5-24 LG

Knab has blossomed as a scorer for Lawrence lacrosse

LTPS officals talk about tackling teacher shortages

INTERVIEW BY BILL SANSERVINO

The Lawrence Gazette recently say down with officials from the Lawrence Township Public Schools to talk about issues confronting the district.

The first part of the Q&A resulting from that interview ran in the April issue of the Gazette and reflected officials’ thoughts about the school budget, and a potential reconfiguration of grades currently attending the elementary schools and the Lawrence Intermediate School. To read that article, go to communitynews.org.

been ongoing for some time now. Can you talk about the situation and some of the difficulties that you and other school districts are having?

Sean Fry: School districts across the state are all facing the exact same problem, and that’s that the pipeline is drying up. I mean, that’s the reality. When we go to our job fairs, there’s typically less candidates there. We see that through the number of student teaching requests that we get annually. Practicum students, those numbers have all reduced.

Alex Knab’s first exposure to lacrosse was not voluntary.

“We would go to my brother’s tournaments,” Knab said. “It was kind of boring at first. I didn’t really have much of a say, I was just dragged to wherever my brothers went.”

But Knab found playing base-

ball more boring than watching lacrosse and his mom signed him up for the Lawrence rec lax program.

“I got tired of sitting in the dugout during baseball games,” he said. “At first I didn’t like lacrosse, but I honestly don’t remember why.”

That dislike lasted for just one year. By second grade, Knabb

embraced the sport and a career was underway.

With the graduation of Reilly Cahill, the senior attackman was Lawrence High’s leading returning scorer this season. Through the Cardinals’ 4-2 start this year, Knab led the team in points with 22 goals and 10 assists and was second in goals to Gabe McNa-

See KNAB, Page 9

This month, Superintendent Robyn Klim and Sean Fry, the director of personnel and administrative services, talk with Lawrence Gazette editor Bill Sanservino about how the nationwide teacher shortage is impacting the district and how the LTPS is responding,

A lightly edited version of their talk appear in the Q&A below. Other topics discussed will appear in appear in subsequent issues.

* * *

Lawrence Gazette: There’s a teacher shortage, which has

So, we’re having less people coming in because those programs have gotten smaller in size. So therefore, there are fewer candidates for us to choose from. There are fewer aspiring teachers coming through our buildings. We try to house as many of them as we can, because it’s a great recruitment tool. You get eyes on teachers and get to see them and kind of mold them. But it’s, it’s definitely a huge challenge.

We also face the fact that some of the programs that offer certain education preparation

Boys’ lacrosse player Alex Knabb, number 7, fights to score during a recent game.

RICH FISHER

LUNCH AND LEARN: STROKEIT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE!

Wednesday, May 1; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Roughly 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 will have a stroke in their lifetime. Yet, most aren’t aware of the F.A.S.T. warning signs and that stroke is largely preventable, treatable, and beatable. Our medical experts will discuss risk factors, symptoms, treatment, and the needs of stroke survivors. Mandy J. Binning, MD, FAANS, Chief, Division of Vascular/ Endovascular Neurosurgery and Director of Stroke Programs at Global Neurosciences Institute; Ashley Sarrol, MS, CCC-SLP, Senior Speech Language Pathologist; and Sarah Masco, OTD,OTR/L, CLT-LANA, Senior Occupational Therapist.

SWEET SUCCESS SOCIETY: A DIABETES GROUP

Mondays, May 6 + June 3; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Monday, May 13; 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

A group for anyone with diabetes or caring for someone living with diabetes. Learn healthy ways to manage diabetes alongside your peers and Taryn Krietzman, RDN.

CATCH SOME ZZZZZ’S!

Monday, May 6; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Insomnia affects our mental and physical health, making us more prone to heart disease and other serious illnesses. Join Patti McDougall, BSN, to learn more about how we should spend a third of our lives.

ORTHO 101: TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

Monday, May 6; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Join Orthopedic Program Coordinator Denise Berdecia, MSN, RN, ONC, and

physical and occupational therapists for an in-depth discussion on total knee replacements. These experts will explain preventative treatment, how to decide if surgery is right for you, and recovery options available through outpatient therapy.

GOT STRESS?

Tuesdays, May 7 + June 4; 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Support group about dealing with stress. Gain valuable insight about how others deal with similar situations.

SPIRITUALITY, COMPASSION AND VEGANISM

Wednesday, May 8; 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Compassion is a sensitivity toward the suffering of others and responding with actions that can help. Veganism invites us to widen our circle of compassion to include all species of animals. In this talk, Michele Granberg, MA, CHT, CPLT, Mindset Coach, explores the nature of compassion and how it intersects with spirituality and veganism.

DESIGNER BAG BINGO!

Friday, May 10; 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

This event is a great way to get out with your friends for a night of fun, with many designer bags up for grabs. Admission ticket includes 12 rounds of Bingo. Tickets are $45. For more information or to purchase tickets, email Shannon.Neely@rwjbh.org.

WHAT’S EATING YOU?

Monday, May 13; 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Support group for people experiencing emotional eating. Peer support is key. We offer a safe space to connect with others

who are going through similar experiences.

BARIATRIC WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesday, May 14; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

AN EVENING OF YOGA NIDRA MEDITATION

Tuesday, May 14; 6:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.

Experience the benefits of Yoga Nidra. Translated as yogic sleep, Michelle Gerdes (trauma-informed yoga and meditation teacher and owner of Princeton Doula Center) will explain how the practice of Yoga Nidra guides brain waves into optimal states for relaxation and rejuvenation. She will lead you through this guided relaxation that has been shown to reduce stress / anxiety, promote better sleep, and foster a profound sense of joy and well-being. Bring a yoga mat and anything else you need to be comfortable in meditation.

Fee $15

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Wednesday, May 15; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Quieting your mind can have profound effects on both your body and your mind. Come learn to lower the volume of your mind’s chatter. Patti McDougall, BSN, Integrative Therapies Nurse STROKE PREVENTION, BECAUSE IT MATTERS

Thurs., May 15; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Stroke is the number 5 cause of death, and leading cause of disability in the U.S., and up to 80% may be prevented. Connie Moceri, MSN, RN, AGNP-C, Director of Disease Management and

Stroke Coordinator at RWJUH Hamilton will educate you on why managing risk factors is key to reducing your chances of having a stroke. Dinner provided.

HEALTHRHYTHMS® DRUM CIRCLE

Wednesday, May 15; 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Drum your cares away with our monthly Drum Circle. It’s lots of fun and a great stress reliever. Drums provided. Mauri Tyler, CTRS, CMP. Fee $15

MENTAL HEALTH IS WEALTH

Monday, May 20; 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

You are not alone. Millions of people are affected by mental illness each year. Certain thoughts, behaviors, symptoms, and conditions can be linked to mental illness. Join Jasmeet Mehta, MD, to discuss topics related to anxiety, depression, and ADHD in adults.

PREDIABETES CONNECT GROUP

Tuesday, May 21; 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Diagnosed with prediabetes? This group is for you to connect with others.

CALMING AND COPING STRATEGIES FOR KIDS: A PARENT WORKSHOP

Tuesday, May 21; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Enhance your parenting journey with effective coping strategies from educator, author & Wings to Learning Advocacy owner, Trenna Stout, B.Ed., BCEA. Discover how to help your child self-regulate & support their emotional well-being, empowering them to navigate life’s challenges confidently. Fee: $5

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN: HERBACEOUS FLAVORS

Wed., May 22; 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

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

REIKI SHARE

Wednesday, May 22; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. For folks who have been Reiki certified to come share the gift with fellow practitioners. Give a session, get a session. Bring a sheet and small pillow.

2024 HEARING AID EXPOLEARN ABOUT THE LATEST IN HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY

Thursday, May 23; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Lorraine Sgarlato, Au.D., is proud to offer a presentation on today’s “computers for your ears.” Advances today in hearing aids allow us more than ever to connect to our world in an exciting way! We can now stream music, television, and more with ease! New technology offers better hearing in noise, tinnitus therapy, and helps protect our brains as we age. Learn about these new advances in technology along with a hands-on demonstration from representatives from the companies Oticon and Signia.

*All programs

Better Health Programs/Complimentary Membership at 65+ Years Old

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

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

A SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP

Wednesday, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, June 5; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Join us in a collaborative setting to exchange thoughts, feelings and experiences among peers. This is a safe zone designed to be welcoming and understanding of all attendees, while exploring this season of our lives – the ups and the challenges. Please feel free to attend one or all.

TAI CHI CLASSES

Thursday, May 2 + 16; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday, May 7 + 21; 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

MEDITATION CLASSES

Tuesday, May 7 + 21; 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

CHAIR YOGA

Tuesday, May 7 + 21; 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.

GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE WELLNESS WALK

Wednesday, May 8; 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Thursday, May 9; 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Grounds for Sculpture welcomes us for their Wellness Walk! Whether you are a fast or slower walker, there will be a group for you as we feast our eyes on the beautiful art and nature. Member attendees are invited to enjoy GFS for the remainder of the day. Two dates to choose from. One registration per person.

TEA PARTY

Friday, May 17; 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Pinkies up! Let’s talk tea and try some famously tasty pairings. Hats are encouraged!

LUNCH AND LEARN WITH RWJUHH MEDICAL EXPERT PANEL

Tuesday, May 14; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Who do you see the most when you are hospitalized? That’s right, nurses.

Does caring for our aging population require additional training? You bet it does. Join nursing experts to learn how our needs change as we age and how our nurses are being trained to better serve and care for our aging population. Panel includes: Tammy Leigh, MSN, RN, Director of Emergency Services & Intensive Care; Lisa Nevius, MSN, RN, OCN, NEA-BC, Nurse Manager; and Cynthia Russo, Clinical Nurse Specialist, MSN, RN-BC, APN.

LUNCH AND LEARN, SENIORS ACHIEVING GOOD HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Wednesday, May 22; 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Aging can present us with challenges from the loss of loved ones, isolation, physical changes, and more. Join Dilys Ngu, M.D., RWJUH Hamilton’s new geriatric psychiatrist, for a hopeful conversation and learn ways to bring back the brightness to your days.

“S.A.V.E” TRAINING PROGRAM

Friday, May 31; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. S.A.V.E. is a training program to help identify warning signs that someone is having thoughts of suicide. Heather Church-Soto, LCSW, Suicide Prevention Coordinator, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs leads this program that provides caregivers and community members with the tools to act with care and compassion if they encounter someone who is in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. This is NOT exclusive to veterans.

