Oldest canoe club in U.S. seeks out next generation of paddlers
BY JASMINE LEE
The gentle lap of water against a canoe, the rhythmic dip of a paddle, the call of birds overhead – these are the sounds that have filled the lives of Mohawk Canoe Club members for more than 120 years.
Founded in 1903 by a group of Trenton businessmen, the Mohawk Canoe Club has survived two world wars, the Great Depression, floods and fuel crises. It was originally a men-only organization dedicated to the sport of canoeing, which named itself after the Mohawk people, who were renowned for their canoeing skills. In its early days, the club thrived, even boasting of a magnificent mahogany clubhouse.
The club adapted over time, opening its doors to women and families of all ages in 1968.
“We had families coming in with their kids and those kids grew up with the club and brought their kids. It was good, it was good,” says Ruth Gibson of Hamilton, the current and first female president in the club’s history.
Gibson recalls that it was a spur-of-the-moment inflatable tube ride on the river that
turned comical for herself and a friend one Fourth of July weekend that sparked her interest in canoeing. The oars malfunctioned, leaving them paddling with their hands. Witnessing the limitations of their inflatable vessel, Gibson’s friend declared, “If we’re going to do this, I’d rather have a canoe.”
Little did they know, the situation would be the start of a lifelong passion for Gibson, leading her to eventually become a leader in the very club that would turn them into skilled paddlers.
Hamilton resident Tom Wilkins, a longtime member and instructor at the Mohawk Canoe Club, highlighted that this is the oldest canoe club in the United States, with members historically seen paddling down the Delaware River in wooden canoes.
Mohawk Canoe Club experienced its glory days throughout the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. It had more than 100 members embarking on adventurous trips ranging from peaceful flatwater paddles to exhilarating whitewater rapids.
The club’s members and
See CANOE, Page 10
Kayaks ready to launch at Bordentown Beach. Story, page 11.
BLL 10’s clinch dream softball season with Section 3 trophy
BY JUSTIN FEIL
The Bordentown Little League 10-year-old all-star softball girls already have plenty of big wins in their young careers.
But winning the New Jersey Section 3 tournament to advance to the New Jersey State Tournament was something completely new.
“They’ll definitely always
remember this,” said Bordentown manager Jeremy Martino. “Whether we win or lose, to be able to go this far, it’s just an awesome story. A lot of these girls, it’s their last chance of 10U. And so now this is their last opportunity at this and some of them only get one opportunity.
“We’ve played a lot of tournaments in travel and everything and they won’t remember every
single tournament, but they will always remember as they get older, they’ll tell their kids about it and grandkids if they’re playing ball, I made it this far in Little League.”
RWJUH Hamilton August Healthy Living / Community Education Programs
SWEET SUCCESS SOCIETY: A DIABETES GROUP
Monday, Aug 5; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Monday, Aug 12; 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept 3; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
A group for anyone with diabetes or caring for one of the 37 million Americans living with diabetes. Learn and discuss healthy ways to manage diabetes alongside peers and Taryn Krietzman, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Empower yourself and others towards a healthy lifestyle and success in diabetes self-management.
CARING FOR LOVED ONES WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS
Monday, Aug 5 + 19; 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Caring for a chronically ill senior can take a physical and emotional toll on family members. An Oaks Integrated Care Caregiver Specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.
ADULT CHILDREN CARING FOR PARENTS
Monday, Aug 5 + 19; 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
An Oaks Integrated Care caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.
GOT STRESS?
Tuesday, Aug 6; 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept 3; 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Support group about dealing with stress. When you experience stress, your body produces physical and mental responses. Gain valuable insight about how others deal with similar situations.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
Wednesday, Aug 7; 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Supportive discussion group for those caring for a loved one who is aging or has a chronic illness-shared experiences can be healing. An Oaks Integrated Care caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.
DANCE IT OUT!
Friday, Aug 9; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug 20; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Friday, Sept 6; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
When in doubt, dance it out! Find your rhythm and ease the everyday stresses of life with movement. All ages welcome; no experience required. A great way to get kid your kids out and active during these summer days off from school.
WHAT’S EATING YOU?
Monday, Aug 12; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Monday, Sept 9; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Support group for people experiencing emotional eating. Peer support is key. We offer a safe space to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.
LETTING GO OF CLUTTER
Tuesday, Aug 13; 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
This support group explores how our emotional ties to our “stuff” can create clutter and affect our mood.
An Oaks Integrated Care caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.
MASTER/TEACHER LEVEL REIKI CERTIFICATION
Monday, Aug 19; 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
This Reiki Master level class is for those who have been certified in Reiki level 2 and have been practicing for at least 6 months. Master Level deepens ones Reiki practice and adds focus, clarity and integrity to go deeper within to fully integrate the Reiki tools you already have. $160
DIZZINESS – CAUSES AND PREVENTION
Monday, Aug 19; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Are you light-headed? Unsteady on your feet? Do you feel off balance? Join Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D. and learn about the causes and treatment for dizziness.
TAKE HOME COLORECTAL KIT
Tuesday, Aug 20; 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Participants will attend a lecture about colon health, and receive a stool sample kit to use at home and mail back.
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION
Wednesday, Aug 21; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Quieting your mind, even for a short while, can have profound effects on both your body and your mind. Come learn to lower the volume of your mind’s chatter. No experience is necessary.
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP
Wednesday, Aug 21; 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Support and information for family and friends of people with Alzheimer’s disease. An Oaks Integrated Care
caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.
HEALTHRHYTHMS® DRUM CIRCLE
Wednesday, Aug 21; 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Drum your cares away with our monthly drum circle. It’s lots of fun and a great stress reliever. Beginners welcome; drums will be provided. Mauri Tyler, CTRS, CMP $15
WOMEN’S SUMMER BOOK
CLUB: WHEN WOMEN WERE DRAGONS BY KELLY BARNHILL
Thursday, Aug 22; 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
A Goodreads best Book of the Year.
“A fiery feminist fantasy tale set in 1950’s America where thousands of women have spontaneously transformed into dragons, exploding notions of a woman’s place in the world and expanding minds about accepting others for who they really are.” Bring your book to class and come prepared to have a lively discussion with other women readers.
WISE WOMEN
Thursday, Aug 22; 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Join a community of women as we discuss relevant topics and find purpose, meaning and community.
ORTHO 101: TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT
Monday, Aug 26; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Join Orthopedic Program Coordinator, Denise Berdecia, MSN, RN, ONC; Lead Rehabilitation Therapists, Maureen Stevens, PT, DPT, GCS, Cert. MDT; and
Health is a free program for VIP’s 65+ that combines medical education, interesting topics, and fun activities. Join today!
Sarah Masco, OTD, OTR/L, CLT-LANA; for an in-depth discussion on total hip replacements. These experts will explain preventative treatment, talking to a surgeon, decision for surgery, hospital expectations, and recovery with outpatient therapy.
PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP
Tuesday, Aug 27; 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
This group is for you to connect with others affected. Share and explore ways to improve lifestyle changes.
CLEAN LIVING IN A TOXIC WORLD
Wednesday, Aug 28; 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Toxins are all around us - in the air we breathe, the products we use and the food we eat. Learn what these toxins can do to our body and ways to avoid them and live a cleaner life with Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Therapies Nurse.
