BC proof 2

Running man

Conroy enjoys these runs. But more and more over the years, he has also sought something more challenging — grueling, even. Conroy has been pushing himself on longer and longer runs. He’s become what’s known as an ultra runner.

By JOe eMANsKi

This January, many people will declare that 2023 will be the year that they finally start exercising. Only some will honor these promises to themselves.

Joe Conroy is one person who has kept his resolve. More than two decades ago, the Bordentown City resident joined the Running Company of Haddonfield on its weekly group runs. He joined, he says, to get into better shape, and also for the social aspect.

It turned out to be a great decision. Now 47, Conroy still runs 15 hours a week or more, including weekly runs with the Bordentown Area Running Club, or BARC for short.

BARC, formed in 2013, is full of locals who, like Conroy, have committed to keeping up with regular exercise in the effort to keep in shape. They meet Wednesday nights at Tindall Road Brewing Company on Farnsworth Avenue before taking a group jaunt around the city. If they have a beer or two afterward, well — that’s fair reward for keeping at it week after week.

In summers, he has taken to running what he calls the Three Brewery 50K, starting in Bordentown and continuing along the Delaware River Heritage Trail through Roebling, Florence and other river towns on down to Camden. On that run, he passes Tindall Road, Third State Brewing in Burlington City and Double Nickel Brewing in Pennsauken.

The breweries, alas, are only landmarks. No beers along the way — not if he wants to finish. The excursion is longer than a marathon, and there are no medals at the end. Just the satisfaction of a run well run. He takes the River Line home.

Several years ago, Conroy started these types of runs in training for what he hoped would be his first 100-mile run: the New Jersey Devil 100, a 100mile trail race through the Pine Barrens. The race, organized by Beast Coast Productions LLC, was originally set for 2020, but canceled that year, as well as 2021 and 2022, because of the Covid pandemic.

The race is on again for this

see RUNNING, Page 8

Township presents latest plans for new park along the Delaware

By sUe FerrArA

In 2020, while we navigated the pandemic, a 50-year-old nonprofit called American Rivers named the Delaware River its River of the Year for “momentous progress for water quality, river restoration and community revitalization.”

With the announcement, Bob Irvin, president and CEO of American Rivers, called the Delaware

River “a national success story” thanks to “the hard work of many local advocates who understand that a healthy Delaware River is vital to the health of millions of people.” According to American Rivers, more than 17 million people get their drinking water from the Delaware River basin, including New York City and Philadelphia. The Delaware river begins in Hancock, New York, and flows

through five states on its way to the Atlantic Ocean.

Adding to that continued success in 2020 was the Bordentown Township Committee, which made the commitment to acquire 72 acres of land along the Delaware, saving it from a housing redevelopment.

The move by the township also set into motion plans to preserve see PARK, Page 6

An aerial photograph of Bordentown with the area of the proposed waterfront park outlined. (Photo by Max Spann Real Estate and Auction Co.)

Edward Smires, BROKER

BRHS Model UN competes at TechMUN conference

The Bordentown Model UN team recently competed at the TechMUN conference, which was sponsored by Camden County Technical Schools.

Twelve other schools from South Jersey also attended. Students worked in various committees with the goal to reduce the use of chemicals in the world.

Model UN adviser and social studies teacher John Tobias says that the students represented the school well, and some received honors and awards.

Yara Badawi and Defnenur Gumus acted as chairpersons. Brynn Bower, Patrick Dziegielewski and Thyra Andey received Honorable Mention nods, Ajay Donthula and Rachel Cook received Best Position Paper, and Rudy Sen won Best Delegate. Seniors Aaron Vedaraj and Sucheth Mididoddi were tasked with observing and advising the novices.

In November, the team collectively won Best Small School Delegation for the fourth time at the Rutgers University Model United Nations conference. There will be more one-day conferences in the spring for interested students.

Ristorante Lucca opens in former Mastoris site

Ristorante Lucca and Piano Bar has opened in the long-time Mastoris Diner location.144 U.S. 130, Bordentown. The upscale steakhouse opened on

Dec. 19. The menu featured a variety of Italian-style appetizers ($20-40); pasta dishes and risottos ($20-40); steak, ducks and chops ($60-64); and two seafood dishes (both $56). Desserts ($12-20) including tiramisu, gelati and sorbets are also on the menu.

“The restaurant was conceived to be a special place where you can dress for the occasion, enjoy a terrific culinary experience, and move into the piano lounge after dinner,” managing partner William Burris said in a media release.

Web: ristorantelucca.com.

