7-24 HP

tonHamilton Post

Passport to wellness

RWJ Fitness and Wellness Center

hosts educators for a day of self-care awareness

By JOe EMANsKi

Hamilton Township teachers had an unusual option available to them on their last professional development day of the school year on June 4.

To students, professional development days are just random days off peppered throughout the school year. But for teachers, they are workdays, set aside for attending workshops and seminars and taking on board new methods of instruction.

For the June date, the Hamilton school district partnered with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton to offer workshops and seminars with a focus slightly off the norm: health and wellness for educators.

So on June 4, teachers were given the option to go to the RWJ Fitness and Wellness Center on Quakerbridge Road to one of the most important

See PASSPORT, Page 9

By Rich Fisher

Steinert softball coach Jenn Melker isn’t afraid to use the “L” word with her players. In fact, she prefers it to the “D” word.

“We educate them on this program that everyone wants to call a dynasty but what I consider a legacy,” Melker said. “We tell them ‘Now it is your time to make your path in this program and to not worry about what was

Steinert softball adds to legacy with back-to-back state titles

done before you.’”

The coach wants the past to serve as inspiration for the present.

“Our coaching staff makes sure to let them know about it and that there is a standard set, but to also understand that this is their own story that you’re going to build,” said Melker, who is assisted by Michelle Walsh, her dad Mike Melker, Geri “Bear” Laird and Sam Dice.

“They’re carrying the weight of every girl that has played in that uniform in years past with Spartans on their chest.

“We try not to put the pressure on like ‘You have to live up to the expectations of what was.’

We just tell them ‘You have to play Steinert softball.’ That’s the focus every game. When they step on the field don’t worry about the game before or the

See SOFTBALL, Page 14

Heads of the class

District recognizes top 10 graduating seniors at 3 public high schools

By JOe EMANsKi

Another set of seniors put high school behind them on June 20 when all three public high schools in Hamilton Township held their commencement ceremonies.

Steinert High School and Nottingham High School held ceremonies for the Class of 2024 at Cure Auto Insurance Arena on Hamilton Avenue in Trenton. Hamilton High School West held its ceremony at the Trenton War Memorial on Barrack Street in Trenton.

Most of this year’s graduates began their high schools career via remote instruction, as the Covid-19 pandemic continued to wreak havoc in September 2020. With that period of their lives now consigned to the past, they are able to look forward.

Every year, the Hamilton Post highlights the top 10 graduating seniors in each high school class. Turn to page 10 to learn more about these high achieving seniors, including their future plans.

See TOP 10, Page 10

Steinert softball players with the trophy after winning the Group 3 state championship over Morris Knolls, 8-1, at Seton Hall University in West Orange, June 7, 2024. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)

RWJUH Hamilton July Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

SWEET SUCCESS SOCIETY: A DIABETES GROUP

Monday, July 8; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 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.

ESTATE PLANNING FOR ALL AGES

Tuesday, July 9; 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

There are all kinds of unfortunate things that can happen, and estate planning not only preserves your assets, but it also protects your family. Presentation will cover topics such as children’s guardianship, planning for children with disabilities, making financial or health care decisions if you should become incapacitated, wills and beneficiaries, unmarried couple rights when one dies and more.

BARIATRIC WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

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

If you are considering surgery or are in the process of preparing or have undergone surgery, you are welcome to attend our free monthly support group meetings. Family, friends and support persons are also invited to attend. Our meetings focus on achieving optimal wellness through weight loss surgery. Meetings subject to cancellation during inclement weather.

BROWN BAG MEDICATION REVIEW

Wednesday, July 10; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Come review your medications with our pharmacist, Shesha Desai, PharmD, Rph.BC-ADM. Put all your medications and supplements in a bag and bring them with you for our clinicians to review. Discuss how you are taking your medications and whether you are taking them correctly.

OSTEOPOROSIS

SCREENING

Thursday, July 11; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Ultrasound of the heel and personalized information related to your results. Appointment required.

DANCE IT OUT!

Friday, July 12; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Monday, July 22; 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; no experience required.

A great way to get your kids out and active during these summer days off from school.

PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP

Tuesday, July 16; 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

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

THE HEAT IS ON: SUMMER SAFETY FACT OR FICTION

Tuesday, July 16; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Don’t learn safety by accident! Summer is time for fun in the sun, but make sure it is also safe and healthy. Test your knowledge with this fun-filled trivia hour and learn how to protect

yourself and others from the heat.

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH

Tuesday, July 16; 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Sound healing uses special instruments to create a therapeutic atmosphere promoting deep rest, nervous system rebalancing, and emotional release. Participants sit or lay in a comfortable position while the practitioner takes you on a sound journey for mind, body and spirit. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow or anything that makes you comfortable. Adriana Hansen, RYT200, SHA1 of The Learning Cooperative. Fee: $15

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Wednesday, July 17; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

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

M3 KIDS MONEY CLUB

Thursday, July 18; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Credit Union of New Jersey Kids

Money Club is a fun and interactive children’s workshop. Kids will learn about the fundamentals of saving, which will include games and quick facts. This is an opportunity for children, ages 8-12, to learn about the importance of savings.

WOMEN AND MONEY

Thursday, July 18; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Familiarize and empower yourself with financial fundamentals that can assist with personal aspects of various life stages: merging finances,

children, caring for parents, divorce, widowhood.

MEMORY SCREENING

Tuesday, July 23; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Are you concerned about “senior moments”? The Mini-Mental State exam is a quick assessment to discern normal aging versus potential problems. In addition, you will learn ways to improve your memory. Must arrive 20-30 minutes early to receive the exam.

EXPRESSIVE ART: NATURE BECOMES US

Tuesday, July 23; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Let’s take some time to relax and find our way back to nature. We will use short guided meditation with writing prompts and then move on to making a nature window box. Please gather some pebbles, sticks, pine needles, and/or dried leaves. You may also bring in a piece of nature that that speaks to you, such as flowers, gems, and crystals. All other materials supplied. Facilitated by Rochelle Stern, expressive arts facilitator. Fee: $15

REIKI SHARE

Wednesday, July 24; 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.

DINNER WITH A DOCTOR: HEALTHY BONES MATTER

Monday, July 29; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Musculoskeletal diseases affect more than one out of two people in the U.S. aged 18 and over. Join Michael Duch,

MD, from The Orthopedic and Spine Institute at RWJUH Hamilton for a discussion on common bone and joint disorders. Hear from this bone-a-fied orthopedic surgeon about how to keep your body healthy. Dinner provided.

HEALTHRHYTHMS® DRUM CIRCLE

Wednesday, July 31; 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 CLEAN LIVING IN A TOXIC WORLD

Wednesday, Aug. 7; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Toxins are all around us: in the air we breathe, the products we use and the food we eat. Learn what these toxins can do to our bodies and ways to avoid them and live a cleaner life with Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Therapies Nurse.

WOMEN’S SUMMER BOOK CLUB: WHEN WOMEN WERE DRAGONS BY KELLY BARNHILL

Thursday, Aug 22; 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

A Goodreads Best Book of the Year. A fiery feminist fantasy tale set in 1950’s America, where thousands of women have spontaneously transformed into dragons, exploding notions of a woman’s place in the world and expanding minds about accepting others for who they really are

*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, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

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.

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, July 9 + 23; 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. Must register.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, July 9 + 23; 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, July 9 + 23; 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!

THE HEAT IS ON: SUMMER SAFETY FACT OR FICTION

Tuesday, July 16; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Don’t learn safety by accident! Summer is time for fun in the sun but make sure it is also safe and healthy. Test your knowledge with this fun filled trivia hour and learn how to protect yourself and others from the heat.

GAME TIME

Thursday, July 11 + 25; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

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

SKINCARE MADE EASY

Wednesday, July 17; 11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Luba Dziubas, the owner of Radiance Spa located in our Center, will teach us simple techniques and ingredients to improve our skin. Join us to get your glow back. Q & A.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, July 18; 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.

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

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AROUND TOWN

Hamilton PAL holds grand opening for new Dwier Center

The Hamilton Police Athletic League held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on May 22 for its new home, the Dwier Center.

Among those in attendance were Hamilton Township Police Division Chief Ken DeBoskey, Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin and Council President Anthony Carabelli, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri, County Executive Dan Benson and representatives from Rep. Andy Kim’s office and Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy’s office.

The new Center, located at 392 Church Street in the Groveville section of Hamilton, will house the organization’s various programs as well as give the organization the opportunity to launch new programs and activities. It consists of three activity rooms, an outdoor playground, a small prep kitchen and storage for program equipment.

Founded in 1949, Hamilton PAL has been serving the community for 75 years.

This is the first facility PAL has been able to call home in the organization’s history. Since the organization’s founding, it has rented space at numerous locations throughout the township for practices, meetings and programs.

The organization currently offers programs including Safety Town, wrestling, basketball, field hockey, cheerleading, street hockey and twirling. PAL plans to introduce its first Youth Academy this summer, Aug. 12 through 16. Program information can be found on the PAL website.

“Positive police interactions are essential to maintaining safe communities, and those interactions begin with our youth. Hamilton Police Athletic League looks to engage kids in constructive activities, support them, and guide them, because together we can make a difference,” said Lt. Kristin Seitz, executive director of

See NEWS, Page 6

Hamilton Post

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

EDITOR

Joe Emanski (Ext. 120)

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Rich Fisher

CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS

Peter Dabbene, Thomas Kelly

AD LAYOUT & PRODUCTION

Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Jennifer Steffen (Ext. 113)

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

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

A proud member of:

Register by July 10 for four or more weeks of camp and receive a FREE Sawmill Family Pool Membership*!

*New registrations only

• 50 acres of outdoor space

• Daily swim lessons are offered as an add-on

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

• 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!

At the May 22, 2024 ribbon-cutting for Hamilton PAL’s Dwier Center in Groveville are Lt. Steve. Gould, Det. Ben. Zuzzio, Officer Joe. Avanzato, Sgt. E. Lugo, Officer A. Zuzzio, Officer S. Dorney, MC Prosecutor’s Office Angelo Onofri, John King, Lt. K. Seitz, Sgt. M. Watson, Jared Romanski, Mayor Jeff Martin, Alyson Setzer, Kate Kane, Anthony Carabelli, Danielle Nutt, Dan Benson and Chief Ken DeBoskey.

