12-22 RA

An advocate for homeless families

By ReBeKAh SchrOeDer

Sarah Steward has big shoes to fill. There is no question about that for the person chosen to take over from HomeFront’s longtime CEO and founder, Connie Mercer, who led the nonprofit organization in combating family homelessness and poverty for 31 years.

But Steward naturally stepped into them, bringing with her a recognition of the task ahead, as well as a message of timeless importance—rather than focus on ‘replacing’ Mercer, Steward had already been working alongside her to fill stomachs across Mercer County for seven years, equally nourishing minds and spirits as HomeFront’s COO.

HomeFront, based in Lawrence Township, announced Mercer’s transition back in March. In an April interview with the Lawrence Gazette, the pioneer behind the area’s first family shelter shared her intentions to pursue “bigger picture issues,” such as legislative reforms, before passing the torch.

Following a national search for the best candidate to succeed Mer-

With the Robbinsville “Flock” of student supporters behind them all the way, the members of the Ravens boys’ soccer team celebrates the team’s first state championship in program history.

defeated Mendham in a shootout in the NJSIAA Group III final at Franklin High School on Nov. 12, 2022.

Ravens boys’ soccer team wins state championship

By Rich Fisher

En route to making history, the Robbinsville High boys soccer team showed an incredible ability to dig deep and produce in the most pressurized of situations. Much of it had to do with quality players and coaching, but there was also the intangible of rigatoni

and an Italian shorti.

“It was the togetherness of the team,” senior defender Sean Smith said. “(Senior defender) Nolan O’Grady’s dad said it best when discussing our team’s chemistry, saying ‘I might have to take a loan out after all the pasta parties and WaWa visits this year.’

“These group hangouts definitely

connected us on a more personal scale. Because we were close outside of soccer, inside of soccer we wanted to win games and fight for each other. Our scrappy play comes from our togetherness and the fact that no one on the team had an ego or was worrying about stats. Everyone stepped up when they had to.”

Swept out of office

By BiLL SANserViNO

Robbinsville voters elected three newcomers to the township Board of Education on Nov. 8, rejecting re-election bids by Christopher Emigholz, Kerriann Fox and Lauren Paluzzi.

Peter Oehlberg, Jeffrey Pierro and his running mate, Raghu Nandan, received the most votes, according to unofficial results as of Nov. 21.

A total of seven candidates were running for three-year seats on the board. In addition to the above candidates, Allison Prabhakar—who was running on a slate with Fox and Paluzzi— also lost. Vote totals were as follows: Pierro 2,382; Nandan, 2,107; Peter Oehlberg, 1,853; Emigholz, 1,624; Lauren Paluzzi, 1,298; Prabhakar, 1,189; and Fox, 1,097.

Also on the ballot were two local public questions. Approved was a measure that would combine the township’s zoning and planning boards into a consolidated Land Use Board (2,582 yes, 1,801 no).

But voters rejected a question that would have increased Robbins-

Robbinsville

ELECTION continued from Page 1 ville’s open space tax by 2 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. The additional revenue could have been used to be acquire, improve, maintain and preserve open space. (1877 yes, 2591 no).

This year’s election was not without its problems, though. An election day glitch throughout all towns in Mercer County delayed tabulation of the results for several days. A problem scanning ballots cast on election day meant that voters had to submit their choices via paper ballots and sharpies. The problem was discovered by poll workers shortly after the poll opened, said Nathaniel Walker, Mercer County superintendent of elections

According to officials, coding marks printed on the paper ballots was not being accepted by the scanning machines. Officials have called for investigations into the cause of the problem amidst allegations of corruption by some members of the public.

Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello said that she has asked the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office to look into “whether the scanning problem occurred based on an error, or whether something was intentionally done to create chaos and distrust in the election system.”

She added: “We are not suspicious of any specific wrongdoing, but we do need to investigate the matter fully. At the end of

the day, as county clerk, I must certify the election results so I have an interest in the integrity of our system.”

County Executive Brian Hughes also called for the matter to be looked into and for changes in the way elections are run in Mercer.

“We’ve got too many people in control and the quality of our elections has suffered as a result, undermining peoples’ faith in the democratic process,” Hughes said.

In Mercer County, there are three separate entities that play a role in elections— the Board of Elections, the Superintendent of Elections and the Office of the County Clerk.

“After issues in the last two elections, I have come to the conclusion that we must fundamentally change the management of the election process in Mercer County because it is clearly not working,” the county executive said.

There was also a problem in Robbinsville with missing ballots. According to Mayor David Fried, votes from one district in his town were missing.

The missing votes were tracked down by the following day, but the township received no official explanation from election officials about the cause for the problem. For more information, see Fried’s column on page 23 of this issue.

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STEWARD

from

cer, the HomeFront Board of Trustees “unanimously” circled back to the COO, a Ewing native who joined the team in 2016. When Steward began her new position on Oct. 1, Mercer was able to move on to the next stage in her career, leaving the ‘front of house’ operations in familiar hands.

Steward found her footing initially as a college intern for Democratic Congress man Rush Holt, who then hired her for var ious roles in his “government constituent services office, legislative team on Capitol Hill,” and his successful campaigns for the U.S. House of Representatives.

As Steward rose to be Holt’s deputy chief of staff and district director, she worked with him for over a decade, both closer to home in West Windsor and in Washington, D.C. By the time Holt chose not to run for reelection after his loss in the 2013 Senate race, Steward was actively using her experiences to propel a dream of public service.

That same year, Steward found a new voice as a member of the Ewing Town ship Council, where her appointment at age 31 effectively made her the youngest person in local history to have such a des ignation. This gusto for government also earned Steward the title of council presi dent. Steward easily won re-election to a new four-year term on Nov. 8.

