, served over Peruvian beans and rice) and lamb stew tacu tacu (boneless lamb slowly cooked for 48 hours in a sauce of Peruvian panca peppers and Chicha de Jora (a beer

made from fermented maize).

Mexican specialties include spinach and crab enchiladas, tampiquena (marinated ribeye topped with guacamole), and more.

There’s also a good selection of large and small plates to share, and a non-alco holic drink selection that includes Inca Kola, Jamaica tea, and Chicha Morada (purple Peruvian corn, pineapple, a “hint of lime, and a hint of cinnamon”).

A ‘Locals Night Special’ on Wednesday evenings offers three courses, plus a com plimentary margarita for just $30. Che vere! (‘Awesome’).

El Tule Mexican & Peruvian Restau rant, 49 N. Main St., Lambertville. Tues day to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sun day, noon to 9 p.m. BYOB. 609-773-0007 and eltulerestaurant.com.

Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute

Treating Pain with PRP and Stem Cell Therapy

Pain.

It gnaws at you. It drains you. It becomes the focus of your life.

Experiencing a few pain-free moments can be euphoric; it makes you realize how long you’ve been living with aches and pain. You might wonder how you can find a solution to relieve the pain and regain your freedom from discomfort.

Dr. Ronak Patel at Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute wants you to know there are two new revolutionary answers to pain relief.

Both platelet-rich therapy — otherwise known as PRP — and stem cell therapy give patients new hope by using the body’s powerful healing power to accelerate the battle against pain. Dr. Patel has seen incredible success implementing these cuttingedge treatments on hundreds of patients suffering from pain-related issues.

So if you are suffering from any of the ailments below, there’s a lifeline.

• Osteoarthritis

• Rotator cuff tear

• Back pain

• Meniscus tears

• Tennis elbow

• Disc herniations

• Tendonitis

• Neck pain

Here’s the best news: Neither PRP or stem cell therapy involves drug use with side effects or any surgical procedures.

Both PRP and stem cell treatments use the body’s own healing resources to repair diseased or damaged tissue — and the results are quite remarkable.

PRP therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets and growth factors into damaged tissue to

stimulate the faster growth of new healthy cells. Platelets are cells that prevent and stop bleeding. If a blood vessel is damaged, the body sends signals to our platelets to get on the job and start the healing. Some call platelets the body’s natural bandage. So how does PRP therapy work? It’s basically drawing a one small vial of blood from the patient and then using a centrifuge to turn it into a potent and concentrated form of platelets. It is then injected back into the patient. Think of it as a boost of your own blood — only superpowered. Recovery time for PRP therapy is far shorter than for surgery. Patients usually experience soreness for a week or so, but the gradual improvement soon begins. Unlike

a steroid shot, which gives you immediate relief and quickly wears off, a PRP patient will see pain symptoms improve over a period of months, and up to 80 percent of patients will see relief for up to two years.

Stem cell therapy can be an even more powerful way to harness the body’s healing power. Stem cells are the building blocks for every cell in our body. These powerful cells can be harvested to produce powerful new cells to fight inflammation and disease.

For those suffering from osteoarthritis, stem cell therapy has proven very effective. That’s because the stem cells may help develop new cartilage cells and suppress inflammation. Stem cells can be harvested through a sample of body fat or bone marrow or be harvested from donated umbilical cord tissue.

And yes, you can even augment PRP therapy with stem cell therapy for an even bigger boost!

Stop wondering if you’ll have to live with your pain forever. Contact Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute today at 609-269-4451 or go to www.njpaindoc.com to book an an appointment and learn more. See ad, page 3.

THE GIFT OF A SMILE

With the end of the year in sight, now is a great time to assess your family’s unmet dental needs. Consider your annual benefits that expire at the end of the year. Contact us to help you plan your New Year smile!

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Hamilton Dental Associates

Don’t Let Your Annual Benefits Go to Waste!

Every year, thousands of people sit on their dental insurance and benefits until the new year rolls around, los ing out on their past year of cover age. While some may use it to cover routine dental checkups, most pay for these yearly benefits without ever using them, leaving them unused and therefore going to waste. Instead of eating it as a sunk cost, consider scheduling some dental work with Hamilton Dental Associates!

Dental insurance can be much less confusing for patients to understand compared to medical insurance. The language used in dental insurance policies directly tells people what procedures receive coverage, how much you have to pay, and how much the insurance provider pays. How ever, people wind up leaving money on the table when their insurance plan rolls over at the end of the year. Whatever the difference between their maximums and what they spent on dental procedures is, they lose that money. To maximize the benefits of their dental insurance plans, patients need to understand what is currently offered, what kind of procedures are offered, and how much their insurance will cover.

Knowing Your Coverage. Most dental insurance plans follow the 10080-50 structure. They will cover 100% of the costs of minor procedures such as bi-yearly visits, teeth cleanings, x-rays, and dental sealant procedures. For things such as cavity fillings, root canals, and gum disease, your insur ance will cover around 80% of the total cost after the deductible is met. The major procedures like crowns, bridges, inlays, or dentures will only

have about 50% of the procedure covered. Knowing how much your in surance will cover helps you plan out your visits and maximize the money still left on your account before losing it at the end of the year.

What If I Have an FSA Account?

Flexible Spending Accounts, or FSA, are provided through employersponsored insurance plans and are designed to help provide flexibility in how you pay for specific procedures. During your enrollment period, you select which FSA account you want and determine how much money is in that account. These pre-tax dollars come out of your paycheck over the year and are then used to help cover the cost of these procedures.

The FSA plans work similarly to a debit card in that the money in the account can be withdrawn to cover the expenses. However, like other benefits, once the new year comes and the plan rolls over into 2021, you lose whatever balance is left on the FSA account. This is why you should take the time to plan out what dental procedures you need done throughout the year and do what you can to maxi mize the money in your FSA account.

Where Do I Go From Here? That’s the most important question right now. Since you only have a set amount of time left in the year to utilize your den tal insurance benefits to their fullest, don’t wait!

We can help you schedule your routine checkups, schedule any ad ditional dental work you may need, and work with your insurance provider to figure out how much is covered and what you need to pay out of pocket. We’re an in-network option for various insurance plans and can work with plans that offer out-of-network ben efits. Contact our team to learn more about how we can help today!

Visit Hamilton Dental Associates today, and come see what all the smiles are about! See ad, page 10.

AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine

Helping seniors find the right diagnosis and right treatment

AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine is a multidisciplinary family practice that has been in business for over 10 years. Over the past decade, the senior community has been a big portion of our patient demographic. We hear many different complaints week to week, but one of the biggest complaints we see with our seniors is balance and gait dysfunction. As our bodies get older, degenerative changes take place, which can lead to a host of symptoms taking away from your quality of life. This can lead to loss of balance, decreased range of motion, decreased strength, trouble with gait mechanics, and much more. Here at AllCure, we provide the proper imaging and testing to help us diagnose these common complaints before they become debilitating. We always say that a small problem will remain small if it’s treated early

RWJ Hamilton

7 Keys to a Woman’s Healthy Heart

Heart disease, the leading cause of death for women in the United States, can be insidious, creeping up slowly and seemingly without warning. Often it can be “silent,” too, with no obvious symptoms at all—until a crisis or emergency, like a heart at tack, strikes. “Fortunately, there are steps women can take to help prevent heart disease,” says interventional cardiologist Edward Wingfield, MD, Medical Staff President at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. “Awareness is important, but it’s not enough to just be aware of risk factors. Women need to be proactive when it comes to their self-care and overall healthcare.”

Here are seven things women can do to help prevent or reduce their risk of heart disease:

1. Monitor Your Blood Pressure. “High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, so get your blood pressure checked regularly,” says Dr. Wingfield. “If it’s high, talk to your doctor about how to lower it. There are many ways to get those numbers down.”

2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet. Re duce sugar and salt and eat a diet that

enough. We strive to get ahead of each patient’s chief complaints and provide a comprehensive plan of care. One of the major issues seniors face is getting a proper diagnosis early enough to find effective treatments. In many cases we see that patients are given a prescription for medication that will only treat the symptoms, but not the root cause.

contains whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, and that’s low in saturated fats and cholesterol. A Mediterranean diet is a healthy option to consider.

3. Avoid Overeating. In addition to causing weight gain, eating heavy meals and large portions causes your body to work overtime and increases your heart rate. Fatty meals are par ticularly taxing.

4. Exercise. Take a walk, ride a bike, swim, dance— just get mov ing, and aim for at least a half-hour of moderate exercise per day, incorpo rating strength training twice a week. “Be sure to check with your healthcare provider about a regimen that’s appro priate for your specific health needs,” advises Dr. Wingfield.