NEWS continued from Page 4

Hamilton PAL.

“When I head out to Safety Town each year for graduation, I ask this question. Who has been through ‘Safety?’ The majority of the hands (in the crowd) will go up. If you have been through the Safety Town program, you’re been impacted by Hamilton PAL and the amazing work this organization is doing” Martin said at the grand opening.

Rotary Club Awards Student Scholarships

The Rotary Club of Robbinsville Hamilton has awarded scholarships totaling $7,500 to eight local high school seniors.

The awardees were selected from more than 40 applicants. The students receiving scholarships are: Skylar Kunkle, Hamilton West; Zobia Chaudhry, Nottingham; Teresa Loh, Steinert; Chase Braud, Steinert; Jason Maziarz, Steinert; Dylan Carmignani, Robbinsville; Elizabeth Gorman, Notre Dame; and Brendan Appert, Notre Dame;

“The selection committee was very impressed with the quality of applications,” said Committee Chair Paul Neu. “Our Rotary Club is pleased to be able to recognize students who have a commitment to community service.”

The scholarships are funded through the Rotary Club’s annual Dollars for Scholars raffle.

Habit Burger Grill opens on Route 33

The Habit Burger Grill, the Californiabased restaurant company, launched its 17th restaurant in New Jersey on June 18 with the drive-thru opening of its new Hamilton location.

The restaurant and drive-through are located at 1227 State Hwy 33, Hamilton, NJ 08690. The 3,100 sq. foot Hamilton restaurant will offer drive-through, dinein and takeout. Delivery will be available via The Habit Mobile App and online at order.habitburger.com. Guests interested in joining Hamilton’s CharClub for can sign up at habitburger.com/hamilton.

The Habit Burger Grill hours of operation are (dining room) Sunday through Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m; and (drive-through) Sunday through Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday through Saturday 10:30 a.m. to midnight.

Economic Development Commission grants scholarships to local students

The Hamilton Township Economic Development Advisory Commission has this spring continued its annual tradition of providing scholarships to local graduating high school seniors.

NEWS, Page 8

The commission, chaired by Lori Danko, recently joined with Mayor Jeff Martin to present four Hamilton high school students with scholarships to help support their pursuit of business-related degrees in college.

The HTEDAC, with the funds raised from its annual events, provided $750 scholarships to students from the four high schools in Hamilton. These students, selected by the HTEDAC’s Scholarship Committee, are graduating seniors passionate about studying businessrelated fields in college. This year’s recipients are Hamilton High West’s Ashley Salguero, Nottingham High School’s Angelina Violi, Steinert High School’s Teresa Loh, and Trenton Catholic Academy’s Luisa Bolanos Vega.

“This year’s class of scholarship award recipients is another fine example of the outstanding high school students across our community,” said Mayor Jeff Martin.

2 township schools named National Schools of Character

Two Hamilton Township schools have been named 2024 National Schools of Character by the website character.org.

worthiness, Responsibility, Perseverance, and Empathy. Greenwood students, staff and families have consistently worked hard throughout multiple school years to create a culture and climate worthy of joy, opportunities, celebration, peace, and academic success,” said Greenwood Elementary School Principal, Nicole Dickens-Simon, in a media release.

“Langtree’s staff and I are honored to be recognized once again as a National School of Character. We are committed to creating a positive learning environment that nurtures students’ academic and social-emotional development. Our approach to learning exemplifies character so students grow to their potential in school, in our community, and our world. I want to thank my staff and our parent community for working collaboratively to foster these core values in our students,” said Joyce Gallo, Langtree Elementary School principal.

Greenwood Elementary School and Langtree Elementary School are two of 73 award recipients across the nation; 20 schools earned the distinction in New Jersey.

“The Greenwood Elementary School community humbly accepts this magnificent acknowledgement of its successful personification and implementation of the Six Core Values: Respect, Integrity, Trust-

Character.org, formerly known as the Character Education Partnership, creates and shares resources that are intended to support people around the globe, including the 11 Principles Framework for Schools: A Guide to Cultivating a Culture of Character. The organization’s vision is to be the global leader and voice for developing character in families, schools, and organizations.

winner Angelina Violi (second from left) and Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin (center) with commission members Tom Julian (far left), David Walsh, and chair Lori Danko (far right).

Teachers from the Hamilton Township School District take part in Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s first ever Professional Development Day for educators, held on June 4 at the RWJ Fitness and Wellness Center.

PASSPORT continued from Page 1

things a teacher can learn: how to take care of themselves.

More than a hundred teachers split across two sessions took part in the day.

Health-care professionals from across the RWJBarnabas Medical Group offered workshops and seminars on topics like meditation, healthy cooking, yoga, exercise, preventative self-care and skin care. Participants could even opt to get a chair massage.

RWJ set up information booths where teachers could stop to learn about a variety of health and wellness matters on their way between workshops. Each teacher also received a “passport to wellness” to keep track of their progress on the day.

On the day of the event, RWJUH Hamilton vice president of health promotion Diane Grillo said that RWJ and superintendent Scott Rocco were in conversation for months to plan the day out.

“Dr. Rocco had a vision and a philosophy. He knows that teachers have

stressful jobs,” Grillo says. “He wanted to find a partner for a day when teachers could just take care of themselves. For a person in my position, that was just so engaging. I haven’t seen any other school district focus on their teachers like this.”

Grillo says she sees this as a jumping off point for RWJ to offer this kind of programming more frequently, and not just to teachers but also to everyone in the community.

“Our job is not only to restore the health of the community but also to preserve it,” Grillo said. “That’s what happens in the Fitness and Wellness Center, and that’s why we had this event here.”

Lisa Breza, chief administrative officer of RWJUH Hamilton, echoed those thoughts in a media release. “We know this event will help further develop relationships and demonstrate RWJUH Hamilton is here for our community, our teachers, students and their families, not only in emergencies and times of illness and disease but also as a resource for the overall health, wellness, and well-being of our community members,” Breza said.

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ASSISTED LIVING I MEMORY CARE

The Nottingham High School Class of 2024 top 10 graduating seniors are (front row) Audrey Ford, Zobia Chaudhry, Johanna Alexis, Nice Clenor, Marialice Estrada; and (back row) Jaxon Filippi, Nathaniel Bergren, Ryan Swieconek, Mark Tezak and Jack Burke. (Photo by Hamilton Township Public Schools/Laura Geltch.)

TOP 10 continued from Page 1

Nottingham High School

Zobia Chaudhry is this year’s top graduating senior for the Northstars. Chaudhry finished her high school academic career with a weighted grade point average of 4.9966. She intends to attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in the fall, where she plans to study biology.

Nice Clenor, number 2 in the class with a GPA of 4.7888, is headed to The College of New Jersey to study nursing. Marialice Estrada, number 3 with a GPA of 4.7756, has her sights set on Rowan University in Glassboro, where she plans to major in writing.

Number 4 graduate Audrey Ford (4.7356 GPA) is headed to Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, where she hopes to study digital media and marketing. Ryan Swieconek, number 5 with a GPA of 4.7217, and Jack Burke, number 6 with a 4.623 GPA, are both headed to TCNJ — Swieconek to major in computer science and Burke in business administration.

Number 7 graduate Johanna Alexis (4.6102 GPA) has decided on Rowan University. She intends to major in biology. Jaxon Filippi, 8th in the class with a GPA of 4.6027, has chosen Mercer County Community College, where he will major in computer science.

Rounding out the top 10 at Nottingham are Nathaniel Bergren, number 9 with a 4.5908 GPA, who plans to attend Ramapo

College of New Jersey to study nursing, and Mark Tezak, who expects to become a University of Colorado Buffalo in the fall, studying engineering physics.

Hamilton High School West

At the top of the graduating class at Hamilton High School West is Zachary Kunkle. Zachary, who finished high school with a GPA of 4.9497, plans to attend TCNJ in the fall to major in computer science.

Kelsey Egan, number 2 in the Class of 2024, has decided on Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut, where she plans to study occupational therapy.

Number 3 grad Sean Collins (4.9238 GPA) doesn’t plan to go too far. He is set to enter Princeton University in the fall to study mathematics. Number 4 EmmaLee Lazo (4.9184 GPA) is also staying instate, with plans to major in marine biology at Monmouth University.

Actually, across the top 10s of the three Hamilton public high schools, 17 of 30 students have chosen to stay in state next year. Of the other 13, 3 are headed to Pennsylvania, 2 to Ohio and 3 to New England.

Number 5 Hornet Sophia Lin (4.8813) is set to study accounting at the next level, while numbers 6 and 7 — Amira Taha (4.8782 GPA) and Aditi Nanda (4.8463 GPA) — have both chosen Rutgers University. Taha plans to enroll in the pharmacy program, while Nanda has chosen to study business law.

Number 8 Nataly Suquitana and her

4.8323 GPA will be off to the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Science to study pharmaceutical science. Number 9 Henry Fanders (4.8134 GPA) has decided to enroll as a pre-med

student at Thomas Jefferson University, and number 10 Daniel Cwalina (4.8126 GPA) at Rutgers, where he will major in engineering.

See TOP 10, Page 12

The Hamilton High School West Class of 2024 top 10 graduating seniors are EmmaLee Lazo, Kelsey Egan, Zachary Kunkle, Henry Fanders, Sean Collins, Daniel Cwalina, Nataly Leon Suquitana, Amira Taha, Sophia Lin and Aditi Nanda. (Photo by Hamilton Township Public Schools/Laura Geltch.)

TOP 10 continued from Page 11

Steinert High School

Graduating number one in the Class of 2024 at Steinert High School this year was Jasraj Baweja, who ended her Spartan days with a 4.9803 GPA. Baweja has chosen to attend Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, with plans to major in computer science.

Second in the class Teresa Loh (4.9781 GPA) is TCNJ bound, and will study psychology over in nearby Ewing. Number 3 Michael Paternostro (4.96 GPA) meanwhile has his sights set on Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, where he will study to become an engineer.

Number 4 Emily Kurland (4.9478 GPA) is State College, Pennsylvania bound, with plans to enter Penn State. There she hopes to study business management. Number 5 Jolea Terman (4.9375 GPA) has chosen to study biology at Mercer.

