6-24 HP

tonHamilton Post

Walk in the Bark

Steinert grad fulfills dream with new pet grooming shop, Jurassic Bark

By JOe EMANsKi

The building at 137 Farnsworth Avenue in Bordentown has been home to a pet grooming business for the better part of 15 years.

Entrepreneur Zachary Moon has ensured that the location remains home to a pet grooming into the foreseeable future, even after the business that called it home since 2011 — Little Friends Pet Grooming — has closed.

Moon assumed operations and ownership of the business in March, taking over from Jen Procaccino, who had owned Little Friends. He renamed the business Jurassic Bark.

The hand-off went smoothly, with Procaccino staying on board as a member of the Jurassic Bark staff. Thanks to Procaccino, some of Little Friends’ customers have now become Jurassic Bark customers.

“It’s been going well,” says Moon, 35. “I got to take over

See JURASSIC, Page 14

By JOe EMANsKi

On a rural street in the small western Mississippi city of Ruleville stands a tidy little park dedicated to the memory of civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, who grew up there. There is a pavilion and monument to Hamer in the park, complete with a life-sized statue. The

Library gets $1.5 million for refresh

Bowne helps lead champs Hun in MCT final

By Rich Fisher

When Deacon Bowne walked into Hun baseball coach Tom Monfiletto’s office for his eighth-grade interview, it was as close to a formality as one could get.

Hamilton activist wins NAACP’s Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver award

chair of the national committee that raised the funds necessary to commission and erect the statue in 2012 was Patricia ReidMerritt, distinguished professor of Africana studies and social work at Stockton University, in Galloway Township.

In 2023, the Hamilton resident donated a replica of the statue to the City of Atlantic City, where

Hamer made a famous speech at the National Democratic Convention in 1964.

For her efforts to uplift the legacy of Fannie Lou Hamer, as well as her decades of dedication to civil rights and social justice issues both on and off campus, Reid-Merritt received the first ever Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver Civil

See AWARD, Page 11

“I remember the talk I gave to him and I said ‘One of the biggest pillars we go by is trust and how much can we trust a player to represent the program the right way, to represent themselves the best way and to honestly know the game and put the work in and execute and know what to do on the field,” Monfiletto said.

“I looked Deacon in the eyes and I said, ‘I’ve trusted you since you were 10 years old.’ He’s been coming to our camp since he was really young. He’s been one of the more mature kids I’ve ever coached, aside from being arguably the best catcher we’ve had.”

That’s high praise considering Bowne’s fellow Hamiltonians, Danny Melnick and Cole

See DEACON, Page 16

If an eating disorder is just a phase, why does it take over someone’s

On hand at the Hamilton Township Public Library to celebrate a recent $1.5-million award are library board president Anthony “Skip” Cimino, library director Scott Chianese, assistant business administrator/board member Joy Kerlin, board member Darrell Vigh, county executive Daniel Benson, Rep. Andy Kim, Mayor Jeff Martin, board member Renee Rogers, board member and secretary Iris Tonti, council president Anthony Carabelli, Jr., and council vice president Rick Tighe. Story, page 4.

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.

CHAIR YOGA

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

million for library renovations

Hamilton Township was has been awarded $1,567,179 for public library improvements under Congressionally directed Spending through the assistance of Sen. Cory Booker and Rep. Andy Kim.

The township says that the library intends to use the funding to make infrastructure improvements such as replacing deteriorating and broken windows, renovating bathrooms and improving the children’s section with new furniture, bookshelves and play areas. All the windows, bathrooms and children’s sections items are original to the building, which opened in the 1970’s.

The Hamilton Township Public Library serves more than 90,000 residents with a range of resources and services, including access to historical databases, meeting spaces, library programs for people of all ages, art shows, technology resources, book sales, township events, a shelter and an employment center.

By updating its infrastructure, the township says, the library hopes to create a more welcoming environment and modern space for all residents to enjoy.

“Updating the library and other outdated infrastructure has been a top priority. The library is a place for our residents to use for a variety of services and these funds will ensure it continues to be a community asset for many more years,” said Mayor Jeff Martin. “I want to thank Sen. Booker and Congressman Kim for their commitment to provide the resources we need to ensure everyone has access to books, the internet and meeting spaces.”

“I am proud to bring over $1.5 million back to address an important local need, in particular to make the library more accessible to members of the community with disabilities and strengthen its resources for kids. Everyone should be able to access the power and opportunity of reading and the expansive resources a See NEWS, Page 6

Hamilton Post

EDITOR

Joe Emanski (Ext. 120)

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Rich Fisher

CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS

Peter Dabbene, Thomas Kelly

AD LAYOUT & PRODUCTION

Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

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: hamiltonpost.com

Jennifer Steffen (Ext. 113)

Facebook: facebook.com/hamiltonpostnj Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace

40,000 copies of the Hamilton Post are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Hamilton 12 times a year.

TO ADVERTISE call (609) 396-1511, ext. 113 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org

Sawmill Summer Camp offers Day Camps, Diverse Abilities Camp, and Specialty Camps for youth, K through age 15.

• 50 acres of outdoor space

• Daily swim lessons are offered as an add-on

• Special Events are the highlight of the week! We’re looking forward to:

- Red Valley Ranch - Petting Zoo

- Trenton Thunder - Boomer visit - Bounce Houses - Foam Party

- Swal Family Creamery - Ice Cream Fridays! - and so much more!

With a summer full of unforgettable experiences, anything is possible!

local library provides. I am excited to help make that possible in Hamilton, and look forward to continuing to work closely with Mayor Martin and local leaders to see this project through,” said Kim.

Kim is widely considered the favorite to be New Jersey’s Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate this fall, pending the outcome of the primary elections, which are to be held this month.

Rani Indian Restaurant opens in Foxmoor

A new restaurant featuring the cuisine of India has opened in the Hamilton end of Foxmoor Shopping Center.

Rani Indian Restaurant, Lounge and Bar held a grand opening on April 26. Mayor Jeff Martin and Council president Anthony Carabelli, Jr. were present to welcome owner Kinari Pinchani.

The menu at Rani has been put together by internationally known Chef Nishant Choubey, a 2018 Bangkok Iron Chef Challenge winner. Choubey reports having served as a consulting chef for Michelinplated Indus (Bangkok), a chef’s partner for Sattvik New Delhi, a corporate chef for Seinan Group (Tokyo), and a consulting chef for Mesa Kitchen and Bar. He is also the co-founder of Street Storys Bangalore,

Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin, 12th from left, with the family and friends of Kinar iPinchani, owner of the new Rani Indian Restaurant, Lounge and Bar in Foxmoor Shopping Center at an April 26, 2024 ribbon cutting event.

a vegetarian craft kitchen.

The menu includes vegetarian and nonvegetarian options from appetizers through entrees inspired by the regional cuisines of Hyderabad, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu, Kashmir and more.

Lunch entrees range in price from $18

to $30, dinner entrees from $20 to $38, not including the “showstopping” roast lamb dish, “Rani’s Exotic Raan,” on the menu for $16.

Rani Indian Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays. For reservations and more information, visit raninj.com or call (609) 245-8775.

Destination Shopping For All Seasons

Steve Martin and Edie Brickell musical ‘Bright Star’ set to shine at Kelsey Theatre

Maurer Productions OnStage is set to present the Steve Martin and Edie Brickell musical “Bright Star” at the Kelsey Theatre on Mercer County Community College’s West Windsor Campus.

Inspired by a true story, the Grammy and Tony Award-nominated musical features bluegrass melodies and captivating storytelling set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the postWWII era American South.

The cast features Jim Morris, Ed Forsthoffer, Jenna ‘Jay’ Moschella, Pat Rounds, and Paul Lasky of Hamilton; Lauren Pelaia of Freehold; Michael Gearty and Michael Hall of Yardley, Pennsylvania; Lexie Chiasson of Lansdale, Pennsylvania; Sean Downing and Lisa Ernst of Hightstown; Matt Keelan and Amanda Peterson of Lumberton; Rose Slavin of Vincentown; Cynthia Reynolds of Bordentown; D.J. Holcombe and Terry Perri of Florence; and Chris Schmalbach of Lawrence.

The show is directed by Judi Parrish and produced by John M. Maurer and Diana Gilman Maurer, all of Ewing.

Other members of the production team include music director Sue den Outer of Langhorne, Pennsylvania; choreographer Haley Schmalbach of Hamilton; dance captain Siena Kassa of Allentown; master carpenter Jeff Cantor of Ewing; lighting designer Jackson Seigel, sound engineer Noah Schwartz and costume designers Melissa Rittmann and Michelle Rittmann-Littlehales of Ewing, and stage manager Melissa Gaynor.

Dates and showtimes for “Bright Star” are Friday, May 31 and June 7, and Saturday, June 1 and June 8 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, June 2 and June 9, at 2 p.m. The show is recommended for audiences ages 13 and older. Tickets are $26 for adults and $24 for seniors, children and students, and may be purchased online at kelseytheatre.org.

a volunteer firefighter with Groveville Fire Company. Later, he completed both firefighter I and EMT training with Groveville.

