6-24 HE

‘Life-changing’ injury can’t stop Bulldogs’ Powers on the diamond

how far would you go if they were sick?

By Rich Fisher

When Jenna Powers tells people her tale, she seemingly turns into an alien.

“They kind of look at me,” she said, “like I have three eyes.”

Actually, Powers does not have an extra eye. But she does have one less elbow joint.

Welcome to Capital Health.

Suffering what her surgeon

called a “life-changing injury,” Powers made sure the one thing that would not change was her ability to play softball. Beating the odds and playing with a left arm two inches shorter than the right, the Hopewell Valley Central High senior recently completed a stellar four-year playing career with the Bulldogs.

As a first baseman/pitcher,

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.

Jenna had a career average of .297 with six doubles, 40 RBI and 21 runs scored. She hit .361 as a sophomore and .302 as a senior but, in her case, statistics are secondary.

Just the fact she played meant she batted 1.000.

And when her family sat and watched her perform, it always

See POWERS, Page 12

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.

HoVal grads excel in TCNJ Mayo challenge

Back-to-back winners of business plan contest are HVCHS graduates

By JOe EMANsKi

Every year, students at The College of New Jersey have the opportunity to take part in the Mayo Business Plan Competition, a contest named after retired Professor Herbert “Buddy” Mayo and held by the college’s School of Business.

The intent of the competition is to inspire entrepreneurial spirit and introduce students to the challenges of developing a business. Participants in the contest are mentored through several rounds as they look to overcome all the challenges inherent in creating a viable business plan.

TCNJ students come from all around the state and, indeed, the world. But for two years running, the competition’s winning team has included a graduate of Hopewell Valley Central High School.

This March, senior Sangam Shivaprasad and her teammates, Lauren Cunningham and Emma Routé, took top honors with their business plan for a venture they have named Golden Con-

nections. Shivaprasad is a CHS graduate.

Golden Connections is conceived as an AI-powered health and wellness digital application platform designed to address the needs of seniors and caregivers. The app would feature an AI assistant that could help users with tasks and reminders and provide health and wellness insights based on speech biomarkers.

One year earlier, the firstplace team in the competition was H.E.R., or Health Empowerment Reimagined, a collaboration of CHS grad Molly O’Brien and her teammate, Katie Olsen. Their business plan for H.E.R. outlines a women’s health and wellness app whose mission is to educate, inspire and transform the lives of young women with chronic health conditions. The app would be designed for women, taking into account the special health needs and challenges of living with CHCs.

First-place winners receive a prize of $30,000, shared equally among winning team members. Second-place finishers get $20,000, and third place $10,000.

Jack’s

“Sangam and I do not believe that both of us winning this esteemed competition, two years in a row, is a coincidence,” O’Brien told the Express. “We

See MAYO, Page 11

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

Senior Jenna Powers takes a cut for Hopewell Valley softball.

AROUND TOWN

Credit Union of NJ COO Sarkar named Executive of the Year

Soma Sarkar, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Credit Union of New Jersey in Ewing, has been named the 2024 William W. Pratt Executive of the Year.

The honor was awarded by the CrossState Credit Union Association, which recognizes leaders committed to the credit union movement’s “People Helping People” philosophy.

“Sarkar has more than 29 years of service in the credit union space, holding numerous positions of influence over the years,” stated a news release. “Her accomplishments speak volumes for her dedication and commitment to the credit union industry.”

saw the credit union grow to more than $440 million in assets through numerous branch expansions, technological advances and marketing programs under her guidance and leadership.

Prior to coming to CUNJ in 1994, Sarkar worked for major savings and loan commercial banks. She is certified by the American Institute of Banking in supervisory management, customer service, real estate banking, business administration and accounting.

ness School, Cornell and UVA Darden School of Business.

She also belongs to the Credit Union Executives Society and Credit Union National Association’s Operations, Lending, Marketing and Information Technology Councils, and was on the NJ Credit Union League’s Professional Advisory Group for the for several years.

Township, boroughs bestow inaugural Mayor’s Awards

Sarkar, a resident of Hopewell, started as a branch manager for CUNJ, and worked her way up to her current position of EVP/COO. During that time, she

Sarkar has completed the Management Enrichment Training Program through the former N.J. Credit Union League and is a certified BDS Master Trainer. She graduated with the highest honors from the National Credit Union Institute, and she completed the CEO Institute program from Wharton Busi-

we are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Hopewell Express 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.

eDitor

Joe Emanski (Ext. 120)

ContriBUtinG writer

Rich Fisher

ContriBUtinG CoLUmnists

Robin Schore, Lisa Wolff

AD LAYoUt AnD proDUCtion

Stacey Micallef

ACCoUnt eXeCUtiVe

Christine Storie (Ext. 115)

to ADVertise

call Christine storie (609) 396-1511, ext. 115 or e-mail cstorie@communitynews.org

Community news service

9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

phone: (609) 396-1511 news: news@communitynews.org events: events@communitynews.org sports: sports@communitynews.org Letters: jemanski@communitynews.org website: hopewellexpress.com Facebook: facebook.com/hopewellexpress twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace

11,000 copies of the Hopewell Express are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Pennington, Hopewell Township and Hopewell Borough 12 times a year.

The inaugural Mayor’s Awards, meant to honor the heroic efforts of first responders across Hopewell Valley, were established this year by Hopewell Township Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning to recognize and publicly thank members of each division of first responders who go above and beyond the call of duty in their service to the community.

The 2024 awards were presented on May 11 at the grand opening of the newly constructed bandshell at Woolsey Park. Following the awards presentation, Hopewell Township hosted its first Cultural Festival.

The recipients of the 2024 Mayor’s Awards included assistant director of public works David Guerard; Hopewell Township police officer Michael Crincoli; Union Fire and Rescue Squad president Peter Swanson; and Hopewell Valley Emergency Services specialist John Schafer.

At the bandshell dedication, Pennington Borough Mayor Jim Davy also gave Mayor’s Awards to members of the Pennington Police Department and Pennington Fire Company.

Pennington police award recipients were Chief Doug Pinelli, Sgt. Daryl Burroughs, Jr., Sgt. Novin Thomas, Det. Daniel D’Ascoli, Officer Mark Caruso, Officer Leo Friedman and Officer Gerard Sinnott. Anthony DiCocco was the Pennington Fire Company award recipient

of:

Hopewell Borough Mayor Ryan Kennedy also recognized Hopewell Fire Department EMS Lt. Luke Morehouse and Fire Department Chief John Novak Sr.

“These awards are a testament to the exceptional dedication and sacrifice exhibited by our first responders every day,” said Peters-Manning. “Their bravery and commitment to our community

deserve the utmost recognition. We are immensely grateful for their service and proud to honor them with the inaugural Mayor’s Awards.”

Sourland Conservancy offers free trees

Have you been thinking about planting more native trees and shrubs? Have you lost a favorite tree due to insects or storms? Is your property (of any size) located within the Sourland Mountain Region of Central New Jersey? The Sourland Conservancy may be able to help

In 2022, the Sourland Conservancy was awarded a U.S. Forest Service grant to plant native trees and shrubs directly on private land within the Forest Service Priority Area within the Sourland Region. The work helps provide critical habitat and strengthen connectivity to help keep wildlife populations healthy.

The Sourland Conservancy is looking for 25 more Sourland Region residents who would like to have our staff plant native trees and shrubs on their property. All trees and shrubs will be protected with white plastic tree tubes. Residents must agree to maintain the trees.

Those interested can email their address to Sourland Conservancy’s stewardship director, Rob Aluck, at stewards@sourland.org to see if the property is located within the USFS Priority Area.

See NEWS, Page 4

Sarkar

Sourland Conservancy interns Sam Guman and Danielle Deering.

RWJUH Hamilton June Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

BRAIN HEALTH-LEARN PROVEN WAYS TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN YOUNG

Monday, June 3; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

With so much information out today on brain health, what methods really work?

Join Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., Senior Audiologist, to learn more about how to keep your brain young and turn back the clock on your brain.

SWEET SUCCESS SOCIETY: A DIABETES GROUP

Monday, June 3; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Monday, June 10; 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

A group for anyone with diabetes or caring for one of the 37 million Americans living with diabetes. Learn and discuss healthy ways to manage diabetes alongside peers and Taryn Krietzman, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Empower yourself and others towards a healthy lifestyle and success in diabetes self-management.

DANCE IT OUT!

Thursday, June 6; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

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

WHAT’S EATING YOU?

Monday, June 10; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Support group for people experiencing emotional eating. We offer a safe space to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

HOW SOUND HEALS: THE SCIENCE OF SOUND HEALING

Monday, June 10; 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Science is catching up with what healers

have known for centuries, sound and vibration affect our mind, body and spirit. Adriana Hansen, will discuss the science behind sound and vibration and show you how and why certain sounds can help you sleep better, improve your mood, improve body function and even reduce pain! This is an interactive discussion, so come prepared to feel the good vibrations!

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

Tuesday, June 13; 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. All things seasonal, all the time! Learn what wonderful fruits and veggies are up to this time of year and how to make them shine! Enjoy being an in-person studio-audience member as Taryn Krietzman, RDN, does a live taping or join us from your home via our live Zoom.

COOKING WITH CARDIOLOGY: STAY HEALTHY WITH SUMMER GRILLING

Thursday, June 13; 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

When done right, grilling can be one of the more healthful ways to prepare food. Very little fat needs to be added to foods cooked on the grill. Join Shakil Shaikh, DO, Cardiology, RWJUH Hamilton, and member of Hamilton Cardiology Associates, for a delicious insight on summer cooking.