Number 6 Gabriela Belardo, who finished with a GPA of 4.9344, has selected Seton Hall University in West Orange as her future alma mater. Belardo intends to major in criminal justice. Number 7 Tyler Gilson, with a 4.9284 GPA, is set for Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. Gilson will study computer science, which edges biology as the most popular major field of study for this year’s top 10s, edging out biology and engineering.

Rounding out the top 10 at Steinert are Claudia Szmyd (4.8962 GPA), who plans to study pre-law at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut; Mia Speno (4.8753 GPA), set to study nursing at Villanova University; and Dylan Caudle (4.8743 GPA, who plans to head to Columbus, Ohio to study electrical and computer engineering at The Ohio State University.

The Hamilton Post wishes the top 10 graduates and all of their classmates the best of luck as they prepare to embark on the next phase of their lives.

The Steinert High School Class of 2024 Top 10 graduating seniors: (front row) Claudia Szmyd, Jasraj Baweja, Jolea Terman, Gabriela Belardo, Teresa Loh; and (back row)

Michael Paternostro, Dylan Caudle, Emily Kurland, Mia Speno and Tyler Gilson.

(Photo by Hamilton Township Public Schools/Laura Geltch.)

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year before or what’s ahead. I tell them ‘Play where your feet are.’ We have to prioritize what’s happening in the moment, and that’s what works.”

It worked again this year, as Steinert made program history June 7 with an 8-1 win over Morris Knolls in the NJSIAA Group III championship game at Seton Hall University.

And they did it without a senior on the roster.

Now that’s scary.

But it wasn’t unexpected, at least where Melker was concerned.

“I don’t want to come off sounding arrogant or cocky, but after graduating five, once we saw the talent that came in, me and coach Walsh looked at each other and were like, ‘We have talent here,’ Melker said. “From there, we needed to figure out the lineup and what works.

“It wasn’t a ‘Wow, we never thought this could happen!’ thing. It was a matter of making these young ladies understand the culture of this program and striving for that goal.”

The players thought it was possible.

“From the beginning, we knew we would be under-estimated because of how young we were,” super sophomore shortstop Mia Pope said. “That kind of motivated us to want it even more. We

games under Melker since she took over an already successful program from Jean Ruppert in 2019; Whether it’s a dynasty or legacy, it’s something to be proud of. And it fuels Pope.

“I find it to be inspiration to play better,” said the All-County performer, who led Steinert with a .531 average, 51 hits, 15 stolen bases and 36 runs scored. “We still play relaxed, we’re just playing the game of softball. But I think (the tradition) does make us want to win each game even more.”

Pope doesn’t know much about losing. Since she and Bianca Walsh became the starting keystone combo as freshmen last year, Steinert has gone 45-10 overall and 12-0 in states.

Is that something Pope could have ever imagined?

knew that we had the talent to make it back again and win it.”

* *

With its victory over Morris Knolls, Steinert:

Won its fourth state title in eight years after reaching the championship game for the sixth time during that period;

Became just the third softball program in Mercer County history – along with Notre Dame and Robbinsville – to win consecutive state titles;

Became the third program in school history – along with baseball and boys soccer – to win consecutive state crowns; Improved to 23-3 in state tournament

“I didn’t really think about it that much,” she said. “I came in just wanting to have fun. I knew Steinert was a great program and they have a big reputation to uphold and I was very excited to play with these girls.”

* * *

If there was ever an example of “team” it was the Spartans. Every player took turns being a hero during a state run that featured five come-from-behind victories. It started with Lawrence when Pope

TRIVIA TUESDAYS

Steinert’s Mia Pope takes a swing in the NJSIAA Group III championship game against Morris Knolls at Seton Hall University, June 7, 2024. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)

On the Cover

Plenty of ways to celebrate this Independence Day

By Joe Emanski

With fireworks increasingly accessible in the Garden State these days, some people see celebratory holidays like Independence Day as an opportunity to fire off a few or a few hundred red and glaring rockets at home, right there in the driveway.

But for those who have dogs or who remain concerned about potential serious bodily harm related to exploding things in their yards, Community News is happy to report that the tradition of the community fireworks show is still very much alive and well. Below is your guide to this year’s celebrations.

We start out by mentioning that Lawrence Township plans to hold its annual Independence Day Fireworks on Friday, June 28 at Rider University, with a rain date of Saturday, June 29. Both dates are before our publishing date for July, but we mention

them here so that readers don’t wonder why we did not include them.

Also kicking off before press time is the Hopewell Valley Veterans Association’s

June 29 An Evening Under the Stars fireworks display and classic car exhibition in Hopewell Township’s Woolsey Park.

Now for the events that readers can actually attend!

Hamilton Township has had Fourth of July fireworks in Veterans Park pretty

much since the park opened to the public, and this year it will host more of the same.

The Hamilton Independence Day Concert and Fireworks show is set to take place on Monday, July 1, with a rain date of Tuesday, July 2. Visitors are encouraged to park at the Kuser Road entrance,

Joe

Jennifer

Community News Service

9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Phone: (609) 396-1511

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Letters: jemanski@communitynews.org

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A proud member

fireworks from the Hopewell Valley Veterans Association’s september 2023 show. (facebook photos.)

Pure Petty, a tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tribute band, is scheduled to take the stage at l.e.A.d. fest on thursday, July 4 at the Mercer county Park fairgrounds. (Photo by Phillip lebowski.)

2206 Kuser Road.

Festivities are set to begin at 6 p.m. with food available from a variety of vendors. Musical entertainment will be provided by The Heartbeats. The South Jersey-based group bills itself as “America’s Party Band.” Fireworks are set to start at 9:30 p.m.

Ewing Township will join in the fun on Wednesday, July 3 with the Ewing Independence Day Fireworks Celebration.

Ewing’s event is set to feature rides, face painting, sand art, a balloon man, a dunk tank, food vendors and giveaways. DJ Dan Murphy will provide musical entertainment, and the First NJ Volunteers Colonial Reenactors will also be on hand.

Gates are set to open at 6 p.m at The College of New Jersey’s Green Lane soccer fields. Fireworks are scheduled to begin around 9 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to park in the TCNJ parking garage on Metzger Drive.

Also set for July 3 is the Bordentown Fireworks at the Park, a joint production between the township and the nonprofit Foundation for Bordentown Traditions, which helped reinstate an annual Bordentown show after budget cuts brought that tradition to an end.

This year’s edition is set to begin at 4:30 p.m. in Joseph Lawrence Park on Ward Avenue. Festivities are set to include games, music and food trucks, with fireworks set to start around 9 p.m.

Anyone who completely forgot to go to any fireworks shows on the Fourth of July or in the week leading up to it will be

relieved to learn that East Windsor Township will host its fireworks show on Saturday, July 6 at dusk.

East Windsor’s celebration is scheduled to take place at Etra Lake Park on Disbrow Hill Road in the Twin Rivers section of the township.

* * *

Also taking place the week of Independence Day is the L.E.A.D. Fest in the Mercer County Park fairgrounds, with a fireworks show just one part of the scheduled entertainment.

L.E.A.D., or Law Enforcement Against Drugs, is a nonprofit organization with the mission to protecting youth and communities from the proliferation of drugs, drugrelated crimes and peer-to-peer cyberbullying and violence.

The annual L.E.A.D. Fest started on June 28 and is scheduled to run through Sunday, July 7. The festival features carnival rides, food vendors, racing pigs, a circus show, a craft fair and nightly live musical entertainment.

On Thursday, July 4, L.E.A.D. Fest will also host a fireworks show to start at dusk. Paid admission is technically required to attend, although we all know that the fireworks will be visible from outside the fairgrounds area.

Prior to the fireworks show, Philly-based band Pure Petty will take the stage at 7 p.m. performing the songs of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.

The Trenton Thunder are also planning to host a fireworks show on July 4 at Arm and Hammer Park after their 7 p.m. game with the Frederick Keys. But that is hardly unusual, as the Thunder have already hosted four postgame fireworks nights this season, and plan to do 10 more after July 4.

The Trenton Thunder, home to team in the Double-A Eastern League from 1994 to 2019, have belonged to the six-team MLB Draft League since 2021, after Major League Baseball took over and scrambled the minor league baseball landscape. The Thunder play a two-part, 80-game schedule half of which is contested by collegiate amateurs, and half contested by undrafted professionals after the annual Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft is held.

Other scheduled fireworks dates for the Thunder are July 18, July 20, July 25, Aug. 1, Aug. 8, Aug. 15, Aug. 17, Aug. 29 and Aug. 31. All dates are Thursdays or Saturdays. A ticket purchase is required to attend.

* * *

Those looking for a more Princeton take on Independence Day may want to plan a trip to Morven Museum and Garden on Thursday, July 4 for its annual Fourth of July Jubilee.

Morven, of course, has been selected as a local host for 2026’s Semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since the signing of

the Declaration of Independence. But that is down the road. This year’s Jubilee is set to feature family-friendly activies and crafts “inspired by themes of history, civics and service” as well as tours of Morven’s gardens and live music from the Vintage Vibe Tribe and face painting with Maya B. the Facepaint Fairy. Food will be for sale from Oink and Moo BBQ, The Empanada Guy and Kona Ice. No noisy or polluting fireworks are planned.

One could say that Morven has been hosting Independence Day celebrations since 1783, when it hosted several congressional delegates to mark the occasion. For many years, it served as the New Jersey governor’s mansion.

The Jubilee is part of Civic Season, a national program of activities designed to connect Juneteenth and July 4. Web:morven.org.

Morven Museum and Garden will host its annual Jubilee on thursday, July 4. (facebook photo.)

Sourland Mountain Festival to return July 13

The Sourland Mountain Festival is set for Saturday, July 13, rain or shine, from 3 to 8:30 p.m. at New Jersey’s premier Unionville Vineyard in Hunterdon County.

Unionville’s home vineyard on Rocktown Road in Ringoes, with its iconic red barn, serves as the backdrop for a summer afternoon filled with music, food, family-friendly activities, shopping, presentations and more.

Live musical entertainment will be provided by headliners the Matt O’Ree Band along with the Christine Havrilla & Gypsy Fuzz, Tony and the Trees and the Adventures of Matt Black.