Bordentown Regional High School Model UN students Srinithi Sathishkumar, Eidma Chowdhury, Rachel Cook, Candise Davis, Thyrasree Andey, Riddhi Rajpal, Hasini Nandyala, Sairah Khurana, Rylie Evans, Shriya Machanpalli, Caitlin Myers, Kashika Manak, Ethan Vedaraj, Sahil Meka, Simond LuLu, Brynn Bowyer, Ryan Barcellona, Ajay Donthula, John Reiter, Aaron Vedaraj, Yara Badawi, Patrick Dziegielewski, Defnenur Gumus, Rudrhaneel Sen and Sucheth Mididoddi.

Welcome to Capital Health.

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

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

Because you’d go to the ends of the earth for the people you care about. And we do too.

Become a part of it today at CapitalHealth.org

how far would you go if they were sick?

the property while providing river access to local residents and visitors.

At a meeting in October 2022, the Bordentown Township Committee reviewed a conceptual presentation for a waterfront park which contains mainland property on the west side of the railroad tracks which run along Rte. 130, and property on the eastern end of Newbold Island. Michael Theokas, the Bordentown Township administrator, said “we’re all super excited” about the land acquisition and conceptual plan, “but it’s going to take time” to get the park to where it can be enjoyed by people.

This story begins in 2010 when the owner of the 72 acres, developer Jeffrey Albert, received approval from the Bordentown Township Planning Board to build a transit village in the location. According to one news account, the project design included the building of “674 apartments, condominiums and townhouses in two- to-four-story buildings divided into seven neighborhoods, along with retail uses.”

But the property on the west side of U.S. 130, once used for industrial businesses, had been designated as a contamination site by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The township created a redevelopment zone there in an effort to encourage and financially assist with development.

One such former business was Doan’s Salvage Basin. Ships were dismantled at Doan’s, and metal sold for scrap. In 1951, workers dismantled the S.Y. Grille, the yacht owned by Adolf Hitler. In 1951, an ad in the Doylestown-Intelligencer announced an “open inspection” opportunity of the yacht on May 12 and 13 at a cost of 75 cents for adults and 25 cents for children.

The bar from that yacht was recently auctioned off in Maryland. The unidentified owner of that relic told a Guardian of London reporter: “My father was close friends with the owner of Doan Salvage Yard. The yard owner personally invited him to the yard and gave him the opportunity to purchase the bar.”

Albert, the property owner, had planned to remediate the site in the second phase of his transit village development. But over time, the transit village concept — which NJ Transit pedaled in several communities, including Hamilton — lost its luster. And, Albert couldn’t find companies willing to clean and build on the property.

So, he decided to put the land up for auction. In stepped Theokas, who helped negotiate the sale of the property to the township for $4.6 million.

The township was a partner in bonding with the developer for environmental

remediation and infrastructure, Theokas said. The bonding funds would have been returned in taxes after the development; the township would have had input on the project as the funding partner. Had the land been auctioned, the agreed upon partnership would have evaporated. Consequently, Theokas and the township committee members agreed that acquiring the land would be a good decision.

“The township committee saw the value of leaving the area as an open space,” Theokas said. “So, the township purchased the property from the developer with the intent for not developing it, but maintaining it as open space and a public park.”

But township ownership led to a looming question, Theokas noted: “We own 72 acres on the mainland. Now what?”

The “now what” was answered in three ways. First, Theokas reached out to the Department of Community Affair, which provides planning services for municipalities. The DCA looked at the development needs and property potential, ultimately designing a concept plan.

In the meantime, Theokas and the township committee started building a coalition of organizations in an effort to learn from the experiences of others. And third, the township reached out to the community to solicit ideas, asking: what amenities should a park contain?

Theokas believes that since the community outreach piece happened during the pandemic, the township enjoyed robust participation. There was an online poll survey, as well as outreach sessions via Zoom. The consistent message from all corners, Theokas said, was: “Conservation, passive recreation and environmental preservation.”

The new waterfront park will support all that. People will be able to hike, kayak and canoe. Motorized vehicles will be prohibited. There will be swaths of land preserved for the native wildlife and flora on the property, especially on the portion of Newbold island where eagles nest.

Newbold island is named after the Newbold family who, along with the Biddles, farmed the island. The indigenous people of the area called the island Chepiessink.

At some point in time, PSE&G purchased a significant portion of the island intending to construct a nuclear power facility. There was push back about the plan from many corners, including from the federal government and local residents.

The federal government succeeded in having the utility company move the nuclear power facilities further south along the river to Salem and Hope Creek. Currently, PSE&G is negotiating with DEP to sell its Newbold Island holding to the state under the Green Acres program.

While Bordentown Township has a concept plan in place, there are still many unanswered questions. Which governmental entity would provide emergency services, for example, like water rescues? Which entity will take care of the trash collection? Would the state provide park rangers? The county? Would the county take over the park and connect it to Crystal Lake park across the street?

Theokas said he and the township committee are realists when it comes to how this property will ultimately be developed, and what government entity will eventually take responsibility for what he called “a legacy project.”

