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COMMUNITYNEWS.ORG

‘Grumpy Claus’ makes author happy

Mayor set for second term

Scorer of the century

By Joe Emanski

New children’s book has holiday theme By Thomas KeLLy

After 25 years in the classroom, retirement brought another avenue and mission in getting youngsters to read for educator Tracy Conti Potash. Just in time for the holiday season the third book from the Hamilton author has been released. The children’s book is titled Grumpy Claus and is intended for readers ages 4 to 10. Potash retired from teaching in 2022 and pressed ahead with another passion: writing books for children. For 25 years, Potash taught reading skills within the Hopewell Valley school system. “I started as a classroom teacher, but finished as a reading specialist, in the elementary and middle schools,” she says. “It was so rewarding, but also kept me up at night worrying about See GRuMPy, Page 18

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The Pennington School’s girls’ soccer team celebrate 100 career goals for Hamilton’s Morgan Kotch (holding sign) on Oct. 19, 2023. Story, page 26. (Photo by Jim Inverso.)

Christmas tree farms: a tradition born in Hamilton? By Sue Ferrara

Last year, during the holiday season, a reporter called the Hamilton Township School District, the municipal offices, and the Hamilton Township Public Library with two questions: was McGalliard Elementary school named after William McGalliard? Did William McGalliard start the first Christmas Tree

farm in America? The questions kicked off an historical scavenger hunt. In the end, the answer to both questions was: Yes and Yes. A bronze plaque adorns the entry to McGalliard Elementary school; it easily answered the first question. McGalliard School, on Arena Drive, is named after two McGalliard brothers—William and Edward.

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Edward McGalliard, the younger brother, lived on South Broad Street, and served on the Hamilton Township School Board for 12 years. Born in 1861, Edward died in 1940, at the age of 79, and is buried in Ewing Cemetery. William, the elder brother, was born in 1857 and lived on White Horse Ave. He died See CHRISTMAS, Page 10

Mayor Jeff Martin won a second term as mayor of Hamilton by a decisive margin in November. An unofficial tally as of Nov. 20 had the Democrat with 12,784 votes, a margin of 3,492 votes over Republican challenger Marty Flynn, who received 9,292 votes. The 58-42 margin is generally considered landslide territory, but Martin told the Hamilton Post that he will be anything but complacent come January and the start of his second term. “My message to my staff when I have my first cabinet meeting will be that (the result) means that what we’ve done over the past four years resonated, was appreciated, but we get right back to work with the same mindset, the same humbleness, the same commitment right away,” he said. “That’s what we’ve tried to do: put people before politics. When you call or email come in with a project, it doesn’t matter if you’re a Democrat or a Republican, it See MARTIN, Page 12

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RWJUH Hamilton December Healthy Living / Community Education Programs PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM CYBER CRIMES Monday, Dec. 4; 10:00-12:00 p.m.

Cyber-crimes are more common than you might think. Join offi cers from the Hamilton Police Department and the US Secret Service to learn how to protect yourself from Cyber Scams. Light refreshments will be provided.

GOT STRESS?

Monday, Dec. 4; 2:00-3:00 p.m.

Support group about dealing with stress. When you experience stress, your body produces physical and mental responses. Gain valuable insight about how others deal with similar situations.

WHAT’S EATING YOU?

Wednesday, Dec. 6; 11:00-12:00 p.m.

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

COOKING WITH CARDIOLOGY Wednesday, Dec. 6; 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Worried about overindulging during the holiday season? Dr. Shakil Shaikh from Hamilton Cardiology Associates will guide you with heart healthy recipes and tips for eating healthy.

SELF-CARE FOR WOMEN Thursday, Dec. 7; 6:30-8:00 p.m.

This interactive session with Anjali Bhandarkar, MD will go through the importance of self-care prevention, vitamins, social networking for women.

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN – THE GIFT OF BEING PRESENT Thursday, Dec. 7; 5:00-6:00 p.m.

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS: SENIORS SUPPORTING FAMILY MEMBERS & FRIENDS

FROSTED WONDERLAND

Tuesday, Dec. 12; 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 4; 5:00-6:00 p.m.

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

Family members and friends play a critical role in supporting loved ones who have a mental health condition, and the questions and concerns are typically the same. What to do? When to intervene? Where to go? How to help? This presentation is intended to help you better understand the issues you might face. This program will be led by Chelsea Kennedy, MAHS.

STRESS LESS: RESET YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM LETTING GO OF CLUTTER Monday, Dec. 11; 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Discover tools to help you move through your day with peace. You’ll find greater wellbeing and compassion, as well as the interplay between mental and physical wellbeing. Learn about your nervous system; how it influences your choices, habits and overall wellbeing; and tools to bring yourself into an optimal and relaxed state using something called Poly-Vegal Theory. Fee: $15 per person. Michelle Gerdes, YT200

HOW SMART ARE HEARING AIDS TODAY? Tuesday, Dec. 12; 10:00-11:00 a.m.

We discuss the remarkable features of today’s hearing aids. Bluetooth, AI, Rechargeable Batteries, Tinnitus Therapy and more! Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato to learn more about the latest in hearing aid technology!

Tuesday, Dec. 12; 1:30-2:30 p.m.

This support group explores how our emotional ties to our “stuff” can create clutter and affect our mood. An Oaks Integrated Care caregiver specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive group experience.

MANAGING STRESS AND DIABETES Tuesday, Dec. 12; 3:00-4:00 p.m.

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

ORTHOPEDIC OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, Dec. 13; 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Discover the latest advances in knee and hip replacement surgery and rehabilitation. Presented by Michael Duch, MD board-certified orthopedic surgeon; Maureen Stevens, PT, DPT, GCS, Cert MDT; and Courtney Fluehr, PT DPT. Dinner is included.

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WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION-DRUM CIRCLE

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

“Drum back the sun” on the longest night of the year. Celebrate with ritual, stories and of course, drumming. Drums and light snacks provided. Mauri Tyler, CTRS, CMP. Fee: $15

Thursday, Dec. 14; 12:00-1:00 p.m.

ASK THE DIETITIAN

Monday, Dec. 18; 3:00-6:00 p.m.

Do you have a question about diet and nutrition? Join our dietitian for a one-on-one Q&A. Registration is required. Taryn Krietzman, RDN

Wednesday, Dec. 20; 7:00-8:30 p.m.

DANCE IT OUT! WINTER BREAK EDITION Friday, Dec. 29; 11:00-12:00 p.m.

PREDIABETES CONNECT

After a holly, jolly season of indulging, join us for an hour of dancing. Bring your kids and grandkids during their winter break to get those sillies out.

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

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR AT RWJUH HAMILTON

Tuesday, Dec. 19; 11:00-12:00 p.m.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS

Wednesday, Dec. 20; 1:00-2:00 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.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT

Wednesday, Dec. 20; 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Support and information for family and friends of people with Alzheimer’s. An Oaks Integrated Care specialist will conduct these interactive groups on crucial topics and facilitate a supportive experience.

Wednesday, Dec. 6; 9:00-2:00 p.m.

Come out and shop from some amazing local crafters and small businesses while supporting a great cause! Located at the Roma Bank Café inside of the RWJ Hamilton Hospital.

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

Better Health Programs/Complimentary Membership at 65+ Years Old YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, Dec 5 and 19; 10:00-11:00 a.m.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, Dec 5 and 19; 11:15-11:45 p.m.

LET’S TALK, A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Wednesdays; Dec 6, 13, 20, and 27; 10:00-11:00 a.m.

GAME TIME

Thursday, Dec 7; 1:00-2:30 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. 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” DISCUSSION GROUP

Monday, Dec 11; 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Socrates Café is an opportunity for people to work together to seek a deeper meaning into a perplexing

2Hamilton Post | December 2023

question, issue, or problems that demand our consideration. Questions are voted upon by the group.

BETTER HEALTH HOLIDAY PARTY

JEOPARDY! WITH DR. ALI

We all love the Holidays, but with them comes one of the busiest times of the year for all of us. You deserve a break to sit, eat and enjoy the most wonderful time of the year. The Better Health Program is proud to present our annual Holiday Party! With food and friends, come celebrate the holidays with your fellow members. Lunch will be provided.

Thursday, Dec.14; 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Put your medical knowledge to the test with Dr. Sara Ali. Join in the fun with your favorite geriatrician.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursdays, Dec. 14 and 28; 1:00-2:00 p.m.

CREATE YOUR OWN FESTIVE HOLIDAY CENTERPIECE

Friday, Dec. 15; 10:30-12:00 p.m. or 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Join Diane Grillo, VP of Health promotions, Yolanda Singer of Avalon Rehab and Antonia James of K’s Events and Decorations as we decorate with lives greens. Everyone will leave with a beautiful centerpiece they create.

Thursday, Dec. 21; 12:00-2:00 p.m.

PINOCHLE GROUP Coming in 2024

Interested in playing Pinochle? Email us at CommunityEdHAM@rwjbh.org and we will let you know when this new group gets started.

A MATTER OF BALANCE: A 4 WEEK SERIES PARTICIPANTS MUST ATTEND ALL 8 SESSIONS

Monday & Wednesday Jan. 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31; 1:00-2:30 p.m.

A Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase the activity levels of older adults who have this concern. The class utilizes a variety of activities to address physical, social, and cognitive factors affecting fear of falling and to learn fall prevention strategies. It was designed to benefit older adults who are concerned about falls, have sustained a fall in the past, restrict activities because of concerns about falling, are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength, are age 60 or older, mobile and able to problem-solve. Linda Buckley, Nurse Educator will instruct.

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

December 2023 | Hamilton Post3

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Trenton Water Works launches smart meter project Trenton Water Works says it has begun a $20-million project to replace 63,034 water meters in its five-municipality system. TWW meter readers will be able to read the new two-way communicating water meters (smart meters) remotely, eliminating almost all estimated water bills. “We continue to pursue capital projects that not only improve water quality, but also strengthen TWW’s billing and customer-service delivery, priorities that we set during the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Sean Semple, director of the city’s Department of Water and Sewer, which operates Trenton Water Works. “Smart meters allow for automatic meter reading that eliminates nearly all estimated bills, stronger customer service and more efficient meter-reading operations.” TWW Meter Shop personnel and contract vendor National Metering Services will begin upgrading customers’ water

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Community News Service 9 Princess Road, Suite M Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 Phone: (609) 396-1511 News: news@communitynews.org Events: events@communitynews.org Sports: sports@communitynews.org Letters: jemanski@communitynews.org Website: hamiltonpost.com Facebook: facebook.com/hamiltonpostnj Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace 40,000 copies of the Hamilton Post are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Hamilton 12 times a year.

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4Hamilton Post | December 2023

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meters by appointment beginning in January 2024 in Trenton, Ewing Township, and Hopewell Township. Installations take about 30 minutes and require access to existing meters in customers’ properties. TWW estimates it will replace approximately 21,000 meters in the project’s first phase. The New Jersey Water Bank, a program jointly administered by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank, is funding the $20-million project. This work is part of TWW’s $405-million, six-year capital plan announced in 2019. Trenton customers interested in upgrading to a two-way communicating water meter (smart meter) will receive a letter in December from TWW asking them to call the water utility’s Meter Shop to make an appointment. Ewing Township and Hopewell Township customers will receive a letter from National MeterSee NEWS, Page 6

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Grice Middle School eighth grader Brianna Peralta with her charcoal illustration of the book cover to The Giver by Lois Lowry, on display in the school’s newly renovated library. (Photo by Laura Geltch/Hamilton Township School District.) NEWS continued from Page 4 ing Services inviting them to make an appointment. There is no charge for the meter replacement. “We are organizing H2Open community forums in the months ahead to educate our customers about the Smart

6Hamilton Post | December 2023

Meter Project and other TWW priorities to produce quality drinking water. “We hope our valued customers and service-area consumers will attend and share their questions about our operations, capital work, and water quality,” Semple said.

Grice Middle School celebrated the reopening of its newly renovated library with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 31. The school plans to feature original artwork of book covers created by students on the walls of their library. Brianna Peralta, a lifelong Hamilton resident, is currently an eighth grader at Grice, and will be the first student to have her artwork featured. Peralta previously attended Wilson Elementary School. Peralta said that when librarian Tricia Micharski invited students to submit book cover artwork from a book they recently read, she was excited to get to work. She drew her recent poster creation, an illustration based on the book cover of The Giver by Lois Lowry, with a variety of charcoal and colored pencils. Peralta said she chose The Giver a because she liked the book and thought it would be a challenge to draw. “The most challenging part was the face. Anatomy is the most difficult part of any project,” she said. Peralta, who is set to attend Nottingham High School next year, estimates that the poster took her seven or eight hours to complete. “To see the library as a student of Grice

many years ago and witnessing the transformation as the principal is remarkable. The students of Grice now have a renovated, warm and welcoming environment to read, study, and congregate in the comforts of modern furnishings, Dwayne Walker, Grice Middle School principal, said in a media release. Life is a Christmas Cabaret at “A Very Kelsey Cabaret,” Dec. 9 at Kelsey Theatre

One night only for interactive holiday variety show at MCCC

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Middle School celebrates library renovation with student art

Festive-feeling theatergoers can celebrate the holidays with fun and nostalgia when Off-Centre Stages presents “A Very Kelsey Cabaret” for one night only, 8 p.m. Dec. 9, at Mercer County Community College’s Kelsey Theatre. “A Very Kelsey Cabaret” will feature an ensemble cast performing a mix of traditional, Broadway and pop favorites as well as skits. The cast will be striving to harken back to the holiday television specials of the 1960s and ‘70s with a 90-minute variety show packed with solo and group renditions of holiday favorites. The all-star ensemble cast includes Jade Irizarr y, Samantha Moon, See NEWS, Page 8

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The cast of “A Very Kelsey Cabaret” will be spreading holiday cheer for one night only on Dec. 9 at Mercer County Community College’s Kelsey Theatre NEWS continued from Page 7 Samantha Phillips, Kadance Robinson and Bella Salvatore, all of Hamilton. Kelsey Theatre is on the MCCC West Windsor Campus, 1200 Old Trenton Road. Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 for children and students, and may be

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purchased online at kelseytheatre.org or by calling the Kelsey Box Office Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon, at (609) 570-3333. For a complete listing of adult and children’s events, visit the Kelsey website or call the box office for a brochure.

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DINE & DONATE DAY In honor of our 50th Anniversary,

1973

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1973 charity. We have chosen one Sunday per month to donate 50% of our sales to a featured 501c organization.

2023

YEARS LETS RAISE RISSOME TORDOUGH! ANTE2023 & PIZ Z A Please support our cause to give back to our community!

BRING ING FAMILY & FRIENDS TOG E THER SINCE 197 3

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JAN. 15: Sea Girt Polar Plunge $4,733.56 FEB.19: Deborah Heart & Lung $3,680.33 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 BRING ING FAMILY & FRIENDS TOG E THER SINCE 197 3 JUNE 11: Autism New Jersey $3,871.84

SUNDAY, DECEMBER10

50% OF OUR SALES SUPPORTS 1973

JULY 9: Joeys Little Angels $4,503.94

YEARS

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AUG. 6: Whats My Name $3,575.66 SEPT. 10: Ryan’s Quest $4,625.64 OCT. 8: I Believe in Pink $3,767.34 NOV.12: Shine & Inspire $4,243.90

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CHRISTMAS continued from Page 1 in 1935 at the age of 77. He is buried in Greenwood Cemetery. A unanimous vote at an August 1951 school board meeting led to naming the school after the McGalliards. An article in the Trenton Evening Times’ noted that by 1951, the McGalliards and their relatives had lived in Hamilton for 150 years. Add this footnote: one of the board members voting on the motion back then was Albert Grice, as in Albert E. Grice Middle School. Finding the answer to question two (Did William McGalliard start the first Christmas Tree farm in the U.S.?) took some work. Newspaper accounts portrayed William McGalliard as a visionary, a mover and shaker, and a well known presence in the community. His former home, now the Kingston and Kemp Funeral Home, was purchased by Elmer Kemp in 1948, according to the funeral home’s website. But it was the acreage around McGalliard’s home, and how he used and shared that land, that created a legacy still visible today. A story in the 1935 Sunday TimesAdvertiser published eight days after his death and titled, “Model Land Developer” mentioned William McGalliard practiced a “different kind of land development.”

