3-23 HE

Township mayor eyes biggest issues of 2023

BY JOE EMANSKI

At this year’s annual township reorganization meeting in January, two-term committee member Michael Ruger took the reins as mayor of Hopewell for the first time.

He succeeded Courtney PetersManning, who was a first-time mayor herself in 2022. PetersManning is serving as deputy mayor this year. This means that the committee’s three senior members (Ruger, Peters-Manning and Kevin Kuchinski) have now all taken at least one turn as leader of the committee. Uma Purandare and David Chait are the committee’s other members.

Girls’ wrestling on the rise

BY JOE EMANSKI

The end of February may signal the end of wresting’s regular season, but one coach in Hopewell Valley says that in some ways, March is actually the most exciting time of the year in the sport.

The first week of the month will bring the high school state championships. And later in the month, national collegiate champi-

onship wrestling is set to kick off.

“Just (speaking) as a fan, the postseason is when wrestling is definitely on the brain,” says Brendon Morfe, a Pennington resident and coach with Hopewell Valley Youth Wrestling, formerly known as the Hopewell Valley Junior Bulldogs.

Championships are not the only reason that Morfe has wrestling on his mind. He is also excited because Hopewell Valley Youth

how far would you go if they were sick?

Wrestling has been part of the growth of girls’ wrestling at the youth level. His daughter, Elinor, a kindergartner at Toll Gate Grammar School, was one of four girls to participate in the program this year.

Each year, the committee nominates and then votes on which members will become mayor and deputy mayor for the year. Considering the committee’s now longstanding Democratic majority — John Hart was the last Republican to serve, in 2019 — the choice of mayor often comes down to which member of the committee is most ready to make the commitment.

of township committee meetings, sets the agenda for meetings.

“I always consider us equals, but the mayor is the chair because somebody has to chair,” Ruger said.

The mayor is the member of the committee who works most closely with the township administrator, George Snyder. The mayor represents the township at events and, of course, has the power to officiate a marriage ceremony, a privilege that Ruger has already had the chance to enjoy.

Ruger said that while all the committee members work pretty closely with the township administrator, as mayor he has weekly phone meetings with Snyder to talk about township issues. “He keeps me informed about what’s going on with the departments, and I offer the advice and guidance that I can,” Ruger said. “We have an excellent working relationship, and I’m really glad we have him leading the township staff.”

Welcome to Capital Health.

Morfe hopes that more will join next season, and for many of them, March could be the time of year when they get on the mat for the See WRESTLING, Page 6

“Courtney had an absolutely fantastic term as mayor last year,” Ruger said in an interview last month. “I served as her deputy. This year, we talked about it and with my twins graduating this year, it works out that it’s a good time for me to do it.”

As mayor, Ruger serves as chair

When someone you care about is sick, you’ll do whatever it takes to make sure they get the best care. And so do we.

With a collaborative structure so our doctors can craft a treatment that’s uniquely right for you. With primary care physicians who never schedule an appointment that’s less than 20 minutes. With world-renowned surgeons that are changing cancer treatment.

Because you’d go to the ends of the earth for the people you care about.

One of our most important duties as a committee, Ruger said, is to develop and deliver a “responsible, realistic” budget. The committee started work on the capital budget in January with hopes to finish work on it by the end of February.

Then it’s on to the operating budget, with the hope of having

See RUGER, Page 4

see our ad on pg 7

Hopewell Valley Youth Wrestling girls’ team members Elinor Morfe, Naëlle Belony, Reese Bartlett and Emma McLaughlin at a recent team practice. (Photo by Matthew Eaton.)

Pennington Borough, NJ

$395,000

Jennifer E Curtis

609.610.0809

MLS# NJME2026606

‘The contest’ begins

Delaware Township, NJ

$750,000 (63.88 acres)

Joan K Ireland 215.801.1219

MLS# NJHT2001422

Lambertville City, NJ

$550,000

Cynthia Shoemaker Zerrer 609.915.8399

MLS# NJHT2001434

Hopewell Township, NJ

$995,000

Owen ‘Jones’ Toland 609.731.5953

MLS# NJME2021992

Kingwood Township, NJ

$650,000 (38.83 acres)

Cynthia Shoemaker Zerrer 609.915.8399

MLS# NJHT2001542

Frenchtown Borough, NJ

$750,000

Sue Havens 609.731.6089

MLS# NJHT2001384

Hopewell Township, NJ

$1,850,000

Amy Granato 917.848.8345

MLS# NJME2026518

Hopewell Township, NJ

$2,450,000

Margaret Foley ‘Peggy’ Baldwin 609.306.2052

MLS# NJME2022652

Every day we’ve loved looking out our kitchen window over the sink. There, on a small suet bird feeder hanging on the dogwood tree, come all sorts of feathered friends. Beautiful birds! Sparrows, chickadees, cardinals, tufted titmice, redbellied woodpeckers, downies and more. What a joy.

About a month ago, the contest began. When we looked out in the morning, the suet holder was completely empty, and the top of the feeder was askew. The next morning, after refilling the feeder, we saw the same thing. Ah, it must be a clever critter — a raccoon?

The next night we watch, and there it is: a humongous raccoon right up in the tree happy as a clam in low tide. How can we stop him? Well, we have a Havea-Heart trap, so we’ll put suet in it under the tree.

In the morning, we rush to the window, and this is what we see: the suet holder is

again empty, and the birds are tip-toeing in and out of the trap, eating the suet put in there for the raccoon. They look a bit nervous about being in a caged area.

We call animal control. They laugh. “What will you do if you catch it? They come back when we take them over to Pennsylvania,” they said.

Now we are frustrated along with the birds. How dare the raccoon spoil our fun and enjoyment? Hmm. We’ll get a tougher holder — one that the raccoon can’t open. Ten dollars buys an unopenable feeder. It takes a bit of doing to install. We tell the birds not to worry — we’ve fixed it.

The next morning, we look out and the “unopenable feeder” has completely disappeared. You’d never know it had existed! We’ve searched all over and yet to find it. The contest continues...