SACRED BREATHWORK EXPERIENCE

Thursday, June 13; 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Kim Huston, Reiki Master and Certified

Breathwork facilitator, is passionate about sharing this modality with anyone looking for true healing. Sacred

breathwork can help release negative patterns and fears that keep us stuck. Bring a yoga mat and blanket; chairs will also be available. Fee: $15

ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

Monday, June 17; 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Join RWJUH Hamilton for their annual report to the community meeting. Registration is required, and a complimentary light breakfast will be served. Lisa Breza, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, Chief Administrative Officer, will provide an overview of the hospital’s recent accomplishments and plans for future growth.

ASK THE DIETITIAN

Monday, June 17; 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Do you have a question about diet and nutrition? Join a community education dietitian for a one-on-one Q&A. Preregistration for each 1/2 hour appointment is required.

PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP

Tuesday, June 18; 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Diagnosed with prediabetes? This group is for you to connect with others affected. Share and explore ways to improve lifestyle changes.

COLOR ME HOOPY: HOOLAHOOPING FOR FUN & FITNESS!

Tuesday, June 18; 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

If you think you can’t hoola-hoop, you’re mistaken! This class is so much fun that you don’t even realize that you are working out! It’s much easier with an adult-sized hoop... which is provided at the class. No experience necessary.

Angela Reitter, Certified HoopLove coach and Hoopa-Fit instructor. Fee: $15

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Wednesday, June 19; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Quieting your mind, even for a short while, can have profound effects on both your body and your mind. Come learn to lower the volume of your mind’s chatter. No experience is necessary.

HEALTHRHYTHMS® DRUM CIRCLE

Wednesday, June 19; 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Drum your cares away with our monthly drum circle. It’s lots of fun and a great stress reliever. Beginners welcome; drums will be provided. Mauri Tyler, CTRS,CMP. Fee: $15

LGBTQ+ BREAST/CHEST HEALTH

Thursday, June 20; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Join Cecilia Gomez, BS, Community Cancer Control Specialist, RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute, for this presentation that covers the basics of breast cancer as it relates to the LGBTQ+ community. We will discuss screening guidelines, health disparities, diet and lifestyle, and genetic counseling.

VISION BOARD WORKSHOP

Tuesday, June 25; 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Join this fun, interactive workshop where we will explore your vision, hope and intentions for the future. Please bring scissors; all other materials are provided.

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN: SUMMERTIME STAPLES

Wednesday, June 26; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Healthy eating starts early! Empower kids with culinary skills and nutrition knowledge to become their healthiest selves! For children 5 years and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Taryn Krietzman, RDN. Fee: $5 per person

REIKI SHARE

Wednesday, June 26; 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Share the gift of Reiki with other practitioners. Give a session; get a session. Please bring a small sheet and pillow. Restricted to those certified in Reiki (any level).

BARIATRIC WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, July 9; 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

If you are considering surgery, are in the process of preparing or have undergone surgery, you are welcome to attend our support group meetings. Family, friends and support persons are also invited to attend. This is a great opportunity to meet others going through the same weight loss journey. Our meetings focus on achieving optimal wellness through weight loss surgery. Each month, we will discuss a different topic on nutrition, exercise and healthy living behaviors. To register or for more information, call 609-249-7510.

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

Better Health Programs/Complimentary Membership at 65+ Years Old

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

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

A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Wednesday, June 5, 12, 19, 26

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

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

GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE TOUR

Wednesday, June 5; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, June 6; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Join us for a guided tour that provides a deeper look into the sculptural secrets and rich history of Grounds for Sculpture. Plenty to see and learn with over 42 acres and approximately 350 works of art!

MIND OVER MATTER BREAKFAST AND LEARN

Tuesday, June 11; 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Is there a correlation between our thinking and our eating habits?

Ekta Makani, FNP-C, MSN, Advanced Practice Nurse, will discuss this topic and the science behind the behaviors. This will be an engaging and fascinating conversation, providing answers to this age-old question.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, June 13 + 27; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, June 18 + 25; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Krystal Loughlin, certified RYT, will be leading this gentle yoga class using traditional postures and breathing techniques, offering modifications of the poses for your body so that you can confidently participate. Beginners welcome.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, June 18 + 25; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

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

Tuesday, June 18 + 25; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Krystal Loughlin, certified RYT, will be teaching Chair Yoga. Using a chair for seated poses and also for balancing poses, this class is perfect for those who haven’t moved their bodies for a while, are recovering from an injury or have mobility/balancing difficulties. A great place to start practicing yoga to help boost your flexibility, find inner peace, unwind and stretch. Many options are given to customize the practice for YOU!

TEA PARTY

Friday, June 28; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Pinkies up! Let’s talk tea and try some famously tasty pairings. Hats are encouraged!

Scan QR code to view, learn more & register on-line for the programs listed above. Or visit rwjbh.org/HamiltonPrograms Email CommunityEdHam@rwjbh.org or call 609-584-5900 to learn more

CHAIR YOGA

Subject line: USFS planting inquiry.

The conservancy also welcomed two new interns, Sam Guman and Danielle Deering, who will be planting native trees, shrubs and flowers, manage invasive species and lead volunteer groups’ efforts to help offset the loss of more than one million trees due to the emerald ash borer.

Homefront, Homes by TLC hold Hopewell Parc ribbon cutting

Homes by TLC, HomeFront, and Lennar celebrated the grand opening of 26 new units of affordable homes for lowincome and working local families with a ribbon cutting on May 17.

The 26 units are situated within Lennar’s Hopewell Parc residential development on Scotch Road. The new threestory apartment building complex contains four one-bedroom units, sixteen two-bedroom units, and six three-bedroom units.

Hopewell Parc is the 23rd affordable housing project for Homes by TLC, a local agency dedicated to constructing, developing, and operating affordable homes for working families, in partnership with HomeFront, a Lawrence-based nonprofit committed to ending homeless-

For a family to afford a modest two-bedroom home in Mercer County, they must earn an hourly wage of $33.50, which far more than the state average wage of $24.40 or the current minimum wage of $15.13, according to this year’s annual Out of Reach report conducted by the National Low-Income Housing Coalition. At minimum wage, an individual would need to work 95 hours a week to afford a two-bedroom apartment at the fair market rent of $1,742.

Watershed Institute expanding StreamWatch program

ness and breaking the cycle of poverty.

HomeFront, which is a Lawrence nonprofit with a mission to end homelessness and break the cycle of poverty, partners

be a party to teenage drinking.

against the law.

with Homes by TLC to provide wraparound services including job training, support for children, life skills, access to groceries and basic necessities and more.

In attendance for the Hopewell Parc ribbon cutting on May 17 areSarah Steward, HomeFront CEO; Kim Shivers, Tenacre Foundation; Jane Hallett; Courtney PetersManning, Hopewell Township mayor; Sangita Karra, Wells Fargo; Celia Bernstein, Homes by TLC executive director; David Chait, Hopewell Township Committee; Wanda Saez, Wells Fargo; Matthew and Suki Wasserman; Martha Lamar, Homes by TLC; Sen. Shirley Turner; and HomeFront founder Connie Mercer. Don’t

The Watershed Institute reports that it has been awarded an American Water Charitable Foundation 2024 Water and Environment grant to expand its StreamWatch Schools Program in diverse communities.

“We are grateful to the American Water Charitable Foundation for helping The Watershed Institute expand its StreamWatch Schools program,” said executive director Jim Waltman. “StreamWatch Schools is a unique water quality monitoring program led by children. The program enables students of all ages

See NEWS, Page 6

FACTS ABOUT UNDERAGE DRINKING AND THE LAW:

• It is a criminal offense in NJ to make your home or property available for allowing minors a place to consume alcohol.

• NJ’s Social Host Liability Law imposes civil penalties on social hosts who serve alcohol to minors who subsequently are involved in incidents causing death or injury.

• Drunk driving is a leading cause of death among teens in the U.S.

• Teen drinking can lead to academic problems, car crashes, unplanned pregnancies, changes in brain development, unintentional serious injuries, other drug use and alcohol dependence later in life.

• Binge drinking is common among teens who consume alcohol for the sole reason for getting drunk.

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. 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.

Men’s Health: Take the Lead on the Path to Wellness

Wednesday, June 5, 2024 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Being proactive with your health helps you understand and manage common conditions. Join DR. CHARLES

POLOTTI, a board certified and fellowship trained urologist, and learn about the latest treatments for erectile dysfunction and prostate enlargement as well as guidelines for prostate cancer screening.

Understanding and Treating Epilepsy

Monday, June 10, 2024 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disease in the United States, but recognizing seizures and diagnosing a specific epilepsy syndrome can be difficult. Join DR. SIDRAH MAHMUD, a fellowship trained epileptologist, to learn what causes epilepsy, how it is diagnosed, and why not all seizures are symptoms of epilepsy. Dr. Mahmud will also discuss treatment options and when it might be time to add an epileptologist to your health care team.

to contribute water quality data to a central online platform and to download data from other schools and water monitors.”

The StreamWatch Schools program is a platform, led by Watershed Educators, for teaching STEM skills to students while fostering an appreciation for nature and preparing students for future careers.

It is also intended to promote environmental stewardship and personal wellbeing. The program offers hands-on activities that teach STEM skills and provide opportunities for students to connect with and explore the natural world.

The Water and Environment grant is part of the American Water Charitable Foundation’s Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program. The foundation is a nonprofit organization established by American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S. and aims to support high-impact projects and initiatives that further American Water’s commitment to ESG, as well as inclusion, diversity and equity.

Web: thewatershed.org.

Pennington UMC to host Cemetery Walk June 1

As part if the 250th anniversary celebration of Pennington United Methodist Church, the church is hosting a cemetery walk led by local historian Jack Davis, a member of the church and board member of the Hopewell Valley Historical Society. The walk is scheduled for June 1 at noon.

The cemetery sits hidden behind an ancient stone wall on Pennington-Titusville Road, west of the Timberlane Middle School, and holds several hundred graves dating from the 18th century to the early 1900’s. The church building, which stood there from the mid-1700’s till about 1826, was built by a breakaway group of evangelical Presbyterians.

