9-23 EO

on the field

State sets aside $5 million for ESCC reconstruction

By BiLL SANserViNO

Ewing Mayor Bert Steinmann and members of Township Council joined with state and county officials to celebrate the receipt of $5 million for the reconstruction of the Ewing Senior and Community Center.

A large portion of the center was razed by a fire in September.

“We’re very grateful today to be here,” said Steinmann to the assembled crowd at the Aug. 14

how far would you go if they were sick?

Jon “Big Dawg” Adams, the former Nottingham coach and athletic director who retired in June, was expected to be approved by the Ewing school board as the an assistant football coach at EHS in August. For more on Adams and the team, turn to Page 17. (Photo by Wes Kirkpatrick.)

Welcome to Capital Health.

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

event. “Now, I have to be honest with you, I’d rather not be standing here today. I’d rather be standing in front of a building that’s still functional. Unfortunately, we’re not at that point now, but we are well on the way for reconstruction as we go on.”

Township officials have said that Ewing has already raised some $10 million towards the project—about half the estimated price tag. The township plans to fund the reconstruction

through insurance, government grants, and donations from the local corporate community.

In addition to the presentation of a ceremonial $5 million check, the event also featured architectural drawings of the new building by DIGroup, the New Brunswick-based firm that the township is working on with the process. (See image on page 9.) DIG was represented at the event by President Vince MeySee ESCC, Page 8

Project looks to rehabilitate area Jewish cemeteries

By MicheLe ALPeriN

When attorney Albert Stark refurbished the graves of his great-grandparents, Samuel and Bessie Stark, little did he know how profoundly this act of respect would affect both himself and other descendants of the once-vibrant Trenton Jewish community.

As others followed Stark’s example and restored family grave sites, a number of native

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

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

Trentonians came together, Stark says, “to do for the others what we had done for our own families.”

They created the Greater Trenton Jewish Cemetery Project in 2018 to rehabilitate five “orphaned” cemeteries on Pitman Avenue in Hamilton, and in February 2021 added People of Truth Memorial Section on Cedar Lane in Hamilton.

The project also committed itself to researching the peo-

ple buried in these cemeteries and educating the wider public about them and the community they represent.

The work is ongoing in the cemeteries, whose graves date back to 1857. Much of the heavy landscaping that cleared brush and trees was completed in fall 2019.

Many fallen and tilting headstones have been reset and sunken areas filled in. New fenc-

COMMUNITY FEST 2023

COMMUNITY FEST 2023

KidZone inflatables

KidZone inflatables

Bike Rodeo Games

Bike Rodeo Games

Music Crafts Vendors Food

Music Crafts Vendors Food

Saturday, September 30 10 a.m.–4 p.m. on TCNJ’s campus

Saturday, September 30 10 a.m.–4 p.m. on TCNJ’s campus

Fun for the whole family!

Fun for the whole family!

To learn more, become a vendor, or volunteer, visit communityfest.tcnj.edu.

To learn more, become a vendor, or volunteer, visit communityfest.tcnj.edu.

THE TOWNSHIP OF EWING AND THE COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY INVITE YOU TO

Parkway School teacher’s book aims to

teach kids a lesson

EDiTeD By BiLL SANserViNO

Eric Thomas, an award-winning teacher at Parkway Elementary School, has just released a new children’s book that celebrates the diversity of talents in communities across the world.

“Standing Tall” brings awareness to overlooked skills through a fun narrative about two dynamically different young men.

In the book, two brothers, Afolabi and Bongani, live in the African country of Malawi. Afolabi is incredibly tall, strong and fast. He has exceptional talent on the basketball court and colleges in the United States are clamoring to recruit him. His dream is to one day play for the NBA and gain fame and fortune to help his community.

Bongani is much shorter than his brother and does not play basketball all that well, but his talent as a carpenter and craftsman is unmatched.

When Afolabi returns home from college

Ewing

AroUND toWN Observer

abroad, he receives a hero’s welcome. Then, a huge storm blows in, souring the celebration and leaving the community in shambles. Afolabi feels powerless to help lift the spirits of his people, but his brother Bongani has a plan to give Afolabi and the community the hope and help that it needs.

Thomas said he aims to teach children the value of never forgetting where you came from and never taking the talents of others for granted.

His children’s book challenges kids to see skill sets that often do not lead to fame and fortune as just as worthy of celebration as the glamorous talents people often idolize like that of professional athletes.

“Written in fun rhyme especially for to 3rd5th grade students, this book helps teach respect and admiration for the different talents of others,” said a news release from Palmetto Publishing, the publisher of Thomas’ book.

See AROUND TOWN, Page 5

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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NOTICE TO PERSONS WANTING MAIL-IN BALLOTS

If you are a qualified and registered voter of Mercer County, New Jersey who wants to vote by mail in the General Election to be held on November 7, 2023, the following applies:

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

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

• No person may serve as an authorized messenger or bearer for more than three qualified voters in an election but a person may serve as such for up to

Dated: September 12, 2023,Paula

five qualified voters in an election if those voters are immediate family members residing in the same household as the messenger or bearer.

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

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

• Voters who want to vote by mail in all future elections will, after their initial request and without

further action on their part, be provided with a mail-in ballot until the voter requests otherwise in writing.

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

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

Sollami Covello, Mercer County Clerk, 209 S. Broad St., Election Dept., P.O. Box 8068, Trenton, NJ

Thomas has been an elementary school teacher in New Jersey for 24 years, and three different schools have honored him with a “Teacher of the Year” award.

He has also been honored with the “Community Cares Award” as given by the Three Doctors Foundation. When Eric is not in his classroom, he can also be found teaching percussion, participating in storytelling, tap dancing, or promoting local jazz events.

“Standing Tall” is available for purchase online at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.

Ewing green team to host annual Fall Spin bike tour

Mayor Bert Steinmann, the Ewing Green Team, and the Ewing Community Affairs Department have announced the ninth annual Ewing Fall Spin bike tour, to be held on Saturday, Sept. 30 starting at 8:15 a.m.

The event will kick off Ewing Township’s annual Community Day at The College of New Jersey from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The bike tour will start and end at Campus Town at TCNJ. All proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to Meals on Wheels of Mercer County.

Individuals or teams, ages 18 years and older are encouraged to register early as there is a maximum number of 60 riders

allowed.

“We would love participants to sign up as individuals or come as a team of friends, family members or co-workers,” says Green Team member and Bike Tour chairperson Garry Keel.

The Fall Spin registration fee is $25 prior to Sept. 23 and $30 thereafter. All persons registering by Sept. 23 will receive a T-shirt. Day-of-event registration will begin at 7:45am.

Participants will enjoy a leisurely paced, 12-mile ride throughout Ewing Township neighborhoods. The tour will be escorted by Ewing Township Police, and rest stops and free bike inspections will be available.

The Ewing Green Team (ewinggreenteam.org) was established in 2009 by municipal resolution under the auspices of the Ewing Environmental Commission, and is part of the statewide Sustainable Jersey effort (sustainablejersey.com).

“The Ewing Green Team envisions a township that incorporates sustainability into the actions and decision-making processes of community members and municipal offices to create and maintain sustainable ways of living; builds strong and diverse economic opportunities; and cultivates a community that welcomes people from all walks of life,” said a Green Team news release.

For more information on the Fall Spin, go

See AROUND TOWN, Page 6

Eugene Ryfinski, MD

Paul Walker, DO, FAAFP Maya Mann, PA-C

to ewinggreenteam.org/ewingfallspin, email ewinggreenteam@gmail.com or call Garry M. Keel at 609-771-9611.

TCNJ provides school supplies to local students

As the summer winds down and attention shifts towards a return to the classroom, the faculty of The College of New Jersey’s School of Education is making sure students in local communities have the tools they need to begin the school year.

Through their annual “Backpack Project,” faculty collect donations and purchase school supplies and backpacks that are distributed to students in the Trenton area through community partners Homefront, Fathers and Men United, and Eastern Service Workers Association.

“We want to make sure that the students in our community are starting school with confidence, and the materials that they’ll need to be successful,” said Maureen Connolly, associate professor of secondary education and coordinator of the project.

Supplies provided include notebooks, folders, pens, pencils, erasers, sticky notes, crayons, colored pencils and other materials to help students show up ready on their first day of classes.

In a typical year about 30 TCNJ School of Education faculty members participate by donating and organizing backpacks, and many have even recruited family members to help maximize the impact.

“The project includes everything from gathering donations and purchasing the supplies to filling the backpacks and delivering them to our community partners,” Connolly said. He estimates that 450 backpacks have been distributed to local students over the last nine years.

For more information or to donate

please visit the 2023 Backpack Project’s website at crowdfunding.tcnj.edu/ campaigns/2023-backpack-project.

Runway safety to be reviewed at TrentonMercer Airport

The Federal Aviation Administration will hold runway safety meetings at approximately 90 airports between now and the end of September.

The Trenton-Mercer Airport in Ewing is one of the facilities on the list.

“Sharing information is critical to improving safety,” said Tim Arel, chief operating officer of the FAA’s Air Traffic Organization. “These meetings, along with other efforts, will help us achieve our goal of zero close calls.”

During a Runway Safety Action Team meeting, airport stakeholders come together to identify unique risks to surface safety at that airport and develop plans to mitigate or eliminate those risks. Representatives from the FAA’s air traffic organization, airlines, pilots, airport vehicle drivers and others participate.

The meetings are the primary forum for pinpointing and addressing airport-specific risk in the surface environment. The product of the meeting is a Runway Safety Action Plan where stakeholders document and agree to pursue specific actions to improve surface safety.

The FAA issued a Safety Call to Action in February following a string of incidents. Following the Safety Summit in March, the agency has undertaken a series of safety initiatives. The summit resulted in a commitment from the FAA and aviation community to pursue a goal of zero serious close calls. The same approach virtually eliminated the risk of fatalities aboard U.S. commercial airlines.

RWJUH Hamilton September Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

HOW AND WHEN TO BE YOUR OWN HEALTH ADVOCATE

Mon., September 11, 11:00am to 12:00pm

Join Lisa Cruser, LPN, Nurse Advocate and owner of Empowering Patients Advocacy Group while she discusses how to navigate the healthcare system, how to ask for and get a second opinion, and how to advocate for yourself and others. FREE

DOES THE RINGING IN YOUR EARS DRIVE YOU CRAZY?

Tue., September, 12; 10:00 to 11:00am

25 million Americans suffer from Tinnitus and sound sensitivity. Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., A.B.A. as she discusses the phenomenon of Tinnitus and Sound Sensitivity Syndrome and various treatment options for relief.

NO MORE FOOD FIGHTS

Tue., September 12; 10:00 to 11:00am

We are talking about picky eating! Mealtime doesn’t have to be a battle. Let’s explore the most current and effective tactics for healthy & peaceful meals.

WHAT IS THIS PAIN IN THE BUTT?

Wed., September 13; 6:00 to 7:30pm

David Surrey, MD from Rothman Orthopedics will discuss sciatic pain. Find out symptoms and treatment for this common condition. Dinner will be provided.

JOURNEY THROUGH THE CHAKRAS

Thu., September 14; 6:00 to 8:00pm

Chakras are energy centers in our bodies, each corresponding to different traits, illness and times of development. Come explore how we can harness the power of these chakras for good health and vitality!

Michelle Gerdes, Princeton Doula Center, YT200. $15

ASK THE DIETITIAN

Mon., Sept. 18th 2023; 3:00 to 6:00pm Do you have a question about diet and nutrition? Join a community education dietitian for a one-on-one Q&A. Registration is required. Taryn Krietzman, RDN

FALL MEDICATION SERIES

Wednesdays, September 20 & 27, October 04; 2:00 to 3:00pm Learn about different classifications of medications in this 5 week series with our Pharmacists and Congestive Heart Failure Coordinator.

Week 1, September 20: Safe Medication

administration: Penny Wasylyk, Pharm D. BCPS

Week 2, September 27: Anticoagulants: Safe administration and precautions: Patricia Hafitz, RPh. CACP

Week 3, October 4: Cardiac Meds: Safe administration and precautions: Ann Mancuso, MSN RN CHFN

Week 4, October 11: Diabetes Medications: Safe administration and precautions: Shesha Desai Pharm D. BC-ADM

Week 5, October 18: Pain Medications: Safe administration and precautions: Dave Appel, Pharm D

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS

Wed., September 20; 1:00 to 2:00pm

Learn how to rest your body and quiet your mind with the simple (although not always easy) practice of meditation. No experience necessary.

HEALTHRYTHMS® DRUMMING CIRCLE

Wed, September 20; 7:00 to 8:00pm

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 DANCE IT OUT!

