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EHS girls’ basketball trio leave behind a legacy of excellence

A trio of McDonald’s All-American nominees helped leave a legacy for the Ewing High School girls basketball program.

Rhian Stokes, Te’Yala Delfosse and Joi Johnson will graduate as the three all-time leading scor-

ers in program history. Another senior, Shawnae Biggs, could make a case for being the best defender in school history. Each one’s individual accomplishments would be remarkable in their own right, but the combination of all of them on the same team made the Blue Devils unique.

“I think we have that trust in each other,” Johnson said. “We believed in each other. I think that comes from playing together so long and knowing what each of us can do and pushing each other to be better because we all believe in each other that much.”

Ewing resident Aaron Watson has been was appointed business administrator of Ewing Township.

Watson, a township native, has been onthe job since February, succeeding long-time Bussiness Administrator Jim McManimon, who retired.

Watson most recently served as Mercer County deputy county administrator. In that capacity, he was responsible for oversight of Buildings and Ground, the Trenton-Mercer Airport. He was also the executive director for Mercer County Park Commission.

He was also co-founder of the Outdoor Equity Alliance, a group that “removes barriers and inspires people of all ages, ethnicities, abilities and income levels to enjoy the outdoors and become more involved in the natural world,” says the OEA website.

In what has now become an annual tradition, Ewing Observer editor Bill Sanservino sat down with Mayor Bert Steinmann to talk about the state of the Ewing and current issues

impacting township resident. The two were joined by Watson, who spoke on his appointment.

Over the course of the interview, which will be run in multiple sections over the next few months, issues discussed included township finances, the senior center, development, cannabis, the Parkeay Avenue Redevelopment Zone and the Trenton Mercer Airport.

This month’s portion of the interview, which focuses on Watson’s appointment and the 2024 municipal budget, appears in Q&A form below. It has been lightly edited for clarity and style.

* * *

Ewing Observer: One of the biggest changes in Ewing has been the change at business administrator. Bert, do you want to say a little bit about Jim McManaman and his service to the town?

Bert Steinman: Yeah. I think that would be appropriate. Jimmy came with me when I was first elected back in 2010 and started my tenure in 2011, and he’s been with me for the 13 plus years that I’ve been here.

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Ewing High School girls’ basketball players Rhian Stokes (left), Te’Yala Delfosse and Joi Johnson take shots on basket. (Photos by Todd Cloward.)
Ewing native Watson tapped for business administrator job
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RWJUH Hamilton April Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

SWEET SUCCESS SOCIETY: A DIABETES GROUP

Monday, April 1, May 6; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Monday, April 8; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

A group for anyone with diabetes or caring for someone living with diabetes. Learn and discuss healthy ways to manage diabetes alongside peers and Taryn Krietzman, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.

SPRING MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL: “THE SCIENCE OF LONGEVITY”

Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Focus on the science of longevity: the extension of human life, and wellbeing. This approach may prevent chronic disease and extend long-term health. Changing your view from “lifespan” to “healthspan”.

Week 1: John DiBiase, MD; orthopedic surgeon, clinical instructor

Week 2: Javier Villota, MD; Medical Director of Occupational Medicine, Corporate Health and Travel Medicine

Week 3: Sara Ali, MD; Geriatrician and Palliative Care Specialist

Week 4: Maureen Stevens, DPT; Senior Physical Therapist

Week 5: Patricia McDougall, BSN, RN; Integrative Therapies Nurse

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

Tuesday., April 2; 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Learn what wonderful fruits and veggies are up to this time of year and how to make them shine! Enjoy being an in person studio-audience member as Taryn Krietzman, RDN does a live taping or join us from

your home via our live zoom.

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN: SPRING BREAK(FAST)

Thursday, April 4; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

With the kids having a day off from school, take advantage of a great way to get them out and interested in healthy eating! Empower kids with culinary skills and nutrition knowledge to become their healthiest selves! For children 5 years and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Taryn Krietzman, RDN. Fee: $5 per person

DANCE IT OUT!

Friday, April 5; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

With the kids having a day off from school, take advantage of a great way to get them out and moving in a fun activity for all ages.

Monday, April 15; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

When in doubt, dance it out! Find your rhythm and ease the everyday stresses of life with movement.

TAPPING FOR STRESS RELIEF

Monday, April 8: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Stress creates blockages in the body that impedes healing. “Tapping” uses the same meridian system as used in acupuncture to help restore the body to heal itself. Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Therapies Nurse.

UP, UP, AND AWAY: EXPRESSIVE ARTS FOR OUR WISHES AND INTENTIONS

Wednesday, April 10; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. We make wishes on birthday candles and shooting stars! Let’s take a look at wishes and intentions,

Better Health

*Registration and free Membership

to attend the Better Health Programs

and formulate how they could be expressed in this workshop. We will read relevant, heartfelt poetry and create a beautiful collage on canvas of a hot air balloon over our thoughtful journaling. We’ll send those wishes and intentions up, up, and away! Rochelle L. Stern, expressive arts facilitator. $15

DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: HEALTHY BONES CLUB

Thursday, April 11; 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Internal Medicine Physician, Anjali Bhandarkar, MD will be discussing the diagnosis, risk factors and treatment for osteoporosis. Also included, insight on the treatment of Vitamin D deficiency and when to measure Vitamin D levels. Dinner provided.

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND IMMERSION

Monday, April 15; 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sound healing uses instruments like singing bowls, gongs, drums and chimes to create an atmosphere promoting deep rest, nervous system rebalancing, and emotional release. Sit or lay while the practitioner takes you on a sound journey for mind, body and spirit. Bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow or anything that makes you comfortable. Adriana Hansen, RYT200, SHA1 of the Learning Collaborative. Fee: $15

NUTRITION, FEEDING, AND SWALLOWING AFTER STROKE

Wednesday, April 17; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Join dietician Taryn, Oc. Therapist Sarah, and Speech-Language

DR. ALI, BREAKFAST AND LEARN, HEALTHY AGING FOR WOMEN

Thursday, April 4; 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Dr. Ali, Board Certified in Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, will lead a focused conversation on concerns for women as we age discussing gynecological cancers, bone health, sexual health and more.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, April 4 &18; 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Wednesday, April 3, 10, 17, 24; 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Please join us for our ongoing program “A Senior Social Group,” gathering in a collaborative setting to exchange thoughts, feelings and experiences amongst peers. This is a safe-zone designed to be welcoming and understanding of all attendees while exploring this season of our lives.

Pathologist Ashley to discuss management of nutrition and eating after stroke. Learn how to adjust food choices throughout the recovery process for optimal nutrition, frequently utilized adaptive equipment for self-feeding, and common strategies to manage swallowing problems after stroke.

HEALTHRYTHMS® DRUM CIRCLE

Wednesday, April 17; 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. Drums provided. Mauri Tyler, CTRS,CMP $15

BRAIN HEALTH-LEARN PROVEN WAYS TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN YOUNG

Monday, April 22; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. With so much information out today on brain health what methods really work? Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D. to learn more about how to keep your brain young.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH

Thursdays, May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, June 6; 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Take Control of Your Health/ Chronic Disease Management Program is a cost effective evidence-based health promotion program for people with any ongoing health condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and similar conditions. Participants will learn how to problem solve, set goals, and relaxation techniques to help manage chronic conditions. Participants must attend all 6 classes.

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, April 9 and 23; 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, April 9 & 23; 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

CHAIR YOGA

Tuesday, April 9 and 23; Noon to 12:45 p.m. Krystal Loughlin, certified RYT, is introducing Chair Yoga to our Better Health Program. Using a chair for seated poses and also for balancing poses, this class is perfect for those who haven’t moved their bodies for a while, recovering from an injury or have mobility/balancing difficulties. A great place to start practicing yoga to help boost your flexibility, find inner peace, unwind and stretch.

ART THERAPY & HISTORY FEATURING GEORGIA O’KEEFE, “THE MOTHER OF AMERICAN MODERNISM.”

Thursday, April 11; 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tapping into your creative side is

a great way to de-stress, improve mental outlook, and simply have some fun. Lisa Bayer from Always Best Care Senior Services, created this program that combines art history with an art project based on the works of artist, Georgia O’Keefe. Using pastels, you will draw your own oversized flower and learn the techniques to layer and blend the pastels.

HOSPITALS AND OUR AGING COMMUNITY

Tuesday, April 16, 2024; 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m Should hospital care change as we age and if so, what does it look like? Join us to delve into this important topic about how hospitals can better serve our aging population. Panel includes: Lisa A. Breza MSN RN NEA-BC, Chief Administrative Officer, Dr. Sara Ali, Board Certified Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, and Dawn Hutchinson, MSN, RN, PCCN-K, NEABC, Chief Nursing Officer

CATCH SOME ZZZZZ’S!

Monday, May 6; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Insomnia affects your mental as well as physical health, making prone to heart disease and other serious illnesses. Join Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Health Nurse to learn more about how we should spend a third of our life.

ORTHO 101

Monday, May 6; 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Join Orthopedic Program Coordinator, Denise Berdecia, MSN, RN, ONC, Lead Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists, for an in depth discussion on total knee replacements. These experts will explain preventative treatment, talking to a surgeon, decision for surgery, hospital expectations, and recovery with outpatient therapy.

DESIGNER BAG BINGO!

Friday, May 10; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

This popular event is a great way to get out with your friends for a night fun with many Designer Bags up for grabs. Admission ticket includes 12 rounds of Bingo, Tickets will be $45. For more information or to purchase tickets email CommunityEdHAM@ rwjbh.org.

*All programs require registration and are held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ, unless otherwise noted.

FOR MEN ONLY!

Wednesday, April 24; 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Ashish Desai, LCSW, from VA NJ Health Care System will lead this open discussion with flexible topics that will be suggested by and of interest to you! This group will meet quarterly.

HERBAL MOCKTAIL PARTY

Tuesday, April 30; 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Amanda Crooke, Herbalist and Owner of the Locust Light Farm in New Jersey will teach us how to craft delicious herbal mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails) using a variety of infusion and blending techniques. You’ll sip and sample these refreshing drinks as we explore herbal extractions, flavor pairings, and ingredients. You’ll make your own tasty oxymel and receive delicious mocktail recipes to take home

Programs/Complimentary Membership
65+
Old 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 Scan the QR code to register and become a member or call 609-584-5900 or email bhprogram@rwjbh.org to learn more.
at
Years
required
2  Ewing Observer | April 2024

Ewing’s construction office has a new home. Township officials on March 20 cut the ribbon on a newly retrofitted space at the Ewing Fire Department firehouse at 166 Pennington Road.

“As our construction office has expanded over the years to meet the needs of our flourishing community, we knew we had to devise a permanent solution for additional office space,” Mayor Bert Steinmann said. “Under the guidance of Jim Megna, Ewing’s construction official, we came up with a plan to relocate the office to the existing 8,000 square-foot multi-purpose space attached to the firehouse, a win for our residents and our hard working construction office employees.”

The old construction office at the township municipal building outgrew its spave, which required the township to install temporary and costly modular buildings to house additional office space.

The new office accommodates all managers and members of the construction office and includes offices for the fire inspectors, as well as creating an area for

We

Christine

voting to continue to occur.

“Naturally, it was understood that the renovation and relocation must not have any impact on the functioning of the firehouse during the construction process or once it is officially occupied,” said a township press release.

DIGroupArchitecture, of New Brunsick, was selected to lead the design effort. DIG’s president, Vince Myers, is a Ewing resident.

The new construction office accommodates all managers and members of the construction office and includes offices for the fire inspectors as well as creating an area for voting to continue to occur.

States the news release: “The construction office layout builds on the workflow, best practices and lessons learned from the former location, designed for an amplified, professional visitor experience and productive interaction with staff members.”

“The graphic, furniture selection and interiors were cohesively executed by DIG in coordination with the Mayor and

Jim Megna’s team to create a construction office in a spatially adequate, healthy and invigorating environment that promotes efficiency and productivity that we can all be proud of.

Meanwhile, the space vacated by the construction office in the municipal biuilding will be renovated for current municipal needs.

Ewing mourns the passing of supermarket owner Sam Marrazzo

Sam Marrazzo, 76, the long-time owner of Marrazzo’s Market in Ewing, died on Feb. 23. Marrazzo was also the proprietor of Marrazzo’s Thriftway in Robbinsville, which he sold in 2006.

Although Marrazzo was semi-retired at the time of his passing, he was still frequently seen in his store greeting customers and making sure that the location was maintained to his high standards.

“Sam Marazzo, God rest his soul, was a very shrewd business individual,” said

Ewing Mayor Bert Steinmann. “When you dealt with Sam. God bless him again, he called it as he saw it.”

He added: “We got along famously. Sometimes I would see him when I went to local diners, and then he’d be there. He always had something to say. ‘Can we do this better,’ or ‘can we do that better?’ Overall he was a gentleman. Very respectful. I think he tried to do good for the community.”

Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried spoke highly of the businessman in a social media post.

“In the wake of Sam Marrazzo’s passing, on behalf of the Robbinsville community, our hearts and prayers go out to his family,” said Fried. “His humor, kindness and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him. He was a giant of a personality, and nothing was more fun than to walk into the store and be greeted by Sam!”

The Marrazzo family has been in the business world since 1947, when Sam’s father, Don, opened Centre Fruit Market

See AROUND TOWN, Page 4

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in downtown Trenton. In 1961, the family opened Marrazzo’s Quality Market on South Broad Street in Trenton.

Marrazzo became involved in the business shortly after graduating from Pennsbury High School, and he was later made a partner. A number of years later, the Marrazzos bought several nearby buildings with the intention of expanding the market, but the plan never progressed due to challenges with parking.

Instead they opened Marrazzo’s Thriftway in Robbinsville in 1989, followed by the location on Parkway Avenue in Ewing in 2000. In addition to the supermarket, the Marrazzos also own the surrounding Serenity Plaza shopping center.

Steinmann said that in recent years, Marrazzo had talked with him about the possibility of developing a mixed-use center on the shopping center property, similar to the Ewing Town Center across the street on Parkway Avenue. Those discussions never left the preliminary stage.

ies and selling seafood at his Robbinsville store when I was a kid. He was a good man, and I definitely have a lot of memories as a result,” said Timothy Leonard Rura.

Said Tony Giordano: “This was a wonderful man with a big heart, always at the ready to help others with food donations, whether it be school, firefighter, police or EMT charities.”

“On a personal note, a few years back my mom was in the hospital during Thanksgiving, and Sam knew for sure that my father was going to be by her side, bypassing dinner with the rest of the family,” Giodano added. “So at around 4 p.m., two of his workers came to the hospital room with Thanksgiving dinner for two with all the trimmings. Even a small floral arrangement.”

“Mr. Marrazzo, as many called him, was always in the store,” said an article by Communitynews.org in 2018. “He greeted every single customer, always asking how he could make your experience better and went out of his way to make the experience of shopping at his store like you were family.”

Many area residents paid tribute to Marrazzo in posts on social media.

“I will have to say (he was) the first man I EVER met that never had one ounce of bullsh*t in him,” said Bob Rapciewicz, a former employee for a number of years. “He gave many people more than second chances. (More than) than they deserved—including me. He was old school—’If you got time to lean, you have time to clean,’ (Sam said).”

“I was pushing carts, bagging grocer-

His obituary, posted on Legacy.com, sums up Marrazzo and his appreciation for his customers best. “One of his greatest pleasures was greeting his customers each day. They became his friends, and he took a very personal interest in each and every one of their stories. Everyone was aware of his high personal and professional standards. He always believed his customers deserved the best of himself and his employees.”

In addition to running his markets, Marrazzo also sat on the board of Yardville Bank and First Trust Bank in addition to the board of the Retail Marketing Group.

According to his obituary, Marrazzo did not want a funeral. “Instead, he wanted everyone who knew him to remember their conversations, laughter and good times.”