After that group reunited with the Pennington Presbyterian church, a small group of Methodists starting meeting there. Jonathan Bunn, a local farmer, had brought the Methodist movement to the Pennington area in 1774 — 250 years ago this year.

The cemetery is home to the graves of local historical figures as well as Revolutionary and Civil War soldiers. The most famous person buried there is the controversial Rev. James Davenport, a Presbyterian minister who preached here in the 1750’s.

Titusville residents Charlotte Massimo, 9, and her cousin, Cameron Peterson, 10, celebrate finishing the Miles for Malcom 5K on April 27, 2024 by becoming the first customers of the season at Cream King. (Photo courtesy of Kristen Peterson.)

community.

Davis will also recount how the Bunn family were not only founders of the Methodist Church, but also of the Pennington School and other local institutions, and about their interactions with the local African-American community.

The tour is open to all. It will progress through the small cemetery; attendees are advised to bring their own lawn chairs, if needed. Parking will be at the Hopewell Valley School District “Bulldog” parking lot adjacent to the cemetery. Web: pumcnj.com.

‘The Masque of Night’ cabaret set for June 7-8

Hopewell Mountain Christian Church is set to host the New Place Players’ The Masque of Night, a Romeo and Juliet cabaret, on Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8 at 8 p.m.

The church, a former home of an African-American congregation built in 1844, features a barrel-vault great room, extensive original millwork, an interior balcony and the original functioning church bell.

Attendees of the walk will hear about Davenport’s scandalous behavior in New England, which may have driven him to New Jersey. They will also have a chance to learn about the soldiers who are buried there and their part in the nation’s history, as well as about the laborers who were supporters of the church and

The cabaret blends Shakespeare’s text with chamber music and songs by David Bowie, Depeche Mode, Rufus Wainwright, and original compositions by musical director Flavio Gaete.

Tickets are $50. To purchase, follow the link at newplaceplayers.org.

Issue #16

hvrsd.org

HVRSD HIGHLIGHTS

tHe witNess stoNes pRogRaM at Howell liViNg FaRM

On May 16th, Members of Hopewell Regional School District, historians, public officials, local clergy, community members and one hundred Timberlane Middle School 8th grade students gathered at Howell Living Farm for the 3rd annual Witness Stones Ceremony.

This day was the culmination of a great deal of dedication and effort from the students and their teachers.The Witness Stones program, in which they took part, uncovers the stories of formerly enslaved individuals who helped build our community. This year’s subject was Nance, an individual who, along with her six children, were the property of Phillips family in the Pleasant Valley section of Hopewell Township. During the program, the forgotten were honored through student displayed artwork, music, oration, and reflection. At the ceremony’s conclusion, Timberlane students placed a permanent brass marker (a Witness Stone) to memorialize where Nance and her children lived, worked and worshiped in the Hopewell region.

The Hopewell Valley Witness Stones projects are done in partnership with The Witness Stones Project Inc. a Connecticut-based organization which provides research assistance, teacher development, and curriculum support to help middle school students study the history of slavery in their own communities. The Hopewell Valley project and event are a collaboration with the Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum and founders Elaine Buck and Beverly Mills. Timberlane Middle School is proud to continue to be one of the few schools in New Jersey to undertake a Witness Stones project.

June 2024

deca oRgaNiZatioN

DECA is a multi-faceted organization that focuses on integrating into classroom instruction, applying learning, connecting to business and promoting competition. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the world. Students complete a written exam then participate in role-plays.

This year, forty students competed at the regional conference held at Kean University in January.

The following students qualified for the DECA State Conference in Atlantic City in March:

Entrepreneurship Team

Decision Making

2nd overall - Sam Lowe, Colin Subhan

4th overallEaston McElvaine, Paul McGrail

Hospitality Services

Management Team

Decision Making

1st overall -

Abhijay Singireddy, Patrick Suryanarayan

2nd overall - Austin Gold, Ryan Wolf

Hotel and Lodging Management

11th overallZachary Conklin

Principles of Finance

10th overallMatviy Mykytyn

Retail Merchandising

7th overall - Garrett Wille

Travel & Tourism Marketing Management Team Decision Making

1st overall - Niyla Appiah, Kyla Machinga

The following students placed in the top 7 at the State Conference and participated in the recent International Career Develop Conference in Anaheim, California.

Hospitality Services Management Team Decision Making

1st overall - Abhijay Singireddy, Patrick Suryanarayan

6th overall - Austin Gold, Ryan Wolf

Community Service Project

Paul McGrail and Garrett Wille

Robotics update

Hopewell Valley Central High School’s Varsity Robotics Team, 293 SPIKE, had it’s strongest start to a competitive season in almost 8 years this Spring, competing in the finals at it’s Allentown, NJ event in March against 27 other teams from the area and finishing the event in fourth place. The team competes in FIRST MidAtlantic, a highly competitive district within FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) which includes hundreds of thousands of students on teams internationally. The team had one additional district event at Montgomery High School, where they clinched their invitation to the District Championships at Lehigh University over Spring Break against 60 of the best teams in the region. Their efforts to compete at the World Championships in Houston, TX were stifled, though, as the competition on the playing field grew more challenging. They were, however, able to bring two “Team Sustainability” awards at it’s district events, recognizing they way they have navigated some of the challenges that exist when managing a large team of students facing such a daunting challenge each year.

This year’s game challenge, which was announced in January, was to design, build, and program an entirely new 125 pound robot which would compete on alliances of 3 teams each on the gym sized playing field by picking up a 14 inch diameter orange foam taurus (donut shape) and scoring it into three different types of goals, ultimately attempting to climb a chain at the end of the match in order to help secure the win. The robot is designed using cloud based Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, and fabricated from aluminum and polycarbonate using CNC machines, 3D printers, and manual machining tools. SPIKE’s 2024 robot featured an all new “swerve drive” system, allowing it to rotate on its axis and drive in any direction, even sideways. Innovations also included a rock-solid autonomous routine during the first part of the match, and one of the most reliable game-piece scoring mechanisms on the field.

The team implemented an “Agile development” project management scheme this season to help them manage their time, and build the skills of less experienced team members. There were 45 students participating every day after school, and on weekends, along with 10 or so volunteer expert mentors reinforcing the two faculty coaches. In the upcoming off season, the students plan to participate in all of the HVRSD science fairs, and several other community events while working to build their skills for next year.

HV cHs Music pRogRaM News

Annual Hopewell’s Got Talent February show featured over 15 acts from the student body - Vocals, instrumental, a cappella groups, musical theater and more! Donations from local businesses provided every single participant with a prize to use in town - thank you to all who donated!

Vox Central Jazz and Con Brio participated in the 4th annual National Jazz Festival in Philadelphia in February. Judges Choice awards were given to Anna Nakra (‘26) and Abhijay Singireddy (‘24). Both groups received wonderful feedback from the clinicians and performed great sets of music!

HV Spectrum and HV Choirs hosted the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus for a performance, combined song, and talkback session in February. The day left us feeling inspired by the power of music to heal and to bring people together!

In March, Chamber Singers Honors and Con Brio participated in the 32nd annual Roxbury Invitational - both groups received awards for individual members. Oishee Sinharay (‘26) for her piano playing, and Jack Elliott (‘24) and Connor Bowden (‘24) for their solos with Con Brio. The festival brought together over 22 competing choirs from across the Tri-State area and Chambers received a Gold rating and Con Brio a Silver rating. Con Brio is led by seniors Aya Nestle and Jack Elliott.

The choir program traveled to Boston, Fairfield, and NYC to perform and explore. The trip ended with our annual sojourn to the Metropolitan Opera House, one of our favorite places to hear music! The choirs are adjudicated in May before attending the Music in the Parks experience at Six Flags Jackson. The final concert of the year will take place on June 4th at Trinity Cathedral in Trenton, 411 State St. All concerts are always free and open to the public!

HV Choirs Updates - Follow hv_choirs on social media!

gReeN week

The Hopewell Valley Regional School District Green Week took place in all Hopewell Valley Schools from April 22nd-26th. Green Week was celebrated with a series of district, school, and community-based activities, centered around environmental challenges and solutions. This year’s theme was “Creating The Future We Want Today.” Activities at the four elementary schools included Walk, Bike, & Roll to School, energy planting with the Watershed Institute, waste-free lunches, a Green Expo, and more! NJ First Lady Tammy Murphy visited Hopewell Elementary School and took part in planting as well as reading with students. Bear Tavern students created a rain garden. Timberlane Middle School hosted “March Mammal Madness,” and created animal habitats around the school. Students at Central High School High attended a variety of Eco Lunch and Learn sessions. The HVCHS Youth Environmental Society and the district Climate Action Committee held a community discussion about the HVRSD Climate Action Plan.

soMe spRiNg HigHligHts

June kicks off festival season throughout the region

By Joe Emanski

Summertime means festivals and fairs, and June is a fine time to be outdoors in Central New Jersey. Community News takes you through just some of the area events that are planned to help you get out of the house and enjoy the weather — and maybe a little bit of culture, too.

One of the area’s most popular annual festivals is already in progress as we enter June: the New Jersey Renaissance Faire, which began on May 18 and is set to continue through June 9.

Now in its 15th edition, the Renaissance Faire looks to recreate a pocket of 16thcentury England at the Burlington County Fairgrounds in nearby Columbus. Vendors, artists, musicians and performers, many in period costume, look to entertain and edify festivalgoers each weekend. Attendees are invited to dress up in period clothes as well,

St. Gregory the Great’s

(Photos

and many do, but it is not required.

Every year’s faire has a theme, and this year’s theme is “The Brothers Grimm.”