Wed., September 25; 1:00 to 2:00pm When in doubt, dance it out! Find your rhythm and ease the everyday stresses of life with movement. All ages welcome, no experience required.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX? **VIRTUAL**

Wed., September 26, October 3; 12:00 to 1:00pm

All things seasonal, all the time! Learn what wonderful fruits and vegetable are up to this time of year and how to make them shine! Taryn Krietzman, RDN

MANAGING STRESS AND DIABETES

Wed., September 27– 3:00 to 4:00pm

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

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MEDITATION?

Wed., September 27; 6:00 to 7:30pm

The practice of focused concentration, known as meditation, brings yourself back to the moment over and over again. Explore the benefits of meditation in this informational session with optional demonstration. Matt Masiello, CCH, founder of Esteem Hypnocounseling, will guide the group through this practice.

WISE WOMEN DISCUSSION GROUP

Thu., September 28; 1:30 to 2:30pm

Join a community of women as we discuss relevant topics and find purpose, meaning and community. “Patti McDougall, BSN, RN

COLOR ME HOOPY: HOOLA HOOP FOR FUN AND FITNESS

Thu., September 28; 6:00 to 7:00pm

This is a very popular class, and with good reason; it’s so much fun. Hoola Hooping is so much easier with an “adult sized” hoop and the right instruction. Learn skills and techniques, hoops provided. Angela Reitter, certified Hoop Love Coach and Hoola-Fit Instructor. Fee- $15

THE AARP DRIVING COURSE

Tue., October 2; 9:00am to 3:00pm

Be a safer, better driver. Bring your NJ or PA driver’s license. Fee: $20 for AARP members presenting a valid AARP card; $25 for nonmembers. Cash or check only to AARP.

FALL MINI MEDICAL SCHOOL

Tuesdays, September 12, 19, 26, October 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31; 6-7 p.m.

*Must attend all 8 session to receive certificate of completion *

Week 1; September 12: Gregory Cox, MD, goes through the intricate anatomy of the human eye.

Week 2 September 19: Adam Thompson, DO, will discuss how to guide the body back to health after an injury, through non-surgical alternatives.

Week 3; September 26: Maureen Stevens, DPT, and Ashley Sarrol, MS, CCC-SLP, will be discussing how Physical Therapy and Speech Therapy works in unison with other medical modalities.

Week 4; October 3: Michael Duch, MD, will have you learning visually with various MRI images and how to interpret each.

Week 5; October 10: Marc Levine, MD, goes through the spine and how surgery can enhance your mobility and improve quality of life.

Week 6; October 17: John Dibiase, MD, speaks on Sports Medicine and common injuries that can affect anyone, not just athletes.

Week 7; October 24: Javier Villota, MD, will enlighten you on what travel medicine entails and exactly what is needed when visiting abroad.

Week 8; October 31: Review and diplomas.

Better Health Programs/Complimentary Membership at 65+ Years Old

YOGA CLASSES (BEGINNER’S WELCOME)

Tue., September 5 & 19; 10:00 to 11:00am

MEDITATION CLASSES, Tue., September 19; 11:15 to 11:45am

LET’S TALK, A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Wed., September 6, 13, 20, & 27; 10:00 to 11:00am

SOCRATES CAFÉ, Wed., September 6; 2:00 to 3:00pm

GAME TIME

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

*Registration and free Membership required to attend the Better Health Programs

Thu., September 7; 2:00 to 3:30pm

THE TREE OF LIFE ART WORKSHOP

Tue., September 12, 1 to 2:30

Here we are ready to start the season of autumn. In this workshop, we will create the tree of life that speaks to you – its colors, branches, production of sprouts and/

or leaves. Bring pictures from magazines, your own photos, the colors you associate with your tree – paints, crayons and colored pencils. We will explore it all in this workshop and gain connection as we embrace this season together with Artist and Healing Art Instructor, Jane Zamost.

MAPS, APPS & YOU

Thu., September 14, 10:00 to 11:00 am Oh, the places you’ll go when the Greater Mercer Transportation Management Association teaches you how to navigate your transportation options. Learn to use technology to get around how and when you want!

TAI CHI CLASS (BEGINNER’S WELCOME)

Thu., September 14 and 28; 1:00 to 2:00pm

SARA ALI, MD,

HOSTS

A

“JEOPARDY

PARTY” LUNCH AND LEARN

Fri., September 22; Noon to 1:30pm Tables will compete as teams as we test your

knowledge on things important to our aging community. Don’t panic, this will be fun and interactive and there will even be prizes along with lunch. This program is sponsored by our valued partners, Brookdale Hamilton, Hamilton Grove, Platinum Homecare, and Serenity Hospice.

LEAN ON ME!

Tue., September 26, 11:00am to 12:00pm

As you are aging, are you wondering who to lean on to facilitate discussions about your wishes, providing comfort measures, assisting with legacy projects, writing that last letter to loved ones. An end-of-life doula is a trained and compassionate individual who provides emotional, practical, and spiritual support to individuals and their families helping create an end-of-life plan.

I’m excited for you to meet Sandra Roy, who has dedicated her life to serving the community. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, End-of Life Certification, Life Coach Certification, Clinical Pastoral

Education Certification from RWJBarnabas Health, and is working on her Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work. This is a program that you do not want to miss.

HELP, I CAN’T GET UP, LEARN HOW TO PREVENT THE FALLS

Thu., September 28; 10:00 to 11:30am

Please join our highly credentialed experts Dr. John DiBiase, Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., Maureen Stevens PT, DPT, GCS, Cert. MDT, Senior Physical Therapist, and Anthony Notaroberto, RWJ Fitness Personal Training Manager, when they share with you how to prevent a fall, common injuries, how to strengthen your body, and how to best treat your injuries so that you can successfully continue to enjoy your life. Refreshments will be served.

or call 609-584-5900 to learn more

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

We are here in a safe and clean environment for your Emergency Dental Needs! Call 609-454-6500 Stay Safe and Healthy

ers, a Ewing resident.

The company, which was named as firm of the year by the American Institute of Architects-New Jersey Chapter, has worked on a number of civic and community projects including the Vineland Police Department building, the Union County Goverment Complex and the Remsen Firehouse Visitor Center.

Steinmann said the project is being designed with the history of the site in mind. The property was previously the Trenton Jewish Community Center and featured historic bath houses designed by famous architect Louis Kahn. The bath houses were not impacted by the fire.

Steinmann has said that none of the building itself is historic, so the town doesn’t have to worry about regulations governing historic properties while rebuilding.

The renderings presented at the event showed several views of the planned outside of the building. Steinmann said they are still working on the design for the interior. “We’re having that discussions with some various partners that we have as to how we proceed to move forward,” the mayor said. “We are still working on the interior of the building as to exactly what is going to be inside, and we’re having those discussions with various partners as to

how we proceed.”

“As you can see, some demolition is taking place, but now the real stuff starts taking place,” said Council Vice President Kevin Baxter.

“As far as the fiduciary end of the project, we’re concerned, because although we have $5 million here, it’s going to take a little more to get this thing up and going,” Baxter said. “So we have to be very responsible about your tax dollars, which we hear every day.”

The $5 million was added to the 2023 state budget after township officials requested funding from state Senator Shirley Turner and assembly members Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Anthony Verrilli, all of whom were present at the ceremony. Also at the event were council members Jennifer Keyes-Maloney and Sarah Steward.

Said Turner: “We know how important a senior citizen and community center is to every community, but particularly here in Ewing Township, because so much used to happen in this building,” said Turner. “It was a hub of the community and our senior citizens, our special needs community, as well as our youth, participated in so many activities in this center.”

She also credited Steinmann with his perseverance in seeking funding for the project.

“Mayor, I have to say, you are the most important person who’s here today, not us, because you were the strongest advocate for this center and to get this funding,” Turner said. “You came to all of us, the three of us, and you impressed upon us the need to help in rebuilding this center.”

She said that Steinmann not only appealed to them, he also went to the statehouse in Trenton and testified before the Budget Committee.

“It’s a partnership,” she said. “It’s all levels of government working together to provide the needs of all of our communities.”

The ESCC suffered significant damage in an early-morning fire on Sept. 30. The five-alarm blaze destroyed the gymnasium and damaged other parts of the ESCC, rendering the facility unusable.

Firefighters were first dispatched to the center, located on Lower Ferry Road,

at about 3 a.m. on a report of an activated fire alarm. They arrived to find the gymnasium, located in the center of the building, fully engulfed in flames.

Firefighters and emergency services were called in from a number of neighboring municipalities to assist Ewing Township fire companies before the fire was finally declared under control several hours later. The fire, which caused a partial roof collapse, started in the gym.

The ESCC and outdoor facilities at the center remain closed, and most programs and offices, including Community Affairs and Recreation and the Senior Office, have been relocated to the Hollowbrook Community Center at 320 Hollowbrook Drive.

“At the end of the day, we have to build a building not only for today, not only for tomorrow, but for the very foreseeable future,” said Steinmann as he closed out the event. “As the councilman (Baxter) alluded to, it’s going to cost dollars, to be sure. That’s why I have been such a great advocate of chasing every dollar that I possibly can get to minimize the impact on the taxpayers of this town.

“I think we’re going to get there. I really do, but we need partners to do that. We’ve solicited with some of those partners, and I’m sure they’ll be many, many more to come.”

An architectural rendering of the reconstructed Ewing Senior and Community Center. The image was shown at an event on Aug. 14, 2023 conducted to celebrate the reciept of $5 million from the state towards the project.

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ing surrounds the five cemeteries and the old iron gates on Pitman Avenue have been cleaned up and repainted.

As impressive as this amazing reclamation is, what for Stark has been most important about this project is how it has create a shared consciousness of Trenton’s Jewish communal history.

“The theme of the project was never to forget what these people who were buried there did for the community and their progeny,” Stark says. “And ‘never to forget’ has created a need to discover what’s been forgotten.”

“Not many of my generation had the opportunity or took the opportunity to really explore their past with their parents or grandparents, because a lot of what they went through was the war years and before that the Depression, and not many of the grandparents wanted to talk about that,” Stark says.

This project, Stark says, “caused me to appreciate more what it took for the people who came before me to make it possible for me to accomplish what I’ve been able to accomplish.”

What did it take, he asks, for his greatgrandfather to leave his family in Vilnius to avoid a 35-year draft of thirty-five years and strike out on his own with no money, in his late teens or early 1920s

A conversation with his uncle about family, following his father’s death in 1994, inspired Stark to search for the grave of this great-grandfather, Samuel Meyer Stark, who settled in Trenton in 1878.

When Stark visited Samuel’s grave at the Brothers of Israel Cemetery at Liberty and Vroom Streets in Trenton, with his son-in-law Ryan Lilienthal, they were quite taken aback.

“We started going through the ivy that totally covered the grave, which had fallen over. We dusted it off, Ryan did a rubbing, and my great-grandfather’s name and date of death came up,” Stark said.

Walking through that cemetery, Stark

said, “I saw graves in terrible shape, fallen over, collapsed, and I said to myself, ‘This is terrible to see [the graves of] these people who were heroes who came to Trenton and made it possible for us to be who we are.’”

Stark later found the grave of Samuel’s wife, Bessie, in the Workmen’s Circle Cemetery on Pitman Avenue in Hamilton, one of five Jewish cemeteries that sat abandoned and in disrepair because the organizations and synagogues responsible for maintaining were defunct. Weather, rain and encroaching brush and tree roots had left this row of cemeteries with fallen and tilting headstones and sunken graves.

Followed the detailed advice offered by a cemetery consultant, local contractor David Servetah of the New Jersey Monument Company handled the actual handson work. But before work could even begin, Stark’s daughter, Rachel Lilienthal Stark, got in touch with the defunct organizations that technically remained the cemetery owners and worked out agreements that gave the cemetery project the right to rehabilitate the cemeteries.

The six cemeteries are now all clearly marked and readily identifiable to visitors. The five on Pitman Avenue were largely established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries; they belonged to two synagogues, Ahavath Israel and Anshe Emes (People of Truth); Workmen’s Circle Branch 90 (a social and cultural fraternal order for Jewish laborers), Beth Sholom (lodge of a national Jewish fraternal organization), and Young Judaea (chapter of U.S. Zionist youth organization).

As the most pressing issues were resolved on the ground, the education committee began planning programs to educate the community about the cemetery and the Trenton Jewish community that thrived for many years. Jews came to the city in three waves: Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition, German Jews between 1820 and 1840, and Russian and Eastern European Jews between 1881 and 1914.