After an opening blessing of the mountain by the Lenape Nation, guests may then partake in family-friendly activities, from guided hikes with educators from the Raritan Headwaters Association to a lesson on foraging from Wildspawn Mushrooms, henna and face painting, a walk-through balloon and photo experience with the ReMax balloon.

Tabby’s Place, the Ringoes-based cat rescue sanctuary, will be on hand with information and taking donations for their rescues in need. Titusville native plant center My Backyard at Nectars will be available with an assortment of native plants for pur-

chase. Merchants from around the region such as Freitag Arts, Ed Field Stained Glass and Rooted Remedies and more will be on hand with unique gifts for purchase.

The Ryland Inn and Chef Chris Albrecht will provide catering under the tented patio in the shadow of the red barn. Draft beer will be provided by Lone Eagle Brewing. Also offering food and refreshments will be AMA Pizza, Thai Cha Chak, and Cas Pierogi.

Proceeds from the Sourland Mountain Festival benefit the Sourland Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the history and ecology of Central Jersey’s Sourland Mountain region and is made possible by the generous support of business partners and sponsors who share in the vision of Supporting the Sourlands.

The Sourland Mountain Festival is planned and run by a dedicated group of volunteers. East Amwell’s local volunteer rescue squad will be on hand for guest safety and will be selling lemonade and baked goods to benefit their squad.

Tickets are on sale now at sourlandmountainfest.org/tickets and guests may also purchase a limited edition 20-ounce tumbler. Visit sourlandmountainfest.org for more details.

the Matt o’ree Band is among the musical performers expected to take the stage at the sourland Mountain festival on July 13.

Mercer Eats

South Olden’s Encanto spotlights Colombian cuisine

By Joe Emanski

Encanto is a great name for a restaurant. Especially a restaurant that specializes in Colombian cuisine.

Since 2021, the Spanish word meaning “charm” has been inextricably linked with the 2021 Disney animated film of that name — a film that, of course, tells the magical story of the Madrigals, a multigenerational family living in Colombia.

Colombian food has taken a back seat to other Latin American cuisines in the area, especially Mexican and Guatemalan cuisine. Even Tomatello’s Latin Cuisine in Hopewell, which is owned by a Colombian family, started out focused largely on burritos before gradually adding Colombian specialties to its menu.

empanadas at encanto colombiano restaurant.

Encanto Colombiano Restaurant, which opened on South Olden Avenue in Hamilton in April, has been zeroed in on Colombian cuisine from the get go. Among the restaurant’s best sellers is Bandeja Paisa ($27.50), a Colombian specialty of rice, beans, beef, chicharrón, chorizo, sweet potato, plantain, fried egg, blood sausage and avocado.

This heaping dish is accompanied, as per tradition, with an arepa, a type of ground

corn flatbread that is popular throughout South America, but especially in Colombia. Also popular at Encanto since its opening has been its Colombian-style mini-empanadas, or empanaditas ($10.50). Where many empanadas are made with flour, these are made with corn, and come stuffed with beef and potatoes.

Specialties of the house include Salmon con Camarones al Ajillo, or salmon and shrimp with garlic, $26.25; Chuleta de cerdo con agridulce de pimenton, or roasted pork chop spiced with sweet and sour paprika, $23.10; and carne de res al vino tinto, or beef cooked in red wine demiglace with mushrooms, $23.10).

Encanto has a full bar serving everything from martinis to mojitos as well as special house cocktails, all of which feature Colombian aguardiente, typically an aniseflavored liqueur made from sugarcane. The La Bandera cocktail, made with aguardiente, vodka, gin, passion fruit liqueur, blue curacao and Grenadine syrup, is $15. Colombian beers such as Poker Lager and Águila are also available.

Anthony J. Destribats

Bernard A. Campbell, Jr.

Raymond C. Staub

David P. Schroth

Kimberly A. Greenberg Adam Lipps

Bernard A. Campbell, Jr.

Jay G. Destribats (1969-2015)

Raymond C. Staub

David P. Schroth

Kimberly A. Greenberg John Ferner

Seafood specialties include ceviche de pulpo (octopus) and mango, $21, and encocado de camarones , or shrimp cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, $23.10.

Another traditional Colombian dish featured on the menu is Ajiaco ($21), a hearty soup of chicken, three kinds of potatoes, corn, and guasca, a Colombian herb. Mondongo ($21), a soup of pork, potato, plantain, cassava, carrot, cilantro, onion, garlic and bell pepper, is also on the menu.

Appropriately for a restaurant that opens at 9 a.m., Encanto also serves breakfast. including Calentado Paisa, or rice and beans with chorizo, scrambled eggs and arepa; Calentado Encanto, or rice with beans with sweet potatoes, bacon, scrambled eggs, beef or chicken; and assorted omelettes, including omelette ranchero, served with baby corn, sausage, onion, tomato and mozzarella.

As one might expect, Colombian coffee is on the menu. Encanto also serves a variety of fruit juices.

Encanto Colombiano Restaurant, Bar and Panedería. 2217 S. Olden Ave., Hamilton. Phone: (609) 940-9924. Web: encantocolombianonj.com. Open Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Closed Mondays.

encanto has a full bar serving colombian specialty drinks made with aguardiente. (Photo courtesy of encanto/Instagram.)

left: ceviche de pulpo (octopus) con mango. center: encocado de camarones (shrimp). right: colombian-style

(Photos courtesy of encanto/Instagram.)

From state-of-the-art technology to the most specialized team in New Jersey, our network offers the most complete heart and vascular care. Whether you have hypertension, heart disease or a child with a heart issue, our team of nurses, cardiologists and heart surgeons deliver comprehensive, compassionate care. Our highly coordinated approach to patient care ensures that you can focus on improved health and wellness – and get your heart off your mind. Make a plan at rwjbh.org/heart

Hamilton Dental Associates

The Importance of Orthodontic Care for Your Children

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

Combating Childhood Oral Health Myths

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

Health & Wellness

the most common myths that lead to your child’s teeth suffering in the long run.

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

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

If their teeth start coming in crooked or off-center, they won’t naturally straighten themselves with time. The space for their teeth to come in doesn’t grow as they mature. If you leave these issues unattended, it could lead to more significant problems.

Common Myth #2: Orthodontic Treatments Are Purely Cosmetic

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

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

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

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

AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine

Personalized Solutions to Your Pain Concerns

At AllCure, we understand that the summer can come with a lot of fun and activity. Often, we experience that patients will put off their pain concerns until the summer is over and plan to address them in the fall.

At AllCure, we will do assessments to see where each person can benefit from our level of care. We offer chiropractic, physical therapy, and acupuncture services to provide high-level of conservative care to the community.

Our office also provides stateof-the-art modalities to assist each provider in getting patients back to a higher quality of life. We also have X-ray on site to help diagnose the patients pain and discomfort. We

offer 10 minute free consultations for anyone interested to make sure they feel comfortable and to ensure that we can help.

We take pride in what we do and we make sure that each patient gets a high level of attention and care on each one of their visits. We make our plans specifically to fit each individual person‘s needs and do not offer blanket treatments for similar patient complaints.

We have offices conveniently located in Monroe, Hamilton, and Somerset, NJ. Please visit our website or give us a call today to come in for a free consult, and get back to the quality of life you deserve.

AllCure Spine & Sports Medicine, 140 Cabot Drive, Suite A, Hamilton. 609-528-4417. 350 Forsgate Drive, Monroe Township. 732-521-9222. 1101 Randolph Road, Somerset. 732-823-9392. www. allcurespineandsports.com.

determine where preventative care is enough or if additional action is required.

Where Do Orthodontic Issues

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

Some of these acquired oral health issues include:

• Sucking Their Thumbs

• Mouth Breathing

• Abnormal Swallowing Patterns

• Poor Dental Hygiene

• Irregular Loss of Baby Teeth

• Poor Nutritional Habits

However, parents have reason to hope for viable remedies and solutions to most of these issues. You

can remedy these acquired problems with the help of successful orthodontic care provided by an experienced pediatric dentist.

Finding a

Child Orthodontic

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

Learn more about our pediatric dentistry services and schedule your first appointment today!

Visit www.hamiltondental.com.

RWJUH Hamilton

A Guide to Help Maintain Your Health and Wellnes

The summer season is a good time to reflect on health and wellness. “Summer is a great time to focus on preventive measures, embracing lifestyle changes that can have lasting benefits,” says Aditi Shrivastava, MD, Internal Medicine, an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group provider affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton).

With the heat comes the importance of maintaining adequate hydration. The increased temperatures and outdoor activities lead to higher rates of perspiration, making it vital to replenish lost fluids. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily, and consider incorporating hydrating and vitamin-rich foods like watermelon, fruit and cucumbers into your diet.

Nutrition also plays a role in overall health, especially in the summer when fresh produce is abundant. Take advantage of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Berries, tomatoes, zucchini, and leafy greens are at their peak in

Women’s

Pelvic Floor

July and offer a wealth of nutrients that support immune function, skin health and energy levels. A balanced diet rich in these foods can help mitigate the risks associated with summer heat and exertion.

While sunshine has its benefits, such as boosting vitamin D levels and improving mood, overexposure can be harmful. Skin cancer remains a significant concern, and proper sun protection is essential. Use a broadspectrum tsunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, reapply every two hours, and wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses. Additionally, try to avoid outdoor activities during peak sun intensity hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Exercise is integral to maintaining health and wellness. Try to engage in outdoor exercises like walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming to enhance heart and vascular health, improve mood through the release of endorphins, and help with weight management. Be mindful of the heat and try to exercise during the cooler parts of the day, stay hydrated, and take breaks as needed to prevent heat exhaustion. Summer is often a time of relaxation and socialization, both of which are important for mental health.

Engaging with family and friends can strengthen social bonds and reduce stress. These interactions can significantly boost your emotional well-being.

However, if you find yourself struggling with your mental health, it’s important to have an honest discussion with your primary care provider. Your primary care provider will be able to provide you with the best treatment options for your condition. RWJBarnabas Health is proud to be a leader in providing you with expert mental health services for all ages and seasons of life. Learn more at rwjbh.org/ behavioralhealth.

July is a good time for a mid-year health check. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider for a routine check-up. Regular screenings and examinations can detect potential health issues early, making treatment more effective. Discuss any new health concerns, review your current medications and consider getting vaccinations if needed, especially if you’re planning to travel.