On her first day working for Home Front, Steward recalls getting everything set up, which included a trip to the supply closet. She noticed that behind that very door, fate had seemingly stacked itself in boxes awaiting her arrival, as her own handwriting was already on each of them.

“When we closed Rush’s office, we had donated everything to HomeFront, so I got reunited with all my supplies. I have the same stapler on my desk,” Steward laughs. “It’s been an amaz ing time, and it was exactly what I was hoping for— something that was going to put my network and my passion for this community, specifically, into service.”

Steward recalls that Mer cer expressed a certain satisfaction in the board’s eventual choice, the latter explaining, “jokingly, that she’s glad that they came to the right decision, because she picked me for this job seven years ago.”

love every day, and I do—and I’m really grateful for that.”

Although Steward was “coming into the organization with a background in under standing the needs of our community and the support we can offer,” the ability to learn HomeFront’s operations from the founder herself was an honor she never took lightly.

“Connie was our best case manager, our best fundraiser, our best public rela tions firm; she was so many things to this organization,” Steward says. “It really is going to take a team of us to continue on her legacy.”

Steward’s interest in the political sector was piqued by an American government class at Franklin and Marshall College, where she graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s in both government and psychology. In 2018, she also completed her master’s in public administration from Rutgers University.

As of press time, Steward is still fulfill ing her duties as an adjunct professor for Saint Peter’s University’s MPA pro gram, as well as HomeFront’s COO, given the hunt for her replacement remains ongoing.

To Request the Zoom link contact: pastor@dutchneckpresbyterian.com

Steward

“I count myself as incred ibly lucky to be able to be here, to be doing something that means a lot to the community but also means a lot to me,” Steward says. “I realize that not everyone has the opportunity to do something they

Steward says that Home Front’s Family Campus—a sprawling site established in 2015 on the grounds of a former military base in Ewing—is the organiza tion’s home base for meet ing the needs of each family with, “depending on how you count them,” about 35 active programs.

They include: access to emergency housing; educational and child care; health and wellness; enrich ment opportunities; partner agencies like WomanSpace; and “Hire Expectations,” which offers “job training and career support.”

“I think about Connie’s work over the last 30 years, and she built this amaz ing organization, and it has scaled up so significantly, but at the end of the day— and she would tell you this still, up until her last day at HomeFront—we do this work ‘family by family,’ so having those educational, life skills, and career sup ports wrapped up in everything else is an important part that helps us to make sure that this change is lasting and long-term,” Steward says.

Mercer’s pivot to a broader reach beyond the day-to-day operations of HomeFront became possible when observing the organization during the COVID-19 pandemic, Steward says.

“Every organization always thinks, ‘How would we react if something truly terrible happens? Are we really designed, are we built right now, to withstand an incredibly difficult situation?’ We did— and came out, in some ways, even stron ger on the other side,” Steward explains, with HomeFront “surviving and thriving” despite the conditions.

“[Mercer] realized that she really had built something that was going to last, that she had a really strong team in place to continue this work on, and then it was the right time for her to change her role here a little bit,” Steward adds. “That’s an incredible compliment to me, and I take that to heart.”

But even with a full schedule and new responsibilities, Steward maintains that HomeFront shares the same guiding prin ciples as it did under Mercer.

“What Connie built here is an organi zation that can respond to whatever the greatest needs are for families in our com munity, so in some sense, the mission will remain unchanged,” she explains. “We are taking on this incredibly large challenge of trying to end family homelessness. That is an audacious goal, in some sense, but if you read our mission statement, it’s ending family homelessness, but it’s also lessening the immediate pain of families that are living in poverty or experiencing homelessness.”

“We’re always going to do those two sides of the coin, and we’re always going to respond to whatever today’s challenges are,” she says, adding that while those may differ from years prior, a focus as of late has been on the lack of affordable housing available.

Mercer started HomeFront in reac tion to seeing families live in motels along Route 1, and she was able to drastically lower that number until the pandemic. Now, Steward says, “there is a real discon nect between the housing options avail able in our community and what families need,” with those buildings once again occupied by those in need of shelter.

“There are families living in motels in Mercer County right now, not because they wish to live in a motel with their children, but because there are no other options. With the limited funds they have, living in a motel is not a cheap way to live,” she says, adding that while HomeFront is proud to partner in helping develop these homes, the organization “alone cannot solve the problem, so it has real repercus sions for everything else we do.”

Steward acknowledges that the pan demic is a contributing factor to these numbers, but the increase in prices for basics like groceries or diapers can be a direct hit to a family’s monthly budget.

She says that while such a feeling might be shared by many at the checkout line for those hanging by a thread, or a single receipt, that same unexpected cost is a threat to safety.

“[What’s] always close to HomeFront’s heart, and such a core part of our mis sion, is our support for children. Kids have had, as we all know, an incredibly difficult time during the pandemic and afterwards, especially children that are in unstable housing situations,” Steward says. “We have seen really challenging situations with a lot of our children in their educational development, their social and emotional learning, just all the ways that kids were set back by the last several years. Then, you add into that the trauma of homelessness, of living in poverty, liv ing in a motel? That is a very real, present concern for us.”

“We’re working hard to help give kids the tools to be successful long term, help them catch up academically, and make sure that as the world wants so desper ately to move on COVID, that we don’t fail to recognize that there are kids that are still living with the very present effects of that, and will for years and years.”

“If you look at HomeFront’s tagline, it’s ‘working to break the cycle of poverty,’ and some of that cycle breaking happens generationally and happens by the chil dren in the family having a vision of a dif ferent life and the tools to get there,” she says. “Any parent with young kids, no mat ter their economic status, can tell you how tough this last couple of years has been— and for our families, even more so.”

Along with significant losses in conven tional social, physical, and familial infra structures, the pandemic exacerbated the systemic issues already facing those who are experiencing economic hardship.