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

Around Town

LTPS musicians come together for String Day

On April 9, over 100 string players in grades 5-12 joined together at Lawrence High School for LTPS String Day.

Orchestra directors Melissa Clark (LIS), Debbie Harrington (Lawrence Middle School) and Michael Drobish (Lawrence High School) worked collaboratively to rehearse “Nightwatch,” composed by Cooper Ford, with the large orchestra.

The previous week, Ford had worked with the LIS string players on this piece, which they will perform at the LIS instrumental concert on May 2.

During String Day, student leaders from LMS and LHS shared with the group some of the experiences that they have had being a string player and why they kept playing their instrument through the years in LTPS.

Young musicians perform with CJMEA Orchestra

Some 20 Lawrence Intermediate and Lawrence Middle School string players were accepted and performed with Central Jersey Music Educators Association Honors Orchestra on April 13!

This year, LTPS was able to host the one day festival and concert at Lawrence High School, where approximately 300 string players and 30 string teachers from Central N.J. came to participate. Melissa Clark is the LIS orchestra director and Debbie Harrington is the LMS orchestra director.

Representing LIS in the Gold Orchestra were 6th graders Elena Dyer (Cello), Ellie McEvoy (violin), Mari Griffin (viola), Natalie Braynor (violin), Cate Haggerty (viola), Sarvar Mamadov (violin), and McKaelyn West (viola).

Harrington conducted the students alongside other string players from Central N.J. They performed three songs that were rehearsed prior to the concert on the same day.

Fifth grade representatives were Ayana Berry (violin), Ryan Ewig (bass), and Devesh Yadav (violin), who performed with the Red orchestra.

Representing LMS in the Blue Orchestra were: Jordin Boucicaut, cello (8); Niyati Chitagunta, cello (7); Andrew Dauber, cello (8); Kashvi Desai, viola (7); Naomi Lee, viola (8); Letty Lopez, violin (8); Victoria Mungai, violin (8); William Nelessen, violin (7); Emma Pierni-Jacobs, violin (7); and Norah Schmidt, violin (7).

Library to host program on voting in Mercer County

Join the Lawrence Headquarters Branch for a presentation on Tuesday, May 21 at 6 p.m. that will explain the three ways to vote in New Jersey, as well as the safeguards that are in place through the voting systems in Mercer County.

The presenters—Mercer County Election Officials County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello, Superintendent of Elections, Walker M. Worthy, Jr. and Board of Elections Chair Jill Moyer—will review the voter registration process as well as the dates and locations for early voting and how to vote by mail.

They will explain how these options will make it more convenient for voters to cast a vote and why it is safe to do so. The officials will also demonstrate how to use the new Dominion touch screen voting machines and scanners that Mercer County now uses in all towns on Election Day.

Advanced registration is appreciated for all events. The Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System is located at 2751 Brunswick Pike. For more information about the library’s programs call 609-883-8292, e-mail lawprogs@mcl.org or visit mcl.org.

LHS STEM Academy presents Pi Day 2024

The LHS STEM Academy recently hosted a celebration to honor Pi Day, which occurs annually on March 14.

Officially recognized by Congress in 2009, it permits math enthusiasts to pay homage to this mathematical constant

3.1415...., a number that never repeats. Representatives from both the math and science departments were in attendance: Bryan Miner, Jordan Wildermuth, Christine Read, and STEM Advisor Gwen Andahazy.

STEM Officer Deena Kojiem lead a team of STEM members to prepare for this event. Team members included Officer Pavana Gujjar and senior Sonia Pollock accompanied by Abhi Chitrala, Amna Jut, Ankit Mahat, Om Patel and Pranav Vaddepalli.

Officer Purba Karmaker and junior Riddhi Pate lead members of the STEAM Committee (Art in STEM) to prepare props and materials for the special day.

President Sara Dassanayake, Officer Rajassai Keerthi and PR Manager Pranav Soleti also lent a hand to prepare, and to guide the 40+ LHS students who attended.

The STEM Academy was joined by members of the LHS Math League, as students participated in a series of activities and competitions to show off their math skills.

Activities included rolling dice to get the digits of Pi, playing a digital matching game, using numeral blocks to line up the digits of Pi as quickly as possible, making colorful beaded bracelets to represent Pi digits, creating playdough versions of fruit Pie, competing in Pi Trivia, as well See AROUND TOWN, Page 4

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LTPS String Teachers (l-r) Melissa Clark, Debbie Harrington, and Michael Drobish

AROUND TOWN cont. from Page 3 as a head to head timed competition to see who could record the most digits of Pi without making a mistake.

The final challenge to record digits of Pi without a mistake was won by freshman Hema Gujjar with 97 digits. The Trivia round, lead by Math League member Joshua Liu, was mastered by Sophomore Amina Ismat.

Senior Riya Sharma won first prize in the ability to draw a perfect circle. Final honors went to the team who earned the highest collective score at the Station Challenges: Seniors Joella Adongo, Abdullah Tahir and Anthony Rivera with Freshman Hirsch Patel. Winners won mini apple pies.

To conclude the event, every participant enjoyed a taste of their choice of chocolate cream or banana cream pie, with a selection of toppings. Kojiem rewarded the officers, Pi Day Committee and STEAM Team with apple, cherry and blueberry pies that she baked herself.

Womanspace to honor Rep. Watson Coleman

Womanspace, a Lawrence Townshipbased nonprofit dedicated to serving individuals and families impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault, has

announced that its honoring U.S. Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Watson Coleman, a Ewing resident, will receive the Barbara Boggs Sigmund Award in recognition of her advocacy, dedication, and achievements in advancing gender equality, empowering women, and supporting initiatives that promote a more just, equitable, and violence-free community for all.

The 28th Annual Awards Dinner will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 30, at the Boathouse on Mercer Lake in Mercer County Park, West Windsor.

Watson Coleman has served as the U.S. Representative for New Jersey’s 12th congressional district since 2015 and is the first Black woman to represent New Jersey in Congress.

She is a member of the Appropriations Committee and serves as chair of the Policing, Constitution and Equality task force in the Congressional Progressive Caucus. Watson Coleman has introduced legislation to ensure the safety, civil rights and quality of life for all in her district, especially women, economically disadvantaged populations, and other vulnerable groups.

She is a founder of the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls and is an active member of the Congressional Black Caucus, the Congressional Cau-

LAWRENCE GAZETTE

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

EDITOR

Bill Sanservino (Ext. 104)

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Rich Fisher

AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION

Stacey Micallef (Ext. 131)

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Christine Storie (Ext. 115)

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: bsanservino@communitynews.org

Website: lawrencegazette.com

Facebook: facebook.com/lawrencegazette

Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace

15,000 copies of the Lawrence Gazette are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of Lawrence 12 times a year.

cus for Women’s Issues, The Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.

On being selected as this year’s Barbara Boggs Sigmund Award recipient, Rep, Watson Coleman said, “I am honored and humbled to receive the Barbara Boggs Sigmund Award. Barbara and my father served together on the Mercer County Board of Freeholders. When she and my mother had cancer, Barbara would come comfort my mother. To receive an award previously granted to such esteemed peers as Cokie Roberts, Diane Sawyer, and C. Vivian Stringer is a high honor.”

The Barbara Boggs Sigmund Award is presented to an individual who has used their platform to raise public awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault and inspire others to greater action and engagement in their own communities.

The award is named for the late Barbara Boggs Sigmund who as mayor of Princeton and the first woman Freeholder in Mercer County, was the driving political force behind the 1977 founding of Womanspace. Daughter of the late Congressman Hale Boggs and the Honorable Lindy Boggs, Boggs Signmund’s dedication as a public servant, particularly in her crusade against domestic violence, is unparalleled even today.

In addition to an award ceremony, the night will include a cocktail reception followed by dinner, drinks and a raffle. Guests who attend the Awards Dinner, Womanspace’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and sponsor it at a certain level will also be invited to a VIP Reception with Rep. Watson Coleman herself.

For information on agency events and updates, follow Womanspace on Facebook and Instagram.

New county executive reports on first 100 days

It has been more than 100 days since Mercer County Executive Dan Benson was sworn into office on Jan. 1.

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Trasente as chief financial officer. In the first 50 days, this team reorganized Mercer County government, making the following changes:

• Marion will oversee Buildings & Grounds, Corrections, Trenton-Mercer Airport, the Mercer County Library System, and the Joint Insurance Fund;

• Tice McKnight will oversee Human Services, Mercer County Office of Training and Employment Services (One-Stop Career Center), Housing, and Veterans Affairs; and

• Montero will oversee a new joint department of Public Health and Safety, including the Office of Emergency Management and Emergency Communications.

“While working to fix the county’s finances, we have also laid the foundation for the work ahead,” Bwnson said. “We’ve improved accessibility, fostered greater collaboration with our municipalities, increased transparency to public contracting, modernized our County Code, and ensured our administration is both diverse and transparent,” said County Executive Benson.

The Benson Administration reported the highlights of its 100 days in office. They include:

• Completed the long-overdue 2022 Mercer County audit;

• Shared updates on IRS penalties incurred from the last administration with the County Board of Commissioners;

• Drafted initial revisions to the Mercer County Code, the first set of revisions in over 10 years;

• Completed an April 4 bond note sale rolling over the $150+ million sale from the last administration at a lower interest rate;

• Worked with the new CFO and financial consultants to recreate and identify missing or incorrect county financial documents;

• Obtained a $70,000 grant to install hearing induction loops to assist the deaf and hard-of-hearing at select county facilities;

“When we took office, the county faced considerable challenges. The 2022 county audit wasn’t complete, several key financial statements needed corrections, and a county bond was near its expiration. In our first 100 days, we have put Mercer County on stable footing. We have an experienced team that has restored competence and professionalism to Mercer County government,” Benson said.

Benson immediately hired a qualified and experienced staff, led by Christopher Marion as county administrator, Sharon Shinkle Gardner as chief of staff, Taraun Tice McKnight and Ana Montero as deputy administrators and Nick

• Launched a new round of zero-interest loans for local small businesses;

• Provided funding to help Hamilton Township buy and preserve Kuser Woods;

• Completed a comprehensive After Action Review of Mercer County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic; and

• Appointed a diverse group of Mercer residents to numerous boards and commissions.

“There’s a lot of work still ahead, but we are committed to making sure Mercer County government works for everyone,” Benson said. “We will do whatever it takes to make that pledge a reality.”

