4-23 RA

Robbinsville calls for election changes

By BiLL SaNserViNO

Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried and the Township Council are calling for major changes in the Mercer County election system.

Last month, the council passed a resolution asking the County Executive Brian Hughes and the Mercer County Board of Commissioners to eliminate the positions of superintendent and deputy superintendent of elections.

The move comes after the 2022 general election on Nov. 8 saw multiple issues, the worst of which was a county-wide problem with voting machines that resulted in voters having to cast paper ballots.

Record amount donated at Red Cross Club blood drive

EDiTeD By BiLL SaNserViNO

Robbinsville High School’s Red Cross Club collected 51 units of donated blood from community members in February, one of the largest totals in recent years.

“This is the biggest number I’ve seen since becoming the club’s adviser,” said teacher Sue

Kanagawa, who began advising the club in 2017. “It’s amazing to see such community support for this important project.”

To put this year’s number in perspective, the club collected 47 units of blood in 2022, 25 units of blood in 2020, and 23 units of blood in 2019. A blood drive was not held in 2021 because of COVID-19.

Each unit of blood can be used by up to three patients, meaning this year’s donations could help as many as 153 individuals, according to the American Red Cross New Jersey Region.

Robbinsville’s Red Cross Club is one of the largest student organizations at the high school with

In addition, Robbinsville experienced a situation where ballots were lost, and another in which about 6% of township voters were disenfranchised.

Those voters received letters weeks after the election informing them that their votes did not count. The letter, which came from the County Board of Elections said: “Unfortunately, your provisional ballot was not counted for the following reason: Voted by Machine.”

The disenfranchised voters apparently signed in at their polling stations with the intention of voting on the machine, but were given a provisional ballot because the machine scanners were not

processing the ballots.

The election “was plagued by many issues, including poor communication from the offices of the superintendent and deputy superintendent of elections and malfunctioning voting machines that created a chaotic atmosphere for voters, poll workers and election officials,” states the council resolution.

The measure also maintains that, “clear information has not been forthcoming from either the Mercer County Board of Elections or the Mercer County Superintendent of Elections, with each office avoiding accountability and casting blame on the other for the mishaps during and after the 2022 General Election.”

According to the resolution, the township council and the mayor are united in calling for the Board of Commissioners to eliminate the superintendent and deputy superintendent positions “to help streamline Mercer County’s election processes and ensure accountability from Mercer County’s election officials.”

In addition to the resolution, Council Vice President Mike Todd called for changes during a meeting of the Board of County Commissioners earlier this year.

““Something needs to change,” Todd said. “Training for poll work-

See ELECTIONS, Page 14

Members of the Red Cross Club are pictured during a recent blood donation event held at Robbinsville High School. At rear are Sahana Prasad (left), Suhani Agarwal and Naiya Patel. In front are Himasri Cheerla, Abinaya Dharanikumar and Shrika Yeddula.

ArounD toWn

Alumn returns to direct RHS spring musical

Brian Williams entered Robbinsville High School as a freshman in 2004 with his sights set on playing piano for Broadway productions. Then he got a taste of teaching.

“I was having a better time helping other people make music than making music myself,” said Williams, who as a student occasionally led choir classes when the instructor was out. “That’s how I caught the bug; the rest is history.”

Williams was part of the high school’s first graduating class in 2008, later earning a bachelor’s degree in music education and master’s degree in teaching from Westminster Choir College in 2012. He returned to the district, first teaching music at the middle school before moving to the high school in 2016.

Today, Williams is the high school’s choir director and was the director of the spring musical, Pippin, a widely acclaimed production about the son of

a king who struggles to find his place in the world. The show was held from March 31 to April 2.

It’s an experience, Williams said, that is universally relatable to students and adults alike.

“Ultimately one of the reasons we picked the show is the main character is going through a crisis about where he fits in life, and teenagers are constantly evaluating where they fit,” Williams said. “Sometimes something extraordinary is incredibly ordinary. You take for granted what you have.”

About 70 students were involved in the production, on stage and in the crew. They had been working for months learning and rehearsing their lines, coordinating dance routines, painting sets and building props.

Among those students are Rachael and Bridget Godfrey, 17-year-old twin seniors who led key aspects of the show.

Rachael was the student technical director and stage crew coordinator

who oversaw everything from construction of the set to costumes, lighting design and sound control.

The role helped Rachael strengthen

her leadership abilities and management acumen. Those are skills she said will prove valuable throughout her life and career.

But school productions like the spring musical and fall drama can also help students find where they belong, an experience not unlike the lessons explored in Pippin

“Being on crew always brought that sense of peace for me in middle school and high school. Crew always was something I could come back to and it made me very, very happy to be there,” Rachael said. “Whether it’s the people or the show we were doing, crew always feels like a family to me.”

Her sister, Bridget, played the character Catherine, an on-stage lead in the show. She was also one of the cast’s dance captains.

Bridget has long performed in productions outside of the school, including in community theater groups and ven-

See AROUND TOWN, Page 7

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Brian Williams, a 2008 graduate of RHS, directed this year’s spring musical.

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AROUND TOWN cont. from Page 4 with their peers and make an impactful change in their community.

That on-stage spark was lit when she began attending her older sisters’ high school productions as a child and became entranced by the magic of the stage.

“I always came out feeling so alive, and that’s something I want to send everybody home with,” Bridget said.

For Williams, the sisters’ experiences symbolize the power and potential of music. The productions are not just performances. They are learning opportunities that shape who students become and how they approach life.

“Music teaches to be diligent, to be humble, to believe in yourself, to take chances, to fail and know how to get up from that,” Williams said. “Stellar musicians, through their art, make us all better human beings.”

RHS students urge motorists to drive safety

Students from the Robbinsville High School Class of 2025 are participating in the 13th Annual “U Got Brains Champion Schools Program,” in which New Jersey teens come together to create peer-driven campaigns that demonstrate driving safety.

Although teen driver fatalities have declined over the years, motor vehicle crashes remain the number one cause of death, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The ‘U Got Brains Champion Schools Program’ has given New Jersey teens an opportunity to address this issue

“We know that with help from our Champion Schools students and teacher advisors, we can continue to reduce the number of traumatic brain injuries and fatalities,” said Rita Steindlberger, president and CEO of the Alliance.

“We applaud these students for setting a great example with their peers and helping to build a culture of safety in our high schools,” said Violet Marrero, NJM Insurance Group’s consumer safety director.

Robbinsville High School students are focusing their campaign on raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. Their campaign is composed of three main components: visual displays, presentations, and proposed legislation.

For the visual displays, the students will be creating monthly displays in the main hallway of Robbinsville High School. Within the display students and faculty will be able to learn about the types and dangers of distracted driving, as well as ways to be a safe driver and passenger.

There will be a QR code included in each display that once scanned will open a safe driving quiz that can earn top-scorers prizes, including the opportunity to park in the Safe Driver of the Month parking spot.

To highlight National Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April the students have created a series of videos that will be aired during the high school morning announcements, as well as

See AROUND TOWN, Page 8

Cast members of Robbinsville High School’s spring musical, Pippin, pose for a photo. The production was held from March 31 to April 2, 2023.

posted on their social media pages. Each video is themed around the idea of “you wouldn’t do this while driving,” such as tasks like painting a portrait or baking cookies that you would never think to do while driving. The videos make a parallel to how if you would not do those tasks, then you should also not text while behind the wheel. Multiple clips of these videos were also merged together to create a public service announcement for the NJM “Just Drive” contest.

During National Distracted Driving Awareness Month the students of Robbinsville High School will also participate in a Safe Driving Spirit Week. The week’s themes include wearing flip flops to flip bad habits behind the wheel and denim as a stance against distracted driving.

For presentations, the students have organized two events focused on distracted driving. First, the sophomore and junior students were set to attend the Hang Up and Drive presentation on March 29.

The presentation was to feature Jacy Good who miraculously recovered from a crash caused by a distracted driver that claimed the lives of both her parents and left her partially paralyzed. Jacy has previously shared her story on the Oprah Winfrey Show, NPR, CNN,

Next, parents and teen drivers will be able to attend the virtual Share the Keys program on April 3 at 7 p.m. This interactive orientation program is a researchbased, data-driven program designed to reduce teen driver crash risks through increased parental involvement. Anyone is welcome to attend this informative session. The Zoom link will be posted on the Robbinsville school district website (robbinsville.k12.nj.us) closer to the event.

For the final component of the campaign—legislation—students have received help from state Senator Linda Greenstein to write legislation that would require companies that have mobile ordering on their mobile applications to contain a warning to the user to not use the feature while driving. The goal of the legislation is to reduce distracted driving by reminding users to only place an order while in the passenger seat, parked, or from home.

At the conclusion of the U Got Brains program, three winning schools will be selected by a panel of judges to receive a grand-prize of $10,000 cash donated to their school by Founding Sponsor, NJM Insurance Group.

The program is fortunate to have a group of community safety leaders who have chosen to support these efforts

through sponsorship, including New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, State Farm Insurance, National Road Safety Foundation, Allstate, Volvo, Nikhil Badlani Foundation, State Farm Insurance, Teen Safe Driving Coalition, New Jersey Education Association, and AAA. Robbinsville High School would also like to thank the New Jersey Education Association for their generous donations and support in helping to implement their campaign.

Model UN team wins big at national conference

Autonomous weapons raise complicated questions that challenge even the most seasoned diplomats, legal scholars and war ethicists, but Allison Dera wasn’t fazed.

“It’s really balancing state sovereignty, countries’ security interests and humanitarian causes,” said Dera, explaining the geo-political nuances of the topic in a recent interview. “It’s a very difficult balancing act because you have to keep so many factors in mind.”

The Robbinsville High School senior confronted the issue as part of her work in Model UN, an international education program in which students simulate the United Nations General Assembly and debate world affairs.

Dera, vice president of Robbinsville High School’s Model UN club, was in Washington, D.C. in February for the North American Invitational Model United Nations, where she worked to get a resolution passed that outlined how countries can mitigate fully autonomous weapons systems.

Her measure sought to codify into international humanitarian law limits on the capabilities of such weapons and when they can be used.

It’s just one example of the complex and urgent problems that Robbinsville students are addressing in Model UN — and their success with it.

Earlier this year, the club brought home 10 awards from BosMUN XXII, Boston University’s Model United Nations Conference. Students won best position paper and outstanding delegate, in addition to verbal recognitions and honorable mentions.

The awards highlighted students’ writing and arguments, communication, diplomacy and collaboration with others.

Before the Boston conference, students submitted papers identifying their chosen country’s positions on issues. Topics included global human trafficking, sustainability and the future of Congress. Students then debated the issues and voted on resolutions — policy docu-

ments detailing how countries can work together to solve the problem at hand.

The conference, held Feb. 10-12, drew about 1,500 students from schools all over the nation and was the biggest competition the club has participated in since the COVID-19 pandemic began. For the past two years, Robbinsville’s Model UN club participated only in mock events within the school and in virtual competitions.

“It was a pretty big deal for us to do so well because we really hadn’t competed since COVID,” club adviser Mark Iannelli said.

Robbinsville’s team also earned six awards, including two first-place finishes, at the Rutgers Model United Nations conference in November. That competition drew about 800 students, mostly from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

To qualify for travel competitions, Robbinsville Model UN members must do well in mock events at the high school. These events entail writing position papers and debating with peers on various committees.

The experience has been life changing for Hammad Farooqi, the club’s president, who said Model UN has helped him grow as a student, leader and person.

“Model UN is a great club to build your public speaking skills and teambuilding skills by taking on the roles of different countries tackling important issues,” Farooqi said. “As a freshman I don’t think I was very confident, but through this role I was able to take on a new persona.”

The Robbinsville senior said although the work is demanding, he has enjoyed meeting people and forging new friendships. He plans to attend Princeton University in the fall to study computer science.

“The dream would be to have my own start-up and develop my own software, to be able to apply my love for computer science to the type of leadership roles in a team like we have at Model UN,” Farooqi said.