Remember, take the time to prioritize yourself and your health and wellness! “It’s important to incorporate health and wellness practices not just during the summer but all year round,”

adds Dr. Shrivastava.

Dr. Shrivastava sees patients at 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Hamilton, NJ 08619. For more information about Dr. Shrivastava, please call 609-2457389. Or to find a RWJBarnabas Health primary care provider in your area, visit rwjbh.org/medgroupprimarycare.

Let’s be healthy together. See ad, page 5

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

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

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

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

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

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

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

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

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Caruso Physical Therapy & Nutrition

Empowering Each Individual to Reach Their Boundless Potential

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

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

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

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

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

Rockwell Dentistry

Where Dentistry Is a Family and Community Affair

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

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

Women’s Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy can assist with problems such as: urinary incontinence and urgency; overactive bladder; constipation; pelvic pain; low back pain; hip pain; dyspareunia; vaginismus; vulvodynia; scar tissue and pelvic organ prolapse.

We also offer Sports PT for those recovering from injury or concussion to help them return safely to the field of play.

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

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

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

In the heart of our community lies a dental practice unlike any other. Rockwell Dentistry was established close to three decades ago. Drs. Dawn and Alex Rockwell opened their practice in 1996, shortly after their twins, Eric and Natasha, were born. They envisioned a dental office that was not only a place for topnotch dental care but a staple in the community.

From the beginning their practice thrived on the principles of compassion, quality care, and a personal touch.

Patients became more than clients; they became friends. This ethos set the foundation for a thriving practice that continues to grow year after year. Drs. Rockwell have trated many generations of the same families. It is commonplace for patients to run into their own family members and neighbors in the waiting room.

Drs. Dawn and Alex always “dreamed” that their twins Eric and Natasha would follow in their footsteps and continue the Rockwell Dentistry legacy in Mercer County.

As Eric and Natasha grew older, they both

pursued undergraduate degrees in biology and decided to apply to dental school. After eight years Natasha graduated from Temple Dental School in May 2023 and Eric in May 2024. This marks a new chapter for the family and the practice, bringing fresh perspective and the latest in dental technology and techniques.

Dr. Natasha Rockwell has developed a keen interest in Invisalign and cosmetic dentistry. Her innovative approach to smile makeovers, orthodontic treatments, and scanning technology has brought a new level of expertise to the practice. Her vibrant personality and gentle approach have already made an impact on her patients.

Dr. Eric Rockwell’s passion lies with integrating the latest technologies to address complicated restorative cases more efficiently and accurately.

Rockwell Dentistry’s core vision was one office for all your dental care needs. With the addition of Natasha and Eric, Rockwell Dentistry will be a blend of experience and innovation that ensures patients receive the best possible care in a warm, family-oriented environment for many years to come. More information: www.rockwelldentistry.com.

The Rockwell Dentistry family: Alex, Natasha, Eric, and Dawn Rockwell.

Hamilton Township Division of Health

Safe & Healthy Summer Tips

The Hamilton Township Division of Health wants you and your family to have a safe and fun summer! Whether you choose to enjoy your time outside at one of Hamilton’s great parks, go for a dip in the pool or head to the beach it is important to keep in mind some safety tips to protect your health.

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

• Check for ticks! Ticks are the most active in the warmer months (April-September). Infected ticks can transmit diseases including Lyme

disease. Prevent tick bites by wearing insect repellent, check yourself, kids and pets for ticks, remove ticks quickly and seek medical help if you develop symptoms of Lyme disease (including fever, headache, fatigue and rash).

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

• Sun Safety! Most skin cancers

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

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

• Water safety! Swimming is a fun summer activity to help cool off, but should be done safely. If you go

swimming this summer remember to learn to swim and know your limits, never leave children unattended, wear life jackets when doing water activities, don’t swim alone even if you are a strong swimmer, and never dive into shallow water — if you don’t know how deep it is, don’t dive!

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

The Hamilton Township Division of Health is located at 2100 Greenwood Ave and provides residents with various services including public health nursing, health education, environmental inspections, vital statistics and animal sheltering and control — contact us at 609-890-3828, HamHealth@HamiltonNJ.com or www.HamiltonNJ.com/Health.

Larry Feldman (609)658-5213 LarryFeldman51@gmail.com

sjeronis@communitynews.org.

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Steinert’s Katie SImonka delivers a pitch in the NJSIAA Group III championship game against Morris Knolls at Seton Hall University, June 7, 2024. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)

had three hits and sophomores Brooke DeWitt and Bianca Walsh and freshman Francesca Castellano each had two hits and two RBI. Sophomore Ellie Miller made it stand up with 3-2/3 innings of scoreless relief.

Junior Addison Hassan took the baton in the next two games, collecting two RBIs against Matawan and providing one of the biggest hits of the season with a sixth-inning, three-run double to provide a 3-1 lead in what would become a 4-3 win at Middletown North. Freshman Aleiya O’Neal chipped in with two hits and an RBI against Matawan.

DeWitt and Walsh stepped up again against Allentown, when Steinert won its sixth CJ III title in eight years. DeWitt had two hits and three RBI and Walsh had a clutch two-run double.

Then came Moorestown in the state semis, when the Spartans had just two hits and trailed 1-0 entering the bottom of the seventh. Three walks were followed by O’Neal’s RBI single. One out later Pope won it with a two-out RBI single. The whole thing was made possible by junior centerfielder Gia DiMeglio robbing Moorestown of a two-run homer in the third with a leaping catch at the fence. In the state final – played against Morris Knolls for the second straight year –Walsh drove in four runs and junior Katie Simonka twirled a five-hitter for an 8-1 victory. DiMeglio saved another run with a diving catch while the game was still close.

“We came together throughout everything,” DiMeglio said. “We just backed

each other up no matter what happened. We played for each other, not for ourselves.”

* * *

The common thread throughout the six games was often dominant and sometimes gutsy pitching by Simonka, backed by a rock solid defense.

Pope, arguably the top defensive shortstop in the CVC, anchored an infield that made every routine play and several outstanding ones.

Freshman Danica Spak displayed sterling glovework in right field, as did Miller in left; and DiMeglio typified what Steinert was all about. Despite struggling offensively and being the flex who only played the field during states, she found ways to win games with her glove rather than mope about it.

“I just know that there’s other people on the team that can do better in that aspect, but I can do my part in whatever way I can,” DiMeglio said. “Everyone has their own important role on the team.”

Her role was never more noticeable than when she made the spectacular grab against Moorestown

“It was really just instinct,” DiMeglio said. “I was tracking the ball the way I normally would. When I got to the fence I jumped and timed it right.”

It will go down as one of the great moments in program history, as there likely would not have been a title without it.

“We take a lot of pride in our defense,” Pope said. “It’s one of the biggest things we work on. We’re very good as a team

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communicating. We very much grew in the defensive part of the game and it helped us a lot.”

At the post-season banquet, Simonka was named Defensive Player of the Year after going 17-4 with a 1.25 ERA and 172 strikeouts in 128-2/3 innings. The lefthander became famous for getting in and out of jams during some of the game’s tensest moments. After a talk from Melker or her catcher, Hassan, Simonka refocused and dropped the hammer.

“She just always comes through in the biggest moments,” DiMeglio said. “She doesn’t give up no matter what. She stays strong throughout the game.”

One thing was certain. When Simonka was completely focused, she was lethal.

“She’s incredible,” Melker said. “Pitching is such a mental position that once she overcomes that part of it and really locks in, in my opinion she’s one of the top pitchers in the area.” * * *

Other post-season team awards went to Pope (Most Valuable Player), freshman Nikki Donovan (Most Dedicated, 14 runs scored), sophomore Zoey Ricigliano (Love of the Game, 4 runs), Spak (Most Valuable Teammate, 7 runs, 3 RBI), O’Neal (Rookie of the Year, .365, 18 RBI, 24 runs, no errors at third base), Castel-

Steinert’s Ellie Miller stretches out to make the catch on the final out of the championship game. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)

lano (Brightest Future, .329, 17 RBI), DiMeglio (Clutch Catch), DeWitt (Team Before Self, .281, 13 RBI, 15 runs), Hassan (Coaches Award, .352, team-high 27 RBI), Walsh (Scholar-Athlete, .322,

13 doubles, 25 RBI, 30 runs, team-high grade-point average) and Miller (Offensive Player of the Year, .396, 19 RBI, 30 runs; also had 7-1 record, 0.68 ERA and 66 Ks in 55-1/3 innings).

“As soon as we hit the state run every single girl did something big or was part of a big moment,” Melker said. “All 12 girls deserved to be recognized up and down the lineup. Every girl put their little spin on things and had a moment. They are all state champs.”

And they became champions convincingly in the title game. After Morris Knolls scored a run in the top of the first the Spartans responded with one in the bottom of the inning, tallied two in the third and never looked back. After the gut-grinding win over Moorestown, the Spartans seemed free and easy.

“I still felt pressure, Morris Knolls is a very good team,” Pope said. “But I was very excited to play them in the championship and I was more relaxed to do that after Moorestown. We know we always play better when we play relaxed. Everyone was calm and everyone wanted to have fun and get another state title.”

Added DiMeglio: “I think we were just very confident going in, knowing we had the ability to come back as we showed in the previous two games.”

Prior to the game, Melker was pleasantly surprised at the mood she sensed.

“When they took the huddle before Morris Knolls, the vibe they all had was just so relaxed,” she said. “I can’t say they had that through the first rounds of the

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states. All of them felt they were trying to prove themselves then and there was always that little bit of tension. But in that state final they were just having so much fun. They took every opportunity given to them.”

And during the tournament, they took a lot of punches in early innings but knew how to counter-punch their way to a knockout.

“We don’t really care what the score is,” Pope said. “When we’re behind we use it as motivation to come back and get that big win. I think that’s what Steinert softball is all about. Don’t ever give up and don’t let it faze you.”

Next sprint, the Spartans will attempt to equal the 1969-71 boys soccer team and 1998-2000 baseball team as the only programs in school history to win three straight state championships. They would become the first CVC softball team to do that.

Pope is certain the hunger will still be there.

“After we won it last year, we wanted to win it even more this year,” she said. “And now with everyone coming back and new girls coming in, that bond will be even stronger. We’ll have fun next year and do really well.”