REIKI SHARE
Wednesday, Aug 28; 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
For folks who have been Reiki certified to come share the gift with fellow practitioners. Give a session, get a session. Open only to those certified in Reiki. Please bring a sheet and small pillow.
*All programs require registration and are held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, unless otherwise noted.
Sharon B. recently shared, “I just want to mention that coming to these programs is a big stress reliever and has been life changing! I also met my best friend here. It is my ‘go to place’ to have fun and learn so much.”
From Loretta V., “My son, at 18 years old, was diagnosed with brain cancer. I spent the next 30 years caring for him as his body deteriorated, eventually taking his life. My entire focus was caring for him and when he passed, I was at a loss as to how to fill the time and rebuild my life. That’s when I saw the Better Health Program advertised in the Hamilton Post. I was drawn to the ‘Senior Social Group.’ I became a member and registered for that first class. Now, more than a year later, I continue to attend the weekly Senior Social Group as well as many other fun and educational programs. In Senior Social Group, I have made friends and plan activities like walking, lunching, and other fun things. This program has been instrumental in helping me rebuild my life.”
GAME TIME Thursday, Aug 15 + 29; 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Scan QR code to view, learn more & register on-line for the programs listed above. Or visit rwjbh.org/HamiltonPrograms Email CommunityEdHam@rwjbh.org or call 609-584-5900 to learn more
Home for Funerals
AROUND TOWN
Lucas Ford in Burlington becomes Johnson Ford
In a media release last month, KJohnson Enterprises announced the purchase of Lucas Ford, in Burlington, making founder Kevin Johnson the first AfricanAmerican Ford dealership owner in the region.
“I am honored to take the helm of Lucas Ford and continue the legacy of excellence that the dealership is known for. Our goal is to build on the strong foundation by introducing new services, expanding our vehicle selection both new and used and ensuring that every customer enjoys a first-class experience,” Johnson said in a media release.
Johnson Ford will join other enterprises owned by Johnson in the area, including the 120,000-square-foot Team85 Fitness and Wellness facility and various real estate development projects at Team Campus, along U.S. 130.
Johnson Ford is located at 900 Route 130 in Burlington.
our customers by delivering and servicing high quality vehicles with transparency, integrity, and customer satisfaction at the core. At Johnson Ford, we will strive to create a seamless and enjoyable car buying experience; offering a diverse range of vehicles to meet the needs of our customers,” Johnson said.
City temple welcomes new associate rabbi
Temple B’nai Abraham has announced the appointment of Aviva Marchione as its new associate rabbi.
The temple says that in her role as associate rabbi, Marchione will focus on enhancing the congregation’s educational offerings, leading inspiring worship services and expanding community outreach programs.
“The mission of Johnson Ford is to provide exceptional automotive solutions to
“I am honored and excited to join Temple B’nai Abraham,” said Rabbi Aviva. “I look forward to partnering with Rabbi See NEWS, Page 9
Current Bordentown
We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Bordentown Current is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Current does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staff sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.
EDITOR
Joe Emanski (Ext. 120)
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Justin Feil, Jasmine Lee
CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST
Adam E. Zielinski
AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION
Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Jennifer Steffen (Ext. 113)
Community News Service 9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Phone: (609) 396-1511
News: news@communitynews.org
Events: events@communitynews.org
Sports: sports@communitynews.org
Letters: jemanski@communitynews.org
Website: bordentowncurrent.com
Facebook: facebook.com/bordentowncurrent
Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace
9,000 copies of the Bordentown Current are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Bordentown 12 times a year.
TO ADVERTISE call (609) 396-1511, ext. 113 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org
Greater Access to Emergency Care at Capital Health Regional Medical Center
Expanded Emergency Department Capacity Part of Continuing Investments in Trenton
Capital Health has officially opened expanded Emergency Department space for patient care at Capital Health Regional Medical Center (RMC) located at 750 Brunswick Avenue in Trenton. The Emergency Department at RMC has added 16 new beds to allow for 50 beds total (including fast track beds) with an additional trauma bay bringing the total of trauma-dedicated beds to three.
The project benefited significantly from a $6.3 million grant through the American Rescue Plan Act and a partnership with the Department of Community Affairs.
“The health care landscape in the City of Trenton has seen significant changes in recent years, so it’s more important than ever for Capital Health to preserve and expand key medical services and patient-centered care,” said Samuel J. Plumeri, Jr., chairman, Capital Healthcare Inc. Board of Trustees. “By pairing Capital Health’s commitment and vision with the key support of our elected officials, the Department of Community Affairs and the Department of Health, and other key partners, we can keep working to increase the breadth of emergency care available
to accommodate more patients and continue to address the pressing health care needs our neighbors face every day.”
“The expansion of our Emergency Department at Capital Health Regional Medical Center would not have been possible without the support of our elected officials as well as New Jersey’s Department of Community Affairs and Department of Health,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health. “Thanks to their support, we are able to make ongoing investments in the communities we serve and foster our shared commitment to providing Trenton area residents with access to advanced, comprehensive health care.”
This increase in capacity at the Emergency Department marks the beginning of extensive renovations at RMC that include additional patient floors and a new state-of-the-art cardiac surgery suite. The projects will all benefit from funding from the state, thanks to the support of the state legislative delegation for the 15th district and the Governor’s Office. Additional projects beyond the ED at RMC will also benefit from a $500,000 grant from Bank of America which was awarded to Capital Health to support expanded access at the Trenton location.
Capital Health Regional Medical Center is home to a state designated comprehensive stroke center (part of the Capital Institute for Neurosciences), the Level II Bristol-Myers Squibb Trauma Center, a cardiac surgery and cardiovascular services program, and Mercer County’s designated Emergency Mental Health Services Center. RMC also offers inpatient and outpatient radiology services, dialysis, and numerous other medical services.
For more information about Capital Health, visit capitalhealth.org. If you or a loved one is experiencing a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1.
Pediatric-Friendly Emergency Care at Capital Health – East Trenton
A trip to an emergency room can be overwhelming for anyone, but for children it can be especially scary. To help families in Trenton feel more comfortable while their children receive emergency care, Capital Health recently added pediatric-friendly rooms to the Emergency Department at Capital Health – East Trenton. Located at 601 Hamilton Avenue in Trenton, New Jersey (where St. Francis Medical Center used to be), the East Trenton emergency room facilities feature a section of rooms designed to put children more at ease with pediatric seating, a toy closet, and brighter new fabrics and décor.
“As health care evolves in Trenton, residents can rest assured that we continue to provide emergency care for our younger patients and that we are responsive to what the community needs and asks for,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health.
“The satellite emergency department at Capital Health – East Trenton is open 24/7 to the community with emergency room physicians and nurses who are specifically trained to care for all kinds of emergencies that children experience, including injuries and illnesses.”
The toy closet in the new pediatric-friendly Emergency Department space was made possible through the generosity of the Capital Health Auxiliary. The Capital Health Auxiliary is a dedicated group of individuals organized to support educational and health programs at Capital Health that benefit its patients and communities.
On December 21, 2022, 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 is home to an
outpatient medicine clinic, the Capital Health School of Nursing and School of Radiologic Technology, and the CARES Child Wellness Program.