5. Quit Smoking. Just do it. After one year, your risk of developing heart disease will be cut by 50 percent.

6. Manage Stress. Stress can have a profound effect on your heart health by inducing the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which in turn cause an increase in blood pressure and injury to the inner layer of your heart vessels (endothelium) leading to a heart at tack. Yoga and meditation are just two things that can help with managing stress. Speak to your provider about other options.

7. Sleep Well. Sleep is important

This will lead to worsening symptoms over time and keep patients from an active and independent lifestyle. We pride ourselves in making tailored treatment plans to fit each patient’s individual needs and impairments. There is no one-size-fitsall approach to healthcare and each patient should be treated with that mindset.

We strongly feel that a multidisciplinary approach is the best way to get patients the care they need and the relief they deserve in a safe, fast, and efficient manner. Our experienced team of providers consisting of chiropractors, physical therapists and acupuncturists collaborate on each case to get the patient the best plan possible to achieve their goals.

We do accept Medicare! We find that most of our Medicare patients don’t have to pay a dime out of their pocket, rather just commit the time and effort.

Please give us a call today and we would be happy to hold a free 10 minute consultation for you or a family member to make sure that you are comfortable and get the correct information to make an important decision for improving your health and quality of life. We look forward to hearing from you!

AllCure Spine & Sports Medicine, 140 Cabot Drive, Suite A, Hamilton. 609-528-4417. www. allcurespineandsports.com. See ad, page 9.

but it’s not just about getting enough sleep, which for most adults is about seven to nine hours per night. Getting enough restful, restorative sleep is what matters. Go to bed at about the same time every night; sleep in a cool, dark room; and turn off electronic devices like cell phones and tablets.

Though there is some overlap in the symptoms of heart attack in men and women, women have some dif ferent symptoms, many of which can be subtle or may be attributed to just aches and pains, the flu or heartburn. But if you think you’re having a heart attack, call 911:

• Jaw, neck or upper back pain

• Chest pain

• Chest tightness

• Pain in the shoulder or arm

• Nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness or fainting

• Cold sweats

• Shortness of breath

• Pain or pressure in the lower chest or upper abdomen • Indigestion

Wingfield, MD

McDougall, Integrative RN, and spon sored by Robert Wood Johnson Uni versity Hospital Hamilton Community Education. Registration is required for this program. Register online at rwjbh. org/events or call 609-584-5900 and dial “1” to reach Health Connections.

“LOVE

YOUR HEART” DISCUS SION GROUP

All are welcome to come out on Thursday, December 8, 10 to 11 a.m., as we explore the connection between food and mood, along with a recipe tasting and discussion. Unhealthy nutrition and difficult emotions, such as depression, can often put us at risk for heart disease. Hosted by Patti

Whoever your heart beats for, our hearts beat for you.

To connect to a top cardiovascu lar expert at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, call 888723-7123 or visit rwjbh.org/heart.

To learn more about Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, visit rwjbh.org/Hamilton or call 609586-7900. See ad, page 5.

Edward

Brothers Anthony Alfieri, DC, left, and Victor Alfieri, DPT.

Jan: 9, 23 Feb: 6, 20 Mar: 6, 20 Apr: 3, 17 May: 1, 15, Jun: 3, 12, 26

Jul: 10, 24 Aug: 7, 21, Sep: 9, 18 Oct: 2, 16, 30 Nov: 13, 27 Dec: 11, 30

Jan: 2, 16, 30 Feb: 13, 27 Mar: 13, 27 Apr: 10, 24 May: 8, 22 Jun: 5, 19

Jul: 3, 17, 31 Aug: 14, 28 Sep: 11, 25 Oct: 9, 23 Nov: 6, 20 Dec: 4, 18

Jan: 10, 24 Feb: 7, 21 Mar: 7, 21 Apr: 4, 18 May: 2, 16, 30 Jun: 13, 27

Jul: 11, 25 Aug: 8, 22 Sep: 5, 19 Oct: 3, 17, 31 Nov: 14, 28 Dec: 12, 26

Jan: 3, 17, 31 Feb: 14, 28 Mar: 14, 28 Apr: 11, 25 May: 9, 23 Jun: 6, 20

Jul: 8, 18 Aug: 1, 15, 29 Sep: 12, 26 Oct: 10, 24 Nov: 7, 21 Dec: 5, 19

Jan: 4, 18 Feb: 1, 15, Mar: 1, 15, 29 Apr: 12, 26 May: 10, 24 Jun: 7, 21,

Jul: 5, 19 Aug: 2, 16, 30 Sep: 13, 27 Oct: 11, 25 Nov: 8, 22 Dec: 6, 20

Jan: 11, 25 Feb: 8, 22 Mar: 8, 22 Apr: 5, 19 May: 3, 17, 31 Jun: 14, 28

Jul: 12, 26 Aug: 9, 23 Sep: 6, 20 Oct: 4, 18 Nov: 1, 15, 29 Dec: 13, 27

Jan: 5, 19 Feb: 2, 16 Mar: 2, 16, 30 Apr: 13, 27 May: 11, 25 Jun: 8, 22

Jul: 6, 20 Aug: 3, 17, 31 Sep: 14, 28 Oct: 12, 26 Nov: 9, 25 Dec: 7, 21

Jan: 12, 26 Feb: 9, 23 Mar: 9, 23 Apr: 6, 20 May: 4, 18 Jun: 1, 15, 29

Jul: 13, 27 Aug: 10, 24 Sep: 7, 21 Oct: 5, 19 Nov: 2, 16, 30 Dec: 14, 28

Jan: 13, 27 Feb: 10, 24 Mar: 10, 24 Apr: 7, 21 May: 5, 19 Jun: 2, 16, 30

Jul: 14, 28 Aug: 11, 25 Sep: 8, 22 Oct: 6, 20 Nov: 3, 17 Dec: 1,15, 29

SERVICES

Senior Concierge. Let me be your helper. In the home or on the road. Part-time/Day or evening. Very good references. Call Mary anne, 609-298-4456.

F,D,Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-3855701 Lic#13VH05475900.

Are you single? Try us first! We are an enjoyable alternative to online dating. Sweet Beginnings Matchmaker, 215-539-2894, www. sweetbeginnings.info.

WANTED TO BUY

Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey. Cards,

autographs, photos, memorabilia. Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel. 4thelovofcards, 908596-0976. allstar115@ verizon.net.

HappyHeroes used books looking to buy old Mysteries, Science Fiction, Children’s Illustrated, kids series books (old Hardy boys-Nancy Drew-Judy Bolton- Dana girls, WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), Dell Mapbacks - Good Girl Art PULPS - non-sports cards, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks old COLLIER’S. Call 609-619-3480 or email happyheroes@gmail.com

Cash paid for World War II military items. Helmets, swords, medals,

To book a classified ad in this section, please email your text and any other information to mdurelli@communitynews.org. Classifieds run at 75 cents per word with a $20 minimum per month. For more information, call 609-396-1511, ext. 105.

etc. Call 609-581-8290 or email mymilitarytoys@ optonline.net

Cash paid for SELMER SAXOPHONES and other vintage models. 609-581-8290 or email mymilitarytoys@ optonline.net

WANTED- QUALITY CAMERAS AND PHOTO EQUIPMENT, FOUNTAIN PENS AND OLDER WATCHES FAIR PRICES PAID CALL JAY-609-6899651.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Doctors Office Suite Turn-Key Ready in Hamilton, Mercer County NJ approx. 1405+/- SF for lease. Fully furnished. $2,550/mth. DiDonato Realty 609-5862344 Marian Conte BR 609-947-4222.

Office Space For Rent :

Pennington ground floor office space 32 N Main Street. Share with clinical psychologist and real estate management company. Private entrance, off street parking. 305-968-7308

Princeton Commercial Retail Spaces for Lease: Various Locations in Town. Please Contact: Weinberg Management. WMC@collegetown. Text 609-731-1630

VACATION RENTALS

Florida Beach Rental: Fort Myers Beach 1br vacation condo on the beach, flexible dates available. Call 609577-8244 for further information

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Salon for sale- excellent opportunity. Priced to

sell. Relocating out of state. Large space, great potential. Call 609-4620188.

CEMETERY PLOTS

For sale double depth cemetery plot. Location Princeton memorial park, Gordon Road, Robbinsville. Call 609259-7710.

National Classified Health & Fitness

Dental insurancePhysicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real insurance - not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit! 1-855-526-1060 www. dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds.

Free info kit. Call 877-9299587 Miscellaneous Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Down + Low Monthly Pmt Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage: 1-855-948-6176

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-7611725

november december

A Holiday Tradition

9am-3pm

9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm

9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm

FARMS

CEDARVILLE FARMS (WEST) - Cabbage, cauli ower, leeks, broccoli, apples, Asian pears, Brussel sprouts, and tomatoes.

