7-23 EO

Going gold

Mekhi Stafford shows off the gold medal he won on June 15, 2023 at the NJSIAA Meet of Champions. For more on Stafford and the EHS track and field team, turn to page 10.

located on page 5

Redevelopment kicks into high gear on Parkway Ave.

EDiTeD By BiLL SANserViNO

After being in the works many year, projects in the Parkway Area Redevelopment Zone finally seem to be coming to fruition.

The township contains two areas that have been designated as areas in need of redevelopment.

The Parkway Avenue Redevelopment Zone includes the site of the former General Motors factory and the old Naval Air Warfare Center—both on Parkway Avenue. The township’s other redevel-

opment zone is the business district on Olden Avenue—an effort in which township officials have been making gradual process.

Ewing Observer editor Bill Sanservino recently sat down with Mayor Bert Steinmann to talk about issues impacting the township. In this month’s Q&A resulting from the interview, the mayor discusses the state of projects in the township’s redevelopment zones. A lightly edited version of that Q&A appears below.

Ewing Observer: Let’s talk about the redevelopment areas in town. There’s the Ewing Town Center and the old Naval Air Warfare Center on Parkway Avenue and the Olden Avenue Redevelopment Zone. Can you give an update on the status of each of them?

Bert Steinmann: Well, Olden Avenue has a little bit more challenges with trying to make improvements, and we are making them. They’re steady, but the only

See REDEVELOPMENT, Page 4

TWW begins water storage and distribution improvements

EDiTeD By BiLL SANserViNO

Trenton Water Works will begin the demolition of two buildings at 942 Prospect Street in Trenton near the 124-year-old Pennington Avenue Reservoir to prepare the site for constructing two 8-million-gallon concrete storage tanks in the spring of 2024.

“We’ve given the contractor the green light to remove any hazardous material and demol-

ish the buildings on the site,” said Mayor W. Reed Gusciora. “We anticipate that it will take three months for the site to be completely cleared and readied for the next phase of the water utility’s storage and distribution system improvements project.”

IBN Construction Corporation is undertaking the $520,000 hazardous material cleanup and demolition of the two 25,000 and 13,000 square-foot buildings on the 2-acre site, with technical

guidance and project oversight from engineering firm Barton & Loguidice. The work, awarded through public bidding, will take approximately three months to complete.

Demolition and preparation of the site at 942 Prospect Street is Phase 1 of TWW’s $44-million Storage and Distribution System Improvements Project launched in 2020. The project aims to decentralize and protect treated

See TWW, Page 3

I n j u r e d a t w o r k ?

Gary E. Adams, is a managing partner and chairman of the Workers’ Compensation Department of Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman He recently received The Jack O’Brien Service Award presented by the Workers’ Compensation Section of the New Jersey State Bar Association. The award recognizes Mr. Adams’ service, dedication, and diligence during his distinguished career in the field of Workers’ Compensation law.

He has been representing the interests of injured workers and union members for his entire legal career and has been certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Workers’ Compensation Trial Attorney.

Call Gary for a free consultation There

drinking water produced by the water-filtration plant on Route 29 South in Trenton, ultimately retire the open-air Pennington Avenue Reservoir, and improve system resiliency.

Recently, Trenton City Council approved a resolution for TWW to engage a consultant to assist in developing a comprehensive plan to strengthen the management of the 124-year-old reservoir. Scientists from Princeton Hydro, a Trenton-based engineering firm, work with TWW to achieve this goal.

The storage-and-distribution-system improvements are part of Trenton Water Works’ six-year, $405 million capital plan to modernize the TWW system. This work includes the removal of lead infrastructure through TWW’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program (LSLRP), which recently received a $5.3 million grant to replace lead services with safer copper lines in parts of South Trenton.

Since the LSLRP’s inception in 2019, TWW has removed nearly 10,000 lead services from its water distribution system and private homes in Trenton, and Hamilton, Ewing and Lawrence townships.

In recent years, TWW has completed several multimillion-dollar capital projects designed to improve system performance, resiliency, and water quality. These include

Observer Ewing

replacing the water-filtration plant’s 24 dual-media filters, chlorine contact basins, and raw-water intake, and upgrading the control system. In its water-distribution system, TWW has cleaned and lined water mains in Ewing and Hamilton Townships and is preparing to replace 1.5 miles of water main on Olden Avenue in Ewing Township.

Also, TWW is advancing its $20 million smart meter project, replacing thousands of 25-year-old meters with water meters that meter readers can read remotely. In addition to modernizing water meters, this work will help the water utility improve billing data collection and efficiency.

To maintain high chlorine levels in its water distribution to mitigate the growth of pathogens, including Legionella, TWW will install flushing devices systemwide in targeted areas over the next 12 months. These devices will flush water mains to improve water quality, a $1.2 million project. TWW is working with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to determine permanent locations for installing the flushers. Last October, Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora’s administration signed a Unilateral Administrative Order with the NJDEP to assist the water utility with its work to improve water quality, advance capital projects, and increase operational performance.

We are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Ewing Observer is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Gazette does more than just report the news—it connects businesses with their customers, organizations with their members and neighbors with one another. As such, our staff sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.

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Bill Sanservino (Ext. 104)

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significant changes we can make are when somebody is applying for a permit or when there’s new owners of a business, because we can have a conversation with them.

Unfortunately there are some individuals that own businesses on Olden Avenue who have been there for years and years and years and years. Their thinking is not very progressive in terms of what things look should look like. They think that the old way is the best way. For instance, the car dealerships. Right now they’re starting to change, but before it was Subaru and that was all a sea of flags.

They had all these little flags flying around in the air, and they said, “Oh, that’s what attracts customers to the store.” We told them, “No, it’s not.” The other thing is that they wanted these large billboard-like signs that are like 20 feet up in the air. They said, “That’s what you need to do.” Well people don’t drive with their heads up in the air. They look down on the ground.

So what we’re looking to do is to have ground mounted signs as opposed to those types of signs. Some of the owners are resistant to that. People are also resistant to landscaping, for instance. We had a program where we wound up with some trees from the Scudders Falls Bridge project.

They had taken out a number of trees and they had to replace them. We identified areas in town to plant them and Olden Avenue was one of them. Before we even started it, we heard nothing but negatives. “No, you’re blocking the view of my store. You’re blocking this, you’re blocking that.”

That’s a tougher fight, as opposed to, say, for instance, the Naval Air Warfare Center proportionally or, in this particular case, the town center. We had a lot of input with the Town Center, and it’s turning out the way we envisioned it. Certainly with the help of the company, because they’re very progressive

in their thinking also.

The Ewing Town Center has been moving along at a steady pace. They’re supposed to start the steel erection I think next month. If you drive by there now, you’ll see like three towers there, right? Well, two of them, it’s a stairwell and then an elevator shaft. And now the steel’s coming. So you’ll see that building coming up through the summer, and will hopefully be open sometime in the fall. So that is going really well.

EO: Have they started on the front section where the retail is going?

BS: That’s what they’re working on now. And then they’re working on the live-work space (units that have retail on the first floor and a residential unit for the business owners on the second). They’re putting the facade on there now and getting that ready to go. They’ve been fairly busy. The rental housing started to slow down a little bit, but that only lasted for, I would say, a month or a month and a half. They’re really picking up now. They’ve already got tenants for spaces that haven’t been built. There’s a list.

EO: What phase are they on right now?

BS: I think four.

EO: They moved up to phase four already?

BS: Yeah, it’s moving. It’s way ahead of schedule.

EO: When do you anticipate the project will be done?

BS: I anticipate that site to be completely finished in the next three years.

EO: And what was the original timeline?

BS: Seven or eight years.

EO: Okay, so we’re talking maybe about half the time.

BS: Right. I don’t think they even realized the demand. I guess people were looking for a higher end type of an apartment with more amenities. Although the amenities on the site have been a little slower than the apart-

See REDEVELOPMENT, Page 6

Owner/Director

RWJUH Hamilton July Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

SALT, FAT, ACID, HEAT: WATCH PARTY & DISCUSSION

Fri. July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28; 11 a.m. to noon

Join this 4-week program to watch the popular series “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat”. Each week we explore one of these 4 central principals of flavor. Watch and discuss how to incorporate the elements into delicious dishes!

Taryn Krietzman, RDN

AVOID MEDICATION ERRORS AT HOME

Fri., July 7; 2 to 3 p.m.

Shesha Desai, PharmD, RPh, BC-ADM will help to ensure you are taking medications properly, as ordered by your doctor. Bring in a list of your all over-the-counter and prescription medications (or the bottles themselves) if you have any questions about possible interactions.

COOKING WITH CARDIOLOGY

Mon., July 10; 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Join us at this “hands on” lecture and learn about heart healthy cooking. Shakil Shaikh, DO, from Hamilton Cardiology Associates, will be cooking up food for thought in this fun filled demonstration.

LETTING GO OF CLUTTER

Tue., July 11; 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

This support group explores how our emotional ties to our “stuff” can create clutter and affect our mood. An Oaks Integrated Care caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.

MANAGING STRESS AND DIABETES

Tue., July 11; 3 to 4 p.m.

This support group is for people living with diabetes. Learn how to cope with stress and diabetes in a healthy way.

SO BLOATED, I COULD FLY LIKE A BALLOON

Tue., July 11; 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Shivaprasad Marulendra, MD, boardcertified in Gastroenterology will discuss the common issue of abdominal bloating.

MEMORY SCREENING

Wed., July 12; 11 a.m. to noon

Are you concerned about “senior moments?”

The Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) is an effective screening tool and quick assessment to discern normal aging versus potential problems. We will also giving a lecture related to improving your memory. Registration required.

OSTEOPOROSIS SCREENING

Wed., July 12; 1 to 3 p.m.

Come in to receive an ultrasound of your heel and get your score. Our staff will explain the meaning behind your score and share some other important information with you. Appointment and registration required.

ORTHOPEDIC OPEN HOUSE

Wed., July 12; 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Discover the latest advances in knee and hip replacement surgery and rehabilitation.

Presented by James Scott, DO, boardcertified orthopaedic surgeon; Maureen Stevens, PT, DPT, GCS, Cert MDT; and Courtney Fluehr, PT DPT. Dinner is included.

HEALTHRYTHMS® DRUMMING CIRCLE

Wed, July 12; 7 to 8 p.m.

Join our drumming circle and help drum your cares away. This evidence-based program is shown to reduce blood pressure, calm stress and increase the fun in your life. Drums provided. Fee: $15. Mauri Tyler, CTRS, CMP

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH

Thu., July 13; 6:30 to 8 pm

Sound healing uses special instruments like singing bowls, gongs, drums and chimes to create a therapeutic atmosphere promoting deep rest, nervous system rebalancing, and emotional release. Participants sit or lay in a comfortable position while the practitioner takes you on a sound journey for mind, body and spirit. Andriana Hansen, RYT200, SHA1 of the Learning Cooperative. $15

ASK

THE DIETITIAN

Mon., July 17; 9 a.m. to noon

Do you have a question about diet and nutrition? Join a community education dietitian for a one-on-one Q&A. Be prepared to talk about your current diet/eating habits to make the most out of your session. Registration is required. Taryn Krietzman, RDN DANCE

IT OUT!

Tue., July 18; 1 to 2 p.m. July 18: Oldies But Goodies

Never miss a chance to dance! Dance the day away while enjoying some of your favorite songs from your past. All ages welcome, no experience required.