In addition to the new pediatric-friendly area of the Emergency Department at Capital Health – East Trenton, Capital Health continues to operate a specialized Pediatric Emergency Department at its nearby Hopewell campus for patients in Mercer and Bucks counties who are newborns through 20 years of age. From the waiting room to all clinical areas, this 16-bed unit is designed just for children and parents and is staffed by boardcertified physicians and pediatric-trained nurses. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell is also home to a Pediatric Observation Program that allows children who are not well enough to go home, but not sick enough to stay be admitted as inpatients to receive continuous, quality, family-centered care under observation for complaints such as respiratory disorders, dehydration, and illnesses by fever to name a few. If at any time a child requires additional care or an extended stay, Capital Health partners with local children’s hospitals who will assume care and help coordinate a transfer to their facility. For more information about Capital Health – East Trenton, visit capitalhealth.org/easttrenton.
Capital Health Partnering with TVAX Biomedical to Offer Brain Cancer Immunotherapy Trial
Only Participating Clinical Site in the Northeast United States
Capital Health Cancer Center has announced that it has joined TVAX Biomedical, Inc.’s clinical trial to study a potential novel therapy for glioblastoma (GBM), the most common type of malignant brain cancer. Capital Health Cancer Center is one of five clinical sites open in the United States and currently the only East Coast location north of Florida to offer access to the TVAX trial.
“Our participation in clinical trials is critical to Capital Health’s focus on providing the best and most personalized care possible for our patients,” said DR. NAVID REDJAL, director of Neurosurgical Oncology at Capital Health.
“Thanks to the efforts of our amazing clinical and research teams, we’re excited to offer this groundbreaking trial to our patients and contribute data to a study that could lead to an exciting new therapy for treating GBM.”
There have been many trials over the past 20 years seeking to use the power of the immune system to attack GBM. None to date has proven effective. The investigational approach proposed by the TVAX protocol utilizes a patient’s own tumor cells to create a vaccine, which then is given to the patient to generate a specific immune response to their tumor. The laboratory collects, activates and expands these anti-tumor immune cells, which may lead to a more robust immune response when given back to the patient. The goal of this study is to evaluate whether or not this approach will overcome the natural tumor immune suppression of GBM and allow the immune system to kill remaining tumor cells.
“We’re excited to be part of studies like the TVAX trial and offer patients new possibilities for treatment of glioblastoma,” said DR. MICHAEL SALACZ, director of Medical Neuro-Oncology at Capital Health. “This is a true personalized treatment approach that uses a patient’s own tumor to unlock the power of their immune system to kill any remaining cancer cells. Our participation in the study could lead to better outcomes for patients and their families fighting brain tumors like glioblastoma in our region and beyond.”
“TVAX Biomedical is very pleased to include Capital Health and the expertise of Drs. Navid Redjal and Michael Salacz and their entire staff in this study. We hope this late-stage clinical study will significantly improve clinical outcomes for these patients with so few options,” said Dr. Wayne Carter, CEO of TVAX Biomedical. The TVAX clinical trial at Capital Health Cancer Center is open to adults from age 18 to 80 with a new diagnosis of glioblastoma with methylguanine methyltranserase (MGMT) that is active or “unmethylated.” Because collecting enough cells to create the vaccine is the first step of this immune treatment, patients will need to be able to have surgery at Capital Health. Trial screening is required to determine if candidates meet the full criteria for participation in any clinical trial.
The Center for Neuro-Oncology, part of Capital Institute for Neurosciences and Capital Health Cancer Center, is a referral center for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer involving the brain and spine. The Center is housed in state-of-the-art facilities where patients have access to an experienced and caring team of physicians, nurses and staff who work closely with referring physicians to facilitate rapid and thorough evaluations and recommendations for patients and their families. In addition to providing advanced neuro-oncologic and neuroscience care, the Center participates in clinical trials to develop better ways to fight cancer. To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org/neurooncology.
To learn more about this and other ongoing trials available at Capital Health’s Center for Neuro-Oncology, please call 609.394.4130.
Capital Health Attains National Reaccreditation from the American College of Surgeons National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers
Fourth consecutive accreditation demonstrates Capital Health’s commitment to improving comprehensive breast care
Capital Health’s Center for Comprehensive Breast Care, part of Capital Health Cancer Center, has received reaccreditation under the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).
“With this reaccreditation, patients can have confidence in our ability to accurately diagnose and provide the best possible treatment for breast cancer and other breast health conditions,” said Dr. Cataldo Doria, medical director of the Capital Health Cancer Center. “With a full range of breast care available under one roof, such as annual screenings, advanced diagnostics, genetic counseling and testing, leading-edge oncology care and a high risk breast cancer program, patients benefit from the combined knowledge of an expansive medical team that includes breast surgeons, radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, plastic surgeons, pathologists, rehabilitation services, and related support services.”
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States after skin cancer. Programs accredited by the NAPBC follow a model for organizing and managing a breast center to facilitate multidisciplinary, integrated, and comprehensive breast cancer services. The NAPBC focuses on the spectrum of a patient’s journey with breast cancer or breast disease, including prevention, screening, treatment, and survivorship. By setting high standards, NAPBC accreditation guides breast centers in providing comprehensive breast care based on scientific evidence.
“ACS Quality programs are grounded in more than a century of experience and participation is an important measure of a hospital’s surgical quality. As an ACS Surgical Quality Partner, Capital Health has shown a commitment to providing the best possible patient care, evaluating that care in a rigorous fashion, and dedicating themselves to continuous self-improvement,” said ACS Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Patricia L. Turner.
As an institution accredited by the NAPBC, Capital Health also becomes an ACS Surgical Quality Partner in recognition of its dedication to consistently improving procedures and approaches while maintaining a critical eye on process at every step. The Surgical Quality Partner designation lets patients know that Capital Health’s Center for Comprehensive Breast Care is dedicated to quality and relentless self-improvement and has been accredited by the ACS. Patients can trust that the care they receive at Surgical Quality Partner hospitals adheres to the most rigorous standards in surgical quality.
Capital Health’s Center for Comprehensive Breast Care offers a complete range of personalized, breast care programs and services from advanced diagnostics and genetic testing to leading edge cancer care all at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell. From cancer to cysts, abscesses, lesions, breast pain and other breast-related disorders, patients receive care from a multidisciplinary team that collaborates closely to develop a personalized treatment plan. For more information, call 609.537.6767 or visit capitalbreast.org.
Capital Health Cancer Center, located at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell, is home to the Center for Comprehensive Breast Care as well as other centers of excellence specializing in lung care, liver health, neuro-oncology, pancreatic health, and robotic-assisted surgery. To learn more, visit capitalhealthcancer.org.
On the Cover
Prehab: Pete Davidson sets Aug. 18 tour stop in Trenton
By Joe Emanski
Saturday Night Live alumnus Pete Davidson is set to take the stage at Patriots Theater stage on Saturday, Aug. 18 as part of his “Prehab” comedy tour.
Davidson, who starred in the 2023 Peacock comedy-drama series Bupkis, has been on tour all summer, including a July 20 show at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City that one fan on Reddit’s Pete Davidson forum called “hysterical.”
He is scheduled to appear at the Trenton War Memorial at 7 p.m. on Aug. 18. Tickets are available online through Ticketmaster.
Bupkis, a semi-autobiographical comedy series that also starred Edie Falco and Joe Pesci, ran for one season on Peacock. It was picked up for a second season, but Davidson announced in March that the show would not continue.