As for Dera, she is scheduled to travel to Madrid, Spain, later this month to compete in the Harvard Model Congress Europe competition with the AllAmerican Model UN team. After graduation this year, the 18-year-old plans to attend McGill University in Montreal and wants to work in international development.

“I would like to work in economically developing regions of the world, addressing economic systems, public infrastructure systems, maybe even for the World Bank or a non-profit organization,” Dera said.

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DINE & DONATE DAY

1973

YEARS

In honor of our 50th Anniversary, Brother's Pizza on Rt. 33 will host a "Dine and Donate Day" for a local charity. We have chosen one Sunday per month to donate 50% of our sales to a featured 501c organization. Please support our cause to give back to our community!

RISTORANTE & PIZZA

UPCOMING CHARITABLE EVENTS:

2023

MAY 21: Miracle League

JUNE 11: NJ Autism

JULY 9: Joeys Little Angels

AUGUST 6: Whats My Name

SEPTEMBER 10: Ryans Quest

1973

OCTOBER 8: I Believe in Pink

NOVEMBER 12: Shine & Inspire

DECEMBER 10: OneProjectNJ & Mobile Meals of Hamilton

DOUGH RAISED:

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

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2023

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Community Forum

Superintendent decries state school funding inequity

The Robbinsville schools received very disappointing news from the state this week—we are the only school district in Mercer County to not see an increase in state aid funding for the upcoming school year. Under the state’s revamped funding formula, we expected approximately $2 million more to support our upcoming budget. And, despite approximately a 7% inflation rate, that did not happen.

We find it outrageous and wrong that the Robbinsville schools did not get the funding to which we are entitled. And it places the Administration in a difficult position, as we are facing increased fixed costs. For example, there is a $600,000 increase in our custodial contract, an $850,000 increase in transportation, a $500,000 increase in medical insurance, $1.1 million in increased salaries, and other rising expenses because of inflation.

With all of these increased costs, we were stunned to learn the state did not provide the additional support that

neighboring school districts received. And, thus, despite our conservative budgeting process, we are now facing a major deficit.

Our challenge now is how to make these cuts as painless as possible. Even going to the 2% or $800,000 budget increase limit and exhausting all of our banked cap amounts, which we are fortunate to have from past years for our use, we are still nearly $2 million short of a balanced budget.

In some ways, it is especially challenging because of the strides made in adding positions, enhancing instructional resources, and making long-overdue repairs to our schools. Yet, we are required to make major cuts to present and approve a preliminary budget by next Tuesday.

Right now, I cannot tell you exactly where the cuts will be made. There are certainly difficult decisions ahead. However, I can share our goals of ensuring the highest quality educational service to the community of Robbinsville while pre-

serving every possible program. Our targets in facing these cuts are very clear:

• Limit reductions (staff and resources) in the classroom to the maximum extent to ensure continued high-quality education;

• Preserve as many programs as possible;

• Continue the district’s dedication to high-quality instruction and innovative curriculum which have a direct impact on student achievement; and

• Continue to improve instructional efficacy through quality professional development

We are not approaching budget reductions lightly, and I am committed to providing you with accurate information in a timely and straightforward manner. I ask that you do not adhere to rumors or falsehoods which may be promoted. Those lead to uncertainty and gossip, redirecting our focus.

In an effort to help ease uncertainty, I am sharing our prioritization for budget cuts. Please keep in mind that as

the Administration and Board of Education review our budget, and the process moves forward, this list could change:

• Reduction or elimination of low-priority budget items;

• Delay facility improvements and upkeep;

• Reduction of technology resources;

• Increasing district fees;

• Reduction of transportation expenses and opportunities;

• Reducing extracurricular activities;

• Increasing class size; and

• Staffing reductions.

How can you help?

Robbinsville was the only district in Mercer County to not receive any additional state aid funding. This angers all of us. Changes must be made at the state level to ensure we are not in this position again. Your voice can be empowered by reaching out to our elected state representatives and asking for assistance. This website links you to State Senator Linda Greenstein, Assemblyman Dan Benson, and Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo:

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experts do, too.

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY. The experts do, too.

njleg.state.nj.us/legislative-roster.

There are incredibly difficult decisions ahead. While making them, our focus will remain on providing the best possible educational opportunities to our students.

I will continue to update you as the process moves forward, and, as always, I welcome your feedback.

Brian J. Betze

Robbinsville rallies for robotics team

Robbinsville High School hosted its inaugural robotics competition from March 17 to 19, which turned out to be a resounding success and an experience that is sure to be remembered.

Team Nemesis would like to express our gratitude to all the volunteers who helped make this event possible. From the initial planning stages to the final day of the competition, they selflessly gave their time and energy to ensure that everything ran smoothly.

Nemesis parents, alumni, and other students from the FIRST community came together, working at the concession stands and participating in the competition as judges and field resetters to make the weekend memorable and an enjoyable experience for everyone. Without their assistance, this event would not have been possible, and we are grateful for their unwavering support.

Despite some initial worries about the amount of work it would be to set up and disassemble the competition, the process went far more smoothly than we had anticipated. With the help of our volunteers and the cooperation of all the teams involved, we were able to efficiently and effectively get everything arranged for a fantastic weekend of competition. What we initially thought would be a lengthy and tiresome process turned out to be an unforgettable bonding experience.

One of the highlights of the competi-

tion was the spirit of FIRST: the embodiment of coopertition and gracious professionalism that permeated throughout the teams bolstered the excitement through the arena.

Rather than just focusing on winning at all costs, the teams were genuinely invested in helping each other out and fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. Whether it was lending spare parts, offering advice, or simply cheering each other on, the teams demonstrated a true commitment to working together for the greater good.

One example of this was when three robots failed to meet the inspection requirements. To help them compete, Nemesis mentors worked with the teams to fabricate new pieces in the machine shop and reassemble the robots.

Of course, there were moments of fierce competition, with each team vying for the top spot. However, even in these moments, the teams remained respectful and enthusiastic, never losing sight of the bigger picture.

This dedication to gracious professionalism was truly inspiring and a testament to the character of the students involved. We are so proud that Nemesis ended up as a semi-finalist as a part of the number two alliance in the competition. The event culminated with Nemesis winning the Sustainability Award, an incredible accomplishment thanks to the collective efforts and dedication of the entirety of the team.

In conclusion, the inaugural robotics competition at Robbinsville was a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together with a common goal. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for Nemesis and the opportunities that lie ahead for our students to innovate, collaborate, and make a positive impact on the world. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to host such an amazing event and we hope to host another in the future.

Vivaan Khasnis Robbinsville

Betze is the superintendent of the Robbinsville School District.

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RED CROSS cont. from Page 1 about 90 members. They worked to plan, promote and manage a recent blood drive, while technicians from the American Red Cross set up stations and administered the blood donations. Students also served snacks to donors, including bagels donated by Bagels n’ Cream on Washington Boulevard.

For Sahana Prasad, a Robbinsville junior, volunteering for the club teaches her about the crucial role that blood drives play in keeping a stable supply.

“There’s really no substitute for blood and everyone has to do their part in helping others around the world,” said Prasad, the club’s secretary.

Someone in the United States requires additional blood or platelets every two seconds, which translates to a daily demand of 29,000 units of red blood cells, nearly 5,000 units of platelets and 6,500 units of plasma, according to the American Red Cross.

That urgency is what drove Suhani Agarwal to volunteer for the club, as well. The Robbinsville junior greeted donors at the door and helped ensure they had required documentation, among other duties.

Agarwal, Red Cross Club’s vice president, said serving others is a value that has long been instilled in her at home.

Indeed, her mom was among those who donated blood.

“It makes me feel really nice to give back to my community,” Agarwal said. “It was great to have someone in my family donate. It was also nice to see how many people in our community who want to help.”

American Red Cross New Jersey Region CEO Rosie Taravella thanked students, staff and the Robbinsville community for their blood donations, noting the vast disparity between how many people need blood and the number of people who donate.

Robbinsville’s donations, Taravella said, will help bridge that gap.

“The need for blood is constant, and the students and staff at Robbinsville High School can be counted on to roll up a sleeve to help meet the need,” Taravella said. “One in seven patients entering a hospital will need a blood transfusion, but at the same time, only about three percent of Americans give blood. The American Red Cross is proud of the work the Robbinsville Red Cross Club puts into organizing blood drives and grateful for the humanitarian spirit exhibited at the school.”

Red Cross Club members promoted the blood drive with posters, social media and good old-fashioned word of mouth, espe-

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cially in conversations between students and their parents, according to Shrika Yeddula, the club’s co-president.

“It’s a club that really opens up high schoolers to the world of volunteering; it is important to get involved in something that has greater purpose and could help other people,” said Yeddula, a senior who has been in the club for three years.

In addition to the blood drive, Red Cross Club collects food for military families, sends holiday cards to military personnel and hosts bake sales each year in support of the American Red Cross. The club also has raised money to fight wildfires and educate children about COVID19 hygiene.

Abinaya Dharanikumar, the club’s treasurer, said she especially enjoys writing holiday cards to members of the armed forces. The club typically sends between 200 and 300 cards each year with messages that express gratitude to the recipients for their service.

“Everyone loves doing these cards,” said

Dharanikumar, a senior who has been in the club since her freshman year. “For me personally I like making the cards because it is a way to show how much we appreciate them. Everyone feels the same way.”

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A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

RHS Red Cross Club members Kallie Austin and Juliette Mermound.

ers needs to be revamped along with better communication between departments with a more efficient way to schedule poll workers. It’s not going to change overnight and it’s not going to change without your support as well.”

He also said the county should explore using different voting machines, and replacing the ones that had problems on Nov. 8.

According to Todd, the commissioners deferred to the Mercer County Board of Elections on most of the issues raised by the public during the meeting, stating that the board is the entity responsible for the operational component of county elections.

* * *

During an interview in February, Robbinsville Advance editor Bill Sanservino spoke with Mayor Dave Fried about the

Peace of Mind.

election problems and the impacts on the township. An edited version of that discussion appears in Q&A format below.

Robbinsville Advance: Almost every leader in the towns I cover has privately complained about the problems that Mercer County has had with elections over the past few years. You’ve been a lot more outspoken. What are your thoughts about what has gone on with elections in Mercer?

Dave Fried: First off, I’m always careful about saying things about the election, because there’s been so much election denying and conspiracy theories. I don’t believe there were any conspiracies. I don’t believe that there were people who are meaning to do bad.

However there is absolutely, positively no doubt that there was gross incompetence. It was the most embarrassing

election I’ve ever seen. And last year (2021) was a horror show. So the fact that they were able to exceed it in 2022 almost seems like someone tried. I’ve never seen anything like it. We had no chain of custody for the ballots. Ballots were arriving opened. Uber was used to deliver ballots.

We literally sent communications to the superintendent of elections and also to the Mercer County Clerk saying we would like to have our police officers take the ballots to the to the collection place. We were told, “no, it can’t possibly be done.”

And then our ballots were lost. No one ever even explained how they were lost or how they were found, of if they were really found.

To this day, I still have no idea. It’s shocking to me that anyone could be this bad at this two years in a row.

I think having three independent government entities—the election board, the county clerk and the superintendent of elections—all reporting to effectively no one, and each one of them being allowed to point the finger at the other, is ridiculous.

We should eliminate the superintendent of elections office. It’s ridiculous. Mercer County doesn’t have to have it, and they could not be worse at their job. The only thing that they’re worse at is communications.

They literally—with no explanation— sent 6% of our voters a letter saying, “Sorry, your vote doesn’t count.” At the same exact time they were in the newspapers saying, “Don’t worry, every vote was counted.”

I mean, you got to be kidding me. And the 6% is only the ones we know about. There’s no question in my mind that there are more.

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Not one of our ballots were scanned. They were thrown in a bag and brought in. There is no way that anybody knows whose ballot was whose, because we were giving them out like candy.

