10-23 HP

Faeflen key for ’Stars football

By Rich Fisher

The mindset of Sam Faeflen was on full display during a rainy Saturday on Sep. 23.

The senior running back rushed for 200 yards and two touchdowns in helping Nottingham to a 22-0 win at Steinert, which improved the Northstars record to 2-2. Adding to the story is that he did not practice all week due to a sprained ankle that was still causing some pain on game day.

“I had to do it for my teammates,” he said. “We had to get the dub (win).”

It was an impressive performance to most everyone in attendance, except for one person.

“The crazy part is, he thought he had a bad game,” Stars coach Milo McGuire said. “The first thing that came out of his mouth talking to the offensive coordinator was like ‘I’m sorry, I can play better than that.’ He had 200 yards! But that’s good. When these kids become seniors and they see the window is closing they want to get all

See FAEFLEN, Page 32

Election preview 2023

By Joe Emanski

Hamilton voters will have a chance this fall to decide who will be their mayor for the next four years.

The choice is between Mayor Jeff Martin, the Democrat who is finishing up his first term in office, and Republican Marty Flynn, formerly a key staff member in the Kelly Yaede administration.

Also on the ballot are two seats on the Hamilton Township Council. Contesting those seats are incumbent Democrats Nancy Phillips and Pat Papero, Jr., and Republican challengers Gino Melone and Michael Chianese.

RVers get used to life on the road

By SUe Ferrara

Imagine it’s 1977. You live on Beal Street in Hamilton, not far from Kuser Park.

One day, one of your favorite aunts—a retired WWII Naval airplane mechanic—pulls up with her husband in an RV that’s built on a bus chassis. The vehicle is huge.

“There was a whole house inside,” said Bernadette

Class, 56. “I remember how I felt seeing it. It was so magical.”

The Hamilton resident recalled that memory while talking about how she made a decision in 2020 to sell her home and set out for adventures in her own RV which she co-owns with Joe Walker, 67, a legal resident of Florida.

Bernadette and Joe call one another co-pilots. Their story might have you considering a

You don’t feel a lump, swelling or tenderness. You still need a mammogram.

For Sale sign in your own front lawn, while you search for the perfect home for the road.

The story begins in 2011, at a Philadelphia-based behavioral healthcare company which provides services for those who are deaf, or hard-of-hearing.

Bernadette had been working there as an HR manager when Joe arrived from Mt. Dora, Florida to start a new job at the See RV, Page 8

Three seats on the Hamilton Township school board are also on the table this election season. Seven candidates are campaigning for seats on the board: Denise Soto, Meaghan Stanton and incumbent Christina Vassiliou Harvey on the “Mothers. Leaders. Advocates” slate; Marc Crabtree, David Maher and John Muka on the “Responsible Education” slate, and Donald S. Snedeker II, a candidate unaffiliated with the others.

The Hamilton Post continues its tradition of annual election coverage this year beginning on page 10.

Joe Walker and Bernadette Class with their RV, which they use to travel the country.

RWJUH Hamilton October Healthy Living / Community Education Programs

LADIES NIGHT OUT: PAINTING WITH PURPOSE

Thursday, Oct 5; 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Meet the physician, learn the facts and myths when it comes to early detection and breast cancer, and enjoy a fun painting project. Join our featured presenter, Firas G. Eldaoumikdachi, MD, FACS, specialist in Breast Surgical Oncology, at RWJUH Hamilton Cancer Center. Concluding the physician’s presentation, all participants will engage in a painting project guided by local artist, Yun Li. Light fare and refreshments will be provided. This program is sponsored by I Believe In Pink and RWJUH Hamilton.

REIKI REFRESHER

Monday, Oct 9; 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Have you been Reiki certified but it’s been so long ago you wonder if you’ve “still got it?”

Come out and play with other practitioners in the same boat. This is a safe space to come out and explore the energy! Patti McDougall, Integrative RN, Reiki Master/Teacher. Bring a small sheet and a pillow. $5

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

Tuesday, Oct 10, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. According to several major studies, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, compared to those with normal hearing. Prevention is key. Audiologist, Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., discusses your options.

Better

DANCE IT OUT!

Monday, Oct 16; 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. When it doubt, just dance! Join us for this spooky dance session with all your favorite Halloween hits.

FERMENTATION: IT’S ALIVE!!

Tuesday, Oct. 17th at 2:00-3:00pm

Curious about fermented foods? Come and uncover the history and science behind fermentation! We will examine the microorganisms responsible for fermenting some popular favorites and taste the results. $5 fee per person. Taryn Krietzman, RDN

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS

Wednesday, Oct. 18; 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Meditation has been shown to quiet your restless mind and help your entire body to relax. Come experience what all the buzz is about. Beginners welcome. Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Therapies Nurse. Free

HEALTHRYTHMS® DRUMMING CIRCLE

Wednesday, Oct. 18; 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Join our drumming circle and help drum your cares away. This evidence-based program is shown to reduce blood pressure, calm stress and increase the fun in your life. Drums provided. Fee: $15. Mauri Tyler, CTRS, CMP

SACRED BREATHWORK EXPERIENCE

Thursday, Oct 19; 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Join Kim Huston, Reiki Master and Certified Breathwork facilitator is passionate about sharing this modality with anyone looking for true healing. Sacred Breathwork can help release negative patterns and fears that keep us stuck. Bring a yoga mat and blanket, chairs will also be available. Fee: $15

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH

Thursday, Oct 23; 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Sound healing uses special instruments like singing bowls, gongs, drums and chimes to create a therapeutic atmosphere promoting deep rest, nervous system rebalancing, and emotional release. Participants sit or lay in a comfortable position while the practitioner takes you on a sound journey for mind, body and spirit. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow or anything that makes you comfortable, chairs will be available. Andriana Hansen, RYT200, SHA1 of the Learning Cooperative. $15

REIKI SHARE

Wednesday, Oct 25; 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. For folks who have been Reiki certified (at any level) to come share the gift with fellow practitioners. Give a session, get a session. Please bring a sheet and small pillow. Fee: $5

RECIPES FROM BEYOND THE GRAVE

Friday, Oct 27; 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Do you have a recipe that can stand the test of time? These folks sure thought so! We are tasting our way through some gravestoneetched recipes. Print your own tried-andtrue recipe to share! Fee: $5 per person.

Taryn Krietzman, RDN

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

Thursday, Nov 2; 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

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

BRAIN HEALTH-LEARN PROVEN METHODS TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN YOUNG

Tuesday, Nov 7; 10:00 - 11a.m. With so much information out today on brain health what methods really work? Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D. to learn more about how to keep your brain young and turn back the clock on your aging brain.

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

Health Programs/Complimentary Membership at 65+ Years Old

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, Oct; 3 & 17; 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, Oct; 3 & 17; 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.

LET’S TALK, A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Wednesday, Oct. 4, 11, 18, & 25; 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

SOCRATES CAFÉ,

Thursday, Oct; 5; 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.

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

“Socrates Café” is about discussing a topic, sharing our thoughts, our beliefs, our ideas, and experiences. This is a “safe zone” to share where all views are accepted. Come with an open mind, respect for one another, and a willingness to see where it takes us.

GAME TIME

Tuesday, Oct. 10; 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.

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

TAI CHI CLASS

Thursday, Oct; 12 & 26; 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.

CAMPFIRE POETRY CIRCLE

Friday, Oct. 13th at 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Gather round as we share bewitching and enchanting poems to get us in the fall spirit! Bring your own Halloween-themed or autumnal poem to share and discuss with peers. Taryn Krietzman, RDN

FROM A TO Z: APOCALYPSES TO ZOMBIES

Monday, Oct. 20; 1-2:30 p.m.

Explore the world of first aid and readiness for injuries. Join Wendy Jones, RN, for this hands on approach to refresh your memory when it comes to preparedness.

THE GREAT PUMPKIN: PUMPKIN PAINTING EVENT

Monday, Oct. 23; 10:30 - 12:00 p.m. Join us for some a ghoulish good time while we paint our own pumpkins! All supplies provided, bring clothes that can get dirty.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH/ CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT

Tuesday, Nov 7, 14, 21, & 28, Dec 5 & 12; 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) is a cost effective evidence-based health promotion program for people with chronic illness. CDSMP is a 6 session workshop designed for people with any ongoing health condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and similar conditions. During the course participants will learn how to problem solve, set goals, and relaxation techniques to help manage chronic conditions. It is expected that participants will attend all 6 classes.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP

Wednesday, Oct 11, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

CARING FOR LOVED ONES WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS

Mondays, Oct 2 & 16th, 10:3011:30 a.m.

ADULT CHILDREN CARING FOR PARENTS

Monday Oct 2 & Oct 16th, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

Wednesday Oct 4; 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

LUNCH AND LEARN: HEALTHY HEART CLUB

Monday, Oct. 23; 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Dine in with Edward A. Wingfield, MD, Medical Staff President, Director M. Ghusson Cardiac Catheterization Lab at RWJUH Hamilton and Marie Bernardo, MD, Cardiology, while they discuss “hearty” topics. Bring your appetite for knowledge with these two top doctors. A heart healthy lunch will be provided.

PLAN TODAY FOR TOMORROW

Thursday, Oct; 26; 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. The panel will breakdown our choices, discuss the healthcare system, financial, social, and care needs and how to make it work for you. Please welcome, Randi Goldberg, Archer Law Office, Rachal Baillie, Bear Creek Assisted Living, Gina Barnett, Springpoint at Home, and Kelly Aylward, The Elms of Cranbury Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. Refreshments will be served.

WHAT’S NEW WITH MEDICARE?

Thursday, Nov; 2; 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Open Enrollment is here! Learn what you need to know about your Medicare benefits for 2024 and how to compare plans to find the best coverage and save money. Mary McGeary, the director of the NJ State Health Insurance Assistance Program and Michele Lee, Medicare and Program Specialist, will be the presenters.

Thursday Oct 5 & 19th; 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

LETTING GO OF CLUTTER

Tuesday Oct 10; 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

WISE WOMEN DISCUSSION GROUP

Thursday Oct 26; 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

MANAGING STRESS AND DIABETES

Wednesday Oct 18; 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.

WHAT’S EATING YOU?

Wednesday Nov 1; 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.

GOT STRESS?

Monday Nov 6; 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.

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

EXCELLENCE ON REPEAT.

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

Call

1750 Yardville-Hamilton Square Rd Hamilton, NJ 08690 609-241-9538

thelandingofhamilton.com

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 WRITERS

Sue Ferrara, 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

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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

RISTORANTE & PIZZA

DINE & DONATE DAY

1973

YEARS

In honor of our 50th Anniversary, Brother's Pizza on Rt. 33 will host a "Dine and Donate Day" for a local charity. We have chosen one Sunday per month to donate 50% of our sales to a featured 501c organization. Please support our cause to give back to our community!

RISTORANTE & PIZZA

$37,845.87 DOUGH RAISED

UPCOMING CHARITABLE EVENTS:

2023

NOVEMBER 12: Shine & Inspire

DECEMBER 10: OneProjectNJ & Mobile Meals of Hamilton

DOUGH RAISED:

JAN. 15: Sea Girt Polar Plunge $4,733.56

1973

FEB.19: Deborah Heart & Lung $3,680.33

197 3

MAR.12: The Hamilton YMCA $4,398.07

APR.16: Police Unity Tour 2023 $3,596.30

MAY 21: The Miracle League $4,860.53

JUNE 11: Autism New Jersey $3,871.84

YEARS

JULY 9: Joeys Little Angels $4,503.94

AUG. 6: Whats My Name $3,575.66

SEPT. 10: Ryan’s Quest $4,625.64

2023

Please consider visiting the websites of these organizations for additional donation opportunities!

InBoX McNeice ends campaign for board of education

I am writing to announce my withdrawal from the Hamilton Township School District Board of Education race. After careful consideration, discussion with my family, and communication with other candidates, I believe this is the best decision for Hamilton Township at this time.

When I first made plans to enter the race, I was concerned that our district would be without a slate of candidates committed to keeping our schools inclusive for all HTSD students while continuing to improve their academic outcomes.

I have now had the time to evaluate every option that will appear on the ballot in November, and I am confident that the “Mothers. Leaders. Advocates.” slate is prepared to do just that. As a result, I am throwing my full support and endorsement behind their campaign. I ask any voter who has backed me to pivot their aFention to this trio of capable women. Be sure to “Vote for 3 Down Column D” this November!

Thank you to all my Hamilton neighbors who have supported me and to those who engaged in productive and respectful disagreement over the past few months. This experience has served as an affirmation of my decision to choose Hamilton as my home.

I look forward to campaigning on behalf of Harvey, Stanton, and Soto, and to finding new ways to contribute to this great community moving forward.

Brandon McNeice Hamilton

Editor’s note: McNeice’s name will still appear on the ballot, as he withdrew from the race too late to be removed.

More support for Soto, Harvey, Stanton

I wholeheartedly support Christina Harvey, Denise Soto, and Meaghan Stanton for the upcoming school board election. As a former board member, these three dedicated mothers possess the qualities, dedication, and vision to lead our schools into a brighter future.

During her three years on the board, Christina Harvey has proven to be a pas-

sionate advocate for all students. As a mother of two Hamilton students, a committed community volunteer, and an attorney, Christina understands the needs of our students and staff. Her goal is to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment, and she deserves another term to continue this mission.

Denise Soto, a proud product of our public schools, is an active PTA parent and a current board member. She brings a wealth of experience from her work in the nonprofit sector, which will be invaluable in exploring alternative funding sources like grants and scholarships for our students.

Meaghan Stanton, a lifelong Hamilton resident raising her son in our public schools, has extensive experience working with children with special needs. If elected, she will ensure that these students have a strong voice at the table. Meaghan also aims to scrutinize Hamilton’s Department of Student Services and Programs to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely for student success.

Our schools face unprecedented challenges, including the pandemic’s impact, aging school facilities, and budget constraints. It’s crucial to elect experienced leaders who can effectively address these concerns. Christina, Denise, and Meaghan will serve with integrity and empathy to advance our schools.

I encourage all Hamilton residents to vote for these three down Column D. Together, these three dedicated mothers will ensure a brighter future for ALL students.

The Hamilton Post always accepts letters to the editor. Letters should be no more than 300 words in length and submitted by the 15th of the month prior to desired publication.

Letters accepted by email only: send to jemanski@communitynews.org. Provide phone number and address (not for publication.)

Christopher F. Scales Hamilton

company. He had worked with a similar, but much larger organization in Florida, which had closed.

Bernadette mostly grew up in Hamilton. In 1984, she and her classmates became the first graduates of Nottingham high school. Prior to that time, Nottingham had been a middle school.

Joe, a self-described Army brat, attended Peter Muschal school in Bordentown for 1st and 2nd grade. He attended Clara Barton for a short time in 3rd grade before moving to Long Island.

After they met, Bernadette and Joe realized they both liked to travel. They both liked the idea of owning an RV. The two did a lot of research and a lot of thinking.

“We went to the Hershey RV Show three years in a row,” Bernadette said. “You can’t even imagine the options. We picked one we thought we wanted.” But then, a review in Consumer Reports, which panned their pick, sent them out looking again.

“The purchase of an RV,” Bernadette said, “is very intimidating; they are not cheap.”

In 2018, they settled on a Wayfarer from the Tiffin Motorhomes Company, and it became the vacation vehicle.

When the pandemic arrived, Bernadette and Joe were on an RV vacation

in Texas with their four dogs. Joe had retired in July of 2019. Bernadette was still working. They were enjoying life on the road.

A month later, in March 2020, Bernadette sold her house to a relative, and the co-pilots made the RV their permanent home.

“If you make one step toward something you love,” Bernadette said, “you can figure it out.”

And figuring it out involved a major downsizing.

“I took so much stuff to the Red, White and Blue store,” she chuckled. The new family-connected home owners allowed her to store heirlooms at her former house.

“The hardest part of the moment,” she said, “was driving away.”

But away she and Joe went. Bernadette worked remotely through the pandemic. But, by February of 2022, while RVing in Florida, she quit her job. She went to a post office and shipped her company laptop back to Philadelphia.

The two joined a website called “Workamper News” which bills itself as the “Original Resource of Jobs for RVers, since 1987.” The site connects RVers— as they call themselves—with employers who need temporary or seasonal workers.

“Last summer,” Bernadette said, “we lived and worked in the Pine Barrens at Wading Pines Camping Resort in Chatsworth.” She worked in the camp store. These arrangements might include a small salary; RVers also usually get free parking and a full hook up to water, electricity and sewer.