CRANBERRY HALL FARM - Locally grown/raised vegetables and beef. Christmas wreaths and holiday sprays.

PINELAND FARMS - 609-392-1550 Homemade “from scratch” pies, breads, candy & caramel apples. Christmas orals, wreaths, grave blankets, and hand cra ed bows.

RUSSO’S FRUIT & VEG FARM - Wreaths, poinsettias, grave blankets, kissing balls, white pine roping, cider donuts. Still available: yams, sweet potatoes, apples, carrots, beets, and apples.

TERHUNE ORCHARDS - 609-695-7855 Fruit pies, apple cider & donuts, organic produce and herbs, fresh apples, and wine.

ZELL’S FARM - 908-444-2367 O ering fresh and dried exotic mushrooms, pastured eggs, chicken, and duck.

9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-3pm

9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm

9am-3pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-2pm

9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-2pm

EATERIES

HAMBONE OPERA 609-325-7357 Cherry wood smoked brisket, ribs, and chicken; homemade sides. Food Network-NJ winner-50 States of BBQ.

KAFE’ KREYOL - Delicious Caribbean soul food. Oxtail, curry chicken, rice & beans.

KING FOODS - 609-989-1047 Fried chicken, take-out platters, fresh chicken plus a wide selection of salads and desserts.

LADY & THE SHALLOT - 609-955-1120 Plant based vegan clean comfort foods! Tacos, our famous street spuds, sandwiches, chili, soups, salads, raw juices, teas & infused waters.

SAVORY LEAF CAFE - 609-557-7585 100% plant based comfort foods such as cheesesteaks, hamburgers, bu alo chick’n sandwiches, and homemade baked treats. All deliciously vegan.

PURVEYORS & PROVISIONS

BABE & BANGLE BOUTIQUE - Handmade accessories & Beauty products, genuine crystals & stones (Tiger’s Eye, Jade, Red Coral).

CARTLIDGE’S QUALITY MEATS - 609-396-3966 Now taking Christmas orders: prime rib, smoked hams, tenderloin, pork roast, homemade fresh pork roll.

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LUNA ROSSA SHOP - Hand-tooled leather and vegan leather handbags, Paparazzi jewelry. O ering 10% o with this ad, see our $5 specials.

MICHAEL’S SWEET LISA - Premier artisan of gourmet sweet & salty kettle corn, made the old fashioned way. Hand-cra ed joy made in the heart of historic Trenton. A big bowl of LOVE, especially for you.

MR. G’S COUNTRY STORE - Wide variety of dry goods, groceries, snacks, cleaning products & household items, all at low prices.

OUT OF STEP OFFBEAT BOUTIQUE & GENERAL STORE - 609-245-2987 Year round gi shop featuring items from nearly 100 small businesses, artists, and markers including specialty foods, unique home decor, regional art, handmade goods, & more.

THE PIE’D PIPER A Gourmet Shop 609-775-5087 Artisan pies, desserts & baked goods; pierogi, kielbasa & Polish specialties. Authentic prepared foods & catering.

PULASKI MEATS - 609-599-4206 Fresh & smoked kielbasa, homemade pierogi, stu ed cabbage, babkas, strudel, and blintzes. Polish favorites year-round.

RECOVERY IS ESSENTIAL - Recover to Uncover the Truth www.recoveryisessential.com.

ROSE BOUTIQUE LLC - Unique clothing, jewelry, and accessories from around the world. Fine quality and best prices.

SO SPLURGE - Extensive selection of customized gi s, home décor, apparel, and marketing merchandise for personal and/or professional use along with superior customer service. Shop So Splurge!

TEA-FOR-ALL - 609-577-8038 Discover the Trenton Farmers Market and Tea-For-All will help you discover your tea! Tea and herbs from around the globe.

THE WATCH & CLOCK DOCTOR 609-396-1116 Antique and cuckoo clock repair specialists; we repair all watches and clocks; batteries and bands while you wait.

WIN, PLACE & SMOKE - 609-695-0206 Tobacco, smokeless tobacco, and accessories. Lottery tickets and snack foods.

Usually you can train or try out with a club here just for one day, and they could tell you ‘Thank you, but we don’t need your service.’”

The more days he remained, the better chance he had of making the team. But that didn’t lessen the tension.

“I thank God because each day of train ing I was a bit nervous, to be honest,” he said. “You’re training with professionals while you’re an amateur so it’s a differ ence. They look at you like ‘OK can you perform like this?’ and it’s a lot of stress on your body because you’re doing more than you can to impress them each day.

“I’d come home from training and my whole body was exhausted. I’d have to eat, sleep and rest up for the next day, then do the same thing, which is not easy on the body.”

Not to mention, he was going against players whose skills were somewhat sharper than in the United States.

“The biggest difference over there,” he noted, “is the style of play and the level and the quickness you have to play at here as opposed to the American style of play.”

He was willing to drive himself as far as his mind and body would take him and it all culminated in his October signing.

Once that happened, Iloka needed a place to live. He decided on Trier, the oldest city in Germany, near the Luxem

bourg border. It’s a whole new world, but the 25-year-old is loving it.

“I have been adapting very well,” Iloka said. “Sometimes it’s a bit hard. When they send mail to my place, I have to use Google translations to read my mail. Sometimes when I go to the grocery store they don’t speak English so I have to figure it out on my own. And the town is friendly and very historical. I didn’t know I’m living in the oldest city in Germany.”

Indeed it is, as Trier was founded in the late 4th century B.C.E. by the Celts before being taken over by the Romans. The rich history gives Iloka the chance to be a tourist as well as a soccer player.

“It’s been a great experience having to adjust to a country that speaks two languages,” he said. “I’m also training in a professional environment each day and improving myself, which is the most important thing.”

It has become important because he finally reached his goal, and hopes to use this as a jumping off mark to reach bigger and better things.

“This has always been the dream since I was young,” Iloka said. “I’m hoping this opportunity can open more doors for me in my soccer career and lead to nothing but the best.”

The way he grinds it out each day, don’t bet against him.

Peace of Mind.

Your insurance shouldn’t be what keeps you up at night. Whether your needs are personal or business related, Nottingham Insurance of fer s an extensive selection of insurance products. With over 100 years of experience, we work with you to get the right coverage at an af fordable price So that you can focus on what is impor tant. We’re t here when life happens.

Your insurance shouldn’t be what keeps you up at night. Whether your needs are personal or business related, Nottingham Insurance of fer s an extensive selection of insurance products. With over 100 years of experience, we work with you to get the right coverage at an af fordable price. So that you can focus on what is impor tant We’re t here when life happens.

At Swi Physical erapy and Performance, we focus on delivering the highest quality of patient care in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We understand that no two people or injuries are the same, which is why we create a custom-made recovery and rehabilitation plan for each of our patients. Dr. Saqib prides himself in providing exceptional treatment services that focus on individualized “hands-on” therapy aimed toward the achievement of your goals. His patients have found high levels of success in his treatment, due to the implementation of advanced technology that provides better results than traditional methods. Dr.Saqib is whole-heartedly invested in his patient’s treatment and emphasizes patient education and patients are empowered to be active participants in their treatment. At Swi , the mission is to help you reach your highest physical potential.

MCCC women’s soccer players named to All-Region 19 teams

Three former women’s soccer stand outs from Hamilton and members of Mer cer County Community College’s wom en’s soccer team this season were named First Team All-Region 19.

Former Steinert forwards Emma Nini and Amanda Papamanolis and for mer Hamilton West midfielder Madison Bressler were three of six MCCC players to earn All-Region honors.

Nini led an exciting Vikings offense, finishing with 13 goals and 8 assists in 15 games. Nini ranked in the top 50 nation ally in three offensive categories: 26th in points (34), 32nd in goals scored (13) and 32nd in assists (8).

Nini also had five game-winning goals for the Vikings.

Papamanolis also ranked in the top 50 nationally, finishing 48th in total points with 27 and 42nd in assists with 7 in 15

games.

Papamanolis scored 10 goals this sea son, which ranked 52nd nationally.

Bressler finished the season with 15 points. Bressler had 6 goals and and 3 assists and had 2 game-winning goals for the Vikings.

Led by head coach Elyse Diamond along with assistant coaches Karissa Estelle and Cynthia Soffel, MCCC wom en’s soccer finished the season 15-1 and ranked 18th nationally. The Vikings com pleted the first undefeated regular season (14-0) in Mercer women’s soccer history.