DiMeo

In 2000, he began working as a dispatcher for the Robbinsville Police Department. In 2004, he graduated from the Ocean County Police Academy and began working for the Belmar Police Department. From there he moved on to Plumsted Township and, in 2008, to Hamilton.

DiMeo has received the Mayor’s Medal of Valor as well as the NJ State PBA’s Valor, Gallantry Star, Distinguished Law Enforcement Service, Exceptional and Honorable Service Medals, and Lifesaving Awards. He has been president of PBA No. 66 since 2020.

Kiwanis to honor Police Officer of the Year

The Kiwanis Club of Hamilton Township is planning to host the 48th Annual Hank Leverence Police Officer of the Year Award Banquet on Friday, June 14, 2024 at Mercer Oaks Golf Club.

This year’s award recipient will be police officer Christopher DiMeo, who has been with the Hamilton Township Police Division since 2008 and is currently the president of Hamilton PBA No. 66.

DiMeo was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Staten Island until the age of 14, when he moved with his family to Hamilton. Here he attended Steinert High School, playing football and serving as

Mercer Oaks is located at 725 Village Rd. W., West Windsor, NJ 08550. Dinner buffet tickets are $90. For tickets, call Lorraine Porcella at (609) 468-2467.

Friends for the Abbott Marshlands announce annual awards

The nonprofit Friends for the Abbott Marshlands held its 2024 Annual Meeting on April 20 at the Tulpehaking Nature Center. During the meeting, members voted on incoming board members as well as selected this year’s award winners.

New board members are returning member Lisa Fritzinger and new treasurer Nikki Caplinger.

At the meeting, Pat Coleman, FFAM See NEWS, Page 8

Rockwell

LO VE where you Live!

There’s lots to love about Vintage at Hamilton, the Award Winning* community of 122 luxury townhomes and duplexes in Hamilton Twp., Mercer County...exclusively for active adults 55+. Our residences offer luxury living without sacrificing space or location! Enjoy the flexibility to work from home, plenty of room for guests and low-maintenance living! Conveniently located near shopping, dining and commuting via I-95, NJ Turnpike and the Hamilton train station with service to NYC and Philly.

• 3 bedrooms

• 2 ½ baths • 1-2 car garage

• Full basement (with option to finish)

• Clubhouse with pool, pickleball, and more (Coming Soon!)

NEWS continued from Page 7

president, announced that the recipient of the distinguished 2024 Mary Alessio Leck Award is Kelly Rypkema, director of environmental education for Mercer County Parks and director of the Tulpehaking Nature Center since its opening in 2014.

Husband and wife team Richard and Barbara Buckley received the 2024 Abbott Ambassadors Award for their commitment to connecting the public with the Abbott Marshlands.

FFAM recognized Nikki Caplinger of Bordentown with the 2024 Rising Star Award for contributions in social media, graphic design, film, photography, and her continued advocacy for digital accessibility, diversity and inclusion.

And Stephanie Hill, also of Bordentown, received the 2024 Boots in the Marsh Award for her impact on stewardship.

FFAM is the only organization whose sole focus is the promotion and stewardship of the marshlands. The FFAM goal this year is to reach 150 members. For more information, go online to abbottmarshlands.org.

RWJUH Hamilton presents annual Nursing Excellence awards

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, has recently honored nurse Stacie Maigue as its 2024 Magnet Nurse of the Year.

The award was presented during the hospital’s annual Nurse Excellence Awards Program held during National Nurses Week, May 6 through May, 12.

“Stacie is a remarkable nurse and her passion and dedication for nursing is evident in the work she does every day,” said Dawn Hutchinson, chief nursing officer

at RWJUH Hamilton. “Stacie was selected as RWJUH Hamilton Magnet Nurse of the Year because of her visionary leadership and unyielding commitment to providing safe, reliable and high-quality care.”

Maigue has been with RWJUH Hamilton since 2017.

Also receiving awards were Unit Secretary Award: Sophia Hardwick, Unit Secretary Award; Flora Leone, Clinical Tech Award; Stephen Gwiadzowski, Nursing Quality Award; Lorena Allendes, Friend of Nursing award; Dr. Ronaldo Go, Provider Collaboration award; Cynthia Casale, New Knowledge, Innovations and Improvements award; Natasha Terilus, Nursing Mentor Award; Cassidy Ritter, Exemplary Professional Practice award: and Feliciana Jimenez, Transformational Leadership Award.

Pickleball Kingdom to Open in Hamilton

Pickleball Kingdom, a national pickleball facility franchiser, is preparing to open a number of pickleball centers in New Jersey in the coming months and years — starting in Hamilton.

Pickleball Kingdom’s first New Jersey location is set to be at 1100 Negron Drive in the township.

“The expansion into Hamilton is only the beginning, it paves the way for many New Jersey locations to come,” said Ace Rodrigues, founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom, in a media release. “With franchisee Sam Sood leading this location, we know that he will be ushering in new era of pickleball in New Jersey.”

Pickleball Kingdom says its Hamilton facility will feature 14 indoor courts, including some with outdoor surfaces. The location is also expected to have conference rooms, meeting areas, a lounge and a mezzanine overlooking the courts when it opens.

Friends for the Abbott Marshlands 2024 award winners Stephanie Hill, Kelly Rypkema and Nikki Caplinger.

Pictured at the RWJUH Hamilton annual Nursing Excellence Awards presentation are Lisa Breza, chief administrative officer, RWJUH Hamilton; Nina Melker, chair, board of trustees, RWJUH Hamilton; Lorena Allendes; Nancy Holecek, executive vice president and chief nursing officer; nurse Cynthia Casale; Dawn Hutchinson, chief nursing officer; Sophia Hardwick; nurse Stephen Gwiadzowski; Flora Leone; nurse Natasha Terilus; nurse Stacie Maigue; nurse Feliciana Jimenez; Dr. Ronaldo Go; and Mark Manigan, president and chief executive officer.

Pickleball Kingdom says the facility will offer open play sessions, leagues, tournaments, professional instruction and corporate and social events.

“Pickleball Kingdom is a place where everyone is welcome,” Sood said. “The Hamilton location will embody the wonderful community aspects of pickleball while providing a premier and authentic pickleball experience. The sky is the limit for what we can accomplish here.”

In October, Pickleball Kingdom announced that Sood had signed up to open 20 clubs throughout the state and Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Next after Hamilton, Sood says, will be Toms River.

The first Pickleball Kingdom opened in May 2022 in Chandler, Arizona. In spite of the ambitious roll-out announcements, only two Pickleball Kingdom locations are currently open for business: the one in Chandler, and one in Plano, Texas.

The Pickleball Kingdom lists 11 more locations throughout the country, including “Central New Jersey,” with opening dates of “Coming Soon,” “Summer 2024” or “Fall 2024.” Prospective locations include Nashville; Atlanta; Madison, Wisconsin and several cities in Texas.

With the sport of pickleball exploding in popularity, a number of operators similar to Pickleball Kingdom have opened or announced plans to open in the region in the near future. One that is already open is The Pickleball Club at Monroe, a mem-

bership-based facility that has 10 indoor courts and onsite instruction.

Also announced in April is the Robbinsville Pickle House, which is set to open in fall 2024 on the former site of the Robbinsville Fieldhouse. Local real estate Christopher Vernon is behind the Pickle House, which, if all goes according to plan, will be larger than either Pickleball Kingdom or the Pickleball Club.

Plans for the Pickle House include 20 indoor courts, as well as a restaurant and bar. Like the Pickleball Club, the Pickle House will offer memberships.

Web: pickleballkingdom.com; thepickleballclubnj.com; and robbinsvillepicklehouse.com.

Interfaith Caregivers Walk for Wellness set for June 1

The Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County, a Hamilton-based nonprofit organization that provides senior services, is set to hold a Walk For Wellness fundraising event on Saturday, June 1 at Hamilton Veterans Park.

Participants have the option to do a one-mile or three-kilometer walk. Checkin will begin at 9 a.m. at the Kuser Road entrance to the park. The walks will start at 10 a.m.

For more information, including how to register, visit icgmc.org.

Rights and Social Justice Award from the Atlantic City Chapter of the NAACP on April 27. The occasion was the chapter’s 50th annual Freedom Fund Gala.

“I feel so honored to receive this award,” Reid-Merritt said. “The NAACP is to be congratulated on 50 years of service to the community, always a leader in the fight for civil rights and social justice. And what better way to honor the late lieutenant governor, who was also a fierce advocate in the ongoing fight for the protection of civil rights and the quest for a more socially just society.”

The award was created in honor of Oliver, who was twice elected lieutenant governor of New Jersey, serving from 2018 until her death in August 2023 at the age of 71.

Oliver served in the state Assembly from 2004-2018, becoming the first Black woman to serve as speaker of the Assembly in 2010. She was the first African-American woman to be elected lieutenant governor, and the first woman of color to be elected to statewide office in New Jersey.