Steward says that she understands the shift “to move on from COVID, but it’s something that we need to talk more seriously about as a community and make sure that we have those supports in place—to make sure that we’re not going to have a ‘lost generation.’’

She also highlights HomeFront’s “work to help families achieve their educational goals, and career and vocational support,” noting that while there are job opportuni ties, the real challenge is in “finding a job that pays [a] livable wage.”

Through Hire Expectations, anyone receiving HomeFront services can pursue tutoring, then acquire their high school diploma onsite, which can have a positive influence on earning potential. These pro grams are once again being held in-person

after previously being offered online, with employers re-partnering as well.

As HomeFront works to “re-embrace and engage families” for future indepen dence, Steward notes that “it’s not just about throwing somebody into a job; it’s about getting somebody into a career that will help them earn enough to support their family long term. That is a challenge right now, just because the labor market has changed so much, but that’s still really core to our work here.”

HomeFront is also making strides in areas such as data collection, which will add dimension to the nonprofit’s work through a federal grant from the Adminis tration for Children and Families’ Office of Planning, Research, & Evaluation (OPRE).

The Family Self-Sufficiency Demonstra tion Development initiative, Steward adds, “will help better assess the impact of our work,” because although HomeFront has collected data in areas like the number of lives touched since its inception, the orga nization is now one of 20 nonprofits given the tools to develop its internal capacities for doing so.

By giving these anecdotes a way to apply nationally, Steward is “confident” that HomeFront would be able to assess the best practices for what works, what might be overlooked, or what is a “com ponent” in care, such as a lack of adequate transportation.

“If our goal here is to clearly create last ing change, long-term self-sufficiency, then we need to measure and quantify that bet ter,” Steward explains, calling this a rather big “headset change,” but part of the orga nization’s commitment to “become an organization that’s driven by evidence and embracing that at all levels.” * * *

“Our community is incredibly generous; I want to be able to show them the impact of the dollars that they donate, or the items that they give, or the volunteer hours that they give to us,” Steward says. “It’s impor tant for our public-facing work, but even more importantly, I think it’s going to help us really hone in on what about our work is impactful.”

As an example, she mentions that HomeFront has “a relatively small pro gram where if someone donates a car to us in good working order, we will, in turn, give that car to a family that is in great need.”

Steward recalls a case where a vehicle was given to a mother who could not take on a promotion at work due to the long commute and travel barriers, which not only “made an incredible difference in that family’s life,” but stuck with Steward.

“When I think of my life, in public ser vice, in government, in elected office, it is so obvious to me how marginalized so many of the voices are that we serve. I

See STEWARD, Page 9

STEWARD continued from Page 7 think a big part of our work is, ‘how do we switch that up?’” Steward continues. “The art and the creative programs here help do that in a really important way.”

She also wants to continue her own advocacy like Mercer, who helped launch statewide efforts for the benefit of families in New Jersey and continues to do so. Stew ard herself is passionate about expand ing “HomeFront’s role in advancing racial equity and inclusion.”

As Steward prepares for HomeFront’s next strategic plan, she emphasizes how much of a “great comfort and asset” it is to still have Mercer as “part of the Home Front family,” with her involvement unwav ering despite the change in leadership.

“In some ways, the transition has been over the course of this year,” Steward says. “Connie and I have been preparing for this for many years. It is strange to not have her in the office every day, for sure, but it was so deliberate and planned that I think we really did this the right way…our number one goal throughout all this was to make sure that the incredibly important work that we do survives.”

“It’s different now than when Connie began HomeFront, because she grew this to be such a cornerstone agency in our community. On any given night, there’s 450 or so people who are under a Home Front roof, in some sense,” Steward notes, with the organization’s legacy requiring HomeFront to be able to grow and meet demands.

“When Connie hired me, it was fully knowing that HomeFront had reached a point in its growth where, to sustain it and to continue to grow, it needed to be more structured,” she explains, adding that such implementation was a key part of her work as incoming COO.

Steward says that her background in government shaped her own approach to working side by side with Mercer, whom she calls the “dreamer and spirit behind our mission,” as well as the one with the original, boundless vision for the future of Mercer County families.

“When I came to HomeFront, I thought that I would hear these stories of fami lies who had gone through an extreme event—a domestic violence situation, a house fire—or some sort of major pre cipitating traumatic event that led them to seek our services, and we certainly do hear stories like that,” Steward prefaces. “But far, far more common is this idea I mentioned before; it’s families that are liv ing so close to the edge that one hiccup, one medical bill, one car wreck, puts them over the edge—and that is our friends and neighbors.”

According to a study from Empower Retirement and Personal Capital, “only 53% of Americans are in a position to han

dle an unforeseen $500 expense without worry,” which Steward applies to a local scope.

“That might be the gal on the checkout line, or the man behind the counter at the post office. It’s our community, and it’s our neighbors,” she adds, noting that as a life long resident of Ewing, she is confident in the compassion and concern people can have when informed of the proximity to similar statistics. “People don’t always know how to help or what the challenges are, so they turn to organizations like HomeFront, because they trust us to help channel that caring and those resources and their generosity to helping people in our community that need it most.”

“One of the most common things we hear on the hotline is folks saying, ‘I never thought it could happen to me.’ That’s why it’s really important to me, as someone who loves this area, this community here in cen tral Jersey, that the work I’m able to help with at HomeFront is helping our friends and neighbors every day,” Steward says.

“That’s an incredible gift to me, because I recognize my good fortune and my privi lege to be able to do something every day that gives me that sense of satisfaction. But more importantly than that, it’s a real chance to be of service, and I think that if there’s any through line in my career to date, it is the idea of being in service to the community,” she says.