Davidson joined the cast of NBC’s Sat-
another, Turbo Fonzarelli, debuted on Netflix in January.
Davidson co-wrote and starred in the 2020 Judd Apatow movie The King of Staten Island, which like Bupkis, is said to be partly based on the life of Davidson, a Staten Island native. He has also appeared in the movies The Suicide Squad, Bodies Bodies Bodies, Meet Cute, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and Dumb Money. He is also set to play the role of Joey Ramone in the planned future Netflix movie I Slept With Joey Ramone, currently in production.
urday Night Live in 2014, when he was just 20. He remained a part of the performing ensemble through 2022, becoming known in his tenure for his “Weekend Update”
sketches. He returned to host the premiere episode of the 49th season of SNL on Oct. 14.
He filmed his first stand-up comedy special, Pete Davidson: SMD, in New York in 2016. His stand-up special, Alive From New York, ran on Netflix starting in 2020, and
Tickets for the Prehab show at Patriots Theater start at $49.50. The show is billed as a “phone-free experience,” with the use of phones, smart watches, and other digital accessories prohibited during the show. Guests must agree to secure their devices in locked Yondr pouches for the duration of the show. Guests keep the pouches with them and can open them in designated Phone Use Areas if needed. Guests who use devices during the show may be removed from the venue.
Raymond C. Staub
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the War Memorial in trenton, home to Patriots theater. (Photo courtesy of the state of New Jersey.)
Butterfly Festival returns to Watershed institute Aug. 3
The 24th annual Watershed Butterfly Festival is set to take place this year on Saturday, Aug. 3 at the Watershed Institute.
The event will feature tours of the Kate Gorrie Butterfly House and the Insect Zoo. Live music and entertainment is planned for throughout the day, including animal shows featuring Eyes of the Wild. The Butterfly and Bug Parade, led by Lady Monarch, Ms. Allison, is intended for young children.
At the festival, adults and children alike can learn through hands-on exhibits about watersheds and the need to protect rivers, lakes and streams. Food and drink will be available for sale, including a water truck provided by New Jersey American Water. Festival goers will also be able to purchase butterfly wings and other items at the Watershed Gift Shop.
There are two sessions scheduled: one for 9:30 a.m. to noon, and another for 12:30 to 3 p.m. Eyes of the Wild shows are scheduled for 10 a.m. for the morning session and 12:45 for the afternoon session. Pre-registration is available online
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at thewatershed.org/butterfly-festival. The price is $10 per person or $25 per carload up to six people per car.
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The Kate Gorrie Butterfly House opened in 2000. The outdoor structure features native plants that provide nectar for butterflies and other pollinators.
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children at the 2023 Watershed Butterfly festival. (facebook photo.)
‘Grown Up Camp’ offers adults a
For the parents out there who drop their kids off at summer camp each day and wish they could stick around and play along, there is an answer: Grown Up Camp.
On Aug. 10, Screamin’ Hill Brewery, Liberty Lake Picnics and Events and Blend Bar and Bistro will host the third annual Grown Up Camp at 60-acre Liberty Lake.
Planned “grown-up” activities include boating, rock climbing, water balloon tosses, swimming, mini golf and something called archery tag.
Also on the schedule are a threelegged race, wall ball, 3-v-3 hoops, pickle-
ball, tug of war, Wiffle ball, water trampoline, laser tag, kickball and flag football.
Live music will be provided by Jakfire. Craft beer will be provided by Cream Ridge-based Screamin’ Hill Brewery.
Food trucks Relish the Dog, Smokin’ Rev and Toscano’s will also be on hand.
Grown Up Camp is for grown-ups only and costs $30 to attend ($40 at the door).
To purchase discount tickets in advance, go to libertylakepicnic.com/grownupcamp. The event is semi rain or shine; in the event of extreme weather, the rain date is Sunday, Aug. 11, but mere rain will not be expected to be cause enough for cancellation.
Candlelight Concerts coming to Masonic Temple on Aug. 17
Candlelight Concerts look to bring the phenomenon of a live, multisensory musical experience to locations throughout the world.
On Saturday, Aug. 17, the concert series will be at the Masonic Temple in Trenton for a performance of the music of Antonio Vivaldi, followed by a second concert, a tribute to Taylor Swift, all under the gentle glow of candlelight.
The Highline String Quartet are set to take the stage at the Masonic Temple at 6:30 p.m. to perform works from Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” as well as selections from “Carnival of the Animals” by Camille Saint-Saens.
That concert will be followed by a second concert, “A Tribute to Taylor Swift,” at 9 p.m. The Highline Quartet will play interpretations of Taylor Swift songs including “Love Story,” “Cardigan,” “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” “Anti-Hero,” “You Belong With Me” and “Shake It Off.”
Admission to each concert is separate. Tickets for the concerts range in price from $35 to $60. The Highline String Quartet are scheduled to return on Saturday, Sept. 28 for an encore performance of Vivaldi, followed that night by a tribute concert featuring the music of Coldplay. The Masonic Temple is located at 100 Barrack Street, Trenton. Web: feverup. com. A candlelight concert in Madrid. (Photo courtesy
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At St. George Preschool, we believe that each child has an innate drive for exploring, discovering, communicating, and learning. Our purpose is to provide a safe, warm, and nurturing environment for children to develop this innate drive to the fullest, and become life-long learners. Our goal is to help each child develop his/her individual interests, creativity and potential at their own pace by providing a wide variety of fun and age-appropriate activities and materials.
In addition to the developmental goals in the areas of math, language, science, cognitive skills, motor skills, etc., stipulated by the state, the school aims to promote learning skills for life. At the same time, we aim to enhance the child’s social, moral, cultural and spiritual growth through group interactions, uplifting stories, cultural events and gentle guidance. Since “a healthy
mind is in a healthy body” as the Ancient Greeks said, we provide a huge indoors
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We offer high quality academic English programs for Preschool (3 years and potty trained) and Pre-K (must be 4 years old by October 1 of school year). Early morning care, after care, and enrichment programs are also available. We are part of the Saint George Greek Orthodox Church and state licensed by the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services. Our experienced staff has a passion building a foundation for a life-long love of learning. We are truly a family and we treat your children as such. For more information regarding our program, please visit our website: stgeorgepreschool.org.
Saint George Preschool, 1200 Klockner Road, Hamilton. 609-586-2223. Contact director Angela Gering at director@ stgeorgepreschool.org.
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To book a classified ad in this section, please email your text and any other information to sjeronis@communitynews.org. Classifieds run at 75 cents per word with a $20 minimum per month. For more information, call 609-396-1511, ext. 132. SERVICES
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Guitar and Ukulele lessons for Seniors. Call Jane 609 5101400. $25.00 per lesson.
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Selling two single side by side crypts located at Princeton Memorial Park, Robbinsville, NJ. If interested, please call Cecilia Peters at 973-701-1638 or send an email to cecyandrichardpeters@ verizon.net
One furnished room with private bath in Ewing High area by 72-yr old, quiet male. Call Scott 609-883-8443
Cash paid for World War II Military Items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call: 609-
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Happy Heroes 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.
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Julie, the synagogue board, and the entire congregation to create meaningful and impactful Jewish experiences. Together, we will continue to build a strong, vibrant, and inclusive community.”