DETOX YOUR LIFE AND GET ENERGIZED

Tue., July 18; 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. It’s time to unlock the door to a healthier, happier lifestyle so that a better version of you can shine through. Get the keys of how to detox through nutrition, beauty, home environment and the mind. Gail Leslie, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. MINDFULNESS

MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS

Tue., July 18; 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Learn how to rest your body and quiet your mind with the simple (although not always easy) practice of meditation. No experience necessary.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS

Wed., July 19; 1 to 2 p.m. Learn how to rest your body and quiet your mind with the simple (although not always easy) practice of meditation. No experience necessary.

IT’S SUMMER! WHY AM I STRESSED OUT?

Wed., July 19; 4 to 5 pm

Discussion group about dealing with the stress of summer. Vacations, body image, kids at home, etc. Easy tips and different strategies one can employ for coping.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

*VIRTUAL*

Thu., July 20; noon to 1:00 p.m. All things seasonal, all the time! Join us online via ZOOM and learn what wonderful fruits and vegetable are up to this time of year and how to make them shine! Taryn

Krietzman, RDN KNOWLEDGE CAFÉ: PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE (PAD) AND WOUND CARE

Thu., July 20; 6 to 7:30 p.m. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) affects more than 12 million people and can be problematic for those with chronic wounds. Join Reza Shah, DO, Co-Medical Director RWJUH Hamilton Center for Wound Healing to learn about the world of PAD and wound care. Free dinner will be provided.

THE LINK BETWEEN HEARING LOSS AND DEMENTIA-CAN HEARING AIDS SAVE YOUR BRAIN?

Tue., July 25; 10 to 11 a.m. According to several major studies, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, compared to those with normal hearing. Audiologist, Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., will provide insight and discuss.

INTRODUCTION TO ANIMAL COMMUNICATION

Tue., July 25; 6:30 to 8 p.m. Do you love animals and want to deepen your bond? Do you wish you knew what your animals are thinking and feeling? Do you want to connect intuitively but not sure you have the ability (hint…you do!) Interested in learning how? Animal Communication is not just for “gifted” people…in fact we are all able to use our intuition to communicate this way. Come join us for this fun and interactive introduction into animal communication. No experience required, just your trusting open mind.

Marcia Minunni, Fee:$15

REIKI SHARE

Wed., July 26; 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. For folks who have been Reiki certified (at any level) to come share the gift with fellow practitioners. Give a session, get a session. Please bring a sheet and small pillow. Fee: $5

WISE WOMEN DISCUSSION GROUP

Thu., July 27; 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Join a community of women as we discuss relevant topics and find purpose, meaning and community.

*All programs require registration and will be held at the RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center 3100 Quakerbridge Rd. unless otherwise noted.

at 65+ Years Old

Scan the QR code to register and become a member or call 609-584-5900 or email bhprogram@rwjbh.org to learn more

LET’S TALK, A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Wed., July 5, 12, 19 & 26; 10 to 11 a.m.

Please join us for our ongoing program “Let’s Talk, a Senior Social Group,” gathering in a collaborative setting to exchange thoughts, feelings and experiences amongst peers.

This is a safe-zone designed to be welcoming and understanding of all attendees while exploring this season of our lives – the ups and the challenges. This group is a partnership between RWJUH Hamilton and PyschHealth Associates here in Hamilton. This is a weekly program. Please feel free to attend one or all.

SALT, FAT, ACID, HEAT: WATCH PARTY & DISCUSSION

Fri., July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28; 11 a.m.

to noon

Join this 4-week program to watch the popular series “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat”.

Each week we explore one of these 4 central principals of flavor. Watch and discuss how to incorporate the elements into delicious dishes! Taryn Krietzman, RDN THE

LINK BETWEEN HEARING LOSS & DEMENTIA-CAN HEARING AIDS SAVE YOUR BRAIN?

Tue., July 11; 10 to 11 a.m. According to several major studies, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, compared to those with normal hearing. Audiologist, Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., will provide insight and discuss.

MEDITATION CLASSES,

Tue., July 11 & 18; 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.

Krystal Loughlin will lead this meditation class focusing on reducing stress and bringing inner peace. See how you can easily learn to practice meditation whenever you need it most. Beginner’s welcome

YOGA CLASSES

Tue., July 11 & 18; 10 to 11 a.m.

Krystal Loughlin, certified RYT, will be leading this gentle yoga class using traditional postures and breathing techniques offering modification of the poses for your body so that you can confidently participate. Beginner’s welcome.

GAME TIME

Wed., July 12; 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Join us for game time, snacks and some wholesome fun. A variety of board games will be available or you are welcome to bring your own.

SOCRATES CAFÉ,

Thu., July 13; 10 to 11 a.m.

“Socrates Café” is about discussing a topic, sharing our thoughts, our beliefs, our ideas, and experiences. An unofficial mantra describes that we (people) learn more when we question, and question with others. This is a “safe zone” to share where all views are accepted. Come with an open mind, respect for one another, and a willingness to see where it takes us.

TAI CHI CLASS

Thu., July 13 & 27; 1 to 2 p.m.

Tai Chi is recommended for seniors because it improves balance, strengthens muscles in the legs and increases flexibility and stability in the ankles. It can help reduce falls and back pain. Beginner’s welcome.

ments. They’re just now opening up the clubhouse and the pool will be open for this summer. So they went a year or so without that.

Some people were already complaining, saying, “Hey, you promised us this.” But again, if you go through there, the clubhouse is really nice and the pool is excellent. It’s coming along. I think some of it has to do with the fact they’re trying to preserve some of the history of the property. So visually the clubhouse is designed like an old industrial type building. They’re very meticulous in the detail.

EO: I understand that the Capital Health Medical Center in Hopewell is helping to drive the demand for some of the housing in that area?

BS: Exactly. You saw the Capital Health expansion throughout this county, and it even crossed into Pennsylvania. I mean, they’re just booming. They’re buying up every place. They have a lot of doctors and nurses and they’re starting to gravitate over there.

BS: What’s going on at the former Naval Air Warfare Center site?

BS: So what they have proposed and what they’ve got approval for is to build is one warehouse—approximately 300,000 square feet—that sits in the back of the property right next to the (Trenton-Mercer) airport. And then they have six smaller warehouses, if you want to call them that. They’re more like storefronts, though.

They’re 20,000 square feet each, but it’s two or three separate buildings. What they’re looking for is a brew pub type thing, a restaurant, a fitness center, a DICK’S Sporting Goods. I’m mentioning names, but those are the types of retailers that they’re trying to go after, whether that’s going to be there or not. Those are the sizes that

we’re talking about.

EO: So those 20,000-square-foot spaces are for retail?

BS: Yeah, there’s like one like 120,000-square-foot building sectioned off into 20,000 square foot spaces. And the facade of these particular buildings will kind of mimic what’s being built at the General Motors (Town Center) site. They’re close to the road and they have that urban setting.

EO: So the town has approved it. Does it still need approval from the county and state as well?

BS: No, it’s all been approved. We approved it. The county has approved it. I believe the DNR Canal Commission has approved their plan. They’re ready to move forward. So the next phases are the infrastructure has to be put in—a roundabout and some other things that are going to happen. And then the demolition of the of the buildings.

EO: Is there kind of a bypass road going to the warehouse?

BS: There’s a bypass road that is designed—actually it’s a service road. That road is not contingent on them getting all the approvals, because basically, they presented a traffic study from engineers that they did for the county and for us that said the impact (of the project) doesn’t take anything else away from the intersection at Bear Tavern Road and West Upper Ferry Road.

They are putting in one more turning lane a little bit further back, which includes taking some of our land there. We own a lot, so we have to give up some frontage. And then there was one house that was in question, which was close to that turning lane, and the company negotiated to buy that.

EO: Which intersection is that?

BS: That’s at Grand Avenue, Bear Tavern and West Upper Ferry roads. The one with the With 7-Eleven and Dunkin Donuts.

So anyway, that’s not contingent. So they’re going to move forward to it. We did apply for a grant for putting in that service road. So if we get the grant, we definitely want to put it in because of future expansions anyway.

EO: I would think that some traffic truck traffic going down Bear Tavern Road and making the turn there at that intersection could have some negative impacts.

BS: Yeah, but again, it didn’t change the rating of that intersection. It’s not a great rating now, but it didn’t deteriorate the rating any.

EO: Does that go through a residential area before it gets to the site?.

BS: Yeah. There’s about half a dozen homes. On the one side of the road, you have West Trenton Hardware first, then three or four homes, and then the Firehouse and an empty lot. Then you have the laundromat and pink house that sticks out. That’s the one that they bought. There’s also some houses on the other side.

EO: In some towns in Mercer County—namely Robbinsville and West Windsor—there has been pretty significant opposition to proposed warehouse projects. Have you seen any of that in Ewing?.

BS: No. I mean, there were people that spoke up against it (at planning board hearings), but not like the push back that they had out in West Windsor.

This is an old industrial area that backs up to the airport anyway. You can’t do anything else on this property. You can build these warehouses, some of which are going to be public retail—the ones closest to Parkway Avenue.

And it wasn’t one of these sites where you could put a shopping center in there. Retailers are walking away from big box stores. A lot of people—and I think it will eventually go back to the way it used to be—are shopping online. My

wife does. I don’t think there’s a day that goes by that I don’t have some kind of delivery truck at my front door dropping something off. That’s just the times.

Will it go back to actually having retailers? I think it will. I’ll give you a perfect example. For the city. When that was being built, they used to call them row houses. Now they call them condominiums. They’re all attached homes. It’s just a different name, but it’s the same concept.

People went away from that, wanted single family homes, and now they’re going back to that older style home, because they don’t have maintenance and all the other stuff that comes along with it. They have homeowners associations that take care of it, because people don’t want to cut their lawn anymore.

EO: How about environmental issues on that site? I know there was some reports by the state Department of Environmental Protection that said there was some PFAS (a group of highly toxic forever chemicals) that had gotten into the groundwater around the area. I’m sure there’s other contamination there as well that needs to be cleaned up. Where does that stand? Do they have to do some remediation at the site before construction?

EO: Well, interesting that you say that, because if it’s a warehouse, they only have to put a vapor barrier down. They don’t do anything else. They are going to have to keep the monitoring wells that are there, so there are some things that they have to work around.

The Navy does have to have access to that property, because it’s a continual testing type thing. It has improved a little bit. There are some homes that have wells in that area, so they have to be tested. We encourage people to eliminate their wells and go to city water. Everything is being monitored.

Pickleball — The Social Sport with a Ball in Your Court

BY REBEKAH SCHROEDER

As pickleball triumphantly emerged from the ashes of other forgotten pandemic pastimes like a phoenix, the activity experienced a rebirth despite being less than six decades old.

This year marks only the 58th anniversary of when Washington State Congressman Joel Pritchard and businessman Bill Bell, during an afternoon of improvisational racket sports, cobbled together the beginnings of a boredom-busting game while on summer vacation with their children on Bainbridge Island, near Seattle, in 1965.

The two men took ping-pong paddles to Pritchard’s old badminton court and played with a lightweight, perforated ball, the combination of which is an auditory clue for pickleball’s signature, satisfying smack.

According to USA Pickleball, the “national governing body for the sport of pickleball,” they opted for a lower net height than in tennis and kept the game going into the next weekend, joined by another friend, Barney McCallum

But although pickleball was invented as a family activity, it has since become well-

known as a staple for older populations, with retirement communities and senior centers some of the first to serve up a sense of friendly competition.