There was no tracking. There was absolutely, positively no way to know whose ballot was turned in and whether or not your ballot counted. They know whether or not you showed up at the poll that day. But whether your vote counted? There’s zero percent chance anyone can tell you whether or not that was true. That is unacceptable.

RA: It was just as bad when it came to communications. Like you

said, there was a lot of finger pointing. There was no official statement released as to what happened, what went on or what was going on.

For weeks after the election, if you wanted to know what the results were, you had to go through a convoluted process. You had to look one place on a website for one set of result and then also download a document with more results, and then add them together. It seemed that there was a lack of leadership, a lack of ownership, and a total lack of communication on the issue.

DF: Absolutely.

RA: The morning of the election we received no official notice from the county about the problem with the voting machines. We found out what was going on through alerts from the Robbinsville and West Windsor police departments. If it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t have known.

DF: It’s horrifying. Ballots were left in the machines in many places—Princeton had ballots left in the machines overnight. There were photos of ballots strewn all over the floors. Honestly, I’ve never seen anything like it. Not one person lost their job. Not one person got held accountable. Not one person got written up. Still to this day, we don’t know the exact problem with the voting machnes.

Was it the software that was bad? Was it the ballots that were bad. I’ve heard both stories. I’ve heard that the software company was responsible. And the printing company was responsible.

It’s two years in a row. Knowing that you screwed up the year before, what would possibly possess you to not test the ballots before you put them in the field? I mean, this is just common sense.

The truth of the matter is—and I’m going to be rough on this—if you’re never held accountable, if you know you can’t be fired, if you know you’re not going to lose your job, if you know you’re not going to be written up regardless of how bad a job you do, what does it matter?

You have three portions of government that are in charge of elections and for two years in a row, they’ve completely failed to do their job. And the only thing that they can muster to do is explain why

‘I’ve never seen anything like it. We had no chain of custody for the ballots. Ballots were arriving opened. Uber was used to deliver ballots.’

Get ‘Wild’ in Your Garden By Going Green

BY REBEKAH SCHROEDER

Bid a cold goodbye to the winter frost and start preparing for a modern garden that grows with sustainability in mind, and whether homeowners choose to plant now or plan ahead, they can harvest an environmentally conscious future celebrating the value of nature.

Wild Ones Princeton Designs

The most successful landscapes achieve a balance between aesthetic appeal and practicality. But in time, homeowners can restore the ecosystem of a property by building its environmental resilience and making considerations about the climate.

People of all regions, skill levels, and economic statuses can improve their outdoor spaces, no matter how large or small, by transforming them into an eco-friendly garden with a diverse plant palette.

Peace of Mind For Your Loved One and You

Care and personal assistance for seniors in their own homes.

Greenwood House’s home care team are stewards in providing the highest level of home health aides to adults living independently who may just need assistance or support and personal care in their own home for as little as 6 hours a week up to live-in care.

• Personal In-Home Assistance

• Personal Hygiene Assistance

• Meal Preparation

• Light Housekeeping & Laundry

• Fresh Linens

• Socialization

• Companionship

Wild Ones, a nonprofit organization dedicated to using natural landscape techniques that preserve biodiversity and native plant populations, has published two free, downloadable garden plans for the Princeton mid-Atlantic ecoregion.

Created as part of Wild Ones’ Native Gar-

den Designs program, these printable templates include steps for replication, a planting schedule that optimizes the best steps to take in each season, and at least 15 native species in placements and concentrations that add value to the homeowner’s quality of life. People are encouraged to take inspiration from them, whether in full or as ideas, for houses even beyond the styles found in Central New Jersey.

Following a thorough analysis, landscaping professionals Julie Snell and Lisa McDonald Hanes developed these layouts to reintroduce indigenous plants on two contrasting properties: a single-family, one-acre parcel on the outskirts of town with a sloped suburban hill and a multifamily townhouse on a one-fi fth-acre parcel within Princeton.

Once grown, native plants can flourish with little to no watering, fertilizer, pesticides, or mowing, making them a viable, low-maintenance replacement for traditional lawns. These species have become accustomed to the area as a result of evolution and adaptation, with deeper root systems that control the level of water runoff. This prevents overflow and, by extension, mitigates flooding—a rising concern in New Jersey because of the effects of climate change.

See Wild Ones, Page 4

SIX09

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Stop Your Pain. Start Your Life.

Dr. Ronak Patel

Dr. Ronak Patel

Dr. Ronak Patel

Dr. Ronak Patel

We are a center of excellence that delivers the most up to date care in the field of comprehensive pain management. We are committed to helping you regain your life. Our focus will be on developing individualized patient treatment plans and increasing patient functionality.

We are a center of excellence that delivers the most up to date care in the field of comprehensive pain management. We are committed to helping you regain your life. Our focus will be on developing individualized patient treatment plans and increasing patient functionality.

We are a center of excellence that delivers the most up to date care in the field of comprehensive pain management. We are committed to helping you regain your life. Our focus will be on developing individualized patient treatment plans and increasing patient functionality.

We are a center of excellence that delivers the most up to date care in the field of comprehensive pain management. We are committed to helping you regain your life. Our focus will be on developing individualized patient treatment plans and increasing patient functionality.

Stop Your Pain. Start Your Life.

Regenerative Spine and Pain

Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute Taking the Fight Against Chronic Pain to New Levels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With so many different pain-causing illnesses, injuries, and conditions, treatments must be carefully customized to fit the needs of each individual patient. Dr. Patel partners

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

Regenerative Medicine/

Stem

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Communities of native plants support wildlife and pollinators, and while deer may still browse from them, as Wild Ones explained, mature plants can be “resilient” in the face of those pressures. Yet, if any invasive species present are not controlled, native plants risk being overtaken.

The Princeton designs primarily use perennials, or plants that return each year but may take longer to “get established,” as opposed to annuals, which only complete one growing season.

Snell is a certified arborist and founding partner of the Philadelphia-based TEND landscape architects, where her fellow designer, registered landscape architect Hanes, is also a founding principal. Hanes received her bachelor’s in landscape architecture from Purdue University, while Snell, who has a fine arts background, earned her master’s in landscape architecture from the University of Pennsylvania. Together, the women are the co-owners and operators of Redbud Native Plant Nursery in Media, Pennsylvania.

The designer statements for the singlefamily and multi-family properties share some of the same passages, but with details specific to each plan, as well as video interviews where Snell and Hanes spoke, respectively, about them with Wild Ones

To see the recommended phasing, priorities, practices, or download copies of the Princeton plan(s), visit Wild Ones’ website at nativegardendesigns.wildones.org. Ecoregions with designs ready for implementation include Boston, Chicago, Washington, D.C., and others.

Because the mid-Atlantic region has been inhabited since before the American Revolutionary War, these plans differ from

previous Wild Ones designs in several ways. According to the Wild Ones Princeton template page, “land development patterns and housing types show this age, coupled with modern demands for density and ways of living that meet a wide range of population needs from university students

to young families to the elderly.”

Wild Ones, which started in the Midwest, has three chapters in New Jersey: Gateway, Southern, and Skylands, the latter two of which are seedling groups still in the early stages of expanding membership and programming.

member Michele Hensey.

The single-family Wild Ones template, one of two designed by Julie Snell, top left , and Lisa McDonald Hanes, bottom left , has landscape-conscious layouts with sections—and interchangeable substitutions—for greener gardening.

Skylands serves the northwest counties of Mercer, Morris, Somerset, Sussex, and Warren. Its president, Daina Gulbis, is a chemical engineer by trade and a certified master gardener for Somerset County, where she has resided since 2005. Gulbis currently works as the K-8 Garden Coordinator for the Somerset Hills School District and an environmental educator for the Raritan Headwaters Association.

After speaking with the president of the state’s Southern New Jersey group, Josh Loew, both Gulbis and Gisela Ferrer volunteered to start their own chapters in March of last year, with Ferrer now leading the state’s Northeastern Gateway chapter. Gulbis is thrilled to be able to share these Princeton templates as something tangible

that can still be applied to many ecoregions and prove that raising native plants does not have to be “overwhelming.”

“I think that is the hardest part to figure out when you move to an area or when you decide you want to plant: what is it that’s going to be native, that can grow, that’s going to be flowering at this time, so that I can have a continuous flow in my garden? We have a lot of resources out there for Jersey, but it takes a lot of time,” she explained.

“Not everybody can afford to have a landscape architect come and take a look at their space,” Gulbis said, with the designs making that easier. She also expressed

Native plants featured include the bottlebrush buckeye, left, blue flag iris, upper right, and swamp milkweed, lower right.

Image credits, in order: Magnus Manske, Wikimedia Commons, and Ryan Hodnett.

her love for “the tables at the end, because you can also pick and choose” from substitute plants that “all grow in this area and climate.”

Snell and McDonald both recommend planning and preparing the site in the summer, which may include cleaning up the property and removing invasive species, before planting native species in the early fall. This way, rather than forcing the gardener to be hypervigilant about watering in the summer to ensure the survival of the seedlings, they can do so in September, October, and/or November to give the roots a longer time to settle. This puts them ahead of schedule by spring and will result in heartier plants come summer.

Gulbis personally plants for different reasons in the fall and spring. She shared that because the beginning of autumn is the end of the traditional growing season, nurseries tend to sell plants at reduced prices.

The “plugs” for native species, a term for seedlings grown in trays with potting soil, are sold in spring and present gardeners with visible blooms. But as opposed to their previously planted counterparts, which will likely spend their first years as stems, these

spring plants will require more attention and water, especially in hotter weather.

Gulbis says she does both—some for those visuals that signal the warmth of spring has arrived, and others for long-term planting that profits from patience.

Snell and Hanes advise that the process is best done in phases, proposing that people first define their goals for the landscape, such as what they want in the finished product—spots for growing produce, sitting, or playing—and evaluate their abilities to do the work required, such as coordinating with landscape professionals or budgeting. By establishing funding expectations and a timeline for incremental improvements or additions, the homeowner can devote the scheduling and monetary resources required to complete their vision, as well as all the maintenance that entails.

To help map out a balanced garden, the designers say it is important to document the following factors: sunlight, shade, and water flow patterns; conditions and/or types of soil, drainage, and moisture; as well as what plants are already growing

See Wild Ones, Page 6

in the space, both invasive and native. For more information on invasive species in the mid-Atlantic region, visit invasive.org/ eastern/midatlantic

In the designer statements, Snell and Hanes encourage homeowners to work closely with an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture, or ISA, to identify keystone species, such as oak trees, which are organisms that the ecosystem cannot exist without.

But removing the hazards—large trees that are dead or damaged, areas negatively impacted by erosion and flooding, or the advancing encroachment of invasive species—is just as essential as thoroughly studying the site.

Hanes advised conducting at least one “soil test” to detect its nutrition and acidity before starting the garden, and since Princeton spans the transition from the inner Atlantic coastal plain to the ridge and valley ecoregion, several spots in the same yard can have differing compositions (clay, sandy, compacted, etc.).

For more information on how and where to properly submit soil for testing, Hanes suggested checking out the website for both the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station’s Soil Testing Laboratory or Cornell University’s Soil

Health Laboratory

Climate change is also an undeniably big factor. According to Hanes and Hensey’s February YouTube discussion, the area averages around 47 inches of rainfall and 24 inches of snow annually, with increased but alarmingly unpredictable levels of precipitation and warmer temperatures expected throughout the year.

These seasonal fluctuations, according to Gulbis, are part of why a “random” April snowstorm can occur after a hotter summer and relatively “mild” winter. The Skylands president has witnessed vast changes in both the climate and what can successfully grow here—variables that were not present when she first moved to the state nearly two decades ago.

It is also worth it to be mindful of what the designers’ statements describe as “anthropogenic influences,” or “the age of density of development in an area” due to cycles of disturbance resulting from paving roads or storing building materials, which can increase the temperature in what is known as the “urban heat island effect.”