Marchione earned her rabbinical ordination from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in 2024. She also has bachelors degree in history and global media studies from the University of Michigan. She served as a rabbinic intern at Temple B’nai Abraham from 2020 to 2022.
Temple B’nai Abraham is a Reconstructionist Jewish community located in the City of Bordentown offering religious, educational and social programs for all ages.
On the web: bnai-abraham.org.
County library system ends overdue fines policy
The Burlington County Library System has been fine free since July 1.
The Burlington County Commissioners and Burlington County Library Commission announced the new policy last month, saying the change would promote equity and remove a significant barrier that prevents predominantly low-income households from accessing library services and resources.
Under the policy change approved by the Library Commission, most overdue fines for late materials will be eliminated and all delinquent accounts will be forgiven of overdue fines.
“As of July 1, everyone will be starting with a clean slate, and we will no longer impose overdue fines for late returns from that date forward,” said Burlington County Library System Director Ranjna Das.
Previously, overdue fines ranged from 15-cents a day for books and $2 a day for late chrome books, tablets and mobile WiFi devices.
The change applies to books, DVDs, CDs, magazines, movies, video games and technology-on-loan at all 15 of the BCLS branch libraries and member libraries. Overdue fines will remain for museum passes, classroom kits, book club sets and interlibrary loan items.
ies that have already made this change is that material return rates increase, along with material circulations, library card registrations and overall usership. We’re expecting similar results within our library system,” Das said.
Burlington County Library Commission Chair Jonathan Chebra said the vote followed more than a year of discussion and research concerning the policy change. It also followed the library system’s implementation last November of an automatic renewal system.
Under the system, most borrowed materials are automatically renewed after their due date unless there is a waiting list for the material.
counties. The change was also anticipated in the BCLS’s 2024 budget, which was adopted earlier this spring with no increase to the county library tax levy collected from most property owners.
“The revenue loss is very small and equates to less than 1% of the library system’s revenue. Through careful planning, we are able to absorb that without cutting important programs, services or ongoing investments,” Chebra said. “At the same time, ending overdue fines will remove a significant barrier that prevents some individuals and families from joining the library system, borrowing materials or even walking through our library doors.”
BCLS cardholders will still need to pay replacement fees for lost or unreturned materials. The library system will also continue to put a freeze on additional borrowing by cardholders with overdue materials.
“What we’ve learned from other librar-
Under the fine-free policy, there will be a grace period after an item’s due date. After that grace period ends the item will be placed in lost status, and the borrower will be charged a replacement fee.
Chebra said many other library systems have already made this change, including the public libraries in New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago and neighboring Camden and Ocean
Overdue fines have also proven to not be an effective method to encourage the timely return of borrowed materials, Das said, adding that they may scare some lower-income individuals and families from joining the library and also cause some library cardholders to stop using the library altogether.
More than 35,300 BCLS cardholders have been inactive and not borrowed materials for over a year, and 23,900 have not borrowed any materials in over two years.
For more information about the Burlington County Library System, visit the BCLS website at bcls.lib.nj.us or call 609-267-9660.
Marchione
Now Open!
instructors—a number of whom come from the Mercer County area—have paddled on several bodies of water in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York, including the Delaware, Toms, Musconetcong and Lehigh rivers.
But beneath the serene surface of those rivers, a current of change flows that threatens the future of the historic club—the Mohawk Canoe Club has struggled to recover and stay afloat after Covid-19.
The pandemic took a heavy toll on the club. Membership dwindled and fragmented the once-vibrant social scene of monthly meetings and shared Thanksgiving dinners.
Covid-19’s impact led to the abandonment of the annual river training program, a cornerstone of safety and skill development. And like many other recreational organizations, the club has struggled to return to its pre-pandemic status.
While members can still look forward to various outdoor activities, including paddling trips, social gatherings, river cleanups, camping and more, many of these activities have had to be curtailed due to the club’s struggles with participant numbers.
“As to whether we can make it two more years… I don’t know,” says Gibson.
Nevertheless, the club and its members are working to spread the word about the importance of preserving the club for years to come. They have plenty of heartwarming stories to share about what the club means to them.
One was a trip along the upper Delaware on the Fourth of July morning in 1975, Gibson says. They had about 20 paddlers and many of them agreed to bring along American flags.
“We headed downstream past the little river town flags flying, and as we approached the deepest point in Delaware we went under a bridge and on the bridge, there was a whole crowd of people waving a big flag and cheering,” Gibson says. “As we approached, we all cheered and waved. That is how we celebrated the glorious Fourth.”
Recounting moments with likeminded individuals can evoke a deep sense of fondness, as members relish the experience of taking full command of their boats and answering only to the river, all while enjoying the camaraderie of friends.
One of the key advantages of joining a club rather than paddling solo is the shuttle service, which allows members to leave their boat at the “put-in” and have their car waiting at the “take-out,” eliminating any transportation issues. Additionally, paddling with a group not
only enhances skills but also provides for safety and fellowship with other members. “Any trip you go on in our club is a learning trip. There is always someone to show you how to paddle better,” says Gibson.
New members need to buy or acquire all the necessary equipment and a boat to join. Although this initial investment may seem high, many items will last for years, making it worthwhile for the experiences you’ll gain, says Wilkins.
New members will learn about safety, new paddling techniques, and essential skills like securing their canoe or kayak to their vehicle.
Despite the club being around for decades, the club has never experienced a serious fatality or injury. No matter how harsh the waters became, trip leaders and the more experienced people went through first, waited at the bottom, and pulled down the others one boat at a time.
The club has fostered a sense of community and helping each other no matter the skill level they are always welcoming newcomers. Wilkins expressed how the Mohawk Canoe Club revived his love for paddling.
He began paddling as a Boy Scout and continued until he graduated high school, a time he described as long ago. However, after marrying and starting a family, this enjoyable activity faded into the background. Despite this, Wilkins always harbored a desire to return to canoeing or paddling.
It wasn’t until he turned 40 that he decided to rekindle his passion. During a conversation with a Red Cross member involved in the Mohawk Canoe Club, Wilkins received the contact information he needed. The rest, as they say, is history.
For Wilkins and fellow club members, paddling nurtured a mutual appreciation for nature and provided a refuge from daily stresses by offering a change of scenery.
“There’s no stress in canoeing, and I’ve never seen a canoe paddle wrapped around a tree, but I’ve walked through golf courses and have seen clubs wrapped around trees,” says Wilkins.
Wilkins shared that on tough days, paddling would lower his blood pressure. Regardless of one’s mood, being in nature with fresh air, clouds above and cooler underfoot makes life feel good.
Rivers have the power to transport people into tranquility, away from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life, and into an entirely different world. Witnessing New Jersey’s beauty from a car is one thing, but paddling at around three miles an hour in a canoe allows canoers to be immersed in the scenery, sit back, appreciate it and realize how
fortunate the residents of this marvelous state are.
Gibson says that being the captain of your boat, putting the cellular device down and stepping away from the hassles of everyday life is one of the many beauties that this kind of activity can bring into your life.
“If you want to go slow, we can let you paddle slow,” Wilkins says. “If you want to paddle fast, we will keep up with you. I will
let you go. We just go out, have fun and enjoy the environment,” says Wilkins.
Anyone who wants to put their longunused boat, canoe or kayak to good use might consider joining the Mohawk Canoe Club. This group encourages growth among its members, both new and old, and fosters lifelong friendships through the unique experience of paddling.