Pickleball is ideal for players looking to chat and exercise without the toll on the body often felt in higher-impact sports, allowing those with a history of injuries or surgeries to remain active thanks to a shorter court and lower force of contact with the ball.

Because players must rely on mental coordination and concentration rather than physical ability, a sharp mind can anticipate a powerful swing.

This inherent inclusivity appeals to people of all ages, as it allows them to mingle and move together on a regular basis with people they might not have met otherwise.

Pickleball is traditionally played in both singles and doubles on a 20-foot by 44-foot court with a net that is 36 inches on each end and 34 inches in the middle.

The ball is served underhand, as in volleyball, with a similar scoring system in which each side goes until “faulting,” and only the serving team can gain a point. Whichever side reaches 11 points first, and leads by at least two, wins the game.

The patchwork nature is intentional yet mirrors its origins, as the name of the game has been attributed to two possibilities:

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one, as a reference to a “pickle boat,” a term in rowing where the leftover players get grouped together in a makeshift crew boat team for the last race and coined by Joel’s wife, Joan Pritchard; or two, the McCallums’ version, where the sport allegedly took its inspiration from the Pritchard family dog, a Cockapoo called “Pickles.”

In reality, as Joan confirmed to the West Virginian newspaper the Parkersburg News and Sentinel, the pet came into the picture about two years after the trio first pioneered pickleball.

No matter the nomenclature, pickleball is set to continue its positive trend as “the fastest-growing sport in America for the third year in a row,” according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association’s “2023 Topline Participation Report,” with “8.9 million players in the United States over the age of six years old, an increase from 4.8 million in 2022.”

Brandon Mackie co-founded the website Pickleheads, a user-generated index of local sites and communicative tools to help players initiate games, with fellow Atlanta entrepreneur Max Ade in March 2022.

Since anyone with an account can update the content of a page for free, similar to the format of a wiki, the list of venues—sorted by city, state, or facility—strives to solve the issue of where to play and what to expect.

in Mercer County, Mackie estimated that Pickleheads attracts “close to 400,000 players that visit the site every month,” as well as “over 13,000 courts profiled across the US and Canada—what we think is the largest database of pickleball courts out there.”

Each page will let you follow or check what time to play at the venue, the features and amenities included, and browse nearby courts. Users can relay what material the courts are made of or whether the nets or lines are permanent, as all require different responsibilities on behalf of the player.

Pickleheads plans to expand on the interpersonal and organizational aspects of the sport by giving users the ability to create groups for easier joining, recruiting, and posting of games, automatically invite others through SMS or email, and update playing times.

In early July, the company will launch a mobile app encouraging players to meet new partners and share their knowledge on a broader scale.

“Everyone’s scratching their heads, saying, ‘How could something like this have grown so fast and gotten so big?’ When I really think about it—and I talk to players all day, every day—it’s very clear that there are really two things [that] go into pickleball: one, it’s just how easy the sport is to learn. You don’t need to be athletic or have racquet sports experience. You can pick up the game in about 10 or 15 minutes out

Brandon Mackie, top right, is the co-founder of Pickleheads, an online database of pickleball courts with information on sites like the Lawrence Township Central Park, top left, and the Robbinsville Municipal Building, lower left. on the court the first time, and at the end of your first time out there, you’re probably even winning games, depending on who your partner is or who you’re playing against.”

This “low barrier to entry,” Mackie added, motivates people to try pickleball without the traditional caveats of lessonheavy sports like golf.

The action itself might be directly at the net, but people are eager to keep the conversation flowing, much like the back-andforth of the ball, regardless of whether they are on the court or waiting for a turn.

“I think for a lot of people, they don’t even look at it like a sport. It’s a social outlet and a big part of their weekly life, and I think that just keeps people coming back more, so you have all these people that try it and stick with it, and it just snowballs in the way that we’ve seen it—both in Mercer County

In an interview on the pickleball scene See Pickleball, Page 4

The other key part, Mackie explained, is the “social aspect” of the sport. Pickleball is most often played in doubles, meaning that matches can rotate through a large number of partners.

and across the United States,” he noted.

Mackie mentioned the Mercer Bucks Pickleball Club in Ewing as “one of the destinations that [Pickleheads] track in the top places to play,” noting that “any time you have that type of investment in the area, and we see that happen in a lot of different counties all across the U.S., that really just takes the growth and participation of pickleball on a whole new trajectory.”

Entities across Mercer County are still considering how to successfully incorporate pickleball into their towns in a way that pleases both players and the general public.

Princeton’s Community Park South, for example, is the focus of an ongoing Princeton public engagement program to redesign its layout and is expected to include six pickleball courts.

Though the sport began courting many

of its current players during the pandemic, this steady swell of local interest is an indicator of a promising future, according to Mackie, who expects pickleball to “become the largest sport in the country” one day in terms of participants—a direct echo of the prediction from the latest SFIA report in February, where that rate “almost doubled in 2022, increasing by 85.7 percent yearover-year and by an astonishing 158.6 percent over three years.”

The relatively simple rules and minimal running keep the spirit of pickleball alive at the perfect pace, too, the unlikely pastime having taken flight during the most unprecedented of times.

But if you still want to try your hand at the fastest-growing sport in America, take your pick from these places to play along and see just why this popular pastime is on the rise.

Mercer Bucks Pickleball Club

370 Sullivan Way, Ewing Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (609) 883-6272 or playmbpc.com.

• Courts: 9 (Indoors)

• Amenities: Restrooms, water filler, lighted courts, snacks

• Features: rentals, clinics, leagues, private instruction, tournaments, automatic ball machine, players’ lounge, practice dink court, cornhole, demo paddles, private events

The long-awaited Mercer Bucks Pickleball Club opened in February 2022 as the “largest indoor pickleball facility in the northeast,” clocking in at 26,000 square feet with nine fenced-in courts, climate control, and a state-of-the-art sound system. The dedicated courts have permanent lines and nets. Paddles and balls are provided.

Membership is not required to play, but it does provide benefits such as the ability to make reservations online, in advance, and at reduced rates.

As of press time, the facility only has limited memberships available. To join the waitlist, contact the club’s front desk either by phone or email at info@playmbpc.com. For more information, see playmbpc.com/ prices-benefits

Activity rates apply either per hour (for court rentals) or per person (for instruction, social plays, etc.) with an additional $5 guest fee for each hour of each activity over member rates.

Guests can either accompany members or call, email, or walk-in to speak with the front desk up to 48 hours in advance of events from June to August to register for any open spots for social plays and clinics; no restrictions apply to booking private lessons.

To reserve a court at MBPC, access the company’s page on CourtReserve, described online as an “all-in-one court reservation and club management platform.”

Princeton Racquet Club

150 Raymond Road, Princeton Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (732) 329-6200 or princetonracquetclub.com

• Courts: 2 (Indoors, dedicated) and 16 (Total, indoor-outdoors)

• Amenities: Restrooms, water, pro shop, snacks

• Features: rentals, lessons, supervised and open play, camps, game drills, match plays

The Princeton Racquet Club has 16 total courts in its indoor-outdoor complex, but the robust tennis program also offers pickleball rentals inside “The Barn,” the nickname for the indoor facility known as Court 1, which contains two pickleball DecoTurf hardcourts with cushioned surfacing.

In June, PRC announced new pickleball clinics on Mondays from 8 to 9:30 a.m. and Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Classes may be moved outside depending on the weather, while paddles and balls are provided.

Membership is not required to play, but all players must sign a waiver form before participating. Premier members can reserve courts up to one week in advance; standard members have five days. The average court time is 90 minutes. To register or reserve, contact the PRC front desk or visit CourtReserve. For other rates, see the PRC pickleball page online at princetonracquetclub.com/pickleball

Mercer County Park Tennis Center

1638 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. Hours: Monday to Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday to Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. 609-448-8007 or mercercountyparks.org

• Courts: 4 (Outdoors)

• Amenities: Restrooms, water filler, lighted courts

Under the operation of the Mercer County Park Commission, the Mercer County Park Tennis Center debuted the first “pickleball only” playing area in the county, four outdoor asphalt courts with permanent lines and nets, in 2017.

While a membership is not required to play, a 2023 Mercer County Tennis/Pickle-

ball ID is required to reserve courts, with all non-ID card holders required to pay an $8 fee per individual.

According to the Tennis Center website, valid ID card holders play for free and can reserve courts up to three days in advance with CourtReserve.

An adult Mercer County resident can purchase an ID for the year for $80, with a discounted junior and senior rate priced at $40 and a non-resident rate of $120. Court time is limited to 90 minutes.

The MCPC also runs the Hopewell Valley Golf Club & Country Club, located at 114 Pennington-Hopewell Road in Hopewell, where three Har-Tru tennis courts and two Platform tennis courts with blended lines for pickleball opened in 2021.

Robbinsville Municipal Complex

1117 US-130, Robbinsville Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

In August of last year, the Robbinsville Municipal Complex, a short distance away from the township’s police station, library, and senior center, added four lit outdoor courts with permanent lines and nets at the site of its former skate park.

No membership or reservations are necessary—courts are available on a firstcome, first-served basis. If another party is waiting to play, those currently using the court are encouraged to limit their playtime to one hour for singles and 1.5 hours for doubles to share the facilities.

Veterans Park Tennis & Pickleball Complex

2206 Kuser Road, Hamilton. Open daily. Tennis Center Office Hours: 8 a.m. to noon, then 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. through the April to October season. 609-581-412.

• Courts: 18 (Outdoors, dedicated) and 22 (Total, Outdoors)

• Amenities: Restrooms, water, lighted courts

The Veterans Park Tennis & Pickleball Complex is an all-outdoor fixture of the Central New Jersey pickleball community, with 18 designated pickleball courts,

Get your game on at the Princeton Senior Resource Center in Princeton, left, and the Mercer Bucks Pickleball Club, opposite page, all year round.

six of which are lit. The Hamilton Recreation Department manages the park’s 22 total mixed-surface tennis and pickleball courts, which are accessible via the park’s north entrance.

A seasonal membership is required through October 31 to play, but no reservations are necessary—courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Prices are $25 for Hamilton residents, $50 for nonHamilton residents, and $10 (cash only) for a daily guest pass. For more information on upcoming tournaments or events, please call the Recreation Department at 609-8904028 or email recreation@hamiltonnj.com

Life Time - Princeton

7 Forrestal Road South, Plainsboro. Hours: Monday through Friday, 4 a.m. to 12 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. (609) 608-7100 or lifetime.life/life-timelocations/nj-princeton.html

Described as “an athletic country club” off of Route 1, Life Time’s Princeton facility in Plainsboro features three indoor hardsurface courts with permanent lines and nets. Membership is required to play, and courts can be reserved.

A one-day pass membership ($50) includes amenities like restrooms, water, lighted courts, and à la carte food options, as well as an indoor pool and fitness classes. The monthly rate gives customers access to a wider range of services, but all membership tiers are allowed to participate in open play, mixers, weekly drop-in clinics, lessons, leagues, and pickleball tournaments.

Lawrence Central Park

100 Dave Nevius Way, Lawrence. Open daily. (609) 844-7067 or lawrencetwp.com/ departments/recreation.

In May, the Lawrence Township Recreation Department announced that they had converted one tennis court to two lit pickleball courts for use at Central Park No membership or reservations are necessary—courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If another party is waiting to play, those currently using the court are encouraged to limit their playtime to 30 minutes to share the facilities.