Barbara Dollard Hopewell Township

We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Hopewell Express 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 COLUMNISTS

Robin Schore, Lisa Wolff AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION

Stacey Micallef ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Christine Storie (Ext. 115)

TO ADVERTISE call Christine Storie (609) 396-1511, ext. 115 or e-mail cstorie@communitynews.org

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

Phone: (609) 396-1511

News: news@communitynews.org

Events: events@communitynews.org

Sports: sports@communitynews.org

Letters: jemanski@communitynews.org

Website: hopewellexpress.com

Facebook: facebook.com/hopewellexpress

Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace

11,000 copies of the Hopewell Express are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Pennington, Hopewell Township and Hopewell Borough 12 times a year.

You’re only 45. You still need a colon cancer screening.

Along with eating healthy and regular exercise, your best bet for good colon health is to get a colon cancer screening. Individuals at average risk for colorectal cancer should begin screening at age 45. Individuals at higher risk should speak to their doctor about getting screened sooner. Regular screening can detect and prevent colorectal cancer in its earliest stages, which is when the cancer is most treatable. Should your screening indicate the need for treatment, we offer the latest options, from complex surgical procedures and radiation therapy to clinical trials and precision medicine. The best screening is the one that gets completed, so schedule yours now at rwjbh.org/colonscreening

Let’s beat cancer together. Let’s beat cancer together.

a complete budget proposal together by the beginning of April.

“If we can adopt the capital budget earlier in the year, we tend to get better prices on things like road repairs than later in the year,” he said.

Another issue in front of the committee for 2023 is the state of cannabis-related businesses in the township. The committee opted to allow limited cannabis cultivation, manufacturing and sales in 2021, when these things became legal at the state level. But the state’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission has moved slowly in granting licenses to operators statewide.

“We have one company that is interested in a cultivation and manufacturing license in the township, and we have several individuals who have applied for cannabis retail sale operations,” Ruger said. “We are waiting to see what the CRC says about those before any of those applications go forward.”

Ruger said he expects the committee to review a number of ordinances this year. He said these reviews could lead to changes to the township’s sign and food truck ordinances.

“During the pandemic, we had several local businesses interested in having food trucks on their properties. We don’t have an ordinance that fully addresses that,”

Ruger said. “I’d like to see us create an ordinance that makes a formal process for that.”

He says advances in sign technology

have left the township’s sign ordinance behind the times. “We’ve heard people talking about the sizes and types of signs a business may have here,” Ruger said. “Times have changed with the way advertising technology works and we need to make sure our ordinance properly reflects that.”

As the committee’s liaison to the Woolsey Park Committee, Ruger is looking forward to the construction and dedication of the Woolsey Park Bandshell later this year. “We received a $500,000 grant from the state to build a bandshell which was very exciting. Once it is built, it’s going to be a terrific amenity for the park,” he said.

Ruger expects to see some significant progress this year on the long-discussed senior and community center this year. “There are a lot of moving pieces that have to be put together,” he said. “One of the keys, when the township received $16 million in consideration for the Zaitz tract, was that there was space reserved for a senior and community center. As these pieces come together, we will be able to make an announcement. I do hope that we will see progress this year.”

Construction has begun on affordable and market-rate housing in the lower portion of the township, and Ruger said sales may begin at some point this year.

“The ability for people to come to Hopewell Township, to me, is exciting. One of the things I see is the lifecycle of people living in Hopewell Township. Someone who is starting their career will be able to come here live there for a year

or two (in the new housing), then if they want to move to a larger place, they can live in the same neighborhood in a larger home,” he said. “But maybe when they get to the point where they are retiring, they can move to a smaller home and they can all stay in Hopewell Township. I think that giving people that option is a very exciting thing.”

* * *

Ruger grew up in Willistown Township, west of Philadelphia. He remembers the Willistown Township of his childhood as being “very much like Hopewell Township. A lot of rural areas, horse farms, open space. When I moved here, Hopewell Township felt very familiar to me.”

He attended Penn State as an undergrad before heading down to Washington to get a law degree from Georgetown University. He remained in Washington afterward, working a number of years for the Federal Communications Commission, and there he met his wife, Theresa “Tracy” Vogler, a Hopewell native.

“We came to Hopewell Township frequently because her mother lived in the house that Tracy grew up in,” he said. “We knew that at some point we wanted to move here.”

That opportunity came in 1998, when Vogler got a job as a lawyer in Philadelphia and Ruger took a consulting job with Comcast. They bought Vogler’s mother’s house, and now they have been settled here for 25 years. Ruger’s mother, Betty, has also become a township resident.

Ruger joined Comcast full time in 2003, and today serves as its vice president of local government affairs for policy and operations. Vogler, who also has a law degree, left the workforce in 2004 to be a stay-at-home mom to their three children: eldest son Teddy and twins Billy and Bobby, who are seniors at Hopewell Valley Central High School.

Ruger says there came a time when he thought about what he could do to help his local community. “I’ve spent my entire career either working for or around governments,” he said. “I’ve always had great respect for people who choose government as a career.”

He ran first and unsuccessfully for a seat on the school board. In 2016, he made another run, this time for Hopewell Township Committee. Again he was unsuccessful.

“With that election, I remember there was a doorhanger where Hillary Clinton was at the top of it, I was at the bottom of it, and that November every Democrat in between us won,” he said. “I decided to give it another chance the next year, and I’m glad that I did.”

Hopewell Township Mayor Michael Ruger, left, with sons Bobby and Billy and wife Tracy Vogler on Jan. 27, 2023. (Photo by Mike Schwartz/mssphoto.com.)