The Benson Administration says it

has also made progress on the following goals, and “looks forward to providing updates in the coming months.” They include:

• Hiring a new Office of Emergency Management director;

• Establishing a Division of Tourism & Travel in Economic Development;

• Creating a Mercer County Office of LGBTQIA+ Services within Human Services;

• Breaking ground on the TrentonMercer Airport firehouse (Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting facility);

• Preparing the 2024 Mercer County Budget for adoption;

• Auditing Mercer County information technology systems;

• Installing Wi-Fi at the Trenton-Mercer Airport;

• Completing an audit of Mercer County Parks System;

• Conducting a Corrections Facility Assessment; and

• Hosting bi-Annual legislative delegation meetings to discuss Mercer County’s priorities.

MCCC offers a ‘Bridge to Completion’

Mercer County Community College is one of more than one dozen New Jersey Institutions of higher education to participate in a partnership to support a statewide initiative entitled Some College, No Degree by the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE).

The program, referred to as Bridge to Completion by MCCC, was designed to provide outreach and opportunities to adult learners who completed some college and need support to earn their degrees.

According to state data, more than 790,000 New Jersey residents have some college credit, but have not earned their degree.

“There are many reasons why a student may have to take a break from achieving their dream of obtaining a college degree, and as educators, we want to provide them with every opportunity to make attaining their goal of earning a degree possible,” said MCCC President Deborah Preston.

As director of MCCC’s Educational Opportunity Fund—a comprehensive program committed to fostering the academic and social development of students—Lateef Farmer works with students to help them achieve their educational goals.

“Whether they are just starting out in college or coming back after time off, we are here not just to help students earn their degrees, but to give them the resources necessary to develop the skills to evolve as well-rounded individuals.”

As such, through the Bridge to Completion program, MCCC provides resources including financial assistance, dedicated re-engagement specialists, study support including tutoring, flexible course schedules, prior learning credit eligibility and more.

Students can choose to finish a program they previously began or enroll in any of MCCC’s 60 plus in-demand degree programs. “We are here to provide the tools and resources to improve outcomes and boost economic opportunities for our students,” said MCCC’s Director or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Title IX Coordinator, Marvin Carter. “By helping students navigate their return to postsecondary education and making it accessible and affordable for everyone, we are allowing them to overcome barriers to equity in education.”

For more information go to mccc.edu/ bridge or email farmera@mccc.edu.

Mercer County seeking student interns

High school and college students who live or attend school in Mercer County can apply for a wide range of full-time and parttime internship positions.

Internship opportunities are available over the summer from June through Labor Day, with a limited number of spots also available over the winter and spring breaks.

“I’m excited for the Mercer County Student Internship Program to return this year,” said County Executive Dan Benson. “These positions offer us an opportunity to engage our next generation of leaders in the important work of county government. We all benefit from the energy and enthusiasm that they bring to the work.”

Students in the program will have the opportunity to serve the public by assisting the core day-to-day work of a department or division within the Mercer County government, while acquiring valuable experience for their future careers.

Participants will also benefit from a series of activities planned by the Office of Personnel, curated to teach valuable skills, enhance workforce preparedness, and provide information about career paths in public service.

Interested students can visit the Mercer County website to apply, find information on the program and read details on available positions.

College students will be paid $17/hour and high school students will earn $15.14/ hour. All applicants must be at least 15 years of age. Students seeking to earn credits for their college or university have the option of working without pay.

The application deadline for summer student internships is May 3.

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programs are eliminating certain areas. So, there’s only a couple programs that will offer, for example, family consumer science. There might be like one program. There are not many programs that offer certain core areas, which makes it increasingly difficult to recruit those areas.

So, when we interview candidates, those are things that we hear. They hear that, “Wow, I’ve heard from my colleagues. I know someone working in Lawrence, and I hear really wonderful things about how it is to work here.

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So that’s a major challenge that as people retire, or as they relocate—leave the profession, what have you—it’s difficult to replace some positions because of the nature of how some of the colleges are eliminating some of those programs, and some of that they’re doing for their own financial reasons. Low enrollment numbers, for example. But there’s a problem when the state requires us to meet certain standards and certain core areas that we must teach as graduation requirements, and the output of educators doesn’t match the increasing demands they put on schools to provide all these areas.

LG: Are there less people going into the teaching profession overall?

SF: I’ve looked at trend numbers going back the last 12 years or so, and you can see a pretty big drop off starting around 2008, 2009, 2010. Back then is when you started to see a decline in the number of educators going into the teaching profession. That’s nationally, and New Jersey mirrors that. That has been an impact that people are not going into the profession. I think in New Jersey, part of that has been some of the changes that occurred around that time period, and that impacted perceptions and things like that.

We have expanded our mentoring program. Our assistant superintendent, Pimmi Goomer, has introduced a mentoring program that goes above and beyond what’s required by the state so that all of our new educators that we hire have mentoring opportunities. That’s a great way to build a professional staff, and also it helps with retention when people feel supported in the place that they work.

I think it’s also really important that you have a strong collaborative relationship with your union leadership. We have three unions here. We collaborate with each of the leaders of those units, and that’s really important because that helps set a tone so that your employees feel like their voices can be heard, and that you establish a cooperative work environment.

I think a lot of people stay in Lawrence because of the culture, and that’s primarily set from our building administrators and our curriculum supervisors who are supporting those teachers day in and day out, working extremely diligently to support them. They really set a tone of culture and care. I think our staff feel like they’re cared for and feel like they have a voice and feel like they matter. So, I owe that to our principals and supervisors who are working with them on a daily basis and setting that tone and building that positive culture.

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People need to understand that education is a very rewarding career, and it’s also a very challenging career. The people that are going into education are their heroes, and I don’t think we hear enough about that. I don’t think we see enough public campaigns about how amazing teachers are. I think that we need to do a better job of demonstrating their importance and do a better job to make it a profession that people collectively want to go into.

LG: To your point, I know a number of people who have told me over the years about a teacher or teachers that they had growing up who made a major impact on their life.

SF: Yeah. It’s critical.

LG: So how do you attract teachers, especially if there’s a shortage all over? How do you say, “Come to the Lawrence School District. It’s great here?”

SF: I think we do a good job of marketing our goals and the things that we value. Letting them know our commitment to all of our students and the fact that all of them are being cared for and that they matter. Let them know about our work around making sure that all of our students have a sense of belonging.

LG: A few years ago, our office manager was going for her master’s in teaching, and she left to became a student teacher here in Lawrence. How important are programs like that? Things like outreach to the local colleges and creating programs where you can kind of capture them and show them why they should come and work in Lawrence before they’re even out of college.

SF: We try to open our doors at any opportunity that we can when the requests are reasonable and when we can match them. Obviously, we have to have people willing to host students in a variety of things, but if there’s any type of opportunity where we can bring in college students, we try to do that. When the edTPA (a teacher certification test that was eliminated as a requirement of a teaching certificate in 2022) was still around, we were one of the few local districts that was offering opportunities for people to come in and take their test here, even if they weren’t doing their student teaching here.

We were coming up with some sort of collaborative arrangement for them to be able to complete their test here. Just

because we want to get eyes on, and we want to show, “Hey, Lawrence is an amazing place. And a lot of people, when they have that opportunity, apply here. We hire a lot of our long-term substitutes because they see that this is a great place to be. They see the awesome students we have, and they see the awesome dedicated staff we have. They want to be a part of that. You want to work to work in an environment where you’re surrounded by excellence. If we already have a bunch of great teachers in the building who want to be a part of that grade level, then they’re going to elevate you, and you’re going to be better at what you do. I think that’s really important when you have a really, really strong professional staff and you have people who are good at what they do, which we have throughout Lawrence, people want to be a part of that because they want to be a part of that excellence, because they know it’s going to help them elevate and grow.

Robyn Klim: We also have partnerships with colleges like Mercer County College, and we’re talking with Rider University and The College of New Jersey. We’re offering college level courses. I have just sat in a senior class today, and it was English 102—a college level course. The students are getting college level credits. I think it starts from the student perspective. They know that we’re investing in them.

They know that when they start college,

us, because of the experience they were given, which is pretty cool.

LG: Do you think there are instances where a high school student is looking for a career or considering being a teacher, and they see another young person come in as a student teacher, and identify with them more than an older person who’s a teacher?

RK: We are actually even building out our education academy at the high school. So, there is kind of like a threeyear plan. We’re working with the high school administration to really build out opportunities for students who already know in freshman year that they’re interested in the field of education. We can kind of foster those relationships. The principal of the high school has this vision that they would be given a mentor that would follow them, and they would be kind of in a cohort.

So, they would be in their interest level sort of cohort, which is pretty cool. And the guidance team would be working with them on this trajectory to possibly go in that route of education and expose them to different things and electives. That way when they start freshman year at a college level, maybe they’re ahead with a few extra credits here and there. Maybe there’s more enrollment in our early childhood growth and development class as a result of that.

We’re looking at expanded, electives and how we can kind of entice our stu-

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Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton Celebrates Hospital Week 2024

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National Hospital Week is May 12-18, 2024, and Seth D. Rosenbaum, MD, MMM, SVP and Chief Medical Officer at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton (RWJUH Hamilton), an RWJBarnabas Health facility, answers questions about how RWJUH Hamilton in Hamilton Township serves its community.

Cardiovascular diseases remain prevalent in the U.S. Can you tell us about your heart and vascular care program at RWJUH Hamilton?

We are part of one of the largest cardiac care programs in New Jersey and provide essential heart and vascular care such as cardiac catheterizations and angioplasty to

clear blocked arteries, as well as nonemergent angioplasty procedures. We are currently constructing a new 5,500-square-foot Cath lab scheduled to open in January 2025. Also available right here inside the hospital is our Cardiac Rehab Program, an individualized, medicalsupervised health and fitness program designed to benefit people who have been treated for a heart attack or heart failure, have received a coronary stent, or have undergone cardiac surgery such as a bypass or valve procedure.

What differentiates the Cancer Center at RWUH Hamilton from others?

Our expert multidisciplinary team at the RWJUH Hamilton Cancer Center offers advanced treatment options with individualized care. Through our partnership with Rutgers

Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s only National Cancer InstituteDesignated Comprehensive Cancer Center, patients benefit from access to innovative clinical trials, complex surgical procedures, precision medicine, immunotherapy and advanced radiation therapy techniques.

RWJUH Hamilton specialists work with our patients to develop a treatment plan tailored to their medical, emotional, and educational needs, with dedicated oncology social workers and nurse navigators supporting the patient and their loved ones at every step.

What is The Orthopedic and Spine Institute at RWJUH Hamilton?

who begin their health journey here have access to the most comprehensive healthcare system in the state and are able to tap into the latest resources to receive the most advanced, high-quality care.