Team85 Fitness & Wellness

8500 K. Johnson Blvd, Fieldsboro (Bordentown). Field House Hours: Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (609) 298-8585

or team85fitnessandwellness.com

Team85 Fitness & Wellness, a 45,000-square-foot sporting complex boasting professional fitness programs and resources, is home to the Fitness Center and the Field House, the latter of which has six indoor pickleball courts. Membership is required to play for free, with price tiers available in options such as one month, month-to-month, and 12-month. TEAM85 offers discounts for seniors and law enforcement. According to its Facebook page, guests can play pickleball for a $7 fee. Amenities include food.

Princeton Senior Resource Center

Suzanne Patterson Building, 45 Stockton Street, Princeton. (609) 751-9699 or princetonsenior.org/pickleball

The Princeton Senior Resource Center has one indoor, climate-controlled court on a wood gym floor in the Suzanne Patterson Building. According to a quote from COO Donna Cosgrove, the PSRC court “has attracted over 500 registrations in the ten months it’s been open.”

The schedule is updated each month with instruction by Carolyn DardaniHorensky, while fees vary per activity and depend on whether players are Princeton residents or not. Options include pickleball “3 and Me” for advanced beginners, twoday beginner and next level bootcamps, and instructed open court.

Pickleball group court memberships are $30 for Princeton residents and $35 for nonresidents per hour per group, with reservations on a first-come, first-served basis. For the full list of dates and times for group rentals, see the July form online at princetonsenior.link/PickleballJulyGroupRental

MUSEUM S UM

Camp Camp

$30ages 6-10

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Medical Acucare

A Personalized Approach to Medicine

Medical Acucare A Personalized Approach to Medicine

• Feel tired all the time?

• Feel tired all the time?

• Have trouble sleeping?

• Have trouble sleeping?

• Concern about brain-fogginess?

• Concern about brain-fogginess?

• Frustrated about weight gain?

• Frustrated about weight gain?

• Want to reverse your diabetes?

• Want to reverse your diabetes?

Your condition is unique, so should be your treatment. Call Dr. Geng's office today to see if we can help!

Caruso Physical Therapy and Nutrition

Empowering Each Individual to Reach Their Boundless Potential

At Caruso Physical Therapy and Nutrition, they had a vision for a place where they could practice what they preached. This clinic is the result of that. Now, the clinic’s amazing team is committed to carrying out that vision by guiding others in establishing and achieving their own health goals so they can look and feel their best!

CONDITIONS WE TREAT:

CONDITIONS WE TREAT:

Medical Acucare

Your condition is unique, so should be your treatment. Call Dr. Geng’s office today to see if we can help!

Your condition is unique, so should be your treatment. Call Dr. Geng's office today to see if we can help!

• Allergies

These services aren’t offered in the area separately, nor are they offered together in a single practice.

education, exercise and hands-on techniques.

• Allergies

• Autoimmune Disease

A Personalized Approach to Medicine

• Autoimmune Disease

CONDITIONS WE TREAT:

• Back or Joint Pain

• Back or Joint Pain

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

• Metabolic Syndrome (pre-diabetes, sistance)

• Metabolic Syndrome (pre-diabetes, sistance)

• Migraine

• Migraine

• Allergies/Skin Disorders

• Depression/Anxiety

• Depression/Anxiety

• Diabetes

• Diabetes

However, combined, these things make a huge difference. That’s why we offer both, giving you the advantage of physical therapy and registered dietitians in the same clinic!

Women’s Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can assist with problems such as:

• Urinary Incontinence and Urgency

• Overactive Bladder

• Constipation

• Autoimmune Disease

• Skin

• Skin

• Feel tired all the time?

• Thyroid, Other

• Digestive and Gut Health

• Digestive and Gut Health

• Female Hormone Disorders (PMS, Menopause, PCOS)

• Back or Joint Pain

• Female Hormone Disorders (PMS, Menopause, PCOS)

• Thyroid, Other

• Have trouble sleeping?

• Concern about brain-fogginess?

• Weight concerns

Our services are provided by board-certified physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and board-certified registered dietitians.

• Weight concerns

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

• Frustrated about weight gain?

** We accept Medicare for low back pain treatment

** We accept Medicare for low back pain treatment

• Depression/Anxiety

• Want to reverse your diabetes?

We’re focused on providing education, prevention, treatment, and wellness services that enhance our patients’ overall health and deter the onset of more costly pathology.

• Pelvic Pain

• Low Back Pain

• Hip Pain

• Dyspareunia

• Vaginismus

• Vulvodynia

• Scar Tissue and Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

• Digestive Dysfunction

Qingdi Geng, MD

Qingdi Geng, MD

Medical Acucare | Phone: 609-216-6938

Medical Acucare | Phone: 609-216-6938

It’s our goal to provide our patients with the best physical therapy and nutrition services in our community.

At Caruso’s our mission is to empower each individual to realize their boundless potential.

• Female Hormone Disorders (PMS, Menopause, PCOS)

2097 Klockner Road, Suite 5, Hamilton, NJ 08690

2097 Klockner Road, Suite 5, Hamilton, NJ 08690

CONDITIONS WE TREAT:

• Allergies

10-15 Minute FREE Consultation for New Patients

10-15 Minute FREE Consultation for New Patients

• Long-Haul Covid Syndrome

• Autoimmune Disease

• Back or Joint Pain

www.medicalacucare.com

• Metabolic Syndrome (pre-diabetes, ins ulin resistance)

• Metabolic Syndrome/Weight Concerns

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

• Depression/Anxiety

• Diabetes

www.medicalacucare.com

• Migraine

• Migraines/Other Headaches

• Skin Disorders

The newest form of Physical Therapy we offer is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy, which is a special subset of PT focusing on the muscles of the pelvic girdle. Pelvic dysfunction can cause pain and urinary leakage, among other personal issues that can be successfully treated with

• Digestive and Gut Health

• Female Hormone Disorders (PMS, Menopause, PCOS)

Contact us or visit our website to start your journey towards a healthier you!

Caruso Physical Therapy and Nutrition, 1278 Yardville Allentown Road, Allentown. 609-738-3143. caruso@carusoptrd.com. carusoptrd. com. See ad, page 12.

• Thyroid, Adrenal and Other related disorders

• Thyroid, Adrenal and Other related disorders

• Weight or Metabolism concerns

** We accept Medicare for low back pain treatment

Qingdi Geng, MD

Your condition is unique, so should be your treatment. Call Dr. Geng's office today to see if we can help! Qingdi

Medical Acucare | Phone: 609-216-6938

339 Princeton-Hightstown Road, Building C, East Windsor, NJ 08512

15-Minute Complimentary Consultation for New Patients

Aquatic Performance Training

The Safest and Most Effective Exercise Program

Aquatic Performance Training was born out of necessity for any person who is looking to improve their overall health but may be limited at a traditional gym due to an injury or physical limitation.

The owner of Aquatic Performance, John Dohanic, was inspired to create the business after having four shoulder surgeries by the time he was 19 years old, including a shoulder replacement. Being active in sports and traditional workouts such as weight lifting and powerlifting all of his life contributed to the extensive injuries that John was experiencing that left him out of shape, gaining weight, and full of pain.

Doctors told John to get in the water and he joined a local aqua aerobics program that included noodles, foam dumbbells, and kickboards. Although the water felt good on his injury, the program and the equipment were not effective enough to deliver the results John

was looking for. He started doing extensive research and education on more specialized equipment for the pool and began investing in underwater bikes, aquatic treadmills, and strength training equipment for the pool that would deliver the results he was looking for.

Aquatic Performance Training has been growing since 2010 and has helped more than 5,000 local clients accomplish their health goals. This aquatic exercise company specializes in helping people who want to lose weight without the stresses of gravity and recover from surgeries such as joint replacements and spinal fusions. There is a wide variety of programs that can benefit athletes with sports injuries, special needs, as well as MS and Parkinson’s patients.

The different programs offered at the new Quakerbridge Road facility are a wide range of high-energy group sessions that are led by amazing instructors. Aquatic and land-based personal training are geared towards individuals who need more one on one attention and accountability. You will find the world’s first all

aquatic gym that includes aqua bikes, underwater treadmills, aquatic ellipticals, and swimming. Anti-gravity treadmills increase your cardio health and leg strength without the wear and tear of normal land treadmills.

The mission of Aquatic Performance Training is to provide the safest, most effective exercise and soon to be aqua therapy company in the country. We look forward to the

opportunity to help you with your goals very soon!

P.S. If you are looking for swim lessons for kids or adults we have a great partnership with Eggert Aquatics who has been voted #1 swim lesson company in Mercer County for three years in a row.

More information: www. aquaticperformancetraining.com

See ad, page 8

Health

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton World-Class Care Close to Home

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton) and New Jersey’s largest academic healthcare system, RWJBarnabas Health, are the right choice for you, your families and loved ones’ health and wellness.

RWJUH Hamilton provides closeto-home, premier healthcare for the local communities, as well as a wound care center; a balance and hearing center; outpatient specialty care clinics; primary care providers; surgery centers; rehabilitation and physical therapy and diagnostic and screening centers. Even more extensive resources, medical care and cutting-edge treatments are all available to RWJUH Hamilton patients through the RWJBarnabas Health system.

Here’s a bigger picture of how this

Pictured are members of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton Board of Trustees, senior leadership, physicians, medical staff and medical professionals at this year’s celebration and recognition for National Doctors Day and 2023’s physician honoree, Edward A. Wingfield, MD, president, medical staff; chairman, Department of Cardiology; and director, Cardiac Cath Lab.

nationally awarded and recognized RWJBarnabas Health facility can help you live a healthier life and provide you and your family with the necessary resources if you are faced

with health situations like these:

Cancer Care

An expert multidisciplinary team, at the RWJUH Hamilton Cancer Center* offers comprehensive

treatment options with individualized care. You also benefit from advanced treatment options through RWJBH’s partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s

Where Do Orthodontic Issues

Hamilton Dental Associates

The Importance of Orthodontic Care for Your Children

Growing up makes for a constantly evolving experience for children. Every year they change and grow into the person they are destined to become, and that extends to their oral health. From the first baby tooth to their adult teeth coming in later in their lives, managing your child’s dental health presents unique challenges for parents. With those challenges come a few myths involving childhood tooth development that can impact how you treat your child’s dental health.

or off-center, they won’t naturally straighten themselves with time.

Childhood Oral Health Myths

Combating

. When you start looking for a pediatric dentist in Hamilton, you want to find one that knows how intensive taking care of your child’s teeth should be. Taking a proactive approach to their dental health can help them avoid more involved procedures down the road — one of the most common myths that lead to your child’s teeth suffering in the long run.

Common Myth #1: Childhood Teeth Will Straighten Out Over Time

One such myth that leads to more complex orthodontic care down the line is that your child’s teeth will straighten out over time. Unfortunately, that is not the case. If their teeth start coming in crooked

only National Cancer Institute (NCI)Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Patients are provided access to clinical trials, complex surgical procedures, precision medicine, immunotherapy and sophisticated radiation oncology techniques.

Heart, Vascular and Stroke Care

RWJUH Hamilton is part of one of the largest and broadest cardiac care programs in New Jersey. Through a partnership with Hamilton Cardiology Associates, you can access sophisticated care at both RWJUH Hamilton and RWJUH New Brunswick, where medical experts can provide even more highly specialized cardiac care.

RWJUH Hamilton has provided essential heart, vascular and stroke care such as cardiac catheterizations and angioplasty to clear blocked arteries for more than 16 years. The hospital received licensing to

The space for their teeth to come in doesn’t grow as they mature. If you leave these issues unattended, it could lead to more significant problems.