“Sheila and I crossed paths many times,” she says. “Her passing was tragic, but her success was monumental.”

Stockton University has had a connection to Fannie Lou Hamer for more than 20 years. The university hosts the annual

Patricia Reid-Merritt holds the Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver Civil Rights and Social Justice Award, presented to her by the Atlantic City NAACP Chapter on April 27, 2024.

Fannie Lou Hamer Human and Civil Rights Symposium, and has also named its event room in its Atlantic City Academic Center after Hamer. Sheila Oliver gave the keynote speech at the Fannie Lou Hamer symposium in 2018.

See AWARD, Page 12

continued from Page

PAVÉ

Prices | Bonded and licensed

Hamer, in turn, has had a connection to Atlantic City for 60 years.

“In 1964, she made a historic trip to the Democratic National Convention in Atlantic City to give testimony about the horrors of being in Mississippi and the efforts that were made to keep African Americans from voting,” Reid-Merritt says.

Appealing for her Freedom Democratic Party be seated as Mississippi’s delegation to the convention, instead of the institutional, White-led Democratic party, Hamer said: “I question America. Is this America? The land of the free and the home of the brave? Where we have to sleep with our telephones off the hook because our lives be threatened daily because we want to live as decent human beings in America.”

“She was a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, but over time, people hadn’t paid as much attention to her,” Reid-Merritt says.

Peace of Mind.

The Fannie Lou Hamer Statue Committee’s efforts to erect the monument, and Stockton University’s commitment to hosting the symposium in her honor each year, have been important steps in bringing Hamer’s legacy to future generations of Americans.

* * *

Stockton University was founded as Stockton State College in 1969. It held its first classes in 1971, 53 years ago.

Patricia Reid-Merritt has been teaching at the school for 48 of those years. ReidMerritt was part of the faculty when the university created its social work program.

Through the years, she has taught classes on social work and social welfare, but also classes on African-American dance as well as Africana studies, which Reid-Barrett describes as the study of African-descended people throughout the diaspora. Reid-Merritt was instrumental in developing Stockton’s Africana Studies minor program.

When in 2020 the university decided to institute an Africana Studies major program, Reid-Merritt had a similar opportunity to the one she had 44 years earlier with the social work program: to shape it using her experience and expertise as a lifelong instructor in the field.

The major program encompasses issues including race, race history, institutional racism, African-American arts and culture, social injustice and poverty. Also African history, African religions and philosophy and the history of Africadescended people.

“We had a minor for 40 years, it was a very active minor. There has always been very strong enrollment,” Reid-Merritt says. We offer all kinds of courses: African-American and African history, contemporary issues, Black theater, Black

music. I just finished teaching a course on anti-Black racism, and there is another course I’ve been teaching for nearly 40 years on the Civil Rights Movement. We have courses that really do cover the experience of African-American and Africa-descended people.”

Reid-Merritt brought the first Kwanzaa program to Stockton, and was a part of the development of the university’s Council of Black Faculty and Staff. She has been involved for many years with the New Jersey Association of Black Social Workers and the New Jersey Black Issues Convention. She has also written a number of books, including Righteous Self Determination: The Black Social Work Movement in America and Race in America: How a Pseudoscientific Concept Shaped Human Interaction.

Originally from Philadelphia, ReidMerritt has lived in Hamilton for 30 years. She founded Afro-One Dance, Drama and Drum Theatre in Willingboro in 1974, a program designed to celebrate the community’s African and spiritual heritage.

Afro-One programs were severely curtailed by the pandemic, necessitating closure of its school in Mount Laurel. She says she has considered whether to return to that realm, but now that she is in her 70s, is not sure she could maintain that kind of schedule.

“The last four, five years, my full attention has been focused on Africana Studies,” she says. “I probably will remain that intensely focused for another couple years, but at some point I’ve got to think, ‘Are you going to retire or what?’ It’s a rare phenomenon for a person to be on the same job for 50 years.”

Professor Patricia Reid-Merritt stands with the statue of Fannie Lou Hamer she donated to the City of Atlantic City in October 2023.

SUMMER 2024 SOCCER CAMP

SUMMER 2021 SOCCER CAMP

Jurassic Bark staff Jennifer Procaccino, owner Zachary Moon, Hillary Cruz, Brandie Devlin and Lainey O’Malley.

JURASSIC continued from Page 1

some of her clients, and you know, this is Bordentown, so there are always people walking their dogs around. So some of them are coming in, saying hi, seeing that it’s a new business and coming to try us out.”

Moon says he has been around pets his whole life, and always knew that the pet grooming business was the career path for him. He spent years working at a groomer at Petsmart, but says he always wanted to open up a place of his own.

“When the opportunity came up and Jen talked to me about starting up a business here, I said, ‘Absolutely.’”

Jurassic Bark offers full body clipping service, trim-up service, bath service and nail-trimming service. A full-service appointment takes around two hours. Most services are by appointment only, with the exception of dog nail trims. All cat services require appointments as well.

Moon says that he wants Jurassic Bark to provide a “clean, open environment, a relaxing spa place to bring your pet.”

A Burlington resident, Moon grew up in Hamilton Township, attending Langtree Elementary School, Crockett Middle School and Steinert High. Dad Scott worked in corrections, and mom Stacey is a librarian at the Hamilton Township Public Library.

Moon says customers have asked him if the salon’s new name is a reference to the TV show Futurama, which has a wellknown episode called “Jurassic Bark.” He tells them no, that he came up with it independently of the show. “The named popped into my head and I went for it,” he says.

Jurassic Bark, 137 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown. Phone: (609) 667-6455. Hours: Tuesday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Web: facebook.com/jurassicbarknj.

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

EDITORS

Joe

AD

Stacey

SENIOR

Jennifer

(Ext.

Community News Service

9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Phone: (609) 396-1511

News: news@communitynews.org

Events: events@communitynews.org

Letters: jemanski@communitynews.org

Website: communitynews.org

Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace

Six09 is inserted into each of Community News Service’s nine hyperlocal monthly publications. Over 125,000 copies are distributed each month in the Greater Mercer County, N.J. area.

TO ADVERTISE call (609) 396-1511, ext. 110 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org

A proud member of:

When

than just you, closer is better. Do it right. Here.

joint surgery affects more

When you need relief from joint pain, you want nothing less than the highest level of orthopedic care. At RWJBarnabas Health, you’ll find board-certified surgeons using the latest treatments and technology, including robot-assisted joint replacement and other minimally invasive procedures, with physical therapy right on site. Visit rwjbh.org/ortho to learn more.

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-

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY

See FESTIVALS, Page 3

is a condition that affects millions of Americans, commonly resulting in pain, tingling, numbness, and other painful symptoms in the hands, legs and feet. This pain changes your life and affects how you work, how you play and how you live.

AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine is pleased to announce their new program for treating Peripheral Neuropathy, which includes a combination of advanced FDA-cleared treatments with breakthrough technology that aids in healing the damaged nerves. The effects of this program can be felt on the first few visits. This treatment restores, stabilizes, and rebuilds the nerves in your extremities. Treatment has also been effective in addressing painful symptoms of arthritis, MS, and other forms of chronic pain. Patients generally feel relief physically throughout the treatment period and even feel better emotionally after experiencing a reduction in pain.

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY

is a condition that affects millions of Americans, commonly resulting in pain, tingling, numbness, and other painful symptoms in the hands, legs and feet. This pain changes your life and affects how you work, how you play and how you live.

CBD oils Have had successful results with treating patients with Inflammation, muscle, joint, and nerve related pains. CBD is a especially promising due to its lack of any intoxicating effects and lower potential for side effects compared to many other pain medications. At AllCure, we want to maximize patients efforts in getting them back to the quality of life that they want and deserve, and CBD treatment is the newest tool to help us do so. Please call us today and we will be happy to answer any questions NEW CBD OIL TREATMENTS NOW AVAILABLE!

we can help.

PROVIDE HOPE

732- 521- 9222

CBD oils Have had successful results with treating patients with Inflammation, muscle, joint, and nerve related pains. CBD is a especially promising due to its lack of any intoxicating effects and lower potential for side effects compared

350 Forsgate Dr, Monroe Township, NJ 08831

has never been a viable solution. If you suffer from any of the aforementioned symptoms, we can help.

NEW FDA-CLEARED TREATMENTS

15 minute consultation for the first 30 callers! *Expires 8/1/19.

AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine is pleased to announce their new program for treating Peripheral Neuropathy, which includes a combination of advanced FDA-cleared treatments with breakthrough technology that aids in healing the damaged nerves. The effects of this program can be felt on the first few visits. This treatment restores, stabilizes, and rebuilds the nerves in your extremities. Treatment has also been effective in addressing painful symptoms of arthritis, MS, and other forms of chronic pain, Patients generally feel relief physically throughout the treatment period and even feel better emotionally after experiencing a reduction in pain.

