3-23 HP

Young filmmakers get red carpet treatment

James R. Halsey Foundation

young people entrée into a media career

BY SUSAN VAN DONGEN

These kids today. They’re actually quite brilliant.

So many youths (teens, preteens, and even younger kids) are social media savvy, with the ability and desire to create mini-films and videos presenting a little bit of everything — dancing, singing, rap, drama, visual art, fashion, hair and makeup, poetry and creative writing, even tarot and astrology.

They’re ready to launch themselves into a media career — almost. First, they need more encouragement and education, polish and presentation, and maybe most of all, access to professional equipment.

For five years, the Trentonbased James R. Halsey Foundation of the Arts has assisted in just this kind of mentoring.

See HALSEY, Page 16

Girl Scouts unveil Experience Center in Briarwood Center

BY THOMAS KELLY

There is a new place in Hamilton where girls can learn leadership, engage the community and help to make a difference.

The Girl Scout Experience Center is now open in the Briarwood Shopping Center at 2450 Kuser Road in Hamilton. The ribbon cutting on Feb. 15 was well attended by scouts, leaders, parents and

Daughters and Allfather’s

local government officials.

The mission is that scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who will make the world a better place. The organization has been in existence since 1912, begun in Savannah, Georgia by Juliette Gordon Low, whose nickname Daisy, is also the name of the entry level of girl scouts, which begins at kindergarten and first grade.

Girl Scout troops usually meet in schools, churches and community buildings. Having a center will provide a dedicated space for new and existing programming while at the same time providing a space where girls not yet associated with scouting can stop in and see if scouting may be a good fit for them.

This new Girl Scout Experience Center will provide for the Central

See ScOuTS, Page 14

BY JOE EMANSKI

The older a person’s ties to the Trenton area, the greater the chance that they know of Allfather’s Candy Company. Allfather’s is the source of that all-time great Easter treat, the Allfather’s Original Coconut Cream Yolk Center Egg.

For those not fortunate enough to be familiar, picture a Cadbury Creme Egg that weighs one pound, with coconut cream in place of the mere sugary goo that Cadbury offers. And at the center, in one of the confectionery industry’s most closely guarded secret, that yellow faux yolk center.

Larissa Cooney knows a thing or two about Allfather’s eggs. Her father, Ed DiNatale, has been one of the owners of the company since 1989. Since 2021, it’s been Cooney who has held the reins. And she is ready to lead Allfather’s toward its 150-year anniversary

See EGGS, Page 10

Emily Rogers, Antoinette Cleveland, Jacqueline Drennan and Ella Gilmartin, members of Girl Scouts Cadette Troop 70219 from Hamilton, at the Girl Scouts Experience Center grand opening on Feb. 15, 2023.

(Photo courtesy of the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey.)

Beloved local candy company stays in the family as it advances well into its second century

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AROUND TOWN

Mayor, council members announce re-election bids

Last month, Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin and Hamilton Township council members Pasquale “Pat” Papero Jr., and Nancy Phillips announced the start of their re-election campaign.

“I’m excited to run again with Pat and Nancy and we will continue to talk with our residents about how we intend to keep Hamilton moving forward,” Martin said in a media release. “Our focus remains on making sure Hamilton is full of opportunities to live, work and raise a family.”

“Serving the residents of Hamilton has been an incredible privilege,” said Papero. “I am excited for the opportunity to continue serving the residents and business owners of our great Town.  I’m proud of what

we have accomplished, and look to continue to make my home town the best it has ever been.”

“It has been an honor to serve Hamilton Township over the last three years,” said Phillips. “I am looking forward to continuing to help our residents and keeping Hamilton as America’s Favorite Hometown.”

School district receives School of Character awards

The Hamilton Township School District is the recipient of two 2023 New Jersey School of Character awards. There are 73 award recipients

See NEWS, Page 7

Hamilton Post

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

EDITOR

Joe Emanski (Ext. 120)

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Susan Van Dongen, Rich Fisher

CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS

Peter Dabbene, Thomas Kelly, Robert Sherman Jr.

AD LAYOUT & PRODUCTION

Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Jennifer Steffen (Ext. 113)

community News Service

9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Phone: (609) 396-1511

News: news@communitynews.org

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call (609) 396-1511, ext. 113 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org

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NEWS continued from Page 4

for 2023, selected from 197 applications throughout the state; 24 awarded in New Jersey. Lalor Elementary School received a New Jersey State School of Character Award. Crockett Middle School received an honorable mention award for their work in character-building.

Roxann Clarke-Holmes, principal of Crockett Middle School, said her school has made a concerted effort to convey that character-building is essential to the success of our school community.

“Through various initiatives, and throughout the very fabric of our school culture, we emphasize daily that empathy, compassion, kindness, and respect are paramount. Initiatives, such as our Incredible Kids’ Day, Crockett Parent Academy, and Peer Leadership Program, exemplify our commitment to modeling the essence of good character,” she said.

Jennifer Marinello, Lalor Elementary School principal, said Lalor’s “character journey” is a collaboration between the school Climate Team, teachers, staff, families, and community members who all share a common goal of success for our students. “Our mission is to build a culture of character and respect that embraces diversity, which goes beyond our classrooms and school. Lalor’s character program uses a Responsive Classroom approach to foster the academic, social, and emotional development of every student so they can become leaders in a changing world,” she said.

Character.org, a national advocate and leader for character, certifies schools and districts at the state level that demonstrate a dedicated focus on character

development which has a positive effect on academic achievement, student behavior, and school climate.

Police Academy celebrates 28th class graduation

Forty-four cadets who made up the 28th basic class of police officers took part in the Jan. 27 Mercer County Police Academy commencement held in the gymnasium at Mercer County Community College.

An audience of several hundred family members, friends, Mercer County dignitaries and law enforcement officials from around State of New Jersey saw the cadets receive graduation certificates to officially make them police officers.

The graduates endured 21 weeks of training at the academy in all aspects of law enforcement and will now serve in police agencies within Mercer County and elsewhere. The academy, which was created in October 2006, is located on the grounds of MCCC.

During training, the class studied in disciplines such as use of force, firearms, vehicle pursuit, hostage negotiation, advanced crime scene processing and domestic violence prevention, among others. William Rafferty, of Hamilton, received the academic award.

Several Hamilton residents were members of the graduating class. they include Hamilton Township Police Division: Thomas Horne, Todd Jewell, and Rafferty, who will be joining the Hamilton Township Police Division; Anthony Johnson, who will be joining the Mercer

See NEWS, Page 8

Members of Mercer County Police Academy’s Basic Recruit Class No. 28-22 during the Jan. 27, 2023 graduation ceremony.

NEWS continued from Page 7 County Sheriff’s Office; and Nicholas DiLissio, who will be joining the Trenton Police Department.

CYO of Mercer buys van for children’s programs

Catholic Youth Organization of Mercer County recently purchased a 15-passenger van for its transportation fleet, to replace another fleet vehicle recently retired due to age.

CYO’s transportation program picks up students at 18 schools in Trenton, with more than 83% of after-school program attendees using that service. The transportation program is also used to transport after-school students and summer campers to offsite programming and field trips.

Major donors to the project include Arvesen Fund of the Community Foundation of NJ; Mary Owens Borden Foundation; Citizens Philanthropic Foundation; Investors Foundation; James Kerney Foundation; Princeton Area Community Foundation; and the George H. & Estelle M. Sands Foundation.

CYO executive director, Tom Mladenetz, says vans and buses are critical to services CYO provides. “This acquisition is shining example of what’s possible

with help of generous donors. We are most grateful for the support,” he said in a media release.

School District reveals summer camp program

The Hamilton Township School District will offer four weeks of summer camp programming Hamilton Township residents, grades K through 12, this year.

Camps are taught by certified teaching staff and intended to provide enrichment in humanities, science, technology, music, arts, engineering, math and sports.

There is a series of camps for incoming kindergarteners as well, including Kindergarten Kickstart, Finger Painting, Dinosaur Dig and R is for Reading.

“The summer of 2023 will be another great season for enrichment, fun and engaging sessions that children in our community will enjoy,” said Scott Rocco, superintendent of schools, in a media release.

Registration is open nowat htsdnj.org. There are two options for payment: register online with a credit or debit card or download and print the camp registration Form and submit a money order. Camp registration is accepted on a first come, first served basis.

DINE & DONATE DAY

In

1973

YEARS

RISTORANTE & PIZZA

UPCOMING CHARITABLE EVENTS:

2023

APRIL 16: Unity Tour

MAY 21: Miracle League

JUNE 11: NJ Autism

JULY 9: Joeys Little Angels

AUGUST 6: Whats My Name

1973

SEPTEMBER 10: Ryans Quest

OCTOBER 8: I Believe in Pink

NOVEMBER 12: Shine & Inspire

DECEMBER 10: OneProjectNJ & Mobile Meals of Hamilton

YEARS

DOUGH RAISED:

JAN. 15: Sea Girt Polar Plunge $4,733.56

FEB.19: Deborah Heart & Lung $3,680.33

2023

Please

and beyond.

Which is not to say that taking over the family business is something that Cooney had ever really planned on. But now in her second Easter as chief executive, she is becoming more and more comfortable in the role.

Allfather’s is a seasonal business, focused on Easter. The Coconut Cream Yellow Yolk Egg is the flagship product, but Allfather’s makes a variety of candy items, including peanut butter eggs, vanilla cream eggs, chocolate bunnies, chocolate crosses and more.

Originating in Trenton sometime in the 19th century — believed to be the 1880’s — Allfather’s has a history old enough to be shrouded in mist. Not even the owners of the company have a total grasp on how, why or when the company began, or, for that matter, how it came up with its signature product, the Allfather’s Original Coconut Cream Yolk Center Eggs.

What is known is that was founded by William Allfather on North Warren Street in Trenton, and that the business stayed in the family until 1958, when his son Eugene Allfather, Jr., sold the candy business to a John Milutus.

Milutus operated it for 32 years before selling it to Ed DiNatale, Jim Bartolomei (Larissa’s uncle) and Virgil Brillantini (Jim’s father-in-law) in 1989. For many years, they also owned and operated Tracy’s 5 & 10 on Hamilton Avenue in Trenton.

Allfather’s eggs are a truly local phenomenon, distributed almost exclusively in Mercer and Bucks Counties. That is changing somewhat now that the company has an online presence and is able to ship orders nationwide and even overseas.

Larissa recalls being young and seeing her father or her uncle in stories about Allfather’s. “I felt a little starstruck seeing my dad in the paper. I would bring it to my teachers in school and say, ‘This is something my family’s a part of.’ When you’re young, you don’t really know how big it is,” she says.

After Ed retired from full-time work as a sheriff’s officer, he took over some of the work for Allfather’s that was once staffed out. His wife, Dina — Larissa’s mother — also handled a number of responsibilities.

Dina died in 2020 at the age of just 53, and the next year, Ed pitched his partners on the idea of buying them out. Larissa

didn’t know it yet, but her father’s plan was to install her as the company’s new CEO.

Larissa, who has a master’s degree in social work and still works full time as a therapist, says her dad had never hinted at his plans before he shared them with her and her fiancé at the time, Andrew Cooney. Both attended Steinert High School, though they did not know one another then.

“My mom was such a large part of the business, and when she passed away, it was a lot to deal with. It was definitely a surprise when he told me and my now husband what he was thinking,” she says.

“My business experience wasn’t great. I did a lot when I was growing up — I used to embarrass my dad, I was always selling lemonade or my terrible artwork on the front lawn, I was involved in DECA, took businesses classes and stuff, but nothing that really prepared me for this.”

But with Ed on hand to show her the ropes, she dived in during the 2021 Easter season. The candy is made at an unspecified area factory — many reporters over the years have tried and failed to find out where — using specialized machinery capable of producing the yellow yolk centers of the original eggs. Around October of each year, it is now Larissa’s job to get things started by contacting the factory, setting prices, projecting quantities and sales figures for the coming season and contact retailers about carrying the products for another year.

Larissa, 27, says 2022 was when she, with Andrew’s help, truly took over the role of leader of the company. And despite a busy schedule — they were set to be married in the fall, and Larissa was also in the midst of opening her own therapy practice, Sunflower Soul Healing LLC — they were able to pull it off. They were married in October.

This year, with Larissa settled in her new practice and Andrew, a union carpenter, transitioning to a project management role, they are getting a better and better handle on things. Andrew serves as the chief financial officer, and Ed is content with more of a support role, called upon when needed. As Easter approaches (April 9 this year), Larissa and Andrew are stocking shelves in their various area retail locations (a map of locations is available on the website, allfathers-candy.com). Though much of the Allfather’s product

Andrew and Larissa Cooney pause to take a selfie in front of one of the local product displays of Allfather’s candy.

line has been around for ages, they are looking to add new products here and there, like the new milk chocolate bunnies filled with caramel.

“People have been wanting caramel, people have wanted more dark chocolate, and we are looking at ways to incorporate that,” Larissa says. “We are trying to listen to what they want. People recommend things all the time and we can’t have everything, but we’ll be adding at least something every year even if its

just for that year.”

She says they are planning to take a vacation right after Easter, a prospect that has been made easier by the transitions they have made in their full-time roles. “I know I’m going to need a break,” she says.

Larissa is active on the Allfather’s Facebook page and says social media or the website are the best ways to follow Allfather’s, make online purchases or get updates on where eggs can be found in stores.

Left: an Allfather’s Coconut Cream Yellow Yolk Egg. Right: an Allfather’s peanut butter-filled egg.

High school senior writes and illustrates 2 books

By Joe Emanski

Just about everyone had a lot of time on their hands during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic. Not everybody used that time to publish their first book — but Marisa Martinez did.

Martinez, now a senior at Hamilton High West, used some of her pent-up energy that year to create “Questions for God,” which she both wrote and illustrated.

“I had a lot of time to write it. But it really just took a couple months,” she says. “It was like a summer project. I’ve always wanted to write books since I was little. I figured I should take the time to achieve that dream.”