And maybe keep adding to the legacy.

Steinert softball players rush the field after the final out is made in the Group 3 championship win over Morris Knolls on June 7, 2024 at Seton Hall University. (Photo by Amanda Ruch.)

SPORTS Bressler breaks own scoring record for Hornets’ lacrosse

By Rich Fisher

Morgan Bressler felt that “in my senior season I had to finish with a bang and just become more eager to score than the last few years.”

A bang?

How about a KA-BOOOOOOM!

The recent Hamilton West graduate blew up the lacrosse record book not just for her school, but for all of Hamilton Township. Her 89 goals this season broke her own 2022 record of 62 (for boys and girls), which had beaten Erin Septer’s 2013 school mark of 55 and the township record of 57 set by Steinert’s Conner Braddock in 2022.

In becoming the first township player to amass over 200 career goals (with 215), Bressler smashed the nine-year old school record of 133 by Lashay Ross, and the township standard of 165 established by Braddock. She became the first township player to crack the century mark for points in a season with 114 and her 256 career points beat Septer’s 161 for the West record and came within 11 of Braddock’s township mark of 267.

A bang like that could wipe out nations.

Asked to reflect upon it after the season, Bressler admitted she amazed even herself.

“Oh 100 percent,” she said. “When it happened I felt it was too much to even think about at the time. I was thinking I still have games left, I have things to accomplish. When I look back on it now

scoring goals for her team. Her speed and vision of the field was always a huge part of her game. Once she got better control of the ball and her stick skills improved; that was when she really took off.”

If anyone can judge Bressler’s growth as a player, it’s the girl who has knocked heads with her throughout their lifetimes. Morgan always called Madi her biggest supporter and sharpest critic, and felt secure with her on the sidelines.

“It was honestly the best thing that could have happened for my lacrosse career,” Bressler said. “I was so happy she was my coach. She knew when I was mad at myself or annoyed. She knew how to tell me what to do or how I could fix it. No other person or coach could do that except for her.”

It’s called sisterly tough love.

“If I totally messed up she’d say ‘Well maybe instead of doing this you should have done that,’” Morgan said. “Instead of a coach saying ‘Well you’ll get ‘em next time,’ she would correct me.”

I’m like ‘Wow, I did that. I have the most goals in Hamilton ever!’ That’s crazy.

“It’s not even something I ever wished to accomplish. It’s unreal to me. I don’t even think the word is satisfied. I’m just very proud of myself for what I accomplished.”

Like older sister Madi – a senior on the Hornets when Morgan was a freshman playing her first year of lacrosse – Morgan had been a lifelong soccer player who did both sports all through high school.

Madi became an assistant to head coach Katie Bloodgood this spring and loved having a front row seat to history.

“When Morgan scored her 100th goal last year I was like ‘OK, woah she’s good!’” Madi said. “But when she beat the school record for career goals and then most goals for one season her talent was so clear.

“I have always said Morg has such an offensive mentality. No matter what the sport is, she loves nothing more than

Madi, who played soccer at Mercer County Community College and is now transferring to The College of New Jersey for kinesiology, gave plenty of thought as to how she would handle Morgan and knew she might press her a bit more than the other players. .

“My role was going to have to change a little and I might be a little harder on her,” Madi said. “I always gave her that sisterly supporting advice, but now that I was so up close being on the sidelines and

Hamilton High senior and school lacrosse scoring record holder Morgan Bressler in conversation with older sister Madi, an assistant coach, during a game.

at practice, I was definitely one of her biggest critics.

“The entire team and coaching staff could tell you Morg and I definitely had our moments on the sidelines. But anything I ever said to her was because I knew her abilities and ultimately wanted her to be the best possible teammate and player.”

Madi could see potential in Morgan when the two were growing up. Always anxious to prove she was as good as her older sibling, the kid was tenacious.

“Morgan was always tough, at most times tougher than me and loved to give me a hard time,” Madi said. “Up until high school, even the silliest things were competitions between us and even our younger brother (Cullen, a Hornet baseball player).”

While at West, Madi was a three-year varsity performer in soccer and lacrosse, and had a strong senior year in lax with 30 goals and 13 assists. That was also her one year as Morgan’s teammate.

“I knew she had that offensive scoring mentality from soccer, and it was fun to see that transcribed in her lacrosse playing,” Madi said. “She was just warming up to high school sports, but with her abundance of energy and big personality it was obvious that she was going to grow and become a great leader. Her dedication and love for the sport of lacrosse just completely launched her to the next level and she truly was fun to watch.”

Morgan broke Septer’s season record as a sophomore, and came within one of tying that mark last season. This year, she came out smoking with seven goals in an opening-day win over J.P. Stevens. Her biggest explosion was 10 goals in a 14-13 loss to Stuart, and she had four or more goals 13 times while scoring in every game.

That quality also pays off on the field.

“When you’re unsuccessful scoringwise and you just want to rush to the goal, you have to be patient,” Bressler said. “You don’t need to force this goal right now, you’ll get one eventually. Pass it to other people and see if they’re more successful than you are for now.”

Her passing is something that got overlooked underneath the avalanche of goals, but Bressler tallied a team-leading and career-high 25 assists this season.

“Even though she got these awards for scoring all these goals I think for me her biggest accomplishment was her growth in becoming a selfless player and her realization that she can score all these goals but also find ways to get her teammates to score goals as well,” Madi said. “Her growing into that kind of player was my favorite thing to watch from her, and it really made me proud of the team player she has become.”

It was something Morgan made a priority this year, knowing that a one-girl show is not going to win games.

“One of my biggest goals this year was to get more assists,” she said. “I didn’t just want to be the only one who scored. I wanted everyone else to be involved and have their goals too. I wanted the team to be successful even if it wasn’t even me scoring the goals.”

Hamilton has become successful under Bloodgood, who has breathed life into a dormant program. West went 10-9 this year for a school-record third straight winning season after six straight losing campaigns. Bressler actually had quality people to pass to in sophomore Amelia Reed (35 goals, 11 assists) and junior Ava Rogalinski (24 goals, 10 assists).

In assessing her progress, Bressler pointed to her head instead of her stick.

“I feel like it was more my mental game,” she said. “My sophomore and junior yearI would just be in my head and I’d think about the plays that happened. I’d think ‘Oh I messed that up,’ and I’d keep going back to what I’d just completed instead of focusing on what I was doing right then and there. My senior year if I missed a ball I just moved on and kept playing.”

Part of her mental strength is patience. With a 3.5 grade point average, Bressler is bound for Rowan to major in elementary education. She became a member of the Unified Club – which plays athletic events and hangs out with special education students – at Grice Middle School and stuck with it at Hamilton (and was also Yearbook president). Her aim is to be a Special Ed teacher, which takes some patience.

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“Those two are power attack players,” Madi said. “They’re unstoppable.”

And they were aided by the fact all eyes were on Bressler.

“If they know you’re the big scorer they think you’re gonna go to goal,” she said. “So if you fake them going to goal and you find a player next to the goal and pass it to them, the defense is not gonna expect that.”

In looking ahead to college, Bressler is interested in playing varsity lacrosse as she looks to focus on academics. She will play club, however, as the sport is in her blood. But it never dominated her life to the point where she gave up soccer just to focus on lacrosse.

“I was just happy playing both sports,” said Bressler, who will work at Killarney’s this summer before leaving for school. “I wasn’t really looking forward to doing anything (athletically) futurewise. I was just letting it play out.”

It played out all right.

With a bang louder than any Fourth of July celebration will produce.

Lack of recognition fuels Northstars’ baseball in solid season

By Rich Fisher

If there was a post-season award for Most Unheralded Baseball Team in Mercer County this spring, Nottingham would have been the runaway winner.

After being a bubble team that was denied a berth in the Mercer County Tournament, they were the third seed in the Mercer Invitational Tournament despite being red hot. Three of their losses were by one run and one was by two. Few games were covered by area papers, making them the CVC’s best kept secret. .

“We knew that we were the most underrated team that flew under everybody’s radar this entire season,” catcher Chris Babkowski said. “We knew how good we were and we knew who we could compete with.”

And they showed it in a big way.

Nottingham went 16-8 — a .667 winning percentage — and won 14 out of 15 games after an 0-5 start. The Stars had the fourth most wins and fourth best overall winning percentage in the CVC. With a chip on its shoulder, Nottingham won the Mercer Invitational by outscoring three opponents, 20-10.

at the end of the year from when we started.”

The Stars hoped to prove just how competitive with a strong state run. After beating Delaware Valley by the 10-run rule in the first round of Central Jersey Group II, they lost a heart-breaking, 5-4 decision to top-seeded (and eventual state champ) Governor Livingston. Nottingham tied it with a run in the top of the seventh before the hosts won in walk-off fashion.

“That loss really hurt,” Juliano said. “Everybody wanted it so bad. We genuinely think if we win that game, we win the whole section. But we fought, and we competed. I think that shows you the type of group we had.”

Iacono agreed, saying “I think if we beat them we had a good shot to get to the sectional final. The boys were on a roll.”

“Not being the one seed in the Invitational tournament basically showed us that no one had any respect for us,” pitcher/infielder Mikey Septak said.

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“We said to ourselves ‘If no one’s going to respect us, let’s show them why they should.’”

Pitcher/outfielder Matt Juliano said the players couldn’t understand how they were a borderline MCT team that was thrust three spots down in the invitational.

But in the first two weeks of April the closest they got to a roll was at Eet Gud Bakery across the street. It didn’t help that their field was being worked on and, in the season’s first three weeks, home games were at DeMeo Field while practices were on the JV skin infield.

Iacono entered the season on a high notre when wife Gabrielle gave birth to their first daughter, Cecilia, on March 21. Assistants Brian Emerson and Rob Nosari also had newborns, but the joy of fatherhood was being tainted by the rough start.

“That’s what fueled us,” he said. “Going into each game we had all the confidence and motivation and not one person on the team expected us to lose.”

Juliano felt MCT hopes were dashed after the 0-5 start, but shortstop Jordan Raba figured that with the way Nottingham was performing, it should have been in.

“We were probably more mad that we didn’t make the MCTs because that’s when we won like nine of our last 10 games and we thought we proved to everyone in the county that we deserved a shot in the tournament,” Raba said. “That just put more fuel to the fire though. We felt disrespected and we ended up winning the MCT Invitational pretty easily.”