The article made the case that most land developers bought farms, laid out the lots, and then sold them. McGalliard, however, “lived amid those he encouraged to buy, [and] took personal interest in their welfare.” He was known to often visit his neighbors, according to the article. McGalliard reportedly bought the first set of clothes for a child born on the tract he was developing; or, he gave a family $5 (about $170 today) for every male child born. McGalliard reportedly made 120 such gifts. He started this land development in 1903 under the name McGalliard’s Acre Lots. William McGalliard also developed a water system for his homebuyers and neighbors. In a 1911 letter to the editor in the Trenton Times, McGalliard wrote that in 1907, he had installed an artesian well on his property. “And today, I am supplying [water to] twenty-five to thirty houses,” he wrote. McGalliard said he was confident that he could supply 200 homes with water from his well. William McGalliard was active in the local Democratic party. News articles mentioned McGalliard’s frustration with the size of oversight boards. He bought and sold land in places like Princeton. He was the receiver of Hamilton Township

A Dec. 21, 1914 advertisement in the Trenton Evening Times for McGalliard Christmas trees. taxes from 1897 to 1900. According to his obituary in the Trenton Evening Times, he sat on the Mercer County Planning Commission from 19291931. And for 20 years, he directed the Bordentown Banking Company. But even after all of this history had been unearthed, no one could locate a primary source indicating that William had been the first Christmas tree farmer in the United States. A township history book published in 1998 noted that McGalliard once said his Norway spruce trees were thriving in sandy soil. It was then, according to the account, that McGalliard decided to plant and sell Christmas trees. But there no dates given; no hard evidence as to when this endeavor might have begun. At one point, there were six people searching for an answer — four township librarians, a New Jersey state librarian,

and me — and we could find no primary source. There were no ads, for example, in old newspapers announcing the sale of Christmas trees by William McGalliard. There was no mention of Christmas trees in his obituary. The reporter who had asked the questions filed a story on Dec. 16, 2022 titled: “Meet the American who planted the first Christmas tree farm: New Jersey entrepreneur W. V. McGalliard” The evidence the reporter cited came from a 1997 book by authors Ann Kirk Davis and Henry H. Albers, titled: The Wonderful World of Christmas Trees.” Also included in the news story was a quote from a spokesperson with the National Christmas Tree Association, Jill Sidebottom. After emailing Ms. Sidebottom, she sent me a bibliographic citation from the book. The citation referenced a 1960 letter William McGalliard’s son, David, had written to the “American Christmas Tree Growers’ Journal.” That letter was published in the November 1960 issue of the journal. North Carolina State University library system in Raleigh had a copy of the journal and provided a copy of the letter. When David McGalliard’s letter arrived via email, it became clear he was responding to something he had read in the jour-

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William V. McGalliard, seated front left, with brother Edward T. McGalliard, circa 1912. Standing in the rear are Theodore and Walter Ivins. nal’s August 1960 issue. NCSU also provided that article. And here’s the gist of what likely happened. In August 1960, the journal published a story titled: “Origin of The National Christmas Tree Growers’ Assn., Inc.” In that article was a paragraph which likely caused McGalliard’s son to respond. “Christmas tree farming seems to have been started about 1918 in Indiana County, Pennsylvania. For ten years very little progress was made. Then in the 1930’s, it appeared to ‘catch on’ and gradually Christmas tree plantations increased both in size and number.” David McGalliard, who by then was also growing and selling Christmas trees, set the record straight with a letter to the editor. The November 1960 issue carried a piece titled: “A New Jersey Priority Claim.” Here is the full text: In a friendly letter to the editor D. C. McGalliard, Morris Plains, N. J. takes us to task for a misstatement of fact in the article “Background of the the [sic] Movement” in the August 1960 number of the Journal, page 16. There we state in the third paragraph: “Christmas tree farming seems to have started about 1918 in Indiana County, Pennsylvania.” Mr. McGalliard is a Christmas tree grower, an active member of the New Jersey Farm Forestry and Christmas Tree Growers’ Association, and has written us the following: “In the spring of 1901 my father, the late

W. V. McGalliard, planted 25,000 Norway Spruce on our homestead farm in Mercer County (New Jersey), just outside of Trenton, These trees were obtained from Charles Black, nurseryman, of Highstown [sic], New Jersey, and were, I believe, imported from the Scandinavian countries, “twenty thousand (20,000) of them were 8- to 14-inch transplants and the remaining 5,000 were seedlings. “Since I was six years of age at the time the event naturally made quite an impression on me. It is my recollection that the trees came packed in moss in a large wooden piano shipping case. They were planted on four foot centers and cultivated as long as it was feasible to do so. “The circumstances which induced my father to go into this venture are interesting. While I think that Mr. Black, the nurseryman, may have suggested the possibilities originally, the fact that we had a ten acre gravelly field on which it had been impossible to grow a profitable farm crop, had much to do with it. Noting that a Norway Spruce hedge along the road in front of the farm grew about as well on poor soil as on good, my father put two and two together and figured that Christmas trees might be a good gamble on the ten acres which had been such a problem. The excellent market in Trenton, only four or five miles away, was no small factor also. “When the trees were ready for market in 1907 or 1908 as I recall it, a price of one dollar each was established. The customer would make a selection in the field and the tree would be sawed off for him to take along. Many customers preferred to tag their trees weeks in advance for delivery at Christmas. Delivery was made by loading fifty or more trees on a farm wagon drawn by a team of horses and driving the four or five miles into Trenton. The one dollar price was maintained for many years thereafter. “After the original crop was harvested several other plantings were made by my father and later by my brother. All were Norway Spruce, there being no demand for other varieties.” One wonders if those towering pine trees in the hills above McGalliard school, west of Whitehorse Ave, were part of his farm. Either way, Hamilton can proudly proclaim itself as the home of the first Christmas Tree Farm in America, thanks to the ingenuity of William V. McGalliard. P.S. How many of you, like me, have seen E. McGalliard Avenue and W. McGalliard Avenue and concluded the abbreviations were for East and West? Likely, it’s Edward McGalliard Avenue and William McGalliard Avenue After all, it’s not one long street crossing Whitehorse Avenue

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MARTIN continued from Page 1 doesn’t matter if you’ve lived here 55 years or 5. If you’re having an issue that you need help from our government from to solve, we’re here for you.” Township Council Democrats Nancy Phillips and Pasquale “Pat” Papero, Jr. also won re-election, defeating Republican challengers Michael Chianese and Geno Melone. Papero led with 12,235 votes, followed by Phillips with 11,837, Melone with 9,767 and Chianese with 9,477. Martin said that he always feels some nervousness on Election Day as a candidate. “While you think you’ve done everything you can, you never know what’s going to happen. It was such an overwhelming moment seeing the results come in that night and seeing the people of Hamilton again put their faith in, not only me, but Pat and Nancy as well. It shows that [voters have] appreciated the work we’ve done over the past four years, but also that they want us to continue it for another four years,” he said. *** At the county level, Democratic

Assemblyman Dan Benson was And Democratic county commiselected to be the next executive of sioners Lucylle R.S. Walter (46,963 Mercer County. Benson, from Ham- votes) and John A. Cimino (46,946) ilton, defeated Republican candidate also won re-election, defeating Lisa Marie Richford, also from Ham- Republicans Joseph A. Stillwell ilton, succeeding Brian M. Hughes, (21,360) and Denise “Neicy” Turner who stepped aside dur(20,994). ing primary season *** so that Benson could At the state level, in run. Benson received the 14th Legislative 48,257 votes to RichDistrict (which repreford’s 20,835. sents Hamilton), DemMartin noted that ocratic incumbents also he already has a workwon fresh terms. ing relationship with Long-time Sen. Benson from the latLinda R. Greenstein ter’s time represent(19,270 votes in Mering the township in the cer) defeated RepubliAssembly. can challenger Patricia Benson “In a year or two, I’d “Pat” Johnson (13,164) like to see the fruits of to keep her seat in the that partnership that Senate. he and I have built for the benefit of Assembly member Wayne P. the town,” Martin said. DeAngelo (19,549 votes in Mercer) Hughes, the son of former and first-time candidate Tennille R. Gov. Richard J. Hughes, served for McCoy (18,180) overcame Repub20 years as county executive. licans Skye Gilmartin (13,091) and Democratic Sheriff John “Jack” Adam J. Elias (12,960) to win new Kemler (48,091 votes) defeated terms in the Assembly. Republican Bryan “Bucky” BocMcCoy, a long-time human canfuso (19,420) and independent resources professional from HamilDrew L. Cifrodelli (1,637) to win ton, will take over the Assembly seat re-election. vacated by Benson.

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DECEMBER 2023

B I - M O N T H LY N E W S F R O M C A P I TA L H E A LT H

Capital Health First in Mercer County to Offer Minimally Invasive Procedure for Detecting and Removing Lung Cancer Nodules in One Visit Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, but getting diagnosed at the earliest stage significantly increases the likelihood of better outcomes. While early-stage diagnosis can be difficult, experts at Capital Health’s Lung Center of Excellence, part of Capital Health Cancer Center, now perform a minimally invasive procedure that uses the latest in robotic-assisted lung biopsy technology to detect and remove cancerous nodules in the same visit. Capital Health is the first hospital in Mercer County to offer this procedure. DR. DIANA KOLMAN, director of Interventional Pulmonology at Capital Health, is trained to use the minimally invasive Ion endoluminal system to obtain tissue samples that facilitate a fast and accurate early-stage lung cancer diagnosis. Ion is an advanced robotic-assisted platform that has greater flexibility and reach than previous systems, which allows physicians to navigate all parts of the lungs, including areas that were previously unreachable from this approach. Immediately after Dr. Kolman retrieves a tissue sample, a pathologist reviews the sample to determine if it is cancerous. If cancer is diagnosed, DR. AFRICA WALLACE, director of Thoracic Surgery at Capital Health, then performs a minimally invasive surgical lobectomy to remove the nodule, all while the patient is still under anesthesia. This eliminates the need to schedule a separate procedure to remove the nodule at a later date. “When a suspicious small mass or nodule is found on a patient’s lungs, referring physicians may recommend a lung biopsy to collect and analyze a lung tissue sample,” said Dr. Kolman. “With previous technology, our reach into the peripheral areas of the lungs was

limited, but the Ion system can be precisely placed to obtain a biopsy in all 18 sections of the lungs. This greatly improves our ability to detect lung cancer in its earliest stages when it is most treatable.” “Until very recently, patients had to schedule lung biopsies and surgical resections separately,” said Dr. Wallace. “For appropriate patients, the single-anesthesia approach we’re now offering at our Lung Center allows diagnosis and treatment to occur in one visit. In patients where a cancerous nodule is detected during biopsy, they can wake up after our combined efforts and be told that the nodule has already been removed from the lung instead of having to come back at a later date to go through another procedure.” Capital Health Cancer Center, located at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell, is home to the Lung Center of Excellence as well as other centers of excellence specializing in breast care, liver health, neuro-oncology, pancreatic health, and robotic-assisted surgery. To learn more, visit capitalhealthcancer.org. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kolman, call 609.815.7390. For an appointment with Dr. Wallace, call 609.537.6000.

Health Headlines by Capital Health | Hamilton Post13

Understanding the Complexities of Concussions Concussion awareness, particularly in the sports world, has greatly improved in recent years. However, the permanent and catastrophic consequences caused by a concussion are now becoming more apparent in individuals who did not follow appropriate steps to prevent additional injuries before they fully recover. Because the signs and severity of concussion symptoms can be different from one person to the next, providing care requires a multilayered approach that matches each person’s specific challenges with the appropriate treatments and support. Capital Health offers a comprehensive Concussion Program as part of its Capital Institute for Neurosciences. DR. EMIL MATARESE, a board certified neurologist with experience in diagnosing and treating concussions, is director of the program. “With no outward physical signs of injury, people unfamiliar with concussions tend not to take them seriously,” said Dr. Matarese. “Any delay in addressing a concussion could extend the time it will take to recover.” “There is also a condition known as Second Impact Syndrome that can occur if a second concussion occurs before an individual fully recovers from their first concussion. This can trigger a serious sequence of events that can result in permanent and irreversible brain damage, most commonly intellectual impairment, or death. This complication can occur in young athletes whose brains have not fully matured, typically under the age of 23 years old.” “Our team of highly trained specialists provides comprehensive concussion care that takes into account the patient’s specific neurologic deficits that can include intellectual and academic performance, eye movement abnormalities, mood disorders, balance and impaired coordination.” Capital Health’s Concussion Program includes a highly trained neurologist, neuropsychologists, and specialized rehabilitation specialists in concussion therapy. The program also works with expert pediatric doctors and nurses in the Pediatric Emergency Department at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell. Dr. Matarese is also an active partner in community health, offering workshops and educational programs to help teachers, nurses, athletic trainers, and other school staff better understand and plan for a student who is recovering from a concussion.

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION? A concussion is a sudden jarring of the brain inside the skull that results in temporary loss of normal brain function. This movement can stretch the brain cells, causing microscopic swelling of the cells and chemical changes in the brain.

14Hamilton Post | Health Headlines by Capital Health

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS? There may be no physical signs of a brain injury, but it is necessary to restrict the individual from any activity until they are seen by a medical provider who specializes in evaluating and treating concussions. Look for any of the following symptoms (some may be immediate, others may occur hours or days after the initial injury):

… Temporary loss of consciousness … Headache

… Fatigue

… Memory loss/confusion/ difficulty concentrating … Slurred speech

… Sensitivity to light and noise … Interruption in sleep patterns … Mood swings

… Dizziness

… Depression/anxiety

… Ringing in the ears

… Personality changes

… Nausea/vomiting Visit capitalneuro.org to learn more about the Concussion Program at Capital Institute for Neurosciences. To make an appointment with Dr. Matarese, call 215.741.9555.

Capital Health Surgeon Becomes First Black Woman to Lead Regional Surgical Society DR. AFRICA WALLACE, director of Thoracic Surgery at Capital Health, was recently named the president of the Eastern Cardiothoracic Surgical Society (ECTSS).Dr. Wallace is the first black female president for ECTSS and the first of any cardiothoracic surgery society. “The Eastern Cardiothoracic Surgical Society works to advance the highest standards of excellence in patient care through education, research, and surgical training programs,” said Dr. Wallace. “I’m excited to lead an organization that aligns with my personal commitment to quality, diversity and inclusion in health care and Capital Health’s mission of improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves.” Thoracic surgery is used to treat diseased or injured organs in the chest. Dr. Wallace, a board certified thoracic surgeon, performs procedures at Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell to treat cancer and other conditions, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques using video-assisted or robotic approaches. She is

part of Capital Health Surgical Group and Capital Health’s Robotic Center of Excellence, a team of experienced surgeons who provide a multidisciplinary suite of robotic-assisted procedures that meet the highest national quality standards. Dr. Wallace is also co-lead of Capital Health’s Lung Center of Excellence (part of Capital Health Cancer Center), which provides comprehensive care in the detection, evaluation, monitoring, and treatment of lung disease. Along with her new role as president of the ECTSS, Dr. Wallace serves on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Work Force of the Society of Thoracic Surgery. She is a member of the Women in Thoracic Surgery and Association of Women Surgeons. Dr. Wallace’s current research interests include racial disparities in the surgical management of thoracic cancers and clinical outcomes as they pertain to minimally invasive approaches to pulmonary and esophageal surgery. For more information about Capital Health Surgical Group, visit capitalhealthsurgicalgroup.org. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Wallace, call 609.537.6000.