“When I worked with Rush, that was one of his organizing principles, too, that our community can do great things. Gov ernment, in my view, is [what] we can do better together than separately,” she says, describing it as “an extension of the same idea—that our community cares, and they turn to when they need and they want organizations who can help turn that car ing into action.”

Steward notes that she sees her work with HomeFront and her responsibili ties in Ewing Township as “different ways to achieve the same goal.” She adds that serving the public “anywhere in the world” would likely be a fulfilling experi ence for her, but this ability to help others with HomeFront allows her to give back to where she grew up—then, to foster that same progress through taking action and “wrapping” families in new opportunities.

“When I think of all of our programs, and what we offer, everything is made possible by volunteers working with their time and their hands. It’s made possible by gener ous people donating their new sweater or their gently loved couch to a family that needs it. It’s people who are donating their resources to help those who are in need,” Steward says. “I think that’s some of the genius of what Connie built here at Home Front, because HomeFront is not separate from our community; HomeFront is our community.”

The result was an 18-4-1 record and the NJSIAA Group III state champion ship. The Ravens won the first state title in program history by defeating Mendham in a shootout Nov. 12 at Franklin High School. With the game tied 1-1 after regu lation, Robbinsville won the shootout 4-2 as senior goalie Ronit Rijhwani saved two penalty kicks.

“This entire year he has made huge saves to keep us in big games,” Smith said. “So when we went to penalties I had no doubt in my mind that he was going to save shots for us. I know I received the Man of the Match, but if I could give it to anyone else I would give it to my man Ronit.”

Coach Jeff Fisher noted that Rijhwani was not spectacular during the season because he didn’t have to be due to the Ravens strong defense. But he was steady throughout and would always make the big save when necessary.

He proved that in the biggest game of his life.

“He was big-time in that penalty shoot out,” Fisher said. “I told the guys before, I said ‘We just gotta make sure we hit the back of the net because Ron’s gonna get us two saves.’ That’s the kind of confi dence we have in him.

“He was just feeling it. We know it, he’s really good in practice, he’s hard to score on in practice. I think he felt almost like ‘This is my moment right here,’ and he was so confident that he was gonna make some saves for us.”

Junior Bora Turker, who had five goals in six state games, got the team’s lone goal (from Smith) in regulation, and con verted one of the Ravens PKs along with Smith, Mitchell Shapiro and Alex Ivanov.

It capped a long, hard season for the Ravens, who faced adversity from the start when Turker missed the first 10 games with an injury. Robbinsville went 8-2 during that time to show its depth and desire.

“We did a fantastic job adapting to play without him,” Smith said. “We had guys like Mitchell Shapiro and Ethan Pagani scoring big-time goals off the bench as sophomores. The starters Nana (Kofi Appiah) and Adrian (Ivanov) really took the role of leaders up top to help posi tion some of the younger guys that filled Bora’s role temporarily. Also, my fellow defensemen allowed low scoring games, making it significantly easier to win.”

Smith, whom Fisher called the best player he has ever coached, noted that when Turker returned it made Robbins ville that much more versatile on attack. It was all part of believing in themselves, which their coach felt was key.

“The big thing I wanted to instill in them this summer was just confidence,” Fisher said. “Confidence to go forward,

to go attack. Confidence to get through tough opponents. And the whole family mentality as a team, just trying to be there for each other through thick and thin. You could see how much these kids cared for each other and how much they wanted to play for each other.”

The University of Delaware-bound Smith felt his coach deserved some acco lades for preparing the Ravens for so many tense moments.

“A huge factor is coach Fish,” he said. “Fish is a prime example of resilience. He’s had tough luck with groups in the past but from his failure he finds new drills, forma tions, and ways for his team to win. I think this trait has been spread throughout the team because everyone looks up to Fish. He’s a fantastic role model.”

Fisher and his staff had to keep the team positive throughout the season. Aside from Turker, numerous other inju ries hit, which meant a continuous rotat ing lineup. But the “next man up” philoso phy always prevailed.

The biggest example came at left back. After starter Ethan Brown got hurt, Hayden Herrara stepped in and did the job until he was injured. That left it up to junior Jason Testa, who started the final four state games.

Talk about pressure!

“But he did great,” Fisher said. “He’s not a natural left back by any means. It wasn’t necessarily a comfortable position for him to be in. He did phenomenal step ping into a really hard spot. I’m not sur prised. He works really hard and was pre pared to be anywhere on that back line he needed to be.”

Robbinsville actually entered the states on a two-game losing streak, falling to Notre Dame in the Mercer County Tour nament semifinals, and to a talented Bor dentown team.

Still, the Ravens were top-seeded and opened the Central Jersey Group III tour ney against 16th-seeded Brick Memorial. What looked like a comfortable 3-1 win was actually a stern test as Brick took an early 1-0 lead. Smith had two goals and Turker one in the comeback.

“We had a lot of chances to put the ball away,” Fisher said. “Their goalie made some really nice saves. They weren’t a typical 16th seed the way they played. It was almost like a gut check for us, just to let us know that ‘Hey, this is the state tournament, everybody we play is gonna be good.’”

Next up was another Shore team that took the Ravens to the limit. Alex Iva nov scored an overtime goal from Nana Kofi Appiah for a 1-0 win over 9th-seeded Ocean Township.

“They were tough, they were really well organized,” Fisher said. “They knew how

to defend and they put a lot of pressure on to try and score. It was just one of those games that we felt like it was gonna hap pen, but you’re just waiting. And then bam! Nana gets loose on the left side, whips a ball across and Alex has a great finish.”

Continuing its march through the Shore Conference, goals in the final eight minutes by Adrian Ivanov and Tucker pro vided a 2-0 win over 4th-seeded Neptune. Rijhwani had his third straight five-save game.