The Brothers Grimm are neither from the 1500’s nor were they English (they were German), but they are known for popularizing many familiar folk tales, including “Cinderella,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Hansel and Gretel,” “Rapunzel” and “Sleeping Beauty,” among many others.

This year, Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm are visiting the Ren Faire and its make-believe village of Crossford. The brothers and some of their famous fairy-tale characters can be seen wandering the faire grounds each Saturday and Sunday to offer interactive storytelling.

There are six stages at the faire, each offering a variety of entertainment that includes belly dancing, live jousting, magic shows, circus shows, story times, comedy and more. Live music is scheduled throughout the day on the Evergreen Stage and at Fiddler’s Green; visit njrenfaire.com for schedules pertaining to each weekend of the festival.

Food vendors offer both period and modern cuisine, and wine and beer are available for purchase. Whisky tasting takes place in the Whiskey Tent. Some events require ticket purchases beyond the cost of admission, and while most are family friendly, some are marked as being appropriate for adults only. These include the after-hours concerts, which also have an additional

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cost to attend.

The NJ Renaissance Faire has grown over its 15 years, and now boasts of crowds of more than 5,000 daily.

“We are building and producing the show that we have always wanted, and can’t wait to celebrate with our faire family and fans this season when they see how different the shire looks and feels,” says NJRF general manager TJ Miller. Those differences include a new front gate with two 16-foottall towers, a new kids’ area and two 80-by40-foot tents for eating and relaxing.

Tickets are available on the Ren Faire website and include a number of pricing options for adults and children. Saturday and Sunday, June 1–2 and June 8–9 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine. Burlington

County Fairgrounds, 1990 Jacksonville Jobstown Road, Columbus NJ.

Those looking to remain firmly ensconced in the year 2024 can head over instead to Mercer County Park, where the county will be hosting the 12th annual Cultural Festival and Food Truck Rally. The festival is set to feature live music and traditional dance performances featuring area residents with a diverse array of cultural backgrounds. The county says there will be art demonstrations, heritage crafters, children’s activities and a beer garden.

The county’s Division of Culture and Heritage makes an effort to keep the festival as diverse as possible, and that can be seen in the art, music and dance performances as well as in the food trucks on offer, which are set to represent the cui-

sines of the world.

Food trucks and food and drink vendors set to attend include those representing the cultures of Liberia, Colombia, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Mexico, Italy, Greece, Belgium, China, Korea, Thailand and Philippines. American regional cuisines including soul food and coastal New England will also be represented.

The event is free to attend and is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 8 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Food and drink is provided for a cost. For weather updates, search for “Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission” on Facebook and follow the link. * * *

Two-time Grammy Award-winning soprano Angel Blue has been tapped to open this year’s June 7-22 Princeton Festival on Friday, June 7 at 8 p.m.

The soprano is expected to perform arias by Giacomo Puccini, Giuseppe Verdi, and George Gershwin. She will be accompanied by Princeton Symphony Orchestra’s Edward T. Cone Music Director Rossen Milanov as the orchestra performs orchestral pieces by Dvořák, Puccini, Ruperto Chapí, and Frederick Delius.

The Princeton Symphony Orchestra’s 16-day showcase for the performing arts is set to include fully staged performances of Mozart’s comic opera Così fan tutte, Broadway cabaret with Santino Fontana, orchestral music, Baroque and chamber concerts, dance with American Repertory Ballet and a Juneteenth celebration.

Rounding out opening weekend are The Music of Tina Turner with LaKisha Jones, Nova Payton and Matthew Johnson on Saturday, June 8 at 7 p.m. and a Family Day culminating with a concert featuring Latin Grammy Award nominee Sonia De Los Santos on Sunday, June 9 at 4 p.m. All three performances take place in the out-

A jousting exhibition at a recent year’s New Jersey Renaissance Faire. (Photo by Michael Ulrich.)

Let’s Cycle NJ CEO Doug Smarr and Juneteenth Freedom Ride rider. (Photo courtesy of Let’s Cycle NJ.)

door performance pavilion on the grounds of Morven Museum & Garden.

For a complete listing of Festival events at the pavilion and at nearby Trinity Church, visit princetonsymphony.org/festival.

This year’s Festival Family Day is Sunday, June 9, and begins with a free yoga class at 9 a.m. on the front lawn of Morven Museum and Garden (ages 10 and up).

From 1:30-3:30 p.m., there will be a middle school Listen Up! art exhibition opening, plus free hands-on musical activities and treats for children of all ages, followed by the 4 p.m. family concert featuring Sonia De Los Santos and her band, performing original songs sung in Spanish and English. Tickets are available now for all 2024 Princeton Festival events at Morven Museum & Garden and nearby Trinity Church, ranging in price from $10 to $150. Tickets can also be purchased online at princetonsymphony.org/festival.

* * *

On the following Saturday, gear up for one of the area’s newest annual festivals, the Juneteenth Freedom Day Ride followed by the Fourth Annual Juneteenth Festival, both in Mercer County Park.

The bike ride and festival have been held since 2021 in honor of Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. The bike ride is presented by nonprofit organization Let’s Cycle NJ along with the Samuel McCoy III Scholarship Fund.

Things kick off at 7 a.m. on Saturday, June 15 when in-person registration for the bike ride begins at the park. Riders have their choice of four levels of ride: a 75-mile ride, a 50-mile ride, a 35-mile ride and a nov-

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The L.E.A.D. Fest State Fair is held annually in Mercer County Park, this year from June 28 through July 7.

each year. Organizers say that more than 100,000 people attend the carnival each year.

ice ride, all set for staggered starts beginning at 8:30 a.m. Registration is online now at juneteenthridenj.com.

The Juneteenth Festival, organized by the African American Cultural Collaboration of Mercer County, is set to begin following the completion of the bike rides. Organizers say that the festival will feature live music, food trucks, vendors and reserved areas for members of participating cycling clubs.

More information is available on the website, or by emailing organizers Doug Smarr at dougsmarr@gmail.com or Tennille R. McCoy at tmccoy72@me.com.

* * *

One of the longest running fairs in the area is the St. Gregory the Great Carnival, an annual June tradition in Hamilton that was briefly pushed to fall by the pandemic. It’s back in June, and set for Monday, June 17 through Saturday, June 22 this year.

The Catholic church on Nottingham Way raises funds for its K-8 academy through the carnival, which features rides, a midway, food vendors, a balloon man, two nights of fireworks (Tuesday and Saturday) a drone light show on Thursday, June 20, and of course, the super 50/50 raffle, which rises into the tens of thousands of dollars

The carnival’s 22 rides are usually divided into rides for kids 8 and younger and for kids 8 and older, up to adults. There are 16 games of chance plus a money wheel. Food for sale includes carnival staples like fried Oreos and funnel cake, as well as stands from Four Boys Ice Cream, Momma Rosa Pizza, Kona Ice and G&L Gyros. Rain is often a factor that time of year, and all dates are weather permitting. The carnival is open from 6 to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from noon to 5 p.m. and 6 to 11 p.m. on Saturday.

St. Gregory the Great is located at 4620 Nottingham Way, Hamilton. Web: sggcarnival.com.

Those who haven’t got enough of the carnival vibe after St. Gregory’s rolls out of town will be able to head over to Mercer County Park starting Friday, June 28 for the annual L.E.A.D. Fest State Fair.

L.E.A.D. Fest events feature rides, food vendors, craft vendors, local business and community organization kiosks and live entertainment. This year’s festival runs through July 7.

L.E.A.D. stands for Law Enforcement Against Drugs, and the national nonprofit organization supported by police officers focuses its efforts on

and

De Los Santos and her band will perform original songs in Spanish in English at the Princeton Festival on June 9. (Photo by

communities from drugs, drug-related crime, cyberbullying and violence. L.E.A.D. holds fairs throughout the country each year to spread its message.

Organizers of the New Jersey state fair

say that more than 60,000 people attended last year’s event. Tickets are $7 during the week and $8 on the weekends, and can be purchased online at theleadfest.com. For more information, turn to page 12.

Sonia

Hyphen Photography Inc.)

L’Annexe de Mamie Colette brings Brittany to Central NJ

By Joe Emanski

Central New Jersey’s burgeoning bakery scene received a fresh boost in March when L’Annexe de Mamie Colette opened the doors to its brand new building on River Road in Titusville.

A good number of bakeries have opened in the past 10 years in the region, a welcome rebound for a business model that had once seemed all but eliminated by competition from supermarkets and chains.

Just in Hopewell Valley, Madame Cupcake opened in Hopewell in January 2022, and Terra Momo Bread Company opened its second location in Pennington in May 2023. Down the road in Ewing, Hamiltonbased Nino’s Pastry Shop opened a second location on Scotch Road also in May of last year.

For many pastry chefs, an independent bakery is a labor of love, and such is the case for Magali and Isabelle Henry Noblanc, the married business partners behind Mamie Colette — a viennoiserie

in Newtown, Pennsylvania that opened in November 2022 — and now L’Annexe.

Mamie Colette is known for its croissants and danish, which Chef Magali and staff make in house in a process that takes up to three days.

L’Annexe has croissants, too. But the new bake shop is no mere copy of the original. L’Annexe features sweet and savory crêpes in the style of Brittany, France, as well as pastries of the kind that can be found in the city of Chartres.

L’Annexe crêpes are made with buckwheat, which is the way they are made in Brittany, known as the birthplace of crêpes. Brittany also happens to be the part of France where Isabelle spent the early part of her life.

The most popular savory crêpe since L’Annexe opened has been the egg, Swiss cheese and ham crêpe. Also popular has been the crêpe with goat cheese, fig jam, walnuts and arugula.

Sweet crêpes include one with lemon, almonds and honey, one with housemade chocolate sauce and one with salted butter caramel.

Also in the display cases are brioches, meringues and choupinettes — a choux pastry filled with different flavors of creamy pudding, such as pistachio raspberry, sea salt caramel and hazelnut praline and passionfruit.

