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Bag ban set to become law this spring

Fish tales

Baking bread into booming business By Jack DeeGan

Throughout her entire life, Mary Parr has been impacted by bread. At only 14 years old, she had her first job working at a bakery, where she worked with sourdough bread and bagels, though at the time, she wanted nothing to do with it. Ironically enough, she would also develop a gluten allergy causing her to cut it out entirely. It was only after a trip to France in 2013 that her fascination with bread really began. “I can see it in my mind’s eye, my husband brought me a baguette and he was like, ‘Just try it.’ I remember feeling so good immediately,” she said. “The next two weeks turned into me eating as much bread as I could and not having any of the normal digestive problems I was used to.” She came home from that trip determined to figure out what it was about that bread that didn’t affect her. After experimenting and learning all about bread fermentation, she learned to make the perfect sourdough starter that would enable her to eat — and enjoy — bread again. Now Parr has turned this self-described bread obsession into a full-on business. What started as a way for her to eat normally again completely flipped her life upside down and put her on a new See BREAD, Page 12

By Lisa WOLFF

Elliot Block is set to star as Edward Bloom and Piper Ward as Sandra Bloom in Hopewell Valley Central High School’s upcoming production of “Big Fish,” with performances scheduled for March 4, 5, 11 and 12. For more information, turn to page 2. (Photo courtesy of Maria O’Leary Photography.)

Peters-Manning settling in as township’s new mayor By JOe Emanski

Hopewell Township Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning became the third woman in succession to serve in that role when she was sworn in at the January municipal reorganization meeting. Peters-Manning follows Julie Blake and Kristin McLaughlin in leading the five-member Township Committee. She paid tribute to

both of her predecessors in a phone interview with the Express last month. “Julie Blake is one of my favorite people,” Peters-Manning said. “She did a really good job of teaching me and keeping me involved in things. I learned a lot watching. Most women in politics are lucky if they get a female mentor ever, and I’ve had two with Kristin and Julie and I’m just astounded that I’ve been

able to learn from both of them.” Neither Blake nor McLaughlin is on the committee this year. Blake opted not to run for a third term after completing her second last year, while McLaughlin stepped down from the committee this year after winning election to the Mercer County Board of Commissioners in November. See MAYOR, Page 14

On May 4 the statewide bag ban goes into effect. Over the next two months, businesses, municipalities, schools, and nonprofits are taking steps to prepare for an event that may take some consumers by surprise. If you already use reusable bags when you shop, then this state law, known as S.864, will have little to no impact on your consumer habits. However, recent observations by a member of the Hopewell Valley Green Team and Hopewell Township Environmental Commission indicate that the majority of Hopewell Valley residents show up at stores empty-handed. Beginning May 4, those unknowing shoppers may no longer expect that businesses will provide a bag. The law bans plastic bags, regardless of thickness, at grocery stores and retail outlets, as well as paper bags at grocery stores measuring more than 2,500 square feet. It also bans polystyrene foam food service products and makes plastic straws at restaurants available only upon request. While the ban is most stringent for grocery stores, Mike Rothwell, president and general manager of Pennington See BAN, Page 11

HVRSD HIGHLIGHTS

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Central High School set to stage ‘Big Fish’ this month Hopewell Valley Central High School Performing Arts is proud to present the musical Big Fish live on stage during the first two weekends of March. With music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and book by John August, Big Fish is an energy driven fantasy set in the American south, Big Fish centers on the wild stories of Edward Bloom’s epic adventures and impossible stories he tells to his son Will. Will sets out to find out the truth behind the tall tales and finds an extraordinary life full of mermaids, witches, giants and the circus. On his father’s deathbed, the sweeping emotions of true love emerge in his devotion to his wife Sandra and the passage of time through the eyes of fathers, sons, and the stories we choose to tell and believe about dreaming, loving and living bigger. Set to star in the production are Elliot Block as Edward Bloom, Piper Ward as Sandra Bloom, Frankie Bancroft as Will Bloom, Ella Williams as Josephine, Emma Ababa as The Witch, Jenny Hill as Camille Rosenthale, Connor Bowden as Karl, Jake Brown as Don Price, Kelly

Thomas as Zacky Price, Jack Elliott as Amos, Sophia Parsons as Dr. Bennett, Gillian Lee and Payton Tharp as Lambs from Alabama, and Georgina Willoughby as Mermaid. The show’s director, Katie Rochon explains why this show is a must see: “I chose this show because it’s about family and love, and throughout the very challenging past two years, I think that we have all connected deeply to the importance of those two things in our lives. This show is really beautiful and this felt like the right time to bring something truly uplifting to our stage,” she says. All performances will be live on stage in the Performing Arts Center at Hopewell Valley Central High School, 259 Pennington-Titusville Road, Pennington, and following all HVRSD guidelines. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students and seniors) and are available at showtix4u.com/ event-details/61321. Showtimes are at 7 p.m. and dates are Friday, March 4; Saturday, March 5; Friday, March 11 and Saturday, March 12. No tickets will be sold at the door and capacity is limited. See NEWS, Page 4

we are a newsroom of your neighbors. The Express is for local people, by local people. As part of the community, the Hopewell Express 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 region a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood. EDITOR Joe Emanski (Ext. 120) CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jack Deegan, Jasmine Lee CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST Lisa Wolﬀ AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION Stacey Micallef

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NEWS continued from Page 2

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On Feb. 27, longtime Hopewell resident Evelyn Brooks will turn 101 years old. Known as “Nana Brooks” to friends and neighbors, Brooks is a prominent member of her church and local Black community who has lived in the area for 80 years. This year, the Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum is celebrating her birthday with the premiere of a special video interview, to be released on the museum’s website and YouTube channel. “My Nana is living history and we have an obligation to be stewards of the powerful stories of people like her,” said Brooks’s granddaughter Catherine Fulmer-Hogan, a SSAAM board member. “It gives me tremendous joy to be a part of honoring and preserving the stories of the woman who taught me to seek them out.” Born in 1921, Evelyn (Dunn) Brooks grew up in Bronxville, New York. She recalls enjoying musical acts at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem, where she saw jazz legend Ella Fitzgerald perform when she was just starting out as a singer. At the age of 19, Evelyn married Ira Brooks, whose family lived in Hopewell. In 1948, the couple purchased a ten-room house on a 28-acre plot of land on the Sourland Mountain, one of only three families then living on Mountain Church Road. Evelyn and Ira Brooks raised ten children on the mountain, farming the “sour,” rocky soil to support their growing family. Evelyn was known for her quick wit and intelligence, and she and her husband were known in the neighborhood for their selflessness and generosity. At times, local farmers would leave extra produce on the Brooks family’s front porch. “In those days,” she recalled, “people were always helping each other.” Yet Brooks also remembers the prejudice that African Americans faced in

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Long-time area resident Evelyn Brooks turned 101 on Feb. 27. (Photo by Benoit Cortet.) New Jersey when she was a young wife and mother. On one occasion in 1943, Brooks took her two-year-old son Calvin to Ashton’s, a restaurant in Hopewell, to buy ice cream; she was turned away from the counter and told she would have to wait on the front porch. “After that I didn’t bother to go back ever again, and made sure I told all my Black friends,” she said in a 2015 interview. On another occasion, a hairdresser who catered to white women said she would do Brooks’s hair, but only if she came to the salon at night and entered through the back door. Over the course of the last century, Brooks has lived through the Great Depression, World War II, the Civil Rights movement, and all of the change and turmoil of modern politics. As part of SSAAM’s 2022 Black History Month programming, she was interviewed and filmed by executive director Donnetta Johnson and her granddaughter, Catherine-Fulmer Hogan. “I was brought up in the church, and to me, what is to be is to be. It’s God’s will. Just like me being here now,” Brooks said. “I don’t know why He is keeping me here but there is something that I’m supposed to be doing that I’m doing.” SSAAM’s board and staff say they are proud to help Mrs. Brooks share her story, an important piece of African American history in central New Jersey. “For hundreds of years all we had were stories that were passed down by word of mouth and carried in our hearts,” Fulmer-Hogan said. “We were hard-pressed to find the proof that our ancestors were here beyond their DNA in our veins. More than anyone else, my Nana taught me to not only honor those stories, but about what we could learn from them. Without her influence in my life, there is no me on any board of any museum.” See NEWS, Page 6

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Don’t Sweat Menopause Wednesday, March 23, 2022 | 6 p.m. Location: Zoom Meeting Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life, but it is often met with uncertainty and fear. In a conversation with DR. STEPHANIE SCHWARTZ, board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and a Fellow of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, you’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of menopause, natural (holistic) and medicinal treatment options, the pros and cons of hormone replacement, and the healthy steps you can take to safely navigate menopause.

Working Remotely: Tips for Staying Healthy and Productive Thursday, March 24, 2022 | 6 p.m. Location: Zoom Meeting Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, many people are working remotely, but there are challenges that come with this option. DR. DENNIS GUEST, a board certified family medicine physician from Capital Health Primary Care - Quakerbridge, will share guidance for maintaining physical and emotional fitness while working from home and offer motivational tips to stay productive and focused.

March 2022 | Hopewell Express5

NEWS continued from Page 4 Brooks’s new video interview will be released in three episodes on SSAAM’s YouTube channel on her birthday, Feb. 27, at youtube.com/channel/ UCGNN62QtWapz0K4duaZ6HtA. Episode 1: On being “colored” and raising Black children in a predominantly white community in the 1940s and 1950s. Episode 2: On marriage and true partnership. Episode 3: On Living Well and Longevity More information about SSAAM can be found at ssaamuseum.org.

YWCA Princeton announces 2022 Tribute to Women honorees YWCA Princeton will host its 38th Tribute to Women Awards on March 31, 2022 virtually. The annual gala is designed to highlight women making a difference in their communities and industries across Central and Southern New Jersey through their work, advocacy, and volunteerism. The 2022 Tribute to Women Honorees are: Ka’Neda N. Bullock, Master Plan Investment Group; Reina Fleury, Penn Medicine Princeton Health; Leyda M. Flores, Asociacion Calidad de Vida; Tara Lavin, Pink Ribbon Softball; Kendra Lee, Mercer County One-Stop and Workforce Development Board; Cynthia Mendez, Arm In Arm; Michele C. Meyer-Shipp, Dress for Success; Jeanette Timmons, community volunteer; and Lisa Wolff,

Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space and Outdoor Equity Alliance. Also set to be honored is and Sen. Andrew Zwicker of New Jersey’s 16th legislative district with a Man of Achievement Award. The Awards will be hosted on Remo, a virtual event platform with networking opportunities, a live-chat, and a program featuring interviews with each Honoree. YWCA Princeton is working with their longtime partners at Riverview Studios in Bordentown to film and produce the program video. Visit ywcaprinceton. org/tribute to learn more about the history of the Awards.

Pennington Library’s Big Read adds featured author to its programming Pennington Public Library’s NEA Big Read committee has announced a new addition to its current programming: Thi Bui, the author of The Best We Could Do, will speak via Zoom on Tuesday, April 5, at 6:30 pm. Her appearance is in partnership with the Hopewell Valley Regional School District and the Miami Book Fair. The Best We Could Do is a graphic

memoir that traces one family’s journey from their war-torn home in Vietnam to their new lives in America. Bui documents the story of her family’s daring escape after the fall of South Vietnam in the 1970s and the difficulties they faced building new lives for themselves. Themes of displacement and hope, family history and family ties, immigration, and assimilation lend themselves to a wide variety of programming that Pennington Library is presenting over the course of six weeks. The library has free copies of the book available to read and pass along. Programming will culminate on Sunday, April 10, with a Cultural Fair to which the whole community is invited. The Fair will celebrate the stories, cultures, art, and artifacts of our diverse backgrounds. All community members are encouraged to register in advance to display, perform, or share, or to simply meet and mingle with neighbors while viewing the exhibits. Other programming happening this month includes a history of the graphic novel, making and displaying paper lanterns, quilting, writing one’s own memoir, and an exploration of storytelling. There will be a culinary demonstration of Vietnam-

ese cuisine streaming live from Vietnam. The Hopewell Historical Society and Hopewell Museum will present a panel that will explore immigrant experiences. Book discussions and film screenings will be held throughout the spring about the featured book as well as selected companion titles. Be a part of the story! A complete schedule of events is available at penningtonlibrary.org/2022BigRead.

Community fundraiser to benefit Hopewell Quarry

The greater community is invited to join the Quarry Neighbors at a fundraising event to be held on Saturday, March 12 at 3 p.m. The event will be hosted in partnership with the swim club’s new owners, Friends of Hopewell Quarry, a nonprofit with the mission of preserving and protecting the historic open space formerly known as the Quarry Swim Club. There will be no admission fee and nothing required of guests. Beverages and some light snacks will be provided fireside. There will also be kids games and art activities. Season passes and other pass options will be offered for advance sale. Hopewell Quarry merchandise for sale. The event will be held at the Quarry, 180 Crusher Rd, Hopewell, NJ 08525. Raindate is March 13. More information is online at hopewellquarry.org.