Pettigrew, born in Rhode Island and a graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, with majors in music business and arranging. His songs focus on using God as a guiding light to many issues/crises we face today in our lives. With many references to the bible. Pettigrew is a World Vision Artist.

Last spring the cemetery project held a cemetery tour that included presentations by several descendants, including one by Stark’s grandson, Jacob Lilienthal, 14, about his great-grandmother.

“It was like a seance,” Stark recalls. They were telling the person’s story in first person.” A similar program, this time including students from area religious schools, is planned for April.

On Sunday, Oct. 15, in one of the cemeteries the project will be opening a “geniza,” a burial place for no-longerserviceable traditional and ritual objects that cannot be thrown away because they mention the name of God. Donation boxes at local synagogues and agencies will enabling area Jews to deposit such objects for future burial.

The project has also created a database on its website, gtjcp.org, that includes photographs of many of the stones as well as information about the people buried therein.

Stark’s family history in Trenton begins with his great-grandfather. Samuel worked first as a peddler in New York, visiting Trenton on weekends to purchase pottery to sell. In 1883 he moved to Trenton, where he became religious leader to nine German Jewish families who formed the core of what in 1883 became Brothers of Israel Synagogue.

Samuel’s son Louis lived for a period in New York, but returned to Trenton in 1906, where, with two partners, he opened a grocery that was successful until 1935, during the Depression, when Giant Tiger put it out of business. Louis moved on to the chicken business and later laundromats. Stark, born in 1939, was particularly close to his grandfather..

“My grandfather Lou was basically my father. I was born in 1939, and my father was away because of the war. My grandfather was the person that I related to... We went to Cadwalader Park every Sunday to the monkey house, to see the bears, and to get a balloon from Mendel, the balloon man.”

Stark’s father, Sidney, was an attorney, starting out in business law. “My father’s first case was his father’s bankruptcy,” Stark says. Later he represented people hurt at work. He served on the board of Har Sinai and as its vice president.

His mother, the first of the seven kids in her family to go to college, grew up in New Britain, CT, to attend Ryder College. She started work as a stenographer, worked as

Barber Barber Shop Shop

Albert Stark was a founder of the Greater Trenton Jewish Cemetery Project, which looks to rehabilitate area “orphaned” cemeteries.

legislation to set up the Community Affairs Department and the Housing and Finance Agency.

He then joined the City Attorneys office of Trenton mayor Arthur Holland, where he worked with Ronald Berman and Leonard Etz to redo the ordinances for urban development in Trenton. Stark then formed the first moderate income housing corporation in New Jersey, at Mercer Street Friends Center, which led to three large developments—Kingsbury, Trent Center West, and Luther Towers— but funding was cut off for that type of housing during the Reagan years, Stark says He also worked with city planner and developer Alvin Gershen as lawyer for his projects.

In 1966, Stark married his wife, Ellen, and in 1967, their son, Jared, was born; their daughter Rachel arrived two years later. Stark became disillusioned with government after seeing “cops beat up people” in 1968 and made a career change.

After gaining some trial experience, Stark started representing people with neural injuries and is particularly proud that some of his lawsuits changed products to improve safety, for example, side airbags and protective covers for forklifts. Stark is currently president emeritus of the board of directors for National Junior Tennis and Learning of Trenton,

which he describes as “an inner-city learning program that serves up dreams by helping young, under-resourced kids to learn not only tennis but also their schoolwork.”

Stark has three grandchildren who live on Maple Street in Princeton.

The Greater Trenton Jewish Cemetery Project not only revitalized these old cemeteries, but also created new connections, both of individual families with their own histories and among members of the former Trenton Jewish community.

People who had “never visited these cemeteries because they were overrun,” Stark explains, were able to easily locate and their families’ graves due to the cemetery project’s inventory of the orphan cemeteries.

But the project’s influence has reached farther than visits to family graves.

“The cemetery project has in my opinion become a vehicle for people to ask questions,” says Stark, “and with the internet and genealogy and technology, people have been reaching back.”

As people learn more about their ancestors, they share their stories, which leads to new connections.

“Families have been talking amongst each other and to people they have lost contact with or never knew they were related to, which was an unintended consequence.”

SUCCESS AND SELFSUFFICIENCY IN SESSION

Mercer County Community College will open its new Center for Adult Transition, or CAT, this fall to serve intellectually and developmentally disabled individuals in a dual campus, person-centered program that prepares these students for adulthood while empowering them to achieve their own goals.

Image of the West Windsor Campus courtesy of MCCC.

Mercer County Community College to Launch New Center for Adult Transition

BY REBEKAH SCHROEDER

Achievement is a highly personal process that fulfills everyone in different ways, as people cultivate that sense of success through learning, working, giving back, and anything else that aligns with their aspirations.

Mercer County Community College’s Center for Adult Transition, or CAT, is a new state-mandated, county collegebased postsecondary program that takes a “person-centered approach” to serving individuals aged 18 to 24 with intellectual or developmental disabilities who want to continue their education in the shift from high school to adulthood.

Students will grow across areas like socialization, safety, and self-sufficiency in a “dual campus experience” fostered in the classroom and community.

According to MCCC materials, the initiative combines coursework and presentations from community service providers on topics like transportation, budgeting, health and wellness, independent living, and more.

The CAT program originated with the

approval of New Jersey Legislature Bill S4211 on January 18, 2022, which established a grant opportunity through the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, or OSHE, to fund 18 County College-Based Centers for Adult Transition at institutions that had applied from across the state, according to an OSHE press release.

As a result of the state investment, OSHE stated that the colleges must run these specialized programs to offer “mentoring, job coaching, skill training, and other appropriate wrap-around services to help secure employment and maintain independent living” for people with IDDs—a range of conditions including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and more.

OSHE is now a project partner with MCCC, and the Center for Adult Transition will serve the college on both campuses— the James Kerney Campus at 102 North Broad Street in downtown Trenton and the West Windsor Campus at 1200 Old Trenton Road in West Windsor—to bring programming to a wider audience across the school’s two Mercer County locations.

Dr. Gonzalo Perez is the college’s assistant vice president of academic affairs, focusing on workforce education and inno-

See MCCC, Page 4

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From MCCC, Page 2

vation. While he was appointed to oversee the JKC campus in February, he also continues to lead the Division of Lifelong Learning and MercerOnline

Perez stated that MCCC was “very excited” about the grant competition, noting that the college services students with disabilities through the Center for Accessibility Resources, or CAR, and specifically its DREAM Program, which MCCC “used as a launching pad” for the CAT.

without

“CAT expands that opportunity to a larger group of young adults who may not be seeking an immersive classroom experience but are interested in exploring college. Some young adults will benefit from services provided collaboratively. Because of this state funding, a wider range of options is available,” she added.

“We recruit students, give them noncredit or types of workshops and seminars, help with life skills, and really get them prepared for any type of career,” Perez explained, noting that students can focus on a certification, life skills, or take a credit course, depending on their interests.

Although MCCC has many of the necessary facilities, resources, and faculty in place for the program, it is still in active development, according to Perez.

The MCCC CAT program’s new case manager, Kimberly Fisher, is a recent

addition to the team at the Center for Accessibility Resources.

The Burlington County resident has an extensive background in supporting special populations impacted by and experiencing mental illness, substance use, domestic violence, homelessness, food insecurity, and other issues by connecting them with agencies in the area.

While this is her first time applying that experience to an educational setting, she has previously coordinated vocational services and programming for IDD individuals.

In an interview with Community News Service, Fisher said that the CAT program is a partnership between educational institutions like MCCC and nonprofits that offer programming in areas like self-advocacy, incommunity service providers, and the private sector.

“With all those resources coming together [and] collaborating, we’ll really be

able to offer this special population a variety of services and needs based on their individual preferences, choices, [and] goals,” Fisher said. “It’s important for this population to really know what’s out there for them to help them be successful.”

To qualify for the grant, applicants must be between 18 and 24 years old; have graduated high school, regardless of what age they did so; have been identified with an intellectual and/or developmental disability, either while attending a K–12 school system or by a private provider; and live in Mercer County.

While MCCC is still confirming the structure of the program, the “general consensus,” according to Fisher, is to have four-hour classes twice per week, with each session split into coursework and the campus experience.

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ognizes that the more a person’s path is tailored to their unique situation and strengths, the greater the likelihood they have of making a healthy transition to the next stage of life.

Several students are already committed to the program, which is set to launch in time for the fall 2023 term start date of Tuesday, September 5; this way, students can enroll at the same time as the rest of the college for a shared sense of community.

“If we have an individual that says, ‘Well, I go to college,’ there’s meaning in that. There’s value in that,” Fisher said. “We

want it to be seamless. We want it to be the same experience as others in college, and so as close to that as we can is what we’re aiming for.”

However, Fisher is adamant that although the program is “college-based,” the biggest difference between CAT and traditional MCCC courses is that CAT has no admission deadlines, meaning students can join any time of the year, thus eliminating waitlists that often act as a barrier for support services.

“We get them where they are,” she said, “[In] my experience with community sup-

ports, what I often saw [was that] if there was a wait list for service, that individual typically waited a very long time, and things change in those periods. They either go find something else or they stay at home and isolate by themselves, and so we want to make it very clear that this is open at any given time; whenever people want to join us or need to join us, that door will always be open, regardless of a college semester.”

The semesters are broken into modules that begin with career development and adult employment, an introduction to the opportunities and resources available to students on their respective journeys.

MCCC’s CAT will also give students increased access to community service providers, Fisher continued, with the CAT program “serving as an on-campus resource hub” for coordination with entities such as the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities, or DDD, and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, or DVRS.

DVRS manages vocational supports for the Mercer County area, so representatives from the agency will discuss eligibility for employment-based services that may include supported employment, trial work, or job coaching.

Fisher observed that while working as a community provider, she noticed that there was a “gap” in information where students

lost connections to resources during the summer period.

“We find that some of these individuals say, ‘Well, I’ve graduated high school. I’m going to take the summer off. I’ll figure out what I’m going to do later,’ and they often don’t,” Fisher said.

“They don’t remember that connection to the Division of Voc. Rehab., whereas in May [or] June, they might have been interested in those services or those supports for skill training or job coaching, and so we’re hoping maybe to catch some of those individuals and reconnect them back to that specialized service for those vocational supports.”

“Again, we all know, a couple of months into summer break, and people start going to school, or they go to jobs, and you’re home alone, you don’t have your support group, you don’t have your peer group, so what do you do? Really, it just provides for a lot of isolation,” she said. “We don’t want that to happen.”

Instead, Fisher added that CAT can try to reintroduce these young adults to their in-community providers, noting that MCCC has been in contact with just under 100 agencies serving Mercer County to increase their scope of impact, such as the Progressive Center for Independent

Dr. Gonzalo Perez, left, is Mercer County Community College’s assistant vice president of academic affairs, and Kimberly Fisher, right, is a case manager with the institution’s new Center for Adult Transition, or CAT program, designated through a grant and a partnership with the state’s OSHE.

Living, the Arc Family Institute, Caregivers NJ, and Mercer County’s Aging & Disability Resource Connection.

Those enrolled in the program will also have a designated lunch time where they can go to the cafeteria to eat and interact with other students, staff, and faculty. These real-life scenarios will serve as practical exercises to reaffirm what Fisher will be teaching in the classroom.

Fisher wants CAT students to better understand the appropriate boundaries and behaviors for a college or workplace envi-

ronment, which she will convey through role play and modeling exercises. These lessons, besides having interpersonal benefits, are also to educate them on how to identify dangerous or unsafe circumstances, especially because IDD populations are at a higher risk of financial and sexual exploitation, Fisher added.

Semester two concentrates on academic enrichment, providing a course overview of class registration, financial aid, joining clubs, and the differences between credit and non-credit courses, as well as certificate programs.

Fisher explained that if a person learned

609.849.5999

that their local dog shelter needed assistance with marketing materials, they would want to volunteer and practice their computer skills by enrolling in a certification program based around applications like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Semester three focuses on campus and community engagement, encouraging students to find peer groups on campus based on shared interests and get involved with programs including MCCC’s food pantry, the classical and jazz radio station WWFM, and the Allies Inc. Garden at the West Windsor campus, a partnership with the Hamilton-based nonprofit’s Project Grow farming and horticulture program.

Students will also gain exposure by using the college shuttle to travel between the Trenton and West Windsor campuses, learning how to greet and respond to the driver, introduce themselves, and utilize public transportation while taking advantage of both locations.

Transportation is another “big barrier” for this population, according to Fisher, and MCCC is looking to possibly work with Rutgers University’s New Jersey Travel Independence Program, or NJTIP, to inform this group of students about using public systems.