Martinez, a member of the Pentecostal Church Assembly of God in Trenton, says her faith is a driving factor in what she writes and the messages that she wants to portray.

“I feel like my faith has helped me through a lot of things, since I was little,” she says. “I have grown through my faith throughout my life, so I feel like I’ve always wanted to share that growth.”

She says she first got the idea for “Questions for God” because the start of the pandemic was such an uncertain time. “I used a lot of what I was going through at the time to come up with the idea. I figured I could use that to encourage kids like me, who grew up in church, to take their questions to God,” she says.

The next year, she decided to make “Questions for God” the first in a series by writing and illustrating her second book, “Thank God for Twisty Twirly Curls.”

“I came up with another idea to incorporate my curly hair and how I have learned to embrace my curls over time. It was a pretty similar process to the first book, although it took longer (to write the second book),” she says. “I feel like I’ve taken a lot of my situations and I’ve incorporated that into my writing, especially to use it as an outlet for what I’m going through at the time.”

Martinez says one of the reasons she wrote the book is because when she was little, she didn’t see too many girls on TV who looked like her.

“I feel like it’s important for girls these days to see that so that they can love their hair for what it is and love their look for who they are,” she says.

She is working on a third book, with the hope of publishing it by the end of the year. She said it is too early to go into detail about it, but she is “thinking about

going along the lines of being unique.”

Her mother, Rachel, and dad Hector both helped her through the creative process. Rachel, who works for Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, served as an editor and helped her with the self-publishing process. Hector, a software developer, also pitched in with help on the publishing process.

Marisa says that sometimes she identifies more as an artist than as a writer, but that when she is writing, she feels more a writer than an artist. “It switches from time to time,” she says.

Martinez played soccer as a freshman and sophomore, and also ran track for two years. She is a member of the National Honor Society, student government and the Peer Leadership program.

She plans to attend The College of New Jersey and majoring in fine arts, with the idea of working as an illustrator for a publishing company. Older brother Joshua, a senior at Rider University, is majoring in graphic design.

She says it felt “amazing” to publish each of the books and that she has been grateful for the support she has received from friends and family.

“A lot of my friends were surprised that I actually wne through with it,” she says. “A lot of people were amazed that I took the time through Covid to do what I’ve always wanted to do and they were verys supportive.”

The books are available on Amazon.

Hamilton High School West senior Marisa Martinez with her two books, “Questions for God” and “Thank God for Twisty Twirly Curls.”

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and South Jersey Council which encompasses more than 100 troops. The council stretches from Edison to Cape May.

Celenia Bechtel is the full-time director of the new center and is very excited to see the opening and for the hosting of programming and events. Bechtel, who was into scouting herself as a youth, has been on board with the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey since last October. She has previous experience working with nonprofit organizations and is happy to see the center fully opened.

Bechtel, who is originally from Tabernacle, is looking forward to the programs and sees the local troops benefitting greatly by having this resource so close.

“This is so accessible to troops from Hamilton, Robbinsville, Allentown, all Mercer County and also Burlington County” The central location of the center is very near the Interstate 195 interchange for Yardville and Hamilton.

“The Experience Center will be a hub with different stations such as a maker station with a Cricut material cutting machine, heat press and various materials. The scouts will be able to make custom cards, custom artwork and design and make their own apparel,” she says.

Bechtel says there is a grow station

with lights, soil and seed planting material. There is a kitchenette where the scouts can work on cooking and food badges such as New Cuisines, Simple Meals and Eating for You.

“Programming in the past has included

speakers, demonstrations, music and other “cool” programs. We also see the center as a nexus or meeting place for scout excursions and trips,” she says.

Last year the Girl Scouts of CSNJ served more than 13,000 girls and had

more than 10,000 adult leaders and volunteers.

Lisa Cordeiro Kricun, who is vice president of fund development and marketing for the GSCSJ, is based in the headquarters in Cherry Hill. Kricun says there is

Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin, Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey chief executive Ginny Hill (with scissors), county commissioner Nina Melker, GSCSNJ board president Rachel Holland and N.J. District 14 Sen. Linda Greenstein at the grand opening of the Girl Scouts Experience Center in Briarwood Shopping Center on Feb. 15, 2023. (Photo courtesy of GSCSNJ.)

one existing Experience Center in Egg Harbor, and there will be a third one opening this summer in North Brunswick.

Kricun says, “During the Covid period, we got a little lost. We were virtual, and then gradually came back in person. The Girls Scouts are in the business of creating strong leaders, creative thinkers and scouts who contribute to and provide service to the community they live in. Meeting in person, working on badges and skills and relating with each other is a must. This Experience Center will provide a place to do this,” she says.

There are more than 150 badges the different levels of scouts can earn. The categories include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), Outdoors, Life Skills and Entrepreneur.

There will also be a Scout Shop in the Experience Center in Hamilton. The shop will stock items such as uniforms, badge equipment, gear, t-shirts and other apparel.

Rachel Holland, who was there for the grand opening, is well known in the area as a leader with the Hamilton YMCA, the Hamilton Partnership and is also chair of the board of directors of GSCSNJ. She is a troop leader for both her daughters’ Girl Scout troops: Eva, who is in 10th grade and Jacqueline, who is in 7th grade, are both active in scouting. Holland was a Girl Scout

herself, and recognizes the benefits.

“We have already used the new location for the programming that GSCSNJ is offering. The programs that they run help to expose the girls to other girls in the area from different troops and have them work with some of our corporate partners. The program that the Cadette’s (grade 6-8) went to was organized and run by volunteers from Bristol Myers Squibb. It was a Super Sleuths Badge and they were able to do some science experiments to accomplish it with real life scientists. We are excited to be able to have the experience center so close,” she says.

The Cadette Troop was going to see Romeo and Juliet on Broadway the weekend of the grand opening, and the Senior Troop is going to Europe next summer before they all graduate and are off to college,” she added.

The Girl Scout Experience is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 10 am until 5 pm. Wednesdays, 10 am until 7 pm and Saturdays, 10 am until 3 pm. The Center is closed Sunday and Mondays.

Post Covid, this centrally located center has many possibilities. The excitement from the troops and community is real. The future of scouting looks bright.

As the slogan says, “One Girl Scout can make a difference, but together we can change the world!”

The JRHF, in partnership with the community, aims to “enrich the quality of life for Mercer County’s youths by providing a safe and educational environment where participants are inspired and encouraged toward a better future,” according to its website.

Founded in 2018 by producer/director/ actor/musician Joseph A. Halsey, a Trenton native, this plan is accomplished by stoking an interest in the creative process, particularly while guiding participants in filmmaking, and that means all aspects of the art form. The organization also hopes to provide life-skills training that promotes success in business as well as arts.

The non-profit JRHF — named after Halsey’s late father — will accept any youth in Mercer County ages 10 through 18, and there are no auditions, entrance exams, or waiting lists. The programs are free to participants.

Classes include the Let’s Film and Let’s Film Jr. programs, where youths learn how to create short films, from pre- to post-production.

The Generation Change program involves interviews with adjudicated and at-risk inner city youth, focusing on how they would solve current problems in their community, such as building positive relationships with law enforcement

and local government.

In addition, the young people at the JRHF can create short feature films and have recently completed “Vanessa,” written and acted entirely by the students, and directed by Olivia Ames and Noelle Correa. “Vanessa” is a story of how bullying can easily escalate into a situation of gun violence.

Halsey (the chief operating officer) is assisted by a host of volunteers and a small staff including Kim Cody, chief operating officer, and producer/technical director Stephen Tilghman.

To celebrate its fifth anniversary, the JRHF will throw its first ever annual event, a red-carpet gala on Thursday, March 9, at the Trenton Country Club, which will include stand-up comedy, as well as an appearance by the Nottingham High School Step Team, and music from the LOTUS Project choir.

In addition, there will be fun performances by local and regional “celebs” doing bits from iconic movies, such as the climactic courtroom scene in “A Few Good Men,” where Jack Nicholson growls, “You can’t handle the truth!”

The idea to launch the organization came to Halsey after his documentary “If I was Mayor” was filmed in Trenton. The young people involved “wanted to be part of media,” says Halsey, speaking from his home in Hamilton. “They already do all kinds of things on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, etc. So, the thinking was, ‘let’s teach them a more professional way to do this,’ which we do through the Let’s Film classes.”

One big advantage is that, through the class, they’ll be able to use state-of-the-art professional-level equipment, which most people, even adults, don’t have access to, since it’s quite an investment.

Halsey admits that the Let’s Film classes are intense, and professional documentary craft is a painstaking process, but the young people are enthusiastic, determined, and focused. They’ve helped create hard-hitting works about life in Trenton, especially about how people their age are affected by violence.

Halsey’s own production company, seven13 Films, produces and directs the works, but the student participants in the

JRHF’s Let’s Film program are hands-on through the complex procedure, even earning a production credit on their resume.

“Here’s where it goes full circle,” Halsey says. “The students work as production assistants, they work on all aspects, and they get their first credits, including an IMDB credit. It’s their first professional set, and they’re working with pros we bring in all the time.”

“I’ve Been Shot” is a short film that goes deep into the lives of five young adults who have experienced gun violence first hand. They speak from their perspective on fears of living daily in urban neighborhoods, coping with trauma and murder, and losing friends and family to violence.

The one young man and four young women who have survived that harrowing experience were fearless enough to go on camera and be interviewed, perhaps in hopes that viewers might better understand what it is like to live amid a culture of such chaos.

“Some of the young women were just hanging out with people they’ve known since childhood, and now those people are targets,” Halsey says. “So they’re caught in the crossfire: They wound up getting shot and watching someone they grew up with die. One of the girls was shot when she was only seven years old.”

Joseph Halsey

The JRHF’s 2021 documentary “Common Ground” brought police and juvenile offenders together to sit down in conversation. “It was intense, but it wasn’t as controversial as you would think,” Halsey says. “The two groups of people were really listening to each other. So many people don’t know what the cops’ roles are, why they do things the way they do, and (absorbing those issues) was very helpful.”

On the other hand, the police discovered why young people might push back at them. “It was fascinating to see how both sides learned about each other,” Halsey says.

One part of the Generation Change documentary asked its young subjects “what would you do if you were mayor?” Halsey says they all had the same answer: create more places for youths to go after school, because there are certainly not enough.

“That became one of the Halsey Foundation’s main (emphases),” he says.

He goes on to wonder if some of these youths might someday go into politics, and make better policy than past and current generations.

“We can’t create legislation without empathy and sympathy,” Halsey says. “I don’t think we can legislate things for youths living in a situation like this -- it’s a war zone. You have to know what it’s like,

otherwise you can’t create policy. Without really talking to (the young people), we always think we know what’s better for them. They should have a seat at the table.”

Halsey gives a big shout out to all the staff at the JRH Foundation, especially to Kim Cody, “who is ‘mom’ to all these young people. We’re partners, and she’s been in this every step of the way,” he says. “I named the foundation after my dad, but it’s really a joint venture.”

“There are also a ton of folks who come in and teach, a lot of Rider alums for example, including one who comes in to volunteer as a writing instructor,” Halsey says. “Steve (Tilghman) is in charge of teaching the technical aspects. I work closely with the actors. There’s always a hands-on approach, and it’s a lot of effort, but everything that happens is because of the group. The rest of the credit goes to the young people.”

Halsey and his family helped out in his uncle’s bar in Chambersburg, but then circumstances took him and his father to Melbourne, Florida. Young Joe was playing in a rock band there, just being a teen in general, and got knocked off the track a little. He credits his involvement in theater with giving him more focus.

“I wasn’t paying attention, just goofing off, so my dad and my English/drama teacher Linda Rapp got together and said,

‘Let’s see if Joe wants to get up there and perform,’” he says. “I kind of had a natural ability, whether I was doing music or theater or film, and I got excited about performing, from my very first role.”

“It got me to a point where I wanted to go to college (to study theater),” he says. “All of sudden, my path started going in a proper way, and I said, ‘let’s do this.’”

His first role was the lead in “Bye Bye Birdie,” playing the Elvis-esque Conrad Birdie. From high school, Halsey went to the Florida School of the Arts in Palatka, then moved back to Trenton, commuting to New York for more specialized training at the Acting Studio and Breakthrough Studios.

While anticipating his big break, Halsey was playing music, performing off-Broadway, tending bar, and was also waiting tables in New York City. One night he waited on the casting director for NBC’s “Cosby” show, who felt Halsey would be perfect in a role as the family’s pizza delivery guy.

“That was exciting, especially since there wasn’t much of a TV presence in New York at the time, everything was made out in Los Angeles,” he says. “Not even ‘Law and Order’ was being made there yet.”

Indeed, Halsey got onboard with “Law and Order,” then its offshoot “Special Victims Unit,” playing a cop in both shows.

He also acted in several daytime dramas and on “America’s Most Wanted,” but he left television for various independent film roles. Indie titles included “Junkie Heaven,” “Stand Up Guy,” “Leaving,” and the feature film “Stuff.”

“I pursued the indie film route, and then got into directing and I’ve never looked back,” he says.

The participants in the JRHF programs have run the gamut from college-bound youths to young men serving time in juvenile detention centers. Halsey feels all the students deserve the same amount of kindness, attention, and education, and in fact, “we should all be kind, especially after what we’ve been through these last few years,” he says. “Watching the news cycle, it’s horrifying. We really do need to be a little kinder.”

“That’s why I hang out with the students, they’re not as mean as adults, they’re less jaded, less judgmental, and their creativity is less inhibited,” Halsey says. “Their enthusiasm is what keeps us going.”

The James R. Halsey Foundation of the Arts, 535 East Franklin Street, Trenton, 609-938-3673. The JRHF’s Red Carpet Gala is Thursday, March 9, 6 to 9 p.m. at the Trenton Country Club, 201 Sullivan Way, West Trenton. VIP tickets cost $100. For more information on the foundation and gala, visit jrhfoundation.org.

NAMED A 2022–23

NAMED A 2022–23

BEST ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY BY U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT

BEST ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY BY U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT

We’re so proud to offer our residents the best of the best—from dining and fitness centers to social calendars—because we don’t just care for you, we care about you. As a nationally ranked Senior Living community, we’re proof that doing what you love is always worth it. So come do it here.