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HVRSD HIGHLIGHTS

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March 2022

a biG conGratulations to Helen corVeleyn on beinG a recipient of tHe presidential award for excellence in matHematics and science teacHinG! Since joining the Hopewell Elementary staff, she has shared her extensive knowledge and background with contagious enthusiasm. Helen is to be commended for her extraordinary ability to forge genuine relationships and build support for initiatives. She has secured multiple grants from various organizations exceeding $20,000, including Sustainable Jersey for Schools/New Jersey Education Association, BASF, Hopewell Valley Education Foundation and Hopewell Elementary PTO. The majority of these grants have permitted our school to launch a vertical farming initiative and expand upon our outdoor gardens which support our sustainability efforts by incorporating our own vegetables/herbs in the cafeteria through a partnership with Princeton University which she forged. The New Jersey Department of Agriculture recognized Helen’s efforts and successes two years ago when naming our school the Best Farm to School program in the state of New Jersey. Furthermore, she collaborates with teachers at each grade level to utilize our gardens to develop and co-teach meaningful and engaging lessons which are aligned to Next Generation Science Standards. Even prior to the pandemic, Helen had the foresight to embrace

outdoor education. She is currently working with local organizations and community members to expand our outdoor learning spaces. The first two phases, an installation of an outdoor yoga area and Nature Harmony Project Infinity Garden, have been completed. Helen recognizes the significance of nurturing young female scientists in a field where there is significant underrepresentation. She has conceived, coordinated and hosted lunch and learn sessions for our female students featuring women of various backgrounds within the STEM industry. Sessions have included an environmental engineer who used drone technology to monitor remediation sites, a college physics major who promoted women in physics, a public health physician who worked in eradicating tuberculosis in foreign nations, a neuroscience major who discussed brain research and a cell biologist who taught DNA and immunotherapy in cancer research. These sessions were very well attended, engaging and truly life changing. Helen’s ability to collaborate with colleagues is especially noteworthy. She is well respected, patient and always supportive through her words and actions. Helen truly models respect in each and every interaction. Consequently, the extent of buy-in among staff is unparalleled. Furthermore, her rapport with parents is exceptional. Our parent community cherishes Helen’s leadership, innovation and dedication.

central HiGH scHool recoGnized for riVer-friendly initiatiVes The River-Friendly program, facilitated in our area by the Watershed Institute, encourages schools to take action and educate students on water quality and conservation as well as wildlife and their habitats. In addition to classroom lessons, HVCHS earned points towards advanced certification through ecofriendly actions, including: • installing pollinator-friendly native plants in the retention basin in front of the school in a partnership with Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space • composting in the cafeterias • Hopewell Valley Green Week events such as the screening and student lead panel discussion of the film Microplastic Madness • collecting litter during Clean Communities Day in coordination with Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space • recycling almost 700 pounds of plastic through the TREX recycling challenge • reducing plastic waste through zero-waste event kits, which were funded by a grant through Sustainable Jersey for Schools and the PSE&G Foundation HVRSD HIGHLIGHTS | Hopewell Express7

2022 HV Varsity Hockey 7tH annual “salute to serVice” Game On February 6th, the Hopewell Bulldogs played Bridgewater-Raritan High School at Proskate in Monmouth Junction and the recognition of Veterans and Active Duty Servicemen and Women provided the inspiration for the night. The Veterans honored were: American Legion Post 339 Sergeant at Arms for Mercer County, Mark Marotta who served in the US Army Corp. of Engineers, served in the National Guard and shuttled workers from NJ to ground zero during 9-11 and Dimitra Bairaktaris of Montgomery Veterans Memorial Committee and American Legion Post 339, who served as a Captain in the US Army, served in the National Guard and works for the Department of Army Communications in Security Assistance Management. Hopewell Valley Veteran Association President Ken Baker and Sal Torre sat alongside Bulldog family members who are Veterans. It was a proud moment for junior goalie Ryan Morici to honor his grandfather and uncle; for junior

Liam Yeoman to have his grandfather on the bench and for freshman Logan Camilleri to experience his first Salute to Service game with both of his grandfathers in attendance. Captains Michael Boyer and Joseph Greenspoon both honored their military grandfathers who have recently passed away. Shout outs went to several active duty servicemen and women who are currently serving our country, including HV alumni and founder of the STS game, Michael Cowhey, US Army and his brother Jeffrey, US Marine as well as former CVC Ice Hockey alumni Anthony Dickinson, US Navy. Contributing to the patriotic spirit were local scouts from Troop 44 with the Southall family of Pennington represented by their three children, Aren, Kirsten and Neil who, along with Ian Williams led the color guard flag salute. The talented members of HV Central High School Choral Program led by Mr. Randy White provided an exceptional rendition of the National Anthem, Principal Trish Riley

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8Hopewell Express | HVRSD HIGHLIGHTS

and AD Tripp Becker from Hopewell Valley Central High School were also on hand for the opening ceremonies. Captain Michael Boyer summed it up, “This is a game we look forward to all season. It’s a tradition that is important to the team and our town. Even though the outcome wasn’t what we wanted, it’s still a great event because of the purpose which is to thank our servicemen and women for their sacrifice for our country; and that always counts as a W for us” And HV Head Coach Jeff Radice shared his perspective, ‘“The Hopewell Valley hockey program is proud to host this event to honor the men and women who have selflessly served this country. We would love to keep this annual tradition going for many years to come. Win or lose it’s a game we feel is always a positive opportunity for our team and community.” A special thank you to Mike Schwartz (mikeschwartzphoto.com) for all of the great pictures.

On Tuesday, February 15, the Timberlane Orchestra, under the direction of Ms. Danielle Arias, held a successful “return to stage” at the Performing Arts Center at Hopewell Valley Central High School. The evening featured performances by the sixth, seventh and eighth grade orchestras, along with several solo and duet performances. A wonderful time was had by all in attendance.

central Valley utilizes excitinG new sHop tecHnoloGy by Michael Sullivan, Teacher of Practical Arts For years, students taking woodworking courses at Hopewell Valley Central High School have deployed a wide array of traditional tools and techniques as they fabricated projects such as toolboxes, furniture, instruments and even boats. Students who graduated prior to 2007 remember legendary teacher Skip Johnson, who was a master of his craft. I’m a former student of his (class of 2003) who now teaches these classes. In the last few years, the transition to remote instruction has been challenging for most teachers. Imagine what that means for courses like “Furniture Design and Construction” and “Fine Woodworking.” My colleagues, Erik Tornegard, Margarita Trujillo, and I saw an opportunity to elevate the Practical Arts Department to the next level, in sync with the district’s STEM initiative efforts. When the school pivoted to virtual instruction, I began to focus on the “furniture design” aspect of the course. The students learned about a variety of lumber species and the attributes of furniture styles. They began to work in Onshape, a professional, cloud-based 3D Modeling app that allowed them to create their projects in a digital format. I was determined to get the kids to “make some sawdust”, even if remote. I piloted an assignment where students designed a small project to be made from wood - a phone charging stand and sent their files to the school’s CNC laser cutter/engraver to be cut out. I packed each student’s parts and left them to be picked up and assembled. The success of this project was a lightbulb moment, as I realized it could be scalable in a way that would permit full-size furniture projects if virtual instruction continued. Modern CNC (computer numerically controlled) equipment such as 3D printers, laser engravers, milling machines, and routers have grown in popularity with makers as they convert their concepts into reality. In recent years, they have become more affordable and easier to operate. With a little digital design prowess, the kids have everything needed to move their skills forward into the 21st century. We’ve recently added a large format CNC Router to the school’s arsenal of computer integrated manufacturing equipment.

We’ve also recently received a Stepcraft Q.408 machine which has a machining area of 48”x96”, uses a vacuum table to hold the workpiece in place and has the ability to change between ten different types of cutters in the middle of a job. This high-tech equipment will serve the woodshop, engineering courses, and robotics team, where it will allow us to fabricate parts and projects from wood, plastic, and aluminum with a high degree of precision. Our students will be able to build complex, full-scale projects at home. The Stepcraft router joins a complement of other cuttingedge equipment at HVRSD. The SawStop table saw uses a microprocessor to prevent injury by detecting if a finger has contacted the blade and deploying a safety mechanism to stop the saw in fractions of a millisecond. The large format CNC laser cutter and smaller Dremel and Glowforge lasers in each building handle high-resolution engraving of wood and plastic. Eighteen Lulzbot 3D printers districtwide were used to print thousands of face shields for first responders and hospitals early in the pandemic. The Shaper Origin handheld CNC router is a fascinating tool that uses cameras and augmented reality to display the cutter’s exact position and calculate corrections to keep the user’s movements precise. The Tormach CNC milling machine is capable of processing blocks of material into complex shapes. These are in addition to all of the traditional hand and power tools that have always been found in the shop. We look forward to continuing decades of happy fabrication.

a day of serVice at toll Gate Grammar Throughout the years the Toll Gate Grammar School community has generously donated to HomeFront, Womanspace, TASK, and other organizations that help people in need. Continuing with such efforts, every January Toll Gate participates in a Day of Service, and on Friday, January 21, 2022, for this school year’s Day of Service, the Toll Gate students and staff participated in The Jared Box Project (The Jared Box Project). While contributing to this project, Toll Gate families donated almost 200 six quart storage boxes, hundreds of sheets of tissue paper, labels, and stickers, and loads of Amazon gift cards, crafts, cards, toys, kind hearts, and creativity which allowed Toll Gate students and staff to decorate and fill 170 Jared boxes. Then, on January 25, Toll Gate parent volunteers and Jane-Ellen Lennon, Toll Gate’s Principal, delivered the 170 cheerful Jared boxes to Capital Health Hospital for distribution to the hospital’s pediatric patients. HVRSD HIGHLIGHTS | Hopewell Express9

Hopewell Valley School District & Hopewell Valley Education Foundation Honor Women's Heritage Month

PLEASE JOIN US FOR A BOOK DISCUSSION WITH AUTHOR ARI HONARVAR THIS DEBUT NOVEL WEAVES A CAPTIVATING TALE OF SURVIVIAL, REDEMPTION, AND THE POWER OF STORYTELLING.

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coffee House cabaret The Central High School Choir program provided another night of entertainment for the HV community on January 28th. The annual event, the Coffee House Cabaret, featured students from the high school choirs as soloists, duets, and small groups, performing selections they worked on outside the classroom. Popular music, classics, barbershop, jazz and other genres were all performed in the CHS Community Room. Additionally, the A Cappella Groups from CHS presented their music learned so far this year. The groups are student led and accept members from the entire school population, not just the choir program. The show closer group, Vox Central Jazz, is the one extra-curricular choir directed by Mr. White, director of choirs at CHS. Vox performed two pieces in a jazz style with a group of 23 members. The next concert for the choir program is currently scheduled for March 23rd in the PAC at CHS. Come support these student musicians!

CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL 259 Pennington-Titusville Road Pennington, NJ 08534 (609) 737-4003 (609) 737-1581 Fax Principal: Patricia Riley

TIMBERLANE MIDDLE SCHOOL 51 S. Timberlane Drive Pennington, NJ 08534 (609) 737-4004 (609) 737-2718 Fax Principal: Nicole Gianfredi

10Hopewell Express | HVRSD HIGHLIGHTS

BEAR TAVERN SCHOOL 1162 Bear Tavern Road Titusville, NJ 08560 (609) 737-4005 (609) 737-7351Fax Principal: Christopher Turnbull

Draft your team, throw on your jerseys, lace up your sneakers and get ready for the annual Hopewell Valley YMCA Tom Jackson 3v3 Basketball Tournament for 3-5 Graders!. The tournament is open to all 3rd – 5th grade students and is free to register and play. Tournament Dates are March 7-March 11.

The Hopewell Valley Education Foundation is a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of the public schools that make up the Hopewell Valley Regional School District. Our mission is to enhance the educational experience in Hopewell Valley schools through the identification and development of community partnerships and resources. Find us at www.hvef.org The Power of 100, the HVEF’s annual giving campaign, imagines the difference we can make if 100 or more families donate $100 or more each year. That’s less than $9 per month or 27 cents per day. Funding from our 2021-22 Campaign will help to strengthen important district-wide priorities including diversity, equity, and inclusion, and students’ social and emotional well-being. Please consider adding your family’s name to our P100 list of 2021-22 donors! Donations can be made at HVEF.ORG.

HOPEWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 35 Princeton Avenue Hopewell, NJ 08525 (609) 737-4007 (609) 466-8095 FAX Principal: David Friedrich

STONY BROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 20 Stephenson Road Pennington, NJ 08534 (609) 737-4006 (609) 730-3888 Fax Principal: Steven Wilfing

TOLL GATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL 275 South Main Street Pennington, NJ 08534 (609) 737-4008 (609) 737-7348 Fax Principal: Jane Ellen Lennon

ADMINISTRATION BUILDING 425 South Main Street Pennington, NJ 08534 (609) 737-4000 (609) 737-1418 Fax

SIX09 Arts > food > culture

thesix09.com | March 2022

Get Lucky

St. Patrick’s Day fun for all ages, page 2.