“The township doesn’t have the means to develop the property alone,” Theokas said, noting it will take a coalition of organizations to reach the end goal. Funding will have to come through grants, for example, and donations.

“We phased the projects so that resources can be found,” Theokas noted. “The environmental remediation factor is an important piece.”

There are freshwater mussels on the island which will need to be relocated, Theokas said. “To relocate mussels, for example, is a big deal. There are specific times of the year to relocate.”

He noted again that the southern part of the mainland was in great need of remediation. “We are working diligently with the DEP on the remediation of the property.”

Theokas said the township will start with small projects first. “We’re going to have to have some public parking. We’re going to have walking paths, maybe benches or a gazebo, and educational signage,” he added.

“The highlight,” Theokas said, “will be the boat launch for canoes and kayaks.”

Theokas also acknowledged that the concept may be adapted and changed over time given any number of factors, including what government entity will ultimately manage the location. No matter if one entity runs the park, or several, Theokas said, the clean-up and preservation of this property “is going to have huge benefits for the township forever.” He added, “this is why we talk about legacy projects and the future.”

Sue Ferrara thanks Maria Baratta, director of the State Library Information Center at the New Jersey State Library. “Ms. Baratta is the rock star librarian who helped track down the ownership of Newbold Island to the Newbold family. When I hit the dead ends of research, she is always there to help me finish the job!” she says.

year, set for April 22, and Conroy intends to take part. But assuming everything falls into place for that, he won’t be running a hundred miles for the first time. Because he just couldn’t wait.

Last September, Conroy reached 100 miles — actually 101.9 — in a single run for the first time at the Hainesport Endurance Run, also organized by Beast Coast Pro. He completed another ultra running event, Beast Coast Pro’s 55-mile Batona Trail run, in November 2021.

Fellow BARC member Larry Braasch says that Conroy is humble — not someone to crow about his

accomplishments on trails or pavement.

But to run 100 miles is “an astounding achievement,” Braasch said in an email. “I’m impressed with attitude and of course the mental fortitude needed run for the extreme distances which Joe runs.”

Braasch said Conroy is very supportive of fellow BARC members. “I just started running last year, and it can be really intimidating running with others. But Joe is always there with a smile and an encouraging word. He’ll hang back and run with me on occasion just to keep me going,” he said.

Conroy says he was a “geeky kid who

loved comic books,” and didn’t take up running until he was an adult. He grew up in Somerdale, near Camden, and has lived in Bordentown City since 2001, first as a renter and later as a homeowner with his wife, Caroline.

They are both teachers: Joe teaches language arts at Pond Road Middle School, and Caroline, who is originally from West Milford, teaches students with disabilities at Wilbur Watts Intermediate School in Burlington City. They have two children: Maura, a fifth grader art MacFarland Intermediate School, and Patrick, a freshman at Bordentown Regional High. Joe also coaches track and field at Pond Road.

He runs with other groups besides BARC. He joins the Pineland Striders on their Batona Trail Series, a group run through the Pine Barrens (though not a race). He also runs with Uptown Gentlefriends on their Delaware Bridge Loop Series. He runs with others when he can, he says, because distance running can be a lonely affair, and a lonely runner can struggle for motivation over the course of many miles.

The 55-mile, point-A-to-point-B Batona Trail Run is an example of a long run where runners often find themselves alone with their thoughts. Conroy said that while he enjoys the peace and serenity of a run through the woods, he finds it beneficial to almost purge his mind of all thoughts.

“You have a lot of time to think, and if you delve down into some negative thoughts, or if you start worrying about pace or start worrying about where you are in distance, that can wear you down mentally and make you want to quit,” Conroy said. “I have to put myself in a headspace where I’m very content being in the moment.”

The Jersey Devil 100-miler — starting at Bass River State Park, 50 miles out and 50 miles back, across the entirety of the Pine Barrens — will be another one of those runs with long stretches of solitude. The Hainesport Endurance Run, on the other hand, was on a one-mile loop, which provided for a more social experience.

“In order to finish 100 miles, you have to mix walking with running with jogging. When you’re on a loop, you are alongside other runners every step of the way, from the fastest to the slowest,” he said. “If you’re a social person like me, you pass the time by talking to the other runners, learning their backstories. That’s what made it such a great event.” Nonrunners may find that they have little concept of just how much time it takes to complete these long runs. The Batona Trail Run, for instance, took Conroy nearly 12 hours to complete, and his finish time for Hainesport was

27:43:07, i.e., longer than one full day.

Staying the course over such long periods demands mental focus as much or more than physical strength, Conroy said.

“Most people would think that the physical aspect of running would be the most limiting factor, but in my experience, the mental aspect, followed by nutrition and hydration, are the most important,” he said. “To complete 100 miles, you have to sharpen your mind to be able to handle the thought of handling these long distances for huge amounts of time.”