While West Windsor and Trenton “offer the same services,” she explained, the latter is the larger, “more rural” of the two,

offering soccer fields and other features not present at JKC, giving students chances to meet more people and have “that true college campus experience.”

The CAT Program will also overview Mercer County providers that are largely volunteer-based, such as the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, or TASK, HomeFront, local food banks, and more to connect this population to their community, as Fisher explained.

The fourth semester delves into independent living arrangements and everything it suggests, such as how to pay rent, contact emergency services, and buy groceries.

“We’ll be partnering up with some of

the community providers that offer some of these in-depth independent living structures. They offer recreation, activities, and they can discuss the pros and cons of what is available in Mercer County for living,” Fisher said.

MCCC is continuing to partner with more agencies that cover topics related to independent living and may include providers of residential services, such as group homes and supervised apartments—the latter of which Fisher describes as “a little less restrictive for those individuals that are more independent, that are safety aware, financially aware, and the risk is relatively low for exploitation for them.”

The last semester is self-determination, which Fisher describes as a wraparound exploration of what they covered in the course to enable students to choose whether to pursue employment, volunteer work, a certificate, or other ways to engage and enrich their lives.

“They’ll have all those materials to reflect back on to be able to make a decision that’s based on their wants, their needs, and what they want to do. It’s completely independent,” Fisher said, noting that the individuals will be “empowered to make their own decisions as they continue that transition into adulthood.”

Fisher said that MCCC is currently building this program in a way that prioritizes accessibility with the few-

Eligible students ages 18 to 24 will be able to use the college shuttle system to travel between the James Kerney Campus at 102 North Broad Street in downtown Trenton, opposite page, and the West Windsor Campus at 1200 Old Trenton Road in West Windsor, above.

est obstacles to care—and the greatest autonomy—possible.

She added that what sets the CAT program apart from others is its unique position on a college campus, which offers a built-in system of support to this population as they look to integrate into professional spaces.

“We want to make sure, again, that accommodations are built in and there are zero barriers from day one,” she said, noting that the classrooms are still being fur-

nished with inclusive options.

“If we have an individual [who] perhaps has cerebral palsy and has arm braces, they’re going to need a different seating arrangement than what we have right now,” she said. “If we need those accessibility items, it’s imperative that we have them to meet the needs of everyone.”

Fisher described the request for service form as “barrier-free,” noting that the applications are straightforward, electronic, and go directly to the CAT team, who will then

respond to families as soon as they are able to do so.

“I have been a community provider for years and years. Never did I have exposure to an individual in this population [who] was going to college or had the opportunity to do so,” Fisher said, noting that times are changing to “move away from those congregate settings.”

“They’re truly going individualized and self-directed in that the individual and their family receiving service really have more of a voice now than they ever did—and they should use that voice to have services that are appropriate for them,” she explained. ***

To learn more about the Center for Adult Transition (CAT) or ask questions, email cat@mccc.edu or visit the page on the MCCC website, mccc.edu/student_services_ needs_cat.shtml.

To apply for the CAT program, visit the Request for Service form at forms.office.com/ pages/responsepage.aspx?id=jSYNCfenoEi XZEU1ZUk8nG6HoZ_WrRdMloWC0GM64wNUNVJPVDVXVzdDNkQzR0tKUFVXN1RYVDdOVC4u

For more on the Center for Accessibility Resources (CAR), visit mccc. edu/student_services_needs.shtml or call 609-570-3422

Inclusion Sports Performance Training

Where Children & Adults Strive to Reach Their Highest Potential

Inclusion Sports Performance Training is a welcoming, inclusive place where children and adults strive to reach their highest potential. Through offerings including swimming, gymnastics and a learn to ride bike program, students work with trained and dedicated staff to meet any challenge and make progress. Here kids have the opportunity for social play, recreational movement and early intervention. Coming soon, ISPT will offer after school enrichment programs which will include bussing from Hopewell school district.

Instruction is offered in both group settings and 1:1 private lessons and parent/child classes give parents and kids a chance to learn, bond and interact together in a safe and collaborative setting. ISPT also offers an inclusive summer day camp that puts the focus on healthy movement and development of social skills through theme weeks that encompass fun, play, inclusion and creativity.

At our Ewing location, both verbal and non-verbal students are included through accessible programs including swimming, gymnastics and learn to bike. Swim lessons are private and one-to-one, so kids can focus on learning to swim and respecting the water. Small group gymnastics allow students to gain independence and work on life skills, while parent assisted gymnastics classes are a great introduction for learners who require additional support. Monthly Parents Night Out events give caregivers a muchneeded respite while kids have fun in a safe, supervised and social environment.

The Learn to Ride program offers students a chance to take flight on two wheels through private or small group classes. The fundamental life skill of riding a bike benefits students both mentally and physically and can increase confidence and give families a fun activity they can do together. ISPT has collaborated with Strider

Bikes and their donated balance bikes have helped pave the path to success for so many of our students.

At our new Hopewell location, preschool-aged students run, jump, tumble and play in a safe and inclusive space under the supervision of highly trained staff. Current offerings include Preschool Social Play, Parent/Child in Motion, Tumbling Tykes, Sensory Play and Learn and Open Gym Family Play as well as private lessons. Future offerings will include yoga for kids and families, after school enrichment programs, OT, PT and speech.

ISPT founder and owner Shannon Schafer has over 25 years experience working with the special needs community and is passionate about not only creating an inclusive environment but also about fostering an inclusive community. She has worked with both public and private schools in Mercer county as well as Special Olympics, NJ as a coach for over 20 years and POAC Autism Services.

“I vowed many years ago to make sure parents would have a welcoming and inclusive place to bring their children, a place where possibilities are limitless and that’s what we do at Inclusion Sports Performance Training,” she says.

Visit inclusionsportspt.com for more information or contact us directly at 609 812-2566. Join for an open house at our Hopewell location on Sunday, September 17, 10 a.m. to noon, or at our Ewing location, Sunday, October 8, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. And be sure to come see us at Hopewell Harvest Fair on Saturday, September 23. See ad, page 15

Back-to-school checklist

The start of the new school year is right around the corner. Parents can ease the big change and alleviate stress by using this back-to-school readiness checklist from the RWJBarnabas Health Children’s Health network and the RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group:

Fill out any forms your school has sent home, such as emergency contact and health information forms before school starts.

Inform the school nurse and teachers about medical conditions your child may have, particularly food allergies, asthma, diabetes, and any other conditions that may need to be managed during the school day. Coordinate with the school nurse to administer medications your child might need.

Pack a healthy, balanced lunch with a mix of protein, grains, fruit and vegetables, if possible.

Establish a bedtime routine at least one week before school starts.

Be sure your child has a sturdy backpack with padded shoulder straps and avoid overloading it.

Schedule an appointment

Stay up to date with flu and recommended childhood vaccines. Children 12 and over may also be vaccinated for COVID-19; ask your primary care provider for more information.

To schedule an appointment with an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group provider, please visit rwjbh.org/medicalgroup or call 1-888-724-7123

Let teachers know about conditions that may affect your child’s ability to learn. For example, children with ADHD should be seated in the front of the classroom and children with vision problems should sit near the board.

Your insurance accepted RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group providers accept most major insurances. Medical insurance varies by provider, please call your insurance carrier to verify coverage.

MAKING SMILES FOR LIFE

Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute

Treating Pain with PRP and Stem Cell Therapy

Pain.

It gnaws at you. It drains you. It becomes the focus of your life.

Experiencing a few pain-free moments can be euphoric; it makes you realize how long you’ve been living with aches and pain. You might wonder how you can find a solution to relieve the pain and regain your freedom from discomfort.

Dr. Ronak Patel at Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute wants you to know there are two new revolutionary answers to pain relief.

Both platelet-rich therapyotherwise known as PRP - and stem cell therapy give patients new hope by using the body’s powerful healing power to accelerate the battle against pain. Dr. Patel has seen incredible success implementing these cuttingedge treatments on hundreds of patients suffering from pain-related issues.

So if you are suffering from any of the ailments below, there’s a lifeline.

• Osteoarthritis

• Rotator cuff tear

• Back pain

• Meniscus tears

• Tennis elbow

• Disc herniations

• Tendonitis

• Neck pain

Here’s the best news: Neither PRP or stem cell therapy involves drug use with side effects or any surgical procedures.

Both PRP and stem cell treatments use the body’s own healing resources to repair diseased or damaged tissue — and the results are quite remarkable.

PRP therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets and growth factors into damaged tissue to stimulate the faster growth of new healthy cells. Platelets are cells that prevent and stop bleeding. If a blood vessel is damaged, the body sends signals to our platelets to get on the job and start the healing. Some call platelets the body’s natural bandage.

So how does PRP therapy work? It’s basically drawing a one small vial of blood from the patient and then using a centrifuge to turn it into a potent and concentrated form of platelets. It is then injected

back into the patient. Think of it as a boost of your own blood — only superpowered.

Recovery time for PRP therapy is far shorter than for surgery. Patients usually experience soreness for a week or so, but the gradual improvement soon begins. Unlike a steroid shot, which gives you immediate relief and quickly wears off, a PRP patient will see pain symptoms improve over a period of months, and up to 80 percent of patients will see relief for up to two years.

Stem cell therapy can be an even more powerful way to harness the body’s healing power. Stem cells are the building blocks for every cell in our body. These powerful cells can be harvested to produce powerful new cells to fight inflammation and disease.

For those suffering from osteoarthritis, stem cell therapy has proven very effective. That’s because the stem cells may help develop new cartilage cells and suppress inflammation. Stem cells can be harvested through a sample of body fat or bone marrow or be harvested from donated umbilical cord tissue.

And yes, you can even augment PRP therapy with stem cell therapy for an even bigger boost!

Stop wondering if you’ll have to live with your pain forever. Contact Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute today at 609-269-4451 or go to www.njpaindoc.com to book an appointment and learn more.

See ad, page 3.

Dr. Irving Djeng

Dr. Lauren Levine

Dr. Kevin Collins

Dr. Deolinda Reverendo

Dr. Michael DeLuca

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Dr. Ronak Patel MD

Back to School Stuart Country Day School

Princeton Montessori School

A child-centered approach to learning

Montessori is an innovative, child-centered approach to learning, developed a century ago by Dr. Maria Montessori. The Montessori method fosters rigorous, self-motivated growth for children in all areas of their development, with a goal of igniting a passion for learning and nurturing the potential in each child. Princeton Montessori School, founded in 1968, is the area’s premier independent, coeducational, Montessori day school for children from infancy through 8th grade, and is fully accredited by the American Montessori Society. Our Infant, Toddler, and Primary programs are joyful learning communities designed to meet the unique developmental needs of each age group. Led by Montessori-credentialed experts, children move into their elementary years as explorers, thinkers, doers, and kind community members. Our Middle School (grades 6-8) is authorized by The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) which ensures our graduates are confident, competent, and well-prepared for success in life. Princeton Montessori School continues to provide children from the greater Princeton area with the very best in Montessori education. Come for a tour! https:// princetonmontessori.org/

487 Cherry Valley Road, Princeton. See ad, page 16

Celebrating 60 Years of Preparing Girls for Lives of Leadership and Service

Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart, an independent school located in Princeton, is dedicated to the education of girls from kindergarten to Grade 12, alongside a co-ed preschool. Following the Goals and Criteria of the Schools of the Sacred Heart, Stuart's mission is to educate young women to lead lives of leadership and service. This September marks the 60th anniversary of all-girls, Sacred Heart education at Stuart in Princeton, NJ. In 1963, the Society of the Sacred Heart answered the call for a girls’ school that taught their students to thrive with and through God’s love. Today, in our ever-evolving society, Stuart’s mission, and that of girls’ schools, remains as pertinent as ever. Head of School Julia Wall dispels misconceptions about girls’ schools, emphasizing the integral role of a spiritual foundation in shaping leadership development.

Stuart was founded to support the empowerment of women and their spiritual heart center as it applies to God’s love for them. As a Sacred Heart school, guided by five Goals and Criteria, we believe that every child is born with a unique sense of spirituality, and it’s important for kids to know that God loves them however they define their spirituality. Though we’re a Catholic school, we’ve always widely embraced other religions and believe that God is a helpful force in life; reminding kids that they matter and that someone other than their

parents believes that they’re a perfect being, just as they are, worthy of love.