Learn more at rwjbh.org/hamilton

Coming up this month at RWJU Hospital Hamilton

For more information, call (609) 5845900. To register for a program or for schedule changes go to rwjbh.org/events.

Healthy Lives Hamilton Program. At RWJUH Hamilton, 1 Hamilton Health Place, Hamilton. The Healthy Lives Program at Hamilton is designed to help individuals and their loved ones understand what’s needed to help them live their best life and manage Heart Failure. This unique approach to heart failure care is designed to support proper monitoring and lifestyle choices to improve patient outcomes and quality of live for those living with heart failure. Participation in Healthy Lives may begin during an inpatient stay at RWJUH Hamilton; or, your physician may refer you to Healthy Lives Hamilton on an outpatient basis. From symptom monitoring and management to lifestyle education, a multidisciplinary team of experts guides you towards living a healthy life. Start here by calling 609-203-4326.

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The Orthopedic & Spine Institute (OSI) located inside the hospital, is comprised of a highly skilled team, members of RWJBarnabas Medical Group, and offers early diagnosis and sophisticated techniques to treat and/or manage conditions caused by arthritis and degenerative joint disease, injuries, congenital issues, and general wear and tear—all with the goal of alleviating pain and helping patients enjoy life on their terms. RWJUH Hamilton is nationally certified in hip and knee replacement and spine surgery by The Joint Commission and performs minimally invasive surgery with advanced technologies like the da Vinci Xi Surgical System, MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery and now Globus Medical’s ExcelsiusGPS® for robotic spine surgery.

What would you like community members to always remember about RWJUH Hamilton?

RWJUH Hamilton provides worldclass care, is nationally awarded and recognized, and allows its patients access to New Jersey’s largest health care system and the state’s only National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center—and it’s all right here for our community members.

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Breast Cancer Support Group. First Tuesday of Each Month; 6-7:30 p.m. At the Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton, 2575 Klockner Road, Hamilton. This Support Group welcomes those who have received a breast cancer diagnosis in all phases of their journey. Meetings are held in the lobby of The Cancer Center at RWJUH Hamilton. The group is led by an Oncology Nurse Navigator and Certified Oncology Social Worker. It offers participants an opportunity to share personal experiences, helpful resources, and methods of coping with feelings of anxiety and distress. For more information, call Patty Hutman Parker, BSN, RN, OCN, at 609584-2836 or Roberta Weiner, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, at 609-584-6680.

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Dr. Seth Rosenbaum

HomeFront’s ArtSpace program hosts its 15th annual “ArtJam” pop-up gallery at 45 Hulfi sh Street in Princeton from Friday, May 3 to Saturday, May 18, with over 500 works on sale to raise funds for the nonprofi t organization, page 2.

THIS MONTH IN MERCER EATS:

JASON

SEE FULL STORY ON PAGE 6

“Louie’s by Chef Jason” owner Dominic Maglione and chef Jason Dilts pose with the sign outside their Robbinsville restaurant, left, and with sta , right.

HomeFront’s ArtJam ‘Pops Up’ in Princeton

By Rebekah Schroeder

HomeFront ArtSpace’s “ArtJam 2024” marks the 15th iteration of the nonprofit’s free pop-up art gallery, which debuts at a new location in downtown Princeton at 45 Hulfish Street from Friday, May 3 through Saturday, May 18, with all proceeds benefiting HomeFront families.

According to a press release, over 500 works from 75 national, local, student, and “undiscovered or self-taught” HomeFront ArtSpace artists “who bravely embark on a journey to heal from poverty, abuse, or homelessness” will be on display, showcasing original paintings, sculptures, pottery, glassworks, handcrafted gifts, and handsewn items from HomeFront’s SewingSpace program.

An opening reception is scheduled for Friday, May 3, with other community dropin events, including a fashion show at the Arts Council of Princeton, art discus-

sions, live painting demonstrations, paintalongs, and musical entertainment planned throughout the two weeks; a closing reception takes place on Friday, May 17, from 5 to 8:30 p.m.

The gallery at 45 Hulfish Street in Princeton will be open to the public during the following hours: Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday to Friday, noon to 8 p.m.; and Saturday to Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.

HomeFront is a Mercer County-based nonprofit social service organization dedicated to ending homelessness and breaking the cycle of poverty in Central New Jersey.

By addressing both the immediate and long-term needs of low-income families through supportive programs that draw on community resources, HomeFront empowers its clients to achieve self-sufficiency.

After witnessing firsthand the conditions of unhoused families living in welfare

HomeFront’s 15th annual ArtSpace ArtJam returns with a pop-up gallery at 45 Hulfish Street in downtown Princeton from Friday, May 3, to Saturday, May 18.

Above photo of a previous ArtJam event courtesy of HomeFront.

motels along Route 1 in Trenton more than three decades ago, HomeFront founder Connie Mercer mobilized a group of vol-

unteers around her kitchen table to begin

DPhone: (609) 396-1511

News: news@communitynews.org

Events: events@communitynews.org

Letters: rschroeder@communitynews.org

Website: communitynews.org

Facebook: facebook.com/mercereats

Twitter: twitter.com/mercerspace

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“Mermaid” and “Feeling Blue” by HomeFront ArtSpace’s Kimberly L., above and at right, are two pieces are included in HomeFront ArtSpace’s 2024 ArtJam. Photos courtesy of Ruthann Traylor and HomeFront.

From ART JAM, Page 2

providing what would become thousands of meals over the years.

In September 2022, Mercer stepped up to become the CEO of the NJ Coalition to End Homelessness and advocate for legislative reform on similar systemic issues, passing the torch to current CEO Sarah Steward as the nonprofit continues to expand.

HomeFront’s ArtSpace, the nonprofit’s

therapeutic art program, is based both at the Lawrence headquarters and the Family Campus in Ewing, with the former also turning a “formerly empty warehouse space” into a fabric arts studio for SewingSpace, which teaches clients how to sew, stitch, and even sell an array functional and stylish products—bags, hats, pillows, and more—fashioned from recycled materials.

Created by HomeFront’s ArtSpace and SewingSpace director Ruthann Traylor in 2007, the visual therapy programs help clients “work through trauma, find new entre-

preneurial skills, and discover themselves as artists,” the press release continues.

According to the HomeFront ArtSpace website, the annual ArtJam “directly underwrites HomeFront’s innovative therapeutic art programs—bringing hope, healing, and for many, a newly found creative outlet.”

“ArtJam 2024 brings together so many people who want to support the creativity of our HomeFront families. It is important that our clients have the opportunity to build valuable skills. Prior to the show, our volunteer curators look close to home and

beyond to find new and established artists of all genres,” Traylor says in a quote.

“This year, HomeFront put out an open invitation for artists wanting to join its efforts. As a result, several wonderful new artists are participating in the show.”

“ArtJam is an amazing experience,” HomeFront CEO Sarah Steward explains. “It serves as an important reminder of the creative spirit of both our client families and the community that comes together to support our work.”

“The arts can lift spirits; they empower

ArtJam 2024 features works by members of the ANEW Artists Alliance, a cooperative of self-taught Trenton creatives. From top left , Carol Johnson’s

“My Father’s Gone but I Have His Guitar,” Charles Smith’s “Imagination Is Your Art,” John Hendryx’s “Melody of Oranges,” and Paul Norris’ “Female Arch #3.” Photos courtesy of Susan Darley and HomeFront.

our artists and enhance their self-esteem. We continue to be very grateful for the community support of ArtJam, the many local businesses, community members, our volunteers, and artists who contribute their works, and for all the support we get for Mercer County families in need,” she adds.

Artists participating in this year’s event were able to submit up to 10 pieces and will receive half of the proceeds from each sale.

The constant flow of pieces through the pop-up’s pipeline—rotated and replaced daily by curators over the course of the twoweek event—makes the gallery a dynamic experience.

Participants in SewingSpace, the sister program to HomeFront’s ArtSpace initiative, will also have the chance to showcase their stylish creations with a fashion show at the Arts Council of Princeton, Paul Robeson Center for the Arts, 102 Witherspoon

Street in Princeton, on Saturday, May 11, from 3 to 4:30 p.m., while a reception follows around the corner at ArtJam 2024’s 45 Hulfish Street gallery from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

According to an April press release, parents can also paint with their children at a drop-in table from 10 a.m. to noon on the Sunday of Mother’s Day, May 12, as part of the month’s ArtJam festivities. ***

To view a list of the featured ArtJam 2024 artists, see the digital “ArtJam 2024 Artist Bio Book” of artist and artisan statements, as well as biographical information, at homefront-artspace.com/artjam-2024

For more information, contact ArtSpace/ SewingSpace director Ruthann Traylor at (609) 883-7500 ext. 316 or ruthannT@homefrontnj.org

For more on HomeFront, visit homefrontnj.org or call (609) 989-9417, Ext. 107.

Mercer Eats

The Cult and Culture of Louie’s by Chef Jason

By Joe Emanski

What does it take for a restaurant to be considered a hidden gem? It must start with the part about being hidden, right?

And it must be a gem.

Louie’s by Chef Jason, the Robbinsville restaurant from Jason Dilts and Dominic Maglione, has certainly proved itself to be a gem.

Dilts’ cooking has garnered raves wherever he has worked. At 31, he has already developed a loyal following among area gourmands.

Maglione is even younger, at 23. But he and his front-of-house staff have wasted little time in winning over regulars with their congenial hospitality.

The gushing posts from freshly satisfied Louie’s diners on Facebook foodie groups just hit different compared to those for most restaurants.

But it’s the first part, the “hidden,” where Louie’s might not quite be up to the title.

Sure, it’s located in a small white building in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it plot on Route 130 that, for decades, was the home of Shrimp King, a seafood shop.

Still, Dilts and Maglione have done everything they can to turn their utilitarian space into the kind of destination many remember from the heyday of Trenton’s largely Italian-American Chambersburg neighborhood.

Walking into the dining room back then felt like stepping into someone’s home. Louie’s by Chef Jason clearly aims for a similar vibe.

With each passing month, the BYOB feels less like a hidden gem, and more like one of Mercer County’s few true must-try dining experiences.

Dilts calls his food “redefined American cuisine.” It draws heavily on his time working in Italian-American restaurant kitchens and from growing up eating in the same Chambersburg restaurants that his restaurant now harkens back to.

He has fond memories too of growing up eating Sunday dinners with his part-ItalianAmerican family. He savors the tradition of gathering with loved ones at the dinner table for a comforting feast.

Those memories inspire him to share his love of food and, where possible, impart that love through his cooking.