Arrangements were under the direction of the Buklad-Merlino Memorial Homes, Hamilton. Donations in Marrazzo’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to the donor’s charity of choice.

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Marrazzo

NOTICE TO PERSONS WANTING MAIL-IN BALLOTS

If you are a qualified and registered voter of New Jersey who wants to vote by mail in the Primary Election to be held on June 4, 2024, the following applies:

• You must be registered as a Democrat or Republican by no later than May 28, 2024 to be able to receive a mail-in ballot.

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

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

• No person may serve as an authorized messenger

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

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

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

• Voters who want to vote by mail in all future

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

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

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

Dated: April 9, 2024, Mercer County Clerk, Paula Sollami Covello, 209 S. Broad St., Election Dept., P.O. Box 8068, Trenton, NJ 08650, 609-989-6495

April 2024 | Ewing Observer5

Q&A

He was a real asset to me. I mean, obviously, he knew a lot of people. He had a good temperament about him, and I could always count on Jim to deliver my message if there was a message to be delivered.

We had our differences of opinion from time to time, but we would always discuss it one on one. He always agreed with me out in the public’s eye. I’m very grateful for his service to the town, and I consider Jimmy McManimon a true friend. We still stay in touch. He deserves his time. I know his wife also retired, and he retired about two days later. So I wish them well in their upcoming years.

EO: So tell me a little bit about the process for choosing the new business administrator.

BS: Basically, what had happened was that there was a transition in Mercer County government. (Dane Benson replaced Brian Hughes as county executive). A new county executive was elected back in January. Obviously, there were going to be some changes at the top of the county executive’s office, and so Aaron Watson became available.

Ewing Township is very lucky that he could step in, so that really was a no brainer for me to appoint him as the new business administrator for the town. He

has a lot of contacts. As much as Jim and maybe even some more. And because he was fresh from county government, I get the opportunity to learn from that wealth of information and to incorporate it in what we do.

There are some things at the county that we can take advantage of that I really wasn’t aware of. It has now been brought to my attention. We’ll probably be working a little bit closer with the county moving forward. And again, I really appreciated Brian Hughes also in this, because he was also very cooperative with Ewing Township. He did a lot for us, and I think that will be continuing.

EO: Aaron, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Aaron Watson: I’ve lived in this community all my life. 63 years, born and bred. I’m a proud graduate of Ewing High School, a proud graduate of Mercer County Community College, a proud graduate of Thomas Edison State College, and a proud graduate of Rutgers University. This town is near and dear to my heart. I live in the home that I grew up in. So, again, I have never gotten too far. I was fortunate enough to start my career in transportation some 37 years ago, behind bulletproof glass on the corner of Broad Market Street in Newark, New Jersey.

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EO: What did you do there?

AW: I was working in customer service for New Jersey Transit. That’s where I began my career, fresh, and then after three years, I relocated to Camden and worked down there for another 12 years. I was with Transit for a total of 15 years. When governor McGreevey came in office, I accepted a position working for then (Transportation) Commissioner Jamie Foxx as his executive director of community outreach.

My job was to interact with the mayors and councils and county executives to make certain that the transition was very smooth with all the work that was being done with the DOT (N.J. Department of Transportation). After two and a half years, County Executive Brian Hughes was elected, and I was asked to join his cabinet. I was very fortunate to be able to do that. I came on as director of transportation and ended my career there as deputy administrator.

EO: You have some connection at the federal level, too. Rell me a little bit about that—you’re related to a federal legislator.

AW: I am. Our family has always been public servants. I remember our father (John Watson) having us around a table some 45 years ago, and he would tell us, “If you don’t get involved, then you forfeit your right to complain.” That public service is a noble cause. You may not get rich, but I tell you what, you can’t put a price on how gratifying the work is.”

So, I really didn’t want to follow my father into politics, but I always knew I wanted to be a public servant along with my siblings. My brother, Jay, ended his career as deputy commissioner for DEP, my brother, Bill, was the chief of staff and the person that helped Doug Palmer become the first African American mayor of the city of Trenton.

My sister, Bonnie, was 30 years in state government before she decided when my father passed that she would pick up the mantle and carry it forward. Now she’s the first female African American representative from the State of New Jersey in Congress. And that is a connection. We’re extremely close. In fact, we share backyards. You know, she’ll tell you that sometimes she’s my sister, and sometimes she’s my mother, because she’s 16 years my senior. But by far, she’s probably one of the most influential people in my life.

EO: The next thing to talk about is this year’s budget. Things are a little bit tough all around you, but at every level—people are governments—are paying more for stuff. Inflation has hit everybody. Can you tell me a little bit about how the budget is coming together.

BS: Yes, we just started the budget

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Page 8 1400 Parkway Ave. Ewing, NJ (609) 883-4033 Mon,Wed,Fri: 8 - 6 Tues & Thurs: 8 - 8 K K KEITH’S EITH’S K K KUTS UTS UTS Barber Barber Barber
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Mon, Tues, Thur, Fri: 8 - 6 Saturday: 8 - 2 Wednesday: Closed 1410 Parkway Ave. Suite G • Ewing, NJ
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BURGERS & DOGS 1400 Parkway Ave Unit B1 Ewing, NJ 08628 609-323-7903 Tues-Fri 11am - 9pm Sat 12pm - 7pm 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY APRIL 4TH STOP IN FOR SPECIALS ON OUR SMASHBURGER HOT DOGS GAMES AND PRIZES April 2024 | Ewing Observer7

process. We’ll be meeting with our directors of the departments starting next week, and we will be working our way through that with our asks and see where we wind up. We’ve been very fortunate with Ewing. We’ve been frugal on how we approach things, and what we do, and it has shown. I make no bones about it, we talk about it every time we talk about the budget, as far as what tax increases look like.

Because of the way we’ve managed our money, we’ve been able to dampen down rate increases, year over year. And I think people are appreciative of that. I’m not like previous administrations before me that would play these games where if you’re in an election year, we’re not raising taxes, and we’re not doing this and we’re not doing that. That’s just a shell game at the end of the day, because in years that you have elections, you still have (expense) increases.

I mean, that happens year after year. So, we’re very cognizant of that. When I talk to my department heads, when I talk to our CFO, I tell them where I would like to land. Now, that may not always be the case, but I like to land around 2, maybe 2.5 cents maximum, and then we work from there. So far over the last 13 going on 14 years, we’ve accomplished that. I

don’t see any reasons why we cannot continue to do that. I think we’ll still have a good firm budget without breaking the bank.

EO: And as you know, there’s a statemandated 2% cap on tax increases where if you go over it, you have to go out to a referendum. Is it a difficult situation where you may have costs out there that are coming in over what that cap is? So, for example, if you’ve got insurance that’s going up 10% or trash collection that’s going up 8%, does that make it hard to make it under that cap, or do you just have to tighten your belt and cut in other areas?

BS: Well, it’s difficult to stay under the cap, but there are exemptions to things like you talked about—garbage and health insurance. Those are outside the cap now. But I take it into consideration, because okay, great, those aren’t part of that cap, but that doesn’t give me carte blanche. I just want to make sure that what we do is done in a fair and equitable way across the table.

EO: Do responsible tax increases year after year. Like you said, I’ve seen governments where they have no increase in an election year and then a big increase during a year where they’re not running for reelection.

BS: Exactly. And that doesn’t make any

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sense. I think people are very grateful for the approach that we have taken, and I think most people understand that budgets increase. Especially this year. Look at fuel cost. It’s all over the place, and that impacts on us.

The only thing we don’t pay for is taxes on fuel where the general public does, but the price of a gallon still goes up at the at the end of the day. It also reflects on our road paving program with the blacktop. There’s oil base in that and that affects our prices.

EO: What are some of the biggest expenses this year?

BS: Well, the biggest expense is garbage. That went up well over 50% of what we used to pay. We were roughly around $450,000 a year. We’re at $975,000 now. I believe recycling went up almost $400,000 in that same period of time. So that’s a significant nut that we have to crack. Health insurance went through the roof. What I am really upset about is the state program itself. For state workers it only went up 4 or 5%. Ours went up 23%.

EO: And you’re involved in that. You’re enrolled in the state program?

BS: Yeah, exactly. We’re enrolled in the New Jersey State Health Benefits Program. We are looking at other carriers possibly, but when you really drill down into those situations, you’ll find that they

have a teaser out there that for a year or so you can get it at this price, but then boom, its back up. That really serves no purpose.

The other thing is people are very protective of their doctors and who they go see. And some other plans may not have their doctors in the network. It’s difficult to change plans, although we are looking at it. We’ll give choices to individuals. But for the most part, I think we’re going to be staying with the current program.

EO: And you may also run into a situation where there’s a health insurance change where there’s a medication that’s covered under a person’s current plan. They switch to a new plan and then those medications—and it could be multiple ones—are not covered any more. Then you’re scrambling to try and find something new. And the replacement isn’t always so great.

BS: Yeah, exactly. With the New Jersey benefits plan, there’s not that many drugs out there that aren’t covered, but there are some. We haven’t run into it as far as I know, because usually somebody will tell me, oh, this wasn’t covered or whatever. I have not heard that.

EO: But they might not be if you switch to another plan.

BS: Exactly. That’s absolutely correct.

See Q&A, Page 10

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That could happen.

EO: Right. And that’s something you definitely don’t want.

BS: Correct. People depend on their medications just for daily living and you don’t want to switch and then that medicine is no longer covered. And as you well know, the cost of medicines is outrageous. I mean, you get four pills for 500 bucks, and it doesn’t go a long way. We try to stabilize that so we’re not impacting individuals to where they’re worried about their health.

EO: In terms of income, your biggest revenue-generators is your tax base, especially commercial properties. How is the township doing in terms of its commercial ratables? Post-pandemic there are a number of commercial office buildings where the tenants didn’t renew their leases, because they have a lot of their remote workers.

So vacancy rates went up, which affects the amount of taxes that a commercial owner will pay. How is the township doing in terms of the commercial market and the commercial ratable base?

BS: Well, the commercial market base as far as office spaces and offices are concerned is down, obviously, as you well know. We’ve got buildings right here in Ewing Township that are maybe only 10% occupied. So that is tough. Even businesses like New Jersey Manufacturers, Church and Dwight—the bigger

the bigger companies—they have a workforce now that is working from home. More so than they ever did before, and so those buildings are not full.

Again, they haven’t gone anywhere, so we didn’t lose out on that situation. They were very good partners with us, but there are some that have filed tax appeals (to lower their property value assessments and pay less in taxes). We obviously we have to look at that. There are some that have gotten a tax appeal (approved), and then there’s some that haven’t. So overall, I think we’re pretty good. Not as good as I would like to be, obviously. I like to be at the top of the market rather than the lower end, but we’re okay.

EO: I know you just recently finished a township-wide revaluation. So, those valuations were all set before the pandemic. Since then, residential values have skyrocketed. Have you had to adjust residential valuations on people’s homes higher? Because they may have been paying taxes based a $200,000 assessment pre-pandemic, and now it’s worth $500,000.

BS: Yes, we have made those adjustments going forward through our tax assessor’s office. What’s happening today, which we weren’t doing years ago, is that we track our permitting through the construction office. Basically, they’ll see that somebody is renovating a kitchen or bathroom and other major types of stuff.

After that’s completed and they get their final sign-off for their CO (certificate of occupancy), the inspector goes out to the house and then they readjust the value of that house. It’s not a favorable program for individuals, but that keeps us up to where the house should be listed as opposed to getting back into the days where we were undervalued.

EO: So, it’s really all about fairness? To make sure that one homeowner or one neighborhood is not paying more or less than another one, when they when shouldn’t be?

BS: You’re absolutely correct. So that it does adjust the rate.

EO: Is there anything else you want to mention about municipal budgeting?

BS: Like I said, we try to be fair, as to what we need and what our needs are we. I don’t ask for a lot more than what we need day to day. I do sit down with our department heads and ask about their needs.

And then sometimes It’s a want as opposed to more than a need, and we put the wants aside and concentrate on the needs. It’s all about service. We want to try to deliver the best services that we can to our residents, and our residents expect a lot, to be quite honest with you.

Sometimes we can accommodate them and sometimes we can’t, but we try to hit every group of individuals and try to address their needs. I think we’ve been very successful with that. Q&A

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continued from Page 9 Chuck’s BIG TIME BBQ 609-882-2140 1980 N. Olden Ave. Ewing, NJ $1 OFF $10 or more With this ad. Not to be combined with any other offer. Best Darned BBQ in Mercer County All served with celery & Blue Cheese Extra Blue Cheese Souffles Cup 75¢ 8oz. $3.99 Ain’t yo mamas but sho is good!
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BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM CAPITAL HEALTH

U.S. News & World Report Recognizes

Capital Health on Best Hospitals for Maternity List

Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell, home to the most complete maternity facility in the Greater Mercer County, New Jersey area, was named among the best in the nation for maternity services, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals for Maternity list. Capital Health is one of 19 hospitals in New Jersey and the only hospital in the Greater Mercer County area to earn this recognition.

To be recognized among the Best Hospitals for Maternity, Capital Health’s Maternity Services Program excelled on multiple quality metrics that matter to expectant families, including complication rates, C-sections, whether births are scheduled too early in pregnancy, how successfully each hospital supports breastfeeding, and transparency on racial/ethnic disparities, among other measures. “High Performing” status, the highest ranking U.S. News awards for that type of care.

For the very first time, U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care evaluation recognized “Maternity Care Access Hospitals” across the nation. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell was one of 73 essential hospitals to earn this designation by providing quality care to expectant parents who wouldn’t otherwise have access to maternity care and serve communities that would otherwise be maternity care deserts. This new category is based on a number of measures including geographic isolation, number of obstetric providers per 10,000 births and hospital quality.

“We’re extremely proud to have earned two important designations from U.S. News & World Report for our Maternity

Services Program,” said Kira Przybylko, medical director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Capital Health. “For the outstanding teams at our Josephine Plumeri Birthing Center, being named a high performing hospital validates their commitment to providing the highest level of care to expectant mothers. On an organizational level, the ‘Maternity Care Access’ recognition goes a long way to demonstrate our broader commitment to the community by assuring growing families in Trenton and other nearby underserved neighborhoods that we’re here to help them get off to the healthiest and safest start possible.”

“Hospitals that receive a High Performing designation as part of Best Hospitals for Maternity Care meet a high standard in caring for parents with uncomplicated pregnancies,” said Jennifer Winston, health data scientist at U.S. News. “These hospitals have C-section rates that are 26% lower, and newborn complication rates that are 37% lower than unrecognized hospitals. Parents-to-be can research their local hospitals’ performance metrics for free at health.usnews.com to help them choose where to have their baby.”

The Maternity Services Program at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell makes up the most complete maternity facility in the area. From routine deliveries to high-risk needs, staff at the Josephine Plumeri Birthing Center provide a full range of prenatal, obstetrical, postpartum, and neonatal care options so newborns have the greatest chance for a healthy start. The designated Regional Perinatal Center provides neonatal care, including Mercer County’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for at-risk births. To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org/maternity.

APRIL 2024
Health Headlines by Capital Health | Ewing Observer11

While you can’t completely avoid allergens, being aware of these facts can help you prepare:

… Tree, grass, and ragweed pollen surges during seasons of warm days and cold nights.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS… AND ALLERGY SEASON

… Pollen counts are higher on warm, windy days, and in the spring, they are generally highest during evening. Rainfall offers temporary relief, but pollen counts often soar afterward.

… Molds thrive in high heat and humidity.

While it’s exciting to see trees, lawns, and flowers begin to stir, spring fever can give way to “hay fever,” or what is commonly known as seasonal allergies. The itchy eyes, runny noses, and coughing that come with seasonal allergies can stop the most enthusiastic optimists in their tracks.