Common Myth #2: Orthodontic Treatments Are Purely Cosmetic

While most people associate orthodontic treatments with getting braces as a teenager, that procedure does much more than merely straighten teeth to help you look better. Getting your jaw and teeth back into proper alignment has a cascading effect on your oral health. It helps improve your biting, chewing, and even speaking ability.

Common Myth #3: There Is a Right Age for Orthodontic Care

Many parents believes there is a

perform elective, or non-emergent, angioplasty procedures in early 2022. The recently opened state-of-the-art Cardiac Interventional Suite, provides private patient and family rooms for both pre- and post-operative care.

RWJUH Hamilton’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program offers an individualized, medically supervised health and fitness program. This will help patients to take an active role in improving their heart health and reducing risks of future heart disease through exercise, evaluations, education and counseling.

Orthopedic and Spine Care Specialists at RWJUH Hamilton’s Orthopedic Spine Institute provide a multidisciplinary approach to world-class care backed by leadingedge imaging and diagnostic and surgical technology. This includes minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery. The institute is the only

specific age at which it’s appropriate to bring their children in for orthodontic care. The perceived minimum age for a child to receive orthodontic care is around 12-13 or right when they reach high school. However, getting your child such care earlier can help avoid getting braces and fixing issues before they worsen.

In reality, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your children should get an orthodontic checkup no later than age seven. Once they hit that age, their mouth will have a nice balance between their baby and permanent teeth. This window of time allows for an accurate orthodontic evaluation to determine where preventative care is enough or if additional action is required.

orthopedic program in the capital region nationally certified in knee, hip and spine surgery by The Joint Commission.

Many spine surgeries are also performed by specialists at RWJUH Hamilton’s Center for Neurosciences using state-of-the-art technologies to provide advanced neurologic care close to home. Comprehensive neurosciences services also include general and cranial surgery along with subspecialized care for conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, cognitive problems and neuromuscular disorders.

Primary Care Providers

Primary care providers and physicians from RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group are a key component of RWJBarnabas Health’s comprehensive healthcare services. The group comprises world-class providers across many

Come From?

In most cases, a child’s orthodontic problems stem from their genetics — these issues are inherited from their parents. Additionally, some problems can develop over time based on poor oral hygiene habits they learned from a young age.

Some of these acquired oral health issues include:

• Sucking Their Thumbs

• Mouth Breathing

• Abnormal Swallowing Patterns

• Poor Dental Hygiene

• Irregular Loss of Baby Teeth

• Poor Nutritional Habits

However, parents have reason to hope for viable remedies and solutions to most of these issues. You can remedy these acquired problems with the help of successful orthodontic care provided by an experienced pediatric dentist.

Finding a Child Orthodontic You Can Trust. Trusting your child’s teeth and their beautiful smile to a pediatric dentistry practice is something that every parent must come to grips with. Figuring out which childhood orthodontic makes the most sense for your child and their future dental visits becomes critically important. For parents and their children in Hamilton, Hamilton Dental Associates provides them with the experienced pediatric dentists they need to prioritize their oral health as they mature.

Learn more about our pediatric dentistry services and schedule your first appointment today! See ad, page 12.

specialties, including primary care, heart and vascular care, orthopedics, general surgery, gynecologic surgery, oncology, neurology and gastroenterology. Together, Medical Group doctors deliver coordinated, patient-centered care in local communities along with convenient access to RWJBarnabas Health’s vast resources and technologies.

Let’s be health together. Visit rwjbh.org/Hamilton or call 609586-7900.

*RWJBarnabas Health and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, together with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey— the state’s only NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center— provide close-to-home access to the latest treatment options. For more information, call 844.CANCERNJ or visit www.rwjbh.org/beatcancer.

See ad, page 11

Health & Wellness

JANS Caregiver Services

Top of the Line Care That You Can Count On

Founded in 2020, JANS is family owned and operated. Our name is a combination of the four members of our family, and serves as a constant reminder that we are a family first organization. The founder, Angel Torres, has more than 10 years of experience with in-home care. He is passionate about caring for people and has built a company of likeminded individuals in order to provide top of the line care that you can count on.

No two individuals are alike and no two cares plans are alike. JANS will offer you a customized plan. We specialize in meeting with our families, understanding their needs, requirements and resources to build a plan that will work specifically for them. We do not provide a cookie cutter offering, because we know how special each person is.

JANS Caregiver Services can provide the following therapeutic

services in home care, both short and long term.

Short Term:

• Post Surgery

• Post Injury

• Short term disability

Long Term:

• Elder Care

• Memory Issues

• Mobility Issues

We are trained and certified to

assist with the following chronic health conditions:

• Alzheimer’s

• Dementia

• Diabetes

• Parkinson’s

• Fibromialgia

Our services Include:

• Personalized In Home Care

• Basic Grooming

• Bathing

• Feeding and Specialized Diet needs

• Light housekeeping including (laundry, dishes, vacuum)

• Meal Preparation (Including special diet needs and restrictions)

• Medication Reminders

• Mobility Assistance

• Personal Hygiene

• Physical Therapy Assistance/ Continuation of care plan

• Toileting and Incontinent Care

• Transferring and Positioning

• Companion and Security Care

• Spending time in conversation

• Card and Board Games

• Puzzles and other activities that stimulate active thinking

• Providing the security of loved one not home alone

• Provide a presence in the neighborhood so that loved one is not always alone

For more information call 609-7569089 or email info@janscaregiverservices.com. janscaregiverservices.com. See ad, page 16

Classes are designed for all ages to build confidence, artistry, discipline, and foster students’ love of dance. Our world class faculty is dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential, with spacious studios, new state-of-the-art dance floors, and live music. The perfect environment to learn and grow!

We are nationally ranked in pediatric orthopedics at The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and in pediatric urology at The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, McMullen Children’s Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, and Unterberg Children’s Hospital at Monmouth Medical Center. And we’re also New Jersey’s largest provider of children’s healthcare.

From primary care to specialized treatments and therapies and in partnership with Rutgers Health, our Children’s Health network provides advanced research, teaching, social impact and outstanding care to improve the health and well-being of every child in every community. Learn more at rwjbh.org/ChildrensHealth.

You’d go to great lengths for your child’s health. Good thing you don’t have to go far.

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton

New Community Garden

Open in Hamilton

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, grew its Farm to Family program with the opening of a new community garden at Bromley Field & Sports Complex in Hamilton Township.

Twelve local families agreed to adopt individual plots of land in the garden for one year and learn how to grow healthy produce using sustainable gardening practices, with the guidance of a Master Gardener and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s own Registered Dietician Nutritionist, Taryn Krietzman. At the end of the year, the families can choose to renew or pass their plot to another family.

“Our collective hope is that these families will take what they have learned, share their knowledge with family and friends, and plant a garden plot or potted plants at home or throughout the community,” says Diane Grillo, Vice President of

Health & Wellness

These initiatives are part of the RWJBarnabas Health Social Impact and Community Investment (SICI) practice and 100% free-to-participate. The new community garden was built alongside the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton Community Field, a turf soccer field opened in the summer of 2021 in collaboration with RWJBarnabas Health, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, The PDA Urban initiative, and Hamilton Township. The field is also part of the RWJBarnabas Health Social Impact and Community Investment (SICI) practice and provides a safe space for children in the community to stay active, promotes their physical and mental health, and keeps them away from other potential distractions and negative influences.

Health Promotion at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton.

“Families can feel empowered to take ownership, proudly engage in land stewardship, and pass along knowledge in their own community and cultural context.”

The Farm to Family Community

Garden expands Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s already successful Farm to Family nutrition education, health screening, and food security programs hosted at Hamilton Township’s Bromley Community Center and John O. Wilson Center.

“Our hospital’s efforts to continue connecting with every individual and family in the surrounding area with healthy spaces, such as the community garden, helps to better serve as a point of early intervention for medical care, specialty care services, and as a resource for referrals in every aspect of life and well-being,” says Richard Freeman, President & CEO of Robert Wood

No

Physical Therapy

Caruso PTRD offers a unique, patient-centered physical therapy approach that offers patients the chance to work closely with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. We want you to get back to being you; whether it’s getting you back on the field, back at the office, or back to running around with your children or grandkids! Treating pain is only the first step!

Nutritional Services

Caruso PTRD offers a unique, patient-centered physical therapy approach that offers patients the chance to work closely with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Our therapists' main goals are to listen to each of your needs and provide individualized care to treat your condition. We want you to get back to being you; whether it's getting you back on the field, back at the office, or back to running around with your children or grandkids! Treating pain is only the first step!

ALL AGES: Achieve your body composition, sport’s performance, or weight loss goals through an approach that is anything but “cookie cutter”. Our Nutrition Experts, RDN’s,are the ONLY medical professionals qualified to give you nutrition advice. We don’t believe in quick fixes or the latest craze. We believe in life long change without having to sacrifice ANYTHING that makes your life unique!

Pilates Reformer

ATTENTION ALL AGES: Achieve your body composition, sport's performance, nutrition or weight loss goals through an approach that is anything but "cookie cutter". We take the time to learn about you, any medical conditions you may have and tailor to your individual needs. Our Nutrition Experts, RDN's,are the ONLY medical professionals qualified to give you nutrition advice. We don't believe in quick fixes or the latest craze. We believe in life long change without having to sacrifice ANYTHING that makes your life unique!

The most recognized and effective form of safe and successful exercise. Pilates can be tailored to the specific needs of the client to provide injury prevention, rehabilitation and muscle stability work. We offer Private and Semi Private Sessions.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

The most recognized and effective form of safe and successful exercise. Pilates can be tailored to the specific needs of the client to provide injury prevention, rehabilitation and muscle stability work. We offer private and semi private sessions.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is a special subset of PT focusing on the muscles of the pelvic girdle. Pelvic dysfunction can cause pain and urinary leakage, among other personal issues that can be successfully treated with education, exercise and hands-on techniques. I want to empower females to take back their lives, one Pelvic PT session at a time.

Relax and unplug in our new Salt Room! Offering numerous health benefits such as; providing relief for respiratory and skin conditions, and promoting overall mental wellness and stress relief. Breathe, relax and unwind!

Pictured: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, RWJBarnabas Health, Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin, community partners, and local residents participate in the Farm to Family Community Garden opening ceremonies at Bromley Field & Sports Complex in Hamilton.

Johnson University Hospital Hamilton. “Programs like this, in addition to access to quality care, play a critical role in our society’s healthcare ecosystem.”

The garden was made possible by the commitment of many local leaders, organizations and businesses, including Hamilton Township, Mayor Jeff Martin of Hamilton, and Fred Dumont, Director of Community & Economic Development for Hamilton Township; Sharbell Development Corp.; Catholic Youth Organization of (CYO) of Mercer County; Truist Bank; the Rotary Club of Hamilton Township, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s Community Impact Alliance; Isles Inc.; Snipes Farm and Education Center; Costello’s Ace Hardware of Mercerville; and the original Farm to Family funders, Wawa and the Holman Foundation.

Local community members interested in learning more and participating in any of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s Farm to Family programs, Community Education or Better Health Programs are encouraged to contact the Health Connection team by email to CommunityEdHAM@rwjbh.org or by phone at (609) 584-5900.

Visit rwjbh.org/HamiltonPrograms to view Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s monthly program calendar online and register for programs.

Hamilton Township

Meet the Hamilton Township Division of Health!