One day, an RV caravan company reached out to the co-pilots. The company needed tour guides for a caravan trip. Think of the covered wagon trains, traveling one-behind-the-other on the Oregon Trail. Only in 2023, the covered wagons are RVs.

The Lead Trek Master drives the first RV in line and has the itinerary. The RV caboose, called the Tail Gunner, brings up the rear and does the clean-up-on-aisleten work. Should an RVer have trouble along the route, the Tail Gunner comes to the rescue.

The Tail Gunner position was open. The caravan would head to Alaska for a sixty-day trip, which would run from May 25 to August 15.

Thinking they had a lock on the job since the company had reached out to them, Joe discovered there were actually seventy applicants. And, there was one looming question they kept asking one another: “Do you think this opportunity

is real?”

Bernadette was hoping so. “Alaska was on my bucket list,” she said.

The co-pilots knew they had experiences others might not. They were used to working with individuals with disabilities, and people from all walks of life. They were both CPR certified. Although not deaf themselves, the two are fluent in ASL, the language most used by people who are deaf.

“We had to sell ourselves,” Bernadette said. But, they landed the position.

The Thursday before Memorial Day weekend, thirteen RVs lined up to head out for an Alaskan adventure. The Lead Trek Master was Canadian. Over the 60 days, they would cross the Canadian border seven times (the co-pilots were now traveling with two dogs). They captured breathtaking scenes of mountains; bodies of water the color of deep turquoise; and photos, or videos, of bears and moose along the sides of roads. Some of the roads were extremely steep; and, because of freezing and thawing, deeply rutted.

“One day,” Joe said, “we drove 110 miles and saw ten bears and two Buffalo herds. About 40 buffalo total.”

Bernadette said she was “inspired” by her fellow travelers. Among the group, two men ages 81 and 75, and a woman, aged 77, all traveling alone in their indi-

vidual RVs while towing vehicles.

The caravan faced challenges. The owner of one of the RVs had radiator issues which were addressed. Then, the Tail Gunners found that same RV on the side of the road one day with a Jeep under it, and one of the bay doors popped open. The Jeep hadn’t been hitched correctly. Caravan members rescued the vehicle and closed the bay door. But, the hitch couldn’t be saved, or replaced; so, the couple in that RV had to drive two separate vehicles.

There were two bouts of Covid among the travelers. Bernadette and Joe had to contact the caravan company about Covid protocols. Finding Covid tests in Alaska was difficult; the tests were expensive. Fortunately, at the time, the caravan was in Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage.

The Trek Master was hospitalized with a heart condition, so the co-pilots became the Trek Masters; and the guy who suffered the hitch-loss volunteered to be the Tail Gunner. The Trek Master did return to finish the trip.

Through those trials, Bernadette and Joe said, people rallied to help one another. Those actions reminded them of simpler times when people connected without having to check a phone.

Bernadette and Joe returned to New Jersey during Labor Day weekend. At the

moment, the RV is “mooch docking” in Bordentown–an RVer term for parking on someone’s property for a spell.

When asked: What’s next? The two really have no idea. They would love to travel with a caravan again. They are looking at a number of opportunities.

They have used the app Harvest Hosts. It’s an RV Camping Membership site that connects RVers to overnight stays at wineries, breweries and farms. Bernadette noted the establishments allow RVers to stay on their properties for free in return for patronizing their businesses.

They will make a decision eventually. Reflecting on their pace of life with an RV, Joe said, “your philosophy of where you need to get to changes. There are no deadlines.”

The two continually gushed about the trip to Alaska during an interview. “It was the greatest trip I’ve ever had,” Joe said. He fears there might “not be another trip like it.” Bernadette glowed as she talked about ziplining in Alaska’s Denali National Park. The co-pilots embody YOLO: You Only Live Once.

“Life’s too short, Bernadette said. “There are too many people who wait too long. They wait for things to be right. You have to follow your bliss,” she continued. “Even when it’s scary; even when it’s hard.” She added, “We love this life.”

Q&A: Mayor Jeff Martin and challenger Marty Flynn

Edited by Joe Emanski

The Hamilton Post continues its tradition of providing comprehensive election coverage this year, starting with this email Q&A with Mayor Jeff Martin, a Democrat, and his Republican challenger, former township business administrator Marty Flynn.

Mayor Jeff Martin, 40, lives in Golden Crest. He and wife Scarlett have a daughter, Olivia, who is 3.

Marty Flynn, 70, lives in the Enchantment development, having previously lived in White Horse and Yardville. He is married to wife Mary Ann and has three adult children: son Anthony (wife Carla), and daughters Erin and Devin (husband Brian). Flynn has four grandchildren: Lucas, Matteo, Valentina and Harper.

The responses have been lightly edited for clarity and style.

Tell us about the moment that you decided to run, or run again, for mayor.

Jeff Martin: The last 3+ years as

Mayor has been the honor of a lifetime but there is more work to do. We held taxes flat three years in a row, been able to increase our surplus to levels higher than I inherited and that work needs to continue into the future. We consolidated our fire districts to make the service more efficient and provide a safer fire service — but it takes time to fully create that foundation.

Marty Flynn: From childhood up until today, Hamilton has been my hometown. During these past four years, I grown increasingly concerned about the direction it has been heading under the current administration. After speaking with me wife and family about my desire to serve as mayor, I decided to put forth my candidacy and hope to, once again, serve our community.

What are the three most pressing

concerns for the mayor and township administration today, and how will you, as Hamilton’s mayor for the next four years, address these issues?

Flynn: Taxes and affordability. Despite contrary claims, the current mayor has significantly increased spending and including $50 million increase in our budget over four years, hired over 40 new employees, allowed sewer rates to dramatically increase, and most concerning is this; There is at least a $5 million revenue that will expire after this election year budget. I am genuinely concerned that is a tax increase just waiting to happen. If elected, I will prioritize doing everything I possibly can to reverse these types of consequences because of how they affect our families and neighbors, particularly those who can least afford it.

Overdevelopment of warehouses.

Under this mayor, we have witnessed an explosion of warehouses and residential developments that have been allowed to encroach upon our existing neighborhoods. It has increased traffic and decreased our quality of life. I will stop this overdevelopment, implement a master plan review, and seek changes to protect our families and loved ones.

Quality of life. Recently, the current mayor has taken actions that I believe are contrary to our community’s quality of life. He has doubled dog license fees, increased numerous recreational activity fees and instituted a new fire inspection fee. We also have less police than in the early 2000’s. Further, the town’s own budget shows a plan to decrease funds for road repairs in the future. I am committed to reversing all of these fees immediately.

Martin: We need to maintain an affordable and safe Hamilton — both for people who are currently here and want to stay in town and for people, like my family, who are looking for those things when buying their first home.

Martin

We have invested a lot of our resources into our police and fire departments to ensure they have the equipment they need to keep Hamilton safe. We also have invested money into our animal shelter through grants to ensure our animals are treated humanely, and the mistakes of the past do not reappear. We need to do all of this and more while making sure we provide an efficient and affordable municipal government to the residents and businesses that call Hamilton home.

On police and fire, over the last 3 years, we have partnered with our state legislators and county representatives to receive grants to purchase needed equipment for our first responders. This funding must continue so we don’t fall behind.

We have addressed many of the issues at our animal shelter and worked to create an environment where animals that enter the shelter have a better chance at finding their forever home. We also got a state grant for an emergency generator at the shelter to keep them safe in an unpassable storm. There is more work to do but we are in a lot better situation than four years ago with a shelter on the front page every month.

Affordability is always on our mind and we have taken many steps to ensure our finances are in a better position than what we inherited. On Jan. 1, 2020 our township surplus was just over $6 million; on Jan. 1, 2023 we brought it to $17 million while still not raising taxes for 3 years in a row. That is tough work but it has to continue so our residents and small businesses can keep more money in their pockets.

It’s a credit to our team to be able to

accomplish all of this with where we started and I am excited to see what can be done starting from a better place.

Warehouses: a hot-button topic in many New Jersey towns, including Hamilton. What is the mayor’s responsibility in terms of warehouse construction in the township? Do these buildings bring in enough revenue to justify the effect they have on traffic and the township’s character?

Martin: I’m proud to have worked hard to prevent warehouses in many spots in town — most recently on Kuser Road between the Hibernians and Woodlands. We are in negotiations right now with the owner on buying that property through a partnership with the state and county to keep that land in its natural state. Unlike my opponent, we are not “glad to have” warehouses here in Hamilton (see Hamilton Post from March 1, 2020) and will continue fighting to make sure they do not take over our town.

Flynn: At least nine warehouses have been installed near neighborhoods where it has led to increased traffic impacting our residents. A plan for a major development on Kuser Road was ready to be pushed through until residents demanded it stop. Additionally the mayor is allowing a 300-plus apartment development to be shoehorned into Klockner Road. This is failed leadership; and as someone who has worked with our local commercial and real estate professionals in such matters, I will end this type of overdevelopment.

What will you do in the next four

See MAYOR, Page 12

Flynn

years to ensure that property taxes do not rise at a rate that would overburden township residents?

Flynn: We must address the looming, projected $5 million budget shortfall from expiring, non-reoccurring Covid revenue used in this election year budget. I will reverse the many fee hikes that the current mayor recently enacted as well as carefully examining the recent, politicallydriven hiring of 40 plus new positions that appear to not have been a critical need.

Additionally, we will thoroughly address the $50 million dollar budget increase over the last four years as well as the present ongoing spending spree. It will take a thorough examination upon entering office, if I am afforded the opportunity.

Martin: We have a track record of ensuring taxes are at their lowest level possible while still providing the services our residents and businesses expect. Cost-efficient actions add up in the end to have a big impact. Three years in a row of no tax increase while raising our surplus shows that paying attention to the details every day can have a big impact on our bottom line.

Additionally, during Covid we provided nearly $1 million in grants to small businesses to ensure they stayed open, stayed

in Hamilton and continued to thrive.

For Mayor Martin: how have you selected your staff?

Martin: We worked hard to attract top quality administrators, lawyers, accountants, who are willing to work for the betterment of Hamilton and to do that we had to create an environment that was welcoming to their thoughts, suggestions and styles. In a town of 92,000 people and well over 700 full-time employees, the mayor has to rely on others to get things done and has to empower senior staff to make decisions without micromanaging. We have done that and will continue to do that to make our government more efficient.

For Marty Flynn: how will you select your key administrative staff if elected?

Flynn: As a former township director who oversaw two different departments, I understand the level of quality and experience needed for leadership positions. I also believe that there is a real benefit to utilizing Hamilton residents who are qualified and who possess a deep understanding of our hometown. The current mayor has added over 40 new administrative positions, which previously did not exist; many were filled by non-Hamilton residents. Further, we have witnessed a shockingly high turnover of three chief financial officers — head of our vital finance depart-

ment — spending has spiked. As mayor, I will stabilize our CFO position.

The township is currently in the planning stages for a major new municipal complex, with plans to share the site with the school district. Do you support this project? Do you have a vision for the complex?

Flynn: I am supportive of a shared facility, provided it does not cause our taxes to skyrocket in the process. As I mentioned in a prior response, with a looming $5 million budget hole after the election, combined with the current mayor’s plans to decrease funding for road repairs, this project will require prudent financial stewardship to avoid a significant tax increase on our hardworking families.

Martin: We placed a public notice out to residents when acquiring the property and the idea of a joint municipal complex was a great idea we received from a resident. It was and is a fantastic idea to provide one convenient place for our residents to interact with their local government — town and school. My goal is to then sell the Greenwood Avenue building to the School District. It provides opportunities for the school district to take two locations (Park Avenue and Greenwood Avenue) and think outside the box in using those facilities for the betterment of our students.

Why should voters elect you to be the mayor of Hamilton Township for the next four years?

Martin: The past 3 years have not been about me as mayor — it has been about creating partnerships for the betterment of Hamilton’s residents and businesses. We have partnered with our state legislators to get public safety grants; partnered with the county to provide relief to small businesses; partnered with the school district to create a new municipal complex; and partnered with area nonprofits so they provide cost-efficient services to our residents who need them. Another term with councilmembers Papero and Phillips will continue to build on those partnerships and expand them so that we all prosper together as proud Hamiltonians.

Flynn: Through many walks of life, I had the opportunity to serve generations of Hamiltonians: as an educator and a coach, as a local public servant. Being mayor of Hamilton would be a culmination of that community service. Hamilton has been my home, and I care deeply about our hometown and its future. I believe that my experience and my passion to serve can offer a positive alternative for the office of mayor. I humbly ask for our residents support, so that together, we can deliver a better Hamilton for us all.

BI-MONTHLY NEWS FROM CAPITAL HEALTH

Capital Health’s Trenton Neighborhood Initiative Transforming the Community

In 2022, Capital Health joined community partner Trenton Health Team to launch the Trenton Neighborhood Initiative (TNI). As part of Capital Health’s mission to improve the health and well-being of the urban and suburban populations it serves, TNI works to drive $10 million of investment in the neighborhoods surrounding Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton to address the societal factors that affect the overall health of the city’s residents.

Boosted by an initial $2.5 million leadership gift from the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation, TNI introduced a transformative plan that seeks to make significant strides in housing and neighborhood improvements, workforce education and employment, child and family support services, and technology training and tools for residents.

“As the health care landscape continues to evolve, it is our responsibility to understand and embrace our changing role in the community,” said Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health. “TNI goes well beyond the walls of our hospitals and medical offices to look at societal factors that impact the health of our community. Based on input from community residents, data and recommendations from existing neighborhood plans, and industry best practices, TNI programs have been developed to have a lasting positive impact on the well-being of our neighbors and complement the health care services Capital Health offers.”

TNI’s Homebuyer Assistance Program, in partnership with New Jersey Community Capital, is making a difference with Address Yourself, an affordable homeownership program that provides financial counseling and up to $20,000 in down payment assistance (as a forgivable loan) to applicants seeking to become first-time homeowners in Trenton. Since its launch, this program has provided financial guidance for almost 30 first-time home buyers and helped facilitate seven home purchases, with more in process as of this writing.

TNI works with Mercer County Community College (MCCC) to provide educational scholarships of up to $5,000 per year per student

for a limited number of Trenton residents (including those who work at Capital Health) who attend short-term credentialing or associate’s degree programs in health-related fields at MCCC. So far, more than 30 scholarships have been awarded to Trenton residents.

Capital Health and community partner Arm in Arm host a Mobile Food Pantry for Trenton residents from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays at Capital Health – East Trenton (first and third Wednesdays) and Capital Health Family Health Center (second and fourth Wednesdays). Offerings include non-perishable items, fresh produce, and meat and/or eggs and dairy. Since March 2023, more than 3,000 people have been served at more than 14 Mobile Food Pantry events.

Additionally, the TNI Family Support Program connects North Trenton families with a community health worker to achieve housing and economic stability and improve health outcomes for children, their parents, and seniors. TNI Family Support assists families by purchasing emergency supplies (such as food, diapers, car seats), facilitating communication with health care and social service providers, and providing guidance for routine appointments, records, and prescriptions. As of June 2023, 85 individuals have received assistance and more than $111,000 in material support.

TNI is also generously supported by Allied Universal, Bank of America, Investors Bank, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, Labcorp, Citizens Bank Philanthropic Foundation, the George H. Sands and Estelle M. Sands Foundation, Sodexo, the Wawa Foundation, and many other corporate and private foundation partners.

For more details, visit tnitrenton.org.

Capital Health Now Offers Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement

As part of the growing full-service cardiac program available at Capital Health’s Heart and Vascular Institute, physicians and staff from the Institute’s Structural Heart Program recently performed their first transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton, New Jersey.

TAVR is a minimally invasive treatment option for patients with severe aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve opening) or those with a failing surgical aortic valve who are at elevated risk for complications during open surgery. Experts from Capital Health’s Structural Heart Program perform procedures like TAVR to manage and treat heart valve conditions and other structural issues of the heart.

When severe aortic stenosis occurs, the heart needs to work harder to pump blood to the rest of the body, which in turn can limit your daily activity. With TAVR, an artificial valve is delivered to the heart through a thin, flexible tube (catheter) that is inserted into one of

Vaping: Get the Facts

Thursday, November 2, 2023 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

The use of e-cigarettes skyrocketed in recent years under the incorrect thought that they were safer and contained fewer toxic chemicals than regular cigarettes. We now know that once inhaled, these harmful products have ingredients that can damage the lungs and can also cause many other physical and psychological symptoms from cardiovascular effects to nausea, flu-like symptoms and decline in sexual performance.

Join DR. DIANA KOLMAN, director of Interventional Pulmonology at Capital Health, to get the facts about vaping.

several possible access routes and placed into the diseased valve. The procedure typically takes one hour or less to complete.