The Vikings beat Lehigh-Carbon Com munity College 7-0 on Oct. 24 in the Region 19 semifinal to advance to the Region 19 championship game, where they lost 4-1 to Sussex Community Col lege on Oct. 29 in the Region 19 Champi onship, ending their season.

Mercer County Community College women’s soccer players Emma Nini, Amanda Papamanolis and Madison Bressler were named first-team All-Region 19 players for the fall 2022 season.

HEALTH HEADLINES

BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM CAPITAL HEALTH

Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell Earns ‘A’ Grade for Quality from The Leapfrog Group

Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell was awarded an ‘A’ from The Leapfrog Group’s fall 2022 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. This national distinction recognizes Capital Health’s achievements in protecting patients from preventable harm and error in the hospital.

“Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell is a one of the region’s leading hospitals and home to dynamic services such as our Cancer Center, the Josephine Plumeri Birthing Center, and minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery with the da Vinci® Surgical System,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO, Capital Health. “Our most recent ‘A’ grade from the Leapfrog group show residents in our community that we remain committed to providing our neighbors and their families the best possible care when they need it most.”

“Our continuous drive to improve quality and safety outcomes is woven into the fabric of our organization through our just culture as well as our ISO 9001 certification and on-site surveys with DNV,” said Dr. Mark Arcaro, vice president of Clinical Performance at Capital

Health. “And while we are pleased to earn this latest recognition from The Leapfrog Group, it also motivates to keep looking ahead to meet and exceed national standards of care.”

The Leapfrog Group, an independent national watchdog organization, assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over thirty national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm.

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program based exclusively on hospital prevention of medical errors and harms to patients. The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring.

“I applaud the hospital leadership and workforce for their strong commitment to safety and transparency,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “An ‘A’ Safety Grade is a sign that hospitals are continuously evaluating their performance, so that they can best protect patients. The team at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell should be extremely proud of their dedication and achievement.”

What is a Whipple Procedure? Frequently Asked Questions

After a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, patients naturally want to know what treatment options are available to them. The single most effective pancreatic cancer treatment option is surgery.

One particular complex and technically demanding surgery, called a pancreaticoduodenectomy, is one of the surgeries used for longterm control of pancreatic cancer. More commonly referred to as the Whipple procedure, this surgery may extend the person’s life and, for some, may be the best chance at a cure.

If you or someone close to you has recently been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, here are some important questions you may be asking:

What is the pancreas?

The pancreas is a gland about six inches long that sits in the back of the abdomen, behind the stomach. It plays key roles in producing enzymes and hormones that help digest food. It also produces insulin and glucagon to help regulate blood sugar levels.

What is pancreatic cancer?

Because the pancreas has a number of different cells, each can bring about a different type of tumor. The most prevalent is from the cells that line the pancreatic duct, and often there are very few to no symptoms. There are some, however, you should be aware of, and include:

… Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss

… Abdominal pain that radiates to your back

… Light-colored stools

… Dark-colored urine

… Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)

… A new diabetes diagnosis, or existing diabetes that’s become difficult to control

… Nausea or vomiting

What is the Whipple procedure?

The Whipple procedure involves removing the head, or the wide part, of the pancreas next to the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. Then, the duodenum, some of the common bile duct, the gallbladder and possibly some of the stomach are all removed. Once that’s done, the surgeon reconnects the remaining intestine, bile duct and pancreas. It’s currently one of the only surgeries that can offer a potential cure for pancreatic cancer.

Who is a good candidate for the Whipple procedure?

Determining the right type of surgery for pancreatic cancer is largely based on the tumor’s location. The Whipple procedure is considered for tumors located at the head of the pancreas that have not spread to other parts of the body.

What is recovery like for the Whipple procedure?

Every person responds differently to surgery, and it depends on how it is performed. For a Whipple procedure performed as traditional open

surgery, a patient generally takes about four weeks to reach complete recovery. This type of surgery generally requires a hospital stay of about four days, though this varies from person to person.

Specially trained surgeons are able to offer a minimally invasive option through the da Vinci Surgery System robotic-assisted Whipple procedure. This approach reduces recovery time for patients.

Your surgeon will want you to be up and walking almost immediately after surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots or a pulmonary embolism.

Are there common complications to this surgery?

As with any surgery, there can be complications, which may be minor or major. Those include bleeding, infections, clots, pneumonia or heart attacks. They can also include trouble with the stomach emptying itself after meals.

Your surgeon should be able to manage most of these complications without the need for another surgery.

Who should perform the Whipple procedure?

The Whipple procedure is a complex and technically demanding surgery. However, extensively trained surgeons at Capital Health Cancer Center are certified and experienced at such a high level that the National Pancreas Foundation recognized them as a Center of Excellence for treating pancreatic cancer-related illnesses.

Patients who are good candidates for the Whipple procedure should choose a surgeon who has extensive experience with this type of surgery and has performed numerous Whipple procedures. Patients should also select a hospital large enough to care for Whipple procedure patients post-operatively, and are used to managing any post-surgery complications.

The decision to select a surgical team is a very important one. The team at Capital Health Cancer Center is here to help you. If you’d like to make an appointment, please call 609.537.5000 or visit CapitalHealthCancer.org.

Dr. Cataldo Doria, medical director of Capital Health Cancer Center and an internationally renowned hepato-pancreato-biliary surgeon, offers robotic-assisted Whipple procedures to treat pancreatic cancer.

Capital Health Launches Advanced Simulation Training Center

Mobile Lab Provides Cutting-Edge Clinical Training for Health Care Providers and Community Health Education

Capital Health recently announced the launch of its new Advanced Simulation Training Center, a mobile simulation laboratory that provides state-of-the-art, multidisciplinary clinical training for physicians, nurses, emergency medical service providers, and other staff. The initiative was made possible through more than $500,000 of federal grant funding secured by Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), who was recognized for her role in the project at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Capital Health Regional Medical Center.

“As part of our mission to improve services for urban and suburban patients, Capital Health has made a commitment to becoming a leading academic health center for the region,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health. “The Advanced Simulation Training Center is the latest demonstration of that commitment. Any great endeavor such as this requires strong partners, and we are grateful for the support of Rep. Watson Coleman, whose decades of hard work, experience, and commitment to our community helped bring this initiative to life.”

“For over 125 years, Capital Health has provided high-quality medical care to local residents. I am so grateful that some of our country’s finest medical professionals are right here in Trenton and this new mobile lab will help reach further into our neighborhoods to better serve some of our most vulnerable populations,” said Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Capital Health’s Advanced Simulation Training Center is a mobile facility that can be driven directly to learners to provide enhanced, customized instruction to doctors, nurses, paramedics, and other staff at or near their place of work. The 40-foot unit has two large, independent simulation rooms equipped with manikins

Capital Health Simulation Coordinator Paul Morer demonstrates one of the simulation rooms to Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Dr. Robert Remstein, Chief Academic Officer (Capital Health) aboard the Advanced Simulation Training Center.

(life-sized models of human bodies) to simulate real patient scenarios. Instructors in two central control rooms create situations that learners will see in real life, document their performance, and provide meaningful feedback. Simulation training like this promotes learning through active hands-on experience in a risk-free environment while supporting the development of teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills.

Capital Health will use the Advanced Simulation Training Center to provide safe training in advanced cardiac life support, interventional procedures, management of acute hemorrhagic crises, childbirth, infant resuscitation, team care and other areas to prepare the next generation of its medical staff. Additionally, the simulation labs will be used for process improvement, medical error investigation, and research to help Capital Health continue to advance health care quality, safety, and best practices. On top of its clinical training mission, the Advanced Simulation Training Center will provide health education and wellness screenings at local community-based events.

Capital Health – Virtual Primary Care, part of Capital Health Medical Group, offers telehealth services to individuals in New Jersey and Pennsylvania (ages 16 and older) who wish to receive support in managing common health issues from the comfort of their home or anywhere in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

“Throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Capital Health Medical Group providers have conducted thousands of patient visits in a virtual setting,” said Dr. Michael Stabile, a board certified family medicine physician at the Capital Health Primary Care – Hamilton office. “As a result, our team is thoroughly prepared to provide outstanding, high quality health care services at a time and place most convenient for patients located in New Jersey or Pennsylvania – whether they are at home or on the go.”

Capital Health’s team of more than 35 virtual primary care providers can address a wide range of health conditions, including (but not limited to) symptoms of COVID-19, sinus problems, upper respiratory infection, sore throat, urinary tract infection, cough, flue, rash, common cold, eye infection, and more.

While Capital Health – Virtual Primary Care is designed to serve as an online platform to host sick visits, patients have the ability to schedule an in-person, follow-up visit with the same providers they see during their video visit at one of the many Capital Health office locations across the Mercer, Bucks, and Burlington county region.