The main cause of seasonal allergies is pollen from plants, the yellowish, powdery grains released by male plants as part of their reproductive process. “There is a lot of pollen in the air this time of year, and if you’re allergic, your body’s immune system releases histamine to fight it,” said DR. KATHRYN HAMILTON, a board certified family medicine physician with Capital Health – Virtual Primary Care. “This can cause inflammation, overproduction of mucous and other common symptoms of allergies. Allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites are everywhere, but the severity of symptoms can vary, depending on the person and the location.”

… Look to local news and weather outlets for daily pollen counts.

… Keeping windows and doors shut at home and in your car on high pollen count days can help reduce exposure.

“Millions of adults and children live with seasonal allergies, so you’re not alone,” said Dr. Hamilton. “If you’re not sure what’s causing your allergies, schedule a visit with your doctor to identify your triggers and develop a plan for treatment.” Nasal sprays or rinses can ease symptoms, but your doctor might suggest anti-histamines or steroids. For more long-term relief, allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, may be recommended. Spring is a season for new beginnings, so don’t let seasonal allergies hold you back. Contact your primary care provider to develop a plan that will help you spring forward to better health. Capital Health Virtual Primary Care is a team of more than 35 primary care providers who can address a wide range of health conditions, including (but not limited to) seasonal allergies, the common cold, flu, symptoms of COVID-19, upper respiratory infection, and more. For details, or to request an appointment, visit capitalvirtualcare.org.

Wednesday, April 10 to May 29, 2024 | 4 – 5 p.m.

Location: Capital Health – Behavioral Health Specialists

100 K Johnson Boulevard N., Suite 201, Bordentown, NJ 08505

Connecting with others who have also experienced a loss can be comforting and helpful. Join Licensed Clinical Social Worker Meredith Kudrick as she leads you through an in-person eight week support and psychotherapy group.

To sign up, call 609.689.5725. This group therapy program will be billed to your health insurance.

Grief and Loss: Learning to Cope With Loss While Cultivating Self-Compassion — AN 8-WEEK PROGRAM FOR ADULTS 18 AND OLDER — 12  Ewing Observer | Health Headlines by Capital Health

Find the “fund” in celebrating a cause with a night out at the Arts Council of Princeton’s Art People Party, then “raise” a glass to the glamor of galas, benefi ts, and more, page 2.

Photos courtesy of Tamara Gillon, above, and Ooika, right.

SIX09 ARTS > FOOD > CULTURE thesix09.com APRIL 2024
THIS MONTH IN MERCER EATS:
Spring Flings
OOIKA MATCHA SEE STORY ON PAGE 9
You’re Invited Special Section starts on pg 10

Get Your Gala On: Parties Pay it Forward for Spring

Sample galas and benefits galore with a look inside the staple event of the nonprofit spring calendar, which previews upcoming parties hosted by the area’s arts and cultural organizations, as well as social service providers, that support programming.

* * *

Arts Council of Princeton

The Arts Council of Princeton hosts its annual Art People Party on Friday, April 5, from 7 to 10 p.m. The evening features food, drink, music, and dancing, as well as a tombola, or Italian-style art lottery. Works of art, each valued at more than $350, have been donated by local artists.

Participating guests will each receive a number and select an artwork to take home with them when their number is called. All entrants are guaranteed to go home with something.

Being honored this year is architect J. Robert Hillier of Witherspoon Streetbased Studio Hillier.

The firm’s many Princeton-area projects include work on private homes as well as faculty housing at the Institute for Advanced Study, an addition to the Lawrenceville School’s Kirby Math and Science Center, and renovations at the Princeton Marriott and YWCA Princeton

Signed copies of “Hillier: Selected Works,” a recently published monograph of projects undertaken by the husband-and-wife team of J. Robert and Barbara A. Hillier during the last 25 years, are for sale as part of registration for the party for $50.

Proceeds from the party benefit the Arts Council’s Anne Reeves Artist in Residence Program and other outreach initiatives.

Tickets are $150, with sponsorship opportunities starting at $500. Tombola entries are $350 each.

Arts Council of Princeton’s “Art People Party” returns on Friday, April 5, from 7 to 10 p.m.

102

Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. 609-924-8777 or artscouncilofprinceton.org.

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See PARTIES, Page 4 Passage Theatre Company Trenton’s Passage Theatre holds its annual gala at the Trenton Country Club 4054 Quakerbridge Road Lawrenceville, NJ 08619 609-731-7057 aptperform@gmail.com www.aquaticperformancetraining.com ¥ Weight Loss ¥ Sports Injuries ¥ Rehab 4054 Quakerbridge Road Lawrenceville, NJ 08619 609-731-7057 | aptperform@gmail.com www.aquaticperformancetraining.com ¥ Weight Loss ¥ Sports Injuries ¥ Rehab Achieve Your Health and Fitness Goals with Aquatic Performance Training The World’s Premier Aquatic Exercise Center Weight Loss • Sports Injuries • Rehab • Strength Training

Bohren’s (an agent of United Van Lines) Moves Into Its Second Century of Operation

Family-Owned Robbinsville Company Celebrates Its 100th Anniversary

The moving and storage industry has changed dramatically in the last 100 years since Bohren’s Moving & Storage Company opened for business in 1924 with one Model T Ford truck based at a small warehouse on Chambers Street in Princeton. But through four generations of family ownership, the company has demonstrated its resilience, savvy and foresight, looking for new opportunities while also adapting to many changes over the past century.

In this 100th year of operation for Bohren’s United Van Lines, President Denise Hewitt and her father, Chairman of the Board Ted Froehlich, are grateful for their overwhelming success in the moving category. They are also thankful that decisions made over the decades to diversify the brand have allowed them to keep up with the times.

Hewitt, an Allentown, N.J., resident, and Froehlich, a Princeton resident, intend for 2024 to be a year of celebration and sharing with their employees, customers and the public. Over the year they’ll look back over the decades but also keep an eye on the future, an approach that has kept the business successful for so long.

In the beginning, E.L. Bohren delivered baggage for Princeton University students and did small moves with his Model T truck. By the second generation, Bohren’s son-in-law Warren Froehlich expanded the business and in 1955 became an agent of United Van Lines. His grandson Ted began working for Bohren’s every day after school when he was 12. By the time he was 17, he was driving trucks on routes from New York, Boston, or Pittsburgh to Washington D.C. on a regular basis.

When Ted Froehlich was 27, his dad passed away. Ted had three brothers, but none were interested in running the business. Ted was intrigued, even though his experiences at that point were limited to being a dispatcher, a claims adjuster and, of course, a truck driver. Seeing an opportunity to take on and shape the business, he stepped into the CEO role. He immediately hired management consultants to help him make the business more efficient and professional, the first of his many strategic and prescient decisions.

Another important key step to expanding and increasing the profitability of the company was to become a stockholder in United Van Lines (UVL). As a part owner of UVL, Froehlich and his business became eligible to make moves across the 48 states as well as Canada and Mexico. This made Bohren’s a major player in the moving and storage business as the firm moved families and commercial entities across the country. Throughout this period of growth, excellent service was always his top priority. Froehlich said it took 12 service members in a variety of jobs, from customer service, to sales, to crews, to provide outstanding customer service for every single household move.

Over time, he noted, a shortage of long-haul drivers was becoming a major issue for the industry. It forced Bohren’s to re-evaluate some of

the long-distance moving capabilities. Local and tri-state moving and storage still remain a specialty today.

In 1985 and 1989 respectively, Ted’s daughters Denise and Louise joined the business. Louise managed the Human Resources Department and served as Vice President until her departure in 2021 to pursue other interests. Denise worked in virtually every position in the company before she became President in 2002 and Ted became Chairman.

Denise and her father quickly realized the benefits of Bohren’s being a woman-owned and operated business at that time, welcoming the opportunity to become certified as such by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council the following year. That certification gave the company access to hundreds of corporate clients and government agencies providing a percentage of contracts to women- and minority-owned businesses.

Following in her father’s footsteps, Denise focused on increasing efficiency and expanding new opportunities. One example of that came as Bohren’s customers with residences in the Hamptons and Long Island inquired about the transport and storage of their art collections. Denise recognized the unique need for a trusted, reliable vendor and capitalized on the company’s strengths in those areas. Bohren’s Fine Art Transportation & Storage was created to handle the personal collections of their residential clients but quickly grew to service major art galleries and museums.

In the past century, Bohren’s has expanded from its original humble warehouse in Princeton to as many as five locations in New Jersey and Florida. But again, Froehlich’s instincts told him at a certain point that consolidation would make sense, and in 1999 the father-daughter team brought it all into one 12-acre facility at 3 Applegate in Robbinsville, where they operate today.

One hundred years in, Bohren’s has morphed from a single-owner shipper to Bohren’s Companies, encompassing three divisions: Bohren’s Moving & Storage, Bohren’s Fine Art Transportation, and Bohren’s Logistics. Their services range from household and commercial moving and storage, to trade shows, to transport and storage of art as well as high-valued electronic and medical equipment. Bohren’s has moved and/ or stored everything from microwaves to Elvis Presley memorabilia, Andy Warhol art to Apache helicopters, and RCA communications satellites to Rothko sculptures.

The company is looking forward to what the leadership of the fifth generation will do to expand the future of Bohren’s into the next century.

More information: www.bohrensmoving.com. See ad, page 16

April 2024 | SIX093
Join us in our mission to support those who wish to age in place!
your own schedule. Volunteer opportunities
Set
include:
Rides to the Doctor
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little time can make
big difference to a neighbor in need! Celebrating 30 Years Volunteer Today 609-393-9922 www.icgmc.org Neighbors Helping Neighbors Helping People Age in Place Since 1994 C M Y CM MY CY CMY K
A
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A COMMUNITY NEWS SERVICE ADVERTISING FEATURE
Louise Froehlich (left) and Denise Hewitt (right) pictured with Ted Froehlich (seated).

on Saturday, April 6, at 6 p.m.

The evening starts with cocktails and a silent auction, followed by an awards presentation and live entertainment during dinner. Silent auction winners will be announced before the evening concludes at 9 p.m.

This year’s honorees include Maria Richardson, Patron of the Arts Excellence Award; Phillip McConnell, Outstanding Emerging Artisan Award; and Wise Intelligent & Culture Freedom, The Poor Righteous Teachers

Richardson is the City of Trenton director of recreation, natural resources and culture and the acting director of health and human services. A statement from Passage lauds her as “a good friend to the theater, to the arts community in Trenton, and to Trenton youth and families. For over three decades of service, Maria has been a tireless advocate in municipal government, the private sector, and academia.”

Passage materials explain that McConnell is a “multidisciplinary visual artist, filmmaker, writer, and spoken word artist,” with a focus on glitch art, “the aesthetic of digital errors, created by corrupting the data of pictures…Phillip ultimately wants people to see that thinking abstract or dis-

cussing emotions within art should be a normal thing for a black creative and that fellow black creatives shouldn’t have to always discuss trauma within their work.”

Wise Intelligent and Culture Freedom of the Poor Righteous Teachers, a hip hop group originally from Trenton, have been center stage at Passage this season with their music serving as the backdrop for the world premiere of “Ghetto Gods in Divineland” earlier this year.

“Apart from launching his own record label — Intelligent Muzik Group (2007) — for nearly 25 years, Wise Intelligent has leveraged his business sense and recognition as a hip-hop pioneer into social entrepreneurship, activism, youth advocacy, and the development of educational and entrepreneurship programs that train and inspire from the unique vantage point of hip hop culture,” Passage materials state.

A Trenton native, “Culture Freedom, along with his wife, were youth ministry leaders for 15 years.” He “has experience publicly speaking to various groups,” including at-risk students involved in organizations from Trenton to California.

Initiative hosts its “Spring Luncheon” benefitting the

Dreams” children’s

Passage Theater, Trenton’s only community theater, has a stated mission to create and produce “socially relevant plays and arts programming that deeply resonate with and reflect our community. Through professional productions, educational programs, and community engagement, we present diverse voices that inspire audiences and invigorate the art of live theater.” Proceeds from the gala support its continued programming.

The Trenton Country Club is located at 201 Sullivan Way in West Trenton. Tickets are $125. Registration is available online or in person at the box office on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call ahead at 609-392-0766. HomeFront’s

4  SIX09 | April 2024
Women’s
programming on Sunday, April 21, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton. Photo courtesy of HomeFront. Plumbing Lic # BI0104900 I Lic # 13VHO1158200 | HVAC Lic # 19HC00456500 Service & Maintenance I Agreements Available delhagenplumbin@optonline.net www.delhagen-nj.com Call Now to Schedule your Service/Maintenance Appointment. $200 OFF Installation of Complete “Coleman” Air Condition & Heating System Mention coupon when calling. Cannot be combined with other offers. Mention coupon when calling. Cannot be combined with other offers. For a limited time only. $75 OFF Any Water Heater or Boiler Installation $25 OFF Any Service or Repair Call Over $150 Mention coupon when calling. Cannot be combined with other offers. For a limited time only. 609-586-4969 Hamilton Square, NJ Special Limited Time Offer! Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC. $175 + tax HVAC Inspection Mention coupon when calling. Cannot be combined with other offers. Serving: Hamilton, Robbinsville, Bordentown, Ewing, Lawrenceville, Princeton, Yardville, Allentown, West Windsor & East Windsor Financing Available ALL HVAC EQUIPMENT COMES WITH A 10 YEAR PARTS & LABOR WARRANTY DELHAGEN From PARTIES, Page 2 Anthony J. Destribats Bernard A. Campbell, Jr. Raymond C. Staub David P. Schroth Kimberly A. Greenberg Adam Lipps ••• Jay G. Destribats (1969-2015) Phone (609) 585-2443 • www.destribatslaw.com criminal law • municipal court law • wills & estates medical malpractice • personal injury • general litigation employment • workers compensation • corporate/tax law real Estate • real estate tax appeals • family law DESTRIBATS CAMPBELL STAUB & SCHROTH, LLC established 1972 795 Parkway Avenue, Suite A3 Ewing, NJ 08618 criminal law • municipal court law wills & estates • medical malpractice personal injury • general litigation employment • workers compensation corporate/tax law • real Estate real estate tax appeals • family law 247 White Horse Ave • Hamilton • NJ • 08610 Anthony J. Destribats Bernard A. Campbell, Jr. Raymond C. Staub David P. Schroth Kimberly A. Greenberg Patrick R. Welsh ••• Jay G. Destribats (1969-2015) (609) 585-2443 • www.destribatslaw.com
Lawrence nonprofit’s “Joy, Hopes &

Passage Theater, Mill Hill Playhouse, 205 East Front Street, Trenton. passagetheatre. org/2024gala.

American Repertory Ballet

American Repertory Ballet celebrates its 70th anniversary with a Platinum Jubilee Gala on Saturday, April 20, at 6:30 p.m. at Jasna Polana in Princeton.

Reporter Dan Aubrey explained the journey that led to the nonprofit dance company’s founding in a 2013 article marking the 50th anniversary of “Nutcracker” productions at McCarter Theater:

“One dreamer was Audree Estey, the Canadian-born founder and director of Princeton Ballet Society that, after a few name variations, became the professional American Repertory Ballet (which maintains the Princeton Ballet School).

“After a typical nomadic dance experience — studying in Winnipeg, performing with a Hollywood dance company, touring the vaudeville circuit, and dancing for Fox Films — Audree Phipps married Lawrenceville School English teacher Wendell ‘Bud’ Estey and moved to the Princeton area in 1933.

“Here she began providing classes at the Lawrenceville School and seemingly any place she could use, including the garage of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer. She also continued her study, including in the early 1950s with prominent choreographer Antony Tudor at Jacob’s Pillow in Massachusetts. It was then that she began to dream of creating her Princeton company.”

Princeton Ballet School was founded in 1954 to offer dance classes; American Repertory Ballet, the professional dance company, was established in 1963 as the Princeton Ballet Society.