“Patients who get transcatheter aortic valve replacement experience all the benefits of minimally invasive procedures, including less pain, shorter hospital stays, and a lower risk for major bleeding,” said DR. DAVID DRUCKER, medical director of the Structural Heart Program and board certified, fellowship trained interventional cardiologist at Capital Health Cardiology Specialists. “The biggest benefit for many TAVR patients is that they usually start feeling better right away. With a heart valve that is working properly, they breathe normally, have more energy, and can go back to everyday activities.”

Following the TAVR procedure, patients are monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) for a few hours before being moved to a standard patient room. Patients usually begin walking the same day as their TAVR procedure and are typically discharged within one or two days.

To make an appointment at Capital Health Cardiology Specialists, or to find an office near you, visit capitalhealthcardiology.org.

This event will be taking place virtually using Zoom. Register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Is It a Cold or the Flu?

Sharing more time with family and friends during the colder months can be nice, but it can take a turn for the worse when we start sharing germs too. We’ve all felt the symptoms—sniffling, sneezing, body aches, and fatigue—but understanding whether it’s a cold or the flu can go a long way in helping you recover.

“Recognizing the difference between a cold and the flu can be tricky,” said DR. AVIRAL YADAV, a board certified family medicine physician at Capital Health – Virtual Primary Care. “But there are simple steps you can take to prevent the spread of both, like washing your hands often and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces. If, despite your best efforts, you end up getting sick, scheduling a video visit with one of our providers from Capital Health – Virtual Primary Care is a good first step toward a quicker recovery.”

A cold begins when a virus attaches itself to the mucous membranes lining your nose or throat. Your body’s immune system responds by sending white blood cells to combat the invader. This is what is behind the inflammation in your throat and nose that leads to coughing, sneezing, and lots of mucus.

For most adults, the worst symptoms usually pass after a few days. Children, however, have less developed immune systems and may

Brain Fog Causes and What to Do About It

Thursday, November 9, 2023 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

take longer to recover. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for colds, but if symptoms persist or worsen, call your primary care doctor. You may be dealing with the flu or a bacterial infection. Seasonal flu is caused by viruses that attack the body in the same manner as a cold. Some symptoms are similar too: cough, sore throat and fatigue. Unlike cold sufferers, those with the flu usually experience high fever and body aches.

Recovery takes a week or two with plenty of rest and clear liquids. Complications, however, can develop, ranging from sinus infections to pneumonia or more serious conditions. Those most at risk for complications include young children, adults 65 or older, pregnant women, and anyone with certain chronic medical conditions, such as lung disease or heart disease.

The first line of defense against the flu is vaccination, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend for everyone ages six months or older. Flu activity usually peaks between December and March each year, so you should get try to get vaccinated by the end of October.

Capital Health – Virtual Primary Care is a team of more than 35 primary care providers who can address a wide range of health conditions, including (but not limited to) the common cold, flu, symptoms of COVID-19, upper respiratory infection, and more. For details, or to request an appointment, visit capitalvirtualcare.org

Forgetfulness, lack of mental clarity, loss of motivation, and an inability to concentrate are associated with a non-medical condition broadly identified as “brain fog.” Join DR. EMIL MATARESE, director of the Concussion Program and board certified neurologist at Capital Institute for Neurosciences, to learn about the cognitive impact of COVID-19 and other conditions and treatment options to help dissipate the fog.

This event will be taking place virtually using Zoom. Register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Capital Health Regional Medical Center Ranked First in NJ for

Racial

Inclusivity in New Lown Hospital Index

Also Receives ‘A’ Grades for Health Equity, Patient Safety and Community Benefit

Capital Health Regional Medical Center (RMC) recently earned recognition from the Lown Institute as one of the most socially responsible hospitals in America. In the Lown Hospital Index, a report by the Institute that evaluates more than 3,600 hospitals across the nation, RMC received an A grade and ranked 17th out of 60 hospitals in New Jersey based on several key metrics that measure social responsibility. Among those metrics, RMC ranked number one in New Jersey for racial inclusivity and received A grades for health equity, patient safety, and community benefit. The report also ranked RMC among the top 100 hospitals nationally for inclusivity.

“Capital Health Regional Medical Center has a history of providing high-quality, equitable care to the people of Trenton and surrounding areas that goes back more than 130 years,” said Dr. Eric Schwartz, vice president of Community Health and Transformation and executive director of Capital Health’s Institute for Urban Care. “Earning this ranking from the Lown Institute for a second consecutive year validates the hard work of our staff and shows our community that

we remain committed to this tradition of health care excellence for all residents in Mercer, Bucks, and Burlington counties.”

“When communities have access to socially responsible health care, our nation grows stronger,” said Dr. Vikas Saini, president of the Lown Institute. “That’s why it’s so important to hold up these high-performing hospitals as examples for others to follow.”

The Lown Hospitals Index for Social Responsibility is the only ranking to include metrics of health equity and value of care alongside patient outcomes, creating a holistic view of hospitals as total community partners. The 2023-24 Lown Index evaluates hospitals on 50+ measures for more than 3,600 hospitals nationwide.

Capital Health Regional Medical Center has a long history of serving Central New Jersey and Lower Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The hospital includes a state designated comprehensive stroke center (part of Capital Institute for Neurosciences), the Level II Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center (one of only 10 designated trauma centers in New Jersey), and Mercer County’s designated Emergency Mental Health Services Center. RMC also provides general and interventional radiology services, dialysis, and numerous other medical services. To learn more, visit capitalhealth.org.

Small Step Strategies for Prediabetes

Monday, November 20, 2023 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Prediabetes puts you at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The good news is that by making lifestyle changes, it is possible to prevent type 2 diabetes and even reverse prediabetes. Join Mindy Komosinsky, registered dietitian/nutritionist and certified diabetes care and education specialist, to learn more about prediabetes and how small steps can make a big difference in preventing type 2 diabetes.

This event will be taking place virtually using Zoom. Register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

ElEcTIon 2023—TownshIp

4 in the running for 2 seats on Hamilton Township council

Edited by Joe Emanski

The Hamilton Post continues its tradition of providing comprehensive election coverage this year. Our coverage continues with an email Q&A with Democratic council members Nancy Phillips and Pat Papero, and their Republican challengers, Gino Melone and Michael Chianese. The responses have been lightly edited for clarity and style.

Michael Chianese, 57, is a former manager for the State of New Jersey, and a former Hamilton fire commissioner. He lives in Mercerville with wife Tracey and two stepchildren, ages 16 and 12, who have both attended Hamilton schools. Their elder child attends Notre Dame High School.

Gino Melone, 56, is a former Mercer County consumer affairs investigator, former Trenton City councilman, and current employee of Brenna Funeral Home. He lives in Yardville with wife Robin and has two adult children, both of whom graduated from Our Lady of Sorrows

School and one from Hamilton High West.

Incumbent Pasquale “Pat” Papero, Jr., 46, is a sheriff’s officer in Mercer County. A lifelong Hamilton resident, he lives in Groveville with wife Stacy, son Dominic, 17, and daughter Lea, 13.

Incumbent Nancy Phillips, 48, is a public school teacher. She lives in Mercerville with husband Rich Phillips and two daughters who attended all Hamilton public schools. Her elder daughter studies environmental science at Stockton University, and her younger daughter is a sophomore at Nottingham High School and a member of the marching band unit in the color guard.

Tell us about the moment that you decided to run, or run again, for township committee.

Michael Chianese: Public service has

always been important to me; and following the conclusion of my 35 year career with the State of New Jersey, I felt that I possessed both the time, and the sincere desire, to dedicate myself to serve of council.

Gino Melone: Serving others has always been a very special part of my life, whether it has been as a councilman or through the many charitable efforts that I am involved with. After my retirement from the Mercer County Division of Affairs, I wanted to continue to give back and to help make a positive difference in my hometown.

Pat Papero, Jr.: Running with Mayor Martin and Councilwoman Phillips for re-election was an easy decision, and there was never a second thought. I am proud to be part of this team. We have accomplished a lot of positive things, and I believe that

we can build on those accomplishments to keep Hamilton moving forward. Public safety is our first priority and as a sheriff’s officer, I have made it a point to ensure our first responders have the equipment they need to protect us 24/7/365. I am also proud we have done that by keeping taxes flat three years in a row.

Nancy Phillips: I decided to run for re-election because through my service on council over the last four years, I have gained invaluable experience to continue to work for the residents and with my fellow council members and the administration to continue to preserve the history of our great township but also move us forward for all who call Hamilton home. Grade the job the council has done in recent years. What can you as a member of the council do to maintain or improve this grade?

Papero Jr.: Along with my colleagues, I believe we deserve an A for the job that we have done for both the residents and tax payers of Hamilton.

See COUNCIL, Page 18

Chianese

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Each member of council comes from a different background and looks at each issue from their own unique perspective. Whether it is going through the annual budget process with a fine-tooth comb or re-evaluating and enacting ordinances, we all bring different attributes to the table to accomplish the task at hand. We also take pride in listening to the community when they have concerns, while also keeping Hamilton affordable for our residents.

While I give us an A grade, there are always ways to improve and we will continue to find innovative ways to help our community.

Phillips: I would give the council as a whole an A and for several reasons. Within a little more than 2 months in office we all faced unprecedented times with the shutdowns due to the Covid pandemic. Without skipping a beat, all of the town council meetings were switched to Zoom so that there was no interruption in the service we provide the residents.

Throughout the pandemic, the council continued to collaborate with each other and with Mayor Martin and his administration to provide grants to local businesses, distribute assistance to families and provide updated information daily to keep our community safe and continue

prospering despite the circumstances.

Chianese: Without trying to sound like the typical candidate simply pointing out where I believe our opponents have failed, I would rather categorize my answer as such: the areas the next council must improve upon. I strongly believe that a tax hike is coming after the election, when $5 million, non-recurring revenue runs out. I also believe that we must stop the rampant overdevelopment of our community.

Additionally, the township’s own capital budget projection, which council approved, shows plans to reduce funding for road repairs over the next several years. With such overdevelopment, this is short sighted.

Melone: I realize questions like this induce incumbents giving themselves positive marks, challengers giving the incumbents negative marks, and at the end of the day — the voters decide. I do believe that the council and current administration are failing us on these important issues: taxes — as I believe a significant tax hike will occur after this election; overdevelopment — as traffic

and congestion have soared; and quality of life — as the council approved fee hikes on everything from dog Licenses to recreational activities.

Warehouses: a hot-button topic in many New Jersey towns, including Hamilton. What is the council’s responsibility in terms of warehouse construction in the township? Do these buildings bring in enough revenue to justify the effect they have on traffic and the township’s character?

Chianese: During the past four years, Hamilton could have minimized the impact of warehouse developments near our neighborhoods, but the current administration has failed. In fact, the mayor and council actually previously delayed a township master plan review, only to implement the poor plan we currently have. As a result, our neighborhoods have been negatively impacted. Hamilton can, and should, do better. On council, I will do so.

Melone: I strongly believe Hamilton must stop overdevelopment, particularly warehouses that infringe upon our neighborhoods. Township officials can utilize

their authority and the available state land use and zoning tools they possess. For instance, in 2021, Hamilton reviewed its master plan, but it illustrates how the council failed to enact legally available safeguards that would have stopped many developments from being squeezed next to our neighborhoods. Their failure has had negative consequences, including increased traffic and associated environmental impacts.

Papero, Jr.: In reference to a recent application on the Kuser Road property, I am proud of my “no” vote last year against an application that would have allowed a warehouse on that specific property. We have had warehouses in Hamilton for decades from prior administrations: UPS, FedEx, et cetera. but it is our obligation to make sure they follow the zoning guidelines for the town and don’t intrude on our residential neighborhoods or near churches, parks and schools.

Phillips: The council as a whole has been and will continue to work with all stakeholders to prevent warehouses, especially when they impact public safety and quality of life for our residents. We have worked with local officials in West Windsor and Mercer County on trying to prevent 5 million square feet of warehouse space at our border.

See COUNCIL, Page 20

KUSER FARM MANSION & THE JERSEY VALLEY MODEL RAILROAD CLUB

PRESENTS:

Our First Annual Open House!! All are invited to tour the train layout and its operations and meet the members. New members are always welcomed to join! Admission is free. Be sure to bring the kids and cameras!

Saturday, October 7 & Sunday, October 8 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Location: Kuser Mansion (Basement) 390 Newkirk Avenue Hamilton, NJ 08610 (609) 890-3630

For more information or to become a member of the JVMRR Club, please email Program Coordinator, Patti Krzywulak at; PKrzywulak@hamiltonnj.com

Melone

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representation to nursing home clients to ensure they

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Unfortunately, we have had warehouses in town for decades. However, it is essential not to allow warehouses near any place where our families live and play. In addition, the council has put in weight limits on residential streets to prevent trucks traveling down specific roads to keep families safe. We will continue this work moving forward.

The township is currently in the planning stages for a major new municipal complex, with plans to share the site with the school district. Do you support this project? Do you have a vision for the municipal complex?

Papero, Jr.: This is a project that was a long time coming. The property where the new municipal complex will reside was an eyesore and in need of redevelopment. The new municipal complex will allow our administration to better serve the residents and businesses of Hamilton Township.

While the size of our town has grown, we essentially outgrew the current municipal building. As far as sharing the site with our school district, I believe this is a great idea to show the unity and partnership of both administrations. Both the school district and town’s administration buildings are antiquated, and this new development will allow our administrations to make things more productive and accessible to all residents.

Phillips: For too long, residents of Hamilton have had to travel back and forth across town to take care of any business with the township and school district. The new municipal complex will offer an efficient and resident-focused center for all concerns. My vision is to build a complex where every citizen can find access to all services provided by the township and school district and allow the township and the school district to expand their working relationship. Our residents will see that as we work together more closely we can continue to improve the quality of life in every aspect of our residents’ lives. It will create a one-stop shop Hamilton can be proud to be the center of our large but tight-knit community.

Chianese: My work for the State of New Jersey actually focused upon buildings and infrastructure; and if elected to council, I would be eager to offer my expertise to help ensure that a shared facility does not financially burden our taxpayers.

Unfortunately, recent indicators illus-

trate to me the real potential for a tax increase after this election. And that is why I believe Hamilton will need prudent leaders on council to try to avoid that scenario.

Melone: While I support the concept of a shared facility, it must be implemented in a financially responsible manner. My concern is that because the township has hired over 40 additional employees over the past four years and increased spending, resources have already been squandered. And when combined with revenues that will expire after the election, I am deeply troubled by what I see as a looming tax increase.

Many, though not all, residents are concerned about the potential future dangers posed by climate change. Do you worry that climate change could negatively affect the lives of Hamilton residents in the near future? Should council consider the potential impact of climate change when making decisions where it could be a factor?

Chianese: Every government must weigh its decisions by considering multiple factors, which obviously includes the environment and our climate. As a former State of New Jersey management professional, I understand how the routine energy efficiency upgrades can benefit, not only the taxpayers, but also our climate.

However, many of the energy efficiency efforts listed on the township’s own website predate the current mayor and council. If elected to council, I can use my professional experience to offer new to ways to reduce our energy usage, and secure positive results for both our taxpayers, and our climate.

Melone: I believe that the majority of residents desire a reasonable balance between improving our environment and climate, while at the same time, not financially over-burdening our most vulnerable residents — whether seniors on fixed incomes or our neighbors and families who can least afford price hikes on basic, everyday necessities. That simple, common-sense approach is what I would use in making decisions that come before council.

However, I would add that I believe the current administration’s failure to stop overdevelopment, which has increased traffic delays, has been worse for the environment.

Papero, Jr.: Climate change is something that is being discussed at all levels

See COUNCIL, Page 22

Papero

Mayor Jeff Martin, Councilman Pat Papero and Councilwoman Nancy Phillips are proven, experienced leaders working to keep Hamilton moving forward. Together they have kept taxes flat, supported our Police and Fire Departments to keep us safe, and helped small businesses recover from the pandemic. They will continue fighting to make sure Hamilton remains a great place to work, live, and raise a family.

Keeping Hamilton Affordable

Mayor Jeff Martin has kept taxes flat 3 years in a row. Together with Pat and Nancy they have produced cost efficiencies to manage taxpayer money all while providing the same level of services with no tax increase.

Keeping Hamilton Safe

Jeff, Pat and Nancy delivered on their 2019 promise to consolidate our fire districts to make our community safer. Together they made public safety a priority by continuing to fund the needs of our Police and Fire Department, including over $3 million in grants.

“Together with Pat Papero and Nancy Phillips, we are working every day to keep Hamilton moving forward to remain affordable and safe for all of us.”