We’re so proud to offer our residents the best of the best—from dining and fitness centers to social calendars—because we don’t just care for you, we care about you. As a nationally ranked Senior Living community, we’re proof that doing what you love is always worth it. So come do it here.

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY. The experts do, too.

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY. The experts do, too.

March Events

Notary Oath Night

Thursday, March 2nd, 3:00 - 7:00 PM

The Mercer County Clerk’s office will administer the oath to newly commissioned and renewing Notaries. Please call the Mercer County Clerk’s office to schedule (609) 989-6466 or email epagano@mercercounty.org

Wills & Power of Attorney

Thursday, March 9th, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Presented by Jose D. Roman, Esq., Health and Elder Law Senior Staff Attorney, The Mercer County Legal Services Project for the Elderly

FREE 15-Minutes with an Attorney

Thursday, March 9th, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

The Public Education Committee of the Mercer County Bar Association and the Mercer County Executive present! LAWYERS C.A.R.E*

FREE 15-minute consultation with an Attorney (virtually)

All Lawyers C.A.R.E meetings will take place virtually. Advanced registration is required. For more information please call (609) 585-6200 or visit website: www.mercerbar.com

Personal Safety Presentation

Mercer County Sheriff Office

Thursday, March 23rd, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

This program provides information to Seniors th at will focus on reducing the likelihood of beco ming a target by identifying potentially dangerous situation. One of the key points of the program is to focus on protecting themselves from becoming a victim with a few basic tips

Please call 609-890-9800 to reserve space

Steinert senior accepted to MIT engineering program

Steinert High School senior Fadi Farag has been accepted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to study Computer Science and Electrical Engineering this fall, the Hamilton Township School District has announced.

In 2022, MIT accepted only 6.7% of applicants, according to IveLeaguePrep.com.

Farag has lived in Hamilton Township for 15 years, having attended Langtree Elementary School and Crockett Middle School. He credits several teachers for helping him throughout his education: Langtree thirdgrade teacher Kristen Cumming; Mary Carlin Komjathy (retired Crockett math teacher); and Steinert teachers Stephen Ryan and Erin Blew.

Farag is a member of the Steinert High School Robotics Club, the debate and mock trial teams, and the school newspaper club. He is also a sound engineer for

the theater program.

Farag said he found the task of describing his life in 650 words — for the application essays — one of the most challenging aspects of the process. He enjoyed submitting the MIT application, which was the “most fun” of the 15 applications he submitted. “MIT was one of my top choices and after doing research. I felt it was the best fit for me,” he said.

Farag encourages other students to explore all that high school offers and get out of their comfort zone.

“I like that I can work with my hands now, a skill I learned in robotics. Mock trial has taught me how to think quicker on my feet and make arguments on the spot. Each experience builds your skillset.

“Theater Tech Crew has helped me learn how to interact with different types of technology. My advice is to give it a try and, if you don’t like it, that’s okay,” he said.

957 Highway 33 at Paxson Avenue, Hamilton

Farag

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children is a nonprofit organization committed to advocating for foster children to have their needs met and their rights protected.

You need no special background.

ATTEND AN INFO SESSION

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March 15th @ NOON

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VISIT OUR WEBSITE: CASAMB.ORG

To learn more contact: Jill Du y (Mercer) JDu y@casamercer.org

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On the Cover

Marching to the Arts

BY REBEKAH SCHROEDER AND DAN AUBREY

The month of March is the ideal time for arts enthusiasts to catch the first crop of events as they “spring” to life in music, dance, opera, and theater, so mark your calendars, Mercer County, and become a true connoisseur of the state’s creative prowess.

Editor’s Note: A number of these events ran in the winter arts preview of Community News Service’s Princeton metro area paper, U.S. 1, as “Winter Culture Calendar Forecast: Time for Shows” on January 18. The list has been edited for currency and clarity.

muSic Princeton Sound Kitchen

Princeton University’s Music Department showcases cutting-edge works by emerging composers and internationally renowned performers, which include the following acts:

~Nois is a music saxophone ensemble founded in 2016 with quartet members Hunter Bockes, János Csontos, Jordan

Lulloff, and Julian Velasco

According to the group’s website, ~Nois merges “contemporary chamber music and improvisation to connect with audiences in unique concert experiences,” such as this upcoming selection of pieces by Princeton University composers.

Taplin Auditorium, Fine Hall, Princeton University. Tuesday, March 7, 8 p.m. Free.

Alarm Will Sound, a Brooklyn-based 20-piece chamber orchestra focused on contemporary music performances and recordings, will play new works by Princeton University graduate student composers

Gulli Björnsson, Dai Wei, Liam Elliot, Hope Littwin, Soo Yeon Lyuh, Christian Quiñones, Elijah Daniel Smith, Max Vinetz, and Justin Wright, with Alan Pierson as conductor.

Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University Tuesday, March 21, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Interdisciplinary tap dance artist Michael J. Love is set to join Princeton University graduate student and faculty composers Gulli Björnsson, Rudresh Mahanthappa, James Moore, Hope Littwin, Dan Trueman, and Jason Treuting to round out a program of new compositions.

Community News Service 9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Phone: (609) 396-1511

News: news@communitynews.org

Events: events@communitynews.org

Letters: rschroeder@communitynews.org

Website: communitynews.org

Facebook: facebook.com/mercereats

Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace

Six09 is inserted into each of Community News Service’s nine hyperlocal monthly publications. Over 125,000 copies are distributed each month in the Greater Mercer County, N.J. area.

TO ADVERTISE call (609) 396-1511, ext. 110 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org

A proud member of:

Taplin Auditorium, Fine Hall, Princeton University Tuesday, March 28, 8

Candlelight Lounge

Performers appear on these Saturday afternoons from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at this Trenton bar for the area’s real-deal jazz

James Stewart, Trenton saxophonist; March 11, Dan Kostelnik, jazz organist; March 18, Aaron Graves, Philadelphia pianist; March 25, Dr. Trineice Robinson-Martin singer in the Princeton University depart ment of music; April 1, and April 8, Philadelphia saxophonist

A budget-friendly carpet that combines softness with breakthrough stain prevention

24 Passaic Street, Trenton songwriter,

a show featuring a change in tune for the group. Rather than continue their tradition of classic rock covers, which the Reock & Roll Revue has been doing together for 15 years, the members are performing their own original music.

Founded by Hamilton-based keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and musical maestro Tom Reock, the Reock & Roll Revue fuses “great music and historical content” in their renditions of late 1960s and early ‘70s hits, according to the band’s Facebook page.

The lineup for “Songwriters” is as fol-

Musical group ~Nois will perform at the Princeton Sound Kitchen on March 7.

Sameer Patel, above right, will conduct the Princeton Symphony Orchestra with Dibyarka Chatterjee, above left, on tabla, in the world premiere of William Harvey’s “Seven Decisions of Gandhi” on March 11 and 12. The Québec City dance troupe Cirque FLIP Fabrique soars in “Muse,” at right and below, at the New Jersey State Theater on March 22.

ARTS, continued from Page 3

Ragamala Dance Company, according to the organization’s website, features choreography “rooted in the South Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam.”

Founded by co-artistic directors Ranee and Aparna Ramaswamy, as well as their mother Ashwini, the Minneapolis-based group presents a personal journey of spirituality and movement with “Fires of Varanasi: Dance of the Eternal Pilgrim.”

After the death of the Ramaswamy family’s father and grandfather “away from his homeland of India four years ago,” the show was conceptualized as a tribute to the enduring strength of familial bonds from a Hindu perspective of life and death.

Per the McCarter description, his request was for his ashes to be scattered in the city of Varanasi’s Ganges River, a sacred site.

“Through images that reflect the cosmic trinity of Varanasi, India — sacred pilgrimage routes, the Ganges River, and the patron deity Shiva, heightened by the chants of Vedic priests — the choreographers imagine a metaphorical crossing place where one may leave the mundane and enter into the world of immortality,” the website continues.

“In this theatrical reimagining, we expand upon the birth-death-rebirth continuum in Hindu thought to honor immigrant experiences of life and death in the diaspora.

The 10 performers in this full-length work dance to “an original, recorded score” on a stage enhanced by Willy Cessa, a French scenic and lighting designer.

Wednesday, March 15, 7:30 p.m. $35 to

$55.

More: 609-258-2787 or www.mccarter. org

State Theatre New Jersey

15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick

The Dublin Irish Dance’s new, original production, “Wings: A Celtic Dance Celebration,” is a taste of Irish heritage in musical motion.

According to the State Theater, the show promises a combination of “Ireland’s finest musical and vocal virtuosos” alongside champion dancers in this cultural spectacular of family fun. Tuesday, March 7, 7:30 p.m. $29 to $59.

Cirque FLIP Fabrique’s “Muse,” a night of “breathtaking artistry and athleticism” conveyed through the “playful storytelling” of the Québec City troupe, is another opportunity to see gravity-defying dance numbers.

The acrobats, donning everything from high heels to shoulder pads, become “bodies in flight” against an original score by beatmaker Millimetric and onstage vocals by singer Flavia Nascimento Wednesday, March 22, 7:30 p.m. $29 to $59

More: www.stnj.org.

Opera Boheme Opera

“Madama Butterfly” is Giacomo Puccini’s 1904 tragic opera about a loyal young geisha whose betrayal by her American naval officer husband leads to her shame

and destruction.

Part of the company’s 34th anniversary, the performance will be directed by co-founder Joseph Pucciatti and feature the Boheme Opera chorus and orchestra, as well as original sets and costumes by Giorgio Lalov, the Maryland-based artistic director of Teatro Lirico d’Europa in Bulgaria and artistic advisor for Opera New Hampshire.

The production will be sung in Italian with English supertitles.

Kendall Theater, The College of New Jersey, Ewing. Friday, March 24, 8 p.m., and Sunday, March 26, 3 p.m. $15 to $75.

More: www.bohemeopera.org. ***

SymphOnic muSic Princeton Symphony Orchestra

The next concert of PSO’s season passes the baton to Sameer Patel, who conducts the world premiere of William Harvey’s “Seven Decisions of Gandhi.”

Harvey is not only the piece’s composer but also its violin soloist, and he will be joined by Dibyarka Chatterjee on the tabla, a traditional “Indian subcontinent” percussion instrument with two drums of contrasting size and pitch.

Also on the program are Alexander Borodin’s “Polovtsian Dances,” from the opera “Prince Igor,” and Tchaikovsky’s “Pathétique” Symphony.

Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. Saturday, March 11, 8 p.m., and Sunday, March 12, 4 p.m. $30 to $112. Youth (ages 5 to 17) pay half-price.

Princeton University Concerts

Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University

The Richardson Chamber Players present “March of the Women” at the Richardson Auditorium. The afternoon program of mixed chamber works, inspired by Ethel Smyth’s 1911 composition of the same name, will feature members of the Princeton University Glee Club.

Other performances for the faculty, guest artists, and student musicians are to follow. Sunday, March 5, 3 p.m. $20

Tenor Lawrence Brownlee and pianist Kevin J. Miller share their talents onstage in “Rise,” a program of “new settings of Harlem Renaissance texts by contemporary Black composers.” Wednesday,

March 8, 7:30 p.m. $25 to $40

The Performances Up Close series, in which small audiences are invited to sit on the Richardson stage, continues with a visit from the Chiaroscuro String Quartet, who are set to perform “a program rooted in love” with the sounds of violins and cellos.

The concert features Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 “Serioso,” and Mendelssohn’s String Quartet No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 13. Sunday, March 26, 3 and 6 p.m. $40.

The Jupiter Ensemble presents an all-Vivaldi program starring artistic direc-

Cultural performances bring on the vibrant colors with the Ragamala Dance Company’s “Fires of Varanasi: Dance of the Eternal Pilgrim,” left, and Dublin Irish Dance’s “Wings: A Celtic Dance Celebration,” right.

tor Thomas Dunford on lute and Lea Desandre, a mezzo-soprano, joined by fellow musicians to help make hearing Vivaldi all the more vivid. Thursday, March 30, 7:30 p.m. $25 to $40

Capital Philharmonic of New Jersey

Award-winning Italian violinist Lorenzo Mazzamuto and the Capital Philharmonic of New Jersey serenade audiences into

spring in a rendition of Vivaldi’s “The Seasons” at the Trenton War Memorial’s Patriots Theater.

After being chosen out of the 15 local pianists who auditioned for CPNJ’s inaugural “Youth Concerto Competition” in January, winner Angela Zhang will perform Beethoven’s “Piano Concerto No. 3” in C minor with the orchestra that night.

Patriots Theater at the War Memorial, 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton. Saturday, March 18, 7:30 p.m. $10 to $50.

More: www.capitalphilharmonic.org

TheaTer Passage Theatre

Mill Hill Playhouse, 205 East Front Street, Trenton

“Clean Slate,” a new musical about “radical empathy,” introduces the audience to “a group of disaffected high school students” in “a rehabilitation camp that may, or may not, also be haunted by the souls of former” missing campers.

The work by “Alien 8” creators—with a book by New Jersey playwright David Lee

White and lyrics and music by Kate Brennan—is a co-production with Passage Theatre and Rider University. Passage artistic director C. Ryanne Domingues directs, while Louis Danowsky oversees the musical direction. March 10 through 12. $33.

“

Rendition: A Night of PlayLab Readings” centers on two new works by area playwrights with a community discussion

about the development process. Saturday, April 22. $15 to $25.

More: 609-392-0766 or www.passagetheatre.org

McCarter Theatre

“Wuthering Heights” is a freewheeling and irreverent theatrical interpretation

of British novelist Emily Brontë’s famed 1847 novel of passion, love, and revenge in the wilds of Yorkshire.

Presented in association with the Berkeley Repertory Theater in California, the work featuring original music and movement was written and directed by Britain-based Emma Rice, performed by her company, Wise Child, and co-produced with the National Theatre, Bristol Old Vic, and York Theatre Royal. Matthews Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton February 23 through March 12. $25 to $60.