Just because he is comfortable running alone does not mean that he doesn’t crave community, though, and BARC’s weekly Wednesday night runs give him that fix.

“The other runners may not have the ultra running experience that I have, but I fit in very easy. I try not to talk about my experiences — I would rather hear about the experiences of other runners, give them encouragement or quick coaching tips to help become better versions of themself,” he said. “I am a teacher, and as a teacher I try to use that teacher positivity to make a positive impact on other runners.”

He said he’s been fortunate to remain injury free throughout most of his running career, and says he feels blessed that his body has been able to handle whatever challenges he has put it through. “I feel one thing that’s kept me injury free is, I like to focus on running

Joe Conroy crossing the finish line at the Hainesport Endurance Run, held on Sept. 3, 2022.

ERA Central Realty’s Kelly chosen as designer of 75th anniversary Toys For Tots logo

ERA Central Realty Group creative marketing manager Suzi Kelly was appointed the official graphic designer for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program 75th anniversary based on her logo design, which was to be used on collection boxes and marketing collateral for the Toys for Tots 75th Anniversary celebration.

“It is an honor to represent the Toys for Tots Program,” Kelly said. “My daughter is a marine, and Toys for Tots has been an important effort for our family and ERA Central for many years. Being able to represent this amazing organization in such a unique and meaningful way is very exciting. Incidentally,” she adds, “Walt Disney designed the iconic Toys for Tots train logo, so my work is in excellent company.”

In the letter of appointment, David G Bellon, Lieutenant General Commander Marine Forces Reserve wrote: “[Suzi’s] exceptional talent and dedication to this project are instrumental in enabling the Marine Corps Reserve to continue its long legacy of delivering hope to less fortunate children during the holiday season.”

“Toys for Tots has been a charitable initiative at ERA Central Realty Group for several years. I am proud that our community contributes to the 18 million toys that Toys for Tots collects and distributes to over 7 million children annually,” said Stephanie Bellanova, co-owner of ERA Central. “I am particularly delighted that

distance very slow,” he said.

Though Conroy commits a lot of time to his running, he said he does what he can to minimize the impact it has on his family. He says he often gets up at 4 or 5 in the morning, to complete his daily run before the rest of the family is awake. He also finds time for other pursuits: he is a homebrewer, and also a guitarist who also occasionally performs live with fellow Bordentown resident Carter Quinby.

As for what’s next, Conroy is focused on getting in shape for April’s Jersey Devil 100. After that, he plans to tackle three races known as the PA Triple Crown: the Hyner 50K, the World’s End 100K and the Eastern States 100. All three are held in Pennsylvania, and all three take place on terrain that features severe elevation changes — a noteworthy difference from the fairly flat terrain of the Hainesport Endurance Run and Jersey Devil 100 routes.

A runner must finish all three races

Kelly receives her appointment as official graphic designer of the Toys for Tots 75th Anniversary from David G. Bellon, Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine

Suzi is being recognized for her creativity at a national level.”

In addition to her graphic designs, Kelly also makes glass art, designing and creating stained glass panels, sculptures, wall art, and fused glass functional art.

On the web: artglasselements.com.

in the same year to be able to say they finished the triple crown. “Kknowing

I can complete a flat Pine Barrens 100 miler, I would feel more confident on more mountainous terrain,” Conroy said.

And if anyone reading this story should feel the need to resolve to run more in 2023, Conroy does have some words of encouragement:

“My early advice is for persistence and commitment. Start with small goals and keep at it. It’s about doing a little bit several times a week. And once you build up the healthy routines, you can amp up the intensity and duration. One of the best ways to continue that commitment is to do it with other people. Whatever activity you choose, it’s more fun with other people. It’ll keep you accountable. Maybe you won’t always look forward to running, but you’ll look forward to spending time with old friends or new acquaintances.”

When it comes to cremation, there are many options to consider – from traditional services to contemporary celebrations. Regardless of your choice, we will help you and your family ensure that your ceremony is a reflection of the person you are and the life you’ve lived. To learn more, please contact us.

The Huber - Moore Funeral Home

John C. Polhemus, Manager, NJ Lic. No. 3700

517 Farnsworth Avenue Bordentown, New Jersey 08505 (609) 298-0330 www.huberfuneralhome.com

Suzi

I’m helping my family plan a meaningful ceremony followed by cremation.

SportS

Scotties’ Green ready to press play on senior season

By Rich Fisher

After Tatiana Green hit the pause button on her basketball career, she was dismayed to discover that merely re-pressing “play” did not allow her performance to pick right up where she left off.

But once she began to work her way back, Green returned to her high-level self on the court.

The Bordentown High School senior opted not to play for the Scotties during her sophomore year due to Covid issues. When she returned last year, it took a while to find her groove, and it wasn’t pretty. Especially for Green herself.