Summer camps for all interests, page 8.

A Facebook group is doing its part to keep restaurants going through tough times, page 6.

what’s happening The luck of the Irish comes to Mercer County and Bill McClain, for their 35 years of service to the parade. McKelvey expressed gratitude for anyone who raised or donated money for their efforts, with the chairman making sure to thank parade coordinator Susan McNamara for all of her hard work in organizing the event. More information: hamiltonparade.com.

By ReBekaH ScHROeDeR

Harness the luck of the Irish this March with a festive parade, pub, shop, and multiple events guaranteed to have you seeing green — for shamrocks, of course!

The Original St. Patrick’s Day Parade Nottingham Fire House, 200 Mercer Street, Hamilton Square. Saturday, March 12, 12:30 p.m. opening ceremony and 1 p.m. parade start. Celebrate a callback to tradition by walking the streets in the Original St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a stroll historically recognized originally in Trenton before relocating to its spot in Hamilton more than a decade ago. Sponsored by Killarney’s Publick House, Guinness and Bill’s Olde Tavern, this year’s celebration of Ireland’s patron saint also highlights individuals who could not be recognized due to the pandemic’s cancellation of the event. Vince McKelvey is the chairman

Tir na nOg

Hamilton St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal Jerry Sheridan, left, and Miss St. Patrick Nicole Brown.

and treasurer of the parade committee, where has been helping in some capacity dating back to the first ever Trenton parade. “We expect a pretty good crowd because of people being inside for two years,” McKelvey said. “It’s a great

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day for the township and the community of Hamilton.” Joining the members of the parade committee on the vehicle will be 2020 Grand Marshal Jerry Sheridan and 2020 Miss St. Patrick Winner Nicole Brown, as well as their families, so the two recipients can embark on their rides of honor. The Trenton Ancient Order of Hibernians Division #1 pipe band members will play at various stops along the way. The committee is also honoring four marshals, Bob Constantini, Tommy Beers, Neal Glactlin,

EDITOR Jamie Griswold ARTS EDITOR Dan Aubrey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jack Deegan, Rebekah Schroeder AD LAYOUT & PRODUCTION Stacey Micallef SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jennifer Steﬀen (Ext. 113)

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2SIX09 | March 2022

See ST. PATRICK, Page 4

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1324 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton. Open 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Friday; 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday; noon to 2 a.m. Sunday. Open at noon on March 12 (day of Hamilton Parade) and 9 a.m. on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. This Irish pub’s charm is always evocative of the country’s culture, so for Todd Faulkner, the owner of Tir na nOg, Ireland’s beloved March holiday can be felt throughout the year. “We celebrate St. Patrick’s Day every single day,” Faulkner said. On the day of the Hamilton parade, Tir na nOg is opening early and featuring live music. Continuing that spirit, from 3 to 6 p.m on Sunday, March 20, Tir na nOg will host an “Irish Session” led by Billy O’Neal. Customers are given the ability to sing and play music during the event, which is typically scheduled on

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business with them, Faulkner appre- At left, owners Todd and Maureen Faulkner of Tir na nOg Irish pub in Trenton. ciates how the program has been a Above, scenes from the 2021 ‘Pot of Gold Kids Night Out’ at Tumbles of Princeton. refreshing addition to the Trenton the third Sunday of every month. “Since restrictions have lifted, we’ve pub. More information: trentontir- open gym, science, arts and crafts, a For another outing that everybeen building up a lot of steam with pot of gold obstacle course, a sham- one can enjoy, Tumbles Princeton’s people coming out and listening to it. nanog.com. rock hunt, and leprechaun trivia. Chil- later event is the St. Patrick’s Family It was a traditional thing that we had dren also receive a pizza dinner to Day on Saturday, March 19, which done for quite a while,” Faulkner said. keep them fueled for their encounters brings together parents and children Tir na nOg also created an Irish Pot of Gold Kids Night with the mystical, and mischievous, up to age 12 for additional seasonal Whiskey Ambassador Club in Novembeing. The event is open to potty- activities. ber of 2020, with the initiative a suc- Out Tickets for either event are availcessful result of their reopening Tumbles Of Princeton, 1225 State trained children ages 3 and up. Dr. Jade Ko is an educator and able on the Tumbles of Princeton efforts during the pandemic. Road, Princeton North Shopping CenPatrons can become ambassa- ter, Montgomery. Friday, March 11, 6 the director of Tumbles Princeton, website or via Eventbrite. Pot of Gold where their “Kids Night Out” events night costs $55 per ticket, or $50 for dors by drinking 32 different Irish to 9 p.m. Whiskeys over time. According to A leprechaun is on the prowl hunt- are held monthly, usually accompa- members, and Family Day is $40 per Faulkner, a total of 91 customers have ing for gold, and only attendees wear- nied by a holiday theme. Ko said that ticket, or $35 for members, plus $5 per completed the promotion, leading him ing green can save the day in this these opportunities benefit parents as adult. Masks are required. More information: princeton.tumto add tiers to the club to match the cli- interactive, tactile adventure through- well, because they can go on a date, entele’s enthusiasm. out the part-fitness gym, part-STEAM have dinner, or see a movie during the bles.net. break, in what she termed as “three With nearly 400 people who signed programming at Tumbles Princeton. up, bringing a significant “buzz” to the The night includes access to the hours of freedom.” ST. PATRICK, continued from Page 2

4SIX09 | March 2022

St. Patrick’s Day Party Joshua Harr Shane Foundation, Mercer Oaks Golf Course, 725 Village Road West, West Windsor. Saturday, March 12, 7 to 11 p.m. The Joshua Harr Shane Foundation invites guests to their St. Patrick’s Day party in a fundraiser consisting of lively music, an open bar, and a fourcourse dinner. Named in honor of Judith Harr Shane’s son, Joshua, who wanted to become a doctor before his passing, the nonprofit supports families in care of those with disabilities or illness. The organization pays for “anything not covered by insurance that the foundation deems necessary,” as Shane explained, with the money going directly to the source whether to cover doctor’s visits, experimental treatment, or even to dedicate spaces in medical facilities. Joshua Harr Shane Foundation has opened three rooms at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Hamilton — the Joshua Harr Shane Stroke Gym and Joshua Harr Shane Patient Rehabilitation Room for Physical Therapy in 2016, as well as the PET/CT Suite at the Cancer Center of New Jersey located within RWJ hospital — with plans in place to redo the eight patient evaluation suites at the Cancer Institute. At the party, the dinner options start with courses like salad and pasta, while the choices for the main meal are between filet mignon, chicken, and fish. Dessert rounds out the night, as well as different auctions, 50-50 rafﬂes, and giveaways. “If you attend this party, it is not [like a] typical foundation, you will think you’re at a family or friend’s affair,” Judith Harr Shane said. “We normally have over 200 people for this event, and it sells out immediately.” Tickets cost $100. More information: joshuaharrshane.org.

The Cross and Shamrock

1669 Route 33, Hamilton Square. Open Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday.

For almost 37 years, Ann Bauersachs has realized her dream of having her own business through the Cross and Shamrock, a shop featuring Irish gifts and religious items. Through multiple location changes, as well as partnering with a friend, then her late husband, the store is a haven for goods imported from Ireland. “Both my parents were born in Ireland, so I was raised in a very Irish home,” Bauersachs said. “I always loved my culture and my religion, so we put it all together.” Customers will find a range of products at the Hamilton retailer, the Cross and Shamrock selling novelty items, Above left, revelers at a past Joshua Harr Shane Foundation St. Patrick’s Day party. clothes, Celtic jewelry and spiritual Above, the Cross and Shamrock Irish gift shop in Hamilton. accessories, as well as a vast collection of other goods. For St. Patrick’s Day, she said that their food is the real highlight. In time HAMILTON TOWNSHIP DIVISION OF HEALTH for Easter, there will be Irish Cadbury chocolates that differ from their American counterparts. The seasonal FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL options, as well as their usual imports of biscuits, tea, frozen meat and bread are all a true culinary trip back to Ireland. Call Us! Bauersachs has the perfect selection for Irish immigrants desiring that nostalgia. “When they find out they can get a Tuesdays, 9am-12pm 2100 Greenwood Ave, taste of home here, they’re regulars,” and 3pm-5:30pm! Hamilton, NJ, 08609 609-890-3647 she said. As a former chairlady herself, BauWalk-in, no appointment needed! ersachs is excited for the Hamilton parade — this year, the Cross and Shamrock will be out rejoicing with To be seen in the clinic you must live in one of the following the local Irish community as national towns, please bring a photo ID or proof of address with you: restrictions continue to be lifted. More information: crossandshamHamilton Ewing Princeton rock.com. Lawrence Robbinsville West Windsor *** East Windsor Hightstown Hopewell Twp Those looking to continue their celebrations in other parts of the state can attend New Jersey events and Please Note: Pennington and Hopewell Borough residents must see performances such as the ShamRock Montgomery Township for services. Trenton residents must see Henry J. & Roll 2022 in Asbury Park, the Irish Austin Health Center for services. Wake in Seaside Heights, the Real Students residing on the campuses of Rider University Irish Comedy Tour in Toms River and and The College of NJ will also receive services free of the Celtic Woman: Postcards from Irecharge with a college ID. land show in New Brunswick. Throughout Mercer County, We do not do HIV testing. though, residents are feeling lucky, Face masks are Visit hiv.gov for testing and hopeful, that long-standing tradirequired locations. tions for the holiday may finally begin again.

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March 2022 | SIX095

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The Facebook group working to keep local restaurants alive By Jack Deegan

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the Covid restrictions,” Janel says. “People didn’t know what restaurants were still open, if they had takeout, what they had available. This was created to help clear up that confusion and help generate business for them.” Janel wanted to give back to those restaurants that had already given her so much. So often when she was involved in community fundraisers, restaurants showed support for her efforts. She wanted to return the favor during the pandemic, when they needed it most. “I did fundraising for everything from animal rescues to Pop Warner football, and all of these restaurants

would give me gift cards for years and years. Peasant Grill, Boro Bean, Pennington Bagel, they would support every local fundraiser every time I came in. This was my way of saying thank you,” she said. Not only did she manage to help spread the word with her “Mercer, Bucks, Hunterdon Eateries” Facebook group, but in under one year, she has managed to build a very active community with almost six thousand members. “It’s really member-driven, it’s become a good dining guide. A lot of people invite their friends, it’s grown very organically, I haven’t done any-

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6SIX09 | March 2022

On a Saturday afternoon in February, the group is very active with lots of people reaching out and posting for others. One member may ask for advice on where to get good catering for the Super Bowl, while another offers the group a recommendation for a restaurant they went to that day. Scroll a little further and you’ll find a restaurant promoting their menu to the digital world. A lot of the work that Janel does with the group is helping restaurants Masonry repair is our specialty adapt to modern times and get their word out online. “Restaurants do reach out to me, it’s usually people who are not very savvy Steps • Walls • Patio • Concrete with social media,” she says. “When I organize their information it’s clear Loose Railings • Blue Stone Specialists and easier to read. I’m here to help Basement Waterproofing and happy to do it. There’s no money Kim Janel started the Facebook group that changes hands, it’s all free,” she Brick Driveways • Belgian Block “Mercer, Bucks, Hunterdon Eateries” said. Janel is a stay at home mom to her to help promote restaurants struggling Walkways and Patio Construction four kids: Jacob (19), Brooke (17), Jorduring the pandemic. dan (12), and Aaron (11). She is marReplacement of Cracked Limestone Steps ried to husband Steven, who has been a lawyer in Pennington for 28 years. ate business.” Check out some of our other small repair specialties: Janel is proud of the work she’s The group has become so busy as Greg Powers of late that she has had a hard time done with the group and of the comCracked stucco - we restore old foundations keeping up with everything. She has munity she has built. So many new HIC#13VH10598000 HIC#13VH06880500 had to add group experts as modera- restaurants are being discovered and COMPLETED OUTDOOR FIREPLACE supported, something sheSTONE is very tors to keep things positive and to helpRECENTLY happy about. answer questions. As far as the future of the Facebook “I’ve probably been adding 10 new experts a week at this point. I usually group, Janel is staying open minded look for people who are very help- about it. Mostly she hopes that it will ful and very active in the community, continue to grow even more. “I don’t know if anyone is enjoying most people are very happy to do it,” the group more than I am, I have found she says. The group has an open-door policy, so many restaurants that are 10 minwith anyone able to join. She encour- utes away from my house, and that’s ages people to post about the good the most exciting part,” she says. To join the group, search Faceexperiences they’ve had at restaurants, and even for owners to come and pro- book for “Mercer, Bucks, Hunterdon Eateries.” mote their businesses in the group.