Capital Health Opens New Primary Care Location in Ewing Township If you live or work near Ewing Township, you may have noticed a new Capital Health building on Scotch Road. Whether you’re scheduling a wellness check-up or not feeling well, advanced medicine starts with your primary care provider. Capital Health Primary Care – Ewing, part of Capital Health Medical Group and a trusted provider of primary care for children and adults in Mercer County, New Jersey, is now located at 51 Scotch Road, Ewing, NJ 08628, just minutes away from the original Ewing location. Consolidating the physicians from two previous Ewing offices on Parkway Avenue and Parkside Avenue, the new 11,000-square-foot location offers patients medical care from the same board certified providers, including DRS. KASHIF ANWAR, SYLVIA BOLOCK, ROBERT HOGAN, DANIEL JASS, MERIAM KHAN, SHODHAN PATEL, and PAUL PIERROT. They are all available for appointments to provide check-ups, sick visits and preventive care for children and adults.

“Primary care providers are the first line of defense for maintaining good health, and it’s important for patients to find clinicians they can trust,” said Dr. Jerrold Gertzman, Chief Medical Officer – Medical Care for Capital Health Medical Group. “Our practices are built on that trust, and now our Ewing-based physicians are offering safe, convenient care in one brand new, state-of-the-art facility.” In addition to office visits, most of the physicians at Capital Health Primary Care – Ewing offer easy access to sick visits from the comfort of your home or on the go through the Capital Health Virtual Primary Care Program. Appointments for this service can be requested online (seven days a week, 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.) at capitalvirtualcare.org. They can also provide easy access to experienced specialists and surgeons when necessary and the most advanced care in the region at nearby Capital Health hospitals when it is needed most – virtually everything patients need to keep them on the path to better health. Office hours at the new Capital Health Primary Care – Ewing are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Thursday (10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.). To schedule an appointment, call 609.883.5454 or visit capitalhealth.org/ewing for more information.

Health Headlines by Capital Health | Hamilton Post15

FREE UPCOMING HEALTH EDUCATION EVENTS Register by calling 609.394.4153 or register online at capitalhealth.org/events and be sure to include your email address. Please register early. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

The Knee: A to Z Wednesday, December 6, 2023 | 6 p.m. Location: Zoom Meeting The knee is one of the largest joints in the human body and one of the most complex. Learn more from an expert at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, DR. ARJUN SAXENA, a fellowship trained and board certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in primary and revision hip and knee replacement/reconstruction and director of the Marjorie G. Ernest Center for Joint Replacement. Dr. Saxena will discuss the anatomy and physiology of the knee, common injuries, and the latest surgical techniques available.

Achieve More with a Healthy Pelvic Floor Thursday, December 7, 2023 | 6 p.m. Location: Zoom Meeting Are you experiencing pain in your pelvic area during sex, personal care, or urination/bowel movements? It’s time to advocate for yourself! Join Kathie Olson, nurse practitioner and program director for Capital Health’s Center for Incontinence and Pelvic Health, to learn strategies for living your life without pelvic pain. Kathie will be joined by Natalia Ochalski, a certified pelvic floor physical therapist, to discuss the benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy. All genders are welcome! 16Hamilton Post | Health Headlines by Capital Health

Harvey, Soto, Stanton elected to Board of Ed By Joe Emanski

In a Hamilton Township Board of Education race that featured eight candidates on the ballot, including two slates of three, one slate swept all three of the seats that were up for election. Christina Vassiliou Harvey (11,122 votes) was elected to a second full term, while Denise Soto (10,958), who was appointed to the board earlier this year to fill a vacancy, won her first full term on the board. Slatemate Meaghan Stanton was unofficially the leading votegetter in the election, with 11,192 votes. The trio ran as the “Mothers. Leaders. Advocates” slate. Also running as a trio were candidates Marc Crabtree, John Muka and David Maher, the “Responsible Education” slate. Crabtree received 7,682 votes, Muka 7,621 and Maher 7,336. Also on the ballot were Donald Snedeker, who received 1,703 votes, and Brandon McNeice (990). McNeice ended his campaign in October, endorsing Harvey, Soto and Stanton, but remained on the ballot. The race was not without some late drama, as Maher announced on Facebook on Nov. 6, the day before Election Day, that he was pulling out of the race for “personal reasons.” Although the message appears to have been deleted, the Hamilton Post has seen a screengrab of the post. The message, of course, arrived too late for those who had already mailed in their ballots, or those who are not regularly on Facebook and following Maher. Speaking to the Post after the election, Harvey Harvey said that she is very excited to embark on a second term. “I am thankful to the voters for coming

out and supporting me,” she said. “I’m happy that people recognize that I try to listen to both sides and not just take the polarized view.” Harvey said that she met some people on the campaign trail, including members of the LGBTQ population, who expressed concern about “comments that were being raised at school board meetings.” “They truly felt threatened. They were thankful for my taking a stand for policies that we already have, that we should respect everybody and that everyone should feel safe in school. And if they don’t, they really need to tell the administration and that’s something we will work on to correct,” she said. Crabtree, who is pastor of Refuge Church in Robbinsville, wrote in an Oct. 24 Facebook post of his own: “The MMC (Muka Maher Crabtree) team are the only ones that promise to fight for parental rights in Hamilton Township schools. The current majority voted for and defend the stripping of parental rights in our schools with the passing of Policy 5756.” Policy 5756 reads, in part: “The Board of Education is committed to provide a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for all students. In furthering this goal, the Board adopts this Policy to ensure all students, including transgender students, have equal educational opportunities and equal access to the school district’s educational programs and activities.” Harvey said that the growing polarization of school boards across the state is a worrisome trend and “not the right way to go for our children.” “We need to embrace all perspectives, and come up with what’s in the best interest of educating our youth,” she said.

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GRuMPy continued from Page 1 Retiring from teaching in 2022 some of the students. Some came in from reinvigorated Potash’s quest to get her other districts and were behind, some books published. She found an illustrator were from multilingual families, some from her online writer’s support groups were challenged with dyslexia. We tried and went the self-publishing route. to help all achieve their goals and get Her first book was Swish! Swirl! their skills up to where they belonged. Swoosh! In the story, a young boy teams When we achieved success, it really made up with a gusty wind and has interesting my heart grow.” travels and adventures. Potash grew up in “I got the idea when I saw Mercerville, attended St. a shopping bag blowing Anthony’s elementary, all over the place when I then Nottingham when it looked out the window on a was a middle school. She blustery day.” graduated from Steinert Potash is also a breast High School. She got her cancer warrior who, after teaching degree at The four surgeries a couple of College of New Jersey and a years ago, is now cancer graduate degree from Rider free. University. “It really was a battle; I “I have always loved see why they say ‘warrior,’” Potash writing. I journaled as a she says. “After I retired teen. It was and still is my and recovered, I went full meditation. My journaling force into writing. I wake started out fairly mundane, but then early, pray and meditate then work on my became more creative, humorous and writing tasks for the day. I update my web interesting,” she says. needs, prepare for appearances, and do Potash credits her mother’s some actual writing for new books. storytelling to her and her siblings that “I get out of the house around lunch got her hooked into fiction and deeper time as I deliver for DoorDash. I love it. into reading. It gets me out of my writing room, and “She would tell us stories when we I get to interact with people. I have only were children that would draw us in like been retired for less than a year, so I still magic. We loved that,” she says. need interaction with people. We all need Potash, who also has a son and that. Then I put in another 4 hours on the daughter-in-law local to Hamilton, is writing in the afternoon.” keeping up this tradition by sharing her Her second book, Vroom! Vroom!, was stories. She started writing children’s inspired by my son’s affection for monster books in 2016, and had a New York truck rallies. He took me to see one, and literary agent for two years. I thought, this would make an interesting “Having an agent is a large affirmation book for kids.” that the books and stories are viable. We Potash’s latest offering is Grumpy were working on 10 manuscripts and Claus and is dedicated to anyone who has submitting them to publishers.” awakened on the wrong side of the bed.

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Special section starts on pg 8 thesix09.com DECEMBER 2023

ARTS > FOOD > CULTURE

Taste the Love

No matter how the cookie crumbles, Lawrenceville baker Arline Conigliaro, better known as “Aunt Cookie,”elevates classic recipes with modern flair. Page 2. Photo by Gale Zucker Photography.

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Arline Conigliaro, the retired school counselor behind “Aunt Cookie,” understands that good things come in “gifted” packages. When she launched her business, “Aunt Cookie, Taste the Love,” in August 2020, Conigliaro equipped the one-car garage of her Lawrenceville home with a doubledoor convection oven, a 20-quart mixer, and all the ingredients she needed to ship her small-batch products—baked fresh daily— across the country. A native of Rochester, New York, Conigliaro has lived almost exclusively in Lawrenceville since graduating from college. She was a school counselor for Ewing Township, working at both Fisher Middle School and Ewing High School before switching to the Moorestown School District, where she wrapped up her 26-year career in June 2019. But Conigliaro is no cookie-cutter retiree. In her transition from compassionate care to a cottage license, she established an online retail site, auntcookie.com, selling cookies by order in themed gift boxes.

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An award-winning publication of Community News Service, LLC. © Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Trademark and U.S. Copyright Laws protect Community News Service LLC Publications. Nothing herein may be reproduced in whole or part without written permission of the Publisher.

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Arline Conigliaro, opposite page, runs “Aunt Cookie” from her Lawrenceville home, shipping products like the bestselling salted chocolate chunk cookies, left, and the raspberry shortbread “retro bars,” above right. Cookies are available for sale by the bag or in themed gift boxes, above left, that deliver a feeling of comfort to any doorstep the same day they leave the oven. feel the warmth of the holiday season, no matter what holiday you’re celebrating,” Conigliaro said. Aunt Cookie reimagines classic flavors utilizing higher-quality ingredients like Barry Callebaut Belgian chocolate to create a sentimental throwback for the taste buds with a newly tied bow. “Everything is done with my two hands, and the recipes have been created and changed up since the recipes from back

in the day,” she said, swapping the lard for butter—save for the ginger snaps and the granola bars, the latter of which uses coconut oil—for the finest, yet still reassuringly familiar, baked goods. Conigliaro said that her bestsellers are the salted chocolate chunk cookies made with both Belgian white and dark chocolate, the rainbow sprinkle-covered NYC confetti cookies, and the range of Italian biscottis.

Each order contains an approximately 1-pound bag of the chosen cookie for $24.95, with other varieties including oatmeal chocolate cherry cookies, lemon poppy seed shortbread, pecan sandies, powdered walnut shortbread, peanut butter chocolate chunk cookies, and gingersnaps that feature pieces of crystallized ginger scattered throughout. Aunt Cookie also goes beyond its namesake baked goods with a new collection

of “retro bars,” a nostalgic return to traditional treats more conscious of health and dietary restrictions. In tastes all evocative of the warm, fuzzy memories of youth, the line includes flourless chocolate brownies, blondies, raspberry shortbread bars, grain-free granola bars with dried sour cherries, and oatmeal caramel bars that play on the gooey layers

See AUNT COOKIE, Page 4

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YEARS YEARS YEARS

Conigliaro’s parents, Jean and Sheldon Phillips, with her grandmother, Sonia, center, who taught her the recipe for the mandel brot cookie with walnuts that she eventually turned into the biscotti loaded with toasted almonds, at right.

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AUNT COOKIE, From Page 2 of carmelitas. Conigliaro launched the retro bars in October to a positive reception, adding that the raspberry shortbread and flourless brownies became fast favorites. The retro bars are available in a 6-pack drawer box with the customer’s choice of flavors for $44.95 each. Auntie Cookie also sells themed gift boxes for occasions ranging from birthdays, bereavements, celebrations, expressions of gratitude, and care packages, each containing a selection of cookies paired with accompanying items. Commemorate those special days with balloons, blowers, and a birthday crown, or send condolences alongside packets of forget-me-not seeds that say “Forever in Our Hearts.” The goal, Conigliaro said, is to present someone with the “taste of love.” “It’s not just a box of cookies—it’s an experience. I try to create the wonder of first receiving the box, but also when you open the box, there’s real joy, and there are things to look forward to instead of just receiving a box of cookies,” she said. “In my age group, we don’t need another candle; we don’t need another basket of fruit. If you can get these cookies and put them in the freezer, or use them right away for company that’s coming over, or a college kid just dying for some homemade treats, it’s just an eclectic way to give some comfort to somebody.” The specialty boxes are available in three sizes: small, a choice of two cookie varieties, for $34.95; medium, a choice of four

cookie varieties, for $59.95; and large, a choice of eight cookie varieties and recommended for families, for $99.95. Options like the fall gift box include a cinnamon-scented candle, faux leaves, and Harney & Sons’ hot cinnamon spice tea, a deeply aromatic, rich blend of black tea leaves, three types of cinnamon, orange peel, and cloves known as “the brand’s most popular flavored tea worldwide.” The only price difference is for the holiday gift box, which comes with an assortment of Hammond’s Candies, a handmade cinnamon-scented candle, a holiday card, and seasonal cookie cutters with a choice of red-and-white or all-white packing confetti. This bundle also offers an incremental selection of cookies and related goodies at $39.95 for small, $69.95 for medium, and $119.95 for large. All Aunt Cookie orders can be customized with a handwritten message, combining the intimate, personal touches of the past with the professional standards of today, while the recently redesigned packaging is made from “earth-friendly” recyclable materials. For a full catalog of products, ingredients, and nutritional information, see the Aunt Cookie website at auntcookie.com. Conigliaro, née Phillips, grew up the second youngest of four sisters with her mother, Jean, and her father, Sheldon, an optical engineer. Sheldon worked for the Eastman Kodak Company, better known as Kodak, for more than 30 years. According to Conigliaro, when a new grant program promised to pay tuition for those who wanted to become teachers because of the shortage during the Viet-

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The lemon poppy seed cookies are a redux of a recipe from a close friend of Conigliaro’s mother and feature a light coating of lemon powdered sugar. nam War, Jean decided to go back to school full time to earn her master’s degree in education from SUNY Brockport. Having grown up around others who enjoyed preparing meals and desserts for their family, Arline began doing the same when she was just 12 years old. She had always observed her Russian grandmother Sonia, whom she referred to as “the matriarch of the family,” host Sunday night dinners and cook nearly every holiday until she was no longer able to. Watching as she ran the kitchen without recipes, simply relying on feeling and past experience, Conigliaro followed along, measuring ingredients and writing down each step. “I enjoy the word nurture. The word nurture—through food, through company, through environment, through any form of kindness—is just something that I really thrive on, so I think watching her enjoy feeding people was a big inspiration for me, and the joy that it brought,” she said. It should come as no surprise that to fully “taste the love” of Auntie Cookie, one should try the plain, toasted almond biscotti adapted from her grandmother’s recipe for mandelbrot, or mandel bread, a traditional Jewish cookie derived from the original Italian treat. Both are baked twice as a log, then cut into individually crunchy slices, perfect for dunking in tea or coffee. Although mandelbrot directly translates to “almond bread,” Conigliaro’s grandmother, who lived through the Great

Depression, used walnuts, which were less expensive at the time. “She used them very sparingly. I am a big personality, and I like things big, and I like things luscious and making a statement, so mine are just jam-packed with toasted almonds, then I did variations on it by adding toasted almonds and chocolate chunks, and then toasted almonds, chocolate chunks, and cherries.” “Last year, I came out with the double chocolate, so the dough is chocolate, as well as having the toasted almonds and the chocolate in the chocolate chunks and the dough,” Conigliaro added. Conigliaro also shared that the lemon poppy seed cookies follow a recipe from one of her mother’s friends, but with an added lemon powdered sugar coating. “The pecan sandies were supposed to be like drop cookies, and I made them more into a bar that I could slice and bake, just trying to streamline some of the waste as opposed to scooping everything,” she explained. “Aunt Cookie” comes from Conigliaro’s godchildren, who affectionately call her by the nickname when they visit and bake cookies together. Since the title “Aunt Cookie” was already in use, Conigliaro started her business under the full trademark “Aunt Cookie, Taste the Love,” yet she was able to secure the coveted auntcookie.com domain. Conigliaro studied to be a recreational