The black tie-optional celebration features dinner and remarks by current ARB trustees Nancy S. MacMillan, Penelope Lattimer, and Susan Croll in honor of the evening’s honorees, the chairs of ARB’s board from 1954 to the present. The festivities also include live music, dancing, and a

silent auction.

Jasna Polana is located at 4519 Province Line Road, Princeton. Individual tickets are $300. Sponsorship opportunities range from $2,000 to $20,000.

American Repertory Ballet, 301 North Harrison Street, Princeton. arballet.org.

HomeFront

Lawrence-based nonprofit HomeFront’s Women’s Initiative holds a celebratory Spring Luncheon that spotlights the goals and impact of HomeFront’s children’s programming as experienced by and expressed through the voices of the families it serves on Sunday, April 21, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton.

The event includes coffee, cocktails, and mocktails followed by a buffet brunch. Tickets include access to view the sculpture grounds. All proceeds benefit HomeFront’s Joy, Hopes & Dreams educational and cultural enrichment programming.

The mission of HomeFront’s Women’s Initiative, as stated on its website, is “to mobilize a group of 1,000 caring and committed women of all ages who will lend their expertise and support to help alleviate family homelessness in our community.

The Women’s Initiative works in concert with HomeFront’s rich array of programs and services. Through these efforts, we strengthen our community, making it a better place to live, work and raise a family.”

Grounds For Sculpture is located at 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton. Tickets cost $75 per person or $750 for a table of 10. To register or for more information, call 609989-9417, extension 107, or email PaulaA@ HomeFrontNJ.org.

HomeFront, 1880 Princeton Avenue, Lawrenceville. 609-989-9417 or homefrontnj.org.

United Way of Greater Mercer County

The United Way of Greater Mercer County (UWGMC) board of directors hosts its fourth annual United in Impact Awards on Tuesday, April 30, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Grounds For Sculpture.

The annual event celebrates community champions who demonstrate leadership, passion, and a commitment to a thriving and equitable community in their everyday life. This year’s community champions are:

Patrick L. Ryan, president and CEO of First Bank, Live United Corporate Award; Ida Jackson Woods, assistant vice president and chief diversity officer for ETS, Advocate Award; Denise Mariani, civil trial attorney at Stark & Stark, Community Quarterback Award; and Edward W. Bullock, president of the board of trustees for The Trenton Literacy Movement,

Eugene Marsh Community Impact Award. Brenda Ross-Dulan, founder and managing principal of the Ross-Dulan Group, serves as the event’s mistress of ceremony. Proceeds from the event directly provide food, rental assistance, health insurance access, tax preparation services, children’s books, school supplies and other resources to help individuals and families get ahead. There are more than 60,000 families in Mercer County struggling to make ends meet.

Tickets are $150 and sponsorship opportunities are available.

More information: uwgmc.org/ unitedimpactawards. See PARTIES, Page 6

April 2024 | SIX095
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Isles

Trenton-based nonprofit Isles hosts its spring celebration on Saturday, May 4, at 6 p.m. at the Social Profit Center at Mill One in Hamilton.

The event features locally sourced springtime cuisine, fun cocktails, and music at the historic mill that Isles renovated into a community hub for nonprofits, social impact offices, and artists, as well as its own headquarters.

Being honored at the event are U.S. Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, a Democrat representing the 12 Congressional District, and Stacy Denton, director of TRiO Upward Bound at Mercer County Community College, a program for high school students from low income families in which neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree to encourage completing a high school diploma and pursuing post-secondary education.

Proceeds from the event benefit Isles, the 43-year-old community development and environmental organization with a mission to foster “self-reliant families and healthy, sustainable communities,” according to its website.

Mill One is located at 1 North Johnston Avenue in Hamilton. Tickets for the event are $125. A commemorative Isles tote bag is available for an additional $50. The bags were created by Inspired Threads, a Hamilton-based nonprofit that employs people with disabilities to create ecofriendly, upcycled products from discarded fabric scraps.

More information: isles.org.

The Jewish Center Princeton

The Jewish Center celebrates 75 years — its diamond jubilee — on Saturday, May 4, with a cruise-themed gala.

The event, titled “Sail the Chai Seas!” will turn The Jewish Center’s Nassau Street campus into a cruise ship along with two excursion destinations.

Guests will be welcomed to the event along the “gangplank,” purchase duty free goods from promenade shop vendors in the lobby, enjoy cocktails in the Lido Bar and Lounge, gamble the night away in the Atlantic Deck casino and Sky Deck sports bar, enjoy a delicious buffet dinner and dancing to the tunes of DJ TY in the grand ballroom, lounge in the Empress Deck piano/karaoke bar, be entertained by mentalist Ben Seidman, and take excursions to both Paris and the Islands. The cruise will set sail at 7:30 p.m.

Princeton’s first Jewish congregation emerged in the mid-1920s, and a growing Jewish population led to the formal cre-

ation of the Jewish Center in 1949. In 1958, the congregation moved to its current Nassau Street space, which underwent additional expansions in 1983 and 1990.

Tickets for the event are $175 per person, with raffle tickets available for an additional $100. Sponsorship packages, which include multiple event tickets as well as recognition in print, online, and with a carved brick in the Jewish Center’s courtyard, range from $540 to $75,000. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, contact executive director Joel Berger at jberger@thejewishcenter.org

Jewish Center of Princeton, 435 Nassau Street, Princeton. 609-921-0100. thejewishcenter.org/diamond-jubilee.

Housing Initiatives of Princeton

Housing Initiatives of Princeton holds its spring garden party and fundraiser on Sunday, May 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Princeton home of Tibbie and Greg Samios. The event includes light fare, drinks, and a presentation by John N. Robinson III

Robinson is associate faculty in American studies and assistant professor of sociology at Princeton University. He studies the racial underpinnings of money and markets, with emphasis on housing and credit policies. Robinson’s current book project explores the ongoing rise of the affordable housing industry in the U.S. and its intersections with racial and economic inequality.

The event benefits the nonprofit founded in 2001 to assist local individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity build toward a sustainable future via stable housing, better employment, and a network of support services.

HIP provides services including transitional housing and temporary rental assistance and engages in advocacy efforts to raise awareness of insufficient housing options and challenges facing the working poor.

Individual tickets are $90. Sponsorship opportunities range from $150 to $1,000.

More information: housinginitiativesofprinceton.org

Capital Harmony Works

Capital Harmony Works, the Tren-

The evening of music and

6  SIX09 | April 2024
ton-based nonprofit that encompasses the Trenton Children’s Chorus, Trenton Music Makers
and Music for the Very Young, holds its “One Voice Many Sounds” gala
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,
on Tuesday, May 7,
Trenton.
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Capital Harmony Works, the Trenton nonprofit behind the Trenton Children’s Chorus, Trenton Music Makers, and Music for the Very Young, holds its “One Voice Many Sounds” gala on Tuesday, May 7, at 5:30 p.m. at Cooper’s Riverview in Trenton. Photo courtesy of Capital Harmony Works staff.

hosted by Bradd Marquis, a Trentonborn singer, songwriter, and producer. The evening starts with cocktails and appetizers, followed by dinner and live entertainment from the Trenton Children’s Chorus and Trenton Music Makers.

Proceeds from the gala benefit the organization’s decades-long history of providing free music education to children and families in Trenton.

The Trenton Children’s Chorus, founded in 1989, is a nationally recognized group that has performed at the White House and the United Nations. In addition to choral music education, the program provides instruction in drumming and keyboard, music theory, and assistance with school work, standardized tests, and college admissions.

The Trenton Music Makers, part of the El Sistema program, teaches the values of leadership and teamwork through instruction in violin, viola, cello and bass instruments, as well as musicianship and composition.

Music for the Very Young is a program that incorporates music education into Pre-K classrooms in Trenton.

Cooper’s Riverview is located at 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton. Tickets for the gala start at $150 per person. Sponsorships are available at levels ranging from $1,000 to $25,000.

Capital Harmony Works, The Social Profit Center at Mill One, 1 North Johnston Avenue, Suite A209, Trenton. 609-3948700 or capitalharmony.works.

McCarter Theatre Center

The biggest party of the year at Princeton’s McCarter Theater is its annual gala, taking place Saturday, May 11, at the theater and under the stars.

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The centerpiece of the evening is a cabaret performance by Tony Award-winning Broadway star Laura Benanti. Prior to the show, guests enjoy a cocktail reception and three-course dinner featuring topshelf wines. Drinks and dancing follow the performance.

Benanti first rose to fame as a teenager playing the role of Maria in Broadway’s “The Sound of Music.” She has starred in 10 subsequent shows, including a Tony Award-winning performance in “Gypsy.”

Her latest film roles include Sony Pictures’ “No Hard Feelings” and Netflix’s “Worth.” She can also be seen in Max’s “The Gilded Age” and Hulu’s “Life & Beth.”

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Most recently, she created, wrote, and starred in “Nobody Cares,” an original musical comedy show for Audible.

Proceeds from the gala benefit the nonprofit theater’s programming, arts education initiatives, and community engagement activities.

Tickets start at $300, which excludes dinner service. Individual tickets including dinner range from $600 to $2,000.

McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton. 609-258-2787 or mccarter.org.

Morven Museum & Garden

Morven Museum & Garden’s annual Morven in May spring garden party takes on special significance this year as it also launches anniversary celebrations for Morven’s 20th year as a museum.

The party is happening rain or shine on Friday, May 17, from 7 to 9 p.m. on the museum grounds.

Peonies will be in full bloom for the party, which also includes food, drinks,

See PARTIES, Page 8

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Ooika Matcha ‘Teas’ Up for Lawrenceville Opening

Matcha, the finely ground powder of specially grown, uniquely flavored green tea leaves that are at the heart of “chanoyu” —the traditional Japanese tea ceremony— is now available at Ooika, a cozy tea house on Lawrenceville’s Main Street dedicated to offering high-quality matcha in its many forms.

Ooika opened its doors on February 27.

“Ooika” is a Japanese word that represents the aroma from the high-quality, shaded matcha offered at owner Joann Lui’s establishment.

According to the Ooika website, Lui “grew up in a family of tea enthusiasts.” Her father is from Chaozhou, China, a city “renowned for Gongfu cha,” described as “the skillful art of tea brewing.”

She eventually met Marc Alexandre, Ooika’s miller, who had apprenticed under tea expert Shunan Teng before his journey led him to Japan, where he discovered heritage matcha.

As continued on its website, Ooika invites its customers to savor “...the unique experience of single-origin heritage matcha from the most celebrated multigenerational family farms across Japan in Uji, Yame, Hoshinomura, Shizuoka, Kagoshima, and more, freshly ground inhouse with traditional Japanese Ishi-Usu stone mills.”

Lui wrote the following on her Facebook page:

“Ooika’s commitment to traditional matcha cultivation and production techniques helps to preserve this ancient art form for future generations to enjoy, while also making matcha more accessible to a Western audience.”

“If you’ve ever had bitter, yellow matcha here in the U.S., that’s because most matcha sold here are months, if not years old.”

“But matcha is meant to be consumed fresh, just like coffee, with a vibrantly green color,” she continued. “That’s why we’re obsessed with stone-milled singlecultivar matcha to bring you the unparalleled freshness that we can’t find here in the U.S.”

A rotating selection of hot and cold matcha-based beverages are available, ranging in price from $3.45 for hot Binchotan Hojicha—a charcoal roasted green tea that is absent matcha’s vegetal green flavor and is caffeine free—to $9.95 for a strawberry matcha parfait.

Patrons are invited to specify the desired level of sweetness; this reporter enjoyed a sugar-free hot matcha latte ($6.85) made with freshly ground matcha and steamed Oatly oat milk.

Ooika also offers a selection of matcha and teaware available for purchase from its website, ooika.co

Membership in their Matcha Mill Club is also available, giving subscribers the opportunity to “explore Japan’s rare, sin-

Joann Lui is the owner of Ooika Matcha, the new tea house now open at 2661 Main Street in Lawrenceville, which grinds the green tea into fresh powder using in-house Japanese stone mills. Photos courtesy of Ooika.

gle-origin matcha shipped to you within 24 hours of stone-milling every month.”

In one of the bolder mission statements put out by any establishment, Ooika promises “to preserve heritage Matcha across the historic terroirs of Japan by making uncompromised matcha accessible to the U.S.”

Why not drop by and decide for yourself?

From PARTIES, Page 7

music, and the chance to see the special exhibit “Morven Revealed,” showcasing rarely exhibited objects and photographs of the mansion and its notable residents through the years.

Morven was built by Declaration of Independence signer Richard Stockton in the 1750s on property granted to his family by William Penn in 1701. After a fire, it was rebuilt and named Morven in 1758.

Four subsequent generations of Stocktons lived in the home before it was leased to General Robert Wood Johnson in 1928.

From 1945 to 1981, it was home to five governors as New Jersey’s first governor’s mansion. The property was restored and

reopened as a museum and garden in 2004.

Proceeds from the garden party support the continued upkeep of the property and the museum’s exhibitions.

In addition to celebrating its 20th anniversary, Morven is also preparing for special programming in honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

Tickets for the garden party range from $250 to $20,000.

Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton. 609-924-8144 or www. morven.org. * * *

And guess what? You’re invited.

* * *

Ooika, 2661 Main Street, Lawrenceville. Currently open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.ooika.co

Hours are subject to change during the soft opening period, with a formal opening planned in early June.

8  SIX09 | April 2024
Morven Museum & Garden’s “Morven in May” spring garden party blossoms in recognition of the museum’s 20 years in operation on Friday, May 17, from 7 to 9 p.m. on the its grounds in Princeton. Photo courtesy of Morven Museum & Garden.

You have no family history of colon cancer. You still need a colon cancer screening.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

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

Let’s beat cancer together.
RWJBarnabas Health together with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, provides access to the most advanced treatment options close to home. NCI Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center RWJ-187 Colon_SAsianMan_Family_SYSTEM_9.375x10.375.indd 1 2/15/24 12:20 PM

Blend Bar & Bistro

Bringing Together Food, Cocktails, and People

When Antonio Carannante, coowner of Hamilton’s BLEND Bar & Bistro, is asked how his team came up with the name Blend, he explains, “Blend is all about bringing it together, whether it’s people or ingredients, to share something creative with each other. Pick up a bottle of your favorite wine, beer, or spirit and more often then not you see the word blend or they will list ingredients they use to Blend together. There’s Blended whiskeys, beers, vodkas, wines and more. It’s a word you can’t get away from. But also mainly just the idea of the word has a positive vibe. We like the idea of blend to bring food, cocktails, and people together.”

Indeed, “blend” is something this establishment does very well. In addition to a modern American cuisine concept, the restaurant also offers dishes that represent other global influences. “We have chicken pot

You’re Invited

dumplings and Ahi Poke Bowl, but we also have nachos, quesadillas, and empanadas, as well as gnocchi. Some popular grilled items are our Bone-in Ribeye, Porkchop and handmade never frozen angus burgers served with our very popular handcut fries ,” explains Carannante.

“So we offer a good mix of different flavors and flair to make sure everyone is happy while providing a fun environment and a family friendly dining experience.

In additional to offering both large and small seasonal dishes, more than 100 spirits, 20 draft lines, and a variety of wines, the restauranteur also offers catering, for both on and off-premises. Blend caters at multiple venues in the area including but not limited to Sayen Gardens, Grafton House, Nottingham Ballroom, and also has a dining room for private events that can seat 50 people. They have curbside dining with their outdoor patio, featuring heaters throughout.

Our events include weddings, rehearsal dinners, baby and bridal showers, bachelor parties, retirement

dinners, and much more.

Many of our off premises events are branded under a branch we call, New Jersey Weddings and Events, a catering and event planning company, that we target the more formal events off premise . “We are one-stop service in that way. If a customer chooses to, we can coordinate their entire event, with flowers, music, whatever they desire. We are always happy to make recommendations for what vendors to use as well.”