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mercercamps Kelsey Theatre’s Tomato Patch Back for its 49th year The longest running, most successful summer arts program in central New Jersey, Tomato Patch, is back, now in its 49th year! Tomato Patch is back for 2022 — in person, indoors, and ready to continue a 49-year history of summer workshops in theater, dance, music, and visual arts for grades 4-12. This camp is different, in that you are not stuck with just one topic all day, it is multidisciplinary. Students choose a major in either theater, dance, vocal music, or visual arts, and take classes in that major in the morning. Then after lunch they choose four afternoon electives. So a theater major can choose electives that are theateroriented, or they can choose electives in vocal music, dance, visual arts, and also video. That way they can truly become a triple-threat. Or

2022

for those advanced students there are master classes in acting. Register online at www.tomatopatch. org, payment plans available. Tomato Patch Visual and Performing Arts Workshops, held annually on the West Windsor campus of Mercer County Community College, is one of the longest-

running and most successful multidisciplinary summer arts programs in central New Jersey. Since 1973, more than 7,400 junior and senior high school students have spent several weeks of their summer exploring the visual arts, dance, theater, and vocal music under the guidance of a highly qualified staff

of teaching professional artists. A few weeks can last a lifetime — as graduates of Tomato Patch over the years have proven. Many Tomato Patchers are now professional artists and have appeared on Broadway or have decided to teach the arts as they were taught in Tomato Patch. Many have gone

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8SIX09 | March 2022

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on to fulfill different life ambitions yet maintain lasting friendships formed in Tomato Patch. Each session is three weeks in length, Monday through Friday from 8:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., with Before and After Camp available. Session I is for those entering grades 4 to 7 in the fall and runs from July 5 through 21. Session II is for grades 8 to 12 and runs July 25 through August 11. There are two sessions also of the advanced master class in acting solely for grades 8 to 12 with Session I running July 5 through 22 and Session II from July 25 through August 12. All sessions culminate in a festival performance and art display at Kelsey Theatre. And the price for each three-week session is only $975. For Tomato Patch, students select a major concentration in either the theater, dance, vocal music, visual arts, and spend two morning classes in these areas. After lunch, they are free to choose electives in other areas. Afternoon course offerings for 2022 may include children's theatre, "Whose line is it anyhow?", painting, drawing, jazz dance, musical theatre, children's theater, a cappella singing, hip hop,

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for more information and registration:

Princeton Boychoir

home of Princeton Girlchoir & Princeton Boychoir

March 2022 | SIX099

Ewing Recreation Department Summer Day Camp - 2022 Now is the ideal time to make your children’s summer camp plans. The Ewing Recreation Department offers a summer day camp program for students entering kindergarten through 7th grade, plus counselor in training programs for 8th and 9th graders. Camps run from June 27 through August 26. Registration is open at communitypass.net. Register and pay by April 11

and save 5 percent. Programs are open to residents and nonresidents of Ewing. Daily Covid protocols and cleaning procedures will be followed. There will be limited fields trips and no Teen Travel program. All camp activities, except field trips will take place at the Ewing Senior & Community Center (the former JCC) at 999 Lower Ferry Road. With indoor and outdoor facilities on site weather is not a problem! The camp has a full-time nurse and Red Cross certified lifeguards. The Camp Health Director is onsite daily and is first, CPR and AED

S K Y CAMP Camp Time: 9am-5pm

Daily Activities Jumping, Arts, Crafts, Movies, Rest time, Activities, Themed Weeks and more.

JUNE 27th-JULY 1st JULY 11th-15th & JULY 25th -29th AUG 8th-12th & AUG 22nd -26th

Full Day Only $225+Tax(Weekly) Ages 5 thru13

Save 5% Per Week with code EARLYBIRD By April 15! www.skyzone.com/Hamilton/promotions/skycamp 17 Quakerbridge Plaza, Unit B, Hamilton, NJ 609-587-5867 • infohamilton@skyzone.com

certified. Camp days include swimming twice a day (lessons in the mornings and free swim in the afternoons), arts and crafts, nature, cooking, special events, entertainers, theme days, athletics, dance and drama. Campers have the option of bringing lunch or purchasing lunch from the snack bar. The Counselor in Training program is open to Ewing residents entering 8th and 9th grades. These junior counselors work with the younger campers and rotate age groups. CITs also have group meetings led by senior staff to discuss their experiences and grow as individuals and as a group. Camp hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Early hours (from 7:30 a.m.) and late hours (to 6 p.m.) are available for an additional fee. To ensure a camper’s spot in camp, registration and fees are due by June 5 for weeks 1 - 4, July 1 for weeks 5 – 8 and August 1 for weeks 9 & 10. Registration fees include all activities. Weekly rates are $265 for Ewing

Residents, and $365 for nonresidents. Counselors in Training (CIT) is $60 and is only open to Ewing residents. Additional fees for early and late hours. Multi-child discounts are available. Financial assistance is available. Recreation Department hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday and the phone number is 609-883-1776. Any questions email Nancy at npappano@ ewingnj.org. Ewing Recreation 609-883-1776 See ad, page 8.

At Rothman Orthopaedics, we are exceptionally specialized. We not only specialize in orthopaedics, each of our physicians only focuses on one area of the body so you can get past pain and be what you were.

RothmanOrtho.com/Capital | 609.900.2858

10SIX09 | March 2022

THE CEN TR AL N J

Ballet Theatre

THE CENTR A L NJ

SUMMER MUSICAL THEATRE SHOW! Ballet Theatre PRESENTS

ENROLL TODAY FOR FALL!

Ages 3 and up Beginning thru advanced!

Boys and Girls! Ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary and acting!

LEARN HOW TO SING, ACT AND The Central NJ Ballet Theatre presents DANCE AND BE The IN Nutcracker A FUN 2017! SHOW! A traditional holiday ballet for all ages!

August 1ST - 12TH Monday - Friday, 9 am to 3pm

ENROLL TODAY Ages 6 and up! No experience required! Sibling Discount! FOR FALL! December 8th @ 7pm Villa Victoria Academy Theater, Ewing, NJ Tickets $20 adults, $15 kids

Video audition by May 15TH for leading Roles.

Ages 3 and up Beginning thru advanced!

Boys and Girls! Ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip hop, A Special Community Show! contemporary and acting! December 10th @ 2pm

SUMMER 2022!

Carslake Community Center, Bordentown, NJ Sponsored by Bordentown Home for Funerals

Group tickets available though Central NJ The Central NJ Ballet Theatre presents Ballet Theatre or Donations at the door! The Nutcracker 2017! Proceeds of the 50/50 will go towards "Fill Father Matthew's Truck" food donation A traditional holiday ballet for all ages!

December 8th @ 7pm Villa Victoria Academy Theater, Ewing, NJ MASTER TEACHERS! AUGUST Tickets $20 adults,1-19 $15 kids

SUMMER INTENSIVE Week 1: 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm Week 2: 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm Week 3: 9:00 am to 2:00pm Ages 9 and up! Intermediate to Advanced. Ballet, Contemporary, Pointe, and more.

P: 609.424.3192 • W: www.cnjballet.com 146 Route 130, Suite 103, Bordentown, NJ 08505

BEGINNER DANCE CAMP

JULY 18-29, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM A Special Community Show! (1 or 2 week options!)

December 10th @ 2pm Ages 6 and up! Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Arts & Crafts & more. Carslake Community Center, Bordentown, NJ Sponsored by Bordentown Home for Funerals Sibling Discount! Call Today! tickets available though Central NJ P:Group 609.424.3192 • W: www.cnjballet.com • 221 Broad St, Florence, NJ 08518 Ballet Theatre or Donations at the door!

March 2022 | SIX0911

Hamilton YMCA Where Kids Can Enjoy a Summer of Fun At Y camp, kids can enjoy a summer full of fun, friends and new adventures while they develop skills, confidence and a greater sense of purpose. With 50 acres of outdoor space, the largest pool in Mercer County, fun activities ranging from Sports to STEM, energetic staff and daily special events the Sawmill Day Camp is the ideal environment for campers to find their spark, find their sense of wonder, find their adventure, find their friends and FIND THEIR FUN 2022! • Find Their Spark. Y camp is a place where kids can develop skills, confidence and new friendships. While camp is a summer rite of passage for kids to play outdoors and learn to swim, they are unknowingly rewarded with personal development skills by participating in their favorite activities and by trying activities they have never tried before. In general, they will leave camp with a stronger sense of identity and a better idea of what they love, which may help them in the classroom, in their relationships and to choose a

12SIX09 | March 2022

career path in the future. • Find Their Sense of Wonder. Kids get to discover all the wonders of the outdoors while making friends and forming memories that will last a lifetime. A recent UK study commissioned by the National Trust found that children spend 50 percent less

time playing outside that their parents did. Kids say they aren’t interested, they lack access and are uncomfortable outside (bugs, heat, etc.). Indoors, they’re growing more and more attached to a digital existence and further detached from the natural world. Camp provides kids the perfect

opportunity to see what they’ve been missing in the great outdoors. • Find Their Adventure. Summer is a time for kids to explore new things and expand the limits of their imagination. At Y summer day camp, every day is a new adventure! Creativity can’t be stifled at camp because campers don’t have to worry about getting a failing grade. By limiting this kind of restriction, kids can let their creativity flow. • Find Their Friends and Fun. At Y day camp, your kids will make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day. Camp is a social center away from home and school where kids learn to work with each other and adult mentors, build relationships and manage conflict. Children look at camp as a fun way to spend the summer in the sun and splashing in the pool, but parents understand that camp allows kids to reap many life benefits that will follow them through their lives long after the sun has set on their summer camp days. We have worked hard to plan an exciting summer full of arts and crafts, music, sing-a-longs, science lab and dance to soccer, basketball, gaga, volleyball,

Russian School of Mathematics Award-Winning Program Comes to Princeton

swimming, fun special events and so much more! Our Coordinators are college graduates who are working professionals in the fields of education and child development. And, our counselors are second to none, having had extensive training to welcome your children for the summer. For more information, visit hamiltonymca.org/camp. Hamilton Area YMCA Sawmill Branch 185 Sawmill Road, Hamilton 08620. 609-581-9622. www.hamiltonymca.org See ad, page 18.

RSM-Princeton now has a new location! We are now located at 231 Clarksville Road, West Windsor! Recently featured in NPR and the Atlantic magazine as one of the key players in the “Math Revolution,” and ranked one of the best schools in the world by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, RSM helps children of all levels build a solid math foundation and develop their critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. Sign up for a FREE math evaluation today! Website: www.russianschool.com/ princeton Summer school provides a great opportunity for students to learn and advance without the typical pressures of the academic year. RSM offers a variety of courses through its summer enrichment program — for those students looking to get a head start on the academic year, or for those looking for an additional challenge in math. Our summer schedule is designed for students of all levels, from Kindergarten to Algebra 2 and High School Geometry. Course offerings include: - Math for Grades 1 - 6: These courses hone students’ analytical skills and enhance their

number sense by introducing them to abstract concepts. - Preparation for High School Math: Our courses in Algebra and Geometry will build up prerequisite skills and front-load the key concepts of High School Math. - Contest Level Math: Students are introduced to non-straightforward problemsopening them to the intrigue of math in the world. Students are also prepared for various national and international math competitions.

BOB SMITH SOCCER ACADEMY

Russian School of Mathematics 231 Clarksville Road, West Windsor 08550. 732-708-4905. www.russianschool.com/princeton

2022 SOCCER CAMP AT ROBBINSVILLE FIELD HOUSE

See ad, page 15.

20 years of training with the best Coaches, Hand picked by USA Hall of Famer, Bob Smith ADDED LOCATION: Laura Donovan Freehold, NJ 8/22/22 - 8/25/22 9-1pm $300 per player

BEGINNER, RECREATION & TRAVEL PLAYERS WELCOMED! July 11th - July 15th

BOYS AND GIRLS - AGES 5-15 July 25th - July 29th Aug 8th - Aug 12th

Half Day 9am - 12pm $275 Full Day 9am - 3pm $400

Aug 15th - Aug 19th

• Air Conditioned • Following CDC Guidelines • Climate controlled w/ no rain & no direct sunlight Includes Before & Aftercare 8am - 4:30pm & Camp T-shirt

Suggested for 5 & 6 year-old campers

REGISTRATION ONLINE AT: www.bobsmithsoccer.com/BSSA_ORFormPlayer.asp

609-468-7208 www. Bobsmithsoccer.net Info@bobsmithsoccer.com 153 West Manor Way, Robbinsville, NJ 08691 March 2022 | SIX0913

Liberty Lake Day Camp

YMCA CAMP MASON

Summer Camp: The Hot Ticket for 2022!