As explained in the “methodology” section of the single-family home template, following the designer’s site inventory and gathering of data, the objective was to restore ecological function and natural beauty, as well as empower residents to take advantage of the outdoors.

Visit local nurseries and sustainable suppliers, and keep a list of botanical names on hand when shopping or placing online orders. Wild Ones suggests purchasing native plants from Bountiful Gardens’ brick-and-mortar locations in Ewing, Lawrenceville, and Hillsborough, as well as Rare Find Nursery in Jackson, a mailorder retail plant nursery that operates by appointment only

The first priority is to manage the invasive plants and restore the woodlands, as the edge of the latter is what Snell deems the most “critical piece from the point of view of the homeowner” of a single-family property. In the designated woodland transition zone of the layout, she recommended planting flowering dogwood, fringetree, and other “large scale shrubs” like bottlebrush buckeye or Virginia sweetspire, which “hold the space really well.”

For the single-family property, Wild Ones advised reducing parts of the lawn to form a wide riparian buffer along the sides of a stream or the edge of a pond, then stabilizing that border by repopulating it with shrubs and herbaceous plants of differing heights. Snell said that what defines these houses in the “rolling hills” are having two sides of road frontage with a densely wooded upper east area that may be fragmented. The understory here is prone to damage from grazing deer, who gravitate to

oak trees and can be kept out via a specialized fence or by adding species that tend to be more “resistant.”

The ideal space for the single-family property should have focal points and access to water features, Snell added, with the south side typically flanking what she described as a small stream lacking a definitive edge or vegetation, which has made the excessively mowed area lack stability and be more susceptible to erosion or drainage issues. Reinforcing these slopes with native plants can slow down the water to abate that.

These can include what Snell calls a pattern of “beautiful blooms” featuring swamp milkweed, fox sedge, different iris (crested and blue flag), soft rush, and ironweed. For a ranking and breakdown of what plants would fare well in this area, visit the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station’s “Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance” at njaes.rutgers.edu/ deer-resistant-plants.

By alternating areas of higher and lower vegetation, as well as creating “access points” to the water via stepping stones, a gardener can help mitigate flooding, restore the streambank and develop “a habitat zone of ground layer herbaceous and woody [plants] where there was none,” Snell explained.

Trees, especially ones in the canopy,

provide structure, with the last point in the designer’s statement adding that once the spaces for sitting or other activities are placed, homeowners can use an organic site preparation method like solarization to eliminate the undesirable parts of the lawn that remain.

What the multi-family template loses in the townhouse style’s “postage-stamp front area,” it gains with a considerably bigger backyard, which can also be joined by a side yard and additional parking off the street. This front area would be drier and receive more sunlight juxtaposed against the backyard’s cooler, shadier temperatures, with the latter able to contain personalized zones for activities such as entertaining and growing a vegetable garden.

Both groundcover and mulching should be prioritized, but the easiest first step in this template, according to the phasing guide, is installing rain barrels to capture water and runoff from the roof downspouts.

The designer’s statement advocates for “lasagne gardening,” also known as sheet mulching, or smothering the grass with newspaper or cardboard and 4” to 5” of wood chips at least two months before planting to remove unwanted lawn. Hanes explained that this is an option for a less physical, but more time-oriented process.

When the season starts, any plants with exposed soil that have yet to mature should

be covered with green mulch, what Hanes termed “a living plant,” which reduces the need for water and weeding even more than bark mulch or shredded leaves.

The multi-family home design calls for “as little pavement as possible,” since its prevalence cuts into what is already a scarce outdoor space offering little biodiversity outside of turf grass and invasive species. Hanes suggested using wood chips or mulch when laying out pathways or seating areas until another, more permanent solution can be installed. She also emphasized the value of putting doorway trellises in place to offer shade and be an “easily plantable, fast-growing upgrade.”

In Hanes’s Wild Ones presentation, she said to water plants regularly until established, a period of time which will take roughly one to two years for herbaceous perennials and two to three years for woody plants—but to resume, then increase the amount, in drought conditions.

Lacking a green thumb or the gusto to get your hands dirty? No need to worry; Hanes offered her own experience as an option, explaining that she plants native species in containers and shares that there might be local opportunities for verge planting, a style of community gardening for growing more biodiverse greenery in the “verge,” or boulevard, of a street.

Another example from Gulbis is that she

Hamilton Wildcats

Where it all Begins!

take place April 4, 5 - go to

does not have a stream on her property, but was inspired to put a hedgerow in because of the plans. She also expressed her appreciation for the table of alternative plants and being able to “stack” plants in layers, noting she was able to complete work in her single-family home in a phased approach.

Even if the Princeton plans do not apply to your property, take away elements rather than the entirety, as anyone who has ever dreamed of relaxing or socializing in the domestic haven of a garden can apply some of this knowledge to their own backyards.

Supporting an ecoregion’s environment benefits the health and happiness of all its inhabitants. Wild Ones’ message is simple: “All gardening is experimentation and a handshake with the natural world where there are no guarantees,” which speaks to the fact that a better tomorrow can bloom for every person, plant, and part of life.

Still giddy about gardening and prefer

planting in April to see if those long hours can truly produce May flowers? Browse, buy, and be in nature with these other opportunities to celebrate the allure of the outdoors from Bordentown to West Windsor

Morven Museum & Garden

Because Morven Museum & Garden was established as the state’s first Governor’s Mansion, the landmark site has deep roots in Princeton. Morven’s annual plant sale, which brings together history and horticulture, has a new partner for this year, the local environmental organization Sustainable Princeton.

A plethora of annuals, perennials, shrubs, and edible plants—some of which are heirloom varieties or Morven exclusives prone to selling out—will be marked with a “SusSee Plant Power, Page 8

We are looking for girls ready for the travel challenge from birth year 2015-2004 to form new teams and supplement established teams

training and player development. In partnership with the Hamilton Girls Soccer Club and NJ Rush, the Wildcats provide a complete soccer experience for girls ages 5 to 23.

We are looking for girls ready for the travel challenge from birth years 2016-2004 to form new teams and supplement established teams.

The Hamilton Wildcats are an all-female travel soccer club focused on training and player development! In partnership with the Hamilton Girls Soccer Club and NJ Rush, the Wildcats provide a complete soccer experience for girls ages 5 to 19.

tainable Princeton Preferred” logo to signify what species have been identified as indigenous to the area. Through Monday, April 10, plants can be ordered online via the website, morven.org/fy23/plantsale.

Confirmation emails will contain the order’s pickup date, ID, and receipt for payment. Morven members receive a 10% discount off their order, as well as priority pickup and early access to the onsite stock on Friday, May 12. All other remaining orders will be scheduled for pickup from Saturday, May 13, to Monday, May 15.

According to Morven’s website, those who do not wish to order online can call or leave a message for visitor services at 609924-8144, ext. 103, to pay via credit card.

Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton. www.morven.org

Garden State African Violet Club Sale & Show at MCCC

Looking for a radiant houseplant to bring some vibrancy indoors? The Garden State African Violet Club returns with the 69th African Violet show and plant sale on May 6, titled “Violets Light Up Broadway,” a free event hosted by the horticulture program at Mercer County Community College. Hundreds of the flowers will be on display for judging in the student center of

MCCC’s West Windsor campus from noon to 4 p.m.

Attendees are not only able to view creative arrangements of these award-winning African violets but purchase flowers of their own to take home or gift—right in time for Mother’s Day, too—with experts on location to answer any “budding” questions guests might have.

Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor.

Bordentown City Green Home & Eco-Friendly Garden Tour

The Bordentown City Environmental Commission has organized a free, selfguided initiative, the first of its kind, with

The Garden State African Violet Club offers more than just their namesake with a stunning jolly orchid for sale, left , while a Bordentown pollinator garden will greet those walking the local eco-friendly tour organized for Sunday, April 30.

the Bordentown City Green Home & EcoFriendly Garden Tour on April 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The trek, which can be completed on foot or by bike, is designed to raise the public’s understanding of sustainability and its developments locally.

Participants will be given a printed or digital map, as well as a free gift, at the starting point of the Carslake Community Center at 207 Crosswicks Street.

According to a press release, along the way, Bordentown residents will “meet community members cultivating native plant and pollinator gardens, using rain barrels and compost bins, building roof gardens,

keeping bees and chickens, enjoying the benefits of solar panels, and much more.”

The BCEC, a volunteer, mayorappointed group, oversee the annual Green Fair and are actively involved with the Sustainable Jersey Municipal Certification Program. Its members advise, educate, and monitor environmental issues affecting Bordentown.

Carslake Community Center, 207 Crosswicks Street, Bordentown.

For more information on the tour of the Bordentown City Environmental Commission, contact bordentowncitygreenteam@gmail.com

Delhagen

Serving Mercer County

Since 1998

Delhagen Plumbing, Heating & A/C, LLC is a local family-owned business that has serviced the Mercer County area since 1998. Gary Delhagen and his service technicians strive to do the job right the first time. Service technicians are knowledgeable and professional. We handle a variety of residential/ light commercial plumbing and

hvac needs. Looking for a reliable, reasonably priced company, well you have found them! See ad, page 13

ReNew Masonry Celebrates 23 Years

We offer small repairs: concrete, brick ,stucco, steps, walkways and patios. No job is too small!

Call 609-751-3039 or email renewmason@gmail.com

Visit our website: Renewmason.com. See ad, page 10

This is where you’ll savor life to the fullest. All in an area known for its wealth of cultural offerings, recreational opportunities, dining and shopping. Vintage at Hamilton is in the center of it all, close to I-195 and the New Jersey Turnpike and just minutes from the Hamilton Train with direct service to New York City and Philadelphia.

….NO JOB TOO SMALL!

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Sharbell Development

Vintage at Hamilton Unveils Model Home

• Patio and walkway repairs: sunken, uneven areas re-leveled and pitch corrected…patios and walkways cleaned and re-sanded.

• Steps and front porches: rebuild, or repair and renovate

• Cracked foundations: repair and re-stucco.

• Concrete steps and sidewalks: repaired and resurfaced. Township sidewalks creating a liability. We can fix that!

• We make steps safer!! Are your steps unsafe? Uneven or too deep? Are your steps greater than 8” from one step up to the next? We can help!

• Loose brick, cracked bricks, loose railings: We replace broken brick and repoint your brick walls and steps. We tighten loose railings.

• Masonry painting- epoxy and enamel-based masonry coatings for steps, porches and foundations.

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Decorators have been hard at work, the finishing touches are in place, and the model home is now open and ready for touring at Vintage at Hamilton! Continuing its 25-year journey of creating highly soughtafter active adult neighborhoods in Hamilton Township, Sharbell Development Corp.’s newest Mercer County community features 122 luxury townhomes and duplexes. As always, buyers are impressed with the ultraconvenient location, thoughtful home designs and exceptional value and quality for which Sharbell is known. Visitors are charmed by the beautifully decorated home while experiencing an authentic picture of how versatile the home designs at Vintage truly are. Four different floor plans are offered which feature 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, first floor study and a spacious second floor loft area. All homes come with an attached one or two-car garage (depending on plan) and full basement. Homes range from approximately 2420 – 2491 square feet.

In addition to a long list of standard features, including plank style flooring, oak tread staircases, granite countertops, ceramic tiled baths, smart home technology and much more, buyers can customize their homes even further with a choice of numerous options and upgrades when visiting the Sharbell Design Studio. Buyers also love having the option to finish their basement for an added level of living!

Vintage at Hamilton boasts a fantastic central New Jersey location which truly puts it in the center of everything. Traveling to NYC,

Philadelphia and the NJ shore is easy via Routes 195, 295, the NJ Turnpike. The Hamilton Train Station on the Northeast Corridor line is within 5 miles of Vintage. Area airports include Trenton/Princeton, Newark Liberty International Airport and Philadelphia International Airport. The local area is also home to a variety of shopping and dining options as well. For a day out, the quaint towns of Princeton, Lambertville and New Hope are nearby, offering waterfront dining, antique shops and so much more. The 1,000+ acre Hamilton Veterans Park is directly across from the entrance to Vintage, and in addition to the many recreational activities offered, hosts annual events such as Fourth of July celebration and Oktoberfest.