The mission of the Division of Health is to serve as a trusted resource for Hamilton Township to improve the health and well-being of our residents through health education and promotion, enforcement of public health safety, and adapting to everchanging community health needs. Some of our services include public immunization clinics, child health clinics, STI testing, vital statistics (marriage certificates and licenses, birth certificates and death certificates), retail food establishment inspections, and other environmental health services! Our Animal Shelter is also part of the Division of Health and provides animal control services, pet adoptions and dog licensing. Hamilton residents please call 609890-3828 or visit our website www.hamiltonnj.com/ health for more information. Many of our services are by appointment.

Here are some quick safety tips to help you have a safe and healthy summer:

• Check for ticks! Ticks are the most active in the warmer months (April-September). Infected ticks can transmit diseases including Lyme disease. Prevent tick bites by wearing insect repellent, check yourself, kids and pets for ticks, remove ticks quickly and seek medical help if you develop symptoms of Lyme disease (including fever, headache, fatigue and rash).

• Beat the heat this summer! Extreme heat can lead to heat related illness. People ages 65+, children under two and people with chronic diseases and mental illness are at highest risk. Remember to keep your cool! Stay in air conditioning as much as possible, stay hydrated, check on neighbors or family who are high risk, wear loose and lightweight clothing and NEVER leave children or pets in cars.

• Sun Safety! Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Protect yourself and others from the sun when outdoors by seeking shade, wearing sunglasses, hats and clothing to protect you from the sun. Don’t forget your sunscreen! Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher, reapply often and check those expiration dates!

• Eat your fruits and veggies! Healthy eating can help adults and children live a healthy life and reduce the risks of chronic disease. Summer is a great time for fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables including strawberries, watermelon, zucchini and fresh Jersey tomatoes!

• Water safety! Swimming is a fun summer activity to help cool off, but should be done safely. If you go swimming this summer remember to learn to swim and know your limits, never leave children unattended, wear life jackets when doing water activities, don’t swim alone even if you are a strong swimmer and never dive into shallow water – if you don’t know how deep it is, don’t dive!

For more information on these topics and other summer safety tips visit www.cdc.gov. See ad, below

Princeton Ballet School

Beyond technique: Empowering dancers

Princeton Ballet School is the official school of the American Repertory Ballet, celebrating over 65 years of excellence in dance education.

Classes are designed for all ages to build confidence, artistry, discipline, and foster students’ love of dance. Its world class faculty is dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential, with spacious studios, new state-of-the-art dance floors, and live music. The perfect environment to learn and grow.

What Sets the School Apart

Founded in 1954 by Audrée Estey, Princeton Ballet School is one of the nation’s finest non-profit dance schools. Many things set Princeton Ballet School apart from the usual dance school, the most important being: its philosophy, its faculty, its affiliation with a professional ballet company, its dedication to live music

The Dental Difference

Mini Dental Implants: A True Innovation in Dentistry

Mini Dental Implants (MDIs) have changed the face of implant dentistry. Unlike traditional implant placement, where multiple dental visits are often required, MDIs can eliminate the need for extensive surgery. The most common use for MDIs is the stabilization of dentures and overdentures. MDIs firmly anchor the dental prosthesis, which means there is no longer a need to suffer with illfitting, loose and ANNOYING dentures!

MDIs are designed to eliminate elaborate bone grafting and to expedite treatment. Traditional implants may require significant bone grafting and a longer recovery period. The latent period allows the anchor of the implant to properly embed itself into the jawbone. The smaller size of MDIs means that no recovery period is possible, and the denture can be fitted the same day.

What are the advantages of MDI

Health & Wellness

in the classroom and its facilities. The School’s Philosophy

Princeton Ballet School is known for nurturing developing dancers in a safe and progressive way. The school teaches age and developmentally appropriate ballet technique classes from a syllabus that allows younger students more time for movement exploration while providing advanced students with the tools to become professional dancers, if they so choose. As a result, all students develop self-esteem, self-discipline, and a strong fitness level that will provide a powerful edge in any future endeavor.

Outstanding Faculty. Princeton Ballet School has more than 20 specialized faculty members. Many have attained graduate degrees in dance education and have won major teaching awards. All are committed to the school’s philosophy of dance education and to helping students achieve their best. Members of the outstanding faculty have performed professionally with companies including American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, Cuban National Ballet, and American Repertory

placement?

MDIs are a true innovation for people who are reluctant to have invasive dental surgery and who are suffering denture wearers. One significant advantage MDIs have over traditional implants is that they offer a viable treatment choice for patients who have experienced extensive bone loss. Depending on the quality and density of jawbone available at the implant site, four or more of these mini implants may be implanted at one time. The most common use for MDIs is to stabilize a lower denture, however they can be placed anywhere in the mouth.

Other advantages associated with MDIs may include:

• Better smelling breath

• More self-esteem

• Clearer speech

• Easier chewing and biting

• Easier cleaning

• Firmer denture fit

• Good success rate

• Less denture discomfort

• No cutting or sutures

• No need for adhesives or messy bonding agents

• No rotting food beneath the

Ballet.

Live Music. The school’s ballet classes have live musical accompaniment. This is particularly fun for the children’s classes, where frequent improvisational exercises provide an opportunity for students to interact and collaborate with the staff of professional musicians.

Facilities. Princeton Ballet School has studios in Cranbury, New Brunswick, and Princeton, New Jersey. All locations are wheelchair accessible and feature sprung dance

denture

• No slipping or wobbling

• Quick treatment time

• Reduced costs How are mini dental implants placed?

The whole mini dental implant placement procedure takes approximately one hour. Generally, in the case of lower jaw implants, four to six MDIs will be placed about 5mm apart. Prior to inserting MDIs, Dr. Mosmen will use many diagnostic and planning tools to find the optimal location to implant them.

After placement, a denture will be modified and affixed to the MDIs. The rubber O-ring on each MDI snaps into the designated spot on the denture, and the denture then rests snugly on the gum tissue. MDIs hold the denture comfortably in a tight-fitting way for the lifetime of that implant.

In almost all cases, no stitching is required, and no real discomfort is felt after the procedure. When the denture placement procedure is complete, light eating can be resumed. The denture can be removed and cleaned at will. MDIs enhance the natural beauty of the smile and restore full

floors and marley from Harlequin Floors. The striking Princeton and Cranbury facilities were designed by the late Ralph Lerner, an internationally known architect and former Dean of the School of Architecture at Princeton University. The studios in New Brunswick are part of the state-of-the-art New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, which opened in 2019.

More information: arballet.org/ princeton-ballet-school/. See ad, page 10.

functionality to the teeth.

If you have any questions about ni dental implants, please call Dr. Kevin Mosmen for a FREE consultation appointment to see if you’re a candidate for this procedure or traditional implants.

The Dental Difference – 2131 Route 33, Suite A, Hamilton, NJ 08690. 609-445-3577. www. thedentaldifference.com. See ad, page 15.

Dr. Kevin Mosmen

Medical Acucare

A Personalized Approach to Your Optimal Health

Discover a personalized approach to achieving your optimal health with Medical Acucare. Our mission is to address every dimension of your wellbeing and alleviate, or even reverse, the symptoms and progression of chronic diseases.

Meet Dr. Qingdi Geng, the founder of Medical Acucare. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Medical Acupuncture, and Obesity Medicine, she brings over 10 years of clinical experience in treating diverse medical conditions. Dr. Geng recognized that while conventional medical treatments effectively manage acute conditions like broken bones or strokes, they often fall short in improving chronic diseases. This led her to pursue advanced training in Functional Medicine, allowing her to combine the best of Internal Medicine, Functional Medicine, and Acupuncture to identify the root causes of her patients’ chronic issues and optimize their health and wellness.

Why choose Medical Acucare?

Focus On the Root Cause: Inspired by her childhood admiration for Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Geng approaches each patient’s case like a dedicated detective. She takes genuine satisfaction in unraveling the true origins of complex medical conditions, providing accurate diagnoses, and offering valuable insights into treatment options.

Dr. Qingdi Geng

Comprehensive Care for Challenging Health Conditions: At Medical Acucare, we acknowledge the distinct obstacles individuals face while navigating the healthcare system, particularly women during their postpartum, perimenopause, and other difficult transitional phases. Dr. Geng specializes in addressing hormone imbalances, digestive dysfunction, autoimmune disorders, and exposure to harmful toxins, which can give rise to a multitude of complaints across various organ systems, often resulting in diagnostic and therapeutic complexities. By thoroughly assessing each patient’s situation and employing advanced lab tests, Dr. Geng

formulates personalized treatment strategies that target the underlying factors contributing to health issues.

Healthy Lifestyle

Modifications: At Medical Acucare, we understand the significance of healthy lifestyle changes in maintaining optimal well-being. Dr. Geng emphasizes the importance of stress management, enhancing sleep quality, initiating appropriate physical activity regimens, and nurturing spiritual and mental wellness. Additionally, we collaborate with local and remote health coaches and nutritionists to offer valuable tools for cultivating healthy habits, restoring self-assurance, and achieving enduring health success.

Acupuncture for Holistic Healing: Acupuncture has gained widespread acclaim for its efficacy in treating conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, migraines, insomnia, and other conditions. Moreover, acupuncture stimulates the release of beneficial hormones, including endorphins, promoting overall health, and restoring balance within the body. Dr. Geng

has successfully utilized acupuncture to address a wide range of health concerns, including anxiety and depression, chronic pain, indigestion, insomnia, obesity, and urinary incontinence. Its gentle and non-invasive nature, combined with Dr. Geng’s expertise, makes acupuncture a safe and effective treatment option.

Cosmetic Acupuncture for Natural Beauty: Experience breakthrough solutions for natural beauty and antiaging at Medical Acucare. Alongside traditional acupuncture treatments, our specialized acupuncture procedures deliver strikingly aesthetic results. Unlock your radiant, age-defying potential with the transformative power of cosmetic acupuncture.

Choose Medical Acucare for a personalized and comprehensive approach to your health. Dr. Geng and our dedicated team are here to guide you on your journey to optimal health and well-being. Contact us today to schedule a complementary consultation and start your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Medical Acucare, 339 PrincetonHightstown Rd, Building C, East Windsor NJ 08512 www.medicalacucare. com. See ad, page 6.

Hamilatte Community Focused Coffee and a Health Conscious Menu Coming This Summer to Route 33 in Hamilton

Coffee is the quintessential superfood for people all over the world. Whether you have a cup of joe to kick off the day, have a cup with dessert to cap off a big meal, or even have a drink before your work out, coffee is a healthy way to boost energy and comes loaded with several lesser-known nutritional benefits. In recent years, research has proven that the high antioxidant content of coffee can improve life expectancy and reduce the risk of certain diseases, including Parkinson’s, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Lastly, taking a break to share a great cup of coffee with family and friends can do wonders for our mental health in our busiest and most stressful days, which is what led one local couple, Karen and Adam Elias, to use coffee as a way to connect with their community.

Jamesbrew Cafe, located on West Railroad Avenue in Jamesburg, opened last November,and has quickly become a staple in the community. Jamesbrew serves great coffee, espresso, and tea beverages, along with a variety of pastries, cakes and gelato, all while celebrating the rich history and promising future of the historic borough. Their signature Railroad Roast and Buckelew Cold Brew,

along with every other drink on their menu, are aptly named after the iconic landmarks and families who built Jamesburg and left a lasting impression on generations to follow. Jamesbrew’s doors are always open for community sponsorships, and they continue to host fun events for the neighborhood like chess club tournaments, book signings, fundraisers, art shows and more. You can pop in on the weekend and enjoy Karaoke Night every Thursday and support local musicians that play live music every Friday and Saturday night with the option for patrons to BYOB.