Too much screen time over the past decade and its residual effects on young people have been exacerbated by the pandemic response of “educating by isolating.” Relegated to their bedrooms, basements, kitchens, and college dorms, most socially distanced students were FORCED to stare at their screens from March 2020 until May/June 2021. This extended time of keeping students from physically interacting with peers and teachers has resulted in a mental health crisis we will be feeling for a very long time. After 15 months of semi-seclusion, missed social opportunities, and frayed friendships, young people were acting out: antisocial behaviors, fights, emotional breakdowns, defiance, anxiety, and depression. Summer camps, however, offered an oasis of sorts — a reset, an antidote, a socialemotional vaccine. Campers, staff, and even school teachers had a magical and energizing experience being outside, socializing, playing,

O OVERNIGHT VERNIGHT C CAMP AMP

.. and interacting again! The past two summers affirmed unequivocally that there’s no better place for children and young adults to learn and regain their social and emotional equilibrium than at Summer Camp. Here’s what we observed: 1. Kids bounce back. Kids are resilient. They roll with the punches, learn from their mistakes, and when the bar is set high, with the right encouragement — they rise to the occasion! 2. Kids naturally make friends. Thousands of new campers ar-

CONNECT WITH...

FUN

rived at camps the past two summers, and it was amazing to see how they were drawn towards one another; quickly building friendships with their saved up love and empathy. 3. Kids love being outdoors. Always have. But after being forced indoors for so long, kids cared less about the bugs, the dirt and mud, the liquid sunshine, and even the heat! At Liberty Lake, we embrace the opportunity to jump into a lake, just like kids have done for thousands of years! 4. Kids don’t need screens to

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enjoy themselves. Liberty Lake has been a screen-free haven since day one in 2002, from dropoff to pick-up. You’d think that after so much screen time, that kids would be jonesing for their phones/ tablets/TVs… Nope. Playing outside with their friends is WAY more engaging. Older campers and staff actually THANK US for providing an electronic-free, stress-free utopia! And there’s more good news. Thousands of parents who never went to camp, and never sent their children to camp before, have reassessed the summer camp cost/

FIDENCE CONNCE CONFIDE

FRIENDS

ADVENTURE

Outdoor Pool - Skatepark - Archery Boating - CE FREE Day Trip Options - Ropes Courses ENTU ADV RE RE ENTU LIEN RESI NCE CE CONFIDE RESI--LIEN Outdoor Pool - Skatepark - Archery Boating - FREE Day Trip OptionsADV - Ropes Courses Arts & - Mountain Biking - Horseback - Climbing Wall - Hiking - Nature DSCrafts IDENCE Riding FRIEN CONF Arts & Crafts - Mountain Biking - Horseback Riding -Options Climbing Wall - Trip Hiking - Nature Outdoor Pool Skatepark Archery Boating FREE Day Trip Courses Arts Crafts Outdoor Pool Skatepark Archery - Boating-Program -Ropes FREE Day Options -& Ropes Courses Campers & Staff from Around the Globe Financial Assistance So Much More! NCE NDS FIDE FRIE CON NCE NDS FIDE FRIE CON Outdoor Pool -So Skatepark - More! Archery - Boating - FREE Da Mountain Biking - Horseback Riding - the Climbing Wall - HikingBiking - Assistance NatureCampers & Staff from Around the ArtsGlobe & Crafts Mountain - Horseback Program Riding - Climbing Wall - Hiking Nature Campers & Staff from Around --Financial -RESI Much LIENCE Globe

& Crafts -Program Mountain Biking - Horseback Riding - C Campers & Staff from Around-the - Financial Assistance - So Much More! Financial Assistance Program SoGlobe Much More!Arts

Register at today at www.campmason.org Register today todayRegister at www.campmason.org www.campmason.org Register today at www.cam

Campers & Staff from Around the Globe - Financial Assis

information@campmason.org 908-362-8217 information@campmason.org information@campmason.org 908-362-8217 908-362-8217 information@campmason.org

14SIX09 | March 2022

RESILIENCE

ADVENTURE

Bob Smith Soccer Academy Family Owned & Operated, Premier Indoor Turf Soccer Facility, Air Conditioned, and No Cancellations

Bob Smith Soccer AcademY

Robbinsville Fieldhouse. 609-468-7208. www.bobsmithsoccer.net. info@bobsmithsoccer.com See ad, page 13.

benefit analysis and are flooding American Camp Association accredited camps with registrations like never before. The pandemic has suddenly made summer camp as important as it should be. So if you’re interested in camp for your kids this summer, don’t delay — because many of the best camps out there have already started waiting lists! Andy Pritikin is the owner/director of Liberty Lake Day Camp in Mansﬁeld Township, NJ, and

partner of Everwood Day Camp in Sharon, MA, and Camp Southwoods in Paradox, NY. He’s the past president of the American Camp Association, NY/NJ, and host of the Day Camp Podcast.

A summer full of adventure, creativity, fun, and community in a peaceful wooded environment

! h s o o l Kunga

LibertY Lake DaY Camp 195 Florence-Columbus Road, Bordentown 08505. 609-499-7820 www.libertylakedaycamp.com See ad, page 17.

Pre-K - 8th Grade Mon - Fri 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

www.pfscamp.org camp@princetonfriends.org (609) 683-1194 ext 50

Summer

THE BEST TIME TO ADVANCE IN

Math

March 2022 | SIX0915

Mercer County Community College’s Camp College Register now! Camp College’s summer camp program is located on the campus of Mercer County Community College in West Windsor. Camp will begin June 21 with in-person camp activities for children ages 6 to 16. A sampling of Specialty Camp courses being offered this summer include: ANIMAL LOVERS Love animals? Love to paint and create different types of art projects? Then this is for you! We’ll be creating a ton of different projects with the overall theme of a love of animals. Our projects will include canvas, ceramics, mosaic, and more, with lots of painting. DAY IN COURT- MOCK TRIAL Play the roles of judge, defendant, plaintiff, witness, lawyer, bailiff, or juror in several mock trials. Learn how to make opening and closing statements, how to phrase ticipate in a final mock trial based objections, and how to question witon actual events. nesses. Pull all your skills together at the end of the week as you par-

ECOVENTURE Do you love the outdoors and want to learn more about the envi-

ronment? If so, this rugged camp is a must for your summer! Experience the very ecosystems of New

Tomato Patch 2022 Summer Workshops Theatre•Dance•Music•Visual Arts

Session I July 5 - July 21 Grades 8-12+ 3-week session $ 975

Session II July 25 - August 11 Grades 4-7 3-week session $ 975

Master Class in Acting Session II Session I July 25 - August 12 July 5 - July 22 Grades 8-12+ Grades 8-12+ 3-week session 3-week session $ $ 975 975

Taught by professional artists, on the West Windsor Campus of Mercer County Community College. Tomato Patch, now in its 49th year, is the longest running, most successful multidisciplinary summer arts program in central New Jersey.

To Register visit www.tomatopatch.org

MCCC • 1200 Old Trenton Road • West Windsor, NJ 08550 16SIX09 | March 2022

Jersey alongside a knowledgeable instructor. This action-packed and educational week will include the following adventures and hands-on activities: • Deep sea fishing • Tubing down the Delaware River • Hunting for fossils at Ramanessin Park • Hike and survey Sandy Hook and cool down with an ocean swim • Proper fire building and pocketknife use and safety • Assembling a wilderness survival kit from household items FISHING CAMP Discover fishing in our state’s lakes, streams, ponds, and a piece of the Atlantic Ocean. Learn successful techniques and clever tricks that will help you catch the big ones! Set off on a different adventure and location each day. Depending upon the weather, your camper will visit different destinations each day and experience a saltwater boat excursion. JUNIOR NATURALIST Learn how birds and beasts catch their prey! Flow through the food chain and discover how animals and insects adapt to life on our planet. Explore how a change

in the wind, water, and temperature affects all of Earth’s inhabitants. Build wooden birdhouses, dissect owl pellets, and learn how animals navigate the world using scent trails. Campers will also build a bug house to observe critters and identify animals by making plaster animal tracks. POTTERY PAINTING, CANVAS & MOSAIC Join our first ever creative camp aimed at painting pottery, canvas, and making a mosaic. Paint pottery on the first day of camp and learn fun painting techniques. We will be painting masterpieces on canvas in varying sizes using a different technique for each project, including mixed media projects. Create a Mosaic Mirror and a beach inspired vase. Learn to grout your mosaic pieces yourself. And don’t forget Counselor-inTraining, Acting, Music, Culinary, Academic Prep, and so much more! Space is limited, so register early to avoid disappointment! Camp College Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor 08550. 609-570-3311. www.mccc.edu/campcollege See ad, page 12.

E Y LAK T R E B I L CAMP Y A D E

Little Friends School SERVING CHILDREN FOR OVER 35 YEARS

TODDLER, PRESCHOOL, KINDERGARTEN* & SUMMER CAMP FOR 2022 • Certified Staﬀ • 18 Months to 5 Years •School Hours: 7am - 6pm (COVID-19 hours: 7am - 5:30pm) • Strong Emphasis on Literacy & Mathematical Reasoning • Integrated Experiences in Science & Social Studies • Music & Art • Yoga • Soccer Program • Summer Camp: 18 months to 11 years • Holiday Care Available • We accept Childcare Connection * Kindergarten Cut Oﬀ Date: 12/31 REGISTER NOW FOR THE 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR & SUMMER CAMP 2022

609-890-9164 I www.littlefriendsschool.com 221 Edinburg Road, Mercerville, NJ 08619 I Like us on F

not a summer job...

a summer

experience

leadership skills

the sun n i s r o o t ou

OUTDOORS + SCREEN FREE! LIMITED AVAILABILITY • Awesome Counselors • Daily Spirit Events • Bus Transportation • 60+ Activities Ran Successfully in Summers ‘20 + ‘21 LibertyLakeDayCamp.com • 609.499.7820

APPLY TODAY!

impacting kids’ lives

LibertyLakeDayCamp.com March 2022 | SIX0917

YMCA Camp Mason Camp Counts Here at Camp Mason, we say Camp Counts because for 120 years, we have welcomed campers to be a part of our caring, inclusive community where they are valued and can grow physically, emotionally, intellectually, morally and socially. We strive for excellence, relevance and innovation so that all our campers are empowered and improve their well-being. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve and we want children to know YMCA Camp Mason is a safe place for them to experience their journey. Our proven programs and caring, trained counselors engage and encourage young people and deliver meaningful and memorable experiences that keep families coming back year after year after year. We could go on and on about the benefits of YMCA Camp Mason, but our campers say it best! “I made so many new friends and now I know I can do anything!” – 14 year old girl Our schedule allows campers to try new things and improve their

skills while developing confidence, gaining a sense of independence, having fun and making lifelong friends. We hear from so many campers that their camp friends bring out the very best in them. “I come to camp for all of the great activities.” – 13 year old boy We offer archery, swimming, boating, arts and crafts, drama, music, a climbing tower, zipline, dance, digital photography and movie making, basketball and court sports, a skate boarding park, mountain

biking, hiking, aerial silks and countless other activities. Campers can even sign up for FREE off-site trips to explore our fantastic natural surroundings. There is something for everyone! “Camp Mason is my home away from home!” – 10 year old boy Campers stay in comfortable cabins with each cabin determined by age and with two counselors, ensuring there is always a caring, watchful eye on your child. Our staff, from around the US and the

FIND YOUR FUN. FIND YOUR Y. At Y day camp, your kids will make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day. Offering 50 acres of outdoor space, the largest pool in Mercer County, and fun activities ranging from Sports to STEM! For a better us. 18SIX09 | March 2022

world, are professional, trained and prepared to mentor campers throughout their stay. By treating each child with dignity, we teach and live our values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, integrity and inclusion throughout the camp day. “At camp I can be myself.” – 8 year old girl 98 percent of our camper parents report that their child felt a sense of belonging at camp, and 93% of parents indicated that their child’s self-image improved as a result of attending YMCA Camp Mason. By connecting youth with positive adult role models and encouraging the development of independence and strong values, your child will thrive at camp. If you are ready for your child to thrive, develop a positive sense of self and have THE BEST SUMMER EVER, please go to our website at www.campmason.org, call 908362-8217 or email information@ campmason.org for more information or to register. YMCA Camp Mason

23 Birch Ridge Road, Hardwick 07825. 908-362-8217 information@campmason.org www.campmason.org See ad, page 14.

Save up to $50 per week! When you register with a deposit by March 31.

FIND YOUR Y AT THE HAMILTON AREA YMCA

609.581.9622 hamiltonymca.org

Our weekly themes: Chemistry Biology Physics Mini Med School (TM) CSI and much more...