Also setting L’Annexe apart from Mamie Colette is that it has a bread bakery onsite. The shop in Newtown did not have enough room to allow for bread baking, though breads made at L’Annexe now find their way to the Pennsylvania side.

“Our customers were all asking for bread, they said the croissants were great but they wanted bread as well,” Isabelle says. “Our ovens (for baking viennoiserie) are ginormous, we didn’t have enough room. So we started looking for a commercial kitchen where we could actually bake bread.”

Bread baked on site at L’Annexe de Mamie Colette on River Road in Titusville. (Photo courtesy of L’Annexe de Mamie Colette.)

 Call us today to see how we can deliver the

(609)-865-8675

Breads for sale include baguettes, multigrain buckwheat loaves and levain sourdough loaves, which Isabelle describes as a “very different sourdough — it doesn’t taste acidic or sour. It’s made the way we make it in France.”

Once the pair had decided on opening a second location, they searched first in Pennsylvania and then in New Jersey for a suitable location for the new venture. Their first thought was Lambertville, and Isabelle remembers one day driving through Titus-

ville on the way north and seeing the building that would become L’Annexe.

“We saw the buildings and thought they were beautiful,” she says. “We thought, whoever was going to be in that location would be really lucky. Then one day we saw a ‘for lease’ sign, called and met with the owners of the building, and now we’re the lucky people who get to work there.”

Isabelle is originally from Brittany, and Magali from Chartres. Though they met in France, Isabelle was living in the U.S. at the time, and only temporarily back in France for her job as a business development professional.

When Isabelle returned home to the U.S., Magali moved with her, and took the opportunity to leave behind her unfulfilling job as a sales executive and embark on a new career as a pastry chef. She studied bread and viennoiserie baking at l’Ecole Banette in France, and worked for several bakeries in the Netherlands, France and New Jersey honing her craft.

Croissants became her passion, and when she and Isabelle decided to open a small business of their own, they made croissants and other viennoiseries such as pain au chocolat the centerpiece of their

She says that many customers have told them that they can tell the difference between their handmade croissants and those that come from other vendors, which are often made in industrial bakeries.

“Here, we wanted to introduce the real thing, show the real thing when it’s made from scratch, by hand,” Isabelle says.

While Mamie Colette and L’Annexe de Mamie Colette both rotate some of the flavors of their sweet and savory fillings, Isabelle says that the menu is generally fixed — as is the tradition in Brittany.

“In France, you go to a bakery, there’s never anything different on the menu,” she says. “You could go back one year or 10 years later, there’s the same things on the menu.”

In addition to the pastries and breads, L’Annexe also has a variety of coffee, tea and French juices for sale. Isabelle says some customers make regular stops in just for the coffee on their way to work. Though surely, there are days when they can’t quite resist getting a brioche or a crêpe to go as well.

bakery. Le Cordon Bleu, the legendary Paris-based culinary school, describes viennoiserie as “the bridge between patisserie and French bread.”

They financed the new business themselves, and named the bakery after Magali’s grandmother, Colette, a native of Guadaloupe who moved to Chartres with her six children in search of a better life. Magali says it was Colette who introduced her to

Mamie Colette pastries are made in house, from scratch daily. Isabelle says they are committed to using ingredients that are preservative and chemical free.

L’Annexe de Mamie Colette, 1462 River Road, Titusville NJ. Phone: (609) 303-7595. Hours: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays through Sundays. Closed Mondays.

Web: mamiecolettebakery.com.

Left: L’Annexe de Mamie Colette in Titusville. Right: Magali and Isabelle Henry Noblanc, the married couple behind the new bakery. Photos courtesy of L’Annexe de Mamie Colette.

Host of new restaurants open in Hopewell Valley

Saturday, September 28th 12-6pm

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By Joe Emanski

Gretalia Hospitality Group has been busy lately, and especially busy in Hopewell Valley, where it is set to open no fewer than three restaurants in 2024. Two are already open: Union Boil Co. and Aperitivo, both located in the former TJ’s Trattoria space in Pennington Square (aka the shopping center with Pennington Quality Market).

Union Boil Co. — the brain wants the word “Seafood” between Boil and Co. — is a game attempt to jumpstart Mercer County’s nearly dead seafood scene. Union Boil Co.’s New England-style “Union Boil” is said to serve eight at a cost of just $250. It includes jumbo shrimp, crab legs and crawfish alongside the corn, potatoes and Andouille sausage.

A “Lil Boil,” intended for two or three people, costs $80. Aside from the boils, Union Boil Co is a pretty standard seafood restaurant, featuring fresh fish at market rate prices, crab cakes, oysters, clam chowder and more. Web: unionboil.com.

Aperitivo’s menu has an “coastal Italian tapas” vibe, featuring a variety of Mediterranean apps alongside crostones, bruschetta, “Venetian Tea Sandwiches,” stuffed panini, meat and cheese plates and salads, as well as two entrees: mixed meats with polenta,

and poached cod in a white wine sauce. The restaurants share a liquor license. Web: getforky.com/aperitivobar. Both restaurants are located at 25 Route 31 in Pennington (actually Hopewell Township).

Not yet open nor directly linked on the Gretalia website is Nimbu Indian Street Food, whose signs are already up at its future location on Tree Farm Road, near another Gretalia restaurant, Osteria Procaccini. Nimbu means lemon in Hindi. Future location 7 Tree Farm Road, Pennington. Web placeholder: getforky.com/ nimbu.

Gretalia — which owns and/or operates the growing array of PJ’s Pancake Houses in the area, as well Osteria Procaccini and several other, newer brands like Tavola Rustica in Lambertville and Lyberry Coffee Co. in Cranbury, is not the only chain-style restaurant with eyes on Hopewell Valley in general or Pennington Square in particular.

Bubbakoo’s Burritos, a Point Pleasantbased fast-casual chain started in 2008, has also opened a new location at 25 Route 31. Anyone familiar with Chipotle will be able to walk up and order something at Bubbakoo’s, although Bubbakoo’s leans a bit more americano with wrinkles such as buffalo, BBQ and Nashville hot-style burritos in addition to curly fries and wings. Web: bubbakoos.com.

Left: drinks at Aperitivo. Right: a plate of lobster, potato, corn and mushrooms at Union Boil Co. (Instagram photos.)

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June 8, 11 am - 7 pm

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2:45 pm Mariachi Garibaldi de New Jersey

4:30 PM The Broken Shillelaghs, IRISH

6:15 pm Jose Tabares Salsa All Stars, PUERTO RICAN

12:00 Pm Janosik Polish Dancers

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12:40 pm Nai-Ni-Chen Chinese Dragon & Drums

1:45 pm Let’s Dance Academy Bollywood Dances of India

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2:00 pm Zawadi African Drums & Dance

3:45 pm Ricordando Mi Tierra Folkloric dance of Costa Rica

4:10 pm Ayazamana Cultural Center

5:20 pm Hea Sun Jung Traditional Arts Academy – Korean Fan Dance, Sword Dance, and Jindo (small drum) dance

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L.E.A.D. FEST

Coming to Mercer County Park June 28 to July 7

Carnivals and state fairs are beloved summer traditions. There’s no better place for the whole family to enjoy rides, food, music and fun than at 2024 L.E.A.D. FEST events. Bigger and better than ever, this year’s events include carnivals and a 10-day State Fair taking place from June 28 to July 7 at Mercer County Park Fairgrounds, 1638 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor Township.

Presented by L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence), L.E.A.D. FEST events benefit the organization’s programs and related initiatives. L.E.A.D. provides the leadership, resources, and management to ensure law enforcement agencies have the means to partner with educators, community leaders, and families. The Allentown-based national nonprofit’s programs help to provide youth and adults strategies for avoiding drug use, drug-related crimes, bullying, and violence. L.E.A.D. is committed to reinforcing the mutual respect, goodwill, and relations between law enforcement agencies and their communities.

“The L.E.A.D. State Fair saw its biggest year ever in 2023 with more than 30,000 attendees. We hope to hit a new milestone in 2024,” said Nick DeMauro, L.E.A.D. executive director. “Funds raised

at our carnivals and the State Fair are important to L.E.A.D.’s mission, allowing us to make our programs more accessible to a greater number of youngsters in the communities we serve. We are excited to bring more amazing events to New Jersey this year. Our goal is to create familyfriendly, community-based events that are fun for everyone while at the same time promoting anti-drug and anti-violence activities in the state.”

The jam-packed State Fair promises something for everyone including free nightly musical entertainment as well as a Business and Craft Vendor Tent on the weekends. Favorite fan attractions include Robinson’s Racing Pigs, the always-popular pie eating contest, Cowtown U.S.A., and an all-day exhibit that contains an old-time creamery where patrons participate in preparing a cow for milking by hand.

The State Fair’s midway provider, Reithoffer Shows, will ensure there’s plenty of delicious food, carnival games and prizes, and rides for children and adults alike — from a first-class Kiddie Land to superspectacular thrill rides and everything in between.

Gate admission is $7 on weekdays and $8 on weekends. General admission, ride tickets, and Mega Passes are on sale now at theleadfest.com. Purchase tickets early for special presale discounts!

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For more information and tickets, visit theleadfest.com. Check the website for attendance policies. Hours subject to change due to weather or safety situations. For more information about L.E.A.D., visit leadrugs.org or email info@leadrugs. org.

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believe that the education and opportunities we were provided at both the Hopewell Valley Regional Schools and The College of New Jersey helped prepare us for success in the competition and beyond.”

The competition is a serious commitment for students who decide to participate. Teams must declare their intention to compete in October. Business plans are due in mid-January, and semi-finalists chosen in February. From there, teams have 10 days to revise their plans in hopes of reaching the finals.