To learn more or to request an appointment, visit capitalvirtualcare.org or scan the QR code to complete the online form.

Check your internet connection. Wi-Fi on wired connection is strongly preferred for a great video visit experience.

Use headphones. Cut down on any background noise and help keep the conversation with your health care provider private.

Please be patient! Video visit traffic may be high as clinicians work to provide care for patients during the current health crisis, so some appointments may run a few minutes behind schedule. A provider will be with you as soon as possible!

During virtual care visits with patients who aren’t feeling well, our clinicians address symptoms of numerous health conditions and issues, including but not limited to:

COVID-19

Sinusitis

Upper respiratory infection

Sore throat

Urinary tract infection

Cough

Influenza (Flu)

Rash

Common cold

Yeast infection

Allergies

Eye infection

Insect bites

Nausea

Back pain

Tick bites

Richard J. Isolde

Richard initially worked as a defense attorney for insurance companies.

During that time, he saw that individuals were not always treated fairly. He decided to start representing injured victims. Since then, he has successfully litigated hundreds of cases to favorable settlements and/or verdicts. His efforts have resulted in millions of dollars for his injured clients.

Sungkyu S. Lee (“SQ”)

Before joining Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, SQ worked for a large insurance company defending policyholders who were being sued. He concentrated his practice on automobile accidents and premises liability issues. SQ brings his skills and experience from the defense side to the plaintiff side in order help injured people recover from those that caused them harm.

Spartans’ lineman Lambert makes a name for himself

By Rich Fisher

Sometimes it’s just impossible to ignore the logic of Dan Caruso.

Such as, “It’s pretty hard to be named Jack Lambert and not be a football player,” the Steinert High football coach said.

Caruso was referring to his senior twoway lineman Jack Lambert. For those not up on their 1970s football legends, Hall of Famer Jack Lambert was the NFL’s most ferocious linebacker of his era in helping the Steelers to four Super Bowls.

“There’s a lot of pressure,” Lambert said of having the name. “I learned about him when I was four or five. I’m a Steel ers fan, and so is my mom. The name was completely unintentional. When I started playing football, my mom said, ‘You know there’s a real player named Jack Lam bert.’ That’s why I wear number 58.

“Every coach I ever had always said something the first time they ever met me. When I was younger I was like ‘Yeah, yeah!’ but now it’s like, ‘Whatever.’”

And while an induction ceremony in Canton may not be in his future, Lambert has proven to be a darn good high school player. A true iron man, he has played right offensive tackle and defensive end for three seasons without ever getting a break. And he plays both sides of the ball effectively.

“I think he is one of the best linemen in the county,” Caruso said. “He certainly should be up for Lineman of the Year in

the county. He never comes off the field, he’s played every snap for all three years. He’s a natural born leader for us, he’s great in the classroom.”

Heading into the Thanksgiving game with Hamilton, Lambert was tied with Ryan Belford for the team lead in tack les with 63, three ahead of Colin James. He was the Spartans leader in sacks (4.5) and tackles for loss (8). When he wasn’t attacking the football, he was protecting it on the O-line.

“The thing about Jack is that on both sides of the ball he’s extremely aggressive and extremely active,” Caruso said. “He never stops moving his feet — whether that’s on offense driving people and mov ing people; or on defense in pursuit of the quarterback or the ball carrier.”

A student of the game, Lambert also makes things easier for himself by know ing where to be before the play starts.

“Jack doesn’t make mistakes,” Caruso said. “He doesn’t put himself in bad posi tions, he plays fundamentally sound foot ball. When you have a high motor and play fundamentally sound football and you have the athleticism to make plays, you’re a darn good lineman.”

Lambert started the game at age 5 in Hamilton PAL, where he remained for his entire youth career. During that time he played fullback and middle linebacker — a position he had to play at least once in his career with his name.

In ninth grade, the Spartan freshman coaches tried him at tight end, but even

Steinert senior lineman Jack Lambert in action at home against Ewing on Sept. 3, 2022. Steinert won the game, 21-13. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)

tually opted to make him a lineman.

“I just tried the line and I liked it,” Lam bert said. “I played a little bit of defensive end my last year with Hamilton PAL, but it was more like linebacker and I wasn’t completely a lineman. So I just gave it a go and fell in love with it.”

Lambert showed immediate talent, but Caruso’s philosophy is to keep all his freshmen together on the freshman team so they develop camaraderie and learn to play as a unit. There have been a few exceptions, but for the most part, a 9thgrader is on the freshman team unless an emergency call-up is needed.

Jack’s ability landed him a starting var sity spot as a sophomore, although he had to do a lot of work on his own prior to 10th grade, since the school and its weight room was closed due to Covid.

“It was hard during that pandemic year,” Caruso said. “It would have been the spring of his freshman year where we get into the weight room. But we weren’t in the weight room and doing all that stuff, so it was a mess. But he worked out on his own and got naturally stronger. He wasn’t small but obviously his body has matured and he needed to get stronger. He always had good feet.”

Lambert was happy to make varsity along with fellow sophomore James, but he felt some pressure after being made a starter.

“Oh yeah, especially the first couple games,” Lambert said. “But being around a veteran group, the veteran offensive line we had my sophomore year, they made it a lot better. But I was definitely nervous every single game. Now I’m kind of used to it. Once you go out there and the first play goes off and you hit that guy, everything just goes away and I get into the flow of the game.”

As a sophomore, Lambert had 17 tack les in a seven-game season. Last year, he had 68 tackles, six tackles for loss and a sack. He has raised his level of play despite some health issues.

“He’s in great shape and he’s tough as

nails,” said Caruso, whose team was 5-4 heading into Thanksgiving. “He’s been banged up. All linemen who play both ways are gonna be banged up two games into the season. In our last game, he played the entire game both ways com ing off the flu. He was not himself. But he’s that type of kid. He’s tough, he never complains about anything.

“Even in practice, I have to tell him sometimes, take a rest, get out. He plays that way in practice too.”

In assessing what he feels are the keys to succeeding at his positions, Lambert has a different take on each side of the ball.

“Offensively it’s just knowing your assignment and having the mindset of ‘What am I gonna do and how am I gonna do it?’” Lambert said. “I think that’s the best way to go about playing offensive line. It doesn’t matter how big you are, it doesn’t’ matter if you’re putting a guy on the ground every play, it’s just creating a lane any way you can.

“On the defensive line, I would say it’s more reaction. But studying film, seeing a certain formation and knowing what play is gonna come out of it definitely helps on defense. But it’s a lot more reac tion, I think it’s more of a challenge, but it’s a lot more fun.”

Lambert has gotten interest from Divi sion III college programs but Caruso is hoping he may be recruited by some teams from the Patriot League, which values academics. He sports a 4.1 grade point average and is a member of several clubs at Steinert, as well as the varsity baseball team.

“It’s something I’ve been thinking about,” he said. “I’m not sure what I want to do yet; if I want to play in school. I’m still on the fence about it but it’s not like I’m completely relying on playing at the college level. It’s definitely something I’ve been thinking about and it definitely can happen.”

And if it does, he can have a whole new bunch of people asking about his name.

When is it time for a knee replacement?

Ask The Doctor

You’ve had the X-rays and your doctor says that your knee or hip is in bad shape. The doctor says you’re a candidate for joint replacement surgery. But is surgery the best answer for you?

“Ultimately, joint replacement surgery is a personal decision,” says Michael R. Duch, MD, orthopedic surgeon in the Orthopedic and Spine Institute (OSI) at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton). “Orthopedic surgeons can help to make the diagnosis, but in the end the patient needs to decide what the best solution is for them.”

A rising trend. Joint replacement surgery removes a damaged or diseased joint and replaces it with a combination of plastic, metal and/or ceramic parts that replicate the movements of a healthy joint. Sometimes the whole joint is replaced, and sometimes only the damaged parts are replaced. More than 1 million total joint arthroplasties (reconstructions or

replacements) are done in the United States each year, according to the American Joint Replacement Registry—700,000 of the knee and 400,000 of the hip. The number is expected to increase to nearly 4 million by 2030.

Non-surgical treatment. Surgery isn’t for everyone, however. Many times, a patient’s arthritis—the major reason for joint replacement—stabilizes.

“Patients with arthritic joints who aren’t experiencing pain and who are still functioning well may not need surgery,” Dr. Duch says. In addition, a person who is medically frail may not be a good candidate, since overall health plays an important role in healing.