Maria DePasquale Sales Associate Mark Jacobson Sales Associate

McManus-Keyes Sales Associate

Terry Mowry Broker Associate

BRONZE BRONZE BRONZE BRONZE

Susan DeHaven Sales Associate

Elisabeth Kerr Sales Associate

Lynda Schreiber Sales Associate

Lisa Folmer Broker Associate

GOLD GOLD SILVER SILVER SILVER Follow Us

To our 2022 NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® Winners Congratulations

Maria DePasquale Sales Associate

Mark Jacobson Sales Associate

Erin McManus-Keyes Sales Associate

Susan Thompson Sales Associate

PLATINUM PLATINUM PLATINUM PLATINUM

Mary Warshefski Sales Associate

Claudia Ryan Sales Associate

Christine Mariano Sales Associate

Terry Mowry Broker Associate

BRONZE

BRONZE BRONZE BRONZE

Susan DeHaven Sales Associate

Lynda Schreiber Sales Associate

Lisa Folmer Broker Associate

Kathryn Weber Sales Associate

GOLD GOLD SILVER SILVER SILVER

WRESTLING continued from Page 1 first time to see if the sport is for them.

Hopewell Valley Youth Wrestling is a program for kids in grades kindergarten through 8th grade. Team members participate at a variety of competition levels depending on their skills and experience.

“Typically in spring and summer, we have open mats or spring practice. Often it’s a good opportunity for folks who are interested in getting kids involved in the sport, but aren’t sure it’s for them. A lot of parents have misconceptions about what it is and also what it’s not,” says Morfe, who is one of several coaches with the club. “This time of year is a time to get your kids on the mat, walk them through an easy practice, and try to get a sense of what wrestling on a team is all about.”

According to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, there were 804 girls wrestling in high school in the U.S. in 1994. By 2020, that number had risen to more than 28,000, says the U.S.A. Wrestling Girls High School Development Committee.

So while girls’ wrestling may be on the rise in Hopewell Valley, the truth is that in many parts of the country — and the state — girls’ wrestling has already risen.

Members of the Hopewell Valley Youth Wrestling club attended a “Girls Night Out” wrestling event in January, featuring girls’ wrestling teams from around the state and hosted by North Hunterdon High School, which has full varsity and junior varsity teams.

The four current members of the girls’ squad include Elinor Morfe as well as Hopewell Elementary school second grader Emma McLaughlin, Stony Brook Elementary School fourth grader Naëlle Belony and Bear Tavern Elementary School fifth grader Reese Bartlett.

When Morfe’s daughter was younger, she would see her brother Graham, now 8, take part in practice and wish that she could practice as well. When she reached kindergarten and was old enough to take part, she was excited to get started.

“I think a lot of people don’t know that it’s an option,” Morfe says. “All the girls on our team have brothers in the program as well. If someone’s got their son in wrestling, and they have a daughter of similar age that has some interest in wrestling, they might consider joining as well.”

During the season, wrestlers practice at the high school on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For now, Bartlett and Belony tend to be matched up in practices, and McLaughlin with Elinor Morfe. If more girls join the program, there will be opportunities for the wrestlers to practice.

On weekends, there is usually at least one day of competitive wrestling for those who want to compete. Away meets are usually within a 30-minute drive. Morfe

says that while matches are scored, coaches strive to get wrestlers matched up fairly in competition, so that they win at least as many as they lose.

“A lot of parents say wrestling is really great for character building,” says Morfe, who is an account executive with Gartner. “It teaches kids how to win and lose with grace, and they learn a lot of skills that translate really well to life, and not just sports.”

Some wrestlers compete on the HVYS travel teams. Others compete only at the recreational level, and some don’t compete at all. Not until they feel that they are ready for it. Reese Bartlett is one wrestler who worked her way up to competitive matches.

“We were already there for her brother (Tadd, 9), and Reese started wrestling a little under duress, frankly,” said her mother, Lauren. “She didn’t want to wrestle boys she didn’t know. But this year, she said, “I think I want to compete.’”

Reese only wrestled girls in two events this season. The rest of the time, she was matched up against boys. Her mother said it has been a thoroughly positive experience.

“We have not had one incidence of sexism or ‘Oh my God, she’s a girl,’” Lauren Bartlett said. “Parents, coaches come up and say, ‘Way to go, girl’ and it’s really helped that they are just treating her like every other wrestler. That’s all she wants.”

Practices during spring and summer are usually only held once a week, “Kids have baseball, lacrosse, travel soccer, so we know we’re not going to get a full commitment then,” Morfe says. “But it’s a way to keep kids engaged until next season.”

To learn more about Hopewell Valley Youth Wrestling, check out the Hopewell Valley Wrestling Association page on Facebook (search for “Hopewell Valley Wrestling Association).

Hopewell Valley Youth Wrestling coach Brendom Morfe and wife Anna at a recent practice. (Photo by Matthew Eaton.)

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.

Strong bonds key as HoVal swim teams take CVC titles

BY RICH FISHER

They are listed as the Hopewell Valley Central High School boys swim team, and the HVCHS girls swim team.

But as far as the coaches and athletes are concerned, they are just one big Bulldog team.

Boys coach Dennis Atkinson and girls mentor Lauren Ashman are quick to note that when one provides a comment on the team, they are speaking for both. Senior captain Ava D’Alessandro says the bond between the boys and girls has been a lifetime in the making, and was integral to their success this season.

“Most of us have been swimming with each other for years,” D’Alessandro said. “We all have the shared drive to be successful and a love for swimming. This bond helped us lead the

team in unison. We all were on the same page. We wanted success.

“The bond helped us tremendously in competition. We were able to create an environment that was positive, supportive, and fun. We made sure to have a team group chat and send out motivational texts before meets. This helped get other underclassmen to chime in and eventually our supportiveness for one another just flourished.

“Meets became increasingly loud throughout the season and more swimmers were supporting each other behind the block. We found success quickly and it motivated all of us to work hard and be there for each other. I hope this environment that we established stays for seasons to come.”

The end result of that chemistry produced the best com-

bined season in 18 years for the Bulldogs. The boys went 8-6 and 5-0 in the Colonial Valley Conference Valley Division. The girls were 8-4 and 4-0 in the Valley (Ewing did not have a girls team). It marked the first time since 2005 that both teams

won CVC championships in the same season, although Atkinson says that winning titles were just byproducts of performing well.