-Jeff Martin

of government. In Hamilton, we need to do our part to lessen the footprint and help combat climate change.

This administration and council have pursued grants and opportunities to help with renewable energy and more properly use our resources. We recently received a grant for a new EV charging station at Veterans Park where residents can charge their vehicle and use the park simultaneously. On council, we constantly are looking for ways to integrate more electric vehicles while maintaining the same production. We recently were awarded a Stategrant to purchase the town’s first electric garbage truck.

Decisions like this show how our town is doing its part to combat climate change.

Phillips: We have seen more powerful

In the Cornell Heights neighborhood, an area with a history of the worst flooding in the township, we have preserved 30 acres abuting the creek. We have supported solar energy projects increasing energy production while providing cost savings to local ratepayers.

Finally, we are providing more opportunities to support the increase in the use of electric vehicles by installing charging stations in our parks.

What accomplishments can you point to, as an elected official or as a professional or volunteer, that can convince voters that they should elect you to serve the next three years on township council?

Papero, Jr.: When we were sworn in on Jan. 1, 2020, we had goals we wanted to accomplish: to change the culture at the animal shelter, bring back accountability and transparency to our local government, create a consoli dated fire department, and make sure we madeHamilton affordable for our residents. In the past 3+ years, we have accomplished all those things, while also

CYO Bromley Neighborhood Center

navigating through the unprecedented Covid pandemic. We were able to help keep the public safe and partner with our small businesses to get them any assistance available during the difficult times. Our team has proven to be great partners with the community and achieved many successes. We look forward to continuing to serve our residents for the next four years and keep Hamilton moving forward.

Phillips: I am proud to have just entered my 20th year of teaching in public schools and the experience these past years on council have been such a unique opportunity to expand the opportunities to help children and families in the

while not slowing down when faced with an unprecedented pandemic and ever changing circumstances.

Chianese: All of us have a vested interest in the future of Hamilton Township. But it requires the right policy directions from the right leaders. As a former State of New Jersey manager, as well as a former fire commissioner, I believe that I can bring a wealth of knowledge to the position, and with it, the ability to help make Hamilton more affordable, to curb the type of over development that is negatively impacting our neighborhoods, and to improve our collective quality of life for future generations. I would be honored to have the opportunity, along with Marty Flynn and Gino Melone.

Melone: First and foremost, I care deeply about Hamilton Township and our community’s future, just as my running

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Phillips

SIX09

Music to the Body and Soul

The melody of movement has never been sweeter for the American Repertory Ballet’s “Dance for Parkinson’s” program than when shared together in classes that not only build a circle of positivity, but also give its participants the chance to perform onstage at a joint ARB and Princeton University Concerts event next March.

Dance for Parkinson’s at ARB Leads a Choreography of Change in Class & Concert

BY REBEKAH SCHROEDER

Dancing can benefit those living with Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder, through rhythmic motions that reclaim movement and demonstrate their resilience.

Over two decades ago, the Mark Morris Dance Group in Brooklyn developed the “Dance for PD®” model, which brings people with the condition and their caretakers together in a dance class setting.

Since then, it has been adapted for over 300 affiliates in 42 states and 25 countries, each iteration moving us one step closer to redefining our understanding of the progressive disease.

Participants from one of these local chapters, American Repertory Ballet’s “Dance For Parkinson’s” program, will take the stage at a live event hosted in partnership with Princeton University Concerts on Sunday, March 3, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the Richardson Auditorium in Alexander Hall in Princeton.

American Repertory Ballet’s Dance For Parkinson’s initiative is an extension of the Dance for PD® framework, offering

attendees of all skill levels or abilities the opportunity to express themselves in a community-based, creative environment at the Princeton Ballet School—known as ARB’s official school—that routinely incorporates live music accompaniments into classes across its Princeton, Cranbury, and New Brunswick studios.

ARB and PUC have invited these attendees to dance onstage to an adapted version of Mark Morris’ “Falling Down Stairs” choreography number, which is set to the “Bourrée” section from Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Suite No. 3 for Unaccompanied Cello.”

Anyone from the sessions who does not wish to join the concert can instead receive

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Rachel Stanislawczyk, opposite page and above center, is the director and founder of the American Repertory Ballet’s “Dance for Parkinson’s” program and the lead teacher at the Middletown Arts Center, above. Dance for Parkinson’s is an affiliate of the Mark Morris Dance Group’s “Dance for PD®” model, which offers classes for individuals with the neurodegenerative disorder and their caregivers.

a complimentary ticket to the show.

According to the Princeton University Concerts event page at concerts.princeton. edu, cello soloist Joshua Roman will provide live accompaniment to the piece as part of PUC’s ongoing “Healing with Music” series, which showcases the “restorative role” of music through engagements that are equal parts concerts and opportunities for conversation.

ARB and PUC’s collaboration aims to examine “the intersection of music, dance, and Parkinson’s” and includes a panel featuring Dance for PD®’s founding teacher and program director, David Leventhal, in discussion with members of Princeton University faculty.

The Princeton Garden Theatre will also show a special screening of the documentary film “Capturing Grace,” a film by David Iverson about the Dance for PD® program, on Monday, March 4, at 7 p.m. Iverson is set to participate in a live Q&A following the movie, which ties into his own personal history with Parkinson’s disease and the Dance for PD® classes.

Tickets are $15 each for the general public, $10 for students, and free to Princeton University students through the Passport to the Performing Arts program.

Due to popular demand, the Princeton Ballet School has expanded from its initial plan for a 5-week summer session and will hold courses throughout the school year, immediately followed by one-hour rehearsals for the March performance.

The fall season schedule runs on Thursdays from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Princeton location at 301 North Harrison Street in the Princeton Shopping Center with lead teacher Linda Mannheim and musician Dottie Westgate

Mannheim is a professional dancer and Pilates instructor who previously served as an assistant professor of dance at Rider University.

The ARB Dance For Parkinson’s program continues at the Middletown Arts Center on 36 Church Street in Middletown

Township on Mondays from 4:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. with accompanying pianist and percussionist G.G. Glazer-Armstrong

Zoom classes stream live on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to noon, headed by lead teacher Michael Vitaly Sazonov, a performer and theater maker who has worked with the Dance for PD® flagship program in New York since 2014.

Rachel Stanislawczyk is the director and founder of American Repertory Ballet’s Dance For Parkinson’s program, as well as its lead teacher at the Middletown Arts Center. She explained that the group has been meeting for nearly three years, forming a tight-knit circle that goes out for pizza together and stays in touch after class.

“If anything happens in each other’s lives, they’re always there to support each other, and it’s just a really beautiful family that has blossomed, and so I think to me, that is the most special part of the program—the relationships in the community,” she said.

For more information on the Dance For Parkinson’s program at ARB or the Zoom link to the weekly classes, email Stanislawczyk at RStanislawczyk@arballet.org or call assistant teacher Lindsay Cahill at 732249-1254, ext. 19

Stanislawczyk grew up in East Brunswick and attended the Princeton Ballet School until her sophomore year. She then split her time between East Brunswick High School and the performing arts program at the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools, now called Middlesex County Magnet Schools, where she met director of dance Cleo Mack.

According to Stanislawczyk, Mack, who is also the artistic director of the Rock Dance Collective and co-owner of the Washington Rock Dance studio in Warren, “completely blew up everything” she knew about dance and led her to “fall in love with the art form.”

Mack inspired Stanislawczyk to branch

See DANCE, Page 4

out from her ballet roots to modern and contemporary dance, and Stanislawczyk credits Mack for helping her to continue those studies into college, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in dance and choreography from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Stanislawczyk started her internship with the MMDG’s “Dance for PD®” Brooklyn program in 2017, eventually becoming the lead teacher. She brainstormed about how to implement a similar idea closer to home, believing that the project would thrive at a dance school like the Princeton Ballet School, which incorporates live music in every class.

A year later, she proposed the idea of Dance for Parkinson’s at ARB, a New Jersey-based affiliate of the MMDG’s “Dance for PD®,” with the support of ARB access and enrichment coordinator Lindsay Cahill, a longtime dance and gymnastics instructor who now serves as the assistant teacher for both in-person programs.

Stanislawczyk noted her interest in the correlation between the condition and dance came when her grandfather was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, leading her to research the topic in college and then cultivate it further at MMDG.

The concept spread beyond Princeton— influenced in part by Stanislawczyk’s personal connection to the condition—and even survived the transition to a virtual format during the pandemic before returning to all studios except Cranbury.

Stanislawczyk also returned to school, receiving an Ed.M. in dance education from Rutgers University as well as a K–12 teaching certification. The Edison resident is currently a full-time dance instructor for students at David Brearley Middle and High School in Kenilworth.

“I decided that I would go back to school for education so that I could provide students with a program similar to the one that

I went to when I was in high school,” Stanislawczyk said, noting that she went on to perform professionally with Mack’s group and still teaches at her dance studio.

“Throughout my life, I’ve always had a passion for sharing what I love about dance and sharing my own personal experience with [those] who are new to the form. That’s why I teach in a school, why I teach Dance for Parkinson’s, is to spread the humanistic response that I think dance provides to a community.”

The Parkinson’s Foundation, an organization that supports the Dance for Parkinson’s at ARB program through a community grant, describes the disorder as one

“that affects predominately the dopamineproducing (“dopaminergic”) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra” for “more than 10 million people worldwide.”

The NIH National Institute on Aging website added that symptoms “usually begin gradually and worsen over time,” including “unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.”

Others experience “difficulty walking and talking,” as well as “sleep problems, depression, memory difficulties, and fatigue.”

When cells in the brain die or are unable to produce a sufficient amount of dopamine, Stanislawczyk explained, dancing can prove to be a powerful influence.

“Dopamine is the movement base, the feel-good hormone in our brain, and when you dance to live music, it naturally produces dopamine in the brain,” she said.

According to a 2021 UCLA Health article by Chayil Champion, researchers at York University in Toronto, Canada, tracked 16 people with Parkinson’s disease as they attended weekly dance classes for a three-year period between 2014 and 2017.

These participants not only saw “an improvement in speech, [a] reduction in tremors, better balance, and decreased rigidity,” but “showed no deterioration over

All class participants will have the opportunity to perform an adapted version of the Mark Morris Dance Group’s “Falling Down Stairs” choreography at the Richardson Auditorium in Alexander Hall in Princeton on Sunday, March 3.

the three-year period, while the other 16— those who did not participate in the dance classes—experienced a decline in their motor skills.”

“Dance triggers the brain in a different way so that they’re able to waltz, they’re able to march out of the room, because instead of just reaching and trying to pick up a pencil or to do a daily task like pouring a cup of coffee, when you’re doing that and you’re dancing, and you think about sweeping the arm up overhead and grabbing onto something, pulling and pushing, and using that imagery, it triggers the brain in a different way; it provides agency to the people sitting in the room that’s unfortunately being stripped away from them,” Stanislawczyk said.

While participants may feel varying levels of therapeutic relief throughout the course, Stanislawczyk stressed that the class is not dance movement therapy. In fact, the topic of Parkinson’s disease is rarely discussed, with the emphasis instead placed on the core values of creativity and choreography at the heart of any traditional dance class.

“We treat the participants like artists,” she said. “We don’t want them to feel like they’re coming here and going to another doctor’s office. We strip that all away.”

Each class lasts around one hour and fifteen minutes. Participants begin by sitting in a circle of folding chairs with the lead and assistant teacher in the center, the latter of whom modifies the exercises as everyone moves through the motions against the backdrop of live instrumental music.

Throughout the session, attendees have the option of progressing to standing or remaining seated, with Stanislawczyk adding that if something she’s doing doesn’t feel right to them on that particular day, they are encouraged to adjust the exercise in any way they need.

When learning the basic steps of the Dominican Republic social dance known as bachata, for example, participants started at the bar and were subsequently given “the option of moving freely through the space without” relying on structural support.

“We start with a sun salutation exercise, and then we use a lot of percussion to warm up our feet. We use movement from a variety of different dance styles and forms, so one week we might have a salsa dance focus, the next week we might do a ballroom waltz, and the next week we might do jazz, ballet,” and other types that incorporate a variety of cultural influences, Stanislawczyk added.

“We play a lot with the seasons, or if a holiday is coming up, then we might create movements for Valentine’s Day, or we’re going to be incorporating a lot of apple picking and pumpkin picking and leaves falling from the trees,” she explained, noting that every day tends to follow a theme.

The Princeton University Concerts “Healing with Music” event features live accompaniment by cellist Joshua Roman, left, while the founding teacher and program director of the Mark Morris Dance Group’s Dance for PD®, David Leventhal, right, takes part in a panel discussion on the intersectionality of “music, dance, and Parkinson’s disease” with Princeton University faculty.

“There’s a lot of guided imagery that drives the class,” she said. “The visualization, I think, helps for this population, [because] if they are thinking about squeezing toothpaste out of their leg or tracing like they’re inside of a pumpkin and they’re carving the pumpkin from the inside out, it adds a different dynamic quality to their movement.”

“We do a lot of mirroring in this class, a lot of improvisation, and traveling through the space, and then we always end class with a reverence that we call ‘Passing of the Gift,’ and participants get to improvise, and they create their own ‘gift,’” she added.

It’s almost like charades, Stanislawczyk explained, where a first person “might blow a balloon with their hands and then show how it’s floating” before passing it onto the next individual standing in the circle, who then “has the power to transform that into anything they want.”

“Maybe they turn it into a flower, or maybe they bake cookies, and it goes around the room,” she continued. “We incorporate a lot of circles in this class for community. Circles have been traditionally used in dance throughout history to make sure that everybody is inclusive. You’ll see circles in a lot of ritualistic dances, and it means that we’re all equal and we’re all in this together.”

Stanislawczyk strives to create a “very casual and warm learning environment” through her teaching style, taking participants on a journey of exploration and vulnerability that hopefully “resonates in the room and makes everybody feel comfortable to take risks.”

While the physical aspects of the class are valuable in their own right, Stanislawczyk believes that the emotional rewards of being able to “equally nourish their soul[s] with dance” are felt on both sides of the instructor-dancer relationship.

“It’s one thing to teach children, but when you teach an adult, they are coming to the class for themselves, and they’re so grateful for the opportunity to dance, and so it’s a community that I really resonate with

because they’re so appreciative. As much as they love me, I love them,” she said.

“I get just as much from these classes as they do, and I truly believe that—that this is my happy place that I come to for the hour and 15 minutes that we spend with each other each week. It fuels me as a human being.”

Stanislawczyk finds it refreshing that the class fosters such close relationships between people from different backgrounds, each of them coming with their own unique mosaics of life experiences, in a communal space where bonds are forged through mutual respect and rhythmic activity.

“I constantly think about how, in our society as a whole, we’re constantly attached via technology. We’re not really having these human-to-human relationships, and so when you meet somebody and you’re moving together—I mean, it’s scientifically proven that your mirror neurons are turned on and that it develops empathy for one another—and I think that it develops a really strong foundation for a community of trust.”

Stanislawczyk emphasized that it is more important than ever to be engaged and present with others, a lesson she reiterates in class: “Look around and see the people that you’re moving with and that you’re dancing with, and that goes a long way.”

“It’s not often that we come together and we move together, and I think that it’s a powerful thing—a group of people moving in unison in today’s world [where] we’re just constantly with our heads down and typing on the computer and not making eye contact, etc.,” she continued. “We’re really listening to each other and responding to each other authentically.”

“When people are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it can be very isolating. A lot of people lose agency to do simple tasks that we take for granted,” Stanislawczyk explained. “When I’m designing the classes, I try to incorporate everyday movements that we can practice and rehearse in here to live musical accompaniment, and then participants can adopt those movements into their daily lives. I use a lot of imagery, for instance, about flicking water off of the hands. I try to think about the relationships of how that relates to a common hand tremor that you may see with Parkinson’s disease.”

“I think that this class breaks away that sense of isolation, and it makes everybody feel included, including myself,” Stanislawczyk added. “I feel like I get as much out of the class as all of the participants, because it feeds my soul.”

***

Dance For Parkinson’s, American Repertory Ballet. Fall sessions available at the Princeton Ballet School, 301 North Harrison Street, Princeton; Middletown Arts Center, 36 Church Street, Middletown; and via Zoom. arballet.org/access-enrichment/programs-2/ dance-parkinsons-program.

“Dance for PD® (Parkinson’s Disease) A Mark Morris Dance Group Program: Exploring the Intersection of Music, Dance & Parkinson’s,” ARB and Princeton University Concerts, Sunday, March 3, 3:00 to 4:30 p.m., Richardson Auditorium in Alexander Hall, Princeton. concerts.princeton. edu/events/23-24-dance-for-pd

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

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

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

The Dental Difference – 2131 Route 33, Suite A, Hamilton, NJ 08690. 609-445-3577. www. thedentaldifference.com. See ad, page 12.