See AUNT COOKIE, Page 6

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December 2023 | SIX095

Customers can purchase the popular rainbow sprinkle-covered NYC confetti cookies, near and lower right, in a palette of holiday hues palatable for any hungry Santa, as portrayed by former Moorestown teacher Chuck Gill, upper right. AUNT COOKIE, From Page 5 therapist at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, a co-op school where she worked at both the University of Washington Hospital’s spinal cord injury center in Seattle and for Eunice Kennedy Shriver at the Special Olympics main headquarters in Washington, D.C., to get an understanding of the occupation. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, Conigliaro worked at the Carrier Foundation in Belle Mead, a behavioral health facility now known as the Carrier Clinic under Hackensack Meridian Health. But Conigliaro, in all of her spirited energy, still found herself fatigued. “I wanted to take all the patients home with me. At 22 years old, you think you can save the world, but you can’t. You can try, and I tried, and I just got a little burned out a little too quickly,” she said, acknowledging how this initial exhaustion led her to realize how important change is. “I’m of the belief that when you get burned out or you’re not happy at work anymore, it’s time to reinvent yourself and go do something else. Because life is too short,” Conigliaro explained. “You can’t be miserable.” While at the Carrier Foundation, Conigliaro had started a catering business on the side, High Expectations Catering, and continued to run the culinary operation after she left. She then designed community maps for cable television installations and sold subscriptions door-to-door. Conigliaro eventually returned to school for her teaching certificate from the Col-

lege of New Jersey and worked in a vocational school, where she taught students in a special education program about food and basic healthcare services. According to Conigliaro, the owners of the Princeton Charcuterie, a new gourmet deli and catering business on Nassau Street, then “approached” Conigliaro “to open, manage, and be the face of the establishment.” But a year and a half into a demanding 16-hour, seven-day-a-week schedule, she left in 1987 to manage a short-lived gourmet grocery store, Kaufelt’s Fancy Groceries, in the newly opened MarketFair shopping center on Route 1. She worked in the admissions department of a nearby technical school, the former Cittone Institute in Princeton, before continuing her studies at Rider University, where she earned a master’s degree in counseling services with a concentration in school counseling. Her mother started teaching kindergarten in Rochester, but when its principal switched to the suburban district where the Phillips family lived at the time, he invited Jean to join him there, where she taught fourth grade until retirement. Conigliaro explained that her mother’s actions not only encouraged her to see food as an expression of love, but also inspired her to embark on an educational journey of her own. Conigliaro expressed a similar sense of fulfillment in combining these interests, adding that a shared activity like baking can be a way to get younger children, “especially boys,” to open up. “You’re working side by side, and it

became a therapeutic environment in many ways,” Conigliaro said. Since not everyone responds to traditional methods, these creative “diversions,” or alternative methods, may just be the communication style that “helps heal the soul.” Conigliaro explained that she loves helping people and bringing positive changes to the world, which has likely been her “impetus” for every occupation along the way. This wide range of career choices, from cartography to catering, relates to her endless zeal for finding the joy in life—never one to dwell on a chapter that no longer serves her or fails to spark that same infectious joy she so easily passes on to others. But Conigliaro also gets her ambitious nature from various role models throughout her life, citing an “entrepreneurial” aunt with a similar disposition who had opened several stores of her own. PROVIDE ACCESS TO PROGRAMS THAT Conigliaro’s Polish grandfather ran a INSPIRE YOUTH TO STRIVE FOR GREAT dry-cleaning PROVIDE ACCESS TO PROGRAMS THAT and tailoring business in

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Rochester. After it burned down during the race riots, he continued to operate on a client-by-client basis. “I’ve always wanted to have my own successful business, and when you’re paying a mortgage, and you have responsibilities, it’s not necessarily the time,” she explained, noting that although she opened side ventures before her full-time professional commitment to the Princeton Charcuterie, “Aunt Cookie” was a perfect match in both timing and interest. Conigliaro said that although the pandemic was undoubtedly a major factor in shaping the early trajectory of her business, her shift to the modern cottage industry presented an even bigger opportunity for growth. Although “technology was my Achilles heel,” she said, Conigliaro was able to create a brand through connecting with others across the world—a web designer in Idaho, an artist in Texas, and another in Japan—

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6SIX09 | December 2023

Get up close with seasonal sweets like gingersnaps, peanut butter cookies, and a 6-pack of retro bars, which offer new versions of classic treats like flourless brownies and granola bars with healthier ingredients. and a treasured friend close to home. All of Conigliaro’s promotional images on the website were professionally shot by commercial photographer Gale Zucker, her best friend since 11 years old. Zucker has worked for entities like the New York Times, Smithsonian Magazine, Penguin Random House, and the Berroco yarn company. For more from Zucker’s portfolio, see her website at gzucker.com. Arline’s husband is Sebastiano Conigliaro, better known by his nickname “Iano” (or “Uncle Pizza” to the godchildren), who moved from Sicily to America at the age of 21 and started making pizza. He owned Iano’s Rosticceria on 86 Nassau Street—now the location of MTea Sushi & Dessert, which opened this year—from 2005 to 2012. Arline noted that Iano could go out in Princeton and recognize people by their orders, complete with perfectly memorized preferences. While they no longer have the storefront, Iano remains his wife’s greatest advocate. When Arline realized how much physical strain the motions of cookie-making were putting on her shoulders and neck, Iano, with his over 30 years of pizza experience and ability to “scoop a 20-quart batch of dough in minutes,” stepped in to assist. “He’s just a huge source of help for me,” she said. “It’s just getting so big that I couldn’t do it all on my own.” Conigliaro is currently focused on the upcoming holidays, which includes planning social media promotions with her former colleague Chuck Gill, a Moorestown teacher who became a full-time professional Santa after retiring. She is still in the early stages of developing the next collection, and while she expects to expand to a larger location in the future, Conigliaro has no interest in open-

ing a brick-and-mortar store. Instead, she wants to focus on what Aunt Cookie means to her—delivering a sincere “warmth in the heart” sensation that encourages everyone to indulge in nostalgia and cultivate community. When schools closed at the beginning of the pandemic, Conigliaro explained, she went to her garage bakery and assembled “home economics boxes” for all the neighborhood children. Toting three pounds of sugar cookie dough, cookie cutters, five colors of sprinkles, parchment paper, and instructions, Conigliaro, joined by Iano and their new puppy, dropped off a package at each home with children and listed her own number as the “bakery hotline” for any questions. They also ordered a case of toilet paper— a hot commodity at the time—and distributed 48 rolls with invitations taped to each roll, all of which welcomed a household to the Conigliaro backyard for fresh, brick oven pizza. While the neighbors congregated around the back gate of the house at a safe distance and chatted, Arline delegated the orders to Iano, who churned out pie after pie. Both Conigliaros recognized that these much-needed moments of normalcy were forged through coming together, conveying that message through grand gestures and gregarious, warm personalities, as well as their respective trades in dough. “For me, it’s all about building community, and that’s why we do the things we do, so the cookies are part of that,” Arline said, adding that strengthening those relationships and sharing a mutual “sense of belonging” is what drives her. Food, according to Conigliaro, is the perfect way of doing so—a “united front.” Aunt Cookie, Taste the Love. auntcookie.com.

A Princeton Holiday Tradition!

PR I N C E TON SY M PH ON Y OR C H E ST R A R OSSE N MIL ANOV , MUS I C DI RE C TO R

2023-2024

Saturday, December 16 3PM and 6PM

Richardson Auditorium

John Devlin, conductor Morgan James, vocalist With The Princeton High School Choir Vincent Metallo, director GET TICKETS

princetonsymphony.org 609/497-0020 Dates, times, artists, and programs subject to change.

Accessibility: For information on available services, please contact ADA Coordinator Kitanya Khateri at least two weeks prior at (609) 905-0937.

December 2023 | SIX097

SEASON’s GREETINGs Special Section Hamilton Dental

Associates

Trenton Area Soup Kitchen

Don’t Let Your Annual Benefits Go to Waste!

Driving Hunger Out of Our Community: New TASK To-Go Truck Means More Access to Food More meals, more places. That’s the goal. A recent report indicates that nearly 17 million households across the country are experiencing food insecurity, an increase of nearly 3.5 million households in just one year. TASK has seen the impact firsthand. Already serving 10,000 meals per week, all of TASK’s 36 meal sites are reporting an increase in need, with some sites experiencing lines that stretch city blocks forming hours before the meals even begin. As a result, in early 2024, TASK will be launching mobile meals. This project will initially focus on serving the City of Trenton, where

8SIX09 | December 2023

27% of the population – including 37% of resident children – are living below the poverty line, a rate more than twice the State average. TASK’s mobile meal program, which will offer TASK’s signature freshly-prepared and balanced meals more accessibly than ever, is just the first step on the journey to help expand food resources in Trenton. TASK is committed to ensuring that every household will have reliable access to healthy, nutritious food. With your support, you can help TASK drive hunger out of Trenton. See ad, page 14.

Every year, thousands of people sit on their dental insurance and benefits until the new year rolls around, losing out on their past year of coverage. While some may use it to cover routine dental checkups, most pay for these yearly benefits without ever using them, leaving them unused and therefore going to waste. Instead of eating it as a sunk cost, consider scheduling some dental work with Hamilton Dental Associates! Dental insurance can be much less confusing for patients to understand compared to medical insurance. The language used in dental insurance policies directly tells people what procedures receive coverage, how much you have to pay, and how much the insurance provider pays. However, people wind up leaving money on the table when their insurance plan rolls over at the end of the year. Whatever the difference between their maximums and what they spent on dental procedures is, they lose that

money. To maximize the benefits of their dental insurance plans, patients need to understand what is currently offered, what kind of procedures are offered, and how much their insurance will cover. Knowing Your Coverage. Most dental insurance plans follow the 10080-50 structure. They will cover 100% of the costs of minor procedures such as bi-yearly visits, teeth cleanings, xrays, and dental sealant procedures. For things such as cavity fillings, root canals, and gum disease, your insurance will cover around 80% of the total cost after the deductible is met. The major procedures like crowns, bridges, inlays, or dentures will only have about 50% of the procedure covered. Knowing how much your insurance will cover helps you plan out your visits and maximize the money still left on your account before losing it at the end of the year. What If I Have an FSA Account? Flexible Spending Accounts, or FSA, are provided through employersponsored insurance plans and are designed to help provide flexibility in how you pay for specific procedures. During your enrollment period, you select which FSA account you want and determine how much money is

Aquatic Performance Training

Trenton Farmers Market

The Safest and Most Effective Exercise Program

Residents of the Trenton region have relied on the Trenton Farmers Market to provide locally grown Jersey Fresh fruits and vegetables since 1939. Starting off along the river in South Trenton, the Market moved to 960 Spruce Street in Lawrence Township in 1948. We’re celebrating 75 years on Spruce St. this year! During the summer season, Trenton Farmers Market boasts half a dozen farmers from Mercer, Burlington and Atlantic Counties, many who are third generation family famers. The local season starts in April with cool weather crops like lettuce, arugula, asparagus, bok choy, leeks and spinach. May brings our famous local strawberries, kale, & leeks. June brings the first local blueberries, a brief cherry season, early beans, cabbage and carrots, and of course, sweet Jersey corn. That can only mean that Jersey tomatoes, peaches, nectarines and plums are coming in July! Local Jersey Fresh fruits and produce (including organics) will be available at Trenton Farmers Market now through November. We even have a mushroom farmer who brings both beautiful and flavorful mushrooms in many varieties. Local fruits and vegetables are just part of the story at the Trenton Farmers Market. The Market has worked very hard to change with the times and to bring vendors in who help make the Market a destination beyond the area’s best produce. The Trenton Farmers Market just wouldn’t be complete with our two Amish vendors, Cartlidge’s Meats, and King Foods. Fresh, top-quality meats and prepared foods with that homemade Amish country goodness are what brings so many people back week after week. Another top vendor is Pulaski Meats, the areas best connection for amazing luncheon meats, pierogies, and many other Polish and Eastern European specialties. If that isn’t tempting enough, consider the Market’s TWO vegan eateries — Lady & The Shallot and the Savory Leaf Café! Every Saturday the Market features Terra Momo Bread Company — baguettes, croissants, focaccia, simple sandwiches, whole grains, rye and sweet treats, too! Speaking of sweet, our own Pie’d Piper has its own following for overstuffed donuts, pies, cakes, salads and more, they are way more than a

Jersey fresh since 1939

Aquatic Performance Training was born out of necessity for anyone looking to improve their overall health but may be limited at a traditional gym due to an injury or physical limitation. The owner of Aquatic Performance, John Dohanic, was inspired to create the business after having four shoulder surgeries by the time he was 19 years old, including a shoulder replacement. Being active in sports and traditional workouts such as weight lifting and powerlifting all of his life contributed to the extensive injuries that John was experiencing that left him out of shape, gaining weight, and full of pain. Doctors told John to get in the water and he joined a local aqua aerobics program that included noodles, foam dumbbells, and kickboards. Although the water felt good on his injury, the program and the equipment were not effective enough to deliver the results John was looking for. He started doing extensive research and education on more specialized equipment for the pool and began investing in underwater bikes, aquatic treadmills, and strength training equipment for the pool that would deliver the results he was looking for. Aquatic Performance Training has been growing since 2010 and has helped more than 5,000 local clients accomplish their health goals. The

different programs offered at the new Quakerbridge Road facility are a wide range of high-energy group sessions that are led by amazing instructors. Aquatic and land-based personal training are geared towards individuals who need more one on one attention and accountability. You will find the world’s first all aquatic gym that includes aqua bikes, underwater treadmills, aquatic ellipticals, and swimming. Anti-gravity treadmills increase your cardio health and leg strength without the wear and tear of normal land treadmills. The mission of Aquatic Performance Training is to provide the safest, most effective exercise and soon to be aqua therapy company in the country. We look forward to the opportunity to help you with your goals very soon! More information: www.aquaticperformancetraining.com. See ad, page 12.

in that account. These pre-tax dollars come out of your paycheck over the year and are then used to help cover the cost of these procedures. The FSA plans work similarly to a debit card in that the money in the account can be withdrawn to cover the expenses. However, like other benefits, once the new year comes and the plan rolls over into 2021, you lose whatever balance is left on the FSA account. This is why you should take the time to plan out what dental procedures you need done throughout the year and do what you can to maximize the money in your FSA account. Where Do I Go From Here? That’s the most important question right now.