“This group of athletes was really focused on improving in the water while showing sup-

port for one another during both practices and meets,” he said. “The division title wasn’t discussed much throughout the season until the goal was in reach.”

Adamson was quick to add: “Swimming is a unique sport. Each practice has a specific focus as well as each meet has a specific focus. We try not to look too far ahead, but keep our goals in the back of our minds. We set high expectations for our athletes whether we win the Valley Division or not. Each season brings different challenges and goals that are discussed early on in the season as well as throughout the year.”

Leading the way this year were that tight group of seniors, which has had to endure some hardships over their four years, including changing practice

See SWIMMING, Page 13

NAMED A 2022–23

NAMED A 2022–23

BEST ASSISTED LIVING

BEST ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY BY

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.

Seniors Ava D’Alessandro in action for the Hopewell Valley swim team. (Photo by Mike Rheinhardt.)

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY. The experts do, too.

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY. The experts do, too.

HVRSD HIGHLIGHTS

reCOgniZing OUr sCHOlArs, Artists AnD AtHletes

HVCHS espian Troupe Achievements

National Honor Society Induction

Congratulations to the 104 HVCHS juniors and seniors who were inducted into the National Honor Society on the basis of their scholarship, leadership, service, and character. We are proud to have such dedicated, multi-talented students at HVCHS!

Two from Timberlane Middle School inducted into the Central Jersey Music Educators Association Honor Ensembles

e Hopewell Valley Central High School

Ski and Snowboard Club resumes!

is popular activity, which had been on hiatus due to covid restrictions, was able to resume. e Ski and Snowboard Club is a school-sponsored activity and students take bus transportation to and from the mountain. is season the students were able to enjoy 5 Friday nights on the slopes at Camelback Mountain Resort in Tannersville, PA.

Congratulations to the Timberlane Middle School students who auditioned for the CJMEA Intermediate Region Band and Orchestra. e following students earned a spot in these prestigious programs: Erika Lee (6th Grade)Fourth Chair Cello in the Chamber Orchestra, and Elizabeth Kim (8th Grade) - First Chair Oboe in the Wind Ensemble. Hundreds of students across the Central New Jersey Region audition for these honor ensembles and we commend our TMS students for the hard work, dedication, and commitment they have put into this outstanding accomplishment. e Chamber Orchestra will perform in concert on Saturday, March 11th, 3 pm at Piscataway High School under the direction of Ms. Tanatchaya Chanphanitpornkit from the Manhattan School of Music Precollege. e Wind Ensemble will perform in concert on Sunday, March 5th, 3 pm at Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School under the direction of Mr. Mark Kra , Retired Director of Bands, South Brunswick High School.

Congratulations to the members of Hopewell Valley’s espian troupe for their impressive showing at this year’s New Jersey espian festival. 22 members of our troupe attended the festival and many of our troupe members won awards in their various competitions. Receiving superior medals for their events were: for contrasting monologues: Camille Rosenthale, Ava Echternacht, Jake Brown and Ella Williams, for solo musical theatre, Jack Elliott, for short lm, Rachel ornton, for duet acting scene, Ava Echternacht and Camille Rosenthale, Jake Brown and Ella Williams and Frankie Bancro and Camille Rosenthale. Ava Echternacht also received an award for “Best espian” for being an excellent representative of the ideals of the International espian Society as well as recognizing her achievements in our troupe during the past two years. Additionally, a cutting of our fall play, e Diary of Anne Frank was entered and came in second place in the chapter select category. Leo Schmidt won 2nd place for Best Supporting Actor and Camille Rosenthale won Best Actress for her portrayal of Anne Frank. Congratulations to Ms. Rochon and all of the members of espian Troupe 7964!

AIR DOGS 2023 Calendar

Central High School’s Community-Based Creative Design classes designed, created and sold calendars featuring depictions of 15 of HVRSD’s very own therapy dogs, all graduates of the AIR Dogs therapy program. All of the images were hand-painted by CHS students.

nOtABle PrOgrAMs AnD eVents

HV Choirs Co ee House Cabaret Concert

e HV Choirs Co ee House Cabaret Concert featured solos, duets, and large group performances of pop and holiday favorites. All the songs were chosen and prepared by the choir members themselves and showcased the abundance of talent in the program.

Boys Varsity Hockey Salute to Service Game

e Hopewell and Montgomery Varsity High School Team held their annual moving tribute to those in service and donated proceeds to the Veterans Association and Memorial Committee.

e sounds of music lled the air as all of the schools celebrated their winter concert season!

Hopewell Valley Central High School Summer Job, Internship and Service Fair

Featured a variety of full and part time summer opportunities for our Central High School students.

Author Tami Charles Visited our elementary schools!

Tami Charles is the New York Times bestselling author of All Because You Matter, and numerous books for children and young adults.

Cereal Domino Challenge

Timberlane Middle School is working hard to make e Guinness World Records 2023 for the middle school that collects and then topples the most cereal boxes in domino fashion! Cereal will then be donated to local food pantries. e goal is 6,000 boxes!

TMS Spring Musical is Disney Newsies Jr!

is musical is based on the 1992 motion picture and 2012 Broadway musical inspired by the rousing true story of the Newsboy Strike of 1899 in New York City. Newsies Jr features a Tony Award winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman.

CHS Black & Gold Black & Gold Celebration

e Black & Gold Cup is a school-wide yearlong celebration in which the entire school, including sta members, are divided into two teams. e Gold Team is comprised of freshman and juniors and the Black team is made up of sophomores and seniors. Competitions include events such as:pep rally games, hallway decorating and eme song ursday. It’s a fun way to reinforce positive behavior and expand our school spirit.

Winter Dance Festival

is program featured a short and sweet program of festive performances by HVCHS and TMS dance students, with special guest appearances by HVCHS a cappella groups, e Perfect 4ths and Con Brio.