“We played fantastic against them,” Fisher said. “They came in with a kid up top that was phenomenal, big and fast, a professional left foot. But we have a pretty big, fast defender in the back (Smith) that was able to do a really good job on him, and the rest of the defense was able to pitch in as well.”

The CJ III final presented a Colonial Valley Conference rematch with Allen town, which the Ravens defeated 1-0 Sept. 15. But both sides had come a long way since then, and Robbinsiville had to dig deep to pull out the first sectional title in program history.

The Ravens trailed 1-0 with just six min utes remaining when Alex Ivanov set up Turker with the tying goal. Then, with two minutes remaining in the second overtime, the same two combined for the game-win ner when Ivanov was taken down in the

box and Turker converted the penalty kick for a history-making golden goal.

“Cade (Maglione) scored an incredible goal for them, and Bora hit the post and you start thinking ‘Man it’s not gonna hap pen,’” Fisher said. “So you just gotta push and think ‘No, it is gonna happen because it’s supposed to happen.’”

Venturing further than any Ravens team before it, Robbinsville met South Jersey III champ Cherry Hill West in the state semifinals. Will Schreyer converted from Smith to make it 1-0. After CHW tied it, Alex Ivanov set up twin brother Adrian, who snapped the tie with 9:03 remaining. Rijwhani came up with seven saves.

“They made it tough to create quality chances to score,” Fisher said. “We got up 1-0 and started feeling good. I felt like we kind of started to play worse when we got a lead. We started playing 100 miles per hour when we didn’t need to. We gave up the equalizer and it kind of woke us back up and we started playing again.”

All that remained was the memorable final, which began with a police escort out of town on the way to the game, and a fire engine escort back into town as they returned with the championship plaque.

“It was a great feeling bringing it back to Robbinsville,” Smith said. “Robbinsville isn’t always producing state winners and great sports teams, so it means a lot to the

community when it happens. That’s what makes this title so much better.”

The all-star defender felt the team got great support from the other athletic pro grams in the school, just as the soccer team supported those programs as well.

“When the time came for us to play for a state title, every program was there to support us,” he said. “The support we received helped propel and motivate us forward in tough games. It meant a lot when people from the community that weren’t affiliated with the soccer team made 40-minute drives to see us play.”

Fisher also lauded the backing his team received from within the school and beyond. “It was neat,” he said. “The community was amazing with the sendoff they gave us before we went to the final. The crowd was amazing, our Flock (the Raven student body cheering section) really showed up all year. There were a lot of exciting games. So the kids were really into it.”

Along with those already mentioned, other key players in the championship drive were Daniel Silva and Giacaomo Bottoni at midfield and Nolan O’Grady and Will Schreyer in the back. Stefano Muscera helped keep the team afloat in Turka’s absence until a back injury ended his season after a month.

It was a team that Fisher felt could do

some good things this year “because, the last two senior groups have done a really good job building a culture for us. We were kind of close to breaking through, we were over .500 those years. This year we had a lot of guys coming back with experience who’d been through it. I definitely felt we had a shot to do something special, espe cially with the offensive guys we had.”

The really good news is seven starters return next year, including most of the Ravens goal scorers. But for now, it is time to savor the taste of a championship as an appetizer to Thanksgiving turkey.

Fisher, in his ninth year, called it “extremely satisfying” after all the work he and his staff put in over nine years.

As for the players?

“It’s a huge deal to me personally,” Smith said two days after the game. “I’ve been watching the replay of our penalty kicks and celebration over and over again. On a program level, this speaks volumes to the work past generations have done to put us in this spot as well as the resilience and togetherness that this team has.

“Winning a state championship will be something that will keep us together throughout our years. We all wanted to leave our marks on the program before we left the team.”

Mission accomplished. In the biggest way possible.

Groups support the griefstricken during the holidays

By Sue Ferrara

A recent study published in the Jour nal of the American Medical Association estimated that worldwide, 10.4 million children lost one or more parents, or caregivers, due to Covid-19. The authors noted the many consequences these children would face, including burdens brought on by traumatic grief.

In Mercer County, the number of Covid deaths alone is close to 10,000 peo ple. It is likely that each death has caused a rippleeffect of grief among fam ily members and friends, but most of all children.

Fortunately, our area has two organizations that can provide help. One is called Good Grief, a nonprofit based in Princeton and Mor ristown. And the other is called the Traumatic Loss Coalition based at Rutgers University.

The Traumatic Loss Coalition provides support to members of a community, or a school district after a traumatic event such as a suicide, a homicide, or another incident which seriously impacts a group of people. Trained clinicians provide counseling to those in need.

George Scott, a therapist who works with the Traumatic Loss Coalition, defines grief as “an internal process of feeling a loss.”

And while we most often experience grief from a death, Scott says there are many different kinds of losses in life which can trigger the emotion. Essen tially, “the loss of anything of significance in your life” he says, can cause grief.

“Mourning, or grieving, is the out ward sign of internal grief,” Scott adds. He maintains that grief is like an open wound that needs cleaning and care in order to heal properly. But even then, for some people, there may always be a scar. Everyone’s journey through grief is different due to the nature of the loss, personal experiences, and the ability to access help to “realign” one’s personal inner world, Scott said.

Evelynn Moon works as the Director of Education for Good Grief. She has been with the organization for about 18 months.

She talks about grief being a form of learn ing which happens over time, and usually not in a linear fashion.

You don’t get over the grief of loss, Moon says. Rather, as the grief gets processed, it becomes another experience which makes you, you. As the information packet for Good Grief notes: “We do not believe that there is a prob lem to be ‘fixed,’ but rather a new reality to learn to live with.”

Grief is a “lifelong journey” Moon says. People will experience an “acute phase of grief,” which can come and go forever. She notes there are triggers that re-awaken the grief first felt by the initial loss. There are smells, places, music, the holidays—all kinds of triggers might bring back the grief.