Web: mohawkcanoeclub.org.
D&R Greenway offers kayak tours of Blacks Creek
D&R Greenway Land Trust is planning to host kayaking tours of Blacks Creek, a tributary of the Delaware River, through September.
Guides lead kayakers along the waterway while they teach about local ecosystems and wildlife. Groups will launch the kayaks, provided for paddlers along with safety equipment, from Bordentown Beach.
Spots on the trip are limited and registration is required along with a $35 donation to the nonprofit land trust. Visit drgreenway.org for more information on trip dates and how to register.
Blacks Creek is a freshwater tidal stream that acts as the southern border of Bordentown City. Along the creek sits Lime Kiln Park, which D&R Greenway Land Trust helped preserve by acquiring six parcels of land between 2004 and 2008. Educators will share information on plants, wildlife, birds and history with paddlers.
The kayaking trips are meant for novice paddlers, and first-time paddlers are encouraged to sign up. Trips will be roughly three hours including instructions from an American Canoe Association guide, paddling with a guide and educators, and a tour of the Discovery Center at Point Breeze, a museum dedicated to the history of the area including the Lenape, Joseph Bonaparte, and the natural environment.
“The D&R Greenway kayak program highlights Bordentown’s rich history, while paddling Blacks Creek’s gentle waters leads to discovering and understanding natural ecosystems with your fellow paddlers,” says Lisa Bruno, program manager, who works alongside a safety guide with the aim of planning trips that provide fun and educational experiences.
D&R Greenway says that the Blacks Creek tours take inspiration from the annual Delaware River Sojourn, a weeklong trip organized by the Delaware
River Basin Commission for almost 30 years.
“The goal of our kayak trips is to inspire people who live in the Delaware River watershed to become involved with protecting the Delaware River and our waterways,” said Linda Mead, president and CEO of D&R Greenway Land Trust.
A founder of the Delaware River Sojourn, she speaks about the experience of being on the river: “You gain a much better appreciation for a river while enjoying the gentle feel of the water and the green views of trees from the seat of a kayak, as compared to driving alongside it. A peaceful paddle on the river can reveal creatures, like the great blue heron, that take your breath away!”
Information on registration will be released on a rolling basis as dates become closer. More information is online at drgreenway.org.
A group of kayakers navigating Blacks Creek.
ley Martino, Maxine Portadin, Giuliani Rossi, Myla Savoy and Sophia Stefani. Assistant coaches are Frank Barkosky and Richard Rossi.
Most of the 12 team members have been playing together since Martino first entered them in travel softball together. From the outset, they were a strong group and they’ve only gotten better through the years.
“They’ve definitely come super far,” Martino said. “When we started coach pitch, even at coach pitch, they were all a bunch of hitters. We definitely have a really talented group of young girls, and they just always seem to amaze me. They’re always working hard to get better. They definitely have came really far this past season on our outfield work, catching fly balls toward the end of our season. You like to see them progress as we’re about to finish out our 10U and go to 12U.”
If the Bordentown 10s could win the state tournament — they opened with a 6-1 win over Pitman on July 18 to reach the winners’ bracket final in the double-elimination tournament hosted by Cherry Hill American Little League — they would advance to the East Region Invitational Tournament at Staten Island, N.Y. Their first focus, however, was winning states.
“They’re ready,” Martino said. “We had quite a few days rest after our last game, and we had a couple days of practice. And we had the state dinner banquet, which was an awesome time. The girls had a blast there. We went over a cou-
Township. Against the hosts, Bordentown opened play by rallying for a 3-1 win in eight innings, a sure sign that the sections would bring stiffer competition.
“This group is battle tested,” Martino said. “In Bordentown we use travel softball to help our Little League program and three years ago I started the travel team and so these girls, they’ve been together playing for a long time, they’ve built great friendships together and they gel very well. We got a few other girls on the team and it’s definitely a solid squad. This past season in travel, we’ve had quite a few games where these girls were battle tested. We had, I think, three extra-inning games this season.”
Bordentown had trailed Freehold, 1-0, before tying the hosts midway through the regulation six innings. It was tied after six innings and still tied after seven innings before Bordentown scored twice in the top of the eighth inning and held off Freehold for the win.
“I put them in a lot of high level tournaments,” Martino said. “They’ve played against good club teams and I think with all that over the past three years and working hard, it definitely got us through sectionals.”
ple of things in the week’s practice that we needed to work on from sectionals. I think the girls are definitely prepared for what’s in store for them ahead.”
Their Little League run began at home. As hosts of the District 12 Little League tournament, Bordentown won three straight games to take home their first LL banner of the summer. They opened with an 8-1 win over Robbinsville, ran over
Florence, 10-0, and then held off Robbinsville, 5-1, in the title game.
“It was really awesome,” Martino said. “I was really thankful that we got the bid to host 10s of districts. And the town definitely came through. They definitely packed the park for sure. They were wrapped around the outfield and the girls were really happy to see all the fans that came out to support them.”
The second game of sections was a pitcher’s duel. Bordentown, behind Gendek in the circle, pulled out the 2-0 win over Sayreville to put themselves in control of the winners’ bracket. When Sayreville came back around needing to win twice over Bordentown, it was too much with Bordentown pulling away for a 9-2 championship-clinching victory.
Fans also turned out to support the Bordentown 12-year-old all-star softball team when they hosted their Section 3 tournament. The 12s pulled out a pair of narrow wins in districts to advance and be able to play in front of their home crowds.
“Bordentown is a big softball town,” Martino said. “That’s probably one of our better sports within the town. It’s like football down in Texas, that’s how Bordentown is for softball games.”
The 10s team has been rolling along all summer. After marching through the districts with a 23-2 margin of victory in their three games, the Bordentown 10s faced more challenging games in the Section 3 tournament hosted in Freehold
“We gave up a couple of runs and the pitcher got a little down on herself, but then she ended up battling back. I couldn’t be more proud of her,” said Martino. “And the girls certainly were hitting the ball. So. Those were making plays on defense, which you know was really nice to see, and we definitely got the bats going and we end up winning 9-2 for the championship game. We’re super proud of these girls. They’ve put a lot of time in and I’m excited to see how far they can take this.”
Bordentown was challenged more in the sections than districts, but the results were the same. Bordentown has proven tough to score on with no one managing more than two runs in a game through
Bottom left to right: Sophia Stefani, Maxine Portadin, Lily Cooper, Myla Savoy, Giuliana DeClerico, Skylar Keating. Middle row left to right: Teagan Harris, Giuliana Rossi, Olivia Kelly, Ashley Martino, Amber Barkosky, Agnes Gendek. Back row left to right: Coaches Rich Rossi, Jeremy Martino and Frank Barkosky.
the first seven Little League contests of the summer.
“The girls have definitely made some real nice plays out there,” Martino said. “Our last game was the game when we were tested the most in the section championship game. Defensively, I was really happy to see that rolling into states. Even if our pitcher’s maybe not throwing her best game that day, but she’s still doing incredible, it’s nice for her to know I’ve got a defense behind me, which is great. Overall, we’ve got the pitching, the fielding and the hitting. So I think the girls can go real far with the team we have for sure.”
The fielding continues to develop each year. They have backed the pitching with solid defense whenever called upon in the first two rounds of Little League.