Since you only have a set amount of time left in the year to utilize your dental insurance benefits to their fullest, don’t wait! We can help you schedule your routine checkups, schedule any additional dental work you may need, and work with your insurance provider to figure out how much is covered and what you need to pay out of pocket. We’re an in-network option for various insurance plans and can work with plans that offer out-of-network benefits. Contact our team to learn more about how we can help today! Visit Hamilton Dental Associates today, and come see what all the smiles are about! See ad, page 12.

bakery. Nothing goes with great baked good like an awesome cup of locally roasted and ground coffee at Kafe Ojala or any one of hundreds of loose teas, matcha, bubble teas and fresh PMS 485 quiche at the Tea for All tea shop. What’s that irresistible smell? No matter where you enter the market, chances are you’ll notice the unmistakable smell of BBQ — beef, brisket, pork, chicken, beans, corn bread and more at Hambone Opera — praised by both the Food Network and the New York Times always pleases hungry shoppers. Great for take-home dinner or eat-in lunch! Since no one lives on food alone, the Trenton Farmers Market also features over a dozen artisan makers, creators and sellers who have been carefully curated for our shoppers. You will find handmade soaps, bath products and skin lotions, you will find our wildly popular Sea Moss vendor, textiles, woodcraft, jewelry, hand poured candles, oils and scents even a gluten free / vegan baker! And because we know pets are an important part of the family, the market has a dog treat “barkery” and vendor who sells anything you might need for your pet’s health and happiness. Need a watch or clock repaired? We have a guy. Need something from a variety store? We have a guy. We even have a smoke shop outside the market where you can try your luck at the lottery or stock up on smokes and supplies. Try the Lunchbox: a full-service lunch spot just outside the market offering sausage & peppers, burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches. Check out our holiday market through Christmas Eve and our artisans market starting in January! When was the last time you made a visit to the Trenton Farmers Market? Rediscover what thousands already know, that Jersey Fresh is ALWAYS in season at the Trenton Farmers Market. 960 Spruce Street, Lawrence. Hours: Thurs-Sat 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit www. thetrentonfarmersmarket.com, Like us on Facebook & Instagram. See ad, page 10.

December 2023 | SIX099

SEASON’s GREETINGs Special Section

Hamilton Y’s Summer Day Camp A Journey of Discovery and Fun The Hamilton Area YMCA’s Sawmill Summer Day Camp, nestled in the heart of Mercer County, is your child's gateway to an unforgettable summer experience. With 50 acres of sprawling outdoor space and the largest pool in Mercer County, this camp is a haven for fun, learning, and adventure. During five fun-filled days packed with excitement, campers are encouraged to find their spark, embrace a sense of wonder, forge new friendships, and embark on thrilling adventures. ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE at Sawmill Summer Camp! Discover What Makes Sawmill Camp Special: Find Their Spark: Our camp is a nurturing ground where kids develop essential skills, grow in confidence, and form new friendships. As they engage in diverse activities, from outdoor play to learning to swim, they

gain valuable personal development skills. These experiences help shape their identity and passions, influencing their academic pursuits, relationships, and future career choices. Find Their Sense of Wonder: The great outdoors is a world of discovery at Sawmill Camp. We understand the importance of outdoor play. Our camp promotes active engagement with the environment and with their peers, fostering respect and consideration for the world around them. Camp provides kids the perfect opportunity to discover the outdoors and get their bodies and imaginations more active. Find Their Adventure: Every day at our camp is a new adventure, a chance for kids to stretch their imagination and embrace creativity without the fear of failure. This freedom allows them to explore and express themselves in ways they might not elsewhere. Find Their Friends and Fun: Sawmill Camp is more than a summer getaway; it's a social hub where lifelong friendships are formed. Here, children learn to collaborate, build relationships, and navigate conflicts, all while having the time of their lives.

A Summer of Enrichment: Recognizing the multifaceted benefits of camp, we've planned an exciting summer filled with theme weeks, special events, and new experiences. Campers will immerse themselves in a wide-range of activities, including arts and crafts, music, science, dance, sports, and swimming. Our highly trained counselors are committed to making your child's summer both safe and exhilarating. Children look at camp as a fun way to spend the summer in the sun and splashing in the pool, but parents understand that camp allows kids to

reap many life benefits that will follow them through their lives long after the sun has set on their summer camp days. Join Us for a Summer where ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. At Sawmill Summer Day Camp, we're dedicated to creating an environment where every child can find their adventure and fun. We invite you to be a part of our vibrant community this summer. For more information and to register, please visit hamiltonymca.org/camp. See ad, page 13.

THE TRENTON FARMERS MARKET Visit our Holiday and Makers Market THURS 11/30 9:00am thru SUN 12/24 2:00pm

VOTED#1 MARKET IN MERCER COUNTY HOLIDAY HOURS: THURS-SAT 9-6 SUNDAY 9-3 OPEN EVERY DAY 12/15 THROUGH 12/24 • JERSEY FRESH PRODUCE • BREADS & BAKED GOODS • AMISH MEATS • WATCH REPAIR • EASTERN EUROPEAN FAVORITES • LOTTERY/SMOKE SHOP • DELI • CLOTHING • BURGERS, FRIES, HOT DOGS, • JEWELRY, SKIN & HAIR CARE CHICKEN & MORE • COFFEE & TEA VENDORS • AMISH, BBQ, & VEGAN EATERIES

FARMERS ACCEPT ACEPTAMOS ROLNICY AKCEPTUJA *INDIVIDUAL FARM, VENDOR & MERCHANT HOURS VARY

960 SPRUCE STREET, LAWRENCE 609-695-2998 TheTrentonFarmersMarket.com 10SIX09 | December 2023

PMS 485

Rumble Boxing Knocks Out Princeton

revolves around authenticity and single, seamless class. Each a departure from the clichés often round symbolizes a distinct associated with group workouts. challenge, weaving together It champions the celebration of boxing-inspired movements individual uniqueness while fostering and targeted strength training a collective environment where exercises. From jab-cross everyone fights for shared fitness combinations to bodyweight goals. circuits, participants engage Rumble Boxing’s dedication to in a fusion of disciplines that authenticity doesn’t mean sacrificing elevate heart rates while style or grace. On the contrary, it sculpting and toning muscles, melds an edgy vibe with a touch of making each session a elegance, mirroring the multifaceted complete, full-body workout. nature of its workouts — raw, The inclusive nature of powerful, yet executed with finesse. Rumble Boxing’s community At Greenwood House Hospice, our families and caregivers The spirit of Rumble Boxing is evident in its diverse Princeton is LOVE echoed through the clientele.WE Novices and HOW MUCH CARE! AND YOU WILL, TOO. stories shared by its members. They seasoned athletes find celebrate their individual fitness their place within the gym’s journeys while acknowledging the welcoming embrace, fostering “I am and honored serve asand Greenwood House Hospice Medical collective support thatproud fuels their a senseto of belonging Directorof and alongside some of the best nurses, social workers, progress. This celebration unity to work encouragement. and individuality within a fitness and volunteers As RumbleinBoxing chaplains the business. Our team provides intimate community marks Rumble Boxing becomes a fixture in and comprehensive care for ourlandscape, terminally ill patients. We support not At Green as a standout in Princeton’s fitness Princeton’s fitness ring, embrace the challenge, and just those in their butmerge also the their families and loved ones.” scene. its final ability months to seamlessly LOVE emerge stronger, fitter, and more HOW At the core of Rumble’s appeal art of boxing with the science of empowered than ever before. lies its high-octane 10-round fight HIIT, MetCon, and cardio solidifies Rumble Boxing Princeton, “I am proud and concept. This distinctive approach its status as a revolutionary fitness 3495 Route 1, Suite 120B, Windsor – DAVID R. BARILE, MD Director and offers an authentic blend of Highdestination. With each round Green Shopping Center. 609-464chaplains a Medical Director, Greenwood House Hospice Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), symbolizing a step closer to personal 8722. www.rumbleboxinggym.com/ and compreh metabolic conditioning (MetCon), triumph, Rumble Boxing Princeton princeton. See ad, page 8. just those in and the full benefits of cardio in a beckons individuals to step into the

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A New Fitness Haven Lands in Town

If you’ve been in the Whole Foods complex recently, you’ve seen the new gym that’s opening soon. Rumble Boxing, renowned for its immersive workouts that seamlessly blend the sweet science of boxing with the transformative power of strength training, has expanded its domain, bringing its unique brand of fitness to the Mercer County area. Rumble Boxing has quickly become a buzzworthy destination for fitness enthusiasts seeking a thrilling, yet challenging, workout experience. What sets Rumble Boxing Princeton apart isn’t just its exceptional workout regimen; it’s the philosophy that underpins every jab, hook, and squat within its walls. Emphasizing the power of collective effort while celebrating individuality, Rumble Boxing curates an experience that’s group fitness for the individual. The ethos of Rumble Boxing

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At Greenwood House Hospice, our families and caregivers Hospice is about living the fullest possible according Our Hospice TeamWILL, consists of: LOVElife HOW MUCH WE CARE! AND YOU TOO. to a patient’s capabilities within a life-limiting condition. • Hospice Medical Director, In hospice, your choices guide the care we provide. a board-certified hospice physician “I am and honored to serve as Greenwood House Hospice Medical Hospice care affirms quality of life.proud Our goal is to • Registered Nurses (RNs) monitoring Directoranxiety and to work alongside some of the best nurses, social workers, prevent and relieve pain, discomfort, and fear. pain, managing symptoms and chaplains and volunteers in the business. Our team provides intimate guiding patient’s plan of care and comprehensive care for our terminally ill patients. We support not We provide emotional and spiritual support to patients • Hospice Home justisthose in theirwherever final months but also theirCertified families and lovedHealth ones.” and their loved ones. Hospice care provided Aides (CHHAs) providing personal a patient feels most comfortable or where they call patient care and companionship home. We help families and caregivers prepare for end–• DAVID R. BARILE, MD patients Social Workers supporting of-life challenges and find creative ways to share in life Medical Director, Greenwood House Hospice and families and connecting them review and legacy projects so that our patient’s wisdom with community resources and memories can be treasured for future generations.

• Spiritual Counselors providing emotional support and personal counseling Hospice is about living the fullest life possible according to•aBereavement patient’s capabilities within a offering life-limiting condition. Services In hospice, your choices guide the care we provide. guidance and education concerning Hospice care affirms quality of life. Our goal is to anticipatory griefdiscomfort, to families prevent and relieve pain, anxiety and fear. throughout care and bereavement We provide emotional and spiritual support to patients • Hospice withwherever and their loved Volunteers ones. Hospice assisting care is provided a patient feels most comfortable where they call a variety of patient andorfamily home. We help families and caregivers prepare for endpersonalized activities of-life challenges andsupport find creative ways to share in life review and legacy projects so that our patient’s wisdom and memories can be treasured for future generations.

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Greenwood House Hospice is a nonprofit, mission-based organization rooted in cherished Jewish traditions and an industry leader in providing high-quality senior health care in the state of New Jersey. Seniors of all faiths are welcome. Call us today: (609) 883-6026 Or email us at info@greenwoodhouse.org Call us today: (609) 883-6026

greenwoodhouse.org

Or email us at Hospice is about living the fullest life possible according Our Hospice Team consists of: to ainfo@greenwoodhouse.org patient’s capabilities within a life-limiting condition. • Hospice Medical Director,

@GreenwoodHouseNJ

• Spiritual Counselors providing emotional support and personal counseling In hospice, your choices guide the care we provide. a board-certified hospice physician Hospice care affirms House quality ofis life. Our goal is to agency of • Bereavement Services offering Greenwood a beneficiary the Jewish Federation of Princeton, Mercer, Bucks. • Registered Nurses (RNs) monitoring prevent and relieve pain, discomfort, anxiety and fear. managing symptoms and *Greenwood House Hospice was establishedpain, in memory of Renee Denmarkguidance Punia.and education concerning anticipatory grief to families guiding patient’s plan of care We provide emotional and spiritual support to patients throughout care and bereavement • Hospice Certified Home Health and their loved ones. Hospice care is provided wherever • Hospice Volunteers assisting with Aides (CHHAs) providing personal a patient feels most comfortable or where they call a variety of patient and family patient care and companionship home. We help families and caregivers prepare for endpersonalized support activities • Social Workers supporting patients of-life challenges and find creative ways to share in life

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December 2023 | SIX0911

SEASON’s GREETINGs Special Section Greenwood House Senior Healthcare Serving the Aged Since 1939 Greenwood House Senior Healthcare, its campus located in Ewing Township, NJ, off I-295 at Scotch Road and Parkway Avenue, has been serving Mercer County and the local community with personalized quality care, through its comprehensive network of senior health care services since 1939. What historically started as a local Home for the Jewish Aged, today continues to operate as a nonprofit, nonsectarian, reputable senior healthcare organization offering a continuum of care including skilled nursing, rehabilitation, memory care, assisted living, home care, hospice care, and Kosher meals on wheels. Greenwood House provides care with a person-centered approach that greatly enhances well-being and an enriched daily life. The goal is to ensure each and every resident, patient, and client experiences quality care in an atmosphere that promotes not

only dignity and empathy, but embraces aging with quality, expertise, respect, and compassion. The care and services focus on social, emotional and spiritual support to create a resource unlike any other. Greenwood House Skilled Nursing Facility is CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid) 5-Star Quality Rated, and Greenwood House Home Care is a certified New Jersey CAHC (Commission on Accreditation for Home Care) accredited agency with “distinction.” Greenwood House Hospice is unique in the network as not only do we provide treatment and compassionate care to seniors and the elderly population, but any individual, all ages, who may be enduring a life ending disease or are terminally ill. The hospice team provides a highquality upscale program customized for each patient, and includes a support team there for the patient, family and their loved ones 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. “Our team provides intimate and comprehensive care for our terminally ill patients wherever they call home. I am proud to work alongside some of the best hospice healthcare professionals in

THE GIFT OF A SMILE With the end of the year in sight, now is a great time to assess your family’s unmet dental needs. Consider your annual benefits that expire at the end the Contact us With the end of the year in sight,of now is year. a great to help you plan your time to assess your family’s unmet dental needs. New Year Consider your annual benefits that expire at smile! the

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the business,” says Dr. David Barile, Greenwood House Hospice Medical Director, board-certified in geriatrics and internal medicine. Greenwood House Senior Healthcare has on staff medical directors, board-certified in geriatric and internal medicine, an ancillary team of specialists consisting of a dentist, podiatrist, optometrists, audiologist, and psychologist, as well as nurse practitioners, a dietician, nutritionist, social workers, life enrichment and activities staff, spiritual counsel and 24/7 care team consisting of RNs, LPNs, CNAs (Certified Nursing Aide), dietary aides, housekeeping and maintenance.

“No matter what possible challenges face our team of professional experts in today’s world, our residents, patients and clients will have everything they personally need to keep them healthy, safe and secure, and in turn allowing their families & caretakers peace of mind their loved ones are being cared for by one of the best healthcare organizations in our area,” says Richard Goldstein, Executive Director, Greenwood House Senior Healthcare. To receive information email info@ greenwoodhouse.org, call 609-7180587 or read more and apply on the website at www.GreenwoodHouse. org. See ad, page 11.

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The cover of Tracy Conti Potash’s new children’s book, “Grumpy Claus.” She partnered with a different illustrator on this book, and felt that they were simpatico on the images right away. “I met the illustrator for Grumpy Claus through an online writers’ group. Kimberly Young is her name, and she is

based in Oregon. I loved her work right away,” she says. “We have been working on the images since this past May.” She received her first copies of the book last month and was very pleased with the way they came out. “It is like opening a Christmas gift when those boxes were delivered,” she says. “I love seeing the ideas, words and images come to life!” Potash admits that she is still learning when it comes to the marketing portion of being an author. She was happy to receive the books in time for the holiday season. “One giggle at a time,” she says. “I donated my books to the Hamilton and Hopewell libraries. When I see a kid reading the books and smiling, it makes it all worth it.” The new Grumpy Claus books will be offered at Carella’s Chocolates and Gifts in Mercerville on the local authors bookshelf. The book will also be available for sale at the Eet Gud Bakery on Hamilton Avenue. The books are also offered online in various web shops. “My whole life experience has been teaching kids to read,” she says. I know what they like and what they don’t like. Kids love to read. Books are the best.” Web: instagram.com/chattyt_c_p.