Given the positive reception of Jamesbrew among residents of Jamesburg and neighboring towns, Karen and Adam are already on their way to opening café number two. Hamilatte, opening this summer on Route 33 in Hamilton, will have all Jamesbrew’s offerings but with a special nod to the living story of Hamilton. Hamilatte will go one step further with a health-conscious menu in collaboration with Hamilton native Sinclair Jones, creating the most inclusive environment for patrons of all dietary needs.

Be BIO café was established by Jones in 2019 and specializes in vegan, gluten free and sugar-free desserts. The name means “beautiful inside out;” that the beauty process comes from within. Be BIO is guided by the philosophy that quality taste should not be sacrificed in the pursuit of a healthier diet. All

BIO goods served at Hamilatte will be baked fresh with no unnecessary ingredients or preservatives. Hamilatte will also serve specialty and custom ordered baked goods that may not always be listed on its menu. Hamilatte’s coffee will be USDA organic certified, while desserts that are vegan and gluten free, using organic ingredients and garbanzo bean flour to make the Hamilatte experience exceptionally delightful and nutritious for all patrons.

Stay tuned for the grand opening in just a few weeks! More information: www.hamilatte.com.

See ad, page 7

To

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To book a classified ad in this section, please email your text and any other information to mdurelli@communitynews.org. Classifieds run at 75 cents per word with a $20 minimum per month. For more information, call 609-396-1511, ext. 105.

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office space For Rent: Pennington ground floor office space 32 N Main Street. Share with clinical psychologist and real estate management company. Private entrance, off street parking. 305-968-7308

Princeton Commercial Retail Spaces for Lease: Various Locations in Town. Please Contact: Weinberg Management.

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if

Because you’d go to the ends of the earth to make sure he got care like that. And so do we.

he had cancer, you would go to the ends of the earth to get him the best treatment.

We’d like to make

and are making an

to provide the community with the best in barbershop services. Walk-ins are welcome anytime or call for an appointment if you prefer. Online appointments also available through Booksy.com. Visit our website for details.

Stafford runs a personal best to win MOC gold

By Rich Fisher

From the depths of despair to the top of the world. It sounds like the plot of some corny Hallmark movie, but it was a real-life scenario for Mekhi Stafford.

As injuries and other circumstances kept knocking him down, Stafford was starting to feel at one point as if his track & field career was destined to go nowhere. “It was just like something was trying to stop me from racing to my full potential,” he said. “I had so much potential, I’ve still got so much more potential. But something was holding me back. It’s pretty frustrating, it makes you want to give up but I feel like my will and my drive helped me keep it up.”

It all came to fruition on June 15 at Franklin High School, when the Ewing High senior ran a personal best 10.5 to win the gold medal at the NJSIAA Meet of Champions. It was Stafford’s first MOC appearance since winter track in his freshman year. His day started with graduation practice so “I was pretty chill” driving up to Franklin. But then things got dicey, as Mekhi ran a 10.9 in his preliminary heat. He won his group but was fifth overall after being the top seed entering the race.

“It was a slow start, it felt like a pretty bad race,” he said. “I’m not gonna lie, I was scared for a little bit. I had a pretty bad lane as well, I had lane two.”

Going into the finals he worked to refocus himself. “I got out and got a blazing start and after that it was over,” he said. “It was my start that won it all. The first 20 meters I had it. I didn’t see anybody after that.”

It was all a matter of clearing his mind of the sub-par prelim race, which he did by doing what he always does—turn to faith. “I came into the race today knowing God has to be good for me,” Stafford said. “I’m a pretty religious guy, I thought God was testing me; seeing how I would react. But I was gonna keep trusting him, I knew he had something for me and he showed that. I had to come back and really put it down, and I did that.”

Prior to the MOC, coach Dan Montferrat had no worries about Stafford’s confidence level. “Confidence is key for any great athlete and with the way Mekhi has been going out, competing, and executing on the track; it’s special,” Montferrat said. “He’s performing at an all-time high right now.”

It was the perfect finish to what could safely be termed an imperfect career for the snake-bitten Stafford.

After being the fastest kid in the neighborhood when his family moved from Trenton to Ewing, the youngster decided to try track at Fisher Middle School. His sixth-grade year was foreshadowing of things to come as a broken pinkie and a concerned mom prevented him from running.

He started in earnest in seventh grade, and Montferrat already saw that confidence brimming.

“I can still remember meeting Mekhi during a Fisher spring meet,” the coach said. “He was long jumping, but didn’t shy away in telling me about how fast he was and how he wanted to be one of the best to come through Ewing. From middle school until now he has always had a confidence that has separated him from his competitors.”

Stafford burst on the scene as a freshman, taking second at the Central Jersey Group III and the Group III state indoor meets before finishing eighth in the Meet of Champions.

Little did he realize he would not be back to an MOC until his final high school season.

“As a freshman, he had an outstanding winter/indoor season and we were all very excited for what the spring was going to bring,” Montferrat said. “Unfortunately Covid shut that down.”

And that was just the start.

After playing football his freshman year, Stafford quit, saying “Track was just screaming my name.”

But. . .

“Sophomore year I had hypertension, the doctor wouldn’t clear me so I couldn’t run at all that year,” Stafford said.

Mekhi returned for his junior indoor season and took second in the 55 in both the sectionals and states; but a pulled hamstring kept him out of the MOC. He did manage to compete at Nationals and took second in the Emerging Elite division.

“That made me feel like I could accomplish more,” he said. “It showed me what I could actually do.”

In the spring, Stafford took second in the county meet in the 100 and first at the sectionals before a dirt bike accident ruined his chances to go further.

“By then I was just overly stressed from track, mentally,” he said. “I just cut my season short and tried to come back healthy for this year.”

He came back strong. This past winter campaign he finished second in the 55 in sectionals and states, but was again denied

a MOC berth due to a pulled hamstring. At that point, the sprinter knew he had to do something, and began therapy on the right leg that was giving him so much trouble.

“It actually works so now I’ve been doing better with that,” he said. “It’s really unorthodox. It’s finding a way to get more oxygen to your muscles. It’s hard to explain. But it left me pretty relaxed. It was a lot of focus, a lot of slow breathing, technical breathing.”

It helped breathe new life into the hamstring and the runner.

“Coming into this year I kept my confidence to a certain level so I wouldn’t get too arrogant,” Stafford said. “I always respected the competition in every single race. So my whole goal this year was to do what I could to execute.”

That goal included winning everything in sight.

“His goals for this season were to be at the top – county, section, state, and even beyond,” Montferrat said. “He did everything he needed to to get himself to that point; mentally and physically. Although he didn’t run at counties (due to the prom) he showed everyone just how at the top of his game he was the weekend before at the (Mercer) Coaches Classic and he continued to be that way through his NJSIAA post-season run.”

Stafford won the Coaches Classic in what was then a PR of 10.60, and claimed gold

in the sectionals (10.69) and states (10.6) before busting out with his latest PR of 10.56 at the MOC.

Although 100 and 200 are his main events, Mekhi has also done jumps, run the 400 and competed on numerous Ewing relay teams, including the 1600 SMR Relay that won the Mercer Meet and the 800 SMR Relay that qualified for New Balance Nationals. Stafford also qualified for the Nationals in the 100.

“What makes him such a good sprinter is his preparation and knowledge,” Montferrat said. “He warms up understanding what he needs to do to ensure his best possible race. He watches races over and over and pays close attention to his form, his mechanics, and is always looking to perfect it. He even talks to other runners about it and helps them in their forms and technique. He has shown great growth and progress every year on the track,”

He grew into the fastest 100 sprinter in New Jersey, as his MOC time was best in the state this spring.

“It feels so good,” he said shortly after the race. “It’s like, words can’t say how it feels. It feels like I’ve finally done it, I finally got what I deserved, got what I worked for all these years.”

It was a true tribute to his determination, work ethic and faith. He never lost it, and found a gold medal because of it.

Legacy member Carol Brenna presents Kiwanis' Annual check to Desiree Myers and Helen Tai, leaders of the LETs Girl Scouts Group.

Ewing Kiwanis supports Girl Scouts

Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays

Ask The Doctor

As warmer weather invites you to spend more time outdoors, Malini, Patel, MD, Director of Medical Oncology at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton Cancer Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, shares her best advice and simple habits which can drastically reduce your skin cancer risk and helps you still enjoy your day outside with some simple sun safety strategies.

Slather on sunscreen. Use it even on slightly cloudy or cool days, regardless of skin color. It contains chemicals that scatter sunlight’s UV rays. Apply 30 minutes before you go outside. A Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 is sufficient as long as the sunscreen is reapplied every two hours.

Dress for success. That includes

wearing a hat with a brim that shades your face, ears and the back of your neck, and loose-fitting, long-sleeved, tightly woven shirts and long pants. Wear a T-shirt on the beach whenever you aren’t in the water. Look for fabrics that have an Ultraviolet Protection Factor to guard against UV rays. Check yourself out. Regularly examine your skin for changes in moles during showers and in the mirror. Ask someone to check your back and neck, and if your hair is thinning, be sure to check your scalp as well. Watch the kids. The vast majority of sun exposure occurs before age 18, so help your children take the necessary sun protection steps and let them see you doing the same. Keep an eye on your eyes. Wraparound sunglasses are a great choice to protect eyes and skin around the eyes from UV rays.

Shun the brightest sun. When you’re outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., reduce your risk of skin damage by seeking shade under an umbrella, cabana, tree or other shelter.

RWJBarnabas Health and RWJ University Hospital Hamilton, together with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey—the state’s only NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center— provide close-to-home access to the latest treatment options. For more information, call 844. CANCERNJ or visit rwjbh.org/beatcancer. To learn more about Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, visit rwjbh. org/Hamilton or call 609-586-7900.

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

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

MONDay, JULy 19

Cooking with Cardiology. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Join us at this “hands on” lecture and learn about heart healthy cooking. Shakil Shaikh, DO, from Hamilton Cardiology Associates, will be cooking up food for thought.

TUESDay, JULy 11

So Bloated, I Could Fly Like a Balloon. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Shivaprasad Marulendra, MD, board-certified in Internal Medicine, fellowship-trained in Gastroenterology will discuss the common issue of abdominal bloating.

WEDNESDay, JULy 12

Orthopedic Open House. 6:30 to 8 p.m. Discover the latest advances in knee and hip replacement surgery and rehabilitation. Presented by James Scott, DO, board-certified orthopaedic

surgeon; Maureen Stevens, PT, DPT, GCS, Cert MDT; and Courtney Fluehr, PT DPT.

TUESDay, JULy 18

Detox your Life and Get Energized. 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. It’s time to unlock the door to a healthier, happier lifestyle so that a better version of you can shine through. Get the keys of how to detox through nutrition, beauty, home environment and the mind. Gail Leslie, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach.

WEDNESDay, JULy 19

It’s Summer! Why am I Stressed Out? 4 to 5 p.m. Discussion group about dealing with the stress of summer. Vacations, body image, kids at home, etc. Easy tips and different strategies one can employ for coping.

THURSDay, JULy 20

Knowledge Café: Peripheral artery Disease (PaD) and Wound Care. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) affects more than 12 million people and can be problematic for those with chronic wounds. Join Reza Shah, DO, FACOS, FACS, FAPWA, CMET to learn about the world of PAD and wound care. Dinner will be provided.