The three finalist teams are chosen in early March, with one final chance to revise their plans using feedback they have received from the judges. They present their final visions to the judges in a live Q and A in late March, after which the winner is determined.

O’Brien, who graduated with a degree in business, works today as an assistant brand manager for Ricola, the cough drop company. She says that winning the competition gave her more than just an appreciation for the process of starting a business.

“After winning the competition, I felt on top of the world — I felt fearless,” she says. “Not only did it give me this nice talking point, it gave me a boost in self confidence, like, ‘I did that, so why can’t I go into a job interview confident.’”

As a biology major, Shivaprasad says she was aware of the Mayo competition, but not necessarily planning to enter it, until Cunningham, a friend who was a business major, approached her and

Routé, a chemistry major, about creating a team.

They sat down with an adviser from the school of business, Karen Becker, came up with the idea for their app, and from there were off and running.

Shivaprasad admits that before the competition, she was not very familiar with the process of starting a business at all.

“I feel pretty well versed in business now,” she says. “This competition opened my horizons to the business world. I always wanted to be a doctor, but now I see doing business and health at the same time.” * * *

O’Brien is hopeful of turning H.E.R. into a real business at some point in the not-too-distant future. But it is on hold for now. She is focused on her job at Ricola, and Olsen, who moved to Arlington, Texas, after graduation, is focused on her job with Nestlé.

“We have the investment from TCNJ, we both have it bookmarked. We’ve spoken to app developers, applied for VC (venture capital). It is still something we are interested in doing. We’re just hoping one day our lives will settle and we’ll be able to regroup and make it come to life.”

Shivaprasad and her teammates, meanwhile, are going full steam ahead with Golden Connections, to the point where she is putting her plans for medical school on hold for a year to focus on the business. “We are passionate about bringing it to market soon,” she says.

Shivaprasad’s parents are both gastroenterologists with a shared practice in Hamilton. She has a brother, Omkar, and a

sister, Poojitha.

O’Brien’s mother works at TCNJ and her father for the Department of Corrections. She has a brother, Sean, who also attended TCNJ.

O’Brien says she believes that one reason that she and Shivaprasad were successful in the Mayo competition is because the high school does a good job of preparing students for college.

“Hopewell has a wide variety of classes, offers AP classes and

plenty of opportunities to excel in your education,” she says.

“But I think it goes beyond the classroom in Hopewell. Everything I did inside and outside the classroom helped me to become a well-rounded person.

“When I went to TCNJ, I didn’t feel this really intense transition. I felt comfortable speaking to professors, speaking in large groups. I felt capable of going from high school to college seamlessly. I was in student council, I played sports

(soccer), and I think that’s what helped me become a confident person. When I got to TCNJ, I felt really committed to become a person in leadership.”

Shivaprasad agrees. “I would say the rigor of the classes at Hopewell Valley is really similar to how it is at TCNJ. They really do set you up so that wherever you go in college, you feel prepared. TCNJ is a smaller school, but I feel like my classmates who went to bigger schools felt the same way.”

Though the competition took O’Brien and Shivaprasad out of their comfort zones at times, they agree that the experience was valuable and worth it.

“I was very worried about the workload and us being capable of doing all of the necessary pieces (at the start),” O’Brien says. “With both of us having no experience in app development, I did propose to Katie early in competition that maybe we should bring on a third team member.

“And Katie gave me all the confidence in the world. She said, ‘It’s nothing we could not teach ourselves.’ She was the driving force. As we went through different rounds, I found myself thinking, ‘We could do that. We can figure out.’

“At the end, it was this feeling: we did it, just the two of us. We learned all of the necessary financial pieces and operational pieces. To have an opportunity like this is great for young women.

“It’s super cool to be two women from Hopewell to win two years in a row. Our deans at TCNJ are all women — it was just an amazing experience to be a part of.”

Sangam Shivaprasad and Molly O’Brien, 2024 and 2023 winners of TCNJ’s Mayo Business Plan Competition. (Photo by Benoit Cortet.)

felt like a gift.

“What people don’t know, especially the opposing team, is what she went through to get to where she’s at,” said her mom, Lynn. “I’m so proud, I didn’t know if this was ever gonna happen. She came through with a lot of grace. She really inspired a lot of people in our family and the people who were close to us during the whole thing.”

Bulldogs coach Gary Nucera initially heard about Powers from the mom of his former standout player, Nicole Apai, a neighbor of Jenna’s.

“Nicole’s mom said she needs that confidence to say I had this pretty terrible injury when I was younger and it’s not gonna hold me back,” Nucera said. “And it clearly never has. It’s probably one of the greatest decisions she ever made.”

The saga began early in Powers’ 7thgrade year at Timberlane, when she was making a TikTok video while skateboarding to a friend’s house. As her phone was extended in front of her while taking a selfie, a stick got caught under the wheel and Jenna was jettisoned forward. Her body landed in the street with her left arm extended, and her brother Nick quickly summoned Jenna’s parents at work.

“It was a freak accident,” Lynn said.

Powers’ parents rushed her to the hospital and the next day, manual manipulation surgery was performed to reattach the radial head — a joint that connects the radius to the elbow.

Powers then endured approximately 100 two-hour sessions of physical therapy. But after all that, Lynn said, “we couldn’t get her arm past 90 degrees. She lived at 90 degrees for about a year. She couldn’t wash her hair, put her hair up. She couldn’t do what girls had to do to get ready.”

weighed the bad, she calmed down.

The Powers could not speak highly enough about CHOP surgeon Dr. Apurva Shah. But even he could not perform a miracle. As Lynn and husband Jim sat in the waiting room, he summoned them to the family room while Jenna was still under anesthesia.

“He said, ‘I’m sorry we cannot save it. We have to take the elbow joint out,’” Lynn said. “We had to sign a form to remove a body part. We looked him in the eye, very emotional, and said, “What would you do if this was your child?’ He said, ‘Take out the joint. If you try to put it on again, I’m afraid it’s gonna fail again.’ So they took out the radial head joint.”

What that meant is the radius now just connects from the wrist to a blunt end, which caused the arm to lose two inches of length and take on a slight bend. It also induces constant bone growth that is controlled with medication.

When she regained consciousness, Powers was hit with the news and took it as well as possible.

With help from her family, Jenna was driven to school, dressed by her mom and taken to a salon in Pennington to get her hair washed so her shoulder-length cast would stay dry.

Physical therapist Nick Lowndes worked tirelessly, and Lynn said “he became like family to us, but there was too much scar tissue, and we could not get her out of 90 degrees.”

And then came “the worst day,” when doctors said that the surgery had failed and the radial joint snapped off the radius.

Varsity softball, which Jenna wanted to do since she started softball at age 6, seemed out of the question.

Not to be deterred, she went to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where a second surgery was scheduled the summer heading into her eighthgrade year.

Two nights before the surgery, the stress caved in on Jenna and she began crying. After waking her mom for comfort, the two made a list of the pros and cons of the surgery. When the good out-

“It was very stressful,” she said. “I never thought it would be that bad. When they told me they had to remove a joint and the arm would never be the same, I was like, ‘OK, there’s nothing I can do now. I can either deal with it or mope around the rest of my life.’”

On the bright side, the procedure provided range of motion, and Jenna could start slowly training to return to softball.

“My surgeon said it was the best outcome that could have happened,” she said. “We got way more mobility than expected after the second operation. They had to remove it because it was so destroyed. They took a picture of the joint as I was under and it looked like raw meat. I was kind of shocked.

“But I was relieved it was going to be

Jenna Powers on the mound for Hopewell Valley.

do much to reacclimate to the game. When restrictions loosened up, Jim stepped in.

“My husband’s influence was very big in her being able to compensate and relearn her swing,” Lynn said. “He found her a hitting and pitching coach to get her back into playing.”

Jim hired Pennsbury High assistant coach Dave Murphy as a hitting instructor. Murphy helped Powers regain her swing and she earned the starting third baseman job as an HVCHS freshman.

On April 21, 2021 she took the field for the first time since sixth grade and emotions swirled.

“I feel like the word to describe it is weird, but also rewarding,” Powers said. “To have a starting position felt really good and rewarding after everything I did to get to that point.”

With so much softball under her belt, the return after a two-year hiatus seemed somewhat normal.

who know the back story, it was so much more as Powers had to fight through some dark days.

I wasn’t going to play unless the doctor said I couldn’t,” she said. “It was always a goal of mine.”

better. If not, I’d be stuck in the same spot at 90 degrees. That was terrible. I’d have shoulder pain from typing, I’d have to lift my elbow in the air just to get my wrist to touch the keyboard.”

With the joint removed, it was back to therapy, and Lowndes was not about to let Powers give up. He was an inspiration before and after her second surgery.

“There were days when I didn’t think I would play again or make it through my bump in the road,” she said. “It felt endless but he made it more manageable. Sometimes I wouldn’t want to go after school. He really took me on and didn’t give up. My mom sent him pictures of me playing softball. He was so happy for me.”

Returning to the diamond would not be easy. After the second surgery, Covid hit during Powers eighth-grade year and with everything shut down, she couldn’t

“It felt pretty natural to me,” she said. “I hadn’t played a whole game since sixth grade, I was obviously a little nervous. I’m with a new team, new coaches, new teammates. As far as I remember I never felt a doubt. I never felt nervous that I would injure myself again. I played how I wanted to.”

One frustration is that with her glove arm slightly shorter, she missed a tag on a Hightstown base runner because she couldn’t extend the arm far enough.

“I knew if I had an extra few inches, she would have been out,” Powers said. “But my coaches are so understanding with that stuff.”

After freshman season, Jenna moved to her natural position of first base and also pitched 96 innings in her four seasons. Looking at her stats, the casual fan would feel it was an average career. But to those

“I remember the worst, gut-wrenching feeling is when they said ‘This didn’t work, you need another surgery,’” she said. “That was the stuff I never wanted to hear. It just put me back to square one. There was a time it was never really positive. I dreaded going to those doctor’s appointments. Every couple nights it was crying time.