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

MERCER COUNTY

March 15th @ NOON

March 20th @ 5:00 PM

Mercer County CASA O ce: 1450 Parkside Ave. Ewing, NJ

BURLINGTON COUNTY

March 15th @ 10:30 AM April

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: CASAMB.ORG

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

Harry Cassidy (Burlington) HCassidy@casamercer.org

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

Health & Fitness

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

Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

Miscellaneous

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home

standby generator $0 Down + Low Monthly Pmt Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage: 1-855-948-6176 Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833610-1936

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800245-0398

HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-4990141

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/23. 1-866-479-1516

The Generac PWRcell solar plus battery storage system. Save money, reduce reliance on grid, prepare for outages & power your home. Full installation services. $0 down financing option. Request free no obligation quote. 1-877-5390299

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service.

Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

Switch and save up to $250/ yr on talk, text & data. No contract or hidden fees. Unlimited talk & text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time get $50 off any new account. Use code GIFT50. 1-855-903-3048

Attention Homeowners! If you have water damage and need cleanup services, call us! We’ll get in & work with your insurance agency to get your home repaired and your life back to normal ASAP! 855767-7031

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936

Free high speed internet if qualified. Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits,

Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet. Android tablet free w/onetime $20 copay. Free shipping. Call Maxsip Telecom! 1-833758-3892

Caring for an aging loved one?

Wondering about options like senior-living communities and in-home care? Caring.com’s Family Advisors help take the guesswork out of senior care for your family. Free, no-obligation consult: 1-855759-1407

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief to find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: 1-877592-3616

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

winter 2023 HigHligHts

serViCe FOr COMMUnitY

roughout the winter, our sta and students have been involved in a variety of fundraising and service events on behalf of the community. Some of these activities were:

“St. Baldrick’s Day” at Bear Tavern Elementary School

For several years, Bear Tavern Elementary School has been raising money to support e St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a charity committed to supporting promising research to nd cures for childhood cancers. Since 2011, over $198.500 has been raised by BT students, families and sta !

“Fill at Truck!” at Hopewell Elementary School. An ongoing monthly service program at Hopewell Elementary during which sta , students and their families donate items: clothing, food and personal care items are donated to the East Trenton Center. HES has also been raising money and donating to e Chubby’s Project, a local nonpro t, to collect and sort donations to stock the pantry.

“Pajama Day YAY” at Stony Brook Elementary School

Students were invited to wear school-appropriate pajamas and bring in a small cash donation to help raise money for children and families cared for at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Stony Brook Elementary was able to donate $1,710.00 to CHOP and their families.

“ e Jared Box Project” at Toll Gate Grammar School. For this school year’s Day of Service, Toll Gate donated to e Jared Box Project www.thejaredbox.org Each grade level donated materials, and using both their kind hearts and creativity, created playful boxes lled with cheerful and fun items for young local hospital patients at Capital Health Hospital.

Central High School has committed to making a connection with a di erent local non-pro t organization each month and providing support in whatever way best meets the needs of the organization. During January, we held a PB&J Drive for the HV Mobile Food Pantry. e Gold Team (Grades 9&11) collected peanut butter, and the Black Team (Grades 10&12) collected jelly.

PrOViDing sUPPOrt

FOr PArents AnD stUDents

Hopewell Valley’s Night O in March is community-wide initiative was designed in response to the increasing demands of work and school on personal and family time. With the support of local school o cials, sports leaders, parents, community and religious leaders, all sports practices, classes and homework are canceled on this special evening.

e Search Institute’s “What’s Up With Our Kids?” presentation reviewed survey ndings including strengths and areas of concern among TMS and CHS students who participated in the Search Institute’s Attitudes & Behaviors survey last spring.

8th Grade Team “Transition to High School” Day

Timberlane Middle School kicked o an 8th Grade Transition and Wellness Day with a Keynote Presenter, Jean Clervil. An inspirational speaker and author, Jean overcame his own battles with fear and pressure to succeed as a college student and relates especially well to students facing those same concerns. His stories and strategies were meant to leave students feeling inspired and motivated. Dan DeStefano, Supervisor of Counseling Services, was joined by a group of current HVCHS students who shared their experiences and answered questions from TMS students. Also, Michael Orfe, Director of Vocational Programming at the Mercer County Technical School provided information about the programs MCTS o ers to high school students.Students also had opportunities to participate in health and wellness activities

Youth Mental Health First Aid is a training program intended for any adult who interacts with youth. It teaches one how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents ages 12-18. A number of sta members and parents of students in grades 7-12 participated in the subsequent training.

Teen Mental Health First Aid is a related program that all juniors will be taking in Wellness Classes.

(609)

Principal:

(609)

facilities and times due to pool issues (HVCHS has no pool) and a season of just virtual meets due to Covid 19. When they did practice, it was off campus from 7 to 9 every night.

“They have been extremely influential towards the growth of our program,” Atkinson said. “They have made a lasting impact.”

The girls’ seniors included D’Alessandro and fellow captains Charlotte Kavanaugh and Regan Sherman, along with Kelley Dwyer and Olivia Doherty. The boys seniors were Pavel Sverdlov and captains Alex Helmrich and Armaan Desai.

D’Alessandro, Dwyer and Sherman all reached the Mercer County Championship finals this year and were members of last year’s 200 free relay Meet of Champion qualifiers. Helmrich was an MCT finalist in the 100 and 200 freestyles, while Sverdlov and Desai were members of the A relay teams that qualified for MCT finals.

D’Alessandro was sixth in the 50 free at MCTs, and Sherman was sixth in the 500 free. For the boys, Helmrich was third in MCTs in the 100 free, and was also part of the top-six MCT relay teams in the 200 and 400 freestyle. Junior Alex Nicolai and sophomore Tyler Mac were part of both relays, Helmrich was on the 200 free relay and freshman James Damron was on the 400 free relay. Nicolai, who qualified for the Meet of Champions in the 200 free last year, finished third in the 200 free at MCTs this season.