Home buyers will also enjoy community amenities, including an outdoor pool with patio, clubhouse and more.

About Sharbell Development Corporation. Since 1984, Sharbell Development Corp. has built over 4,000 homes in central New Jersey. Vintage at Hamilton is their fourth active adult community in Hamilton Township, a testament to the company’s strong relationship with the residents of the area. Sharbell also successfully develops and manages complete retail, office and mixed-use projects throughout the state. Sharbell has garnered numerous national and local honors and awards, including 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty’s Diamond Home Builder designation and NJ Future’s Smart Growth Award. Sharbell maintains an ongoing commitment to serving the needs of its homeowners, as well as serving the public good through meticulous planning, sensitivity to land use and a constant effort to improve the communities in which it builds.

For more information call 609-9003130 or visit www.sharbell.com. See ad, page 9

The Buxton Complex

A One-Stop Shop in Mercer County

The Buxton Complex is a one stop shop right here in Mercer County. Family owned and operated since 1982, The Buxton Complex is celebrating 40 years and 4 generations in business. Located in Ewing, you can see the facility from Route 95 just after exit 72, showcasing Sheds, Swingsets, a Garden Center, COWs – Container On Wheels portable storage, and Buxton’s Boxes Self Storage. Buxton’s Backyard Structures features swingsets to fit any backyard, available in both wood or vinyl construction, the sets are designed for fun, value and most importantly safety. Children can slide, swing, climb and challenge their imaginations, while exercising and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. In addition to play sets, Sheds for storage or that She-Shed that she always wanted, along with handmade outdoor furniture from picnic tables, benches, to Adirondack chairs are also available. As an authorized dealer for The Big Green Egg®, a premier ceramic cooking system renowned for its signature green porcelain glaze, precise temperature control and easy clean-up. The Big Green Egg® is perfect for the cooking enthusiast who enjoys grilling, smoking, searing, and baking all in one grill in your backyard. Come join the first ever NJ EGG FEST, on April 29th, 2023 at the Buxton Complex. Come out for a day of grilling, tasting and talking anything and everything Big Green Egg®. Whether you’ve

had an EGG for years, are just getting started or are thinking about purchasing your first EGG, EGG FEST is the perfect place to get all your questions answered. There will be special offers and demo EGGs for purchase. We will have many EGGsperts on site with lots of knowledge on everything Big Green Egg®. Visit www. NJEGGFEST.com for tickets.

Buxton’s Quality Furniture hosts a 6,000 sq.ft. showroom of quality American-made furniture from 12 highly skilled builders. Discover amazing bedroom and living room sets as well as desks, bookshelves, chests, kitchen islands, and more. All furniture is made from solid wood and is available unfinished, stained or painted. Purchase right off the floor or order the size, style and color that will match your home design.

Buxton’s Boxes Self Storage offers a very organized way to store your belongings, whether you are moving, decluttering, renovating or need storage for business purposes. COWs, Containers on Wheels, make staging your home, renovating and local moving painless by keeping your container at your own location, you can take your time loading/ unloading your belongings. To make all your moving needs painless, there are also boxes and moving supplies available in store or delivered right with your container. For over 20 years, The Buxton

Complex has been your local neighborhood dealer, need a truck or trailer? The Buxton Complex can help with your rental whether local or one-way. Whether you are shopping for something particular or just looking for some ideas on how to furnish your home or property, The Buxton Complex located at 1536 Lower Ferry Road, Ewing NJ is the place to visit, 7-days a week! www. TheBuxtonComplex.com or call 609-771-0274. See ad, page 12.

Jammer Doors

Celebrating 103 Years in Business

Back in 1920 and 103 years later Jammer Doors has been and still is a quality organization, setting serious standards in the industry. Jammer Doors is family owned and operated, and have been serving the tri-state area ever since.

Jammer Doors’ success didn’t just happen by luck or overnight. It jumps back to 1920, when the late Laura M. Jammer and her husband, Louis A. Jammer Sr., started a weatherstripping business out of their home in Morrisville, Pennsylvania. Over time the business grew from installing window screens and porch screening to selling a variety of doors, including popular overhead garage doors.

Today Jammer Doors is in its fourth generation of being a familyowned and operated business for more than 94 years, specializing in the sales, service, and installation of quality doors and door-related products. Just this past spring joining its work force is recent

college graduate Louis A Jammer

IV. Bringing in a new generation of ideas, experience, and ethics is exactly what Jammer aims for when entering almost a century of quality service.

Garage doors today are now designed to be part of your home’s design and its architecture. A home’s garage door can make a statement, to reflect the unique style and personality of a home and its owner.

You’re sure to find the perfect garage door with Jammer Doors, one of the premiere garage door companies in the tri-county area!

At Jammer Doors each product line we carry offers the finest quality selection and exceptional warranties. Jammer deals specifically with the Raynor Innovation Series, as well as an array of carriage-style doors featuring the American Rivers collection, Artisan and CHI overhead doors.

The Innovation Series by Raynor is known for their solid construction and famous “For As Long As You Own Your Home” warranty.

You can view and try them yourself at Jammer’s large and interactive showroom, open six days a week, featuring six fully operational garage doors in the latest steel, fiberglass, and wood styles.

Jammer’s key to customer satisfaction is simple: communication, teamwork and on-site supervision of projects from beginning to end.

Jammer Doors, 10 Main Street, Yardley, Pennsylvania. 215-4937709. 2850 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. 609-883-0900. www. jammerdoors.com. See ad, page 11

Three generations of the Jammer family: Louis Jammer Jr., left, Louis Jammer IV, and Louis Jammer III.

HELP WANTED

Part-time secretary in Dr’s office. Evening and Saturday work, some secretarial experience preferred. Please call 609-587-2255 or fax resume to 609-587-7255.

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YARD SALE

Multi-Family Yard Sale The Gatherings, 15+ homes, Access Princess Rd from Franklin Corner Rd, Saturday 4/22 9am-2pm; RD 4/23, Cash Only, No Early Birds!

DATING

Meet other classical music loving singles before enjoying a concert! Do-Re-Meet: LGBTQ+

Single Mingle Wednesday, April 12, 7:00 PM, followed by a concert by jazz vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant; Presented by Princeton University Concerts & The Singles Group; Tickets & info: puc.princeton.edu/do-remeet,609-258-2800.

SERVICES

ROCK & ROLL BAND AVAILABLE FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT. 50’s, 60’s, 70s, and 80’s ask for Rich 609-222-2570.

DOG WALKER: Local dog walker available to walk, sit or play with your dog when you can’t. Rates depending on needs. Please contact me, Dave the Dog Walker at shapdog64@gmail. com. Messages will be returned promptly.

LEGAL SERVICES Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674, 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 DrewJudy 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

COMMERCIAL SPACE

3,500 SF OFFICE SPACE, Ewing/ Mercer County, FREE RENT, 201488-4000 or 609-883-7900

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 BorderHighly Traveled visible location. Commercial end unit in Globus Plaza - 1100sf+/- 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 609731-1630

VACATION RENTALS

Florida Beach Rental: Fort Myers Beach 1br vacation condo on the beach, flexible dates available. Call 609-577-8244 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

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.

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-ReMeet: 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-remeet 609-258-2800.

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-remeet, 609-258-2800

CEMETERY PLOTS

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

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it’s the other person’s fault.

I say it all the time that it’s about accountability. Leadership is when you take responsibility for things that may not be your responsibility. You step forward and you do it. I have not seen that anywhere for many of these folks. I had 700 ballots missing and the county clerk was in Atlantic City having fun. No way I would have shown my face if I knew that that was happening. There’s no way.

RA: Was she at the state League of Municipalities Annual Conference?

DF: Yeah, the League of Municipalities. I mean, can you imagine?

RA: Well, during that week, the entire state shuts down.

DF: But again, if you’re doing a bad job, that’s not where you belong.

The attorney general came to see me about ballots, but not to talk to me about my missing ballots. They wanted to know why I put the fact that we had 700 missing ballots on my Facebook page.

That said they were concerned because I was, “undermining people’s faith in the elections.”

Forget about the fact that they lost 700 of my ballots. The fact that I told the public was the problem. And if you start thinking about government gone wrong, the minute that we get reprimanded for

telling the public the truth about what’s going on, we’re in a bad spot.

When the attorney general shows up in my office with two investigators to talk about the fact that I was transparent with my voters about the fact that they had ballots missing is shocking to me.

If this is where we’re headed in the state of New Jersey, it really is scary. If we’re going to cover up our incompetence in our elections, that’s a bad spot for us to be. We stink at this. We need to get better. And the fact that we want to hide it is not the answer.

RA: I heard that a few weeks ago, Bill Spadea (the morning host) on 101.5 went after you on the on the radio. Do you think that had anything to do with your stance on the election? Do you think there’s somebody you made angry and they got their mouthpiece to go after you? Or was it just a grudge?

DF: Listen, at the end of the day, I say my truth and it does piss some people off. And yes, some people, like Bill Spadea, don’t think I’m Republican enough, or that I’m too to this or too that.

I have been hit by people like Bill Speadea that I’m not Republican enough. I’ve been hit by some of the more liberal side that I’m far too Republican.

That to me is perfect, because if the

Destination Shopping For All Seasons

Republicans think I am not Republican enough and the Democrats think I’m not liberal enough, I’m probably right where I belong, which is right smack dab in the middle where our town is supposed to be, which is a non-partisan town.

I’ll work with anybody and everybody knows it. I have just as many friends on the Democratic side of the aisle, and I work with my Democratic neighbors.

I’ve worked hard with Janice Mironov (mayor of East Windsor) and Jeff Martin (mayor of Hamilton), who were my teammates during the pandemic, both of whom are Democrats. They did a fantastic job, and I’m the first one to go out and say they did a good job, because I call them like I see them.

At the same time, I will also work with Republicans. We should fight during election time. Then we should be adults, come into the middle and get things done, because at the end of the day, the bickering doesn’t accomplish anything.

And yes, sometimes I have to move a little bit to the left, or I might have to move a little bit to the right, but if I can get something done—maybe it’s not perfect, but it’s significantly better than it was.

That’s the job. Today it seems like the sport is, “let’s keep everybody fighting with each other and that therefore we don’t have to be held accountable to get

anything done.”

I’d much rather work with either side and get something done and then be criticized by a guy like Bill Spadea than I would never getting anything done.

The thing that I’ve done that Bill Spadea has never done, and probably never will do, is to get elected. You don’t get to govern if you don’t get elected. At the end of the day, Bill can be as hardcore as he wants, but he’ll never get elected, and therefore he’ll never have a chance to govern.

So it’s easy to say what you’d love to do from the cheap seats, but when you actually have to do the work and pass a law or pass a bill or get people to come on board to do something, that’s the hard work. And it’s compromise. That’s what government is supposed to do, And today, we don’t see that.

I’m fiscally conservative. I believe in balanced budgets, which is why I became a Republican. But socially, I’m quite liberal. I was one of the first mayors to perform a gay marriage.

I’d much rather two people love each other than hate each other. I mean, it was an easy decision for me. So, from that perspective, I don’t really have those issues. I really just focus on what I think is right, and I let the shock jocks and clowns say what they’re going to say.

Cemetery Tributes - Wreaths, crosses, baskets & cones for your loved ones.

Chocolates - Chocolates, fudge, chocolate covered potato chips, pretzels & Oreos.

Bakery - Pies, cakes, cheesecakes available daily. Call ahead & order anytime. Cookies including our popular “Ki is”. Local honey. Cannolis, crumb cakes. Jellies, jams & preserves - Large selection of avors, including “sugar free”. Apple cider donuts & brownies.

Gifts - Chimes, ags & accessories, oor mats, design posts & much more. Fruit baskets & goodies. Available to order for delivery.