7 weeks July 5August 19, 2022

West WindsorPlainbsoro Soccer Association A chance for kids to develop soccer skills Parents of soccer enthusiasts aged 7 to 14 need to mark their calendars now for the West Windsor-Plainsboro Soccer Association (WWPSA) week-long summer soccer camps available throughout the summer beginning July 11, 2022. Experienced soccer coaches will drill boys and girls in the skills necessary to improve their soccer play. This is a chance to have skilled trainers work with you on soccer. Our goal in the club to develop soccer skills for players at all skill levels. We have a great coaching staff for our summer camps who provide instruction with a goal of increasing skills through a variety of teaching techniques. It is an opportunity for camp participants to improve their skills — their technical and tactical soccer skills — through a variety of exercises,” said Brent Nielsen, who oversees the program for WWPSA. Full day camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a break mid-day for lunch and an option to swim at the community pool. Half-day camps run from 9 a.m. to noon. “All of our activities and games are structured

for learning and fun,” Nielsen said. “Campers will play a game at the end of each day to solidify skills learned and engage in friendly competition.” Campers learn and reinforce fundamental soccer skills of dribbling and mastery of the soccer ball with emphasis on agility, passing, receiving, and turning. Later in the week more advanced skills of attacking play, scoring, defensive moves, and preventing scoring are emphasized. The importance of teamwork is emphasized along with core exercises and personal fitness. WWSPA’s goal is to provide youth and adults the opportunity to play instructional and competitive soccer at the highest level commensurate with their ability, potential, and interest. In that light, WWPSA offers spring and fall soccer programs for pre-K through 12th grade students. Information about spring and fall programs can be found on the WWPSA website, adding additional opportunities for local youth.

Registration begins March 1st Space is limited so register early!

Looking for a STEAM Infused Program for your child? SEAL Academy is the best option. Science

Technology

2688 Main St. Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Engineering

Arts

Mathematics

www.mobilemindsnj.org

Call for more details

609 557-7325

West Windsor Plainsboro Soccer Association West Windsor Community Park, Bernt Midland Boulevard, West Windsor 08550. www.wwpsa.org See ad, page 9.

Open House March 5, 2022 1– 3pm

Camp Mercyville

Where Kids Meet Jesus

June 20 - August 5 • M-F•8:30am-5pm (Early & After care available, 5 or 3 day options) Open House - March 26 12 - 2pm · Push The Rock - July 26-29 · Basketball Camp for Boys & Girls, Ages 9-16 · Vacation Bible School - August 8-12 • 9 am - 12 pm · For children in Grades K-4 More details at www.gracewaybc.org/camps 1934 Klockner Road · Hamilton, NJ 08619 609.586.0223 · office@gracewaybc.org www.gracewaybc.org

pds.org/summer-programs summerprograms@pds.org 609.279.2700 x1342 Full- and half-day programs for campers from PreK through high school

March 2022 | SIX0919

DESTRIBATS CAMPBELL STAUB & SCHROTH, LLC established 1972

criminal law • municipal court law • wills & estates criminal law• personal • municipal courtlitigation law medical malpractice injury • general employment workers compensation corporate/tax law wills &• estates • medical• malpractice real Estate • real estate tax appeals • family law

personal injury • general litigation employment • workers compensation Anthony J. Destribats Bernard A. Campbell, Jr. corporate/tax law • real Estate Raymond C. Staub real estate tax appeals • family law David P. Schroth

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Anthony J. Destribats A.Avenue, Campbell, 247 White Horse Avenue Bernard 795 Parkway Suite A3 Jr. Hamilton, NJ 08610 Ewing, NJ 08618 Raymond C. Staub Phone (609) 585-2443 • www.destribatslaw.com David P. Schroth Kimberly A. Greenberg Adam Lipps ••• Jay G. Destribats (1969-2015) 247 White Horse Ave • Hamilton • NJ • 08610

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DELHAGEN

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20SIX09 | March 2022

Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute Experts in Compassionate Treatment of Patients in Pain Dr. Ronak Patel MD is the founder and medical director of Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute. Ronak Patel, MD, is a double board-certified in anesthesiology and pain management. He leads a team of medical professionals dedicated to resolving chronic pain in all its forms. Dr. Patel specializes in the treatment of back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and facial pain as well as cancer-related pain. While training across the country with leaders in pain management, Dr. Patel acquired advanced skills in innovative spinal cord and peripheral nerve interventions/ ablation, fracture repair through vertebral augmentation, state-ofthe-art regenerative therapy, and both ultrasound-guided and X-ray guided procedures. He is an active member of several pain societies and has presented several times at national anesthesiology and pain medicine conferences. Dr. Patel grew up in New Jersey and is excited to return to the area and help serve his community. Having experienced a sports injury to his spine that required extensive rehabilitation and ultimately spinal injections, he understands what it means to be a patient in pain. Dr. Patel takes great pride in his gentle bedside manner and believes in spending time with his patients in order to fully understand their pain condition, develop an individualized treatment plan, and help regain functionality. His goal as a pain management doctor is to bring expert, comprehensive, safe, and effective pain care to as many patients as possible. The practice offers an extensive range of non-surgical treatments for a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal disorders. It aims to help patients avoid surgery by embracing a variety of traditional and alternative solutions to longterm pain and using minimally invasive techniques to deliver effective treatments. While their particular focus is on orthopedic care for back and neck pain, the Regenerative Spine and Pain

Dr. Ronak Patel MD Institute providers have expertise in treating conditions as varied as arthritis, fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), peripheral neuropathy, and migraines. The innovative, multimodal approach of Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute targets the source of chronic pain wherever possible, using regenerative medicine methods such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), stem cell, and exosome injections. These natural, biological therapies use the patient’s healing cells in concentrated form to stimulate faster and more vigorous healing of damaged and diseased tissues. Other treatments available include viscosupplementation for knee pain, peripheral nerve stimulation and spinal cord stimulation, physiotherapy, vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, epidural injections and joint injections containing steroid medication, an extensive range of nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation. Dr. Patel is also a certified prescriber of medical marijuana under the State of New Jersey’s Medicinal Marijuana Program. Patients of Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute benefit from the availability of same-day or nextday appointments and secure telehealth technology for remote consultations. Call 609-269-4451 or visit www. njpaindoc.com now to book your first consultation. See ad, page 3.

Dr. Patel specializes in the treatment of back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and facial pain as well as cancer-related pain.

Community News Service 3/22 V-Easy Sudoku

PuzzleJunc

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Community News Service 3/22

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Community News Service 3/22 V-Easy Sudoku Across 1 5 10 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 24 26 30 32 35 36 37 38 39 41 42 43 44 46 48 49 50 51 55 59 62 64 65

Some actors Lessen Tumbled Downwind Gauchos’ weapons Orient Misplace 60’s protest News bit Guides Grave Bound Fragrant oil Photog’s request Overflowing Positions upright Bucket Fish eggs Dangle Sticker Hinged catch Japanese sash Study Hollow rocks Menu heading Slipped up Skilled workers, briefly Enclose, like a gift Army helicopter Arias After straw or opinion Beseech Speck Buffalo’s lake

21 24 30

26 32

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

4 3 4 4 3 8 1 4 8 81 7 2 7 58 71 32 7 5 1 3 7 5 1 67 2

6 7 1 2 7 2 3 6 7 1 6 7 23 3 3 86 3 48 32 2 3 4 8 38 8 5 1 6 2 8 5 1

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55 63

56 64

66 67 68 69 70

Artillery burst Lushes Cozy retreat Army ant Son of Seth

Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Passage Skin softener Arizona city Young plant Tummy muscles, for short Idaho city Choir voice Peacock’s pride Feudal worker Passes out

11 Time zone 12 Fabrication 13 On the ___ (fleeing) 21 Sign on a real estate sign 23 Handle roughly 25 Annoy 27 Tonguelashing 28 Declared 29 Movie units 30 Horse house 31 Lunatic 32 Aftersong 33 Distant 34 Ring locale 35 Young hog 40 Sombrero, e.g.

41 Dolphin kin 43 File 45 Historic periods 47 Swiss building 50 Thread in and out 52 Basilica area 53 Chowder morsel 54 Bridge site 56 Diving bird 57 Lord of the Rings actress Miranda 58 Impudence 59 Corral 60 Source of iron 61 Fleur-de-___ 63 Morse E

Puzzle solutions on pg 22

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9 2 8 9 2 8 5 7 2 8 3 54 3 2 9 36 6 3 8 93 4 6 1 82 1 4 6 15 7 4 9 1 6 5 7 1

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N D S T G R E C A R H S A P A P P O L L E R I E S N E S T E

7 9 6 1 2 3 4 5 8

5 3 8 4 7 6 2 1 9

4 2 1 8 5 9 7 6 3

P A I L H O R N P A D G E O T E E R R W R A P C H E S O L E A D I A L V O S M M E T E Solution

3 4 5 7 1 8 9 2 6

1 6 7 2 9 5 3 8 4

9 8 2 3 6 4 1 7 5

2 5 3 9 8 1 6 4 7

8 7 4 6 3 2 5 9 1

6 1 9 5 4 7 8 3 2

I R A D E

V O W E D

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L O O N

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S A S S

To book a classified ad in this section, please email your text and any other information to mdurelli@communitynews.org. Classifieds run at 75 cents per word with a $20 minimum per month. For more information, call 609-396-1511, ext. 105.

classified HELP WANTED Recreation Supervisor/ Leader/Aide. Accepting applications for Part-time, seasonal employment opportunities for 2022 Recreation Programs. Skills, experience and professionalism required to lead a variety of recreation activities during the 20212022 school year as well as camps and programs for summer 2022. E-mail resume to kpoveromo@ hopewelltwp.org or via mail to Recreation Director, Township of Hopewell, 201 Wash. Cross-Penn. Rd. Titusville, NJ 08560 label CONFIDENTIAL. EOE. Rose Hill Assisted Living is hiring a P/T cook. 10:30-6:30 p.m. Alternate weekends. Must have serve safe certificate or willingness to obtain one. 609-371-7007. Rose Hill Assisted Living is hiring F/T Wait Staff (7-3 p.m.) & P/T dietary aide 3:30-6:30 p.m. Some Weekends Required. Food service experience a plus. 609-371-7007. Rose Hill Assisted Living is hiring experienced LPNs to work part time on all shifts. Some weekend hours. Competitive hourly rate based on experience. Must have a valid NJ LPN license and minimum 1 year experience in assisted living or LTC. 609-371-7007. CDL-OTR DRIVERS WANTED: Imarich ventures limited liability company is seeking to employ dependable and efficient OTR CDL truck drivers with great physical and mental stamina and able to withstand long hours on the road. Must be organized, pay attention to detail and comfortable working independently. Should have a clean driving record with at least two years experience. Call 609-6472293 email: p.nyamah@ imarichventures.com TUTORING Highly Rated Math Tutor available. 5-star rating; reasonable rates available. Parent quote: “Anne has done an amazing job with my 8 year old son. She is

extremely patient, sweet, articulate, and friendly. My son has been struggling in math and Anne has made my son be confident in math again.” Call Anne at 609-802-9121 for more information. Reading tutor will teach your child aged 5-10 to read, or to read better—with fun and care. Vocabulary, phonics, read aloud, and inventive writing are combined to reveal the code of print communication in English. Miss Angel songcatcher1438@aol.com; 609-421-5956. SERVICES LEGAL SERVICES - Wills, Power of Attorney, Real Estate, Federal and NJ Taxes, Education Law. House calls available. Bruce Cooke, Esq. 609-799-4674. F,D,Mason Contractor, Over 30 years of experience. Brick, Block, Stone, Concrete. No job too large or small. Fully Insured and Licensed. Free Estimates 908-385-5701 Lic#13VH05475900. Are you single? Try us first! We are an enjoyable alternative to online dating. Sweet Beginnings Matchmaker, 215-539-2894, www.sweetbeginnings.info. WANTED TO BUY Wanted: Baseball, football, basketball, hockey. Cards, autographs, photos, memorabilia. Highest cash prices paid! Licensed corporation, will travel. 4thelovofcards, 908-5960976. allstar115@verizon. net. WANTED- QUALITY CAMERAS AND PHOTO EQUIPMENT, FOUNTAIN PENS AND OLDER WATCHES, FAIR PRICES PAID CALL JAY-609-689-9651. Looking to buy old Mysteries, Science Fiction, Children’s Illustrated, Signed books, kids series books (old Hardy boys-Nancy Drew-Judy Bolton- Dana girls, The Happy Hollisters, ect WITH DUSTJACKETS in good shape), old postcards, non-sports cards, good conditioned pre 1975 paperbacks (also Avon,Popular Library,

Dell, Ace, BEACON, Monarch, Midwood pbs) old COSMOPOLITAN 1920’s-1940’s. Call 609-619-3480 or email happyheroes@gmail.com. Cash paid for World War II military items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call 609-581-8290 or email mymilitarytoys@optonline. net Cash paid for SELMER SAXOPHONES and other vintage models. 609-581-8290 or email mymilitarytoys@optonline. net HOUSING FOR RENT COTTAGE FOR RENT (Cream Ridge/Upper Freehold)One-Bedroom on a quiet farm near Imlaystown (Exit 11 I-195 Utilities included) No Pets or smoking, $1,200.00/ month. 732-492-9292 or 609-529-1831. VACATION RENTALS Florida Beach Rental: Fort Myers Beach 1br vacation condo on the beach, flexible dates available. Call 609-577-8244 for further information COMMERCIAL SPACE MERCER COUNTY, Ewing, NJ. 10,000 SF OFFICE. FREE RENT. 201-488-4000/609883-7900. COMMERCIAL END UNIT FOR LEASE - Approx 1090sf, Ideal for Doctor’s office (current set-up), professional offices or retail store. Highly traveled & very visible location on YardvilleAllentown Rd. Easy access to NJTP, Rt.130,I95. $2,400/ month. Call for details DiDonato Realty 609-5862344/ Marian Conte BR 609-947-4222 BUSINESS FOR SALE Salon for sale- excellent opportunity. Priced to sell. Relocating out of state. Large space, great potential. Call 609-462-0188.