The goal is to build resilience, to try to find joy in the memories as opposed to sadness.

Good Grief was started in 2004 by

See CHAMPS, Page 14

There are smells, places, music, the holidays—all kinds of triggers might bring back the grief.

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.

PLATE,

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Ever feel tightness in your chest when going up a flight of stairs, or short of breath after carrying in the groceries? These can be signs of coronary artery disease. If you think you may be at risk, you should talk to a cardiac specialist at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton. At RWJBarnabas Health, we perform more elective and emergent procedures than any other health care system in New Jersey. Our heart team can clear blocked or narrowed arteries to safely restore blood flow to your heart. Schedule an appointment with one of New Jersey’s top cardiac specialists at rwjbh.org/heart

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!

Dr. Irving Djeng • Dr. Lauren Levine • Dr. Michael DeLuca • Dr. Matthew Etter • Dr. Kevin Collins • Dr. Deolinda Reverendo

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.

CREATIVE WRAPPING - 609-519-4814 Don’t be overwhelmed; let us wrap your holiday gi s & food baskets!

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.

people who believed grieving children needed advocates to support them as they grieved. The initial model for the Good Grief program came from the Dougy Center, also known as The National Center for Grieving Children and Families, in Portland, Oregon, which was founded in 1982.

The Dougy Center gets its name from Dougy Turno, who in 1981, as he was dying from a brain tumor, wrote to Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, a psychiatrist; and, at the time, the leading voice on dying. Turno asked the doctor: “Why won’t anyone talk with me about dying?”

Kubler-Ross connected him with a former nurse, Beverly Chappell, who answered his questions and supported his family until his death. She also started peer groups where children could come and talk about loss.

The mission of Good Grief is to “pro vide unlimited and free support to chil dren, teens, young adults and families after the death of a mother, father, sister or brother through our peer support pro grams, education and advocacy.” Moon stresses Good Grief does not provide counseling; rather, through biweekly peer support groups, volunteers help build a grief community for children, teens, young adults and parents.

It’s a place where those grieving can share their thoughts, fears, tears and hope in a safe place.

“One client described it this way,” Moon says. “We all arrived on differ ent boats, but we all came to the same island.” And on that island, every word used, every planned evening, happens for a reason. At Good Grief, “everything is intentional,” Moon says.

“Words matter. The way we say things matter. We don’t use euphemisms; we use appropriate words like ‘death and dead,’” Moon adds. “We never use ‘loved one’ because we don’t want to assume there was love in a relationship. We talk about empathy and compassion.”

Located on Mapleton Road in Prince ton, the home of Good Grief is sprawling and welcoming. There are rooms where young children can play with one another and ask questions about loss. There is a teen room. Young adults up to the age of 30 have their own space; there is a room for parents to connect.

“We really want to support the kids,” Moon says, “but we also want to pro vide and support everyone in the home. While the adults have their own group, family members are always in the loop about what has happened with their children so conversations can continue beyond the night.”

The Princeton location opened in 2012. Between the Princeton location and the program in Morristown, Moon says Good Grief is helping about 600 people a month. Peer Support Groups run like a school year, from September through June. There is a short summer offering for younger children.

Good Grief also runs groups in schools, and actively trains teachers and counselors to conduct groups in their own educational settings.

Those interested in participating in a Peer Support Group are asked to attend a brief orientation which includes a tour of the facility. Participants must also fill out a short questionnaire. Participants begin an evening at 6:30 p.m. with pizza; the individual groups run from 7 to 8:15 p.m.

Volunteers, trained by Good Grief and background checked, run the peer sup port groups.

“We recently celebrated 5, 10 and 15year volunteers,” Moon notes. “They are getting so much out of it; volunteers come back year after year. We all have our own stories of grief that we carry with us. I think our volunteers want to be the support that they wish they had had.”

The youngest volunteers are college students; most of the volunteer staff are retirees. The next training session will happen in January 2023. Interested per

sons should reach out to Susan Laird susan@good-grief.org

In 2008, the Highmark Caring Place, based in Pittsburgh, helped to establish the third Thursday of November, the week before Thanksgiving, as Children’s Grief Awareness Day. This year, the date is Nov. 17.

The late Fred Rogers was the Honor ary Chair of the organization from 1985 until his death in 2003. The foundation notes: “Before they graduate from high school, one child out of every 20 children will have a parent die.”

The Highmark Caring Place is spon soring a virtual event for Children’s Grief Awareness Day called “Illuminating Hope”. Anyone can add a message to a virtual butterfly and share it. hope.high markcaringplace.com.

Locally, Good Grief will be hosting a Zoom Event on Nov. 17, with Dr. Chris tina Liparini who will talk about the four stages of bibliotherapy which involves reading popular titles that touch upon grief and loss.

Good Grief web: good-grief.org. Trau matic Loss Coalition: ubhc.rutgers.edu/ education/trauma-loss-coalition/over view.xml.

Children’s Grief Awareness Day: chil drensgriefawarenessday.org. Highmark Caring Place: highmarkcaringplace.com.

Newcomers help girls’ tennis to division championship

By Rich Fisher

With five new starters in the lineup, all coach Shari Schleifman wanted was growth from her Robbinsville High girls’ tennis team.

What she got was a team that grew into the Colonial Valley Conference Valley Division champion.

The surprising Ravens finished 9-5 overall and 6-0 in the division, while also qualifying for the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group III Tournament.

All with just one senior in the lineup.

“To be honest I wasn’t really sure where it was going, how it was gonna go, if we were rebuilding or what,” Schleif man said. “We were successful the last few years but lost a group of girls that were part of that success.