The Carannante Family originally started and still includes, Brother’s Pizza on Route 33, allows them to offer a variety of pizza-themed parties for customers, including wood-burning pizza ovens for backyard parties and cocktail hours for any special event. Blend consistently holds special events at the restaurant, like wine pairing dinners and happy hours, as well as fundraiser events and holiday parties, but one of its biggest events is the Mercer County Central Jersey Beer and Wine Festival. At the next festival, on Saturday, September 28, from noon to 6 p.m., guests can taste hundreds of different beers and wines

while listening to live music, meeting brewers, and enjoying food vendors. Find tickets at www.cjbeerfest.com, Use Code: CJBEERFEST Antonio Carannante is the event coordinator that executes this production which it attracts thousands of people together for live music, food and drink.”

Now that spring is here, Carannante notes, “it’s time to start thinking about your upcoming special events through summer and fall. It’s always good to pencil in your dates ahead of time!”

Blend Bar & Bistro, 911 Route 33, Hamilton. 609-245-8887. drinks@blendbar.com. planner@ NJweddingsandevents.com. See ad, page 12

10  SIX09 | April 2024
EWING RECREATION Recreation Office Hollowbrook CC 320 Hollowbrook Dr., room 208, Ewing, NJ • 609-883-1776 Email: Nancy at npappano@ewingnj.org or Ted at tforst@ewingnj.org. REGISTER ONLINE AT COMMUNITYPASS.NET Day Camp Ewing POOLS: 12pm - 8pm daily $270/Week $54/Daily for Ewing Residents, $370/Week $74/Daily for non-residents Counselors in Training (Grade 9.) (CIT) is $60 and is only open to Ewing residents. Additional fees for early and late hours. Multi-child discounts are available. Financial assistance is available. Register and pay before April 10th and save 5%. Ewing Pool System locations, Hollowbrook Community Center (HCC) and Ewing Sr. & Community Center (ESCC). Season dates are Saturday, May 25th - Labor Day. Open weekends and Memorial Day. Pools open full time starting June 19th. HCC is available Saturdays for private rentals only. Contact Raquel at rince@ewingnj. org for rentals. Splashpads are a popular feature at both pools! Pool patrons can pay daily fees or register for season passes at Communitypass.net. Register and pay before April 10th and save $25! Swim Lessons at HCC: Evaluations, Saturday, June 17th. Sessions are on Monday evenings and Saturday mornings. Camps run from June 24 through August 23 Camp days include swimming, arts and crafts, nature, special events, entertainers, theme days, athletics, dance and drama. 2024 OPEN TO ChILdREN ENTERING GRAdES k-5 Travel 4 days a week and one day at camp. Trips to Amusement parks, beaches, aquarium, rock climbing, bowling , laser tag, skating and much more. $370/week for residents $74/day, NonResidents: $470/week, $94/daily. Campers can attend day camp weeks of June 24 and August 19. TEEN TRAVEL: July 1 - August 16 kids entering grades 6 - 8 All activities at ESCC and Fisher school, except trips.

K’s Event Decorations and Rentals

Let Our Passion Create Your Memorable Experience

At K’s Event Decorations and Rentals, we understand that every occasion is unique and deserves personalized attention. Our team of experienced designers will work closely with you to understand your style, preferences, and budget. Whether you envision a romantic and elegant wedding or a fun and vibrant birthday party, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. Our wedding and event design services encompass every aspect of your special day. From selecting the perfect color palette and theme to creating stunning floral arrangements and tablescapes, we pay attention to every detail to ensure a cohesive and visually stunning event. Our team will work closely with you to create a design concept that

You’re Invited

reflects your personality and creates a memorable experience for you and your guests. In addition to our design services, we also offer a wide range of event rentals to enhance your occasion. From elegant table linens and chair covers to stylish centerpieces and lighting options, we have everything you need to create a truly unforgettable event. Our extensive inventory ensures that we can accommodate events of any size and style.

At K’s Event Decorations and Rentals, we understand the importance of quality and reliability and that is why we only work with trusted vendors who share our commitment to excellence. Our team will coordinate with these vendors to ensure seamless execution of your event, allowing you to relax and enjoy your special day. We take pride in our exceptional customer service and strive to exceed your expectations.

Our team is dedicated to providing prompt and professional assistance throughout the planning process and on the day of your event. Antonia James is the CEO and creative

designer who found her purpose designing and creating memorable experiences through life’s momentous celebrations. Antonia has worked in the service industry for more than 22 years and her belief that customer service is the number one priority carries over into everything K’s does. She prides herself in providing the best service with integrity and hard work, starting with an initial consultation that sets clients on the right path to turning their dream event into reality.

We believe that every client deserves personalized attention and we are committed to making your experience with us enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, K’s Event Decorations and Rentals is here to make your occasion truly unforgettable.

Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation and let us help you bring your vision to life. Allow our enthusiasm and expertise to craft your unforgettable occasion.

K’s Event Decorations and Rentals, LLC, 966 Kuser Road, Hamilton. 609-341-8724 www. kseventdecorations.com. See ad, page 11

12  SIX09 | April 2024
Locations include Cork Room @ BLEND Sayen Gardens House Grafton House Nottingham Ballroom and more… Catering for any special occasion Accomodations from 25 people to as large as the thousands that attend our Central Jersey Beerfest - www.cjbeerfest.com Contact Antonio @ 609-817-5550 info@NJweddingsandevents.com for more info.

You’re Invited . . . to Camp

Ewing Recreation Department

Camps & Pools

The Ewing Community Pools System offers two pools for seasonal members and daily patrons. The pools have shaded areas, pool furniture, changing rooms and shower facilities and ESCC has a snack bar. The Hollowbrook Pool located at 320 Hollowbrook Drive, is scheduled to open on weekends & Memorial Day on Sunday, May 26. Operating hours are Sunday to Friday, noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays can be rented for private events, email Raquel at rince@ ewingnj.org to schedule an event. The ESCC pool will open on weekends & Memorial Day starting Saturday, May 25, and both pools will open full time starting on Monday, June 17, from noon to 8 p.m. Swim lessons start with evaluations on Saturday, June 15, and space is limited. Senior Swim and Senior Water Aerobics start on Monday, June 17; seniors needing assistance registering can register at the Senior

Office for these programs. Online registration for seasonal memberships, swim lessons and Senior Swim/ Water Aerobics is required at communitypass.net. Labor Day is the last day that the pools will be open.

The Ewing Recreation Summer Camp will run from June 24 – August 23 for grades K – 5 and is held on the grounds of the Fisher School and Ewing Senior & Community Center (ESCC). The hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. Early hours are from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and late hours are from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Online registration is required at communitypass.net. Teen Travel will be for grades 6 – 8 and will run from July 1 – August 16. The camp will travel four days a week and stay in Ewing the other day. Campers can participate in day camp on weeks Teen Travel is not being held. Camp also offers a Counselor in Training program for children entering 9th grade.

For more information on these programs call the Ewing Recreation Office at 609-883-1776 x6203. You can also go to ewingnj.org, Community Affairs. See ad, page 10.

Gra on House

Once home to the First Sheri of Mercer County, NJ, the recently renovated Grafton House can accommodate a variety of functions and special gatherings. This historic jewel quietly hides behind the Hamilton Marketplace in rural, south-east Hamilton Township, just minutes from the New Jersey Turnpike, Interstate 195 and State Highway 130. The house was bestowed the name “Grafton” after a historic plantation located near where the home sits today!

110 Edgebrook Road Hamilton, NJ 08691

quisite and memorable…

The Sayen House & Gardens is available for a variety of functions and gatherings. The House serves as an elegant, out-of-the ordinary setting for wedding receptions, showers, holiday parties and much more. The Sayen House is nestled amongst 30 acres and serves as the perfect backdrop for your outdoor ceremony and photos!

155 Hughes Drive Hamilton, NJ 08690

Program Coordinator at (609) 890-3874 or PKrzywulak@hamiltonnj.com

April 2024 | SIX0913
Ristorante & Pizzeria Pizzeria/Restaurant: (609) 298-9000 Banquet Hall: (609) 298-1200 weddings bridal shower rehearsal dinner baby shower christening graduations sweet sixteen corporate events retirement business meetings cocktail receptions club meetings sports banquets communions holiday Parties banquet hall available Reserve now for any occasion! Let us cater your special event Off-premise availablecateringfor all occasions Try our daily lunch specials! Monday to Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Sunday: 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. villamannino.com • 73 Route 130 • Bordentown, NJ 08620 Open 7 Days a Week! Sayen House & Gardens For more information, please visit our website at www.hamiltonnj.com or contact Patti Krzywulak,
14  SIX09 | April 2024 Advertise for $69 a month. For more information call 609-396-1511 At Your Service Your Ad Here Call 609-396-1511 for more info Larry Feldman (609)658-5213 LarryFeldman51@gmail.com We Buy Old Books, Rare Books Also Buying Antiques, Collectibles, Jewelry, Old Postcards, Sports Cards, Pottery, Prints, Paintings, Old Toys, Coins, Stamps, Etc. Appraisals Available. Downsizing/Moving? Call Us! Home Improvement & remodelIng Excavation • DEmolition • trEnching KitchEn • Bathroom • BasEmEnt concrEtE • Patios • WalKWay aDDitions • roofing • siDing Anthony’s hAndymAn 609-309-1501 Anthonyshandyman.com Fully Insured “one Call does It All” lic#13vh05722200 BUILDING YOUR VISIONS CALL US TODAY! 609-309-1501 supremeprosconstruction.com EXCAVATING • Demolition • Land Clearing • Pool Removal • Home Improvements  & Remodeling • Concrete work • Foundation &  Yard Drainage 609-538-8045 &Licensed Insured •Renovations •Remodeling •Decks •Kitchens/Baths •Drywall •Siding •Repairs •Snow Plowing Free Estimates! nj lic# 13vh01790800 Contreras Painting, LLC Your local painter! Reliable, Affordable References Provided Over 25 years experience Ask for Rony 609-954-4836 contreraspainting2015@gmail.com 609-672-4145 www.twobrothersmasons.com • Mason Restoration • Brick Pointing • Chimney Repair • Foundations & Steps • Waterproofing • Powerwashing •Painting Two Bro T hers r es T oraT ion D. Smith Electric LLC RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL 609•499•4774 609•883•3009 Fax: 609•499•8322 DAVID M. SMITH NJ LIC# 12736 SCOTT MACKAY - OWNER FullY INSuRED | FREE ESTIMATES Mackay’s Tree Service (609) 577-3949 Complete Tree Service Fire Wood Stump Grinding Screen Repair 908-247-1994 Call Text Remove. Repair. Install. HAMILTON Resident Piano Tuning 609-259-7337 & Repai R s Over 30 Years Experience Guido’s p iano s e R vice Hendrickson’s Lawn Service Fully Insured Cell # 609-306-2263 Owner: Fred Hendrickson Serving Ewing & Lawrenceville PERSONAL HOME AIDE Skilled – Consistent – Reliable AM & PM shi s available Call Nana Murphy in Ewing Township Certi ed Home Health Aide 215-626-3943 Assist the Elderly VICTOR’S LANDSCAPING » CLEAN UPS » LAWN CARE » TREE REMOVAL » FENCING » PAVERS & PATIOS » LAMINATE & WOOD FLOOR Fully Insured NJ LIC #13VH08094300 CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 609-977-3284 VICTOR’S LANDSCAPING » FALL CLEAN UP » LAWN CARE » TREE REMOVAL » FENCING » PATIOS » LAMINATE & WOOD FLOOR Fully Insured NJ LIC #13VH08094300 CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 609-977-3284 I BUY HOUSES and INVESTMENT PROPERTIES Your Local Investor® “Over 700 satisfied sellers since 1993” Fair Prices • Any Condition • 10 dAy CAsh Closings CALL: 609-581-2207

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$2K or More A Month

Commission. Work from Home. Flexible. Set your own hours. P/T or F/T. Sales, Managers, Customer Service Reps needed. 24 hr. recording: 1-800-6706540

SERVICES

F,D,Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-385-5701 Lic#13VH05475900.

Are you single? Try us first! We are an enjoyable alternative to online dating. Sweet Beginnings Matchmaker, 215-539-2894, www. sweetbeginnings.info.

Senior Companion

WE’RE BACK! Let me be your helper. In the home or on the road. Part-time/Day or evening. Very good references. Call Mary Ann, 609-298-4456. View thistimebesttime. wordpress.com.

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Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674, 609721-4358.

FOR SALE

Don’t miss out on our spectacular estate and garage sale! Join us on April 6th & 7th for amazing deals on

household items and furniture. Discover treasures for every room in your home and patio, elegant furniture pieces to kitchenware, decor, costume jewelry, clothes, shoes, electronics and more. Whether you’re furnishing your first home or looking for unique finds to complement your space, we have something for everyone. Mark your calendars and be sure to stop by! 8am3pm No early birds. 3 Cottonwood Court in Plainsboro.

Home Contents Sale

Furniture, Lamps & Oddities. Bordentown City old items and very old items. Saturday, April 13th Starting 8 am. Do not bring change. 11 E Church St. Call 609-298-4456.Email mak1kieffer@aol.com for partial list.

WANTED TO BUY

Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey. Cards, autographs, photos, memorabilia. Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel. 4theloveofcards, 908596-0976. allstar115@ verizon.net.

Cash paid for World War II Military Items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call: 609-581-8290, E-mail: lenny1944x@gmail.com

Happy Heroes used books looking to buy

old Mysteries, Science Fiction, Children’s Illustrated, kids series books (old Hardy boys-Nancy Drew-Judy Bolton- Dana girls, WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), Dell Mapbacks - Good Girl Art PULPS - non-sports cards, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks old COLLIER’S. Call 609-619-3480 or email happyheroes@gmail. com.

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April 2024 | SIX0915 Classified 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. Call 866-643-0438 to schedule your free quote! Call today and receive a FREE SHOWER PACKAGE PLUS $1600 OFF With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous walk-in tub purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445 1-855-417-1306 SPECIALOFFER

Our trucks have changed over the years but our commitment to our customers remains constant.

It started in 1924 with great-grandfather E.L. Bohren. Just one man, one Model T truck and a small warehouse in Princeton, NJ. Now one hundred years later, we have grown into the Bohren’s Companies, encompassing three divisions: Bohren’s Moving & Storage, Bohren’s Fine Art Transportation, and Bohren’s Logistics.

Through the years thousands of families, businesses and art galleries have trusted our family to move their most precious items. With everything we do, we push ourselves to deliver the best possible performance on every job, in every department, for every customer, every day. We move the things that matter. Call us today!

16  SIX09 | April 2024
3 Applegate Drive South, Robbinsville, NJ 08691 • 800-326-4736 bohrensmoving.com • bohrenslogistics.com • bohrensfinearttransportation.com COMPANIES

Understanding Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is one of the most common forms of cardiac arrhythmia, a range of cardiac conditions in which the heart beats in an irregular way (either too fast or too slow). AFib is indicated by a rapid heart rate due to uncoordinated electrical signals in the upper chambers of the heart. While a normal heart rate is around 60 to 100 beats per minute, a person with AFib can have a heart rate that ranges from normal to extremely rapid.

AFib can be caused by many different issues including heart conditions or other contributing causes such as high blood pressure, pneumonia, obstructive sleep apnea, infections from viruses, thyroid problems, high alcohol intake or other drug use, and age. AFib symptoms can include fatigue, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

“In addition to its underlying causes, AFib also increases the risk of stroke, heart failure and other complications,” said DR. SCOTT BURKE, medical director of Cardiac Electrophysiology and a board certified, fellowship trained cardiac electrophysiologist at Capital Health Cardiology Specialists. “Anyone having any symptoms of atrial fibrillation should make an appointment with a cardiologist to get a diagnosis and learn more about which treatment option is right for them. Medication is typically the first line of therapy, but the highly trained physicians in our Cardiac Electrophysiology Program also offer the latest minimally invasive options when more advanced care is needed that result in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and less risk for complications.”