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

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

A great time to remind women to get their annual mammogram

Annual mammograms can detect breast cancer early when the prognosis is best.

More than 85% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.

About 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime.

Male breast cancer accounts for less than one percent of all breast cancer diagnoses. Women should begin getting an annual mammogram at age 40.

Dense breasts may increase your risk for breast cancer.

There are more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. Having your first menstrual period before age 12 or starting menopause after age 55 increases your risk for breast cancer.

Let’s beat breast cancer together.

A Happy and Healthy You

Specializing in Self-Care

My name is Chrissy Kohut and I am a self-care specialist. I coach women on how to create an attainable and sustainable self-care practice for their whole-self; mind, body, and spirit so they no longer are muttering the words “What about me?”.

When you create a daily self-care practice you can alleviate or even eliminate anxiety, stress, emotional breakdowns, burnout, and possibly avoid illness during the difficult seasons of your life.

But, what I love the most about having a daily self-care practice is that through your daily practice you learn how to stay grounded and in gratitude while being fully present when you are going through good seasons of life. Daily self-care creates a journey to healthy and happy lifestyle.

I also own a wellness boutique in Pennington, NJ that offers self-care classes, self-care workshops, gentle yoga, reiki, and self-care coaching. These offerings are available to help you on your journey to “A Healthy and Happy You.”

I created, “A Healthy and Happy You” to empower women to find a deeper knowing with in themselves that it’s ok to be imperfect. We are all so imperfectly perfect! The world needs you to be that unique and special person you were born to be. There is a way to get the healthy and happy life you’ve always wanted. And the secret to that life is simple…You!

I know it sounds too good to be true, but you are the secret. I am here to help you create the life you’ve wished for by teaching you daily self-care practices and offering services that can help nourish, heal, and relax your mind, body, and spirit.

Chrissy Kohut

As a mother, wife, grandmother, dog mama, and former teacher I can relate to being overwhelmed. The feelings of burn out, being completely stressed and living on emotional roller coaster are things I’ve experienced. I want to share the tips and tools I have learned that have helped me to create a daily self-care practice for my wholeself. Am I always happy and smiling? Hell No! But I have learned through the years from various teachers, coaches and mentors how to build my own self-care toolkit of rituals and habits to elevate my life. This toolkit helps to pull myself out of feelings of despair and back into aligned happiness. It’s because of my daily practice that I no longer mutter the words, “What about me?” But instead enjoy living a healthy and happy lifestyle.

It’s ok if you feel like you’re falling and have lost your way. You are not alone. Those thoughts and feelings have happened to most of us. It may not be easy and it will take some work. But in time, you will find your way back to, “A Healthy and Happy You” and I am here to help you along your way.

A Happy and Healthy You,1613 Reed Road Suite A-1, Pennington. 609-493-7599. www.ahealthyandhappyyou.com. See ad, page 7

Hamilton Township Division of Health Tips for You and Your Family to Prevent Respiratory Illnesses This Fall and Winter

The Hamilton Township Division of Health wants you to protect yourself and your family this fall and winter from respiratory illness such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV.

Practice healthy habits such as washing your hands, staying home when you are sick, avoiding close contact with others who are sick and staying up-to-date with your vaccines!

The new RSV vaccine is available for certain individuals, including adults over the age of 60 and pregnant people, talk to your doctor for more information about the RSV vaccine. Everyone ages 6 months and up is eligible for the updated COVID-19 vaccine, visit vaccines.gov to find a provider near you!

Also, remember to get your annual flu vaccine this fall!

Hamilton residents can come to the public flu vaccine clinics hosted by the Hamilton Township Division of Health. Visit www.HamiltonNJ.com/flushots or call 609-890-3884 for the schedule.

MERCER COUNTY 2017-2018 ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

The County of Mercer will be accepting applications for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for the 2023-2024 beginning October 2, 2023. Mercer County will continueaccepting applications for the Universal Service Fund (USF) Program throughout the year. Residents who pay their own heating costs, and meet the following income guidelines, may be eligible to receive financial assistance with their winter heating bill. Residents with medical conditions may also beeligible to receive cooling assistance:

PROGRAM EXTENDED UNTIL MAY 31

The County of Mercer will be accepting applications for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) until May 31, 2018. Mercer County will continue accepting applications for the Universal Service Fund (USF) Program throughout the year. Residents who pay their own heating costs, and meet the following income guidelines, may be eligible to receive financial assistance with their winter heating bill. Residents with medical conditions may also be eligible to receive cooling assistance.

The public is permitted to enter the building without an appointment at this time. If an in-person appointment is necessary, clients can call 609-337-0933 or email heatingappt@mercercounty.orgto schedule an appointment. Applications can be sent by regular mail to 640 S. Broad Street Room 106, PO BOX 8068 Trenton, NJ 08650by regular mail, fax, email and in person. Applications, forms, and information can be accessed at this site:http:// www.mercercounty.org/departments/housing-community-development/housing-and-community-

To request an application please contact the Mercer County Housing and Community Development Office at (609) 989-6858 or (609) 989-6959. Applications can also be obtained by visiting the Housing office at 640 South Broad Street, 1st floor, Room 106, Trenton, NJ 08650.

Locations & Hours: Trenton Office 640 South Broad Street – Rm 106 Trenton, NJ 08650 M-F 8:30am – 4:30pm (Wednesday open until 6:30pm)

Hamilton Office - County Connection Hamilton Square Shopping Center 957 Highway 33 at Paxson Avenue Hamilton, NJ 08690

Tues & Thurs 10:00am-12:00pm (by appt. only)

Saturdays – 4/7 & 5/5 10:00am-1:00pm (walk-ins)

Brian M. Hughes, County Executive

Brian M. Hughes, County Executive

Edward Pattik Housing Director

Adam and Karen Elias, owners of Hamilatte, in their new Route 33 shop in advance

Commissioners

of their planned Oct. 10 grand opening. (Hamilton Post staff photo.)

ADAM ELIAS The next voice for you and your family in Trenton

My name is Adam J Elias and I want to be the next voice for you and your family in Trenton My parents immigrated to the United States when I was just three years old in search of better opportunities for our family I grew up in New Jersey chasing those opportunities and I’m not going anywhere.

New Jersey is more expensive than ever for young families, and many of our seniors are forced to choose retirement in Florida over staying here with their grandchildren As your next State Assemblyman, you can count on me to pass laws that respect our families, keep our students safe and on a strong path to success, protect our workers, and make New Jersey a state we can ALL proudly call HOME.

GET TO KNOW ADAM

Proud Parent of three young children and the Proud Son of parents retired in one of our adult communities

Attorney at law and mortgage broker with experience representing thousands of residents in New Jersey

Owner of several small businesses, including the Elias & Gonzalez law firm, Jamesbrew Café, and Hamilatte (coming soon!)

Supports Legislation that would make StayNJ provide immediate tax relief to our seniors, NOT in 2026!

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ElEcTIon 2023—BoArd of EducATIon 7 in the running for 3 seats on Hamilton school board

Edited by Joe Emanski

The Hamilton Post continues its tradition of providing comprehensive election coverage this year. Our coverage continues with an email Q&A with Hamilton Township Board of Education candidates

Marc Crabtree, Christina Harvey, David Maher, John Muka, Don Snedeker, Denise Soto and Meaghan Stanton.

Marc Crabtree, 42, is a pastor at Refuge Church. The Mercerville resident has lived in Hamilton for 7 years. He is married to wife Jennifer and has two children: Annabeth, 5, and Brianna, 23, as well as a grandchild, Winnie, 3. Brianna graduated from Piscataway VoTech High School. Annabeth is a kindergartener in Hamilton Township.

Christina Vassiliou Harvey, 45, is a lawyer who lives in Hamilton Square. A 25-year township resident, she is married with two children who have attended

Hamilton Township Schools. As a current school board member, she asserts that her responses below reflect her own beliefs and do not reflect those of the Hamilton Board of Education.

David Maher, 56, is a life safety consultant. The Langtree resident has lived in Hamilton his whole life. He is married to wife Joanne, and has a son, Christopher, 33, who attended Langree, Crockett and Notre Dame, and daughter Laura, 24, who attended Langtree and Our Lady of Sorrows.

John Muka, 60, works in process improvement consulting. He lives between Whitehorse and Mercerville. A lifetime township resident, he is married to wife Patricia and has three children, Brian, 40; Kathleen, 38; and Patrick, 25. All three attended Catholic schools before graduating from Hamilton High West.

Donald Snedeker II, 46, is a captain in the Hamilton Township Fire Depart-

ment. The Whitehorse resident has lived in Hamilton for 28 years. He attended Hamilton schools and graduated from Montgomery High School. He is involved with Joey’s Little Angels and the Mercer County Youth Fire Setter Program. Snedeker and his wife Tina have two children: daughter Taylor, a Hamilton West Class of 2023 graduate, and son Joseph, 12, a student at Grice.

Denise Soto, 45, is chief development and communications officer at Oaks Integrated Care. The Mercerville resident has lived in the township for approximately 40 years. She is married to Robert Soto and together they have two daughters, ages 20 and 16, who both attended Langree, Crockett and Steinert. As a current school board member, Soto asserts that all statements made below are her own as a private citizen and not those of the board.

advocate. The Hamilton Square resident attended Langtree, Reynolds and Steinert. Husband Brandon Johnson is also a Steinert graduate who works for the State of New Jersey. Together they have a son who attends Sayen Elementary School.

Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and style.

Editor’s Note: Candidate Brandon McNeice has ceased his campaign and thrown his support behind other candidates. He made this decision too late for his name to be removed from ballots, meaning he can still receive votes. For his explanation of the decision to end his campaign, turn to page 7.

Harvey

Tell us about the moment that you decided to run, or run again, for school board.

Meaghan Stanton, 32, is a special education service provider and educational

Marc Crabtree: My interest in the school board came first when my wife and I were being urged by parents and teachers within the HTSD not to put our youngest in public schools and to either

Crabtree

send her to private school or home school her. Upon hearing that, I went to a school board meeting. At that school board meeting I was shocked that not only was there no transparency, the board actively fought against it and accountability was nonexistent. I had to run in hopes to change it because our community deserves better.

Christina Vassiliou Harvey: I was first elected to the board in 2020. I had made the decision to run as I was attempting to balance working full time while educating my children who were on virtual school. I saw many issues with the manner in which remote learning was being implemented with our youngest learners. For the last three years, I have continued to offer solutions to improve the educational opportunities for all students in Hamilton.

David Maher: I have served the community of Hamilton for my entire adult life, serving as a member of Nottingham Fire Company where over my 25 years there I have served as president, deputy chief and fire commissioner. I also served 8 years on the township zoning board. I see this as my next opportunity to serve the residents of Hamilton. I have a passion to see our students succeed and a connection to teachers.

John Muka: In June a year ago I became aware of the 2020 state-mandated comprehensive sex curriculum. The explicit content intended for grade-school kids was alarming. With the idea of our local BOE deciding the issue locally, I joined others at board meetings thinking we could work something out. We were completely ignored and this opened my eyes to the many other problems of staying in control of our own schools.

Donald Snedeker II: There was no specific moment that made me decide to run. I always wanted to be part of the decisionmaking process for our education system. Now that my children are older, I’m able to commit my time to the board and Hamilton community. I feel it’s an important elected position in any township to ensure our students are getting the best education we can give them.

Denise Soto: I had been approached to run by other parents/friends over the years. Given the timing and turmoil around book bans and the threat to LGBTQIA+ student rights being faced by school districts around the state, I decided now was the time. As a person of color, there had been times during my youth when I did not feel safe in my own

community. I want to ensure that no child ever has to experience that feeling.

Meaghan Stanton: I began attending BOE meetings in 2022 in an attempt to learn how our district is run. Although I have been very pleased with my son’s experience in HTSD, in my professional advocacy I’ve become very disheartened with the state of Hamilton’s special education programs. From this perspective

I have heard the pleas of many special needs families who are struggling to receive proper services.

My decision to run for board was based entirely on the dire need for a voice for special education on our BOE. Although our board members are caring and have the best intentions, it’s about time we have a true advocate for disability at the table.

Grade the job the school board has done in recent years. What can you as a member of the school board do to maintain or improve this grade?

Crabtree: Grade D. Board credibility has been fractured by the lack of transparency and accountability. A good example are the turf fields, while beautiful the fact is the rate of noncontact foot/ ankle injury on a turf field opposed to a grass field is 69% higher. Interestingly, turf is far less expensive to maintain than grass. Another example is Policy 5756, the board demanded was state law which turned out to never be law as per the state deputy AG.

As a school board member, I would ensure full transparency and accountability to the community. This would allow the board’s credibility to be restored and the relationship between the board and the community can begin to mend, leading to greater student success in and out of school.

Harvey: B-. The district is doing well but should work towards improvement. The board has prioritized learning loss following the pandemic by increasing support for teachers, who can develop their own specialties to maximize student success. In addition, the board has worked to continue to modernize our facilities, for instance, air conditioning in several areas. We updated the athletic fields in order to reduce the risk of student injuries. We need to continue to modernize. I have asked the district to investigate cost-saving measures so money can be reinvested to better the opportunities for the students, such as reducing transportation costs by having parents who do not use busing to opt out or exploring the availability of grants to

See SCHOOL BOARD, Page 28

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Snedeker

Maher

reduce transportation costs.

Maher: During Covid, the school board did a great job keeping the education going but, since Covid and the first year of state testing our scores went down in several school, our 3 high schools are ranked 218, 271 and 281, the lower third out of the entire state. We need to focus not only on state testing but, a better VoTech program and doing more for our special needs students.

Muka: Frankly, I never attended a school board meeting until June of 2022.

I felt that Hamilton schools had a good reputation and my children had great experiences at Hamilton West 20 years ago. I think the board does A-level work in some areas, but earns at best a D- or F in others.

The board majority fails at asserting local home rule against outside mandates and on honoring informed consent by the voters to their decisions.

David, Marc and I believe most people in Hamilton expect better performance from the board in these areas. The current board majority prefers providing minimal information to the public, which limits the support necessary to face the challenges ahead for our schools.

Snedeker II: I would rate the job the board has done a B. I feel as though board members have to make tough decisions balancing laws, policies and the needs of students, teachers and parents. I think the board has done a great job being transparent with the progress of the referendum that was passed making repairs and safety improvements to all 24 schools. I think communication between board members and the public during meetings could improve. The board and public speakers should have an interactive conversation instead of it being one sided by the public speaker. This would also contribute to transparency. My common-sense approach to problem solving

would maintain or improve this grade.

Soto: B. I think the school board has done a fine job in recent years. People often lose sight of just how large we are (23 schools) and compare us to much smaller districts in more affluent socioeconomic communities. Under Dr. Rocco’s leadership, the district has made great improvements to its facilities and continues to move forward with its strategic plan wisely using the resources available to them.

In addition, the district has been able to get creative finding additional revenue streams. Its focus on establishing equity is to be commended, launching a restorative justice committee and purchasing supplies and software for under resourced schools.

Stanton: B-. In recent years there have been undeniable improvements made in our district, thanks to the BOE and our superintendent, Dr. Rocco. I’m thrilled to see these changes as our district was unfortunately stagnant for many years. I believe the majority of the individuals on the board truly have the best interests of every student at heart. That said, we still have much room for growth, especially in terms of special education.

As a member of the board I plan to be a liaison between our special education students, their families, and the Hamilton BOE. With a decade of experience advocating for special education students in neighboring districts, I understand both what disabled children are legally entitled to and what role school boards play in providing services. I hope to work with our budget and grants to improve our programs.

What are two vital issues facing the school board today, and what will you do as a member of the board to address them?

Crabtree: Two vital issues facing the school board today are the board’s unwill-

ingness to protect the right of every parent to know what is happening with their child while in school and the mismanagement of resources.

Basic parental rights cover the books and content their children have access to, what they are exposed to in the classroom, bathroom and locker room use, the decisions and questions their children have, and safety.

The current school board places administration salaries over student needs and this needs to stop. A 3% raise and signing bonus for a superintendent whose salary is $30,000 or more above the state average should not be happening when basic life skill programs are being cut from our schools and teacher retention is plummeting.

Harvey: The district continues to address post-pandemic learning loss, and I will continue to support those efforts. The district uses iReady to identify learning gaps that teachers can then address with students individually. I seek the continuation of hiring tutors to assist in classrooms.