Charlie Iacono, who set a personal record for most wins as a head coach, was baffled at the Stars; omission from the MCT.

“We were extremely disappointed not to get in,” he said. “I don’t know if people weren’t paying attention, or what was going on. Or was it just because one team (Pennington) had a possible draft pick and they slid in. We would have loved to be the eight seed and played Lawrence again after we lost to them 4-2. We knew we were a much more competitive team

“I knew we were a better team than 0-5,” Iacono said. “The three of us have newborns, we’re going home all stressed out, kind of communicating all night about ‘How can we turn this around?’”

The first thing was to meet with the players.

“We had a heart to heart, or maybe just a one-way heart to heart,” Iacono said. “We said we’ve got two options –this could be the worst baseball season of your guys lives or we could play like we know how, and compete and turn this thing around.”

Coach Eric Struble dubbed it the “Comeback Season” and the players latched on to that war cry to become one of the county’s hottest teams.

“We could’ve all just thrown the season away after starting 0-5,” Raba said “We were uptight and tense those first five games, putting too much pressure on ourselves. Once we got the first win under our belt that made us all realize the one big thing we had been missing – to just have fun playing the sport you love. So from that game on we just played loose and had fun.”

Babkowski said that while the team was down mentally, something inside of

Pitcher and infielder Mike Septak was one of the players who helped lead Nottingham to a 16-8 record in baseball this season. (Photo by Wes Kirkpatrick.)

the players and coaches kept hope alive that the trend would reverse. That’s what comes from chemistry forged by time.

“We have all been playing together for a really long time and we’re all best friends,” Babkowski said. “We knew as long as we stayed loose and had fun it was gonna be OK. Once we started winning games, we realized it was about our attitude.”

That senior core of friends included Babkowski, Raba and Juliano, who were four-year varsity performers; Septer, a three-year varsity man; Cole Funke, who played mainly in the field last year; and Aidan Cavanaugh, who played varsity for the first time this season.

Raba, a defensive whiz at shortstop, led the Stars in average (.459), hits (34) and stolen bases (19). Juliano hit .352 with 25 hits, 17 RBI, 16 stolen bases and 24 runs. Both will play at Mercer County Community College next year.

“After a senior got hurt, Jordan got an opportunity as a freshman and finished with 106 hits,” Iacono said. “He and Matt had speed at the top of the lineup. When they got on they wreaked havoc on the bases. I preached being aggressive with those two guys. They did a great job offensively.

Babkowski, who will play for Alvernia next year, hit .375 with nine doubles and a team-high three homers and 27 RBI. He was also solid behind the dish.

“He hasn’t gotten huge recognition throughout the county but he’s been a catalyst back there catching every inning,” Iacono said. “He did a great job working with coach Nosari in helping manage the staff.”

Septak, who is still deciding on a college, hit .308 with 16 RBI and nine runs, and made the Mercer County Carpenter Cup team with Raba. He made an even bigger contribution on the mound. The staff workhorse forged a 2.56 ERA with 46 strikeouts and just 14 walks in a teamhigh 63 innings.

“Every time Mikey got on the mound we knew he could win the game,” Iacono said. “He’s not overpowering with the fastball but he developed a couple pitches with movement. He could throw three or four pitches for strikes and really knew how to set guys up with his change-up.”

Also providing a boost was Juliano, who didn’t think he could pitch this year due to injury but finished with a 3.29 ERA in 27⅔ innings.

“He was going to rehab, and after our first five losses I think he figured let me get him out there to help the team,” Iacono said. “He was pain free from that point and it helped big-time.”

Funke, a football player by trade, stepped up with a .400 average, 14 RBI, 13

runs and 12 stolen bases.

“I DH’d for Funke all of last year and this year he comes out with a .400 average,” Iacono said. “He lived in the weight room and showed how much that could help. He won a spot, we let him hit and he ended up having a good year.”

Cavanaugh hit a “hard” .241, picking up 11 RBI on his 14 hits. He also logged 28⅔ innings with a 4.40 ERA.

“Last year we had a couple arms and we just didn’t use him,” Iacono said. “He did a great job as our third starter this year.”

Several underclassmen also contributed to the “Comeback Season” as freshman Danny Alonzo had a 1.98 ERA and walked just six in 17⅔ innings; and junior Aidan Lipman hit .304 with 11 RBI and 13 runs.

“Alonzo came in as a little freshman and the first day he threw strikes, we knew he liked him,” Iacono said. “He probably wasn’t ready for varsity but you gotta be ready at Nottingham. We only had 30 guys on the whole roster for both levels. But we did a good job with the guys we had.”

Iacono said his only hot streak comparable to what Nottingham did this year was with the 1996 state finalist HTRBA 12-year-olds. But even that team didn’t lose its first five games.

“Once we started 0-5, I really didn’t expect us to win much,” Juliano said. “Maybe six to eight wins. Part of our turnaround was the amount of seniors we had. We all knew this was it, and that nobody wants to end their high school career on a bad season. So we took everything one game at a time and bought in. It was definitely the most fun season of baseball I have had here.”

Raba called the season “nothing short of amazing” and echoed Juliano’s sentiment of it being the most fun he ever had in a baseball season.

“It’s incredible what we did after the first five games,” Raba said. “The key to this team was to trust each other and to just have fun playing the game that you love with your brothers.”

Septak summed it up fairly concisely.

“In my four years playing at Nottingham, this was the most complete team I’ve experienced,” he said. “We had everything. Everyone was clicking. We were a family.

“We played more of old school baseball – pitch to contact, hit the ball on the ground hard, bunt, steal, hit and run. That’s who we were. We never gave up in any game. If I had to choose one team to play on for the rest of my life, it would be this one.”

It was, indeed, a special team that was high on resolve but somewhat low on getting respect.

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4 top ways to prevent golf injuries

Ask The Doctor

For golfers this summer, sand traps aren’t the only hazards to avoid.

“Low back pain is common, especially in golfers over 50,” says Marc J. Levine, MD, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery and Director of Spine Surgery at Robert Wood Johnson University Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton), a member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group and a clinical assistant professor at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.

Most low-back injuries in golfers, Dr. Levine says, stem from stress on the spine associated with swinging a golf club. “Often, pain remains localized to the lower back, but occasionally it can become sciatic and radiate down one or both legs,” he says.

realistic expectations about how far you can drive a golf ball.

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Keep your swing consistent. “Your body likes predictability,” Dr. Levine says. “Every time you jerk or move unexpectedly, it creates more strain on your back.” Dr. Levine recommends meeting with a golf pro at least once a year to evaluate your swing. Ask for tips to improve your mechanics and ergonomics.

He offers these tips for warding off back injuries on the links:

Don’t emulate the pros. Many professional golfers today use the “modern golf swing,” keeping their hips stationary, twisting their upper body and following through forcefully.

While it may make a golf ball travel farther, “The thoracic and lumbar spine can’t absorb that kind of force regularly, especially if you’re over age 50,” Dr. Levine says.

A safer approach is to use a swing that’s comfortable for you and to have

Stay physically fit. A regular exercise routine can strengthen core muscles, including those in your abdomen and back. “Also, do stretching exercises for at least five to 10 minutes before you start each round of golf,” Dr. Levine says. Use the right equipment. “Choose shoes that will help you stabilize your feet, so you don’t lose traction,” Dr. Levine says. If you’re thinking about new clubs, look for ones with less rigidity in the shaft. “That will absorb some of the energy when you take a backswing and may create less force on your spine,” Dr. Levine says.

If you feel a twinge of back pain after a round of golf, Dr. Levine recommends rest, ice and over-the-counter antiinflammatory medicines (aspirin, ibuprofen) as a first line of treatment.

See a doctor if pain continues for four to six weeks. “If you experience any numbness, tingling or weakness, get evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon,” Dr. Levine says.

Dr. Levine sees patients at The Orthopedic & Spine Institute located at RWJUH Hamilton, 1 Hamilton Health

Dr. Marc J. Levine

Place, Hamilton Township, NJ. Call 609689-7031 to make an appointment. Learn more at rwjbh.org/ortho Require rehabilitation or physical therapy, visit rwjbh.org/rehab to book an appointment and find a location near you. Let’s be healthy together.

Programs at RWJU Hamilton this month

The following programs are open to all and registration is required. Programs are sponsored by RWJUH Hamilton Community Health/Community Education and Better Health Program, a free membership program for anyone 65+ years old.

All programs take place at the Center for Health & Wellness located at RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, unless otherwise noted. View the calendar of programs available online at rwjbh. org/hamiltonprograms, or for more information call (609) 584-5900.

WEdNESdAY,

JuLY 10

Brown bag medication review. 1 to 2p.m. Come review your medications with RWJUH Hamilton’s pharmacist, Shesha Desai, PharmD, Rph.BC-ADM. Put all your medications and supplements in a bag and bring them with you for our clinicians to review. Shesha will discuss taking your medications and

whether you are taking them correctly.

THuRSdAY, JuLY 11

Osteoporosis screening. 10 a.m. to noon. Ultrasound of the heel and personalized information. Appointment required. Call 609-584-5900 to register and schedule your appointment.

THuRSdAY, JuLY 18

Tai Chi classes (Better Health Program). 1-2 p.m. Tai Chi is helpful for folks 65+ years old because it can improve balance, strengthen muscles in the legs, and increase flexibility and stability in the ankles. It can help reduce falls and back pain. Beginners welcome.

TuESdAY, JuLY 23

Yoga class (Better Health Program). 10-11 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.

mONdAY, JuLY 29

Dinner with a doctor: Healthy bonbes matter. 6-7:30 p.m. Musculoskeletal diseases affect more than one out of two people in the U.S. age 18 and over. Join Michael Duch, MD, The Orthopedic and Spine Institute, RWJUH Hamilton, for a discussion on common bone and joint disorders. Hear from Dr. Duch about how you can help keep your body healthy. Dinner provided. Registration is required, space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis.