In these instances, patients are offered non-surgical interventions including weight loss recommendations, cortisone and “gel shot” injections, joint supplements and antiinflammatory medications (now available both orally and in a topical cream form). Physical therapy and assistive walking devices, such as braces, canes and walkers, can also help relieve discomfort and restore mobility. Finally, by modifying activity and

being “mindful” of the arthritic joint, patients can learn to live with their symptoms. Signs that it’s time. The most important factor in choosing to have hip or knee replacement surgery is how the joint is affecting quality of life— physically and emotionally. “If you can’t live with your arthritic joint, or realize it’s not going to get better and the pain is interfering with your quality of life, it may be time for surgery,” says Dr. Duch. Ultimately, only the patient can make the final decision as to whether to undergo this type of major elective surgery. “It’s my job to help guide patients to the best decision for their specific situation, by laying out the medical facts and by sharing my experience of having performed thousands of these procedures,” Dr. Duch says. “That way, they can make the best informed decision.”

Orthopedic Open House: Joint Replacement. Join Dr. Duch on Jan. 17, 2023, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., RWJ Fitness and Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Hamilton, NJ 08619 and discover the latest advances in knee and hip replacement

surgery and learn how a team of specialists help prepare patients for a successful joint replacement. All registered for this program will receive a “healthy dinner.” Space is limited. Register online at rwjbh.org/events or call (609) 584-5900 and dial “1” to reach Health Connections.

For more information about state-of-theart orthopedic treatments offered through the Orthopedic and Spine Institute at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, call (609) 689-7031 or visit rwjbh.org/ortho. To learn more about Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, visit rwjbh.org/Hamilton or call 609-586-7900.

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

For more information, call (609) 584-5900. Registration required for all programs. To register for a program or for schedule changes go to rwjbh.org/events or call (609) 584-5900.

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Clinical Culinary Nutrition: Traditional dia betic dietary Patterns. 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tasty recipes with registered dietitians. Whether or not you are affected by diabetes, discover how consistent carbohydrate dietary patterns help blood sugar this sweet holiday season. Regis

Hunger is Surging In Our Community

YouHCan elp!

Dr. Michael Duch

ter

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The Link between Hearing Loss and demen tia—Can Hearing aids Save Your brain? 10 to 11 a.m. According to several major studies, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and demen tia. Prevention is key! Audiologist, Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D, discusses your options.

Oaks Integrated Care Caregiver Conference: Caregiving for Today and Tomorrow. 5 to 7:30 p.m. Caregivers of seniors with demen tia and memory loss are invited to attend this conference to gain insight into communicat ing and dealing with anger and other chal lenging behaviors.

THuRSdaY, dECEmbER 15

Kids Fit: In the Kitchen Garden! Herbs…for dessert? 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Learn about nutri tious herbs and recipes with special guest Des mond Hayes. Cookie time: treats that can be made with herbs like cinnamon basil, licorice basil and chocolate mint.

Osteoporosis Screening. 1 to 3 p.m. Ultrasound of heel and personalized information. Ap pointment and registration required.

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mindfulness meditation for beginners. 1 to 2 p.m. Calm your anxious mind and tense body with the relaxing and healing practice of Mind fulness Meditation. Patti McDougall, BSN, In tegrative Therapies Nurse.

Winter Solstice Celebration-drum Circle. 7 to 8:30 p.m. Join us as we “drum back the sun” on the longest night of the year. We celebrate with ritual, stories and of course, drumming. Drums and light snacks provided. Mauri Tyler, CTRS, CMP. Fee: $15.

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Wise Women discussion Group: Where do You Find Spirituality? 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Join a community of women as we discuss relevant topics and find purpose and meaning. Patti McDougall, Integrative Therapies Nurse. What’s in the (Lunch) box? a Virtual Program. Noon to 1 p.m. All things seasonal, all the time! Learn what fruit and vegetables are up to this time of year and how to make them shine.

Better Health Programs

There’s no better time to be 65+ years old, and there’s no better place to experience it than at the Better Health Program at RWJUH. Must be a Better Health member to attend. Registration required. Call (609) 584-5900 or go to rwjbh.org/events.

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meditation Classes. Also Dec. 16. 11:30 a.m. to noon Sifu Tony Jackson, DAO Concepts leads this program. Learn to practice meditation when you need it most.

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Tai Chi Classes. Also Dec. 22. 10 to 11 a.m. Sifu Tony Jackson, DAO Concepts leads. Gentle physical exercises and stretches. Each posture flows into the next without pause, ensuring that your body is in constant motion.

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Yoga Classes. 10 to 11 a.m. Charu Chaudhry, Certified E-RYT with Yoga Alliance. Traditional postures, simple breathing exercises, medita tion techniques, as well as how to modify the poses so that you can confidently participate.

Car collides with Chase Bank in Hamilton Marketplace

Jr. FIRELINE

Hamilton Township Fire Divi sion responded to 640 incidents in October. Included in the calls were 13 building fires, 3 passen ger vehicle fires, 4 rubbish fires, 2 other fires, 2 overpressure excessive heat with one fire, 14 assists to EMS crews, 246 EMS calls, 2 lock-ins, 1 search for a missing person, 5 extrications/ rescue assignments, 1 water rescue, 21 hazardous conditions with no fire, 5 electrical prob lems, 9 service calls, 1 person in destress, 3 water problems, 3 odor of smoke calls, 1 animal problem, 14 public service assis tances, 1 unauthorized burning, 3 mutual aid cover assignment, 16 good intent calls, 64 dis patched and cancelled enroute, 15 wrong location or no emer gency calls, 7 calls where steam was mistaken for smoke, 4 hazmat investigations, 8 false

alarms, 97 system or detector malfunctions, 25 special type incidents and 50 miscellaneous assignments.

In October, Colonial Volunteer Fire Company volunteers pro vided lighting for the soccer field at Crockett School, trunk or treat lighting at Langtree, Sayen, Kist hardt, Klockner, Trenton Catho lic, Yardville Heights, University Heights Schools and Hamilton Girls Soccer Association. The station was used for Nottingham band forum pickup and for early voting.

Following are a selection of incidents covered by the fire division in October.

Oct. 1 at 11:17 a.m. Engine 19 with Capt. William Kohut, Truck 13, Squad 12 and Deputy Chief Aaron Heller dispatched to Applegate Drive, Robbinsville for a appliance fire. A binding machine was on fire.

Oct. 2 at 3;27 a.m. EMS Engine 15 with Capt. David Sny der dispatched to Randall Ave. for a pedestrian motor vehicle

accident.. Oct. 2 NJ Task Force 1 deployed to Florida to help with Hurricane Ian Rescue efforts. Hamilton Fire Division members Capt. Kinte Holt and Capt. Jarred Pierson conducted searches on Pine Island.

Oct. 3 at 5:12 a.m. Squad 12 with Capt. Josue Garcia dis patched along with Lawrence Units to Maple Leaf Drive, Law rence Twp. for an uncontrolled water leak. Toilet overflowing and resident cannot turn it off.

Oct. 3 at 6:51 a.m. Squad 12

with Capt. Joseph Flynn, Truck 17 and Battalion Chief Nicho las Buroczi Sr. responded to US Hwy 1 and Franklin Corner Road, Lawrence for a motor vehicle rescue assignment.

Oct. 3 at 8:34 a.m. Truck 13 with Capt. Harold Summers, Squad 16 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. responded to Bear Meade Dr. for a CO alarm with illness.

Oct. 4 at 9:35 p.m. Engine 14 with Capt. Joseph Horn, Marine units 13 and 16 and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan dispatched for water rescue Nottingham Way and North Johnson Ave. Vehicle in water under railroad bridge.

Oct. 5 at 11:58 a.m. Engine 19 with Capt. William Kohut and Squad 16 dispatched to Chase Bank, Marketplace Blvd. for a car into the building.

Oct. 6 at 12:09a.m Truck 13 with Capt. Joseph Pushman, Engine 18, Engine 19, Squad 12 and Deputy Chief Aaron Heller dispatched for a reported dwell ing fire on Country Lane.

Bob Sherman,

Hamilton Fire Division, Station 19, “C:” Platoon: Capt. Michael Sanna and firefighters Jason Brenner and Stephanie Kolibas. (Photo by Bob Sherman Jr.)

Oct. 6 at 11:01 a.m. Engine 14 with Capt. Raymond Pierce dispatched to Notting ham Way and Hamilton Ave. for reported smoke in the area. Caller reported black smoke from the chimney of a business on Hamilton Ave. Arriving unit found a possi ble oil burner fire. Also dispatched: Truck 17, Truck 13, Engines 15 and 18, Squad 12 and Deputy Chief Steven Kraemer.

Oct. 7 at 7:38 a.m. Truck 17 with Capt. Jason Bergtrom dispatched to Franklin Corner Road. Lawrence for an odor of something burning in one of the suites.