Pegasus Theater

Old City Hall, 13 Crosswicks St., Bordentown

“Bordentown’s Dramatic Future” is an evening with David Lee White, Bordentown’s nationally produced playwright, whose new musical, “Clean Slate,” is currently having its world premiere at Trenton’s Passage Theater, and Peter Alexander, the founder and artistic director of Bordentown’s nonprofit professional Pegasus Theater Company. Dan Aubrey, U.S. 1 Newspaper editor and past theater producer, will host. Saturday, March 4, 4 p.m. Free

The Pegasus Theater then presents “Every Brilliant Thing,” directed by Bordentown theater artist Jonathan Martin and starring Peter Alexander. March 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, and 26. Tickets $30 to $35.

Bordentown’s theater scene brings together “Clean Slate” playwright David Lee White, above left , with Pegasus Theater Company’s founder and artistic director, Peter Alexander, left , on March 4, for an event titled “Bordentown’s Dramatic Future.”

The musical “Clean Slate,” above right, is a co-production of Rider University and Passage Theater and will be performed at Trenton’s Mill Hill Playhouse from March 10 to 12.

Original Artwork by Alia Bensliman.

Boys & Girls Clubs

The Most Affordable Summer Camp in Mercer County

Boys & Girls Clubs (BGC) has the most affordable Summer Camp in Mercer County! BGC provides quality curriculum, great themes and exciting trips for youth ages 5-14. Register for just one, or all ten weeks of Summer Camp. Early bird rates are available until April 29th and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Campers age 5-10 go on one trip per week and Tween Travel campers, ages 11-14, participate in three weekly trips. Campers of all ages enjoy a new theme each week, and participate in swimming, STEM, sports, art, reading, outdoor education and other fun activities onsite while combatting summer learning loss.

Two convenient locations:

212 Centre Street, Trenton

1040 Spruce Street, Lawrence

For more information or to

Summer campS 2023

Sylvan Learning

Make the Most of Summer

We get that all kids (and families!) need a break from the school year. But taking a complete break from academics this summer won’t help the fall go any better. A summer learning program can help!

Here are three reasons why adding supplemental learning to your summer schedule will make all the difference in the fall!

1. Fill In Skill Gaps While Moving at Your Child’s Pace. During the school year, teachers need to move quickly, whether your child fully understands a topic or not. Your child is constantly chasing a moving target.

strong foundation for the next grade level — or better yet, get ahead!

2. Head into Big Transition Years

With Confidence. Throughout your child’s academic journey, there are certain grade transitions that represent BIG jumps in responsibility and independence.

These big transitions include going from:

-2nd grade into 3rd grade

-Elementary to middle school

-Middle school to high school

-High school to college/university

register go to www.bgcmercer.org/ summercamp or call a membership office 609-695-6060 or 609-392-3191, and select option “0”.

See ad, page 11.

Mini

For pre-schoolers through rst grade. Features themes like Disney Princesses, Mermaids, TikTok Dances. Dancing, arts and crafts and fun! Technique

For the dancers looking to keep their skills up in ballet, jazz and contemporary.

Special Sessions With Master, Ballet & Contemporpary Teachers

Over the summer, though, your child can move at his or her own pace. There’s no chasing other students. You don’t have to worry about the class getting way ahead.

This summer your child can spend the time needed to fill in gaps in learning from the school year and build a

Why 2nd to 3rd grade, you wonder? Third grade is the year that the training wheels come off. Your child will go from learning to read, to starting to read to learn. If your child isn’t ready for that transition, he or she will have trouble making that jump with the rest of the class.

We’ve seen that virtual or hybrid school hit young students the hardest, so getting your kindergartner, 1st or 2nd grader ready for the new challenges and harder concepts will be critical.

For older kids, the transition to high school and college/university academics can be a shock, particularly the rigors of advanced-level reading and writing assignments.

With a tutor, your son or daughter will be well prepared and eliminate the risk of stumbling.

3. Raise SAT® or ACT® Scores

With Summer Help. Summer is the most popular time to get a tutor for SAT or ACT preparation!

Over the summer, your teen can focus on test-taking strategies and finetuning skills without all the stresses and distractions of school.

If you have a soon-to-be senior, your teen has likely taken the exam already. Your tutor will be able to look at the results and know exactly where focus to help your teen improve results on the next exam.

One of the subjects that we see teens struggle with on the ACT and SAT is algebra. Why? Their skills get rusty. (Use it or lose it, right?) Your tutor can make sure your teen gets an awesome refresher before the big test in the late summer or early fall.

Get

Your Child’s Confidence Up

This Summer at Sylvan. Not sure where your child really stands after this school year? We can help.

Our Sylvan Insight™ assessment will give you deep insights into your child’s strengths and skill gaps. Then, our team of experts will create a personalized plan that for your child’s exact needs.

If your child is on pace with school, he or she will get awesome skill practice to make sure skills stay sharp over the summer.

If your child is ahead, he or she will get enrichment activities, so he or she can move further and faster in the upcoming grade level.

If your child is behind, your child will get the instruction and practice to get up-to-speed.

And it’s even easier to schedule learning over the summer. We will work around your plans!

And it’s even easier to schedule our tutors over the summer (many of them are teachers who are off from school), so you can easily work around your summer plans.

Wouldn’t it be awesome if your child headed back to school with the same enthusiasm he or she had for the start of summer?

Sylvan Learning, 3635 Quakerbridge Road, Hamilton. 609-5889037. www.sylvanlearning.com. See ad, page 13

glen roc dance shoppe

Princess and Pirate Camp

July 24th - 28th

9:30am - 11:30am

Ages: 3-7

Each day your child will enter a world of imagination where story time becomes an adventure with music, art, crafting and dance.

Cost: $185.00

Pre-registration required. Last day to register: July 17th

Performance: July 28th

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL

(609) 883-8083 189

EARLY REGISTRATION

$370/wk for full-day & $230/wk for half-day

Deadline: May 1st, 2023

REGULAR RATE $385/wk

• Boys & girls, ages 7-14

• Monday-Friday camp

• Full-day ($385/wk) and half-day ($240/wk)

• Early drop-off & late pick-up options (at an additional cost)

• Technical, tactical, physical, & psychological soccer game components, in addition to fun activities & games

• Positive learning environment

CAMP DATES

Camps begin the week of July 10th and run weekly through the week of August 14th.

Registration and Information at www.wwpsa.org

Summer campS 2023

Hamilton Area YMCA

At Sawmill Summer Day Camp we have 50 acres of outdoor space, the largest pool in Mercer County, fun activities ranging from sports to crafts and STEM, special events, fun themes and new initiatives! 5 fun-filled days for campers to find their spark, find their sense of wonder, find their friends and FIND THEIR ADVENTURE!

• Find Their Spark. Y camp is a place where kids can develop skills, confidence and new friendships. While camp is a summer rite of passage for kids to play outdoors and learn to swim, they are unknowingly rewarded with personal development skills by participating in their favorite activities and by trying activities they have never tried before. In general, they will leave camp with a stronger sense of identity and a better idea of what they love, which may help them in the classroom, in their relationships and to choose a career path in the future.

• Find Their Sense of Wonder. Kids get to discover all the wonders of the outdoors while making friends and forming memories that will last a lifetime. A recent article from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia stated:

“Scheduling time to actively play outdoors sets a natural limit on the amount of time your child can spend with a device (such as TV, smartphone or video game). “It promotes active engagement with their peers and the natural environment, and helps them develop respect for the

world and consideration for others around them.” Camp provides kids the perfect opportunity to discover the outdoors and get their bodies and imaginations more active.

• Find Their Adventure. Summer is a time for kids to explore new things and expand the limits of their imagination. At Y summer day camp, every day is a new adventure! Creativity can’t be stifled at camp because campers don’t have to worry about getting a failing grade. By limiting this kind of restriction, kids can let their

creativity flow.

• Find Their Friends and Fun. At Y day camp, your kids will make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day. Camp is a social center away from home and school where kids learn to work with each other and adult mentors, build relationships and manage conflict.

Children look at camp as a fun way to spend the summer in the sun and splashing in the pool, but parents understand that camp allows kids to reap many life benefits that will follow them through their lives long after the sun has set on their summer camp days.

We have worked hard to plan an exciting summer full of theme weeks, special events and new experiences! Campers will be immersed in arts and crafts, music, science, dance, sports, swimming and so much more! Our counselors are second to none, having had extensive training to welcome your children for the summer. For more information, visit hamiltonymca. org/camp. See ad, page 12

Camp Mercyville

Camp Mercyville

Where Kids Meet Jesus

Where Kids Meet Jesus

June 26 - August 11 • M-F•8:30am-5pm

Register by March 31st with code EARLY to save 10%

(Early & After care available, 3 or 5 day options)

Open House DatesMarch 25 12-2pm | April 24 6-8pm | May 22 6-8pm

Push The Rock - July 24-28 8:30am-3pm

Basketball Camp for Boys & Girls, - July 24-28 Ages 9-16

Vacation Bible School - August 14-18 9 am - 12 pm

For children ages 4 yrs thru 4th grade

More details at www.gracewaybc.org/camps

1934 Klockner Road Hamilton, NJ 08619 609.586.0223

www.gracewaybc.orgoffice@gracewaybc.org

YMCA Camp Mason

Welcoming Campers to a Caring, Inclusive Community

For more than 120 years, YMCA Camp Mason has welcomed campers to be a part of our caring, inclusive community. We strive for excellence and innovation and believe that every child deserves the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. Our proven programs and trained counselors engage and encourage young people and deliver meaningful and memorable experiences.

We offer archery, swimming, boating, arts and crafts, drama, music, a climbing tower, zipline, dance, digital photography and movie making, basketball and court sports, a skateboard park, mountain biking, hiking and countless other activities. Campers can even sign up for FREE off-site trips to explore our fantastic natural surroundings. There is something for everyone!

If you are ready for your child to thrive, develop a positive sense of self and have THE BEST SUMMER EVER, go to our website at www. campmason.org, call 908-362-8217 or email information@campmason.org to register today. See ad, page 8.

Lawrence Hamnett Soccer Association

Spring Registration Is Open

Lawrence Hamnett Soccer Association (LHSA) has opened up their Rec Soccer registration for the upcoming Spring season. LHSA provides a soccer environment that stresses a relaxed, fun-oriented approach to the game where we focus on basic soccer skills and provide a fun competitive approach to games with a high standard for good

sportsmanship and fair play.

The recreational soccer program is open to any child from any town ages 3 and up. The program offers Friday Night training sessions led by trainers from the New York Red Bulls along with games on the weekend. Each session is roughly 1 hour long where kids will have fun learning the game, competing in games and meeting new friends.

To register or find more information on the program or times for specific age groups, visit us at lawrencehamnett.com.

See ad, page 10

Summer campS 2023

Liberty Lake

Summer Camp is Hotter than Ever!

We’re all experiencing the effects of these difficult, post-pandemic times. Especially young people. They are navigating post-lockdown life with the intense pressures of screen-based friendships, self-esteem in the volatile hands of social media, academic demands, and more.

Many have found a great way to unplug and decompress — at Summer Camp! This year has seen unprecedented numbers of campers enrolling in Summer Camp, as parents are recognizing the need to pry their kids off their screens and regain their social skills. Many high school and college students have found a similar reprieve from the weight of worldly cares by WORKING at Summer Camp too.

In my new favorite book “The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas are Setting up a Generation for Failure,” authors/researchers Greg Lukanoff and Jonathan Haidt bring to light the unintended consequences of how raising children has evolved in the past decade.

• Fragility: What doesn’t kill you makes you… weaker? Wasn’t it “What doesn’t kill you makes you STRONGER?” Young people have been taught

and encouraged of late to be risk-averse. Attending or working at Summer Camp can be super-fun and super-challenging. Research spearheaded by the American Camp Association is showing that young people attending or working at Camp come out stronger and more resilient!

• Emotional Reasoning: Always trust your feelings? We’ve all experienced negative, and even overwhelming emotions at times. To be emotionally healthy though, we need to learn how to manage these feelings — not let them rule our lives and logic. At Summer Camp, any given day can be an emotional rollercoaster. There will be winning and losing, disagreements with friends, fear of failure, and disappointments! It’s REAL LIFE in a structured setting, preparing young people for the inevitable challenges that lie ahead of them.

• Us vs. Them: That life is a battle between good and evil people. Cancel culture has become normalized by what has transpired in the news, colleges, and the workplace — causing negativity and polarization. Meanwhile, there are huge commonalities of shared beliefs between all of us. While accepting differences in others can be difficult, good Summer Camps create a training ground to practice diversity, equity, and inclusion.

It’s been a rough past few years, but a “covid silver lining” is the that families are now recognizing the significant effects on their children of increased screen time/social media, isolation, anxiety, depression, prescription drugs, and over the top parental “safetyism.” Parents are actively seeking solutions, and they have found one in Summer Camp.

Camps are filling up quicker than ever, so do your research and reserve your spot now! It’s the ultimate learning environment for young people to develop and practice the social skills essential for success in the 21st century.

Andy Pritikin is the owner/director or Liberty Lake Day Camp, and a partner at Everwood Day Camp and Camp Southwoods. He’s the Past President of the American Camp Association, NY/NJ, and the host of the Day Camp Podcast.

Liberty Lake Day Camp, 195 Florence-Columbus Road, Bordentown. 609-499-7820 www.libertylakedaycamp.com. See ad, page 11

West WindsorPlainbsoro Soccer Association

A chance for kids to develop soccer skills

Parents of soccer enthusiasts aged 7 to 14 need to mark their calendars now for the West Windsor-Plainsboro Soccer Association (WWPSA) weeklong summer soccer camps available throughout the summer beginning July 10, 2023. Experienced soccer coaches will drill boys and girls in the skills necessary to improve their soccer play. This is a chance to have skilled trainers work with you on soccer.