We accept most major insurances and medicare!

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

Mercer County Park Festival Grounds - West Windsor, NJ

Over 100 Samples of Beer, Wine, Spirits Live Music • Food Trucks

Purchase your tickets at CJBEERFEST.com in June for the Biggest Savings! Use code: CNS2024

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.)

Century 21

The Most Respected Name in Real Estate

Since 1971, the CENTURY 21 brand has been recognized as the most respected and recognized name in the real estate industry. The CENTURY 21 System is now comprised of approximately 14,000 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices and 146,000 agents in 84 countries and territories worldwide. Also, their commercial real estate division, CENTURY 21 Commercial® has a vast expansive network throughout North America that covers over 1000 commercial real estate offices.

CENTURY 21 Abrams and Associates has been a top producing agency in the CENTURY 21 System for over 3 decades serving the Mercer County area. They have two convenient locations to serve client’s real estate needs: 3228 Route 27, Suite 1A, Kendall Park, NJ 08824 (609-750-7300) and the recently opened commercial division located at 2104 Goldfinch Blvd., Princeton, NJ 08540 (609-683-5000 x 304)

CENTURY 21 Commercial® Abrams & Associates real estate services now include: Acquisition & Disposition, Landlord &

Tenant Representation, Property Management, and Valuation & Advisory. They specialize in commercial properties that include Industrial/ Warehouse/Flex, MixedUse, Retail, Office/ Medical Office, Multi-Family, and Commercial Land.

CENTURY 21 Commercial® Abrams & Associates offers a complementary commercial property evaluation and discounted short-term commercial listing agreements with proven results.

Contact information for Century 21 Abrams & Associates: Richard Abrams, Broker/Owner (609-7315638), Robert Warney, Vice President, Advanced Commercial Specialist, REALTOR® (609-222-1304), Rohan Shende, REALTOR® (609-865-8675).

See ad, page 8.

12th Annual 12th Annual

& FOOD TRUCK RALLY & FOOD TRUCK RALLY

June 8, 11 am - 7 pm

June 8, 11 am - 7 pm

1:00 pM Coro d’italia, italian Folk music

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

12:20 pm trenton greek terpsichorianS

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

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

▪ AMANDA’S LATIN CUISINE

▪ Buzzetta’s festival Foods

▪ carvel ICE CREAM

▪ CHA-YEN

▪ CHEF J’S LATIN DRAGON

▪ Coastal Flavors

▪ DANI’s Burgers

▪ DAN’s WAFFLES

▪ DIVINE HEAVENLY FOOD

HARRY‘s LIL KITCHEN

▪ HOT DIGGY DOGS

▪ JERKIN CHICKEN

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

▪ JERSEY PICKLES

▪ K.K. Sweets

▪ LOCAL HARVEST PIZZA

▪ LOS MUNCHIES

▪ Ma & Pa Tex-Mex BBQ

▪ MARIA’S AUTHENTIC FOOD

▪ MAUI LU HAWAIIAN BBQ

▪ MERAKI CAFE

▪ MULTICULTURAL AFRICAN CONNECTION

▪ one sweet place

▪ PAD THAI CUISINE

▪ ROLLING KUSINA

▪ SHABAZZ FISH & CHIPS

SNG BURGERS & DOGS

▪ SOUL BRUTHAS

▪ SOUVLA KING-GYROS

▪ THE LITTLE SicilLian

▪ THE SPIRIT OF SAN JUAN

▪ THE SWEET STOP

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!

Additional L.E.A.D. FEST carnivals bring the fun to different locations throughout the Garden State this

summer. General admission, ride tickets, and Mega Passes for all carnivals can be purchased in advance online at theleadfest.com.

Westfield Garden State Plaza (One Garden State Plaza, Paramus) from May 23-27; May 29-June 2; and June 5-9. Hours are Wednesday through Friday from 5 to 11 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and Memorial Day from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. Midway will be provided by Reithoffer Shows. “Once again, our Paramus event starts on Memorial Day weekend,” DeMauro said. “Attending the carnival that weekend is a great way to have fun and usher in the start of the summer season.”

Voorhees Town Center (180 Route 35, Eatontown) from June 14-23. Hours are Monday through Friday from 5 to 11 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 3 to 11 p.m. Midway

provided by Reithoffer Shows. Howell Township (5361 US Route 9, Howell) from June 27-July 7. Hours are Monday through Friday from 5 to 11 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 3 to 11 p.m. Midway provided by Reithoffer Shows.

Mercer County Park from June 28 to July 7. Hours are Monday to Friday from 5 to close and Saturday, Sunday and Holiday from 3 p.m. to close. Midway provided by Reithoffer Shows.

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.

See ad, page 13

Friday, June 28 through Sunday, July 7, 2024

Monday – Friday 5 PM – 11 PM

Saturday/Sunday/July 4 th 3 PM – 11 PM

Mercer county Park

Great Location! tickets on sale noW!

We S t Wind S or to W n S hi P, n J

diSCountEd PrE-SalE MEGa PaSSES aVailaBlE onlinE at WWW.thElEadFESt.CoM until noon Friday, JunE 28th For $25, inCludinG GatE adMiSSion.

FREE NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT

a ll S ho WS S tart at 7:00PM

6/28 Erni E Whit E Band

6/29 tE quila r o SE

6/30 to B E dE t E r M in E d

7/1 Sid EWayS Willi E

7/2 lo VE li G ht

7/3 Shorty lon G & th E J E r SE y h orn S

7/4 Pur E P E tty

7/5 t h E S E n S ational Soul Crui SE r S

7/6 South E rn St EE l

7/7 Kindr E d S P irit

ticketS on S ale noW at:

JUNE 28 aNd JUly 4

JUNE 28 aNd JUly 4

PICKUP SOFTBALL

Pickup Softball June 15th & June 29th. M/F any age- contact Bruce 609-799-4674.

SERVICES

F,D, Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-3855701 Lic#13VH05475900.

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

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

Guitar Lessons for Seniors. Call Jane 609 510-1400. $25.00 per lesson.

WANTED TO BUY

Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey. Cards, autographs, photos, memorabilia. Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel. 4theloveofcards, 908-596-0976. allstar115@verizon.net.

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

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

NATIONAL CLASSIFIED

H EALTH & F ITNESS

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855526-1060 www.dental50plus. com/ads #6258

Attention oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866-477-9045

H OME S ERVICES

Aging Roof? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091

Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family &

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

your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888872-2809. Have zip code!

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777

M ISCELLANEOUS

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189Change In Ad Copy - Wording & Phone #!

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promo-

tion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-479-1516

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-4171306

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-3081971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877707-5707

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer.) Offer ends 6/30/24. Call 1-844-501-3208

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-844-591-7951

MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888-4893936

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.

Under New Management!

CELEBRATING DADS AND GRADS

10% OFF

Catering Trays

With this coupon. Expires 6/30/24.

Palmeri, were both standout catchers at Hun who went on to play college ball.

“Those guys might argue that,” Monfiletto said with a smile. “But along with everything he’s done on the field with production, he has been as good a leader and as good of a representative of our program as we could ask for.”

Bowne was a driving force in the Raiders drive to their second Mercer County Tournament title in three years. Through Hun’s 19-5 start, the Hamilton Square product was hitting .333 with 13 walks, five doubles, four triples, 18 RBI and 16 runs scored. Entering the May 18 NJISAA Prep A semifinal against Lawrenceville, he had hit safely in 12 of the previous 14 games.

After collecting a hit and run scored in an MCT semifinal win over Robbinsville, Bowne discussed the fact this was Hun’s last chance at a county title since the tournament is switching to a Colonial Valley Conference tourney without preps next year.

“Obviously it sucks that the school’s not gonna be able to compete next year in this tournament,”

Bowne said. “But a lot of our guys are seniors, so we’re just looking to go out and put our best foot forward and finish off our time here well.

“We hadn’t won a (MCT) championship leading up to the first one in 2022, now to have been in three straight finals has been great. Last year it didn’t work out as we wanted, but we’re ready to go out and compete and play hard. Hopefully things work out and we can come out on top.”

Things did work out two nights later and Bowne was right in the middle of it. With the championship game tied 2-2 against Lawrence, Hun got a bases-loaded walk to force in the go-ahead run and Bowne followed with a two-run double for valuable insurance in what would become a 10-2 win at Trenton Thunder Stadium.

hitter throughout the season with 18 RBI on 16 hits.

The MCT title was nothing new for Bowne. He began winning championships early when the 2016 Nottingham Little League 10-year-old All-Star team claimed the District 12 tournament. His teammates included Steinert varsity players Danny Graziano, Christian Finacchio, Gennaro Salzano, Aiden Chulamanis and Alex and Andrew Wolak.

Deacon felt his environment as a youth helped shape him into what he is today.