“They’ve been doing incredible,” Martino said. “They always know where to cover in every situation. We’ve been working on rundowns and everything. They’re like a sponge. They just absorb it very well. We’re super proud.”
Offensively, the group has shown they could hit from the first time they started playing travel. They’ve continued to develop through the years. They have shown throughout the Little League run the ability to score runs a number of ways.
“It’s been a mixture of things depending on how the game plays out,” Martino said. “We play some small ball and then we have a lot of big boppers for sure. We definitely can play a power game and hit around the outfield. We do hitting all the time with these girls because without hitting you’re not going to win these games no matter how good a pitcher you have. We focus on hitting all the time and we definitely have a good group of hitters.”
The players have been tested before, and the Little League tournament is giving them an opportunity to play some
more meaningful games. Four of the players were on last year’s Bordentown 10s team that advanced to sections. Gendek, Keating, Ashley Martino and Stefani all gained experience in that run last year. All of the girls have extensive travel experience and it has shown in handling the pressures of each game well.
“For travel, we definitely played a lot of tough tournaments and I feel like this is what I wanted to do to get them prepared for this situation,” Martino said. “This was like the big picture from the day we started this. So it’s really cool to see them taking it this far.”
Martino has marveled at the resilience of the group. No matter the situation, they have continued to strive for success. He was first impressed with a big comeback when they were only 8-year-olds.
“I remember a game we were we were down by 10 runs and I told the girls keep your heads up, it was only the end of the third,” Martino said. “I just said this game wasn’t over. And they ended up coming back and winning the game, which you know was incredible and if we get in that situation when we’re down, I always remind them of that time. They definitely are a group of fighters. I don’t know how. I guess it’s just the group of girls we have.”
For all but Rossi and Cooper, this is their last chance at the 10-year-old level. Rossi and Cooper are young enough to come back to 10s next year, while the others will be moving up to the 12U level. That will be the next challenge for a group that’s already creating some incredible memories this summer with their farthest run yet.
“I hope this group sticks it together over the next couple two more years and then ends up playing 12U together,” Martino said. “I think we could definitely make another good run.”
NB 11’s take Middle Atlantic region crown
Schiano and Matney reside in Bordentown.
PEPPLER
GENOLY CARING CENTER
The Northern Burlington 11-year-old all-stars are 2024 Middle Atlantic Region Cal Ripken Baseball champions in their age group. Pictured are players (front row) Chase Rogers, Henry Beloncik, Joey Cannizzaro, Vincenzo Schiano, Ishaan Adusumally and (back row) Ethan Militch, Logan Saganowski, Kellan Jones, Blake Matney, Mason Hudanish, Samson Pitko and JJ Lacey.
Over the hills and not so far away: The Hermit of Mount Holly
Adam E. Zielinski BURLINGTON HISTORY
“In the spring of 1756, the people in Mount-Holly and parts adjacent, found their curiosity much awakened by reports, that a stranger had taken up his abode in a wood belonging to Joseph Burr, on the Burlington road; that he appeared to be a middle aged man, was a foreigner, was totally ignorant of the English language, and was dressed in the uniform of a French soldier; that he had frequently been seen at the neighboring farmhouses, begging victuals. The people, suspecting from his frequent visits that he lived somewhere near them, had followed him, and found that he had dug out the ground under the side of a large tree, which had been blown up by the roots, until there was room enough for him to creep into it.”
Thus is the first account of Francis Adam Joseph Phyle, better known as the Hermit of Mount Holly. Like many old stories in Burlington County that have been passed down through generations of local family lore, or those found in old county history books, it can be challenging to discern fact from fiction. After all, some people still claim a 1732 article reporting a public burning of suspected witches in Mount Holly to be true when it was just a story invented by Benjamin Franklin for print.
The story of the Hermit turns up from time to time as several incidents were recorded in the eighteenth century and then brought to light years later. It’s without question he was a real person who lived just beyond the boundaries of developed society, even in the eighteenth century. His presence, one that shunned the modernity of the age, continues to intrigue us.
Where he resided is still up for debate, but most modern historians think it was likely about where Route 206 meets Burrs Road in Westampton Township. A letter from June 1780 states: “The wood in which he took up his abode, hath its north side bounded by the road leading from Mount Holly to the city of Burlington, distant four miles from the latter, and a little more than two from the former, in which is yet to be seen the tree (a white oak of great dimensions) under the south side of which he formed his subterranean lodgment.”
But what drew the attention of so many contemporaries was the fact that the Hermit apparently did not rely on fire for
survival. Instead, he climbed into a dug out hole, referred to as a cave, that was only wide enough he could barely stretch himself out to sleep. A nearby stream (an offshoot of Barker’s Brook that still exists) was likely his water source. In 1758, Hannah Callender of Philadelphia “went to see the Hermit” and noted in her diary the language barrier prevented learning anything of his origins. Before becoming the Hermit, Francis Phyle came from Switzerland and joined up with the French Army when they came over to Canada to fight the British during the French and Indian War. According to testimony given to Col. Charles Read around 1755, Phyle soon grew wary of the soldier life and deserted to the British lines, and escaped yet again.
Making his way south, he came across a patch of land in Burlington County
After taking a day to get the regiment in order and obtaining some provisions, Brigham recorded: “I went out of Town to an old Hermit that had Lived 24 years in the woods without any fire as he informed me. His Beard was about 4 inches Long and Somewhat Gray as he was 64 years old….”
Unfortunately, we get no more than these two lines. The Continental detachment soon departed Mount Holly and abandoned any offensive maneuvers for encamping the winter at Valley Forge. Evidently, Brigham was not the only Connecticut soldier who paid the Hermit a visit. According to his diary, Surgeon Albigence Waldo met him three days later: “Near this Town in a Wood, a Hermit has dwelt these 27 years, living on Bread and water. His bed is a hole dug in the ground about one foot and a half below the surface, and cover’d at
Where the Hermit of Mount Holly resided is still up for debate, but most modern historians think it was likely about where Route 206 meets Burrs Road in Westampton Township.
and decided it would be a good place to live, or squat. Nevertheless, Read, also a state judge, took sympathy with Phyle and declared he was entitled to live peacefully in his cave, and that given his extreme circumstances, locals should pay him charity. What led Phyle to abandon society and live a life in solitude is unknown, but there are hints in a contemporary letter suggesting past sins followed him to New Jersey.
* * *
What is clear is that during the Revolutionary War, the Hermit was a local celebrity, of sorts. Several accounts exist of soldier and civilian paying him a visit. As one letter stated, Phyle had learned just enough English to “discriminate between those whose visits prodded from laudable motives, and those of vacant minds led there by idle curiosity.”
No doubt at a time when wild stories filled the mind of every citizen, locals were quick to pass on the tale to those traveling through the area. One letter states: “not even in the memorable winter of ’76 and ’77, when the British troops overrun Jersey, for then a partial action took place between a detachment from the American army, and two regiments
commanded by the Baron Donop, the scene of action [The Battle of Iron Works Hill] was near the dwelling of Francis, but he never left his habitation until all was still.”
In November 1777, just as the British army had settled in Philadelphia, and effectively pushed most of the Continental army out of reach of recapturing it, several regiments of Americans gathered at Mount Holly to plot a potential counterattack. Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene held command in town for about a week. At that point, the only success in the Philadelphia Campaign came at Red Bank on Oct. 22. Every other engagement had been a British victory, and now Philadelphia, the rebel capital, was under British control.