The Watchman device is an option for people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem, which can lead to blood pooling and forming a clot in a part of the heart called the left atrial appendage (LAA). In a minimally invasive procedure, the Watchman device is guided through a narrow tube inserted into a vein in the patient’s leg and implanted into the LAA to permanently close it. During recovery, the patient’s own heart tissue grows over the Watchman device to prevent clots from developing in the heart and dramatically reduce the risk of stroke for certain AFib patients.

A pacemaker is a small device usually implanted in the chest with thin wires (or leads) that connect to the heart through blood vessels to monitor and deliver electrical impulses that stabilize the heart’s electrical system. Capital Health cardiac

electrophysiologists offer leadless pacing options, which eliminate the wires and allow a miniaturized device to be placed directly into the heart and perform like a traditional pacemaker. Catheter ablation is the elimination of electrically active abnormal tissue that uses recording, imaging, and mapping tools guided through thin catheters into the bloodstream to allow physicians to localize the sources of cardiac arrhythmias like AFib. After the specific location is revealed, the area triggering the arrhythmia can usually be treated with radiofrequency ablation (heat energy) or cryoablation (cold energy).

To make an appointment with one of the cardiac arrhythmia specialists at Capital Health, call 215-860-3344 or visit capitalhealthcardiology.org for more information.

Health Headlines by Capital Health | Ewing Observer13

Mindful Yoga

Register by calling 609.394.4153 or register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Please register early. Class size is limited. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Wednesday, April 10, 2024 | 6 p.m.

Location: Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell

NJ PURE Conference Center, One Capital Way, Pennington, NJ 08534

Join certified yoga instructor Marsha Rudolph to experience a gentle, slow yoga practice that links breath and body awareness to increase calm, promote peace of mind, and lift your mood along with many other health benefits. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or large towel and two yoga blocks (if you have them) for additional bliss.

Fitness Options for Aging Well

Monday, April 15, 2024 | 6 p.m.

Location: Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell

NJ PURE Conference Center, One Capital Way, Pennington, NJ 08534

There are many exercise options available as we age. The important thing is to learn how to do them safely and to find out what type works best for you. Cheryl Ann McGinnis, manager of Rehabilitation Services at Capital Health, will demonstrate how to properly stretch and review options for fitness programs that are individualized to each person’s needs.

ADDITIONAL UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS:

THE SHOULDER: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Thursday, May 2, 2024 | 6 p.m. Zoom Meeting

NUTRITION TIPS FOR THRIVING AS YOU AGE

Wednesday, May 8, 2024 | 6 p.m. Zoom Meeting

STROKE: PREVENTABLE, TREATABLE, BEATABLE

Thursday, May 16, 2024 | 6 p.m. Zoom Meeting

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR KNEE AND HIP PAIN

Monday, June 3, 2024 | 6 p.m. Zoom Meeting

UPCOMING
FREE
HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS
14  Ewing Observer | Health Headlines by Capital Health

They have played together since sixth grade, and started hearing about their major potential in middle school. Stokes and Johnson have played on the same teams together since second grade. The Blue Devil stars developed together from those early middle school days.

“I don’t really think we play any differently,” Stokes said. “We all just matured in the game of basketball and got stronger and smarter.”

They lived up to the hype and will exit the Blue Devils with a full page of accolades and accomplishments, and a new standard for future teams to target. That’s just on the court. Off the court, they are outstanding students with Stokes, Delfosse and Johnson part of a class that had a combined 4.10 GPA last semester, and all three are slated to play Division I basketball.

“I want to be remembered as a team that gave back to the community, a team that helped the community and a team that just made the community overall a better place,” Stokes said. “All our accolades, our state championship, our sectional championships, I want that to be remembered forever.”

A transfer last year, Valerie Rivas gave Ewing a fifth senior with experience. Juniors Kyla Durham and Malayah Miller both started during the season, as did sophomore Lillie Alston as injuries hit Ewing. Sophomores C’ianna Brown-Upshur, Brooklyn Ellis, Taylor Williams and freshman Ariana Wadley all contributed.

“This is one of the more successful benches that I’ve had in my five years,” said Ewing head coach Dan Montferrat. “That’s really a tribute to them learning. These kids that were coming off the bench and our fifth starter, they were sponges. They wanted to do well and wanted to do the best they could at any given moment for the seniors.”

Their high school careers began with a COVID-19 pandemic-shortened freshman year, but they began to assert their dominance then, and have continued to build their legacy of winning since then. They have

Delfosse will continue her career at Michigan. She is looking forward to bonding with her new team and seeing how much she can improve.

“I’m excited to just grow,” Delfosse said. “I know my game is going to extremely go bananas as I keep going higher. I’m all about working. I love to work. The gym is going to be right there. And we’re practicing every day. It’s really what I’m looking forward to.”

Johnson has a similar outlook for her future at Fairleigh Dickinson University. She will suit up for FDU coach Stephanie Gaitley, who coached her mother at St. Joseph’s University.

helped continue a 65-game winning streak in Mercer County matches. That enabled them to win four Colonial Valley Conference Valley Division titles, three straight Mercer County Tournament crowns and three more Central Jersey Group III championships as well as the 2023 Group III state championship. This year, they reached the state semifinals before falling to Mainland to cap a 26-6 season.

“It’s exciting,” Montferrat said. “These seniors have left such a legacy and things that make Ewing girls basketball great. And now this sophomore group had two years to learn from them. And this junior group had three years to learn from them.”

Delfosse, Johnson and Stokes were all first-team selections by the CVC Coaches and NJ North/South All-State selections. Delfosse was named the CVC Coaches Player of the Year after closing her career with 1,610 points and more than 800 rebounds. The NJ Gatorade Player of the Year nominee and has come a long way from her freshman year when she was the first player off the bench.

“When I first started playing basketball,

I could not shoot,” Delfosse said. “Looking back at all my years, I didn’t even start. I went from a sixth man to a five-star player on a really good team. Looking back, it’s really a blessing for real. I know I put the work in all the time, and it’s showing now. It really just makes me happy, and especially my parents.”

About the only thing that Delfosse didn’t do in her career was get a dunk in a game. A presence inside and out for the Blue Devils, she tried twice this season and once as a junior to dunk.

“The roof would have blown off the gym if she did it,” Montferrat said. “Just the fact that she tried to do it in a game so everybody saw it, there’s just that wow factor to her. That goes for her even off the court. I’ve had her in class. She loves graphic design and photo imaging classes. There’s something special about each of them, but for Te’ they talk about her ceiling, the sky’s the limit.”

“I’m excited for the player I’m going to become being coached by such great coaches,” Johnson said. “And waking up and when basketball is what I have to do, when I have to put all the time and dedication into it. I’m just excited to see how far I can take my game. I’m just scraping the surface I believe. I’m excited for the development I’m going to have as a player and a person these next four years.”

Johnson ended her scholastic career with 1,578 points and 1,063 career rebounds. She brought those numbers to Ewing after bucking the family tradition of attending the Pennington School like her older sisters had. Montferrat had been attending Ewing Middle School games and AAU games and saw the potential for the group if they stayed together.

“Monty started putting in my head, we would really love to have her,” Johnson said. “It took a lot of convincing of my parents to say, ‘I don’t think I want to leave Ewing. I think this is where I want to stay.’ So they let me.”

The team wouldn’t have been the same without Johnson. She brought a bit of everything to the squad.

“Joi is such a glue player and glue kid,

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Members of the 2024 Blue Devils girls’ basketball team.

(609)

somebody that is such a great personality,”

Montferrat said. “She has such a great rapport with teammates. They all do. But Joi’s personality on the court, she plays with such a hard-nosed mentality and it’s so infectious. All the other kids feed off that. When she was hyped and she had good games, that personality really came through in a lot of what we did.”

Stokes will graduate as the school’s alltime leading scorer. The younger sister of three brothers, Stokes never set out with that goal in mind. She just wanted to be a 1,000-point scorer, but by her junior year she was the first to break the old scoring mark of 1,559 set by Mya Grimes in 2018. Stokes also wasn’t expecting the all-state and McDonald’s All-American nominations that she earned.

“I’m really blessed,” Stokes said. “Those are goals that as a kid I was like, I want to do this, I want to do that, but it was so far out of reach. Once I started getting all this recognition, I realized my dreams as a kid weren’t so farfetched.”

Her next dreams are to see how much she can contribute at the college level. She will continue her career at St. Joseph’s.

“I have to get physically stronger to be able to continuously compete at the next level,” Stokes said. “And I have to keep working on my jump shot. Those are two things

that I feel like could potentially hold me back at the next level.”

Nothing held back or held down the highscoring guard in high school. Stokes was the engine for the Blue Devils. She stood out for taking charge of the team and keeping them organized on the floor and in games.

“Her leadership, she’s the floor general,” Montferrat said. “She’s the point guard and she has such a great eye for the game and for her teammates and moments where she needs to be the decision maker or help a teammate out. I keep saying the same thing, but they all pick each other up so well. They’re all there for each other.”

Not to be forgotten is Biggs. She was a third-team selection by the CVC Coaches, but her impact on the Blue Devils was noticeable as a player that poured her heart and soul into each game.

“Shawnae, her hard work, can-do attitude too, there’s a kid that never demanded the ball, didn’t need to score, but if you count up all the points that the big three scored, she’s probably held opponents that many down,” Montferrat said. “She’s that great, great, great defensive factor for us that’s always blanketing the other team’s best guard.”

Being together for the greatest team ever assembled in program history is something that will stick with them through their futures. They will go their separate ways, but

will always remember the place in history.

“I want to take all the bonds that I built through high school with my teammates,” Stokes said. “That’s something I really cherish, and how much the younger girls in Ewing and even in Mercer County look up to me and were inspired to play basketball. That’s something I will always cherish.”

Together, the top scoring trio played together one final time at the North/South All-Star Game at Rutgers Prep on March 17. It was the final time that they represented Ewing High together.

“It was fun,” Delfosse said. “Looking back out of all the years we’ve been playing together, it hits for a second that this is the last time playing with them.”

They start another chapter in the fall. They turn the page from an unmatched legacy to play in college for different schools, the first time they won’t be together on the court.

“It’ll be like their freshman years all over again,” Montferrat said. “You have to go back out there and do the things that make you successful and got you this far. They all work so hard. They’re all gym rats, first in, last out. They all take care of themselves mentally and physically. … Their attention to details and how hard working they are and how dedicated they are to being as good as they can be at all times, I have no doubt they’ll all be successful.”

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April GOODNEWS The Ewing Public Schools June 2005

The Ewing Public Schools

Jazz through the Decades Concert

You are invited to attend!

Nearlysixty years since Alliedforcesliberated the Naziconcentration camps,the now elderly survivors ofthe Holocaust are turning toa new generation topreservetheir testimony about their wartime experiences for futuregenerations.

number. Manyhavemadeittheir mission toeducate the world thatanti-Semitism and racismeasilylead tomurder, and tospeak about the horrors theyand their familiessuffered. Withthe passing oftime, ithas becomeurgenttofind a new generationtocontinue the survivors’mission and telltheir stories after the survivors can nolongerdoso.

program was introducedtothe Trenton areaatEwing HighSchool. Six Holocaust survivors wereadopted bytwelveEwing Highsophomores. The adopted survivors—Moshe Gimlan, VeraGoodkin,Marion Lewin,RuthLubitz, Charles Rojer and JackZaifman— wereoriginallyfromGermany, Czechoslovakia, Polandand Belgium.

The AAS program pairs a survivorwithone or morestudents. The studentsembarkona joint journey withthe survivorthrough discussions about life before, duringand after the Holocaust.Participating studentswillbeabletorepresent the survivorand tellthe survivor’sstory withaccuracyand feeling in the years tocome. Inaddition, eachstudent makes a commitmenttotellthe survivor’sstory ina public venue inthe year2045, a hundred years after the liberationofAuschwitz.

April is Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM). To help celebrate, the Ewing High School (EHS) Blue Devil Jazz Band and the Fisher Middle School (FMS) Stage Band will be performing a "Jazz Through the Decades" concert on Wednesday, April 17th. The students will be performing music by jazz legends such as Count Basie, Charles Mingus, Cannonball Adderly, Herbie Hancock, Norah Jones, and many more. Come join us at 7:00PM in the Ewing High School auditorium as we highlight the music and the artists that made this American art form a worldwide sensation.

The twelvestudent adoptersare DaveAngebranndt, Tyler Barnes, Annie Cook, Liz Dunham, Emily Everett, CurtisFornarotto, Vildana Hajric, Devon Jones, Jen Meade,Billy O’Callaghan,NikytaSharmaand MelysaWilson.

Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM) was created at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in 2001 to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary heritage and history of jazz. JAM was initially funded by the Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation. It encourages people every April to participate in jazz-related activities, sponsor jazz music releases and to appreciate jazz musicians.

Be Our Guest, Be Our Guest!

FMS Drama Club Presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, JR.

Once upon a time in a faraway land, an Enchantress turns a cruel, unfeeling Prince into a hideous Beast! To break the spell, the Beast must learn to love another and earn the love of “a special someone” in return before the last petal falls from an enchanted rose.

Be Our Guest, as Mrs. Potts, Chip and the other characters of the castle come to life and captivate the audience as they try to convince Belle to stay at the castle. Did you know that Belle loves to read and “Sleeping Beauty” is her favorite book? Does the Beast capture her heart because he lets her explore and read any book in his library? Come enjoy this “tale as old as time” as we turn the pages to find out!

The

Ewing’s Tyler Seaton, Top Scholar at DelVal Dinner

Adopt-a-Survivor Program BeginsatEwing HighSchool Teacher of the Year Recipients are Honored

Ewing High School Senior Student-Athlete, Tyler Seaton, was recognized as a top scholar on Sunday, March 10th, at the Delaware Valley Chapter of National Football and College Hall of Fame’s 62nd Annual George Wah Scholar-Leader-Athlete Awards Dinner, and was awarded a $1,000 scholarship.

Tyler, selected by the Ewing High School administration to receive this prestigious award, boasts a 3.4857 grade point average, is a talented football player, but his character on and off the field is what makes this young man stand-out among his peers and is the perfect selection for this honor. Tyler has not decided where he will be attending college in the fall; but his choices are vast; Morgan State, Howard University, Rutgers University, Syracuse University or possibly UCONN to name a few. You may not find Tyler on the gridiron at the college-level, but possibly his name will appear on the roster of the Track & Field team! Congratulations Tyler, and we wish you the best in your future endeavors.

Ewing High Students Attend Gorbachev Presentation

On April 18, 2005 Ms. Chiavuzzo, Mrs. Walker and 30 Ewing High School freshmen joined several Mercer County high school and college students, and politicians to hear a presentation given by Mikhail Gorbachev at the Sovereign Bank Arena. Gorbachev was the last communist leader of the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1991. During his term he instituted various policies including his political policy of Glasnost and economic policy

The Fisher Middle School’s Performing Arts Club will bewitch you with their rendition of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast, JR.,” on April 25th, April 26th, and April 27th at 6:30PM, with an additional matinee show at 2:00PM performance on Saturday, April 27th. There will be a special “Meet & Greet” with the characters at the Saturday, 2:00PM show ONLY, when audience members will be invited on stage to explore the scenery!

Antheil PTO Awarded Grant

of Perestroika. His policies reopened churches, released political prisoners, and lifted bans on previously censored books.