Hun also got help from another township resident that night, as Tyler Tucker had a hit and two RBI. Tucker, who’s headed to Bates College to play next year, was a clutch

“It was great,” he said. “My dad is from Hamilton and played for Steinert. Playing baseball (in Hamilton) is almost expected in a sense. It’s great to be in an area where everyone competes. To play at Nottingham, I like to think the rec baseball there was better than everywhere else. That was a great place to get everyone better.”

Bowne went on to play travel for three years before arriving at Hun.

SIGN UP NOW FOR SUMMER CAMP

Bowne

He played JV as a freshman. The next year he earned a starting spot and never relinquished it. After a modest average of .244 as a sophomore he slumped to .213 last year before this season’s resurgence.

“He’s been phenomenal this year,” Monfiletto said. “He’s come up big in big spots. We haven’t thought about moving him from the three spot all year. He has been as locked in as I’ve ever seen him. Having someone that reliable in that place in the order has been invaluable.”

Offense is only part of the equation when it comes to Bowne, and probably not the most important part. It is his ability as a backstop that has much to do with him playing at Bucknell University next year. An arm issue had him at designated hitter most of his senior year but he feels he will be ready to catch soon. It’s not a position for everyone, with all the dust and foul tips and heavy gear. But Bowne has done it all his life.

“I think catching is overlooked from the standpoint that everyone immediately thinks that it’s bad,” he said. “But I’d say that it keeps you involved. You’re in every play. When you do the good things everyone’s

happy for you and that’s always nice.

“I think the big thing about it is you have to stay locked in on every pitch. There’s no taking pitches off, so that’s great. I think that’s what makes it such a good position overall.”

Bowne does not just work on his defensive skills during the season. It’s not easy to improve mechanics in the off-season but he manages to do so.

“I try to get as good as possible on my own,” Bowne said. “Guys aren’t throwing in the off-season as much. You do machine work with framing and blocking, and transfer work because you’re not gonna throw much in the winter. Once everything builds up for the spring you start to get a few pitchers back. That’s always great to build a relationship with them.”

And Bowne has developed those relationships. Much like a soccer goalie has to direct his offense, a catcher needs to direct his pitchers.

“It’s great,” Bowne said. “I feel like I have a really good relationship with all these guys. Knowing we have that trust in each other is beneficial to the team.”

Monfiletto calls Bowne “a breath

of fresh air for our pitchers.”

“Whether they are young or old, experienced or inexperienced, I know they are in good hands with him behind the plate,” the coach said. “It’s like having another coach out there with a set of gear on. He knows the game so well, he knows how to handle pitchers, what to say to them, when to say it to them.

“He knows how to get on guys or nurture guys. He knows how to encourage them when they should be encouraged, he knows how to motivate when he needs to motivate. He always makes the right call.”

And when it comes to choosing colleges, Monfiletto feels he made another right call. Bowne’s grandfather went to Bucknell and Deacon thought it was the best fit academically and athletically.

His coach agreed.

“He’ll do great wherever he goes,” Monfiletto said. “But the combination of athletics and academics at a smaller school will suit him well. I think he’ll do very well.”

He has been thinking that since the 8th-grade interview.

Photo of Deacon Bowne by Rich Fisher.

TRIVIA TUESDAYS

SPORTS Tavel hits new heights on the hardcourt for Hamilton West

By Rich Fisher

Jake Tavel never felt more nervous than one day under the South Carolina sun last summer.

There he stood in the dirt of Fort Jackson staring up at Victory Tower, which climbed 45-feet into the air. The drill called for him and his fellow National Guardsmen to walk up the tower and then rappel down on a rope.

Oh by the way, Tavel is afraid of heights.

“I was thinking, ‘I cannot do this,’” he said. “I was looking up at the tower from the ground, and said, ‘There’s just no way.’ But you just push through it. It was an experience.”

It was one of the more harrowing experiences during Tavel’s 10 weeks of basic training, which ran from the first day of his summer vacation until Sep. 7, when he returned for his senior year at Hamilton West.

After all that, returning a blistering serve or a crazy top-spin shot at the net

didn’t seem so daunting. As Hamilton’s first singles player, Tavel had an 11-3 dual match record entering the May 20 regular-season finale. It is his best mark since going 9-7 as a freshman. He also qualified for the NJSIAA Individual Tournament for the first time since that year.

“He’s an exceptional kid,” said veteran coach Jim “The Mercerville Mole” Ditmars.

“He’s got an all-around solid game from both sides – backhand forehand. He’s got a very dependable overhead, He covers the court extremely well and he’s got a very strong volley. He’s got the entire package.”

as a U-12 and U-14 player. But...

“I sort of lost my love for tennis a little,” he said. “I didn’t have that motivation to try and be as good as I was when I was younger.”

He opted for the National Guard in order to pay for college and to have military experience on his resume in his quest to become a detective. Tavel was pleasantly surprised to discover what sleeping in the woods, shooting guns, repelling from gas chambers and basically “testing yourself mentally and physically” could do for a guy’s tennis desire.

ton had just four players and was winless, Tavel enjoyed the season.

“The number two singles player (John Soganic) is my best friend, so we were able to talk through it,” Tavel said. “I convinced him to play. He’s a quick learner. Even though we only have a few players I still love going out there and playing with them. The team is really enjoyable to be around, including the coach.” * * *

Ironically, Ditmars didn’t think much of Tavel when he showed up as a freshman. Despite the fact he had been coached since elementary school by his dad, former successful Montgomery High coach Erik Tavel, Jake didn’t look like much of a player at 5-foot-4.

After his freshman year, however, he barely unwrapped the package for two seasons.

This came after making tennis his life growing up. Tavel was good enough to be ranked in the USTA Middle States Top 10

“It sort of restored the sense of resilience and kind of changed my mindset to how I used to think about tennis,” Tavel said. “I think that’s one of the big reasons I had a lot more success this year.”

Suddenly, he was back at the top of his game this season. And although Hamil-

“He’s grown now (to 5-10) but he was a really small kid,” Ditmars said. “I always evaluate my kids on the first day of hitting with them, and I was like ‘Let’s see how this kid hits.’ After the very first ball I hit to him, I was like ‘Wow!’ He unloaded on his forehand. He made a believer of me on the first ball he hit.”

Tavel

Good training had a lot to do with it.

“His dad was a great coach, his team won states a few times,” Ditmars said. “His brothers all played tennis too. That’s where Jake gets his tennis pedigree, from playing with those guys. His good background taught him most of what he knows.”

Tavel was so good as a freshman he immediately inherited the first singles slot, which is tough for one so young in a tennis-rich county like Mercer.

“He never complained about it,” Ditmars said. “He was willing. He embraced it and he made states. He was unseeded and played a very tough opponent in the first round.”

It was a bit of a roller coaster ride that first year.

“Parts of it brought up my confidence because I would win, other parts would demotivate me because I’m playing people 100 times better than me,” Tavel recalled. “They would serve harder than me. I couldn’t really get the ball back.

“I remember in the states playing a senior who was already committed to college and he knew what he was doing. It felt like a whole other world playing that guy.”

Up to that point Tavel was so enamored with the game he was intent on going pro. But by season’s end, he was burned out, “and I stopped caring as much,” he said.

frequently and the results showed this season.

needed as an individual at Hamilton.

Jake still played for Hamilton and slogged through his sophomore and junior years. But while at Fort Jackson, something clicked, and he texted Erik saying he wanted to get back into it.

Over the fall and winter, the two played

“He beat a couple tough opponents with Princeton Day School and Robbinsville,” Ditmars said. “The PDS match was fantastic to watch. A three-setter that went to the end in a tie-breaker. Same thing with Robbinsville. I know he was really pumped to make states. From the beginning of the year he wanted to get back there.”

And from the beginning of his high school career, he showed a tennis IQ that not many youngsters possess.

“He didn’t care about crushing the ball,” Ditmars said. “He’s a very smart player, he evaluates his opponent’s game, sees where they’re weak and strong. He avoids their strengths and attacks their weaknesses. He’s very sharp like that.

“When we have those crossovers during a match when I talk to the player, there’s not a lot I can say to him because he’s already figured it out. I just say ‘Keep it up kid, you’re doing the right thing.’ He’s such a pleasure to coach, such a great kid, such a coachable kid. I love to hit with him in practice, he keeps me going.”

The coach feels fortunate that Tavel did not take his talents to a prep or Parochial school, but Jake figured that despite lack of team success, he had just what he

“I talked to my dad about it and then I decided it’s not even worth it,” Tavel said. “My goal is to play number one tennis and I’ll still play other team’s number ones by playing at West.”

Both Ditmars and Tavel agreed that serving is the weakest part of Jake’s game, but the coach added “having said that, recently he’s been crushing his serve. He’s been working on it and it’s paying off for him.”

Tavel’s talents have landed him a spot on the Mercer County Community College team next year. He has a six-year hitch in the National Guard and will do job training this summer. After that, he has weekend training once a month at either Fort Dix or in Sea Girt.

As Tavel prepares for the state tournament, he will always thank the National Guard for helping him get there.