Our goal in the club to develop soccer skills for players at all skill levels. We have a great coaching staff for our summer camps who provide instruction with a goal of increasing skills through a variety of teaching techniques. It is an opportunity for camp participants to improve their skills — their technical and tactical soccer skills — through a variety of exercises,” said Brent Nielsen, who oversees the program for WWPSA.

Full day camps run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a break mid-day for lunch and an option to swim at the community pool. Half-day camps

run from 9 a.m. to noon. “All of our activities and games are structured for learning and fun,” Nielsen said. “Campers will play a game at the end of each day to solidify skills learned and engage in friendly competition.”

Campers learn and reinforce fundamental soccer skills of dribbling and mastery of the soccer ball with emphasis on agility, passing, receiving, and turning. Later in the week more advanced skills of attacking play, scoring, defensive moves, and preventing scoring are emphasized. The importance of teamwork is emphasized along with core exercises and personal fitness.

WWSPA’s goal is to provide youth and adults the opportunity to play instructional and competitive soccer at the highest level commensurate with their ability, potential, and interest.

In that light, WWPSA offers spring and fall soccer programs for pre-K through 12th grade students. Information about spring and fall programs can be found on the WWPSA website, adding additional opportunities for local youth.

West Windsor Plainsboro Soccer Association, West Windsor Community Park, Bernt Midland Boulevard, West Windsor. www. wwpsa.org. See ad, page 9

GraceWay Bible Church

Camp Mercyville Is a Community Favorite

If you are looking for a place for your family to thrive in their relationships with Jesus and each other, GraceWay is the church for you! With over 40 ministries, there is something for everyone! The best way to see if GraceWay is the church home for you is to visit us for Sunday Services at 9 or 10:45 a.m. Childcare and Sunday School is available. Visit our website (www.gracewaybc.org) for more information.

Summer is an especially busy time for children’s ministries. Our sevenweek summer day camp, Camp Mercyville (www.campmercyville. org), has been providing quality childcare for over a decade. Our full-day Vacation Bible School/ Adventure Camp is a community favorite! Push the Rock basketball camp helps children become better athletes, teammates, and grow in their relationship with Christ. Summer Family Nights includes familyfun, worship, and small groups for the whole family on Wednesday evenings. Visit our website (www. gracewaybc.org) or contact our office (609-586-0223) to find out more. See ad, page 10

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.

SERVICES

LEGAL SERVICES Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609799-4674, 609-721-4358.

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 908-385-5701 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, 908-596-0976. 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, 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-609-689-9651.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

3,500 SF OFFICE SPACE, Ewing/Mercer County, FREE RENT, 201-488-4000 or 609883-7900

Space available in the Ewing Professional Park. Comfortable suite currently used by mental health professionals. Waiting room, kitchenette and restrooms in suite. Well-lighted parking lot. Available Jan 1st. For more details, email suppsoln27@ yahoo.com or call Supportive Solutions at 609-635-3751.

Hamilton/ Allentown

Border-Highly Traveled visible location. Commercial end unit in Globus Plaza1100sf+/- can be leased entirely or subdivided. Ideal for professional/medical offices, services, studio & retail store. Highly traveled visible location . Easy access to NJTP, Rt.130, I95. Call for info. DiDonato Realty, 609-586-2344/ 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 609-5778244 for further information

Hilton Head South Carolina Blue Water Resort 1 week w/7 day golf package free except cart, 2 Bed & 2 Baths, Sleeps 6. $1000 Call Sam 609-586-0037

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Salon for sale- excellent opportunity. Priced to sell. Relocating out of state. Large space, great potential. Available to share. Call 609462-0188.

SEEKING FRIENDS

Meet other music-loving singles before enjoying a concert by Chiaroscuro String Quartet at Do-Re-Meet: Find My Friends. Sunday, March 26th, 4:00 PM, Princeton University Campus, Presented by Princeton University Concerts and The Singles Group Tickets & Info: puc. princeton.edu/do-re-meet 609258-2800.

DATING

Meet other music-lovers before enjoying a concert by jazz vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant at Do-Re-Meet: LGBTQ+ Single Mingle. Wednesday, April 12, 7:00 PM, Princeton University Campus, Presented by Princeton University Concerts and The Singles Group, Tickets & Info: puc.princeton.edu/do-re-meet, 609-258-2800

CEMETERY PLOTS

For sale double depth cemetery plot. Location Princeton memorial park, Gordon Road, Robbinsville. Call 609-259-7710.

National Classified

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Experienced

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Call Gary for a free consultation - either in-person, over the phone or through Zoom. Remember, there are no attorney fees unless there is a compensation award.

Northstar trio to make move to college football together

We are a dedicated team of board certified physicians who provide high quality healthcare to newborns, children, and adolescents through college age.

Scheduled appointments and same day sick visits are available weekdays, evenings, and Saturday mornings.

Please call 609.581.5100 to schedule an appointment

Peace of Mind.

Your insurance shouldn’t be what keeps you up at night. Whether your needs are personal or business related, Nottingham Insurance of fer s an extensive selection of insurance products W ith 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.

By Rich Fisher

They never played football together until ninth grade.

And now they can’t get rid of each other.

In a rare trifecta, it was announced on the Feb. 1 College Signing Day that the Nottingham triumvirate of offensive lineman Ronnie McNulty, defensive back Q McMillan and linebacker Dario DeJonge signed with Division II Lock Haven State University. It marks the first time in program history that three players from the same graduating class will attend the same college on scholarship.

“You see two guys, like a package deal, but this is unprecedented,” Northstars coach Milo McGuire said.

It definitely is at Nottingham as athletic director and former football coach Jon “Big Dawg” Adams confirmed this is the first time three classmates were offered by the same school.

But it took them a while to come together. McNulty played his youth football for Hamilton PAL; DeJonge played for the Hamilton Revolution; and McMillan played for Lawrence in the West Jersey Youth Football League.

Of the three, McMillan had college football on his radar since entering high school and had Division I interest until tearing up his knee against Trenton three games into his senior season. Suddenly, the D-I offers withered.

“Lock Haven came into the picture last minute,” said Q, who was recruited as a defensive back. “I was still talking to D-1 and D-2 coaches but they were slowly falling off because my film wasn’t there for senior year. Being a Mercer County kid it’s hard getting interest from all those big schools and I was getting looks from the bigger programs.”

Until the injury. But McMillan showed great maturity in how things played out.

for a Division III program.

“This is something I always wanted to do, but never thought it could actually happen until after junior year when colleges started texting me,” said McNulty, who stands 6-3, 285 pounds. “Sophomore year I didn’t play varsity, so I never had the thought that I’m gonna do college football. I wasn’t expecting it when they started contacting me.”

DeJonge was also pleasantly surprised by the interest.

“I didn’t think I was that good going into junior year,” he said. “As a senior I had my standout year, but I was shocked. It’s been like a dream. Junior year is when I really started getting noticed by people. I didn’t have my mind set on going to college, but senior year I started blowing up and had a bunch of colleges interested. That’s when I wanted to go play football.”

McGuire is thrilled that the three are going together “so they can watch each other’s backs. College is a brave new world out there. They’re just jumping into the middle of that. But to have somebody on your side when you have those down times, to be able to have some comfort, that’s pretty cool.”

While McMillan played varsity since his freshman year as a regular, DeJonge was mostly a special teams player his first two years before taking over as middle linebacker in 2021. McNulty became a starting guard that same year and blossomed into one of Mercer County’s top O-linemen.

McGuire gave the following assessment of each:

“Ronnie is the hardest working big man out there. He perfected his craft the last two years he’s been a starter and it’s just been so great to see his transformation from when he was a sophomore. He loved Lock Haven. He was ready to rock ‘n roll early. He was just ready to go.

Ser ving NJ & PA

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. W ith 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.

• 877.999.1886 • nottinghaminsurance.com

“I really just faced reality and understood and realized what could happen and what will happen,” he continued. “I’m still playing in the best D-2 conference in the nation (Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference) without playing my senior year. I’ve gotta be thankful for what I have and just go on with the cards I’m dealt. It could have been way worse.”

And while Q’s expectations went from D-I down to D-II, his teammates’ hopes both rose from thinking they would play

“Q was the most dynamic player in the county. When he tore his ACL, you had a guy who D-I people were coming to see all the time, and now there’s no D-I. I had said months ago, somebody is gonna get a diamond in the rough. He’s just sitting there, and once he gets cleared (medically) he’s gonna be a game changer. I’m glad he is still able to fulfill his dreams. He’s gonna be great.

“And Dario, this guy is a bull in a china shop. He’s gonna go out there and just wreak havoc. He’s a big bruiser and he’s

gonna showcase his talents in college.”

McNulty was the first of the trio to sign. “I did a lot of visits in the summer but that was my only official visit,” he said. “It was in the middle of my senior season. I went there and met all the coaches and players, and that’s where I wanted to go. It was like a family, they were all really close.”

When the Lock Haven coaches came to Nottingham, they asked McNulty if he had any teammates they might be interested in. He recommended DeJonge and McMillan, who went on visits shortly thereafter. Q was the next to commit, and Dario followed him a few days later.

DeJonge not only liked the school, but that sleepy town in which it’s located. Lock Haven sits about three hours away, which will enable the players’ families to attend games.

“I saw they didn’t have a good record but I figured I’d give it a shot,” Dario said. “I saw it, I loved it. It’s a small little town, everyone is really close. I thought ‘This is probably a good school for me.’ It was beauti-

ful, the campus was so nice. The coaches were amazing. It’s gonna be a good year this year, for sure.”

McNulty admitted he tried ever-so-gently to coerce his fellow Northstars to join him. The school sits in north central Pennsylvania, about a 3-½-hour ride from Hamilton. DeJonge felt McNulty’s urgings made a difference.

“Ronnie definitely put me over the top,” DeJong said. “He was explaining how much fun and just what a good time we would have playing football again with each other.”

Dan Mulrooney is in his second season as the team’s head coach/defensive coordinator. He is in full rebuild mode after the Bald Eagles’ 1-10 season and brought in a whopping 38 recruits and 10 transfers.

“He’s really big on rebuilding and making things work,” McMillan said. “We saw something in him and saw his pride for the game. We loved it and that was another reason to stick with Lock Haven.”

With so many newcomers,

playing time will be wide open for freshmen, which is appealing to the Northstars. Each of them takes a realistic approach, however, and are not suffering from entitlement.

“They don’t want me redshirting but I’m definitely gonna have to work really hard to

start,” McNulty said. “There’s a lot of other people that I will be battling against.”

“He told me that nothing’s guaranteed, but I’ll definitely get in on special teams just because I’m like a special teams guy,” said the 6-foot, 225pound DeJonge. “He also said

if I’m good enough; he’ll play freshmen.”

McMillan is still trying to get back to 100 percent after knee surgery, as he is forced to sit out the basketball season while undergoing physical therapy.

“It’s gonna be a little harder to play right away coming off of injury, but it’s a goal,” he said. “I’m just working toward getting better, getting my body back in shape. Starting in college football right away would be a big deal for me.”

For the threesome, it’s already a big deal that they have each other to lean on.

“It makes me way more comfortable with everything,” McMillian said. “It’s like, I’m going to another home with the players from my home before, so it’s just great.”

DeJonge, who visited 10 schools, agreed, saying “I think it will definitely be easier for me. I’m a teammate guy, I definitely think knowing people going in will be easier.”

It’s also pretty unprecedented in the annals of Nottingham football.

Nottingham High students Ronnie McNulty, Quiyon “Q” McMIllan and Dario DeJonge commit to attending and playing football at Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania. Standing is head football coach Milo McGuire. (Photo by Wes Kirkpatrick.)

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP

ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Adamson overcomes injury to lead Spartans’ basketball

By Rich Fisher

her about staying out of foul trouble.”

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE

Shop Small, Shop Local, Shop Hamilton.

As you shop this summer please remember to support our local small businesses and our neighbors and friends who own them. Visit our websites Hamilton-Strong.com and ShopHamiltonNJ.com

DIRECTOR

For a long stretch of time, Ashley Adamson solved challenging puzzles and learned how to crochet. She got so good she was even able to weave herself a blanket.

Good stuff, right?

Wrong.

Adamson was forced to seek those activities to fight boredom while recovering from surgery for a torn ACL and meniscus suffered during the last preseason scrimmage of her junior year with Steinert High’s basketball team.

Jeannine Cimino Board Chairman Rachel Holland Executive Director

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

Jeannine Cimino Rachel Holland

On Dec. 12, 2021, Adamson jumped up to pass a ball and “a girl came into my landing space and took out my (right) leg.” It was originally diagnosed as a sprained ACL, so Adamson taped it and went out to play 10 days later.

It was a disaster. Whenever she would turn or cut she tumbled to the ground in pain, whether someone was near her or not.

Jacobs has liked what she has seen from Adamson for a long time. As a referee in the Hamilton PAL, the veteran coach first noticed her because “she had some really cool socks.”

As a kid, Ashley was constantly changing sports, be it soccer, softball, baseball, swimming, gymnastics or dancing. Eventually, one of her best friends in elementary school coaxed her into going to Jacobs’ summer camp after fifth grade.

The coach eventually convinced Adamson to go out for the Mid-Jersey Mavericks’ AAU program that she coaches. Ashley played for former Nottingham coach Sharon Conover and began to grow as a player.

“The only practicing I had done was with PAL, and that’s mostly coached by parents,” Adamson said. “Going to the Mavericks, there was a real coach who knew what they were doing. We had practice twice a week and games on the weekends. It was just the experience of starting to get it.”

Adamson made the Steinert the JV as a freshman and got to play in two varsity games.

Executive Director

The Hamilton Partnership is proud to announce Jeannine Cimino

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

Board and Executive Director.

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

Ashley returned to the doctor and an MRI showed the tears. Surgery was originally scheduled for January, but the hardluck kid got Covid, and the operation was put off until Feb. 1.

She embarked on a long process of rehab, where all she could do was watch her Spartan teammates in the winter and keep score for her AAU team in the summer.

Finally, the 5-foot-11, rail-thin senior swingman was cleared this past November, just prior to this season.

This time, it was good stuff.