Nursery - Large selection of trees, shrubs and ground covers. Stock arriving by mid-April.

commercial landscapers.

$5.00

purchase of $50.00 or more

New Name and Major Expansion for CAPITAL HEALTH CARDIOLOGY PRACTICE

Capital Health Medical Group’s outpatient cardiology practice has seen significant expansion in recent years to meet the growing heart health needs of residents in the Mercer and Bucks county region. As part of the practice’s evolution and advancement, Mercer Bucks Cardiology has joined Capital Health Medical Group and, combined with the practice formerly known as Capital Health – Heart Care Specialists, is now collectively called Capital Health Cardiology Specialists.

With office locations in Columbus, Hamilton, Hopewell Township, Lawrenceville, and Robbinsville in New Jersey and Newtown in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, patients have greater access to board certified cardiology specialists.

“As Capital Health – Heart Care Specialists, our team of expert providers has been known for providing advanced interventional cardiology, cardiac imaging, electrophysiology, structural heart interventions and preventive cardiology services to patients in Central New Jersey and Lower Bucks County in Pennsylvania,” said Dr. Joshua Eisenberg, chief medical officer of Capital Health Medical Group and medical director of the Capital Health Heart & Vascular Institute. “Mercer Bucks Cardiology has had a similar mission in local communities for 25 years, and by joining us under one banner as Capital Health Cardiology Specialists, our greatly expanded team gives residents throughout Mercer, Bucks and Burlington counties even greater access to the advanced care they need to help promote heart healthy living.”

Providers at Capital Health Cardiology Specialists include board certified cardiology experts who are highly trained in interventional cardiology, cardiac imaging, electrophysiology, structural heart interventions and preventive cardiology. Working closely with patients’ primary care providers and referring physicians, they provide complete and accurate evaluations of cardiac conditions and ensure continuity of care.

All Capital Health Medical Group offices use a shared electronic medical records system, which allows providers to access medical records on a secure network, making it convenient for patients to continue their care

across the network of primary and specialty care providers. Patients can also manage their health easier using Capital Health Medical Group’s patient portal, which allows patients to conveniently access information about any of their office visits online.

To learn more about Capital Health Cardiology Specialists, visit capitalhealthcardiology.org for more information.

Capital Health Cardiology Specialists – Columbus 23203 Columbus Road, Suite I, Columbus, NJ 08022 609.303.4838 | capitalhealthcardiology.org/columbus

Capital Health Cardiology Specialists – Hamilton 1445 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road, Suite 110 Hamilton, NJ 08619 609.303.4838 | capitalhealthcardiology.org/hamilton

Capital Health Cardiology Specialists – Hopewell

Two Capital Way, Suite 385, Pennington, NJ 08534 609.303.4838 | capitalhealthcardiology.org/hopewell

Capital Health Cardiology Specialists – Lawrenceville 3140 Princeton Pike, 2nd Floor, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 609.895.1919 | capitalhealthcardiology.org/lawrenceville

Capital Health Cardiology Specialists – Newtown 796 Newtown-Yardley Road, Suite 200, Newtown, PA 18940 609.303.4838 | capitalhealthcardiology.org/newtown

Capital Health Cardiology Specialists – Pheasant Run 104 Pheasant Run, Suite 128, Newtown, PA 18940 215.860.3344 | capitalhealthcardiology.org/pheasantrun

Capital Health Cardiology Specialists – Robbinsville 1 Union Street, Suite 101, Robbinsville, NJ 08691 609.632.0140 | capitalhealthcardiology.org/robbinsville

Colorectal Screening: When Do I Need a Colonoscopy?

Colorectal cancer numbers are unfortunately rising in young people – meaning before 50 years old. The reason is not clear, but it goes to show why it’s more important than ever to understand screening recommendations and processes, and how they are crucial to your health.

Abnormal cells that form into polyps in the body take about 10 to 15 years to potentially develop into colorectal cancer. By screening and identifying these abnormal cells and polyps through tests such as a colonoscopy, you and your physician can intervene and remove them before they have the chance to turn into cancer. In addition to detection and intervention, screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when it’s smaller and easier to treat.

Screening Recommendations

Colorectal cancer almost always develops in precancerous polyps – growths – in the colon or rectum. Screening identifies these polyps, and removing them prevents cancer from forming. Colorectal polyps and colorectal cancers don’t always cause symptoms, especially in the early stages. That is why getting screened regularly for colorectal cancer is so important.

The American Cancer Society recommends colon screening for everyone, beginning at age 45. If you have a strong family history of colorectal polyps or cancer, talk with your doctor about your risk level. Earlier screening may be recommended.

Screening Options

As the only test that examines the entire colon, colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colon screening. However, other screening processes are available, so it’s important to speak with your physician to learn about the various screening types and determine which option is best for you.

Stool tests look at the stool for possible signs of colorectal cancer or polyps. They are typically done at home, so many people find them easier than tests like a colonoscopy. However, this type of test needs to be done more frequently and has a higher false positive rate than a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy will be required if stool test results are abnormal, so if you used your insurance to pay for the at-home test, the follow-up colonoscopy may not be covered.

Colonoscopy is a screening test that involves a colonoscope – a lighted camera on the end of a flexible tube – that passes through

your anus and rectum into your colon. Along the way, it sends pictures of the inside of your large intestine to a screen that helps your physician identify any polyps that are present. Polyps can also be removed during the procedure, and tissue may be biopsied afterward. Some preparation is required for a colonoscopy, but your physician will guide you through the process, which can begin a few days before the screening. Some find the preparation challenging, but the benefits of cancer prevention are invaluable. A colonoscopy also has the longest interval between tests if the exam is normal. To schedule a colonoscopy at Capital Health, visit capitalhealthcancer.org/colonoscopy or call 609.303.4444.

Colorectal Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Colorectal cancer may not show any signs or symptoms, which is just another reason why screening is so important. However, if you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial that you speak with your doctor to discuss what it could mean.

… Sudden diarrhea, constipation, or other unusual bowel habits such as narrowing of the stool, that last for more than a few days

A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by having one

… Rectal bleeding with bright red blood

… Blood in the stool, which might make it look dark brown or black

… Abdominal pain or cramping

… Weakness and fatigue

… Noticeable weight loss

Two Board Certified Family Medicine Physicians Join Capital Health Primary Care – West Windsor

Dr. Shital Kayastha and Dr. Aviral Yadav, two board certified family medicine physicians, have joined Capital Health Primary Care – West Windsor, located at 352 Princeton-Hightstown Road, West Windsor, New Jersey. They are part of a growing team of board certified doctors at the West Windsor office that includes Dr. Sumiya Ahmed and Dr. Radhika Laskarzewski.

“I am pleased to welcome Dr. Kayastha and Dr. Yadav to our West Windsor office,” said Dr. Radhika Laskarzewski, lead physician at Capital Health Primary Care – West Windsor. “Adding two board certified family medicine providers to our team enables us to continue to serve the needs of our patients and the community by helping prevent illness, handling everyday medical needs, managing chronic health issues, and providing care for children (newborns and older), adolescents, and adults.”

DR. KAYASTHA is board certified in family medicine. After receiving her medical degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, West Virginia, she completed her family practice residency at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway, New York.

Oh, My Aching Head!

Monday, May 1, 2023 | 6 p.m. Location: Zoom Meeting

Do you or someone you know suffer from frequent headaches? Join DR. DWAYNE BROWN, director of the Comprehensive Headache Center at Capital Institute for Neurosciences, to discuss the diagnosis and treatment of the most common headache disorders, including migraine, tension and cluster headaches.

This event will be taking place virtually using Zoom. 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.

DR. YADAV is board certified in family medicine. He received his medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton, Florida and completed his residency in family medicine at Jefferson Health in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His clinical interests include obesity medicine and preventative medicine.

As part of Capital Health Medical Group, a network of more than 500 physicians and other clinicians who provide primary and specialty care, Capital Health Primary Care – West Windsor offers in-person and virtual primary care visits, as well as easy access to experienced specialists and the most advanced care in the region at nearby Capital Health hospitals.

Office hours at Capital Health Primary Care – West Windsor are on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Wednesday (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.). To make an appointment with Dr. Kayastha or Dr. Yadav, call 609.537.7400 or visit capitalhealth.org/westwindsor.

Capital Health – East Trenton Opens Offering Emergency Department Services and Continued Outpatient Medical Clinic Services

On December 21, Capital Health assumed responsibility for health care services previously provided by St. Francis Medical Center in Trenton, New Jersey. That campus, which now operates an Emergency Department and some outpatient services, has been renamed Capital Health – East Trenton and no longer operates as an acute care hospital.

“Without this transition, Trenton would have lost desperately needed health care services, including emergency services, behavioral health, and cardiac surgery. This would have been

KEY INFORMATION FOR YOU TO KNOW SERVICES

The Emergency Department remains open 24/7 in the same location. Patients needing hospital admission will be transferred appropriately for the care they need.

… The Outpatient Primary Care Clinic, located next to the Emergency Department, remains open in the same location. Specialty Care Clinic Services are available at various locations. The CARES child wellness program remains open in the same location.

The LIFE program is now called Capital Health LIFE and remains open in its Bordentown location. Assisted Living Program patients continue to receive care as they did prior to the transition.

… Some primary care physicians, specialists, and surgeons who were previously with St. Francis Medical Associates have transitioned to Capital Health Medical Group practices. Visit capitalmedicalgroup.org to find your physician’s new location and phone number. If your physician did not move to Capital Health, visit capitalhealth.org to find the physician you need and complete contact information.

Cancer Center services, including infusions, are available at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell. Visit capitalhealthcancer.org to learn more, or call 609.537.6363. For infusion appointments at Capital Health, call 609.537.7226.

Patients receiving care as part of the Infectious Disease, HIV and Lyme’s disease programs can be seen at Capital Health –Infectious Disease Specialists, located at 40 Fuld Street, Suite 305 in Trenton. Call 609.394.6338 to make an appointment.

devastating to the residents. I want to thank everyone who partnered with us to make sure key services did not leave Trenton,” said Al Maghazehe, President and CEO of Capital Health. “We are committed to continuing to provide critical medical services in the city of Trenton and working closely with members of the community, local officials, and other key stakeholders.”

Learn more about the services Capital Health offers at www.capitalhealth.org.

Sleep services are available at Capital Health – Hamilton, located at 1401 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road. Call 609.584.5150 to schedule an appointment.

The Behavioral Health Inpatient Program is at Capital Health Regional Medical Center.

Wound Care patients can call Capital Health’s Center for Wound Management and Hyperbaric Medicine at 609.537.7457.

Outpatient diagnostic testing services are available at other Capital Health locations, including Capital Health Regional Medical Center. Call 609.394.6695 to schedule an appointment.

TRANSPORTATION

Shuttles from the Hamilton Avenue campus to Capital Health Regional Medical Center (RMC) leave every hour, on the hour, beginning at 6 a.m. with the last shuttle leaving at 8 p.m. for RMC. All shuttles depart from the turnaround in front of the old Main Lobby on Chambers Street at the new Capital Health – East Trenton location. Return shuttles run every half hour from 6:30 a.m., with the last departure for Capital Health – East Trenton at 8:30 p.m. This can be used by patients or visitors.

MEDICAL RECORDS

If you need a copy of your medical records for services you received at St. Francis Medical Center before December 21, 2022, call 609.394.4460 or visit Capital Health’s website for other options.

MAIN NUMBERS

Capital Health – East Trenton: 609.599.5000

Capital Health Regional Medical Center: 609.394.6000

Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell: 609.303.4000

Kidsbridge, Children’s Home Society join forces

By Sue Ferrara

Local parents with children in Pre-K to 8th grade are likely to be familiar with a Mercer County program known as Kidsbridge— a 27-year-old endeavor with a mission “to provide young people with a foundation to grow as empathetic individuals who become positive advocates for themselves and others, empowering them to challenge racism, bias, bullying, and other forms of discrimination.”