“But I am thankful I had that second surgery because if I didn’t, I feel like I wouldn’t be able to play or be where I am today. I don’t have pain in my arm anymore, which is the number one goal because if you’re in pain for the rest of your life, you’re gonna be grumpy.”

Powers, who will attend Rowan University and play club softball, takes a lighthearted approach. Still wearing a brace, she refers to her left arm as “my robot arm.”

It was a long, emotional ride, but one that was worth it.

“When she played her very first high school game, I’m sitting there thinking nobody knew at the time what she went through,” Lynn said. “And I thought ‘Oh my God I can’t believe this is happening.’”

Jenna believed it.

“I never had a doubt in my mind that

Not only did Powers play, but she served as an inspiration to her teammates. This year she and fellow seniors Shelby Rossi and Izabella Cornish finished in a three-way tie in the vote for the Bulldogs Leadership Award, and Jenna was voted as the team’s Impact Player, awarded to the one who changes a game with key hits and RBIs.

Her impact came in inspirational ways as well. In the Bulldogs last home game, Powers was pitching and got hit by a line drive in the pelvis area.

“I went out and said ‘This is your last game, you tell me do I need to take you out,” Nucera said. “She had tears in her eyes and she said, ‘No I want to stay in.’ That’s kind of been the motto of her career. She’s open, she’s honest, she leads by example. She’s a humble kid. I loved having her in our program.” It was a long, hard road to get there. In assessing the entire ordeal, Powers said “Just from falling off a skateboard I wouldn’t imagine all that. Things can change quickly.”

Thanks to a supportive family, a lot of courage and sheer determination, Powers made sure they didn’t change for the worse.

Jenna Powers was voted Impact Player for the HoVal softball team.

SPORTS

Ehrenberg to be inducted into county’s Tennis Hall of Fame

By Rich Fisher

It’s fortuitous that Mike Ehrenberg didn’t have a match to play when it was announced he’s being inducted into the 2024 Mercer County Tennis Hall of Fame. His mobility would have been severely hindered.

“My knees got weak, to tell you the truth,” the 30-year Hopewell Township resident said. “I never expected it. I was stunned when my name was announced at the (James E.) Cryan Tournament. It’s surreal. You look at some of the names in there, it’s very, very humbling. I really was surprised.”

His shock was not shared by at least one tennis lifer who knows Ehrenberg well.

“A well-deserved award for the coach, player and tournament director,” said former Hopewell Valley Central High coach Alma Quinlan, whom Ehrenberg assisted for several years. “Mike has left a legacy in Mercer County tennis. His passion as a

player, coach and advocate for the sport is unsurpassed.”

His five-page resume’ devoted strictly to tennis will support that statement, as the north Jersey native has done most everything possible in the game.

Which is why he and four others will be honored at the Mercer County Boathouse on June 14. Other inductees are Jim Cryan, Ehrenberg’s long-time friend and doubles partner; Ginny Mason; former Wimbledon doubles semi finalist Glenn Michibata; and the late Betty Sander Thompson.

“The influence of some members of the Mercer Hall of Fame are on a national and even international level; like Dave Haggerty, Eve Kraft and Bill Mountford; and professional players like Jay Lapidus and Glen Michibata. I’m just a guy who grew up on the streets of Clark and carved out a niche in tennis, so it’s amazing to join all these legends.”

At age 63, Ehrenberg still manages to play four times a week at 6:30 a.m. before

heading to work at the MEI Appraisal Company he owns and operates. Mike’s early-morning competition includes some of the region’s top players such as Al Hernandez, Cryan, Marc Dorsch and Lars Nillson.

He is also Tournament Director for the Nelson Green Tournament, a co-director and seeding committee member of the Cryan Tournament — the area’s largest — and a member of the USTA Middle States Adult Competition Committee.

Ehrenberg recently served on the Middle States Board of Directors from 202022, the NJ District Tennis Council in 2021 and the Middle States Nominating Committee in 2023.

Always anxious to pass his knowledge on to others, he was an assistant coach for The College of New Jersey men’s and women’s teams, the HVCHS boys’ and girls’ teams and the men’s and women’s teams at Rider University.

After a long hiatus, the real estate guru returned to play the game at age 37 and looked as if he had never been away.

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He was a two-time Men’s 60 N.J. State Clay Court Doubles Champion with Cryan. In 50’s doubles play, he was New Jersey Senior Olympics gold medal winner and a silver medalist in men’s 50 singles. Playing with Ken Dill, he was a national semifinalist in the USTA National Men’s 45 Grass Championships. Ehrenberg also had success with all-star teams in intersectional competition.

He has had some impressive rankings over the years. At one time or another Ehrenberg was rated No. 1 in the NJ District, No. 4 in Middle States and No. 58 nationally for men’s 45 singles; No. 11 nationally in team 45 doubles with Dill, and No. 18 and No. 33 nationally for Team 60 doubles with Cryan.

It’s no wonder that when asked to choose a highlight, Ehrenberg would not select one particular item, but his entire body of work.

“I started out just being a tournament player but I realized giving back to the sport is really important,” he said. “That really made me whole. You look at the people in the Hall of Fame and they are great players or great contributors. I think I’ve done a little bit of everything. I’m really proud of it.

* * *

It’s hard to believe such an accomplished tennis man actually abandoned the sport for 13 years.

Growing up in Union County, Ehrenberg was introduced to tennis by his dad, Donald, who took him to the Netherwood Tennis Club in Plainfield at age 13. He hit with a diverse group of grown men that included construction workers, bartenders, doctors and lawyers.

“My father was a very accomplished player,” Mike said. “He only took the game up at 37 and won 70 tournaments and five county championships. He didn’t coach me. We practiced. I guess because he was self taught he never tried to coach me.”

But he made an impact.

“I learned consistency and keeping cool on the court from him,” Ehrenberg said. “He was a great role model. He never pushed me into the game. I wanted to play. I would watch him and he was a great inspiration.”

The inspired youngster went on to star at Arthur L. Johnson High School, where he graduated in 1978 as the school’s alltime wins leader. He would later be placed on the school’s Mount Rushmore of athletes based on a vote taken by NJ.com. He then played for three years at the University of Delaware before a serious illness curtailed his senior year. Ehrenberg suffered some health issues after that.

Mike

(right) with Cryan Tournament co-director Jim Cryan and Mercer County tennis director Marc Vecchiolla.

Quinlan reached out in 2011 and made a deal with Ehrenberg. If he helped her coach the boys team, she would let him help with the girls team even though his daughter Sarah played.

It was the first time Quinlan ever allowed a parent to coach their child and she never regretted it. The boys reached the sectional finals three straight years and won two of them, and the girls reached two sectional finals. Both teams were ranked Top 20 in the state.

“It was unprecedented for Hopewell,” Ehrenberg stated proudly.

And he played a big part.

“Mike’s passion and dedication to the teams he coached is remarkable,” Quinlan said. “Not only coaching the girls, but he was instrumental in the boys team achieving back-to-back CJ III titles.

“The kids respected his insight, his advice,and his work ethic. Mike continues to keep in touch with many of the players he had during his tenure at Hopewell and still hits with Kenny (Zheng) when he’s in town.”

* * *

“When I tried to come back I was so depressed and upset,” he said. “I missed playing with my Delaware teammates. They set all kinds of records that year. I thought I would be co-captain. I kept thinking ‘Why me?’”

It may have been game and set for his career, but it wasn’t quite match.

Ehrenberg tried playing again but his heart was not in it and he turned to basketball. He joined hoop leagues from Rahway to Princeton and at his beach house in Sea Girt Mike would play in the Belmar summer league. It got to the point his girlfriend Ann Marie – now his wife – “had to have an intervention with me about playing too much basketball.”

After moving to Hopewell, Ehrenberg eventually met Mercer tennis legend Scott Stoner, a 2012 Hall of Fame inductee and former Trentonian tennis columnist. Introduced to Stoner by a former Delaware classmate, Ehrenberg got the urge to play again. He had to shake off some rust but before long was entering and winning area tournaments.

In 2008 he began coaching at TCNJ, and threw himself into it. While attending the U.S. Open, Mike would study the doubles teams for hours and watch their formations.

“I’d bring it back to the college and high school players, I became like a doubles specialist,” he said. “A lot of teams play the I formation. I taught the kids at Hopewell how to play in the I and against the I. We had a lot of success at doubles. That’s what I really enjoyed. I had a pretty strong background and I was able to help some kids with techniques.”

Ehrenberg went on to coach at Rider for eight years and after Covid shut down the 2020 season he decided not to return.

But the courts are still his second home and his zest for the Cryan Tournament is still alive. He is thrilled to be getting into the Hall of Fame with tournament director Jim Cryan.

“In the first tournament I ever played in Mercer County I played Jim in the finals,” Ehrenberg recalled. “We started as rivals at first and we came to the understanding that if we start practicing with each other we could help each other. We were two of the better singles players in the area.

“I asked him to enter a doubles tournament with me at the National Grass Championships in Philadelphia. The first match we ever played together we almost upset the number one senior player in the world and his partner. After that match I thought we’d be pretty good together .And we were. We represented Mercer County at its highest level. I’m really proud of our relationship.”

He is just as proud of his involvement in tennis and what he has contributed to the game since ending his self-made exile.

“It’s in my blood,” he said. “When I came back to it, I realized how much I missed the sport. I missed everything about it. Not just the players but the officials, players I coached. It really means a lot. Everyday I get up and play. It’s a connection to my past. It’s not something I’m ready to give up yet, I really enjoy it, and I’m thrilled that I’m going into this Hall of Fame.”