Junior Amelie Bass contributed to the girls’ cause in a big way. She has qualified for the 50 free in the Meet of Champions for the second straight year, and holds the school record in that event. At MCTs she finished third in the 50 and fourth in the 100 freestyle. Junior May Hartog was fi fth in the 100 back and sixth in the 100 free at the MCT, while the girls 200 free relay was second with D’Alessandro, Dwyer, Bass and freshman Grace Kunkel.

It started as a tight-knit group that grew even tighter as time went on.

“Especially with the seniors who started freshman year, we have been through so much together. We have all been through these challenges together, which strengthened our relationships,” D’Alessandro said.

The coaches were quick to point out that several underclassmen were important cogs to this year’s success.

“Amelie Bass, Anna Wurtz and May Hertog have been integral members of our team,” Atkinson said. “For the boys, juniors AJ Yadamiec (freestyle) and Jonah Corveleyn (distance) are both strong leaders that will step into an important leadership role next season.”

They learned their lessons well from this year’s seniors, who laid a solid foundation. It was only fitting that they went out together as division champs, with the girls winning the Valley for the first time since 2010 and the boys taking it for the first time since 2005.

D’Alessandro felt the key to the girls’ title was beating Lawrence for the first time in her four years. “All of us have worked so hard and have sacrificed so much time in and out of the pool. I am so happy and so proud that we did it. My freshman self would be blown away,” she said.

Ava felt the teams were undaunted despite losing their opening meets in the NJSIAA Central Group C tournament.

The boys lost a heartbreaking 86-84 decision to Rumson-Fair Haven, and the girls fell to Shore, 95-75.

“I would absolutely still consider this a successful season,” she said. “Advancing in states would have just been the cherry on top for this whole season. Not only did we win the division, but I think the seniors greatly shifted the environment on this team.”

It was an environment that D’Alessandro felt needed to improve.

“From freshman to junior year, it wasn’t always positive,” she said. “Before the season even began, I went with other seniors to meet with our coaches to talk about what we wanted to bring to the team. It was important to us that every member of the team knew they were important. You don’t have to be the fastest to make an impact. We wanted to emphasize this and that is how we beat Lawrence.

“This season was so successful because it was the first season I felt like we truly became a family. I think in creating this we were able to win the division and also leave a long-lasting love for swimming and each other.”

Senior Armaan Desai in the pool for Hopewell Valley Central High School. The boys’ and girls’ teams both won CVC division titles this year. (Photo by Mike Rheinhardt.)

At long last, Bear Tavern speed limit reduced to 25 mph

Courtney Peters-Manning Kevin Kuchinski FROM THE TOWNSHIP

Drive by nearly any school in Mercer County and you’ll see the speed limit when kids are coming and going is 25 miles per hour or less. For years, there has been one exception: the stretch of Bear Tavern Road in front of Bear Tavern School, where the speed limit was 30 miles per hour.

Residents have been upset about this and as parents ourselves, we fully understand why. The safety of township children should always be paramount.

We are thrilled to say that, after many years of community input and a renewed request in October from the Hopewell Township Committee, Mercer County finally will be lowering the speed limit in front of Bear Tavern Elementary School to 25 miles per hour. The ordinance also adds a new, larger speed zone from 1,000 feet north of Maddock Road to Washington Crossing-Pennington Road (County Route 546), reducing the speed limit there from 45 mph to 35 mph.

Within this new speed zone is the Bear

Tavern Elementary School Zone, where the speed limit will be 25 mph when flashing. Flashing lights will be operating during recess, or while children are arriving at school or leaving school. Signage showing the new speed limits will be added.

In light of the new traffic circle and

other traffic calming measures in front of Johnson Park Elementary School on Rosedale Road in Princeton, we renewed our efforts to have a similar safety change made for Hopewell Township. After a productive meeting with county officials, we are thankful that the immediate change of adding a lower,

buffer speed zone as described above was able to be implemented quickly and without the delays and the extensive permitting and construction timeline that something like a traffic circle would need.

We want every school child in Mercer County to have the same opportunity to get to school safely, and this new, lower speed limit achieves that for the children of Hopewell Township.

We appreciate the support from our County Commissioners, especially Hopewell’s own Kristin McLaughlin, along with former Chair Nina Melker, John Cimino, and current chair Lucy Walter. Thanks also go to the county engineer and other members of the county administration who finally were able to get this change across the goal line. We’re thrilled to see this important safety change at Bear Tavern moving forward. We are heartened to see what we can achieve with continued persistence and collaboration.

Courtney Peters-Manning and Kevin Kuchinski are members of the Hopewell Township Committee. Hopewell Township provided this content.

Clean Communities Day a legacy worth maintaining

In the fall of 1991, FoHVOS implemented the first Clean Communities Day throughout Hopewell Valley. On Saturday, April 15, 2023, FoHVOS will administer its 63rd and final Clean Communities Day as the program transitions to management by Hopewell Township.

Clean Communities Day has been a semi-annual event where volunteers, adorned with gloves and safety vests, spend the day picking up discarded trash from Valley roadways and parks.

Hopewell Township officials notified FoHVOS that they will revamp, update, and administer the program with details still under discussion. FoHVOS trustees learned the news at their February board meeting and reacted with mixed emotions. While disappointed at the end of era, the board took pride in the FoHVOS history of bringing the program to the Valley and its commitment to stewarding Hopewell Valley lands.

Helen Corveleyn, FoHVOS Board Trustee, STEM Coordinator at HVRSD, and a girl scout leader who worked many Clean Communities days said Clean Communities Day was always an opportunity for young people to do one of the most rudimentary tenants of environmentalism, picking up trash and beautifying the space we inhabit. “It got kids outside, actively involved, and had a direct, cause-and-effect relationship on cleaning the environment,” she said.

Corveleyn continued: “When kids are outside and serving their communities in event, like a clean up day, it allows them the comfort of working with a social network of other like-minded kids out in nature, gives them a connection to what it means to steward the earth, and provides

them the opportunity to spend a morning outside away from screens and stress.”

The statewide Clean Communities Program was created in 1986 with funding from taxes levied on the sale of litter generating products. 80% of Clean Communities funding goes to municipalities with the remainder to counties, and state parks.