Since 2002, West Windsor resident Lynne Azarchi has led Kidsbridge as executive director, curriculum designer, promoter, and the champion of the idea that all children can learn to be kind and caring to one another. But as with many orchestras, there comes a time when the maestro hands the baton to a new conductor.

That happened earlier this year when Kidsbridge found a new home under the auspices of the Children’s Home Society, a Trenton-based nonprofit which started in 1894. Azarchi will stay on for the foreseeable future, but the management of the program will now be the job of CHS

administrator Mike Roseborough, who joined CHS in June 2022, after working with the Princeton-area YMCA.

Born in New Jersey, Roseborough, by his own admission, has lived in many Garden State locales.

“I claim North Brunswick as home,” he said, “because I went to high school there.” Currently, he lives in Middlesex Borough.

The Children’s Home Society has a long history of helping children and families. Organized in 1894 by the Rev. M.T. Lamb, an article in the New Brunswick Daily Times, dated on July 19 that year, noted the primary mission was to find homes for children without parents.

This was done with the assistance of local boards, who vetted potential adoptive parents. The role and mission of the organization has grown; next year, CHS will mark 130 years of serving Mercer County children in need. The organization clearly states its mission as “Saving Children’s Lives and Building Healthy Families.”

As an agency, Roseborough said, CHS is “everything children and families.” CHS has clinical programs and social

HolyWeek Easter

Presbyterian Church of Dutch Neck

154 South Mill Road • West Windsor, NJ 08550 609-799-0712

www.dutchneckpresbyterian.com

Palm Sunday, April 2- 9:30 AM

Services In Person and Virtually on Zoom

Maundy ursday, April 6 - 7:30 PM

Services In Person and Virtually on Zoom

Good Friday, April 7 - 12:00 Noon – 3:00 PM

Sanctuary open for re ection with Passion readings at the top of each hour.

Services In Person and Virtually on Zoom

Easter Sunday, April 9 - 9:30 AM

Services In Person and Virtually on Zoom

Zoom access to these services: pastor@dutchneckpresbyterian.com

work programs as well as a mobile WIC program.

The nonprofit still honors its original mission and facilitates adoptions. CHS also runs Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

Kidsbridge has had several homes during its existence, starting in Trenton. In 2006, Azarchi found the organization a home at The College of New Jersey.

By 2017, the college could no longer host the program, and Kidsbridge moved at the Ewing Township Senior and Community Center.

Azarchi kept the program alive through the pandemic, but shortly before the organization’s 2022 Awards Ceremony, there was a flood in the center. The time had come, once again, to re-evaluate and look to the future.

In the meantime, CHS had again landed a $3.5 million Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant from the U.S. Department of Education. This is the ninth time CHS has secured this grant.

Created by Congress 25 years ago, the grant was renamed in 2020 in honor of Lowey, a Congresswoman

from New York, who served from 19892021. The renaming, said a department spokesperson, recognizes Lowey’s “advocacy and commitment to afterschool programming.”

The grant money allows CHS to broaden its reach in providing afterschool activities for students. The organization has a statewide presence, but at the moment, focuses most of its work in Trenton.

The main offering, called Lights On Afterschool, is a STEAM-focused offering that serves 200 Trenton students in grades 4 through 8. The program has been well attended; however, postpandemic, Roseborough said, CHS staff asked for programming to address the social emotional needs of students.

“Our fourth graders are going through a lot of challenges,” Roseborough said. “They were 2nd graders at the start of the pandemic.” He noted the staff has seen a lack of emotional regulation. Students are quick to anger, he said, and they are quick to respond physically.

“We are seeing a lot of cyberbullying,” Roseborough said. “We have kids with See KIDSBRIDGE, Page 22

phones who will drop pictures to a group. There are academic struggles. We are talking about reading levels which are severely subpar. You can tell the kids have no idea what to do with everything going on.”

Roseborough also noted: “There has been a lot of loss in the community; there are homes which are in a lot messier situations than before.”

CHS had a need and Kidsbridge had a robust set of lessons for what is called SEL–Social Emotional Learning. Over the years, Azarchi has designed lessons to address a number of critical issues kids face while growing up.

The Kidsbridge curriculum covers empathy, stereotype awareness, religious diversity, moral reasoning, empowerment and mindfulness. Conversations began with Azarchi and Roseborough about uniting program offerings.

The result? Bringing Kidsbridge into CHS was essentially a no-brainer.

“Typically, our funding has come from local and regional foundations,” Azarchi said. “We also have a yearly fundraising dinner.”

Kidsbridge also relied on funding from philanthropic individuals. Now, Azarchi said, the wedding of the two organizations has already yielded a change in finances. “Partnering with CHS means we can go for bigger grants,” she said.

And those bigger grants mean more services beyond just kids.

“We only do kids,” Azarchi said. “Now, with Children’s Home Society, Kidsbridge can become more organic by bringing in parents and care-givers. So we can help more kids, and their families.”

Roseborough has already mapped out plans for the future.“The best thing about

this merger, he said, is we can be more creative. We’re kicking off some new programs.”

For example, Darren Green, a Trenton community member Roseborough whom called “well known and well respected” will be presenting to students regularly.

“He’s a powerful, dynamic speaker who can really reach kids,” Roseborough said. Leadership will be Green’s focus for

Roseborough has already created what he calls the “Zen Den,” an after-school

“It’s an 8-week, Art/SEL based program,” Roseborough said. “Each week we look to address challenges through [the creation of] art.” The Trenton School District’s Joyce Kilmer Elementary School has agreed to give CHS a dedicated space for this program.

“Another big thing I am looking forward to is getting to the parents,” he said. “We can’t do this work without parents understanding what we are trying to do,” Roseborough noted.

“We definitely need to go meet parents where they are,” he said. “However, we

also have some ideas about how to bring parents into our centers.”

Sometimes, students don’t get to stay long enough in the after school program because parents have other needs.

“One of things we want to avoid is having parents taking students home too early,” Roseborough said. “So we are thinking about inviting parents in to observe, maybe have coffee and cookies so kids can stay,” he added. He is also looking at the possibility of starting Parent Success Centers.

Roseborough also wants to expand the reach of CHS beyond its current footprint. “We want to get into more schools,” Roseborough said. “The in-school model remains our focus.”

As for Azarchi, she will act as a consultant for the foreseeable future as she hands off various aspects of Kidsbridge to Roseborough and CHS.

One of her future projects, she hopes, will be to create a local Empathy Museum–it will be an experience type center. Azarchi said it might be a brick and mortar museum located at CHS; or, it might be a program done via a van traveling around the state. Azarchi noted that London has an Empathy Museum (empathymuseum.com).

If there could be a fairy tale ending for Azarchi, who has led Kidsbridge for a little over 20 years, this merger is it. Azarchi noted the name Kidsbridge evolved from the idea that through teaching: “You’re bridging kids to kindness, respect and social emotional

And connecting the spans of Kidsbridge and CHS means bridging that teaching will continue.

For more information on Kidsbridge and Children’s Home Society, go to kidsbridgecenter.org and chsofnj.org.

Kids in the Kidsbridge program attending a women’s basketball game at Jadwin Gym on the campus of Princeton University, Feb. 11, 2023.

Rychkov gets up to speed with help of ‘PR bread’

By Rich Fisher

There is food for thought, and then there is food for speed.

Maxim Rychkov enjoys digesting and dispensing the latter to his Robbinsville High track & field teammates prior to meets in the form of “PR bread.” Its value is to help everyone who eats it set a personal record that day.

“Essentially PR bread is just a joke that I have within the people from my team,” Rychkov said. “I usually bring bread as a snack to eat during a meet, and whenever I eat it everyone jokes around saying that it will make them PR. It’s pretty funny, actually.”

But it has its serious side, such as in this winter’s Indoor Meet of Champions at Staten Island’s Ocean Breeze Track & Field Facility. Rychkov entered the Mar. 5 event seeded seventh in the 55 meters. He proceeded to take second in the preliminaries in a PR of 6.54, and first in the finals in another PR of 6.51. The junior

became the first Ravens boy to win an indoor MOC title since Craig Hunter in the pole vault in 2012.

“After I found out I won, I was super shocked and excited,” Rychkov said. “I’ve never done anything at the level of this performance before, and it was one of my goals for all of high school, to try to win a state championship in some event. So I felt amazing.”

His disbelief was shared by the coaching staff, teammates and parents who made the trip.

“In the 55, there’s only so much room you can grow and make a dent in that kind of event when you’re seeded seventh going into it,” Robbinsville head coach Trey Carnevale said. “When we got there we said ‘OK, just go out there and do your thing.’ And boom, he just

pops off and we’re like ‘OK that puts him up into second, that’s really awesome.’ It’s hard to replicate something like that two times in one day alone.”

Hard, but not impossible, as Maxim proved in the finals.

“My thoughts going into the race were that I would try to not worry about anything and just chill with it,” he said. “After getting second place out of prelims, I realized that I could possibly have a shot to win it all, but I didn’t focus on that, as anything could happen. All I focused on was getting a good start, transitioning into a good drive phase, and finishing it off with my top end speed. It ended up working because I wasn’t super caught up in trying to just only go after the win.”

Carnevale said that Rychkov’s entire

rooting section was deliriously shocked when he won; but then scolded himself and the group for feeling that way.

“I’m surprised that we were as surprised as we were,” the coach said. “That race has just been (indicative of) his whole season. When you think there’s nothing more Maxim can do, he pulls one out of the hat and he does it.

“That’s a testament to what kind of athlete he is. He lines up for the final. The gun goes off, everybody’s kind of neck and neck, he crosses the line and I’ll never forget it. The pure seconds after he crossed the line, our coaching staff and the athletes that were sitting there like ‘Did he just win? He just won the Meet of Champs!’ I’m getting chills right now just thinking about it.”

Maxim also took 13th in the 400 at the MOC with a PR of 49.73. A week later in the Nike Indoor Nationals at the Armory in NYC, Rychkov finished 19th in the 60 meters in 7.00, and won the 400 in 49.86 in the Emerging Elite division.

With this coupon. Must be presented at time of service writeup. One offer per vechile. Not valid with other offers.

Rychkov

“I would say that went quite well,” he said. “I made it to the break first and held on to run a 49.8, which is actually slower than what I ran at MOC. The competition in the 400 is a lot tougher in my opinion, at least in our state, with multiple guys running 47 seconds, and even a guy splitting 46 in a relay. In the 60 I only got 19th because I was competing in the championship division, which is the highest level of competition at nationals. I ran 7.00, which isn’t bad but it could’ve been better because of the fact that I stumbled a little on my third step. But it still went pretty well.”

In comparing a gold medal in the MOC to his gold in the Nationals, Rychkov was prouder of winning his state rather than just claiming a lower division in national competition.

“Winning an MOC event felt way better,” he said. “Winning at states in my head means ‘I just ran faster than everyone in the state,’ versus winning the Emerging Elite at nationals. That felt good but not amazing, because I knew that there were still people way faster than me in the championship division.”

A 2018 RHS grad, Carnevale has enjoyed watching Rychkov’s progression over the years. The coach was a track & field teammate and best friends with Maxim’s brother, Roman (RHS ‘17), in high school. When he would visit the Rychkov home, he saw “this tiny kid eating cereal in the corner of his house. . .very shy, not very outgoing.”

That kid was Maxim and he was actually watching the success of his brother, who still competes with The College of New Jersey.

“My brother was the biggest influence I had with getting into track,” Rychkov said. “But there were other factors too. I used to play soccer, and I found that I was one of the fastest guys on the field at any moment, which helped guide my decision for taking up track.”

He started the sport at Pond Road running dual meets against other middle schools “but not anything super competitive.”

His real tests came in his first season at Robbinsville, when he was part of the 4x100 relay team that made the Spring MOC after winning the group meet. As a sophomore, Maxim reached the Indoor MOC in the 200 and 400 meters, finishing 13th and 12th, respectively.