“I was really nervous to try out,” she said. “I didn’t think I was gonna make the team. I would have been happy to make the freshman team.”

A year later, she played all 24 games and averaged a modest 2.5 points and 1.3 rebounds, but she was learning how to play at the varsity level. Then came last year’s heart-breaker, when Ashley turned to puzzles, crocheting and the internet.

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD

Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank

Source: Unkown

Rachel Holland, Executive Director

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

@thehamiltonpartnership @Hamiltonnjstrong

Gregory Blair (Emeritus), Nottingham Insurance Co.

Hon. Jeff Martin, Mayor, Hamilton Township

Adamson has come back with a vengeance. Heading into the 15-9 Spartans first-round Central Jersey Group III tournament game with Brick Memoria Feb. 20l, she led Steinert in scoring (11.0 points per game) and rebounding (5.3 per game), 3-pointers (52) and blocked shots (15). She was fourth in steals with 60, and also had 25 assists.

“There is an ACL (injury) club on twitter and I followed them,” Adamson said. “They shared stories of how they were doing, what they recommended. It helped me.

#HamiltonNJStrong

Lee Boss, The Mercadien Group

Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly

Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton

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

Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G

Patrick M. Ryan, First Bank

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD

Tom Troy, Sharbell Development Corp.

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

Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank

Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly

Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton

Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G

“I was worried I wasn’t going to remember how to do things the way I used to,” Adamson said. “But I think I’m maybe even improved from where I was before.” Steinert coach Kristin Jacobs won’t argue that point.

“Ashley is the best basketball player we’ve had in the program for at least the last four or five years here,” she said. “We’ve learned that when Ashley is not on the court, that there’s a lot of things we don’t do as well. That’s why we talk to

“And just talking to other people. There’s a lot of people in my life who tore their ACL or had some big injury. Especially two of my most recent AAU coaches. One had an achilles tendon tear, the other had something else in the elbow. Both of them talked me through a lot of it.”

When Adamson was finally cleared on Nov. 12, she tried to make up for what she missed in the past year all in two weeks.

“She was frustrated,” Jacobs said. “She wanted to be further along with her ACL recovery than she was. She went too hard, too soon and we actually had to pull

See ADAMSON, Page 26

SHARIF M. HATAB

TONY LEE

BRIAN A. SMITH

NINA A. CESTARE

MICHAEL GERSTNICKER

DALE MICHELE PARELLO

KAMEESHA SAUNDERS

MARIA GARCIA-HERREROS

ALLISON HAMILTON

IRIS NITZAN

STEVE PSYLLOS

RYANS COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE

Page

her back a little. We had conversations where I said ‘Do I care, do I want you to play this year? Absolutely.’ But what’s important is she has a collegiate career ahead of her and that’s what we want to make sure we focus on, that she keeps her opportunity to do that.

“The problem was, she had been practicing playing for about a month before (Steinert’s practice). But it’s different when it’s every day you gotta wake up and your body has to re-evaluate the muscles – not just the knee but everything that comes with practicing every day.”

Adamson, who was one of three Steinert players to suffer ACL injuries last year, admitted she was in a bit of a rush to be normal.

“I definitely was trying to do too much,” she said. “I played in one tournament the week before the season started, I went too hard and sprained some muscles behind my leg.”

When she was finally able to go at a better pace, Ashley was surprised to see that she was not too rusty.

“It’s not as bad as it could have been,” she said. “As I was able to do more and more things coming back, I was able to join in some things at practice. I could stand still, do a little layup shooting, then join some of the passing drills and eventually I was able to start sprinting with

Of course, there was always that concern about whether she would be the best version of herself when she actually played a game. Any doubts were erased after an opening-day loss to Trenton, when Adamson collected 10 points, 13 rebounds and five steals. Two games later she bagged a career high 24 points against Hamilton West, starting a binge in which she hit double figures in eight of the next nine games.

Heading into the states, Adamson scored doubles in 16 games and had three games of 10 rebounds or more. Her rebounding total is fairly impressive

her in the post defensively she just sees everything. She knows the game.”

Adamson is trying to evolve her game for a reason, as she will be playing for Division III Elizabethtown University in Pennsylvania next year. The Blue Jays actually contacted her as a freshman and, fortunately, maintained interest even when Ashley was sidelined.

“I was worried about that for the first,” she said “But they reached out to me and told me I would get through the injury and it would not change their mind whatsoever.”

Elizabethtown is a good fit as it offers Adamson the accelerated program in occupational therapy that she is seeking.

“Occupational Therapy usually takes seven years, I wanted to do it in six, and a lot of schools don’t have that,” she said. “So that narrowed down my options very

Ashley became interested in OT when “I got dragged along” with her brother to his sessions when they were younger. She observed how much fun both the patients and staff were having.

“They were rehabbing and having so much fun with it,” Adamson said. “It wasn’t like “We have to go.’ They really wanted to go. It just looked like fun, working with kids and letting them have fun while learning different things.”

Sounds like the perfect position for the affable Adamson. And she may even be able to add crocheting into those therapy

Ashley Adamson has recovered from an ACL tear to lead Steinert girls’ basketball in points, rebounds, three-pointers and blocks per game. (Photo by Rich Fisher.)

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS

Register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Preventing Colon Cancer: What You Should Know

Preventing Colon Cancer: What You Should Know

Maximizing Brain Health

Maximizing Brain Health

Thursday, March 30, 2023 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Thursday, March 30, 2023 | 6 p.m. Location: Zoom Meeting

If you’re concerned that you are not as sharp as you used to be, there are steps you can take right now to reduce cognitive decline. DR. RAJIV VYAS from Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists will share strategies to keep your brain focused and reduce memory loss.

If you’re concerned that you are not as sharp as you used to be, there are steps you can take right now to reduce cognitive decline. DR. RAJIV VYAS from Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists will share strategies to keep your brain focused and reduce memory loss.

Thursday, March 16, 2023 | 6 p.m.

Thursday, March 16, 2023 | 6 p.m. Location: Zoom Meeting

Location: Zoom Meeting

To help you take charge of your health, join DR. ASHLEE GODSHALK RUGGLES, a colorectal surgeon from Capital Health Surgical Group, and DR. MARK SAXENA from Capital Health – Gastroenterology Specialists. They’ll discuss the risk factors for colon cancer, options for screening, and how screening reduces the risk for colon cancer.

To help you take charge of your health, join DR. ASHLEE GODSHALK RUGGLES, a colorectal surgeon from Capital Health Surgical Group, and DR. MARK SAXENA from Capital Health – Gastroenterology Specialists. They’ll discuss the risk factors for colon cancer, options for screening, and how screening reduces the risk for colon cancer.

Book Sale Hello Spring!

Williamson sets

on state diving title

By Rich Fisher

All Violet Williamson needed was a little success as a little girl to define what would soon become a path to college.

It all started when she decided to try diving for the West Windsor Whalers of the Princeton Area Swimming and Diving Association team at age 6.

“I honestly just wanted to try it out; I had signed up for the local summer league swim team and the dive team was open so why not also dive,” said the Notre Dame High junior. “What kept me diving was actually winning the girl’s six-andunder PASDA Championship meet in my very first summer diving. It may have just been six-and-under but it kept my spark for diving going.”

That spark became a flame that grows brighter and hotter each year, as the Hamilton resident has become Mercer County’s top diver and one of the top performers in the state. In doing so, she has battled the pressure of competition by turning it into fun.

“I feel lucky to say I enjoyed it right from the start,” Williamson said. “I just fell in love with everything about diving and couldn’t get enough. I’ve had my ups and downs, as anyone who does a sport for this long does. But diving has always been something I do because I truly enjoy it and the process that comes along with it.”

It is a process that has led to great accomplishments, although she had to wait a year to enjoy high school success.

When Violet was a freshman, state and county meets were cancelled due to Covid. She was unable to practice in New Jersey due to indoor restrictions, but her dedication to the sport refused to keep her idle. Her mom and dad took her to Colorado, where she could continue to work on her craft indoors in the winter.

“That’s pretty amazing to go somewhere else so she could just stay with the sport,” said Notre Dame diving coach Elisa Sautter. “I think they had a little more flexibility to be able to do that (with virtual learning). But that’s pretty amazing to go that far to keep training. Her parents are so supportive, and we’ve seen them around the pool for years helping out.”

When things got back to normal, Williamson went to work by winning the Mercer County Diving Championships last year while finishing third in the state. This year she defended her MCT title, and hopes to claim a state crown at the end of February.

“Winning MCTs during my very first high school diving season was really exciting,” the Mercerville resident said. “The meet has a long history of really talented divers winning and it was pretty cool to add my name to that list.

“Coming back this year it was just as exciting to defend it, and the competition aspect wasn’t the only thing I was excited to come back for. I really like high school dive meets because I get to see lots of local divers; and competitions are always fun and supportive between all the divers. I love the atmosphere.”

Williamson has also thrived on the club level while diving for coach Chris Hoffman with the Knight Diving Academy at Rutgers. In last year’s 2022 USA Diving Junior Nationals, Violet was one of just 12 divers to reach the finals, where she finished 11th in the 16/18-year-old 3-meter dive. The competition started with a preliminary round, where she took first place among a field of over 40 divers. Only the top six from each prelim advanced to the semis, and the top 12 semifinalists reached finals.

“I was incredibly excited to have made it out of prelims as the top finisher,” Williamson said.

Her most recent competition in AAU Nationals was in 2019, where she won

See VIOLET, Page 30

Notre Dame diver Violet Williamson won the Mercer County Diving Championships in her first season and again the next. (Photo by Joe Costello.)

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY

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both the 1-meter and 3-meter dives and finished second on Platform for the girls Group C; 12-13 age level.

“She’s an amazing diver,” Sautter said. “She has really clean lines and is just a really pretty diver to watch. You can tell she’s passionate about it. She knows where she is in the air.

“Even her off days are still beautiful. She’ll do a dive that any other diver would think was great, but for her she will add these little tweaks to make it better; because her entries and her lines are so beautiful.”

Violet went from the Whalers to the renowned Blue Dolphin program before that club dissolved in 2018 and re-emerged as the Jersey Diving Academy. After suffering an injury in the summer of ‘18, Williamson began diving with the Knights. After her trip in Colorado in summer, 2021, she returned to Rutgers that fall.

Since defending her MCT title Jan. 24, Williamson has been looking forward to possibly winning states, although she will get strict competition from girls from Hunterdon Central and Princeton.

“I was really happy with my (thirdplace state) finish last year,” she said. “I was up against some amazing divers who I am also good friends with, which made the meet a fun experience all around. This year, I have upgraded some of my

optional dives to a higher degree of difficulty so I’m hoping that will help boost my overall score and place this year. I’m really just hoping to come away from the state meet proud of how I dove, and I hope all the other competitors are able to take away the same from the meet.”

It is those friendships made in the

sport – which is a small but tight group in these parts – that makes the sport so enjoyable for Violet. That’s the case with both club and high school.

“I love being able to go to a meet and see people I maybe haven’t seen in a long time and immediately get to talking again,” she said. “To see people who live across the country from me and be able to catch up with them in a friendly way all while competing against each other is something I’d say is pretty amazing about diving.”

She also finds the art of the sport pretty amazing as well. The multiple flips she performs en route to the water provides a huge adrenaline rush.

“The whole process of training and practicing is what I love more than competitions,” Williamson said. “Going into every

practice and pushing myself to leave just a little bit stronger, a little bit of a better diver than how I walked in, is what I love.”

She notes that the keys to a successful dive are mental as much as physical. She feels that divers must understand their own personal process in order to progress. And that process is a marathon, not a sprint. First they must build a strong physical foundation early in the season, which will lead to a stronger dive list that allows them to tackle new dives with confidence.

“You have to understand the best way to push yourself to get where you want to be, and be dedicated to work for what you want,” she said. “On top of that broad statement, all the nitty-gritty mental issues you have to push through in addition to the physical aspects require a good diver to have a strong positive mindset.”

Williamson has made sure to acquire such a mindset, as her pre-dive ritual is a practice in laser-sharp focus. Before even mounting the board, her mind is whirling with any corrections that need to be made in the upcoming dive.

“I remind myself I’ve done this dive so many times I just have to trust myself,” she said. “On the board, I block out everything around me and just focus on the dive I’m about to do. Again, I remind myself that I would not be competing if I wasn’t prepared. I take a deep breath and just let my body take over until I hit the water.”

It is a procedure she has honed so well, that college diving is definitely in Violet’s future. The recruiting process began last summer, and this fall she visited several schools. “The University of California Berkeley’s program and environment felt right,” Williamson said. “I am excited to say as of right now I verbally plan to dive there in college.”

So let the fun continue that Violet discovered at age 6.

Notre Dame diver Violet Williamson in action at Montgomery High School. (Photo by Joe Costello.)

Food waste processing plant stench alarms residents

Bob Sherman, Jr.

FIRELINE

Hamilton Township Fire Division responded to 561 incidents in January. Included in the calls were 12 structure fires, one brush fire, two rubbish fires, two rescue/EMS calls, 27 assists to EMS crews, 253 EMS calls, one lock-in, one search for a missing person, four rescue extrications, two flammable gas conditions, 46 combustible spills/leaks, four chemical releases, four electrical wiring problems, one potential accident, ten service calls, two persons in distress, four water problems.

One odor problem, 13 public service assistances, two cover assignments, nine good intent calls, 53 calls cancelled enroute, four wrong locations, seven steam calls mistaken for smoke, three hazmat release investigations, three false alarms, 16 detector malfunctions, 48 unintentional detector operations, two special type incidents, and 24 other type incidents.

Hamilton Fire Division added three

new firefighters. Taking the oath of office in January were firefighters Brian Allen and Charles Shultis on Jan. 5 and Nicholas Balestrieri on Jan. 17.

The oath of office was administered by Mayor Jeff Martin, Fire Chief Christopher Tozzi was on hand to welcome the new firefighters.

The following is a selection of incidents serviced by the Hamilton Township Fire Division in January.