Expected to be a big piece of the offense, she scored just 19 points in the first four games. After 10 games the forward was averaging 7.3 points per game, as the effects of her layoff were showing.

“I think it was more of a mental stance than anything,” Green said. “A lot of my skills kind of stuck with me and the conditioning that comes with it. But a lot of stuff was mental. I spent a lot of time being held back because I didn’t know if I was capable of doing certain things.”

After a pep talk from last year’s leading scorer, the since graduated Oshynn Cosom, things began to turn around. Over the season’s final eight games, Green averaged 10.8 points per game and scored in double figures six times.

“She figured out she belonged out there,” coach Bill Lloyd said. “For Tati, the challenge has always been the confidence She had to find the confidence to believe in herself. That’s what she found toward the end of last year. She took her sophomore year off, she was a little bit behind when she came back but she kind of found her stride and took off. I’m hoping she’ll build on that this year.”

All indications are that she will continue to progress. Lloyd says that by the end of last year, Green was making postseason speeches at the team banquet encouraging the returning girls to gear up and get ready for this season. The 5-foot-7 forward has taken a leadership role by the horns, and is ready to be the strong force Bordentown needs in the paint this season.

“I’m expecting a leadership role out of her,” Lloyd said. “All these girls came into

practice a half hour early one day. Tati is the one who’s kind of set this culture for us, which is a change from what we’ve had in years past. Girls want to be here, girls want to practice, she’s kind of leading that. She’s the one saying ‘Girls we need to be out there, we need to be better, we need to work harder.’ I love what I’m seeing from her from a leadership standpoint. And from the whole team from a work standpoint.”

Green is making up for lost time as far as she is concerned. Missing that sophomore year still leaves a bad taste.

“I think (sitting out) just had to do with the circumstances that were happening with life,” Green said. “We were in online school. I hadn’t been out of the house or anything. I feel due to maybe mental issues I wasn’t capable of coming out and playing another season.”

That feeling didn’t last long.

“I immediately regretted it when the time came and I still regret that decision to this day,” she continued. “I would check on them, and I would just watch them in all the games they filmed. I knew after that; I was one hundred percent coming back. I spent that last summer practicing all that I could.”

It was the first year Green did not play organized basketball since fifth grade, when she joined the Bordentown Area Basketball League (BABL).

She stayed there through eighth grade and had some great times.

I really enjoyed BABL a lot,” she said. “It was just fun playing with my friends. It was like a community. A lot of the coaches were really excited for me. I was really tall. They were all teaching me that I had to use my height, use my arms. I had to jump. They made it a lot of fun.”

Green continued her career at Bordentown Middle School and became a starter in eighth grade, helping the team to an 8-3 record while putting up a solid stat line. In ninth grade, she was one of just two girls to be called up from the freshman to the JV, but Lloyd knew right away she had to work on her confidence.

“I don’t remember much of how she played, but I just knew that, ‘This girl needs to come out of her shell,’” the coach said. “She was timid, and she always questioned herself.”

Taking a year off didn’t help, but midway through last season, Lloyd saw a positive change in Green.

“It was kind of letting her figure it out on her own last year; like ‘Hey, I belong here. I can be successful with this,’” he said. “By the end of the year, she was like, ‘This is my show.’”

With Cosom graduated it truly does become Green’s show. She is the team’s leading returning scorer after averaging around nine points last year, and Lloyd hopes she will provide even more offense this year with the addition of Nottingham transfer Maddy Wylie.

“She’s gonna need to be a primary scorer,” Lloyd said. “She gets her points inside, getting rebounds, doing all the dirty work. We have two weapons in the lane now with Tati and Maddy, and we’re working on our guards getting the entry pass in to them.”

The Scotties will also depend on junior Lily Nucera and senior Madison Mazzilli to provide some offense after seeing ample time last year. And Lloyd hopes some seniors who have not played since they were freshmen can provide support.

“They’re some of our better athletes in the school,” he said. “After freshman year they decided they didn’t want to play basketball. So they’re bringing a lot of athleticism we haven’t had in a while. Not a lot

winners in other sports. I’m hoping they bring that mentality to basketball.”

Much will center on Green, however, and she knows it.

“I do feel the load is on me,” she said. “I feel like every year, there is somebody

that needs to be relied on. I feel that this year some people are relying on me. But with that, I can also say that with the team we have this year, everyone can get involved. We have a lot of girls returning and new girls coming up with us. Having Maddie will help a lot.”

And she feels right at home in her leadership role. “It definitely came naturally,” she said. “A lot of the girls are my friends, sisters even. We’ve had practices over the summer that I organized. Building from that, to starting the season we kind of expected that was how my role would play out. I like getting the other girls involved in other stuff we can do.”

Probably the biggest suggestion given to Green came from Cosom last year, when she suggested that Tatiana was much better than she was playing.