Last spring, he was part of the winning 4x100 and 4x400 relay teams in the Mercer County meet, won the 400 and took second in the 200 in Central Jersey Group III. He took second in the 400 in the Group III meet but could not compete at Meet of Champions as the

Nationals were the same weekend; and he finished 17th there in the 100 with a PR of 11.07.

It was those races that prepped him for this year’s success.

“Running multiple events at MOC and nationals helped me realize that yes, there are obviously going to be kids that are faster,” Rychkov said. “But I can definitely put up a good fight, and all I have to do is run my absolute best and I could have a shot at winning.”

Carnevale, who is in his first year as Ravens head coach but served as an assistant when Maxim entered the program, felt the talent was always there and that the runner just needed the confidence to go with it.

“Some kids, when you see them run for the first time, you think ‘Oh this kid might have a real future in this,’” Carnevale said. “It took time for Maxim to recognize this. He’s just a perfect example of somebody who’s put his nose to the grinder and worked.

“All of the success he’s getting is because of the passion and the love he has for the sport and the way that he works and continues to work out. He never settles on just calling it a day. This (MOC gold) isn’t the end for Maxim. That’s also the scary part. When you count him out or you think there’s nothing more he can do, he shows you up.”

Carnevale credits the success of his speed guys to assistant Amanda Luccarelli, who works exclusively with the sprinters. Her synopsis of Rychkov’s success is simple.

“Maxim is a great sprinter because he is disciplined, loves the sport, and simply has fun with it,” she said.

As the spring season approaches, Rychkov’s goals are daunting but doable. He hopes to make the Meet of Champions and Nationals in the 200, 400, 4x100 and 4x400. He feels his top event is the 200 and hopes to focus on that the most.

“I have a good combination of acceleration, speed and endurance,” he said. “In a long and fast sprint like the 200, I think I would be able to perform very well.”

Carnevale is also dabbling with throwing him in the 100 and high jump, and cannot wait to see what Rychkov does this spring.

“I don’t know if I could put a cap on his potential,” the coach said. “He can do anything. He’s just such a generically athletic individual. He’s a fighter and a grinder, he’ll go out there and compete and that’s all you want from an athlete.”

Well, that, and perhaps that he shares some PR bread with his teammates.

When it’s time to see a doctor about a wound that isn’t healing

Ask The Doctor

The Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton) Center for Wound Healing can help those suffering from a wound that won’t heal.

“We have been extremely successful in treating chronic wounds that have previously resisted healing,” says Reza A. Shah, DO, FACOS, FACS, FAPWCA, CMET, Co-Medical Director at the Center for Wound Healing at RWJUH Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility.

“Our skilled staff of physicians and nurses have advanced training in wound management and hyperbaric medicine, and can develop and implement an individualized course of treatment specific to a patient’s diagnosis and needs.”

What are some common types of chronic wounds?

We treat wounds associated with different conditions, but the most common ones we see are diabetic ulcers, venous stasis ulcers

and pressure ulcers. Sometimes people with diabetes may suffer nerve damage and lose sensation in their feet. This can be a problem because even a small cut may go unnoticed and then become more serious. We also help with slow-healing wounds, crush injuries, compromised surgical grafts and radiation-related wounds we see in some cancer patients receiving radiation treatments.

How can I prevent a chronic wound?

If you have diabetes, check your feet daily and avoid going barefoot or wearing shoes that rub on your feet. Circulatory issues, including poorly functioning arteries and veins, can also contribute to chronic wounds by limiting the supply of oxygen needed for healing. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns. Delaying treatment can lead to infection and in severe cases possible amputation.

What treatments are available?

We use multidisciplinary, comprehensive approach, with advanced modalities that are specialized for each patient.

We may consult with other doctors and conduct testing, such as an assessment of blood vessels to identify and treat circulatory issues. Working as a team, we have an acute focus on quality and monitoring the support for the best possible healing rate.

What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a simple, non-invasive, painless medical treatment that enhances the body’s natural healing process and strengthens the immune system. Delivered by trained specialists, HBOT therapy is an effective treatment option for most chronic wounds, resulting in more rapid and complete healing for patients. During hyperbaric oxygen therapy, you breathe 100% pure oxygen while inside a pressurized chamber.

The pressure inside is about 2 ½ times greater than the normal pressure in the atmosphere. We have two hyperbaric chambers at RWJUH Hamilton and these can also be used when treating treat wounds like gas embolism, acute carbon monoxide poisoning, cyanide poisoning and decompression sickness.

After an initial evaluation and consultation, wound assessment and health evaluation, we can develop a treatment plan for the patient. Our patients are given instructions on at-home wound care, including dressing changes and protection of your wound from additional injury and further complications,” adds Dr. Shah. To make an appointment or learn more, call The Center for Wound Healing at Robert Wood Johnson University.Hospital Hamilton at 609-249-8300.

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

Orthopedic Open House: Joint Replacement. 6:30 to 8 p.m. Discover the latest advances in knee and hip replacement surgery. Learn how the Center for Orthopedic & Spine Health and our rehabilitation team prepare you for a successful joint replacement. Presented by Arjun Saxena, MD, MBA, a fellowship trained, board certified orthopaedic surgeon, along with Maureen Stevens, PT, DPT, GCS, Cert MDT, and Courtney Fluehr, PT, DPT. Dinner is included. Does The Ringing in Your Ears Drive You Crazy? April 5; 10 to 11 a.m. 25 million Americans suffer from Tinnitus and sound sensitivity.

For more information or to make an appointment with an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group Primary Care Provider, scan the QR code at right or call 888-724-7123.

Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., A.B.A., as she discusses the phenomenon of Tinnitus and Sound Sensitivity Syndrome and various treatment options for relief.

SUNDAY, APRIL 16

Holistic Health Fair. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. A FREE wellness community event offers incredible healing, uplift and transformation! Explore what’s new in holistic health, mindfulness and spiritual growth. Learn from the finest holistic experts and practitioners, and enjoy featured vendors, mini sessions, workshops, demonstrations and guest speakers.

TUESDAY, APRIL 18

Real Self-Care for All Caregivers. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Caring for aging loved ones, children, or clients; we can’t truly care for others until we care for ourselves. Self-care isn’t selfish, rather, it’s essential. Fee:$15 Michelle Gerdes, Princeton Doula Center, YT200.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19

Diabetes Q&A. 2 to 3 p.m. This informative session with Shesha Desai, Pharm D, Rph, BCADM will bring clarification to any questions you may have about diabetes.

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

Spring Cleaning: Organize Your Kitchen. 10-11 a.m. Give yourself and your kitchen a fresh start this spring! Learn new ways to organize your space and maximize efficiency for a tidy kitchen you will love to cook in.

Better Health Programs

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

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

Let’s Talk, a Senior Social Group. Also April 12, & 19. 10 to 11 a.m. Join us for our ongoing program “Let’s Talk, a Senior Social Group,” gathering in a collaborative setting to exchange thoughts, feelings and experiences amongst peers. This is a safe zone designed to be welcoming and understanding of all attendees while exploring this season of our lives – the ups and the challenges. If you would like to submit topics, please email bhprogram@ rwjbh.org. All requests will be anonymous.

THURSDAY, APRIL 13

Discussions with Sara Ali, MD - Defeating Diabetes. 1 to 2 p.m. Dr. Ali and Lalitha Sukumar, Pharm.D, Ambulatory Care Clinical Pharmacist will breakdown what you need to know to understand and manage your diabetes effectively.

Dr. Reza Shah

NOTICE TO PERSONS WANTING MAIL-IN BALLOTS

If you are a qualified and registered voter of New Jersey who wants to vote by mail in the Primary Election to be held on June 6, 2023, the following applies:

• You must be registered as a Democrat or Republican by no later than April 12, 2023 to be able to receive a mail-in ballot.

• You must complete the application form below and send it to the county clerk where you reside or write or apply in person to the county clerk where you reside to request a mail-in ballot.

• The name, address, and signature of any person who has assisted you to complete the mail-in ballot application must be provided on the application, and you must sign and date the application.

• No person may serve as an authorized messenger

Dated: April 11, 2023,

or bearer for more than three qualified voters in an election but a person may serve as such for up to five qualified voters in an election if those voters are immediate family members residing in the same household as the messenger or bearer.

• No person who is a candidate in the election for which the voter requests a mail-in ballot may provide any assistance in the completion of the ballot or serve as an authorized messenger or bearer.

• A person who applies for a mail-in ballot must submit his or her application so that it is received at least seven days before the election, but such person may request an application in person from the county clerk up to 3 p.m. of the day before the election.

• Voters who want to vote by mail in all future

elections will, after their initial request and without further action on their part, be provided with a mail-in ballot until the voter requests otherwise in writing.

• Application forms may be obtained by applying to the undersigned either in writing or by telephone. Or the application form provided below may be completed and forwarded to the undersigned.

• If you are currently signed up to receive mail-in ballots, but wish to now vote at the polls, either on Election Day or before, in accordance with NJ’s new “Early Voting” law, you must first opt out of vote by mail by notifying the county clerk in writing at the address below. You may find a form for removal from the permanent list on the Mercer County Clerk’s website at www.mercercounty.org/ government/county-clerk/elections.

Mercer County Clerk, Paula Sollami Covello, 209 S. Broad St., Election Dept., P.O. Box 8068, Trenton, NJ 08650, 609-989-6495

“give it your all”

2330 Route 33, Suite 101, Robbinsville, NJ 08691 Office: 609-259-1414

375 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown NJ 08505 Office: 609-298-9888

smiresandassociates.com

Michael Ridolfino

Sales Associate

Cell: 609-591-0277

Email: michael.ridolfino@outlook.com

Robbinsville $279,900

Natalie Smires, SA

Cell: 609-477-3168

Robbinsville $380,000

Linda LeMay-Kelly, BA

Cell: 609-651-3583

The Lofts! Stunning 2 bed, 2 bath, 2nd floor corner unit. Many upgrades including new HVAC. Full gym, assigned parking. Just steps away from restaurants & shopping & close to Mercer County Park.

w

Linda LeMay-Kelly, BA Cell: 609-651-3583

Great pride of ownership is reflected in this wonderfully cared for home. 3 beds, 1 bath, many updates! Easy access to 295/541/38 and NJ Turnpike.

Denise Fattori, SA

Bright & light condo,1 block to the beach. Recently

Wendy D’Orazio

Sales Associate

Cell: 609-672-5159

Email: wendydorazio@gmail.com

Frank Barkosky

Sales Associate

Cell: 609-915-8791

Email: frank.barkosky_RE@outlook.com

Allentown $279,000

Cell: 609-273-4224

Cheste R field $349,900

Edward Smires, BROKER

Cell: 609-638-2904

Property is approximately 4 acres. This property is located in the receiving area of TDR’s with the potential of allowing 16 single family units offering public sewer and water. Please contact the listing agent for further details.

Robbinsville $785,000

Edward Smires, BROKER

Cell: 609-638-2904

Approved 10 acre + building lot. Located in most sought after Upper Freehold. Wooded lot sits atop an elevated area w/rolling hills, serenity & scenic views. Surrounded by preserved farmland.

hA milton $625,000

Terry Parliaros, SA

Cell: 609-610-2252

To be built - 4 bed, 2.5 bath colonial, approx. 2,300 sq ft. Partially wooded, private 1/2 acre lot in the heart of the square. 9ft ceilings on 1st floor. Full basement w/8 ft ceilings. 2 car garage.

Allentown $1,290,000

William “Bill” Perilli, SA Cell: 609-635-7370

Joseph Perilli, SA Cell: 609-947-2435

Edward Smires, BROKER Cell: 609-638-2904

94 + acres located just outside of historic Allentown. Excellent well drained

renovated with basement storage,1 assigned parking space. Great location, walk to everything. Hurry Summer is coming!

$495,000

Stylish 2 bed, 1st floor condo with updated bathroom & screened in patio. Great location within the community that has 2 swimming pools, tennis courts, a clubhouse & more!