“We ended up filling five spots with underclassmen and they definitely achieved above and beyond what I think anybody expected. I knew they could achieve and have a good season, but to win a division this season was actually a

really great achievement for them, con sidering we were starting fresh on var sity in a lot of ways. It was the first time as a coach I’ve come into a season not sure where the lineup would lie.”

All five flights finished with winning records, including the doubles teams that consisted of four sophomores playing their first season of var sity tennis.

The most experienced player was junior Arushi Singhal, who played her third straight season at first singles and finished 9-5 in dual matches. Sev eral of her losses were close, as the CVC contains some of the state’s best competi tion at No. 1

“She had a couple of big wins at the end,” Schleifman said. “What she brought to the table more than anything

was leadership and ability to help oth ers on the team. She is a solid number one. She wins where she needs to win and she plays the tough matches really tight. She’ll get that big win for us when you need it.”

In the state tourna ment against RumsonFairhaven Singhal lost a three-set match that her coach said “was probably the best match I’ve seen all year.”

Playing at second singles was fresh man Nishika Singhal (Arushi’s sister) who had a glittering 11-3 record for the most wins on the team.

“She had a really good season for a freshman,” Schleifman said. “She had big wins everywhere. Wins against very tough teams like Princeton and West

Windsor North. She got us a point in every match where we needed one.”

The coach felt that a three-set loss to Hightstown’s Andrea Vasquez in the sea son’s third match lit the fuse for Nishika.

“She was young and had a tough loss at the beginning that she learned from,” Schleifman said. “She played a good match against Hightstown where she learned a lot about herself mentally and physically. From that point on she took that deep breath and she was winning matches for us constantly. She was very important to the team.”

As was senior Lauren Knipe, who finished 9-5 at third singles and set an example for the underclassman by just competing. Knipe played in pain all year but never missed a match.

“She’s like our blue collar player,” Schleifman said. “Lauren had a knee injury the entire season. She limped through every single match she played. She had some really key moments for us so we could win the division, especially against teams we had to beat.”

‘It was an amazingly good season for such a young team. It was really a confidence builder,’ said coach Shari Schleifman

Specifically defending division cham pion Lawrence, which was the biggest obstacle in the way of a title. Although that match was played early in the year, there was a good chance the winner would get the division crown. That is how it turned out, as Robbinsville took a 3-2 win to hand the Cards what would be their only Valley loss of the year.

Knipe beat Kisha Singhal in two sets to aid that victory.

“She really came through in that one,” Schleifman said. “Just watching her was hard sometimes because she was limp ing through every match with her knee. But that girl fought through a knee injury and she held that three position and she played every match stronger than I’ve seen anybody in my life. She held the position so we didn’t have to move any body from doubles and she got wins for us.”

Maybe the year’s biggest victory came from an unexpected source in first dou bles Brianna Mosquera-Darshana Sent hilkumar. The sophomores endured growing pains but still managed an 8-6 record.

With the contest against Lawrence tied at 2-2, they were the last match being played. Their outcome would decide the match and, ultimately, the division. After losing their first set, Mosquera-Senthilkumar rallied for a 2-1 victory by taking a thrilling 7-6(11-9) tiebreaker over Sriya Buddi-Shalia Kolo

matskaia in the third set.

“They fought through that match and came through when it counted,” Schlei fman said. “When we knew it was that match for the division they rose to the occasion. They had a very bright season but it was a learning season for them. For their first time playing varsity, they did a great job.”

Another pair of first-year starters were Neha Jillella-Nishitha Bhavanam, who went 10-4 at second doubles.

“They also had some growing pains,” Schleifman said. “But they had a very strong season, they did very well. They won when they needed to win and had a very solid season overall. They’re look ing to continue doubles as that’s the plan for them moving ahead.

“They played very well together, they’re best friends, they help each other a lot. As the season progressed they got stronger and stronger and were really doing very well by the end of the season.”

And as good as this year was, the future looks even brighter with six of seven starters returning in 2023.

“It looks like we have a very solid base and they’re very hard working and they want to be better,” Schleifman said. “They want to work hard. It’s a very good group of kids. I couldn’t be happier. This season for them was above and beyond. It was an amazingly good season for such a young team. It was really a confidence builder.”

The starters on the RHS girls’ tennis team after winning the division title. At rear are Nishitha Bhavanam (left), Nishika Singhal, Lauren Knipe, Brianna Mosquera and Darshana Senthillumar. IN teh front are Neha Jillella and Arushi Singhal.

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.

Thursday, december 1

Clinical Culinary Nutrition: Traditional Dia betic Dietary Patterns. 5 to 6:30 p.m. Get up to date on current nutrition issues, hear from other health/ culinary professionals and sam ple tasty new recipes with our registered dieti tians. Whether or not you are affected by dia betes, discover how consistent carbohydrate dietary patterns can help blood sugar control this sweet holiday season. Register at least 48 hours prior to event. Fee: $10.

Thursday, december 8

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 dementia, compared to those with normal hearing. Pre vention is key! Audiologist, Dr. Lorraine Sgar lato, 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. Many caregivers describe feeling moody, helpless, and short-tempered, saying and doing things they later regret. In this presentation you will learn a variety of ap proaches for managing emotions and actions in the moment, along with activities and re sources for handling the anger and other chal lenging emotions that impact caregivers.

Thursday, december 15

Kids Fit: In the Kitchen Garden! Herbs…for Dessert? 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Did you know that in the winter, farmers can grow indoors using something called hydroponics? Learn more about nutritious herbs and recipes with spe cial guest Desmond Hayes. It’s cookie time! Surprise your taste buds with treats that can be made with herbs like cinnamon basil, lico rice basil and chocolate mint.

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

Wednesday, december 21

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, Inte grative 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

Thursday, december 22

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 wonderful 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.