10 questions with Danielle Ingeri of Outside the Lines

Thomas Kelly FIGHT IN THE MUSEUM

Making art and teaching art are two different things and require different energies. Many artists are not adept at both. Danielle Ingeri is the proprietor of Outside the Lines Art Studio on Kuser Road in Hamilton. Opened in 2022, the studio offers classes to children and adults, in drawing, painting, ceramics and pottery on the wheel. Ingeri is high energy, and her studio is clean and organized. Her love of teaching and the arts is apparent. How did you begin your career path with art?

I have always loved to doodle and draw especially since I wasn’t very good at sports. I was very fortunate to have parents and teachers who encouraged me to expand and explore my love of art. That helped me to continue to grow and find ways to have art as part of my career path throughout my life.

So the next natural path was to share that love of art with others. I had always wanted to have a studio to do art in and share with others but that wasn’t possible at the time. So, the best way for me was

of my adult life. Art specific jobs were hard to come by, so I took on whatever subject/grade I could so I could get in the door. Once I was in, art was always incorporated into my subjects. Then the day finally came when the art teacher job opened, and I was in!

What a difference! I was in my glory and had a blast sharing what I loved with others on a daily basis and watching them love it too! I did that until I decided to retire from teaching. Retirement was not really a spot I was going to stay in for long, and an opportunity finally presented itself where I could take my love of art and still share and teach to others by opening a studio in a town that was lacking creative venues.

Is your family supportive of the arts in general and your school in particular?

to teach. Even when I felt I was done with traditional teaching art in school, I finally got the chance to move into teaching art studio style.

Why teach art instead of other subjects?

I can’t say that I only taught art. Teaching was what I chose to do for a large part

I was very fortunate that my family (parents) were very supportive of the arts. My husband and children are also very supportive of my art and teaching. All the schools I worked in supported the arts. Which medium of art is most challenging for adults to learn?

I haven’t come across any medium of art that I would say is challenging for adults to learn. I would ask, what is it that

Danielle Ingeri of Outside the Lines Art Studio works with an adult student on the pottery wheel.

challenges adults not to learn some form of art? Could it be that they are not secure in their own likes/dislikes of art? Could it be that they aren’t financially able to spend for the funds to create art? Could it be that they lack the time to invest in classes? Are they of the mindset that they are too old learn something new? We can be our own worst critics, which can keep us from exploring art as well as other things in life.

Which type of art or media do the young people like the most?

I think that depends on how young were talking about. Grades K-4/5 love all types of traditional art and media, because their background experience is less than those in grades 5 and up. For fifth grade and up, the medium they like most at the studio is ceramics. Most start with hand building, because it teaches some core knowledge about clay, its attributes and the fact that it is instantaneous. Most students like the fact they can build a ceramic clay piece and see what it’s supposed to be when you hand build.

It can be a little frustrating to work the wheel and not produce what you thought you could from the start. Wheel throwing is a messy format, and some don’t care for that part as well.

Who were some of your artistic influences?

Some of my artistic influencers were my parents, my 8th grade teacher and most of my high school art teachers as I was growing up. Artists that I feel influence me are Wassily Kandinsky, Claude Monet, Georges Seurat, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Louise Nevelson.

Which type of art is the most challenging to teach?

The most challenging medium to teach is wheel throwing. People who have seen the movie Ghost come in with that in their head and think, they can do it that way. Unfortunately, that’s a total myth. Now, I have had some students who come in and seem natural to the process of throwing.

It could be because they allow themselves to just relax and explore the medium with no preconception of making anything but what comes from their playing.

Those who take the time to practice do very well, but most just come in for a tryit experience. They leave having fun and with nice pieces, but not always able to commit to the longer sessions to become better.

What fight/struggle do you have regarding your art?

My biggest struggle currently is time. As an artist/teacher you have the desire to create, but not always the time to create for yourself. As the studio owner and teacher, I put most of my time into teaching and helping my students with their works while growing the studio environment. I love what I do.

Can adults make colorful and carefree art like children can?

Yes! Adults can make colorful and carefree art just like the children if they allow themselves to. Sometimes that means that they need to find a place and or person who will allow them to explore that aspect in a safe and nonjudgmental way.

Practice and encouragement are needed too. Our lives these days are so busy and packed with things we must do, and we don’t allow ourselves that time to be care free.

What is on the horizon?

On my horizon is to continue to get out there so people know me and that the studio is here for them. To continue to give people of all abilities the safe, friendly, relaxing place to come and be creative.

Outside the Lines Art Studio, 1710 Kuser Rd. Hamilton, NJ 08690. Phone: (609) 833-2345. Web: outsidethelines22.com and instagram.com/ outside_the_lines_art_studio.

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

“We Need Your Input”

This is an opportunity to share your concerns and needs of Mercer County older adult community and their caregivers. Please call the Mercer County Office on Aging /ADRC at (609) 989-6661 with any questions

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

BBQing the Healthy Way (Nutrition)

Tasty food on the grill does not have to be filled with fat and calories. Join Beth Young, MS, RDN, CSOWM, a registered dietitian nutritionist, and discover some great summer barbeque recipes that are light and delicious.

BBQing the Healthy Way registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/636545684277 (or) to call to register: 1-888-897-8979

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

Mercer

County Open for Business!

The SHIP team in Mercer County is here to help! They have a team of certified volunteer SHIP counselors available to speak to you in-person. Call to request an appointment.

SHIP schedule at 609-278-0588

Scott Chasar, Esq.

Elder and Family Law

(609) 882-2200 • 903 Parkway Avenue • Ewing, NJ 08618

Kschasar.law@gmail.com

Peace of Mind.

Peter Dabbene COMPLEX SIMPLICITY

Attention all avian residents of Hamilton! Are you tired of building nests? Do you dream of different and exciting food flavors, rather than just “worm?” Has searching for clean water to drink and play in become a chore?

If so, come visit the Hamilton Avian Welfare Hotel, also known as “My House.” Here, you’ll find that one of the owners—not the one writing this column—has invested large amounts of time, money, and effort to make sure you and your bird-brained friends can be comfortable.

A bird feeder at the front window, attached by suction cups, allows you to enjoy our version of dinner theater, viewing the interior of the owners’ domicile while you enjoy a carefully selected assortment of bird seed. You’ll be turning your head, Exorcist-style, to get a look at what those crazy humans are doing inside—mostly, sitting and staring at you.

We haven’t actually taken to advertising our wares, but word of mouth spreads just as quickly. Over the past two years, our house has become a haven for feathered friends (and a few feathered fiends). My wife has installed a bird bath, bird houses, and bird feeders, some suited to specific species.

The birds line up in nearby trees, awaiting their turn to grab some food, but this isn’t a scene of grim survival, like queueing for government cheese in some Cold War-era Soviet Republic. Instead, the atmosphere is frenzied, mostly

jolly, with their faces betraying a bit of disbelief that anyone would so foolishly expose their seed stores.

Meanwhile, our monthly grocery bills, which now include multiple appearances of Woodlands Value Blend Wild Bird Food, continue to grow. I’ve checked, but unfortunately the IRS doesn’t allow me to report several hundred birds as dependents.

While the birds enjoy a palatable mix of “millet, black oil sunflower and other grain products,” I eat two day old leftover pasta, with butter.

In recent years, ornithologists have conducted studies to better understand the bird hierarchy, specifically as to how often one species defers to

(Illustration created with AI.)

another at bird feeders. For example, blue jays are dominant over robins, while robins dominate cardinals. (This is strictly in the physical realm; cardinals have enjoyed a recent surge in the attribution of spiritual powers to them as messengers from beyond, or reincarnations of deceased loved ones. It’s worth mentioning that in most traditions, though, coming back as a bird is a demotion.) Crows are at the top of the local bird rankings, but they don’t often bother with bird feeders, preferring to bust into garbage bags on curbs and sample what the humans eat.

The same rules of engagement seem to apply to the bird bath, where nervous, jittery sparrows dart in for a quick splash before they’re chased out by some larger species. While they’re there, these tiny, dirty birds enjoy the free-spirited, if not completely sanitary, custom of bathing in the water and then drinking from it.

A recent study was published in The Proceedings of the Royal Society — which, contrary to what you might think, is not a gossip rag focused on drama in the British royal family, but rather a respected scientific journal. It found that individual birds from social species did poorly against their not-so-social counterparts.

At first glance, being a bird landlord seems like a bad deal. Your tenants don’t pay rent, and good luck trying to evict them before they are ready to leave.

Roslyn Dakin, behavioral ecologist, senior author of the study, and not one to mince words, called the social birds “groupy and wimpy.” This means an outsized portion of our birdseed is, in all likelihood, going to the jerks of the bird world.

Like most people, I can identify a few birds by sight: blue jays, robins, cardinals, mourning doves, sparrows, plus the occasional woodpecker. But some visitors weren’t readily recognizable—to me, at least. So who were these deadbeats, anyway?

Seeking answers, I consulted Merlin ID, a smartphone app that claims it can identify birds by a user’s sound recording, or by a photo. Birds, being a bit “flighty,” are not prone to posing. As a result, I found myself silently stalking them, or setting up blinds, smartphone camera at the ready. I felt like a paparazzo.

Testing the app, I managed a few successful identifications, like the American Robin and the Grey Catbird. It occurred to me that most U.S. citizens would support helping American birds, but many Grey Catbirds migrate to the U.S. from Mexico every year. Were they entitled to the same treatment?

Purple martins are a unique bird species almost completely dependent on man-made birdhouses, which has led to many interesting variations of the bird apartment building. At first glance, being a bird landlord seems like a bad deal. Your tenants don’t pay rent (they prefer to sing for their supper), and good luck trying to evict them before they are ready to leave.

I wondered about the short and long term effects of aiding our neighborhood birds. How much was I willing to spend to help them? What proof did I have that

they were actually looking for worms, or building their own shelters, instead of just mooching off what was provided? Did they just need some tough love? Between causing them to forget how to find their own food, and establishing a heavily trafficked nexus for bird diseases like avian flu, were we hurting them rather than helping them?

Studies indicate that when humans provide seed and shelter, bird survival rates go up, especially in winter. And unlike purple martins, most birds don’t become reliant on humans for food or housing. Also, a kind of symbiosis occurs: several studies have indicated that mental health benefits accrue to even the most passive birdwatcher. Inviting birds into the Hamilton Avian Welfare Hotel can be expensive and timeconsuming, but it’s also in our own selfinterest. Or to put it another way, feeding the birds is not just “for the birds.”

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).

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