The Louie’s menu has a modern feel, mixing comfort classics like chicken parm and short rib macaroni and cheese with tra-

ditionally upscale dishes like Chilean sea bass, twin lobster tails and rack of lamb.

Dilts also puts a chef’s twist on familiar Italian classics. There’s cherry pepperglazed calamari, poached pear sacchettoni with cranberries, and linguine with fermented black garlic and smoked pork belly. And Italian-style desserts like limoncello, tiramisu and cheesecake are house made.

In Maglione, Dilts has found a partner whose background complements his own. Like Dilts, Maglione comes from a family where food was always important.

Dominic Louis “Louie” Maglione grew up in Hamilton, but he also grew up working in dad Brian’s Lawrence pizzeria, Fedelo’s, on Route 206.

When Brian was hospitalized with Covid19 during the pandemic, it fell to Dominic, still a teen, to run the restaurant.

Once Brian had recovered, he discovered that his son had enjoyed that taste of management and felt ready to break out on his own. The task then became to find the perfect opportunity for him to do so.

***

Jason Dilts grew up in Robbinsville, but his chef’s journey began at DiMattia’s, in Allentown, when he was 14.

There, the son of Ken and Mary Dilts started as a busboy and, given a chance, proved himself a capable cook.

He graduated from Robbinsville High in 2011 and continued to hone his skills in kitchens while attending Virginia Radford University. After college, he worked at FunniBonz BBQ, then LoLa Restaurant in

Robbinsville, where he rose to the position of chef-partner with owner Mark Longo.

He left LoLa to work as head chef at Zinna’s Bistro in Cranbury and later, at the popular Revere Ristorante Italiano on River Road in Ewing. It was while he was at Revere that he first met Brian Maglione, who became one of Dilts’ best customers.

During the pandemic, Dilts had no choice but to learn how to work in a kitchen that was only making food for takeout. The experience was eye opening.

“People still wanted to support restaurants. We were busy. People were getting takeout food created the same way as eating there, except maybe we couldn’t have things like calamari on the menu, because it would never taste good by the time you got it home.”

He says that Revere did double the business on Mothers Day 2020 that it did the year before, when there was no pandemic. That kind of success inspired him to leave Revere to open his own restaurant, Chef Jason’s 1275, in the former Zinna’s space, with Zinna’s having moved to a new location.

He opened in October 2020 for take-out only. “My own ideas, my own new concept. All the pieces came together when I didn’t have to worry about anyone telling me what I was doing.”

Chef Jason 1275 eventually opened its dining room when the state permitted it, and continued to thrive until closing abruptly in May 2022. Dilts wrote on Facebook that he had closed the restaurant because the landlord was selling the building. Once again he

Louie’s by Chef Jason chef Jason Dilts and owner Dominic Maglione outside of the restaurant on Route 130 in Robbinsville.

Photo courtesy of Louie’s By Chef Jason.

found himself between jobs.

It was not long before a new opportunity cropped up for Dilts — and it came from loyal customer Brian Maglione, who had a proposal to make.

“He called me up and said, ‘Jay, my son wants to run a restaurant. I think you guys would be perfect together,’” Dilts says.

The pair hit it off, and went about finding a location in which to open their new joint venture. They settled on the former Shrimp King and named it Louie’s by Chef Jason. After extensive interior renovations, they opened in December 2022 for lunch and dinner.

The lunch menu skews toward salads, like the shaved Brussels sprouts salad and the chicken Caesar salad, and sandwiches including the Louie Burger, the Italian chicken, the Just-in-Case-You’re-a-Vegatarian Wrap (that’s what it’s called) and a braised short rib sandwich.

Dinner service is split into first courses, mains and desserts, filled with popular dishes from Dilts’ previous stops, like pretzel-encrusted chicken and “boom boom

Left: Short rib mac and cheese, one of the most popular dishes on the menu at Louie’s by Chef Jason. Right: house-made tiramisu. Photos courtesy of Louie’s By Chef Jason.

chicken,” a combination of vodka rigatoni and chicken parm. There’s also a variety of old and new dishes like steak “Don,” pork osso bucco, shrimp fra diavolo and pumpkin ravioli.

Although some items on the menu may change seasonally, Dilts has learned that customers expect some dishes, like the Brussels sprouts salad and the pretzel encrusted chicken, to always be there.

“They say, ‘Don’t touch my boom boom chicken,’” Dilts says with a laugh.

Dilts says he loves having a hands-on partner like Dominic. “I did the silent partner thing with 1275. At the time I thought it might be better to have a hands-on guy. Somebody to be the face of the restaurant, somebody to shake your hand and welcome you to the restaurant.”

Which is not to say that Dilts avoids his customers, not at all. Dilts makes it clear that he cherishes the relationships that he builds with regulars, and Maglione will usually tell him if there are familiar faces in the dining room.

Dilts was also a instrumental in creating Louie’s Chef’s Social events. On the first Monday of each month, Louie’s goes reservations only for the night. Guests sit at shared tables and eat a prix-fixe, five-toseven course meal of seasonal cuisine, with the menu inspired by the ingredients that are available and what Dilts feels like mak-

ing. (Guests with allergies and aversions are accommodated, of course.)

It’s a setting in which diners put their trust in Dilts to make them dishes they will enjoy. Dilts, in turn, joins them in the dining room each course to explain each dish and the inspiration behind the dish.

“Dom asked me if I was going to tell people what’s on the menu, I said ‘No,’” Dilts says. “The whole idea was that I didn’t even know what I was cooking before that day. I go to the market, get fresh things, and I design a menu so that I get to interact with the guests. It’s something that is fun for me, gives us a busy Monday and is kind of an exclusive kind of thing.”

Louie’s held its first Chef’s Social in August and drew nine people, two of whom were Maglione’s parents.

April’s Chef’s Social, on the other hand, attracted 40 guests, many of them repeat customers. The word, it seems, is getting out.

“The coolest thing about it is the social aspect,” Maglione says. “After month two or three, we had people call us up and say, if So-and-So is going to be there, can we be put with them?’

“Last month I put a table of 10 together, five couples at one table. I go back two courses later, and there’s a guy, he didn’t know anyone at the table at the start of the night, and now he’s sharing a story with the

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whole table. People enter as strangers, but they open their bottle of wine, start eating, start sharing stories and before you know it, they’re leaving as friends.”

Louie’s has also established a tradition of being open on holidays, even Christmas Day. For special occasions, the restaurant offers special menus both for dining in and for family-style takeout. The restaurant will be offering both options for Mother’s Day; check out the website at louiesbychefjason. com for details.

If there is one thing that Dilts and Maglione might say could be better about Louie’s, it would probably be the building, which in addition to being bland and nonhandicapped-accessible, is just a space that they have had to make work, rather than a space that was designed to be the kind of restaurant that they want to operate.

They have made the best of the situation

by painting the interiors in soothing colors and decorating the walls with homey, touches like black-and-white family photos and pictures of restaurants where they have worked.

But they were happy to tell me that they do have an agreement in place with their landlord to move into a newly built space sometime in the next couple of years.

While the duo would not share any details about the location for publication, they did say that the restaurant would remain in Robbinsville and that they are hopeful of opening sometime before the 2025 holiday season.

Louie’s By Chef Jason. 1111 U.S. 130, Robbinsville NJ 08691. Open 7 days a week from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations recommended for weekends and holidays. To make a reservation for the next Chef’s Social, call (609) 208-3685.

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AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine

Helping seniors find the right diagnosis and right treatment

AllCure Spine and Sports Medicine is a multidisciplinary family practice that has been in business for over 10 years. Over the past decade, the senior community has been a big portion of our patient demographic.

We hear many different complaints week to week, but one of the biggest complaints we see with our seniors is balance and gait dysfunction. As our bodies get older, degenerative changes take place, which can lead to a host of symptoms taking away from your quality of life. This can lead to loss of balance, decreased range of motion, decreased strength, trouble with gait mechanics, and much more.

Here at AllCure, we provide the proper imaging and testing to help us diagnose these common complaints before they become debilitating. We always say that a small problem will remain small if it’s treated early

enough. We strive to get ahead of each patient’s chief complaints and provide a comprehensive plan of care. One of the major issues seniors face is getting a proper diagnosis early enough to find effective treatments. In many cases we see that patients are given a prescription for medication that will only treat the symptoms, but not the root cause.

This will lead to worsening symptoms over time and keep patients from an active and independent lifestyle.

We pride ourselves in making tailored treatment plans to fit each patient’s individual needs and impairments. There is no one-size-fitsall approach to healthcare and each patient should be treated with that mindset.

We strongly feel that a multidisciplinary approach is the best way to get patients the care they need and the relief they deserve in a safe, fast, and efficient manner.

Our experienced team of providers consisting of chiropractors, physical therapists and acupuncturists collaborate on each case to get the patient the best plan possible to achieve their goals.

We do accept Medicare! We find that most of our Medicare patients don’t have to pay a dime out of their pocket, rather just commit the time and effort.

Please give us a call today and we would be happy to hold a free 10 minute consultation for you or a family member to make sure that you are comfortable and get the correct information to make an important decision for improving your health and quality of life. We look forward to hearing from you!

AllCure Spine & Sports Medicine, 140 Cabot Drive, Suite A, Hamilton. 609-528-4417. www. allcurespineandsports.com. See ad, page 12.

Brothers Anthony Alfieri, DC, left, and Victor Alfieri, DPT.

Age 0 to age 21, you’re treated by the nation’s leading provider in inpatient rehabilitation care.

For children and young adults in our inpatient programs, care goes far beyond treating a specific illness or injury. We work with each child and their family to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses their immediate medical needs, emotional health and long-term wellbeing. As the nation’s leading provider of inpatient rehabilitation care, we provide a full range of rehabilitative services:

• Brain Injury Program

• Burn & Wound Care

• Chronic Illness Management

• Chronic Pain Management

• Diabetes Management Program

• Infant Toddler Rehabilitation

• Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Program

• Spinal Cord Injury Program

We also offer outpatient therapy services for needs both special and complex. Learn more at rwjbh.org/cshinpatient

• Multi-Complicated Trauma

• Neuromuscular and Genetic Disorders

• Post-Surgical Orthopedics

Premier GI of Hamilton

Introducing Dr. Maulik Shah

Premier Gastroenterology of Hamilton prides itself on providing exceptional care for advanced digestive health in its beautiful office conveniently located on Route 33 in Hamilton Township.