“Since I was in the middle of basic training I was thinking back to tennis,” said Jake, who feels surviving basic training is his proudest achievement. “The only thing I remember saying to myself is I gotta come back better than ever, I gotta get to states again, which I have. Now I’m intent on doing the best I can and going as far as I can.”

He’s just happy he will be doing it on the ground, and not 45 feet in the air.

Open Mon thru Fri 8am to 6pm. Closed Sat and Sun.

Senior Jake Tavel in action for Hamilton High tennis.

Burke caps off stellar golf career for Northstars

By Rich Fisher

Jack Burke will never forget his first official high school golf shot, with the words “Atta boy!” ringing in his ears.

It wasn’t as good as it sounds. Burke had never golfed much before entering Nottingham. He had played baseball for HTRBA and Babe Ruth, but his links experience was basically hitting balls with his dad and grandfather.

Convinced he wouldn’t make the baseball team and realizing he enjoyed golf more, Burke went out for the Northstars. In the season opener at Nottingham’s home course of Springfield, a numbers issue forced Burke to be the first man to tee off, when it’s customary for the visitors to lead off.

“I didn’t realize I was hitting first until we got to the tee box,” Burke recalled. “I was already nervous, now I was double nervous because I had to tee off first.”

The 9th grader addressed the ball, took a majestic swing and aimed it right down the middle.

“I hit it 10 yards,” he said. “It went seven yards forward and three yards to the right. I just topped it.”

Burke then discovered how Orlando Arcia would make Bryce Harper feel two years later in the NLDS.

“Scott Kieffer was in the sec-

ond group, he was one of the seniors I looked up to,” Burke said. “He just yelled, ‘Atta boy!’ and told me to keep on walking. He was pretty positive about it, and got in some good one-liners.”

Burke “hit it around” a couple more times and got an eight on his first-ever hole of organized golf. “Max was eight, so I maxed out,” he said.

It was an auspicious start, but the story got better. Burke finished with a 46 that day and followed with a 50 against West Windsor-Plainsboro North. By the end of his freshman season, he had lowered his 9-hole average to 45. He dropped to 40 as a sophomore, and finished at 37 each of the past two seasons.

As a sophomore, he qualified for the Central Jersey Group II sectional tournament, and the following year, he finished tied for second in sectionals and qualified for the Tournament of Champions.

Due to an unpopular rule change this season, Burke was unable to qualify for postseason. In the past, any individual at four-over or better qualified for sectionals. This year, the individuals came from the 24 teams that qualified, and a handful of individuals after that reached the ToC. Burke finished 10 spots from getting in.

“The whole season we’re asking them to reconsider,”

Northstars coach Kyle Seeley said. “I’m talking to other coaches about this. No one knew what was going on. Some didn’t know the rules changed, other coaches knew the rules changed, but thought it was a different way. It was total confusion.”

Burke was obviously disappointed, but the fun-loving

senior wasn’t going to stress over it.

“It was a little frustrating being that close and not qualifying,” he said. “It was tough but there’s nothing we can do about it now.”

Nonetheless, Burke can look back proudly on a career that took him from hacker to golfer with nothing more than hard

work and determination.

“I played baseball, so at least I knew how to swing something when I started,” he said. “I probably picked up a club around eight years old and I’d go to the driving range or play a little mini golf, but nothing coursewise. I used to love baseball but a few things went wrong and I didn’t play anymore. I thought maybe I could have a career in golf.”

After a freshman season of growing pains, Jack “realized I could be really good and I just had to practice.”

He started going to Mercer Oaks after school and playing as much as possible. The summer after his sophomore year he was hired at the Oaks and had “all the amenities you get with that. It really just helped me practice more and take me to the next level. That was the main thing. I just practiced a lot. I wish I could tell you how much, I just know I’m there a lot. I’m Mr. Mercer.”

Seeley admires Burke’s work ethic.

“To say he’s obsessed with golf is an understatement,” the coach said. “He can’t get enough of it.”

Aside from high school golf, Burke also enjoyed success in small tournaments sponsored by the Mercer County public courses, and had a top-five finish on the New Jersey Junior PGA Tour, which features play-

Nottingham High School senior golfer Jack Burke on the tee. (Photo by Julie Burke.)

coach continued. “When everything else is working, and he’s hitting fairways and hitting greens, he starts racking up the birdies because his putting is so good. He’s never gonna have that real blow-up round because of the short game.”

Nor will he have a blow-up hole because he lets a bad shot get to him.

“He shakes it off, he knows he’s good enough to recover and has a positive outlook no matter what’s going on,” Seeley said. “He can be going really bad or really well, he’s always locked in and mentally there.”

Burke has a unique mindset when it comes to shrugging off a bad shot.

“In my eyes, if you hit a bad shot the next one is gonna be more fun,” he said. “My best holes come from bad shots. It’s more impressive. I try not to get in my own head too much. But there’s definitely instances where I have.”

Such as?

ers from around the state.

“In the PGA tournament you play some nice courses,” he said. “I played good in some of them and bad in some of them. There wasn’t much breaking boundaries for me, but I’m doing it for the exposure, it’s fun.”

In assessing Burke’s game, Seeley noted that he has a strong short game, and on days he’s struggling with his woods or irons, “he can always fall back on his chipping and putting to get him out of trouble.”

“I feel like that foundation really allows him to grind it out on a tough day,” the

“At the Mercer County Tournament this year I lost my mind a little bit,” he admitted. “The whole day was tough, I kind of forgot how to play golf for a while. And then I thought it doesn’t matter, I’m getting into my head too much and I’m being too hard on myself. I ended up having a really good time even though I played really bad.”

Good times are what Burke thrives on, not just for himself, but for others as well. He actually recruited his best friend, Henry Angelucci, to come out for the team along with several others. The result was a 9-9 record for Nottingham, its best since the glory days of the early 1990s.

Seeley said it was not uncommon to see Burke helping not only his teammates, but other school’s players on the driving range after matches.

“He’s the nicest kid,” the coach said.

“Even if he has a bad day out there, he’s still a good teammate first, always picking up the guys around him. He’s always looking to help people. Every time we play a match the coaches on the other team are like ‘How’s Jack doing? We love Jack.’ They’re always looking forward to seeing him. He has good vibes, it doesn’t matter what else is going on.”

Upon hearing that, Burke said, “That makes me feel great. I just try to be fun, and make everybody have as much fun as possible. There’s no need to be super overly serious, we’re just trying to have some fun.”

His fun and education will continue next year at The College of New Jersey, where he plans on majoring in accounting “because I’ve always liked math and money.” There are hopes of possibly getting into the golf industry. Bobby Kauth, the General Manager and PGA pro at Mercer Oaks, provided some tutelage.

“For a while I thought about being a manager at a golf course,” Burke said. “He said that one of the best ways to do that is get a business degree in college, then go to PGA Tour School. I’m not sure yet, it will be whatever I feel is right.”

Atta boy!

Alon Baker, DO, FAAP, FACOP • Sonya Boor, MD, FAAP

Laura Brandspiegel, MD, FAAP • Stefanie Fiderer, DO, FAAP

We are a dedicated team of board certified physicians who provide high quality healthcare to newborns, children, and adolescents through college age.

Scheduled appointments and same day sick visits are available weekdays, evenings, and Saturday mornings.

Please call 609.581.5100 to schedule an appointment

Nottingham golfer Jack Burke shows off his medal last season at Twisted Dunes Golf Club in Egg Harbor, where he finished second in the Central Jersey Group II Sectionals. (Photo by Kyle Seeley.)

June Events

PENN: Mediterranean Diet (Nutrition)

Tuesday June 4th, 1:00PM – 2:00 PM

A Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil may improve the function of “good” cholesterol in people at risk for heart disease.

A Mediterranean diet is based on the typical eating habits in countries that border the Mediterranean Sea. Led by Beth Young, MS, RDN, CSOWM, registered dietitian nutritionist. Registration required.

Notary Oath Night

Thursday, June 6th, 3:00 - 6:30 PM

The Mercer County Clerk’s office will administer the oath to newly commissioned and renewing Notaries. Please call the Mercer County Clerk’s office to schedule (609) 989-6466 or email epagano@mercercounty.org

FREE 15-Minutes with an Attorney

Thursday, June 13th, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

The Public Education Committee of the Mercer County Bar Association and the Mercer County Executive present!

LAWYERS C.A.R.E*

FREE 15-minute consultation with an Attorney (virtually)

All Lawyers C.A.R.E meetings will take place virtually. Advanced registration is required. For more information please call (609) 585-6200 or visit website: www.mercerbar.com

AARP SMART Driver Course

Wednesday, June 19th, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM

The techniques learned in this course could result in a reduction in insurance premiums (consult your insurance company for details), Participants will learn the current rules of the road, defensive driving techniques and how to operate your vehicle more safely in today's increasingly challenging driving environment.