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Used bookstores offer some tips on trading and saving By Dan Aubrey

While it’s always the season for books, the best may be the fall and winter, when it’s the perfect time to warm up with a great read. But what about those piles of books accumulating around the house — especially when new ones arrive before the old ones have had a chance to leave? There is a simple solution that combines the opportunity to declutter and maybe even make a few bucks in the process. It’s time for used book stores to shine. So, get ready to meet several regional shops that thrive by selling and taking books but also purchase books or provide store credit to keep your books shelves active and svelte. The Booktrader of Hamilton’s Joan Silvestro says her shop has 100,000 titles and has 6,000 registered costumers. Now located in a long one-floor shop on Nottingham Way, not far from Grounds For Sculpture, the shop was founded in 1985 in another area of town. Silvestro had worked part-time with the original owners, got smitten with the business, and left her full-time job as

a medical office worker to take over the shop some 20 years ago. The shop moved to its current location 15 years ago. Silvestro notes the following about book pricing: “Used hardcovers are $5 each, unless otherwise marked. All new, straight from the publisher, books are 10 to 20 percent off the retail price. And audiobooks are $7.50.” Among her top sellers are mysteries, romances, and science fiction. One of her top-selling authors is Stephen King. True to the store’s name and original design, Silvestro only takes books in a trade. She gets the book, and the giver receives store credit: 20 percent of the retail price of a paperback, and hardcovers get 20 percent of the price the shop sells them at. She says she’ll accept most books except “old textbooks, encyclopedias, magazines, and hardcovers of books we have in paperback.” Silvestro has a history of hosting author readings and runs a monthly book club that is marking its 15th anniversary. She also devotes a section of her store to books recently banned by the Hamilton Township Board of Education. Booktrader of Hamilton, 2421 Notting-

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ham Way, Hamilton. Mondays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fridays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 609-890-1455 or booktrader.weebly.com. *** Second Time Books is located in a stand-alone shop in Rancocas Village, a small, historic area outside Willingboro, approximately 30 miles from downtown Princeton. Owner Brandon Hartman calls his operation “a labor of love. We specialize in history and science-fiction/fantasy and hand-clean and cover every book on our shelves.” He says the store boasts 45,000 titles — neatly organized in several different rooms. Most books are priced under $10, but expect to pay more for rare or first editions. The decades-old business that Hartman purchased from a previous owner also has a monthly, every fourth Saturday, dollar book sale as well as special box sale days, $6 surprise bag sales, dot sales, and monthly local author signings. Hartman says his bestsellers are narrative history, sci-fi, and classic literature. Those categories are also what he likes to purchase in either cash or credit. The value depends on the quality and type of book. The approximately 2,500-square-foot shop is one of the series of shops in a shopping village that includes antique and craft shops and cafés. Second Time Books, 114 Creek Road, Mount Laurel. Tuesday through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 856234-9335 or secondtimebooksonline.com.

*** The Old Book Shop of Bordentown advertises itself as “a general used, out-ofprint and antiquarian bookshop. We feature strong sections on New Jerseyana, American history and military, baseball, historical mysteries, etc. We even have a children’s room where youngsters can browse.” The store operates an old and very tight shop on a corner of the town’s main street, Farnsworth Avenue. Founder and owner Doug Palmieri says the shop with 10,000 hardcover titles survives on a blend of online and in-store sales. While the online international clients go for the technical, academic, and hardto-find materials, brick-and-mortar shoppers look for local history, especially dealing with the American Revolution. Reporting that he sees more young and younger adult shoppers, Palmieri says he has been selling more sci-fi and graphic novels. There are also a good number of young mothers coming in to buy a stack of children’s books for the price of what one new book would cost at one of the major chains. He also is ready to report his shop’s two top-selling authors: Jane Austen and Agatha Christie. Palmieri gets his books through a combination of donations and purchases. High on his interest level are history and academic publications, low are popular best sellers. He doesn’t deal with trades or credits. The Old Book Shop, 200 Farnsworth Avenue, Bordentown. The website says it is open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m.

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Open House Celebration SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2nd AND 3rd 10AM TO 5PM Customer Appreciation Celebration! Joan Silvestro is the owner of the Booktrader of Hamilton. to 5 p.m., and until 8 p.m. on Fridays, but it may be advisable to call first. 609-3249909 or oldbookshopofbordentown.com. *** Classics Used and Rare Books is in the heart of downtown Trenton. Owner Eric Maywar says the store is a community-driven activity and that he and his family are “doing our best to foster social capital.” A single street level shop, Classics is crammed with books on shelves, stands, and piles, yet it is generally organized into easy-to-find normal types of book shop areas: art, games, fiction, and history. And since there are regular readings featuring local authors, it isn’t surprising to find an area loaded with Trenton and regional writers. There’s even a book that the shop created in partnership with an independent small press that features area writers writing about the shop. About getting his books, Maywar says, “We do not purchase books as a rule. We give store credit for most books. Some that we do not give credit for include books in poor condition, Reader’s Digest books, magazines, book club books, encyclopedias, and select other books.” In addition to a monthly Saturday open mic, the shop dedicates Friday nights for board games, especially Scrabble. Classics, 4 W. Lafayette St., Trenton. Tuesday through Thursday noon to 2 p.m.; Friday, noon to 2 p.m., and 6 p.m. to midnight; and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 609-394-8400 or classicsusedbooks.com. *** The Book Garden is located in a large one-floor store on Monmouth Road (Route 537) in Cream Ridge, about 30 miles from Princeton. Owners Joyce and George Engle say

they were already in the book trade business before they opened the shop in 1989. Now, they have a collection of more than 100,000 books packed into their 4,500-square-foot store. They write that they “buy and sell both hard cover and soft cover books in a wide array of genres. We boast a comprehensive children’s section as well a large selection of religious books. We are particularly well stocked in books on New Jersey history.” A stroll through what looks like a former garden supply shop shows areas offering old magazines, postcards, photographs, sheet music, and comic books. Books prices are a fraction of the normal sale prices. They get their books through donations and purchases, and advise wouldbe sellers that “You can drop books off at the store at your convenience. If for some reason this is not during operating hours, we ask that you please leave the books on the porch, so they are kept safe from the weather.” Since George makes the decisions regarding purchases, they also advise that would-be sellers “give the store a call to confirm he is in on the day you plan to swing by for an appraisal.” Bucking current practices, the Book Garden does not do online sales. And while it has a website and Facebook page, it doesn’t have an email address. As they note, the best way to communicate with them is either by a phone call to the store or a message to its Facebook page. The Book Garden, 868 Monmouth Road, Cream Ridge. Wednesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 609-758-7770 or bookgardennj.com.

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SPORTS

Soccer standout Salzano makes Monmouth her college choice By Rich Fisher

Forget the 51 career goals and 17 assists. Forget the fact that Adriana Salzano led the Princeton Day School girls soccer team in scoring three of her four years. “While the stats helped qualify her,” Panthers coach Chris Pettit noted, “Dre’s influence goes far beyond what you see on the score sheet.” How so? “Her intensity and passion for the sport is second to none,” Pettit said. “Her attention to detail for what it takes to be a successful player and a successful program are infectious. Over the last couple of years she’s been the benchmark.” In Salzano’s final year of high school competition, PDS became the benchmark of NJSIAA Non-Public B soccer as it won a non-prep state championship for the first time in school history. After losing in the Mercer County Tournament and Prep B quarterfinals this year, Salzano had one last chance for the tour-

nament title she ached for. And she went after it, collecting five goals and an assist in the first four Non-Public B wins, then dropping back to defend in the final 20 minutes of a 2-0 victory over Mount St. Dominic in the championship game. “When we lost preps in the first round, I was like ‘Well this is our last shot,’ and I had said to myself at the beginning of the season, ‘I’m not leaving this program without winning something,’” the Hamilton Square resident said three days after the finals. “When that whistle blew, I was absolutely speechless. I was like ‘Oh my God, we’re state champions!’” PDS gained entry into the Non-Public Tournament in 2021, but lost in the quarterfinals each of the past two years. This year, it made history. “It’s crazy to even think about,” Salzano said. “Then again, we prepared so much and worked so hard, I just think we deserve every single minute of (celebrating) it.” No one was happier for Salzano than her coach, who took over for long-time

22Hamilton Post | December 2023

success story Patrick Trombetta in Dre’s sophomore year. “For that to happen to Dre in that kind of setting was a fitting send off,” Pettit said. “She’s been the heart and soul of this team for the three years I’ve been there.” She did it by bucking the family’s sporting traditions. Cousin Gennaro played baseball for Steinert, and uncle Jerry played with the Thunder. Sister Nicolette was a standout travel softball player (now a New Jersey banking investigator). “Soccer was never our strong suit, but I just fell in love with it at the age of three,” Salzano said. “I always enjoyed playing with the ball. Wherever I went I always had it with me.” She joined the Hamilton Wildcats at age 4 and played up in age for most of her club career. Dre moved to the NJ Rush and, at the ripe old age of 8, knew she wanted to play college soccer. She moved to FC Bucks at age 12. Several years later she landed at PDA South. “I had to make the switch so I could be with college coaches to get noticed,” Sal-

zano said. When it came to high school, she had the grades and talent to look into private schools, and was immediately impressed by the PDS campus and Trombetta. “Coach T made it clear that it was very simple: you work hard, you prove you can make an impact on the team and you’re gonna start,” the midfielder recalled. “In preseason I think I showed that, and that’s why I got the minutes and started. I was very confident in myself and he’s an amazing coach.” Salzano led the Panthers in goals with nine and was second in assists with six as they went 10-1 in the virus-shortened campaign. “As a freshman I was very petite,” she recalled. “Playing against the top teams in the state as a ninth grader, it was just a surreal experience. I was soaking it all in, I knew, ‘Hey this is what I worked for all those hours,’ just to be out there with all those upperclassmen.” Concern struck after that season as Trombetta left for Trinity Hall (which

If it’s important to you and your child, it’s important to us.

Princeton Day School senior Adriana Salzano signs a National Letter of Intent to go to Monmouth University to play soccer. With her are dad Jerry, mother Leesa, sister Nicolette and brother Gennaro. PDS defeated in the South Jersey NonPublic A final this year). It was a gut punch for Salzano, whose potential fouryear Utopia was suddenly in jeopardy. “The moment he told me he left, I actu-

ally think I cried,” she said. “He gave me those opportunities and built me up to be that impact player my freshman year. He molded me into the type of player he was See SALZANO, Page 24

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SALZANO continued from Page 23 looking for. When I found out he was leaving, I was like ‘Oh my God, this can’t be happening.’” Fortunately, Salzano knew of Pettit from NJ Rush, and while high school is a different animal than club, she said it didn’t take long to see he knew what he was doing. “To win a state championship his third year at the school shows he’s definitely a great coach,” she said. Over the next two years, the Panthers had good-but-not-great records, going a combined 21-15-3. Salzano’s skills remained on display, with 12 goals and five assists as a sophomore and 13 and two as a junior. Pettit knew he had a natural goal scorer. “Her left foot and right foot, she could do it all,” he said. “She can head the ball, she’s got two good feet, great balance. Her first touch is always on point.” Just as importantly, she’s cool under fire. “She’s very composed in front of the goal,” Pettit said. “Everybody else gets excited and sees their name in the paper before the ball has even hit the back of the net. They’ll try and do too much, swing too fast. Dre is very calm, almost nonchalant with how she finishes.” Entering this season, Salzano gained a new role as a team captain. It was not a duty she took lightly, and Pettit noticed that on the team’s preseason fitness run. As one who awakens at 6 a.m. to run and workout, Dre prided herself on doing well and winning that run as an underclassmen. This year, after getting out ahead of the pack, she slowed her pace, allowing everyone in her group to nearly catch up and then pace them. Pettit estimates everyone’s times were 30 seconds faster than they would have been had Salzano just gone out and won the run by her usual two laps. “That was huge for her to do that and it paid off,” the coach said. “She stayed with that group and pushed them along and everyone benefitted, including Dre herself. She made other people around her

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better.” How much of a difference that made was anyone’s guess, but PDS finished 17-2-3 in Non-Public B. Salzano led the way with 17 goals and four assists and that number could have been swollen even further if “goals prevented” were added to the total. “She plays a good portion of games as a defensive midfielder,” Pettit said. “She’ll be an attacking or defensive midfielder depending on how the game goes. The last 20 minutes, when we needed to keep control of the game (against Mount St. Dominic) she played as a defensive midfielder. The fact she is a top goal scorer while doing that speaks to her talents.” Dre will take those talents to Monmouth University next fall. She was recruited by schools from throughout the country and was checking out West Coast programs before deciding it would be better to stay near home. Much like her first visit to PDS, Salzano fell in love with Monmouth the minute she stepped onto campus. “I knew in my heart this is where I want to be,” she said. “I didn’t need to look anywhere else.” Pettit is friends with the Hawks’ goalkeepers coach, and feels Monmouth is a good fit for his outgoing star. “She’s got all of the attributes to do very well in college. I think she’s gonna have a stellar career,” he said. Before leaving, however, Dre will reflect on what she calls “an amazing and perfect” four years at PDS. Aside from soccer, Salzano played basketball and softball while carrying an A average in the classroom. She was in the coding and finance clubs, with the latter helping prepare her as a business and marketing major. “This was everything I was looking for,” Salzano said. “It’s got the great sports, the great academics, and a great community. It’s the perfect school you could imagine as a high school.” And she was as perfect a player the Panthers could imagine as their soccer leader.

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Kotch notches 100 career goals for Pennington soccer By Rich Fisher

Pennington School girls soccer coach Bill Hawkey has produced countless great players in his long career. Many played Division I, some played professionally and/or with the U.S. National Team. It’s a star-studded group for sure. Naturally, it had to be asked where Hamilton Square resident Morgan Kotch sat on that list. Top five? “Absolutely, and probably higher,” the Hawk said. Wow. As if it needed to be added after that comment, Hawkey said “She’s a special player.” When that was relayed to Kotch, she responded: “Coming from Hawk, he’s seen some very good players, so that means a lot to me.” Much like Kotch meant a lot to the Red Hawks over the past four years. In just three full seasons she became Pennington’s all-time goal scorer for both boys and girls with 108, helping the program to two NJISAA titles and three Mercer County Tournament championships.

Morgan Kotch (right) in action against Steinert. (Photo by Jim Inverso.) But it was in Kotch’s freshman year — when Pennington played just four games due to Covid — that the striker showed she would be special. In the season’s second match against Hunterdon Central, Morgan went up against current Rutgers

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defender Emily Mason, the 2020 National Gatorade Player of the Year and two-time Gatorade New Jersey POY. In a 2-0 win, the freshman beat the senior for a goal. A legendary career was officially underway. “Morgan just impressed the hell out of us in that game,” said Hawkey, who cocoaches Pennington with Pat Murphy. “She had the job as our striker, she took on the assignment and she scored on that girl. Here’s an upstart freshman taking on arguably the best defender in the state, and Morgan as a wee freshman working her magic. We knew we had a talent at the time. We couldn’t wait to get her back the following year to unleash her.” Over the next three seasons Kotch had

28 goals and nine assists; 40 and five, and 37 and seven. This past season, her 99th goal surpassed Kylee Rossi for the girls school record, and her 105th broke Jae Heo’s boys’ record. “At the moment I scored the goal for the all-time record it didn’t sink in because you’re still in the game,” Kotch said. “Once I got subbed off and it hit me, it was a crazy feeling. It didn’t even feel real at the moment.” And while that was a momentous moment, it all traced back to that goal against Mason. “That was definitely my first test and that really started my whole career,” Kotch said. “That was one of the first very intense games I played in and I proved I should be up there. We knew she was very good and I ended up doing well. Everyone kind of shared in the goal scoring that year, but that one goal gave me the confidence once all those other girls left.” It certainly quelled her fears about playing for a perennial state power. “Freshman year, I came in and I was scared because they had a very good reputation,” Kotch said. “At that point I just wanted playing time. Once I got playing time, I was a starter and it went from there.” And oh, how it went. Kotch not only scored goals, she scored massively important goals. In the 2021 MCT, she tallied seven of the Red Hawks 11 goals, including the only ones of the game in 1-0 wins in the semifinals and finals. As a junior she had a hat trick in a 4-0 MCT semifinal win over Robbinsville, and scored five of Pennington’s nine goals in the NJISAA Prep A semifinals and finals.