Girls’ schools also often battle misconceptions about their ability to successfully ready girls for college and careers, especially in co-ed spaces. The fact is, you don’t need to have gone to school next to a boy to be fully actualized. Alums tell us that while they were at Stuart, every door was open to them and they had the freedom to establish their own sense of self; they were confident in who they were as people and were then able to bring their authentic self to everyone regardless of their gender. The affinity space of an all-girls school like Stuart prepares students for every social and academic scenario. Our girls not only get placed at top colleges nationwide, most of which are coed settings, but they thrive there and go on to do amazing things across a broad range of industries and organizational settings. By the time they leave us — after 12 years at Stuart or four — our graduates speak with a self-assuredness about their future that is uniquely Stuart.

Stuart Country Day School, 1200 Stuart Road, Princeton. www.stuartschool.org. See ad, page 14.

RSM Princeton

Building Powerful Minds Through Mathematics

What is the Russian School of Mathematics?

RSM is an award-winning after school math enrichment program trusted by parents for over 25 years across 75+ locations in North America. Our unique approach consists of a continuous kindergarten to highschool curriculum, taught by expert teachers, in a classroom environment of peers who study together year over year. K-12 students can choose from various classes to prepare them for the school year, math competition courses for additional challenge, or test prep courses.

Fall math classes now enrolling at RSM Princeton!

There is no better time to join RSM than in Fall! Get started by scheduling a free math evaluation for your child or visit our website to see the Fall schedule of classes: www.mathschool.com/locations/princeton. For any questions you might have, please feel free to call us at 732-708-4905 or email us at princeton@mathschool.

com.

An award-winning math program.

Featured in NPR and the Atlantic magazine as one of the key players in the “Math Revolution,” and ranked “among the top schools in the world” by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, RSM helps children of all levels build a solid math foundation and develop their critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. As Masha Gershman, the VP of Marketing at RSM, states in her Ted talk “Uncertain Times Call for Certain Math”, advanced mathematics is not only within the grasp of every child but is also a

crucial skill for achieving success in any field.

Our program is built around how a child's mind works

Designed as a continuous program from K-12, our curriculum was developed by our team of academics specializing in mathematics, education, and child development. Our curriculum has continually been perfected by our curriculum department over the last two decades. Three levels for every grade allow us to meet children where they are and place them in an environment suited to them. This ensures that students can begin our program at any time

and be challenged appropriately in an environment of peers.

Talented faculty.

All of our teachers have a background in mathematics or related field and a deep passion for the subject. Our extensive training program prepares our teachers to teach according to our specific methodology. Our teachers guide students to think about mathematics logically and conceptually, building deep connections between concepts, all in a classroom environment that keeps children consistently challenged.

How do I enroll my child?

For every interested student, we offer a free 30-minute math evaluation which is the best way to learn more about our program. An evaluation is an informal conversation with the potential student and his/ her family in order to understand what grade-appropriate math skills the student has before entering RSM. Our principal will walk you through our curriculum, and methodology, and answer any questions you may have.

RSM Princeton, 231 Clarksville Road, West Windsor. 732-708-4905. princeton@mathschool.com. www. mathschool.com/locations/princeton. See ad, page 9.

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!

Whoever your heart beats for, our hearts beat for you.

RWJBarnabas Health has a passion for heart health. We have the largest adult and pediatric cardiac surgery programs in the state, a heart transplant program that’s in the top 15 nationally, the latest technology and medical advancements and hundreds of wellness and prevention programs to strengthen and protect healthy hearts. Whoever your heart beats for, our hearts beat for you. Learn more at rwjbh.org/heart

Back to School

St. George Preschool A Safe Place for Growth

At St. George Preschool, we believe that each child has an innate drive for exploring, discovering, communicating, and learning. Our purpose is to provide a safe, warm, and nurturing environment for children to develop this innate drive to the fullest, and become life-long learners. Our goal is to help each child develop his/her individual interests, creativity and potential at their own pace by providing a wide variety of fun and age-appropriate activities and materials. In addition to the developmental goals in the areas of math, language, science, cognitive skills, motor skills, etc., stipulated by the state, the school aims to promote learning skills for life.

At the same time, we aim to enhance the child’s social, moral, cultural and spiritual growth through group interactions, uplifting stories, cultural events and gentle guidance. Since “a healthy mind is in a healthy body” as the Ancient Greeks said, we provide a huge indoors gym and

a beautiful play ground with regular physical activities.

We offer high quality academic English programs for Preschool (3 years and potty trained) and Pre-K (must be 4 years old by October 1 of school year). Early morning care, after care, and enrichment programs are also available. We are part of the Saint George Greek Orthodox Church and state licensed by the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family

The Laurel School of Princeton

Designed For The Dyslexic Mind

The Laurel School of Princeton provides an enriched educational experience for students who have dyslexia and related learning differences such as ADHD, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and executive function deficits. Laurel School students bring incredible talents, skills and creativity to our program, while being taught by expertly trained, passionate teachers who understand how they learn best, helping them to build on their strengths and achieve academic success.

Services. Our experienced staff has a passion building a foundation for a life-long love of learning. We are truly a family and we treat your children as such. For more information regarding our program, please visit our website.

Saint George Preschool, 1200 Klockner Road, Hamilton. 609-5862223. Contact director Angela Gering at director@stgeorgepreschool.org.

See ad, page 16

Instruction is delivered with a multisensory and inquiry-based approach by teachers who have years of experience teaching children with learning differences and are certified to instruct using Orton Gillingham and Wilson Language programs. Our faculty understands that it is critical to intervene as early as possible when children have reading, writing, and math challenges. It is essential to identify the individual needs of each student and provide diagnostic and prescriptive

lessons that ensure success. The Laurel School of Princeton offers an integrative, engaging curriculum that enables our students to develop the confidence to learn and excel.

Laurel understands that some children need more than what conventional teaching systems and traditional public schools can offer. No parent wants to see their child become disconnected; “Kids often come to us with their confidence broken by the school districts, and they feel as though they can’t learn. But their spark quickly returns as

they discover that they can grow and thrive at Laurel,” says the Director of Admissions Amy Deutsch. By placing your child in a holistic educational atmosphere, individualized instruction and guidance will empower him/her to take control of their education and rediscover success.

Please contact Amy Deutsch with questions or to schedule a tour: 609-566-6000, extension 0282 or at adeutsch@thenewgrange.org

The Laurel School, 800 North Road, Hopewell. www.laurelschoolprinceton.org. See ad, page 11

The Rech Center

Celebrating 20 Years

Twenty years is a long time. So much happens in 20 years. You live, you learn, you grow. As The Rech Center celebrates their 20th anniversary, the lessons go way beyond the dance studio! Just ask Kelly Rech, the Founder and Director of The Rech Center for Performing Arts. Kelly shared, “When I first opened the doors to The Rech Center, I envisioned teaching dance and supporting TRC students in becoming the best dancers they could be! What I never expected was the family of dance students over the years who not only have developed a love for dance, but students who have learned so much about who they are and who they want to be in life”!

Of course, The Rech Center offers dance classes in all style of dance for children of all ages, but that isn’t what makes The Rech Center special. Just ask the dancers at TRC or the parents of those students, why they love the The Rech Center!

“I can’t put into words the joy I feel when I see my daughter coming out of the studio after class. I don’t

see that smile after any other activity she is involved with. Thank you for providing such a positive encouraging environment for all of your students”.

“My friends that I dance with at The Rech Center always support me and are truly excited for me when I try and accomplish something new. That makes me feel good”.

According to Kelly, students at The Rech Center not only learn lessons in the studio that will help them become better dancers, but lessons that have molded them into the people they aretoday. As we head into our 20th season, it’s truly been a pleasure to teach so many students who have gone on to dance professionally, who have made dance a part of their college experiences and those who have gone into various careers where they have applied lessons and skills learned at TRC into their professions. As a studio owner, teacher, choreographer and most importantly a parent, Kelly says that is The Rech Centers biggest and most important accomplishment. Having a positive and encouraging influence on her students regardless of their endeavors is priceless.

www.rechcenterdance.com. See ad, page 10

St. George Preschool

Enroll now for the 2023-2024 school year

Classes for 3 year olds and 4 year olds

Potty trained

Full- 1/2 day, early morning drop off, late pick up schedules available

Competitive tuition rates - secure environment indoor gym - outdoor playground - qualified educators

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

St.

1200

www.stgeorgepreschool.org

Angela Gering Director

Call

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 in the classroom and its facilities.

The School’s Philosophy. Princeton Ballet School is known for nurtur-

ing 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 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

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.

Combating Childhood Oral Health Myths.

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 or off-center, they won’t naturally

Back to School

Where Do Orthodontic Issues 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

straighten themselves with time.

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 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.

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 10

Sat. 11/04/23

In-person: Rosedale Park Pennington, NJ

Virtual option available.

Participation Options:

-5k in-person -1 mile in-person

-10k in-person -Virtual

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 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 12

Inspire youth to BE GREAT & strive for great futures!

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 are no attorney fees unless there is a compensation award.

EWING, NJ

EWING, NJ

EWING, NJ

238 Scotch Road 609-406-9000

EHS football gains years of experience with new coach

By Rich Fisher

The hiring of an assistant football coach at the high school level isn’t usually met with much fanfare around these parts, but every so often there’s an exception.

Maddalon jumped at the opportunity to hire three decades worth of experience. Adams got an early start, helping Ewing with its summer workouts.

EWING, NJ

238 Scotch Road 609-406-9000

238 Scotch Road 609-406-9000

238 Scotch Road 609-406-9000

Hours:

Mon-Sun 10am-8pm

Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-8pm

Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-8pm

Hours:

Mon-Sun 10am-8pm

PRIMOHOAGIES.COM

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Such as, when the incoming assistant has spent 29 years as a head coach and led his Nottingham teams to 157 victories, 13 state playoff appearances, two state sectional finals and one state sectional title. Enhancing the story is that Ewing coach Ross Maddalon first played the game under his incoming helper, while serving on his staff after graduation.

“You don’t see too many situations like this obviously,” said Maddalon, who’s entering his second year as Devils coach. “It’s definitely unique, he was the first guy who coached me. I graduated in 2001, he gave me my first coaching opportunity that same year.

To: 484-270-4000 to become a PrimoHoagies® member

To: 484-270-4000 to become a PrimoHoagies member

To: 484-270-4000 to become a PrimoHoagies® member

To: 484-270-4000 to become a PrimoHoagies® member

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Download our App on the iTunes® or Google Play Store

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That is what the Blue Devils are getting in Jon “Big Dawg” Adams, the former Nottingham coach and athletic director who retired from his AD duties in June. Adams was expected to be approved by the Ewing school board at its Aug. 28 meeting.

Ever since the Big Dawg became an administrator in 2019, he yearned to get back on the field. He began talking with his former player in the winter, and since there was a vacancy on his staff,

“When he brought this up to me, I had a few spots open on the staff. We sat down, it made sense. We’re able to pick up a coach who has coached for 30-plus years, somebody who knows his stuff. I don’t always have to look over his shoulder because I know he knows the game of football. But at the same time, he was my coach, he was the one who gave me my first shot.”

Kind of like payback in a way.

“It’s payback in a good way,” Maddalon said. “He gave me an opportunity and he asked me for one, this was a good chance to give it to him. On top of everything else, it’s somebody who I know. Even when I didn’t coach on his staff, we always

‘We’re able to pick up a coach who has coached for 30-plus years, somebody who knows his stuff.’

remained in close contact and remained very good friends. He’s not just a mentor but also a colleague and friend. Also someone who’s very loyal, and that’s important.”

Adams, who was a receiver and linebacker at Steinert and Glassboro State (now Rowan University) will coach quarterbacks and outside linebackers. He will also run the JV offense, allowing him to get back to his play calling days.

Adams summed up his feelings about the position in one word.

“Thrilled!” he exclaimed.

The Dawg realized that being an athletic director was not for him about a month after he took the job. Coaching had been in his blood since childhood and he missed it immensely, and reflected on those who wrapped the pigskin around him at an early age.

“Just not having that everyday connection with the kids, being behind a desk way too much...it sucked!” Adams said. “My uncle Mickey made a huge impact on me when I was young as did my older cousin Roger Grimes. My uncle got me started playing youth sports. Roger was my coach my last year of Hamilton Football League football. He believed in me and made me his quarterback. I did not like the position but he coached me up and got me believing in myself.”

That belief eventually helped form some of the greatest teams in Nottingham history.

Adams guided the Stars to the first playoff appearance in the school’s 12-year history in 1993. In 2005 Nottingham went 10-2 and made its first state finals appearance before losing to Ocean. The Northstars had four straight winning seasons from 2010-13, going 32-11 and upsetting defending champion Neptune in the 2012 CJ III state sectional title game. Nottingham won a school record 11 games that year. The Stars went 22-8 over his final three seasons.