MUST PRE-REGISTER CALL 888-897-8979

PENN: Skinny on Fats (Nutrition)

Thursday, June 20th, 1:00PM – 2:00 PM

Knowing which fats raise LDL cholesterol and which ones don’t can help you lower your risk of heart disease and stroke It’s worth understanding the different kinds o f fats: Saturated, trans and unsaturated. Led by Beth Young, MS, RDN, CSOWM, registered dietitian nutritionist. Registration required.

10 questions with multimedia artist Asia Popinska

Asia Popinska is both a photographer and a painter. Her photo work takes a romantic look at some of the quiet and maybe lonely parts of our world. Discarded and left alone objects, quiet natural spaces really seem to communicate with her lens. The paintings are colorful and more abstracted. Allowing a more personal look at the artist and her outlook.

Both photographs and paintings of Popinska’s will be on view beginning in June at the Brookwood Café in Hamilton. What are you communicating with your art?

Art is a vessel of some sort, and I’m sure it’s an expression used widely. I think of it more as a shared experience open to interpretation. I don’t necessarily have an agenda. I create for the sake of creating. From an early age I was a very visual person who was fascinated by colors, shapes, patterns, scents and sounds created by nature. It never ceases to amaze me. Art to me is a visual language that doesn’t have boundaries like spoken language has.

Are you primarily a photographer or a painter?

Although I started with the camera, I now devote my time to photos and painting equally. After 10 years of doing photography, isolation during the pandemic gave me a chance to explore other media, and so I picked up painting and tried to capture the same effects that my photos shared, but on a canvas. Today I spend my time either working on my photos or painting, but typically not both simultane-

Artist Asia Popinska with one of her paintings.

ously. I choose a project (photo or painting), work it to completion, and move on to the next exciting thing. When did you begin making art, and have you had formal training? I started taking photos when I was nine. My dad was a passionate photographer and gave me my first analog camera at that age. It was a hobby we shared until I got married, and circumstances kept me too busy to even consider picking up the camera again. 20 years and one divorce later, I bought a high quality camera as a gift to myself right when I turned 42. I never had any formal training, and I’ve learned my way through trial and error. Your paintings show that you create your own emotional world. Where

does it come from?

My emotional world is based on my love of the ocean. I lived by the Baltic Sea and was influenced by Jacques Cousteau documentaries and my dad’s love of scuba diving, which he shared with me and my brother. Many of my paintings and photos have some element of water in them, and it’s because of the nostalgic feeling painting water gives me that I continue to include it in my works. To me, it is like playing with my memories. Even when I don’t paint water, the colors I use put me in that nostalgic head space.

When did you learn the painting style that you are working in now?

It’s been only 3 years since I started painting, and my style has changed only marginally in that time. I love texture in paintings, so I am currently trying different media, but have settled on acrylic for the time being. I’m experimenting with different ways of blending the colors together, and figured out soft makeup brushes are great for blending acrylic together. I would love to paint with oils, but my small condominium has little ventilation and I don’t have a method of fighting off the fumes yet.

With your photography, what subject matter interests you the most?

Definitely abstract art created by nature! Rust is one of my favorite things to take photos of. How the old and discarded can be beautiful when it breaks down. I go to junkyards looking for colors and patterns. The deep orange of rust, peeling bright blue paint mixed with the verdurous green of plants that take over and show resilience without easy access to soil is something magical to me. What fight/struggle do you have regarding your art?

I’ve struggled with a chronic illness since

I was a child, and I don’t have access to the best medical care. Most days, pain and exhaustion beyond normal wear and tear leaves me completely depleted. Having a physical day job doesn’t help. My illness leaves me with little energy to either create or promote my work, and I try to make the very best of good days to be as productive as possible before I crash again.

What one attribute should all artists have?

It’s a difficult question, because I’m thinking of so many. But if I were to choose just one it would be a deep love and passion for their specific craft.

What is the most difficult about being an artist?

For me it is the limitations of my body. I would love to have more energy to be able to create more art. Each artist probably has their own unique struggle when it comes to their work, and it’s hard to pinpoint one that’s more prevalent than the others. If I could choose two difficulties that many artists I’ve encountered share, they would be the time to create and the resources to promote their work.

What is on the horizon?

I’m excited to be a part of a group show next year and I’m working on a new set of paintings that I want to show there. I usually post my art once it is completed, but I’d like to leave this new collection as a surprise until then. I am also working simultaneously on a new rust and water compilation. My website is also in the process of a major makeover, so great things are on the way!

Web: instagram.com/asiapopinska.

Thomas Kelly is a Hamilton-based artist and a member of the Hamilton Arts Council. His work can be found at thomaskellyart.com.

“Sleepy Hollow” photograph by Asia Popinska.

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP

NEWS TO KNOW

I want my dumb TV

ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Peter

Dabbene COMPLEX SIMPLICITY

capabilities for a long time.

Then came cable, and digital TV, and streaming. All improvements, unless you factor in the increased human tendency toward couch potatoing. Then came smart TVs—devices that let you watch TV in high definition and also manage a variety of modern video entertainment options. Sounds great, right?

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP

Shop Small, Shop Local, Shop Hamilton.

ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As you shop this summer please remember to support our local small businesses and our neighbors and friends who own them.

Visit our websites Hamilton-Strong.com and ShopHamiltonNJ.com

Jeannine Cimino

Board Chairman Rachel Holland Executive Director

The Hamilton Partnership is proud to announce Jeannine Cimino, as newly elected Chaiman of the Board and Rachel Holland as the newly appointed Executive Director.

When I was a kid in New York, TV was simple. CBS was channel 2, NBC was channel 4, ABC was channel 7. WWOR was channel 9 and carried Mets games, while WPIX, channel 11, had the Yankees. Channel 5 showed reruns of M*A*S*H, and for a taste of the brainy or exotic, you ventured way up to channel 13 and PBS. One dial took you everywhere you wanted to go.

A second dial took you where most people didn’t care to go. There existed, in the upper reaches of the airwaves, ultrahigh frequency, or UHF channels—31, 40, and 48 were a few. Even now, those numbers seem less suited to TV channels than to a 7th grade math problem (“Which one is a prime number?”).

Jeannine Cimino Rachel Holland Executive Director

Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government officials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success.

The Hamilton Partnership is proud to announce Jeannine Cimino Board and Executive Director.

Congratulations to Jeannine and Rachel, the first females to serve in each of their roles!

Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank

Source: Unkown

Rachel Holland, Executive Director

These channels used a different dial on the TV set, below the main one, and the UHF knob made a distinct zipper-like sound when you moved it quickly. The “reception” consisted of ghostly black and white images, mixed with plenty of static. Images fell off the screen (sometimes rapidly, sometimes slowly) and reappeared at the top, usually in a consistent pattern, so a viewer with good eyes and a keen sense of anticipation could just about make out what was going on—if the weather was good, and if you were willing to wiggle the “rabbit ears” antenna as needed, or finetune the reception by carefully spinning the outer ring that surrounded the dial itself. You had to work pretty hard to get at those Lone Ranger reruns.

This marked the limit of television

Except that my smart TV is dumb. Actually, “slow” is a better description— and that’s not just a polite euphemism. It can do all sorts of amazing things, like handle external USBs, and browse the internet, and serve as the central hub for streaming services, but often there’s a lag that makes me think the TV might be too smart for its own good—not quite plotting a revolution, but maybe just a bit resentful at wasting all that computing power just to keep us carbon-based life forms entertained. To get it to fulfill some of these higher capabilities often requires scrolling through a maze of options while being blasted by full-volume advertisements and previews. It’s like being attacked by entertainment.

Other times my smart TV seems downright dysfunctional; as proof, I point to the existence of an abundance of YouTube tutorials for turning on smart TVs without remotes. Operating a television shouldn’t require research.

Still, smart TV designers and engineers aren’t to blame for all my frustrations; much of the problem is just the state of the television industry in 2024. There are network channels, and there are cable channels. There are on-demand offerings, and there are streaming networks. So. Many. Streaming. Networks.

Gregory Blair (Emeritus), Nottingham Insurance Co.

Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government officials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success.

Hon. Jeff Martin, Mayor, Hamilton Township

Lee Boss, The Mercadien Group

Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly

Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton

Congratulations to Jeannine and Rachel, the first females to serve in each of their roles!

Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G

Patrick M. Ryan, First Bank

Tom Troy, Sharbell Development Corp.

Since 1993, The Hamilton Partnership has worked with community business leaders, government o cials, and private decision-makers to deliver services and employment opportunities that are essential to Hamilton Township’s continued success. @thehamiltonpartnership @Hamiltonnjstrong #HamiltonNJStrong

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD

Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank

Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly

Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton

Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G

In a succession of increasingly irritating events, I recently tried to watch three movies.

First, I wanted to check out a documentary I’d heard about, called BLAM! Roy Lichtenstein and the Art of Appropriation, which interviews original comic book artists who drew panels that Roy Lichtenstein “re-interpreted” for his own art. I had to consult the internet on how to watch it—annoying, but not much worse than checking a TV Guide or newspaper listing years ago. It was on a channel called Tubi, which I’d never heard of. Tubi is free to viewers, funded by 90 seconds of commercials every fifteen minutes. (Not to discount the accomplishments of modern marketing executives, but that business model seems strangely familiar, does it not?) I found Tubi, subscribed to it, found the film, and watched it. The movie was fascinating, infuriating, and solidified my skepticism of Lichtenstein’s “talent.”