The 20th anniversary of Perestroika was one of the essential themes of Gorbachev’s presentation. The policy’smain goal was to make the Soviet economic system more efficient. Perestroika involved the transfer of control from the government to the business owners. This policy continued on page A2 continued on page A2

June 30 - July 11

Contact: Jean Conrad

So, put your best dance shoes on and “get gussied up” and join us for a wonderful evening of music that will lift your soul and have you singing on the way home!

609-538-9800 x1302 for application

Have a Happy Summer!!

Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online: https://fmsnj.booktix.com or at the door. All 6:30PM show tickets are $8, the Saturday matinee 2:00PM show is only $5! All seats are reserved.

GoodNews will resume with the September issue of the Observer

For more information, email the co-director, Ariel Swain, at sswain@ewingboe.org.

Thank you for supporting Fisher’s Performing Arts!

The Antheil PTO applied for and was awarded a grant from the Burlington Stores Foundation Grant Program in the fall. This grant will help the Antheil PTO to fund whole school assemblies, field trips, teacher appreciation gifts, PBIS support, and so much more!

2024
Due to budget restraints NO Summer School Programs will be offered by the Ewing Public Schools during the Summer of 2005.
Safety Town
Whitney Lewis, EHS Freshman recipients of the 2005 Teacher of the Year Awards were honored at a luncheon on April 29th. Jan Fay, 2004 Mercer County Teacher of the Year, was a guest speaker. 1st row (L to R): Joan Zuckerman, Principal Antheil; Sharon Solomon, Lore; Jan Fay, 2004 Mercer County Teacher of the Year; Inetta Emery, Principal Parkway; Danielle Miller, EHS; Superintendent Ray Broach. 2nd row: Darrell Jackson, Principal FMS; Donna Andreas, Antheil; Don Barnett, FMS; Betsy Turgeon, Parkway; Rodney Logan, Principal EHS.
April 2024 | Good News17

April 2024 Schedule

Apr 1-5 SCHOOL CLOSED – Spring Break

Apr 9 FMS - FPA Virtual Meeting @ 7:15pm

Apr 10 SCHOOL CLOSED – Holiday of Eid Al-Fitr (Staff Development Day)

Apr 11 Antheil - PTO Meeting @ 6:30pm

Apr 12 FMS - Scholastic Book Fair

Elementary - End of 3rd Marking Period

Apr 15-19 FMS - Scholastic Book Fair

Apr 15 FMS - End of 3rd Marking Period EHS - S2 T1 Q2 Parent Progress Reports

Apr 17 EHS/FMS - Jazz through the Decades Concert 7pm @ EHS

Apr 18 Antheil - Title I Bingo Night @ 6pm Parkway - Title I Bingo Night @ 6pm

Apr 23 EHS - MasterSingers Spring Concert @ 7pm Elementary - 3rd Marking Period Report Cards

Parent Genesis Access

Apr 24 EHS - Spring Band & Orchestra Concert @ 7pm FMS - 3rd Marking Period Report Cards

Parent Genesis Access

Apr 25 FMS Musical: Beauty and the Beast, JR. @ 6:30pm

Apr 26 FMS Musical: Beauty and the Beast, JR. @ 6:30pm

Apr 27 FMS Musical: Beauty and the Beast, JR. @ 2pm & 6:30pm

Apr 29 BOE Meeting - 6pm @ EHS (Public Session @ 7pm)

The Ewing Public Schools

Ewing’s First African American Read-In

On Thursday, February 29th, Ewing elementary schools and Fisher Middle School participated in their first African American Read-In. For more than 30 years, the National African American ReadIn (AARI) has been a groundbreaking effort that encourages communities to read together, centering on African American books and authors.

Established in 1990 by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), AARI was intended to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month. Since then, the initiative has reached more than 6 million participants worldwide. Literacy Coaches Kim Mack and Jen Cline provided resources to teachers for students to learn about a variety of books written by Black authors. The elementary schools enjoyed read-alouds of books highlighted in teacher Read-In resources. At the middle school, students learned about historical and current influential African American writers and their works in their ELA classes. Students and staff volunteered to participate in lunchtime Poetry

Lore Students Celebrate the Performing Arts

Thanks to an Arts Impact Grant and Young Audiences of New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania, students at Lore Elementary School enjoyed a performance by the cello rock powerhouse Cello Fury. Throughout the engaging and energetic assembly titled Melodies, Moods, and Movies, students learned about music spanning from ragtime to today's movie blockbusters. They learned about silent movies, listened to live performances of familiar movie music including the theme from Jaws, a Star Wars medley, and the score from Avengers, and sang along to "We Don't Talk about Bruno" from Encanto. Students were excited to learn they have the opportunity to select an instrument and can begin taking lessons in school starting in 4th grade.

Cafes during which quotes and poems from African American authors were recited.

It was a wonderful day of emphasizing literacy as an important component of Black History Month!

EHS Band and Orchestra Students Visit Philadelphia Orchestra

The Ewing High School (EHS) band and orchestra students went on a field trip to see the Philadelphia Orchestra at an open rehearsal. The Philadelphia Orchestra invites schools to watch their rehearsals as they prepare for evening concerts. This was an excellent opportunity for students to see professional musicians at work. It was also a great learning experience to discover what employment options are available in the field of music, such as: music performance, conducting, non-profit management, arts administration, sound engineering, and the music business. The students were exemplary audience members!

CONGRATULATIONS to the Fisher Middle School Odyssey of the Mind Team for qualifying for STATES at the Odyssey of the Mind Coastal Plains Regional Tournament on March 16th! GOOD LUCK on Saturday, April 13th, at the Odyssey of the Mind New Jersey State Finals in Carteret! We will be rooting for you!

18  Good News | April 2024

The Ewing Public Schools

Senior Spotlight: Meet Collin Elam ESL Game Night

Multilingual families from across the district came together for a family game night. Families played a variety of games as they rotated between three stations. The ESL teachers provided games, such as checkers, Jenga, charades, Apples to Apples, and Hed Banz for the event. For some games, such as Blookit, students team up against their parents. In other games, families compete against the teachers. A great time was had by all!

Teachers and families brought sweet and savory treats from around the world to share. Some desserts included Tres Leches cake (three milks cake), tarts from Lebanon, gulab jamoon (fried dough in a sweet syrup), tamal asado (Costa Rican corn cake), and arroz de leche con canela (rice pudding).

The games and desserts brought Ewing’s multilingual community together to celebrate our diversity. A special thank you to Parkway School for hosting the event.

We look forward to one more family event this year and hope all ESL families can join us: Multicultural Dinner Celebration on May 9, 2024 - 6:00 PM in Antheil’s cafeteria.

EHS Student Voices in Action Has Special Visitor

On Tuesday, March 5, Ms. Karla Lopez-Rosa, a staffer from Congresswoman Watson-Coleman’s office, met with the EHS Student Voices in Action students to share information about internship opportunities and answer student questions. Ms. Lopez-Rosa was able to give some insight into what a Congressperson’s staff must do to ensure that all constituents in the Congressional District are heard and recognized for their concerns. Several students expressed interest in applying for the summer or fall internship program.

The Student Voices in Action course is in its third year at Ewing High School. Led by Social Studies teacher, Ms. Rose Chiavuzzo, students learn about the powers and responsibilities of government under the U.S. Constitution, and apply lessons in citizenship, conflict resolution, model legislation and mock trial activities, and local government participation to policies and issues of their own interest.

It has been quite a year so far! You are fresh off the mat from competing in Atlantic City at the NJSIAA State Wrestling Championships. As you reflect back, what did you take away from your last wrestling match under the big lights? It was an experience of a lifetime and something that I will remember forever.

Baseball season is here! So, baseball is your ‘real’ sport…congratulations on your commitment to New Jersey City University next year as a pitcher. What are you looking forward to this baseball season? Do you have any goals for this season? Besides being a pitcher for the Blue Devils baseball team, do play any other positions? Good luck! I am looking forward to a winning season. My main goal this season is to help my team win States this year. I also play infield.

As Fisher Middle School 8th graders are looking ahead to high school, you are truly a role model of a successful high school student. What words of advice do you have for the incoming freshman class to be successful at EHS? Put the work in now and the results will show in time.

What is your favorite subject? Accounting

What activities do you participate in school? Football, Baseball, and Wrestling

Ewing Kiwanis presented the Parkway PTA with a check towards books for students during their Scholastic Book Fair in March.

What awards or acknowledgments have you received in school or outside of school?

Bruce Martz Award – Football 2023

Most Improved Player – Football 2023

MVP Wrestling – 2022-2023

All CVC Team – Wrestling – 2022-2023 & 2023-2024

Trenton Times All-Area – Wrestling – 2023-2024

Student Athlete of the Month:

April 2023 – Baseball

December 2022 – Wrestling

September 2023 – Football

Carpenter Cup – Baseball 2023

MVP Baseball – 2023

All CVC Team – Baseball 2023

What accomplishments are you most proud of? Making it to States for wrestling two times and making the Carpenter Cup Team for baseball. How do you define success? Always striving to be better. What is your favorite quote or book? Pain is weakness leaving the body.

What is your favorite memory of high school to date? Pitching at Trenton Thunder for EHS baseball.

What is your major going to be when attending New Jersey City University in fall 2024? Accounting What do you want people to remember about you after you graduate from high school? I want people to remember that I was a hard worker in sports and academics.

Nurse Meg and Nurse JoAnn from Parkway School were happy to report that 42 students took advantage of the Mobile Dentist who visited Parkway School.
April 2024 | Good News19

The Ewing Public Schools

2023–2024 EWING PUBLIC SCHOOLS WINTER SPORTS WRAP-UP

Ewing High School

Ewing High School 2023–2024 Girls Basketball

Colonial Valley Division 2023–2024 Champions

Mercer County 2023–2024 Tournament Champions

NJSIAA Central Jersey Group 3 Champions

Lillie Alston, Shawnae Biggs, Te’Yala Delfosse, Mekyla Durham, Brooklyn Ellis, Joi Johnson, Malayah Miller, Valerie Rivas, Rhian Stokes, C’Ianna Upshur, Ariana Wadley, Taylor Wiliams | Student Managers: Emily Gamboa

Unified Basketball

NJSIAA Boys Unified Sports Basketball Group A State Championship – 2nd Place

Joseph Andreas, Christian Barlow, Carson Brill, Sydney Gonzalez, John Green, Aiden Hodge, Christian Ingram, Trevon Nelson, Maksym Pavskyy, David Roberts, Raisean Wallace, Zachary Whyte | Student Manager: Natalia Andreas | Coaches: Victoria Burd, Amanda Garcia, Kaylie Morris, Shannon Pedersen, Brooke Stock

Ordini, Angelique Perez-Araya, Precious Quaye | Head Coach: Daniel Montferret | Assistant Coach: Jamie VanHise | Volunteer Assistant Coaches: Tanya Kauffman, Patrick Reddington

Ewing High School Boys 2023–2024 Wrestling

Collin Elam – 190 Pounds

2023–2024 Mercer County Tournament Individual Champion

NJSIAA District 21 - 2nd Place

NJSIAA Region 6 - 2nd Place

NJSIAA New Jersey 2024 State Qualifier

Ewing High School Girls 2023–2024 Wrestling

Shellitha Collins – 235 Pounds

2023–2024 Mercer County Tournament Individual Champion

NJSIAA Region 6 Girls Wrestling Individual Champion

Unified Bowling

NJSIAA Unified Sports Bowling Group A State Champions

Logan Abrams, Nile Barlow, Dantae Brewster, Carson Brill, Thomas Buker, Tre’ Clemons, Spencer Herring, Aiden Hodge, Vanessa Leggio, Ava Loesch, Brodie Miller, Nathaniel Muntone, Trevon Nelson, Maksym Pavskyy, Hayden Rockino, Jack Schwing, Trent Steever, Noah Williams | Student Manager: Tori Steever | Coaches: Mya Grimes, Michael Mattle, Shannon Pedersen, Amanda Salvitty, Brooke Stock

Fisher Middle School

NJSIAA New Jersey 2024 235 Pound Girls Wresting State Champion!

Samantha Dupee – 114 Pounds

2023–2024 Mercer County Tournament Individual Champion

Alexandra Neuberger – 145 Pounds

2023–2024 Mercer County Tournament Individual Champion

Ewing High School 2023–2024 Indoor Winter Track

Kristopher Ewell

Boys NJSIAA Sectional Champion Indoor 2024 – 400 meters

Karis Crossland

Girls NJSIAA Sectional Champion Indoor 2024 – 55 meters

Hurdles

Aynisha McQuillar

Girls NJSIAA Sectional Champion 2024 – 55 meters

Fisher Middle School Girls 2023–2024 Basketball 2023–2024 Mercer County Middle School Tournament Champions

London Bennett, Jaziyah Black-Taylor, Aviyani Colter, Razalia Colter, Nevaeh Dickerson, Dayonna Doggett, YaaKoleki Gyasi-Adom, Adrienne Hadden, Chloe Hickmond, Cassidy Singletary, D’Njah Tatum, Sammeia White | Coach: Mieko Inghilleri | Volunteer Assistant Coach: MyAsia Jackson

Fisher Middle School Wrestling

Thomas Placky - 75 Pounds

2023–2024 Central Jersey Middle School Boys Wrestling

Individual Champion

Jarrett Gummel - 80 Pounds

2023–2024 Central Jersey Middle School Boys Wrestling

Individual Champion

Asante Colvin - 127 Pounds

2023–2024 Central Jersey Middle School Boys Wrestling

Individual Champion

Christopher Bailey - 154 Pounds

2023–2024 Central Jersey Middle School Boys Wrestling

Individual Champion

20  Good News | April 2024

New screening options for current and former smokers

Ask The Doctor

Many current and former smokers are unaware of a lung cancer screening that can save lives. “It’s a quick screening that can result in early detection,” says Benjamin Medina, MD, a thoracic and vascular surgeon at the Cancer Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Hamilton. “Updated screening guidelines may mean you’re newly eligible to receive the test.”

How are lung cancer screenings done?

They consist of an annual, low-dose CT scan. You lie on a table while an X-ray machine takes images of your lungs. The scan only takes about five minutes, is very low dose and is very safe. Insurance covers recommended lung cancer screenings in most cases.

smoked a pack a day for 20 years, that’s a 20 pack-year history—and so is having smoked two packs a day for 10 years. These guidelines were updated in 2021.

Why did guidelines change?

See our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7

To increase screening opportunities for people who are at highest risk of lung cancer and reduce disparities. Broader eligibility should especially enhance early detection at younger ages among women and Black adults, who are likelier to develop lung cancer after less cumulative tobacco exposure.

Through RWJBarnabas Health’s Institute for Prevention and Recovery, we offer a 12-week program in which you’ll get a personalized plan, free nicotine patches and behavioral therapy that can help you manage challenges and prevent relapse.

Someone will call you regularly to go over your goals and keep you on track. “It’s a wonderful program,” says Dr Medina.

nior Physical Therapist; and Week 5 — Patricia McDougall, BSN, RN; Integrative Therapies Nurse.

ThURSDAy, APRiL 11

Dinner With A Doctor: healthy Bones Club. 6:30 =8 p.m. Internal Medicine Physician, Anjali Bhandarkar, MD of RWJ Barnabas Health Medical Group and Primary Care Express will be discussing the diagnosis, risk factors and treatment for osteoporosis. Also included, insight on the treatment of Vitamin D deficiency and when to measure Vitamin D levels. Dinner provided.

MONDAy, APRiL 22

Brain health-Learn Proven Ways to Keep your Brain young. 10 –11 a.m. With so much information out today on brain health what methods really work? Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D. to learn more about how to keep your brain young and turn back the clock on your aging brain.

ThURSDAy, MAy 2

What happens after images are taken?

A radiologist looks for small lumps called nodules. These are not necessarily cancerous, but they can become cancerous over time. Depending on a nodule’s size and characteristics, your doctor may recommend having a biopsy; undergoing another CT scan in three to six months to see if the nodule has grown or changed; or waiting and having it reassessed at next year’s screening.