Although he did not play football in high school, Ewing AD Kyle Kaminskas attended Nottingham during the first glory era of 200205 and saw back then what Adams could do.

“Jon possesses a combination of skills, qualities and attributes that enable him to effectively guide and develop our studentathletes in areas such as football, business, personal development and more,” Kaminskas said. “He has already connected with our student body and is earning the respect of all around him. Our student-athletes need positive role models in the classroom and on the fields and I truly believe we found one in coach Adams.”

Another fan of the hiring is former Northstar Robert Wiggs, arguably the greatest receiver in school history.

“Everything goes up times 10 when he comes around – expectations, intensity, accountability, responsibility, work ethic and most importantly, a winning attitude,”

said Wiggs, who runs Playmaker Athletics in Ewing and also coaches the Ewing Junior Blue Devils. “I train a few kids at Ewing who play the skill positions and when I found out he was going there I told my boys ‘Y’all better get your stuff together because he’s coming in there to win, he expects greatness everyday and if you can’t give him that every day he will find somebody that will.”

“He always finds somebody,” Wiggs added with a laugh.

Adams remembers Maddalon as a hard working player and a starter on Nottingham’s 2000 offensive line “which was one of the best we ever had.” He is anxious to work with his former protege.

“Absolutely!” Adams said. “I am excited to help in any way he and the staff need me to. I just want to get back to doing what I love.”

He added that there is no odd feeling about the role reversal in the two men’s position of authority.

“Heck no, it’s been great,” Adams said. “Ross is doing a wonderful job at Ewing. Kids work very hard and I enjoyed the summer program. These kids remind me of our Nottingham kids. They work very hard everyday and bring a positive attitude.

“I am really excited to work with Ross, (assistants) Amir (Siddiqu), Gatt (Frank “The Godfather” Gatto), John Berei, Kenny (Nehila) and the rest of the staff as well as Kyle

See ADAMS, Page 18

Customer

(Kaminskas). We had a great summer and the kids answered a lot of my questions. We have some really talented kids – but they also understand that you need to work as well.”

The fact that Maddalon graduated 22 years ago takes away any strange feelings Adams might have about working under a former player.

The head man has coached ever since high school so in that respect the two are on equal ground. The only possible concern would be how Adams can adjust to being an assistant after being the head man for so long.

The Big Dawg assured it will not be an issue.

“No, because I have no ego,” he said. “This is Ross’s team. I am here to help, not hinder. Ross played ball for me, coached on and off for me. He is like my son. I am here to help, as are a number of familiar faces I know. Just let me coach and help where needed. That is all I am asking. I have been an assistant many times before. I will offer my opinion when asked in meetings and when appropriate.”

Maddalon broached the subject just to make sure.

“When we had our meeting, I said ‘Not for nothing, this is gonna be the first time in 35 years or so, that you’re not gonna get the final say on things, are you gonna

be able to be OK with that?’” the coach said. “He said ‘It’s no problem, I want to coach again, I want to coach with you guys, coach with guys I can trust.’ That’s what you want to hear.”

Wiggs cannot wait to see the results.

“I would say the biggest thing he brings to these young men is guidance, knowledge and work ethic,” he said. “A lot of people look at coach Ross and Ewing and see a team that went 4-5 last season. They were a very young team and got a late start with the late summer hiring of coach Ross but they were in every game until the final minutes except one. Big Dawg is going to make sure they tighten up in those situations. He also gives coach Ross some help with scouting, adjustments and player confidence.”

The record-holding receiver feels the good news doesn’t just end with Adams when it comes to Maddalon’s assistants “Ewing is going to open a lot of eyes this year,” he said. “I think coach Amir is one of the best young D coordinators in Central Jersey alongside the legendary coach Gat. With the addition of Big Dawg, that staff alone, on paper, is one of the best in the county. All the kids have to do is buy in. I can see them making a big improvement from four wins and going to the playoffs.”

However it plays out, Adams is just happy to be back on the sidelines.

ADAMS continued from Page 17

The Ewing Public Schools

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

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

Two Ewing Girls Basketball Standouts COMMIT!

There was no paint drying on the court for the Ewing Girls Basketball team this summer as two of Coach Montferrat’s “Big Three” student-athletes, as they are referred to, committed to continue their academic and basketball careers in college.

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

the final basketball season lighting up the court at Ewing High School’s Emil Wandishin Gymnasium. It is going to be fun to watch!

senior year and the wonderful opportunities that lay ahead of this historic Ewing team.

Rhian Stokes was the first to verbally commit at the end of June to St. Joe’s! Rhian will head to Philadelphia’s Saint Joseph’s University to play for coach Cindy Anderson Griffins’ Hawks at Hagen Arena in the fall of 2024. Be assured, Rhian had her pick of college offers to choose from, including Northeastern, Stony Brook, Monmouth, UMass, Fairleigh Dickinson and Rider, but Rhian believes St. Joe’s is the place that will focus on her weak spots and improve her game. This leaves Rhian time to concentrate on her academics and enjoy

OnApril 12, the Adopt-a-Survivor(AAS) program was introducedtothe Trenton areaatEwing HighSchool. Six Holocaust survivors wereadopted bytwelveEwing Highsophomores. The adopted survivors—Moshe Gimlan, VeraGoodkin,Marion Lewin,RuthLubitz, Charles Rojer and JackZaifman— wereoriginallyfromGermany, Czechoslovakia, Polandand Belgium.

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

Rhian was joined by equally talented Joi Johnson whom recently verbally committed this August to continue her play and academics at Fairleigh Dickinson University, under Division I coach Stephanie Gaitley. The 2023-2024 season will be Gaitley’s first season as head coach of the FDU Blue Knights, coming off a year long hiatus from Fordham where she was one of the winningest coaches in NCAAW history. Looks like the FDU Blue Knights are ready to make their mark with a new coach this year and one of Ewing High School’s all-time best players, Joi Johnson, following the ranks in 2024-2025!

We look forward to hearing the plans of our other gifted girls basketball players as they navigate their

The team was in action this summer at the No Boyz Allowed summer/fall basketball girls league featuring some of the best teams in the state and tristate area. It was also nice to see a handful of Fisher Middle School players participating in the middle school league!

To round out August for the team, it was all smiles as the EHS Girls Basketball team participated in John Bailey & Joint Effort Prime Time Hoops, playing in the Pete Young Senior Safe Streets Game in Princeton on Sunday, August 13th.

Ewing High Students Attend Gorbachev Presentation

Parkway Teacher Eric R. Thomas Publishes Book!

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

Parkway Elementary School teacher, Mr. Thomas, has just released a new children’s book celebrating diversity of talents in communities across the world. “Standing Tall” brings awareness to overlooked

Whitney Lewis, EHS Freshman

STANDING TALL – August 2023

skills through a fun narrative about two dynamically different young men. Two brothers, Afolabi and Bongani, who live in the African country of Malawi.

“Standing Tall” is about a basketball prodigy who learns the importance of valuing others' skills when a terrible storm decimates their hometown and he's unable to use his talents to help.

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

Afolabi and Bongani live in the Heart of Malawi. Afolabi is gifted with height and jaw-dropping basketball skills and accepts a recruitment contract to play basketball for a university in the United States. Bongani, much shorter than his older brother, is a master craftsman. His carpentry skills are unmatched, but often overlooked in the shadow of his brother's career.

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

When Afolabi returns home and a huge storm leaves many homes in shambles, he feels powerless to help. However, Bongani has a plan to give Afolabi and the community enduring hope and a way to rebuild.

Mr. Thomas aims to teach children the value of never forgetting where you came from and never taking the talents of others for granted.

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

Mr. Thomas shared, “Every day a teacher teaches, they are trying to make a difference in the lives of the children they are entrusted to teach. I am now trying to make a difference in the lives of the children of Malawi, Africa also.”

continued on page 2 >>

The recipients of the 2005 Teacher of the Year Awards were honored at a luncheon on April 29th. Jan Fay, 2004 Mercer County Teacher of the Year, was a guest speaker. 1st row (L to R): Joan Zuckerman, Principal Antheil; Sharon Solomon, Lore; Jan Fay, 2004 Mercer County Teacher of the Year; Inetta Emery, Principal Parkway; Danielle Miller, EHS; Superintendent Ray Broach. 2nd row: Darrell Jackson, Principal FMS; Donna Andreas, Antheil; Don Barnett, FMS; Betsy Turgeon, Parkway; Rodney Logan, Principal EHS.

The magic is in the words, Mr. Eric R. Thomas’ words to be exact!

>> continued from page 1

“I want my students to see how teaching them how to write a story, create a book, and an animated film can help make a difference to children who do not have the same advantages as some of us have here in the United States.”

An animated version of the book just might be in the works!

Mr. Thomas started his educational teaching ca-

The Ewing Public Schools

reer in the Ewing Public Schools in 2009 and was the Parkway 2019-2020 Educator of the Year, who also garnished this distinction two prior times in two other schools. A quote that Mr. Thomas uses to inspire his students is, “I will boldly face my fears and cast away any self-doubt because I am as majestic as a pyramid and I have many reasons to shout!”

Mr. Thomas is leading by example from on top of the mountain waiting for his students to join him.

OMIC Early College Experience

EHS Senior, Amanuel Amanuel, Selected Keynote Student Speaker dents participated in the summer class, and all are enrolled in one or two college courses the 20232024 school year, that will yield them both credit at EHS as well as TCNJ.

Princeton University Preparatory Program (PUPP) Welcomes EHS Class of 2026!

This summer, students participating in the Opportunity Meets Innovation Challenge (OMIC), an early college experience for eligible students from Ewing, Trenton and Willingboro, engaged in learning during a college readiness course at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ). Students learned essential college readiness skills such as note taking, study skills, organization and time management, and college writing. Nine Ewing High School (EHS) stu-

For the second year in a row, the summer class offering, as well as the subsequent tuition free college courses, taken at EHS, are being funded through a grant that partners with the TCNJ-Carver Foundation and the Ewing Public Schools. Mrs. Amy Stevens, a teacher of technology at EHS, helped to facilitate the class, along with faculty from TCNJ. The summer experience culminated in a celebration lunch where Ewing student, Amanuel Amanuel, gave the keynote address as a student speaker; notably, he was nominated to speak from all three high school groups. Outstanding work to all of our EHS participating students!

EHS Students Foster Summer Literacy

The Princeton University Preparatory Program (PUPP) welcomes six Ewing High School sophomores, Amine Abtouche, Valentina Angon Rojas, Gabrielle Damoah, Chaz Gilliard, Giuliana Gustino and Diana Lima-Flores to the PUPP Class of 2026! They will join their Ewing High School counterparts, Cherry Araya and Bryan Munoz, PUPP Class of 2025, Niomi Glover, Brielle Jenkins, Marelin Lopez Gregorio, Henry Lopez Bravo, O’glenn Togar and Awa White, PUPP Class of 2024.

Mission: “The Princeton University Preparatory Program is a highly engaged, holistic college preparation and success program that fosters development of students who have been historically marginalized. Our multi-year, tuition-free program prepares participants for admission to and success within selective colleges and universities, and beyond.”

Students are selected to apply to become a PUPP Scholar during the spring of their freshmen year of high school. PUPP currently partners directly with five high schools in the Mercer County, New Jersey region.

PUPP nurtures the educational and personal development of students from socioeconomic groups currently under-represented in major universities. Once selected, PUPP Scholars participate throughout the remainder of their high school career and into their collegiate years.

Ewing High School students know the importance of reading over the summer to promote the “love of reading” which helps stimulate the mind and keep skills sharp, while at the same time, enjoying a well-earned summer hiatus.

To encourage Ewing elementary school students to ‘pick up a book’ over the summer months, Ewing High School student service organizations, the Rotary Interact Club, Key Club, Environmental Club, Unified Club, and the Student Voices in Action class worked hard in June to donate over 1,600 new books to the elementary schools.

EHS students worked diligently to organize books, created thank you notes for donations, and practiced reading for visits to Antheil and Lore Elementary Schools where they distributed books to each student before summer break. Elementary school students were able to pick from a variety of books and listen to high school volunteers read to their class while promoting their clubs! Through this event, EHS club members were able to promote literacy, encourage collaboration between school communities, and kick-start the adventures and journeys that only books can bring to fuel the imagination.

The impact of the PUPP program to improve future generations is irrefutable as stated on their website by Jennifer DeSantis, Ewing High School Class ’04, Vassar College ’08 and Stanford University MEd ’13, “PUPP has influenced every part of my life. More than ten years later, I still rely on PUPP to stir the belief in my heart that I can not only envision a life for myself that is self-directed and virtuous, but also, craft it for myself.”