“She told me I really was good and I just needed to get out of my head,” Green said.

“She went on this whole long rant about how next year they’re really gonna need me and that I had to step up right away and help her. Oshynn was the only returning varsity starter and she needed help. I needed to learn how to work with her and help her out with all she was doing. Toward the end of the season, I did that.”

She’s looking forward to carrying that positive play right into this season. Green has no use for the pause button anymore.

Tatiana Green is the leading returning scorer for Bordentown Regional High School basketball. (Photo by Bill Lloyd.)

George Raymond: A captain of integrity

Doug Kiovsky THE BEND IN THE RIVER

Editor’s note: The second page of Doug Kiovsky’s column did not appear in our December issue because of a printing error. The column in its entirety is reprinted this month.

The legacy of George Raymond (18141899) began with a wintry gale as the hard pounding surf crashed against his ship, the Atalanta, off the coast of Cape May in December of 1844.

As evening approached, screams from the piercing winds resonated between the fastened sails as the sun danced on an uneasy horizon. Undeterred by the situation, Capt. Raymond heard cries for help. He grabbed his telescope and stood at the crosstrees of the mast until a rowboat came within view.

Seated were seven sailors. As a rope was thrown to the boat, the men climbed aboard the safety of the awaiting vessel. One of the men identified himself as the captain of the Alabamian, a cargo ship that was returning from Europe with vast quantities of marble and silk. The relentless gales and the force of the marble slamming against the hull foretold the ship’s imminent demise, and the captain called for his crew to abandon ship.

Safe aboard the Atalanta, he said that another row boat with 11 men was drifting near the shipping lane, and pleaded for their rescue. Luckily, they too were spotted and brought on board.

Aboard the second boat were two young Americans that took passage on the Alabamian after travelling through

Europe. Their names were Abram Hewitt (1822-1903) and Edward Cooper (18241905). Instinctively, Cooper had tied a black silk handkerchief that he bought on the trip for his mother to the end of his oar as a rescue signal.

Shivering from clusters of ice pellets that clung onto their clothing, the entire crew was fortunate to escape such a harrowing experience.

Upon arriving in New York City, Hewitt and Cooper realized that coming home wouldn’t have been possible without the bravery of Captain Raymond and his crew. The ordeal strengthened the friendship between them and their later contributions to the world of industry and politics. Hewitt married Cooper’s sister, Sarah, in 1855, and both men served as mayors of New York City.

They would go on to become the foremost ironmasters in America, founding such esteemed businesses as the U.S. Steel Corporation, the American Bridge Company, and the Trenton Iron Company. Their companies produced our nation’s first iron beams and girders, rolled iron rails, and transformed the landscape of New York City with the first subway system.

Hewitt also established Cooper Union, a private educational institution, with Cooper’s father, Peter. Regardless of these challenges, Hewitt and Cooper remained indebted to Captain Raymond for his rescue efforts and annually reminisced about their survival at sea together, even after a half century.

In 1846, the New York-born Raymond gave up the sea and moved to Bordentown with his wife, Louisa

Brown (1819-1898). Her fine intellect and gracious manner stemmed from the fact that she was a direct descendant of the family that founded Brown University in Rhode Island.

Now she and her husband resided in a modest toll collector’s house, where her husband maintained an office for the Delaware and Raritan Canal. Since Lock No. 1 in Bordentown served as its southern terminus, Raymond’s position as collector and inspector of all canal boats and barges was extremely important.

Actively interested in the progress of the town, he became a viable council member, which prompted him to run for mayor. In 1855, he was elected to the office and served two terms.

With a positive outlook on life and a stellar reputation, Capt. Raymond and his family of seven children moved to Park Street, where they entertained guests quite extensively. Commodore Charles Stewart, retired naval commander of the U.S.S. Constitution and recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal, lived a few miles away and visited the family often.

Despite the wide age difference between Commodore Stewart and Capt. Raymond, their mutual admiration and discussions of the sea solidified their friendship. Other titled guests included the Gilder and Waugh families, who also maintained residencies in town. Samuel Waugh was considered Philadelphia’s premiere portrait painter, and had Captain Raymond sit for one of his works of art before presenting it to him.

Waugh’s daughter, Ida, was a renowned illustrator of children’s books, and graciously drew images of the captain’s children at play.

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Raymond was appointed chief freight agent of the Camden and Amboy Railroad Company in New York City. This

important position required the control of shipping through one of the Union’s busiest ports.

He remained active on the job (even after the railroad’s merger with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company in 1871) until his death at age 85. In August 1862, he was appointed Provost Marshall of New Jersey, which gave him the authority to direct weapons, provisions, and steamships from Philadelphia to Annapolis in order to supply Union troops. It was a daunting post that he did not approach lightly.