Hopewell Township began receiving Clean Communities funding in 1991 when Ted Stiles, then president of Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space, assured Hopewell Township Committee members that Clean Communities would provide both trash abatement and an easy additional revenue source since FoHVOS would administer the program. While Stiles, namesake of the Ted Stiles Preserve at Baldpate Mountain, is most well known for coordinating land preservation opportunities, he also believed that preservation needs to be augmented with strong stewardship and care and love for the land.

FoHVOS board president Dan Rubenstein joined the board in 1991, the same year that Clean Communities Day

efforts began in the Township. “Ted’s idea was simple: find ways to connect kids to nature any way possible. And ‘Clean Communities’ was one such way. It got kids outside and appreciate the beauty of a clean landscape, one that too easily can be degraded by the careless actions of others. Not only did the kids feel that they had done some environmental good, they received a T-shirt to proudly display what they had done, while earning some money for the groups they support. Truly a win all the way around.”

A sense of nostalgia was also common across the board. Ryan Kennedy, FoHVOS vice president, YMCA president and Hopewell Borough Council member, reminisced: “I was a Hopewell Valley 5th grader myself when the program started in 1991. This year, I’ll come full circle with my own 5th (and 9th) grader volunteering again with their friends and scout troops. The memories I have (and maybe just as many T-shirts) are a regular reminder of our community’s commitment to keep Hopewell clean over the years. It was only much later that I connected the FoHVOS logo from those volunteer shirts to the thousands of land preservation markers across our Valley.”

Beth Craighead, FoHVOS Senior Land Steward, received her Clean Communities Coordinator training and certification and has served in that role for the last decade. While FoHVOS was considering automation, Beth still administers the program as it was originally designed. She dispenses territories by assigning areas on a large Hopewell Valley map, provides cleaning supplies, and tracks volunteer hours.

“I have enjoyed working on Clean Communities for the last ten years,” said Ms. Craighead, “It was great to see so many young people take part. I had several groups that had a favorite road or

park and cleaned the same one year after year. They would get so excited when they found something unusual and loved to tell me about it.”

Beverage containers and snack packaging are the most common items found. Due to heightened awareness and recent legislation, the prevalence of water bottles and plastic bags has recently begun declining. Craighead noted folks have also found unusual items such as car parts, jewelry, a washing machine, and a hand written novel. Last fall, a small couch and working cell phone were found and the phone was ultimately returned to its owner.

In order to receive Clean Communities funding, Hopewell Township is required to sponsor and publicize at least two community litter cleanups on public lands each year. Hopewell Township Mayor Michael Ruger said: “We appreciate the deep commitment that FoHVOS has provided to this program and the Valley for over 30 years. Starting in the fall, the township will be bringing all the great Clean Communities benefits to township residents.”

Any discussion of Clean Communities must recognize our friends and partners at Pennington Quality Market who supplied hot cocoa and donuts to all volunteers cleaning the Valley.

Kennedy concluded: “So very proud of the legacy that FoHVOS started here, both with cleaning-up and preserving our surroundings. Congratulations and thanks to all who roll up their sleeves and make a difference, one trash bag or one acre at a time.”

To register for FoHVOS’s final clean-up day on April 15, visit fohvos.org.

Lisa Wolff NATURE IN THE VALLEY

Lisa Wolff is the executive director of Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space. Email: lwolff@fohvos.org.

Photo at left: Ted Stiles (right) stands beside a Hopewell Township map. Stiles founded the Clean Communities program for Hopewell Valley in 1991. Photo at right: Pat Szibur at Clean Communities in 2005.

Family Member Deserves

Bed Sores ∙ Falls/Fractures

Malnutrition ∙ Infections

Medication Errors ∙ Abuse ∙ Death

NURSING HOME NEGLECT

Contact Sherri L. Warfel, Chair of the Nursing Home Practice, Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, at swarfel@pralaw.com

Get The Justice & Fair Treatment Your Family Member Deserves

Sherri L. Warfel

∙ Bed Sores ∙ Falls/Fractures

Malnutrition ∙ Infections

∙ Medication Errors ∙ Abuse ∙ Death

Contact Sherri L. Warfel, Nursing Home Practice Chair swarfel@pralaw.com

For more than 15 years, Ms. Warfel’s practice has focused on assisting victims of nursing home abuse and negligence. She has been a featured speaker and panelist regarding issues in nursing home litigation and has worked to obtain favorable decisions on behalf of nursing home residents including a notable case involving forced arbitration. Her efforts have resulted in millions of dollars for her injured clients. Together, PR&A and Ms. Warfel provide unrelenting representation to nursing home clients to ensure they are compensated fairly.

Sherri L. Warfel

For more than 15 years, Ms. Warfel’s practice has focused on assisting victims of nursing home abuse and negligence. She has been a featured speaker and panelist regarding issues in nursing home litigation and has worked to obtain favorable decisions on behalf of nursing home residents, including a notable case involving forced arbitration. Her efforts have resulted in millions of dollars for her injured clients. Together, PR&A and Ms. Warfel will provide unrelenting representation to nursing home clients to ensure they are compensated fairly.

Love your local liberry

The nation is currently beset by people who want to ban books or, preferably, burn them, just like You-Know-Who. In most cases, these book banner-burners haven’t read the books they want to ban because, in most cases, they can’t read. And those who can read do so while holding a finger under each word and moving their lips.

With this backdrop, let us celebrate that bulwark against ignorance, the Hopewell Public Library. According to head librarian, Barbara Merry, there have been few complaints about the library’s stock of books. Those very few objections tended to come from the ultra-sensitive left rather than the psychotically fanatical right (my characterization).

Such open-mindedness is a clear reflection of the enlightenment of the Hopewell community.

Since 1965, the library has been housed in what was once the Hopewell National Bank (built in 1870). The library

has a collection of around 13,000 books. It is also a repository for historically valuable local documents including those pertaining to the Lindbergh kidnapping and paper scrolls depicting the lineage of ancient local families.