Oct. 7 at 2:30 p.m. Engine 15 with Capt. Joseph Pushman and Battalion Chief Timothy Sharpley Sr. dispatched to cover Engine 3/Ladder 2, Trenton. Enroute they were directed to respond to cover Trenton Fire Headquarters, Perry Street. Trenton had a three-alarm fire with sev eral row houses on fire, Rutherford Ave.

Oct. 7 at 4:07 p.m. Truck 13 with Capt. Joseph Smisloff, Squad 16, Squad 12, Engine 19 and Deputy Chief John Retalis responded to Scullin Drive for a kitchen fire. Fire Marshal Jeffery Peoples investigated.

Oct. 8 at 2:18 p.m. Engine 18 with Capt. Joseph Pushman, Squad 12 Rescue 10 and Battalion Chief Patrick Sullivan responded to the 2100 block of YardvilleHamilton Square Road for a vehicle into the structure.

Oct. 11 at 2:06 p.m. engine 18 with Capt. Eric Wojcik, Truck 17 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. dispatched to Pond Run apartments for an elevator rescue.

Oct. 12 at 7:06 a.m. Engine 15 with Capt. Andrew Kmiecik dispatched to South Clinton Ave and Park Ave for a pedestrian-motor vehicle accident.

Oct. 12 at 6:49 p.m. Engine 15 with Capt. Andrew Kmiecik dispatched to Lib erty Street and Olden Ave. for a pedes trian-motor vehicle accident. Bicyclist struck and is under a SUV.

Oct. 13 at 2:04 a.m. Truck 17 with Capt. Harold Summers dispatched to Red Roof Inn. Lawrence Twp. for a building fire. Oct. 13at 6;30 a.m. Engine 15 with Capt. Ryan Shearer, Squad 16 and Bat talion Chief Patrick dispatched to the 600 block of East Park Ave. for a pedes trian motor vehicle rescue assignment. Pedestrian struck by two vehicles and entrapped under a vehicle. Victim pro nounced deceased at the scene.

Oct. 16 at 3:15 p.m. Engine 19 with Capt. Joseph Muzzillo, Truck 17 and Bat talion Chief Patrick Sullivan responded to Pondview Drive, Allentown where the caller reported “A car was into the build ing and the car is on fire”

Oct. 16 at 8:45 p.m. Engine 18 with Capt. David Snyder, Squad 12, Truck 17, Engine 19 and BC Patrick Sullivan responded to 100 block of Maple Shade Ave. for a dryer fire.

Oct. 17 at 11:51 Truck 17 with Capt. Raymond Pierce and Battalion Chief Keith Greene were dispatched to St. Law rence Rehabilitation Center, Lawrence for a dumpster fire, heavy smoke from the dumpster next to the building. At 12;16 p.m. Squad 12 was dispatched for additional water supply for a generator on fire directly in front of the building.

Oct. 18 at 7:01 a.m. Engine 19 with Capt. Michael Sanna dispatched to Allen town Lakewood Road, Upper Freehold Tp. for a motor vehicle accident with pos sible entrapment.

Oct. 19 at 4 p.m. Squad 12 with Capt. Kevin McElroy and Deputy Chief Aaron Heller dispatched to Montadale Drive, Princeton for an appliance fire.

Oct. 20 at 7:53 a.m. Engine 18 with Capt. Ryan Shearer, Truck 17 and Bat talion Chief Patrick Sullivan responded to the 800 block of Estates Blvd. where gas was blowing out of an appliance.

Oct. 22 at 11:56 a.m. Squad 16 with Capt. Michael Balog responded to 1100 block of Whitehorse-Mercerville Road for a vehicle fire.

Oct. 23 at 4:36 a.m. Squad 16 with Capt. Michael Balog, Truck 13 and Deputy Chief Steven Kraemer responded to the 200 block of Sharps Lane for a CO alarm.

Oct. 24 at 10:36 a.m. Truck 17 with Capt. John Smisloff, Engine 18, Engine 14, Squad 16 and Battalion Chief Patrick Sullivan dispatched to Lakeview Child care for commercial fire alarm.

Oct. 25 at 3:59 a.m. Squad 16 with Capt. Jarred Pierson and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan dispatched to Ruskin Ave. for a search for a missing person.

Oct. 26 at 10:32 p.m. Engine 19 with Capt. Michael Sanna responded to Route 539, Upper Freehold. Motor vehicle collision.

Oct. 27 at 10:13 p.m. Truck 17 with Capt. Jason Bergstrom responded to 200 block of Sparrow Drive to assist with smoke alarm service. While on location another neighbor requested smoke alarm service.

Oct. 28 at 9:15 p.m. Engine 18 with Capt. Chris Mull, Squad 12, Squad 16, Truck 17 and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan responded to Pond Run Apartments for a reported apartment fire.

Oct. 30 at 1:17 p.m. Engine 19 with Capt. Michael Sanna, Truck 13, Squad 16, and Deputy Chief Steven Kraemer responded to 5900 block of South Broad Street for a motor vehicle rescue.

Oct. 31 at 7:13 p.m. Engine 15 with

Capt. Damien Cooke and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi responded to West Park Ave. and Lafayette Ave. for a pedestrianmotor vehicle accident.

Bob Sherman, Jr. is an honorary chief and life member of Mercerville Vol unteer Fire Company and a Hamilton resident.

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

NEWS TO KNOW

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Shop Small, Shop Local, Shop Hamilton.

As you shop this summer please remember to support our local small businesses and our neighbors and friends who own them.

Visit our websites Hamilton-Strong.com and ShopHamiltonNJ.com

Jeannine Cimino Board Chairman Rachel Holland Executive Director

The Hamilton Partnership is proud to announce Jeannine Cimino, as newly elected Chaiman of the Board and Rachel Holland as the newly appointed Executive Director.

Jeannine Cimino Rachel Holland Executive Director

Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government officials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success.

The Hamilton Partnership is proud to announce Jeannine Cimino Board and Executive Director.

Congratulations to Jeannine and Rachel, the first females to serve in each of their roles!

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD

Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank

Source: Unkown

Rachel Holland, Executive Director

Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government officials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success.

@thehamiltonpartnership @Hamiltonnjstrong #HamiltonNJStrong

Gregory Blair (Emeritus), Nottingham Insurance Co. Hon. Jeff Martin, Mayor, Hamilton Township

Lee Boss, The Mercadien Group

Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly

Congratulations to Jeannine and Rachel, the first females to serve in each of their roles!

Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G

Patrick M. Ryan, First Bank

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD

Tom Troy, Sharbell Development Corp.

Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government o cials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success.

Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank

FOR MORE INFORMATION LOG ON TO: WWW.THEHAMILTONPARTNERSHIP.COM

Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly

Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G

9 questions with Grounds For Sculpture’s Karen Hollywood

The Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton is interesting place to visit and to work. Karen Hollywood is GFS’ director of cor porate and foundation engagement. This role has a goal of sustaining a thriving regional park dedicated to sculpture and enjoyed by thousands.

Hollywood works on securing funding to keep the park vital and participates in community outreach to make sure that residents of this area come to visit the art park that is in their midst. Karen’s walks between the art and business world and makes sure there is interest, involvement and that both sides appreciate each other.

1. When did your interest in the arts begin?

I’ve worked in museums through most of my career and got to experi ence art through them. To be honest I see art in more than specific mediums, even though I worked at a site that had a large collection by famous artist, Thomas Nast, we also had furniture and historic features in the building that made for an

experience encompassing all kinds of art. A career counsellor early on noted that I was very interested in nature and my surroundings to be colorful and interest ing and so I have been lucky to find that opportunity in most of my roles.

What brought you to the U.S.?

I grew up in Edinburgh, Scotland and during college had a summer job in Mercer County, and then came back for college. I was studying Scottish and American his tory, and my masters’ the sis was on the migration of Scots to Kearny. After grad uation I began working in museums, including a living history museum, historic house museum and now GFS.

How does working at the Grounds For Sculpture influence your artistic outlook?

I find the combination of the historic buildings that remain from the State Fairgrounds, with Trenton tile, and the history of the park’s evolution really inspiring. For me the landscape that

was created in the park taking it from an industrial waste land to the 42 acre stun ning park with so many different kinds of spaces within is inspiring. Whether view ing the artwork or finding a quiet space to escape from busy everyday life, the park inspires creativity. I love the water garden, it has rare Camperdown Elms, from Scotland, and soothing water features. It’s a very quiet and relaxing space. What fight/struggle do you have regarding the art and getting the word out to the local population?