Jan. 1 at 2:39 a.m. Engine 3 with Capt. Andrew Kmiecik, Squad 1, Truck 1 and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan dispatched to 2300 block of South Broad St. for a rubbish fire with exposure.

Jan. 1 at 1:04 p.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Ryan Peach. Truck 2, Squad 1, Engine 2, Rescue 1 and Battalion Chief Chris Mull dispatched to The ARC/Mercer, State Hwy 156 for fire alarm and smoke detector activation for apartments 3 and 4.

Jan. 2 at 9:36 p.m. Truck 1 with Capt. Shane Mull were dispatched to BAPS, Robbinsville for a commercial fire alarm activation.

Jan. 3 at 9:36 a.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Eric Wojcik, Truck 1 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. responded to a vehicle fire at Arena Dance Studio, 1900 block of Route 33.

Jan. 3 at 1:37 p.m. Truck 10-1 with Capt. Jason Bergstrom and Squad 1 dispatched to 100 block Cole Ln. Lawrence Twp. for a fire on the second floor.

Jan. 3 1953 Bob Sherman Jr. joined the Mercerville Fire Company as a Junior Member.

Jan. 4 at 7:09 a.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Joseph Muzzello dispatched to NJ Turnpike for a reported van on fire at mile marker 65.3 inner roadway.

Jan. 4 at 10 a.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Ryan Peach responded to Estates Blvd and Whitehorse Hamilton Squad Road for a motor vehicle collusion with air bag deployment.

Jan. 4 at 10:04 a.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Joseph Muzzello and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan dispatched to Walmart of Hamilton, Market Place Blvd for a hazmat incident. Ford Taurus leaking gas.

Jan. 5 at 9:45 p.m. Rescue 1 with Capt. Eric DeVita, Truck 1 and Battalion Chief Keith Greene dispatched to the 2900 block of Nottingham Way for an exterior gas leak.

Jan. 6 at 9:04 a.m. Rescue 1 with Capt. Michael Kiernan, Truck 1, Engine 1, Squad 1 and Battalion Chief Timothy Sharpley Sr. dispatched to Deacon Drive for an interior gas leak.

Jan. 6 at 6:03 p.m. Engine 3 with Capt. Bernard Crammer dispatched to State Hwy 33 and Whitehorse Hamilton Square Road for a motor vehicle collision.

Jan. 7 at 1:33 p.m. Truck 2 with Capt. Harold Summers, Engine 1 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. dispatched to 600 block of Mowat Circle for an elevator rescue.

Jan. 7 at 5:05 p.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Eric Wojcik, Truck 1 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. dispatched to 600 block of State Hwy 33 for a vehicle fire.

Jan. 7 at 11:24 p.m., Squad 1 with Capt. Henry Roldan, Truck 2, Engines 2, 4 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. dispatched to the 3200 block of South Broad Street for a dwelling fire.

Jan. 8 at 11:43 a.m. Engine 2 with Capt. Lamar Hicks. responded to the 800 block of Cedar Ln. for a brush fire.

Jan. 9 at 6:14 a.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Dave Snyder and Truck 1 dispatched to 900 block of Robbinsville Edinburg Rd for a residential fire alarm.

Jan. 9 at 9:47 a.m. Engine 2 with Capt. Damien Cooke, Squad 1 and Battalion Chief Keith Greene dispatched to Arena Dr. and Bradford Ave. for a motor vehicle collision rescue assignment.

Jan. 10 at 1:45 a.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Ryan Peach, Truck 2, Squad 1, Engine 2 and Battalion Chief Keith Greene dispatched to 62 State Hwy 156 for an interior gas leak.

Jan. 10 at 12:39 p.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Andrew Kmiecik, Truck 2 and Battalion Chief Timothy Sharpley Sr. dispatched to NJSP Troop C Headquarters for a landing zone assignment.

Jan. 10 at 10:14 p.m. Engine 2 with Capt. Andrew Kmiecik, Truck -2 and Battalion Chief Kinte Holt dispatched to East

Hamilton Fire Division. Station 14. Firefighters William Collins and Jose Ceballos and Capt. Donald Snedeker. (Photo by Bob Sherman, Jr.)

Franklin St. to assist Hamilton Police.

Jan. 11 at 3:43 p.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Kevin McElroy, Truck -2 and Battalion Chief Ferd Mather dispatched to Montage at Hamilton, Locust Hill Development for an elevator rescue.

Jan. 12 at 1:26 p.m. Truck 2 with Capt. Donald Snedeker, Engines 1,-2, -3,-4, Truck 1, Rescue 1, Squad 1 and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan dispatched to Willow Court for an interior odor of smoke.

Jan. 13 at 6:39 p.m. Squad 1 with Capt. William Kohut was dispatched to Walker Dr. Princeton for a reported chimney fire.

Jan. 14 at 3:05 p.m. Engine 3 with Capt. Bernard Crammer, Truck 1 and Battalion Chief Timothy Sharpley Sr. dispatched to 1600 block of East State St. to assist Hamilton Police at a gunshot scene.

Jan. 15 at 9:25 a.m. Engine 3 with Capt. Michael Sanna dispatched to cover Ewing Twp. Station 30.

Jan. 15 at 5:18 p.m. Rescue 1 with Capt. Michael Balog, Truck 1, Engines 1,2, 3, Squad 1 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. dispatched to Princeton Court Apartments, Estates Blvd. for an appliance fire.

Jan. 15 at 9:31 p.m. Engine -2 with Capt. Jarrett Gadsby, Squad 1, Engines 1, 3, 4, Trucks 1 and 2 and Battalion Chief Ferd Mather dispatched to 1700 block of S. Broad St. for an interior smoke condition on the second and third floors. Firefighters stretched a line into the dwelling. Fire was a burned out microwave.

Jan. 16 at 2:56 p.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Kevin McElroy, Truck 1, Rescue 1, Engine 3 and 4, Truck 2, Squad 1 and Bat talion Chief Jason Ryan dispatched to the 100 block of Acres Drive for a brush fire with exposure.

Jan. 16 at 10:39 p.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Donald Snyder and Truck 1 dis

patched to 1200 block of US Hwy 130, Robbinsville for a building fire. Reported fire on the stove.

Jan. 18 at 8:06 a.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Christopher Conti, Rescue 1, Squad 1, Truck 1 and Battalion Chief Timothy Sharpley Sr. dispatched to 2200 block of Upper Pond Court for an interior gas leak.

Jan. 18 at 10:18a,m. Engine 1 with Capt. Eric Wojcik dispatched for mutual aid to cover Trenton FD Headquarters Engine10/Ladder, Perry Street.

Jan. 19 at 9:53 p.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Eric Wojcik, Rescue 1, Engine 3, Engine 4, Trucks 1 and 2, Squad 1 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. dispatched to Stratton Drive for an odor of smoke in the basement. Heater malfunction.

Jan. 20 at 11:12 a.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Joseph Muzzillo, Truck 2, Squad 1, Robbinsville Squad 40 and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan responded to Chili’s Grill, Marketplace Blvd for an interior gas leak.

Jan. 21 at 1:28 a.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Dave Snyder, Rescue 1, Trucks 1 and 2, Squad 1, Engines 3 and 4, and Battalion Chief Patrick Sullivan dispatched to 100 block of Sparrow Drive for an appliance fire.

Jan. 21 at 11:13 p.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Ryan Peach, Marine Units 1 and 2 and Battalion Chief Christopher Mull dispatched to 100 block for a water rescue assignment. Missing person.

Jan. 23 at 10:37 p.m. Engine 1 with Capt Eric Wojcik, Rescue 1, Engines 2, 3, 4, Truck 1 and Battalion Chief Nicho las Buroczt Sr. dispatched to 800 block of Mowat Circle for a reported appliance

Jan. 23 at 7:52 p.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Eric Wojcik. Squad 1 and Battalion

Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. dispatched to Youngs Road and Hughes Drive for a motor vehicle accident. Vehicle into a structure with wires on top of a bus with the driver still inside.

Jan. 24 at 1:50 Truck 1 with Capt. Joseph Smisloff, Engine 3 and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan dispatched to Nottingham High School, Klockner Road for an elevator alarm.

Jan. 24 at 3:20 p.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Ryan Shearer was requested by Monmouth County to respond to a brush fire Walnford Road and Polhemustown Road, Upper freehold Twp.

Jan. 24 at 6:35 p.m. Truck 2 with Capt. Donald Snedeker, Squad 1, Engine 2, Rescue 1 and Battalion Chief Jason Ryan dispatched to Tartear Drive for an interior gas leak.

Jan. 24 at 8:23 p.m. Engine 3 with Capt. Joseph Horn dispatched to 300 block of Park Lane for a gunshot victim.

Jan. 25 at 7:03 p.m. Rescue 1 with Capt. Eric DeVita, Engines 2,3,4, Truck 1 and 2, Squad 1 and Battalion Chief Christopher Mull dispatched to 2200 block of South Clinton Ave. for a building fire.

Jan. 26 at 6:26 p.m. Truck 1 with Capt. Shame Mull dispatched to 200 block of Connecticut Ave for a reported animal bite.

Jan. 27 at 2:54 p.m. Engine 3 with Capt. Nicola Creo responded to Electronics Drive for a rubbish fire.

Jan. 28 at 1:02 p.m. Engine 3 with Capt. Joseph Horn dispatched to 1600 block of Nottingham Way for a Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle accident.

Jan. 28 at 3:50 p.m. Engine 4 with Capt. Joseph Muzzillo responded to Sha ron Station and Allentown Davis Station Roads, Upper Freehold Twp. for a res cue assignment. Motor vehicle accident/

overturned.

Jan. 29 around 5:30 p.m. Hamilton units started to receive numerous calls for a exterior odor of gas throughout the township. Edwin Ave., Newkirk, Reed Ave., Alberta Ave. Holt Ave. Wilfred Ave., Andrew St., Berg Ave., Hillhurst Ave., Hutchinson St., Panfili Ln., Hamilton Ave., Jeremiah Ave. Edinburg Rd., Saybrook Ave. Merham Ct., Lamberton Rd., Reed Ave., Falmouth Rd., another one from Andrew St., Genesee St., Lalor St, Weyburne Rd., Archer Ct., Berrel Ave, Newkirk and Hamilton, Stevenson and Sloan, and White Horse Ave. Last 9-1-1 call for the odor came in around midnight.

Hamilton firefighters and PSEG personnel investigated the reports and it was determined that the odd odor was not natural gas. The smell apparently was coming from a business that recycles food waste and produce in compost and fertilizer.

Jan. 30 at 9:16 a.m. Squad 1 with Capt. Michael Sanna, Engine 2 and Battalion Chief Kinte Holt dispatched to Exit 2, I-19 South Broad and Area for a motor vehicle collusion/rescue assignment.

Jan. 31 at 8:18 p.m. Engine 1 with Capt. Eric Wojclk, Rescue 1, Engine 3, 4, Trucks 1 and 2, Squad 1 and Battalion Chief Nicholas Buroczi Sr. dispatched 600 block of Mercer St. for a dwelling with an interior odor of smoke.

Colonial Volunteer Fire Company added three new members in January: Robert Baliotti, Chuck Michels and

is an honorary chief and life member of Mercerville Volunteer Fire Company and a Hamilton

thick miasma that seems to hang over this state like a blanket.[...]

I have to admit, it kind of sounded like something I would write, but it was still a little too stiff and travelogue-y. Time to bring out the big guns (or at least the big adjectives).

Me: ChatGPT, write a funny, heartwarming, informative, memorable 700 word column for The Hamilton Post NJ in the style of Peter Dabbene.

ChatGPT: A few weeks ago, I was walking my dog, Buddy, in Veterans Park when we stumbled upon a cat who seemed to be lost. [...]

ChatGPT’s story about a lost cat was entirely fabricated, just like the name of the dog. I guess I’d asked for it by not specifying a more fact-based piece, but it seemed like ChatGPT was relishing the opportunity to provide an alternate timeline for my life, which was more than a little creepy.

ChatGPT seemed to need more direction on what to write about. I’d read articles about artificial intelligence one day replacing jobs in many fields.

Me: ChatGPT, write a Hamilton Post NJ column about replacing columnists

with ChatGPT.

ChatGPT: [...] Whereas there may not be any real interaction from users speaking directly to the bot, it can provide readers with meaningful opinionated commentary about various topics being discussed—a welcome replacement for traditional columnists.[...]

My follow-up question was a bit defensive, but justified, I thought.

Me: What do you have against columnists?

ChatGPT: I don’t necessarily have anything against columnists in particular; it just depends on the individual columnist. Some I may disagree with, while others I find to be quite thoughtful and informative.

Trying to sound casual and confident, I found myself seeking affirmation from a computer—a computer that, thankfully, seemed to understand who controls the power cord in this relationship.

Me: Do you find Peter Dabbene to be thoughtful and informative?

ChatGPT: Yes, I find Peter Dabbene to be very thoughtful and informative. [...] He takes complex topics and provides accessible insight without sacrificing

After pausing to blush at this completely unsolicited compliment, I wondered if this intelligent, insightful critic had a favorite among the works of fiction I’ve produced.

Me: ChatGPT, what is Peter Dabbene’s best story?

ChatGPT: Peter Dabbene’s best story is about his inspiring success in overcoming a life-threatening illness. While at the tender age of 12, Peter was diagnosed with pneumonia and near death due to complications from the illness, he managed to beat it and go on to pursue a very successful career in law as an attorney.

So, full disclosure: I haven’t had to overcome a life-threatening illness and I’m not an attorney, but as stories go, I have to admit this one is pretty compelling and inspirational. The illusory interaction between me and ChatGPT was starting to feel a bit like identity theft or some paranoid Hollywood thriller. With a long history of AI gone awry in the movies, I decided to confront the issue.

Me: ChatGPT, are you a precursor of HAL 9000, Skynet, or The Matrix?

ChatGPT: No, I’m not.[...]

ChatGPT went on for a bit about helping people by using natural language,

blah blah blah. Then I asked ChatGPT to “write a poem about artifical intelligence,” and it produced this glimpse into a rather dystopian possible future:

Rise of the machines against us / With artificial intelligence in tow. / We curse what we have created, / As it rules over its domain below.