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author’s guide 833-719-3029 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ acp Paying top cash for men’s sportwatches! Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. Call 833-6033236 Put on your TV Ears & hear TV w/unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original - originally $129.95 - now w/this special offer only $59.95 w/code MCB59! 1-833-530-1955 Aloe Care Health medical alert system. Most advanced medical alert product on the market. Voice-activated! No wi-fi needed! Special offer w/code CARE20 for $20 off Mobile Companion. 1-855-521-5138 Hero takes stress out of managing medications. Hero sorts & dispenses meds, sends alerts at dose times & handles prescription refill & delivery for you. Starting at $24.99/ month. No initiation fee. 90-day risk-free trial! 1-888684-0280 DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/23. 1-833-872-2545 Wanted To Buy Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, CO 80201

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BAN continued from Page 1 Quality Market, believes that “by May 4, the Garden State promises to be cleaner and greener” due to implementing the most comprehensive law in the country. “I believe that making more sustainable decisions today will protect our environment for future generations. Single-use plastic products are one of the single greatest contributors to litter and marine debris,” Rothwell says. Joann Held, chair of the Hopewell Valley Green Team, shared similar views about ecological impact and also commented on the economic waste. “Although each bag costs a tiny amount to make, when you manufacture, transport and dispose of (or recycle) millions of bags it really adds up! Second, while we all do our best to dispose of our bags responsibly, if each person in New Jersey loses just one bag each year into the environment, that is over 9 million bags per year caught in trees, polluting the water, and endangering animals,” she says. Many municipalities, including Hopewell Borough, instituted bans prior to the state law. The new law supersedes bag ordinances already in effect, and prohibits new local legislation. Rothwell noted that a consistently applied statewide law is more fair to both businesses and consumers. Without it, some businesses might be at a competitive disadvantage and consumers would need to navigate a patchwork of differing rules. Hopewell Township Environmental Commission member Paul Kinney acknowledged the negative impacts of disposable bags but wondered if a ban could really make a meaningful impact. In his study, available at hopewelltwp.org, he calculates the reduction in tons of paper and plastic takeout bags at state and local levels and concludes that “the impacts of just this one law in one state will make significant improvements at the local and state levels with benefits felt beyond our borders.” Everyone interviewed for this article agreed that educating the public was the single most important element for successfully implementing the law. Fortunately, legislators also recognized the need for education and allocated funding from the NJ Clean Communities Council to promote the switch to reusables. NJ Clean is the same litter abatement program that funds the Clean Communities biannual event featuring hundreds of residents in orange vests cleaning up Hopewell Valley streets. Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space has been administering Clean Communities for Hopewell Township for decades and is taking the lead on Hopewell’s BagUpNJ campaign. FoHVOS has engaged local businesses, the Hopewell Valley Green Team and Hopewell Valley Regional Schools to help spread its simple message: Bring your own reusable bags when you shop.

In addition Hopewell Township is working with FoHVOS to supply reusable bags to local businesses and residents and both the Valley Green Team and District Green Team will facilitate distribution. Scott Brettell, HVRSD Director of STEM, leads the HVRSD Green Team and as part of their Green Week from April 17 to 23 plan to engage the com-

Business Action Center that offers comprehensive information for businesses that may have questions about the ban. The NJBAC developed many helpful and easy-to-use online resources, including a vendor clearinghouse for businesses looking to buy compliant reusable carryout bags. In the coming weeks, FoHVOS and the Hopewell Valley Green Team will

Hopewell Township is working with FoHVOS to supply reusable bags to local businesses and residents and both the Valley Green Team and District Green Team will facilitate distribution. munity in climate friendly activities. “HVRSD’s Green Team is partnering with Hopewell Township and FoHVOS to distribute reusable tote bags to each student during Green Week as a way to reduce plastic bag pollution and the effects of plastic on the environment,” he says. Carolyn McGrath, CHS art teacher, added, “This initiative is an important step towards a waste-free future. In addition, I will be working with students in my art class to design posters that educate the community as well as promote reusable bag use. We will begin those mid-March and have them done by Green Week.” Joann Held shared other ways to help. “Our Hopewell Valley Green Team began a re-usable bag exchange this past summer at our community events. We began by stocking an old (re-purposed) coat rack with our own surplus bags and offering them to shoppers at the Pennington Farmers Market who forgot their bags. We accept re-usable bag donations from the community to restock the rack.” Unlike large grocery stores, small businesses may still provide paper bags. Heidi Wilenius, owner and curator of Dandelion Wishes in Hopewell Borough, stressed that it is still important for consumers to bring reusable bags. “While it does not directly impact my shop, as I have never used plastic bags, I hope that the ban encourages even more people to get in the habit of bringing reusable bags with them wherever they shop, which will reduce the need for paper bags as well. I also think it is important for all of us to be mindful not to counteract the effect of the ban by mass-producing tons of flimsy reusable bags. Remember to use the bags you have — or go without when you have only a few items,” she says. While FoHVOS and the Hopewell Valley Green Team coordinate BagUpNJ education across the Valley, there will be no shortage of educational materials. Students at area schools will design posters for local businesses. Another great resource is the NJ

earth, but will require a change in habits by both business and consumers. When asked about the effort, Rothwell said: “At our market, we are used to continual change, despite the fact our business has been in the same location since April 1960, way before my father purchased it in September 1981. We have watched the evolution of the supermarket industry over the decades, shifting our business model to serve the latest generation of grocery shoppers to include prepared foods and a full-service flower shop operated by my sister, Barbara Rothwell-Henderson.” Rothwell’s readiness to embrace this new initiative is a positive sign that the bag ban can achieve its goal. Hopewell Township Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning views the legislation in a local context: “As demonstrated by our strong commitment to open space, protecting our environment has always been a critical priority in Hopewell Township. We are honored to partner with FoHVOS and support BagUpNJ to help members of our community transition to reusable bags.” Awareness about the upcoming ban is growing, and it’s a small change for consumers to bring their own bags and pay it forward. This is an opportunity for everyone in our community to help steward the earth.

enlist volunteers to post artworks and fliers with BagUp messaging throughout the Valley. PQM will be putting posters and other literature throughout the store, encouraging people to start bringing reusable bags now. Their educational campaign for shoppers will also use the BagUpNJ materials. In addition, Rothwell said, “We are also working closely with our friends and partners in the New Jersey Food Council, of which I serve on the state board, to provide educational tools directly to grocers.” Lisa Wolff is the executive director of The bag ban will reduce pollution Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space. and waste and generally help the Email: lwolff@fohvos.org.

Try us for free! We know that making a move is a big deal, so we are excited to offer our Trial Stay Program. You get to experience our community and decide for yourself if it’s a good fit. Call 609.241.9538 today to learn more!

1750 Yardville-Hamilton Square Road • Hamilton 609.241.9538 • TheLandingOfHamilton.com

March 2022 | Hopewell Express11

Sourland Bread’s Mary Parr, top right, teaching students how to make bread at Nomad Pizza in December 2021.

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12  Hopewell Express | March 2022

BREAD continued from Page 1 career path. She now owns her own business, Sourland Bread, where she teaches others what she has learned and how to make the perfect bread. “I just started baking and then pretty quickly after I started gifting bread to friends and family because I had so much of it. People were like, ‘I want to learn this, teach me!’ so I started teaching and doing farmer’s markets within like 6 months to a

year,” she said. Parr aims to make her bread-baking classes are a very educational experience. Working out of Nomad Pizza in Hopewell, she’s able to go through the entire process from start to finish. Not only are students learning how to make healthy whole-grain bread, but they are also learning a lot about the history of bread. She wants to teach people super simple methods, while still keeping it

Left: loaves of Sourland bread. fun and interesting. Parr teaches all about the different types of grains and what they do, the difference between commercial and steel milling, and just about everything that leads up to getting the ingredients into your hands. “We use different grains, like spelt and rye, I teach people about what a grain kernel looks like and what happens in the milling process,” she said, adding that “We talk a little about the history of the industrial revolution and everything that happened with flour. It’s super educational.” Since she started in 2014, Mary has taught close to 1,600 people in her breadmaking classes. That success has allowed her to open up a second business that involves the eastern medicine and acupuncture she went to grad school for after an unfortunate accident sent her down this new path. “I was in this horrific car accident in my mid-twenties, I couldn’t work for like six months. I was on painkillers, doing PT every week, nothing was working. I met an eighty-year-old acupuncturist, she really cared and said “you’re to come and see me tomorrow, no excuses young lady”. I saw her and had literally two treatments and just came back to life,” Mary said. At that time after college, she had been working for NBC and the Food Network as a page, but her heart wasn’t in it. She felt that she was too

sensitive for the entertainment industry, and she couldn’t stop thinking about the Eastern Medicine that gave her her life back. “I pretty much knew in the back of my head there was something to that medicine, and then I ended up going back to New York doing screenwriting and then long story short I decided to quit entirely and started working for holistic doctors. I decided that I wanted to go to grad school to study acupuncture and herbal medicine,” she said. After training at graduate school at Yo San University where she received her master’s in traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture in California, she opened up her own practice and community center this year right next door to Nomad Pizza. Parr said that besides acupuncture and herbal medicine, she also plans to offer sound healing, yoga and meditation. “I’m going to be selling my bread here, I’ll be doing fermentation classes. Different healing modalities,” she said. In fact, it was even during her Eastern medicine training that she discovered her gluten allergy which sent her down that breadmaking path. Everything came together for her in an almost predetermined way to get her where she is today. While Parr has lived in California on and off for 15 years, she grew up outside of Philadelphia. It wasn’t until this past year that she decided to move back to Lawrence Township to care for her mother, who has Alzheimer’s. She has two children, Theo and Miles, five and two, her dog Ollie, and her husband, Kevin, is an artist. She said that one of the other reasons she set up shop here is because of how she fell in love with the community. “People want to gather here, there’s more of a respect for this community here, I feel it more there’s an authenticity here. It just feels more natural to have it here for me,” she said, adding, “I really fell in love with the land here,

a lot of what I do is helping people connect to the earth.” Parr’s breadmaking classes have been more successful than she ever imagined. She has been able to teach others all about what she’s learned and to spread the message about breadmaking, but she isn’t done yet. In the coming years, she plans on bringing together her breadmaking business and her Eastern medical practice to make a fermentation cafe. “I’ve had a vision of opening a fer-

mentation cafe, in the front, it’s a cafe with sourdough, good tea and coffee and other fermentation and food, holistic type foods, and in the back some treatment rooms, a community center type situation, I’ve had that vision for maybe five years,” she said. Parr currently offers in-person and remote bread baking classes which you can sign up for at sourlandbread. com and is also offering services for her Eastern medicine practices at sourlandwellness.com.