The bank’s original vault with footthick walls holds the library’s copier. It would have been an ideal location for the computer system, but the walls are too thick to be penetrated by Wi-Fi.

The Library has had its crises. Some months ago, its computer went rogue, like in some sci-fi horror flick, sending out notices erroneously claiming that returned books were now two months overdue. And if patrons did not return books immediately, a squad of library volunteers would come to their homes, seize all their household goods and break their legs. Furthermore, they’d lose all borrowing privileges.

Fortunately, the glitch was fixed before anyone got hurt.

Shortly after this situation was resolved, the library got rid of fines for late book returns relieving many from the onerous ten cents a day charges for holding on to “The Runaway Bunny” and

According to Ms. Merry, the fines were eliminated because it actually cost more to tally the nickels and dimes than the income received. Also, it provoked acrimony over being nickel-dimed. However, a much larger crisis faces the library. It’s quaint, it’s cozy, it’s historical, and it has good books, but it’s too small. According to Library Board president, Woody Carsky-Wilson, “Shelf space is so limited that for every book acquired, another has to be discarded.”

Furthermore, there’s no space for the large audience that the library draws for various events and clubs, no room for tutoring or a staff office. “The library needs a community room, a space everyone could use free of charge.”

Borough Council president and library trustee Sky Morehouse lists three options: “stay where we are, build a new building with increased services, or no library at all.” Searches around town to use existing buildings have not panned out.

Mr. Carsky-Wilson says, “A new building must happen.” Under consideration is the area around the Hopewell railroad station. He emphasizes that the Borough must incur “no costs, no bonding, no increase in taxes.” Freeing up the bank building for occupancy by a business would contribute to the Borough’s tax base.

To pay for a new building, the plan is to hire a professional fundraiser and solicit the required $1-3.4 million from local, private benefactors. A foundation already exists to handle donations. (Yes, do start fumbling for your checkbooks.) .

The library’s survival is currently dependent on annual funding of $120K

from the Borough and the formidable efforts of its part-time staff and volunteers.

To supplement the professional campaign and compensate for the loss of late-book fines, I propose additional money-making initiatives guaranteed to appeal to thrill-seekers of all ages.

On the second floor of the library, there is a tiny closet under a staircase that almost perfectly mirrors the space where a young Harry Potter was confined by the Dursleys. Patrons eager to relive the Harry Potter experience could be charged $1 per minute to sit inside that alcove. For the full Harry Potter experience, patrons could get themselves locked in for a whole night at a heavily discounted sum of $100. Alternatively, the closet could be promoted as a novelty honeymoon getaway.

Another sure-fire cash cow is the library’s staircase, the steepest in North America and one of the many reasons the library is not ADA compliant. Children could be charged a modest toll to climb this glorious stairway to heaven which is uniquely equipped with parallel banisters, one for adults and one for kids. Art projects always in place await those children who have persevered and made it to the summit.

The downside of moving the library is that it would no longer abut the Hopewell Bistro, currently a hole in the ground soon to be filled by a hoitytoity restaurant. The days when you could readabook then go next door to drinkabeer would be over.

Robin Schore lives in Hopewell Borough.

FEATURED PROPERTIES

Pennington Boro | $639,000

Welcome to Pennington Boro. Gleaming HW floors and plaster walls throughout. The remodeled galley kitchen features cherry cabinets, granite counters, a huge walk-in pantry, and beautiful block glass allowing lots of natural light in.

NEW LISTING

Pennington Boro | $385,000

This 2 BR, 2.5 BA townhome boasts a well-designed floor plan, a brick courtyard with parking and arbored gateway, and a fresh, modern aesthetic set off by pale gray walls and polished concrete floors.

NEW LISTING

Lambertville City | $307,500

A diamond in the rough nestled in the quaint and charming river town of Lambertville - a place where folks still greet you by your first name at the local neighborhood cafe.

NEW LISTING

Raritan Twp | $799,000

10-acre picturesque equestrian property is situated back off the road and has a beautiful creek running along the edge. Amenities include a 3,000+ square foot home (currently used as a 2 family), a 10 stall barn.

ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT

Hamilton | $483,880

Welcome Home to the “RAYLEIGH” Model, featuring 1942 sq ft, 3 Bedrooms and 2.5 Bathrooms and includes 9” first floor ceilings, 2 Story entry foyer, first floor Mud Room, Granite Kitchen with peninsula top. Second floor laundry room, covered front porch, 2 car garage, and a full Basement with finished rec room.

Hamilton | $494,880

Welcome Home to the “STAMFORD” Model, featuring 2438 sq ft, 4 Bedrooms and 2.5 Bathrooms and includes 9” first floor ceilings, 2 Story entry foyer, first floor Mud Room, Granite Kitchen with peninsula top, Second floor laundry room, covered front porch, 2 car garage, a full Basement with finished Rec room.

NEW LISTING

Hamilton | $537,880

Welcome Home to the “TARRINGTON” Model, our largest model featuring 2960 sq ft, 4 Bedrooms and 2.5 Bathrooms, includes 9” first floor ceilings, 2 Story entry foyer with Balcony, Home Office, first floor Mud Room, Granite Kitchen with peninsula top, second floor laundry room, covered front porch, 2 car garage, a full Basement with 15 ‘4” x 36’7” partially finished Rec Room.

NEW LISTING

Hamilton | $482,880

Welcome Home to the “RAYLEIGH” Model, featuring 1942 sq ft, 3 Bedrooms and 2.5 Bathrooms and includes 9” first floor ceilings, 2 Story entry foyer, first floor Mud Room, Granite Kitchen with peninsula top. Second floor laundry room, covered front porch, 2 car garage, and a full Basement with finished Rec room.

Hopewell | $425,000

The home is on a nice sized lot with three spacious bedrooms and good sized closets. Home is located on a quiet road in Pennington close to everything you will need.

Hopewell Valley O ce | Two Route 31 South, Pennington NJ | O: 609. 737. 1500