Friday, december 2

Meditation Classes. Also Dec. 16. 11:30 a.m. to noon Sifu Tony Jackson, DAO Concepts leads this program. Meditation can wipe away the day’s stress, bringing it with inner peace. See how you can easily learn to practice medita tion whenever you need it most.

Thursday, december 8

Tai Chi Classes. Also Dec. 22. 10 to 11 a.m. Sifu Tony Jackson, DAO Concepts leads this pro gram. Tai Chi is recommended for seniors be cause it improves balance, strengthens mus cles in the legs and increases flexibility and stability in the ankles. It can help reduce falls and back pain. A series of gentle physical exer cises and stretches each posture flows into the next without pause, ensuring that your body is in constant motion.

Wednesday, december 14

Yoga Classes. 10 to 11 a.m. Charu Chaudhry, Cer tified E-RYT with Yoga Alliance, Charu shares her broad experience in multiple yoga disci plines. This class will include traditional pos tures, simple breathing exercises, medita tion techniques, as well as how to modify the poses for your body so that you can confi dently participate.

Dr. Michael Duch

@capitalhealthnj

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

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.

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.

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.

SIMPLE TIPS FOR SAFE AND EFFECTIVE VIDEO VISITS

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

It’s time for a long hard look at elections in Mercer County

DAVE FRIED MAYOR’S COLUMN

It goes without saying that the last two elections run in Mercer County have not gone as planned.

This is not the time in our country where we can afford any missteps when it comes to the integrity of elections, yet we have now endured them in back to back years.

As I’ve previously declared, I do not believe any of the mistakes on Election Day impacted the results in any meaningful way, and I congratulate our three new Board of Education members —Jeffrey Pierro, Raghu Nandan and Peter Oehlberg. I wish each of you the best of luck, and I am sorry your first election was fraught with so much turmoil.

I have always said putting your name on a ballot is one of the most difficult —but potentially rewarding things—a person can do, and you are all to be commended for your efforts and your service to the students of this school district.

The reports we’ve received from poll workers have not been encouraging, and serious questions about the chain of custody of ballots have been raised by those in the field that evening. We have received unconfirmed reports about bags containing ballots arriving opened, thus raising at least the possibility of tampering. The whole idea of sealing the bags before they leave the polling station is so this does not happen.

Moreover, ballots being left inside machines is utterly unacceptable and shows a complete lack of proper training. We also find it highly embarrassing that because of the large size of the ballots, almost everyone in the room paying any sort of attention can see a person’s ballot choices as they walk over to put those ballots into a scanner.

The whole concept of voting is that is supposed to be private and secure. These ballots are so large in size, even the election challengers sitting in the room can possibly see who someone voted for. For us, that is unacceptable.

The election process in Mercer County needs to be open, transparent and public. Training of poll workers needs to be a priority.

We’re certainly not suggesting that there was anything nefarious at work here, but this is the second year in a row Mercer County has taken a hit on a day

we can all agree is the Super Bowl of events on the governmental calendar.

As for communications, they were poor to say the least. The most honest communication we received was the one our Clerk Michele Seigfried received at approximately 4:30 p.m. from the County Clerk on Wednesday, Nov. 9 informing her via telephone that our District 5 ballots had gone missing.

Again, this goes back to deep concerns over chain of custody. The ballots were obviously misplaced, but not one person at the Board of Elections ever came back and explained to us what happened, when or why. Even more egregious is none of the hardworking and diligent employees in our Clerk’s office, or any of our elected officials, received a call that our ballots were located.

Once we found out the ballots were misplaced, we almost immediately informed our residents—just as we did within an hour after polls opened telling them very early in the process that there was a problem with either the ballots or the machines.

Although we did not hear from the Board of Elections, we did receive calls from other mayors throughout the County that our ballots were found. How could a handful of mayors find the time to call us, but no one at the Board of Elections thought to extend that basic courtesy; we could even argue that was a requirement considering the circumstances.

If you want something to reek of politics, bring other mayors into the loop, but leave out one of the mayors most directly impacted.

In Robbinsville we preach “don’t just bring us the problem, bring some solutions with you.”

So, what can we do to fix this? There are other counties which managed to run a clean process and were able to have functioning ballots, working machines, a proper chain of custody and were able to count all of their ballots not days later, not weeks later, but on election night.

We should look to those other counties to see who is doing it the best and replicate their process. There is no reason to reinvent the wheel here. We all know who those counties are, so let’s mirror what is working in other parts of New Jersey.

Why did this happen and how do we prevent it from happening in the future?

If there is a process, somehow it was not followed in Mercer County. We need to re-examine that process and hold

people accountable for the creation of the ballot, the testing of the ballot, the mass printing of the ballot, the ability of the machines to properly scan those ballots and, finally, the chain of custody and counting of those ballots. We understand the original ballots were tested, but were they properly examined and re-tested after being mass produced by the printing company?

Either the Dominion machines did not work, or the ballots were printed incorrectly, and the machines did their jobs exactly perfect and correctly spit them out as invalid.

The bottom line is for the second year in a row the Mercer County election system has been proven flawed, to say the very least.

As embarrassing and frustrating as Election Day was for towns such as Robbinsville and Princeton, we’re quite certain it was just as embarrassing and frustrating for every municipality in the County.

We have spent millions of dollars on these machines and ballots, and they clearly did not work as advertised. It is time to reassess and come up with a better system.

A full, transparent and independent investigation needs to be undertaken and changes implemented so that what we endured the past two years never happens again.

Peace of Mind.

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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.

Ser ving NJ & PA • 877.999.1886

Dave Fried is the mayor of Robbinsville Township

LAWRENCEVILLE $ 279,000

HAMILTON $309,500

ROBBINSVILLE $315,000

Linda LeMay-Kelly, SA

Cell: 609-651-3583

neighborhood Lawrenceville. Large eat in kitchen and nished 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.

Edward