Current Ewing High School PUPP Scholars might have the opportunity to run into EHS Class of 2023 graduate and class Valedictorian, Lina Abtouche, 2023 PUPP Scholar and current Princeton University freshman on campus.

Wednesday, September 6 th

Ewing Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Announces Retirement

The Ewing Township Board of Education accepted the resignation due to retirement, effective October 1, 2023, of the Ewing Public Schools, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Danita Ishibashi.

Dr. Ishibashi began her distinguished career with the Ewing Public Schools in 2009. She is a student centered educator focused on current trends in curriculum and instruction, assessment and professional development.

Throughout her career with the Ewing Public Schools she continued her journey as a life-long learner, an avid problem solver, a team player to the benefit of all. This was especially prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic when virtual instruction was paramount then a hybrid in-person virtual instruction plan was mandated. Dr. Ishibashi worked tirelessly to bring the students of the Ewing Public Schools student-centered meaningful instruction while supporting teachers as we all learned together how to navigate the COVID-19 crisis.

Dr. Ishibashi brought a plethora of AP courses to the high school along with selected college-courses to enhance and heighten the learning experience of Ewing High School students. The Ewing Public Schools was recognized by the College Board two consecutive years under her supervision.

Can we even think back to the technology in 2009? Think of the advancements that brought new courses and instruction to the district, all under the direction of Dr. Ishibashi. Always pushing the district forward, always focusing on making sure students had the most current instructional tools and technology at their fingertips. She was also responsible for advocating for a Supervisor of Instructional Technology to the benefit of both students and staff.

As Dr. Ishibashi looks back, she shared some career reflections, “I have loved every minute of my time as an educator! Every day, I learn something new from students, staff and the community which I serve.”

“Above all, what truly fills my heart with pride is being an integral part of a community that places the highest value on education.”

We wish Dr. Ishibashi the best as she continues her journey as a life-long learner and spending time with her family.

The Ewing Public Schools

Senior Spotlight: Meet Chaz Heading

When Chaz Heading learned he was selected to be the EHS Senior Spotlight for September in August, he was in the ‘throws’ of summer football training enduring the heat and encouraging his teammates to work up to their full potential to get ready for the upcoming season. Chaz personally invites the Ewing Township community to come out and support the Blue Devils Football team at their home games as they attempt to make Ewing football history! Go Blue Devils!

What are you most looking forward to this school year? I am looking forward to graduating and playing my last year of high school football.

What do you want people to know about Ewing High School that they might not know? That we are underdogs, and you can always expect something special from Ewing High School.

What is your advice to freshman just starting their high school career? Do not try to fit in with crowd because you think they are cool. Just be yourself and enjoy high school because in the blink of an eye you'll be done and on to college.

What activities do you participate in school? Football; Boys Lacrosse; Baseball; Choir; Master Singers; Peer Leaders; Drama Club; The Musical What activities do you participate outside of school? AAU Basketball Coach; Camp Counselor

What awards or acknowledgements have you received in school? Athlete of the Month; Homecoming Prince

What accomplishments are you most proud of? Winning the West Jersey Football League Division and making a State play-off appearance my sophomore year of football.

Who has impacted your life in a positive way? Hands down, my mother!

How do you define success? If you reach the goals, you set out for yourself, then you are a successful person.

What are your plans after you graduate from Ewing High School? I plan to attend college and play football.

What is your favorite quote or book? “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present.” - Adapted quote from Bil Keane

EHS 2023 Varsity Football Home Schedule:

Friday, September 1st • 6:00PM

Ewing vs. Steinert HS

Saturday, September 9th • 12:00PM

Ewing vs. Hopewell Valley Central HS

Saturday, September 30th • 2:00PM

Ewing vs. Hamilton West HS (Homecoming)

Friday, October 6th • 6:00PM

Ewing vs. Nottingham HS

Advanced Placement Participation and College Readiness are On the Rise at EHS!

Our district remains committed to early college access and building college readiness. For the first time last year, the district provided the AP exam for all students enrolled in an AP course. The students responded by opting into the AP exam, and taking advantage of AP study sessions. In the 2022-2023 school year, participation in the AP exam increased by over 30% from the 2021-2022 school year.

The benefits to participating in AP classes and taking AP exams are plentiful. While AP classes can yield tuition-free college credit, they can also build our students' self-efficacy for reaching learning outcomes at the undergraduate level and beyond! Additionally, AP exams, two to three hours in length for most testers, can also serve as an important practice for cumulative, end of course exams at the collegiate level.

In addition to the AP program, EHS's dual enrollment courses represent a second pathway for early college access and building college readiness! Last year, students had more choices than ever for dual enrollment and dual credit coursework, all offered at significantly reduced rates due to the district's partnerships with area colleges such as Mercer County College, The College of New Jersey and Rider University. Similar to the AP program, students experience college exams and coursework with the notable difference that college credit comes from the final course grade, and not performance on the exam specifically.

The district is proud of all of our students taking advantage of our growing Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment programs!

The Ewing Public Schools

September 2023 Schedule in Ewing Schools

Sep 1 Staff Development Day

Sep 4 Labor Day - School Buildings Closed

Sep 5 Parkway - New Student Open House

9–10am: Parkway Pre-Kindergarten Open House

10–11am: Parkway Kindergarten Open House

11am–12pm: Parkway New Students Grades 1-5 Open House

Antheil - New Student Open House

12–1pm: Antheil Pre-Kindergarten Open House

1–2pm: Antheil Kindergarten Open House

2–3pm: Antheil New Student Grades 1-5 Open House

Lore - New Student Open House

12–1pm: Lore Pre-Kindergarten Open House

1–2pm: Lore Kindergarten Open House

2–3pm: Lore New Student Grades 1-5 Open House

Sep 6 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS! Welcome Back!

Sep 13 EHS - Underclassman Picture Day

FMS - Picture Day

EHS - Freshman & Sophomore Counseling Parent Meeting @ 5pm

EHS - Back to School Night @ 6:30pm

Sep 14 O’Brien Academy Back to School Night @ 5:30pm

FMS - Back to School Night @ 6:30pm

HELPING HANDS

We all know the saying, “Many hands make light work.” By John Haywood, which emphasizes a tough, “heavy” task can become easier, quicker, and “lighter” when numerous people help, held true this summer. This summer, over 15 Ewing High School students willingly volunteered their time to assist Mr. Odri with the Elementary Summer Extended Learning Program held at Fisher Middle School. Students were responsible for delivering snacks, assisting late arriving students, escorting students to the Nurse, and helping with STEM and literacy projects. Ewing High School students received community service hours for helping with the program. It was also wonderful to see some of Ewing High's finest students helping out our elementary students!

Mrs. Lu hosted a ‘Summer Lunch Bunch’ for four rising 4th grade students, Delaney Brown, Sofia Monroy Contreras, Milani Davis, and Luna Garzon Garcia, at Parkway Elementary School. The students were excited to be back at school with friends as they talked about their summer activities, their thoughts and expectations about the start of a new grade while enjoying lunch with the School Counselor and engaging in making calming jars.

Sep 18-22

Antheil - PTO Fall Scholastic Book Fair

Sep 18 Board of Education Meeting (EHS Auditorium) @ 6pm (Public Session @ 7pm)

Sep 19 Lore - Back to School Night @ 6:30pm

Sep 20 Antheil - Back to School Night @ 6:30pm

Antheil - Picture Day (Day 1)

Sep 21 Parkway - Back to School Night @ 6:30pm

Antheil - Picture Day (Day 2)

Sep 22 Antheil - PTO Welcome Back Picnic @ 6pm

Sep 25 SCHOOL CLOSED - Yom Kippur

Sep 26 District Virtual Counseling Event: Parent Program K-12 Bullying & Peer Conflict @ 6:30pm

Sep 29 Parkway - PTA Welcome Back Picnic @ 6pm

Sep 30 Ewing Community Fest @ TCNJ Campus 10am–4pm

EHS - Homecoming Football Game @ 2pm

EHS - Homecoming Dance @ 7pm

For questions or information, please contact the Superintendent's Office:

609-538-9800 ext. 1102 thullings@ewingboe.org

www.ewing.k12.nj.us

Design and Layout by Daniella Crescente

GoodNews is an official publication of The Ewing Public Schools.

©2023 GoodNews

Ewing Public Schools, Supervisor of Instructional Technology, Alicia Mackall, presented on the mainstage at the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Conference this summer. ISTE's goal is to improve technology use in schools worldwide by using best practices associated with learning and technology, to create high-impact, sustainable, scalable, and equitable learning experiences for all learners. The annual conference attracts over 16,000 in-person attendees.

Ms. Mackall, was also selected by Google for Education to attend their first Champions Symposium in Sunnyvale, California this fall. This October, she will connect with EdTech leaders and innovators from around the world, deepen advocacy skills, explore innovative new tools, and more.

AHERA MANAGEMENT PLAN ANNUAL NOTIFICATION

The Ewing Township Board of Education hereby notifies all parents, students, employees and staff that the activities required by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) 40 CFR Part 763.93 have been fulfilled. These requirements include the Three Year Re-inspection and assessments of the asbestos containing materials located within the facilities comprising of the School District. A copy of the updated AHERA Management Plan document is currently available for review at the Main Office of each school and other facilities within the Ewing Township Board of Education. Please direct any further questions to Ms. Kristen Masotes at 609-392-4200. Future projects may include: classrooms each at AES, EHS, and FMS for tile removal.

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS

Register by calling 609.394.4153 or register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Class size is limited for in-person events. Please register early. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

CANCERS IN WOMEN + FOCUSING ON SELF-CARE

Thursday, September 28, 2023 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Learning about cancers of the female reproductive system may reduce your risk and help you identify ways to prevent them, so it’s important to be proactive about your health. DR. JOYCE VARUGHESE, a board certified, fellowship trained gynecologic oncologist, will lead a discussion of the programs available at Capital Health for women undergoing treatment for gynecologic cancers and related health challenges. Nancy McCormack, an internationally certified and registered yoga therapist from the Capital Health Wellness Center, will close the program with a demonstration of gentle yoga stretches.

SAFETY AWARENESS IN AND AROUND YOUR HOME

Wednesday, October 11, 2023 | 10 a.m.

Location: Capital Health – Hamilton

1445 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road, Hamilton, NJ 08619

Join Stephanie Kulak, Injury Prevention Coordinator from the Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center, to learn about the potential dangers in your home that could possibly cause injury. This program for older adults increases awareness of home safety and fall prevention and highlights the newer technology available to help people in the event of a fall.

What are the benefits for an annual physical for children?

Ask The Doctor

While back-to-school is a time to shop for school supplies and the latest fashions, it is also the perfect time to check in on your child’s health with a physical exam. Parents can ease the big change and alleviate stress with the below back-to-school readiness checklist from the pediatric and adolescent health experts at RWJBarnabas Health:

• Fill out any forms your school has sent home, such as emergency contact and health information forms.

• Be sure your child has up-to-date immunizations; new this school year, children 12 and over can be vaccinated for COVID-19

• Inform the school nurse and teachers about medical conditions your child may have, particularly food allergies, asthma,

diabetes and any other conditions that may need to be managed during the school day. Arrange with the school nurse to administer medications your child might need.

• Let teachers know about conditions that may affect your child’s ability to learn. Children with ADHD should be seated in the front and children with vision problems should sit near the board.

• Be sure your child has a safe backpack and knows not to overload it.

Likhitha Musunuru, MD, Family Medicine, an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group provider, affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, shares answers to the following common questions related to back-to-school physicals: Are well-visits, physical exams and sports exams the same thing?

Both exams are classified as a preventative care visit – they allow your child to be examined using measurements of growth and development. These visits help keep your child healthy and focus on

improvements that can be made to enhance your child’s wellness.

What can my child expect during a back-to-school visit or well-exam?

During a back-to-school physical, your provider will discuss your child’s history to discuss any concerns, ask questions about lifestyle behaviors, check their vaccination status and update their medical history. Your provider will also check your child’s vital signs – blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate and temperature – and perform heart, lung, abdominal and head and neck exams.

Why do schools require back-toschool physicals each year?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, schools often require physicals to ensure students’ vaccinations are up-to-date. These exams also provide an opportunity to monitor your child’s health on a year-to-year basis to ensure he or she is hitting milestone benchmarks.

What vaccines are required for school-age children?

New Jersey schools require specific immunizations based on the age of your child. For a full list of vaccinations required all grades in New Jersey, visit nj.gov/health/ cd/imm.shtml.