At Mount Holly, Capt. Paul Brigham of the Connecticut Line recorded in his diary that, along with several other regiments, he entered the town on Nov. 21 after being part of the initial defense of Fort Mifflin along the Delaware River. Brigham stood guard for five hours upon arriving, and after Colonel Daniel Morgan’s riflemen arrived the following day, he spent time walking around town observing “the iron works and slitting mill.”
pleasure with a board—over this is built a small bark but hardly big enough for a man to sit up in. When he goes to bed he crawls into his hut and at the further end slips into his hole which he calls his grave, drawing over the Board and goes to sleep.”
Waldo goes further, adding more color to the state of mind of Phyle at this period. “He crawls night and morning on his hands and knees about two rods to a particular tree to pray. He says he was warned of God in a remarkable Dream when he first came to American to take this course of Life.” Its apparent Waldo was able to communicate with him on some level. Phyle had many books in Latin in his cave, and Waldo discovered he spoke German. The old man wished for Death as his method of living was destroying his body, but he maintained that it was penance for past sins. Waldo then stated, “He murdered his own sister, and that he killed a Gentlemen in a Duel while an officer in the French Service. He was also in the German Service among his countrymen the Germans.”
Whether those were revelations discussed in person or rumors passed to Waldo by locals is unclear. Only a few months later, Phyle was found dead in his cave one morning in January 1778. A coffin was made in Mount Holly and brought to the site where his body was removed. The people recorded that among his body “were nothing more than old blankets, a small pair of scissors, with which he clipped his beard, and a blank book, in which he had drew or delineated sundry religious pieces, with a black-lead pencil, found in the book.”9 Phyle was buried in the old Friends burial ground located on Woodlane Road in Mount Holly.
He would greet every visitor by kissing their hand and accepted any gifts given to him, except money, according to Surgeon Waldo. Whether a criminal on the run, a man of deep religious faith, or perhaps a mixture of both, the Hermit captivated locals of Mount Holly, Burlington and surrounding towns for nearly 25 years in the mid eighteenth century.
A mere 10 years after his death, the first edition of the pamphlet used for this article was printed in 1788. A second edition followed in 1811. And through the handful of letters and diaries of contemporaries, we know the Hermit made them wonder.
Adam Zielinski is president of the Rev War Alliance of Burlington County.
Smart ways to prevent drowning
Ask The Doctor
See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, accidental drownings lead to about 8,000 emergency department visits nationwide each year. “Drowning can be fast and silent, but it may be prevented,” says Jasmeet Mehta, MD, Internal Medicine. Some ways to help reduce the risk of a potential drowning and potentially save a life include:
• KNOW: Small children can drown in shallow water.
high rip currents at the beach/shore. If you get caught in a rip current, allow it to carry you until you are able to swim parallel to the shore. Do not swim against the current, as this will tire you out and put you at risk of drowning. If you or a loved one is having an emergency or are in an emergency situation, immediately call 9-1-1.
Jasmeet K. Mehta, MD, Internal Medicine, is an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group provider and practices at Medical Associates Hamilton & Primary Care Express, 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Hamilton and is affiliated with RWJUH Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility.
• SUPERVISE: Make sure at least one adult swimmer provides constant supervision of any child/children near or in the water.
Dr. Jasmeet Mehta
• PROTECT: Install fences and gates around home pools. Consider adding an alarm that alerts you anytime someone goes into the water.
• RESTRICT: Prohibit children from running around the outside of pools to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
• TEACH: Enroll children, and adults who can’t swim, in swim lessons. Make sure they wear life jackets, vests and floaties in the water if they can’t swim, but still be sure an adult swimmer provides constant supervision.
• JUMP: Never dive headfirst into water unless you know how deep it is. Instead, wade in or jump in feetfirst.
• RESPECT: Always swim near a lifeguard. Heed red-flag warnings for
To make an appointment or for more information, call (609) 245-7430 or visit rwjbh.org/ medgroupprimarycare to find a provider near you. Let’s be healthy together.
Programs at RWJU Hamilton this month
The following programs are open to all and registration is required. Programs are sponsored by RWJUH Hamilton Community Health/ Community Education and Better Health Program, a free membership program for anyone 65+ years old. All programs take place at the Center for Health & Wellness located at RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, unless otherwise noted. View the calendar of programs available online at rwjbh. org/hamiltonprograms, or for more information call (609) 584-5900.”
TuESdAy, AuguST 13
Yoga class. (Better Health Program). 10- 11 a.m. Krystal Loughlin, certified RYT, will be leading this gentle yoga class using traditional postures and breathing techniques, offering modifications of the poses for your body so that you can confidently partici-
pate. Beginners welcome. Registration is required, and new members are welcome to join. Learn more online at rwjbh.org/ hamiltonbetterhealth.
ThurSdAy, AuguST 15
Game time. (Better Health Program). Also Aug. 29. 1- 2:30 p.m. Join our Better Health members for game time! Snacks and some wholesome fun included. A variety of board games will be available, or you are welcome to bring your own. Registration is required, and new members are welcome to join. Learn more online at rwjbh.org/ hamiltonbetterhealth.
MONdAy, AuguST 19
Dizziness: Causes and prevention. (Community Education). 10- 11 a.m. Are you lightheaded? Do you feel unsteady on your feet or off balance? Join Lorraine Sgarlato, AuD, Audiologist, RWJUH Hamilton’s Balance and Hearing Center, to learn about some causes and treatments for dizziness. The Balance and Hearing Center is located at 2 Hamilton Health Place, Hamilton, 609-2457390. Registration is required at rwjbh.org/ hamiltonprograms.
MONdAy, AuguST 26
Orthopedics 101: Total hip replacement. (Community Education). 1-2 p.m. Join RWJUH Hamilton’s Orthopedic Program Coordinator, Denise Berdecia, MSN, RN, ONC; and RWJ Rehabilitation Hamilton’s Lead Rehabilitation Therapists, Maureen Stevens,
PT, DPT, GCS, Cert. MDT; and Sarah Masco, OTD, OTR/L, CLT-LANA, for an in-depth discussion about total hip replacements. These experts will explain the benefits of having the procedure at RWJUH Hamilton, treatment options, choosing a specialist, how to decide if surgery is right for you, and recovery options available through outpatient therapy at RWJ Rehab. RWJUH Hamilton is Joint Commission Certified as well as a Center for Excellence from The Joint Commission in hip and knee replacement, ensuring the highest standards in quality and patient safety. Registration is required at rwjbh.org/ hamiltonprograms.
TuESdAy, AuguST 27
Yoga class. (Better Health Program). Also Aug. 27. 10- 11 a.m. Krystal Loughlin, certified RYT, will be leading this gentle yoga class using traditional postures and breathing techniques, offering modifications of the poses for your body so that you can confidently participate. Beginners welcome.
ThurSdAy, AuguST 29
Game time. (Better Health Program). Also Aug. 29. 1- 2:30 p.m. Join our Better Health members for game time! Snacks and some wholesome fun included. A variety of board games will be available, or you are welcome to bring your own. Registration is required, and new members are welcome to join. Learn more online at rwjbh.org/ hamiltonbetterhealth.