The district also must address continued overcrowding and aging buildings. I have worked on board committees to address these issues, and invite the public to participate in the discussions at the district’s long-range planning committee or emailing me suggestions. The discussion involves whether we reorganize our schools, add additions to our schools, create magnet-type schools, and encourage teacher specialization for better student instruction.

Maher: Overcrowding in schools. We need to look at all options, reshifting schools, looking and expanding or building and trying to acquire grants to take the burden off taxpayers. Also making sure that only Hamilton residents are attending our schools.

Muka: The vital school board issues are internal. The board is split on many

important issues. Majority rule by 5 or 6 people is conducted without fair respect to the wishes and opinions of the remaining members.

I believe the board members are all good people. Still, good people can make bad decisions. This happens based on three things: deficient information as inputs, bad decision making processes and submitting to undue outside influences. These three things come together in the current board, where the majority ends up as good people supporting bad decisions. These are now bad habits. The remedy: replace some members this election cycle so that home rule is asserted and the public can make informed choices about Hamilton school policies.

Snedeker II: Teacher shortage and aging facilities. We need to ensure our pay structure and benefits are comparable to districts similar to ours in order to be competitive in recruiting new teachers and retaining our current teachers. I would conduct an anonymous survey of our current teachers to see what makes them stay and what are the reasons they would want to leave.

We need to address our aging facilities and plan for the future. We need to explore options to determine what makes the most financial sense, building new schools, consolidating where possible, or refurbishing existing structures. We need to look into grants and funding from the state.

Soto: While the district has identified many gaps in equity already, I believe there is still work to be done. I hope to help find out the needs of our families by engaging with them more at school events and taking that information back to district leadership to see what more we can do to close the gaps.

In addition, we know that our staff vacancies continue to be a problem. As a new member of the personnel committee,

Muka Soto

I hope to learn more about the current strategies being used by the district to recruit and retain our staff and compare ourselves to other districts and consider out-of-the-box ideas to ensure we remain an attractive opportunity for those looking for careers in education.

Stanton: Although special education is my top priority, we have several vital issues to address, including our aging facilities, most of which are 60+ years old. We know that buildings require updates, additions and air conditioning. This is a huge project, yet I have faith that we can develop a long-term budget to address the needs of our campuses.

Providing a desirable work environment for teachers is the backbone of American public education. Hamilton is not unique in dealing with staffing shortages. It is of utmost importance that we hire, retain and cherish educators and staff if we are to continue to improve academically. New Jersey has some of the most highly qualified educators in the country and Hamilton is in need of their help. I plan to work with our teachers union to best serve our employees and make Hamilton a great place to work.

Do you believe that it is important that the board of education work to provide a safe and accepting environment for all students, regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation?

Do you support all students’ right to determine their own sexual identity?

Crabtree: I believe it is not only important but that it is the responsibility of the school board to provide and maintain a safe environment for all students. I do not support any action that is dangerous to the development of a child or that harm a child, especially things that could potentially cause irreparable harm.

Allowing or directly exposing a child to things of a sexual nature, outside biology, human reproduction, and anatomy, goes to the detriment of the child’s well being. Unproven ideologies do not belong in academic studies.

Harvey: Public education should serve every student. Boards of education are tasked with ensuring students feel safe in school. There are laws to protect everyone, which include laws against discrimination, bullying or harassment. I have listened to concerns expressed at our meetings and also reports in the news. To address these concerns, I moved to send the transgender student policy for a close review to see if any revisions are needed.

As a result of this motion, there will be discussion among the administration, families, the board, and the community at large to ensure everyone’s rights are pro-

tected. I encourage anyone who wishes to be heard to send comments to the board regarding the policy so that we can address the concerns of our community.

Maher: Absolutely there should be a safe environment for all students as well as staff. We are all different and that’s what makes us unique and we need to be acceptable to each other. As far as their identity we as board members and educators need to work together with the parents. I feel strongly about parental rights.

Muka: Of course. Every student in our schools should experience a safe and accepting environment, but not necessarily an environment that simply affirms whatever a student might believe is true during the roller coaster ride of puberty. Everybody faces personal challenges during puberty. Ideally, we don’t want bullying or intimidation. We also must be sensitive to the rampant depression and anxiety students often face.

Still, sexual identity is primarily a personal concern and is not a settled academic discipline. Students may need truly effective counseling and support but it should not be part of the teaching curriculum in the schools. That curriculum should focus on basic biological facts about human reproduction including that it is amazingly designed for having a family and not just “recreational.”

Snedeker II: It is extremely important for all people, not just the board of education, to provide a safe and accepting environment for others. No one should ever feel less than, because of their race, religion or sexual orientation. I will do all I can to ensure this happens and would support discipline to anyone found in violation of these basic human rights. I would support a student who wishes to determine their own sexual identity, but that should have no bearing on how they are taught by our teachers and treated by staff and fellow students.

All students, no matter what, should be given the same education and taught content at the appropriate grade level.

Soto: 100%. I believe that the board has a responsibility to make sure that all students feel safe and welcomed in their schools. As the parent of a queer child, I do support the students’ right to not only determine their own sexual identity, but disclose said identity when they feel comfortable and prepared to do so on their own terms. We are not the ones who have to live with the consequences of that decision.

Each child’s home life is unique and they know when the time is right. Children can’t learn in an environment where See SCHOOL BOARD, Page 30

Stanton

Meaghan Stanton eaghan

Harvey Christina Vassiliou arvey

Denise Soto enise

they don’t feel safe and respected and every child should have access to schools like that to learn in.

Stanton: Not only is it important to provide a safe and accepting environment for all students, it is mandatory. Every student in Hamilton Township is protected by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as well as Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. It’s incredibly important to me that our children, regardless of race or orientation, are provided with a well-rounded and meaningful education in a safe and nurturing environment.

As humans we all deserve to live as our most authentic selves, students included. I will do my part to protect the rights of every single student in Hamilton Township.

Hamilton Township schoolchildren are far more diverse in terms of race, culture and heritage than they were just a few decades ago. Why are you the right person to ensure that the district is able to meet the needs of these diverse students?

Crabtree: Meeting the needs of diverse students is about going into the communities and connect-

THE KUSER FARM MANSION PRESENTS:

Ghost Hunting Information, Equipment and Stories!

ing with those in the different communities our students represent. When it comes to diversity, there is one thing that will always create division, and that is perspective. Not any one group or subgroup can fully understand another without at least knowing the other groups’ perspectives and building bridges of relatability so that we can all do a better job at truly becoming #onehamilton.

I am the right person for that job because I have a wide range of life experiences that give me a unique ability to build a bridge of relatability across many spectrums. I am willing and available to go into our community to have these necessary honest conversations.

Harvey: As a first-generation American, I am cognizant of the importance of diversity. I grew up in a Greek-Cypriot-American single-parent household, which meant even in my Greek community, I was different. From a young age, I recognized the value of learning from others as well as teaching others about my own cultural similarities and differences. As a board member, I have raised issues to ensure that we are aware of concerns that might affect certain students but not others.

Maher: I have a strong background for working with several cultures, races and different heritage. I work to provide security at synagogues, Muslim centers, Catholic churches and a hospital, where you need to be acceptable and understanding to everyone who I meet.

Growing up I attended a church in Trenton. Over the years its culture and race changed, our family stayed dedicated to the church family and one year my father was honored as Liberian father of the year, what a great honor this was.

Muka: The impact of this growing diversity is largely hidden from a significant part of our Hamilton community. The current school board majority does little to inform those who have children or grandchildren in the school or the taxpayers in general about these realities. For example, most are unaware of the impact of so many students who speak almost no English or the rate of teacher resignations.

Instead of monthly reports on key statistics that show us such realities we have a continual set of “feel good” messages that all is well. Complex situations require honest observation and measurements of

Avenue Hamilton NJ 08610

Please join Matt Cook and his team from Princeton Area Paranormal as they demonstrate some ghost hunting techniques and equipment. They will have some experiences to share and will attempt to answer some of your paranormal questions. Just in time for Halloween! Can you make the Ghostbusters Claim? I ain’t ‘fraid of no ghost.

Psychic readings will be available during this event with, “Psychic Readings by Mandy”. Chairs are provided, however you are invited to bring a chair cushion for extra comfort. Please call (609) 890-3630 to register or email Patti Krzywulak, Program Coordinator at PKrzywulak@ hamiltonnj.com. Seating is limited, so reserve your spot now!

**Limited 2 seats per reservation** | **Lite refreshments will be served**

**Not suitable for children under 13 years of age**

performance. I have done exactly that in my career and I will bring that to the Board decision making process.

Snedeker II: Through my career and volunteer work, I’ve spent 30 years interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. I believe in treating everyone with respect and the way I want to be treated. These interactions have helped me understand and appreciate the differences between different races, cultures and heritages. My only goal is to make Hamilton schools better than they are today, graduating highly educated and highly motivated young adults into higher education, the military and workforce.

Soto: I grew up in Hamilton very differently than my peers. I am a brown woman and the daughter of Egyptian emigrants who came to this country in the 1970s. I was raised in a Muslim household when those around me were mostly Irish or Italian Catholic. Today, I’m married to a (formerly Jehovah’s Witness) Hispanic male who grew up in a very urban neighborhood and we’re raising two biracial daughters, one of whom is gay.

Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging is very important to me because of the various elements of diversity that touched my own life and I continue to educate myself in DEI studies to ensure that I can advocate for marginalized communities appropriately.

Stanton: As the wife of a black man and mother of a biracial child, I am glad to see our district’s population continue to grow in terms of diversity. As students in Hamilton, even in the same schools, my husband and I had different experiences based entirely on race. I’m relieved to know my son’s skin color will not play such a role in his social experiences in our schools, that we no longer tolerate hate.

The importance of equity in our district will reflect in my actions as a board member. I plan to assist in initiatives to hire more diverse teachers, something that has been proven to aid not only in the success of students of color but also that of their caucasian peers. I also will be examining what we can do to create unity and equality between our schools. For far too long, your neighborhood and ethnic origin has played a role in the quality of education received.

In short, why should voters elect you to serve the next three years on the school board?

Crabtree: Hamiltonians should elect me because I will fight for the natural rights of every parent, I will stand firm for the resources and tools our teachers so desperately need while providing them with the benefits and salary they need to take care of their families, and I will make it a top priority to provide better

resources for our special needs students and their families. I will fight so that no one is forgotten.

Harvey: If re-elected, during my next term, I will continue to work with my colleagues to expand learning opportunities for students. I will support the superintendent and the administration in these efforts. I will continue to listen to community members; advocate for consensus; and remember that I serve a very broad and diverse Hamilton community. I believe my life experiences as a working mother make me well suited for the task at hand.

Maher: I promise to be fair, open minded and work with the students, teachers, administrators, parents and taxpayers to provide excellent education to assure our students to succeed.

Muka: I’ve spent most of my life working with people to improve complex situations, like designing spacecraft and other high performance systems, running hospital operations, and even key processes at the Department of Labor and many other organizations. Even better, David and Marc bring their own complementary skills to our Responsible Education team. Together we will establish a unity based on “good people in great processes” and produce the results that Hamilton deserves.

Snedeker II: Being the only single candidate, I have no political agenda. I have a common-sense approach to problem solving. I have my own thoughts and ideas, the ability and willingness to work with other board members and the public on all school-related issues. Hamilton Township is a blue-collar community and I believe I represent that for all the hardworking Hamiltonians that just want the best schools for our students.

Soto: I hope to be able to continue to serve all of Hamilton in this capacity so I can be the voice for the voiceless. We have single parent households, parents working three jobs just to put food on the table, English Language Learning families, recent immigrants and families dealing with homelessness, just to name a few. Every student and family is unique and because of that, they can easily be overlooked without the right advocate.

Stanton: Hamilton voters can count on me to be an honest and fair advocate for all students, their families and our staff. As a parent in the district, my son’s education depends on the choices of our board. My priorities are to improve programming for all, with a focus on our most vulnerable populations. As an advo cate I have the knowledge and ability to ensure our district continues to improve academically, socially, and culturally. We live in a great town with room for fantastic improvements.

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Friday: The Quixote Project 7-10pm

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Saturday: Union Rock Band 1-4pm Sideways Willy 5-8pm

Sunday: Pennington Station Band 12:30-3:30pm

Georgia Owen 4-7pm

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they can and that’s what you want a kid to do.”

And just what did Faeflen think he did wrong in producing his third straight game of over 100 yards?

“I really feel I could have had 250,” he said “I was watching the film, there were some plays where I got knocked down or I could have made a better cut. Or I just let somebody tackle me who wasn’t supposed to tackle me. I just felt I could have played better.”

It is the kind of attitude that coaches love, for it’s never good when a player feels satisfied with himself. The preferred mindset is for them to always strive for more.

Faeflen proved he had that frame of mind last May, when he was struck by appendicitis and had to have his appendix removed. When he was finally cleared to workout, he had dropped from a playing weight last year of 195, down to 187. Thus he began to work out with former teammates Q McMillan and Ron McNulty, and the results were impressive.

“He surprised me, he told me in the off-season he went up to 200 pounds, I was like Whaaaat!’” McGuire said. “He put some good weight on and that’s important. He’s a key cog in our system with what we’re doing. We tried to be

deceptive for a couple years and outathlete you, now we just want to bruise you. We just want to go downhill and say ‘Here you are.’”

Faeflen is the perfect back for that. He has the ability to get around the edge, but his strong point is running hard and wearing down opposing defenses.

“That’s something I take pride in,” Sam said. “I think the extra muscle helps me a lot. It’s helping me get off the first defender without making a move. If I can just run on a defense and make them tired, it brings excitement to me.”

Ironically, he was not too excited about becoming a running back as a youth.

Faeflen played for Trenton Pop Warner from age 8 to 14. He was a defensive and offensive lineman his first six years. They weren’t glory positions, but as a team-first guy Sam said, “My dad always told me just do whatever you can to help the team win, and if I could help the team win by doing it, I did it to the best of my ability.”

Going into seventh grade his coach asked him to try running back and, surprisingly, he declined despite the fact runners get more notice.

“At that time, I felt like I wasn’t ready for running back,” Faeflen said.

He felt the same way in eighth grade, but his coach wasn’t giving him the option. He would run. And in his first

game he rushed for 225 yards and three touchdowns against Rancocas Valley.

So did he finally feel ready?

“Yeah,” he said. “I did.”

When he reached Nottingham, Faeflen ran for the JV and freshman teams as a freshman. He felt he did OK, but did have one adjustment to make.

“What was really difficult was how to get the ball (on a handoff),” he said. “I didn’t know you had to have a certain hand up when you’re going to a certain side. I had to learn that first. It was a little hard for me because I’d have the wrong hand up, it would cause the ball to get fumbled. I would do that sophomore year so it took me time to really get used to it.”

McGuire saw some other areas that needed improvement.

“He was very raw,” the coach said. “He’s been a downhill runner, he’s gotta learn how to cut, how to find the holes. He’s still learning how to see different things, how to get behind blockers. So that comes with the territory. He’s always been gifted just getting the ball, but he had to learn a couple nuances when he came to us.”

In 10th grade, Faeflen rushed 39 times for 316 yards while rotating in with Kwanir Edwards, Isaiah Barnes and Jed Carrette. He was unsure if he was ready to be a varsity running back until going

for a 64-yard touchdown run against Allentown in the season’s second game.

“I didn’t know how it would go at all in high school to be completely honest,” Faeflen said. “I would say after that run, I started to say to myself ‘Yeah I can do this.’”

Edwards and Barnes got the majority of carries during Sam’s sophomore year, and he paid attention to what they did.

“Just watching them run helped a lot,” Faeflen said. “Kwanir helped me a lot, every day he would teach me more game stuff to add to my game. The same thing with Isaiah, just being an older brother to me and teaching me the game.”

As a junior, Faeflen was elevated to the feature back, but the offense was not going to revolve around him completely. Nottingham had a dynamic passing attack with quarterback Joe Lemley and receiver McMillan. But four games into the campaign, McMillan suffered a season-ending injury that changed the dynamics of the offense.

“When Q gets hurt, Sam has to take the whole offense on his shoulders,” McGuire said.

“That was kind of unexpected, I didn’t really know how to prepare for it or anything,” Faeflen said. “I just felt like it came out of nowhere, but I felt I handled it OK. This year I think I can handle it

better.”

He actually handled it pretty well, rushing for 892 yards and nine touchdowns on 127 carries, which came out to seven yards per carry. It was a good learning experience entering his final year.