At Premier GI, compassionate and state of the art care will be provided for a wide range of gastrointestinal problems such as abdominal pain, colon polyps, colon cancer screening, constipation, diarrhea, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, hemorrhoids, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett’s esophagus, difficulty with swallowing, peptic ulcer, GI bleed, blood loss anemia, celiac disease, IBS, Women’s digestive health, gas and bloating, hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstone disease, pancreatic cysts, and pancreatic cancer.

The doctors and staff of Premier GI bring high tech, high-touch approach to patient care. The advantage of a

Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute

Treating Pain with PRP and Stem Cell Therapy

Pain.

It gnaws at you. It drains you. It becomes the focus of your life.

Experiencing a few pain-free moments can be euphoric; it makes you realize how long you’ve been living with aches and pain. You might wonder how you can find a solution to relieve the pain and regain your freedom from discomfort.

Dr. Ronak Patel at Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute wants you to know there are two new revolutionary answers to pain relief.

Both platelet-rich therapy — otherwise known as PRP — and stem cell therapy give patients new hope by using the body’s powerful healing power to accelerate the battle against pain. Dr. Patel has seen incredible success implementing these cuttingedge treatments on hundreds of patients suffering from pain-related issues.

So if you are suffering from any of the ailments below, there’s a lifeline.

WOMEN’s HEALTH

small practice is that the physicians and staff of Premier GI will get to know you personally and treat you like friends and family. They will work hard every day to earn your trust and to make Premier GI, the practice of your choice for advanced digestive health.

Among the exceptional, caring doctors of Premier GI is Dr. Maulik Shah, who obtained his medical degree from Rowan-Virtua SOM in New Jersey. He completed his Internship and Residency in Internal Medicine at Jefferson Health. He then went on to complete his Fellowship training in Gastroenterology at Jefferson Health, where he was honored to be selected as Chief Fellow. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. He is an active member of the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Dr. Shah caters to a spectrum of medical needs, including (but not limited to) nausea and vomiting, acid reflux, stomach pain, pancreatic and biliary diseases, liver disease, diarrhea, IBD and IBS. He is an expert in

• Osteoarthritis

• Rotator cuff tear

• Back pain

• Meniscus tears

• Tennis elbow

• Disc herniations

• Tendonitis

• Neck pain

Here’s the best news: Neither PRP or stem cell therapy involves drug use with side effects or any surgical procedures.

Both PRP and stem cell treatments use the body’s own healing resources to repair diseased or damaged tissue — and the results are quite remarkable.

PRP therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets and growth factors into damaged tissue to

general gastroenterology procedures as well as advanced endoscopic procedures such as ERCP, endoscopic luminal stenting, and EMR. He has a strong passion for teaching and routinely gives lectures to the community on a variety of gastroenterology disorders. Dr. Shah is committed to providing the highest quality of care to his patients to ensure their longevity and to provide a positive and fulfilling lifestyle.

Outside of work he enjoys traveling, hiking, cooking, golf, and spending time with his family.

Call 609-917-9917 for an appointment. Locations are 2271 Rt 33, Suite 110 Hamilton, NJ 08690 and 601 Ewing St, Suite C7, Princeton, NJ 08540, 609-921-7620.

Hamilton Dental Associates

How to Pick the Perfect Pediatric Dentist for Your Kids

Your child’s oral health is a complex issue for parents to deal with throughout childhood. Finding a pediatric dentist for your child’s ongoing oral health needs requires careful consideration before committing. If you make a good choice in your child’s pediatric dentist, you can help set the tone for your child’s relationship with their dental health for the rest of their life.

Knowing what to look for when selecting a pediatric dentistry practice can make a difference in your child’s oral health. Here are some of the most important factors to consider before making your child’s first appointment.

Know the Difference Between a Pediatric and Family Dentist

When picking a dentist for your child’s first dental checkup, you might do a

a steroid shot, which gives you immediate relief and quickly wears off, a PRP patient will see pain symptoms improve over a period of months, and up to 80 percent of patients will see relief for up to two years.

stimulate the faster growth of new healthy cells. Platelets are cells that prevent and stop bleeding. If a blood vessel is damaged, the body sends signals to our platelets to get on the job and start the healing. Some call platelets the body’s natural bandage. So how does PRP therapy work? It’s basically drawing a one small vial of blood from the patient and then using a centrifuge to turn it into a potent and concentrated form of platelets. It is then injected back into the patient. Think of it as a boost of your own blood — only superpowered. Recovery time for PRP therapy is far shorter than for surgery. Patients usually experience soreness for a week or so, but the gradual improvement soon begins. Unlike

Stem cell therapy can be an even more powerful way to harness the body’s healing power. Stem cells are the building blocks for every cell in our body. These powerful cells can be harvested to produce powerful new cells to fight inflammation and disease.

For those suffering from osteoarthritis, stem cell therapy has proven very effective. That’s because the stem cells may help develop new cartilage cells and suppress inflammation. Stem cells can be harvested through a sample of body fat or bone marrow or be harvested from donated umbilical cord tissue.

And yes, you can even augment PRP therapy with stem cell therapy for an even bigger boost!

Stop wondering if you’ll have to live with your pain forever. Contact Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute today at 609-269-4451 or go to www.njpaindoc.com to book an an appointment and learn more. See ad, page 3

Dr. Maulik Shah

quick Google search and find a nearby family dentistry practice and call it a day. However, did you know that while a family dentist can treat patients of all ages, they might not have the same level of training as a pediatric dentist?

Not every dentist can practice on children. Dentists have to undergo years of extra training before diagnosing and treating children. Children’s oral health presents unique challenges that adult dentists don’t have to deal with, so pediatric dentists must undergo specialist training to deal with these factors. Additionally, the training helps pediatric dentists learn how to better communicate with their young patients and have them feel as comfortable as possible in what can be an overwhelming situation.

* * *

A Kid-Friendly Atmosphere. For many people, going to the dentist can spark feelings of anxiety and unease from the moment you step through the door. These feelings can get magnified in a child’s mind with their wild imaginations and distrust of new experiences. So when you’re deciding on a pediatric dental office to bring your child to for their next checkup, check out how the vibe of the website and office feels.

If you look online and in the actual building and you’re seeing a healthy dose of kids, bright colors, and a general sense that kids can come in and not

feel overwhelmed by the office, it’s generally a good sign. A warm, open, and happy environment can do a lot of good for your child’s experience at our kid’s dentist’s office in Hamilton, NJ.

* * *

Initial Consultations. Building a good rapport between your child and their dentist remains a vital component of their dental experience. You want your child to be able to trust their dentist and feel comfortable in the chair during the examination. Having an initial consultation sets up a low-stakes atmosphere where the dentist gets the chance to examine your child’s teeth, begin to build a rapport

with them, and show that the dentist’s office doesn’t have to be a scary place. Your child also gets the chance to experience the new environment and have a positive experience while you ask the dentist crucial questions.

* * *

Prioritize Preventative Treatment. The best way to protect their oral health for most children is through preventative treatments instead of waiting for problems to crop up. An excellent pediatric dentist knows the available preventive techniques to help protect your child’s teeth from needing to fill cavities near Mercer County, NJ, and other issues before they start.

* * *

Choose Hamilton Dental Associates for Your Pediatric Dentistry Needs!

Hamilton Dental Associates has the perfect mix of a welcoming atmosphere and expertly trained pediatric dentists to help your child’s ongoing oral health needs. We take the time to ensure your child feels as comfortable as possible throughout their dental visit and ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible. Contact our team to schedule your child’s first dental care consultation today!

Hamilton Dental Associates, 2929 Klockner Road, Hamilton Square; 609-359-0063. 2501 Kuser Road, Hamilton; 609-403-3217. www. hamiltondental.com. See ad below

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RWJBarnabas Health

A Woman’s Guide to Key Screenings and Other Steps That Can Improve Wellbeing Throughout Life

In every generation, women often do the work of caring for themselves and their families, raising children, and attending to aging parents.

RWJBarnabas Health has long recognized women’s complex role of nurturing others while tending to their own health needs, from reproductive care and breast health to menopause and heart care. RWJBarnabas Health is a leader in the region in women’s health, offering a multitude of programs and services tailored to the unique needs of women.

Our women’s health programs and services are backed by the largest healthcare network in New Jersey, making sure women have access to the highest level of care, the most state-of-the-art technology and the most experienced doctors and specialists. The breadth of our services for women empowers mothers, daughters and grandmothers to take the crucial preventive steps they need to chart a path of wellness through the life cycle.

example, unprotected sex, sexually transmitted disease or use of drugs with needles).

Heart Health

• Blood pressure test: Get one at least every two years if not at your annual checkup.

• Cholesterol panel: Establish your total, LDL, HDL and triglycerides in your 20s. Discuss follow-up with your provider in subsequent years.

problems or catch them earlier, and stay healthier longer,” say

Vice President of Women’s Services at RWJBarnabas Health. “Main also key to living healthy.”

Diabetes

Here are vital steps to take—and details on when to take them—

General Health

• Blood glucose or A1C test: Get screened if you have sustained blood pressure greater than 135/80, take medicine for high blood pressure or are at risk of developing diabetes.

• Full checkup: See a primary care provider yearly.

• Sleep habits: Discuss at your annual exam.  • Thyroid (TSH) test: Discuss with your healthcare provider.

Skin Health

• HIV screening: Get tested if you are at risk for HIV infectio disease or use of drugs with needles).

• Skin exam: Do a self-exam of skin and moles monthly and as part of a routine full checkup.

Heart Health

Oral Health

• Blood pressure test: Get one at least every two years if not

• Dental cleaning and exam: See your dentist twice yearly.

• Cholesterol panel: Establish your total, LDL, HDL and triglyc subsequent years.

 SHOOTING, BURNING, STABBING SENSATION

Women’s health concerns often focus on milestones such as pregnancy, childbirth and menopause. But day-to-day and year-to-year health maintenance and preventive measures are also critical to wellbeing throughout life. “Getting recommended exams, screenings and immunizations are some of the most important things you can do to prevent problems or catch them earlier, and stay healthier longer,” says Suzanne Spernal, DNP, APN-BC, RNCOB, C-ONQS, Senior Vice President of Women’s Services at RWJBarnabas Health. “Maintaining a healthy weight throughout the life span is also key to living healthy.”

Here are vital steps to take—and details on when to take them— throughout a woman’s life.

General Health

• Full checkup: See a primary care provider yearly.

• Sleep habits: Discuss at your annual exam.

• Thyroid (TSH) test: Discuss with your healthcare provider.