Does my child need any other kind of screening?

Cardiac and concussion screenings have the lifesaving potential to reduce heartrelated incidents and brain injuries among school-age children and teens. New Jersey requires all school athletes to be examined by their primary care or school physician at least once per year.

Dr. Musunuru sees patients at 17 Main Street in Robbinsville. For more information or to make an appointment, please call (609) 392-6366. Learn more at rwjbh.org/ medgroupprimarycare

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, SEPTEMbER 11

peaceful meals.

Does The Ringing In Your Ears Drive You Crazy? 10-11 a.m. 25 million Americans suffer from Tinnitus and sound sensitivity. Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., A.B.A. as she discusses the phenomenon of Tinnitus and Sound Sensitivity Syndrome and various treatment options for relief.

Fall Mini Medical School. Also Sept. 12, 19, 26, and Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31; 6-7 p.m. Join us for this 8-week informative session on different medical topics. Enhance your knowledge with the variety of specialties and areas of study. All you need to bring is a willingness to learn and have fun.

*MUST ATTEND ALL 8 SESSIONS FOR A CERTIFICATE*

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMbER 20

Fall Medication Series. Also Sept. 27 and Oct. 4, 11, & 18; 2-3 p.m. Learn about different classifications of medications in this 5 week series with our pharmacists and congestive heart failure coordinator.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMbER 27

Managing Stress and Diabetes. 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.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMbER 28

Color Me Hoopy; Hoola Hoop for Fun and Fitness! 6 to 7 p.m. This is a very popular class, and with good reason; it’s so much fun. Hoola Hooping is so much easier with an “adult sized” hoop and the right instruction. Learn skills and techniques, hoops provided. Angela Reitter, certified Hoop Love Coach and Hoola-Fit Instructor. Fee-$15.

Better Health Programs

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

TUESDAY, SEPTEMbER 12

The Tree of Life Art Workshop. 1 to 2:30 p.m. In this workshop, we will create the tree of life that speaks to you—its colors, branches, production of sprouts and/or leaves. Bring pictures from magazines, your own photos, the colors you associate with your tree— paints, crayons and colored pencils will do. We will explore it all in this workshop and gain connection as we embrace this season together.

FRiDAY, SEPTEMbER 22

Dr. Ali & Game Time Lunch and Learn. Noon to 1:30 p.m. Join us for lunch, a game, and prizes as Dr. Ali & Joyce Cantalice test your knowledge on things important to our aging community. Don’t panic, this will be a team effort created to be interactive and fun.

CHRISTINE M. STORIE

How and When to be Your Own Health Advocate. 11 a.m. to noon. Join Lisa Cruser, LPN, Nurse Advocate and owner of Empowering Patients Advocacy Group while she discusses how to navigate the healthcare system, how to ask for and get a second opinion, and how to advocate for yourself and others. Free.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMbER

12

No More Food Fights. 10 to 11 a.m. We are talking about picky eating! Mealtime doesn’t have to be a battle. Let’s explore the most current and effective tactics for healthy &

TUESDAY, SEPTEMbER 26

Lean on Me! 11 a.m. to Noon. An end-of-life doula is a trained and compassionate individual who provides emotional, practical, and spiritual support to individuals and their families helping create an end-of-life plan. Meet Sandra Roy, who has dedicated her life to serving the community. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, End-of Life Certification, Life Coach Certification, Clinical Pastoral Education Certification from RWJBarnabas Health, and is working on her Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work.

Dr. Likhitha Musunuru

Senior Corner

September 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

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 ( Beginners class starts 9/13 for 6 weeks)

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 September

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

CLUBS:

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

Senior Picnic, Sept. 7, Noon-2PM @ ESCC patio. At HB in case of rain. Performing–Joe Grillo. $5PP. Tickets available at Senior Office.

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.

Jersey Shore rules to live by

ILENE BLACK bETTiNG

ON bLACK

George and I went down the shore the other day. We are semi-old people, so we tend to leave home at the crack of dawn, get to the beach before the seagulls are awake, and leave by 1:30 when other people are staggering onto the sand for the day. We set up our little area with our cooler, our beach mat, our chairs, and our little table. Yes, table. It’s a little white table with short fold-up legs that sits between us and holds our cell phones and our books and our sunscreen and our coffee . Yes, our coffee. I TOLD you we were semi-old.

Anyway, so we were happily ensconced in our little beach area, sipping coffee and enjoying the restful view of the ocean and the boats and watching for dolphins. Relaxed, content, a bit sleepy from getting up so darn early. All of a sudden, our peace was shattered by a family of eight adults and about seven thousand children. I truly believe that this was the first time these kids ever saw the ocean. They streaked, screaming, to the water’s edge and just kept screaming. Scared the crap out of us.

The adults were carrying bulging Shop-Rite bags, tables (bigger than ours) chairs, umbrellas, coolers, and a baby pool. George and I exchanged looks while silently praying that they didn’t set up camp next to us. They didn’t. Thank God.

I share this story with you for a reason. Allow me to segue into my list of Beach Etiquette Rules.

Beach Etiquette Rule #1 – do not bring

furniture to the beach. Like, furniture from your house. Like, a kitchenette. Don’t laugh. I’ve seen it.

Beach Etiquette Rule #2 – don’t sit anywhere near me. Not even fifty yards away. Let’s make it easy. If you are close enough so that I can smell your sunscreen and hear your audiobook, you are way too close. If you do breach my perimeter, be prepared for me to maybe drop pieces of bread behind your chair when no one’s looking, thereby guaranteeing a swarm of hungry sea gulls descending on you.

Beach Etiquette Rule #3 – speaking of sitting near me, do not park your camp in FRONT of me, between me and the ocean. Do NOT! I didn’t make the trip across the state to stare at the back of your head and watch you eat a messy sub. There must be something about me and George that attracts the hordes. Either our stunning good looks or our air of serenity. I’m not sure which it is. But honestly, we could set up our beach chairs right at the water’s edge. RIGHT at the edge. And people would STILL set up in front of us. On pontoon boats or floating rafts.

Beach Etiquette Rule #4 – if you see me standing in the water up to my ankles and trying to avoid getting smacked by a wave, do not run into me while riding your boogie board. Learn to steer the thing or one of two things will happen:

1) I will rat you out to the lifeguard, or 2) I will confiscate your boogie board and turn it into a Frisbee.

Beach Etiquette Rule #5 – don’t litter. Don’t leave your water bottles, baby toys, diapers, food wrappers, chip bags, empty suntan lotion bottles and other detritus on the beach. There are trash cans lined up on either side of the path to the beach. You will literally run into them if you stray off the path. They are noticeable. Carry your crap the 50 yards to the trashcans and drop it in. It’s not hard. You are the first person to whine if there is litter on the sand where you want to park your beach caravan. So keep it clean. This is one of the many times when I wish I had magical powers. After seeing what people leave behind on the beach, I’d love to conjure up a spell that would take their trash and fill their car with it.

I guess beachgoing rules are pretty much like life rules. Be respectful, be kind to the environment, be unselfish, enjoy yourself, and stay out of my way.

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.

Why Odd Fellows?

England, and is still the headquarters in the US for the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows.

Ewing Recreation

September 2023

The name always brought a silent chuckle to me, as I’m sure it did to many others passing by the corner of Pennington Road and Parkway Avenue: The Odd Fellows Home. What “odd fellows” had their own home here? What was this place?

It’s an unfortunate name for what was constituted as a charitable organization. This month we explore the Odd Fellows—if only to answer my own questions!

The Order of Odd Fellows first appeared in London in the 1700s, and evolved to become an international philanthropic fraternal organization. Wikipedia indicates that the actual foundation or beginning of the organization is shrouded in obscurity, but is generally traced to the first third of the 18th century.

The derivation of the organization’s name is also uncertain, but likely results from the joining together of individuals from small, unique, or “odd” trades, as opposed to those involved in the large craft guilds or trade organizations of the time, for the purposes of support, socialization, and education.

These individuals from “odd trades” joined together to become a group of “odd fellows,” and the name stuck.

However, to complicate the situation, individuals from “odd trades” in different parts of England joined together to form slightly different groups of “odd fellows,” with much the same purpose, but with fine distinctions.

Eventually two larger organizations emerged: the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Manchester. Both met the needs of more middle-class and working class individuals.

Of course, as Englishmen (and others) came to the American colonies, they started up similar organizations here. While several groups were started in New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore, the “Baltimore” group is considered the “official” one, founded by Thomas Wildey in 1819, and chartered by the Independent Order of Oddfellows Manchester back in London.

Eventually wishing to break ties with England, the organization became an independent one in 1842, and in 1843 changed its name to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF). The Philadelphia group kept its ties with

I won’t recount the rather convoluted history of these related organizations in this column; suffice it to say that they were active in the 19th and 20th centuries. The IOOF is sometimes known as the “Triple Link Fraternity,” due to its symbol with three links, representing its core values of Friendship, Love and Truth.

A “non-political and non-sectarian” organization, its stated purpose is still to “visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan.” Unfortunately that purpose didn’t include admitting people of color until well into the 20th century.

The IOOF was however the first organization to admit (white) women, in 1851, known within as the “Daughters of Rebekah.”

The latter half of the 19th century was a growth period for such groups. Membership grew following the Civil War as industrialization surged and unfortunate social conditions required assistance to the unfortunate.

Wikipedia states that in 1896, the World Almanac reported the IOOF as being the largest of all fraternal organizations. Membership eventually declined during the Great Depression and afterwards, as member fees were prohibitive, and other social networks came into play.

IOOF “Homes” were built in many states to house elderly and infirmed members of the organization, or to house members’ orphans. The Odd Fellows were the first group to care for members via such homes, and the NJ one was the third to be opened.

It was constructed on nine acres of farmland in 1885, at the outskirts of Trenton, on Parkway (then Scotch) and Pennington roads. In 1930, approximately 75 “aged or indigent” residents were being cared for in the Home. Closed some decades ago, the building now houses Ujima Ministries.

Unfortunately I can find no more recent data on the Ewing Odd Fellows Home. But it’s clear that it existed to extend care to members, with a mission in part to: “promote personal and social development; extend sympathy and aid to those in need; relieve despair; and to be a great influence for the good of humanity.” (IOOF website).

That’s not so “odd” after all!

Registration for ERBL Basketball League and Ewing Rec Wrestling will open on communitypass.net on Thursday, September 15th for the 2023 – 2024 seasons!

Ewing Recreation Basketball League (ERBL), register online at CommunityPass. net. The league is open to boys and girls in grades K – 8. It is mandatory for all new players to provide proof of grade, school and residency. The league will have the following divisions this season, Instructional for boys grades K – 1. Boy’s leagues are grades 2-3, 4–5, 6–8; Girl’s divisions include Instructional for K – 1, leagues for grades 3 – 5 and 6 – 8. Everyone makes a team. Registration deadline is November 4th. Games are played on Saturdays at Fisher, and Antheil. Check out the league website at leaguelineup.com/erbl for additional information.

The Ewing Recreation Wrestling program will start its’ winter season November 14th. Registration deadline November 17th. Practices are held at Fisher New Gym on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, evenings for children in grades K-8. No experience is necessary. Registration is online at communitypass.net. For more info visit the website at ewingrecreationalwrestling.com.

Ewing Recreation and Ewing Green Team are running the 8th annual Fall Spin Bike Ride on Saturday, September 30 starting at Campus Town and benefit Mercer St. Friends. In person registration starts at 8:15 am. Pre-registration can be done online at communitypass.net. Riders can register the day of the ride starting at 8:45am in the

parking area. For more information go to ewinggreenteam.org/ewingfallspin or call Ewing Rec Dept.

On Saturday, October 28th, Ewing Recreation will host Trunk or Treat starting at 3:00pm. Activities include pumpkin decorating, arts and crafts, food, music and more. Both events will be held at ESCC, rain, or shine. Treaters and Trunks need to register on communitypass.net.

Registration is being accepted online for the fall for youth tackle football and soccer. For football go to ewingjrbluedevils.com. Football games and practices are held at Moody Park and the program starts in early August. Soccer games and practices are held at Municipal Soccer Fields, next to Town Hall. The program starts in August and games start in mid- September. Go to ewingunited. com to register. Ewing Little League is accepting registration for Fall Ball online at ewingbaseball.leagueapps.com.

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. Contact the office for more information.

For room rentals call Hollowbrook Community Center, 883-1199 and ESCC 8831776 for small groups to large parties.

For more information on these or any other programs you can contact the Recreation Office at (609) 883-1776, online at ewingnj.org/communityaffairs.

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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