I’ve been on a Beatles kick lately, and the next movie I wanted to see was a documentary from 1982 called The Compleat Beatles. Checking online showed it was available through Roku. I thought this meant the Roku Channel, another free service available on my smart TV, but further investigation showed it was actually available on Freevee. No problem, I could access that too. But when I searched those services, I found a dozen other Beatlesthemed documentaries and no Compleat Beatles. Confused, I went to the Roku website and found an agent to chat with. She explained that the viewing options for Freevee are different if you’re watching through a Fire TV than if you’re watching through a Roku device. I checked on my son’s TV, which uses the Roku device I’d thought was unnecessary with a smart TV, but couldn’t find it there, either.

The smart TV allowed the option of tuning to YouTube and watching the documentary there—surely it had to be available, given the popularity of the Beatles? But all I found were postings that seemed to be skirting some real or perceived copyright law; I could watch parts 1 and 2 through one user, and parts 4, 7, and 10 through another, but couldn’t find anyone with part 5. Even if the complete film were available, switching around after every 8-minute section would be a pretty annoying way to watch a movie.

In the end, I found and watched it on my smart TV through a website called The Internet Archive. The Compleat Beatles holds up as a concise video history of The Beatles, and a perfect introduction to the band—as opposed to Peter Jackson’s eight-hour documentary The Beatles: Get Back, which might test the endurance of all but diehard fans.

The third movie I tried to watch was

a return to the art world, a profile of an comic book and fantasy artist whose work I recently rediscovered. Better Things: The Life and Choices of Jeffrey Catherine Jones is a 2012 documentary, one I looked forward to watching for a detailed discussion of the artist and his work, and also to find out how and why he decided to go from “Jeffrey” to “Catherine” at a time (1998) when gender transitions were far less common than today.

Consulting the internet again, I saw that the film was available through another free streaming service, called Kanopy. I’d never heard of Kanopy, but its website revealed that the service operates through library subscriptions. Viewing is free to end users, but expensive for libraries to offer. Hamilton’s library doesn’t have an agreement with Kanopy, so I was out of luck. I couldn’t even find a DVD on eBay or Amazon, so don’t ask me if the movie’s any good, because I still haven’t seen it.

It’s somewhat satisfying to exercise my “old man” privileges by nostalgizing about ancient televisions and ranting about the failures of modern technology—but it would be more satisfying to have a simple way to watch movies at home, even obscure documentaries. By now, every movie ever made should be accessible in one form or another, but I guess I can lump that with the flying cars and other visions of the future that never came to fruition.

Another future fantasy is that at some point, TV executives will have a eureka moment, and the same way they’ve rediscovered commercialbased television, they’ll see the appeal of merging multiple channels and streaming services into one monthly package, for a set price. But right now, it’s separate portals—and fees—for Netflix, Prime Video, Max, Hulu, Disney+, Paramount+, and Apple TV.

Maybe this chaos resembles what it was like in those first years of cable TV, when HBO and Showtime made their debuts (1972 and 1976, respectively). I’m not old enough to know. But I do remember the excitement—and comparative ease—of channel-surfing cable television circa 1984, the days of “I want my MTV.”

Maybe the problem is as simple as “smart TV, dumb owner,” but I maintain my desperate cry for a return to simplicity: I want my dumb TV.

Peter Dabbene’s website is peterdabbene.com, and his previous Hamilton Post columns can be read at communitynews.org. His graphic novel biography “George Washington: The Father of a Nation” is now available through Amazon.com for $20 (print) or $10 (ebook).

RWJ celebrates June as Men’s Health Month

Ask The Doctor

our ads in SIX09 section pgs 5 and 7

June is Men’s Health Month which aims to raise awareness of the importance of healthcare for men to implement healthy lifestyle choices. From preventative measures to early detection of diseases, Salman Hassan Ahmed, MD, Family Medicine, an RWBarnabas Health Medical Group provider, affiliated Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, shares some steps men can take for better health.

The most important step in men’s health is regular check-ups with a primary care provider. Dr. Ahmed recommends an annual physical exam to assess overall health, screen for potential health issues, and discuss any concerns or symptoms.

These check-ups provide an opportunity for early detection of conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer, enabling timely intervention and treatment. Understanding key health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index (BMI) is essential for men to assess their risk of developing various health conditions. Dr. Ahmed emphasizes the importance of knowing and monitoring these numbers regularly, as they can serve as early warning signs of underlying health problems. He also stresses the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent chronic diseases and promote overall well-being. This includes maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, as well as engaging in regular physical activity and

avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.

Men are often less likely to seek help for mental health issues compared to women. It’s important for men to prioritize their mental well-being by openly discussing any feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression with their healthcare provider. Seeking professional help when needed and practicing stressmanagement techniques can significantly improve mental health outcomes.

Regular screenings for conditions such as prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, and sexually transmitted infections are essential for men’s health. Dr. Ahmed recommends discussing screening options and schedules with your PCP based on individual risk factors and age, ensuring early detection and timely intervention when necessary.

MEGAN S. SEIBER, ESQ. ATTORNEY AT LAW

Hamilton, New Jersey

meganseiber@optonline.net www. meganseiberlaw.com (609) 631-9012 Telephone (609) 631-9109 Facsimile

Heart disease remains a leading cause of death among men worldwide. Dr. Ahmed emphasizes importance of managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity through lifestyle modifications and medication when appropriate. Regular heart and vascular screenings and adopting heart-healthy habits are crucial for preventing heart disease and its complications.

Establishing a trusting and open relationship with a primary care provider is essential for men’s health. It’s important to speak to their provider openly about their health concerns, lifestyle habits, and goals, allowing for personalized care to support their individual needs.

Prioritizing men’s health requires a proactive approach that encompasses regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, mental health awareness, screening, and open communication with primary care providers. By following these essential tips, men can take control of their health, reduce their risk of chronic diseases, and lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Salman Hassan Ahmed, MD, sees

patients at 3100 Quakerbridge Road, #28, Hamilton, NJ 08619. For more information about Dr. Ahmed, please call (609) 245-7430 .

To find a RWJBarnabas Health primary care physician in the Hamilton area, visit rwjbh.org/ medgroupprimarycare

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

Coming up this month at RWJUH Hamilton’s Center for Health & Wellness, located at RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ 08619. For more information, call (609) 584-5900. To register for a program or for schedule changes go to rwjbh.org/ events.

MONDAy, JUNE 3

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

THURSDAy,

JUNE

13

Cooking with Cardiology: Stay Healthy with Summer Grilling. 6 -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.

THURSDAy, JUNE 20

LGBTQ+ Breast/Chest Health. 1–2 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.

Better Health Programs

For more information or to register, as registration is required, call (609) 5845900, email CommunityEdHAM@rwjhb. org or visit rwjbh.org/hamiltonprograms online. All events at RWJ Hamilton Fitness & Wellness; 3100 Quakerbridge Rd.

TUESDAy, JUNE 11

Mind Over Matter - Breakfast and Learn. 1011:30 a.m. Learn if there is a correlation between our thinking and our eating habits. Ekta Makani, FNP-C, MSN, Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), RWJUH Hamilton, 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.

Dr. Ahmed

New counseling center opens on Estates Boulevard

Guide to Grow Therapy, LLC, a counseling practice founded by Tiffany Papp and Shannon Campbell, held a ribbon-cutting on May 3.

Council President Anthony Carabelli, Jr. and Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo were on hand to welcome Guide to Grow Therapy, LLC, to 728 Estates Boulevard, Unit A in Hamilton.

Tiffany Papp, co-founder, and practitioner at Guide to Grow Therapy, LLC, brings her experience in educational settings and her personal journey of living with mild cerebral palsy, a neurological disability, to provide insights and inspiration to clients.

Shannon Campbell, the other half of the team, says she specializes in an integrative and person-centered counseling approach, with a focus on supporting parents through various stages of parent-

hood and providing assistance with infertility and IVF issues.

Guide to Grow Therapy will provide services in person and via telehealth.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to connect with you on your path to personal growth and self-improvement,” said Papp.

Campbell says her passion is for assisting parents: “My true calling and passion lie in assisting parents on their remarkable journey through the various stages of parenthood, including navigating issues such as infertility and IVF.”

“The Hamilton Community is excited to welcome Guide to Grow Therapy. They are a valuable addition to the range of services available to our residents, demonstrating our commitment to their wellbeing,” said Carabelli.

For more information, visit website guide2growtherapy.org.

Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo, Shannon Campbell, Tiffany Papp and Anthony Carabelli cut the ribbon at Guide to Grow Therapy, LLC in Hamilton on May 3, 2024.