After the war, the success of the canal and railroad brought more people and industries into Bordentown. In 1867, the town became incorporated as a city, pushing the local government into accepting more businesses and employees. Immigrants from many nations continued to maneuver themselves as part of the landscape along with wayward vagrants either in search of jobs or unsavory opportunities to exploit their fellow man.

As with any society, most citizens abided by the law, but it was those that did not that people like Capt. Raymond found unsettling.

In 1886, after a random series of unlawful acts performed by criminal elements, including pickpocketing at the train platform and assaults from juveniles along the Hilltop, Raymond felt that it was necessary to save the good name of Bordentown by forming a “Law and Order League.” This was basically a group of vigilantes determined to expel lawless behavior that permeated the streets of Bordentown like an overpowering stench.

Citizens who believed in the “preservation of evidence of violation of the law and to the fullest prosecution of offenders” were able to apply as dutiful

photo of the framed Samuel Waugh

boys that congregated on Second Street and reported any unruly behavior by residents living in the former Murat home on Park Street, thus earning its lively moniker as “Rotten Row.”

As for the Celtic nature of Thompson Street, the best solution was to avoid confrontations at all costs.

When Capt. Raymond died in June 1899, he was quietly laid to rest in the corner of Christ Church Cemetery near his late daughter, Louise, who died a few days earlier. Below the cemetery wall could be heard the rumbling of locomotives as their cylindrical frames screeched down the track. It was those daily crescendos that Raymond never grew tired of, whether at his desk or outside.

CITY OF BORDENTOWN 2023 DOG LICENSING NOTICE

agents of the organization. On chosen Sunday mornings, these “agents” would also monitor and eject street loafers from sitting on church steps and refusing to leave unless parishioners paid for access.

Furthermore, they assisted local law enforcement by rounding up gangs of

George Raymond was a captain of integrity. He navigated well along the rivers of life, and maintained control during the entire voyage. As with many voyages, there were treacherous currents, shallow waters, and jagged rocks along the way but he knew the capabilities and strength of his ship in order reach safe passage. He tried to do right and lived a meaningful life.

You can’t ask for better than that.

Doug Kiovsky is the vice president of the Bordentown Historical Society.

Dog owners are required to obtain 2016 licenses no later than January 31, 2016. Licenses may be obtained at City Hall, 324 Farnsworth Avenue, during the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Dog owners are required to obtain 2018 licenses no later than January 31, 2018. Licenses may be obtained at City Hall, 324 Farnsworth Avenue, during the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Dog owners are required to obtain 2023 licenses no later than January 31, 2023. Licenses may be obtained at the City Administration Building, 101 E. Park Street, during the hours of 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Owners of dogs who do not obtain licenses are subject to fines up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to 90 days or community service for up to 90 days, or any combination thereof.

Owners of dogs who do not obtain licenses are subject to fines up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to 90 days or community service for up to 90 days, or any combination thereof.

ACCORDING

Owners of dogs who do not obtain licenses are subject to fines up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to 90 days or community service for up to 90 days, or any combination thereof.

TO STATE REGULATIONS, YOUR PET’S RABIES VACCINATION MUST NOT EXPIRE PRIOR TO THE END OF THE LICENSING YEAR.

1. A current certificate of rabies vaccination is required when purchasing your dog’s license.

ACCORDING TO STATE REGULATIONS, YOUR PET’S RABIES VACCINATION MUST NOT EXPIRE PRIOR TO THE END OF THE LICENSING YEAR.

Bordentown City Residents Only

ACCORDING TO STATE REGULATIONS, YOUR PET’S RABIES VACCINATION MUST NOT EXPIRE PRIOR TO THE END OF THE LICENSING YEAR.

2. If your pet has been spayed or neutered and you are purchasing a NEW license, proof must be provided at the time of the issuance.

Certificate of rabies vaccination is required when purchasing your dog’s license. If your pet has been spayed or neutered, this certificate must also be presented at the time of the issuance of the license.

3. If you have licensed your pet previously and are RENEWING the license, you do not need to submit this information.

4. The License Application can be found on the City website.

Certificate of rabies vaccination is required when purchasing your dog’s license. If your pet has been spayed or neutered, this certificate must also be presented at the time of the issuance of the license.

Licenses purchased after January 31 will be subject to a $5.00 late fee.

Grace I. Archer, RMC City Clerk

A

painting of George Raymond. (Courtesy of the Bordentown Historical Society.)

Severe respiratory illness increasing in children: what to know

Ask The Doctor

See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7

Uzma N. Hasan, MD, division director of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, and part of the Children’s Health Network at RWJBarnabas Health, and Seth D. Rosenbaum, MD, MMM, senior vice president, chief medical officer at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, discuss symptoms and risk factors of these viruses and respiratory illness, when to seek emergency care, and how to protect your children.