What if the test finds lung cancer?

Lung cancer is easier to treat or even cure when it’s detected early. If part of a lung has to be removed, earlier detection means the excised area will be smaller than if the cancer were found later. Taking out less lung helps preserve lung function. Early detection also means there is less chance the cancer has spread to other areas of the body. When lung cancer spreads, survival rates become much lower.

Who should undergo lung cancer screening?

Patients should be 50 to 80 years old and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. They also should have a 20 pack-year history or more of smoking. A pack-year is equivalent to smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes a day for a year. So, if you

For more information about Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s Lung Cancer Screening Program, call 855.RWJ.LUNG (855.795.5864).

RWJBarnabas Health and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton Cancer Center, in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey — the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, brings a world class team of researchers and specialists to its cancer center, providing close-to-home access to the latest treatment and clinical trials.

For more information, call 844. CANCERNJ or visit rwjbh.org/ beatcancer.

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

For more information, call (609) 5845900. To register for a program or for schedule changes go to rwjbh.org/events.

TUESDAy, APRiL 2

Spring Mini Medical School: “The Science of Longevity.” Also on Tuesdays, April 9, 16, 23, 30. 6-7:30 p.m. Focus on the science of longevity: the extension of human life, and well-being. This approach may prevent chronic disease and extend long-term health. Changing your view from “lifespan” to “healthspan.” Week 1 — John DiBiase, MD, orthopedic surgeon, Clinical Instructor; Week 2 — Javier Villota, MD, medical director of Occupational Medicine, Corporate Health and Travel Medicine; Week 3 — Sara Ali, MD, Geriatrician and Palliative Care Specialist; Week 4 — Maureen Stevens, DPT; Se-

Take Control of your health/ Chronic Disease Management Program. Also May 9, 16, 23, 30, June 6. 10 a.m.–Noon. Take Control of Your Health/ Chronic Disease Management Program (CDSMP) is a cost effective evidence-based health promotion program for people with any ongoing health condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and similar conditions. During the course participants will learn how to problem solve, set goals, and relaxation techniques to help manage chronic conditions. It is expected

that participants will attend all 6 classes.

Better Health Programs

Registration required for all programs. Must be a Better Health Member. Call (609) 584-5900 or go to rwjbh.org/events. All events at RWJ Hamilton Fitness & Wellness; 3100 Quakerbridge Rd.

TUESDAy, APRiL 16

hospitals and Our Aging Community. 1011a.m. Should hospital care change as we age, and if so, what does it look like? Join us to delve into this important topic about how hospitals may be able to better serve our aging population. Program’s Medical Panel includes: Lisa A. Breza, Chief Administrative Officer, RWJUH Hamilton, Dawn Hutchinson, Chief Nursing Officer, RWJUH Hamilton, and Sara Ali, MD, RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, RWJUH Hamilton.

Breakfast and Learn — healthy Aging for Senior Women. 10-11:30 a.m. Sara Ali, MD, RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, RWJUH Hamilton, will lead a focused conversation on some concerns for women as they age, discussing gynecological cancers, bone health, sexual health and more.

WEDNESDAy, APRiL 24

For Men ONLy! 1-2 p.m. Ashish Desai, LCSW, VA New Jersey Health Care, will lead this open discussion with flexible topics that will be suggested by the members and what is of interest to members. This group will meet quarterly.

workers here and across America. To share your thanks or to support our Emergency Response Fund, visit rwjbh.org/heroes And please, for them, stay home and safe. RWJ-104 Heroes Work Here_4.313x11.25_HAM.indd 1 4/17/20 1:21 PM
Dr. Benjamin Medina
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Senior Corner

March 2024

ALL PROGRAMS HELD AT HOLLOWBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER, 320 HOLLOWBROOK DRIVE

MONDAYS

10 a.m. Exercise - Karen Martin

Noon Tech/Trends For Seniors 2nd and 4th Monday of the Month

1 p.m. Jewelry/Craft-Anne’s

TUESDAYS

10 a.m. Exercise - Karen Martin

12:30 p.m. Bible Study

12:30 p.m. Bingo

WEDNESDAYS

9 a.m. Chair Yoga- Lisa Caruso

9:30 a.m. Knitting/Crochet

1 p.m. Mexican Train/5-Crown Cards

10:30 p.m. Water Color - Ally Lyons Mercer County Library – Ewing Branch

1 p.m. Zumba - Liz Allen

2 p.m. Mahjongg - Christine Kamph (beginners class 6 wks started 2/21)

THURSDAYS

10 a.m. Exercise - Karen Martin

1 p.m. Pinochle - Mercer County Library - Ewing Branch

1 p.m. Rummikub

1 p.m. Balance Class - Bob Kirby

1 p.m. Bid Whist

FRIDAYS

9:30 a.m. Line Dancing – Joanne Keephart

12:30 p.m. Tai Chi – Liz Allen

2 p.m. Circuit Training– Jeff Prunetti ( $5 session)

SENIOR CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMISSION (SCAC): 3rd Thurday of the month. General Body 10 a.m. Meeting is open to the public.

CLUBS: (All held in Room #201-202)

Live Wires—11 a.m. ( 2ND Thursday of the month)

Busy C’s—11 a.m. ( 3RD Tuesday of the month)

Club D—11 a.m. (1st Thursday of the month)

HB Seniors—1 p.m. (2ND Friday of the month)

MERCER COUNTY NUTRITION: Seniors 60 and older or anyone married to a person 60 and older is welcome to participate in the nutrition program. The program is located at Hollowbrook Community Center. A person is asked to donate a $1. Your donation is confidential. A delicious balance meal is served.

SENIOR LUNCHEON SHOW: (Hollowbrook Community Center). April 19, Noon-2 p.m. Frankie Cirell (Powerful singer, comedian, and impressionist). $9 pp/ $14 couple–make reservations in advance. Tickets available senior office ( M-F 8:30-4:30 p.m.)

REGISTER FOR ALL PROGRAMS AGES 60 AND OLDER

EWING RESIDENTS: HOLLOWBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER

2nd Floor Rm# 207 Senior Office

QUESTIONS: 609-883-1776

Senior Corner is paid content by Ewing Township.

My dad, the superhero

This is not what this column is for but it has to be said. This column is about wittiness and nostalgia. I will make sure it gets there, but my mom’s passing is too fresh.

It’s been a few months since my mom passed and I still can’t believe it. The only reason I still write is because of her. I learned a lot from my mom, but I also learned a lot from my dad. My dad should wear a cape and have a t-shirt with an “S” on the front because the guy was Superman.

What am I saying? He IS Superman. This guy is my superhero. The first memories I have of my father was that he was always working. He always had two jobs and worked five days a week for about 18 hours a day.

He would leave the house before I got up for school, and he would come home right about the time I was going to bed. Actually, he would be home after his second job when I got home from school at around 3 p.m.

He had exactly one hour at home until he went to the next job. Dad would be chilling on the couch relaxing before he had to go to his next job. The funny thing is he always watched General Hospital when I came home. What else is on at that time? Not Much!

I thought it was super weird that a grown man would be watching soap operas. After 10 years of this, I started to come home and say “Dad, did they ever catch Sonny Corinthos?” I would be upset

that I missed a few minutes of GH.

As he would leave for his next job, he would say “do your homework before mom gets home, I love you, I’ll see you tonight.”

My dad are I are so much alike. Why do you think I watch Laguna Beach, Gossip Girl, The OC and One Tree Hill? Dad loves these shows too, and that’s exactly where I got it from. And if you have a problem or think it’s odd, take it up with him, because the dude has biceps as big as Hulk Hogan’s. “Whatcha gonna do brother!”

Back to when I was too young to realize, I asked my mom “Why is Dad never home?” What an idiot I was—this guy was working two jobs to send my brother and me to private school and to put food on the table.

I was super close with my mom and told her just about everything, but my dad and I had a different relationship. I would ask him about how to fix things.

Mom was a mental savior, Dad was a physical savior. “Dad, my car is making a noise.” He would fix it or figure out a way to fix it. Even if it meant Dad had to pick up an extra shift at Red Lobster, he did it. That’s my dad!

I have the best dad of all time, because he doesn’t care about anything except his family. I know my dad is reading this and will cry his eyes out—Sorry Dad. I have to showcase just how amazing you are.

I heard you say during mom’s memorial that when you pass away, (and God forbid that happens) that no one will be there because mom had all the friends and you had your select few.

Dad, you have no idea what you mean to so many people. Don’t ever sell yourself short. Mom was a different breed, but so were you. I talked to about 400 people at mom’s memorial and at least 90% of them said you have such a great dad, he’s funny, witty and so loyal. You are and will always be my dad who sacrificed his whole life to make sure Georgie and I had the best life we could. I always say my brother is my idol because I always followed his footsteps when it came to soccer and college, but Dad, you weren’t my idol. You were my Super hero!

The guy that reigns supreme over an idol. You are a giant. The greatest of all time. I love you, and I can only hope to be 50% of the man you are. I love you Dad.

Donnie Black was born and grew up in Ewing Township. He currently works at radio station XTU in Philadelphia as a producer, on air personality and promotions director.

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22  Ewing Observer | April 2024

Communing on high ground

In March, this column celebrated Ewing’s birthday, the official creation of the Township of Ewing on March 1, 1834.

But Ewing had been known by a variety of other names prior to 1834, and was settled by European emigrants much earlier than that.

As one who researched the following information in relation to the 300th anniversary of the Ewing Presbyterian Church back in 2009, I wo uld be remiss not to share this additional bit of history of early years in “Ewing.”

At the start of the 18th century, a handful of local early European immigrants of the Anglican (Episcopalian) and Presbyterian persuasions, devout in their beliefs, needed a place set aside for worship in their new homeland, and attempted to share a site for worship and burial purposes. The structure is long gone, but remnants of the graves still exist today on the grounds of the Trenton Psychiatric hospital, behind Palmer Lane.

However, this ecumenical marriage lasted only a few years before theological disagreements evidently prompted the two groups to go their separate ways. The Anglicans became the St. Michael’s congregation, and soon moved their home to what is now Trenton, while the Presbyterians sought another location nearby for their home.

Those Presbyterians needed and selected a spot not far away, on high ground. The high ground was chosen for its suitability for burial ground, a critical consideration in selecting a location for worship, since at that time, cemeteries were usually associated with a church.

A plot of land just over an acre in size was purchased in March of 1709 for 5 shillings from Alexander Lockhart by twenty men, each of them local landowners.

Although the deed did not specify that the land would be used for burial or worship purposes, the purchase of such a small piece of land by so many implies a communal purpose for the land, and anecdotally it was used almost immediately as a burial ground.

That ground is the ground at the bend in Scotch Road, at the top of the Carlton Avenue hill. It is said that for the first

few years, people gathered under two large oak trees on the site to worship, until a log cabin was erected in 1712 to protect the worshippers from the elements.

Most of the locals were Scots, ScotsIrish, or English, which provided a reference for the local road name. The congregation was one of three or four locally that shared the scarce services of itinerant pastors, and was known as the “Hopewell Church,” since at that early time, the site was located in (a much larger) Hopewell Township.

In 1725 or so, a wood frame structure replaced the log cabin meeting house. Although there are no existing specifications for either structure, the wood frame structure was likely somewhat larger, and more suited to gatherings of worshipers. By this time, this same location (in what we now know as Ewing) was no longer “Hopewell,” but “Trenton Township.”

Soon, a second meeting house would be built “downtown” in the village of Trent’s Town, to accommodate the worshipers who had previously traveled out from the village along the Scotch Road to worship at the “Hopewell”/ Trenton Township location. Those village worshipers comprised the “town” house, and those worshiping at the site in the more rural Township comprised the “country” or “old” house. However, they remained one incorporated congregation with two meeting locations for nearly 75 years.

During that time they continued to share clergy with each other and other local congregations. Eventually they split, the “town” congregation becoming in 1787 the “Presbyterian Church of Trenton,” and the “country” house becoming the “First Presbyterian Church of Trenton Township” congregation.

There was much growth in the region during the 18th century, and by the 1790s, after the end of our Revolution (often referred to in England as the Presbyterian War!), the wood frame structure was no longer sufficient.

A larger, more appropriately outfitted brick worship home was completed in 1797, and remained the physical home of the congregation for 70 years, until the current stone sanctuary was constructed in 1867.

The congregation’s name changed again to reflect its location in Ewing (rather than Trenton Township) in 1844.

Helen Kull is an advisor with the Ewing Township Historic Preservation Society.

Ewing Recreation

Narch 2024

The Ewing Recreation Department is offering a 5% discount for all money paid on or before Monday, April 12 for the Summer Day Camp or Teen Travel Camp and a $25 early registration discount on purchasing a seasonal pool system pass.

The Moody Park Summer Basketball League is accepting registration for boys in 4th – 8th grade, Register at communitypass.net. deadline is May 20th. The season starts Monday, June 3rd. For more info go to the league website at www.moodyparkbb.com.

The Ewing Community Pools System offers two pools for seasonal members and daily patrons. The Hollowbrook Pool located at 320 Hollowbrook Drive, is scheduled to open on weekends & Memorial Day on Sunday, May 26th. Operating hours are Sunday – Friday 12pm – 8pm. Saturdays can be rented for private events, email Raquel at rince@ewingnj. org to schedule an event. The ESCC pool will open on weekends & Memorial Day starting Saturday, May 25 and both pools will open full time starting on Monday, June 17 from noon –8pm. Swim lessons start with evaluations on Saturday, June15th and space is limited. Senior Swim and Senior Water Aerobics are offered and will start on Monday, June 17, seniors register at the Senior Office for these programs. Online registration for seasonal memberships, swim lessons and Senior Swim/Water Aerobics is required at communitypass.net.

The Ewing Recreation Summer Camp will run from June 24 – August 23 for grades K – 5 and is held on the grounds of the Ewing Sr. & Community Center (ESCC) and the rain location is Fisher Middle School. Hours are from 8:30 – 4:30pm, Monday – Friday. Early hours are from 7:30-8: 30am and late hours are from

4:30 - 6pm. Online registration is required at communitypass.net. Teen Travel will be for grades 6 – 8 and run from July 1 – August 16. The camp will travel 4 days a week and stay in Ewing the other day. Campers can participate in day camp on weeks Teen Travel is not being held.

Ewing Recreation Shelly Dearden Basketball Camp is scheduled for Monday, June 24 – Friday, June 28 at Ewing High School, from 9am – 3pm. The camp is for kids in grades 4 – 8, and will be directed by Shelly Dearden, she will be assisted by other staff members and players. Daily sessions will include work on individual skills, drills, 3 v 3 and full court games, competitions, daily prizes, guest speakers and end of camp championships. Cost is $95 and includes a camp shirt and more. Register at communitypass.net.

Ewing Recreation Department is taking applications for picnic area permits at the following parks, John Watson on Upper Ferry Rd., Higgs Park on Summerset St., Betor Park behind the Municipal building. Email Nancy at npappano@ewingnj.org or contact the office for more information or to reserve a date. The ESCC camp picnic area will be closed for use this season.

Hollowbrook Community Center, 883-1199 has rooms available for rent for small groups to large parties. Kitchen facilities are available.

For more information on these or any other programs you can contact the Recreation Office at (609) 883-1776, online at www.ewingnj. org/communityaffairs. The Recreation Office is located at Hollowbrook CC and is open Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm.

The Ewing Recreation column is paid content provided by Ewing Township.

Asset Protection - Wills - Living Wills - Trusts - Power of Attorney - Probate - Real Estate Closing - Divorce Kathleen Scott Chasar, Esq. DON’T LET THE STATE TAKE YOUR ESTATE (609) 882-2200 • 903 Parkway Avenue • Ewing, NJ 08618 Elder and Family Law Kschasar.law@gmail.com
April 2024 | Ewing Observer23
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