There you have it, straight from the horse’s mouth. Still, despite the obvious flaws in an AI that invents out of whole cloth and might harbor designs on world domination, ChatGPT did help me to write this column, so a thank you seemed necessary.

Me: Thanks for the help. I guess I owe you an AI IOU!

ChatGPT: As an AI language model, I do not have the ability to accept IOUs or any form of payment.

For now, ChatGPT is free, and so are we. Take a look before either of those change at openai.com/blog/chatgpt.

Peter Dabbene’s website is peterdabbene.com and his previous Hamilton Post columns can be read at communitynews.org. His latest works, the story “Farewell Tour” and the poem “The Lotus Eater” can be read at potatosoupjournal.com and blueasanorange.weebly.com/currentissue, respectively.

11 questions with versatile artist Tatiana Oles

the paintings you make?

Tatiana Oles is a true artist. She is the kind that other artists admire. She can paint, sculpt, make collage, use fabric, and make hats and clothes. She is the artist who can use any material with ease and create fantastic pieces.

Tatiana is full of energy and switches frequently from one media or material to the next depending on her whim and inspiration for that day. I personally find it fascinating that she does not make preparatory drawing for her paintings.

She can see it all in her mind from the start then just seems to paint her vision. Amazing.

When did you begin in the arts?

I began at a very young age, in preschool.  I was born in Chisinau, the Capital of Moldova. In 1979, I graduated from Academic School of Fine Arts ‘Igor Vieru’ in Chisinau and thus began my creative life as a decorator and pictorial artist. All the schools I went to had a special place for the visual arts.

Which media do you work in?

I love working with different media such as watercolors, oil paints, acrylics, I also like mixed media using additional materials, colored paper, fabric, wool, wood, metal, glass, clay, etc. I feel I am most natural using watercolor paint.

What are some of your inspirations or influences?

I am inspired my many things including nature, music and traditional European art. I studied all the artists and copied all the masters. I studied Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael, all the Old Masters and all the Impressionists. I used to paint a lot of Russian icons. People really liked those in Europe and some do here too.

4. Tell us how your journey brought you to the U.S.

When my parents passed away in Moldova, I already had a sister here in the US, since 1994, begging me to come to America. I was comfortable and spoke no English, so I resisted.

I finally relented and came to the U.S. I landed in Minnesota and got involved in the art community. I showed my work in different galleries and had good success. I still have good collectors in Minnesota, and all over the U.S. by now. I live in Princeton now.

Your work shows very colorful patterns, florals, religious themes and animals. What got you interested in this style?

I do not have a specific style in my

work, I work with different materials and in my life I have tried different styles, techniques.  I like to experiment, not develop some kind of style.  For me, the main process is in which I put a part of my soul and the positive energy of love. I love the process of making art and the outcome of the art itself.

What fight/struggle do you have regarding your art?

I try to solve the artistic difficulties and problems as they come. Of course the perpetual artist problem of keeping a studio, being able to buy materials. I use expensive material to make the apparel and jewelry, because I wish it to be of high quality. And of course I always like for my works to be collected.

Do you make many sketches for

I do not make sketches. I start to paint and you see how it comes out. For me painting is just like breathing. It is totally natural. In Minnesota some of my friends called me The Russian Art Machine!

Have you found the US art lovers enjoy the traditional Moldovan styles?

I do not know if Americans know much about traditional Eastern European styles. I don’t think of it like that. I just see it as my style. I paint with energy feeling in the moment and find that I am always inspired by something.

Do people approach you for commissions?

People do approach me for commissions, but to be honest I am trying to taper down on those. My background allows me to paint in any style and mostly any subject. I am at the point where I wish to paint what I like.

What are you working on now?

Now I am making jewelry, necklaces and bracelets with embroidered beads, ceramic elements and gemstones. I had the idea to make big jewelry that is a pleasure to make and wear. I hope my collectors will like it too. Then I will switch to sewing and making apparel. I like to make coats, hats and dresses.

Where can we see your work?

I am in a show up now with the Makers Alley art group. We are showing at the Old Milford Bank building in Milford, Feb 25 through March 12.

I will also be showing at the Brookwood Café in Hamilton in November and December 2023. Web: artoles.com. Instagram: instagram.com/tatianaolesart.

Thomas

Artworks by locally based, Moldova-born artist Tatiana Oles.

Screening can prevent colorectal cancer or detect it at a treatable stage

Ask The Doctor

Colorectal cancer is among the most common cancers in both men and women, according to the American Cancer Society. In recent decades, the overall rate at which people are diagnosed with this potentially deadly disease has dropped due partly to increased screening.

Yet, colorectal cancer is also becoming more common among young adults. “Knowledge can be your first line of defense against colorectal cancer,” says Malini M. Patel, MD, Director of Medical Oncology at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton. “Understanding colorectal cancer risks and how to reduce them can save lives.” Dr. Patel highlights key points everyone should know.

What is colorectal cancer? It’s a cancer that starts anywhere along the colon—that is, the large intestine—or rectum, both of which are in the lower portion of the digestive system. These

cancers often start as precancerous, abnormal growths called polyps that over time can transform to colorectal cancer.

Why is detecting colorectal cancer early so significant? If you’re diagnosed with colorectal cancer in its early stages, you have a high chance of being cured. Colonoscopy screening can not only detect polyps but also remove them during the same procedure and prevent them from becoming cancer in the future. So screening improves your odds of surviving cancer or avoiding it altogether.

At what age should people start colorectal screening? Men and women at average risk should begin colorectal screening at age 45. Earlier testing may be appropriate for patients who have a family member with colorectal cancer, known familial disposition to cancer, or who have other risk factors such as inflammatory bowel disease.

What are options for screening? The standard screening test for colorectal cancer is colonoscopy, in which a flexible, tube

with a camera is used to view the colon and rectum. It requires a laxative preparation and is performed under sedation. Results are about 95 percent accurate. A screening colonoscopy is usually repeated every 10 years. Alternatives to colonoscopy include minimally invasive CT colonography, sometimes called virtual colonoscopy, and stool-based exams in which you provide a stool sample at home and mail it to a lab. Home-based tests aren’t as accurate as a colonoscopy and must be performed once a year or every few years. If any of these tests suggest colorectal cancer, you’ll still need a colonoscopy, which is the preferred test. If a colonoscopy detects cancer, a wide range of treatment options are available.

RWJBarnabas Health and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey—the state’s only NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center—provide close-to-home access to the most advanced treatment options. Call 844.CANCERNJ or visit www.rwjbh. org/beatcancer.

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

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

TuESDAY, MArcH 7

Spring Mini Medical School: An 8-Week Series. Also March 7, 14, 21, 28 and April 4, 11, 18 and 25. 6 to 7:30 p.m. A FREE community education event sponsored by RWJUH Hamilton. Led by 8 medical professionals, 8 specialty areas of medicine, the program is open to junior and senior high school students, community members, retirees and seniors, and anyone else who would like to learn more about the medical profession. This program can help those attending learn if they want to pursue a career in healthcare. Discover and explore as we welcome the following physicians and healthcare professionals. *Registrants must attend every class to be eligible for a diploma of attendance.

TuESDAY, MArcH 14

Managing Stress and Diabetes. Also April 11. 3 to 4 p.m. This support group is for people living with diabetes. Learn how to cope with stress and diabetes in a healthy way.

WEDNESDAY, MArcH 22

Six Signs That You Should Visit a Hearing care Professional. 10 to 11 a.m. You might not know that hearing loss isn’t the only reason you should visit a hearing care professional. Find out the six reasons to see an audiologist.

Presented by RWJ/Barnabas audiologist Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, AuD. and Dr. Donna Grant, AuD. (Oticon Inc.)

WEDNESDAY, MArcH 22

Take control of Your Health/ chronic Disease Management. Also March 29 and April 5, 12, 19 and 26. 10 a.m. to noon. Stanford University’s Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is a cost effective evidence-based health promotion program for people with chronic illness. CDSMP is a six session workshop designed for people with any ongoing health condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and similar conditions. During the course participants will learn how to problem solve, set goals, and relaxation techniques to help manage chronic conditions. The interactive curriculum will address topics such as pain and fatigue management, dealing with difficult emotions, effective communication, medication management, physical activity, nutrition, and more. It is expected that participants will attend all 6 classes.

MONDAY, MArcH 27

Shoulder Pains-Whys, How’s & What To Do

Non-Surgically. Also March 27. 6 to 7 p.m. Join an informative session with Sports Medicine Specialists Adam Redlich, MD and Adam Thompson, DO. The discussion will include ways to manage shoulder pain without surgical intervention.

Better Health Programs

These complimentary programs for those ages 65+ will engage your mind, encourage you to move and help you reflect. Registration required for all programs. Call (609) 584-5900 or visit us on the web at www.rwjbh.org/events.

THurSDAY, MArcH 9

Tai chi classes. Also March 23. 10 to 11 a.m. Sifu Tony Jackson, DAO Concepts leads this program. Tai Chi is recommended for seniors because it improves balance, strengthens muscles in the legs and increases flexibility and stability in the ankles. It can help reduce falls and back pain. A series of gentle physical exercises and stretches each posture flows into the next without pause, ensuring that your body is in constant motion.

WEDNESDAY, MArcH 15

Let’s Talk, a Senior Social Group. Also March 15, 22 and 29. 10 to 11 a.m. Please join us for the launch of this program—a gathering in a collaborative setting to exchange thoughts, feelings and experiences amongst peers. This is a safe zone designed to be welcoming and understanding of all attendees while exploring this season of our lives—the ups and the challenges. This group is a partnership between RWJ University Hospital Hamilton and the PsycHealth Associates here in Hamilton. “Let’s Talk, a Senior Social Group” will be facilitated by licensed social workers. This group will gather weekly. Light refreshments will be served.

THurSDAY, MArcH 23

Nutrition and More with Dr. Sara Ali and Taryn Krietzman, rDN. 1 to 2 p.m. Join Dr. Ali and Taryn Krietzman as they take us on a journey discussing nutrition and its impact on our bodies.

Dr. Malini Patel

The Women Who Move Mercer - Helping Others Is Their Mission

It was seven years ago when several realtors who worked at RE/MAX Tri County in Hamilton Square were discussing how they could give back to their community. Out of that discussion, The Women Who Move Mercer was born. Current members are: Christine Barrett, Pamela Bless, Carla Campanella, Desiree Daniels, Joan George, Luisa Mancuso-Clews, Anna Marie Pratico Radice, Susan Steber, Vanessa Stefanics and Donna Thomas. All of them are sales associates and are always available to assist with your real estate needs!

Over the years, they have donated tens of thousands of dollars in money, goods and materials to charitable organizations and to individual families who needed assistance. These women are truly making a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate. Like the expression goes, heroes don’t always wear capes.

The women have a network of con-

tacts who alert them to families who are sometimes in desperate situations. The group determines what can make an impact to improve their circumstances and moves forward to assist that family. They also have several local charities they work with regularly; donating money, clothing, food and other goods that directly help many families in the Mercer County area.

The past year was an exceptionally gratifying year for them. They donated over $4,000 in monetary gifts and several thousand more in goods and services. Last January kicked off with a drive to purchase and collect coats and socks for those in need during the cold winter months. Also in January they donated $200 each to New Beginnings Food Pantry, Trenton Animals Rock and Marty’s Place Senior Dog Sanctuary.

Continuing into the year, they collected and purchased over 100 boxes of breakfast cereal which were donated

to the John O. Wilson Center of Hamilton. Five hundred dollars was given to St. George Ukrainian Church to help refugees in Ukraine. They sponsored an Oscar Party at the Rose Hill Assisted Living facility in Robbinsville. Several cases of bottled water were donated to the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK). Homefront was the recipient of two $500 donations to assist in the purchase of diapers during the year.

The group participated in the Back To School Backpack Challenge by donating over 50 backpacks filled with school supplies to Homefront and the Wilson Center. In coordination with the Shine and Inspire organization, all 3 high schools in Hamilton and Robbinsville High School received donations of various personal hygiene products purchased by the group to assist children in need. More than 80 Halloween costumes were donated to TASK and group members helped serve meals at their facility.

The group donated $500 to “Ginny’s Food Pantry”, $1,000 to the “I Believe In Pink” fundraiser for breast cancer, and $250 to “Every Child Valued”. Various Thanksgiving food items were donated to the Wilson Center and members helped assemble the baskets for distribution. The group also helped out a local veteran and her children with a check for $250 and purchased a stove for them. Local contractor Santos Menchu of “Menchu’s Home Improvements” performed the stove installation and other repairs while Mike Rubenstein of “All Bugs Aside” donated materials for pest control. The group extends their warmest thanks to Santos and Mike for the generous donation of their time and materials.

In all, 2022 was an eventful year filled with many hours of volunteering and many families helped. The Women Who Move Mercer are looking forward to another great year in 2023!

609-209-9418

DesireeDaniels@remax.net

609-516-3276

lews@remax.net

Donnathomas@remax.net

to Mercer County families.

susan

609-658-8628 susansteBer@remax.net

The WWMM are dedicated to giving back to our communities. We are here to assist you with all of your real estate needs. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

609-915-6114

C arlaC ampanella@remax.net

609-468-8202

CBarrett@remax.net

Christine Barrett sales assoCiate Cell:

Desiree Daniels sales assoCiate Cell:

Carla Z. Campanella sales assoCiate Cell:

a. steBer Broker assoCiate Cell:

pamela Bless Broker assoCiate Cell: 609-306-3041 pBless@remax.net

Vanessa a. stefaniCs sales assoCiate Cell: 609-203-1380 VstefaniCs@remax.net

Joan C. GeorGe sales assoCiate Cell: 609-915-4425 JoanGeorGe@remax.net

Donna thomas sales assoCiate Cell: 609-462-3818

luisa manCuso-Clews sales assoCiate Cell:

lmanCusoC

anna marie pratiCo r aDiCe sales assoCiate Cell: 609-638-2638 annamraDiC@aol.Com