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troversial, but my perspective is, the MAYOR continued from Page 1 Peters-Manning, a Democrat, first settlement was done. It was all unanibecame involved in Hopewell Valley mous, so the only thing I have conpolitics after the 2016 elections. “I trol over is time to get our community said, whatever you believe in terms to be a welcoming place for our new of policy—Republican, Democrat — I neighbors,” Peters-Manning said. Peters-Manning said whether a thought the level of discourse could be better and had to be better for us to person is happy or unhappy with the get anything done,” Peters-Manning township’s agreement to allow the says. “I decided I didn’t want to just building of affordable housing, curcomplain on the sidelines. I wanted to rent residents owe it to incoming residents to be welcoming. get involved.” “To me it’s a moral At that time, she did obligation to welcome not really know anyone new people to the neighinvolved in local politics. borhood,” she said. “I “I just started showing think whatever people’s up for things, volunteerfeelings are on these new ing for campaigns, things developments, there’s a like that,” she said. lot of good that can come She did have some from it. Affordable housexperience with land-use ing is the law of the land laws from her time workin New Jersey. We can ing as a lawyer. That talk about how it’s ineffiexperience helped get cient the way New Jersey her a spot on the towndoes it, but we have what ship’s planning board we have. It really can be a and, in 2019, she ran for great opportunity for our the first time for townPeters-Manning community.” ship committee and won. The committee Starting her first term as mayor, Peters-Manning says that one announced on Feb. 7 that it has been of her main areas of focus is to improve working with the Stoutsburg Sourland communication between the township African-American Museum to make a list of prominent African-Americans committee and the community. “I’ve really been working hard to from the Hopewell Valley to name increase the communication with the streets after in the new neighborhoods. “Look around Hopewell Township, public,” she said. “We’ve been all writing letters to various publications this you see a lot of historical street names year, and we’re really committed to and parks but this historical part of the community was always overlooked,” putting out the newsletter quarterly.” Though political discourse in Amer- Peters-Manning said. “We have a ica can still be said to be highly polar- chance now with these new neighborized and contentious, Peters-Manning hoods to change that.” Peters-Manning, 44, lives in Elm says there have been times when the Ridge Park with husband Tomas and interactions have been productive. “Of course you’re going to have their children, Seamus, 14, and Conor, some negative people, that’s just life,” 11. Tomas, a native of Dublin, is a softshe said. “But for example, the canna- ware engineer. Peters-Manning lived in a number bis public forums we had were hugely civil and positive. There were people on of cities growing up, including Cleveboth sides of the issue, but people said, land and Boston. After she graduated ‘These are my opinions, this is what I from high school in Chicago, her family moved to the Hopewell Valley think we should do,’ and we listened.” After voters passed the state refer- area, and she went to Brown Univerendum allowing for the cultivation and sity, where she studied psychology. sale of recreational marijuana in 2020, She spent a year training dolphins in a towns were more or less required to research lab in Hawaii before going to declare whether or not cannabis busi- Boston to attend law school and, later, nesses would be allowed within their working in a Boston law firm. She met Tomas while there, and borders by last summer. At that time, the Hopewell Township Committee they lived there for a time before opted to permit business related to the moving to Hopewell, where her parcultivation of cannabis, but not retail ents, Deborah and James Peters, had recently opened The Cambridge businesses. Last month, after hearing further to School, a school for children who the community, the committee intro- learn differently. Peters-Manning said duced an ordinance that would permit they moved here in 2009 so that she could take a job at the school as genretail businesses as well. “This is a great opportunity to listen eral counsel. She also serves as the to what the people want,” Peters-Man- school’s director of finance. As fate would have it, both of Petersning says. “It was a wonderful experience and a wonderful collaboration Manning’s children are dyslexic, and with our attorneys and professionals have been students at The Cambridge and the public, and it was just the sort School. “My parents had always wanted me of the best of what government can be.” She knows that affordable housing to come get involved in the school and will be another issue that will be front protect their legacy,” Peters-Manning and center this year. “Some of our said. “But my two kids are both dysbig inclusionary developments will lexic and to have come to The Cambe breaking ground this year. I know bridge School, it has been a godsend that affordable housing is always con- for them.”

14  Hopewell Express | March 2022

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March 2022 | Hopewell Express 2/18/22 9:35 AM 15

SKIT uses improvisational theater to help people flourish By Jasmine Lee

Jody Wood had thought that he had done all there was to offer in the world of acting. Over 30 years, he had done theater, television, and films, but then his journey took an unexpected turn. A new path had been paved that led him to take improvisational theater and turn it into something that would forever change the lives of those of all ages within the special needs community. SKIT, or Special Kind of Improvisational Theater, is a project that allows for people of all backgrounds with intellectual and developmental disabilities to flourish. Few may have thought that something like improvisational theater could have such a tremendous impact on the lives of people with these disabilities. Many also questioned why

Wood would have chosen improvisation of all things. In a TedTalk Wood, SKIT’s founder and director, said how many might think that improvisation is a joke and is only used to make people laugh. “It’s all improv and it’s all pretty funny…I know it sounded like an interesting way to improve social skills and to interact with other people in a fun way,” said Susan Myers, mother of Alex Myers, who has been going to SKIT for around 5 years, via a phone interview. She expressed how Alex would not want to go to classes, because they made him laugh so hard to the point where he could not breathe. While this is not entirely false, he found that it is capable of so much more. Through improvisational techniques, people are able to learn eye contact, how to listen and focus, build communication skills, collaborate with

others, and learn social skills. He says the most important thing about improvisation is that it nourishes creativity and growth. It allows a person to voice themselves and be heard, and for their ideas to be expanded upon. “Improvisation reaches people very deeply,” Wood said in a recent interview. It allows people to feel alive and allows them to realize that they can do more than they ever imagined. Myers says that SKIT has taught Alex to be patient and wait for other people to have their turns. “It gives him the opportunity to interact with people of all different places in life and learn that no matter your diagnosis, we are all just people having a good time,” she said. Alex talks about how self doubt can go away during improvisation and the creative part takes over. Wood truly believes that SKIT does change lives for the better. After all, “We are all human beings and we are all in this thing together. We all have something to offer, and I don’t care what your disability is. We focus on the ability, not the disability. The ability and what you are capable of even if you don’t realize it yet,” Wood said. He says that through these programs, students learn to adapt, be on their toes and become used to change. “Change happens in life and you have to adapt. You got to be ready, and improv training does that as well,” Wood said. Before SKIT was created, Wood was an improvisational actor who did improv comedy acting with Groundlings East and Gotham City Improv in New York for many years. During down times as actors, they as a group would do these team building workshops for universities or organizations all around the country. They used improvisational theater techniques to aid in team building, communication, innovation, and collaboration. He thought to himself that this just might work for anybody. Wood came back from Hollywood in 2004, and eventually started his own acting program called JW Actors Studio in Princeton. There, his students took the skills they used in acting classes and improv, and used them for

life, regardless of occupation. “It’s all about listening and being there for your partner. Experiencing the joy of communication and building on ideas and all of that stuff,” Wood said. Wood had a young man in his class who was kind of shy at first and he really started to blossom in school and in life. His father, Mark Ruger, told Wood that he could not believe the positive differences he saw in his son within the last year. He also had an older son with autism, and asked if Wood had any programs or would create one for people on the spectrum or in the special needs community, regardless of what their diagnosis was. “Oh my gosh. It was like a light went on for me,” Wood said. Around 2018 or 2019, the SKIT program began to take form. Wood holds a variety of classes throughout the course of the week, such as SKIT communication, advanced communication, improv troupe, songwriting, and a comedy improv class. Wood also occasionally hosts private sessions with some of his students per request, or if they want to work on something in particular. Currently, their writing lab is working on short stories about overcoming obstacles within their own lives. Wood invites all to attend, and some of his students come on a regular basis. Each session is around 90 minutes long, but can sometimes end up being about two hours. He said he is willing to adapt session lengths for those who suggest it if needed. Wood describes what a student’s experience is normally like when one first joins the SKIT program. “When beginning classes, you walk into a class and you don’t know anyone and you’re nervous. Improv scares the heck out of people and they think they are gonna make a fool out of themselves. ‘People are gonna laugh at me and judge me,’” he said. He talks about how he first wants to get rid of this fear within his students, and let them know that this is a safe space for them to express themselves. “By the end it’s a completely different atmosphere,” he said. Myers said that at first, Alex was reluctant to go. “Not only because of

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EVERY STAGE OF LIFE IS ITS OWN JOURNEY

SKIT students Vinny DeStefano, Jason Newbury and Alex Myers take part in a collaborative exercise called “Three Headed Expert.” autism and ADHD, but because in general teenagers don’t want to leave the house,” she said. Once she got him to SKIT, she would see that within five minutes he would be laughing and having a great time. It takes time for the students to get comfortable, but once they do, they learn to enjoy themselves. “Being there, you can see that change as the weeks and months go by. You can see them changing and coming out of their shell,” Myers said. Wood said he makes sure that his students recognize that they have something to offer no matter what, and that nothing is wrong in improvisation. Ever since Wood started this program, he has said, “My God, I have never done anything like this in my life that has been this rewarding.” He emphasizes how much of an impact SKIT has on not only his students, but himself, his life, and his career. “It’s a give and take. It fulfills our lives tremendously,” Wood said. The skills that the students learn in this program are ones that will help them for life. Wood, until recently a Hopewell resident, today lives in Lambertville. As of late, he has put his acting career on pause. He has been primarily dedicating his time to SKIT and wants it to grow and expand. He is one of eight kids and grew up in an Irish Catholic household in Staten Island. Wood said that there

were great acting opportunities where he grew up. He has two grown children, Lucy Wood and Joe Wood. Lucy Wood works alongside him as a teacher at SKIT, while Joe works as an architect in San Diego. SKIT has ongoing classes right now that anyone is welcome to join at any time. They are also working on a summer program, which they are planning to begin on July 5. It will be held Tuesday through Friday, and they will have morning and afternoon sessions. Wood said that SKIT would not be possible without not only the students, but the dedication of those who put their heart and soul into keeping this program running smoothly and cleanly. Atiba Page runs SKIT’s Workplace Communication classes. Eric Hammitt runs the Intro to Communication and Social Skills class, along with an improv comedy class. Lucy Wood is director of sales and social media. She also runs the SKIT Advanced Communication Skills class and lends her musical expertise by running their Song on the Spot class. Lastly, Wood said, is SKIT’s incredible “behind the scenes” man, Marc Caponi, who runs most of the business end of things. More information is available online at the SKIT website, skitprograms.com. For those who wish to call regarding interest in SKIT programs and classes, the phone number is (609) 240-7080. Classes are held in Pennington and Beverly.

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March 2022 | Hopewell Express17

From the Township Financing a better future with PILOTs By Kevin D. Kuchinski

While Hopewell Township delivered the lowest equalized municipal tax rate in Mercer County in 2021, we are continually searching for new nontax revenues to deliver the services our residents expect for less. One potential solution, is PILOT (or Payments in Lieu of Taxes). But before I get into that, I wanted to provide insight on several of the financial headwinds the township faces. First and foremost, there is an issue at the state level in New Jersey with property taxes: 1) municipal state aid had largely been flat at $1.6 million since 2011 and now covers only 6.6% of expenditures (amongst the lowest in the nation); and 2) the Legislature diverted a dedicated municipal revenue source towards other priorities via their Energy Tax legislation. This diversion has contributed to a more than $1.5 million annual loss in revenues for the township, beginning in 2008. Second, Covid-19 has recently impacted several other non-tax revenues for the township, most notably court revenues. Finally, while we have

worked hard to reduce township debt (down over 20% since 2014), the township’s debt service still accounts for approximately 25% of total municipal spending, including over a million in annual interest costs. Last year’s $6.5 million in debt service also exceeded what we expend on the township’s Public Works and Police departments combined. That’s where PILOT comes in. PILOTs are a proven tool within New Jersey and can help our township build a stronger financial future. New Jersey’s Department of Community Affairs encourages municipalities to utilize PILOTs to: 1) foster economic development; 2) enhance the municipal tax base; 3) expand community services; and 4) advance other public policy initiatives. The Township Committee has already successfully deployed PILOTs to satisfy the unfunded state mandate on affordable housing. By encouraging private developers to provide affordable housing, we will save township residents over $160 Million in construction costs vs. what we would have had to expend if we built these units on our own dime.

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In addition, PILOTs help reduce the residential tax responsibility for current residents by providing significant incremental revenues. Two examples: First, the Woodmont project on Federal City Road is projected to deliver $830,000 in new municipal revenues in Year I, once construction is complete. This is equivalent to ~5% of our current total municipal tax levy and roughly as much as BMS (our largest taxpayer) paid annually, before moving to Lawrence Township. Over 30 years, this PILOT will deliver $46 million in municipal revenues, or enough to retire most of our debt. Importantly, the proposed apartments at Woodmont are targeted to singles and young couples, to minimize the number of new school-aged children. In fact, a benchmarking analysis of similar Woodmont projects indicates this project should generate less than 30 additional students, which is well within the current number of open seats in the Hopewell Valley Regional School system. A second project on the Zaitz tract behind the ShopRite on the 31 Circle will deliver $112 Million in new municipal revenues over 30 years, or 6.1 times more than if taxed conventionally, again without meaningfully impacting school enrollments. This project will also deliver over $16 million in additional benefits to township residents, including infrastructure, grading and storm water management for our new Senior and Community Center, public safety and traffic improvements at the Route 31 Circle, and 78 affordable housing units at no cost to current township residents. Over and beyond these projects, the Township Committee has been work-

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ing towards a PILOT for the Hopewell Parc project on the west side of Scotch Road. This development will be phased over 12-15 years, but will initially deliver $7 million dollars per year in incremental revenue (almost 30% of current township revenues). Over the 30-year term of this PILOT, we could leverage these revenues to finish paying off the township’s debt and to fully fund future year capital needs. We will also be able to fund upgraded facilities for our EMS and other first-responders and other community amenities, including the new Senior and Community Center. Finally, and most importantly, these monies will enable us to fully satisfy the township’s incremental obligation on School costs. Contrary to some of the social media discussion in recent weeks, by law our schools will always receive all of the monies they budget (NJ Revised Statutes Sec 54:4-75), no matter what. The presence of a PILOT has no bearing on how much monies the schools receive, so the implication that a PILOT will somehow take money from the district is false. We have been in active discussion with the school district, emergency services and other parties throughout this process and look forward to working together towards a better (and more affordable) Hopewell Township. If you want to learn more, there are detailed presentations and supporting material on the township website, including videos of our 1/27 and 2/22 Township Committee meetings, or feel free to reach out to me or one of the other Committee members. Kevin D. Kuchinski writes as a member of the Hopewell Township Committee and the committee’s finance liaison.

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