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This past season, she amassed seven MCT goals, including a hat trick in a 4-1 win over Allentown in the finals. Then came the Prep Tournament final against Rutgers prep in a battle of nationally ranked teams. The two had never met in Kotch’s previous years but this year Prep A and Prep B merged into one tournament. With Pennington sputtering and trailing 1-0, Kotch got the goal to tie it and assisted on the game-winner in a 2-1 victory. “I think after we scored that first goal, we thought ‘We can do this, we are just as good as them if not better,’” Kotch said. “It was definitely the game we were looking forward to all year. It was going to be (the seniors’) last Pennington game, we didn’t want to end on a losing note. “It was intense. We were confident going in, once they scored we got a little bit timid and we gained our confidence back and finished strong. It couldn’t have been a better ending.” The result put Pennington at 20-0 and ranked No. 7 in the United Soccer Coaches High

School rankings. In Kotch’s four seasons at the school, the Red Hawks went 54-3-3 and won every championship that they could possibly win but one. As for her 108 goals, it boggles the mind to think what that number could be if she had a full freshman season, or if she actually played in the second half of so many blowout wins. But Kotch wasn’t about padding stats with unnecessary goals. Only when it mattered. “When the game’s on the line, she wants the ball,” Hawkey said. “One of her best friends is Hailey Adamsky. If she can find Hailey wide open, she’ll give it to her. When the game is kind of in hand, she’s looking for her teammates, trying to set them up and get them into the scoring column. Every great scorer has a little bit of selfish drive, they have to. But she’s as unselfish as it gets when it comes to her teammates.” What makes Kotch a great scorer? First off, she’s nearly unstoppable in one-v-one situations. She’s also dangerous on set pieces, and can be danger-

ous when getting passes with her back to the goal. Hawkey claimed she has the hardest shot he’s ever seen. And of course, there is that hunger to score. “She’s a relentless attacker,” Hawkey said. “She has that mindset that she can’t be stopped. It’s an intangible. It’s hard to quantify that. It’s a certain quality about certain individuals. You want them to have the ball at the end of the game when the game’s on the line.” It has been that way since Kotch started her career with the Hamilton Wildcats. She moved to a Howell travel team and currently plays for Real Jersey Football Club in Medford. Aside from school and club training, Morgan works out with family members. Her brother Dylan is a former Steinert standout who saw playing time with MAAC champion Rider this year. Twin sister Mackenzie came off the bench for Pennington. “It’s been good having Mackenzie,” Kotch said. “She’s been one of my biggest supporters, and I think that really helps my

confidence. “In the summer, me, her and my brother would play together. He’s very good. Way better than me. It’s definitely challenging playing against each other, and he never takes it easy on me.” They made her good enough to earn a scholarship to Villanova, which offers everything Kotch was looking for. “It took me a while to decide,” she said. “I had to figure out what I wanted and where I wanted to be. At Villanova, with the team, the coaches, I felt so welcome. It just came down to where I could picture myself.” Hawkey likes the decision, saying, “We’re thrilled she’ll be in the local area. There was a lot of interest in her. Villanova has a great reputation. We’re psyched for Morgan, we think it’s gonna be a great fit for her and she’ll continue to do great things.” Most importantly for Kotch, is that along with majoring in business, she will continue to play soccer. “When people say it’s more than a game, it’s not just a saying. It really is,” she said. “You build friendships and you learn

so much. For me, the moment you step on the field nothing else really matters in that moment. I don’t know if you can say that about anything else.” That mindset helped her to become the gold standard for goal scorers at Pennington. “Pennington soccer is very well known. We’ve had so many good players coming through the program. To think it is me (who holds the record) is just unreal,” she said. In Hawkey’s eyes, the achievement is very real. “She’s a terrific kid, terrific person with a heart of gold; smart, funny. She’s the whole package,” he said. “And of course she’s an incredible competitor on the soccer field. She’s a great athlete overall. I just love her to death.” Just as Kotch loved her four years at Pennington. “Each year the team really bonded,” she said. “There was never a bad day. I think that I left my mark on soccer and I hope girls can keep the legacy going.” It is a legacy in which Morgan Kotch now looms very large.

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Steinert cross country beats heat to reach states share the pain. Little did I know what would happen after I finished.” He didn’t pass out, but came darn close after finishing as Steinert’s third runner and 33rd overall in a time of 18:51. “I went out a little too fast, and got exhausted from the heat,” Zamichieli said. “Right before the hill, I noticed myself slowing down and starting to get passed by people. When I finished it was definitely a sad moment because I felt like I let the team down, and for that to be my last race, it was not a pleasant feeling. And also I was sick, my heart and breathing were going crazy after the race and I was just laying down for a while.” There was, however, a happy ending to the whole ordeal, as it would not be Zamichieli’s last race. While coach Mike Giacobbe was scrambling to figure out the scores to see if his team got through, Hopewell Valley coach and former Steinert running great Aaron Oldfield yelled over and held up five fingers, indicating that the Spartans did make it. Once Zamichieli was aware of that, he almost took a turn for the worse. “I heard Giacobbe’s voice saying ‘fifth,’ and I immediately got so excited, I almost had a heart attack,” he said. “My breath-

By Rich Fisher

It was not what one would call perfect conditions for the Steinert boys’ cross country team. The Central Jersey Group III meet was taking place at Jamesburg’s Thompson Park during a brutally hot November day. The top five teams would advance to the Group III state meet, and the Spartans felt they had a pretty good chance. And then things started to happen. Distracting things. In the girls race, which went off first, Lisette Zamichieli began sputtering, then passed out and was taken to the hospital. She would be all right, but at the time it naturally had an adverse effect on her brother, Anthony, as he readied to run the boys race. “It was pretty crazy,” said Zamichieli, who was Steinert’s No. 1 runner. “When I saw that Lisette was starting to slow down and was visibly exhausted, it got me worried for her, and when she passed out all I wanted was for her to be OK. Running means a lot to me, but I didn’t want to run that race if she was not OK. “I actually prayed to God that if it was His will, let me pass out too so I could

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ing and heartbeat was getting under control but once I heard that I just started laughing out of joy and shock that we made it after all had happened. And that’s a big shout out to everyone on the team.” It wasn’t the most conventional way to get to the group meet, but it was certainly a memorable way. “It was a crazy day,” Giacobbe said. “We have a runner pass out and taken to the emergency room and we’re trying to scramble back and get the boys focused. After the race, we couldn’t find Anthony, he was down behind a tree somewhere. By the time we put everything together Oldfield’s yelling my name and putting up a number five. It was one of those meets where our number one runner drops to third because he’s not feeling well and everyone steps up.” Indeed they did, as Steinert was able to advance to the state meet for the first time since 2016. Junior Max Kostin finished 23rd in 18:24, followed by sophomore Tyler Hurst (25th, 18:35), Zamichieli, junior Nihar Kolachalama (36th, 18:58), junior Nathanial Bigger (46th, 19:11) and sophomore Adam Szpakowski (19:31). “Toward the end of the race I saw that Anthony was struggling quite a bit,” Kostin said. “After realizing this, I knew I had to step up. In this moment the only thing that mattered was finishing the race and getting by as many kids as possible to get better placement. “This day meant everything to me. I saw that Anthony wasn’t feeling the greatest when I saw him that morning. I was extremely stressed and nervous because I knew that I was next in line to lead the team.” He did just that, along with Hurst. The sophomore showed enough promise that Giacobbe bumped his seventh runner and inserted Hurst into the lineup for the CJ III meet. “He was a soccer and basketball player last year then he came out for spring track,” the coach said. “I’ve known him and his family since he was a little kid. He’s a pure runner, but he was hurt this year. He didn’t even run an event until we got to the Mercer County JV/freshman meet. He ran that just under 19 minutes in the pouring rain in about two inches of mud. Once he did that we knew we had something going into sectionals. He was almost like the missing link.” Although Steinert did not advance anyone from states into the Meet of Champions, Giacobbe could not have been happier with their effort at Holmdel Park as most runners dropped time from the previous week.

Zamichieli resumed his number one spot, leading Steinert with a 17:45, followed by Hurst (17:50), Kostin (18:14), Kolachalama (18:20), Bigger (18:59) and Szpakowski (19:32). “All of the guys truly believed for the first time all season they truly belonged,” Giacobbe said. “They were relaxed, they were smiling, it was a perfect day to run at Holmdel. I think they relaxed and responded to everything we’ve done all season. “Now you’re going up against the best of the best. There are runners in that race running 15 minutes. You can give all the speeches you want — anything can happen on any given day within the team and it really showed. We had two runners that broke 18, three that broke 19.” It capped a stellar postseason effort for Steinert, which also took fifth in the Mercer County meet. Zamichieli finished 22nd in 17:57, followed by Kolachalama (25th, 18:00), Kostin (31st, 18:16), Bigger (61st 19:13) and Szpakowski (65th, 19:19). “I am extremely proud of how the team as a whole performed this year,” Kostin said. “During our pre-season I did not think we had it in us to move on to groups. I didn’t think we had enough kids with good running experience to make it. The odds were not in our favor. “Once we ran our first race I saw some potential in the team which gave us hope. As the team progressed I knew we were going to somehow qualify. I wasn’t sure how, but I knew we would figure it out.” The Spartans’ other key senior was Cole Goldenbaum, who did not run in the state meets but who Zamichieli said “really stepped up this year.” Giacobbe said of Goldenbaum “He was was one of our big team leaders. He was in our top seven, then dropped out, unfortunately. It’s a tough sport, the clock doesn’t lie. But he was a leader, never missed a meet, showed up all the way through.” The Spartans seventh man was junior Will Sheridan, who ran for the first time after playing soccer. Sheridan ran track a few years ago and Giacobbe felt he might be a good harrier, saying “You see the runner’s face going around the track, you see their form and you say ‘You know what, he’s got something too.’” Zamichieli was the clear cut number one this year, and looks back on the season and his career with great joy and thankfulness. “Max and I were the only runners with two years of experience coming into this year,” he said. “To see everyone step up and improve, especially running together as a team, was amazing. It really showed

in our races. We had groups on our mind the whole season. Instead of looking at the other teams we were focused on improving ourselves and once we started getting closer to sectionals we realized, we have what it takes.” When it came to persevering personally, the senior leaned on his faith; especially after running a PR in the Group III met. “God had to take me through the pain to really appreciate the success,” he said. “There were a lot of unknowns heading into groups. I tested positive for Covid, and my heart was bothering me. It’s really tough mentally because every season it feels like I peak early on and get gradually slower towards the end when it really matters. I had a tough spring track season last year, and God taught me a lot through that. “I knew that this would be the last race of my cross country career in high school, so I was willing to give it my all, but only because God is with me.” After Zamichieli, Giacobbe said the second-through-four runners were an interchangeable pack with Hurst, Kostin and Kolachalama. “That’s where the magic happens,” the coach said. “When you can get three runners clustered together like that, you don’t mind giving up the first four or five spots. You don’t need those points.”

Steinert cross country runners Nate Bigger, Max Kostin, Anthony Zamichieli, Adam Szpakowski, Tyler Hurst, Nihar Kolachalama and Will Sheridan. (Photo by Mike Giacobbe.) Giacobbe felt the team’s main strength was its closeness. There were countless group trips to Chick-fil-A and Red Robin or parties at a runner’s home. Kostin was in complete agreement. “The biggest reason we did so well this season was because of our team chemistry,” he said. “Every varsity runner was at almost every captains practice during

the summer, every regular-season practice, and at all cross country events. The amount of time we have spent together as a team is genuinely crazy. We all were there for each other during everyone’s ups and downs and have supported each other through everything. “Yes, our two through four runners are very close in time which gave us a super

huge advantage on most of the other teams because we don’t have that ‘star runner’ who can out run every single one of us by three minutes. But that’s not our biggest strength. We are an extremely close team that I would go as far to say that they are like a second family to me, and I think most of the kids on the team would say the same thing.” That’s good news for next year, since every key runner will return other than Zamichieli. “We will have our top six spots already decided, so we can focus on training harder and doing more detail oriented training for our varsity runners,” Kostin said. “I am also extremely excited to see the individual progression from this year to next year for the whole team, not just varsity.” Giacobbe has been around long enough to know that nothing is a given. He loves the potential of next year’s team and hopes it gets fulfilled and the Spartans can do even greater things. Regardless of that, there is one thing that makes him especially excited for 2024. “There’s no egos, it’s just amazing how they all work together,” he said. “They push each other, they work together. You talk about likable and coachable kids. They listen, they get it. That’s all you can ask for.”

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December Events Notary Oath Night

Thursday, December 1st, 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

Wills & Power of Attorney

Thursday, December 14th, 10:30 - 11:30 AM Presented by Jose D. Roman, Esq., Health and Elder Law Senior Staff Attorney, The Mercer County Legal Services Project for the Elderly

FREE 15-Minutes with an Attorney Thursday, December 14th, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Public Education Committee of the Mercer County Bar Association and the Mercer County Executive present!

LAWYERS C.A.R.E*

FREE 15-minute consultation with an Attorney (virtually) All Lawyers C.A.R.E meetings will take place virtually. Advanced registration is required. For more information please call (609) 585-6200 or visit website: www.mercerbar.com

Please call 609-890-9800 to reserve space

Passport Processing Notary Service Recycling Buckets

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957 Highway 33 at Paxson Avenue, Hamilton Brian M. Hughes, County Executive

30Hamilton Post | December 2023

10 questions with sculptor Dawn Arena Thomas Kelly FIGHT IN THE MUSEUM

Dawn Arena is a sculptor who uses different material to achieve shapes and beings found in nature. She has many works available in the Museum Shop at Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton. Her current favorite medium is stainless steel flatware. Fashioning the stainless utensils into creatures that make you not notice the flatware at all, is quite a feat. Please stop in your next time at GFS and have a look. When did you begin in the arts? I have always experimented and made art in one way or another. I explore many mediums. I started making art full time in 1998. I showed work at Gallery Art 54 on Greene and Broome in NYC. I showed there for 3 years and it was a dream come true for me. Which media do you work in? I worked with organic materials in the beginning. My paintings usually had a textural feel. I first created many pieces of clay, cement and papier Mache’. I have also used wood, leaves and marble dust. I have also made pieces with found objects. I have always been influenced by nature. Where did you get the training in metal work? Sculpting? After 3 years in NYC, I got married. We had a son and I took a hiatus from making art until our son went to kindergarten. I then teamed up with a sculptor, Glenn Murgacz. He taught me to weld and I helped him with some large outdoor sculpture. I was with him for 7 years, before he moved away. One favorite piece is a 14-foot fireman sculpture for a fire house in Avenel titled “The Smoke Eater.”

Sculptor Dawn Arena. We worked together on other outdoor sculpture in region. Which is your favorite material to sculpt with and why? After Glenn moved away, I still worked in metal, but now it was flatware, or what is called silverware. I so enjoyed the challenge of using it to make sculpture. Where do you get your ideas/subject matter from? My ideas come from nature which is all around me. I live on a lake in South Brunswick, and everyday I’m in awe of the beauty that is here. How large do you work? I love the stainless steel flatware as a material, as I can massage the metal into almost anything. People commission me to create things that they have a vision for but cannot bring to life. This is different than being inspired to create something. This process is listening and putting yourself in their heads as they tell the story of what they want.