Hopefully the knees will hold out while giving his speech.

JUNE

JULY

Mike Ehrenberg (right) with partner Jim Cryan after winning the New Jersey clay court doubles championship.

Where do I live, anyway?

Courtney Peters-Manning From the township

The Hopewell Valley is rich with farmland, preserved open space, closeknit neighborhoods, and vibrant shops and restaurants. It also consists of three wholly separate municipalities: Hopewell Township, Hopewell Borough, and Pennington Borough, each with its own mayor, council/township committee, public works department, and tax rate. Pennington Borough even has its own police department.

Making things even more confusing, your mailing address has no connection to the municipality in which you live. In fact, there is no “Hopewell Township” mailing address at all. Residents of the Township can have mailing addresses in Pennington, Titusville, Hopewell, Lambertville, or Princeton.

Further, residents with a Pennington or Hopewell mailing address could live in either the Borough or the Township.

To complicate things even more, there are many shared services agreements among the three municipalities, so some government services are provided to residents of one municipality by another. For example, the Hopewell Township Health Department, including Animal Control, covers the whole Valley, and the Hopewell Township Police Department covers Hopewell Borough.

The final complication is that our School District and Fire Departments are entirely separate from the local Mayor and Council/Committee and are governed by their own elected officials. For the fire departments, there are three separate boards of firecommissioners; for the school district, this is the school board.

It’s no wonder some residents are unsure of where they live!

How did this come to pass?

In the late 19th century, a phenomenon known as “boroughitis” swept through New Jersey. The term refers to the creation of numerous small boroughs, usually by public referendum. The movement grew out of the desire for more government services and local control in newly developed commuter suburbs, which often were neighborhoods organized around railroad stations.

Long-time rural inhabitants, including farmers, on the other hand, feared the tax increases that would accompany this

change. The result was small segments of existing townships voting to form independent boroughs. The Boroughs of Pennington and Hopewell were a part of this trend, splitting from Hopewell Township by referendum in 1890 and 1891, respectively.

As a result, there are smaller municipalities within larger ones. These “donut holes” are common among New Jersey’s 564 municipalities, but the Hopewell Valley is unique in that it is the only one in New Jersey with two donut holes, with both Pennington and Hopewell Borough wholly surrounded by Hopewell Township.

Perhaps a soft pretzel is a better analogy than a donut for the Hopewell Valley.

How do I know where I live?

Your municipality is where you pay your property taxes. You should receive a card in the mail every year with your annual property assessment, which will tell you the municipality of residence.

For reference, Hopewell Borough is less than a square mile, and has a population of 1,918 as of the 2020 census. It is largely centered around Broad Street. Pennington Borough is also less than a square mile, with a population of 2,802 as of the 2020 census. It is generally centered around the intersection of Main Street and Delaware Avenue.

Hopewell Township has 17,491 residents as of the 2020 Census and consists of almost 59 square miles.

Why does it matter?

Where you live determines which municipality handles your local municipal services and sets your municipal tax rate. If you live in Hopewell Township and have any questions about your municipal services, please contact me. I can be reached at cpeters-manning@ hopewelltwp.org or 609-577-3312. If you’d like to reach one of my colleagues on the township committee, they can be found at hopewelltwp.org/285/ Mayor-Township-Committee.

For Pennington, your elected officials can be found at penningtonboro.org/ mayor-and-council.

For Hopewell Borough, the same is true at hopewellboro-nj.us/government. Please reach out with questions and concerns any time.

Courtney peters-manning is the mayor of Hopewell Township, which provided this content.

Tabletop aims to be ‘third place’ for HoVal gamers

Lisa Wolff hAppY VALLeY

Last month, my column discussing how intergenerational communication helped improve both mental health and humanity seemed to resonate with lots of readers.

It also touched on the beauty of transitioning from a career to a new passion intended to support others.

This month we’ll continue with those themes as we explore the encore calling of a local Titusville resident.

On Route 29, the new Titusville Marketplace opened last month. The first store to open was L’Annexe de Mamie Colette — a french bakery — followed by Titusville Tabletop games.

Construction was Robert Thompson’s primary career, and he helped build the beautiful marketplace, but today he’s in no hurry to climb on another roof or personally wield tools to another construction site. Instead, he has found happiness as the owner of Titusville Tabletop games.

“I don’t see the store as a destination. It’s more of a journey,” he says.

About 4 or 5 years ago, Robert was chatting with some buddies about how great it would be to just have a place where people can come to play games. The games serve more as a social medium for people

to connect, have fun, and build meaningful friendships.

The shop has a website, hosts a preschool power halfhour, Learn and Play events, and Saturday group games, as well as Facebook and Discord events.

Thompson stressed that his target audience is gamers of all ages.

“Parents bring their teens in to browse and will go sit off by themselves and I tell them, ‘This is for you, too,’” he says. Robert’s vision is that Titusville Tabletop games is a place where people can come to unplug, take out a board game and play with old and new friends.

The shop is divided into 3 sections – the main floor, a gaming library, and a roleplaying game room (think Dungeons & Dragons.) He also dreams of being one of the few gaming stores that adds an outdoor patio.

Our conversation turned to

the importance of activities without screens that promote mental wellness and bonding with others over a shared interest. He’d like to see Tabletop games become a “third place,” a sociology concept of surroundings that are separate from the social environments of home (“first place”) and work (“second place”). Your third place is where you relax in public, where you encounter familiar faces and make new acquaintances.

For those old enough to remember it, I’d classify the Cheers Bar as the quintessential third place. Many classic sitcoms revolved around third place hangouts. An online search defines third places as “anchors of community life (that) facilitate and foster broader, more creative interaction.”

Robert Thompson has some lofty goals for his humble storefront. He said that nothing makes him happier than hearing laughter and excitement from a roomful of gamers.

Visit titusvilletabletopgames. com to see a calendar of events and optional membership options that provide 10% off store purchase, and the ability to pre-reserve tables.

Lisa wolff Lisa Wolff is the cofounder of the Outdoor Equity Alliance and an enthusiast for all things inspiring, generous, and local. Email: lwolffhome@gmail. com

Robert Thompson, owner, Titusville Tabletop games.

Keeping your head above water [costs]

Robin Schore

sChore to pLeAse

As you may have heard, the price of water in Hopewell Borough just went up by a whole lot. One of the borough’s pipes had an undetected leak, and by the time it was found, Hopewell had oozed away 6 million gallons of water

According to Councilman David Mackie: “Once that leak was fixed in October 2023, our water consumption dropped by 20,000 gallons a day.”

But now Hopewell needs to raise $220,000 to cover the cost of that lost water. Local businesses are not happy. Some may see their water bill go up by over 50%. So what can you do in response to an increase in your water bill which, if you haven’t noticed, is already quite high?

Cutting down on showers? A typical shower uses five to ten gallons of water a minute. Can you limit showers to one minute? How fast can you soap and rinse?

How about no showers? Wait until it rains, grab soap and a towel and rush outside. Maybe no one will notice your standing outside naked. Oh, OK. Put on a bathing suit.

So what if it’s really cold. Think about folks in Scandinavia who pay good money to take ice cold baths convinced of its health benefits. You could do the same for free.

Or, fill the bathtub and everyone in the house can dip in for a quick wash and jump out again. Too much soap is being used. Too much rinsing is going on. Time to cut back. Furthermore, too much washing dries out your skin.

Worried about smelling bad?

Millions of perfumes, colognes, and deodorants are readily available to cover up disagreeable scents. If it was good enough for the 19th century, it’s good enough for the 21st.

If there are teenagers in your household, notorious for taking twohour showers, now might be the time to consider putting them up for adoption.

How about cutting back on drinking water? After all, there are so many better substitutes: Beer, Wine, Hawaiian Fruit Punch. Furthermore, most all water is contaminated with PFAS, the omnipresent forever chemical, that turns out to be quite dangerous,so dangerous that the federal government is about to require that it be filtered out of all water supplies. You can begin the process of filtering

by just not letting water pass your lips. Abstinence is the kind of self-discipline that you want to introduce to your lifestyle. Once you get accustomed to being an ascetic, ecstatic spiritual enlightenment is only a few decades away.

Speaking of forever chemicals, while you are contemplating the massive size of your water bill, why not consider suing the big companies that introduced those chemicals into your water supply? All you need is one successful million dollar suit, and you won’t care about your water bill or any other bills for that matter.

Washing dishes? Why not go down to the Delaware, if it’s not out of your way, and wash them there. While down there, you can also wash your clothes in the river and beat them on rocks, just like perfectly happy people do in allegedly less-developed parts of the world. Reserve your spot on the riverbank now. The number of spaces is limited.

Remember back a few decades when everyone started being ecologically conscious and unabashedly uttered the slogan, “Don’t flush for everything”? Well, how about “Don’t flush for anything”? Better yet, how about digging a pit in the backyard? Or, have you considered honoring your forebears by

erecting a handsome outhouse? Contests could be held focused on whose privy is most artistically decorated. Think what that could do to further enhance our sense of community.

Unfortunately, renting a port-a-potty would not be cost effective. Prices range between $223 and $364 per week. In case you didn’t know, you do not need to water your garden. Why not hook up a rain barrel to one of your downspouts. It only takes one good downpour to fill a 55 gallon container. Or stick to plantings that do not require heavy watering like saguaro cacti or dandelions. When you buy plants or bulbs, look for the label “drought resistant,” and stop being so fussy.

Lawns are overrated. Cultivating one is a clear sign of being worried about what the neighbors think. Let lawns revert to the meadows they were meant to be. What survives is a true return to nature. Make birds, caterpillars, and rabbits happy now. Never wash your car. That’s what rain is for. Besides, who cares if your car is shiny bright? The money saved by not washing your car can be reallocated for therapy and appropriate medication.

robin schore lives in Hopewell Borough.