I always hope when I meet someone who came to GFS before and thinks they’ve seen it all already after we speak, they are inspired to come back. It’s an ever-chang ing place, between the seasons in the park, the exhibitions being shown and a range of programs year-round. For those who have never been here, I am always so excited to tell them a little about GFS, but not too much, to encourage them to visit. It’s also fun to learn someone has seen sculpture in and around Hamilton and throughout Mercer County to learn how large the park is and how much more there is so much to see.

It’s always a satisfying moment to hear from a guest how much they discovered and enjoyed the experience.

Do

you make any sculpture yourself?

I have played in our clay maker space in the museum building, where anyone can try their hand at sculpture. That has been fun, to see everyone from groups that come in, to guests to the park who discover it during their visit check out the space and create I hope to take advantage of one of the upcoming ceramics classes, that we are holding this winter and will continue next year.

Do you attend workshops at GFS?

I’m a huge fan of our wellness pro grams. We have everything from Tai Chi, to Wellness Walks, slow to fast pace! Sound Baths, Guided Meditation and more. These workshops are so inspiring in themselves, but set them in the park, in amongst the sculpture or in one of our spacious galleries and it adds another level.

Tell us about Night Forms, the cur rent show at Grounds for Sculpture.

It’s magical! Last year when we had the first iteration of Night Forms it was hard to describe until you saw it. Not just lights, but computer projections onto landscape and sculpture that transformed

the park into a totally different place. It’s a self-guided experience and you can deter mine your own pace It’s not crowded as the installations are spaced out so there is plenty of room for everyone to spend time with each. This year is a new exhi bition with a new route with some of the same sculptures but with updates and additions to the experience. I’m excited for guests to discover the interactive ele ments added this year too.

We see large groups of extended fami lies coming out, and while toddlers, and sometimes grandparents, danced and engaged with the installations, teenag ers were posting to social media, and we see lots of date nights bundled up with an adult hot chocolate as they stroll the park.

Night Forms: Infinite Wave is open through April 2nd, Thursday through Sunday evenings, and the week between Christmas and New Year.

What is a dream project of yours?  The history geek in me would love to see us share more on the story of the his tory of our site at GFS. The State Fair grounds, the transformation and history of the space from where it began to where it is. This would include the creation of the park and the history of it as it grew and evolved. It’s a fascinating story, and I’d love to see that come to life for guests Sometimes in our area transport can be challenging so a bus that loops through Trenton and Hamilton to the park would be a dream!

What is on the horizon?

I’ve excited that we’re installing sig nage for our extensive horticulture col lection. Our gardens are both the setting for sculpture through the park, but also house an amazing collection of speci mens, some incredibly rare. The very careful and thoughtful way our team have created the park over the last 30 years from scrub land to what it is today has made for an incredibly intersection of art and nature is important.

Wellness programming is also some thing that we have found incredible inter est in, and I’m hoping we continue to find funding to support expanding this oppor tunity for more and more individuals, nonprofits and corporations to come out and experience. I’m looking forward to seeing us become event better known for our art, our gardens and our ability to be a place of rejuvenation.

Web: linkedin.com/in/karenrhollywood.

Thomas Kelly is a Hamilton-based artist and member of the Hamilton Arts Council. His work can be found at thomaskellyart.com.

Hollywood

Thomas Kelly

Happy Holidays & Happy

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Peter Dabbene

COMPLEX SIMPLICITY

A few months ago, my family made a trip to Disney World, and had a pleasant, memorable visit despite getting sick with what turned out to be Covid-19. Disney has attracted criticism for raising ticket prices, and for costly upgrade options on its Disney Genie reservation system. It’s still The Most Magical Place on Earth, but at least some of that magic is of the street hustler variety, making your money disappear before you realize what’s happening.

Disney’s is such a carefully presented, self-contained world that I couldn’t help imagining what it would be like without an image-conscious, slightly authoritarian corporate hand guiding everything. What if there were a park that had rides and attractions like Disney’s, but in other ways was nearly its opposite?

If a genie (Disney or otherwise) appeared and offered me wishes, I might ask to experience such a theme park, or rather, amusement park— since the only real “theme” would be the alteration or elimination of established protocols and safety standards. This anti-Disney

World, a slightly more antagonistic version of its Orlando inspiration, would entertain in the tense, confrontational manner of Tommy DeVito, Joe Pesci’s quick-tempered character in the movie Goodfellas, who demanded to know: “Do I amuse you?”

While Tommy DeVito might be the model for regular employees, every amusement park worth its salt needs a larger-than-life mascot—in this case, a chaotic, off-kilter oldster named Auntie Diz Knee.

Auntie Diz Knee World would offer its own smartphone planning app, allowing you to reserve slots for ride tickets and restaurants. But don’t count on anyone actually honoring those reservations; when it comes to food and entertainment, Auntie Diz Knee’s motto is “You get what you get and you might get upset.”

Using Auntie Diz Knee’s patented “Fun Scrambler App™,” you’ll be randomly assigned to rides and eateries at any time and place except the one you wanted.

People love to gamble, so chance is a key component of the fun at Auntie Diz Knee World. You won’t really “win,” but you can definitely lose, and that’s exciting, right? Inspired by Disney’s Avatar: Flight of Passage flight simulator, in which up to

16 participants are first “DNA scanned” to find genetic matches for their avatars, Auntie Diz Knee’s equivalent would see two would-be riders disqualified for some arbitrary, pseudoscientific reason— thereby making the other 14 thrilled that they’ve dodged a bullet, even before their ride’s begun.

Allergens! 4-D Experience™. Enlarged animatronic dust mites, pollen grains, and more will explain how and why your body reacts to them, while the varied, well-stocked, and widely dispersed array of actual allergens populating the tunnel causes you to cough, sneeze, and even collapse in authentic anaphylactic shock! EpiPens® are conveniently available in-park for just twice the average pharmacy price. Afterwards, dine at The Sensitivity Saloon™, where milk, eggs, shellfish, peanuts and tree nuts are somehow all included in every dish—even the beverages!

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Disney’s “link chair” is a seat you straddle like a bike or motorcycle, with back and leg restraints to prevent falls— bor-ing! In stark contrast, Auntie Diz Knee’s guests will ride old, repurposed mechanical bulls salvaged from shuttered Southwest bars, experiencing a rollicking ride with realistic turbulence effects, and a high probability of being thrown and injured. Don’t worry, though—at Auntie Diz Knee World, first aid is always free… as long as you’ve purchased a premium “BodySaver” admission ticket, that is.

Disney’s Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind indoor roller coaster has gotten attention for its pulsing, energetic soundtracks, which vary with every ride. Auntie Diz Knee World tweaks the formula a bit: you’ll hear “It’s a Small World,” Bette Midler’s “From A Distance,” or just staticky white noise, and when it’s all over, rather than wistfully wishing you could ride again, you’ll depart with a sense of relief, and the optimistic impression that you’ve already been through the worst and the day can only get better. That impression would be wrong, of course.

Most theme parks are vigilant about handling allergies, but Auntie Diz Knee has a looser, more Darwinian approach. Sign a simple six page waiver and enter the entertaining, educational Tunnel of

Auntie Diz Knee World’s version of Epcot’s World Showcase bypasses the overly familiar themery of France, Germany, and Italy, in favor of pavilions devoted to less-visited countries of the globe, carefully selected by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Half cultural exchange, half house of horrors, you’ll wander under the watchful eye of secret police or religious hardliners until a misstep lands you a realistic excursion in a prison cell. Because it’s an amusement park, no physical torture is allowed, but Auntie Diz Knee’s Forced Detention Experience™ is so convincing, you’ll be confessing to crimes you didn’t commit in no time at all. Also enjoy the numerous “voting” stations, where you’ll get to see your ballot ceremonially burned shortly after you fill it out.

There’s plenty more. Inspired by a throwaway joke on Universal’s The Simpsons Ride riffing on Disney’s Hall of Presidents, Auntie Diz Knee World has actually produced a Hall of Secretaries of the Interior, along with Halls honoring Secretaries of Labor and Commerce, respectively. Like spacethemed immersive environments? Unlike Disney’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Auntie Diz Knee goes old school and low budget with Space: 1999 Land (hey, licensing is expensive!). When you get tired, enjoy Auntie Diz Knee World’s signature experience: Schadenfreude. You’ll sit in a climate-controlled, windowed area and simply watch people stand on long attraction lines, as they watch you watching them. To get the most out of your encounter, visit the park during the hottest months of the year; other patrons’ discomfort is your pleasure.

Auntie Diz Knee World isn’t for the faint of heart, but there’s always an out, albeit a somewhat embarrassing one. Don’t ask Auntie Diz Knee for help, though; instead, just find a staffer… and cry “Uncle!”

Peter Dabbene’s website is peterdabbene.com.

Illustration by Lucia Dabbene.

Wishing you a Happy Holiday Season

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