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Thank You ! Sculptures ‘Octopus” and “Pompano Fish” by Dawn Arena. One of my recent public sculptures was created for Pompano Beach Club in Florida. It is a 5x4 Pompano fish, made of found steel objects. In Tyler State Park, Bucks County is one of my pieces titled, “Mother”. It is a 7 foot aluminum sculpture. I also have two on permanent display at Hamilton Library, “Smoke Before Fire” and “Bird”. Both are made of steel. Who are some of your inspirations or inﬂuences? The sculptor Isaac Witkin is one of my biggest influences. I have a photo of him in my studio and feel like he watches me when I work. What ﬁght/struggle do you have regarding your art? Not a struggle but gathering all the material I need to make my work. I am always treasure hunting at scrapyards, flea markets and yard sales. I prefer to use discarded objects and give them new life. Being able to weather the elements and constantly working with fire and heat are a challenge.

Would you consider your work representational? It seems ver y personal. The work is both personal and representational. I made prosthetic fingertips that slipped over his shortened fingers. The look he showed after 55 years with those missing was priceless. I also made a sculpture fashioned after the lips of Big Ang who starred in the reality show Mob Wives. We met at her bar The Drunken Monkey on Staten Island. That was a fun project. How long have you been represented in the Grounds for Sculpture Museum Store? I have been showing and selling work at the Museum Shop at Grounds for Sculpture since 2018. I recently added a new piece, a 3’ x 5’ Octopus. Hit is made form 500 spoons and cheese graters. He really means business. I have loyal patrons that keep me busy and that makes me happy. On the web: instagram.com/ sculptor_dawnarena.

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Peter Dabbene COMPLEX SIMPLICITY

As my children have gotten older and engaged in the process of driving legally, new wrinkles to parenthood have emerged: higher auto insurance costs (very wrinkly), and the worries that come with your kids and their friends being out on the roads (even more wrinkly). Some things are disappearing, or already have: parental obligations to pick up or drop off, and those text messages that arrive suddenly and request a car in 5 minutes from destinations that are 15 minutes away. While I won’t miss those irritations, their absence comes with a cost—the elimination of the forced family togetherness that’s a by-product of kids being shuttled from one location to another. As previous generations of drivers can attest, these rides are golden opportunities for ambitious parents to exchange more than a word or two with their children—or better yet, their kids’ friends, who often feel a responsibility to respond to inquiries from an adult other than their own parents politely and conversationally, and not as if they were suspects being interrogated by an aggressive sheriff or judge. Another thing I’ll miss might seem a strange choice to some people: those times when, faced with an hourlong wait between the start and end of some sports practice or dance class, most parents would sit in a designated area, engaged with their phones or watching their kids. Instead, as my children got accustomed to—and eventually desirous of—a lack of direct parental supervision, I would bring along my dog, Ramona, and get her evening walk out of the way. (I looked briefly for a nicer, more nature-friendly way to say that by accomplishing two tasks—dog-walking and child transportation—I “killed two birds with one stone.” That search yielded a list of sincere but absolutely awful suggested substitutions for anti-animal language, courtesy of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). Birds are great and all, but my appreciation for clarity will not allow me to cast aside the idiom “beat a dead horse” in favor of “feed a fed horse,” replace “bring home the bacon” with “bring home the bagels,” or exchange “take the bull by the horns”—to act bravely and directly when confronted with a difficult, undesirable situation—for “take the flower by the thorns,” a string of

words that merely implies carelessness or stupidity. Thus, I will not write that I “fed two birds with one scone,” as PETA would suggest, but simply that I accomplished my two tasks while expending less energy than if I had performed them separately. If artificial intelligence is going to write more like humans, I guess I’ll start writing more like a robot.) These evening dog walks took place at strange locations—apartment complexes, deserted office parks, nearly deserted actual parks. Ramona and I had covered every inch of our own neighborhood, and the change of scenery was welcome to us both. I usually let her lead the way, and sometimes I’d get lost while exploring a new path, requiring GPS and a bit of running to get me back in time for pickup. It was a nice diversion from watching TV, which is what I’d probably have been doing if I’d been at home. Even in denser population areas, the streets were surprisingly dark and empty, especially during the winter months. Sometimes there were so few indications of activity that I’d think, “Boy, this would be a great place to get mugged.” But then I’d remember that I was in the suburbs, and everyone was inside watching television, so there was nobody around to do the mugging. It doesn’t get much quieter than a remote park, blanketed in snow, at night, except maybe an over-55 community, blanketed in snow, at night. Every once in a while, something creepy would happen, like the time I walked past a wooded embankment and could have sworn I saw an active laptop screen shining in the darkness thirty feet away. Do homeless people work remotely, I wondered? After yelling a greeting several times with no response, I waded into the trees and brush to investigate, and saw it was just a blue mylar balloon reflecting a streetlight’s glare. Sometimes I’d be the one delivering the scares, though not intentionally. Several ground floor office employees working late have been shocked to see a man with a hood, vintage 2015-era wired headphones, and a dog breeze past by their cubicles’ floor-to-ceiling windows at night. In these environments, the absence of other sounds only emphasized any that did emerge, like the loud buzzing of a high pressure sodium bulb streetlight. It’s probably not a sound we’ll hear much longer with use of LEDs on the rise, though the silent, desperate flickering of an outdoor LED fixture near the end of its life is another kind of horror. And nothing is more disturbing than when

your dog suddenly stops and looks into the distance at something you can’t see or hear, and starts barking or growling. Despite the occasional creepiness, the quiet solitude was appealing, and it afforded some unforgettable opportunities that PETA might frown upon. Once, I walked into a graveyard to investigate a distant red light. It turned out to be a decorative grave marker, but as we walked along the paved path, Ramona noticed movement in the dark off to my right and pulled in that direction. Given the foreboding setting, it was a relief to find that we were in the midst of a huge herd of deer, almost invisible in the blackness, and we proceeded to chase them from one side of the cemetery to the other for the next twenty minutes. Another time, Ramona stopped on an empty street, turned toward the trees on one side, and watched silently as a tiny baby deer stumbled out of the woods. Dog and deer were equally confused, and as I pulled Ramona away, the fawn decided it should follow us. I spotted its mother observing the situation from the tree line, and got us far enough away to watch as she finally emerged to reclaim her progeny. One recent foray took me through

the abandoned AMC theater parking lot in Hamilton. Though the theater’s closing was a loss for moviegoers, and for Hamilton economically, the area is an oasis of isolation despite its proximity to a busy, sprawling shopping center. Stormwater retention basins line the property, and on my visit, I saw two busy beavers swimming happily and attending to their dam, ignoring the warnings of pesticide treated waters. Nature has its appeal, but human nature wouldn’t naturally lead me to drive 20 or 30 minutes to a different location just to walk the dog. I suppose nothing’s stopping me from occasionally seeking out random places in search of new adventures, like I did a few times during the tedious span of Covid lockdowns. Most of the time, though, I’ll probably be one of those hidden suburbanites, sitting in my house watching television. Maybe for old times’ sake, I’ll put on a nature show—or a horror movie. Peter Dabbene’s website is peterdabbene.com, and his previous Hamilton Post columns can be read at communitynews.org. His graphic novel biography George Washington: The Father of a Nation is now available through Amazon.com for $20 (print) or $10 (ebook).

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workers here and across America. To share your thanks or to support our Emergency Response Fund,

When and why to first see a geriatrician? visit rwjbh.org/heroes

And please, for them, stay home and safe.

balanced meals that include protein, carbs, great for mental health. I always suggest taking a walk or doing yoga with friends, fruits and vegetables, and consuming the loved ones, or even a pet to make it more appropriate number of calories. You can social and enjoyable. speak to your provider about what the 3. Take your medication as right number of calories are for you and Seeyour ourspecific ads inhealth needs or prescribed. No matter SIX09 section your age, it is always goals. When we are eating pgswell 5 and 7 often have more recommended to take we will Geriatrician Sara Ali, MD, an your medication exactly energy and have an overall RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group as prescribed by your sense of being healthy. provider affiliated with Robert Wood provider. This is important 2. Maintain a4/17/20 regular RWJ-104 Heroes Work Here_4.313x11.25_HAM.indd 1 1:21 PM Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an because taking medication exercise routine. RWJBarnabas Health facility, recommends While regular exercise is infrequently or stopping patients 65+ see a geriatrician at least once. recommended at any age, it suddenly can negatively As we age, our body functions impact your health. If you is especially important as we differently and a geriatrician is trained do have any concerns about age. Cardiovascular activities specifically in identifying and treating a medication or dosage, such as walking are a great symptoms and illnesses specific to this ask your pharmacist or way to support your overall Dr. Sara Ali population. Geriatricians can either see provider. Even if you don’t health, especially your heart patients as their Primary Care Physician or health. Strength training, have questions, bring a as a specialist working in tandem with their exercises done with weights, helps develop list of all current medications, including existing physician. any vitamins and supplements, to every and maintain muscle. The combination Dr. Ali shares her top three tips for doctor’s appointment. And, never stop of cardiovascular and strength exercises healthy aging so we can make the most of taking any medication unless instructed to will help you maintain an active lifestyle. I all our years. do so by your provider. also recommended incorporating balance 1. Adopt a healthy diet as early as And last, I invite those in our local training, such as yoga or Tai chi, into your possible and continue this as you age. weekly routine. By building better balance, communities to take advantage of our Eating well is the best way to get important you can reduce your risk for falls as you completely complimentary Better Health nutrients, maintain heart health and age. In addition to the many physical health Program where you can “Rediscover fuel your body. The key to eating well is benefits to exercise, daily movement is also your body, mind, and spirit” through free programming and activities. Attend Tai Chi and yoga, learn how to incorporate healthy tasty food choices into your diet, and attend our medical educational classes where our physicians and experts provide guidance and health education programs We take the stress out of your everyday maintenance designed for those 65+ years old,” shares We take the stress out of your everyday maintenance Dr. Ali. To become a Better Health member, call We take the stress out of your everyday maintenance Health Connections at 609-584-5900. To • Lamp Replacement • Masonry Repair find a local provider near you, visit rwjbh. org/medgroupprimarycare. • Fire Inspection • Painting & Wall Repair Follow RWJUH Hamilton on our social Remediation channels: Facebook-@RWJ Hamilton; • Ceiling Tile Work • Leaks, Drips & LinkedIn-Robert Wood Johnson University • Exterior Sealing Hospital Hamilton; X-@RWJHamilton; and Clogs Instagram-RWJUH_Hamilton. • Fencing Repairs

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34Hamilton Post | December 2023

thursday, DECEMBER 7

Kids in the kitchen – the gift of being present. 5-6 p.m. Healthy eating starts early! Empower kids with culinary skills and nutrition knowledge to become their healthiest selves! For children 5 years and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Fee: $5 per person. Taryn Krietzman, RDN.

Tuesday, DECEMBER 12

How smart are hearing aids today? 10-11 a.m. We discuss the remarkable features of today’s hearing aids. Bluetooth technology, Artificial Intelligence, Rechargeable Batteries, Tinnitus Therapy and more! Join Dr. Lorraine Sgarlato to learn more about the latest in hearing aid technology! Mental health matters: seniors supporting family members & friends. Family members and friends play a critical role in supporting loved ones who have a mental health condition, and the questions and concerns are typically the same. What to do? When to intervene? Where to go? How to help? This presentation is intended to help you better understand the issues you might face. This program will be led by Chelsea Kennedy, MAHS.

Wednesday, DECEMBER 13

Orthopedic open house. 6-7:30 p.m. Discover the latest advances in knee and hip replacement surgery and rehabilitation. Presented by Michael Duch, MD board-certified orthopedic surgeon; Maureen Stevens, PT, DPT, GCS, Cert MDT; and Courtney Fluehr, PT DPT. Dinner is included.

thursday, DECEMBER 14

What’s in the box? **virtual** Noon-1 p.m. All things seasonal, all the time! Learn what wonderful fruits and vegetable are up to this time of year and how to make them shine! Taryn Krietzman, RDN. Jeopardy! With Dr. Sara Ali. 1-2 p.m. Put your medical knowledge to the test with Dr. Sara Ali. Join in the fun with your favorite geriatrician.

Tuesday, DECEMBER 19

Prediabetes connect group. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Diagnosed with prediabetes? This group is for you to connect with others affected. Share and explore ways to improve lifestyle changes.

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton Monday, January 8 For more information, call (609) 5845900. To register for a program or for schedule changes go to rwjbh.org/events.

Monday, DECEMBER 4

Protecting yourself from cybercrimes. Monday, Dec. 4; 10 a.m.-Noon. Cyber-crimes are more common than you might think. Join officers from the Hamilton Police Department and the US Secret Service to learn how to protect yourself from Cyber Scams. Light refreshments will be served.

Wednesday, DECEMBER 6

609-570-5319

son? Dr. Shakil Shaikh from Hamilton Cardiology Associates will guide you with heart healthy recipes and tips for eating healthy.

Cooking with cardiology. 6-7:30 p.m. Worried about overindulging during the holiday sea-

A matter of balance: a 4 week series. (Participants must attend all 8 sessions). Also Jan. 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31. 1-2:30 p.m. Program is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels of older adults who have this concern. The class utilizes a variety of activities to address physical, social and cognitive factors affecting fear of falling and to learn fall prevention strategies. For those who have concerns about falling, are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength, are age 60 or older, mobile and able to problem-solve. Linda Buckley, Nurse Educator will instruct.

Jan: 2, 16, 30 Jul: 2, 16, 30 Jan: 6, 15, 29 Jul: 1, 15, 29 Jan: 9, 23 Jul: 9, 23 Aug: 13, 27 Feb: 12, 26 Aug: 12, 26 Feb: 6, 20 Aug: 6, 20 Feb: 13, 27 Mar: 12, 26 Sep: 10, 24 Sep: 7, 16, 30 Mar: 11, 25 Sep: 9, 23 Sep: 3, 17 Mar: 5, 19 Oct: 8, 22 Oct: 7, 21 Apr: 2, 16, 30 Oct: 1, 15, 29 Apr: 9, 23 Apr: 8, 22 Apr: 1, 15, 29 Oct: 14, 28 Nov: 5, 19 May: 1, 15, 29 Nov: 12, 26 May: 7, 21 May: 6, 20 Nov: 4, 18 May: 13 Nov: 11, 25 Jun: 4, 18 Dec: 3, 17, 31 Dec: 2, 16, 30 Jun: 11, 25 Jun: 3, 17 Jun: 1, 10, 24 Dec: 9, 23 Dec: 10, 24

Jan: 8, 22 Feb: 5, 19 Mar: 4, 18

Jul: 8, 22 Aug: 5, 19

Jan: 3, 17, 31 Feb: 14,28 Mar: 13, 27

Jul: 3, 17, 31 Aug: 14, 28

Apr: 10, 24 May: 8, 22 Jun: 5, 19,

Sep: 11, 25 Oct: 9, 23 Nov: 6, 20 Dec: 4, 18

Jan: 11, 25 Jul: 11, 25 Jan: 4, 18 Jan: 10, 24 Jul: 6, 18 Jul: 10, 24 Feb: 8, 22 Aug: 8, 22 Feb: 1, 15, 29 Aug: 1, 15, 29 Feb: 7, 21 Aug: 7, 21 Sep: 5, 19 Sep: 4, 18 Mar: 14, 28 Sep: 12, 26 Mar: 7, 21 Mar: 6, 20 Oct: 3, 17, 31 Oct: 2, 16, 30 Apr: 11, 25 Apr: 3, 17 Oct: 10, 24 Apr: 4, 18 May: 2, 16, 30 Nov: 14, 30 May: 1, 15, 29 Nov: 13, 27 May: 9, 23 Nov: 7, 21 Jun: 13, 27 Dec: 12, 26 Jun: 12, 26 Dec: 5, 19 Dec: 11, 28 Jun: 6, 20

Jan: 12, 26 Jul: 12, 26 Feb: 9, 23 Aug: 9, 23 Sep: 6, 20 Mar: 8, 22 Apr: 5, 19 Oct: 4, 18 May: 3, 17, 31 Nov: 1, 15, 29 Jun: 14, 28 Dec: 13,27

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36Hamilton Post | December 2023