“He knows coming into this senior season, ‘I am the guy, here is nobody else,’” McGuire said. “You look at growth, you get the wherewithal that ‘I’m the guy now, I’m not just waiting on this guy for it to be my turn. They have to go through me.’ So it was good for him to learn and see it last year.”

In this year’s season opener, Faeflen was held to 56 yards on 10 carries in a loss at Burlington Township. He got in gear the following week, going for 127 and two TDs in a close loss to Notre Dame, followed by 139 and one touchdown in a win at Trenton prior to his first 200-yard game against Steinert.

In watching that game, McGuire felt the sprained ankle may have helped in certain ways.

“He actually had better vision when we did our walk-through on Friday,” the coach said. “It looked like he had better vision because he had to force himself to cut different ways because of his ankle. So maybe that will provide a new dimension for him.”

McGuire showed that vision on his first

TD run at Steinert. He started around the right side and for a moment looked like he would try and beat the defense to the corner of the endzone. But he recognized a hole and suddenly stopped and cut up

through the opening for the score. “He has done better with that,” McGuire said. “We’ve been saying it for the last three years. He’s getting coached on that aspect and he’s getting better.”

Despite the fact he can get to the outside, Sam is fun to watch bulling straight ahead.

“I still call him a power back,” McGuire said. “Physicality, that’s his bread and butter. He’s gotta run behind those pads with that weight that he has because that’s what we’re doing this year.”

Although Faeflen rushed for 522 yards through the first four games, he had yet to be utilized for his pass catching skills as he had just two receptions. It is something Sam would like to do more of, but McGuire said that can be a bit tricky.

“He’s one of our better pass catchers but when we do throw the ball the defense has guys that focus on him,” the coach said. “If we throw him out in the slot, they automatically think ‘OK, we’re going to him.’ So we have to try to deceive people a little when we try to throw the ball.”

As long as Sam can run the ball, Nottingham should be in good shape. Faeflen is hoping to play in college and is waiting to hear from some schools. Grades should not be a problem, as has a 3.2 GPA and is leaning toward a future in computer science, accounting or real estate.

But for now his focus is clear. Pick up as many yards as possible even if he’s bothered by a pesky ankle. Because unlike Pop Warner, he now knows he belongs at running back.

A little rain can’t dampen senior Sam Faeflen’s strong start to the Nottingham football season. (Photo by Rich Fisher.)

Hardiman keeps Spartan

’keeper train rolling along

By Rich Fisher

The goalie conveyor belt for the Steinert girls soccer team has been running smoothly the past three years.

When Gemma Goldenbaum rolled off the belt after the 2021 season, Jillian Jones came along right behind in 2022. Jones came off the line after last year, but then Emily Hardiman came cruising around the carousel.

The senior has stepped in admirably, allowing one goal and posting four shutouts in Steinert’s 4-1 start. Once again, coach Mike “Stinger” Hastings hasn’t had to worry about who’s in the nets.

“It’s tremendous,” Hastings said. “It’s really nice. Jill did the same thing Emily is doing. A lot of goalies kind of ride the pine for a while. They learn and they’re hungry by the time they’re in this spot. Emily’s hungry, she’s ready.”

Hardiman saved 23 of the first 24 shots she faced this season after making nine saves in seven games as a 2022 back-up.

“Last year I was really grateful for my opportunities and getting in the games I could,” Hardiman said. “(Assistant coach Kristin) Jacobs really got me prepared for this season; we did more game situations because I didn’t get a lot of those opportunities last year. We worked on a lot of game scenario shots before the season started.”

The athletic Hardiman, who also plays basketball and lacrosse, started her soccer career playing the field.

“When I was young I tried a lot of different sports and soccer is the one that stuck with me,” she said.

At around age 9, Emily doesn’t quite recall why she did it, but she asked her rec coach to try and play goalie. She admitted to being a little scared but added “you kind of get used to it.”

The result of the game, which Hardiman did remember, was a 4-1 loss. From there she went on to play indoor at the Bob Smith Soccer Academy in Robbinsville, which proved helpful.

“I got a lot of rapid shots with that on a small field,” she said.

Hardiman moved from Hamilton rec soccer to the Hamilton Wildcats before finishing her travel career with Upper Freehold/Allentown.

During her sophomore year, with Goldenbaum and Jones both playing in front of her, Emily played JV but got into three varsity games and made two saves.

“She was very good as a JV player,”

Hastings recalled.

Despite her limited varsity time last year, Hardiman proved to be valuable in another way.

“She pushed my starting goalie last year really hard,” Hastings said. “She was a great back-up keeper because she kept Jill on her toes. She trained hard every day. That’s what made her the better player that she is today. She’s a starter this year and she’s earned it.”

Hardiman began to show how good she was over the summer, earning praise from opposing coaches.

“During seven v seven games all the other coaches were like ‘You’re goalie. . .wow,’” Hastings said. “It’s nice to hear that. You tell players that and give them that confidence like ‘Yeah, you can play. You belong here.’”

It did, however, take Hardiman a little while to realize that she belonged on varsity.

“It was definitely weird at first,” she said. “Now I’m getting used to it. At first it was very different. It was kind of nerve wracking. I would think about it in class when we have a game. But now I’m used to it.”

Hastings feels that Hardiman’s work ethic played a big part in her earning the

Senior goalkeeper Emily Hardiman had four shutouts in Steinert soccer’s first five games. (Photo by Rich Fisher.)

starting role.

“She played sparingly here and there last year but now it’s her job,” the coach said. “She’s worked really hard to get where she’s at. She’s so athletic, you can see she’s gonna make some saves that some other goalies will not get to. She plays other sports, the Hardiman family is pretty athletic, she’s got it in her genes.”

The one thing Emily doesn’t have is height. But that never stopped Goldenbaum back in the day, and it’s not stopping the 5-foot-5 Hardiman.

“We do a lot of jumping warm-ups and stuff,” she said. “We do balance in the beginning where everybody just jumps in the air to catch a high ball. We do high ball parrys where we throw it into high corners trying to get them, and we jump into the crossbar a lot to get our mobility. It helps and it gets me stretched out.”

One thing the keeper is still working on, is being able to communicate with her defenders and control the box. She is a relative newcomer in the back, playing behind senior veterans Alyssa Hendricksen and Brenna Riddell.

“She’s working on it,” Hastings said. “There’s things she still has to work on but she’s a quick learner, she gets better every day.

“Right now she doesn’t know when to come out. She’s working on that stuff.

We have Alyssa and Brenna who have been here four years. She thinks they can do everything but sometimes she has to come out and help them. But she’s learning.”

It is not something that Hardiman takes lightly, as she is well aware of what needs to improve.

“That’s my big thing this year, working on my communication,” she said. “I think that comes with experience and I feel like I’m getting better at it already; compared to our scrimmages. And Alyssa and Brenna really help me out with the marking on the side.”

When she’s not playing soccer, Hardiman is involved in student government and is a member of Teens on Fire, which performs community service. People hungry for a burger may be seated by Emily as she is also a hostess at Rossi’s.

But most importantly for Hastings, she has continued the long line of girls who stand tall as the Spartans last line of defense.

“Having a good goalie just gives you confidence,” the coach said. “You know if you give up a shot she’s probably gonna save it. You have that back there as another thing in your arsenal to go forward and give you confidence.”

It’s all part of maintaining the tradition for Steinert.

Your insurance shouldn’t be what

Celentano overcomes injury to star for Hornets

By Rich Fisher

Staci Priestley loves Bella Celentano, but there were times during the 2022 season that her goalkeeper drove her nuts.

That’s because Celentano was not in goal for the Hamilton West girls soccer team, but on the sidelines recovering from severe knee injury to her tibia, femur and ligaments. It happened four games into Bella’s junior year, and once she was able to rejoin her team at games, she got antsy.

“I would come to practice, try and get as many touches as I could on the ball,” she said. “Even when I shouldn’t have, I was trying to get touches. I was always trying to get back on the field. I kept telling (Priestley) ‘I’m good, I can walk.’ She kept saying ‘No, sit back down!’ I’d be like, ‘Ooookaaaay.’”

“She started being like another coach for me,” Priestley said with a laugh.

They can laugh now, but it was a serious injury for Bella and a serious blow to Hamilton considering how good she is. Now in her fourth season as the Hornets starting keeper, Celentano recorded her 300th save earlier this year and has 327 for her career. The senior had 77 saves through Hamilton’s 2-5 start, and if she keeps up that pace, 400 could easily be in range.

In the season’s second game, she stopped an amazing 30 shots against Princeton. Celentano feels she is still working her way back into top form, but is loving every minute of it. She has a new zeal for the game after having it taken away from her.

“Being out made me actually realize how much I do love the game and how much I do want to be on the field,” she said.

The tall, wiry goalie brings not only athleticism to her position; she also provides leadership and the ability to get things organized in the back.

“She communicates really well, she talks to the defense, especially with marking up, making sure everybody is doing their job back there,” Priestley said. “She’s really good with her feet. She’s probably our best juggler on our team. She has a really good first touch. Not only is she good with her hands but she’s very good coming out and using her legs and stopping the ball defensively if her hands

aren’t available for one on one situations.

“She’s just really good. On corner kicks she has the height to be able to punch the ball out when needed. She’s really aggressive, she doesn’t shy back from anything.”

It has been that way from the start. When she was a 4-year-old rec player, Bella’s aunt was also her coach and asked her niece if she would be interested in coming off the field and into the goal.

“You’re always trying new positions in rec so I was like, ‘Why not,’” Celentano said. “After a few games, she said, ‘You’re staying in goal.’ I kind of got thrown into it and that’s where I had to stay.”

Bella went from rec soccer to the GAK and then to the Hibernians, where she played for Debbie Carr’s ’04 Crush team despite being born in 2006.

“She started playing for me when she was around 11,” Carr said. “She’s tough as nails. She always had that goalie mindset. She’s not afraid.”

When Celentano arrived at West, her experience of playing up in travel ball paid immediate dividends. She was already used to playing against older competition.

“She immediately stepped up,” Priestley said. “You would never have known she was a freshman. You would have thought she was a junior or senior. She had confidence as if she was a three-year varsity player. Obviously during Covid that year, it was a little crazy for us. But she held her own and impressed all of us.”

Bella didn’t feel all that confident when she showed up for practice the first day. In fact, she didn’t know anything about the Hornets.

“I was just hoping to make the team,” she said. “It sounds horrible, but I never came to a game because I was worried about travel. And then I came and I was hoping I made the team. I got starting varsity goalie and I was like, ‘Oh my God, I did that?’”

Not only did she do it, she never lost the job except for injury. As a freshman, Celentano started three of Hamilton’s five games and made 51 saves. Thanks to playing with and against girls who were two years older in travel, she did not feel like a kid being thrown in the deep end for the first time.

However, the Hornets did not win as

Celentano

and your child, it’s important to us.

regularly as the Crush.

“It’s a whole different ball game,” Celentano said. “It was something I needed. In travel we were mostly winning, in high school it was a good way to break my ego down, honestly.”

While the losses did not make Celentano happy, they never wore her down to the point where she stopped trying. In fact, it made her even more determined.

“She is relentless,” Priestley said. “She continues to work hard for us. She gives nothing but 110 percent effort every game and every practice. She perseveres through every injury she has had to overcome and continues to work that much harder. She has given us nothing but heart and has left it all on the field.”

“I always tell the girls it’s not the goalie’s fault, it takes all 10 for the ball to get back to her and she knows that and she continues to do the best that she can when she gets constant fire. We play a defensive game for almost 60 out of her 80 minutes. It’s in her back end constantly and she’ll continue to get back up and work that much harder and that’s what we love about her.”

It’s pretty much a good news-bad news situation. The bad news is that the other team is constantly on attack, the good news — for Bella, anyway — is that she never gets bored.

“There are times you get frustrated, that’s just human,” she said. “But I really do try to be a leader. As a goalie you are the leader. You see everything on the field, and it also helps with having girls my age in the back, like Rachel Nixon and Maddie Harrison.”

Celentano made 134 saves as a sophomore, and stopped 65 shots in just four games as a junior. Although Bella feels she is still working her way back, Carr thought she looked good upon her return to the Crush last spring.

“I don’t think she missed a beat,” said Carr, who’s also a Notre Dame assistant. “She stepped on the field and came back the same way. When she’s in goal, I thought nothing is getting by her.

We played them on opening day this year and I texted before that game and told her, ‘You’re gonna keep them in games. Just leave it all on the field.’”

Celentano is looking to keep her career going, as she hopes to attend college in either North or South Carolina. If that doesn’t materialize, she is looking at Stockton.

“Right now it’s about playing soccer,” she said. “But if there is my dream school I’d be OK just playing a rec league.”

Award

Lucash Bishop Thomas J Walsh nd the future. Notre

Church of St Ann Rosary Altar Society

Judy, Abby & Nate Duff

Award St

Gregory the Great Knights of Columbus Good Neighbor Award Received by John Zubricky

Dame High School St. Paul School & Parish George & Terri Olexa

Parker McCay P A Wayne & Karen Ranbom Stark & Stark Tusay & Tusay

7 questions with Matthew Csizmadia

then where I made shooting in 3:2 and then resizing to 1:1 my signature touch.

What fight/struggle do you have regarding your art?

Matthew Csizmadia is a Hamilton native who takes wonderful photographs of the area around him. He calls himself a seasonal photographer, and captures a mood that makes the viewer feel the place weather and time of day.

He has never shown his work in an exhibition and only offers the work online in a square format. The photos are like a New Jersey travelogue, mostly devoid of people, which is not always easy to achieve here in the Garden State. How and when did you get started with photography as an art form?

My passion for capturing photographs of nature developed slowly and organically over time. I took a black and white photography course as an elective back when I was in college, although I wouldn’t necessarily say that it was responsible for any kind of all-awakening moment. It did, however, instill in me a very deep-seated appreciation for the art that it is.

While on a hike, a visit to the city, a trip to the shore, I’d bring along the camera. As time went on, though, I found myself not only regularly bringing it along, but I even began orchestrating outings to different places for the sole purpose of exploring and capturing the best images of that destination that I possibly could.

Who are some of your influences?

The process of creating art is a personal one, and creative potential is realized when conducted with reckless abandon. Comparing work to the work of others, or allowing outside influence to interrupt intrinsic flow of ideas is something that I make a concerted effort to not fall victim to. I do have a muse, and that would be Mother Nature herself. Whether it be the first day of spring, or the doldrums of midwinter, her beauty never ceases to leave me in awe and she can always be counted upon to shine in spectacular fashion for the camera.

All of the images on your website are square. Is this how you wish the image to be, or a convention to make offering work online easier?

This feature of my work developed very early on in my art journey. I remember there being a particular shot that I took where I thought, “This would look incredible if resized to a 1:1 aspect ratio and framed with white wood.” It was

Hands down, the endless number of hours spent building (and now maintaining) my website (matthewcsizmadiaphotography.com), editing photos, advertising/marketing/ sharing my work on various social media platforms, etc. Being a very active, always-on-the-move kind of guy, it is completely against my nature to spend absurd amounts of time sitting in front of a computer screen. However, I have come to terms with the fact that it is a necessary part of the process and that there are no shortcuts to success.

You call your work “seasonal.”

What is your meaning of the word?

I refer to my work as “framed, seasonal photography” because that is what I strive to create. My goal is to capture that quintessential seasonal shot. That photograph that positively encapsulates everything one associates with that time of the year.

For example, one of my autumn themed pieces is titled, “Haunted Hayride,” and it depicts the old Windsor Farm barn (that has, sadly, since been razed) at dusk with two, bright orange jack-o-lanterns painted on the side of it and a dark, menacing looking cornfield in the foreground. I made it a point to go out there at that exact time of the evening and to take the shot from that precise angle because that is when and where I felt the essence of October was momentarily available for capture.

What are you working on now?

I have been taking a number of small day trips to some of the beautiful towns along the New Jersey shore. At times, you actually feel like you have the whole town to yourself. As a result of these trips, I now have a great deal of new, coastal/beach/summer-themed photos to go through, so I am currently editing them and doing all that I need to do in order to get them just right.

You emphasize sustainability with the framed pieces. Is this easy to accomplish?

I have the utmost respect for wildlife. Making absolutely certain that I was in no way, shape, or form negatively impacting animals, or their habitats, while in the process of conducting my business, was priority number one. Which is why my wood frames are constructed of

Thomas Kelly FIGHT IN THE MUSEUM

repurposed pieces of natural wood and my metal frames are manufactured of recycled aluminum. Even the photo paper used for my prints is sourced from a paper mill that is certified with all its operations in accordance with Forest Stewardship Council. There is no cutting of corners when operating with nature’s best interest in mind. Either do it right, or not at all. Nature and wildlife preservation have special importance to you. Where did this focus originate in your work and outlook?