• HIV screening: Get tested if you are at risk for HIV infection (due to, for

Mental Health

Diabetes

• Behavioral health screening: Talk with your provider about whether this would be helpful.

• Blood glucose or A1C test: Get  screened if you have sustained high blood pressure or are at risk of developing diabetes.

Skin Health

In each decade working with your healthcare provider to keep on top of regular tests and practices throughout life can have long-term benefits by detecting or monitoring chronic conditions that, left unchecked, often snowball into potentially serious problems. To find an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group primary care provider right for you, call 855-5712500.

• Skin exam: Do a self‐exam of skin and moles monthly and as pa

Oral Health

• Dental cleaning and exam: See your dentist twice yearly.

Mental Health

• Behavioral health screening: Talk with your provider about wh

In each decade working with your healthcare provider to keep on have long‐term benefits by detecting or monitoring chronic cond potentially serious problems. To find an RWJBarnabas Health Med 855‐571‐2500.

SCAN THIS CODE TO DOWNLOAD A DETAILED, DECADEBY-DECADE BREAKDOWN OF WOMEN’S HEALTH GUIDELINES.

Learn more at rwjbh.org/ womenshealth. Let’s be healthy together. See ad, page 9

Fluid Physio

Helping People Move

Dr. Gianna Bigliani, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, owner and founder of Fluid Physio is excited to help people move more comfortably.

“The first thing you need to know about Fluid Physio is that we can get fast results. We are different than any other physical therapy practice because of our approach: a full hour of one-on-one specialized manual therapy treatment that will return you to pain-free optimal performance and function much faster than others.”

WOMEN’s HEALTH

Dr. Gianna graduated from Temple University in 2003 and became a certified strength and conditioning specialist, then later completed a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and an orthopedic PT residency. She worked with athletes of all ages (including children) and abilities (including at a professional level), specializing in helping those with chronic conditions. She spoke at the 2023 New Jersey Conference for Women and has presented at private corporate events and conducting community educational talks.

Her team also includes physical therapists Dr. Easton Reedenmeyer and Dr. Ayesha Mustafa, as well as office manager Caterina Bigliani, Dr. Gianna’s younger sister.

The emphasis at Fluid Physio is not on machines,Dr. Gianna says. There are exercise balls, bands, and a giant mirror, among other therapy tools, but the primary treatment is manual therapy, including manipulating joints, soft tissue (muscles and ligaments), and nerves. “Manual therapy is followed by movement re-education,” says Dr. Gianna. “The body needs to learn how to move without the restrictions it

previously had so that the effect of the therapy is lasting.”

“Every patient is an athlete at Fluid Physio,” she says. “Our goal is to maximize your performance in the activities you love, whether they are on the water, on the road, on the field, or on the floor.”

“I often treat hips and backs in the winter when people slip and fall on snow or ice. Also, they can hurt their backs raking leaves or shoveling snow. Another condition I often treat is foot pain.”

She gives her clients “homework,” “Each patient gets specific exercises and movements to do at home according to their needs and goals.”

“We’re not created to be sedentary. It’s good to be physically active. I chose the name Fluid Physio because ‘fluid’ is how movement should be. Physio is how the rest of the world refers to physical therapy. I also like water and how the water moves, so I thought fluid physio was quite appropriate.”

Fluid Physio, 160 Lawrenceville Pennington Road, Suite 16, Lawrence. 609-436-0366. Fluidphysio. com. See ad, page 11

HELP WANTED

PreK Head Teacher position and a Teacher’s Aids wanted for familyowned Hopewell Township preschool. Full Time or Part Time. Starting$15.50 -$22 per hour depending upon position and experience. If you are interested in either position, email info@camelotschool.net or call 609-577-5584.

WELLNESS

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SERVICES

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LEGAL SERVICES

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

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

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SPorTS

KNAB continued from Page 1

mara’s 25.

It has been quite a transformation for a guy who played midfield and goalie in Lawrence rec, and was a midfielder for Team Turnpike’s club lacrosse team. When he came to the Cardinals his skills were needed elsewhere.

“I think he can play any position on the field, and he’s really like a true midfielder,” coach Dan Brennan said. “His dodging ability and getting downhill is like a prototypical midfielder. Out of necessity we moved him to attack last year, now he kind of loves being there and we kept him there and he’s finding some success early on in the season.”

Knab had modest stats as a freshman with just four goals and two assists.

“When he first came in we had him do some faceoffs and stuff,” Brennan recalled. “I knew him from club ball, his older brother (Justin) played for me and was also a captain. He needed some time to mature as a young man. Freshmen are small guys. We really knew he was gonna be good. The past two years he’s really taken off.”

And how.

were both second on the team to Cahill. Knab said he expected to score goals and was more surprised at his assist total, but it was a sign of maturity that he knew when to dish off rather than force a shot.

It has been a complete evolution, since his midfield responsibilities for Team Turnpike were mostly defensive.

“I honestly didn’t know what to do scoring-wise before high school,” Knab said. “I was more just a ground ball and a defense guy.”

As a sophomore, Knab became an offensive guy by way of injury.

“Reilly Cahill was gonna be really good that year and he got hurt,” he said. “I think I had the best stick skills besides him on the team so coach put me on attack and that’s how I got most of those goals that year.”

As a sophomore Knab collected 29 goals and eight assists, and last year he showed scoring and playmaking skills with 42 goals and 22 assists, marks that

Asked if it was a difficult adjustment Knab said “Not really I just kind of played how I would usually play, I didn’t shoot much, I just ran through the defense and chucked it in. I didn’t really have much shooting experience.”

With Cahill playing a full year last season, Knab had someone to learn from

See KNAB, Page 10

LHS Boys’ lacrosse player Alex Knabb

when it came to scoring nuances.

“Usually I’d just try to barge my way into the cage,” he said. “But I noticed with Reilly how he would take his time setting up the dodges.”

Brennan shakes his head in admiration at how quickly Knab can explode.

“At any given moment he can just turn it on and finds ways to get to the cage and score,” the coach said. “It’s really remarkable the way he does that. With his power he can just lower his shoulder and get into guys. He has a knack for finding the back of the cage. One of his patented moves is his face dodge, getting a step around the defender and then boom, just flinging the ball in the back of the net.”

Knab has made himself a more versatile scorer after working on perfecting his outside shot in the backyard during the off-season.

“He’s typically been a getting-close guy and a finisher,” Brennan said. “This year in the Hightstown game he’s scoring bombs from outside the box, just ripping shots. He now has the complete package.”

ber this season.

“I think we can be really good,” Knab said. “We’ve got a lot of leadership. All the starters have a lot of experience, they know what to do, they know the plays. I think we can win a lot of games.”

Knab is a big reason for that positive outlook. Aside from scoring, he is always among Lawrence’s leaders in ground balls with 56 as a sophomore, 71 last year and 34 this season. Seniors J.P. Claffey and Jackson Caruso lead in that category with 40 and 39, respectively.

“When it’s crunch time or when we need a possession badly, I’ll move him up to the faceoff wing,” Brennan said. “He does have a knack for picking up tough balls.

When he’s not playing lacrosse, Knab is busy helping his school and community.

With Cahill graduated, McNamara has stepped up as a scorer to take some pressure off Knab, and allow him to create more.

“I feel like I kind of run the offense,” he said. “I don’t always have to be the one to score. I usually get the offense running and call out the plays we want.”

Knab is part of a veteran team that has Brennan feeling optimistic. The coach feels this year’s squad is as good as his 2020 crew, which never got to play due to Covid 19 shutdowns.

“I love this team,” Brennan said. “I’ve got 12 seniors, a bunch of guys that have played extensive minutes for me from an early age. Some of them are threeyear varsity starters, others have a lot of varsity minutes. They’re a tight group, they really want to succeed and push the program. My 2020 team – the team that never was – would have done that too.”

In noting some of his leaders, Brennan said midfielder “Jack Caruso is just a terror, he’s all over the place. One of our strengths is our defense, we have all seniors back there with Isaiah McFarland, JP Claffey and Aidan McGann. We have seniors up front with Knab and McNamara, we’ve got a senior (Kyle Pechalski) in the cage. We’ve got a solid group.”

It’s a group that has steadily improved, going from four wins in 2022 to seven last year to what could be an impressive num-

Another thing is he’s one of the best riding attackmen out there. He’s got a ton of caused turnovers on the ride, getting the ball on the carpet and getting some easy goals that way.”

When he’s not playing lacrosse, Knab is busy helping his school and community. He has made the complete journey from Cub Scout to Eagle Scout; he is one of Lawrence’s PEER leaders helping incoming freshman acclimate to high school, and he’s with the Green Action Club that cleans up around the school.

“He’s just an awesome kid,” Brennan said. “He’s an easy going kid. Win, lose or whatever, his mood doesn’t change. He’s such a competitor, but he’s still just a nice, happy kid.

“Sometimes if things aren’t going their way kids get nasty or mean. Alex doesn’t have that in him, you never see him yelling at a teammate or being mean to a teammate. He’s just a really positive kid. That’s why he’s a captain for us.”

Knab is unsure what his future in lacrosse holds. If he attends Scranton, where Justin goes but is not playing, he will attempt to walk on to the team. He has also been looking at Rutgers, Delaware and Buffalo and is considering majoring in business.

“I definitely feel he could play at the next level in some capacity,” Brennan said.

Whether he does or not, Knab will always appreciate what the sport has given him in high school.

“I enjoy just being out there with my friends,” he said. “I’ve known all of them for a while, we correspond with each other. It’s always fun being out there and working hard with them.”

It’s safe to say he does not find lacrosse boring anymore.

“When it comes to treating stroke, we always say ‘time is brain,’ which means that the sooner we can treat you, the better chance we have at a successful outcome,” said DR. DUSTIN ROCHESTIE, director of the Stroke Program at Capital Health. “At Capital Health, we have procedures in place to make sure you get the immediate, lifesaving stroke care that you need.”

The Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center at the Capital Institute for Neurosciences is a major referral center for the treatment of all types of neurovascular diseases, including (but not limited to) cerebral aneurysms, strokes, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), intracranial stenosis as well as Moyamoya disease.

The only certified Comprehensive Stroke Center in the region, Capital Health Regional Medical Center (RMC) in Trenton provides safe emergency stroke and neurovascular services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“As soon as you call 911, our prehospital alert system allows our team in the hospital to prepare for your arrival, saving valuable time to treatment,” said Dr. Rochestie. “Your call activates basic and advanced life support service to provide safe, immediate care at your location before you even arrive at the hospital.”