What viruses are currently circulating in children?

Dr. Hasan: An increase in severe respiratory illness in children is being seen across New Jersey, caused by climbing cases of respiratory syncytial virus (commonly known as RSV), the flu, COVID-19, and other seasonal viruses.

RSV, which is being seen in record numbers, causes upper and lower respiratory tract infection, such as a common cold and pneumonia/ bronchiolitis.

Infants, in particular those who are premature, as well as children with asthma and those born with cardiac disease, weakened immune systems, and neurological deficits are at risk for severe illness.

While influenza and COVID-19 can affect various systems in the body, they commonly cause varying degrees of respiratory illness. We expect this flu season to be the worst we have seen in recent years. Going into our third winter of the pandemic, we can rely on historic knowledge to anticipate an uptick in COVID cases during the winter months as people spend more time indoors.

What are common symptoms of these viruses?

Dr. Hasan: Symptoms of RSV, the flu, COVID19, and other viruses are similar so it is difficult to identify which virus(es) is making your child sick.

Common symptoms include fever, nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, headaches, body aches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Less common symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, however, these viruses can sometimes lead to difficulty breathing, wheezing, and asthma flare.

For the most part, RSV symptoms are that of a common cold/upper respiratory tract infection. The virus, however, is also notorious for causing lower respiratory tract infection — such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

As the virus typically peaks at 3-5 days after the onset of symptoms, be aware that wheezing will often be a presenting symptom.

Key flu symptoms are high grade fever, severe muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and feeling overall miserable. In severe cases, complications may include brain or heart inflammation, ear infection, and pneumonia. When should I call my pediatrician or seek emergency care for my child?

Dr. Rosenbaum: You can always call your pediatrician for guidance whenever your child is ill. However, if your child is exhibiting new onset wheezing or violent coughing, you need to call your pediatrician right away. Additionally, if your child is exhibiting any sign of respiratory distress or difficulty breathing –such as rapid and shallow breathing, belly breathing, struggling to finish and the area around the lips turning blue or grey – as well as insufficient fluid or food intake, bring them to the emergency department right away or call 9-1-1.

Why is this year’s respiratory virus season much worse than in recent years?

Dr. Rosenbaum: We believe that we had a milder viral season the last couple of years because of all the preventive measures in place during the COVID pandemic. Masking, social distancing, and school closures did not allow the usual spread of viruses, which may have impacted our immunity to these viruses.

To learn more about Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, visit rwjbh.org/Hamilton or call (609) 586-7900. For more information about children’s health, visit rwjbh.org/ childrenshealth.

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

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

FRIdAy, JANUARy 6

Healthified Favorites (HyBRId), 1 to 2 p.m. Join in-person or from the comfort of home as we take the guilt out of guilty-pleasures.

MoNdAy, JANUARy 9

Pantry Basics deep dive “Bread” (VIRTUAL), 10 a.m. to Noon. Let’s take a closer look at some of those pantry staples! Join us as we dive deep to uncover the history, science, and processing behind some of our go-to pantry favorites.

THURsdAy, JANUARy 12

Hearing Loss and Tinnitus, 10 to 11 a.m. It’s not uncommon for individuals to have tinnitus with hearing loss. Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D, to learn about the latest in technology to help treat tinnitus and hearing loss.

FRIdAy, JANUARy 13

Jazz Up Pantry Basics “Bread,” 1 to 2 p.m. There’s more to our pantry staples than meets the eye. Learn the nutritional value of overlooked basics and how to make them stand out!

MoNdAy, JANUARy 16

Cyberbullying: dealing With the Haters, 1 to 2 p.m. Cyberbullying can harm the online reputation of anyone. There are distinctive concerns involved, since it can be persistent, permanent, and hard to notice. In this discussion, increase your digital awareness about the online world.

TUesdAy, JANUARy 17

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 Michael R. Duch, MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon fellowship trained in sports medicine, along with Maureen Stevens, PT, DPT, GCS, Cert MDT, and Courtney Fluehr, PT, DPT. Dinner is included.

THURsdAy, JANUARy 19

Clinical Culinary Nutrition: Meal Planning and Food Prep, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Get up to date on current nutrition issues, hear from other health/ culinary professionals and sample tasty new recipes with our registered dietitians. Let’s support lifestyle changes for preventive health! Come by to learn how to prepare food for a stress free week of healthy meals. Space is limited— register at least 48 hours prior to event.

Fee: $10. Taryn Krietzman, RD

TUesdAy, JANUARy 24

A Meditation Sampler for Everyone, 6:30 to 8 p.m. We will feed the body with a few simple movements to clear and ground us. Sample different meditation methods to explore which one works for you. Bring a towel or yoga mat; chairs will be available. Fee: $15. Carol Ann Meier, Reiki Master

Dr. Rosenbaum

Dr. Hasan