For as long as I can remember, I have had a love for animals and it is a love that I feel has only grown stronger in recent years. The innocent creatures of the

land, air, and sea are no less deserving of a long, happy, and healthy life than us humans, which is why I am taking the initiative via my art to help them and the places they call “home” in any and every way that I can.

I am in the process of partnering with a wildlife protection organization, where a percentage of proceeds from every purchase through my site will go to helping animals in need and protecting their habitat.

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

“Strolling into Autumn” photograph by Matthew Csizmadia.

October Events

Notary Oath Night

Thursday, October 5th, 3:00 – 7:00 PM

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

FREE 15-Minutes with an Attorney

Wednesday, October 11th, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

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

LAWYERS C.A.R.E*

FREE 15-minute consultation with an Attorney (virtually)

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

Adult Family & Friends CPR

Thursday, October 12th, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Family & Friends CPR programs teach participants how to perform CPR and how to help someone who is choking. It will include a demonstration of an AED. This course is designed for members of the general community who do not need certification

Please call to register: 1-888-897-8979

Get Covered New Jersey

Wednesday, October 25th, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Get Covered New Jersey is the state’s official health insurance marketplace, where New Jerseyans can apply for insurance from private health insurance companies. Join Carolyn Schindewolf, Certified Application Counselor, Penn Medicine Princeton Health, to learn about the program, who is eligible and information on financial subsidies.

Please call to register: 1-888-897-8979

Please call 609-890-9800 to reserve space

A squirrel conspiracy?

have I gone nuts?

Peter Dabbene

Many people who know me are aware of my long, problematic relationship with squirrels. I’ve received gag gifts such as squirrel calendars, magnets, and even a shiny metal squirrel nutcracker. A small squirrel statue sits outside our house with an American flag super-glued to its paws—showing patriotism in a rodentcentric re-creation of Joe Rosenthal’s famous Iwo Jima photograph, or perhaps reclaiming central New Jersey territory for these furry, earlier inhabitants of North America.

If that latter interpretation seems fanciful or alarmist, read on.

The typical New Jerseyan considers squirrels to be cute, innocent animal neighbors—but the typical New Jerseyan is wrong. For years, I’ve tracked newspaper headlines, clipping and posting them on a corkboard, putting together the pieces of a very disturbing puzzle, like the troubled but dedicated lead detective in many most every PBS Masterpiece Mystery series, not to mention hundreds of other movies and TV shows.

The next step, naturally, will be to mark the locations of these events on a map with pushpins linked by lengths of red yarn, and post pictures of known members of the Squirrel Syndicate (Scrat, Sandy, Rocket J.), their connections to each other indicated with more red yarn or maybe some black tape. And how could the scene be complete without handwritten notes on Post-its, reading “WHO’S IN CHARGE?” and “WHAT IS THE PATTERN?” and “WILL THEY REMEMBER WHERE THEY’RE BURYING THESE ACORNS?”

The standard name for this kind of visual display is “evidence board,” but it’s known more colloquially as a “crazy wall” (see crazywalls.tumblr.com for many fine examples). Combining the terms, and with a nod to the creatures I’m dealing with, I call mine a “nutboard.”

The articles show a clear conspiracy of criminal squirrel activity: “Squirrel the culprit in Oct. 4 train delays” (The Trentonian, Oct. 20, 2012) and “Squirrel causes power outages, mass evacuations at Trenton senior centers” (Sept. 6, 2010). The latter was accompanied by a front-page photo of an enlarged, godzillasized squirrel and an unforgettable frontpage headline that read, “SQUIRREL TERRORIZES 199 SENIORS.”

Or

They’re not just making us late and cutting our power, though. They are increasingly violent, as shown by a 2017 New York Post story and its accompanying video footage, headlined: “Cookie-eating squirrel goes nuts on cops.” (The use of the word “nuts” in a whimsical context when discussing squirrels has, unfortunately, led many to believe that squirrels are harmless, or have a good sense of humor. They aren’t, and they don’t.) 2017 also saw the New York Post reporting (again, with video evidence): “Fat squirrel steals pricey goods left out for delivery folks.”

Theft and attacking a police officer mark a clear escalation and intensification from so-called “nuisance crimes.” Unfortunately, this seems to be a trend, and not just locally. The Associated Press, also unable to resist nut puns, reported “Squirrel goes nuts on Vermont neighborhood” (March 17, 2011). The New York Post picked up a news report from the U.K. with the headline “‘Psycho’ squirrel’s 48-hour Christmas rampage terrorizes town, injures 18” (Dec. 29, 2021).

The Canadian magazine Spacing revealed the disturbing news that “Toronto’s squirrels have become carnivorous” (Aug. 28, 2020). And Miami Herald reporter Howard Cohen told the story of a “Florida man attacked by ‘crazy squirrel’” (March 20, 2019). Cohen wrote that a squirrel “’has gone nuts’ [..] and, without provocation, attacked and bit the victim on the elbow and scratched him on the arm.”

That victim, one Robby Armstrong of Sarasota County, said, “I chased him around and shot him with a BB gun about 10 times, but he is still alive, so be on the lookout for a crazy squirrel.”

Carnivorous? Bulletproof?

Unstoppable? “Nuts”? Wait, there’s more.

UPI’s John Murphy reported (August 15, 2022) that “Squirrels are ‘splooting’ all over New York City.” I’ll allow your imagination to take you where it will for a moment, before explaining that splooting is simply the act of stretching out facedown, limbs splayed. This is no sit-in (or sploot-in) protest, nor is it some kind of insurance scam (though I’m sure the squirrels are working on that angle as we speak).

Splooting helps mammals cool down in hot weather. So even though “splooting” might sound like a disgusting act, it’s actually not as troublesome as other squirrel activities. If it helps, you can

replace “splooting” in your vocabulary with another term the New York City Parks Department uses to refer to this practice: “heat dumping.” Though to my ears, that sounds much, much worse.

All of my squirrel conspiracy theories are strictly for fun, of course—they haven’t made me that nuts (yet). But I can’t say I wouldn’t enjoy an Orson Welles, War of the Worlds-style panic, inspiring anti-squirrel sentiment among readers who don’t make it this far in the column, because we’re coming up on the time of year when squirrels are at their most annoying—the Halloween season.

Every year, we buy pumpkins and carve jack-o-lanterns, placing them on the steps of our front porch for display. And every year, over the course of a week or two, squirrels destroy them, one tiny bite at a time.

This isn’t their only offense against me. Not so long ago, they raided a shipment from Nuts.com, busting into a “Custom Gift Tray” of pecans, cashews, macadamia nuts and more, by gnawing their way through the cardboard box it was shipped in, as well as the plastic container inside.

One squirrel enjoys scaling the screens on our windows to reach a suction cup-mounted bird feeder (see photo), where he makes himself at home, pigging out while the birds watch helplessly. Squirrels can rotate their ankles 180 degrees, enabling feederraiding and other impressive maneuvers, like descending trees head-first. There’s a reason horror movies often show monsters, or humans possessed by demon types, descending a wall squirrelstyle—it’s just plain creepy.

But the jack o’ lantern destruction is most irritating, because every day when I open my front door, I see a visual reminder that they’ve gotten over on me—again. After two or three weeks, all that’s left is a stem and a pumpkin juice stain on the concrete steps.

The daily demoralization extends the misery of destruction over time, like

slowly peeling a Band-Aid instead of just ripping it off quickly. If I could choose, I’d gladly take rowdy teenagers smashing my jack o’lantern quickly, instead of having my creation slowly devoured over the course of weeks.

It’s been suggested to me that coating the finished jack o’lantern in vinegar will dissuade the little varmints, a strategy I plan to try this year. Someone else advised shaving off bits of a bar of Irish Spring soap, apparently quite abhorrent to squirrels, and creating a protective barrier around my pumpkin. And there’s always the option of catching the squirrels in a Havahart trap and relocating them, though more often than not they manage to remove the peanut butter bait without being caught.

But despite the vinegar, and the soap bits—even if I pile peanut butter alongside the jack o’lantern as a risk-free sacrifice (bribe) and gesture of goodwill—I’m quite sure the squirrels will still target that pumpkin. I can imagine their squeaky little voices dismissing my efforts, chanting “Peter, Peter, we are pumpkin eaters!” (Paradoxically, it’s both funnier and scarier if you read that in a cute squirrel voice.)

This Halloween, it’s me against the squirrels, and let the best mammal win. I’ll try my hardest, but I have to admit, I don’t like my chances against the little monsters. Give me a ghost or goblin any day… all this squirrel business is (ugh, I’ll say it) driving me nuts.

Peter Dabbene’s website is peterdabbene.com. For more squirrel misadventures, check out “Suburban Complaint #1076: SQUIRRELS!” archived at scarletleafreview.com/ non-fiction22/peter-dabbenesuburban-complaint-1076-squirrels.

Peter’s book “Complex Simplicity” collects the first 101 editions of this column, along with essays and material published elsewhere. It is available at Amazon.com or Lulu.com for $25 (print) or $4.99 (ebook).

Questions to consider during Breast Cancer Awareness Month

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP

ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Ask The Doctor

Breast cancer occurs most often in women between the ages of 45 and 75, with the highest incidence in the 6th decade of life. Some risk factors—such as lifestyle choices—can be controlled, while others cannot.

pgs 5 and 7

from healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, for all women, to certain medications, such as Tamoxifen and Raloxifene for women with higher than average risk, and risk reducing surgical procedures for women with certain genetic mutations. Understanding your risk can help you develop a personalized medical plan with your health care professional that also includes preventative screenings. Early detection and prompt treatment can save lives should breast cancer occur.

mammogram? Although experts have different recommendations for frequency of screening mammography for women with average risk for developing breast cancer, most agree that it should be every year starting at age 40.

The American College of Radiology and the American Society of Breast Surgeons recommend starting screening mammography every year at age 40 and women over 55 years of age should speak to their doctors about their recommended frequency.

learn the facts and myths when it comes to early detection and breast cancer, and enjoy a fun painting project. Join us and our featured presenter, Firas G. Eldaoumikdachi, MD, FACS, specialist in Breast Surgical Oncology, at RWJUH Hamilton Cancer Center. Dr. “Eladou” believes the patient is at the center of all the different treatment modalities and support services, and brings high quality care as well as clinical trial opportunities from Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Concluding the physician’s presentation, all participants will engage in a painting project guided by local artist, Yun Li, who loves to inspire art in people.

WEDNESDAY, OCtOBER 18

Firas Eladoumikdachi (Eladou), MD, FACS, Breast Surgical Oncologist, at the Cancer Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, provides answers to some common questions about breast cancer and screenings. Can breast cancer be prevented? Depending on your risk, there are certain preventative measures that can be done to help decrease the chance of getting breast cancer. These can range

Jeannine Cimino

Board Chairman Rachel Holland Executive Director

Is breast cancer inherited? All cancers involve changes or mutations in a person’s genes. Usually, several changes are required before cancer develops. If a person inherits a genetic mutation from a parent, that person has a higher risk of developing cancer. It is currently believed that less than 15% of breast cancers involve an inherited genetic mutation.

Women should also talk with their doctors about personal risk factors before deciding when to start mammograms and how often to have them.

Managing Stress and Diabetes. 3 to 4 p.m. This support group is for people living with diabetes. Learn how to cope with stress and diabetes in a healthy way.

tHURSDAY, OCtOBER 19

How often should I have a

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

What role does estrogen replacement therapy play in breast cancer? Each woman should work with her health care provider to evaluate individual risk factors when making decisions about hormone replacement therapy. If hormone therapy is used, it is usually recommended to use the lowest effective dose to control symptoms for as short a time as possible.

Sacred Breathwork Experience. 6-7:30 p.m. Join Kim Huston, Reiki Master and Certified Breathwork facilitator is passionate about sharing this modality with anyone looking for true healing. Sacred Breathwork can help release negative patterns and fears that keep us stuck. Bring a yoga mat and blanket, chairs will also be available. Fee: $15

FRIDAY, OCtOBER 27

NEWS TO KNOW

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

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

“When breast cancer is caught early, the prognosis is often excellent. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for breast cancer found early and confined to the breast is 99 percent,” adds Dr. Eladou.

Recipes from Beyond the Grave. 1 to 2 p.m. Do you have a recipe that can stand the test of time? These folks sure thought so! We are tasting our way through some gravestone-etched recipes. Print your own tried-and-true recipe to share! Fee: $5 per person. Taryn Krietzman, RDN.

Better Health Programs

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

tUESDAY, OCtOBER 10

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP

Shop Small, Shop Local, Shop Hamilton.

Our dedicated centers for breast care are nationally accredited and certified. RWJUH Hamilton offers comprehensive mammography services in a warm and welcoming environment close to home and now offers appointments every other Saturday.

THE HAMILTON PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD

ANNOUCES NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Jeannine Cimino, Chair, William Penn Bank

Rachel Holland, Executive Director

Gregory Blair (Emeritus), Nottingham Insurance Co.

As you shop this fall please remember to support our local small businesses and our neighbors and friends who own them. Visit our websites Hamilton-Strong.com and ShopHamiltonNJ.com

Hon. Jeff Martin, Mayor, Hamilton Township

Lee Boss, The Mercadien Group

Visit rwjbh.org/mammo to schedule your mammogram at RWJUH Hamilton today.

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

the Link Between Hearing Loss and Dementia-Can Hearing Aids Save Your Brain? 10 to 11a.m. According to several major studies, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, compared to those with normal hearing. Prevention is key. Audiologist, Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., discusses your options.

Game time. 1 to 2:30 p.m. Join us for game time, snacks and some wholesome fun. A variety of board games will be available or you are welcome to bring your own.

@thehamiltonpartnership @Hamiltonnjstrong

Gerard Fennelly, NAI Fennelly

#HamiltonNJStrong

Richard Freeman, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton

Frank Lucchesi, PSE&G

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

WEDNESDAY, OCtOBER 4

tHURSDAY, OCtOBER 26

Patrick M. Ryan, First Bank

Tom Troy, Sharbell Development Corp.

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

FOR MORE INFORMATION LOG ON TO: WWW.THEHAMILTONPARTNERSHIP.COM

Jeannine

Cimino Rachel Holland

Fall Medication Series. Also Oct. 11, 18 and Nov. 2. 3 p.m. Learn about different classifications of medications in this 5 week series with our Pharmacists and Congestive Heart Failure Coordinator.

tHURSDAY, OCtOBER 5

Ladies Night Out: PAINtING WItH PURPOSE, “A Breast Cancer Awareness Event. ”6–7:30 p.m. Meet the physician,

Plan today for tomorrow. 10 to 11:30 a.m. What are our options for tomorrow? Join our esteemed panel who will breakdown our choices, discuss the current healthcare system, financial, social, and care needs and how to make it work with your goals.

Please welcome, Randi Goldberg, Archer Law Office, Rachal Baillie, Bear Creek Assisted Living, Gina Barnett, Springpoint at Home, and Kelly Aylward, The Elms of Cranbury Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. Refreshments will be served.

Dr. Eladoumikdachi

% APY*

6.00 On balances up to $25,000 if qualifications are met.

0.01 On all balances, even if qualifications are not met.

% APY*

*Account approval, conditions, qualifications, limits, timeframes, enrollments, and other requirements apply. A $5 deposit is required to open the account. At least 1 Direct Deposit, ACH credit, ACH payment or bill pay transaction(s) is required each monthly qualification cycle. Enrollment and agreement to receive e-statements and at least 12 PIN-based / signature-based debit card purchases are conditions of this account each qualification cycle. When your monthly Kasasa Cash account qualifications are met, daily balances up to and including $25,000 in your Kasasa Cash account earn a dividend rate of 5.98% resulting in an APY of 6.00%; and daily balances over $25,000 earn a dividend rate of 0.75% on the portion of the daily balance over $25,000, resulting in a range from 6.00% to 1.80% APY depending on the account’s daily balance. When your Kasasa Cash qualifications are not met, the dividend rate earned on the account’s entire daily balance will be 0.01% resulting in an annual percentage yield of 0.01% and ATM withdrawal fees are not refunded. You will receive reimbursements up to an aggregate total of $25 for nationwide foreign ATM withdrawal fees incurred within your Kasasa Cash account during each monthly qualification cycle when qualifications are met. A foreign ATM fee reimbursement cap of up to $4.99 per transaction applies when qualifications are met. Limit of one account per member. Terms subject to change at any time. Kasasa and Kasasa Cash are trademarks of Kasasa, Ltd., registered in the U.S.A. | “Take back banking” is a trademark of Kasasa Ltd., registered in the U.S.