Controllable Risk Factors for Stroke

There are steps you can take right away to lower your risk. Get started by talking to your primary care doctor to learn about stroke screenings and how you can treat or manage controllable risk factors such as:

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Heart/blood vessel disease

Cigarette smoking

Physical inactivity/obesity/poor diet

Diabetes mellitus

Atrial fibrillation

Sickle cell disease

Visit capitalneuro.org to learn more. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of a stroke, call 911.

Don’t Delay: Call 911 If You Suspect a Stroke

Stroke is a time-sensitive emergency. If you suspect you or a loved one is experiencing a stroke, B-E F-A-S-T to know the signs of a stroke and call 911 immediately.

Balance

Is the person experiencing a sudden loss of balance?

E

F

AEyes

Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?

— Face Drooping

Does one side of the face droop, or is it numb?

—

Arm Weakness

Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S—

Speech Difficulty

Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like “The sky is blue.” Is the sentence repeated correctly?

T— Time to call 911

If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and check the time so you’ll know when the first symptom appeared.

UNDERSTANDING BRAIN TUMOR SYMPTOMS

SIGNS TO GUIDE YOU TO THE RIGHT PLAN FOR CARE

Brain tumors, while relatively rare, do not discriminate, affecting men, women, and children across all age groups and ethnicities. And because the brain is the critical organ that controls all others, it’s important to recognize the signs that may suggest a brain tumor and discuss them with your health care team.

“The many parts of the brain control different body functions, so symptoms will vary depending on tumor location, type, and size,” said DR. NAVID REDJAL, director of Neurosurgical Oncology at the Capital Health Center for Neuro-Oncology. “However, there are some common symptoms to watch for which, if ongoing, may indicate the presence of a brain tumor. Anyone experiencing one or more of them over an extended period of time should see their doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.”

“At the Center for Neuro-Oncology, our advanced technological resources and multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment are just as important as the compassionate and individualized care we provide,” said Dr. Redjal. “If a person experiences new symptoms or changes to existing ones, talking to your doctor is an important first step.”

The Center for Neuro-Oncology, part of Capital Institute for Neurosciences and Capital Health Cancer Center, is a referral center for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer involving the brain and spine. The Center is housed in state-of-the-art facilities where patients have access to an experienced and caring team of physicians, nurses and staff who work closely with referring physicians to facilitate rapid and thorough evaluations and recommendations for patients and their families. In addition to providing advanced neuro-oncologic and neuroscience care, the Center participates in clinical trials to help fight and find cures for cancer.

To learn more about Capital Health’s Center for Neuro-Oncology, visit capitalhealth.org/neurooncology.

COMMON BRAIN TUMOR SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:

HEADACHES:

A persistent, progressive pain that is different from a migraine, does not respond to over-the-counter pain medication (like aspirin or ibuprofen), gets worse when laying down, and may be accompanied by vomiting or changes in vision.

SEIZURES:

In some cases, a seizure may be the first indication that a person has a brain tumor.

FOCAL PROGRESSIVE SYMPTOMS:

Localized symptoms—such as hearing problems, difficulty walking or speaking, or feeling clumsy—can often help identify the location of the tumor.

MASS EFFECT:

Occurs when a brain tumor presses on surrounding normal tissue, causing nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, vision problems, headaches, and behavior changes.

SUDDEN PERSONALITY CHANGES, COGNITIVE CHANGES, MEMORY LOSS:

A tumor may cause disruptions in normal brain function that lead to changes in a patient’s behavior and ability to reason, remember, and learn.

Getting to the Heart of the Matter with Valve Disease

Heart valve disease is the general name for several conditions that affect how blood moves through the heart and supports the body. The four chambers of the heart each have a valve that keeps blood flowing in the right direction. When someone has heart valve disease, the flaps of a valve aren’t working properly and the heart can’t move enough blood to keep the rest of the body functioning as it should. Left untreated, heart valve disease can lead to serious complications such as heart rhythm abnormalities, blood clots, heart failure, and stroke.

Someone with mild to moderate heart valve disease can go for years without knowing they have it, but the risk for damage can still be serious. Symptoms can develop gradually over time or very quickly if the condition becomes severe, so it’s important to understand your risk factors and recognize symptoms when they occur.

The risk for heart valve disease increases as we age, but it’s also more likely if you’ve had a heart attack or have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or other conditions that can affect your heart health. Physical signs of heart valve disease can include:

Irregular heartbeat.

… Shortness of breath.

… Fatigue or inability to maintain your normal activity.

Lightheadedness or fainting.

… Swollen abdomen, ankles, or feet.

Severe aortic stenosis is one form of heart valve disease in which narrowing of the aortic valve opening occurs due to thick or stiff valve flaps. As a result, the heart needs to work harder to pump blood to the rest of the body, which in turn can limit your daily activity. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive treatment option at Capital Health for patients with severe aortic stenosis or those with a failing surgical aortic valve who are at greater risk for complications during open surgery.

“Heart valve disease symptoms don’t necessarily tell the whole story about how serious a person’s condition is,” said DR. DAVID DRUCKER , medical director of Capital Health’s Structural Heart Program and board certified, fellowship trained interventional cardiologist at Capital Health Cardiology Specialists. “This is why it’s important to talk to your cardiologist any time you notice anything out of the ordinary that could indicate heart valve disease or other cardiac conditions. Getting a specific diagnosis as soon as possible is more likely to lead to a better outcome.”

Dr. Drucker leads a team of experts at Capital Health’s Structural Heart Program to perform minimally invasive procedures like TAVR to manage and treat heart valve conditions and other structural issues of the heart. With TAVR, an artificial valve is delivered to the heart through a thin, flexible tube (catheter) that is inserted into one of several possible access routes and placed into the diseased valve. The procedure usually takes one hour or less to complete, and many TAVR patients start feeling better as soon as their new valve is placed. Patients usually begin walking the same day as their TAVR procedure and are typically discharged within one or two days and ready to return to their normal activities.

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

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. Class size is limited. Zoom meeting details will be provided via email 2 – 3 days before the program date. Registration ends 24 hours before the program date.

Nutrition Tips for Thriving as You Age

Wednesday, May 8, 2024 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Join Mindy Komosinsky, registered dietitian/nutritionist and certified diabetes care and education specialist, to learn ways to build solid nutrition habits that can pave the way for a healthier brain and body as you age. Topics include nutrition for maintaining cognitive health, promoting strong bones, preserving muscle mass, and preventing or managing some chronic conditions.

Stroke: Preventable, Treatable, Beatable

Thursday, May 16, 2024 | 6 p.m.

Location: Zoom Meeting

Do you have a family history of stroke, or have you experienced a stroke and want to learn how to prevent another one in the future? Get the latest information from registered nurses and Stroke Program Coordinators Maria Gilli and Pamela Esher, who will discuss stroke signs and symptoms, types of strokes, individual risk factors, and treatment options.

A district of excellence

Dr. Klim’s Corner

Robyn A. Klim, Ed.D., MCSW

At Lawrence Township Public Schools, we are constantly seeking ways to enhance the learning experience for our students, ensuring they have the best possible opportunities to learn, grow and succeed in the classroom and beyond. I am thrilled to share with you an exciting initiative that will revolutionize the way we approach education in Lawrence Township Public Schools – the evidencebased strategic restructuring of our grade level distributions to better align with the cognitive and social-emotional development of students.

This journey has been guided by two pivotal factors.

First, in close consultation with experts in the field of education, our district has been diligently researching and evaluating the most effective grade level distribution models.The culmination of this research unequivocally supports the sixth through eighth grade middle school model as the best fit for students’ academic and social-emotional needs. In addition, this year we were awarded Preschool Expansion Aid (PEA) funding from the New Jersey Department of Education which will bring 500 preschool students to our district over the next five years.

The connection between these two components became clear.

Our community has voiced a clear desire to integrate preschool in their neighborhood elementary school buildings. We listened, and began looking at ways to expand those buildings to hold this new population. We employed architects to examine the footprint of our existing elementary schools to see where, if anywhere, they could be expanded. Private property and wetlands “landlocking” our schools, coupled with the prohibitive cost of any vertical construction, rendered this approach unfeasible.

Consequently, we came to the realization that now is the opportune time to move toward our evidencebased, long-term goal of future grade-level reconfiguration. Aligned with the Department of Education’s recommended model, our vision is to transform every elementary school to PreK through second grade, uniting grades three to five in a nurturing upper elementary school, and grades six to eight in an expanded, modernized middle school. By providing these more

developmentally and academically appropriate environments, we will be laying the foundation for a district of excellence, where our students will thrive academically and emotionally.

For example, by realigning our grade levels, we can provide the necessary resources, specialized facilities, and extracurricular opportunities that are tailored to the unique needs of each age group. For instance, our sixth graders will have access to intramural and school sports programs previously unavailable, enriching their physical and social development. Also, because this reconfiguration bands the mandatory state-tested grades together, we can better focus our resources and support on ensuring our students are prepared to meet and exceed academic standards.

But this transition is about more than just changing grade configurations; it’s about enhancing the entire educational experience for every student in our district. We listen to and value our community’s input and are committed to ensuring that all of our students have the support and resources they need to thrive and succeed. We’ve heard our families’ concerns and desires to keep our children “young” by housing them in an elementary school building for a longer period of time. By embracing this “upper elementary” school model, we respect that wish, as well as the developmental needs of our students as they progress through their educational journey. Similarly, in Lawrence Middle School, our sixth graders will inhabit a dedicated wing, fostering a supportive environment as they acclimate to middle school culture and curriculum expectations.

I understand that change can sometimes be met with apprehension, but I want to assure you that this transformation is rooted in research, best practices, and a deep commitment to the well-being and success of our students. We are excited about the positive impact this restructuring will have on our entire community, and we hope you join us on embracing this journey towards a more effective educational environment and create a brighter future for generations to come.

I invite you to join me at our May 22 Board of Ed meeting where we will be discussing the first step of the journey: reviewing architectural plans to expand our middle school. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

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Our H2Open Forums empower you with knowledge about your drinking water and provide direct access to water utility leadership for any questions. The town-hall style discussions cover vital topics such as water quality, lead service lines, operations, and capital projects, all of which support the well-being of our service-area communities.

• May 1, Trenton, City Hall, 319 E. State Street

• May 15, Hamilton Township Public Library, 1 Justice Samuel Alito Way

• July 10, Ewing Township, Hollowbrook Community Center, 320 Hollowbrook Drive

• August 14, Lawrence Township, Lawrence Senior Center, 30 E. Darrah Lane

• September 11, Hopewell Township, Stony Brook Elementary School, 20 Stephenson Road, Pennington