TUESDay, JULy 25

The Link Between Hearing Loss and DementiaCan Hearing aids Save your Brain? 10 to 11 a.m. According to several major studies, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, compared to those with normal hearing. Audiologist, Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., will discuss options with you.

Better Health Programs

Registration required for all programs. Must be a Better Health Member. Call (609) 584-5900 or go to rwjbh.org/events.

WEDNESDay, JULy 5

Let’s Talk, a Senior Social Group. Also July 12, 19 & 26. 10 to 11 a.m. Please join us for our ongoing program “Let’s Talk, a Senior Social Group,” gathering in a collaborative setting to exchange thoughts, feelings and experiences amongst peers. This is a safe zone designed to be welcoming and understanding of all attendees while exploring this season of our lives – the ups and the challenges. This group is a partnership between RWJ University Hospital Hamilton and the PsycHealth Associates here in Hamilton. This is a weekly program. Please feel free to attend one or all.

FRIDay, JULy 7

Salt, Fat, acid, Heat: Watch Party & Discussion. Also July 14, 21 & 28. 11 a.m. to noon. Join this 4-week program to watch the popular series “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat.” Each week we explore one of these 4 central principals of flavor. Watch and discuss how to incorporate the elements into delicious dishes! Taryn Krietzman, RDN.

THURSDay, JULy 13

Socrates Café. 10 to 11 a.m. “Socrates Café” is about discussing a topic, sharing our thoughts, our beliefs, our ideas, and experiences. An unofficial mantra describes that we (people) learn more when we question, and question with others. This is a “safe zone” to share where all views are accepted.

Dr. Patel

We’re so proud to offer our residents the nationally ranked best of the best – from quality dining to active social calendars –because we don’t just care for you, we care about you. Visit us and see why The Landing of Hamilton was named a Best Assisted Living Community by U.S. News & World Report.

Call 609-241-9538 today for more information and to schedule your visit.

Senior Corner

July 2023

ALL PROGRAMS HELD AT HOLLOWBROOK COMMUNITY CENTER, 320 HOLLOWBROOK DRIVE

MONDAYS

10 AM Exercise- Karen Martin

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

1 PM Jewelry/Craft-Anne’s

TUESDAYS

10 AM Exercise- Karen Martin

12:30 PM Bible Study — Hiatus ( July & August )

12:30 PM Bingo

1 PM Senior Scholars

WEDNESDAYS

9:30 AM Knitting/Crochet

11 AM Chair Yoga- Lisa Caruso

1 PM Mexican Train

10:30-1 PM Water Color - Ally Lyons Mercer County Library– Ewing Branch

2 PM Mahjongg - Christine Kamph

THURSDAYS

10 AM Exercise - Karen Martin

1 PM Pinochle - Mercer County Library– Ewing Branch

1 PM Rummikub

1 PM Balance Class - Bob Kirby

1 PM Bid Whist

1:30 PM Learn Chrome/OS

FRIDAYS

9:30 AM Line Dancing – Joanne Keephart

12:30 PM Circuit Training– Jeff Prunetti ( $5 session) — Hiatus July and August

SENIOR CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMISSION (SCAC): 3RD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH, General Body 10 AM meeting is open to the public. — Hiatus July and August

CLUBS: — Hiatus July and August

Live Wires—11 AM ( 2ND Thursday of the month) RM# 201-202

Busy C’s—11 AM ( 3RD Tuesday of the month) RM# 201-202

Club D—11 AM (1st Thursday of the month) RM# 201-202

HB Seniors—1 PM (2ND Friday of the month) RM# 201-202

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. Contact Ms. Wanda (609) 883-4150.

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.

A mermaid in the water

ILENE BLACK

BETTING ON BLaCK

I and two of my friends have signed up for twice a week Group Aquatics Exercise classes with Simply Fit at Schafer Sports Center in Ewing. On dry land, I am—how shall I put this—clumsy.

I trip over non-existent obstacles. I run into things. I bang my elbow on an almost daily basis. I have almost fallen over putting on my underwear. (Sorry. TMI.) I actually have punched myself in the chin pulling on knee high compression socks. In short, I am not graceful. On dry land.

But I am a mermaid when I enter a pool. It’s my element. I glide gracefully in the water, gently kicking and paddling with barely a splash. I am an ethereal vision to behold. No smacking into stuff or tripping or slipping or falling over. Or so I thought.

On the first day of class, my friends Pam, Jody and I stood in the very back of the pool. The instructor spied us and asked, “Are you three new?” We said yes. She then told us to move up front so we could hear and see better. Alright. No problem. After all, I’m a mermaid. So we slogged through the water up to the front. And the class began. We jogged in place in the water. Not bad. Not bad at all. The beautifully warm water gently lapped at me as I jogged in place. How relaxing. How soothing. How very pleasant.

Then the real exercises started. I learned something very quickly. Like, immediately after the jogging. Exercising in water is NOT as easy as I thought.

The resistance of the “gently lapping warm water” is considerable. Let’s face it. That’s the whole POINT of aquatics exercise. But I’m a mermaid, so I was confident I’d have no trouble whatsoever.

Here’s something else I learned about myself. Apparently I have trouble knowing my left from my right. While everyone was lunging to their left, I was lunging to my right. This meant that when I looked up, everyone in the class was looking my way. Nineteen pairs of eyes fixed on me as I tried to gracefully switch my movements to the correct side. “Stop looking at me!”

And balance. Trying to keep my balance during some of the exercises was tough. I fought against the impulse to windmill my arms to prevent me from doing a face-plant in the water. I’d like to add that mermaids do not have this problem. They have a tail. I do not have a tail last time I checked.

Buoyant barbells are used in the class to strengthen the arms. You have to keep them submerged the whole time while performing the exercises. Sounds like a piece of cake, right? About 2 minutes into the barbell workout, I was talking to myself. I was muttering “These things are the DEVIL,” “Holy crap, this is hard,” and “I’ll never be able to make a fist again.” But once I got used to it, I enjoyed it. I did, however, have some trouble gripping everyday objects for a day or so afterwards but that eventually wore off. And after the second class, I had no difficulty at all. Because I am a mermaid, doggone it.

We had to grasp a foam pool noodle and jog around the pool. Again, it sounds simple. It’s not. I felt like everyone had morphed into Usain Bolt all of a sudden. My classmates were jogging easily and rapidly, while I felt like I was moving in slow motion. I was afraid I would create a traffic jam in the pool, so I kept saying, “Pass me. Go ahead. Pass me.” Then we had to reverse and jog against the current we had made. I felt like lifting my feet and just floating, me and my noodle. But I would have slammed into several of my classmates so I went with the flow, or should I say I went against the flow.

Afterwards, I felt invigorated, energized, proud. I absolutely loved the class! So far, we have attended three classes and we are having a blast. I can’t wait till class day every week!

After all, I AM a mermaid.

Ilene Black has been a resident of Ewing for most of her life and lives across the street from her childhood home. She and her husband, George, have two sons, Georgie and Donnie.

Back to the farm(s)

HELEN KULL

We’ve spent many months exploring the Delaware River and areas along the Delaware and Raritan Feeder Canal in Ewing and beyond. And over the past month, I’ve personally explored the joys of becoming a grandmother!

But now it’s time to return to exploring the history of Ewing, and what better source than for us to check in with the Ewing Township Historic Preservation Society! There are wonderful new things happening on Federal City Road at the Benjamin Temple House, the home of the ETHPS. After the retirement several months ago of their dedicated, long-time site manager Ellie Calcagno, a new site manager has been hired who is excited about helping to share the stories of Ewing’s history, and the Board is working hard to support that effort. Additionally, progress is proceeding rapidly on completion of the Ewing Museum.

A return to more “normal” life after COVID is also ushering in a return to regular ETHPS programming. There’s a fascinating program coming up this month — with free ice cream! Long-time residents of Ewing, or regular readers of this column, will know that before World War II, much of Ewing was dairy farms. Despite neighboring the state capital, Ewing was relatively rural, and its farms provided milk and other dairy products to the region.

A panel of history-minded residents with knowledge of and connections to those farms will discuss dairy farming in Ewing and beyond on Sunday, July 9 at 2 p.m. at the Temple House at Drake Farm, 27 Federal City Rd. This free event will feature historic photos, and local ice cream will be served after the program.

The expert panelists assembled for this event will include Linda Evans Brown, Jim Burd, Marion Zajac and Carol Vernam Hill.

Linda Evans Brown is a lifelong resident of Ewing whose family has lived here for many generations. She has precious memories of time on her grandfather’s dairy farm before it became part of Route 295 on the Ewing/Pennington border.

Linda will give a broad overview of how Ewing grew from farmland to suburbs, and discuss the preservation of a small dairy farmhouse which has become the home of the ETHPS. Passionate about history, she is the Liaison between the Ewing Township Historic Commission and the ETHPS.

Jim Burd grew up surrounded by family working on the Schmidt Dairy Farm on Federal City and Bull Run Road. He worked summers and weekends, helping with the

steer and tending to horses used on the farm. He and his brother Jeff both married Schmidt sisters who hailed from the Schmidt dairy farms.

Marion Zajac, the mother of the new site manager at the Temple House, grew up on a dairy farm in Salem County, NJ. She was involved in helping with the daily tasks of caring for the herd, and was familiar with the general operations. Originally owned by her grandfather, the farm remains in operation to this day, having been sold to Amish families.

Carol Vernam Hill comes from a long line of families who thrived on farms in the greater Ewing area. After college, Carol met her husband while on a Vernam Dairy milk delivery route. She is a long-time member of the ETHPS who served as President for several years, and is a dedicated and knowledgeable advocate for Ewing’s history. She will focus on the bottling, storage and delivery of milk and milk products— including a discussion of the busy dairy depot once located at the corner of Olden and Prospect Avenues.

Driving around town — perhaps down Pennington Road to Olden Avenue, left out Olden to Parkside, and up Parkside Avenue on to Ewingville Road and across Pennington to Upper Ferry Road — it can be very hard to imagine much of that same landscape as dairy farms.

If you’d like to gain a better understanding and image of that Ewing of yesteryear, join us at this free event, Sunday July 9 at 2 p.m. at the historic 1750 Benjamin Temple House on Federal City Road. Questions? Call 609883-2455, or email info@ethps.org.

Ewing Recreation July 2023

The Ewing Recreation and Community Affairs Departments are now located back at ESCC, 999 Lower Ferry Road. The offices are in a trailer next to the pool. The summer office hours are 8:00am – 4:00pm, weekdays.

The Ewing Recreation Summer Camp will run from June 26 – August 25 for grades K – 5 and is held on the grounds of the Fisher School and Ewing Sr. & Community Center (ESCC). Hours are from 8:30 –4:30pm, Monday – Friday. Early hours are from 7:30-8: 30am and late hours are from 4:30 - 6:00pm. Online registration is required at communitypass.net. Teen Travel will be for grades 6 – 8 and run from July 5 – August 11.

The Ewing Community Pools System offers two pools for seasonal members and daily patrons. The Hollowbrook Pool located at 320 Hollowbrook Drive, operating hours are Sunday – Friday. Saturdays are reserved for private parties. ESCC Pool 999 Lower Ferry Rd. is open daily. Both pools are open 12 – 8pm. Online registration for seasonal memberships, Senior

Swim/Water Aerobics is required 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/ Veteran’s 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. Banchoff Park is not available for rent.

The ESCC, 883-1776x2 and Hollowbrook Community Center, 8831199 have 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) 8831776, 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.

Helen Kull serves as an advisor for the Ewing Township Historic Preservation Society.

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